Patent Application
20050210577
The present invention relates to an interface between panels of a molded plastic shower surround.
Tub and shower surrounds are positioned within a recess built around a bathtub or shower surround. Conventional modular tub/shower units often include a base portion at the bottom and two or more wall portions. The whole structure is mounted adjacent a wall or corner to form a waterproof surround. The fully enclosed waterproof structure prevents the escape of water into the wall cavity despite the shower spraying water onto the surrounding walls.
One issue that arises with products of this type is that of forming a suitable joint between the surround portions. Various styles of joint have been used, each of which providing particular tradeoffs in complexity, aesthetics, and sealing ability.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a waterproof joint between wall portions of a molded plastic shower surround that is uncomplicated and aesthetically pleasing while assuring an effective watertight seal.
The tub surround according to the present invention provides a retainer assembly which is mounted within an outer band section to receive an inner band section to connect the surround sections. The outer band section supports the retainer assembly such that the inner band section “clips” into the retainer assembly.
The retainer assembly also permits the surround to be arranged in a packaged arrangement which is conducive to efficient storage and shipment.
The present invention therefore provides a waterproof joint between wall portions of a molded plastic shower surround which is uncomplicated and aesthetically pleasing while assuring an effective watertight seal.
The various features and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the currently preferred embodiment. The drawings that accompany the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:
The surround 10 is typically formed from an initially uniform thickness acrylic sheet on a vacuum-forming mold. The sections are then separated from the single integrally molded component. The width is that desired for the finished assembly, the height is greater than that desired in the finished assembly by approximately the amount of joint J overlap in the assembled product.
A raised band 18 extends substantially horizontally across the mold between the tub section 12 and the mid section 14, and the mid section and the canopy section 16. That is, the position of the bands 18 will correspond to the desired positions for joints between the surround sections. As will be understood, the invention does not require the provision of more than one such band and joint. However, the provision of two provides sections of smaller dimensions for more easy access to the doors and passages of a house and also the provision of two joints instead of one is thought to provide a more balanced and pleasing appearance. It is also noted that it is within the scope of the invention to provide that the bands and joints may be of other configurations. Structural and ornamental use of horizontal bands and joints is preferred, and horizontal joints may best utilize the advantages of the invention.
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The frame 40 generally includes a pair of opposed frame arms 42, 44 which form a generally U-shape. The arm 42 is preferably shaped to be received directly adjacent the outer band section 22 and the angled band section 32. A retainer frame arm 46 extends generally opposite the opposed arms 42, 44. The retainer arm 46 is generally L-shaped and extends from an arcuate frame portion 43 which connects opposed arms 42, 44. A stop 48 extends from the arm 42. The stop 48 is preferably located between and transverse the arms 42, 44.
Resilient seals 38a, 38b, 38c are located within the arms 42, 44. Seal 38a extends from arm 44 and includes a multiple of wipers 50 which extend toward arcuate frame portion 43. The wipers 50 assist in receiving the inner band portion 40 and providing a seal therewith when the surround 10 is assembled (
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The depth is approximately 24″, which readily permits transport through doorways and the like. Next, the mid section 14 is arranged around the tub section 12 and sits atop the tub section flange f. Finally the canopy section 16 is inverted into the mid section 14 such that the retainer arm 46 faces downward and toward the tub section 12. The retainer arm 46 engages the outer perimeter of the mid section 14 to provide a relatively rigid cubical-shaped unit.
It should be understood that relative positional terms such as “forward,” “aft,” “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” and the like are with reference to the normal operational attitude of the surround and should not be considered otherwise limiting.
It should be understood that although a particular component arrangement is disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, other arrangements will benefit from the instant invention.
The foregoing description is exemplary rather than defined by the limitations within. Many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The preferred embodiments of this invention have been disclosed, however, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that certain modifications would come within the scope of this invention. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. For that reason the following claims should be studied to determine the true scope and content of this invention.
