Integrated Tub Handle and Overflow Fitting for Easier Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of bathtub handles and waste and overflow fittings is labor-intensive and space-consuming, with multiple fittings required for different functions, leading to increased complexity and potential errors during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A drain and overflow fitting with an integrated handle that uses existing or newly created through-holes for installation, incorporating an overflow body, actuating elements for the drain valve, and optionally a water inlet, which reduces installation work and space requirements by combining functions into a single fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate fittings are used for handle attachment, overflow, and drain functions, then each function can be independently installed and maintained, but the installation work increases significantly and more space is required in the bathtub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the handle attachment function, overflow function, and drain function into a single integrated fitting assembly. The handle is attached to the bathtub wall through the same opening that houses the overflow body and drain valve, eliminating the need for separate through-holes and fittings for each function. This merging reduces installation complexity and minimizes the number of components required.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fitting serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides a secure attachment point for the handle, manages overflow water through the overflow body, and controls drain flow through the drain valve. This multi-functional design allows a single fitting to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components, reducing both installation effort and space requirements.
2Reliability
If multiple through-holes are created in the bathtub for separate fittings, then each fitting can be properly installed, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the handle attachment opening with the overflow and drain fitting opening into a single through-hole in the bathtub wall. This allows all necessary components (handle brackets, overflow body, drain valve) to be installed through one opening rather than requiring multiple separate through-holes, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining proper installation reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple objects are placed inside the bathtub for different functions, then all functions are available, but the available space in the bathtub is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates the handle, overflow body, and drain valve into a single integrated fitting assembly that mounts on the bathtub wall. This eliminates the need for multiple separate objects inside the bathtub, preserving maximum bathing space while maintaining all necessary functions including handle support, overflow drainage, and controlled draining.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The handle (1) has two spaced apart support portions (2-1,2-2) which are fixed at two spaced-apart through-holes of a bathtub. One of the support portion designed as overflow channel is connected with outer side-to-install overflow portion and installed at through hole. A rotating element such as switch or keyboard is provided for opening and closing the drain valve of bathtub. An independent claim is included for waste and overflow fitting.