Toilet Tank Quick-Coupling Lock for Leak-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toilet tank-to-bowl coupling systems require moderate mechanical aptitude and are time-consuming, making them difficult for non-professionals to install securely and leak-free.
Innovation Solution
A quick-coupling mechanism using a flexible collar lock, coupling anchor, and gasket system that allows for easy and secure attachment of the toilet tank to the bowl, facilitated by a tool for removal and reusability of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling systems are used, then mechanical strength and reliability are improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate components: a coupling member with internal threading, a separate bolt, and a gasket. This segmentation allows for pre-assembly of certain components and simplifies the installation process by enabling step-by-step assembly without requiring all components to be perfectly aligned simultaneously, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining coupling reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary component that connects the toilet tank to the bowl. It provides internal threading for the bolt and includes a gasket sealing surface, serving as a mediator that simplifies the connection process. The intermediary coupling member allows for easier alignment and secure fastening, reducing installation time while ensuring reliable and leak-free connection.
2Reliability
If traditional coupling systems are used, then secure attachment is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the coupling system into distinct components (coupling member, bolt, gasket), the invention enables easier handling and positioning during installation. The coupling member can be pre-installed on the tank, allowing the user to simply align and insert the bolt into the bowl, making the operation easier while maintaining secure attachment through the threaded connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The coupling member includes features that guide the bolt into proper alignment, and the threaded connection automatically secures itself when the bolt is inserted and tightened. This self-service design reduces the skill level required for installation while ensuring secure attachment.
3Reliability
If traditional coupling systems are used, then leak-free connection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the gasket sealing surface and the threading structure into a single coupling member. This integration eliminates the need for separate gasket installation steps and ensures proper sealing alignment. The merged design simplifies the overall system while maintaining leak-free connection through the integrated sealing surface.
4Manufacturing precision
If professional installation is required, then installation quality is improved, but loss of time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed for self-service installation by consumers without professional assistance. The self-aligning features, clear component separation, and intuitive assembly process enable average users to achieve proper installation quality. The system compensates for lack of professional skill through its forgiving, easy-to-assemble design, maintaining installation quality while eliminating the time and cost of professional installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A toilet includes a toilet tank, a toilet base, at least one coupling receptacle connected to the toilet base, at least one coupling anchor connected to the toilet tank, and at least one flexible collar lock connected to the at least one coupling anchor and configured to flex inwardly in response to contact with the at least one coupling receptacle and flex outwardly to lock the at least one coupling anchor and the toilet tank to the at least one coupling receptacle and the toilet base.