Mounting device for releasably mounting a fitting on a toilet body

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing toilet assembly devices for detachable assembly on a toilet bowl are cumbersome for cleaning, as they often require active unlocking mechanisms or lack the ability to transition between secure and quick-release states, making them inefficient for various user needs.

Innovation Solution

A mounting device with two complementary fastening elements, one of which has a form-fitting element that can be switched between a form-fitting and release position using an elastic force, and a blocking element that allows for a non-detachable assembly state that can be unlocked with a specific action, enabling both secure attachment and easy removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a positive locking element is used to secure the fitting component to the toilet bowl body, then the attachment security is improved, but the ease of removal for cleaning deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidease of removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic state where the blocking element can be moved between blocking and non-blocking positions. The blocking element is designed to be movable between a blocking position (preventing removal) and a release position (allowing easy removal), enabling the system to adapt between security and ease of removal based on user needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the functional parameter of the fastening connection by moving the blocking element between two positions. When the blocking element is in the blocking position, the connection is secure and cannot be easily removed. When moved to the release position, the connection allows easy removal for cleaning purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If a blocking element is added to prevent unauthorized removal, then the security against vandalism is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against vandalismVSAvoidfastening mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The blocking element is integrated into the existing fastening mechanism rather than being a separate independent system. The blocking element works in conjunction with the positive locking element and spring, combining the anti-vandalism function with the existing quick-release mechanism, thereby minimizing additional complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The blocking element serves multiple functions: it prevents unauthorized removal (anti-vandalism), maintains the positive locking position, and works with the spring mechanism to provide both secure and quick-release modes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the positive locking element is made spring-loaded for automatic engagement, then the ease of attachment is improved, but the force required for removal increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of attachmentVSAvoidforce required for removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The spring force is extracted as a separate functional element that specifically handles the engagement phase. The spring-loaded positive locking element automatically engages with the fastening pin during attachment, providing ease of installation. The blocking element then manages the removal phase by either preventing removal (when blocked) or allowing easy removal (when unblocked), decoupling the spring force from the removal difficulty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution provides a versatile assembly device that can be easily cleaned and adapted for different user needs, offering a secure attachment that can be converted to a quick-release function, enhancing usability and security, particularly in public settings.

Implementation Method 1

wherein the positive locking element is subject to an elastic force and thus remains in the positive locking position against this elastic force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3851004B1Mounting device for releasably mounting a fitting on a toilet body
Publication Date: 2022.04.27 GEBERIT INT AG
  • EP3851004B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3851004B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3851004B1 patent drawingFigure 4~7

AI summary

Mounting device for a toilet assembly component, wherein, in the mounted state, a locking element (12) can block an otherwise given snap-action removal.