Patent Application
20200109547
Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.
This disclosure relates generally to embodiments of a protective shield for use with a urinal.
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a urinal protector comprising: a housing having a back portion configured to be removably coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a recessed area between the back portion and the front portion, the recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat; one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and one or more downwardly protruding members coupled to or formed as a part of the back portion, the one or more downwardly protruding members configured to engage the wall when the back end is coupled to the wall.
In some embodiments, the one or more downwardly protruding members extend below the one or more magnets. In some embodiments, a ratio of a height from a top of the housing to a bottom of the one or more downwardly protruding members to a depth from a back of the back portion to a front of the front portion is at least ¼. In some embodiments, a ratio of a height from a top of the housing to a bottom of the one or more downwardly protruding members to a depth from a back of the back portion to a front of the front portion is within a range of ⅛ to ½. In some embodiments, the one or more downwardly protruding members extend comprise a back surface that is oriented at a non-perpendicular angle with respect to a floor of the recessed area. In some embodiments, the non-perpendicular angle is within a range of 92.5 degrees to 102.5 degrees, such that, when the back surface of the one or more downwardly protruding members is in full contact with the wall, and no external load is applied to the housing, the floor of the recessed area will tend to be tilted toward the wall. In some embodiments, the back portion of the housing comprises a recess shaped to accept a metal bar that is attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the metal bar. In some embodiments, the one or more downwardly protruding members extend below the recess shaped to accept the metal bar. In some embodiments, the recessed area is configured to retain the absorbent mat in a removable tray that is shaped to fit at least partially within the recessed area. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the removable tray. In some embodiments, the recessed area is configured to directly retain the absorbent mat without a removable tray.
According to some embodiments, a urinal protector comprises: a housing having a back portion configured to be coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a first recessed area between the back portion and the front portion; and a tray shaped to fit at least partially within the first recessed area of the housing, the tray comprising a second recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat.
In some embodiments, the tray comprises a disposable liquid impermeable material. In some embodiments, the tray comprises a pressed paper with a wax coating. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the absorbent mat. In some embodiments, the first recessed area of the housing comprises a floor having a plurality of openings passing therethrough, and wherein the second recessed area of the tray comprises a solid floor. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to be removably coupled to the wall. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises: one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and wherein the back portion of the housing comprises a recess shaped to accept a metal bar that is attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the metal bar.
Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a urinal protector comprising a housing having a first recess configured to retain an absorbent mat, and a drawer slidable within the housing between an open position and a closed position, the drawer having a second depression configured to retain one or more absorbent mats.
In some embodiments, the drawer can be removable from the housing. In some embodiments, the drawer can be configured to slide along rails on an inner surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the urinal protector can further comprise a plurality of absorbent mats located in the second depression. In some embodiments, the housing can have a larger footprint than the drawer. In some embodiments, the drawer can comprise an extension configured to assist a user in transitioning the drawer between the open position and the closed position. In some embodiments, the urinal protector can be configured to releasably attach to a wall through the use of one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the drawer can be at least partially enclosed on at least four sides when in the closed position. In some embodiments, the drawer can be at least partially enclosed on at least five sides when in the closed position. In some embodiments, the drawer can be made of a disposable material.
Also disclosed herein are embodiments of an absorbent mat comprising a first layer of airlaid, a layer of superabsorbent polyacrylated starch disposed on the first layer of airlaid, a second layer of airlaid disposed on the layer of superabsorbent polyacrylated starch, and a layer of tissue disposed on the second layer of airlaid.
Further disclosed herein are embodiments of a roll of a plurality of the absorbent mats disclosed herein.
Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a floor shield assembly comprising: a frame structure comprising: an upper frame portion; and a lower frame portion; wherein the upper and lower frame portions are connected by an attachment structure; and wherein the upper frame portion is configured to move between an open and a closed configuration; at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure when the upper frame portion is in the closed configuration; and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall; wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.
In some embodiments, the bracket comprises a container defining a cavity for receiving replacement mats. In some embodiments, the container comprises at least one removable boss for removal and replacement of the replacement mats. In some embodiments, the frame structure is configured to move horizontally with respect to the bracket. In some embodiments, at least one of the top or bottom portions of the frame structure comprises at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the at least one fastening element comprises a locking pin or snap. In some embodiments, the attachment structure is a hinge. In some embodiments, the frame structure is configured to rotate with respect to the bracket about an axis. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly further comprises a releasable retainer attached to a bottom of the lower frame portion and configured to secure a mat to the frame structure. In some embodiments, the air freshener is incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the bracket. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly further comprises a locking mechanism to hold at least one of upper frame portion and the lower frame portion in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly further comprises a plurality of replaceable mats, in addition to the at least one replacement mat. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats are positioned on a roll. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats are connected to said at least one replaceable mat. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats are configured to be connected to said at least one replaceable mat while the at least one replaceable mat is retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure.
According to some embodiments, a system for clothing protection in a restroom comprises: a wall; at least one urinal attached to the wall; and at least one floor shield assembly comprising: a frame structure; a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is securable to the frame structure; and a bracket configured to retain the frame structure, wherein the bracket is attached to the wall; wherein the replaceable mat is positioned to protect a user from splashing of urine and is spaced from a floor of the restroom.
In some embodiments, the bracket is integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a plurality of floor shields. In some embodiments, the at least one floor shield is spaced below the urinal. In some embodiments, the frame structure comprises a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure.
According to some embodiments, a floor shield assembly comprises: a frame structure; at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained against the frame structure; and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall; wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.
In some embodiments, the bracket and the frame structure are integrally formed.
Urinals can be a significant source of unwanted staining on a person's clothing, especially pants and shoes. For example, due to the currently used shape of urinals, excess liquids, such as water, cleaning chemicals, and/or urine (e.g., from splash-back or drippage) can spill over the edge of the urinal and directly downwards. Because of the location of the urinal, a user's feet would be directly in the area of the spillage, and could lead to damage to the user's clothing. Further, the liquids could splash, thus damaging the pant legs of the user of the urinal. Additionally, spillage can lead to puddles on the ground in a restroom, even when a floor urinal mat is used, which are not merely unsightly but can actually begin to substantially damage the floor or the soles of a person's shoes. It can be expensive to fix any damage done to the floor by the uric acid
In the past, floor mats have been used in restrooms in an attempt to reduce urine and other chemical/liquid levels on the restroom floor. Urine is a significant damager of floors, and can etch or eat away from the floor, and thus it is advantageous to prevent urine from remaining on a floor. While floor mats have typically been used, the restroom environment is harsh on them, both physically and chemically, and the floor mats can quickly collect urine and other chemicals. As users do not want to stand on a urine filled floor mat, they stand aside the floor mats, thus exacerbating the damage to the floor. Further, as a result of the harsh environment, floor mats can quickly lose their air freshening or sanitizing function, become torn so that debris is permitted through them, or become unsightly. Therefore, floor mats need to be changed relatively often to function properly without drawing undue attention. In addition, floor mats can easily be kicked aside, thus eliminating any usefulness in protecting the restroom floor.
Disclosed herein is a device, assembly, and/or system acting as a floor shield, which can prevent liquids from falling from the urinal area and onto the floor and/or a user's clothing. Accordingly, this can prevent clothing from being damaged, as well as improve sanitation in a restroom. Further, embodiments of the floor shield can remain above the floor of a restroom, thus significantly reducing the wear and damage to the floor shield facility, being used effectively for a longer period of time. In addition, being above the floor can allow for the floor shield to catch more liquid than similar sized urinal mats located on the floor. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly can include the floor shield itself, as well as any connection or retaining pieces. However, the terms floor shield and floor shield assembly can be used interchangeably in some embodiments.
Accordingly, most, if not all, liquid can be prevented from reaching the ground or a user's shoes, as most, if not all, liquid can be picked up and absorbed by the mat 102 which can be located directly below a urinal. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a smaller upper surface area than floor mats of the prior art. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have an upper surface area of less than 1000, 900, 800, 700, 750, 625, 600, 500, 400, 300, 280, 270, or 200 in2. Advantageously, however, the urinal can have an upper surface area of a sufficient size to protect against urine splattering the floor or the user's clothing. For example, embodiments of the floor shield can have an upper surface area of at least 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 in2. In some embodiments, the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 50 and 750, 64 and 625, 80 and 500, 140 and 400, 180 and 300, or 200 and 280 in2. In some embodiments, the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 400 and 1600, 600 and 1200, or 800 and 1000 in2.
In some embodiments, the mat 102 can have approximately the same size as the floor shield. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long, as shown in
In some embodiments, the frame 104 can lay both below and on top of the mat 102 and desirably hold it in place, e.g., sandwiching the mat 102, as further described in detail below. Further, the floor shield can contain a replacement box 106 which can contain one or more replacement mats 102. However, in some embodiments a box 106 is not used with the floor shield, and a simple bracket can be used, as described below. In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can operate similar to a paper towel dispenser, wherein a user can pull out replacement mats 102 when the old mat 102 becomes soiled, though other methodologies can be used as well and do not limit the disclosure.
In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be in the shape of a partial ellipsoid, such as a half or ¾ ellipsoid. For example, the frame 104 can generally include a generally or substantially parabolic portion, wherein two points of the parabolic portion 103 are connected by a line 105, shown in
In some embodiments, the top portion 108 can contain at least one fastening element 114. In some embodiments, the top portion 108 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fastening elements 114. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can also contain at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fastening elements 114. The number of fastening elements 144 does not limit the disclosure. The fastening elements 114 of the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 may be the same, or may be different. These fastening elements 114 can be, for example, locking pins or snaps, though the type of fastening element does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can have fastening elements 114 so that the fastening elements 114 on the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 interlock with one another. For example, some fastening elements 114 can be female members, whereas others can be male members. In some embodiments, fastening elements are not used, and the frame can contain a mat 102 using only pressure or frictional forces. In some elements, the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can have magnetic materials on them, and thereby the top portion 108 and bottom 108 can be magnetically attracted to one another, thereby retaining the mat 102.
The top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 of the frame 104 can form an open area 116 inside their respective perimeters or circumferences. However, in some embodiments the frame 104 does not have an open area, and can be formed of a solid or gridded material, thus hiding the mat 102 from view by a user. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can contain a resting platform 118 where a mat 102 can rest. This resting platform 118 can give further support to a mat 102 when the mat 102 is in place on the floor shield. The resting platform 118 can be made of an additional absorbing material, or can be made of a mesh that allows liquids to pass through.
In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can be generally shaped as a rectangular prism having an open internal cavity, though the shape does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can have an open side for insertion of mats 102, though the particular side that is opened is not limiting. In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can be fully enclosed, but can be opened to insert mats 102. Further, the replacement box 106 may have an opening, aperture, or slot in which mats 102 can be pulled out of to place onto the frame 104, such as shown in
In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be made of a reusable material. For example, the mat 102 can be laundered and then reused with the floor shield. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be linen, cloth, or other launderable material, and the type of material does not limit the disclosure. Accordingly, the reusable mat 102 can be pulled out of the replacement box 106 as described above. However, the reusable mat 102 can then be rewound into the box 106 for later use or for laundering. In some embodiments, the box 106 can be generally a towel roll where the mat 102 can be rewound. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be manually rewound into the box 106. In some embodiments, a second box can be provided at the opposite end. In some embodiments, the box 106 (or one or both of the two boxes) can be mechanized, such as through the use of an auto-winder or auto-feed. For example, the box 106 can contain a button, switch, handle, or other advancement device that can cause the mat 102 to exit or reenter the replacement box 106, either by itself or through user force. In some embodiments, a hand-held remote can be used to move the mat 102 in and out of the box 106. In some embodiments, the advancement device can be mechanical or electrical, such as an electric motor to wind and unwind the mats 102. The type of advancement device does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a user may never have to touch the mat 102.
In some embodiments, the bracket 700 can be wider than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield, similar to the replacement box 106 of
In some embodiments, if there is more than one urinal in a restroom, a floor shield can be located below each of the urinals. In some embodiments, the floor shields can be all aligned at the same vertical height. In some embodiments, the floor shields can be at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the floor shield can extend about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches farther from the wall than a farthest point of the urinal it is under. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be approximately 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches off the ground. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be approximately at least 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, or 28 inches above the surface of the floor. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be located at a distance above the ground so that a user can put their shoes underneath the shield. The floor shield can be easily removable from the wall of the restroom, or can be integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the entire floor shield can be disposable.
In some embodiments, a roll holder can be used with a floor shield for replacement of mats 102.
In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be flexibly attached to the holder 1002. Therefore, if excess force was exerted on the frame 104, for example through a kick or step, the frame 104 may be moved but the holder 1002 may not be removed from the wall. Afterwards, the frame 104 may be reattached to the holder 1002. The attachment between the frame 104 and the holder 1002 does not limit this disclosure, and any attachment, such as adhesive or mechanical fastening, can be used. In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be easily removable from the holder 1002, and thus can be easily disposed of while the holder 1002 remains. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can contain the opening 1102, and the frame 104 can attach to the front of the holder 1002. In some embodiments, there is no opening 1102 and a replacement mat 102 can be pulled out and placed in the frame 104, as described above. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can contain an opening on the top so a user can see if more replacement mats 102 should be added.
In some embodiments, the floor shield can also move on the holder 1002 to and away from the holder 1002, and therefore the wall. This can be advantageous as different urinals do not always extend the same distance from the wall. For example, the holder 1002 can have at least one guide rail extending perpendicular for the floor shield to move with. In some embodiments, the guide rail can be configured to have sections which lock the floor shield in place. In some embodiments, the shield can rest on top of the guide rails 1006, as shown in
In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position. In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have greater than approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position.
In some embodiments, a gear system 1300 can be used to allow for the angling of the shield, as shown in
In some embodiments, an air freshener, fragrance, or other scented product and/or substance can be incorporated into the floor shield. In some embodiments, the freshener may be a part of the material used in the construction of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the floor shield may be at least partially made of a material that is loaded with a fragrance material. In some embodiments, the freshener can be used after the floor shield is made, for example through a liquid spray. The spray could then dry onto the parts of the floor shield, thereby giving the fragrance. The type of freshener does not limit the disclosure. The materials used may be polymers, such as both thermoplastic and thermoset polymers. Some examples of polymers that may be suitable are synthetic resins. Some particular examples of thermoplastic resins that may be suitable for include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (NIPX), ethylene-(meth)acrylate ester copolymers, acrylic-type vinyl resins such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), styrene-type vinyl resins such as polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene (AS) copolymers, other vinyl resins such as polyvinyl acetate, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester resins such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide resins such as nylon 6, nylon 66, nylon 610, nylon 11, and nylon 12, polyoxyalkylene resins such as polyacetal (POM), and other thermoplastic resins such as polycarbonates (PC), modified polyphenylene ethers (modified PPE), polyvinyl acetates (PVAC), polysulfones (PSU), polyethersulfones (PES), polyphenylene sulfides (PPS), polyarylates (PAR), polyamideimides (pAI), polyetherimides (PEl), polyetheretherketones (PEEK), polyimides (PI), as well as copolymers of the preceding. Combinations of different plastics can also be used. Further, different plastics can be used to produce different portions of the floor shield. However, the particular material does not limit the disclosure.
The freshener may be incorporated into different portions of the floor shield. For example, in some embodiments the freshener can be incorporated into the mats 102. In some embodiments, the freshener can be incorporated into any of the portions of the frame 104. In some embodiments, the freshener can be incorporated into the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the freshener can be located in multiple, or all, parts of the floor shield. The location of the freshener does not limit the disclosure.
In some embodiments, the material that can be used to form the urinal screen may be capable of resisting the harsh environment experienced on the restroom floor, which may contain urine, waste products, cleaning solutions, and other undesirable liquids (e.g., contaminants such as paint thinner, paint, motor oil, or chemicals that may be poured into a urinal.) In some embodiments, the material of the floor shield may be designed to maintain a near-pristine condition (evident after a water rinse or basic cleaning operation), without discernable wear for a long period of time, or large amount of uses and flushes. Thus, it may be said that the floor shield may resist damage or alteration due to the environmental conditions within a restroom. In some embodiments, the material of the floor shield, such as the frame 104 or mat 102 may be designed to last a certain amount of time, level or amount of use, or number of flushes, without exhibiting any wear (e.g., tearing, discoloring, disintegration, deformation, shrinkage, loss of scent) for that specified time/usage/period. For example: the lasting time may be 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 6 months, or perhaps 1 year; the level or amount of use may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 uses (e.g., urinations); the number of flushes may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 flushes. In other embodiments, the material of the floor shield may be designed to purposefully start exhibiting wear after the aforementioned predetermined amount of time/usage/period, such that the portions of the floor shield can start to tear, discolor, disintegrate, deform, shrink, or lose scent, which may alert maintenance personnel to replace portions of the floor shield, such as the mat 102.
The mat 102 can be pulled over the top of the bottom portion 110 and then at least partially onto the bottom of the bottom portion 110 when the retainer 1502 is open. The retainer 1502 can then closed over a portion of the mat 102 underneath the bottom portion 110, thereby holding the mat 102 in place and providing a pleasing appearance. In some embodiments, as shown in
In some embodiments, the lower platform 1605 may be connected to the upper platform 1603. In some embodiments, they may be removably connected. In some embodiments, they may be integrally formed. The connection between the lower platform 1605 and upper platform 1605 can form a slot 1607 allowing access between the top and bottom of the main shelf 1602. In some embodiments, the slot 1607 can be formed by having the upper and lower platforms 1603/1605 at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the upper and lower platforms 1603/1605 can be at the same height and a gap can be formed between the two, thus forming the slot 1607. The slot 1607 can generally be the width of the main shelf 1602, though the size of the slot does not limit the disclosure.
The upper platform 1605 can contain sidewalls 1609 and a back wall 1611. The side walls 1609 can be configured to hold at least one boss, such as the removable boss 1608. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 have the same width as the upper platform 1605. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 have a greater width than the upper platform 1605. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 have a smaller width than the upper platform 1605. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 and back wall 1611 can be sized to retain a roll of mats.
In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can have the frame 1618 surrounding a grid, similar to the lower platform 1605. The grid can have a plurality of apertures in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can be generally flat with no apertures. In some embodiments, the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be smaller than the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be larger than the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be generally the same size as the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can have the same shapes as the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can have different shapes than the grid of the lower platform 1605.
Further,
The magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be circular magnetic pieces having opposite poles in order to magnetically connect to one another, though the shape of the magnetic pieces does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a force can be used to release the corresponding magnetic latching components 1617/1612. In some embodiments, two magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be used on each of the main shelf 1602 and tucking tray bottom 1606, though the amount of magnetic latching components 1617/1612 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be used on each of the main shelf 1602 and tucking tray bottom 1606. In some embodiments, the magnetic latching components 1617 can be located on opposite ends of the arms 1620 of the tucking tray bottom 1606, though the position does not limit the disclosure and the magnetic latching components 1617 can be used throughout the tucking tray bottom 1606.
The tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tucking tray top 1604 through the use of an engagement mechanism 1630 of the tucking tray top 1606 attached to engagement portion 1615 of the tucking tray bottom 1606. The engagement mechanism 1630 can be configured to be a clipping mechanism that can hold the engagement portion 1615. A user can release the engagement mechanism 1630 by applying pressure, thereby opening the engagement mechanism 1630, as shown in
Upon removable of at least one of the removable bosses 1608, a roll of mats 1614 can be inserted into the floor shield 1600, shown in
Once the mats are incorporated into the floor shield 1600, one of the mats 1614 can be pulled through the slot 1607 when the floor shield 1600 is in the open position, as shown in
Main attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to the back of the floor shield 1600, as shown in
Once both the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 are in place, the floor shield 1600 can be releasably attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the magnetic hold between the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 is sufficient so that small incidental forces do not separate the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612. In some embodiments, a significant force, such as an average user stepping on the floor shield 1600 can be the minimum force needed to separate the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612.
In some embodiments, the floor shield 1600 can contain a locking mechanism 1632. The locking mechanism 1632 can be on the bottom of the floor shield 1600, though the position of the locking mechanism 1632 does not limit the disclosure. The locking mechanism 1632 can be used to lock the tucking tray top 1604 to the main shelf 1602, thus preventing opening of the floor shield 1600 by an unwanted party.
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a urinal protector or shield that can be designed with a drawer configuration.
As shown, the urinal protector 3000 can have a housing 3002 and a drawer (or tray) 3004 which can be slidable within the housing 3002.
The housing 3002 can include a recess or depression 3006 on the top surface 3003 which can be sized to fit a replacement mat, such as discussed herein. The depression 3006 can have a number of side walls 3020 forming the depression 3006. The depression 3006 can be hexagonal in shape, though the particular shape does not limit the disclosure. Thus, a hexagonal shaped depression 3006, such as shown, can include six sidewalls 3020.
In some embodiments, the top surface 3003 of the housing 3002 can include a back wall or surface 3022. This surface 3022 can be located closer to the wall than the depression 3006 when attached to a wall. The surface 3022 can further include aesthetic designs on it, or may be flat. Alternatively, the back wall/surface 3022 can overhang the depression, so as to form an open pocket.
Additionally, the housing 3002 can include a pair of guides or rails 3024 on either side of the housing 3002. The rails 3024 can be spaced apart so that the drawer 3004 can slide along an internal surface of the rails 3024. Thus, the drawer 3004 can be slidable inside the housing 3002 along the rails 3024 so as to be at least partially enclosed on a top surface, back surface, and both side surfaces in the closed position (shown in
As shown in
The drawer 3004 can similarly have a depression 3008 formed between sidewalls 3011 on the top surface 3005 which can be sized to fit a replacement mat, or a number of replacement mats. Accordingly, the depression 3008 of the drawer 3004 may be deeper than the depression 3006 of the housing 3002 in order to hold more replacement mats.
In some embodiments, the depressions 3006/3008 can have slanted side walls. In some embodiments, the depressions 3006/3008 can have straight sidewalls (e.g., approximately 90°).
The absorbent mat can be placed on the top depression 3006 which can accumulate urine. The depression 3008 in the drawer 3004 can include a supply of replacement mats (such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10) underneath the housing 3002 in the closed configuration. This can be advantageous as in some instances as traffic can be so high that the mat alone doesn't work. It does not have the ability to absorb any more urine, which can drip onto the floor. However, embodiments of the disclosure can prevent this dripping by having a solid surface below the mats.
In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 can be made of a disposable material. For example, the drawer 3004 can be made of pressed paper, such as with a coating like a wax coating or other water impermeable material. Thus, the drawer 3004 can be thrown away and replaced, along with any mats within the drawer 3004, so that a user will never have to clean the drawer 3004.
Embodiments of the disclosed urinal protector or shield can include absorbent mats, as discussed above. In some embodiments, these absorbent mats can be formed form a particular composition which can advantageously retain the most liquid or moisture, such as excess urine.
In some embodiments, the absorbent mat can be as a composite. Thus, the absorbent mat can be formed from a number of different materials put together, such as by layering the different materials on top of each other.
In some embodiments, the absorbent mat can include air-laid paper (or airlaid). Airlaid is wood pulp fluffed up with air (e.g., fluff pulp). Airlaid can be bulky, porous, and soft, giving it good liquid absorption properties while still maintaining reasonable strength. Airlaid can be rinsed and reused, thereby making the absorbent mats reusable if so desired. Further, airlaid can be dyed, printed, embossed, or coated allowing the material to have designs on it.
Further, the absorbent mat can include a superabsorbent polymer (SAP). In some embodiments, the SAP can be a superabsorbent polyacrylated starch. This material can be extremely water absorbent, thus allowing for the mat to retain liquid.
In addition, tissue paper can be incorporated into the mat. Tissue paper is lightweight paper, and in some instances can be made from recycled paper pulp. Similar to the above, tissue paper can also be absorbent of liquid.
In some embodiments, the construction of the replacement mat can be airlaid, SAP, airlaid, and tissue paper. An example of such a material is shown in
In some embodiments, the replacement mat can also include a plastic backing, such as at the base of the material. This prevents any dripping of excess liquid in the mat. In some embodiments, the absorbent mat can have a tissue layer on top, followed by an SAP, followed by a plastic backing.
The replacement mats can be in the form of individual sheets, or can be in a roll.
The urinal protector 3300 can be attached to the wall 904 or above the floor in any manner discussed above, such as through the use of magnets discussed with respect to
With reference to
With reference to
In some embodiments, it is desirable for a depth of the recess 3316 to be greater than a thickness of the absorbent mat 3305. For example, it may be desirable for the side walls 3330 to extend above a top surface of the absorbent mat 3305, such as to help avoid spillage of any excess urine or other liquids before those liquids have been absorbed into the mat and/or in a case where the mat cannot absorb any more liquid. In some cases, the absorbent mat may be designed to expand, such as to increase its thickness, as it absorbs liquids. In such a case, it can be desirable for the depth of the recess 3316 to be greater than the expanded thickness of the absorbent mat 3305. In some embodiments, the depth of the recess 3316 is greater than 5 mm or greater than 10 mm. In some embodiments, the depth of the recess 3316 is within a range of 2 to 10 mm, 5 to 15 mm, or 5 to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the depth of the recess 3316 is at least twice the expanded thickness of the absorbent mat 3305. In some embodiments, a ratio of the depth of the recess 3316 to the expanded thickness of the mat 3305 is at least 3 to 1 or 4 to 1.
In some embodiments, the disposable tray 3304 may be removably attached to the floor 3307 of the housing 3302, to further limit movement of the disposable tray 3304 with respect to the housing 3302. For example, the disposable tray 3304 may be attached to the housing 3302 using hook and loop fasteners, a removable adhesive, magnets, and/or the like. As another example, the disposable tray 3304 may be attached to the housing 3302 via a press fit or friction fit between one or more of the side walls 3320 of the housing 3302 and the side walls 3330 of the disposable tray 3304. In some embodiments, however, the disposable tray 3304 is not attached to the housing 3302. For example, the disposable tray 3304 may be retained in the recess 3306 of the housing 3302 by gravity. In some embodiments, the construction of the disposable tray 3304 is thick enough that the disposable tray 3304 will have enough mass that normal air currents experienced in a restroom, such as due to people walking, doors and windows opening and closing, HVAC systems moving air, and/or the like, will not cause the disposable tray 3304 to lift up from the recess or depression 3306 of the housing 3302, even when there is no urine absorbed in the absorbent mat 3305. For example, the disposable tray 3304 may comprise a mass of at least 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16 ounces.
With further reference to
The side walls 3330 of the disposable tray 3304, in addition to being sized to fit within the recess 3306 of the housing 3302, can also define a recess or depression 3316 shaped for the disposable sheet or mat 3305 to be positioned therein.
In some embodiments, the disposable sheet or mat 3305 is sized to be placed within the recess or depression 3316 of the disposable tray 3304 and to also be removable from the recess or depression 3316. In some embodiments, the disposable sheet 3305 is configured to be attached to the recess or depression 3316 of the disposable tray 3304, either permanently or removably. For example, the disposable sheet 3305 may be attached to the disposable tray 3304 using adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, and/or the like. In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the disposable sheet 3305 to be permanently attached to the disposable tray 3304, such as to make maintenance easier. In such a case, maintenance of the unit may simply mean removing the disposable tray assembly (including the attached disposable sheet) and replacing it with a new disposable tray assembly. In some embodiments, however, the disposable sheet 3305 may be removable from the disposable tray 3304, such as to allow a maintenance worker to replace only the disposable sheet 3305 if the disposable tray 3304 is still serviceable. Replacing the whole assembly (the disposable tray and the disposable sheet together) may be desirable, however, because it can lead to a cleaner and more sanitary restroom environment, and eliminate the need for a maintenance worker to have to make a decision as to whether a questionably serviceable disposable tray is still serviceable.
Returning to
The legs 3350 that extend downward from the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 can be beneficial, because they can help to resist downward forces applied to the portion of the housing 3302 that extends away from the wall 904. For example, as more urine is trapped in the absorbent mat, additional downward force will be applied to the portion of the housing 3302 that extends away from the wall 904. Further, users may bump into the housing 3302 and/or items may be dropped onto the housing 3302. For example, if an item were dropped onto the front portion 3354 of the housing 3302, such as a user's cell phone or a similar device, a bending moment would be applied to the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 equal to the impact force of the item on the front portion 3354 multiplied by the distance that the point of impact is from the wall 904. By having one or more downwardly protruding members, such as legs 3350, in contact with the wall 904, the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 can desirably better resist the impact force of the item falling onto the housing 3302 without becoming detached from the wall 904. Although this embodiment, and the embodiment described below with reference to
In some embodiments, a vertical height A from the top of the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 to a bottom of the leg 3350 is at least ¼ of the horizontal distance B from the wall 904 to the front surface of the housing 3302. In some embodiments, a ratio of height A to distance B is within a range of ⅛ to ½, or ⅛ to ⅜. In some embodiments, the ratio of height S to distance B is at least ⅛ or at least ⅜.
In some embodiments, the downward protruding members or legs 3350 are pivotally or otherwise movably coupled to the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302. In the embodiment illustrated in
In some embodiments, it may also be beneficial to have the legs 3350 spring-loaded into the wall 904 to help remove any slack or slop in the junction between the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 and the wall 904. Accordingly, the overall assembly mounted to the wall 904 may be more securely attached to the wall 904 and less susceptible to small movements due to vibrations in the wall 904, air currents acting on the housing 3302, bumps against the housing 3302 by a user, and/or the like. Although the embodiment illustrated in
With continued reference to
With reference to
The housing 3402 is configured to be desirably magnetically attached to a wall, although other ways of attachment may be used, including any attachment configurations described above with respect to other embodiments.
Although in this embodiment three magnets are used, other embodiments may comprise less or more magnets. Further, although this embodiment is described as being configured to magnetically coupled to a single rectangular shaped bar (such as bar 1610 of
Returning to
With reference to
With reference to
Similarly to the housing 3302, the housing 3402 further comprises a plurality of legs or downward protruding members 3450 extending downward from the back portion 3456 of the housing 3402. The legs 3450 can perform a similar function as the legs 3350, as described above. For example, the legs 3450 can help to resist a downward force that is applied to the front portion 3454 of the housing 3402 when the back portion 3456 of the housing is coupled to the wall. With reference to
In some embodiments, it can be desirable for an angle between a wall engaging surface of the legs 3450 and a plane defined by a top edge of the housing 3402 or the floor 3407 (shown as angle C in
From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that embodiments of an inventive floor protector/shield and absorbent mat are disclosed. While several components, techniques and aspects have been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes can be made in the specific designs, constructions and methodology herein above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.
Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations and/or “some embodiments” can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.
Moreover, while methods may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such methods need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and that all methods need not be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other methods that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional methods can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described methods. Further, the methods may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.
Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.
Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.
Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of, within less than or equal to 5% of, within less than or equal to 1% of, within less than or equal to 0.1% of, and within less than or equal to 0.01% of the stated amount.
Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale should not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed inventions. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.
While a number of embodiments and variations thereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methods of using the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that various applications, modifications, materials, and substitutions can be made of equivalents without departing from the unique and inventive disclosure herein or the scope of the claims.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62743190 | Oct 2018 | US |
