Patent Grant
10287758
All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.
The present invention generally relates to shower apparatus and, in particular, shower apparatus having multiple sprayers, wherein the height of the sprayers preferably is adjustable.
Not everyone uses a shower just for cleaning, and many use showers for relaxing. Common showers are singular in approach to delivering water to the body, which approach exposes the rear of the head, neck and back when a user faces away a shower. When a user turns to cover these areas with water from the shower, the user exposes his or her arms, chest and stomach. This creates “cold zones” on the body, and the user has no option to achieve complete coverage.
Use of shower apparatus having multiple sprayers is believed to result in significant improvement in water coverage of the body, thereby enhancing the relaxation experienced when taking a shower. Shower apparatus having multiple sprayers are disclosed, for example, in the following U.S. patent properties: 2006/0236451; U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,987,533; 7,448,096; 6,829,790; 6,745,414; 6,550,6080; 6,415,461; 6,079,060; 5,909,969; 5,799,346; 5,692,252; 5,564,139; 5,148,556; 5,060,322; 4,927,083; 4,872,225; 4,809,369; 4,554,690; 3,984,879; 3,971,074; 3,913,839; 944,611; 924,602; 819,582; 475,754; 439,793; and 432,712. United States patent publication 2016/0059243 discloses yet additional shower apparatus.
Even in view of such shower apparatus, however, it is believed that a need exists for improvement, including improvements in ease of installation and ability to accommodate users of different heights. It is believed that one or more such improvements are achieved by at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
The present invention generally relates to apparatus and methods pertaining to adjustable height suspended shower apparatus with multiple sprayers. Moreover, the present invention includes many aspects and features.
In an aspect, an adjustable height shower apparatus comprises a rigid framework of fluid conduits to which a plurality of sprayers is attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers, whereby pressurized water is able to flow from the fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers; and a mounting assembly comprising a mounting component configured for attachment at a fixed position on a wall in a shower stall or bathtub installation, the framework and arrangement of sprayers attached thereto being adjustable and lockable at different desired heights on the mounting component. The arrangement of sprayers may comprise a plurality of sprayers arranged in a circumferential manner along an oval portion of the framework.
In another aspect, an adjustable height shower apparatus comprises a rigid framework of fluid conduits in which a plurality of sprayers are arranged around an oval portion of the framework. The fluid conduits define fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water is able to flow from the fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers. The apparatus further includes a mounting assembly comprising a mounting component configured for attachment at a fixed position on a wall in a shower stall or bathtub installation. The framework is adjustable and lockable at different desired heights on the mounting component for adjusting the height of the arrangement of sprayers to permit a person to stand under the arrangement of sprayers of the oval portion of the framework. Preferably, an additional sprayer is located at an elevation below the mounting component and arranged to spray a front of a person standing under the oval portion of the framework.
In another aspect, an adjustable height shower apparatus comprises a rigid framework of fluid conduits to which a plurality of sprayers is attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers, whereby pressurized water is able to flow from the fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers; and a mounting assembly comprising a mounting component configured for attachment at a fixed position on a wall in a shower stall or bathtub installation, the framework and arrangement of sprayers attached thereto being adjustable and lockable at different desired heights on the mounting component. The arrangement of sprayers comprises a front sprayer located at an elevation below the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a front of a person's body, an intermediate sprayer located at an elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's head, and a back sprayer located at an elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's back.
In a feature, the front sprayer represents the lowest sprayer of the arrangement.
In a feature, the framework acts as a cantilever in support of the intermediate sprayer and the back sprayer.
In a feature, the apparatus further comprises a component positionable on the mounting component at different vertical distances to a floor in the shower stall or bathtub installation, whereby the framework and the arrangement of sprayers are adjustable and lockable at different desired heights by moving and locking the component on the mounting component. The component that is positionable on the mounting component may comprise a portion of the framework that is slidable on the mounting component and, in particular, a vertically extending portion of the framework that is slidable within a channel defined by the mounting component; or, the framework may be attached to the component that is positionable on the mounting component, which component is separate from the framework.
In a feature, the apparatus further comprises a flow control valve by which flow within the framework to multiple sprayers is turned on and off.
In yet additional features, the front sprayer is configured to act as a drain for the framework when water is turned off to the shower apparatus; the arrangement of sprayers further comprises one or more additional front sprayers, each located at a vertical elevation below the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's front; the arrangement of sprayers further comprises one or more additional intermediate sprayers, each located at an elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's head; the arrangement of sprayers further comprises one or more additional back sprayers, each located at a vertical elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's back; and the mounting assembly represents a single point of mounting of the adjustable height shower apparatus in the shower stall or bathtub installation.
In another feature, the apparatus further comprises an adhesive for attaching the mounting component to a wall in the shower stall or bathtub installation.
In another aspect, a bathtub arrangement or shower stall comprises: (a) a rigid framework of fluid conduits to which a plurality of sprayers is attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers, whereby pressurized water is able to flow from the fluid inlet port to the arrangement of sprayers; and (b) a mounting assembly comprising a mounting component attached at a fixed position on a wall in a shower stall or bathtub installation, the framework and arrangement of sprayers attached thereto being adjustable and lockable at different desired heights on the mounting component; wherein, when the framework and arrangement of sprayers are locked at a desired height on the mounting component, at least one of the arrangement of sprayers comprises a front sprayer located at an elevation below the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a front of a person's body, at least one of the arrangement of sprayers comprises an intermediate sprayer located at an elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's head, and at least one of the arrangement of sprayers comprises a back sprayer located at an elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's back;
In features, the back sprayer is located at an elevation below the intermediate sprayer; the front sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers is configured to act as a drain for the framework when water is turned off to the framework; the arrangement of sprayers further comprises one or more additional intermediate sprayers each located at a vertical elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's head; the arrangement of sprayers further comprises one or more additional back sprayers each located at a vertical elevation above the mounting component and configured to spray water onto a person's back; and the mounting assembly represents a single point of mounting of the framework to the wall.
In another feature, the bathtub arrangement or shower stall further comprises a flow control valve by which flow within the framework to multiple sprayers is turned on and off.
In another aspect, a method of installing a shower apparatus in an existing bathtub arrangement or shower stall comprises the steps of: mounting, onto a wall from which a shower head extends, a rigid framework of fluid conduits using a mounting assembly such that the framework is adjustable in height relative to a floor, the framework comprising an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water is able to flow from the fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers; connecting the framework to plumbing in the wall for the flow of water thereto; and adjusting the height of the framework such that the arrangement of sprayers comprises a front sprayer that is located at a vertical elevation below the component and that is configured to spray water onto a front of a person's body, an intermediate sprayer that is located at a vertical elevation above the mounting assembly and that is configured to spray water onto a person's head, and a back sprayer that is located at a vertical elevation above the mounting assembly and that is configured to spray water onto a person's back.
In features, the front sprayer represents a lowermost sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers; the framework acts as a cantilever in supporting the intermediate sprayer and the back sprayer; the front sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers is configured to act as a drain for the framework when water is turned off to the framework; and the method further includes turning flow within the framework to multiple sprayers on and off using a flow control valve.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: (a) a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling surface; (b) a plurality of tensioning lines; and (c) an assembly suspended from a ceiling by the ceiling mounting assembly and the plurality of tension lines, the suspended assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers; (d) wherein each of the tension lines extends from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the suspended assembly is held at a suspended height; and (e) wherein the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly.
In a feature, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spring that biases rotation of the spool in the first rotational direction.
In another feature, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises an opening exposing an end of the spool, through which opening access to the exposed end of the spool is provided for winding and unwinding of the spool by a person standing under the ceiling mounting assembly.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: (a) a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling surface; (b) a plurality of tensioning lines; and (c) an assembly suspended from a ceiling by the ceiling mounting assembly and the plurality of tension lines, the suspended assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers; (d) wherein each of the tension lines extends from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the suspended assembly is held at a suspended height; (e) wherein the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly; (f) wherein the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spring that biases rotation of the spool in the first rotational direction; and (g) wherein the ceiling mounting assembly comprises an opening exposing an end of the spool, through which opening access to the exposed end of the spool is provided for winding and unwinding of the spool by a person standing under the ceiling mounting assembly.
In a feature of this aspect, the suspended assembly further comprises a spindle that is removably attached to the framework, and wherein the exposed end of the spool defines a geometric recess that is configured to correspond to and mate in abutment with a geometric protuberance located on a top of the spindle, whereby removal of the spindle from the framework and insertion of the top of the spindle through the opening exposing the end of the spool results in mating of the geometric protuberance with in the geometric recess, and wherein rotation of the spindle results in rotation of the spool. The suspended assembly further preferably comprises a spindle mounting clamp by which the spindle is removably attached to the framework; and the spindle mounting clamp comprises a C-shaped portion for frictional fit onto tubing of the framework, and comprises a cylindrical portion for receipt therethrough of the spindle, with a head of the spindle abutting and resting on an upper rim of the cylindrical portion of the spindle mounting clamp.
In another feature of this aspect, the exposed end of the spool further comprises a protuberance that is received within a mating recess of a base of the ceiling mounting assembly in abutment therewith such that the spool is locked from rotation, and the spool must be elevated such that the protuberance of the spool is lifted out of the mating recess of the ceiling mounting assembly before rotation of the spool is enabled. The protuberance of the spool preferably is gear-shaped; and the protuberance of the spool is spring biased into reception within the mating recess in abutment therewith. The suspended assembly further preferably includes a spindle that is removably attached to the framework, and the exposed end of the spool defines a geometric recess that is configured to correspond to and mate in abutment with a geometric protuberance located on a top of the spindle, whereby removal of the spindle from the framework and insertion of the top of the spindle through the opening exposing the end of the spool results in mating of the geometric protuberance with in the geometric recess, and wherein lifting of the spool with the spindle and subsequent rotation of the spindle results in rotation of the spool. The suspended assembly further may include a spindle mounting clamp by which the spindle is removably attached to the framework.
In another feature, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises an adhesive tape for adherence of the ceiling mounting assembly to the surface of the ceiling.
In another feature, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails, or combination thereof, for attaching the ceiling mounting assembly to the ceiling.
In another feature, the suspended assembly further comprises a hose extending from a shower faucet to the fluid inlet for flow of pressurized water to the fluid inlet.
In another feature, the suspended assembly further comprises a flow control valve by which flow within the framework to multiple sprayers is turned on and off.
In another feature, each shower sprayer comprises a flow control valve for turning flow through the sprayer on and off, and a swivel joint for directing spray from the sprayer.
In another feature, the suspended assembly further comprises tension line mounting clamps defining the attachment locations of the framework at which the tension lines are attached. Each tension line mounting clamp preferably comprises a loop portion for attachment of a respective one of the tensioning lines.
In another feature, the inlet port is threaded for attachment of a hose for connection to plumbing for a shower head or to a diverter of a shower head.
In another feature, the arrangement of sprayers comprises a front sprayer located so as to spray water onto a front of a person's body; two side sprayers each located to spray water onto an opposite side of a person's head and adjacent shoulder; and a back sprayer located to spray water onto a person's back. Preferably, the two side sprayers and the back sprayer are located at an elevation above a person's head, and the front sprayer represents the lowermost sprayer and is configured to act as a drain for the framework of conduits when the water is turned off to the shower apparatus. Furthermore, an additional sprayer may be included for directing water toward the back of the head and back of the neck area.
In another feature, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a cover; and a mounting plate.
The cover preferably comprises equally spaced tension line openings configured for tension lines to extend therethrough.
The cover preferably includes locking flanges, and the mounting plate includes locking slots, whereby when the cover is placed over the mounting plate and rotated, the flanges are received in the slots such that the cover is retained to the mounting plate when the mounting plate is secured to a ceiling. The mounting plate preferably comprises tension line guides in the form of mounted rollers such that, when the cover is locked in place on the mounting plate, each mounted roller is located proximate a tension line opening such that a respective tension line extending therethrough is redirected radially toward a center axis of the ceiling mounting assembly.
In another feature, the apparatus further comprises a consolidation ring located below the ceiling mounting assembly and above the framework, through which consolidation ring the tensioning lines are guided.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: (a) a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling; (b) a plurality of tensioning lines; and (c) an assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers. The ceiling mounting assembly and tensions lines are configured for suspending the framework from the ceiling, with each of the tension lines extending from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the framework and attached sprayers are held at a suspended height. The ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly. The ceiling mounting assembly further comprises a spring that biases rotation of the spool in the first rotational direction.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: (a) a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling; (b) a plurality of tensioning lines; and (c) an assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers. The ceiling mounting assembly and tensions lines are configured for suspending the framework from the ceiling, with each of the tension lines extending from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the framework and attached sprayers are held at a suspended height. The ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly. The ceiling mounting assembly further defines an opening exposing an end of the spool, through which opening access to the exposed end of the spool is provided for winding and unwinding of the spool by a person standing under the ceiling mounting assembly.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling surface; a plurality of tensioning lines; and an assembly suspended from a ceiling by the ceiling mounting assembly and the plurality of tension lines, the suspended assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers. Each of the tension lines extends from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the suspended assembly is held at a suspended height. The ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly. Additionally, the ceiling mounting assembly defines an opening exposing an end of the spool, through which opening access to the exposed end of the spool is provided for winding and unwinding of the spool by a person standing under the ceiling mounting assembly.
In a feature, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spring that biases rotation of the spool in the first rotational direction.
In a feature, the suspended assembly further comprises a spindle that is removably attached to the framework, and the exposed end of the spool is configured to engage a top of the spindle such that drive torque is transmitted to the spool upon rotation of the spindle.
In another feature, the exposed end of the spool mates with a base of the ceiling mounting assembly in abutment therewith such that the spool is locked from rotation, and the spool must be elevated such that the spool is lifted out of the abutment with the base of the ceiling mounting assembly before rotation of the spool is enabled. Further in this regard, the exposed end of the spool may comprise a protuberance having a shape that is received within a recess of the base of the ceiling mounting assembly, and the protuberance of the spool may be spring biased into reception within the mating recess of the base of the ceiling mounting assembly in abutment therewith.
In another feature, the suspended assembly further comprises a hose configured to attach to the fluid inlet and extend and attach to a shower faucet for flow of pressurized water to the fluid inlet.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: (a) a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling; (b) a plurality of tensioning lines; and (c) an assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers. The ceiling mounting assembly and tensions lines are configured for suspending the framework from the ceiling, with each of the tension lines extending from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the framework and attached sprayers are held at a suspended height. Furthermore, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly. Additionally, the ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spring that biases rotation of the spool in the first rotational direction.
In another aspect, an adjustable height suspended shower apparatus having an arrangement of a plurality of sprayers comprises: a ceiling mounting assembly for attachment thereof to a ceiling surface; a plurality of tensioning lines; and an assembly comprising sprayers and a framework of fluid conduits to which the sprayers are attached in an arrangement of sprayers, the fluid conduits defining fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port to each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers whereby pressurized water flows from the fluid inlet port to and is sprayed from each sprayer of the arrangement of sprayers. The ceiling mounting assembly and tensions lines are configured for suspending the framework from the ceiling, with each of the tension lines extending from the ceiling mounting assembly to an attachment location of the framework by which tension lines the framework and attached sprayers are held at a suspended height. The ceiling mounting assembly comprises a spool in engagement with the tension lines such that winding of the spool in a first rotational direction results retraction of the tensioning lines into the ceiling mounting assembly and raising of the suspended assembly, and unwinding of the spool in a second, opposite rotational direction results in extension of the tensioning lines out of the ceiling mounting assembly and lowering of the suspended assembly. The ceiling mounting assembly defines an opening exposing an end of the spool, through which opening access to the exposed end of the spool is provided for winding and unwinding of the spool by a person standing under the ceiling mounting assembly.
Other aspects of the invention comprise methods of using apparatus of the foregoing aspects.
Still other aspects comprise kits for up-fitting conventional showers with adjustable height suspended shower apparatus with multiple sprayers. Alternatively, one or more of the foregoing aspects and features can be integrated into a shower as provided by a builder.
In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the present invention, it should be noted that the present invention further encompasses the various possible combinations and subcombinations of such aspects and features. Thus, for example, any aspect may be combined with an aforementioned feature in accordance with the present invention without requiring any other aspect or feature.
One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same elements are referred to with the same reference numerals.
As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. Furthermore, an embodiment of the invention may incorporate only one or a plurality of the aspects of the invention disclosed herein; only one or a plurality of the features disclosed herein; or combination thereof. As such, many embodiments are implicitly disclosed herein and fall within the scope of what is regarded as the invention.
Accordingly, while the invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the invention in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.
Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the invention is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.
Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein-as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term-differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.
Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. 112, subsection (f), no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element.
Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.”
When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” When used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.”
Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.
Turning now to the drawings,
The shower apparatus 100 further comprises three tension line mounting clamps 114; a spindle clamp 116; a ceiling mounting assembly 118 attached to a ceiling 120; tension lines 122 each extending from the ceiling mounting assembly 118 to a respective tension line mounting clamp 114; a spindle 124 releasably attached to the spindle clamp 116; and a control valve 126.
The mounting plate 152 further includes a motor housing 162 in which a motor is contained. The housing 162 is generally cylindrical and centered about the axis z. The housing 162 defines three slots 164, one of which is seen in
The mounting plate 152 further includes openings 166 through which screws or other fasteners may extend for mounting of the plate 152 to a ceiling, either additionally or alternatively to the use of the adhesive tape 154. In this respect, it is believed and preferred that VHB double-sided tape be used to secure the ceiling mounting plate 152 to a ceiling, but mechanical fasteners can be used if desired or needed in a particular installation.
The spool 178 receives the tensioning lines 122 within a circumferential recess 179 thereof and is used to spool and unspool the tensioning lines 122 upon clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the spool 178 about the axis z. The surface of the recess 179 against which the tensioning lines 122 are wound preferably comprises a non-stick surface.
The spool 178 further defines four recesses along a top rim thereof that are equally spaced, within which a bottom portion of the four compression springs 176 are received. When assembled, the other end of each compression spring abuts the base 168 of the mounting plate 152 and serves to bias the spool 178 into abutment with the locking gear base 180. The locking gear base 180 is secured in fixed position to the housing 162 by three screws 181, two of which are shown in
The spool 178 is upwardly displaceable along the axis z within the housing 162 toward the base 168 by application of an upward force through an access opening 150 in the locking gear base 180, which upward force serves to further compress the compression springs 176. The upward force is easily provided by a person by extending the spindle 124 through the access opening 150 into engagement with the bottom of the spool 178 and pushing upward against the force of the compression springs 176.
The gear-shaped protuberance 182 preferably defines a geometric recess 183 (perhaps best seen in
Further in this respect, it will be appreciated that the coil spring 170 is used to offset the weight of the suspended components of the shower apparatus 100, whereby less effort is required by a person in rotating the spindle 124 so as to raise the suspended components. In this respect, the coil spring preferably is tensioned when the ceiling mounting assembly 118 is assembled so as to tend to bias rotation of the spool in the direction for spooling of the tensioning lines.
Different possible geometric protuberances for use with a spindle are illustrated in
Additionally, it will further be appreciated that an arrangement, pattern, or matrix of shapes is possible, including a plurality of circular shapes. In this regard, any structural configuration of the spindle and a corresponding structural configuration of the spool is contemplated to be within the scope of the invention so long as the engagement therebetween enables the transmission of a drive torque to the spool by rotating the spindle. Such an alternative to the illustrated geometric shapes includes, for example, two prongs that are received in close abutment (close fit) with two-receiving recesses of a corresponding configuration such that the spindle and spool coapt and transmission of a drive torque to the spool is generated by rotation of the spindle.
Being suspended from the ceiling mounting assembly and adjustable in height, the framework and attached sprayers preferably are not mounted to or otherwise supported by a vertical wall. Moreover, the connection to the shower faucet preferably is by a hose having as sufficient length such that the hose does not impede a normal range of vertical adjustment of the height at which the framework and attached sprayers are suspended.
The shower apparatus 200 further comprises three tension line mounting clamps 214; a spindle clamp 216; a ceiling mounting assembly 218 attached to a ceiling 220; tension lines 222 each extending from the ceiling mounting assembly 218 to a respective tension line mounting clamp 214; a spindle 224 releasably attached to the spindle clamp 216; and a control valve 226.
With respect to the spindle clamp 216 and the tension line mounting clamps 214, each includes a C-shaped portion for frictional fit to tubing of the framework 202 as seen in
The flow control valve 226, when in an open position, results in water flowing to shower sprayers 208,209,210,212. The valve 126 is moved from the open to the closed position by pushing the on valve in the direction of arrow C.
The ceiling mounting assembly 218 is similar in structure and function to ceiling mounting assembly 118, described in detail herein. Accordingly, with reference hereby to the above description, such description is not repeated here in the interests of brevity.
The adjustable height suspended shower apparatus 300 comprises a framework 302 of conduits that define fluid passageways from a fluid inlet port 304 to each of a plurality of sprayers. The inlet port 304 is threaded for attachment of a hose for connection to plumbing for a shower head or to a diverter of a shower head. The multiple sprayers of the shower apparatus 300 include a front sprayer 306; two side sprayers 308,310; a top sprayer 309; and a back sprayer 312. The front sprayer 306 represents the lowermost sprayer and is configured to act as a drain for the framework 302 when the water is turned off to the shower apparatus 300. When water is turned on: the front sprayer 306 is positioned so as to spray water onto a front of a person's body; each of the two side sprayers 308,310 is located so as to spray water onto an opposite side of a person's head and adjacent shoulder; the top sprayer 309 is located so as to spray water onto the top of a person's head; and the back sprayer 312 is located so as to spray water onto a person's back.
The shower apparatus 300 further comprises three tension line mounting clamps 314; a spindle clamp 316; a ceiling mounting assembly 318 attached to a ceiling 320; tension lines 322 each extending from the ceiling mounting assembly 318 to a respective tension line mounting clamp 314; and a spindle 324 releasably attached to the spindle clamp 316.
With respect to the spindle clamp 316 and the tension line mounting clamps 314, each includes a C-shaped portion for frictional fit to tubing of the framework 302 as seen in
The ceiling mounting assembly 318 differs from the aforementioned ceiling assemblies 118 and 218 in structure at least insofar as the ceiling mounting assembly 318 includes a low profile with downwardly facing planar faces.
While three exemplary arrangements of multiple shower sprayers have been disclosed with reference to
An alternative ceiling mounting assembly 618 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention is schematically illustrated in perspective view in
In this respect, the apparatus 700 includes a support bracket 703 that extends the length of the bathtub arrangement 701 and that is mounted at opposite ends 705 on opposed walls of the bathtub arrangement 701. The framework and sprayers are supported by the support bracket 703. Wall anchors 707 are mounted with an adhesive, suction cups, or both, for example, at opposite ends 705 of the support bracket 703 to opposed walls and permit sliding of the ends 705 of the support bracket 703 therethrough, by which the respective heights or elevations of the support bracket 703 and associated framework and sprayers are concurrently adjustable and lockable by a user. Additionally, the framework preferably is adjustable between the opposed walls on the support bracket 703. This may be accomplished by hanging the framework from the support bracket 703 by arms 711 that are slidable over, movable along, or otherwise repositionable on the support bracket 703. The framework and sprayers are thus adjustable not only vertically, but also horizontally relative to the bathtub arrangement 701.
Yet additional aspects, features, and embodiments of shower apparatus are disclosed in the remaining drawings. For example,
Still additional embodiments of shower apparatus in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention are disclosed
The front sprayer 10106 represents the lowermost sprayer and is configured to act as a drain at least some of the conduits of the framework 10102 when the water is turned off to the shower apparatus 10100. When water is turned on: the front sprayer 106 is located so as to spray water onto a front of a person's body via spray A as seen in
The control of flow of water to the sprayers is controlled by user controls 10114,10116,10118, each of which is configured to operate a respective flow control value. For example, user control 10114 operates a flow control valve (hidden from view in
Additionally, the height of the sprayers 10106,10108,10110,10112 is adjustable by adjusting the height of the framework 10102 relative to the wall 10101. In this respect, a mounting assembly attaches the framework onto a wall in a shower stall or bathtub installation and includes a first component 10124 and a mounting component 10122. The mounting component 10122 is mounted onto the wall 10101 in a fixed position relative thereto, and may be mounted by screw type fasteners, adhesives, or other conventional means. The first component 10124 is received within a channel that is defined by the mounting component 10122, and the first component 10124 is slidable therein. The first component 10124 comprises a portion of the framework 10102 as seen in
In one or more embodiments, a spring-biased button 10120 is provided that is manually operable for adjusting the height of the framework 10102. Preferably, depressing the button 10120 unlocks the first component 10124 in its mounting on the mounting component 10122 such that the first component 10124 is able to slide on the mounting component 10122 relative to the wall 10101 and relative to the floor of the shower installation. Release of the spring-biased button 10120 permits return of the button 10120 such that the first component 10124 again is locked in position on the mounting component 10122, thereby fixing the framework 10102 in a fixed position relative to the wall 10101 until the button 10120 is depressed again for adjustment of the height of the framework 10102.
Other means of adjusting the height of the framework relative to the wall and floor can be used in variations within the scope of the present invention. For example, a tight friction fit may be provided between the mounting component and the first component within the channel such that the first component is selectively adjustable to different positions relative to the mounting component by manually exerting a sufficient force to overcome the friction therebetween locking the components together.
Preferred embodiments of the invention are designed to assemble quickly and easily and attach to existing fixtures without requiring plumbing skills and without requiring assistance by a professional plumber. Once assembled and installed, the preferred embodiments are easily adjustable to various heights for multi-user households. The preferred embodiments are non-intrusive and highly adjustable, and are designed to allocate water to the entire body for enabling enhanced relaxation while showering.
Furthermore, the preferred embodiments may work as an “either/or” system in conjunction with an existing shower head, via a splitter/diverter/alternator. In such scenarios, a user has the option to utilize an existing showerhead or switch to a preferred embodiment via a switch, dial, lever, knob, or the like.
Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.
Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
The present application is a continuation-in-part of patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/748,855, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,578,994, each of which '855 application and '994 patent is incorporated by reference herein, and which '855 application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application 62/183,379, which provisional patent application is incorporated by reference herein; and the present application is a continuation-in-part of patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, international patent application PCT/US2016/039095, which published as WO/2016210178, incorporated herein by reference, and which international patent application (1) is continuation-in-part of patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/748,855, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,578,994, which '855 application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application 62/183,379; and (2) is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application 62/183,379, which provisional patent application is incorporated by reference herein.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3971074 | Yxfeldt | Jul 1976 | A |
| 5148556 | Bottoms, Jr. | Sep 1992 | A |
| 20070209108 | Shorr | Sep 2007 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20170167122 A1 | Jun 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62183379 | Jun 2015 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 14748855 | Jun 2015 | US |
| Child | 15444286 | US | |
| Parent | PCT/US2016/039095 | Jun 2016 | US |
| Child | 14748855 | US | |
| Parent | 14748855 | Jun 2015 | US |
| Child | PCT/US2016/039095 | US |
