BATHING INSERT

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a bathing insert, and in particular an insert that allows older and disabled persons to more easily enter and exit a bathtub or shower stall to bathe.

Existing conventional bathtubs and showers are designed for an “average” person, but such tubs are difficult to use by persons with disabilities and the elderly. The vertical walls of conventional bathtubs must be stepped over to enter and exit the tub, which is difficult or impossible for some people. Some devices are available to assist disabled or elderly persons in entering, exiting and using showers, but many such devices do not allow a user to soak or use a bathtub, or to retrofit or be temporarily installed in an existing bathtub or shower unit.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, the invention provides a bathing insert including a base and one or more walls extending therefrom. At least one of the walls defines an opening therein. A door is coupled to the opening at a pivot joint. The pivot joint is configured to rotate the door about a pivot axis and to translate the door in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a bathing system including a bathing insert and one or more reservoirs positioned substantially above the bathing insert. The bathing insert includes a base and one or more walls extending therefrom. At least one of the walls defines an opening therein. A door is coupled to the opening at a pivot joint. The pivot joint is configured to rotate the door about a pivot axis and to translate the door in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis. Each reservoir includes a collector port and a discharge port. The discharge port is operable to discharge a fluid at an adjustable rate to facilitate quickly filling the bathing insert.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a bathing insert according to one embodiment of the invention, including a pair of doors.

FIG. 2 is a cross section view of the bathing insert taken along line F-F of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a plan view similar to FIG. 1, illustrating three doors.

FIG. 4 is a plan view similar to FIG. 1, illustrating four doors.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the bathing insert of FIG. 1, illustrating one door pivoting.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged plan view of a rail coupled to the bathing insert of FIG. 5.

FIG. 6B is an enlarged plan view of a rail according to an alternative construction.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged partial plan view of the bathing insert of FIG. 1, illustrating one door pivoting.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a bathing insert according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a cross section view of the bathing insert taken along line G-G of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a bathing insert according to another embodiment of the invention, including a pair of doors.

FIG. 11 is a plan view similar to FIG. 9, illustrating three doors.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a bathing insert according to another embodiment of the invention, including reservoirs.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one of the reservoirs of FIG. 12.

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description of the embodiments provided as examples and should not be regarded as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This invention relates to a bathing insert or a bathtub insert configured for fitting within an existing bathtub or shower stall and utilizing an existing shower head. The bathtub insert provides a deeper and more convenient bathing facility within the confines of a generally conventional installed bathtub or shower stall. The insert forms a deeper tub relative to the existing space and the insert walls extend higher than those of an existing tub. The insert includes a seat formed therein and is sized to fit within the existing tub or shower stall. In one embodiment, the insert includes fixed walls and a sealing pivotal door. The door allows a disabled or elderly person to more easily enter and exit the bathtub by sliding onto the seat.

The water level is raised within the insert such that a person may sit on the seat and take a bath. The insert does not require any additional plumbing, electrical, or mechanical lines to use the insert, as the water supply may be provided by the existing shower head or bathtub faucet. Further, the insert is sized to fit within conventional bathtubs and shower stalls to allow a “one size fits all” device. In one embodiment, the insert includes a drain for draining water from the insert.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a bathtub insert 1210, or bathing insert, according to one embodiment of the invention. The bathtub insert 1210 provides an easily accessible and deeper bathing area than conventional bathtubs. The bathtub insert 1210 is configured for use with a conventional bathtub or shower stall. In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 1210 is positioned in an orientation such that a portion of the insert 1210 is outside of the bathing space, such as a bathtub (as illustrated) or shower stall (not shown). In particular, the position of the insert 1210 within the bathtub is proximate to the wall plumbing fixtures. The bathtub insert 1210 includes a first wall 14, a second end wall 18, two side walls 22, 26 extending between the end walls 14, 18, and a base 30 that rests upon a bottom of the bathtub for supporting the insert 1210. The base 30 extends between the end walls 14, 18 and between the side walls 22, 26. The walls 14-26 and base 30 of the insert 1210 define a bathing area 46. An open end of the bathing area 46 allows a user to gain access to the bathing area 46 and supply water to the bathing area 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the end walls 14, 18 and the side walls 22, 26 of the insert 1210 extend higher than walls of the existing bathtub to define a deeper bathing area 46 than the existing bathtub. Although the bathtub inserts are generally rectangular with squared edges in the illustrated embodiments, it should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that in further embodiments the inserts may have other shapes and the corners may be rounded or bull-nosed. In one embodiment, the bathtub insert 1210 is fabricated from aluminum. In another embodiment, the insert 1210 is fabricated from a plastic material using an injection molding process, a roto-molding process, or the like. In yet another embodiment, the insert 1210 is fabricated from a metal frame (e.g., stainless steel or aluminum) and plastic.

The bathtub insert 1210 includes a seat 826, allowing a user to sit down while taking a shower. The seat 826 has a sit portion 826A and a seatback portion 826B. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 30 defines the sit portion 826A. The sit portion 826A extends generally inward from and substantially perpendicular to the first end wall 14 and the seatback portion 826B extends generally downward from the sit portion 826A and toward the base 30. The width “S” of the seat 826 is not confined by the walls of the bathtub or shower stall and therefore may be greater than the width of the bathtub or shower stall. In the illustrated embodiment, the width “S” of the seat 826 in the insert 1210 is between approximately 24 inches and approximately 30 inches. The intersection of the base 30 and the seatback portion 826B forms an acute angle within the bathing area 46 of the insert 1210 to provide increased foot room for the user within the bathing area 46. Additional foot room allows for the bathtub insert 1210 to be shorter in length and therein requires less material to form the bathtub insert.

FIG. 1 illustrated the insert 1210 as including a pair of doors 1014, one in each of the side walls 22, 26, for providing access to the bathing area 46 of the insert 1210. As explained below, the doors 1014 allow a user to easily slide or step into the bathing area 46 of the insert 1210 from a side of the bathtub, shower stall, or bathroom. In other embodiments, the insert 1210 can include three doors 1014, one in each of the side walls 22, 26, and one in the second end wall 18 (see FIG. 3). In still other embodiments, the insert 1210 can include four doors 1014, one in each of the side walls 22, 26, and one in each of the first and second end walls 14, 18 (see FIG. 4). Each door 1014 may be made of an acrylic material to provide a transparent door for the bather; however, the door may be made of other materials such as metal, HDPE, polypropylene, LDPE, and the like.

Each door 1014 is generally rectangular-shaped wherein a width “M” of the door 1014 is constant with respect to a height “H” of the door 1014. In the illustrated embodiment, the width “M” of each door is approximately 15 inches to approximately 16 inches. A grommet material 822 is located about the inner and outer periphery of a door opening and forms a seal between the door 1014 and the walls 14-26 as well as along the base 30 such that water within the bathing area 46 does not leak from the insert 1210. The weight of the respective doors 1014 and the grommet material 822 seals the door 1014 to the base 30. The grommet material 822 may be secured to the walls 14-26 and base 30 by cement or other various adhesives. Types of grommet material 822 include, but are not limited to, elastomers, closed cell foam plastics, silicone, rubber, or the like.

The pair of doors 1014 allows for use of the insert 1210 no matter what end of the bathtub includes the wall plumbing fixtures and allows the user to directly enter the insert 1210 from the exposed side of the bathtub. Generally, entrance through one of the doors 1014 is obstructed, for example, by a wall near the bathtub or a wall of the shower stall. The user is able to access the bathing area 46 of the insert 1210 through the non-obstructed door 1014 when the opposite door is obstructed. To enter the insert 1210 the user steps over the side of the bathtub and into the bathtub. Typically, the user will enter the insert 1210 from the door 1014 opposite of the wall plumbing fixtures and keep the other door 1014 adjacent to the wall plumbing fixtures sealably coupled to the respective side wall (side wall 26 in the illustrated embodiment). Once the user is inside the bathing area 46 of the insert 1210, the user will be facing 90° away from the wall plumbing fixtures. The location of the wall plumbing fixtures does not restrict use of the bathtub insert 1210 as the user may enter through either door 1014. If neither door is obstructed, door selection for entering the bathtub insert 1210 is at the user's discretion.

In the illustrated embodiment, each door 1014 includes a first door member 1034 and a second door member 1038 removably coupled together, wherein each member 1034, 1038 is movable with respect to the side walls 22, 26 of the insert 1210. The first and second door members 1034, 1038 may be in either of a coupled position (i.e., a first position) or a removed position (i.e., a second position). When the member 1034, 1038 is in the first position, the door member 1034, 1038 is coupled to one of the side walls 22, 26. In the second position, the door member 1034, 1038 is removed from the one side wall. With the first door member 1034 in the first position and the second door member 1038 removed from the bathtub insert 1010 (i.e., in the second position), the bathing area 46 may be partially filled with water prior to the user entering the bathing area 46. The user may choose to step over the first door member 1034 to enter the bathing area 46 prior to filling, during filling or after filling the bathing area partially. After the user has entered the bathing area 46, the second door member 1038 is placed in the first position (i.e., is coupled to the side wall) and seals with the first door member 1034 with the grommet material 822. When the second door member 1038 is sealably coupled to the first door member 1034, filling the bathing area 46 with water may continue.

Fluid exerts pressure against inner surfaces of the bathtub insert 1210 defined by the bathing area 46. The fluid pressure, as discussed above, increases the sealing pressure on each door 1014 with the side walls 22, 26. When the bathtub insert 1210 is filled with water (i.e., has fluid pressure), the second door member 1038 may be removed from the bathtub insert 1010. For example, in a scenario requiring rapid water evacuation from the bathing area 46, the second door member 1038 may be forcibly removed to partially drain the water. To remove the second door member, a force, greater than instances of no fluid pressure, is applied to the second door member 1038.

In other embodiments, the door 1014 is a single member having the same overall shape as the door shown in FIG. 2. In still other embodiments, the doors of the bathtub inserts may have more than two door members defining each door. Possible materials for the doors 1014 include metals and plastics. The manufacture of the doors 1014 and the door members 1034, 1038 may be accomplished by roto-molding or injection molding. In one embodiment, an air cavity (not shown) is formed in the door 1014 or door members 1034, 1038 during the molding to control heat loss from the water in the bathing area 46.

Referring to FIG. 5, each door 1014 slidably couples to the respective side wall 22, 26 or end wall 14, 18 at a pivot joint 1500. Also referring to FIG. 6A, in the illustrated embodiment, the pivot joint 1500 includes a rail, track, or bracket 1508 coupled to the insert 1210 via one or more coupling members 1510, and an engagement member or slider 1512 slidably coupled to the door 1014. In the illustrated embodiment, both coupling members 1510 are rectangular T-nuts, and the positions of the coupling members 1510 are adjustable in a substantially linear direction (i.e., from left to right in FIG. 6A) within a corresponding channel or opening 1511. The coupling members 1510 can prevent the pivot joint 1500 from twisting. In other embodiments, one or more of the coupling members 1510 may include other suitable fastening mechanism(s), for example, adhesives or welds, or other fasteners. Referring also to FIG. 6B, the coupling members 1510 can be adjustable in a nonlinear direction by using nonlinear (e.g., arcuate) channels or openings 1511. In the illustrated embodiments, the coupling members 1510 are aligned to each other, e.g., in a direction extending from top to bottom of FIGS. 6A and 6B. The alignment may be accomplished by brackets or rails and corresponding guiding members such as a pin (not shown) that couple the coupling members 1510 together.

The pivot joint 1500 is configured to rotate the door 1014 about a pivot axis 1504 (see, e.g., FIG. 2) and to move or translate the door 1014 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis 1504. In the illustrated embodiment, the pivot axis 1504 extends through the engagement member 1512 and extends perpendicular to the base 30. When viewed from above in a direction along the pivot axis 1504 (see FIG. 5), as the door 1014 is rotated approximately 90° from a closed position to an opened position, the door 1014 is translated from a position coupled to the side wall 22 (closed) to a position in which the door 1014 extends substantially parallel to and abutting against the second end wall 18 (open). As the door 1014 is rotated from an opened position to a closed position, the door 1014 is translated back to a position coupled to the side wall 22. The engagement member 1512 slidably engages the rail 1508, and cooperates together with the rail 1508 to translate the door 1014 in directions substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis 1504.

Referring also to FIG. 7, the rail 1508 is coupled to the door 1014 on the side wall 26, and the engagement member 1512 is coupled to the insert 1210. The illustrated pivot joint 1500 is configured to translate the door 1014 on the side wall 26 generally upwardly as the door 1014 is rotated from a closed position to an opened position. Likewise, as the door 1014 on the side wall 26 is rotated approximately 90° from an opened position to a closed position, the door 1014 is translated generally downwardly. In the closed position, the door 1014 extends substantially parallel to the user's knees K. Although FIG. 7 illustrates only a single rail 1508 on the door 1014 and only a single engagement member 1512 on the insert 1210, in further embodiments, the door 1014 may include one or more rails 1508, one or more engagement member 1512, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the insert 1210 may also include one or more engagement members 1512, one or more rails 1508, or a combination thereof. The pivot joint 1500 thus suitably includes one or more rails 1508 and engagement members 1512. Moreover, although FIGS. 5-7 illustrate the rail 1508 and engagement member 1512 as being separated formed and attached to a respective one of the insert 1210 and door 1014, in other embodiments the rail 1508 and engagement member 1512 may be integrally formed with the insert 1210 and door 1014, respectively.

FIG. 7 illustrates an occupant's knees K facing the second end wall 18 when the user is sitting down in the insert 1210. The pivot joint 1500 facilitates egress and ingress of the user within a small or limited space. To open a conventional hinged door, the user would need to rotate or swing the door in a clockwise direction when viewed from above. However, if the user is sitting down in the insert 1210 as illustrated in FIG. 7, the occupant's knees K would block the door from fully opening. In contrast, the pivot joint 1500 translates the door 1014 generally upwardly as the door 1014 is rotated to the opened position, thereby allowing the door 1014 to move along a trajectory unobstructed by the occupant's knees K. That is, the pivot joint 1500 facilitates the door 1014 to move adjacent to the occupant's knees K without coming in contact with the knees K.

In some embodiments, the door 1014 is movable parallel to the pivot axis 1504 between a sealing or rest position and a non-sealing or pivoting position. The non-sealing position is elevated along the pivot axis 1504 relative to the base 30. For example, to open the door 1014 from a closed position, a user lifts the door 1014 up, pivots/slides the door 1014 until a trailing edge is outside the insert 1210, continues pivoting/sliding the door 1014 (e.g., toward a non-plumbing side or upwardly in FIG. 7) until it extends substantially parallel to the second end wall 18, and then drops the door 1014 into the rest position on a race track or shelf. In some embodiments, the lifting of the door 1014 may be assisted by suitable cams or fingers (not shown). To close the door 1014 from the opened position, a user lifts the door 1014 up, pivots/slides the door 1014 until a trailing edge is outside the insert 1210, and continues pivoting/sliding the door 1014 until the door 1014 drops into a recess or channel and seals.

Once the door 1014 is closed, the bathing area 46 may be filled by plumbing fixtures of the bathtub or shower stall, such as a shower head or a faucet. In some cases, an apparatus, such as a hose, may be coupled to either of the shower head or the faucet to further assist in filling the bathing area 46. The hose may, for example, be part of common aftermarket spray handles that extend from the shower head. In each case, the user is able to access the plumbing fixtures to fill the bathing area 46 and to adjust the water to the desired temperature.

The insert 1210 includes two drains for emptying water from the bathing area 46, namely, a first drain plug 1212 and a second drain plug 1214. One or both of the first and second drain plugs 1212, 1214 may include a first plug portion 834A and a second plug portion 834B for resisting fluid escape. The first plug portion 834A is a generally circular-shaped drain plug and the second plug portion 834B is a generally rectangular-shaped drain plug, wherein the first plug portion 834A is positioned within a periphery of the second plug portion 834B. The first and second drain portions 834A, 834B are also connected together by two tether lines 850. In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the first drain portion 934A is approximately 2 inches to approximately 3 inches in diameter and the rectangular shape of the second drain portion 834B has dimensions of approximately 3 inches to four inches by approximately 4 inches to 6 inches. The first and second drain plugs 1212, 1214 have respective tethers 842 and floats 838. Each float 838 is composed of a material less dense than water allowing the float 838 to either reside at the top surface of the water or be suspended within the water, restrained by the length of the tether 842. The first drain plug 1212 is positioned in the seatback portion 826B of the bathtub insert 1210 and the second drain plug 1214 is positioned in the first door member 1034. As shown in FIG. 1, both doors 1014 include the second drain plug 1214 for adapting the bathtub insert 1210 to bathtubs and shower stalls having a variety of plumbing fixture locations. The drain plugs 1212, 1214 may be formed from a variety of materials, such as plastic, rubber, elastomer, HDPE, LDPE, polypropylene, metal, etc.

A first pull on the float 838 by the user, and thereby the tether 842, dislodges the first plug portion 834A from the second plug portion 834B and the water within the bathing area 46 may escape through the second plug portion 834B. The first plug portion 834A is removed from an opening of the second plug portion 834B, but remains connected via the two tethers 850 to prevent the two portions from separation. A second pull by the user dislodges the second plug portion 834B to allow the bathing area 46 to drain water at a greater rate than that allowed by removal of the first plug portion 834A. Upon removal of both plug portions 834A, 834B, the draining time of the bathtub insert is approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the draining time can be less than 20 seconds. This may facilitate a rapid draining from the bathing area 46 to the surrounding bathtub, e.g., for safety reasons, without necessarily damaging the structure outside the bathing area 46 in the bathroom.

The orientation of the insert 1210 and the location of the second drain plug 1214 in the door 1014 allow the water to empty from the bathing area 46 in a closer vicinity to the bathing space drain as compared to the location of first drain and first drain plug 1212. In addition, the second drain plug 1214 performs as a safety drain to allow for an additional draining space to evacuate water from the bathing area 46 at a greater rate than that allowed with only the first drain plug 1212. The draining time with removal of both plugs 1212, 1214 is between approximately 15-30 seconds. In shower stall applications, the second drain plug 1214 is the preferred water evacuation source as the second drain plug 1214 is in closer proximity to the shower stall drain and removal of the first drain plug 1212 may cause water to spill out of the shower stall. In the illustrated embodiments, sealable areas are located within the bathing space such that if leakage occurs, water will spill out into the bathing space.

In other embodiments, the drain for receiving the drain plug 1212 may accept a pump to therapeutically circulate water within the bathing area. Additionally, a heating unit may be installed in the seatback portion to control the water temperature within the bathing area of the insert.

Filling the insert 1210 with water increases stability of the insert and increases sealing pressure on the doors 1014 of the insert 1210. Additional force is required to break the seal between the doors 1014 and second end wall 18 when water is contained within the bathing area 46 as compared to when the bathing area 46 is empty. Pulling the floats 838 unplugs the drain plugs 1212, 1214 to allow fluid to escape from the bathing area 46. The doors 1014 may then be more easily removed from the second end wall 18 than when the bathing area 46 is filled with water.

The insert 1210 also includes a pair of support legs or posts 1226 extending outwardly (or downwardly in FIG. 2) and substantially perpendicular from the sit portion 826A for supporting the insert 1210 within the bathtub or shower stall. When the insert 1210 is placed within the bathtub or shower stall, the posts 1226 are external of the bathtub or shower stall and the base 30 is within the bathtub or shower stall. The posts 1226 are offset (about 2-3 inches in the preferred embodiment) from the first end wall 14 toward the seatback portion 826B to allow the bathtub insert 1210 to reside on the support surface of the bathtub wall for increased stability of the insert 1210. The posts 1226 adjust such that the sit portion 826A of the seat 826 is either elevated above or rests against the side of the bathtub or shower stall and the base 30 does not require any modifications to rest within the bathtub or shower stall. Adjustments of the post length also accommodate different surface heights between the conventional bathtub or shower stall and the floor outside of the bathtub or shower stall.

In other embodiments, the posts 1226 may be removed from the bathtub insert as a result of the existing stability from the water pressure within the bathing area and support from the side of the bathtub or shower stall.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a bathtub insert 1310, or bathing insert, according to another embodiment of the bathtub insert 1210 shown in FIGS. 1-7, whereby like structure will be identified by the same reference numerals. The insert 1310 includes the pair of doors 1114, handles or grips 1314, a pair of wheels 1318 coupled to the seatback portion 826B and a wheel 1320 coupled to each post 1226. The insert 1310 further includes a track 1322 for each post 1226, a groove slot 1326 for the doors 1114, and a first end wall 1330. Generally, the insert 1310 is formed of metal. It should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that in further embodiments, the insert 1310 may be formed from various materials.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, each door 1114 includes the second drain plug 1214 positioned in the first door member 1134, similar to that shown for the insert 1210 of FIG. 2; however, in other embodiments, only one door 1114 may include the second drain plug 1214. The groove slot 1326 is formed outside of the bathing area 46. The slot 1326 receives the door 1114 to create an impermeable seal with the grommet material 822. The groove slot 1326 is positioned outside the bathing area 46 to increase the size of the bathing area 46 and remove potential hazards, such as sharp edges created by an inner groove slot. The outer groove slot 1326, and therein the outer position of the doors 1114, increases the strength of the bathtub insert 1310.

With references to FIGS. 8 and 9, each handle 1314 is positioned at an upper edge of the first end wall 1330, the second end wall 18, and each side wall 22, 26. Upper edges of each wall have a curved or rolled shape, which defines the respective handle 1314. Generally, the handles 1314 are formed of metal; however, in other embodiments, the handle 1314 may be formed of plastic. In addition, the handles 1314 of the first end wall 1330 and the side walls 22, 26 may be formed as a single handle. The handles 1314 provide a safety hand grip and/or a push handle for the user.

The wheels 1318 are coupled to the seatback portion 826B, adjacent opposite side walls 22, 26, to provide rolling mobility for the insert 1310. In other embodiments, the wheels 1318 are coupled to the base 30. The circular shape of the wheels 1318 complement the contours of the bathtub and/or shower; therefore, easily fitting and supporting the insert 1310 within the tub. The wheels 1320 are coupled to the posts 1226 to further and/or alternatively provide rolling mobility for the insert 1310. In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 1310 includes both pairs of wheels 1318, 1320. In other embodiments, the insert 1310 may include the wheels coupled to any of the walls (e.g., the seatback portion 826B) and/or to the posts 1226.

Tracks 1322 are coupled to the sit portion 826A adjacent opposite side walls 22, 26. Each track 1322 includes a member that is able to slide in the first direction J within the track 1322. Each member includes a screw. The posts 1226 are coupled to the members via the screw and are thereby able to slide in the first direction J along the tracks 1322, as shown in FIG. 9.

The first end wall 1330 is tilted or angled with respect to the seat 826 to provide lumbar support and comfort for the user. The first end wall 1330 may be angled between approximately 96 degrees and approximately 105 degrees relative to the sit portion 826A of the seat 826.

The insert 1310 is easily movable and installable because of the wheels 1318, 1320. One method for transporting the insert 1310 requires the user to remove the posts 1226 from the tracks 1322, for example by unscrewing the posts 1226. The user then grasps at least one of the handles 1314 and tilts or pivots the insert 1310 about the pair of wheels 1318 on the seatback portion 826B. The second end wall 18 and the base 30 are lifted away from the ground to cause the insert 1310 to rest directly on the pair of wheels 1318. The user applies a force on the insert 1310 (e.g., on one of the handles 1314) causing each wheel 1318 to rotate and thereby transport the insert 1310.

To install the insert 1310 in the bathtub, the user rotates the insert 1310 in a counter-clockwise direction (as shown in FIG. 9) such that the handle 1314 of the first end wall 1330 is rotated closer to the ground. The insert 1310 rotates about the pair of wheels 1318. As the insert 1310 is rotated, the second end wall 18 and the base 30 are lifted away from the ground. The user places the base 30 on the bathtub wall and then moves the base 30, and therein the insert 1310, across the bathtub wall until the wheels 1318 engage the bathtub wall. The wheels 1318 roll along the bathtub wall and guide the insert 1310 into position within the bathtub. When the insert 1310 is positioned within the bathtub, the base 30 rests on the bathtub and the wheels 1318 abut and fit against the bathtub to stabilize the insert 1310 within the bathtub. The wheels 1318 remain attached to the insert 1310 to allow the user to install and remove the insert 1310 quickly by themselves.

If the posts 1226 are removed, then the posts 1226 are reattached to the insert 1310 by screwing each post 1226 to the sliding members of the tracks 1322. The user is able to slide each post 1226 along the tracks 1322 to level, adjust and/or balance the insert 1310 within the bathtub. In other embodiments, the tracks 1322 may include a locking member, such as a pin, to engage the sliding member. The locking member may be used to resist movement of the post 1226 in the first direction J after the user has positioned the post 1226 in a desired location.

In an embodiment including the wheels 1320, another method for transporting the insert 1310 includes the posts 1226 slidably coupled to the tracks 1322. The user positions the posts 1226 relative to the seatback portion 826B to balance and support the insert 1310. The user then grasps at least one of the handles 1314 and tilts or pivots the insert 1310 about the pair of wheels 1320 on the posts 1226. The insert 1310 rests directly on the pair of wheels 1320 and the user applies a force on the insert 1310 (e.g., on one of the handles 1314) causing each wheel 1320 to rotate and thereby transport the insert 1310.

To install the insert 1310 in the bathtub when the posts 1226 are attached, the user rotates the insert 1310 in a counter-clockwise direction (as shown in FIG. 9) about the pair of wheels 1320. The user may adjust the balance point of the insert 1310 by sliding the posts 1226 in the tracks 1322 (for example, the post position closest to the seatback portion 826B in FIG. 9). As the insert 1310 is rotated, the base 30 and the pair of wheels 1318 coupled to the seatback portion 826B are lifted away from the ground; although in other embodiments, the insert 1310 does not include wheels coupled to the seatback portion 826B or any of the walls. The user places the base 30 on the bathtub wall and then moves the base 30, and therein the insert 1310, across the bathtub wall. The insert 1310 is then lowered into the bathtub until the base 30 abuts the bathtub. Similar to the method of transporting the insert 1310 with the posts 1226 removed therefrom, the user is able to slide each post 1226 along the tracks 1322 to level, adjust and/or balance the insert 1310 within the bathtub (for example, the post position furthest from the seatback portion 826B in FIG. 9).

Yet another method for transporting the insert 1310 includes the user grasping a portion of the insert 1310 (e.g., one of the handles 1314) and applying a force to insert 1310 causing each wheel 1318, 1320 to rotate and thereby roll (i.e., transport) the insert 1310 similar to how one pushes a shopping cart. To install the insert 1310, the user may remove the posts 1226 and rotate the insert 1310 about the pair of wheels 1318 coupled to the seatback portion 826B, or rotate the insert 1310 about the pair of wheels 1320, as discussed above.

In other embodiments, the insert 1310 includes a skid material that prevents the insert 1310 from sliding within or outside of the bathtub. The skid material may be various rubber or plastic materials that are known in the art to provide traction between the base 30 and an adjacent surface (e.g., the bathtub).

FIG. 10 illustrates a bathtub insert 1010, or bathing insert, according to another embodiment of the bathtub inserts 1210, 1310 shown in FIGS. 1-7 and FIGS. 8 and 9, respectively, whereby like structure will be identified by the same reference numerals. The insert 1010 in this embodiment includes a pair of doors 1014, one in each of the side walls 22, 26, for providing the user access to the bathing area of the insert 1010 from a side of the bathtub. Edges 1018A, 1018B of the side walls 22, 26 define a groove slot 1030 for receiving side edges 1022A, 1022B of the respective door 1014. The tongue and groove mating along the edges of the side walls and respective doors resist a bowing effect when water pressure is exerted thereon. Each door 1014 slidably couples to the respective side wall and the grommet material 822 seals each door 1014 within the groove slots 1030 of the side wall edges 1018A, 1018B. Additionally, each door 1014 is sealed by grommet material 822 along the base 30. The weight of the respective doors 1014 and the grommet material 822 seals the door 1014 to the base 30.

The insert 1010 is positioned within the bathtub such that the user faces wall plumbing fixtures when seated. It should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that although the insert 1010 is illustrated with a bathtub, the insert 1010 may be used within a shower stall. For shower stall applications, the insert 1010 may reside against the back wall.

The pair of doors 1014 allows for use of the insert 1010 no matter what end of the bathtub includes the wall plumbing fixtures and allows the user to directly enter the insert 1010 from the exposed side of the bathtub. Generally, entrance through one of the doors 1014 is obstructed, for example, by a wall near the bathtub or a wall of the shower stall. The user is able to access the bathing area 46 of the insert 1010 through the non-obstructed door 1014 when the opposite door is obstructed. Prior to entering the bathtub insert 1010, the user typically removes the non-obstructed door 1014 of the bathtub insert 1010. If neither door is obstructed, door selection for entering the bathtub insert 1010 is at the user's discretion. Although FIG. 10 illustrates the insert 1010 as including a pair of doors 1014, in other embodiments, the insert 1010 can include three doors 1014, one in each of the side walls 22, 26, and one in the second end wall 18 (see FIG. 11).

FIG. 12 illustrates a bathing system 1600 including a bathing insert 1610 according to another embodiment of the bathtub inserts 1210, 1310, and 1010 shown in FIGS. 1-7, FIGS. 8 and 9, and FIGS. 10 and 11, respectively, whereby like structure will be identified by the same reference numerals. The bathing system 1600 includes the bathing insert 1610 and one or more reservoirs 1614 positioned substantially above the bathing insert 1610. Referring also to FIG. 13, each reservoir 1614 includes a collector port or collector drain 1618 and a discharge port or fill drain 1622. The collector port 1618 may be coupled to a water supply such as an existing shower head or bathtub faucet for filling the reservoir 1614 with water. In some cases, an apparatus, such as a hose, may be coupled to either of the shower head or the faucet to further assist in filling the reservoir 1614. The hose may, for example, be part of common aftermarket spray handles that extend from the shower head. The discharge port 1622 is operable to discharge the water at an adjustable rate to facilitate quickly filling the bathing insert 1610. For example, each reservoir 1614 can hold up to approximately 180 liters or approximately 230 liters of fluid, which can be quickly or rapidly drained to fill the bathing insert 1610. In some embodiments, the water discharge rate may be adjusted via a discharge valve (not shown). The adjustable water discharge rate allows a user to control or regulate the temperature of the bathing area 46. In other embodiments, the discharge valve can be omitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, each reservoir 1614 is L-shaped when viewed from above. In some embodiments, each reservoir 1614 measures approximately 60 cm by approximately 60 cm when viewed from above, and approximately 60 cm to approximately 80 cm in depth. In some embodiments, the reservoirs 1614 are symmetrical to each other, and therefore can be used in connection with a bathing insert 1610 regardless of where the wall plumbing fixture is positioned relative to the bathing insert 1610. In this regard, the reservoirs 1614 are shaped and sized to fit within conventional bathtubs and shower stalls to allow a “one size fits all” device. In some embodiments, the reservoirs 1614 may assume other geometric forms, e.g., when viewed from above, each can be a rectangle, a triangle, or any other polyhedral or curved shape.

Filling water into a bath tub using a conventional spigot can be time-consuming and cumbersome. In a residential setting, conventional spigots are used in connection with a generally weak residential plumbing pressure and a small plumbing supply line measuring approximately 0.95 cm or approximately 1.27 cm in diameter. The fill time of a bath tub using the conventional spigot can run two minutes to three minutes, or more depending on the size and volume of the bath tub. The slow fill rate and the resulting long fill time might subject disabled or elder occupants and users to an uncomfortable temperature, and potentially scold or freeze the disabled or elder occupants and users. In contrast, the reservoirs 1614 disclosed herein can adjust the fill rate of the bathing insert 1610 to allow faster and/or slower fills, depending on the use requirements or preferences for the bathing system 1600.

In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoirs 1614 are separately formed from the bathing insert 1610 and can be attached or mounted on the bathing insert 1610 or an insert frame (not shown). For example, the illustrated reservoir 1614 includes a recessed channel or groove 1626 on an underside to fit on top of the bathing insert 1610 or an insert frame. In other embodiments, the reservoirs 1614 can be integrally formed with the bathing insert 1610 as one piece. The reservoirs 1614 can be fabricated from a plastic material using a blow molding process, or can be made from other materials such as plastic, ceramic, or metal in other manners.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bathing system 1600 includes sample ports 1630 positioned between the collector and discharge ports 1622, 1626 for monitoring a temperature of the fluid. Although FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate the sample ports 1630 as being triangular in cross section, in other embodiments the sample ports 1630 may assume any geometric form, including, but not limited to, a rectangle, a semi-circle, a U-shape, or another polyhedral or curved shape.

In use, a user turns on the wall plumbing fixture and fills the reservoirs 1614 through the collector ports 1618. While the reservoirs 1614 are being filled, the user may touch or sense the sample ports 1630 to monitor the water temperature within the reservoirs 1614. If the water temperature is undesirable, the user may adjust the water temperature while the reservoirs 1614 continue to be filled. Once the reservoirs 1614 are full, the user enters the bathing insert 1610, closes the door 1014, and opens the discharge ports 1622 to fill the bathing insert 1610 to a desired level. As such, the user can control the water temperature as desired, and can be protected from scolding or freezing water. Moreover, the user need not be uncomfortably cold while waiting for the warm water to fill the bathing insert 1610. The bathing system 1600 does not require any additional plumbing, electrical, or mechanical lines, as the water supply may be provided by the existing shower head or bathtub faucet.

The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation upon the concepts and principles of the present invention. As such, it will be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that various changes in the elements and their configuration and arrangement are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	12195500	Aug 2008	US
Child	13826555		US
Parent	11868260	Oct 2007	US
Child	12195500		US

BATHING INSERT

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Abstract

Description

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

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