Quasi-Flush Worktop Sink Installation Using Metal Profile
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing built-in devices, such as sinks and washbasins, installed in worktops face a significant height difference due to the material thickness, leading to difficulties in cleaning and waste disposal, and require extensive worktop modifications for flush installation, especially with materials like natural stone.
Innovation Solution
A built-in device with a molded part made of composite or ceramic material, accompanied by a flat metal profile that is fastened along the upper edge, allowing for a quasi-flush installation without requiring special worktop treatment, as the metal profile covers any gaps and rests on the worktop, reducing the height difference to approximately 0.5-1 mm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the upper edge of the molded part rests on the worktop, then the built-in device is stable, but there is a significant height difference of around 10 mm or more between the worktop and the built-in appliance
Solution Approach 1:
A transition piece is introduced as an intermediary element between the molded part and the worktop. This transition piece has a first engagement portion that connects to the molded part and a second engagement portion that connects to the worktop, thereby mediating the connection and reducing the height difference while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition piece extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the built-in appliance, utilizing the vertical dimension to bridge the gap between the molded part and the worktop surface, thus reducing the height difference without compromising structural integrity.
2Length of stationary object
If a recess is provided in the worktop to accommodate the upper edge of the built-in appliance, then the height difference is reduced, but the worktop requires extensive machining and treatment
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the worktop directly, a transition piece is used as a mediator that can be installed on the molded part. This approach avoids the need for extensive worktop machining, especially for natural stone worktops, while still achieving the desired flush appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution separates the height adjustment function from the worktop structure by using a distinct transition piece. This segmentation allows the transition piece to handle the height compensation while the worktop remains intact, reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the upper edge of the molded part is accommodated positively in the recess, then gaps between the built-in appliance and worktop are avoided, but the installation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The transition piece serves as a mediator that provides a standardized interface between the molded part and the worktop. This intermediary element simplifies the installation process by providing a uniform mounting surface, reducing the need for precise custom fitting while still eliminating gaps.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an built-in device for installation into a plate section of a worktop, the built-in device comprising a moulded part made of a composite material or a ceramic material. The moulded part has an upper edge, the dimensions of which are smaller in a plane parallel to the worktop than the plate section, and a flat metal profile being secured on the upper edge of the moulded part and protruding laterally outwards over the moulded part such that the metal profile lies on the worktop when the built-in device is installed into the plate section.