Wall Or Panel Patents (Class 4/614)
  • Publication number: 20080168601
    Abstract: A Shower installation with discharge nozzles for horizontal installation near the ceiling is constructed to be swivelled between a resting position and an active position, wherein at least a section of the discharge nozzles protrudes in the active position. To swivel the mounting of the shower device, an operating device is provided that swivels the shower device mounting via the force of water flowing to the shower devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Guenter Glunk
  • Patent number: 7392551
    Abstract: A bathing enclosure has a wall arrangement which supports one or more hanging accessories, such as a towel hook, soap dish and bottle rack. Multiple wall sections are mounted so that their top and bottom edges are spaced apart to create a lateral gap therebetween. The gap permits a hanger end of the accessories to fit up and over the upper edges of the wall sections. The accessories can be slid horizontally in the gap and either extend to the inside or outside of the enclosure. Preferably, adjacent wall sections overlap vertically and tilt backward toward the inside of the enclosure from top to bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Jason T. Lanius
  • Publication number: 20080127409
    Abstract: A shower system is provided that includes first and second panels that at least partially defining a shower space. The shower system also includes a basin sized to receive a lower edge of the first and second panels such that the panels are arrangeable with respect to the basin in one of at least two configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicants: Sculptured Homes, LLC, Sculptured Homes Limited
    Inventors: Georgina E. Rooke, Cheryl Furtak, Keith A. Grider, Mark D. Begin, Frank J. Wilgus, Geoffrey F. Rooke
  • Publication number: 20080109955
    Abstract: A bathroom has a partition to separate a bath area from a stool device. It becomes possible that a person uses the stool device and at the same time another person takes a bath in the same room. The partition can become opaque so that an image can be shown on it to change the scene of the bathroom. The partition can also be packed at a side to obtain a wider area in the bathroom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: Hocheng Corporation
    Inventor: Chun-Hui Lin
  • Publication number: 20080022452
    Abstract: A shower cubicle panel comprises a main panel element (14) of composite construction with at least two layers of different material, and means for interconnecting the cubicle panel (10) to an adjacent panel (10) and a shower tray (80). A connector for adjacent shower cubicle panels comprises a first part (36), a second part (38). The first part (36) has a first elongate channel portion (22b) for receiving an edge of a first shower cubicle panel, and a male connector portion (42). The second part (38) has a second elongate channel portion (22b) for receiving an edge of a second shower cubicle panel, and a female connector portion (50) substantially complementarily shaped to receive the male connector portion (42). A sealing element (40) is interposable between the first and second parts (36, 38) for preventing their disengagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventors: Graham Robin Lock, Robert William Stimpson
  • Patent number: 7287287
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a shower device which is combined with a tanning device, comprising: one or more walls; water supply means which are arranged on one of the 5 walls; and a tanning device which is arranged in a wall and comprises at least one UV lamp, characterized in that the at least one UV lamp is a high-pressure UV lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Sunshower B.V.
    Inventors: Pieter M Wegdam, Oscar J Meijer
  • Patent number: 7269862
    Abstract: A shower system is provided that includes a configurable enclosure at least partially defining a shower area. The shower system also includes a basin having a first channel sized to receive a lower edge of the enclosure such that the enclosure is configurable with respect to the basin in at least one functional arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignees: Sculptured Homes, LLC, Sculptured Homes Limited
    Inventors: Georgina E. Rooke, Cheryl A. Furtak, Keith A. Grider, Mark D. Begin, Frank J. Wilgus
  • Patent number: 7225480
    Abstract: A shower tray and booth modular construction comprises a bottom including a plate-like body, associated with a frame, to form the water collection tray, the plate-like body being extruded from a plastics material and then so bent as to engage its side edges in section member lengths constituting the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Megius S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luigi Mascheroni
  • Patent number: 7086098
    Abstract: A mechanical breathing aid for providing a regulated supply of a breathing gas has an expiratory pressure regulator for regulating gas pressure within an expiration gas flow path dependent on an input regulatory signal and an expiratory pressure sensor disposed to sense an actual gas pressure within the expiration gas flow path and to provide an output signal indicative thereof. A control unit is operably coupled to the expiratory pressure regulator and to the expiratory pressure sensor for calculating a target pressure as a function of time dependent on a value of compliance calculated from measurements of pressure and flow of provided breathing gas made during an inspiration phase, and for generating the regulatory signal dependent on a magnitude of the difference between the target pressure and the actual pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Maquet Critical Care AB
    Inventor: Joachim Sallvin
  • Patent number: 7082627
    Abstract: An emergency shower system for attachment to a water pipe located behind a wall and a valve mounted to the pipe. The system includes a frame mounted to the wall around the valve, a panel connected to the frame for covering an opening in the wall to expose the valve, the panel having an opening, a plate mounted to the panel to close the panel opening and a handle mounted to the plate. The system also includes a linkage pivotally connected to the plate and to the valve, such that vertical movement of the handle and plate are translated to rotational movement by the linkage so as to operate the valve. There are no openings apparent in the front of the shower system. The handle only moves vertically and at a constant distance of about one and a half inches from the wall. An eye/face wash station may be included with the shower. The eye/face wash station includes a pull down tray with two spray nozzles. The nozzles are connected to another valve which is opened by the rotation of the pull down tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: ENCON Safety Products Inc.
    Inventors: James Ellis Marrs, Robert James Johnson
  • Patent number: 7073214
    Abstract: A shower-bath booth structure (1) comprising up-right elements arranged to define a booth and formed with at least one clear portion, a base element (2) provided with a water drain outlet (9), and a sprinkling device (5) connected to the water supply is described. Advantageously according to the present invention, the shower-bath booth structure (1) further comprises tanning lamps (7) oriented to illuminate the interior of said booth through the clear portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Domenico Pastorelli
  • Patent number: 7047576
    Abstract: The invention provides a variable angle connector profile for connecting a plurality of enclosure panels, the profile comprising: a first end segment having a first open channel sized for receiving a first enclosure panel; a flexible middle segment attached to the first end segment; and a second end segment attached to the middle segment and having a second open channel sized for receiving a second enclosure panel; the middle segment including a flexible plastic material and the end segments including at least a semi-rigid material, all three segments being co-extruded as a single integral linear unit and wherein each of the first and second end segments includes surfaces adapted to abut each other and to delimit the extent of movement of the end segments towards each other in a first sense of swivel from a linear alignment of 180° to a substantially perpendicular alignment of about 90°, while the segments are free to move in a second sense of swivel away from the surfaces to form a reflex angle therebetween,
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: MTD Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Aharon Tavivian
  • Patent number: 7028349
    Abstract: A molded shower surround includes a base portion which receives wall portions and a corner portion therebetween. The corner portion includes an upper lock tab and a lower lock tab adjacent an outer edge. An upper lock slot and a lower lock slot are located adjacent the inner edge of each wall portions which engage the corner portion. Each side of the corner portion includes a corner flange arranged substantially perpendicular to a corner planar surface. The corner flange and the molded slots when combined with the upper lock tab and the lower lock tab which respectively engage the upper lock slot and the lower lock slot, provide a watertight interlocking arrangement between the corner portion and the wall portions. In one assembly method, the corner portion and a wall portion are locked into a sub-assembly then this sub-assembly is lifted and slide onto to a second wall which may already be mounted to the base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: American Shower & Bath Corporation
    Inventors: Eugene A. Helmetsie, Harper F. Zarker, Jr., Tomasz Pracel
  • Patent number: 7013504
    Abstract: A top wall assembly to convert a shower enclosure into a therapeutic shower enclosure. The top wall assembly has an air blower in communication with one or more air return orifices in the top wall. An air distribution channel is in communication with the air blower and at least one air injecting orifice is provided in the top wall and communicates with the enclosure. A heater is provided in the air distribution channel for heating convected air therein to a temperature of up to about 75° C. to provide a stream of hot dry air circulating in the enclosure about a person's body standing therein whereby to cause the person's body to transpire and provide a therapeutic effect of shedding toxins through the skin. In combination with the hot dry air treatment there is available a chromotherapeutic and luminotherapeutic light treatment and an ion and ozone generator to inject ions and ozone in the hot dry air stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Gestion Ultra Internationale Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Brunelle, Stéphane Baron, Marc Beland, Henri Veyrie, Patrick Lemay, Stéphane Bilodeau
  • Patent number: 6941703
    Abstract: A self-cleaning flooring system for catching waste products has at least one module comprising a drain pan and a floor grid. The drain pan has a ramp and a central drain outlet. The ramp extends around the drain pan defining a drain pan periphery. The ramp slopes downward from the drain pan periphery towards the drain outlet. The drain pan periphery has a plurality of discharge ports spaced therealong for discharge of flushing fluid onto the ramp such that the waste products are washed down the ramp towards the drain outlet. The floor grid extends across the drain pan and is mounted upon the drain pan periphery for supporting personnel standing thereon while permitting waste products to pass therethrough. The module is interconnectable to horizontally adjacent modules to form the flooring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Sani-Floor, Incorporated
    Inventors: James G. MacLean, David L. Christian, Darell J. Long, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6938868
    Abstract: A support arm apparatus and method for stabilizing an outward, distal portion of a thin, rigid panel attached at an inward, vertical edge opposite the outward, distal portion to a fixed vertical surface, comprising a support bar having externally threaded first and second ends and formed at an elbow angle nearer the first end; a first mounting assembly installed on the first end of the support bar for attaching the first end of the support bar to the thin panel at a first location thereon; and a second mounting assembly installed on the second end of the support bar for attaching the second end of the support bar to the fixed vertical surface at a second location thereon; wherein the externally threaded first and second ends of the support bar enable adjustment of the first and second mounting assemblies respectively along a longitudinal axis of each first and second end of the support bar to stabilize the outward, distal portion of the thin panel at a predetermined panel angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Charles Pence
  • Patent number: 6834401
    Abstract: A shower door system in knocked down from including: a door (4) and optionally one or more return panels (2, 3) for forming a shower enclosure, having a pre-installed shower mixer valve (14) mounted in a frame member (7) of the shower door system, a pre-installed shower rose (10) or shower rose connection fitting mounted in a frame member (7) of the shower door system and pre-installed plumbing from the mixer valve (9, 14), within a frame member (7) or members, to the shower rose (10) or shower rose connection fitting, so that when the shower door system is subsequently assembled and installed against a wall, or in a corner between two walls, to form a shower enclosure with a frame member (7) adjacent a wall, water supply plumbing to the shower (9, 10, 14) may pass from the wall directly to the frame member (7) to connect to the shower mixer valve (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: John Hatrick-Smith
  • Patent number: 6817144
    Abstract: Method for forming an enclosure of the type having a plurality of enclosure panels and at least one door, comprising: providing a first flexible profile element (12) web (14) dividing said element into an upper channel (16) bounded by a pair of spaced-apart, upwardly extending arms (18, 20) of unequal height, and a lower channel (22) bounded by a pair of spaced-apart downwardly extending legs (24, 26) being provided with an inwardly directed flange (28) for receiving and retaining at least one rigidifying metallic strip element (30), said upper arms (18, 20), having inwardly directed interfacing portions (32) for receiving and retaining an enclosure panel (34) inserting a metallic strip (30) into said lower channel (22) formed in said flexible profile element (12) to form a rigid composite base element; and inserting a plurality of enclosure panels in said upper channel to form the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: MTD Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Aharon Tavivian
  • Publication number: 20040154232
    Abstract: Fixture guard panels and systems provide protection for fixtures such as tubs and showers. The fixture guard panels may have a variety of configurations such as including an enclosure formed of a flexible material that contains a padding layer. The panel may be placed adjacent the fixture such that the panel protects the fixture from impacts and abrasions. The panel may include individual sheets of material to enclose padding, may include padding without an enclosure, or may include an individual sheet without padding. The individual sheets may be materials such as polyethylene and/or non-skid rubber. For panels with non-skid rubber, the panel may be positioned so that the non-skid rubber portion contacts the fixture and will not skid. Panels may include flexible sheets with adhesive that adheres to the fixture, such as upon vertical fixture surfaces. Additionally, multiple panels may be included as a system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: Fixture Guards International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Kenny, Steve Schneider, Russell W. Rice, Michael Socha, Richard Todd Spurlin, Stan Hunt, Jack Garbow
  • Patent number: 6735793
    Abstract: A prefabricated block for use in the construction of water containment areas, such as showers, tubs, pools and the like is provided. This block is designed to facilitate rapid, consistent construction while maintaining maximum water containment. In preferred embodiments, this block has a sloped surface for water-shedding as well as a slot for receiving the pan or liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Edward T. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6698037
    Abstract: The shower structure comprises a base for containing water, two panels and a two-part elongated joint. The base comprises a doorstep, a base edge and a bottom. The base edge has an inner portion lower than upper surface of the doorstep. Each panel has a first panel edge provided with an inner portion for contact with the inner portion of the base edge for fitting the base and the panel in a watertight manner, a second panel edge also provided with an inner portion. The joint includes an outer part having, along its length, two distal joint edges. Each joint edge is adapted for connection to the inner portion of the second panel edge for fitting the panel and the outer part of the joint together. An inner part of the joint is connected to the outer part for sealing the base and panels together in a watertight manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Investhor 2000 Inc.
    Inventor: Michel Lippé
  • 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: 6681417
    Abstract: A therapeutic shower enclosure is comprised of a bottom wall, sidewalls a top wall and a door assembly in the sidewalls for access to the enclosure. An air blower is mounted above the top wall in communication with one or more air return orifices in the top wall. An air distribution channel is in communication with the air blower and at least one air injecting orifice is provided in the top wall and communicates with the enclosure. A heater is provided in the air distribution channel for heating convected air therein to a temperature of up to about 75° C. to provide a stream of hot dry air circulating in the enclosure about a person's body standing therein whereby to cause the person's body to transpire and provide a therapeutic effect of shedding toxins through the skin. In combination with the hot dry air treatment there is available a chromotherapeutic and luminotherapeutic light treatment and an ion and ozone generator to inject ions and ozone in the hot dry air stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Gestion Ultra International Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Brunelle, Stéphane Baron, Marc Beland, Henri Veyrie, Patrick Lemay, Stéphane Bilodeau
  • Publication number: 20030188379
    Abstract: A bathing enclosure wall panel and framing therefor are disclosed. In one embodiment there is a frosted, translucent, colored acrylic that is backed by a mirroring metal such as aluminum. There can also be a waterproofing paint layer behind the reflective material, as well as a cellulosic backing layer to reduce flexing. The material reflects light but does not present a risqué appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Brian D. Cowell, Richard A. Olson, Mark A. Rothwell
  • Patent number: 6625825
    Abstract: A shower stall configured to receive a removable bathing tub such that the shower stall does not have to be modified when the removable bathing tub is installed or removed, wherein the shower stall is easily converted from a shower stall and bathing tub combination to a shower stall standing alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: GFM, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Groner, Richard W. Schmader, Brian Milford
  • Patent number: 6618871
    Abstract: A shower door assembly includes a swingable door panel mounted to a stationary side enclosure panel by a pair of hinge assemblies that are transversely adjustable to correct for out-of-plumb conditions. The hinge assemblies include pocketed stationary hinges capping the ends of the side panel and moveable hinges mounted to the door panel in a slidable slot and pin connection. The side panel is mountable to an enclosure wall by an upright wall jamb defining a track in which can slide a jamb pin disposed through the side panel. The wall jamb is shorter than the side panel and mounts accessory attachments at its upper end, such as a robe hook and a razor holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Thomas H. Kopacz, Michael A. Kobilic, Kristina J. Genslak
  • Patent number: 6567999
    Abstract: A shower stall with integral tanning lights is provided. The shower stall has two tanning light units mounted on two adjacent walls of the shower, each containing tanning bulbs behind tempered glass panels. The panels are securely fastened with waterproof gasketing, and are flush mounted into the bath or shower unit stall wall. A waterproof control panel provides for control of the tanning lights and utilizes a timer to prevent over exposure. Other components necessary for proper operation, such as ballasts, reflectors, wiring and the like are mounted behind the shower or bath stall wall, in the wall stud cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Keith L. Thurner
  • Publication number: 20020157325
    Abstract: A corner seam comprising a first receiving region, a second receiving region and a face. The first receiving region includes a first and second end. The second receiving region includes a first and a second end. The first ends of each of the receiving regions substantially converge toward each other. Additionally, at least one of the first and second receiving regions includes a channel capable of receiving at least a portion of at least a partially planar material therein. The face extends from the second end of the first receiving region to the second end of the second receiving region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Mark Wayne Domanico
  • Patent number: 6434764
    Abstract: A joint for a molded tub and surround which is formed of a multiple of portions. Mating wall surfaces are formed on both wall portions which extend generally parallel to the wall portions. An outer generally trapezoidal pair of surfaces are formed laterally spaced from the joint to engage a pair of parallel engagement surfaces substantially perpendicular to said first and second wall portions, and an angled engagement surface between said parallel engagement surfaces. One or more clips are received on the trapezoidal surfaces to further urge the surfaces into contact. The clip biases the two wall portions into contact such that there is a water tight seal at the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Mirolin Industries Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph Primucci
  • Patent number: 6415462
    Abstract: Apparatus for supporting heavy glass panels in a bathing enclosure without opaque metal frames or metal clips. The supporting apparatus includes transparent plastic support brackets and fasteners that attach to the heavy glass panels. These brackets and fasteners are used in a panel assembly to join an adjacent wall or pan to a fixed glass panel or panels and to join adjacent fixed glass panels to each. Although not relied on for support, clear sealant in the joints of the assembly enhances the overall integrity of the support. The combination provides dependable support while giving the enclosure a more transparent look. The brackets and fasteners are preferably molded of clear polycarbonate, which has the characteristics of transparency, strength, and moisture resistance needed, and the sealant is preferably silicone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: American Shower Door
    Inventor: Edward A. Perry
  • Patent number: 6363547
    Abstract: Apparatus for supporting heavy glass panels in a bathing enclosure without opaque metal frames or metal clips. The supporting apparatus includes transparent plastic support brackets and fasteners that attach to the heavy glass panels. These brackets and fasteners are used in a panel assembly to join an adjacent wall or pan to a fixed glass panel or panels and to join adjacent fixed glass panels to each. Although not relied on for support, clear sealant in the joints of the assembly enhances the overall integrity of the support. The combination provides dependable support while giving the enclosure a more transparent look. The brackets and fasteners are preferably molded of clear polycarbonate, which has the characteristics of transparency, strength, and moisture resistance needed, and the sealant is preferably silicone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: American Shower Door, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward A. Perry
  • Patent number: 6301725
    Abstract: A shower seat for installation within a corner of a shower stall. The shower seat may be constructed from a wide variety of rigid materials and is polygonal in shape. A horizontal corner strip of backboard of shower walls within the shower stall is removed to form a slot. A back portion of the shower seat is inserted into the slot such that the edges are against vertical wall studs supporting the backboard of the shower walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Brian Harvey
  • Patent number: 6256936
    Abstract: A pre-fabricated module includes a counter-top having a front access edge, side portions and a rear portion. A sink is disposed in the counter-top. A perimeter wall extends upward from the side and rear portions of the counter-top. A ceiling spans the perimeter wall above the counter-top. The module is preferably constructed as a one piece integrally molded structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Wellness, LLC
    Inventors: Earl S. Swensson, David S. Gilbert, George P. McAllister, Jr., Joseph L. Miles, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6058659
    Abstract: An arrangement for a sanitary floor in bathrooms, laundries or the like where the floor comprises at least one fall inclined toward at least one floor drain. The upper layer of the floor comprises at least two separate, adjacent, rectangularly formed block elements. At least one of the block elements includes the floor drain. Each block element has a lower surface which is parallel with a bedding that supports the block elements. Each block element also has an upper surface which inclines or is inclined a predetermined angle towards the floor drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Dan Astrom
  • Patent number: 6052845
    Abstract: An apparatus to be used in a shower stall, comprising a single pour cultured marble slab 10 whereby the slab is placed horizontally and is shaped such that four edges 11A, 11B, 12A and 12B will fit into the corner of and will be supported by the walls of the shower stall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Brian Harvey
  • Patent number: 6038716
    Abstract: A condensation trap for a shower cubicle, comprises a generally convex cover for the cubicle, the cover having inner and outer walls spaced apart from each other, the inner wall having an opening in the uppermost part thereof and the outer wall having a plurality of openings adjacent to the lower edge of the trap in contact with the cubicle. Drainage holes are provided for discharging condensed water from between the walls into the shower cubicle. The trap reduces water vapor in the room in which the shower cubicle is installed, thereby reducing the effects of dampness caused by condensed water vapor on the surfaces of the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Jeffrey Burnham
  • Patent number: 6023889
    Abstract: An adjustable wall jamb is disclosed which can compensate for a variety of variations in wall structures when fitting a panel member thereto. One adjustable wall jamb is for a shower enclosure and affords a channel into which a portion of the wall panel is sealed, and thus provides a "floating" type seal without contacting an end of the adjustable wall jamb. The adjustable wall jamb is formed as a support post and is telescopingly fitted into a stud jamb. In an alternative embodiment, there is a one-piece adjustable wall jamb having securing flanges and sealing fingers formed as a one-piece unit. This can be utilized in conjunction with the square fitment of a panel to a wall, a corner construction, or an angled construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Husting, Thomas A. Bonnell
  • Patent number: 5941504
    Abstract: A foot actuated flow control valve connected to a power supply for controlling the flow of a liquid substance through a water supply line to a faucet. The foot actuated flow control valve includes a bypass conduit connected to the water supply line; an electric switch connected to control a flow of water through the bypass conduit and a foot pedal connected between the electric switch and the power source. The electric switch includes a first terminal connected to a negative terminal of the power supply and a second terminal. The foot pedal includes a first terminal connected to a positive terminal of the power supply, a second terminal connected to the second terminal of the electric switch and a contact element connected to the first terminal of the foot pedal. When a pressure is applied to the foot pedal the contact element is caused to contact the second terminal of the foot pedal connecting the electric switch to the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventors: Vasile I. Toma, Mihaela Toma
  • Patent number: 5768721
    Abstract: An emergency shower apparatus comprising a deluge shower positioned in the vicinity of a wall, a removable access panel, a valve located behind the access panel having an open position and a closed position, and a shower control lever movable between an open position, in which the valve is open, and a closed position, in which the valve is closed, wherein the shower control lever does not project substantially from the wall when the shower control means is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Guardian Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Kersten
  • Patent number: 5671489
    Abstract: A bathing enclosure comprises a base section and two wall sections. The wall sections are mounted on the base section and are joined by a complimentary tongue and groove. The tongue and groove form a vertical seam which is water-tight, eliminating the need for sealing material. The two-piece wall design provides ease in installation and allows access to areas behind the wall sections it desired or necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: Kenneth Salach
  • Patent number: 5664264
    Abstract: A system for attaching two parts of a shower enclosure together which eliminates screw type fasteners and affords ease of fastening. The system includes a locking bar positioned in a cavity of a shower enclosure structural member wherein the bar can move transversely on the upper surface of another shower enclosure member when in a first position but when in a second position the bar restrains transverse movement. In a preferred embodiment, the locking bar is rotated on its longitudinal axis to the second position to cause the locking bar to deform a portion of the upper surface as well as move past and be retained in an overcenter position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Steven J. Duero
  • Patent number: 5642959
    Abstract: A bearing element for a substantially panel-like component having a support rail adjustably arranged thereon. The support rail may be connected to another bearing element of another component. The bearing element includes a recess in which the support rail is received at least in part. The bearing element includes a base member fastened by means of a pressure element to the component. The support rail may have a straight or angular shape and may include a hinge or joint in its central portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: Temotrans, B.V.
    Inventor: Hans-Gerd Greferath
  • Patent number: 5545446
    Abstract: A transparent or translucent bath or shower panel includes a laminate of two layers of resin-impregnated fiberglass which are transparent or translucent, and a non-woven tissue arranged between the fiberglass layers and provided with any desired decorative pattern which can be viewed through either one of the fiberglass layers, and yet which is protected from contact with water and water vapor by the fiberglass layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventors: Hon Y. Looi, Phuay E. Teo
  • Patent number: 5542218
    Abstract: A corrosion-resistant self-supported frame of a pre-formed shape, to which a mortar substrate and ceramic tile is applied, in order to produce corner seats and trays. The base unit (1) connects to vertical surfaces by fasteners through mounting holes (3). A mortar support flange (5) provides shape of bonding surfaces for ceramic tile as well as support for the applied substrate (6b). The substrate (6b) is reinforced by mortar penetration holes (4), allowing monolithic connection of all substrate materials (6). A drain hole (2) allows for the elimination of moisture from the base unit (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Innovis Corporation
    Inventor: Wade D. Rompel
  • Patent number: 5473843
    Abstract: A joint between an upper wall part and a lower wall part of a modular tub/shower unit includes a recessed band adjacent to but spaced from the lowermost edge of the upper wall part. A further band is recessed at the uppermost edge of the lower wall part with the vertical height of that band being greater than the vertical height of the recessed band in the upper wall part and greater than a band at the lowermost edge which is not recessed, The lowermost band of the upper wall part is then adhesively attached to the uppermost edge and a part of the recessed band of the part by a double sided adhesive tape the covering of which is pulled through the gap between these parts. The adhesive tape provides the only sealant necessary for waterproofing the joint and provides the only structural strength necessary. The groove above the lowermost band of the upper wall part allows the upper wall part to be maneuvered into the required position by finger engagement into the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Fiat Products Ltd.
    Inventors: Joel A. LaRoche, William J. Critchley, Steve G. Mardero
  • Patent number: 5437303
    Abstract: An assembly for containing fluid leaking or overflowing from an appliance to a destination of waste fluid. The fluid containing assembly comprises a wall protecting member, a floor protecting member, and an overflow conduit for channeling water to the destination of waste fluid. The appliance is placed on the floor protecting member with the wall protecting member between the appliance and the wall. The wall and floor protecting members are fluid impermeable. The wall protecting member has a fluid supply orifice, a waste orifice, and a power supply orifice formed therein. The floor protecting member has an overflow orifice formed therein. The orifices in the wall protecting member and floor protecting member are arranged such that fluid leaks or overflows from the appliance are directed from the wall and floor and into the overflow conduit to the destination of waste fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventor: Addison M. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5435021
    Abstract: An open bottom shower wall liner, adapted to be removably placed over the walls above a tub or the walls of a shower stall, which uses a structurally rigid contained framework, collectively formed from an "L-shaped" bottom reinforcing member which is rigid and one or more three-dimensional corner members which are structurally strong, and where, said structurally rigid contained framework is attached to a limp and flimsy, elastic and extensible polyolefin film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Inventor: James Williams
  • Patent number: 5336354
    Abstract: There is disclosed a transparent or translucent bath or shower panel, and a method of its manufacture, which comprises a laminate of two layers of resin-impregnated fibreglass which are transparent or translucent, and a non-woven tissue arranged between the fibreglass layers and provided with any desired decorative pattern which can be viewed through either one of the fibreglass layers, and yet which is protected from contact with water and water vapour by the fibreglass layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventors: Hon Y. Looi, Phuay E. Teo
  • Patent number: 5311707
    Abstract: A joint between an upper wall part and a lower wall part of a modular tub/shower unit includes a recessed band adjacent to but spaced from the lowermost edge of the upper wall part. A further band is recessed at the uppermost edge of the lower wall part with the vertical height of that band being greater than the vertical height of the recessed band in the upper wall part and greater than a band at the lowermost edge which is not recessed. The lowermost band of the upper wall part is then adhesively attached to the uppermost edge and a part of the recessed band of the part by a double sided adhesive tape the covering of which is pulled through the gap between these parts. The adhesive tape provides the only sealant necessary for waterproofing the joint and provides the only structural strength necessary. The groove above the lowermost band of the upper wall part allows the upper wall part to be maneuvered into the required position by finger engagement into the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Fiat Products Ltd.
    Inventors: Joel A. LaRoche, William J. Critchley, Steve G. Mardero
  • Patent number: 5121511
    Abstract: A shower device includes a plurality of nozzles provided to a housing, supplied hot and cold water to the nozzles being turned on and off through solenoid valves which are provided in a self-maintaining type and are supplied with a power from a low voltage power source through a controller. The device is thereby made simple and easy in its installation and to be operable for a long term with considerably low voltage and small power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jyunichi Sakamoto, Tetsuya Onkura, Tsukasa Harada