US20100301175A1 - Sink brace - Google Patents
Sink brace Download PDFInfo
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- US20100301175A1 US20100301175A1 US12/475,599 US47559909A US2010301175A1 US 20100301175 A1 US20100301175 A1 US 20100301175A1 US 47559909 A US47559909 A US 47559909A US 2010301175 A1 US2010301175 A1 US 2010301175A1
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- Prior art keywords
- shaft
- brace
- sink
- ridge
- lip
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
- E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
- E03C1/12—Plumbing installations for waste water; Basins or fountains connected thereto; Sinks
- E03C1/32—Holders or supports for basins
- E03C1/33—Fastening sinks or basins in an apertured support
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to the fields of building construction and maintenance and, in particular, to a sink brace system and method.
- safety is one factor that is consistently high on a list of design considerations.
- the vast majority of all building designs feature safety, both to the humans and animals using the structure and to the structure itself.
- the emphasis on safety in building design and construction has been increasing over the last century in particular.
- one popular kitchen configuration is a marble or other high-grade stone countertop, with a deep sink fixed underneath a hole in the countertop that has been cut for that purpose.
- the builder fixes the sink to the underside of the countertop with a strong adhesive, such as a two-part epoxy, for example.
- a two-part epoxy will usually hold the sink to the countertop under a sustained rated load, and the builder selects the appropriate epoxy based on the expected load.
- a regulatory agency may specific the minimum rating for such an epoxy.
- the effective epoxy rating can deviate from the stated epoxy rating, and depends very much on the process used to mix the two-part epoxy. If the builder does not mix the epoxy within the necessary tolerances, the epoxy could fail to form a bond sufficient to hold a rated load. If the epoxy fails to form a sufficient bond, the sink might not stay fixed to the countertop, potentially causing an unstable and unsafe condition. That is, the constant strain of gravity and other forces acting on the bond can weaken it and cause it to fail unexpectedly. Unfortunately, there is no current or convenient mechanism to determine whether the epoxy was mixed properly, or whether the resultant bond is satisfactory.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a common scenario highlighting the safety concerns attending the typical approach. More particularly, FIG. 1 is an expanded view of one typical configuration, system 100 .
- System 100 includes a countertop 102 , which defines an aperture 104 .
- countertop 102 can be constructed of a number of common building materials, including marble, granite, and other stone materials, as well as a number of other materials such as pressboard or laminate, for example.
- aperture 104 can define a circular, rectangular, ovoid, or other similar opening.
- system 100 includes an otherwise conventional sink 110 .
- sink 110 includes a plurality of concentrically arranged sidewalls 112 coupled to a bottom 114 .
- the arrangement of sidewalls 112 influence the design of aperture 104 as the intended use is for a user to reach into sink 110 through aperture 104 .
- Sidewalls 112 and bottom 114 are usually constructed from the same material, which in many cases is a variety of steel or ceramic material. In many cases, sidewalls 112 and bottom 114 are formed from a contiguous piece of shaped steel.
- sink 110 includes a lip 116 , extending radially from the end of the sidewalls 112 distal from bottom 114 .
- lip 116 includes a lip surface 118 .
- a builder will mix a two-part epoxy, apply the mixed epoxy to lip surface 118 , and abut lip surface 118 to the underside of countertop 102 , aligned with aperture 104 .
- the builder will hold the sink 110 in place through a variety of means, such as clamps or other suitable mechanisms, for the period required to allow the epoxy to set. As the epoxy sets, it forms a bond that holds sink 110 to countertop 102 . Once the bond is set, the builder removes the stabilizing mechanisms and applies caulking or other waterproofing to the inner side of the annular seal formed by the sink 110 and aperture 104 .
- FIG. 1B shows a side view illustrating the typical configuration.
- a system 150 includes a countertop 152 coupled to a sink 160 .
- Sink 160 includes a lip 162 , which, as shown, abuts on the bottom plane of countertop 152 .
- a builder typically applies epoxy to fix lip 162 to countertop 152 .
- Support beams 170 sit just underneath lip 162 , assisting the epoxy in holding lip 162 to countertop 152 .
- the support beams 170 generally support the load of the sink 160 by direct opposition. That is, the sink (and anything in the sink, such as standing water, for example) is a load applied generally in the direction of arrow 180 . As such, part of that load is distributed to the beams 170 , as indicated by arrows 182 . Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1B , the ordinary loads and stresses caused by sink 160 also apply to the support beams 170 , in the same direction, which diminishes the effectiveness of the beams 170 as a support mechanism.
- the total seal strength fixing the sink 160 to countertop 152 is the sum of is the strength of the epoxy and the quality of the fasteners holding the support beams in place.
- a failure typically implies that the sink (and its contents) separate from the countertop completely, with the sink completely unsupported after a failure.
- a sink brace comprises a first shaft comprising a lip shaft, a mid-shaft, and an anchor shaft.
- a brace ridge couples to the lip shaft and is configured to couple to a sink lip of a sink.
- An anchor plate couples to the anchor shaft.
- the anchor plate comprises a plurality of attachment ports, and each attachment port is configured to receive a fastener.
- the first shaft, brace ridge, and anchor plate together form a direct connection between the sink lip and a wall.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate block diagram showing a prior art system
- FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment
- FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 3 C illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment
- FIGS. 4A , 4 B, and 4 C illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment
- FIGS. 5A , 5 B, and 5 C illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment
- FIG. 6 illustrates a high-level block diagram showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment
- FIG. 7 illustrates a high-level block diagram showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 2A illustrates a high-level block diagram of an improved sink brace system 200 .
- an otherwise conventional sink 210 couples to an otherwise conventional countertop 212 .
- sink 210 comprises a sink lip 214 , which couples to the underside of countertop 212 by application of a high bond strength epoxy adhesive.
- an alternative adhesive couples lip 214 to countertop 212 .
- Two walls 216 couple perpendicularly to countertop 212 .
- walls 216 often define and partially enclose a cupboard or other cabinet space in the area beneath the countertop.
- system 200 includes two braces 200 .
- Each brace 200 comprises a brace ridge 222 , one or more brace shafts 224 , and a brace anchor 226 .
- brace 200 couples to sink 210 and sidewall 216 such that brace ridge 222 connects to sink 210 at or near the intersection of lip 214 with the sidewall of sink 210 .
- Brace 200 also couples to wall 216 such that brace anchor 226 remains in a fixed position on wall 216 when brace ridge 222 is touching the intersection of lip 214 with the sidewall of sink 210 .
- the ordinary loads applied to sink 210 generally apply force in the direction of arrow “A”.
- the load force also applies to the braces 200 , from sink 210 to brace ridge 222 through brace shaft 224 to brace anchor 226 and thence to wall 216 .
- the novel configuration illustrated thus disperses some of the load force in the directions of arrows “B” and “B′”. As such, increased load in the direction of arrow “A” tends to increase the strength of the support provided by braces 200 , which is an improvement over the prior art approaches.
- FIG. 2B illustrates a high-level block diagram of an improved sink brace system 201 , in side view.
- sink 210 couples to countertop 212 .
- a brace 220 supports sink 210 and couples to sink 210 at ridge 222 .
- brace 220 includes two shafts 224 , each of which couple at one end at ridge 222 , and at the other end to an anchor place 226 .
- brace 220 receives load force from sink 210 at ridge 222 , and distributes received force through shafts 224 to anchor plate 226 .
- anchor plate 226 couples to a wall (not shown) in a fixed position, as described in more detail below.
- brace 200 provides improved support to sink 210 , reducing the probability that a failure in the bond fixing the sink 210 to countertop 212 will escalate into a catastrophic failure.
- braces 200 can be configured to sustain the load of sink 210 (and its contents).
- braces 200 are constructed so as to sustain the rated load indefinitely, thereby operating as an alternate mechanism to fix sink 210 to countertop 212 .
- braces 200 support sink 210 so as to minimize damage caused by a bond failure, and to facilitate repair of the bond fixing sink 210 to countertop 212 .
- Various configuration options follow, and are not exhaustive.
- FIG. 3A illustrates a side view block drawing of a brace system 300 .
- Brace system 300 includes a brace 320 coupled to a sink 310 .
- Sink 310 is an otherwise conventional sink, comprising a sidewall 312 and a lip 314 .
- Brace 320 includes a shaft 322 , anchor plate 324 , and ridge 326 .
- shaft 322 includes a general s-shape configuration and comprises a lip shaft 330 , mid-shaft 332 , and an anchor shaft 334 .
- lip shaft 330 , mid-shaft 332 , and anchor shaft 334 are all constructed from the same material, which is one embodiment is a contiguous steel bar.
- lip shaft 330 couples to ridge 326 .
- lip shaft 330 includes a shaft end 336 , which, in the illustrated embodiment, is generally a flat end.
- the coupling between shaft end 336 and ridge 326 forms a weld cavity 338 .
- weld cavity 338 comprises a weld fixing shaft end 336 to ridge 326 .
- shaft end 336 is tapered to seat in ridge 326 .
- ridge 326 comprises a ridge top 340 and a ridge side 342 .
- ridge top 340 and ridge side 342 are coupled together to form a right angle.
- ridge top 340 and ridge side 342 are coupled together to form commensurate with the angle formed by sink lip 314 and sink sidewall 312 .
- ridge top 340 and ridge side 342 are metal strips welded together along a common edge.
- a single metal strip forms both ridge top 340 and ridge side 342 .
- lip shaft 330 couples to mid-shaft 332 .
- lip shaft 330 is substantially straight, and mid-shaft 332 is substantially curved, providing the general s-shape of shaft 320 .
- the general s-shape of shaft 320 extends across lip shaft 330 and mid-shaft 332 .
- anchor shaft 334 couples to mid-shaft 332 .
- anchor shaft 334 is substantially straight, and mid-shaft 332 is substantially curved, providing the general s-shape of shaft 320 .
- the general s-shape of shaft 320 extends across anchor shaft 334 and mid-shaft 332 .
- Anchor shaft 334 couples to anchor plate 324 .
- anchor plate 324 is a metal plate. In one embodiment, anchor plate 324 is approximately 1 ⁇ 8 inch thick.
- anchor plate 324 couples to a wall (not shown), by one or more anchor fasteners 344 .
- anchor fasteners 344 can be a wide variety of conventional fasteners configurable to mount a bracket or plate to a wall.
- brace 320 couples to sink 310 through a friction abutment between ridge 326 and a corner formed by lip 314 and sidewall 312 .
- Force from a load applied to sink 310 transfers (in part) to brace 320 through ridge 326 , into shaft 322 .
- Shaft 322 passes received force into and through anchor plate 324 , which is secured in a stable position in a wall (not shown).
- FIG. 3B illustrates a side view block drawing of brace system 300 .
- Brace system 300 includes a brace 320 .
- brace 320 includes two shafts 322 coupling ridge 326 to anchor plate 324 .
- ridge 326 extends a distance 350 past the region in which ridge 326 couples to shaft 322 .
- the shafts 322 couple to ridge 326 at a distance 352 apart from one another.
- distances 350 and 352 can be configured based on the size of the sink to which brace 320 will attach, as well as the expected load, and other suitable factors.
- anchor plate 324 includes a plurality of anchor attachment ports 348 .
- ports 348 are configured as apertures in anchor plate 324 , and receive a fastener that couples anchor plate 324 to a wall, as described above.
- anchor plate 324 includes four ports 348 .
- an alternate number of ports 348 can be employed.
- the ports 348 near the ends of anchor plate 324 are disposed a distance 354 from the ends of anchor plate 324 .
- the ports 348 nearest to a shaft 322 are disposed a distance 356 from shaft 322 .
- the ports 348 near the center of anchor plate 348 are disposed a distance 358 from each other.
- distances 354 , 356 , and 358 can be configured based on the size of the sink to which brace 320 will attach, as well as the expected load the sink will bear, and other suitable factors.
- FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of brace 320 , in one configuration and is offered to supplement the preceding FIGS. 3A and 3B .
- FIG. 4A illustrates an alternate embodiment.
- FIG. 4A is a side view block diagram of a brace system 400 , which includes brace 410 .
- Brace 410 includes ridge 412 , shaft 414 , and anchor plate 416 .
- ridge 412 includes ridge top 420 and ridge side 422 , which are configured similarly to ridge top 340 and ridge side 342 of FIG. 3A .
- Ridge 412 couples to shaft 414 .
- shaft 414 includes lip shaft 430 , which couples to ridge 412 .
- Lip shaft 430 couples to upper mid-shaft 432 .
- lip shaft 430 couples to upper mid-shaft 342 at an angle 460 .
- upper mid-shaft 432 includes a plurality of inner extension ports 450 , and slidably couples to lower mid-shaft 434 .
- each port 450 comprises an axial passage through upper mid-shaft 432 .
- each port 450 is parallel to every other port 450 .
- Lower mid-shaft 434 includes a plurality of outer extension ports 452 .
- each port 452 comprises an axial passage through lower mid-shaft 432 .
- each port 452 is parallel to every other port 452 .
- lower mid-shaft 434 is at least partially hollow and configured to receive upper mid-shaft 432 .
- shaft 414 can be lengthened or shortened by sliding upper mid-shaft 432 into (or out of) lower mid-shaft 434 .
- ports 450 and ports 452 are configured to be aligned and to receive a pin 454 .
- Pin 454 passes through an entrance to outer port 452 , an entrance to an inner port 450 aligned with the outer port 452 , the exit of the inner port 450 , through the exit of the outer port 452 . So configured, the resultant length of shaft 414 can be fixed. Thus, a builder employing brace 410 can adjust the shaft 414 length according to the distance between the sink and the wall in the environment where brace 410 is to be deployed.
- lower mid-shaft 434 couples to anchor shaft 436 .
- lower mid-shaft 434 couples to anchor shaft 436 at angle 462 .
- angle 460 and angle 462 can be adjusted based on the distance between the sink and the wall, the expected rated load, and other factors, in the environment where brace 410 is to be deployed.
- FIG. 4B illustrates a side view block drawing of brace system 400 and brace 410 .
- brace 410 includes two shafts 422 ( 422 a and 422 b ) that couple ridge 412 to anchor plate 416 .
- ridge 412 extends a distance past the region in which ridge 412 couples to shaft 422 .
- shaft 422 a includes an upper mid-shaft 432 configured to fit inside a partially (or completely) hollow lower mid-shaft 434 . Also shown are some exemplary mechanisms to couple upper mid-shaft 432 to lower mid-shaft 434 .
- a rivet-type fastener 470 pierces shaft 434 at port 452 and pierces shaft 432 at port 450 , which is aligned with port 452 .
- cotter pin 472 pierces the mid-shafts, holding the shafts 432 and 434 in place.
- shaft 422 b includes a lower mid-shaft 434 configured to fit inside a partially (or completely) hollow upper mid-shaft 432 .
- a screw-type fastener 474 pierces shaft 434 at port 452 and pierces shaft 432 at port 450 , which is aligned with port 452 .
- fastener 474 couples to a washer 480 .
- fastener 476 pierces only lower mid-shaft 434 , with upper mid-shaft 432 resting on the fastener 476 , thereby prevented from moving past fastener 476 in the direction of arrow 478 .
- FIG. 4B illustrates a variety of configuration alternatives that provide stability and flexibility to brace 410 . As such, a builder can size brace 410 according to the specific environment in which brace 410 will be deployed.
- FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective view of brace 410 , in one configuration and is offered to supplement the preceding FIGS. 4A and 4B .
- FIG. 5A illustrates an alternate embodiment.
- FIG. 5A illustrates a side view block drawing of a brace system 500 .
- Brace system 500 includes a brace 520 coupled to a sink 510 .
- Sink 510 is an otherwise conventional sink, comprising a sidewall 512 and a lip 514 .
- Brace 520 includes a shaft 522 , anchor plate 524 and ridge 526 .
- shaft 522 includes a generally straight-line configuration and comprises a lip shaft 530 , mid-shaft 532 , and an anchor shaft 534 .
- lip shaft 530 , mid-shaft 532 , and anchor shaft 534 are all constructed from the same material, which is one embodiment is a contiguous steel bar.
- mid-shaft 532 comprises an upper mid-shaft and a lower mid-shaft, configured as shown above, with respect to FIGS. 4A-C , but arranged to maintain the generally straight-line configuration.
- lip shaft 530 couples to ridge 526 .
- lip shaft 530 includes a shaft end, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is generally a crescent-shaped end. In an alternate embodiment, the lip shaft 530 shaft end is a flat end.
- ridge 526 comprises a rounded bar configured to seat in a crescent-shaped end of lip shaft 530 .
- ridge 526 is configured to fit close to the origin point of the angle formed by sink lip 514 and sink sidewall 512 . So configured, ridge 526 can couple more effectively to some sinks than a corresponding angular ridge.
- anchor shaft 534 includes a rounded tail 540 that couples to anchor plate 524 .
- anchor plate 524 includes a plurality of pin walls 542 , generally grouped in pairs. Generally, each pin wall 543 extends outward from anchor plate 542 in the perpendicular (and therefore usually horizontal) direction. In one embodiment, pin wall 542 is constructed of the same material as anchor plate 524 .
- pin wall 542 includes pin port 544 .
- pin port 544 is an aperture configured to receive an otherwise conventional fastener.
- a fastener passes through the pin port 544 of one pin wall 542 , pierces anchor shaft 534 , and passes through the pin port 544 of the pair-companion pin wall 542 , thereby coupling shaft 522 to anchor plate 524 .
- anchor shaft 534 includes a forked tail, and pin wall 542 serves as a tine in a fork-and-tine coupling.
- anchor plate 524 is a metal plate. Generally, anchor plate 524 couples to a wall (not shown), by one or more anchor fasteners (not shown).
- anchor fasteners can be a wide variety of conventional fasteners configurable to mount a bracket or plate to a wall.
- brace 520 couples to sink 510 through a friction abutment between ridge 526 and a corner formed by lip 514 and sidewall 512 .
- Force from a load applied to sink 510 transfers (in part) to brace 520 through ridge 526 , into shaft 522 .
- Shaft 522 passes received force into and through anchor plate 524 , which is secured in a stable position in a wall (not shown).
- FIG. 5B illustrates a side view block drawing of brace system 500 .
- Brace system 500 includes a brace 520 .
- brace 520 includes two shafts 522 coupling ridge 526 to anchor plate 524 .
- ridge 526 extends a distance past the region in which ridge 526 couples to shaft 522 .
- this distance as well as the number of and separation between multiple shafts 522 , can be configured based on the size of the sink to which brace 520 will attach, as well as the expected load, and other suitable factors.
- ridge 526 and anchor plate 524 are configured to be approximately the same length. In an alternate embodiment, ridge 526 can be configured longer than anchor plate 524 .
- anchor plate 524 includes a plurality of pin walls 542 , which, in one embodiment, are arranged in pairs. As shown, an anchor pin 560 passes through a first pin wall 542 , piercing shaft 522 at port 546 , and passes through a second pin wall 542 . In one embodiment, a retaining ring 562 couples to pin 560 . Thus, in one embodiment, shaft 522 pivotably couples to anchor plate 524 . So configured, the angle between anchor plate 524 and the sink to which brace 520 couples can be adjusted, based on a variety of factors, such as the distance between the sink sidewall and anchor plate 542 , the expected load, and other suitable factors.
- ridge 526 is a cylindrical bar 3 ⁇ 8 inch in diameter and 10 inches long.
- brace 520 includes two shafts 522 and each shaft 522 is a cylindrical bar 3 ⁇ 8 inch in diameter and 115 ⁇ 8 inches long.
- pin wall 542 extends 3 ⁇ 4 of an inch outward from anchor plate 524 .
- anchor plate 524 is 3 ⁇ 4 inches wide, 7 inches long, and 1 ⁇ 8 inches thick.
- FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of brace 520 , in one configuration and is offered to supplement the preceding FIGS. 5A and 5B .
- FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate embodiment.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a side view block drawing of brace system 600 .
- Brace system 600 includes a brace 620 .
- brace 620 includes three shafts 622 coupling ridge 626 to anchor plate 624 .
- ridge 626 extends a distance 650 past the region in which ridge 626 couples to shaft 622 .
- the shafts 622 couple to ridge 626 at a distance 652 apart from one another.
- distances 650 and 652 can be configured based on the size of the sink to which brace 620 will attach, as well as the expected load, and other suitable factors.
- anchor plate 624 includes a plurality of anchor attachment ports 628 .
- ports 628 are configured as apertures in anchor plate 624 , and receive a fastener that couples anchor plate 624 to a wall, as described above.
- anchor plate 624 includes four ports 628 .
- an alternate number of ports 628 can also be employed based on the size of the sink to which brace 620 will attach, as well as the expected load the sink will bear, and other suitable factors.
- FIG. 7 is a side view block diagram of a brace system 700 , which includes brace 720 .
- Brace 720 includes ridge 726 , shaft 722 , and anchor plate 726 , configured substantially as described above with respect to FIG. 4B .
- shaft 722 includes lip shaft 730 , which couples to ridge 726 .
- Lip shaft 730 couples to mid-shaft 732 .
- lip shaft 730 couples to mid-shaft 732 at an angle 740 .
- angle 740 is oriented generally in the reverse direction from angle 460 of FIG. 4B .
- mid-shaft 732 couples to anchor shaft 734 .
- mid-shaft 732 couples to anchor shaft 734 at angle 742 .
- angle 742 is oriented generally in the reverse direction from angle 462 of FIG. 4B .
- angle 740 and angle 742 can be adjusted based on the distance between the sink and the wall, the expected rated load, and other factors, in the environment where brace 720 is to be deployed.
- the embodiments disclosed herein provide numerous technical advantages over prior art systems and methods.
- the disclosed braces distribute the ordinary load forces applied to a typical sink so as to improve the stability of the coupling linking the sink to the countertop. That is, in one embodiment, the ordinary load forces cause the embodiments disclosed herein to strengthen the sink support-added force makes a stronger support, and additional force (to a point) improves the fit and stability of the braces.
- the embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to existing sink configurations with minimal damage to installed components.
- the support beams of the prior art are typically install before the countertop.
- the embodiments disclosed herein can be installed in typical environments long after the original construction of the sink/countertop fixtures. As such, the disclosed embodiments can improve the safety and stability of both new systems and previously existing systems.
- the disclosed embodiments provide a relatively cost-effective solution to adding stability and support to installed sinks.
- some prior art solutions must be installed concurrently with the sink and countertop, or require disassembling previously installed fixtures. But in many cases, removing the sink from the countertop requires heating the adhesive to loosen the bond, which often causes significant damage to the countertop.
- the disclosed embodiments can be employed after the initial installation, which eliminates a significant labor (and possibly materials) cost.
- the disclosed embodiments can help mitigate damage from a failure, preventing a failure from developing into a catastrophic failure.
- the embodiments disclosed herein can be configured to support a sink even after the bond coupling the sink to the countertop fails.
- the braces disclosed herein can be configured to bear the entire rated load of the sink (and its contents). As such, the disclosed embodiments can preserve the spatial relation of the sink to the countertop, which in some cases can be sufficient to repair a failed bond without requiring removal and reinstallation.
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Abstract
A sink brace comprises a first shaft comprising a lip shaft, a mid-shaft, and an anchor shaft. A brace ridge couples to the lip shaft and is configured to couple to a sink lip of a sink. An anchor plate couples to the anchor shaft. The anchor plate comprises a plurality of attachment ports, and each attachment port is configured to receive a fastener. The first shaft, brace ridge, and anchor plate together form a direct connection between the sink lip and a wall.
Description
- The present invention relates generally to the fields of building construction and maintenance and, in particular, to a sink brace system and method.
- For thousands of years, Humans have built and maintained structures in which we live and work. Each building serves one or more purposes, whether specific or general. For example, humans build residential structures to live in (a general purpose), typically for the specific purpose of one family (a house, for example) or many families (a condominium, for example) to use. Similarly, humans build commercial structures as workplaces (a general purpose), for a wide variety of enterprises from law firms to retail shopping stores to restaurants (specific purposes). The design and construction of most buildings follows its function or specific purpose.
- In addition to whatever requirements arise from the general or specific purpose of the structure, safety is one factor that is consistently high on a list of design considerations. Especially for modern structures, the vast majority of all building designs feature safety, both to the humans and animals using the structure and to the structure itself. The emphasis on safety in building design and construction has been increasing over the last century in particular.
- Even with a sustained emphasis on safety, frequently backed by local, state, and/or governmental regulation and enforcement, accidents still occur. In some cases, construction failures and other accidents occur as the direct result of negligence or malfeasance. In other cases, safety issues arise out of the intended and regulatory-compliant use, as an unforeseen consequence, such as with asbestos-related problems, for example. Such safety issues can remain hidden for years, undetected until revealed by one or more tragic mishaps.
- In other cases, safety issues can arise from the otherwise routine use of ordinary products and methods, which are typically handled within a relatively small range of tolerances. Some of these cases are readily observable. For example, modern safe construction practices limit the spacing between support studs in a wall to a maximum distance, which in practice has developed into a requirement that such studs be placed more or less exactly 16 inches apart. Visual inspection can determine whether a stud is outside the tolerance distance from its neighbor.
- Other routine-use safety issues are more difficult to observe. For example, one popular kitchen configuration is a marble or other high-grade stone countertop, with a deep sink fixed underneath a hole in the countertop that has been cut for that purpose. In many cases, the builder fixes the sink to the underside of the countertop with a strong adhesive, such as a two-part epoxy, for example. Such a two-part epoxy will usually hold the sink to the countertop under a sustained rated load, and the builder selects the appropriate epoxy based on the expected load. In some cases, a regulatory agency may specific the minimum rating for such an epoxy.
- The effective epoxy rating, however, can deviate from the stated epoxy rating, and depends very much on the process used to mix the two-part epoxy. If the builder does not mix the epoxy within the necessary tolerances, the epoxy could fail to form a bond sufficient to hold a rated load. If the epoxy fails to form a sufficient bond, the sink might not stay fixed to the countertop, potentially causing an unstable and unsafe condition. That is, the constant strain of gravity and other forces acting on the bond can weaken it and cause it to fail unexpectedly. Unfortunately, there is no current or convenient mechanism to determine whether the epoxy was mixed properly, or whether the resultant bond is satisfactory.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a common scenario highlighting the safety concerns attending the typical approach. More particularly,FIG. 1 is an expanded view of one typical configuration,system 100.System 100 includes acountertop 102, which defines anaperture 104. One skilled in the art will appreciate thatcountertop 102 can be constructed of a number of common building materials, including marble, granite, and other stone materials, as well as a number of other materials such as pressboard or laminate, for example. Additionally, one skilled in the art will recognize thataperture 104 can define a circular, rectangular, ovoid, or other similar opening. - In most cases, the expected sink determines the general shape of
aperture 104. As shown,system 100 includes an otherwiseconventional sink 110. Generally,sink 110 includes a plurality of concentrically arrangedsidewalls 112 coupled to abottom 114. Generally, the arrangement ofsidewalls 112 influence the design ofaperture 104 as the intended use is for a user to reach intosink 110 throughaperture 104.Sidewalls 112 andbottom 114 are usually constructed from the same material, which in many cases is a variety of steel or ceramic material. In many cases,sidewalls 112 andbottom 114 are formed from a contiguous piece of shaped steel. - As shown,
sink 110 includes alip 116, extending radially from the end of thesidewalls 112 distal frombottom 114. Generally,lip 116 includes alip surface 118. In one common method to attachsink 110 tocountertop 102, a builder will mix a two-part epoxy, apply the mixed epoxy tolip surface 118, andabut lip surface 118 to the underside ofcountertop 102, aligned withaperture 104. The builder will hold thesink 110 in place through a variety of means, such as clamps or other suitable mechanisms, for the period required to allow the epoxy to set. As the epoxy sets, it forms a bond that holdssink 110 to countertop 102. Once the bond is set, the builder removes the stabilizing mechanisms and applies caulking or other waterproofing to the inner side of the annular seal formed by thesink 110 andaperture 104. - As described above, in some cases, the resultant bond formed by the epoxy is sometimes insufficient to hold the
sink 110 fixed tocountertop 102 under certain loads. This is a dangerous condition, and as such, in some cases, a builder will also install support beams, such assupport beams lip 116 and thereby sandwicheslip 116 between the support beam andcountertop 102. The support beams are typically held in place by fasteners coupling eachsupport beam front panel 124 and arear wall 126.FIG. 1B shows a side view illustrating the typical configuration. - Referring now to
FIG. 1B , asystem 150 includes a countertop 152 coupled to asink 160. Sink 160 includes alip 162, which, as shown, abuts on the bottom plane of countertop 152. As described above, a builder typically applies epoxy to fixlip 162 to countertop 152.Support beams 170 sit just underneathlip 162, assisting the epoxy inholding lip 162 to countertop 152. - So configured, one skilled in the art will note that the
support beams 170 generally support the load of thesink 160 by direct opposition. That is, the sink (and anything in the sink, such as standing water, for example) is a load applied generally in the direction ofarrow 180. As such, part of that load is distributed to thebeams 170, as indicated byarrows 182. Therefore, as shown inFIG. 1B , the ordinary loads and stresses caused bysink 160 also apply to thesupport beams 170, in the same direction, which diminishes the effectiveness of thebeams 170 as a support mechanism. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the total seal strength fixing thesink 160 to countertop 152, is the sum of is the strength of the epoxy and the quality of the fasteners holding the support beams in place. - Even in such cases, however, the epoxy bond strength and the additional support provided by the support beams can be insufficient to withstand high loads. For example, where the epoxy bond is especially weak, a sink full of dishes and water can, in some cases, quickly exceed the combined seal strength, causing a failure. Configured as shown in
FIG. 1B , a failure typically implies that the sink (and its contents) separate from the countertop completely, with the sink completely unsupported after a failure. - This kind of failure can be especially destructive, causing injury and damage to both the countertop 152 and any items stored under the sink. Moreover, where the sink couples to one or more plumbing attachments (such as a garbage disposal or drain pipe, for example), as is common, a complete separation of the
sink 160 from countertop 152 can damage the plumbing system as well. Thus, while some modern safety solutions have enhanced the strength of the bond holding the sink to the countertop, a failure is often a catastrophic failure. - Therefore, there is a need for a system and/or method that addresses at least some of the problems and disadvantages associated with conventional systems and methods.
- The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the embodiments disclosed and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the embodiments can be gained by taking into consideration the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.
- The aforementioned aspects and other objectives and advantages can now be achieved as described herein. A sink brace comprises a first shaft comprising a lip shaft, a mid-shaft, and an anchor shaft. A brace ridge couples to the lip shaft and is configured to couple to a sink lip of a sink. An anchor plate couples to the anchor shaft. The anchor plate comprises a plurality of attachment ports, and each attachment port is configured to receive a fastener. The first shaft, brace ridge, and anchor plate together form a direct connection between the sink lip and a wall.
- The accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally-similar elements throughout the separate views and which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, further illustrate the embodiments and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the embodiments disclosed herein.
-
FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate block diagram showing a prior art system; -
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment; -
FIGS. 3A , 3B, and 3C illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment; -
FIGS. 4A , 4B, and 4C illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment; -
FIGS. 5A , 5B, and 5C illustrate high-level block diagrams showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment; -
FIG. 6 illustrates a high-level block diagram showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment; and -
FIG. 7 illustrates a high-level block diagram showing an improved sink brace system, which can be implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment. - The particular values and configurations discussed in these non-limiting examples can be varied and are cited merely to illustrate at least one embodiment and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. While numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known elements have been illustrated in schematic or block diagram form in order not to obscure the present invention in unnecessary detail. Additionally, many modifications and variations will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant arts.
- Referring now to the drawings,
FIG. 2A illustrates a high-level block diagram of an improvedsink brace system 200. As shown, an otherwiseconventional sink 210 couples to an otherwiseconventional countertop 212. In one embodiment, sink 210 comprises asink lip 214, which couples to the underside ofcountertop 212 by application of a high bond strength epoxy adhesive. In an alternate embodiment, an alternativeadhesive couples lip 214 tocountertop 212. Twowalls 216 couple perpendicularly tocountertop 212. One skilled in the art will understand thatwalls 216 often define and partially enclose a cupboard or other cabinet space in the area beneath the countertop. - As illustrated,
system 200 includes two braces 200. Eachbrace 200 comprises abrace ridge 222, one ormore brace shafts 224, and abrace anchor 226. Generally, brace 200 couples to sink 210 andsidewall 216 such thatbrace ridge 222 connects to sink 210 at or near the intersection oflip 214 with the sidewall ofsink 210.Brace 200 also couples to wall 216 such thatbrace anchor 226 remains in a fixed position onwall 216 whenbrace ridge 222 is touching the intersection oflip 214 with the sidewall ofsink 210. - So configured, the ordinary loads applied to sink 210 generally apply force in the direction of arrow “A”. The load force also applies to the
braces 200, fromsink 210 to braceridge 222 throughbrace shaft 224 to braceanchor 226 and thence to wall 216. The novel configuration illustrated thus disperses some of the load force in the directions of arrows “B” and “B′”. As such, increased load in the direction of arrow “A” tends to increase the strength of the support provided bybraces 200, which is an improvement over the prior art approaches. -
FIG. 2B illustrates a high-level block diagram of an improvedsink brace system 201, in side view. As shown, sink 210 couples tocountertop 212. Abrace 220 supports sink 210 and couples to sink 210 atridge 222. In the illustrated embodiment,brace 220 includes twoshafts 224, each of which couple at one end atridge 222, and at the other end to ananchor place 226. Thus,brace 220 receives load force fromsink 210 atridge 222, and distributes received force throughshafts 224 to anchorplate 226. In one embodiment,anchor plate 226 couples to a wall (not shown) in a fixed position, as described in more detail below. - Thus, generally,
brace 200 provides improved support to sink 210, reducing the probability that a failure in the bond fixing thesink 210 tocountertop 212 will escalate into a catastrophic failure. Instead, should the bond betweensink 210 andcountertop 212 fail, braces 200 can be configured to sustain the load of sink 210 (and its contents). In one embodiment, braces 200 are constructed so as to sustain the rated load indefinitely, thereby operating as an alternate mechanism to fixsink 210 tocountertop 212. In an alternate embodiment, braces 200support sink 210 so as to minimize damage caused by a bond failure, and to facilitate repair of thebond fixing sink 210 tocountertop 212. Various configuration options follow, and are not exhaustive. -
FIG. 3A illustrates a side view block drawing of abrace system 300.Brace system 300 includes abrace 320 coupled to asink 310.Sink 310 is an otherwise conventional sink, comprising asidewall 312 and alip 314.Brace 320 includes ashaft 322,anchor plate 324, andridge 326. As illustrated,shaft 322 includes a general s-shape configuration and comprises alip shaft 330, mid-shaft 332, and ananchor shaft 334. In one embodiment,lip shaft 330, mid-shaft 332, andanchor shaft 334 are all constructed from the same material, which is one embodiment is a contiguous steel bar. - Generally,
lip shaft 330 couples toridge 326. As shown,lip shaft 330 includes ashaft end 336, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is generally a flat end. As such, the coupling betweenshaft end 336 andridge 326 forms aweld cavity 338. In one embodiment,weld cavity 338 comprises a weld fixingshaft end 336 toridge 326. In an alternate embodiment,shaft end 336 is tapered to seat inridge 326. - In particular, in one embodiment,
ridge 326 comprises aridge top 340 and aridge side 342. In one embodiment,ridge top 340 andridge side 342 are coupled together to form a right angle. In an alternate embodiment,ridge top 340 andridge side 342 are coupled together to form commensurate with the angle formed bysink lip 314 and sinksidewall 312. In one embodiment,ridge top 340 andridge side 342 are metal strips welded together along a common edge. In an alternate embodiment, a single metal strip forms bothridge top 340 andridge side 342. - In the illustrated embodiment,
lip shaft 330 couples to mid-shaft 332. In one embodiment,lip shaft 330 is substantially straight, and mid-shaft 332 is substantially curved, providing the general s-shape ofshaft 320. In an alternate embodiment, the general s-shape ofshaft 320 extends acrosslip shaft 330 and mid-shaft 332. - Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment,
anchor shaft 334 couples to mid-shaft 332. In one embodiment,anchor shaft 334 is substantially straight, and mid-shaft 332 is substantially curved, providing the general s-shape ofshaft 320. In an alternate embodiment, the general s-shape ofshaft 320 extends acrossanchor shaft 334 and mid-shaft 332. -
Anchor shaft 334 couples to anchorplate 324. In one embodiment,anchor plate 324 is a metal plate. In one embodiment,anchor plate 324 is approximately ⅛ inch thick. Generally,anchor plate 324 couples to a wall (not shown), by one ormore anchor fasteners 344. One skilled in the art will understand thatanchor fasteners 344 can be a wide variety of conventional fasteners configurable to mount a bracket or plate to a wall. - Thus, as shown, brace 320 couples to sink 310 through a friction abutment between
ridge 326 and a corner formed bylip 314 andsidewall 312. Force from a load applied to sink 310 transfers (in part) to brace 320 throughridge 326, intoshaft 322.Shaft 322 passes received force into and throughanchor plate 324, which is secured in a stable position in a wall (not shown). -
FIG. 3B illustrates a side view block drawing ofbrace system 300.Brace system 300 includes abrace 320. In the illustrated embodiment,brace 320 includes twoshafts 322coupling ridge 326 to anchorplate 324. As shown,ridge 326 extends adistance 350 past the region in whichridge 326 couples toshaft 322. Similarly, theshafts 322 couple toridge 326 at adistance 352 apart from one another. One skilled in the art will understand thatdistances brace 320 will attach, as well as the expected load, and other suitable factors. - In the illustrated embodiment,
anchor plate 324 includes a plurality ofanchor attachment ports 348. Generally,ports 348 are configured as apertures inanchor plate 324, and receive a fastener that couplesanchor plate 324 to a wall, as described above. In the illustrated embodiment,anchor plate 324 includes fourports 348. One skilled in the art will understand that an alternate number ofports 348 can be employed. As shown, theports 348 near the ends ofanchor plate 324 are disposed adistance 354 from the ends ofanchor plate 324. Likewise, theports 348 nearest to ashaft 322 are disposed adistance 356 fromshaft 322. Similarly, theports 348 near the center ofanchor plate 348 are disposed adistance 358 from each other. One skilled in the art will understand that distances 354, 356, and 358 can be configured based on the size of the sink to whichbrace 320 will attach, as well as the expected load the sink will bear, and other suitable factors. -
FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view ofbrace 320, in one configuration and is offered to supplement the precedingFIGS. 3A and 3B .FIG. 4A illustrates an alternate embodiment. - Specifically,
FIG. 4A is a side view block diagram of abrace system 400, which includes brace 410. Brace 410 includesridge 412,shaft 414, andanchor plate 416. In the illustrated embodiment,ridge 412 includesridge top 420 and ridge side 422, which are configured similarly toridge top 340 andridge side 342 ofFIG. 3A .Ridge 412 couples toshaft 414. - In particular,
shaft 414 includeslip shaft 430, which couples toridge 412.Lip shaft 430 couples toupper mid-shaft 432. In the illustrated embodiment,lip shaft 430 couples to upper mid-shaft 342 at anangle 460. As shown,upper mid-shaft 432 includes a plurality ofinner extension ports 450, and slidably couples tolower mid-shaft 434. Generally, eachport 450 comprises an axial passage throughupper mid-shaft 432. In one embodiment, eachport 450 is parallel to everyother port 450. - Lower mid-shaft 434 includes a plurality of
outer extension ports 452. Generally, eachport 452 comprises an axial passage throughlower mid-shaft 432. In one embodiment, eachport 452 is parallel to everyother port 452. Generally, lower mid-shaft 434 is at least partially hollow and configured to receiveupper mid-shaft 432. Thus,shaft 414 can be lengthened or shortened by sliding upper mid-shaft 432 into (or out of)lower mid-shaft 434. In one embodiment,ports 450 andports 452 are configured to be aligned and to receive a pin 454. Pin 454 passes through an entrance toouter port 452, an entrance to aninner port 450 aligned with theouter port 452, the exit of theinner port 450, through the exit of theouter port 452. So configured, the resultant length ofshaft 414 can be fixed. Thus, a builder employing brace 410 can adjust theshaft 414 length according to the distance between the sink and the wall in the environment where brace 410 is to be deployed. - As shown, lower mid-shaft 434 couples to anchor
shaft 436. In the illustrated embodiment, lower mid-shaft 434 couples to anchorshaft 436 atangle 462. In addition to varying the length ofshaft 414,angle 460 andangle 462 can be adjusted based on the distance between the sink and the wall, the expected rated load, and other factors, in the environment where brace 410 is to be deployed. -
FIG. 4B illustrates a side view block drawing ofbrace system 400 and brace 410. In the illustrated embodiment, brace 410 includes two shafts 422 (422 a and 422 b) thatcouple ridge 412 to anchorplate 416. As shown,ridge 412 extends a distance past the region in whichridge 412 couples to shaft 422. - In the illustrated embodiment,
shaft 422 a includes anupper mid-shaft 432 configured to fit inside a partially (or completely) hollow lower mid-shaft 434. Also shown are some exemplary mechanisms to couple upper mid-shaft 432 tolower mid-shaft 434. In one embodiment, a rivet-type fastener 470 piercesshaft 434 atport 452 and piercesshaft 432 atport 450, which is aligned withport 452. In an alternate embodiment,cotter pin 472 pierces the mid-shafts, holding theshafts - In the illustrated alternate embodiment,
shaft 422 b includes a lower mid-shaft 434 configured to fit inside a partially (or completely) hollowupper mid-shaft 432. In one embodiment, a screw-type fastener 474 piercesshaft 434 atport 452 and piercesshaft 432 atport 450, which is aligned withport 452. In one embodiment,fastener 474 couples to awasher 480. In an alternate embodiment,fastener 476 pierces only lower mid-shaft 434, with upper mid-shaft 432 resting on thefastener 476, thereby prevented from movingpast fastener 476 in the direction ofarrow 478. Thus,FIG. 4B illustrates a variety of configuration alternatives that provide stability and flexibility to brace 410. As such, a builder can size brace 410 according to the specific environment in which brace 410 will be deployed. -
FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective view of brace 410, in one configuration and is offered to supplement the precedingFIGS. 4A and 4B .FIG. 5A illustrates an alternate embodiment. -
FIG. 5A illustrates a side view block drawing of abrace system 500.Brace system 500 includes abrace 520 coupled to asink 510.Sink 510 is an otherwise conventional sink, comprising asidewall 512 and alip 514.Brace 520 includes ashaft 522,anchor plate 524 andridge 526. As illustrated,shaft 522 includes a generally straight-line configuration and comprises alip shaft 530, mid-shaft 532, and ananchor shaft 534. In one embodiment,lip shaft 530, mid-shaft 532, andanchor shaft 534 are all constructed from the same material, which is one embodiment is a contiguous steel bar. In an alternate embodiment, mid-shaft 532 comprises an upper mid-shaft and a lower mid-shaft, configured as shown above, with respect toFIGS. 4A-C , but arranged to maintain the generally straight-line configuration. - Generally,
lip shaft 530 couples toridge 526. As shown,lip shaft 530 includes a shaft end, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is generally a crescent-shaped end. In an alternate embodiment, thelip shaft 530 shaft end is a flat end. In the illustrated embodiment,ridge 526 comprises a rounded bar configured to seat in a crescent-shaped end oflip shaft 530. In one embodiment,ridge 526 is configured to fit close to the origin point of the angle formed bysink lip 514 and sinksidewall 512. So configured,ridge 526 can couple more effectively to some sinks than a corresponding angular ridge. - In the illustrated embodiment,
anchor shaft 534 includes arounded tail 540 that couples to anchorplate 524. In the illustrated embodiment,anchor plate 524 includes a plurality ofpin walls 542, generally grouped in pairs. Generally, each pin wall 543 extends outward fromanchor plate 542 in the perpendicular (and therefore usually horizontal) direction. In one embodiment,pin wall 542 is constructed of the same material asanchor plate 524. - As shown,
pin wall 542 includespin port 544. In one embodiment,pin port 544 is an aperture configured to receive an otherwise conventional fastener. Generally, as described in more detail below, a fastener passes through thepin port 544 of onepin wall 542, piercesanchor shaft 534, and passes through thepin port 544 of the pair-companion pin wall 542, thereby couplingshaft 522 to anchorplate 524. In an alternate embodiment,anchor shaft 534 includes a forked tail, andpin wall 542 serves as a tine in a fork-and-tine coupling. - In one embodiment,
anchor plate 524 is a metal plate. Generally,anchor plate 524 couples to a wall (not shown), by one or more anchor fasteners (not shown). One skilled in the art will understand that the anchor fasteners can be a wide variety of conventional fasteners configurable to mount a bracket or plate to a wall. - Thus, as shown, brace 520 couples to sink 510 through a friction abutment between
ridge 526 and a corner formed bylip 514 andsidewall 512. Force from a load applied to sink 510 transfers (in part) to brace 520 throughridge 526, intoshaft 522.Shaft 522 passes received force into and throughanchor plate 524, which is secured in a stable position in a wall (not shown). -
FIG. 5B illustrates a side view block drawing ofbrace system 500.Brace system 500 includes abrace 520. In the illustrated embodiment,brace 520 includes twoshafts 522coupling ridge 526 to anchorplate 524. As shown,ridge 526 extends a distance past the region in whichridge 526 couples toshaft 522. One skilled in the art will understand that this distance, as well as the number of and separation betweenmultiple shafts 522, can be configured based on the size of the sink to whichbrace 520 will attach, as well as the expected load, and other suitable factors. Additionally, in one embodiment,ridge 526 andanchor plate 524 are configured to be approximately the same length. In an alternate embodiment,ridge 526 can be configured longer thananchor plate 524. - As described above,
anchor plate 524 includes a plurality ofpin walls 542, which, in one embodiment, are arranged in pairs. As shown, ananchor pin 560 passes through afirst pin wall 542, piercingshaft 522 atport 546, and passes through asecond pin wall 542. In one embodiment, a retainingring 562 couples to pin 560. Thus, in one embodiment,shaft 522 pivotably couples to anchorplate 524. So configured, the angle betweenanchor plate 524 and the sink to which brace 520 couples can be adjusted, based on a variety of factors, such as the distance between the sink sidewall andanchor plate 542, the expected load, and other suitable factors. - In one embodiment,
ridge 526 is a cylindrical bar ⅜ inch in diameter and 10 inches long. In one embodiment,brace 520 includes twoshafts 522 and eachshaft 522 is a cylindrical bar ⅜ inch in diameter and 11⅝ inches long. In one embodiment,pin wall 542 extends ¾ of an inch outward fromanchor plate 524. In one embodiment,anchor plate 524 is ¾ inches wide, 7 inches long, and ⅛ inches thick. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the above dimensions can be adjusted to account for variances in the operating environment, such as, for example, the size of the sink, the width of the sink rim, the distance between the sink and the sidewall, the expected load, and other suitable factors. -
FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view ofbrace 520, in one configuration and is offered to supplement the precedingFIGS. 5A and 5B .FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate embodiment. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a side view block drawing ofbrace system 600.Brace system 600 includes abrace 620. In the illustrated embodiment,brace 620 includes threeshafts 622coupling ridge 626 to anchorplate 624. As shown,ridge 626 extends adistance 650 past the region in whichridge 626 couples toshaft 622. Similarly, theshafts 622 couple toridge 626 at adistance 652 apart from one another. One skilled in the art will understand thatdistances brace 620 will attach, as well as the expected load, and other suitable factors. - In the illustrated embodiment,
anchor plate 624 includes a plurality ofanchor attachment ports 628. Generally,ports 628 are configured as apertures inanchor plate 624, and receive a fastener that couplesanchor plate 624 to a wall, as described above. In the illustrated embodiment,anchor plate 624 includes fourports 628. One skilled in the art will understand that an alternate number of ports 628 (with corresponding fasteners) can also be employed based on the size of the sink to whichbrace 620 will attach, as well as the expected load the sink will bear, and other suitable factors. -
FIG. 7 is a side view block diagram of abrace system 700, which includesbrace 720.Brace 720 includesridge 726,shaft 722, andanchor plate 726, configured substantially as described above with respect toFIG. 4B . In particular,shaft 722 includeslip shaft 730, which couples toridge 726.Lip shaft 730 couples to mid-shaft 732. In the illustrated embodiment,lip shaft 730 couples to mid-shaft 732 at anangle 740. One skilled in the art will appreciate thatangle 740 is oriented generally in the reverse direction fromangle 460 ofFIG. 4B . - Similarly, mid-shaft 732 couples to anchor
shaft 734. In the illustrated embodiment, mid-shaft 732 couples to anchorshaft 734 atangle 742. One skilled in the art will appreciate thatangle 742 is oriented generally in the reverse direction fromangle 462 ofFIG. 4B . As described above, in oneembodiment angle 740 andangle 742 can be adjusted based on the distance between the sink and the wall, the expected rated load, and other factors, in the environment wherebrace 720 is to be deployed. - Thus, as generally described above, the embodiments disclosed herein provide numerous technical advantages over prior art systems and methods. For example, in one embodiment, the disclosed braces distribute the ordinary load forces applied to a typical sink so as to improve the stability of the coupling linking the sink to the countertop. That is, in one embodiment, the ordinary load forces cause the embodiments disclosed herein to strengthen the sink support-added force makes a stronger support, and additional force (to a point) improves the fit and stability of the braces.
- Additionally, the embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to existing sink configurations with minimal damage to installed components. In prior art systems, the support beams of the prior art are typically install before the countertop. But the embodiments disclosed herein can be installed in typical environments long after the original construction of the sink/countertop fixtures. As such, the disclosed embodiments can improve the safety and stability of both new systems and previously existing systems.
- Additionally, the disclosed embodiments provide a relatively cost-effective solution to adding stability and support to installed sinks. For example, some prior art solutions must be installed concurrently with the sink and countertop, or require disassembling previously installed fixtures. But in many cases, removing the sink from the countertop requires heating the adhesive to loosen the bond, which often causes significant damage to the countertop. The disclosed embodiments, however, can be employed after the initial installation, which eliminates a significant labor (and possibly materials) cost.
- Moreover, the disclosed embodiments can help mitigate damage from a failure, preventing a failure from developing into a catastrophic failure. As described above, the embodiments disclosed herein can be configured to support a sink even after the bond coupling the sink to the countertop fails. In some embodiments, the braces disclosed herein can be configured to bear the entire rated load of the sink (and its contents). As such, the disclosed embodiments can preserve the spatial relation of the sink to the countertop, which in some cases can be sufficient to repair a failed bond without requiring removal and reinstallation.
- One skilled in the art will appreciate the embodiments disclosed above, and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Additionally, various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.
Claims (16)
1. A sink brace, comprising:
a first shaft, wherein the shaft comprises a lip shaft, a mid-shaft, and an anchor shaft;
a brace ridge coupled to the lip shaft, wherein the brace ridge is configured to couple to a sink lip of a sink;
an anchor plate coupled to the anchor shaft, the anchor plate comprising a plurality of attachment ports, each attachment port configured to receive a fastener;
wherein the first shaft, brace ridge, and anchor plate together form a direct connection between the sink lip and a wall.
2. The sink brace of claim 1 :
wherein the brace ridge comprises a ridge guide coupled to an end of the lip shaft distal to the anchor plate, the ridge guide comprising a ridge top and a ridge side;
wherein the ridge top is configured to abut an underside of the sink lip; and
wherein the ridge side is configured to abut a sidewall of the sink.
3. The sink brace of claim 1 , wherein the brace ridge comprises a crossbar.
4. The sink brace of claim 3 , wherein the crossbar comprises a cylindrical bar.
5. The sink brace of claim 1 , further comprising a second shaft, the second shaft disposed parallel to the first shaft and comprising a second ridge guide coupled to the brace ridge and the anchor plate.
6. The sink brace of claim 5 , further comprising a third shaft, the third shaft disposed parallel to the first shaft and the second shaft and comprising a third ridge guide coupled to the brace ridge and the anchor plate.
7. The sink brace of claim 1 , wherein the mid-shaft comprises:
an upper mid-shaft coupled to the lip shaft, the upper mid-shaft comprising a plurality of extension ports;
a lower mid-shaft coupled to the anchor shaft, the lower mid-shaft comprising a plurality of extension ports; and
a fastener coupling the upper mid-shaft to the lower mid-shaft.
8. The sink brace of claim 7 , wherein the fastener pierces the lower mid-shaft.
9. The sink brace of claim 7 , wherein the fastener pierces the lower mid-shaft and the upper mid-shaft.
10. The sink brace of claim 7 , wherein the fastener is a cotter pin.
11. The sink brace of claim 7 , wherein the fastener is a rivet.
12. The sink brace of claim 7 , wherein the fastener is a screw.
13. The sink brace of claim 1 , wherein the anchor plate further comprises a plurality of pin walls arranged in pairs and further comprising a fastener coupling at least one pin wall to the anchor shaft.
14. The sink brace of claim 1 , wherein the first shaft is substantially straight.
15. The sink brace of claim 1 , wherein the first shaft is curved in a slight s-shape.
16. A sink brace, comprising:
a brace ridge comprising a cylindrical bar, the brace ridge configured to abut simultaneously a sink lip of a sink and a sink sidewall of the sink;
wherein the sink lip couples to a countertop oriented in a first plane;
a first brace shaft coupled to the brace ridge comprising a first cylindrical bar, the first cylindrical bar comprising a first shaft end and a second shaft end;
wherein the first shaft end is configured in a substantially crescent shape and is configured to seat the brace ridge;
a second brace shaft coupled to the brace ridge, oriented substantially in parallel to the first brace shaft, comprising a second cylindrical bar, the second cylindrical bar comprising a third shaft end and a fourth shaft end;
wherein the third shaft end is configured in a substantially crescent shape and is configured to seat the brace ridge;
an anchor plate comprising a first pair of pin walls and a second pair of pin walls;
wherein the first pair of pin walls couple to the second shaft end;
wherein the second pair of pin walls couple to the fourth shaft end;
wherein the anchor plate couples to a wall; and
wherein the wall couples to the countertop perpendicular to the first plane.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US12/475,599 US20100301175A1 (en) | 2009-05-31 | 2009-05-31 | Sink brace |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US12/475,599 US20100301175A1 (en) | 2009-05-31 | 2009-05-31 | Sink brace |
Publications (1)
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US20100301175A1 true US20100301175A1 (en) | 2010-12-02 |
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US12/475,599 Abandoned US20100301175A1 (en) | 2009-05-31 | 2009-05-31 | Sink brace |
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CN105220739A (en) * | 2015-09-28 | 2016-01-06 | 浙江火星人厨具有限公司 | A kind of novel kitchen tank |
US9290919B2 (en) * | 2013-10-23 | 2016-03-22 | Dow Blaine | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
US9492010B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2016-11-15 | Kohler Co. | Mounting system for sink |
US9538863B1 (en) | 2009-07-09 | 2017-01-10 | Michael Peay | System for mounting a sink |
US9677258B1 (en) * | 2009-07-09 | 2017-06-13 | Michael Peay | System for mounting a sink |
US20180044901A1 (en) * | 2016-08-10 | 2018-02-15 | Peter Lloyd | Countertop undermount support |
US20190152541A1 (en) * | 2016-10-19 | 2019-05-23 | Laydon Composites Ltd. | Angled clamp assembly for mounting panels to i-beams |
US10563387B1 (en) | 2019-07-13 | 2020-02-18 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Rapid-install undermount sink bracket |
US20200157791A1 (en) * | 2017-11-17 | 2020-05-21 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Fallen Undermount Sink Repair Apparatus and Method |
US10907331B1 (en) | 2019-07-13 | 2021-02-02 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Rapid-install undermount sink bracket |
US10947711B2 (en) * | 2018-11-13 | 2021-03-16 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Undermount sink repair apparatus and method |
US11053672B2 (en) * | 2019-11-21 | 2021-07-06 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Undermount sink installation apparatus and method |
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Cited By (30)
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US9538863B1 (en) | 2009-07-09 | 2017-01-10 | Michael Peay | System for mounting a sink |
US10202745B1 (en) * | 2009-07-09 | 2019-02-12 | Michael Peay | System for mounting a sink |
US9758954B1 (en) * | 2009-07-09 | 2017-09-12 | Michael Peay | System for mounting a sink |
US9677258B1 (en) * | 2009-07-09 | 2017-06-13 | Michael Peay | System for mounting a sink |
US10104962B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2018-10-23 | Kohler Co. | Self-rimming apron-front sink |
US11759011B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2023-09-19 | Kohler Co. | Mounting system for sink |
US9492010B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2016-11-15 | Kohler Co. | Mounting system for sink |
US9492011B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2016-11-15 | Kohler Co. | Self-rimming apron-front sink |
US11140981B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2021-10-12 | Kohler Co. | Mounting system for sink |
US10687620B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2020-06-23 | Kohler Co. | Mounting system for sink |
US9995026B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2018-06-12 | Kohler Co. | Mounting system for sink |
US20150108310A1 (en) * | 2013-10-23 | 2015-04-23 | Dow Blaine | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
US9055846B2 (en) * | 2013-10-23 | 2015-06-16 | Dow Blaine | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
US9133609B2 (en) * | 2013-10-23 | 2015-09-15 | Dow Blaine | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
US9637898B2 (en) | 2013-10-23 | 2017-05-02 | Cinclips Llc | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
US20150108308A1 (en) * | 2013-10-23 | 2015-04-23 | Dow Blaine | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
US9290919B2 (en) * | 2013-10-23 | 2016-03-22 | Dow Blaine | Mounting driver for undermounted sinks |
CN105220739A (en) * | 2015-09-28 | 2016-01-06 | 浙江火星人厨具有限公司 | A kind of novel kitchen tank |
US10352026B2 (en) * | 2016-08-10 | 2019-07-16 | Peter Lloyd | Countertop undermount support |
US20190284787A1 (en) * | 2016-08-10 | 2019-09-19 | Peter Lloyd | Countertop undermount support |
US10760253B2 (en) * | 2016-08-10 | 2020-09-01 | Peter Lloyd | Countertop undermount support |
US20180044901A1 (en) * | 2016-08-10 | 2018-02-15 | Peter Lloyd | Countertop undermount support |
US20190152541A1 (en) * | 2016-10-19 | 2019-05-23 | Laydon Composites Ltd. | Angled clamp assembly for mounting panels to i-beams |
US11208159B2 (en) * | 2016-10-19 | 2021-12-28 | Laydon Composites Ltd. | Angled clamp assembly for mounting panels to I-beams |
US20200157791A1 (en) * | 2017-11-17 | 2020-05-21 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Fallen Undermount Sink Repair Apparatus and Method |
US10662632B1 (en) * | 2017-11-17 | 2020-05-26 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Fallen undermount sink repair apparatus and method |
US10947711B2 (en) * | 2018-11-13 | 2021-03-16 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Undermount sink repair apparatus and method |
US10563387B1 (en) | 2019-07-13 | 2020-02-18 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Rapid-install undermount sink bracket |
US10907331B1 (en) | 2019-07-13 | 2021-02-02 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Rapid-install undermount sink bracket |
US11053672B2 (en) * | 2019-11-21 | 2021-07-06 | Augustine Albert Iocco | Undermount sink installation apparatus and method |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |