In Contact With Tub Bottom Patents (Class 4/583)
  • Patent number: 11730670
    Abstract: A liner for use with a basin to contain a liquid features a plurality of bodies of flexible plastic. Portions of an inner face of a first body of flexible plastic are joined to corresponding portions of an inner face of a second body of flexible plastic, through which a plurality of openings are formed, to provide a multi-layer body of flexible plastic. Other portions of the inner face of the first body of flexible plastic are not joined to corresponding other portions of the inner face of the second body of flexible plastic, defining an air conduit between the first body of flexible plastic and the second body of flexible plastic for guiding pressurized air substantially from an air discharge apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Inventors: Jeff Ta, Lan Van Ta
  • Patent number: 10499667
    Abstract: A vapor-absorbing insert for non-ventilated delivery containers comprising a first and second layers of highly absorbent cotton fiber, and a third absorbent layer (which faces downward toward the food) having an applied layer of adhesive protected by a removable release layer which, when removed, exposes the adhesive for contact with the underside of the lid of a non-ventilated delivery container. The insert is pressed into a continuous laminated composite strip. The several layers may be bonded by pressure-induced interaction between the fibers of adjoining layers, and/or by adhesive fusing at their peripheral edges, and/or by spaced perforations which intertwine fibers between adjoining layers, after which the bonded layers are cut to shape. In use, upon peeling off the peelable anti-stick sheet, the element self-adheres to the underside of the food container lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: Practical Applications, LLC
    Inventors: Glenn W. Milligan, Roxanne Jackson, Richard A. Frederick
  • Patent number: 10016783
    Abstract: A method of making a friction pad comprising applying a soft bonding layer and a traction layer to a support sheet. The pad is easily exchangeable, non-fouling to its surroundings, and soft to bare skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Inventor: Joseph Mosher Hawkins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9717115
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flat-shaped article with an electrical function for placement in a functional tone. Provision is made that, even after having been placed, the flat-shaped article can again be removed without being destroyed from the functional zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: GENTHERM GMBH
    Inventors: William Wei Li, Sherry (Li) Chen, Stefan Huber, Han-georg Rauh
  • Patent number: 9393481
    Abstract: Flexible binding wedges are provided with flexion slots cut in a widthwise direction to allow flexibility when mounted to a sportsboard such as a snowboard. “T” inserts through the wedges provide a mount for boot bindings. Flex adjustment bushings may be inserted into the slots to adjust the flexibility of the wedge when mounted on a sportsboard, e.g., a snowboard. The flexible wedges may be mounted under a top surface of the sportsboard, or even on top of the finished upper surface of the sportsboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventor: William H. Bollman
  • Patent number: 8763174
    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: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Footsiebath, LLC
    Inventors: Genya Vinokur, Sasha Vinkur, Michael Vinokur
  • Publication number: 20140165283
    Abstract: The invention features a liner having pockets which receive packets in the form of therapeutic treatment providing aroma therapy, bubble baths and/or fragrances. The liner provides a slip resistant and anti-bacterial top surface. The liner features an adhesive bottom surface which secures the liner to the surface of a shower or bathtub. The liner also features a cushion which aligns to the neck and back of the user. Handles on the liner aid in positioning and removing the liner on and off the surface of a shower or bathtub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory Beard, II
  • Publication number: 20130263967
    Abstract: The present invention relates to collection and storage drinking water, e.g. as a step in disaster preparedness. The invention relates to emergency preparedness kits comprising a food-grade bladder composed of thin plastic film for covering the inside surface of a bathtub to provide a barrier between the surface of the bathtub and drinking water contained therein, and for enclosing the contained water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: Tony Woodruff
  • 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: 8262160
    Abstract: A padded seat is described that includes a top surface, a bottom surface, a compartment disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface, a closeable opening to fill the compartment with a fluid, a plurality of through holes which pass through the top surface, compartment, and bottom surface, and a non-slip element disposed on the top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventors: Mehri Mafi, Maryam Mafi
  • Patent number: 8181285
    Abstract: A seat assembly includes primary and secondary sections. Each section has a primary face and a secondary face. Each face has a peripheral side wall, interior and exterior edges, and front and rear edges. A hinge couples the side walls of the sections at the interior edges. In this manner movement between deployed and collapsed orientations is allowed. Four primary legs are pivotally secured to the primary face between its peripheral side wall. Two secondary legs are pivotally secured to the secondary face adjacent to its exterior edge between its peripheral side wall. The legs are pivotable between the collapsed and deployed orientations perpendicular to the primary and exterior faces. Holes are provided in the peripheral side walls adjacent to the exterior edges. A handle has legs reciprocally received within the holes. The handle has a grip. The grip couples the legs for carrying purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Rhonda G. Jackson
  • Patent number: 8021733
    Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable bath mat for use in bath facilities, such as bathtubs and shower stalls. The disposable bath mat comprises a top layer and a bottom layer coupled to a bottom surface of the top layer. The top layer is composed of a biodegradable material and the bottom layer is composed of a slip-resistant material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventors: Renee Carter-Patterson, Pamela Gergal
  • Patent number: 7895685
    Abstract: A soaking basin is provided having a disposable liner and a base unit. The liner defines an air chamber and a plurality of apertures defined in a floor of the liner. The base unit includes an air blower system connected to the liner such that air is forced out the apertures of the liner into the liquid. The liner can further include a water-soluble coating of soaking additives adhered thereto. In this manner, the liner and the base unit cooperatively provide a therapeutic soak, even in a salon setting, without sacrificing hygienic practices. Moreover, the basin is cost-effective to manufacture and use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Footsie Bath LLC
    Inventors: Genya Vinokur, Sasha Vinokur, Michael Vinokur
  • Patent number: 7636960
    Abstract: A bath mat comprises a base member made from a first elastomeric material and at least one contrast member differing from the base member but manufactured to be integral with the base member through an over-molding or co-molding process. The contrast member differs in color and/or hardness or feel from the base member providing improved aesthetics and functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Shurtech Brands, LLC
    Inventors: James K Hawley, Elizabeth A. Flores, Roberta I. Gareau, Christine Hayes, Patrice J. Sarb
  • Patent number: 7520003
    Abstract: A safety mat for use in bathtubs or shower stalls provides comfortable and safe conditions for users during a bath or shower. The safety mat can be optionally used with a seating aid placed directly on a floor of a bathtub or shower stall, and restrains substantial movement of the seating aid in order to prevent a user sitting on the seating aid from falling therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: AMG Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Seth Meyers, Cristian Boar, Wei Xiao
  • Patent number: 7454807
    Abstract: A massaging fluid filled bed. The massaging fluid filled bed comprises a bed having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a compartment disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface. A plurality of grippers is disposed on the bottom surface. A plurality of massaging elements is disposed beneath the top surface. The bed is further divided into a headrest section, a backrest section, a body section, and a footrest section. An insulation layer is affixed to the bottom surface. A filler fluidly is provided to fill the bed with a fluid. The plurality of massaging elements are attached to a base layer provided within the bed in a way that allows some movements for the massaging elements. The top surface of the body and the backrest section comprises a plurality of inverted U-shaped members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Inventors: Perdum Mardan, Mehri Mafi
  • Publication number: 20080282463
    Abstract: This new-type practical product is a kind of bath mat. Currently at the market the bath mats sold are of PVC or rubber series products which will lose the anti-slip function when the liquids as dews and creams penetrate into the surface of the bath mat during bathing, and thus people in bathing is apt to slip and be harmed. The advantages of this new-type practical product: New design, unique structure, fresh color and pattern, fair and endurable, and convenient and safe. Related technical people have undertaken thorough study to develop this fabric composite new-type mat to fill up the blank at international and domestic markets to get the best effect of true anti-slip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Zengyao Tong
  • Publication number: 20080222792
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing foot care. Such apparatus comprises a base member having a predetermined shape and having an upper surface and a bottom surface. There is an abrasive means permanently bonded to an upper surface of the base member and there are a plurality of suction cups disposed on the bottom surface of the apparatus for releasably securing the apparatus to a solid surface such as base of a bathtub or shower stall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Portia Koutsoumbos
  • Publication number: 20080216228
    Abstract: A traction mat for the bathtub has a peelable backing, a continuous layer of adhesive directly above the peelable backing that forms a tight seal on the bathtub floor, a flexible base layer directly above the adhesive, a soft compressible top layer of foam material comprising a decorative pattern of raised surfaces that are surrounded by connected channels formed from a top surface of the base layer, the top layer having a thickness of between approximately one thirty-second of an inch and approximately two inches, and ideally one quarter of an inch. Standing on the top layer causes increased surface friction between the foot and the top layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Nicholas Bonanno
  • Publication number: 20080040850
    Abstract: A cushioned overlay includes a foam core containing a dampening liquid atop an liquid impermeable substrate and covered with an outer liquid impermeable, durable, slip-resistant layer. The dampening liquid may be water, oil, glycerine or other compatible liquid. The foam may be a memory foam. The outer layer may be a rubber-based material vinyl, such as a marine or faux leather vinyl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Randy Moots
  • Patent number: 7152256
    Abstract: A padded tub liner for protecting a user from an impact caused by slipping in a bathtub. The padded tub liner includes a bottom portion designed for resting upon a bottom surface of the bathtub; a first side portion operationally coupled to the bottom portion, and designed for abutting a side surface of the bathtub; and a second side portion operationally coupled to the bottom portion opposite the first side portion, and designed for abutting a second side surface of the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Holly Roberts
  • Patent number: 6871363
    Abstract: A shock absorbing safety floor comprising tile minimizes injury by absorbing the energy created when a portion of a diver's body impacts the bottom or sides of the pool. By absorbing a portion of the energy at impact, the floor decreases the amount of energy absorbed by the diver's body thereby subsequently minimizing injury to the diver. The shock absorbing safety floor compresses to absorb the energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Jeff Richard Sabados
  • Patent number: 6787215
    Abstract: The present invention relates to specific methods of producing cleated rubber-backed floor mats (such as dust control or rubber mats) through the utilization of the combination of a perforated coated woven fabric article and a cushioned platen liner between the article and the metal platen of an in-line dust control mat manufacturing machine. Such a procedure permits a more efficient manner of producing cleated anti-creep dust control mats than previously followed. In particular, the fabric article is in the form of a conveyor belt and is preferably constructed from Teflon®-coated woven fiberglass which will not adhere to the tacky rubber component of the target mat and can withstand the extremely high vulcanization temperatures and pressures required during the production of a dust control mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: William O. Burke, III, Robert C. Kerr, Aage Lang
  • Patent number: 6709728
    Abstract: The present invention relates to specific methods of producing cleated rubber-backed floor mats (such as dust control or rubber mats) through the utilization of the combination of a perforated coated woven fabric article and a cushioned platen liner between the article and the metal platen of an in-line dust control mat manufacturing machine. Such a procedure permits a more efficient manner of producing cleated anti-creep dust control mats than previously followed. The produced mat as well as the woven fabric article/cushioned platen liner combination are also encompassed within this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Robert C. Kerr, Amy B. Streeton
  • Patent number: 6691339
    Abstract: A molded tub and surround which is formed of a multiple of portions. Wall portions meet at a joint which is secured by wall clamps which bias a partially arcuate portion of a second wall portion against the visible surface of a first wall portion. The first wall portion sandwiched between the wall clamps and the partially arcuate portion. A multiple of tub clamps extend from a lower edge of the wall portions to fit upon a flange extending from a tub portion. The wall clamps and tub clamps assure an easily assembled and watertight molded tub and surround.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Aqua Glass Corporation
    Inventor: Brent Thomas
  • Patent number: 6681416
    Abstract: A method for producing a soft bathroom mat comprising the acts of obtaining a base layer (10), obtaining an upper layer mold (20), applying a surface membrane (24) to the mold (20), pouring gel (26) into fillisters (22) in the mold (20) and applying a bottom membrane (28) to the filled mold (20) to enclose the gel with the surface membrane (24) to form the upper layer and laminating the upper layer to the base layer and trimming any excess material from the completed soft bathroom mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Golden Pond Plastic Manufacturing Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsai-Chin Yang
  • Patent number: 6656562
    Abstract: A slip resistant floor mat composed of one or more layers of material the bottom layer of which incorporates a plurality of recessions with inset suction cups in the bottom surface of the bottom layer that comes into contact with the intended surface, such as a floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Millennium Mat Co., LLC
    Inventors: Ian S. Malpass, Jeffrey L. Cofer
  • Patent number: 6601246
    Abstract: There is provided a soft bubbling bath mat having a mat body of molded flexible material that houses a soft flexible foam pad adapted to fit between an outer edge of the mat body an interior air passageway. The air passageway is adapted at one end to form an inlet port. The inlet port is adapted to receive air to be fed from a compressed air source to the passageway and forced through the passageway and out through a plurality of small apertures in a top surface of the passageway creating a therapeutic bubbling massage effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony Kit Lun Leung, Chung Shun Tse, Kam Fai Fung
  • Patent number: 6564397
    Abstract: A bath mat comprises a base member made from a first elastomeric material and at least one contrast member differing from the base member but manufactured to be integral with the base member through an over-molding or co-molding process. The contrast member differs in color and/or hardness or feel from the base member providing improved aesthetics and functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Manco, Inc.
    Inventors: James K. Hawley, Elizabeth A. Flores, Roberta I. Gareau, Christine Hayes, Patrice J. Sarb
  • Patent number: 6530096
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and related method of use is disclosed that may be used in a shower to remove dead skin from a foot of a user. The apparatus generally is constructed of a lower surface that is releasably engaged with a floor and an upper portion with a selectively applicatable upper surface for removing dead skin of a foot of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventors: Kimberly K. Mayhew, Amanda J. Watkins
  • Patent number: 6455123
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a layer having carpeted upper surface and/or other rubber-like padding material covered by a translucent, elastomeric sheet. The upper elastomeric layer may have downwardly depending projections that engage the carpeted upper surface of the inner padding layer, thereby reducing the likelihood of the upper elastomeric layer from slipping relative to the inner padding layer. The upper elastomeric layer is sewn or otherwise affixed to the carpeted surface to prevent slipping and creasing of the upper elastomeric layer relative to the padding during use. In addition, in a preferred embodiment for use on carpeted surfaces, the lower elastomeric layer may have downwardly depending projections that engage in the underlying carpet surface to reduce slipping of the device relative to the underlying surface. An overcovering material may be provided to further protect the upper elastomeric layer from excessive soiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Ernest B. Poe, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6378147
    Abstract: An appliance is provided for individuals, especially those with disabilities which render them incapable of readily getting into and out of a bathing position in a bathtub. The appliance consists of an inflatable seat with a top seat surface and side, back, front, and bottom walls made of a resilient material of single ply construction. The seat, when deflated, is flattened and crushed into a thin layer which can then be readily rolled into a compact unit and stored and transported in an accompanying carrying case. A bath mat type extension is secured to the front wall of the seat to supply a non-skid surface to the user while in the bathtub and for facilitating the roll-up aspect of the invention. The appliance employs the use of an air pump and air hose for supplying and delivering air to the seat, along with a valve for controlling the flow of air. A remotely operated device for controlling the operation of the air pump is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: George Halleran
  • Patent number: 6372323
    Abstract: A slip control article including a backing layer having a first surface with an array of at least 100 upstanding stems per square inch and a second surface. At least a portion of the upstanding stems is an elastomeric material and the stems have an aspect ratio of at least 1.25. The first surface has a static coefficient of friction when dry of at least 0.6 and a static coefficient of friction when wet within 20% of the static coefficient of friction when dry. The first surface has a peel strength and a tensile strength of substantially zero when engaged with another slip control article. The first surface has a relatively high shear strength when engaged with another slip control article. The high shear forces are due primarily to the frictional properties of the elastomeric materials, not a mechanical interlock of the stems, such as on a mechanical fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: James J. Kobe, Leon Levitt
  • Patent number: 6357061
    Abstract: The inflatable bath air mattress cushion includes an inflatable back cushion portion, an inflatable mat cushion portion connected to the inflatable back cushion portion, a pair of inflatable side cushion portions connected to opposing sides of the inflatable back cushion portion, and an inflatable upper pillow cushion portion connected to the inflatable back cushion portion at the head end of the bath air mattress cushion. The inflatable back cushion portion, mat cushion portion, side cushion portion and upper pillow cushion portion each have inflation valves and suction cups on the bottom side, and a top covering of a layer of fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Denise M. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 6338168
    Abstract: A drain covering system for preventing water from going down the drain. The drain covering system includes a basin that has a drain and a drain covering member that includes an outer covering and a weighted core. The drain covering member is positionable over the drain such that the outer perimeter of the drain covering member contacts a portion of the basin around the drain. The drain covering member is adapted for preventing a liquid from passing through the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventor: Carolyn E. Valentine
  • Patent number: 6336231
    Abstract: An inflatable liner for use with conventional bathtubs is disclosed. For use with infants, elderly, physically disabled, or other instances where a cushioned and/or sanitary bathing surface is desired. A battery operated air pump is attached to the inflatable liner via small plastic tubes. The air pump is used to inflate the liner. The present invention also has an air trap valve to prevent overinflation. The inflatable liner is composed of separate air reservoir tubes that conform to the shape of the bathtub, surrounding the entire interior surface area of the bathtub. Once inflated, the actual tub itself provides the present invention with its shape and rigidity A convenient drainage hole with cover is incorporated into the inflatable liner, which allows the user to drain water out of the invention and bathtub before the present invention is removed from the tub and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventor: Hermenie I. Smith
  • Patent number: 6289528
    Abstract: A Mat (1) in the form of a liner or pad for sanitary installations is formed of a carrier (3) of flexible plastic with suction cups (5) located on its bottom (4) and a layer of nonwoven fabric (2) on its top (1.1) is constructed to enable the mat (1) to be efficiently produced and for the mat to have good adhesion between the nonwoven fabric (2) and the carrier (3) even when experiencing high squeezing stress. This is achieved by making the carrier (3) of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) injecting the elastomer onto the back of nonwoven fabric (2) in an injection mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Ridder GmbH
    Inventors: Jurgen Ridder, Johannes Hubinger
  • Patent number: 6022608
    Abstract: A three layer, non-slip fabric has an upper fabric layer which is bonded through an intermediate flat plastic layer to a lower plastic layer having cup-shaped elements distributed therelong. Each cup has sidewalls and an outwardly concave end wall with one or two holes in the wall to allow the cups to deform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Plantex S.p.A.
    Inventor: Silvano Dell 'Acqua
  • Patent number: 6014779
    Abstract: A new shower and bath mat for helping to prevent slipping on a slippery surface such as a wet bath floor surface. The inventive device includes a generally rectangular mat member having upper and lower surfaces, a pair of short sides, a pair of long sides and a plurality of corners. The upper surface of the mat member has a plurality of generally rounded nodules upwardly extending therefrom. The mat member also has a plurality of generally cylindrical apertures extending through it between its upper and lower surfaces. Located towards each corner of the mat member is a suction cup having a rounded upper portion, a lower rim, and a concavity directed from the upper portion of the suction cup towards the lower rim portion of the suction cup. The upper portion of the suction cup is upwardly extended from the upper surface of the mat member while the lower rim is downwardly extended from the lower surface of the mat member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: Venicia Lindholm
  • Patent number: 5911193
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for protecting a dog from the cold. In one implementation of the present invention, the invention is directed to a flexible pad for protecting a dog from a cold boat hull. The flexible pad is formed of an elastic material, having a first side, a second side, and at least one drainage hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: Todd L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5839132
    Abstract: An improved disposable bathtub liner includes inflatable sub-compartments which detachably adhere to the interior surface of a bathtub through suction devices on the exterior surface of the liner. The bathtub liner includes opposite sidewalls, endwalls, and at least a partial bottom, and is made of a material which is durable, economical and disposable, while at the same time provides frictional engagement with a person, and which can be detachably sealed to the interior of the interior surface of the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Todd D. Rooney
  • Patent number: 5829070
    Abstract: A portable rubber bathtub seat apparatus for comfortably preventing a person from sliding down when in a seated position within a bathtub, the apparatus being supported by the bottom surface of the bathtub. The apparatus has a generally thin, flat back section upon which the person sits when the apparatus is supported on the bottom surface of the bathtub, a raised front section having a thickness substantially greater than the thickness of the back section and adequate to support all or part of the legs of the person, the front section having a cavity in the undersurface thereof, a gradually sloping transition area between the back and front sections, and a plurality of suction cups coupled to the front section and positioned within the cavity for releasably securing the apparatus to the bottom surface of the bathtub such that the apparatus is prevented from sliding in relation to the surface while a person is seated on the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Marian Taylor
  • Patent number: 5781941
    Abstract: A safety bath mat has a layered body with a base layer provided with a coating of adhesive for attaching the mat to the floor of a tub or shower. The body of the mat further includes a second layer in which polycarbonate particles are embedded in vinyl. Additional vinyl covers the first two layers to a substantially uniform thickness while conforming to the underlying rough surface configuration caused by the polycarbonate particles. The upper two layers are transparent, allowing artwork on the upper surface of the base layer to be seen through the two upper layers. An optional thermometer indicates the ambient water temperature, to aid in prevention of stalling. The adhesive has a protective sheet that is removed for installation. The mat is permanently bonded to the tub and provides a durable, slip resistant surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Lois F. Fields
    Inventors: Michael D. Radke, Jeffrey M. Fields
  • Patent number: 5776605
    Abstract: A replacement surface covering an existing surface conforming surface irregularities of the existing surface to present a top surface with a relatively smooth contour, and a self-curing, waterproof adhesive layer which envelops and seals any cracks on the existing surface and promotes an intimate bond between the replacement surface and the existing surface. A design layer may be provided between the replacement surface and the existing surface. Double-sided tape may also be used to secure the replacement surface to the existing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Michael W. May
  • Patent number: 5742955
    Abstract: A bathtub liner apparatus includes a flexible floor sheet member which includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The flexible floor sheet member includes a drain channel extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. A quantity of adhesive is applied to the bottom surface of the flexible floor sheet member, and flexible projection members project upward from the top surface of the flexible floor sheet member. The flexible floor sheet member may be comprised of a closed cellular foam material The adhesive may become tacky when wet. The flexible projection members include a main crescent-shaped projection member projecting from the top surface of the flexible floor sheet member at a location distal to the drain channel. The main crescent-shaped projection member includes a projection-drainage channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventors: Steve Parkay, Angie Parkay
  • Patent number: 5650228
    Abstract: A replacement surface for bathtub and shower floors comprising a liner covering substantially the entire bottom interior surface of the bathtub or shower with a peripheral relief allowing access to a drain and conforming surface irregularities of the bottom interior surface to present a top surface with a relatively smooth contour, and a self-curing, waterproof adhesive layer which envelops and seals any cracks on the bottom interior surface and promotes an intimate bond between the liner and the bottom interior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Michael W. May
  • Patent number: 5630235
    Abstract: A seal for covering cracks around a drain fitting of a bathtub. The inventive device includes a flexible planar circular member having a circular center aperture directed therethrough which can be adhesively secured about a drain conduit of a bathtub and over cracks extending through the tub. A cylindrical projection depends from the circular member for positioning into a drain conduit of the bathtub to sealingly engage with a drain fitting to preclude leaking of the tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Inventor: Randall Angstadt
  • Patent number: 5435765
    Abstract: A non-slip padding system for use on a surfboard has a plurality of pad members each having a top surface, a bottom surface, a first end, a second end and raised elements. The raised elements include a first raised member and a second raised member, wherein the first raised member extends from the top surface of the pad member and the second raised member extends from the top surface of the first raised member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Inventor: Herbert E. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 5375271
    Abstract: Apparatus for determining whether the temperature of bath water is below a selected temperature. A bath mat having temperature related indicia imprinted on a top side surface thereof has a layer of temperature sensitive ink applied over the temperature related indicia. The temperature sensitive ink is selected such that it is transparent above the selected temperature and at least partially opaque below the selected temperature. When the temperature of the bath water exceeds the selected temperature, the temperature sensitive ink is transparent and, when the temperature of the bath water is below the selected temperature, the temperature sensitive ink is at least partially opaque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Assignee: Kel-Gar, Inc.
    Inventor: Gail B. Frankel
  • Patent number: 5329649
    Abstract: An improved bathtub or shower enclosure designed to prevent injury to the user in the event of a slip and fall accident or the like. The tub or shower stall floor and walls and water control fixtures are constructed or lined with a thin exterior layer of a resilient material to absorb the shock of a person falling and thereby preventing injury to that person. The floor of the tub or stall includes non-slip material on the surface of or formed into the resilient material. For an initial installation, a shell of the resilient material with non-slip material on the exposed floor or bottom surface is supported by a frame work constructed of rigid material such as wood or the like. For the after market, a liner of resilient material with non-slip material thereon is fitted over the existing bathtub or shower stall surfaces and over the water control fixtures and is fixedly attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventor: Robert L. Turek