And Aerating Patents (Class 4/541.4)
  • Patent number: 11674295
    Abstract: An accelerated drain system for a walk-in bathtub with a water outlet in a side wall communicates water to a diverter valve biased to circulate the water in the bathtub and movable selectively to communicate water through a reverse check valve to a drain, the reverse check valve biased closed to prevent water flow and movable selectively to allow water flow to the drain, with a controller configured for moving the diverter valve selectively from the second position to the closed position for subsequent use of the walk-in bathtub. A method of rapid draining of a walk-in bathtub is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: PRECISION POLYMERS, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Oliver
  • Patent number: 10874585
    Abstract: One or more systems are disclosed for producing microbubbles in a standard tub as well as a pedicure tub for performing pedicures on a user. The one or more systems include a microbubble generating device. The microbubble generating device includes its own housing and is portable or can be attachable to one or more structures such as a pedicure chair. The microbubble generating device includes a pump, an air mixing chamber, a solenoid valve, and electrical timer. After passing through the pump and the air mixing chamber of the microbubble generating device, the outgoing water is infused with microbubbles and redirected from an outlet of the microbubble generating device to the tub or pedicure tub. The system further includes an aerator assembly and one or more filters. Microbubbles are included in the water to provide deep cleaning and other health benefits to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Micro Clean Corporation
    Inventor: Henry Vo
  • Patent number: 10537492
    Abstract: An aeration nozzle for spraying water infused with air into an above-ground water cavity defined by a wall, comprising a nozzle body having at least a first internal conical portion including an upstream end and a downstream end, the downstream end being smaller than the upstream end, a water way extending through the nozzle body and the first internal conical portion, an air way extending through the nozzle body, the air way intercepting the water way within the nozzle body downstream of the first internal conical portion, and a check valve disposed along the air way that permits air to be pulled through the air way and into the water way by way of a vacuum force caused by water flowing within the water way through the first internal conical portion and prevents water from entering the air way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: Intex Marketing Ltd.
    Inventors: Hua Hsiang Lin, Yaw Yuan Hsu
  • Patent number: 10279206
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing system of an aircraft including a nozzle device that is provided on an installation member forming a compartment of the aircraft, wherein the nozzle device includes: a nozzle that is passed into an insertion hole formed in a nozzle installation section provided on the installation member, and discharges a fire extinguishing agent supplied from a supply source into the aircraft compartment; and a lid member that closes a gap between the nozzle and the nozzle installation section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takafumi Kono, Takashi Shimaoka, Mitsunori Ehara, Koichiro Fushiya
  • Patent number: 9931649
    Abstract: A rotating high pressure air and water nozzle is disclosed. The nozzle includes a head adapted to rotate, a housing adapted to secure the head therein, and a plurality of passageways disposed through the head. In addition, the nozzle includes a supply port disposed at a first end of each of the passageways, where each supply port has a funnel shape adapted to direct fluid into each passageway to reduce hydraulic losses, and a discharge port disposed at an opposing end of each of the passageways adapted to discharge a jet of fluid. Each discharge port is offset from the respective supply port to cause the head to rotate when fluid flows through the passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: VAC-TRON EQUIPMENT, LLC
    Inventor: Don M. Buckner
  • Patent number: 9849064
    Abstract: A system for jet hydrotherapy configured to produce a fluid jet from an aerated fluid flow at sufficiently high velocities/pressures for massage or therapeutic treatment, which is accomplished by an internal geometry that places, at least, fluid and gas orifices, vessels and nozzles in the optimum location and configuration to create high fluid flow velocities throughout the system. The system also is configured to produce a fluid jet with sufficiently high gas content such that a user experiences less discomfort and/or pain when the fluid jet is applied to sensitive tissue areas. The system also is configured to provide a tactile interface upon which a system user can mechanically engage to supplement the jet hydrotherapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Custom Molded Products, LLC
    Inventors: Victor L. Walker, Zachary T. Vogtner
  • Patent number: 9475011
    Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: Jason International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
  • Patent number: 9198827
    Abstract: The water massage assembly for massaging a user's feet in a tub includes a tub that may contain a fluid. A user is positioned in the fluid. A pump is coupled to the tub. A control is operationally coupled to the pump. The control controls an operational parameter of the pump. A first jet is coupled to the tub. The first jet is operationally coupled to the pump. The pump urges air outwardly from the first jet onto the user's body. A foot box is operationally coupled to the tub. The foot box may receive the user's feet. A second jet is coupled to the foot box. The second jet is operationally coupled to the pump. The pump urges air outwardly from the second jet onto the user's feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Inventor: Mercella Robinson
  • Patent number: 9066634
    Abstract: An air jet includes a body portion defining a hollow main body portion having an interior opening, and a connection portion having an air passageway in communication with the interior opening. The connection portion includes at least one connection port for attachment to a hose carrying pressurized air, and a flange portion defining a recessed mount surface inside a peripheral lip surrounding a recess, with a plurality of open regions defined in the peripheral lip. A nozzle member is fitted into the interior opening and has a nozzle orifice and nozzle tip protruding into the recess, the nozzle opening configured to allow pressurized air to pass from the connection port through the central opening and through the nozzle orifice into the tub hole and the tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Graham J. Campbell, Eric J. Kownacki
  • Patent number: 9066635
    Abstract: An air jet includes a body portion defining a hollow main body portion having an interior opening, and a connection portion having an air passageway in communication with the interior opening. The connection portion includes at least one connection port for attachment to a hose carrying pressurized air, and a flange portion defining a recessed mount surface inside a peripheral lip surrounding a recess, with a plurality of open regions defined in the peripheral lip. At least one protrusion is defined between the peripheral lip and the interior opening to reduce the volume of the recess and the amount of adhesive for installation of the air jet to the wall of the vessel. A nozzle member is fitted into the interior opening and has a nozzle orifice and nozzle tip protruding into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Graham J. Campbell, Eric J. Kownacki
  • Patent number: 8984678
    Abstract: An air injection system for a hydro-massaging bath is described. An air convecting conduit is in communication with a plurality of injecting orifices formed in a peripheral wall of the bath. An air blower injects air under pressure in an entry opening of the air convecting conduit. A water spray injector is located downstream of the entry opening and upstream of the air injecting orifices to inject a spray of a predetermined volume of water in the injected air under pressure. A water supply conduit is connected to the water spray injector and has a flow regulating valve to regulate the volume of water spray injected in the heated air to saturate the air with water. A shut-off valve is provided in the water supply conduit, and a heater is disposed in the air convecting conduit downstream of the water spray injector and upstream of the air injecting orifices wherein heated, humidified air injected in the water contained within the bathtub does not produce a cool sensation on the body of a user person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Geston Ultra International Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Brunelle, Louis Gendreau, Danny Grenier, Guy Baillargeon
  • Patent number: 8890357
    Abstract: A line voltage transformer device for a bathing installation includes a housing structure, with a line voltage electrical power connection including a line voltage wiring cable having an electrical connection at a distal end for connection to a line voltage AC supply outlet adjacent the bathing installation. A voltage transformer circuit is disposed within the housing and connected to the line voltage electrical power connection and is configured to transform AC line voltage electrical power from the line voltage electrical power connection to low voltage AC power at first and second low voltage AC terminals, wherein the low voltage AC power is delivered to the first and second low voltage AC terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Graham J. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20140157512
    Abstract: A jet massage device including a pump unit submersible in liquid; an electronic unit electrically coupled to the pump unit, wherein the electronic unit includes a programmable component for determining one or more of the following of the pump unit: power ramp, voltage level, current level, water flow volume, water flow rate or frequency pulsing of a water stream; and a spa jet assembly, coupled to the pump unit and the electronic unit for delivering the water stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Yanity
  • Patent number: 8739323
    Abstract: An air injection bathtub includes: a body part having a coupling recess formed depressedly on the bottom surface thereof; a plate part adapted to be fit to the coupling recess of the body part and having a connection groove formed depressedly on one side of the underside surface thereof, at least one air passing grooves formed depressedly on the underside surface thereof in a manner as to communicate with the connection groove and to pass the air supplied from the connection groove therethrough, and at least one air injection through-holes formed on the top surface of the plate part to inject the air passing through the air passing grooves into the body part; and a valve part disposed below the connection groove in a manner as to be open and closed through the air pressure supplied from the outside and to supply air to the connection groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Sang-Bae Lee
  • Patent number: 8720867
    Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Jason International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
  • Patent number: 8671472
    Abstract: An air control and aromatherapy module for a jetted tub comprising an air control member having a body portion defining an intake opening, a scent container defining a scent opening, and a housing having a body portion. The scent container is positioned within the body portion of the air control member. The air control member and the scent container are at least partially disposed within the body portion of the housing. The air control member and the housing define a central passageway and the scent opening of the scent container is in fluid communication with the central passageway. A method of providing aromatherapy to a jetted tub is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventors: David M. Groner, Devin J. Callihan, Brian A. Milford
  • Patent number: 8646759
    Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. One method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, to a fluid chamber connected a fitting; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid. Another method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, into an air entrapment chamber; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Jason International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
  • Patent number: 8579266
    Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. A micro bubble generating apparatus may include a housing body having a first fluid passage for a pressurized mixture of a liquid and a dissolved gas in a direction towards a fluid flow. An orifice member can be releasably engaged with the housing body and the orifice member may have a second fluid passage being disposed therein; and the second fluid passage being disposed at an angle with respect to the first fluid passage for generating a plurality of micro bubbles from the mixture; and an opening in the housing body for releasing the plurality of micro bubbles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Jason International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
  • Patent number: 8387175
    Abstract: A soaking basin is provided having a base unit, a disposable liner, and a frame nested therebetween to enable removal of the liner from the base unit, even when filled with liquid. In this manner, a user can remove the liner filled with liquid to pour out the liquid and discard the liner, after a treatment has been completed. Thus, the user need not lift the entire soaking basin to pour out liquid. In addition, the user can use the frame to support the new liner while filling it with liquid, and to transport the filled liner to the base unit to service clients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Footsiebath LLC
    Inventors: Genya Vinokur, Sasha Vinokur, Michael Vinokur
  • Patent number: 8220082
    Abstract: A far-infrared hydrotherapy device has a bath unit, an oxygen supplier, a booster pump, a pressure modulator and an acupressure jet. The bath unit has a tub, an outlet pipe and a heat pump. The tub is for accommodating a liquid. The outlet pipe is connected to the tub to allow the liquid to flowing through. The heat pump is connected to the tub and has a temperature controller. The oxygen supplier is connected to the outlet pipe and provides oxygen to the liquid. The booster pump is connected to the outlet pipe to elevate pressure of the liquid. The pressure modulator is connected to an outlet of the booster pump and has a pressure-equalizing device, a water pressure modulating valve, a pressure-stabilizer and a hose sequentially connected. The acupressure jet is connected to the hose and has an outlet. The far-infrared hydrotherapy device is useful for hydrotherapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Rosace International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo-Kang Chen
  • Patent number: 8205277
    Abstract: In the upper part and the lower part of a micro-nano bubble generation section 34 in a micro-nano bubble bathtub 1, two kinds of micro-nano bubbles different in a size distribution are generated by first and second micro-nano bubble generators (submerged pump-type micro-nano bubble generator 2 and spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) of two kinds, so that bathtub water containing micro-nano bubbles in a wide size distribution can be produced in a large amount. Some of the water containing micro-nano bubbles generated in the lower part is thrown into the first micro-nano bubble generator (spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) in the upper part, so that the spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10 can generate micro-nano bubbles in a smaller size. Therefore, in this bathtub, micro-nano bubbles abundant in size and large in amount can be produced economically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Yamasaki, Kazuyuki Sakata, Kazumi Chuhjoh, Masaki Kataoka
  • Patent number: 8201811
    Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. One method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, to a fluid chamber connected a fitting; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid. Another method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, into an air entrapment chamber; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Jason International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
  • Patent number: 8095998
    Abstract: A spa pool assembly has a pool having an enclosing wall and a base that together defines an interior. The base has a plurality of inflatable sections that are divided by at least one air passage. A hose delivers air from outside the pool to the air passage, with the hose extending partially inside the enclosing wall and having a U-shaped section extending outside the enclosing wall at a vertical level that is higher than the top of the enclosing wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Ideal Time Consultants Limited
    Inventor: Vincent W. S. Lau
  • Patent number: 8069505
    Abstract: A jet face for a jet has a plurality of detents configured to aid gripping the face for rotational operation. The jet face can also include a mounting coupling to accept a removable element. The removable element can be configured as a ring-shaped element, and the coupling a groove sized to accept the element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Dimension One Spas, Inc.
    Inventor: Victor L. Walker
  • Patent number: 7832028
    Abstract: A fine-bubble generator is capable of supplying a fluid mixed with a large quantity of fine bubbles into a fluid without causing an unnecessary liquid flow and turbulent flow in the objective fluid. The fine-bubble generator is constructed by arranging two fine-bubble generating sections in a rectangular parallelepiped casing with spouts of the fine-bubble generating sections facing each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignees: Tashizen Techno Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Yayama, Hisatsune Nashiki, Ichiro Teshiba, Tatsuhiko Takase, Hironori Tanaka, Takaaki Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 7802325
    Abstract: Hartford loop manifold assembly installed in operable communication with an air control assembly in a whirlpool bathing system. The manifold assembly includes a tubular manifold housing having a coupling member in intussusceptible relation therewith. The manifold housing has an elongate body and an elongate wall coextensive with an upper body proximate extent and a lower body distal extent thereof. The elongate wall includes an internal manifold wall delineating a reception lumen that accommodates insertion of the coupling member therein. The internal manifold wall is disposed by a predetermined distance from an external manifold wall in parallel therewith to define a flow area therebetween. The external manifold wall has at least one outlet depending generally normally therefrom. Each outlet has a lumen defined therethrough for unoccluded fluid communication between each manifold flow area and at least one conduit detachably coupled to each outlet extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: AS IP Holdco, LLC
    Inventors: James Reinhart, Kipley Roydon Marks
  • Patent number: 7766038
    Abstract: A manifold device for a multi-jet pool fixture includes a central chamber having a jet interface surface. An inlet in fluid communication with the central chamber allows fluid to flow into the central chamber and out a plurality of openings disposed in the jet interface surface. An outlet in fluid communication with the central chamber allows water to flow out of the central chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Venturi Jet Sets, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Geddes, Scott A. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7682562
    Abstract: A system for decontaminating a fluid-injection system for a tub from organic growth comprises an ozone source and a pressure source, producing an ozone-enriched air output. Piping is connected to a fluid-injection system. A controller device actuates the ozone source and the pressure source such that the ozone-enriched air output is conveyed to conduits of the fluid-injection system. A switch manually actuated to stop an actuation of the ozone source, whereby organic growth in the conduits of the fluid-injection system is exposed to the ozone-enriched air output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: C.G. Air Systèmes Inc.
    Inventors: Dominique Ciechanowski, Miguel Castellote
  • Publication number: 20090044328
    Abstract: An in-line bubble reducer for inducing turbulent flow in a liquid fluid stream in which gaseous bubbles are entrained. The bubble reducer includes a chamber with an inlet and an outlet, an axial flow diverter for directing the fluid stream outwardly and towards a subsequent annular flow diverter. The annular flow diverter extends from an inner wall of the chamber and induces turbulent flow in the fluid stream to reduce the size of the gaseous bubbles entrained in the fluid stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Russ Wooten
  • Patent number: 7454802
    Abstract: An air massage bathtub is disclosed. The air massage bathtub includes a bath well defined by side walls and a bottom portion. The bottom portion includes a recessed area with a drain located within to the recessed area. The bathtub further includes a channel located at least partially below said bath well and in communication with the recessed area, and a plurality of apertures each of which extends through the bath well and into the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Acryline USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Tennant, Steve Deland
  • Patent number: 7434277
    Abstract: A fluid flow system for a hydrotherapy tub includes a body adapted for mounting to the hydrotherapy tub. The body includes a water chamber adapted for fluid communication with a water source, an air chamber adapted for fluid communication with an air source, and a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with the water chamber and the air chamber. The plurality of outlets is configured to transmit water from the water chamber and air from the air chamber to an interior of the hydrotherapy tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Brennan, W. John Gardenier
  • Publication number: 20080189847
    Abstract: In the upper part and the lower part of a micro-nano bubble generation section 34 in a micro-nano bubble bathtub 1, two kinds of micro-nano bubbles different in a size distribution are generated by first and second micro-nano bubble generators (submerged pump-type micro-nano bubble generator 2 and spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) of two kinds, so that bathtub water containing micro-nano bubbles in a wide size distribution can be produced in a large amount. Some of the water containing micro-nano bubbles generated in the lower part is thrown into the first micro-nano bubble generator (spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) in the upper part, so that the spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10 can generate micro-nano bubbles in a smaller size. Therefore, in this bathtub, micro-nano bubbles abundant in size and large in amount can be produced economically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Yamasaki, Kazuyuki Sakata, Kazumi Chuhjoh, Masaki Kataoka
  • Publication number: 20080172783
    Abstract: A bathtub having a water pump and heater for heating and circulating water from the bathtub to at least one mixing chamber, an air blower and heater for delivering heated ambient air to the mixing chamber, and a plurality of orifices for delivering an air-water mixture from the mixing chamber to the bathtub. A wall of the mixing space may be associated with a wall of the bathtub, and the orifices may be in the wall providing direct fluid communication between the mixing space and the tub. The invention provides improved thermal stability and eliminates evaporative cooling effects in air-injected tubs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: Scott A. Smith, James Riewe, Michael Faulstich
  • Patent number: 7334274
    Abstract: A swirling bathing tub includes a bathing tub, a water ejecting device mounted on an inner side face of the bathing tub and having at least one water outlet defined in the casing and a water inlet for connection with a water source, a water pump mounted inside the casing and having a water inflow pipe in communication with the water inlet and a water outflow pipe corresponding to the at least one water outlet, a baffle rotatably mounted inside the casing and having at least one through hole corresponding to the at least one water outlet so that water flowing through the water outflow pipe of the pump is able to selectively flow to the bathing tub to create a soothing massaging effect to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung Wang
  • Patent number: 7334743
    Abstract: A fog generating system (20) includes a fluid feed conduit (22) and extension tube assemblies (26) spaced along the conduit (22). The assemblies (26) include nozzle fittings (40) coupled to extension tubes (32). Misting nozzles (44) are releasably engaged with the nozzle fittings (40), and are recessed within the nozzle fittings (40). Installation entails arranging the system (20) on an interior side of an installation form (90), and securing the nozzle fittings (40) using fitting plugs (50) so that an open ends (60) of the nozzle fittings (40) abut the form (90). The fitting plugs (50) further form a fluid resistant seal for maintaining the assemblies (26) under fluid pressure during installation. The system (20) is embedded in a concrete material (124) for the structure (120). Following removal of the installation form (90) and the fitting plugs (50), the misting nozzles (44) are installed within the nozzle fittings (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Fogco Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary F. Wintering, Jeffrey D. Beeman, Alan M. Whitaker, Steve B. Kizziar
  • Publication number: 20080034493
    Abstract: A method of foot care for a bather comprises: providing a water container partially filled water therein; adding a first material to the water, the first material including a super absorbent polymer capable of absorbing a substantial amount of water; forming a gelatinous mixture with the first material absorbing the water; placing the feet of the bather in the gelatinous mixture for bathing; adding a second material and water to the gelatinous mixture, the second material including a dissolving agent for transforming the gelatinous mixture to a liquid having a low viscosity and a sanitizing or disinfectant agent for sanitizing without causing toxic effects to the bather; placing for bathing the feet of the bather in the dissolved liquid; and, removing the dissolved liquid from the water container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Soo Kyoung Park
  • Publication number: 20070209105
    Abstract: A mixing device for a tub for supplying to a tub a mixed liquid which has mixed gas and water includes: a 1st mixing tub which includes: a chamber with a port which connects to an inlet pipe of the mixed liquid at the top of the chamber, and a cylinder disposed within the chamber and having an upper end opening which connects to an outlet pipe of the mixed liquid and a lower end opening placed in the vicinity of a bottom of the chamber; and a 2nd mixing tub connecting to a flow inlet for supplying the mixed liquid to the inside of the tub and including a supply pipe with multiple holes or bores for the flowing out of the mixed liquid to the mixed liquid which has accumulated inside 2nd mixing tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: September 13, 2007
    Inventor: Masatoshi MASUDA
  • Patent number: 7089608
    Abstract: A spa comprised of a fluid enclosure having a floor and an upstanding sidewall includes a therapy station within the enclosure. The therapy station includes an upright seat to accommodate a single person and includes a plurality of fluid jets in the footwell and sidewall of the enclosure at various targeted hydrotherapy locations. Pressurized water is provided to the hydrotherapy locations by a pair of fluid pumps. Each jet at the hydrotherapy locations is provided with a variable flow controller adapted to control the water flow out of the jet. Each hydrotherapy location is also provided with a variable flow controller adapted to control the flow of air into the jet. Each hydrotherapy location is also provided with a directional flow controller. Each jet discharges water flow at one horsepower or more to provide intense hydrotherapy selectably directed to multiple portions of the body simultaneously or individually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Charles Gilbert Erb
  • Patent number: 7055186
    Abstract: A combination spa and electronic entertainment system is disclosed. The spa includes a tub with an upper edge from which horizontal surfaces extend. The surfaces have apertures through which water-tight housings may be raised and lowered. The housings hold components of the entertainment system and have tops larger in size than the apertures to form sealing areas engageable with the horizontal surfaces surrounding the apertures for sealing the apertures and the water-tight housings. A moving mechanism is provided to raise and lower the housings. The mechanism has a platform supported on a carriage movable vertically along a support column. A motor raises and lowers the platforms through a cable and pulley system. A motion limiting device having a pivoting arm which engages sensors communicating with the motor through a control system shuts the motor off in response to predetermined upper and lower limits of cable tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Master Spas, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Lauter, Terry M. Valmassoi, Samuel K. Badiac, Elmer C. Herbert
  • Patent number: 6968581
    Abstract: A air selection control valve and assembly capable of controlling the flow of air into a water conduit to accelerate, decelerate, or pulse the rate of water flowing in combination with a hot tub spa assembly is described. The control of the air inlet is controlled to control the pulsing of water. An innovative multi-way control valve system can be controlled by as few as a single solenoid for pulsing some or all of the jets of a standard hot tub spa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Steven E. Christensen
  • Patent number: 6792627
    Abstract: An aerated bath 26 is disclosed comprising a plurality of receptacles 10 on the outside of the bath, each receptacle being in communication with the interior of the bath through one or a plurality of openings 16, and fluid supply means 20 connected to some or all of the receptacles characterised in that the receptacles are shallow and of a relatively smooth internal configuration. Preferably, the internal configuration of the receptacles is a part spherical dish. The smooth internal surface reduces locations where moisture can be trapped. Preferably also, the receptacle is made from a material, especially a plastics material, which is hydrophobic which therefore resists wetting by bath water. The plastics material is preferably easily machinable, and tough and durable, and may be selected from known plastics materials of this type such as nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Clearwater Collection Limited
    Inventors: Mohan Singh Sangha, Darren Kirk Allison
  • Patent number: 6775863
    Abstract: A switching assembly that can be used on a spa, pool, bathtub, or aquarium shell without the need to form a hole in the shell. The switching assembly includes an actuator that is mounted on an interior surface of the shell and is exposed at least in part to water held by the shell. The actuator may be mounted above or below the water line. The switching assembly also includes a switch that is responsive to the actuator and is mounted on the opposite, exterior surface of the shell. The switch responds to stimulus from the actuator without the need to form a hole in the shell between the switch and the actuator. The actuator may include a magnet that produces a magnetic field, and the switch may include a reed switch, which changes state in response to the absence or presence of the magnetic field generated by the actuator magnet. The magnet may be supported by a button attached to the shell, and the button protects the magnet from exposure to water and chemicals held in the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Dimension One Spas
    Inventor: Brent Mark Hutchings
  • Patent number: 6760932
    Abstract: Hydrotherapy-tub coplanar-flow device includes slotted nozzle on a body for discharge of fluids from the nozzle in a substantially coplanar flow. The body is adapted for mounting on an inner surface of a hydrotherapy tub and attachable to first and second fluid supply conduits. Further, the body has a first inlet for flow of water from the first fluid supply conduit and a second inlet for flow of air from the second fluid supply conduit. The slotted nozzle discharges these fluids in the substantially coplanar flow. The second inlet of the body is located between the first inlet and the slotted nozzle. The body includes an air dam located between the inlets, such as an interior face portion having a steep decline toward the second inlet of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath, Inc.
    Inventor: John V. Maiuccoro
  • Patent number: 6745413
    Abstract: A hydrotherapy jet system includes a fixture body, an air line connector coupled to the fixture body, and a water line connector coupled to the air line connector. The air line connector is provided with structure adapted to couple about the outside of relatively small fixture bodies and about the inside of relatively large fixture bodies. As such, the air line connector is universal for multiple sizes of fixture bodies. The water line connector is coupled to the rear of the air line connector. The air and water line connectors may be rotated relative to the element to which each is coupled to facilitate assembly and plumbing. Other plumbing components and fittings may be coupled in a manner which provides a fluidtight seal and permits the components and fitting to thereafter be rotated relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Precision Design Concepts, LLC
    Inventor: John Pinciaro
  • Publication number: 20040083544
    Abstract: An air jet of an air massage system used with a bathtub having a wall defining opposite visible and hidden surfaces and defining a number of openings through the bathtub wall. The air jet comprises a hollow body having opposed inlet and outlet ends and a unidirectional flow device disposed therebetween. The outlet end is mounted directly to the hidden surface of the bathtub wall opposite one of the openings. The inlet end is connected to a source of pressurized air. The unidirectional flow device allows pressurized air therethrough only in a direction from the inlet to the outlet end and then through the opening in the bathtub wall, thereby preventing water in the bathtub from conveying through the air jet when the source of pressurized air is not in use. The outlet end comprises a flange provided on a downstream side thereof with recesses for receiving an adhesive for securing the flange to the hidden surface of the bathtub wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: C.G. Air Systemes Inc.
    Inventor: Miguel Castellote
  • Patent number: 6643859
    Abstract: A fluid flow system for a spa is provided. The fluid flow system includes an ejector which discharges fluid in a first direction toward an interior of the spa through an outlet of the ejector and a diverter which is moveable to a position within said first direction between the outlet and the interior of the spa. The diverter is adapted to deflect at least a portion of the fluid to a second direction different from the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Brennan, W. John Gardenier, Wesley Cox
  • Patent number: 6581217
    Abstract: An air-blowing assembly for providing cooling air to the user of a spa, jetted bathtub or other heated water-containing member. The assembly has an air blower with an air blower inlet which received air from outside of the area of the spa. The blower conducts cooling air into a manifold. The manifold directs cooling air out of a series of vents on the upper lip of the spa. The air vents are adjustable in direction so that the user of the spa can direct cooling air to alleviate discomfort from an otherwise hot and moist atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Sam M. Marcos
  • Patent number: 6406446
    Abstract: The present invention provides a high velocity current producing apparatus in a bathtub capable of producing high velocity current having an appropriate pressure in a bathtub with a simple construction, and capable of enhancing operability, functional property and safety without narrowing the space in the bathroom. The high velocity current producing apparatus in a bathtub produces the high velocity current in the bathtub by connecting a pump to a circulation passage for circulating hot water in a bathtub to components provided outside the bathtub and the hot water sucked from the bathtub to the circulation passage is pressurized and supplied to the bathtub, wherein the high velocity current is used for massaging a body of a bather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Takagi Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazumi Takagi, Yoshitaka Morinaka, Kenichi Ito, Masaru Mochizuki
  • Patent number: 6401273
    Abstract: A bath tub spa is provided that has a motor housing with a motor for driving a pump. The pump has an input opening and an output opening sealed about the pump such fluid is drawn through said input opening and expelled through the output opening. The spa also has a nozzle removably sealed to said output opening, and a connector for connecting the motor housing to the bath tub such that the input opening is maintained at least partially below a level of fluid and at least a portion of the nozzle is maintained below the level of the fluid. The motor housing is rotatable about a first axis, the output opening is rotatable about a second axis, and the nozzle is rotatable about a third axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Kam Fai Fung, Anthony Kit Lun Leung, Richard Neil Tobin, Barry Victor Prehodka
  • Patent number: 6363548
    Abstract: A temperature-controller equipped foot-bathing device mainly comprises a basin, a heating device, a temperature-control device, a water pump, and an air-feeding device, wherein the heating device is disposed in a lower part of the basin for heating the loaded liquid. A user may control the liquid temperature externally to associate with air feeding and adjustment for the medicine blended liquid to seep through foot sole skin. Moreover, a dual-security mechanism of this invention is offered for protecting the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Tian-Shiang Kuo