Patents by Inventor Eric Hales
Eric Hales has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Publication number: 20240156679Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to jets for spas and, more specifically, to jets that can have more than one jet hydrotherapy spray mode. The jet can include a selectively rotatable jet head, the jet head having a first jet spray mode and a second jet spray mode. The jet head includes a valve, the valve having a first water inlet and a second water inlet, the valve further comprising a first air channel and a second air channel. The valve is rotatable from a first jet spray mode position in which a water intake is in fluid communication with the first water inlet and an air intake is in fluid communication with the first air channel, to a second jet spray mode position in which the water intake is in fluid communication with the second water inlet and the air intake is in fluid communication with the second air channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2022Publication date: May 16, 2024Inventors: Eric Hales, Christopher Kamerath, Todd Anderson, Michael Andersen
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Publication number: 20240159385Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to induction systems for wirelessly transmitting electricity. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and systems for wirelessly transmitting electricity to a light incorporated within, for example, a spa. In some embodiments, the systems include at least one pair of induction coils (e.g., receiving and transmitting coils) incorporated into a selectively removable spa seatback. The at least one pair of induction coils can be used to wirelessly transmit electricity to a light disposed within the selectively removable spa seatback. In some embodiments, a converter is incorporated into the system to adjust at least one characteristic of the light, such as brightness, color, and/or a lighting pattern.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2023Publication date: May 16, 2024Inventors: Todd Anderson, Eric Hales, Michael Andersen
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Publication number: 20240149290Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to jets for spas and, more specifically, to jets that can be adjusted laterally along a width of the proximal end of the jet housing. The angular adjustment of the proximal outlet of the jet may be at least 30°. In some embodiments, the jet assembly includes a housing with a distal inlet at a distal end of the housing and a proximal outlet at a proximal end of the housing, the proximal outlet laterally adjustable along a width of the proximal end of the housing, with the proximal outlet maintaining a constant depth with respect to the proximal end of the housing as the proximal outlet is laterally adjusted along the width of the proximal end of the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2022Publication date: May 9, 2024Inventors: Christopher Kamerath, Eric Hales, Todd Anderson, Michael Andersen
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Publication number: 20240074941Abstract: A reinforcing system for a vessel that can contain water is described. The system includes a shell for containing water, the shell having one or more jets extending therethrough from an inside of the shell to an outside of the shell, and a structural support layer on an underside of the shell. The structural support layer can include: an inner layer of rigidizer applied to the underside of the shell, a central low density core, and an outer layer of rigidizer applied to the central low-density core. The structural support layer can extend from a bottom side of the underside of the shell, across at least one sidewall of the underside of the shell, and form at least one rib along the sidewall of the underside of the shell.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2023Publication date: March 7, 2024Inventors: Robert Santos, Richard Alex Eddington, Evan Smail, Mark McLane, Eric Hales, Michael Adams
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Patent number: 11852332Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to spa waterfall lighting systems. A spa waterfall lighting system can include a waterfall body with a base portion and a top portion, and a wired light located within the waterfall body. A projection, coupling, or barb is in connection with the base portion of the waterfall body. The projection includes an externally threaded portion, with a channel formed in the externally threaded portion. The channel receives a wire, the wire in electrical connection with the wired light located within the waterfall body. A threaded nut secures the projection to a spa shell, and the threaded nut is threadable over the externally threaded portion of the projection when the wire is in the channel.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2022Date of Patent: December 26, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Todd Anderson, Eric Hales
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Publication number: 20230400041Abstract: A system for filtering water in a spa is described, and may include a housing that defines a receptacle for receiving a framework. The housing may include a cover and a back element, the cover and the back element connectable to form the receptacle. The back element may comprise an inlet port and an outlet port. The framework includes a rectangular slot for receiving a rectangular filter media, and one or more openings for receiving one or more mineral cartridges.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2023Publication date: December 14, 2023Inventors: Nathan Tulett, Eric Hales, Creed Larsen
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Patent number: 11813226Abstract: A system and method for reinforcing a spa shell includes a structural support layer on an underside of the spa shell. The structural support layer may include an inner layer of rigidizer, a central foam layer, and an outer layer of rigidizer. The structural support layer may extend from a bottom side of the underside of the spa shell, across at least one sidewall of the underside of the spa shell to a lip of the spa shell, the structural support layer forming at least one rib along the sidewall of the underside of the spa shell.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2021Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Robert Santos, Richard Alex Eddington, Evan Smail, Mark McLane, Eric Hales, Michael Adams
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Patent number: 11808442Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to induction systems for wirelessly transmitting electricity. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and systems for wirelessly transmitting electricity to a light incorporated within, for example, a spa. In some embodiments, the systems include at least one pair of induction coils (e.g., receiving and transmitting coils) incorporated into a selectively removable spa seatback. The at least one pair of induction coils can be used to wirelessly transmit electricity to a light disposed within the selectively removable spa seatback. In some embodiments, a converter is incorporated into the system to adjust at least one characteristic of the light, such as brightness, color, and/or a lighting pattern.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2022Date of Patent: November 7, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Todd Anderson, Eric Hales, Michael Andersen
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Patent number: 11808285Abstract: A system for filtering water in a spa is described, and may include a housing that defines a receptacle for receiving a framework. The housing may include a cover and a back element, the cover and the back element connectable to form the receptacle. The back element may comprise an inlet port and an outlet port. The framework includes a rectangular slot for receiving a rectangular filter media, and one or more openings for receiving one or more mineral cartridges.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2020Date of Patent: November 7, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Nathan Tulett, Eric Hales, Creed Larsen
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Publication number: 20230329425Abstract: A system and method for providing a hammock for a user to rest thereon in the water of the spa. The hammock may include a proximal end with head support portion and one or more attachment means for connection to an anchor on the spa shell, and a distal end with one or more attachment means for connection to an anchor on the spa shell. One or more lateral coupling members may couple the hammock to the lateral sides of the spa, and one or more longitudinal coupling members may couple the hammock to a front side and/or back side of the spa. The longitudinal and lateral coupling members may support the hammock in the water to give the user a unique flotation experience.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2023Publication date: October 19, 2023Inventors: Eric Hales, Mark McLane, Robert Santos, Richard Eddington
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Patent number: 11739548Abstract: A structural support system for a spa can include: a vertical support comprising a first portion and a second portion and a first side and a second side, wherein the first portion is comprised of a plurality of shaped openings being open on the first side and wherein the second portion is comprised of a plurality of shaped openings being open on the second side; a channel bracket, the channel bracket comprising a shaped boss on a first side and a first groove formed in a second side, wherein channel bracket further comprises a second groove formed in a third side, the third side being opposite the second side; and a spa panel retention member, the spa panel retention member comprising a projection to mate in the first groove of the channel bracket.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2022Date of Patent: August 29, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Nathan Tulett, Eric Hales, Creed Larsen, Mark McLane, Todd Andersen, Chris Lundell, Richard Alex Eddington
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Patent number: 11719011Abstract: A spa suction bulkhead or manifold is described. The manifold may be placed behind a removable seat back of the spa or other removable structure. The manifold may have a top portion connected to a main suction line and a main pump line. The top portion may have a cylindrical wall in the center, such that the top portion is divided into a central opening (in fluid communication with the main pump line) and an outer ring portion (in fluid communication with the main suction line). The manifold may also have a cover with a central opening and a plurality of holes formed therein. A spa removable seat back containing jets may fit at its base into the central opening of the cover in fluid connection with the main pump line and allowing the outer ring portion and cover to be exposed for water intake.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2021Date of Patent: August 8, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Nathan Tulett, Richard Alex Eddington, Eric Hales
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Publication number: 20230225937Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for sealing components in a spa shell. A through-component body, such as a spa jet, extends from the inner side of the spa shell to an outer side of the spa shell. A retaining member includes at least one injection port, and retains the through-component body in place on the outer side of the spa shell. A sealant is injected into the at least one injection port to seal a space between the outer side of the spa shell and the through-component body.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2022Publication date: July 20, 2023Inventors: Taylor Beck, Nathan Tulett, Todd Anderson, Eric Hales, Mark McLane
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Publication number: 20230190084Abstract: A fully implantable observation instrument is presented enabling visualization of an internal region of a human or animal body without the need of wires extending from within the body to without. Data and power may be transmitted wirelessly from a communication assembly located near an accessible surface of the body, such as directly under the skin. The communication assembly is connected and delivers necessary power to an also implanted camera assembly that includes an electronic image sensor and a light source contained within an at least partially transparent biocompatible container.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2021Publication date: June 22, 2023Applicant: KARL STORZ Imaging, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Lietz, Eric Hale, Nathan J. Schara, George E. Duckett, III
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Patent number: 11672732Abstract: A system for supporting a spa shell may include a structural support paddle. The paddle may include a base portion and a paddle portion, connected to each other through an articulating joint such as a ball-and-socket. The top side of the paddle portion may include one or more pieces of cushioning material, such as EPF foam. The structural paddle assembly may be placed between the base of the spa and the spa shell. Typically, 5 or more paddle assemblies are placed in a spa for support, such as in the lowest areas of the spa shell and/or concavities, or convexities, of the spa shell. Compared to typical large blocks of foam used to support a spa shell from beneath, the structural support paddles provided increased room below the spa shell for ease of maintenance and installation, and more directly controlled support.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2022Date of Patent: June 13, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Nathan Tulett, Eric Hales, Creed Larsen, Robert Santos
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Publication number: 20230142127Abstract: A system and method for reinforcing a spa shell includes a structural support layer on an underside of the spa shell. The structural support layer may include an inner layer of rigidizer, a central foam layer, and an outer layer of rigidizer. The structural support layer may extend from a bottom side of the underside of the spa shell, across at least one sidewall of the underside of the spa shell to a lip of the spa shell, the structural support layer forming at least one rib along the sidewall of the underside of the spa shell.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2021Publication date: May 11, 2023Inventors: Robert Santos, Richard Alex Eddington, Evan Smail, Mark McLane, Eric Hales, Michael Adams
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Patent number: 11638475Abstract: A system and method for providing a hammock for a user to rest thereon in the water of the spa. The hammock may include a proximal end with head support portion and one or more attachment means for connection to an anchor on the spa shell, and a distal end with one or more attachment means for connection to an anchor on the spa shell. One or more lateral coupling members may couple the hammock to the lateral sides of the spa, and one or more longitudinal coupling members may couple the hammock to a front side and/or back side of the spa. The longitudinal and lateral coupling members may support the hammock in the water to give the user a unique flotation experience.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2021Date of Patent: May 2, 2023Assignee: Bullfrog International, LCInventors: Eric Hales, Mark McLane, Robert Santos, Richard Eddington
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Publication number: 20230073056Abstract: A system and method for providing an exercise bar for a user to use for rowing or other exercises in the water of the spa or adjacent to the spa. The exercise bar may comprise a central hub, and two sides, each with a first inner tube attached to opposing side of the central hub and a an outer tube in telescoping connection with the inner tube, and a handgrip in connection with the first outer tube. A connector may be mounted to the central hub, the connector to enable the exercise bar to be connected to one or more resistance cables. The exercise bar may be adjustable from a first, shorter length for use with exercises in which a user's hands are positioned closer together and a second, longer length for use with exercises in which a user's hands are positioned father apart.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2021Publication date: March 9, 2023Inventors: Eric Hales, Mark McLane, Robert Santos
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Publication number: 20230067533Abstract: A system for controlling a medical imaging scope is disclosed. The system includes a camera head, a display, a processing unit, a memory unit and an input disposed on the medical imaging scope. The processing unit is configured to display a menu that correlates to a plurality of commands. The input is configured to be moveable in three dimensions of space along a set axis, in a plurality of discrete patterns. The processing unit is further configured to associate each of the plurality of discrete patterns with a desired command of the plurality of commands and store each of the plurality of discrete patterns with the desired command of the plurality of commands in the memory unit so as to customize a control of the medical imaging scope.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2021Publication date: March 2, 2023Applicant: KARL STORZ Imaging, Inc.Inventors: Nathan Schara, Eric Hale
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Publication number: 20220412111Abstract: A structural support system for a spa can include: a vertical support comprising a first portion and a second portion and a first side and a second side, wherein the first portion is comprised of a plurality of shaped openings being open on the first side and wherein the second portion is comprised of a plurality of shaped openings being open on the second side; a channel bracket, the channel bracket comprising a shaped boss on a first side and a first groove formed in a second side, wherein channel bracket further comprises a second groove formed in a third side, the third side being opposite the second side; and a spa panel retention member, the spa panel retention member comprising a projection to mate in the first groove of the channel bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2022Publication date: December 29, 2022Inventors: Nathan Tulett, Eric Hales, Creed Larsen, Mark McLane, Todd Andersen, Chris Lundell, Richard Alex Eddington