Mounting Or Supporting Means For Movable Closure Patents (Class 4/610)
  • Patent number: 11712134
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for an improved shower appurtenance for bracing a shower curtain away from a user including a hanger clip configured for removable connection with a shower curtain rod and a base rod with a first end and a second end where the first end is connected with the hanger clip. A base plate assembly is connected to the second end of the base rod and an arm or a pair or arms movably connected with the base plate such that the arm or the pair of arms are moveable from an undeployed position to a deployed position where the undeployed position is approximately parallel to the base rod and the deployed position is approximately perpendicular to the base rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Inventor: Andrew Broussard
  • Patent number: 11253108
    Abstract: A shower-screen pivot device comprises a seating element mountable to a shower surface, and a screen-support element for supporting at least part of a shower screen. The seating element has a first panel-pivot element, and the screen-support element has a second panel-pivot element which is engagable with the first panel-pivot element. When interengaged, the first and second panel-pivot elements are rotatable relative to each other about a panel-pivot axis P which is parallel to a base of the seating element. This enables an installer to semi-erect a shower-screen panel with a lower edge watertightly sealed, and leave it unattended and self-supported whilst attending to other panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: DLP LIMITED
    Inventor: Iain Stuart Fenna
  • Patent number: 10835083
    Abstract: A shower liner system configured to engage a shower rod having a rib with a strut slidably engaging the shower rod and a panel disposed approximately perpendicular to the strut having a top end and a bottom end. A liner can include a waterproof body with a top header disposed approximate the shower rod and having an engagement point, and a second header disposed away from the first header toward the floor. The top end of the panel engages the first header and the second end of the panel engages the second header. The rib is configured to hang at least a portion of the liner at an angle to the shower rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Inventor: Patrick Raymond
  • Patent number: 9044115
    Abstract: A shower curtain enlarger apparatus that includes a flexible rod that is constructed and arranged for positioning between opposed side walls of a shower stall, and a pair of end pieces attached respectively to opposed ends of the flexible rod. The combined length of the flexible rod with the attached end pieces is constructed and arranged to have a length greater than the distance between the opposed side walls of the shower stall. The flexible rod is positioned between the opposed side walls by means of bending the flexible rod to fit between the opposed side walls and with the bending being directed away from the shower stall to enhance an inner use space in the shower stall. Other versions employ a hinge member or a wedge member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Inventor: Nicholas Chirigotis
  • Publication number: 20150135426
    Abstract: Devices for retaining shower curtains in bath tubs to prevent mildew, fungus, bacteria and mold from growing at the interface of the shower curtain and the bath tub are disclosed. The devices are capable of being installed in existing showers and pull the curtain back from the shower tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Marilyn McFall
  • Patent number: 9021627
    Abstract: We provide a tension adjustment assembly including an externally threaded support member and an at least partially hollow cylinder that is threaded internally. The threads of the cylinder and the threads of the support member are mated, allowing the cylinder to rotate about and travel along the threaded portion of the support member. The cylinder further comprises a ridge about an outer diameter of the cylinder. The tension adjustment assembly also includes an end cap retained on the cylinder by said ridge and able to rotate freely about said cylinder independently of any rotation of the cylinder about the support member. Finally, the tension adjustment assembly includes a foot attached to the end cap. When placed on the end of a tension rod this assembly allows the fit of the rod to a wall to be adjusted by turning the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Ex-Cell Home Fashions, Inc.
    Inventors: Maurice S. Parker, Melvin Walker, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150096117
    Abstract: A shower rod mounting assembly is provided with a flexible substrate having a first side and a spaced apart second side. A reversible dry adhesive layer at least partially covers the first side of the substrate to attach the flexible substrate to a surface and leave the underlying surface unmarked after removal. The reversible adhesive retains an adhesion property for a plurality of adhesion cycles. A receptacle is mounted to the second side and is adapted to receive an end of a shower rod. A boss extends from the substrate with a track formed therein with an opening to receive an end of a shower rod. A biasing member extends from the substrate adjacent to the opening to retain the end of the shower rod after installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: LIBERTY HARDWARE MFG. CORP.
    Inventors: Earl David Forrest, Kelly Kovacs, Rick Roetken
  • Patent number: 8944394
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes a hinge for movably connecting a first panel to a second panel, the hinge comprising first and second spaced apart hinge members, each hinge member being connectable to the respective first and second panels; and a connector located between the hinge members, the connector having a pin member which connects the hinge members together to permit selective movement of the first panel relative to the second panel about multiple axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Maax Bath Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph D. Berger
  • Patent number: 8925122
    Abstract: Shower curtain rod designs for providing a shower curtain rod that allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of a shower curtain to be quickly and easily rotated 180-360 degrees. This rotation allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain to be positioned so that it faces out into the room rather than facing the shower stall. This facilitates faster and easier drying of the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain due to improved airflow and the lower humidity of the room. These features facilitate ease of cleaning and/or inspecting of the shower curtain, while also reducing the opportunity for mold, mildew and bacteria to grow on the curtain as the shower curtain has an improved drying time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: David B. Kitfield, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8915019
    Abstract: A sliding door assembly for use with a tub or shower enclosure, said assembly comprising a rod, having a first end and a second end extending along said enclosure; at least one door, having a top, bottom, first end, second end, first surface and second surface; at least one roller attached to said door at a predetermined position and slidably engaging said rod; a stopper attached to said rod, at a predetermined position; a striker attached to said door, at a predetermined position; said striker further comprising at least one striking member; said stopper further comprising at least one striking member receiver; wherein when said door is in a first position, said at least one striking member and said at least one striking member receiver are not engaged and when said door is in a second position, said at least one striking member and said at least one striking member receiver are engaged, preventing said at least one door from substantial horizontal and vertical movement along said rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Fleurco Products Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Schachter, Chi Hai Pham, Karina Schatz, Nicholas Lee
  • Patent number: 8898872
    Abstract: A space-creating shower curtain hook hanging from a shower curtain rod. It includes a shower rod hook engaging the shower curtain rod; a neck disposed upwards and inwards from the shower rod hook; a first connector disposed along the neck engaging a shower liner; and a stem connected to the neck and disposed downwards. The weight of the shower liner causes the space-creating shower curtain hook to rotate about the shower curtain rod, contacting the stem to the shower liner, and disposing the shower liner outwards of the shower curtain rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Patrick Raymond
  • Publication number: 20140338117
    Abstract: A curved shower rod attachment assembly, which includes a first element that is adapted and configured for attachment to a surface and a second element that is securable to the first element and includes a protrusion that has an opening formed therein that extending at an angle and is configured to receive a shower rod. The dual channel interlocking bracket allows a curved shower rod to hinge within the attachment assembly to preclude rotation and sagging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: WINGITS INNOVATIONS, LLC.
    Inventor: Salvatore SISTO
  • Publication number: 20140317840
    Abstract: A rotatable shower rod system may be provided. The system may include a pair of mounting brackets coupled to a wall, the pair of mounting brackets includes a stationary portion; a rotatable portion rotatably coupled to the stationary portion, the rotatable portion rotates to at least one of a first position and a second position about an axis of rotation; and a cover coupled to the stationary portion; and a curved rod extending between the pair of mounting brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Colleen O'Connell
  • Publication number: 20140289957
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein relates to a storage device. The storage device has openable and closeable housing means which is suitably sized, shaped and adapted to accommodate at least one movable support means comprising an elongate member of a suitable size and shape to accommodate a curtain means. Said support means can be moved between at least two positions, a first collapsed position where the support means is housed in the housing means and an erected second position where said support means is positioned outside of said housing means in the latter position, the curtain means acts as a barrier. The curtain can hang from the support means. Additionally, the storage device includes moving means to urge the support means between the first and the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Geoffrey Whittaker
  • Publication number: 20140259368
    Abstract: We provide a tension adjustment assembly including an externally threaded support member and an at least partially hollow cylinder that is threaded internally. The threads of the cylinder and the threads of the support member are mated, allowing the cylinder to rotate about and travel along the threaded portion of the support member. The cylinder further comprises a ridge about an outer diameter of the cylinder. The tension adjustment assembly also includes an end cap retained on the cylinder by said ridge and able to rotate freely about said cylinder independently of any rotation of the cylinder about the support member. Finally, the tension adjustment assembly includes a foot attached to the end cap. When placed on the end of a tension rod this assembly allows the fit of the rod to a wall to be adjusted by turning the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Maurice S. Parker, Melvin Walker, JR.
  • Patent number: 8806670
    Abstract: A rotatable shower rod system may be provided. The system may include a pair of mounting brackets coupled to a wall, the pair of mounting brackets includes a stationary portion; a rotatable portion rotatably coupled to the stationary portion, the rotatable portion rotates to at least one of a first position and a second position about an axis of rotation; and a cover coupled to the stationary portion; and a curved rod extending between the pair of mounting brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Colleen O'Connell
  • Patent number: 8800072
    Abstract: A shower curtain rod assembly includes a suction disk, an engaging member, a positioning member, a cover and a rod unit. The shower curtain rod assembly is able to be installed between two walls with different inclinations and different distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Shih-Lin Chang
  • Patent number: 8745778
    Abstract: Adjustable shower curtain rod designs for providing a shower curtain rod that allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of a shower curtain to be quickly and easily rotated up to 360 degrees. This rotation allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain to be positioned so that it faces out into the room rather than facing the shower stall. This facilitates faster and easier drying of the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain due to improved airflow and the lower humidity of the room. These features facilitate ease of cleaning and/or inspecting of the shower curtain, while also reducing the opportunity for mold, mildew and bacteria to grow on the curtain as the shower curtain has an improved drying time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: David B. Kitfield, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8739324
    Abstract: A bracket for mounting a curved shower rod on a previously installed straight shower rod. The bracket includes a body having a first member that defines a first bore for receiving an end of the curved shower rod therein, and a second member defining a second bore for receiving a portion of the straight shower rod therein. The first member extends outwardly from the second member at an angle. The second member comprises first and second regions that are movable away from each other to capture a portion of the straight shower rod between them. A securement mechanism locks the first and second regions together to prevent the bracket from disengaging from the straight shower rod. A second mounting bracket is similarly engaged on an opposite end of the straight shower rod and receives a second end of the curved shower rod therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Universal Commerce, LLC
    Inventors: Rodney L. Napier, David Brokaw
  • Patent number: 8695131
    Abstract: A tub assembly is provided with a tub and a surround wall. The surround wall is spaced from a nail flange on the tub by a desired distance with a simple wall fastener. The wall fastener clips onto the nail flange, and has a forward face spaced from the nail flange by a desired distance. The forward face provides a stop and securement surface for the surround wall. The wall fastener includes a clip portion that clips onto the nail flange, and has a plurality of discrete clip portions. The clip portions can be broken away from the wall fastener at locations which will be aligned with a wall stud. In this manner, the wall fastener can be quickly clipped onto the nail flange of the tub once the tub is installed. The surround wall can then be simply adhered to a forward face of the wall fastener, such that the entire tub assembly can be easily and properly assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Masco Bath Corporation
    Inventor: Brent Thomas
  • Patent number: 8621680
    Abstract: A hanging shower curtain support for a bathtub/shower within a bathroom having a ceiling, walls and floor, includes a plurality of hooks that are secured into the ceiling above the bathtub/shower. A plurality of chains is provided, with each chain having a bottom retainer ring hanging downwardly from each hook. A shower curtain rod is suspended from the bottom retainer rings of the chains. The shower curtain rod will hold a shower curtain therefrom, to prevent water from splashing onto the walls and the floor of the bathroom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Marietta Darlene Maes
  • Patent number: 8596021
    Abstract: The invention is a modular wall system and floor system for bathrooms, gang showers or any other room space having at least one generally 90 degree room corner with a first wall panel on one of the two intersecting room walls of said room corner intersecting and joining to a second wall panel on the other intersecting room wall. Each embodiment of the invention features a plurality of spring clips that together with a plurality of globs of adhesive form a room corner attaching means for wall panels or other wall members that intersect one another in a generally 90 degree room corner that provides a tight, closely abutting fit between the adjacent, perpendicularly intersecting panels or members in the room corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Best Bath Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Van Ravenhorst
  • Publication number: 20130276225
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide various adjustable shower curtain rod designs for providing a shower curtain rod that allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of a shower curtain to be quickly and easily rotated up to 360 degrees. This rotation allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain to be positioned so that it faces out into the room rather than facing the shower stall. This facilitates faster and easier drying of the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain due to improved airflow and the lower humidity of the room. These features facilitate ease of cleaning and/or inspecting of the shower curtain, while also reducing the opportunity for mold, mildew and bacteria to grow on the curtain as the shower curtain has an improved drying time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: David B Kitfield, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130276224
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide various shower curtain rod designs for providing a shower curtain rod that allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of a shower curtain to be quickly and easily rotated 180-360 degrees. This rotation allows the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain to be positioned so that it faces out into the room rather than facing the shower stall. This facilitates faster and easier drying of the wet, inner-stall facing side of the shower curtain due to improved airflow and the lower humidity of the room. These features facilitate ease of cleaning and/or inspecting of the shower curtain, while also reducing the opportunity for mold, mildew and bacteria to grow on the curtain as the shower curtain has an improved drying time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: David B. Kitfield, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130269099
    Abstract: A shower curtain rod assembly includes a suction disk, an engaging member, a positioning member, a cover and a rod unit. The shower curtain rod assembly is able to be installed between two walls with different inclinations and different distances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Shih-Lin CHANG
  • Patent number: 8522373
    Abstract: A mounting assembly is used to mount a curved rod to a mounting surface. The mounting assembly includes a base, a guide and a cover. The base is fixed to the mounting surface by inserting screws through holes in the base and into the mounting surface. The guide fits around the base and can move along a length of the base. The cover is placed over the base and secured to the guide, such that the cover can also move along the length of the base. The mounting assembly interfaces with an end of the curved rod that approaches the mounting assembly at a given angle. Movement of the cover allows the mounting assembly to interface with ends of curved rods approaching the mounting assembly over a range of angles. The mounting assembly can include a shaft that is connected to the base and interfaces with the end of the curved rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Moen Incorporated
    Inventor: Alan M. Bauer
  • Patent number: 8505129
    Abstract: We provide a tension assembly for a curtain rod, preferably a shower curtain rod. The assembly includes a tube and a plunger slidably disposed within the tube. Between the tube and the plunger is a biasing means such as a spring. The plunger includes opposite L-shaped grooves having a common axial section and opposite tangential section. The groove allows inclusion of a locking pin that is retained in the tube. The combination of the locking pin and the L-shaped grooves allows the plunger to be moved until the plunger compresses the spring, then the plunger is locked. When additional the curtain rod is put into place the plunger or rod may be rotated, releasing the plunger and allowing the spring to provide additional tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Ex-Cell Home Fashions, Inc.
    Inventors: Maurice Stafford Parker, Willie Strong, Melvin Walker, Jr., Stephen Blair Brooks
  • Publication number: 20130198949
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a shower rod assembly including an outer tube, a spring chamber, being housed in the attachment end of the outer tube, and inner tube with an attachment end inserted within said outer tube, and a bracket device at the opposite ends of the outer tube and inner tube for installation in an enclosure. The spring chamber has a fixed blocker in a locked position within the outer tube, a compression spring, and a mobile blocker with a removable locking pin. When the locking pin is removed, the compression spring extends to lock the outer tube and inner tube in position at a set length within the enclosure. Each bracket device has a base body with ridges, a casing with an inner core, a lock on the side of the casing and a mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Vista Containers & Enclosures LLC
    Inventor: Zeng Qing Hai
  • Publication number: 20130198948
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a shower rod assembly including a first tube, a second tube aligned with the first tube, a rod between the first tube and the second tube, a sleeve member, a bracket device, and a locking device. The rod has a macro adjustment portion, a threaded insert, and a stop member positioned between the macro adjustment portion and the threaded insert. The sleeve member slides over the tubes and can cover the rod between the tubes. The second tube engages the macro adjustment portion for a set length when the locking device is engaged. The first tube engages the threaded insert for micro adjustment of the set length to a locked length. Each bracket device has a base body with ridges, a casing with an inner core, a lock on the side of the casing and a mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: VISTA CONTAINERS & ENCLOSURES LLC
    Inventor: Qing Hai ZENG
  • Publication number: 20130145543
    Abstract: A hookless shower liner fastener for suspending a liner and a curtain from a rod mounted in a shower. The hookless shower liner includes a base, a top portion having a thickness and a projection. The base includes a front surface. The top portion has a generally frusta-circular shape and defines a central cavity and a gap. The central cavity is configured to receive at least a portion of a shower rod therein in an installed configuration. The gap is defined between a butt end of the top portion and a butt portion of one of the base and the top portion. The projection extends generally perpendicularly from the front surface. The projection is configured to support the shower curtain to suspend the shower curtain from the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: ZENITH PRODUCTS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kyle CITTADINO, Joseph VACCARO
  • Publication number: 20130117927
    Abstract: A curtain track assembly comprising a telescopic track apparatus (12) with waterproof pressure-sensitive adhesive pads (18), a shower curtain and or liner cartridge with a unique fold pattern and a permanently attached curtain carriers (20) and or curtain clips (24). The telescopic track apparatus (12) consists of two parts, one half being of a larger inner dimension than the other, so that the smaller half of the track (14A) is smoothly fitted into the larger part of the track (14B). The track parts (14A and 14B) have an open seam shaft or c-channel (30) running lengthwise along the bottom to allow the curtain carriers (22) and curtain clips (24) to slide smoothly along the track parts (14A and 14B). The track parts (14A and 14B) are open at either end (50) allowing for insertion of the curtain liner cartridge (20), curtain clips (24) and end caps (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Peter Woodruff
  • Publication number: 20130117926
    Abstract: We provide a tension assembly for a curtain rod, preferably a shower curtain rod. The assembly includes a tube and a plunger slidably disposed within the tube. Between the tube and the plunger is a biasing means such as a spring. The plunger includes opposite L-shaped grooves having a common axial section and opposite tangential section. The groove allows inclusion of a locking pin that is retained in the tube. The combination of the locking pin and the L-shaped grooves allows the plunger to be moved until the plunger compresses the spring, then the plunger is locked. When additional the curtain rod is put into place the plunger or rod may be rotated, releasing the plunger and allowing the spring to provide additional tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventors: Maurice Stafford Parker, Willie Strong, Melvin Walker, JR., Stephen Blair Brooks
  • Publication number: 20130047331
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are described for providing a telescoping, load-supporting rod assembly. In one embodiment, the rod assembly may include a first portion, a second portion, a locking assembly, and a tension adjustment assembly. The locking assembly may include a threaded bolt, a cylindrical sleeve, a cylindrical locking portion, and at least two securing pins. The locking assembly may allow a user to adjust an overall length of the rod assembly by allowing the first and second portions to move with respect to each other. The rod assembly may also include a tension adjustment assembly which may include a tension adjusting spring, a tension adjusting cylindrical tube, a spring clip, at least two rivets, and at least two spacers. The tension adjustment assembly may allow a user to make small changes to the length of the rod assembly at one of the ends without moving the first or second portions with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: GLENOIT LLC
    Inventors: Maurice Stafford Parker, Willie Strong, Melvin Walker, JR., Stephen Blair Brooks
  • Patent number: 8381327
    Abstract: A shower curtain clip having a curved base member with a first open end, a second closed end opposite the first end, and a curved clamping rail connected to the second closed end of the curved base member. The clamping rail clamps a shower curtain between the clamping rail and the base member in a space created between the clamping rail and the base member at the first open end, causing the curtain to curve inward, eliminating the gap between the curtain and the wall and causing water that strikes the curtain to deflect downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin Betzen
  • Publication number: 20130019395
    Abstract: A shower curtain (or conventional drapes) and series of clips integral with an upper edge of the shower curtain. The clips are a single pre-fabricated member including a lower/shower curtain portion and upper/hanger portion. The shower curtain portion is configured to retain a shower curtain while the hanger portion is configured to attach to a shower curtain rod. A retention member may be square-shaped, rectangular or the like and may be received by an internal space defined by layers of shower curtain material. The shower curtain portion defines a space and opening for allowing the clip to fit onto a shower curtain rod. Advantageously, when attached to the shower curtain rod using the series of clips described herein, the shower curtain is substantially flat or flush relative to the shower curtain rod and/or the clips are concealed in part or completely from a position outside of the shower/bathtub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Scott Pierce
  • Patent number: 8341775
    Abstract: An adjustable curved double curtain rod shower assembly for hanging and supporting the weight of two shower curtains and attached to the walls of a shower area and forms a shower enclosure area and the curtain rod assembly comprises: (a) two adjustable curved curtain rods in a horizontal plane one an inner rod and the second an outer rod and each rod comprises a first and a second tubular section wherein the first section fits into the second section thereby providing for telescopic adjustment of each of the rods and two end pieces that join the ends of each of the two adjustable rods together; (b) two end hanging means having pivotably positioned therein the two end pieces wherein each of the hanging means is attached to the walls of the shower enclosure and when shower curtains are attached to each of the rods form an enclosed shower area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Zenith Products Corporation
    Inventor: Kaveh Didehvar
  • Publication number: 20120284914
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tension rod that enables the rod to be extended in length after the rod tubes have been secured relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Alan M. Bauer
  • Patent number: 8214938
    Abstract: A shower bar assembly that includes a pair of mounting brackets configured and arranged to be mounted to a wall of a shower stall is disclosed. Each of the mounting brackets has a base portion with a first shelf and a second shelf projecting from the base portion. The first and second shelves each have a retaining peg projecting from each shelf, respectively. A tubular shower bar is included and has two opposing ends. Each of the ends of the tubular shower bar has a pair of surfaces in which each defines an aperture through the tubular shower bar. Each end of the tubular shower bar is configured and arranged to slide onto the first and second shelves of the mounting brackets, with the apertures interlocking with each of the retaining pegs, respectively, to suspend the shower bar between the mounting brackets and to prevent the shower bar from rotating between the brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Kenney Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Michael Hanley, Leo E. LaBarre, Sally Voas
  • Patent number: 8205760
    Abstract: A curved curtain rod formed by a curved telescopic rod and two fixing bases is revealed. The curved telescopic rod is formed by two curved tubes sleeved with each other while each end of the curved telescopic rod is connected to each fixing base respectively. The fixing base includes a pivotal base having a hollow cylinder mounted with a buffer part therein, a pivotal part whose one end is moveable and connected to the buffer part while the other end is a projecting rod connected to the telescopic rod, and a cover with a central opening covered around the pivotal base. One end of the pivotal part is limited in an inner side of the central opening while the projecting rod passes through the central opening to the outer side, moves and pivots so as to adjust the angle between the telescopic rod and the fixing base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Gatco, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim Chang
  • Patent number: 8185981
    Abstract: A shower curtain support system includes a first rod having a first arcuate portion and a first end portion and a second rod having a second arcuate portion and a second end portion. The second arcuate portion is telescopically mounted within the first arcuate portion. A first end support is removably and pivotably mounted to the first end portion and a second end support is removably and pivotably mounted to the second end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Zenith Products Corporation
    Inventors: Kaveh Didehvar, Jeffrey Harwanko
  • Patent number: 8185980
    Abstract: A plastic bathing fixture formed substantially or entirely of a laminated composite material comprising a show-surface layer of gel-coat or thermoplastic sheet material which may be non-magnetic; a magnetic or magnetizable layer which may coincide with the show-surface layer or be a subsurface layer; and a non-magnetic structural layer of fiber-reinforced resin material. The magnetic layer materials may be localized or strategically placed, and may comprise a resin with a particulate ferromagnetic filler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Aquatic Co.
    Inventors: Fred Adams, Stuart Leigh, Dante San Miguel, Jose A. Camba, Michael Seymour, Bobby McCoy
  • Publication number: 20120110729
    Abstract: Bath curtain rod assemblies are disclosed comprising axially movable tubes that may be locked into position in relation with each other. A contact end is extended from one of the tubes to engage and press against a bath support structure to firmly secure the assembly in place. The bath curtain rod assemblies may be installed quickly and easily in bath and shower stalls without the necessity of screws or adhesives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: David Baines
  • Patent number: 8166583
    Abstract: A bath curtain rack structure includes a curved transverse rod, two pivot members and two wall-mounted brackets. The curved transverse rod has two ends which are connected to hollow pipe portions of the pivot members, respectively. Each pivot member includes a flat rounded end with a semi-circle flange at one end thereof. Each wall-mounted bracket includes a central protruding post which is inserted in a dual awl-shaped guide hole of the pivot member. The wall-mounted bracket further has a pair of lock holes for insertion of screws to be secured on a wall, a recess corresponding in shape to the flat round end, two stoppers to stop the semi-circle flange, and a protruding opening to receive the flat rounded end and the semi-circle flange of the pivot member. A second headless screw is screwed in a second threaded hole of the flat rounded end to engage with the concave pivot point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Huang-Kai Liang
  • Patent number: 8151385
    Abstract: A shower curtain and support system employs an elongated rail supported at the shower or tub. The rail extrusion can be an extrusion with an inverted U profile, with an open slot or slots at its base. There are glides, e.g., nylon members with a ball, hemisphere, or other wide head portion and shaft that projects out through the slot from the open interior of the rail. The glides have one or two hook structures for attaching to a fabric curtain and a vinyl curtain liner. In one preferred version, there is a liner hook and spring retaining arm on one side that fits into the grommet at the top of the liner. On the other side is a short arm with a button that fits into a button hole on the cloth or fabric curtain. The curtain has blind button holes or grommets at its upper hem, so that the hook structure, e.g., button, does not show.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Kartri Sales Company, Inc.
    Inventors: M. Karen Goskowski, Gregory H. Millet, John J. Fitzsimmons
  • Patent number: 8151384
    Abstract: A shower expander assembly is provided for use with a shower area having a curtain. The assembly has a coupling for connecting the assembly to a shower curtain rod. The assembly also has a pair of rods. A first rod is connected to the coupling and extends from the coupling. The first rod has a first end and a second end, and the first rod is connected to the coupling at the first end. A second rod is pivotally connected to the second end of the first rod. The second rod is movable between a storage position and a use position. The second rod is configured such that in the storage position the second rod is substantially parallel to the first rod and in the use position the second rod is not substantially parallel to the first rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: John Jankiewicz
  • Patent number: 8122531
    Abstract: A shower curtain assembly is designed to provide users with an apparatus that provides much wide shower space for consumers than traditional one, prevents the curtain from moving inward, eliminate water spilling onto the floor, and even allows the user to sit on a top periphery of a bathtub near the curtain when the shower is in use. It is simply comprised of a shower curtain support rod that bows outward from a shower enclosure along its length, a shower curtain, hooks, and means that secures the shower curtain to achieve the abovementioned goal. The means includes main weights attached to the lower portion of the curtain, wires connected to the lower portion of the curtain and holders fixed to the bottom edges of the sidewalls of the shower enclosure, and wires with magnets attached. Only one of them needs to be chosen for the shower enclosure for the aforementioned functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Wayne Wenchuan Li
  • Publication number: 20120036628
    Abstract: A rotatable shower rod system may be provided. The system may include a pair of mounting brackets coupled to a wall, the pair of mounting brackets includes a stationary portion; a rotatable portion rotatably coupled to the stationary portion, the rotatable portion rotates to at least one of a first position and a second position about an axis of rotation; and a cover coupled to the stationary portion; and a curved rod extending between the pair of mounting brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Colleen O'CONNELL
  • Publication number: 20120023657
    Abstract: A shower curtain support system includes a first rod having a first arcuate portion and a first end portion and a second rod having a second arcuate portion and a second end portion. The second arcuate portion is telescopically mounted within the first arcuate portion. A first end support is removably and pivotably mounted to the first end portion and a second end support is removably and pivotably mounted to the second end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: ZENITH PRODUCTS CORP.
    Inventors: Kaveh DIDEHVAR, Jeffrey HARWANKO
  • Publication number: 20120005823
    Abstract: Shower curtain tension rods comprising a stationary rod, movable rod and adjustable end cap are disclosed. The movable rod may telescope in the stationary rod and may be secured in an axially extended position with respect to the stationary rod. The adjustable end cap may be axially extended from the movable rod and/or stationary rod to provide greater holding force for the tension rod. The shower curtain tension rods may be installed quickly and easily in various sizes of bath and shower stalls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: Maytex Mills, Inc.
    Inventor: David Baines
  • Patent number: 8082610
    Abstract: A showerhead assembly includes a water adapter and a water flow diverter. The water adapter includes two rotatable frames having a first water outlet and a second water inlet respectively and a supporting frame, having a first water inlet communicating with the first water outlet and a second water outlet, rotatably coupled between the rotatable frames. The water flow diverter contains a first water opening communicating with the first water outlet, a second water opening communicating with the second water inlet, and a water exit. The water flow diverter is adapted for selectively controlling the water flow at one of the conditions including the water flowing out at the second water outlet only, the water flowing out at the water exit only, and the water flowing out at both the second water outlet and the water exit at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventors: Mang Hoi Kwan Henry, Mang Loi Shang