BATHING SUPPORT

Abstract

Provided in some embodiments is a portable bathing support for use in a standing position. The portable bathing support includes a frame having a support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a human while in a standing position and at least three feet coupled to the frame. The feet are able to provide a friction between the frame and a supporting surface. At least one foot includes a suction cup that can at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use. Further, wherein the portable bathing support can fit within a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing, and can be use by a human in a standing position without being fixedly coupled to the shower and/or bathtub.

Description

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for providing support while bathing, and more particularly to a support for use in a shower/bathtub.

2. Description of Related Art

Although bathing (e.g., showering or taking a bath) is a simple daily routine for many persons, other persons may find it to be physically difficult. More specifically, those with physical disabilities may be prone to slip and fall accidents that can result in serious injury. Generally, the increased risk is a direct result of shower or bath surfaces, such as a porcelain or tile surface, that can become very slippery when wet. Often persons may rely on assistance from other individuals, such as a family member or healthcare professional, while bathing. This can lead to anxiety with regard to showering or bathing, eliminate privacy generally associated with showering or bathing, require additional cost associated with a person hired to help, and generally reduce the independence and flexibility of a person's lifestyle.

Several solutions have been proposed, including fixed bathing supports. Fixed supports typically include a bar or rail that is rigidly fixed to a shower or bath wall. Unfortunately, such fixed support may require expensive and complex installation procedures, and may result in a permanent fixture that is not easily removed. This may be undesirable for instance when a disabled person can not afford the associated cost, or when a person experiencing a temporary disability does not desire to install a permanent fixture. Further, fixed support may lack flexibility to be rearranged for use in different circumstances. For instance, a fixed support may provide support at an entrance to the shower, but not provide support under the stream of water, or vice versa. The lack of flexibility may cause people to limit their actions while bathing. For example, a person may not be able to wash their hair, turn around to rinse-off, and the like.

Accordingly, there is a desire for a system and method to provide support to persons while bathing that that can be easily maneuvered in a bathing environment and that can provide a safe, secure and convenient bathing experience.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments include a portable bathing support. In one embodiment, provided is a portable bathing support for use in a standing position. The portable bathing support includes a frame having a support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a human while in a standing position and at least three feet coupled to the frame. The feet are able to provide a friction between the frame and a supporting surface. At least one foot includes a suction cup that can at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use. Further, wherein the portable bathing support can fit within a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing, and can be use by a human in a standing position without being fixedly coupled to the shower and/or bathtub.

In another embodiment, provided is a method of bathing while standing. The method includes disposing a portable bathing standing support at least partially into a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing. The portable bathing support includes a frame having a support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a human while in a standing position and a three-sided barrier. The three-sided barrier includes a front portion that can be disposed between a user and a water supply during use, and a rear portion opposite the front portion and having an opening accessible by a human to allow the human to walk to a position where three sides can be grasped by the human while in a standing position. The portable bathing support also includes at least three feet coupled to the frame. The feet can provide a friction between the frame and a supporting surface. At least one foot includes a suction cup that can at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use. The portable bathing support is can fit within a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing, and can be used by a human in a standing position without being fixedly coupled to the shower and/or bathtub during use.

In yet another embodiment, provided is a portable bathing support. The portable bathing support includes a frame having at least two substantially vertical front support members, at least one substantially horizontal front support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a user while in a standing position. At least one substantially horizontal front support member extends between the two substantially vertical front support members. The frame also includes at least two substantially vertical rear support members and at least two side support members of sufficient height to be grasped by a user while in a standing position. Each of the at least two side support members extends between one of the two substantially vertical front support members and one of the two substantially vertical rear support members. The frame forms a three-sided barrier includes a front portion that can be disposed between a user and a water supply during use, and a rear portion opposite the front portion and having an opening accessible by a human to allow the human to walk to a position where three sides can be grasped by the human while in a standing position. The at least two substantially vertical front support members and the at least two substantially vertical rear support members are adjustable in length such that a height of the bathing support is adjustable. The at least one substantially horizontal front support member is adjustable in length such that a width of the bathing support is adjustable. Further, one or more feet coupled to a lower portion of the frame, wherein the one or more feet can at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a porcelain shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art with the benefit of the following detailed description and upon reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a support in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique.

FIG. 2A illustrates a water supply support in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique.

FIG. 2B illustrates an integral water supply in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique.

FIGS. 3A-3E illustrate alternate embodiments of the support in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique.

FIG. 4 illustrates positioning of the support during use, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the support in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. The drawings may not be to scale. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but to the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

As discussed in more detail below, certain embodiments of the present technique provide for a support for use in a bathing environment. The bathing environment may include a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing. In some embodiments, the bathing support is portable, and can be folded when not in use and during transport. In certain embodiments, the support can be used in a substantially fixed position in a shower or bathtub, when entering or leaving the shower or bathtub, and/or as support while moving over a slick floor or similar walking environment. The support, in certain embodiments includes a rail (e.g., a handle or grab bar) that can be grasped by a person in a standing position. The support, in some embodiments, includes an adjustable height and/or width. The support in some embodiments can be adjusted such that its width is approximately the same as a width of the inside of the shower/bathtub that it is being used in. The support in some embodiments includes feet or similar devices, such as pads or suction cups that prevent undesirable movement or slipping of the support. The support, in some embodiments, includes convenience features, such as padded grips, a supply container, a shower head support or system, a foot rest, and the like. Each of the embodiments described herein is believed to provide a shower or bath support that can be easily maneuvered in a bathing environment and that can provide a safe, secure and convenient bathing experience.

Turning now to FIG. 1, depicted is a bathing support 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. Bathing support 100 is depicted within a bathing location 102 (e.g., a shower and/or bathtub) having a water source 104 and a drain 107. Shower/bathtub 102 also includes walls 106 and a base 108 (e.g., a bottom surface). In the depicted embodiment, water source 104 includes a shower head assembly. In other embodiments, water source 104 may include multiple shower heads, a shower head assembly attached to a flexible hose, a bath nozzle, or the like. Generally, water source 104 is located on a side wall of shower/bathtub 102, but other arrangements are envisioned. For instance, water source 104 may be located overhead.

Walls 106 of shower/bathtub 102 may include the sides of a shower stall, the sides of a bathtub, or the like. Walls 106 are typically formed from porcelain, tile, natural stone, fiberglass, plastics, or the like. Shower/bathtub 102 may include a generally rectangular shape that includes walls 106 extending at least partially upward from bottom surface 108 to help retain and channel water to drain 107. Shower/bathtub 102 may also include a hinged door, sliding door panels, a shower curtain, or the like that facilitates entrance to shower/bathtub 102 while helping to prevent water from escaping shower/bathtub 102 during use. In the case of a bathtub or a shower/bathtub combination, shower/bathtub 102 may include at least one low height wall or wall portion. For example, the low wall portion may extend about fourteen inches upward from base 108 of shower/bathtub 102. Typically a person using such a shower/bathtub may have to step over the low height wall to enter the shower/bathtub.

Bathing support 100 (herein after “support 100”) includes a stand that is of sufficient height to be used by a person in a standing position while bathing. For instance, a portion of support 100 may be of sufficient height that a person may grasp a portion of support 100 with one or both hands, and/or lean against one or more portions of support 100 to provide assistance while maneuvering within and around the bathing environment. The bathing environment may include a bathtub, shower, bathroom or similar area. The height of support 100 may further enable a person to shower in a standing position without having to take a seated position. Accordingly, a person using support 100 may rest against or otherwise use support 100 while moving about shower/bathtub 102. For example during showering, a person may turn, bend over, squat, move forward, back and side-to-side while grasping support 100. Support 100 includes in one embodiment, a three sided barrier than includes a front side facing a water supply and forming a barrier between the user and the water supply such that a user may enter from a rear side of support 100, opposite from the side where the water supply is located. Such a configuration may enable a user to support themselves while bending toward the water supply to turn the water supply on/off or the like. Further, the support itself may be moved into different positions. For example support 100 could be turned around with a front side facing sideways or away from the water source such that the user can hold onto support 100 while entering or exiting shower/bathtub 102, leaning backwards to rinse their hair, or the like. The addition of feet, such as suction cups or traction pads, may provide additional support that increases stability of support 100 and helps to prevent support 100 from moving, tipping, sliding, or the like during use.

In one embodiment, support 100 is not substantially permanently affixed to shower/bathtub 102 at any location proximate to shower/bathtub 102. In other words, support 100 is not fixedly attached to shower/bathtub 102. As used herein “fixedly attached” may refer to a coupling of two components (e.g., a support and a shower/tub) that requires a substantial amount of effort or use of tools to remove the attached components from one another. For example, a screw, adhesive, plaster, or similar attachment mechanism may be associated with fixedly attaching components together. Support 100 may be portable or at least semi-portable. Portable may refer to the ability to remove support 100 with little or no modification to support 100 and without the use of substantial effort or use of tools. For example, in a portable configuration a person may need to adjust feet or similar temporary attachment device before using support outside of the bathing environment (e.g., in a bathroom, hallway, or other portions of a home or similar facility). Such a configuration may enable support 100 to be moved within shower/bathtub 102, moved in-and-out of shower/bathtub 102, and/or used for support outside of and during entry to shower/bathtub 102. The portable nature of support 100 may enable support 100 to be used for walking assistance, or the like. Further, the portable nature of support 100 may eliminate the need to make any substantially permanent modifications to shower/bathtub 102. For example, installation and use of support 100 may not require the use of a fastener (e.g., a screw, nail, adhesive, plaster or the like) and may not require substantial modifications to a surface of shower/bathtub 102 (e.g., removing tile, drilling of a hole, or the like). Further, the portable nature of support 100 may allow a person to move support 102 such that they can access substantially all portions of shower/bathtub 102. For example, support 100 can be moved within shower/bathtub 102 so that the person can access a shower head, and moved to another location for assistance entering and exiting shower/bathtub 102.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes a frame 110. Frame 110 includes a plurality of members that are coupled to one another to from a generally rigid structure that is capable of supporting a person while using a shower/bathtub. Frame 110 includes upper front cross member 112, lower front cross member 114, upper side members 116, lower side members 118, front vertical members 120, rear vertical members 122, and feet 124. Support 100 also includes a foot support 126, an accessory container 128, pads/grips 130, and a water supply support 131.

Frame 110 includes a substantially rectangular shape having members (e.g., members 112-122) oriented substantially orthogonal to one another. For example, upper front cross-member 112 and lower front cross-member 114 are oriented generally perpendicular to upper side members 116, lower side members 118, and vertical members 120. With respect to upper front cross-member 112 the two upper side members 116 extend from substantially at or near the ends of front cross-member 112 in a substantially horizontal orientation toward a rear of the support 100. Similarly, with respect to lower cross-member 114 the two lower side members 118 extend from substantially at or near the ends of front lower cross-member 114 in a substantially horizontal orientation toward a rear of support 100. A front of support 100 may be defined as a portion of support 100 that faces a water supply extending from a wall of shower/bathtub 102, and a rear of support 100 may be defined as a portion of support 100 opposite the front and/or that is facing substantially away from a water supply of the shower/bathtub. For instance, front members 112 and 114 may be located between a water source and the user when support 100 is in use. Where a water supply is not used for reference, a front of support 100 may be defined as the location that a person typically faces while using support 100 and a rear of support 100 may be defined as a location where a person enters support 100 for use. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear of support 100 includes a clear path (e.g., no cross members) such that a person can step into and stand in a central portion of support 100. Further, the front of support 100 may be defined as the side opposite an opening to enter support 100. In other words, a user can enter at the rear of support 100 and the front is a side of support 100 opposite the rear.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front portions and side portions of support 100 provide a three-sided barrier that includes support members that can be grasped by a person while in a standing position. A three-sided barrier is formed from three substantially straight members and/or planar sections arranged orthogonal to one another in a U-shape during use. In other embodiments, a three-sided barrier may be formed from more or less than three members or sections. For example, a single c-shaped member or section may provide a three-sided barrier that extends substantially around a user during use. In one embodiment, frame 110 includes a C-shaped or arced frame that spans from one side of the user to another. In one embodiment, the angle of the c-shaped member comprises an arc anywhere from about ninety degrees to about two-hundred seventy degrees. In other words from about one-forth of a circular area to about three-fourths of a circular area. In such an embodiment, a person can enter via an opening in the arc or c-shaped frame 110, and can stand in a central area of the arced or c-shaped circular frame 110 and grasp portions of frame 110, such as an arced top or front cross-member 112. Other embodiments may include additional configurations of members and sections coupled to one another to provide a three-sided banier.

Four vertical members 120 and 122 are located in a generally rectangular orientation and are oriented in a substantially vertical direction. More specifically, two of vertical members 120 at the front of support 100 (e.g., front vertical members 120) extend from the intersection of upper front member 112 and front ends of upper side members 116 through the intersection of lower front member 114 and front ends of lower side members 118, and extend downward to feet 124 that are capable of contacting a support surface, such as a bottom surface of a shower/bathtub. Similarly, two of vertical members 122 at the rear of support 100 (e.g., rear vertical members 122) extend from the rear ends of upper side members 116 to rear ends of lower side members 118, and extend downward to feet 124 that are capable of contacting a support surface, such as a bottom surface of a shower/bathtub. Additional support members 132 are located in the respective corners formed between upper front member 112 and upper side members 116.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 is foldable. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, side members 116 and 118 are pivotably coupled to front vertical members 120 such that they can be rotated about a longitudinal axis of vertical members 120. For example, the side sections including side members 116 and 118 and rear vertical member 122 can be rotated inward toward the front members 112 and 114 (e.g., the front) of support 100. In one embodiment, both sides can be folded toward the front of support 100 such that support 100 is folded into a substantially flat configuration. Folding may be helpful for storing or transporting support 100. In the illustrated embodiment, support members 132 include hinged members that are collapsed in a folded position, and extended during use of support 100. In one embodiment, support members 132 may be locked or other wise biased or locked into one or both of the folded or extended positions. Locking support members 132 during use may help to prevent support 100 from folding inadvertently.

Other embodiments may include additional members for providing additional support. For example, an additional bottom front/side member may extend between ends of members at or near feet 124. In one embodiment, a member may not extend between location proximate feet 124 in the rear of support 100 to provide a clear path to for person to move into a center of support 100 during use.

In one embodiment, support 100 may be adjustable in one or both of height and width. Adjustment of a width may enable support 100 to vary in size to fit securely within showers/bathtubs of varying dimensions. For example, the width may be expanded or contracted such that support rest on a bottom surface of the shower/bathtub, and/or has a portion that contacts or is substantially near the walls of shower/bathtub such that support 100 can not move a substantial distance in a lateral direction (e.g., side-to-side), and may not be as subject to tipping over. For instance, the width may be adjusted to a dimension typically associated with a width of a bathtub, such as about 30 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, a width 134 of support 100 may be adjusted by adjusting a length of one or both of front members 112 and 114. Front cross members 112 and 114 each include a telescoping configuration that enables the length of each member to be adjusted by sliding one portion of each member into another portion of the member. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, upper front member 112 includes first portions 112a having an outer diameter that is capable of fitting within an inner diameter of second portion 112b. In the illustrated embodiment, one or both of first portions 112a may be slid relative to second portion 112b to adjust an overall width 134 of support 100. Further, front support 112 may include a locking mechanism 136 to secure support 100 at a given width. In the illustrated embodiment, locking mechanism 136 includes holes and a biased pin that extends into the holes and can be depressed during adjustment. Locking mechanism 136 may include similar devices, such as tubes that can be rotated relative to one another to lock or unlock, threaded tubes that can be rotated relative to one another to change the width, a clamp/lever that can be tightened or loosened, a combination thereof, or the like. Lower front member 114 includes similar features including first portions 114a, second portions 114b, and locking mechanism 138.

Adjustment of a height may enable support 100 to vary in size for use by persons of differing heights, for use while bathing in different positions, and the like. For example, the height may be extended or reduced such that supports rest on a bottom surface of the shower/bathtub and extends upward from the bottom surface such that it may be grasped by user while standing. For instance, the height of members of support 100 (e.g., upper members 112 and 116) may be adjusted such that a member at an upper portion of support 100, such as upper front and side members 112, and 116, are positioned at a dimension typically associated with a height for grasping by a user while showering (e.g., a height of about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60 or more inches). In the illustrated embodiment, a height 140 of support 100 may be adjusted by adjusting a length of one, more than one, or all of front and rear vertical members 120 and 122. Vertical members 120 and 122 each include a telescoping configuration that enables the length of each member to be adjusted by sliding one portion of each member into another portion of the member. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, each vertical member 120 and 122 including portions 120a and 122a having an outer diameter that is capable of fitting within an inner diameter of portions 120b and 122b, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, first portions 120a and 122a may be slid relative to second portions 120b and 122b to adjust an overall height 140 of support 100. Further, each vertical support 120 and 122 may include a locking mechanism 142 and 144 to secure support 100 at a given height. In the illustrated embodiment, locking mechanisms 142 and 144 include holes and a biased pin that extends into the holes. The pin can be depressed to allow adjustment. Locking mechanisms 142 and 144 may include similar devices, such as tubes that can be rotated relative to one another to lock or unlock, threaded tubes that can be rotated relative to one another to change the height, a clamp/lever that can be tightened or loosened, a combination thereof, or the like. Each of vertical supports 120 and 122 may be adjusted independent of one another. Such an adjustment may enable adjusting support 100 for use on unlevel surfaces, such as when a portion of support 100 is located within shower/bathtub 102 and a portion is located outside of shower/bathtub 102.

In one embodiment, feet 124 may include a portion of support 100 that interfaces with supporting surfaces, such as floors or the interior of a shower/bathtub. Feet 124 may include devices that are configured to increase friction or otherwise aid in securing support 100 in place and/or prevent support 100 from inadvertently slipping or moving. In some embodiments, feet 124 may provide a temporary coupling of support 100 to a surface. In one embodiment, feet 124 may include suction cups, pads, blocks, and the like. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, feet 124 at the lower ends of vertical members 124 include suction cups 146. In one embodiment, suction cups 146 may include suctions cups that stick to a surface by pressing them downward to evacuate air from their interior and create suction when the suction cup attempts to return to its unbiased/undeformed state. In one embodiment, a suction cup includes a conical, hemispherical or similar depression such that when the suction cup is pressed down against a surface, it is deformed to evacuate air from within the depression. The evacuation of air and the deformity of the suction cup create a bias or restoring force as it attempts to return to its undeformed state. A seal between the suction cup and the surface prevents air from returning to the depression and holds the suction cup in place against the surface. In one embodiment, suction cups may include a lever or similar device that can be manually operated to urge the evacuation of air and create a suction that holds the suction cup in place. In one embodiment, suction cups may include a pneumatic pump or similar device that can be operated to evacuate air and automatically create a suction that holds the suction cup in place. Suction cups may provide a temporary coupling that does not require the use of significant effort or additional tools.

In one embodiment, feet 124 may include pads, or similar members that provide increased friction that can assists in temporarily coupling or securing support 100 to a surface. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, feet 124 at the lower ends of vertical members 122 include pads 148. In one embodiment, pads may include rubber pads, felt pads, adhesive pads, or the like that are configured to grip a complementary surface. These may be referred to as non-slip pads. Feet 124 may also include materials and or surface designs (e.g. treads) that may help to repel or channel water away from contact points between feet 124 and a surface to reduce the likelihood of support 100 slipping or otherwise inadvertently moving during use. In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes a combination of suction cups 146 and pads 148. Other embodiments may include all feet 124 employing the same type of devices (e.g., all suction cups or all pads) or any combination of devices.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes foot support 126. Foot support 126 may provide a stable location for a person to rest their foot while showering or bathing (e.g., while washing their leg and foot). A person having difficulty lifting their foot and keeping it raised for bathing may pick their foot up and rest it on foot rest 126 such that they can wash their foot with reduced effort. In the illustrated embodiment, foot rest 126 includes a platform 126a that is located less than the height 140 from bottom surface 108 of shower/bathtub during use of support 100. In one embodiment platform 126a may be located at or between about twelve and eighteen inches from the bottom of support 100 (e.g., from feet 124 and/or a surface support 100 rests on). In the illustrated embodiment, platform 126a is supported by a unshaped member 126b that extends downward from lower front member 114. In one embodiment, foot support 126 may include a platform integral with unshaped member 126b, or may include only unshaped member 126b such that a person can simply place their foot onto the lower cross-member of the unshaped member 126b. In other embodiments, foot support 126 may be located at another portion of support 100, such as extending from one or both lower side members 118. Foot support may rotate about u-shaped member 126b or otherwise pivot or fold to allow folding and or collapsing of support 100.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes accessory container 128. Accessory container may be used to hold bathing supplies, such as soap, shampoo, a sponge, a washcloth, a brush, or the like. In the illustrated embodiment accessory container 128 includes a basket 128a having four sides and a bottom. Further, accessory container 128 is removable from support 100. In the illustrated embodiment, accessory container 128 includes clips 128b that are removably coupled to vertical support members 120 and 122. In the illustrated embodiment, clips 128b include c-shape protrusions that can be snapped around the external diameter of vertical members 120 and 122. Other embodiments may include other devices, such as hooks that can be used to couple accessory container 128 to other portions of support 110. In the illustrated embodiment, accessory container 128 is located on only a right side of support 110. Other embodiments may include any number of accessory containers 128 located on one or more sides of support 100. For example, an accessory container may be located on any combination of a right, left, front, or rear of support 100. Further, accessory container 128 may include additional features, such as hooks, fasteners or similar features for hanging bathing cloths, brushes, back scrubbers, and the like.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes pad/grip 130. More specifically, pads/grips 130 are located along a length of upper side members 116. Pad/grips 130 may provide for a person to easily grasp support 100 by reducing the likelihood of their hand slipping. In one embodiment pad/grips may include foam or rubber sleeves fit over members 116, formed integral with members 116, adhesively attached to members 116, or otherwise secured to members 116. Other embodiments may include any number of pads/grips located on other portions of support 100. For example, a pad/grip may be provided on foot support 126.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes a water supply support 131. Water supply support 131 may be used to hold a water supply device, such as a shower head or a portable shower head that is attached to a hose and can be moved about a shower/bathtub. In such an embodiment, a person may place the shower head into water supply support 131 such that the water supply terminates proximate a portion of support 100 and/or themselves such that they may easily move or otherwise control the water being showered onto them. For example, the shower head can be removed or redirected to direct water to a certain location. In the illustrated embodiment, water supply support 131 includes a c-shaped protrusion extending from upper front support member 112. Water supply support 131 includes a cavity in which water supply device (e.g., a portable shower head) or similar device can be set. For example, a user could place a hose or shower head into supply support 131 temporarily while moving about. The opening in the c-shaped protrusion may enable a hose to be passed into the center of water supply support 131 such that it may accommodate a hose of a portable shower head. Water supply support 131 is substantially at the height of upper front member 112. During use, the water supply device can be secured in water supply support 131 to direct water in a general direction or may be removed for use in other locations to direct water in differing directions. One or more water supply supports 131 may be employed on various locations of support 100.

FIG. 2A illustrates one embodiment of water supply support 131 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. In the illustrated embodiment, water supply support 131 provides for locating a water supply device (e.g., a portable shower head) or similar device at a significant height. For example, water supply support 131 may provide for securing a water supply device at a level similar to that associated with a traditional shower head. In one embodiment, the height of water supply support 131 may be capable of supporting a water supply device at a convenient height for showering (e.g., about five feet, six feet, seven feet, or more from a from the bottom surface of shower/bath 102). In the illustrated embodiment, support 100 includes a vertical water supply support member 150 that extends in an upward direction from a member (e.g., upper front member 112) of support 100, providing a water supply device 152 (e.g., portable shower head connected to water supply 104 via a hose 154) at a sufficient height 156 for showering while standing (e.g., at about five feet, six feet, seven feet, or more from a bottom surface 108 of shower/bath 102). Other embodiments may include a water supply support 131 that can be adjusted in height. For example, vertical water supply support member 150 may be capable of telescoping between different lengths such that height 156 of water supply support 131 and water supply device 152 can be modified. Other embodiments may include placement of a water supply support 131 on other locations of support 100, such as on upper side members 166 of support 100.

FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of support 100 that includes an integral water supply 160 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. In the illustrated embodiment, water supply 104 is coupled to an inlet 162 of support 100 via hose 154 and water is internally routed via a conduit 163 to an outlet 164. Such an embodiment may enable simplified direction of water toward a user. Further, the added connection of a hose and the weight of the water being routed internally may help to increase stability of support 100 during use. In one embodiment, inlet 152 may include a fluid coupler, such as a threaded pipe fitting, a quick disconnect, or the like, capable of mating with a complementary fitting on the end of hose 154. Water passing through inlet 152 may be routed via conduit 163. In one embodiment, conduit 163 may include a hose coupled to support 100, an additional hollow tubing coupled to a portion of support 100, or may include an integral conduit, such as the interior of one of the support members used to form support 100 (e.g., vertical members 120, 122, front support members 112, 114, water supply support member 150, or the like). Water may exit via outlet 164. In one embodiment, outlet 164 may include a shower head or the like. As depicted, outlet 164 may be located at a sufficient height for showering while standing. In other embodiments, outlet may be located at a lower position and/or adjustment between a multiple heights, as described above with regard to FIG. 2A. For example, conduit 163 may be telescoping to enable variable height adjustment of outlet 164.

FIG. 3A illustrates an alternate embodiment of a lower portion 170 of support 100. In the illustrated embodiment, a bottom horizontal member 172 extends between locations at or near the lower ends of front vertical supports 120 and rear vertical supports 122. Such an embodiment may provide increased strength with regard to support 100 and may help to secure vertical supports relative to one another. Further, the addition of bottom horizontal member 172 may provide one or more additional locations for feet 124. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, four feet 124 are provided including two suction cups 146 and two pads 148 disposed between the suction cups along the length of bottom horizontal member 172. Other embodiments may include any number and combination of feet 124 disposed along such a bottom horizontal member.

FIG. 3B illustrates an alternate embodiment of a lower portion 170 of support 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. In the illustrated embodiment, lower portion 170 includes an adjustable width. More specifically the width is adjustable between at least three overall widths. In the illustrated embodiment, lower portion 170 includes two members that can be adjusted between multiple positions to vary the overall width 134 of support 100. For example, support 100 includes two u-shaped lower horizontal members 180 that are each rotatably coupled to lower end of vertical members 122 and 120. Each lower horizontal member 180 may be rotatable about an axis 181 that extends between the locations at or near the lower ends of a pair of vertical member (e.g., vertical members 120 and 122). In a first, extended position, each u-shaped lower horizontal member 180 may be rotated outward, as depicted, such that u-shaped lower horizontal member 180 is substantially parallel to bottom surface 108 and extends outward from support 100. In a second, unextended/retracted position, each u-shaped lower horizontal member 180 may be rotated inward, as depicted by dashed lines and arrows 182, such that u-shaped lower horizontal member 180 is substantially parallel to and flush with vertical members 122 and 120 and does not substantially extend outward from support 100. In a first embodiment, both lower horizontal members 180 may be extended to provide an overall maximum width represented by 134a. In a second embodiment, only one of the two lower horizontal members 180 may be extended to provide an overall intermediate width represented by 134b. In a third embodiment, both lower horizontal members 180 may be unextended to provide an overall minimal width represented by 134c. Other embodiments may include partial extension of one or both of lower horizontal members 180 to provide a variety of overall widths. Such an embodiment may provide for adjustment of width 134 to approximately match or be closer to a width of a shower/bathtub (e.g., between sides 106) and thereby add stability that can help to reduce side-to-side movement of support 100 and reduce the likelihood of support 100 tipping over. As depicted, one embodiment may include feet coupled to lower horizontal member 180. Feet 124 may provide an additional traction between the support 100 and a surface that support 100 rests upon.

FIG. 3C illustrates an alternate embodiment of a lower portion 170 of support 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. In the illustrated embodiment, lower portion 170 includes an adjustable width. More specifically, lower portion 170 includes engaging members 184 that can be translated laterally to increase or decrease the effective width of lower portion 170 and potentially, the overall width 134 (see FIG. 1) of support 100. In the illustrated embodiment, vertical members include a biasing member 186 located in a recess 188 at or near a lower end of vertical members. In the illustrated embodiment, vertical members 122 are depicted, but similar techniques may be applied at other members (e.g., vertical members 120 or bottom horizontal member 172) or other portions of support 100. During use, engaging members 184 may translate (e.g., slide) in a lateral direction into and out of recess 188 to effectively increase or decrease an effective width 134d. Biasing members 186 may provide a force that urges engaging members 184 in an outward lateral direction, in the direction of arrows 190. During use, expansion of engagement members 184 in an outward lateral direction may increase the overall effective width 134d to approximately match or be closer to a width of a shower/bathtub (e.g., between sides 106) and thereby reduce side-to-side movement of support 100 and reduce the likelihood of support 100 tipping over. In one embodiment, biasing members 186 may include springs (e.g., linear springs), or a similar device that provides a restoring force to urge the engaging members 184 in an outward lateral direction and potentially into engagement with a surrounding surface. Engagement members may be formed from or include an engagement surface configured to contact a wall that is formed in a similar manner to feet 124 described above (e.g., to increase traction).

FIGS. 3D-3E illustrate an alternate embodiment of a lower portion 170 of support 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. In the illustrated embodiment, lower portion 170 includes a dynamically positionable suction cup 188 (e.g., dynamic suction cup 188) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. Dynamic suction cup 188 may be movable between two or more position, such as an engaged position (e.g., a locked position) and a disengaged position (e.g., an unlocked position). In one embodiment movement of dynamic suction cup 188 between positions is the result of rotating a lever, knob, or similar mechanical device configured to urge dynamic suction cup 188 in a given direction. In the illustrated embodiment, dynamic suction cup 188 is depicted within a member, such as bottom horizontal members 172, u-shaped lower horizontal members 180, front vertical members 120, rear vertical members 122, or another portion of support 100. Dynamic suction cup 188 includes a suction cup 188a, a longitudinal member 188b, a biasing member 188c, and a lever 188d. In an unlocked position, lever 188d is rotated counterclockwise about its axis 188e (e.g., a pin) such that a narrow portion of a lobe 188f extending therefrom faces longitudinal member 188c thereby enabling a biasing member 188c to urge longitudinal member 188b upward into contact with lobe 188f and disengaging/unlocking suction cup 188b from a surface, as depicted in FIG. 3D During use, movement of lever 188d about axis 188e (e.g., a pin) in a clockwise direction rotates thicker portion of lobe 188f into contact with a top of longitudinal member 188b, thereby urging longitudinal member 188b and suction cup 188a downward into contact/engagement with a surface, as depicted in FIG. 3E. Biasing member 188c may include a linear spring, or the like configured to provide a biasing force such that suction cup 188a is urged to disengage the surface when the mechanism is unlocked by user. As depicted, some embodiments may include additional feet 124, such as pads 148 as depicted. The addition of feet 124 may help to reduce the likelihood of support 100 rocking, sliding, or tipping even when dynamic suction cup 188a is disengaged/unlocked.

FIG. 4 illustrates positioning of support 100 during use, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present technique. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of support 100 is positioned internal to shower/bathtub 102 and a portion of support 100 is positioned outside of shower/bathtub 102. More specifically, support 100 straddles a lower wall portion 106a of shower/bathtub 106 such that a front portion 190 of support 100, including front vertical members 120, is positioned in shower/bathtub 106, and a rear portion 192 of support 100, including rear vertical members 122, is positioned outside of shower/bathtub 106 (e.g., on a bathroom floor 196). During use a person may use support 100 to assists them during entry and exit of shower/bathtub 102 and/or during bathing in shower/bathtub 102. This may further enable support 100 to be used in smaller (e.g., narrower) showers/bathtubs where the overall dimensions of support 100 may be too large to fit in the shower/bathtub. As depicted, support 100 may include additional pivot points 194, such as those at the union of cross and vertical members to enable support 100 to automatically adjust (e.g., rotate) to accommodate varying heights of flooring, such as the difference in height between bathroom floor 196 and bottom surface 108 of shower/bathtub 106.

Other embodiments of support 100 may include alternate arrangements of members to provide structural integrity to support a person during use. FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of support 100 that includes a plurality of members coupled to one another to form support 100. In the illustrated embodiment, a single upper cross-member 200 is supported by two vertical cross-members 202 that are coupled to lower members 204 that define a generally rectangular shaped frame, and is further supported by diagonal members 206 that extend in at an approximately forty-five degree angle between a mid portion of vertical member 202 and lower members 204. Support 100 includes a pad/grip 130 on upper cross-member 200 and four feet 124 located on lower members 204. Upper cross-member 200 is positioned at a height suitable for use and support of a person while standing in a shower/bathtub. For example, cross-member 200 may be positioned at a height of about thirty-six inches, or a similar dimension typically associated with a height for grasping by a user while showering (e.g., about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60 or more inches). Although not depicted, other features described herein may be employed in certain embodiments. For example, support 100 may include adjustable members, a foot rest, an accessory container, or the like.

Support 100 may be formed from a variety of materials suitable for use in a bathing environments. For example, frame 110 and other portions of support 100 may be formed from metals, plastics, composites, or the like. In one embodiment, support 100 may be formed from an anti-corrosive material and/or include an anti-corrosive material. Anti-corrosive materials may be resistant to corrosion in a damp or wet environment, such as the bathing environment. In one embodiment, portions or substantially all of support 100 may be formed from plastic materials, such as PVC. In one embodiment, a combination of materials may be used. For example support 100 may include a metal or composite frame and plastic or PVC conduit used to route an integral water source.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. For example, any of the embodied features described herein with respect to one figure may be combined with features described herein with respect to any one of the other figures. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the general manner of carrying out the invention. It is to be understood that the forms of the invention shown and described herein are to be taken as examples of embodiments. Elements and materials may be substituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts and processes may be reversed or omitted, and certain features of the invention may be utilized independently, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the invention. Changes may be made in the elements described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims. The words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including, but not limited to. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a member” may include a combination of two or more members.

Claims

1. A portable bathing support for use in a standing position, comprising:

a frame comprising a support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a human while in a standing position; and

at least three feet coupled to the frame, wherein the feet are configured to provide a friction between the frame and a supporting surface, and wherein at least one foot comprises a suction cup configured to at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use,

wherein the portable bathing support is configured to fit within a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing, and wherein the portable bathing support is configured for use by a human in a standing position without being fixedly coupled to the shower and/or bathtub.

2. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a three-sided barrier comprising a front portion configured to be disposed between a user and a water supply during use, and a rear portion opposite the front portion and comprising an opening accessible by a human to allow the human to walk to a position where three sides can be grasped by the human while in a standing position.

3. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein one or more sides of the frame is foldable.

4. The portable bathing support of claim 3, wherein the frame is configured to be substantially flat when folded.

5. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the portable bathing support is configured to be substantially immovable due to a friction force between a portion of the portable bathing support and the shower and/or bathtub supporting surface.

6. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the at least three feet comprise two or more suction cups disposed on a lower portion of the portable bathing support.

7. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the at least three feet comprise at least one pad.

8. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the at least tlree feet comprise at least one suction cup and at least one pad disposed substantially adjacent to one another on a substantially horizontal member of a lower portion of the portable bathing support.

9. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least three feet comprise a surface configured to repel and/or channel water away from a contact surface.

10. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises an adjustable height.

11. The portable bathing support of claim 10, wherein the frame comprises a substantially vertical member having an adjustable length.

12. The portable bathing support of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises an adjustable width.

13. The portable bathing support of claim 12, wherein the frame comprises a substantially horizontal member having an adjustable length.

14. The portable bathing support of claim 1, comprising a water supply support configured to support a water supply device.

15. The portable bathing support of claim 1, comprising an integral water conduit.

16. The portable bathing support of claim 15, wherein the integral water conduit comprises an inlet couplable to a water supply, a hollow conduit integral with the frame, and an outlet couplable to a water supply device and located proximate an upper portion of the frame.

17. The portable bathing support of claim 1, comprising one or more extendable members proximate a lower portion of the support that are configured to translate between at least a first and second position to vary the effective width of a lower portion of the support.

18. The portable bathing support of claim 17, wherein the one or more extendable members comprise a member rotatable between at least an extended position and a retracted position.

19. The portable bathing support of claim 17, wherein the one or more extendable members comprises a member laterally translatable between an extended position and a retracted position, and comprising a biasing member configured to bias the member toward the extended position.

20. A method of bathing while standing, comprising:

disposing a portable bathing standing support at least partially into a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing, wherein the portable bathing support comprises: a frame, comprising: a support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a human while in a standing position; and a three-sided barrier, wherein the three-sided barrier comprises a fiont portion configured to be disposed between a user and a water supply during use, and a rear portion opposite the front portion and comprising an opening accessible by a human to allow the human to walk to a position where three sides can be grasped by the human while in a standing position; and at least three feet coupled to the frame, wherein the feet are configured to provide a friction between the frame and a supporting surface, and wherein at least one foot comprises a suction cup configured to at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use, wherein the portable bathing support is configured to fit within a shower and/or bathtub used for bathing, and wherein the portable bathing support is configured for use by a human in a standing position without being fixedly coupled to the shower and/or bathtub during use.

21. A portable bathing support, comprising:

a frame comprising: at least two substantially vertical front support members; at least one substantially horizontal front support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a user while in a standing position, wherein at least one substantially horizontal front support member extends between the two substantially vertical front support members; at least two substantially vertical rear support members; and at least two side support members of sufficient height to be grasped by a user while in a standing position, wherein each of the at least two side support members extends between one of the two substantially vertical front support members and one of the two substantially vertical rear support members, wherein the frame forms a three-sided barrier comprising a front portion configured to be disposed between a user and a water supply during use, and a rear portion opposite the front portion and comprising an opening accessible by a human to allow the human to walk to a position where three sides can be grasped by the human while in a standing position; wherein the at least two substantially vertical front support members and the at least two substantially vertical rear support members are adjustable in length such that a height of the bathing support is adjustable; wherein the at least one substantially horizontal front support member is adjustable in length such that a width of the bathing support is adjustable; and

one or more feet coupled to a lower portion of the frame, wherein the one or more feet are configured to at least partially couple the portable bathing support to a porcelain shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use.

22. The portable bathing support of claim 21, wherein the frame further comprises at least one substantially horizontal support member at a lower portion of the portable bathing support, wherein the at least one substantially horizontal support member comprises at least one suction cup and at least one pad disposed substantially adjacent to one another and configured to at least partially couple to a porcelain shower and/or bathtub supporting surface during use.

23. The portable bathing support of claim 21, further comprising:

a container removable attached to the frame, wherein the container is configured to hold one or more bathing supplies;

a water supply support coupled to the frame, wherein the water supply support is configured to retain a water supply device; and

a foot support coupled to the frame, wherein the foot support comprises a platform configured to be positioned above the surface supporting the portable bathing support during use.