FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to the field of bathroom implements and improvements therefore, specifically relating to tools for bathing uncooperative and cooperative infants, toddlers, children, or invalid patients.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Caring for an infant, toddler, children, or invalid patient, necessarily involves assisting a charge during bathing. For infants in particular, this is complicated by a persistent unwillingness to remain still, an aversion to water, reactions due to unfamiliar cleaning solutions, or any other condition that might complicate a normal bath-time. It is further recognized that the fragile nature of all groups dictates that a measure of comfort and support be provided during bathing, specifically in support of the head and neck to elevate the head and prevent hyperflexion of the neck.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a multifunctional implement suitable for use in any scenario—scale and dimensions thereof to be dictated according to the size of the subject being bathed. The present invention provides an ergonomic cradle and base of support to the upper back and neck, specifically conformed to a typical thoracic curve with suitable compressibility to adapt to minor variations in curvature as necessary. Further, the present invention is provided with a planar formation for simultaneously cushioning the lower back and affixing the present invention to the base of a tub or other wash-basin to prevent displacement of the support during use.
Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Additional advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the detailed description of the invention section. Further benefits and advantages of the embodiments of the invention will become apparent from consideration of the following detailed description given with reference to the accompanying drawings, which specify and show preferred embodiments of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a top-front-left perspective view of a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein the eccentric curvature of the present invention is indicated in broken-line.
FIG. 2 is a bottom-right-rear perspective view thereof.
FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof.
FIG. 4 is a cross-section view taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is a detail view taken about circle 5 in FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a top-front-right perspective view of a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein one potential aesthetic model is shown in exemplary form.
FIG. 7 is right-side elevational view of the present invention in-use, wherein a child is shown in relation to the present invention to illustrate function.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the present invention stowed while not in use, shown in relation to an exemplary bathtub.
FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the present invention, wherein a capacity for item storage is illustrated with an exemplary container.
DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION
All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The present invention is to be described in detail and is provided in a manner that establishes a thorough understanding of the present invention. There may be aspects of the present invention that may be practiced or utilized without the implementation of some features as they are described. It should be understood that some details have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure focus of the invention. References herein to “the preferred embodiment”, “one embodiment”, “some embodiments”, or “alternative embodiments” should be considered to be illustrating aspects of the present invention that may potentially vary in some instances and should not be considered to be limiting to the scope of the present invention as a whole.
In reference to FIG. 1 through 9, the present invention is a bath support device configured to cradle and support a subject or patient during regular bathing. According to this functionality, a first embodiment of the present invention comprises a base platform 20 and an inclined support body 21. The base platform 20 constitutes a substantially planar cushioning element configured to engaged into the bottom of a tub, washbasin, or other bathing area such that the subject (i.e., the person being washed) does not lay directly on any hard or slippery surfaces. The subject explained hereinafter can be cooperative and uncooperative infants, toddlers, children, or invalid patients. The inclined support body 21 constitutes a raised, contoured superstructure extending above the base platform 20 to support the subject's upper torso, neck, and head in an elevated position that is both comfortable and improves drainage of water and soapsuds away from the eyes, nose, and mouth. Further, the arrangement of the inclined support body 21 and the base platform 20 encourages a generally spread-eagle position that improves access to the armpits, genitalia and anus, hands, and feet of the subject. More specifically, the present invention allows easy access for hard to reach places of the subject thus enabling the contour of the neck, shoulders, hand, genitalia and anus, and other body parts to be easily moved during the washing process. Typically, a caregiver must hold the child's head up and out of water with one hand while the other hand is used to pour water. Due to the utilization of the present invention, the child's head can be positioned up and out of the water thus leaving the caregivers both hands free for the washing process.
The inclined support body 21 comprises a support surface 22 and a neck support structure 23, constituting ergonomic supports for the cervical curve and the neck, specifically. In reference to FIG. 1, the support surface is positioned adjacent to the base platform to provide a smooth transition between the adjacent components, matching the natural curvature of the subject's thoracic curve. More specifically, the support surface 22 is oriented at an inclined angle 24 to the base platform 20 to enable a comfortable transition between the generally planar surface of the base platform 20 onto the upwardly extending support surface 22. The precise angle of incidence between the support surface 22 and the base platform 20 are dependent upon the scale of the present invention overall and are understood to fall within the original spirit and scope of the present invention in all embodiments. Further, the vertical slope or rate of climb of the support surface 22 is understood to depend on individual preference and variations therein should be readily understood by any reasonably skilled individual.
As illustrated in FIG. 1 through 4, the inclined support body 21 is connected adjacent to the base platform 20. This connection is ideally achieved via a contiguous-casting or material weldment of the inclined support body 21 to the base platform 20 such that there is no perceivable seam between the components. This ideally provides a manifold, waterproof structure suitable for use in damp environments, lacking any crevices for mold or microbial growth to take hold. It is further proposed that any surface treatments, formations, or applied materials may proceed uninterrupted across the juncture of the inclined support body 21 and the base platform 20.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the neck support structure 23 is positioned opposite the base platform 20 about the support surface 22 such that the outward-facing portions of the support surface 22 is formed directly into the neck support structure 23. This arrangement mimics the natural curvature of the subject's spine across the upper-thoracic and cervical vertebrae, i.e., approximates the shape of the upper back, shoulders, and neck to provide a comfortable cradle for the subject. The neck support structure 23 is configured to comfortable support the subject's head, but also limit the movement of the subject once positioned into the inclined support body 21 as a whole. More specifically, the neck support structure 23 prevents the subject from sliding down the support surface 22 across the base platform 20, and the contours of the support surface 22 prevent the subject from rolling over once positioned by a caretaker. Further, the neck support structure 23 is contoured to allow the subject's hair to hang down behind the neck support structure 23; thus, simplifying any hair-washing procedures that may be otherwise complicated by an uncooperative fussy subject or cooperative subject.
The neck support structure 23 may comprise a first lateral wing 26, a second lateral wing 27, and a support yoke 28 as indicated in FIGS. 1 and 3. The first lateral wing 26 and the second lateral wing 27 constitute equal, opposed structures configured to support the lateral extremities of the subject's neck region without constricting or compressing any soft tissues therein. Accordingly, the support yoke 28 defines a central region of the neck support structure 23 configured to receive and support the subject's neck and head, preventing overextension of the neck without obstructing the rear of the subject's head (i.e., complicating hair-washing). More specifically, the support yoke 28 is centrally positioned on the inclined support body 21 with the first lateral wing 26 and the second lateral wing 27 being connected to the support yoke 28, opposite to each other along the support yoke 28.
The present invention is further considered to include a capacity for integrated storage of washing implements or cleansing solutions as shown in FIG. 2. Accordingly, the present invention may further comprise at least one retentive pocket 30 configured to receive any suitable item or implement, individually or in combination, as may be realized by a reasonably skilled individual. Likewise, the container, reservoir, or outward casing of any item stored within the at least one retentive pocket 30 is understood to vary across multiple possible embodiments without departing from the original spirit and scope of the present invention.
It is further considered that the at least one retentive pocket 30 is positioned to not disrupt the normal use of the inclined support body 21 or the base platform 20, i.e., is positioned such that the at least one retentive pocket 30 is hidden from view as the present invention is positioned for storage or use. As indicated in FIGS. 4 and 9, the at least one retentive pocket 30 is integrated into a lower body side 32 of the inclined support body 21. This arrangement enables a user to retrieve any items from within the at least one retentive pocket 30, then displace the inclined support body 21 and base platform 20 into a normal configuration for use.
Expanding upon the functionality of the at least one retentive pocket 30, the at least one retentive pocket 30 provides a means of retaining any secondary item or object within the at least one retentive pocket 30 as a natural result of the dimensions of said at least one retentive pocket 30. More specifically, the composite material of the inclined support body 21 is sufficiently elastic to deform about the inserted secondary item. An aperture 34 of the at least one retentive pocket 30 is larger than a terminal profile 35 of the at least one retentive pocket 30, thereby tapering the sidewalls of the at least one retentive pocket 30 to deform and ‘seize’ the secondary item as said secondary item is forced past the aperture 34 towards the terminal profile 35. This mechanism of object-retention is superior due to the lack of exposed seams and the elimination of any distinct moving parts. The natural elasticity of the silicone-composite material used is support of the primary function of the present invention (i.e., supporting a body during bathing) are also suitable for this type of elastic-retention; any special considerations for the manufacture of the inclined support body 21 to enable item-retention are obviated.
The present invention further comprises a latch that is terminally connected to the lower body side 32 of the inclined support body 21. More specifically, a fixed end of the latch is terminally connected to the lower body side 32. Once the latch is extended over the at least one retentive pocket 30, a free end of the latch can be attached to the at least one retentive pocket 30. As a result, the latch is able to provide additional support to any items that are stored within the at least one retentive pocket 30.
In keeping with the typical mode of use, the present invention may further comprise a plurality of surface protrusions 37 configured to prevent the subject from slipping across the surface of the base platform 20 during a bathing. The plurality of surface protrusions 37 may further define a series of ridges, knobs, or divots arranged to provide a massaging effect to the subject. In addition, the plurality of surface protrusions 37 may be arranged for both traction and artistic purposes, combining the decorative value of any surface sculpting with the added ergonomic benefits thereof. The present invention further comprises a hole 40 that traverses through the base platform 20. As shown in FIG. 1-2, the hole 40 and the inclined support body 21 are oppositely positioned of each other about the base platform 20, wherein the hole 40 is positioned about a front end of the base platform 20. The hole 40 can be utilized for storage purpose of the present invention, preferably to hang the present invention on a hook.
Exploring this concept further in another embodiment, the plurality of surface protrusions 37 is distributed across an upper platform side 52 of the base platform 20 to enhance the aesthetic qualities of the invention, overall. The superficial attractiveness of the present invention is arguably essential in convincing young children to accept use of the present invention, assuming that a young child would actively resist the usage of an unfamiliar item during bath-time. It is specifically proposed that the plurality of surface protrusions 37 is configured in a caricaturized facsimile of a fish as shown in FIG. 6, such that the pseudo-scales, facial features, and other anatomical features of a fish are positioned to disguise the functional traction-features regularly distributed across the upper platform side 52 of the base platform 20. The fish-characterization is specifically chosen to coincide with other aquatic-based characters typically identified in other bath-time playthings or implements, encouraging an association between the present invention and other ‘fun’ implements.
Furthering the functional aesthetics of the present invention in another embodiment, the base platform 20 comprises a perimeter profile 39 configured as a silhouette of a fish. As shown in exemplary form in FIGS. 4 and 7, the silhouette of a fish is approximately matched to the contact patches of a child's body. More specifically, the child's back rests generally rest along the lateral line of the fish, and the child's upper arms extend across the dorsal and pelvic fins. Aside from these ergonomic considerations, the perimeter profile 39 is ideally configured to correspond to the plurality of surface protrusions 37 to enhance the overall fish-like appearance of the present invention.
The present invention may further comprise a plurality of suction cups 41 configured to fix the base platform 20 into position within a bathtub or similar washing area. More specifically, the plurality of suction cups 41 is distributed across a lower platform side 53 of the base platform 20 as shown in FIG. 2. In practice, the plurality of suction cups 41 is configured to glide across any suitably smooth surface (e.g., the inside of a bathtub) as the user positions the present invention for use. The user may then press downward from the upper platform side 52 of the base platform 20 to engage the plurality of suction cups 41, temporarily fixing the present invention in place. This prevents the subject (e.g., an uncooperative or cooperative child) from displacing the present invention during use, limiting the opportunity for the present invention to become a slipping hazard. Further, the plurality of suction cups 41 may be engaged to a wall or other upright structure for storage as shown in FIG. 8. This positioning allows the present invention to drain and dry out while suspended upright, preventing any trapped water from encouraging bacterial growth.
Further expanding this function, the present invention comprises a plurality of drainage channels 43 configured to remove and direct water away from the center of the base platform 20 and the neck support structure 23. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the plurality of drainage channels 43 is integrated into support surface 22 between the neck support structure 23 and the base platform 20. The normal flow of water across the neck support structure 23 is channeled and directed downwards across the base platform 20 to ensure that any used or ‘grey’ water carries any dirt or debris away from the subject. When the present invention is inverted for storage the plurality of drainage channels 43 function in reverse, preventing any water from clinging or pooling along the neck support structure 23. The configuration of each of the plurality of drainage channels 43, as shown, may also be integrated into the aesthetic fish-like qualities outlined previously as a part of the preferred embodiment.
In another embodiment, the present invention is further supported in a stowed configuration by an adaptation of the inclined support body 21. More specifically, the inclined support body 21 may further comprise an upright base 45 positioned adjacent to the lower body side 32 of the inclined support body 21 as indicated in FIG. 2. The upright base 45 is configured to support the present invention in a stable upright position while the present invention is not in use, without utilizing the plurality of suction cups 41 to fix the base platform 20 to a wall as outlined previously. Instead, the upright base 45 is positioned opposite to the base platform 20 about the inclined support body 21 to allow a user to tilt the present backwards onto the upright base 45. This configuration places the base platform 20 above the inclined support body 21, enabling any water remaining on the base platform 20 to drain down the inclined support body 21. The present invention further comprises a drain cavity so that water collected within the at least one retentive pocket 30 can be drained. More specifically, the drain cavity traverse through the upright base 45 and into the at least one retentive pocket 30. As a result, any water collected within the at least one retentive pocket 30 can be discharged through the drain cavity. Furthermore, the drain cavity provides a big enough opening thus allowing the user to carry the present invention.
Building upon the ergonomic features of the present invention directed towards the comfort of the subject, the caregiver or parent is afforded some considerations to enable easy access to various parts of the subject's body. More specifically, the present invention may comprise at least one clearance indentation 47 formed into the inclined support body 21 as indicated in FIGS. 2 and 4. The at least one clearance indentation 47 is positioned opposite to the support surface 22 along the inclined support body 21, providing access to the subject's neck and hair. It is proposed that the subject's hair may free-hang down across the at least one clearance indentation 47 when in use, similar to a conventional hairstylist's washing basin. This positioning provides a caregiver or parent with direct access to the subject's hair behind the neck support structure 23 without allowing the hair to cling to the back of the neck support structure 23 during washing.
In reference to FIG. 5, it is further proposed that the base platform 20 and the support surface 22 each comprise a contact layer 49 and a structural layer 50. The contact layer 49 is configured as a compressible, body-conforming membrane or laminate section suitable for extended contact with the patient, or child. In comparison, the structural layer 50 is configured as a substantially more durable, inflexible foundation for the overall shape of the present invention. In the preferred embodiment, the contact layer 49 is constructed of silicone foam and the structural layer 50 is constructed of rigid silicone. The separation of the layers into distinct sectors enables a manufacturer to specialize the contact layer 49 and the structural layer 50 for comfort and durability, respectively. The contact layer 49 is superimposed across the structural layer 50, forming a permanent bond with the structural layer 50 by any process as may be realized by a reasonably skilled individual. Accordingly, the contact layer 49 of the base platform 20 is positioned coincident with an upper platform side 52 of the base platform 20. Further, the contact 49 layer of the inclined support body 21 is positioned coincident with an upper body side 31 of the inclined support body 21.
It is further considered that the expansion of the contact layer 49, or the densification of the structural layer 50, or both processes, may result in a variably dense silicone mass. In such an embodiment the delineation between the contact layer 49 and the structural layer 50 is defined by the limits of the densified structural layer 50, wherein any material of lower density formed thereon defines the contact layer 49. The specific values for density between the structural layer 50 and the contact layer 49 are understood to be variable across multiple potential embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
The present invention is a dishwasher safe item. More specifically, the user easily clean the present invention via the dishwasher without having to worry about the reliability or the functionality of the components.
The present invention is specifically designed to be used in the shallow end of the bathtub with a lower water level (below the subject's head). As a result, the present invention is able to provide an easier and effective apparatus to wash the subjects hair and body. More specifically, the subjects hair is easier to clean since the head stays generally upright and the water level is below the subjects head. When the subject sits in a bathtub, anus and genitals of the subject are generally pressed against the bathtub and difficult to access. However, when the present invention is utilized for the washing process, the caregiver can easily access the anus and genitals of the subject. Furthermore, since the subject's body is immersed in the water, the caregiver is able to keep the subject clam and comfortable during the washing process.
Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.
Patent Application
20240008689
