BATH QUILT AND A METHOD OF USING SAID BATH QUILT

A bath quilt is disclosed along with a method of using the bath quilt. The bath quilt includes first, second and third liquid-impermeable layers all joined together. The first and third layers are formed from a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fiber while the second or middle layer is formed from a plurality of hydrophilic, polyester fibers. The second layer is thicker than either the first or third layer. The bath quilt has a specific gravity of about 1.0 such that it can float on water. All three layers of the bath quilt have an open pore structure and the bath quilt has a flexural rigidity of from between 90 μNm to 95 μNm.

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Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a bath quilt designed to overlay a person bathing in a bathtub to provide warmth and comfort, along with a method of using the bath quilt.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bathtubs are tubs designed for bathing. When bathing in a bathtub, many people prefer to sit or recline so as to relax in the warm water. However, conventional bathtubs are typically too short for an adult to immerse his or her total body in the warm water. Of course, the head must remain above water. If the feet are submerged, the neck, shoulders and part of the torso are exposed, and if the person reclines lower in the bathtub, his or her knees tend to flex and are located above the water. Sometimes both the shoulders and the flexed knees are exposed. If there's a draft in the room, the exposed portion of the person's body is chilled, which detracts from the comfort and relaxation the bather seeks.

One can try to drape the exposed portion of his or her body with a towel or blanket. However, while providing a limited shield from direct exposure to the cool air, such makeshift measures still leave the body chilled. Also, a person usually tends to move somewhat about in the bathtub, such as from a sitting position to a reclined position, and vice versa. This means that the exposed portion of the body changes from his or her knees to his or her neck and shoulder area. It is difficult and annoying for the bathing person to keep moving the towel around to accommodate the exposed portion of the body. Another makeshift measure involves using hot packs. The hot packs are preheated in a microwave oven or in a pan of hot water. The hot packs are then wrapped in a towel, sheet or other wrapper, before being draped over the exposed portion of the body when bathing. A third alternative is for a bathing person to cover his or her body in a plastic sheet which is not comfortable against the skin and which offers very little in the way of thermal insulation. A fourth option involves the use of an electric blanket. However, this is not recommended because electric blankets are very large and pose a potential safety hazard when brought in contact with water.

Consequently, there is a need for a warm and comfortable bath quilt for covering the part of the body that remains exposed while a person is sitting or reclining in a bathtub.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, this invention relates to a bath quilt formed as a non-woven composite and a method of using the bath quilt. The bath quilt includes a first, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fibers. The polyolefin fibers have a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns and are randomly assembled to form the porous fabric. The first layer has an upper surface and a thickness. The bath quilt also includes a second, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyester fibers, The polyester fibers have a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns and are randomly assembled to form the porous fabric. The second layer has a thickness greater than the thickness of the first layer. The bath quilt further includes a third, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fibers. The polyolefin fibers have a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns. The third layer has a lower surface and a thickness which is less than the thickness of the second layer. The first, second and third layers are joined together with the second layer being sandwiched between the first and third layers to form an integral bath quilt having thermal insulating properties. The bath quilt has a uniform thickness ranging from between about 0.06 inches to about 1 inch. The bath quilt also has a specific gravity of about 1.0 such that it can float on water. Lastly, the bath quilt has an open pore structure throughout the first, second and third layers.

A method of using a bath quilt to keep a person warm and comfortable while bathing in a bathtub is also disclosed wherein the person has a body, including a neck and a head. The method includes the steps of filling a bathtub to a desired depth with water. The water is at an elevated temperature and has an upper surface. The person then enters the filled bathtub and a portion of the person's body extends above the upper surface of the water. The method also includes positioning the bath quilt over the upper surface of the water so as to essentially cover a major portion of the person's body except for the neck and the head. The bath quilt limits heat loss from the water and keeps the bathing person warm and comfortable over an extended period of time.

The general object of this invention is to provide a bath quilt which improves the bathing experience of a person by measurably slowing down the heat loss from the bath water and thereby keeps the exposed skin of the bather warmer for an extended period of time. A more specific object of this invention is to provide a method of using the bath quilt.

Another object of this invention is to provide a bath quilt which includes a pair of hand openings such that a person reclined in a filled bathtub can extend is his or her hands above the upper surface of the bath quilt.

A further object of this invention is to provide a bath quilt which includes a pair of hand openings each being closed by a cover flap.

Still another object of this invention is to provide a bath quilt which includes a neck opening which is located inward from a first end, and a longitudinal slit which extends between the first end and the neck opening.

Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a breathable bath quilt formed as a non-woven composite which is reusable, is not susceptible to mildew, and has an upper surface that can be printed.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the following description and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a bath quilt.

FIG. 2 is an end view of the bath quilt shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of a bath quilt.

FIG. 4 is a front view of a third embodiment of a bath quilt.

FIG. 5 is a front view of a fourth embodiment of a bath quilt.

FIG. 6 is an end view of an alternative embodiment of a bath quilt.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a slit having a seam formed at each end.

FIG. 8 is a front view of an oval shaped hand opening.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a circular hand opening.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the first layer showing a cover flap overlying an oval shaped hand opening.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the first layer showing an alternative cover flap overlying a circular hand opening.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a bather reclined in a bathtub and covered with the bath quilt depicted in FIG. 2.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of a bath room showing a bathtub and a bath quilt hanging on a shower fixture located above and at one end of the bathtub.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of a bath room showing a bathtub and a bath quilt hanging as a sidewall decoration above the bathtub.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, a bath quilt 10 is shown formed as a non-woven composite. “Bath Quilt” is a registered trademark of Intertwined Innovations, LLC of De Pere, Wis. By “bath quilt” it is meant a type of thermal bath cover, coverlet, blanket, towel, shroud, drape, cloth, etc. that is constructed of three or more layers. The bath quilt is a new class of product. The bath quilt 10 serves a dual function. First, the bath quilt 10 prevents the surrounding room temperature air (cooler air) from contacting the water in a bathtub, and second, the bath quilt 10 prevents heat from escaping from the warm or hot water in the bathtub. A bathtub is usually filled with water that is at an elevated temperature compared to the surrounding room temperature.

The bath quilt 10 has a longitudinal central axis X-X, a transverse central axis Y-Y, and a vertical central axis Z-Z, see FIG. 2. The bath quilt 10 can vary in size, thickness and shape. The bath quilt 10 generally has a length 1, measured parallel to the longitudinal central axis X-X, which can range from about 30 inches to about 72 inches. The bath quilt also has a width w, measured parallel to the transverse central axis Y-Y, which can range from about 24 inches to about 48 inches. The bath quilt 10 further has a thickness t, measured parallel to the vertical central axis Z-Z, which can range from between about 0.06 inches to about 1 inch. Desirably, the bath quilt 10 has a length l which can range from about 36 inches to about 60 inches, a width w which can range from about 24 inches to about 42 inches, and a thickness t which can range from between about 0.06 inches to about 0.5 inches. Even more desirably, the bath quilt 10 has a length l which can range from about 48 inches to about 60 inches, a width w which can range from about 24 inches to about 36 inches, and a thickness t which can range from between about 0.06 inches to about 0.25 inches.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the bath quilt 10 can vary in overall configuration. The bath quilt 10 is depicted in FIG. 1 as having a generally rectangular configuration with square corners 12. However, it could be manufactured to have any desired geometrical shape desired. For example, the bath quilt 10 could be rectangular, square, oval, elliptical, or have some other configuration. Desirably, a substantially rectangular shapes works well for most bathtubs.

In FIG. 3, an alternative embodiment of a bath quilt 10′ is depicted having a generally rectangular configuration with four rounded corners 14.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the bath quilt 10 can be void of any letters, numbers, words, graphs, charts, bar codes, phrases, images, patterns, textures, photos, icons, graphics, logos, designs, etc. as is depicted in FIG. 1. Alternatively, in FIG. 4, a third embodiment of a bath quilt 10″ is shown which contains an image 16. By “image 16” it is meant to include, but not to be limited to: one or more letters, numbers, words, graphs, charts, bar codes, phrases, images, patterns, textures, photos, icons, graphics, logos, designs, advertisements, artwork, etc. The image 16 can be anything imaginable to man. Likewise, the images 16 can vary. For example, the image 16 can include, but are not limited to: human beings, animals, physical objects, innate images, man-made articles or structures, natural objects and scenes, such as the water, the sky, the sun, the stars, the moon, the universe and/or parts thereof. It is also possible to include trademarks and/or service marks as the image 16, provided the trademark owner has consented to such use.

The image 16 can be applied to the bath quilt, 10, 10′ or 10″ in various ways known to those skilled in the art. For example, the image 16 can be added to the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ by being printed, such as by screen printing, offset printing, ink jet printing, etc; be painted, be drawn, be sewn, be stitched, be embossed, be stenciled, be lithographed, etc. Other ways of adding such images 16 or other information to the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″, which is known to those skilled in the art, can also be used.

The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can vary in color. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can be void of any color. Alternatively, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can be clear, be white, be black, or be of any color known to man. In addition, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can be opaque. By “opaque” it is meant impenetrable by light; neither transparent nor translucent. Furthermore, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can contain two or more colors.

The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can also vary in basis weight and surface area. The basis weight will partially depend upon the type of materials used to construct the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″, the thickness t of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″, and the overall size of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″. The surface area of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can range from about 6 square feet (sf) to about 24 sf. Desirably, the surface area of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can range from about 8 sf to about 20 sf. More desirably, the surface area of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can range from about 10 sf to about 18 sf.

Before discussing the construction of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″, it should be noted at the outset that references to “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “upper”, “lower”, in this description are merely used to identify the various elements as they are oriented in the Figures. These terms are not meant to limit the element which they describe, as the various elements may be oriented differently in various applications.

Referring to FIG. 2, the bath quilt 10 is an integral member. By “integral” it is meant a complete unit; entire. The bath quilt 10 is also breathable. By “breathable” it is meant permitting air to pass through. The bath quilt 10 has a first or top layer 18. This first layer 18 is liquid-permeable. By “liquid permeable” it is meant that the first layer 18 can be permeated or penetrated by a liquid, especially water. The first layer 18 can be formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of thermoplastic fibers. By “thermoplastic” it is meant becoming soft when heated and hard when cooled. Desirably, the thermoplastic fibers are hydrophilic. By “hydrophilic” it is meant having an affinity for water; readily absorbing water. The thermoplastic fibers can vary but desirably are polyolefin fibers. By “polyolefin” it is meant any of a class of polymers produced from a simple olefin (also called an alkene with the general formula CnH2n) as a monomer. More desirably, the thermoplastic fibers are polypropylene. By “polypropylene” it is meant any of various thermoplastic resins that are polymers of propylene.

Alternatively, the first layer 18 could be formed from a material that is not hydrophilic but has the ability to trap warm and/or hot water and act as an insulation layer. For example, a porous, synthetic nylon may be substituted for the thermoplastic fibers in the first layer 18.

The polyolefin fibers can vary in diameter. Desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns. More desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 30 microns. Even more desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 20 microns. Most desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 15 microns. As the diameter of the polyolefin fibers decrease, the fabric produced from such fibers usually becomes softer to the touch and less harsh. The polyolefin fibers can be formed or extruded using any known commercial process, such as spunbonding, meltblowing, spunblowing, etc. In such processes the extruded fibers are usually deposited onto a moving surface, such as a forming wire, a conveyor belt, a rotatable drum, a dual drum system, etc. in a random pattern. A vacuum chamber can be associated with the moving surface to remove excess air from the randomly collected fibers. In addition, the extruded filaments can pass through an aspirator where the filaments are attenuated into fibers before contacting the moving surface. Furthermore, some processes employs a bonder located downstream of the point where the plurality of fibers contact the moving surface so as to form mechanical, hydromechanical, thermal or chemical bonds in the fabric. Bonding adds strength and integrity to the fabric.

The randomly assembled fibers form a porous fabric. The pore size of the porous fabric can vary. Desirably, the pore size of the fabric ranges from between about 2 microns to about 30 microns. More desirably, the pore size of the fabric ranges from between about 2 microns to about 20 microns. Even more desirably, the pore size of the fabric ranges from between about 2 microns to about 15 microns. Most desirably, the pore size of the fabric is less than about 15 microns.

The first layer 18 has an upper surface 20. The first layer 18 also has a thickness t1 which can vary. The thickness t1 of the first layer 18 can range from between about 1 millimeter (mm) to about 5 mm. By “millimeter” it is meant a unit of length equal to one thousandth (10−3) of a meter, or 0.0394 inches.

The density of the first layer 18 can also vary. The basis weight of the first layer 18 should be greater than about 40 grams per square meter (gsm).

The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ is also drapeable. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ has a “flexural rigidity” of from between about 90 μNm to about 95 μNm. Desirably, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ has a “flexural rigidity” of from between about 91 μNm to about 94 μNm. More desirably, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ has a “flexural rigidity” of 92.6 μNm (micrometers). A “micrometer” is a unit of length equal to one thousandth (10−3) of a millimeter or one millionth (10−6) of a meter.

The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ was tested according to NWSP 090.1.RO Standard Test Method for Stiffness of Nonwoven Fabrics Using the Cantilever Test. This test yielded a flexural rigidity of between 90 μNm and 95 μNm. The specific number was 92.6 μNm. A sample of Neoprene was also tested and yielded a flexural rigidity of 289 μNm. The Neoprene sample was more than 3 times as stiff as the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ of this invention. Stated another way, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ was more than 3 times as drapeable as a bath blanket formed from Neoprene, such as that taught in Bowers, U.S. Patent Publication 2007/0113334 A1, published May 24, 2007.

It should be noted that the samples tested had no particular machine direction (MD) or cross direction (CD), so the test direction was arbitrarily picked as the machine direction (MD).

Still referring to FIG. 2, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ also includes a second layer 22 positioned immediately below the first layer 18. Desirably, the second layer 22 is secured to the first layer 18. The second layer 22 can be secured to the first layer 18 by various means known to those skilled in the art. For example, the second layer 22 can be laminated to the first layer 18. By “laminated” it is meant to unite two or more layers. The second layer 22 can also be secured to the first layer 18 by other means, including but not limited to: using a glue, using an adhesive, sealing, using heat, using pressure, using heat and pressure, needle punching, sewing, stitching, sonic bonding, spot bonding, ultrasonic bonding, ultrasonic sewing, etc. Sonobond Ultrasonics is a company that sells ultrasonic sewing machines that can seal, sew and/or trim non-woven and synthetic fabrics, Sonobond Ultrasonics has an office at 1191 McDermott Drive, West Chester, Pa. 19380.

The second layer 22 can be formed from a synthetic material. By “synthetic” it is meant that the material is obtained primarily from various man-made materials or from natural materials that have been further altered. Suitable synthetic materials include, but are not limited to: acetate fibers, acrylic fibers, cellulose ester fibers, modacryhc fibers, polyamide fibers, polyester fibers, polyolefin fibers such as polyethylene or polypropylene or a combination thereof, polyvinyl alcohol fibers, rayon fibers, polyethylene foam, polyurethane foam, and combinations thereof. Desirable synthetic materials, particularly fibers, may be selected from the group consisting of nylon fibers, rayon fibers, polyolefin fibers, polyester fibers, and combinations thereof. Polyolefin fibers are fibers selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polypentene, and combinations and copolymers thereof. More desired polyolefin fibers are fibers selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations and copolymers thereof.

By “polyester” it is meant any of numerous synthetic polymers produced by reaction of dibasic acids with dihydric alcohols. Polyester fibers are fibers selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate, and combinations and copolymers thereof.

More desirably, polyester fibers are fibers selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, and combinations and copolymers thereof. Most desirably, synthetic fibers include solid staple polyester fibers that include polyethylene terephthalate homopolymers.

Suitable synthetic materials may also include solid single component (i.e., chemically homogeneous) fibers, multiconstituent fibers (i.e., more than one type of material making up each fiber), and multicomponent fibers (i.e., synthetic fibers which comprise two or more distinct filament types which are somehow intertwined to produce a larger fiber), and combinations thereof. Desirable fibers include bicomponent fibers, multiconstituent fibers, and combinations thereof.

Such bicomponent fibers may have a core-sheath configuration or a side-by-side configuration. In either instance, the second layer 22 may be constructed of either a combination of fibers including the above-listed materials or fibers which themselves include a combination of the above-listed materials. The chemical percentages in the second layer 22 can include: about 60%-64.5% water; about 32.5%-37% styrene acrylic binder; about 1% of an anionic surfactant; about 1% of a pH stabilizer and about 0.5% of a water repellent. Desirably, the chemical percentages in the second layer 22 can include: about 64.5% water; about 33% styrene acrylic binder; about 1% of an anionic surfactant; about 1% of a pH stabilizer and about 0.5% of Sequpel water repellent. More desirably, the chemical percentages in the second layer 22 can include: 64.5% water; 33% styrene acrylic binder; 1% of an anionic surfactant; 1% of a pH stabilizer and 0.5% of Sequpel water repellent. The chemicals can be blended together separately in water in five minute intervals, then the chemicals and raw binder can be diluted in tap water and mixed together. Alternatively, the chemicals can be blended together using some other procedure. The binder can be applied through nip saturation or any other method known to those skilled in the art.

The second layer 22 is also liquid-permeable. The second layer 22 is formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic fibers. The pore size of the second layer 22 can range from between about 2 microns to about 15 microns.

The fibers in the second layer 22 can vary in diameter. Desirably, the diameter of the fibers in the second layer 22 can range from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns. More desirably, the diameter of the fibers in the second layer 22 can range from between about 1 micron to about 30 microns. Even more desirably, the diameter of the fibers in the second layer 22 can range from between about 1 micron to about 20 microns. Most desirably, the diameter of the fibers in the second layer 22 can range from between about 1 micron to about 15 microns. The fibers can be formed or extruded using any known commercial process. The fibers in the second layer 22 are randomly assembled to form the porous fabric.

The second layer 22 is absorbent although its affinity to water is rather limited. By “absorbent” it is meant a substance that is capable of absorbing water. The absorbent second layer 22 allows the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ to be saturated or otherwise dampened with water (either from the bathtub or a secondary source) to further assist in warming the bathing person who is sitting or reclining in the bathtub.

The polyester fibers of the second layer 22 have a denier ranging from between about 5 to about 10. Desirably, the polyester fibers of the second layer 22 have a denier ranging from between about 6 to about 9. More desirably, the polyester fibers of the second layer 22 have a denier ranging from between about 7 to about 8. Most desirably, the polyester fibers of the second layer 22 have a denier of 7. Denier is a unit of fineness for rayon, nylon, silk, and synthetic fibers based on a standard mass per length of 1 gram per 9,000 meters of yarn. The second layer 22 has a thickness t2 which can vary in dimension. The thickness t2 of the second layer 22 is greater than the thickness of the first layer 18. Desirably, the thickness t2 of the second layer 22 is at least twice the thickness of the first layer 18. More desirably, the thickness t2 of the second layer 22 is at least three times the thickness of the first layer 18. The thickness t2 of the second layer 22 can range from between about 1 millimeter (mm) to about 15 mm. Desirably, the thickness t2 of the second layer 22 can range from between about 1.5 millimeters (mm) to about 12 mm. More desirably, the thickness t2 of the second layer 22 can range from between about 2 millimeters (mm) to about 10 mm.

The density of the second layer 22 can also vary.

Still referring to FIG. 2, the bath quilt 10 also includes a third layer 24 positioned immediately below the second layer 22. Desirably, the third layer 24 is secured to the second layer 22. The third layer 24 can be secured to the second layer 22 by various means known to those skilled in the art, some of which are recited above. The third layer 24 is liquid-permeable. The third layer 24 is formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of thermoplastic fibers. The thermoplastic fibers can vary but desirably are polyolefin fibers. More desirably, the thermoplastic fibers are polypropylene. Desirably, the thermoplastic fibers are hydrophilic.

Alternatively, the third layer 24 could be formed from a material that is not hydrophilic but has the ability to trap warm and/or hot water and act as an insulation layer. For example, a porous, synthetic nylon may be substituted for the thermoplastic fibers in the third layer 24.

The polyolefin fibers can vary in diameter. Desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns. More desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 30 microns. Even more desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 20 microns. Most desirably, the diameter of the polyolefin fibers can range from between about 1 micron to about 15 microns. As the diameter of the polyolefin fibers decrease, the fabric produced from such fibers usually becomes softer to the touch and less harsh. The polyolefin fibers can be formed or extruded using any known commercial processes recited above.

The third layer 24 has a lower surface 26. The third layer 24 also has a thickness t3 which can vary. The thickness t3 of the third layer 24 can range from between about 1 mm to about 5 mm. The thickness t3 of the third layer 24 can be less than, equal to, or greater than the thickness t1 of the first layer 18. Desirably, the thickness t3 of the third layer 24 is equal to the thickness t1 of the first layer 18. Furthermore, the thickness t3 of the third layer 24 is less than the thickness t2 of the second layer 22. Desirably, the thickness t2 of the second layer 22 is about half the thickness of the third layer 24. More desirably, the thickness t3 of the third layer 24 is about a third of the thickness t2 of the second layer 22.

The density of the third layer 24 can also vary.

The basis weight of the third layer 24 should be greater than about 40 grams per square meter (gsm).

The first, second and third layers, 18, 22 and 24 respectively, are joined together with the second layer 22 being sandwiched between the first and third layers, 18 and 24 respectively, to form the integral bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ has thermal insulating properties in that it will prevent the surrounding room air from contacting and cooling the bath water, as well as preventing heat from the warm or hot bath water from escaping to the surrounding room air which is usually colder. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can have a uniform or a non-uniform thickness t throughout its entire surface area. Desirably, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ will have a uniform thickness t throughout its entire surface area. The thickness t of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can range from between about 0.06 inches to about 1 inch.

The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ has a specific gravity of about 1.0. Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the mass of a solid or liquid to the mass of an equal volume of distilled water at 4° C. (39° F.) or a gas to an equal volume of air or hydrogen under prescribed conditions of temperature and pressure. This characteristic allows the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ to float on the upper surface of the water in a bathtub.

It should be noted that the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ has an open pore structure throughout the first, second and third layers, 18, 22 and 24 respectively. This open pore structure allows the bath water to pass through all three layers, 18, 22 and 24 of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″. Since the second layer 22 is the only absorbent layer, and its affinity to water is rather limited, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ will not absorb water to the same extent as a cotton towel. This means that the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ will not become excessively heavy once it is wetted by the water. In addition, this means that the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ will air dry much faster than a cotton towel. An experiment conducted by the inventor showed that a bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ having a length of 60 inches and a width of 30 inches and a thickness t of less than about 0.5 inches air dried four times as quickly as a similar size cotton towel. In this experiment, the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ took 6 hours to air dry vs. 26 hours to air dry the cotton towel. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ is designed to air dry in about 3 hours when hung from a pair of hooks in a flat, open configuration, depending on its overall size. Alternatively, when the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ is hung from a single hook, what is commonly referred to as a roped configuration, it should be able to be air dried in about 4 to about 6 hours, depending on its overall size. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ is chemically formulated such that it can wick in water and then discharge the water while hanging from one or more hooks for a quick dry. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ can dry in about 3 hours or less when hung in an open configuration. The bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ is constructed such that it can be recharged, meaning it can be re submerged in the warm or hot bath water so that it absorbs the heat from the water so that the bather can enjoy the warmth of the bath quilt 10, 10′ or 10″ above his or her skin.

Referring again to FIG. 3, an alternative embodiment of a bath quilt 10′ is shown. The bath quilt 10′ has a generally rectangular configuration with a longitudinal central axis X1-X1 and a transverse central axis Y1-Y1. The bath quilt 10′ differs from the bath quilt 10 shown in FIG. 1 is several ways. First, the bath quilt 10′ has four rounded corners 14 instead of four square corners 12. The four round corners 14 provide the bath quilt 10′ with a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The radius used to form each of the four round corners 14 can vary. The four rounded corners 14 can be formed by various means known to those skilled in the art. For example, each of the four rounded corners 14 can be die cut.

The bath quilt 10′ also has a first end 28, a second end 30, and a pair of sides, 32 and 34, located between the first and second ends, 28 and 30 respectively. The bath quilt 10′ has a neck opening 36 formed through the thickness of the bath quilt 10′. The neck opening 36 can be formed by various means known to those skilled in the art. For example, the neck opening 36 can be die cut. The neck opening 36 can vary in size, and shape. As depicted, the neck opening 36 extends inwardly from the first end 28 towards the transverse central axis Y1-Y1. The neck opening 36 is arranged along the longitudinal central axis X1-X1 and is bifurcated by the longitudinal central axis X1-X1. In other words, the longitudinal central axis X1-X1 is coaxially aligned with the longitudinal dividing line of the neck opening 36.

The dimensions of the neck opening 36 can vary. The neck opening 36 has a length l1, measured parallel to the longitudinal central axis X1-X1, and a width w1, measured parallel to the transverse central axis Y1-Y1. The length l1 can range from between about 6 inches to about 12 inches while the width w1 can range from between about 6 inches to about 8 inches.

The bath quilt 10′ also has a pair of spaced apart slits 38, 38 formed through the thickness of the bath quilt 10′. By “slit” it is meant a long, straight, narrow cut or opening. Each of the pair of slits 38, 38 extends through the first, second and third layers. Each of the pair of slits 38, 38 is aligned along the transverse central axis Y1-Y1. Each of the pair of slits 38, 38 is spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis X1-X1. Furthermore, each of the pair of slits 38, 38 is aligned parallel to the longitudinal central axis X1-X1. The distance between the pair of slits 38, 38 can vary. Desirably, the distance between the pair of slits 38, 38 is from between about 8 inches to about 16 inches. More desirably, the distance between the pair of slits is about 12 inches. The pair of slits 38, 38 extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal central axis X1-X1, Each of the slits 38, 38 has a length l2 which can range from between about 4 inches to 7 inches. Desirably, each of the slits 38, 38 has a length l2 of about 5 inches. More desirably, each of the slits 38, 38 has a length l2 of about 6 inches. The pair of slits 38, 38 enables a person positioned in the bathtub, beneath the bath quilt 10′, to extend his or her hands up through the pair of slits 38, 38 so as to be able to grasp an item.

It should be understood that the pair of spaced apart slits, 38, 38 are not equivalent to circular or oval shaped openings, in that they do not allow heat from the warm bath water from passing through them when the bather's hand(s) are not extending through them.

The bath quilt 10′ further includes a third slit 40 formed through the first, second and third layers. The third slit 40 is coaxially aligned with the longitudinal central axis X1-X1. The third slit 40 is also situated between the transverse central axis Y1-Y1 and the second end 30. As depicted, the third slit 40 is positioned somewhat closer to the second end 30 than it is to the transverse central axis Y1-Y1. Desirably, the third slit 40 is spaced from between about 3 inches to 16 inches from the second end 30. More desirably, the third slit 40 is spaced from between about 4 inches to 12 inches from the second end 30. The third slit 40 has a length l3 which can range from between about 3 inches to 6 inches. Desirably, the third slit 40 has a length l3 of about 5 inches. More desirably, the third slit 40 has a length l3 of about 6 inches. The third slit 40 should be sufficiently long so as to be able to fit over the spray head of a shower fixture. The third slit 40 functions as a mechanism by which the bath quilt 10′ can be hung on a hook, post, projection, pipe, shower fixture, shower head, etc., or on some other outwardly extending member, to dry.

It should be noted that the third slit 40 is not designed as an opening through which the bather can extend one of his or her hands or feet. The third slit 40 is not equivalent to a circular or an oval shaped opening, in that it does not allow heat from the warm bath water from passing through it at any time.

The bath quilt 10′ is also depicted as having a pair of slits 42, 42 formed through the first, second and third layers. Each of the pair of slits 42, 42 is aligned approximately parallel to the longitudinal central axis X1-X1 and is offset therefrom. Each of the pair of slits 42, 42 is located adjacent to each of the two corners 14, 14 located adjacent to the second end 30.

Alternatively, one could form four slits 42, 42, 42 and 42 in the bath quilt 10′, if desired. When four slits 42, 42, 42 and 42 are present, each slit 42 can be positioned adjacent to each of the four corners 14, 14, 14 and 14 of the bath quilt 10′. Desirably, two slits 42, 42 will be present in the bath quilt 10′.

Each of the pair of slits 42, 42 has a length l4. The length l4 of each slit 42 can range from between about 1 inch to about 3 inches. Desirably, the length l4 of each slit 42 is about 2 inches. More desirably, the length l4 of each slit 42 is about 1.5 inches. Each of the pair of slits 42, 42 functions as a mechanism for hanging the bath quilt 10′ on a pair of raised hooks, posts, projections, pipes, etc. which are located around and above the bathtub, such as on a sidewall. Since it is not intended that either of the pair of slits 42, 42 would fit over a shower fixture or over the spray head of a shower, each of the pair of slits 42, 42 does not have to be as long as the slit 40.

Referring now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a bath quilt 10″ is shown. The bath quilt 10″ has a generally rectangular configuration with four square corners 12. The bath quilt 10″ has a longitudinal central axis X-X, a transverse central axis Y-Y, and a vertical central axis Z-Z. The bath quilt 10″ has a first end 28, a second end 30 and a pair of sides 32 and 34 located between the first and second ends, 28 and 30 respectively. A pair of slits 42, 42 is formed through the bath quilt 10″. Each of the pair of slits 42, 42 is located adjacent to each of the two corners 12, 12 located adjacent to the first end 28. Desirably, each of the slits 42, 42 is located within 3 inches of its respective corner 12 adjacent to the first end 28. In this embodiment, both of the pair of slits 42, 42 is required because it is intended that the bath quilt 10″ will be hung up on a pair of hooks, in an open configuration, on a wall adjacent to the bathtub. The reason for this is that the bath quilt 10″ contains one or more images 16. For example, the bath quilt 10″ could display decorative artwork or a design, a name, such as the name of a hotel or resort, a person's surname, an advertisement, a seasonal artwork, etc. In this case, the bath quilt 10″ serves a secondary function, that being as a decorative display or as a wall covering.

Referring to FIG. 5, still another alternative embodiment of a bath quilt 11 is shown. The bath quilt 11 has a generally rectangular configuration with a longitudinal central axis X2-X2 and a transverse central axis Y2-Y2. The bath quilt 11 has four rounded corners 14. The bath quilt 11 has a first end 28, a second end 30, and a pair of sides 32 and 34 located between the first and second ends, 28 and 30 respectively. The bath quilt 11 has a neck opening 44 formed through the first, second and third layers. The neck opening 44 is shaped as a circle having a diameter d. The diameter d can vary in dimension. Desirably, the diameter d of the neck opening 44 ranges from between about 5 inches to about 12 inches. More desirably, the diameter d of the neck opening 44 ranges from between about 6 inches to about 11 inches. Even more desirably, the diameter d of the neck opening 44 ranges from between about 7 inches to about 10 inches. Most desirably, diameter d of the neck opening 44 ranges from between about 8 inches to about 10 inches. The neck opening 44 is spaced inward from the first end 28 from between about 2 inches to about 12 inches. Desirably, the neck opening 44 is spaced inward from the first end 28 from between about 3 inches to about 12 inches. More desirably, neck opening 44 is spaced inward from the first end 28 by about 3 inches.

A longitudinal slit 46 is formed through the first, second and third layers. The longitudinal slit 46 extends from the first end 28 to the neck opening 44. The longitudinal slit 46 can be coaxially aligned with the longitudinal central axis X2 as shown, or be offset therefrom. The longitudinal slit 46 allows the two adjacent portions of the bath quilt 11 to be moved relative to one another so that a person can easily position the neck opening 44 of the bath quilt 11 around his or her neck.

The bath quilt 11 also includes a scent strip 48. The scent strip 48 can vary in shape and can have almost any geometrical configuration. The scent strip 48 is shown as an elongated rectangle with its length extending parallel to the transverse central axis Y2-Y2. The scent strip 48 can be located almost anywhere on the bath quilt 11. As depicted, the scent strip 48 is shown being secured to the upper surface 20 of the first layer 18 just below the neck opening 44. The scent strip 48 is located between the first end 28 and the transverse central axis Y2-Y2. The scent strip 48 can be coaxially aligned with the longitudinal central axis X2-X2 or be offset therefrom. The scent strip 48 can also be aligned parallel to the transverse central axis Y2-Y2 or be aligned at an angle thereto. The scent strip 48 provides a pleasant or aromatic aroma which can be smelled by the bathing person. By “aromatic” it is meant having an aroma; fragrant or sweet-smelling. The scent strip 48 can be constructed to provide the aromatic aroma when wetted by water or all the time, even when dry. Alternatively, the scent strip 48 can be affixed to the second layer 22, if desired.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 8, the bath quilt 11 further includes a pair of spaced apart hand openings 50, 50 formed through the thickness of the bath quilt 11. The distance between the pair of hand openings 50, 50 can vary. Desirably, the distance between the pair of hand openings 50, 50 is from between about 8 inches to about 16 inches. More desirably, the distance between the pair of hand openings 50, 50 is about 12 inches. Each of the pair of openings 50, 50 extends through the first, second and third layers. Each of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 is coaxially aligned with the transverse central axis Y2-Y2 and each of the pair of openings 50, 50 is spaced away from the longitudinal central axis X2-X2. The pair of hand openings 50, 50 extends essentially parallel to the longitudinal central axis X2-X2 Each of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 has an oval or elliptical shape, not a circular shape. By “oval” it is meant resembling an ellipse in shape. Each of the pair of openings 50, 50 has a length l5 and a width w5. The length l5 of each of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 can range from between about 4 inches to 7 inches. Desirably, each of the pair of openings 50, 50 has a length l5 of about 5 inches. More desirably, each of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 has a length l5 of about 6 inches. The width w5 of each of the pair of openings 50, 50 is less than the length l5. The width w5 of each of the pair of openings 50, 50 can range from between about 1 inch to 3 inches. Desirably, each of the pair of openings 50, 50 has a width w5 of about 2.5 inches. More desirably, each of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 has a width w5 of about 2 inches. The pair of hand openings 50, 50 enables a person, positioned in the bathtub beneath the bath quilt 11, to extend one of his or her hands up through each of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 so as to be able to grasp an item, such as a book or wash cloth.

It should be understood that the pair of hand openings 50, 50 are formed flush with the upper surface 20 of the bath quilt 11. The pair of hand openings 50, 50 are not equivalent to sleeves as depicted in FIG. 3 of U.S. Pat. No. 3,375,534 issued to Vieceli.

Referring again to FIG. 5, the bath quilt 11 further includes a third opening 52 formed through the first, second and third layers. The third opening 52 can vary in configuration but is shown as having an oval shape. The third opening 52 is coaxially aligned with the longitudinal central axis X2-X2. By “opening” it is meant an aperture. The third opening 52 is also situated between the transverse central axis Y2-Y2 and the second end 30. As depicted, the third opening 52 is positioned somewhat closer to the second end 30 than it is to the transverse central axis Y2-Y2. Desirably, the third opening 52 is spaced from between about 3 inches to 16 inches from the second end 30. More desirably, the third opening 52 is spaced from between about 4 inches to 12 inches from the second end 30.

The third opening 52 has a length l6 which can range from between about 3 inches to 6 inches. Desirably, the third opening 52 has a length l6 of about 5 inches. More desirably, the third opening 52 has a length l6 of about 6 inches. The third opening 52 should be sufficiently long so as to be able to fit over the spray head of a shower fixture. The third opening 52 functions as a mechanism by which the bath quilt 11 can be hung on a hook, post, projection, pipe, shower fixture, shower head, etc., or on some other outwardly extending member, to dry. The third opening 52 functions the same as the slit 40, described in FIG. 3.

The bath quilt 11 is also depicted as having a pair of openings 54, 54 formed through the first, second and third layers. Each of the pair of openings 54, 54 is aligned approximately parallel to the longitudinal central axis X2-X2 but each is spaced apart therefrom. The pair of openings 54, 54 is located adjacent to each of the two corners 14, 14 located adjacent to the second end 30. It should be understood that four openings 54, 54, 54 and 54 could be used, if desired. When four openings 54, 54, 54 and 54 are present, each of the openings 54 can be positioned adjacent to one of the four corners 14 of the bath quilt 11. Desirably, each of the openings 54 is spaced about 3 inches from its respective corner 14. The two openings 54, 54 can be cut into the bath quilt 11. Each of the pair of openings 54, 54 has a length l7. The length l7 of each of the openings 54, 54 can range from between about 1 inch to about 3 inches.

Desirably, the length l7 of each of the openings 54, 54 is about 2 inches. More desirably, the length l7 of each of the openings 54, 54 is about 1.5 inches. The two openings 54, 54 functions as a mechanism for hanging the bath quilt 11 on a pair of hooks, in an open configuration, above the bathtub, such as on a sidewall. Since it is not intended that any of the openings 54, 54 would fit over a shower fixture or over the spray head of a shower, each does not have to be as long as the opening 52.

It should be understood that the pair of spaced apart openings 54, 54 are located adjacent to the second end 30 of the bath quilt 11. The pair of openings 54, 54 are located adjacent to the two respective corners 14, 14 so that the bath quilt 11 can be hung from a pair of hooks in a flat, open configuration, see FIG. 14.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of still another embodiment of a bath quilt 11′ is shown. In this embodiment, the bath quilt 11′ includes a first layer 18 having an upper surface 20, a second layer 22, and a third layer 24. The first, second and third layers, 18, 22 and 24 are secured together as was explained above with reference to FIG. 2. In addition, the bath quilt 11′ includes a coating 56 applied to the upper surface 20 to facilitate printing letters, words, graphics and images thereon. The coating 56 can be aqueous or a solvent based coating applied to the upper surface 20 of the first layer 18. The coating 56 allows high quality images to be printed on the bath quilt 11′. The coating 56 can vary in composition. Various kinds of coating 56 which can be used are well known to those skilled in the art. The coating 56 can be applied in various ways, including but not limited to: spraying, brushing, dipping in a liquid solution, using ink jet technology, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 7, one of the pair of hand slits 38, 38, mentioned in relation to FIG. 3, is shown having a first end 58 and a second end 60. A seam 62 is formed across each of the first and second ends, 58 and 60 respectively. By “seam” it is meant a line of junction or ridge formed in a material. The seams 62, 62 limit or prevent each of the pair of slits 38, 38 from tearing or from being made longer through the repetitive use by a person extending their hands through the pair of slits 38, 38.

In FIG. 8, one of the pair of hand openings 50, 50 is shown. The opening 50 has an oval shape with a length l5 and a width w5. The length l5 is at least 5 inches in dimension and width w5 is aligned perpendicular to the length l5. The width w5 can vary. Desirably, the width w5 is at least about 3 inches or less in dimension.

In FIG. 9, an alternative embodiment of a hand opening 50′ is shown. The hand opening 50′ is shown in the shape of a circle having a diameter d1. The diameter d1 can vary in dimension. Desirably, the diameter d1 ranges from between about 4 inches to about 7 inches. More desirably, the diameter d1 ranges from between about 5 inches to about 6 inches. Even more desirably, the diameter d1 is about 5 inches. It should be understood that a pair of the hand openings 50′, 50′ would be utilized in the bath quilt 10′ or 11. The distance between the pair of hand openings 50′, 50′ can vary. Desirably, the distance between the pair of hand openings 50′, 50′ ranges from between about 8 inches to about 16 inches. More desirably, the distance between the pair of hand openings 50′, 50′ is about 12 inches.

It should be understood that the pair of hand openings 50, 50, see FIG. 5, or 50′, 50′, see FIG. 9, are formed flush with the upper surface 20 of the bath quilt 10′ or 11. The pair of openings 50, 50 or 50′, 50′ is not equivalent to sleeves as taught in U.S. Pat. No. 3,375,534 issued to Vieceli.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a portion of the upper surface 20 of the first layer 18 is shown wherein one of the oval shaped, hand openings 38, see FIG. 3, is completely covered or enclosed by a cover flap 64. It should be noted that both of the hand openings 50, 50 would have a cover flap 64 associated therewith.

Each cover flap 64 is sized to completely cover one of the pair of hand openings 50, 50. Each cover flap 64 is flat or planar in configuration. One end of each of the cover flaps 64, 64 is secured to the upper surface 20 of the bath quilt 11 by a bond 66. The bond 66 can be formed by various means well known to those skilled in the art. For example, the bond 66 can include, but is not limited to: a mechanical fastener, a thermal bond, an ultrasonic bond, a heat bond, a pressure bond, a heat and pressure bond, a chemical bond such as formed by an adhesive or a glue, etc. The cover flap 64 can be formed from various materials. The cover flap 64 could be formed from the same material used to construct the first layer 18, if desired. Desirably, the cover flap 64 is formed from a single layer of material. More desirably, the cover flap 64 is formed from a heat insulating material. The cover flap 64 functions to prevent heat from escaping through the each of the pair of oval hand openings 50, 50.

It should be understood that a pair of cover flaps 64, 64 is not needed when the pair of hand openings is shaped as the slits 38, 38, since the slits 38, 38 do not create large openings in the bath quilt 10′.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a portion of the upper surface 20 of the first layer 18 of a bath quilt is shown wherein one of the circular shaped, hand openings 50′, see FIG. 9, is completely covered or enclosed by a cover flap 68. It should be noted that both pairs of the circular openings 50′, 50′ would have a cover flap 68 associated therewith. Each of the pair of cover flaps 68, 68 is sized to completely cover one of the pair of circular openings 50′, 50′. The entire periphery of the cover flap 68 is secured to the upper surface 20 by a bond 70. Each of the cover flaps 68, 68 is flat or planar in configuration. The bond 70 can be formed by various means well known to those skilled in the art. For example, the bond 70 can include, but is not limited to: a mechanical fastener, a thermal bond, an ultrasonic bond, a heat bond, a pressure bond, a heat and pressure bond, a chemical bond such as formed by an adhesive or a glue, etc. The cover flap 68 can be formed from various materials. The cover flaps 68, 68 could be formed from the same material used to construct the first layer 18, if desired. Alternatively, each of the cover flaps 68, 68 could be formed from a heat insulating material. Each of the cover flaps 68, 68 contains a small central aperture 72 with a plurality of outwardly extending, radial slits 74. The size of the aperture 72 can vary. Desirably it is about 0.1 inches or slightly larger. The number of slits 74 can vary. Desirably, at least three slits 74, 74 and 74 are present. In FIG. 11, four radial slits 74, 74, 74 and 74 are shown. The slits 74 can be evenly spaced apart or be randomly spaced apart. In FIG. 11, each of the four radial slits 74, 74, 74 and 74 is equally spaced apart. As depicted, each of the four radial slits 74, 74, 74 and 74 is spaced 90° apart from an adjacent slit 74. The length of each of the slits 74 can vary. Desirably, the length of each slit 74 is about half of the diameter d1 of the circular opening 50′. Each pair of slits 74, 74 creates a pie shaped section 76. Four pie shaped sections 76, 76, 76 and 76 are shown in FIG. 11. The radial slits 74, 74, 74 and 74 allow a person to extend his or her hand through each of the cover flaps 68, 68. By this action, each of the four pie shaped sections 76, 76, 76 and 76 extends outward. As the person removes his or her hands, each of the four pie-shaped sections 76, 76, 76 and 76 return to their original closed position. By this action, each of the cover flaps 68, 68 prevents heat from escaping through one of the pair of circular hand openings 50′, 50′.

The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can be made to be disposable, where each would be used once and then discarded. Alternatively, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can be reusable where each can be used multiple times.

The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ has many unique features. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is breathable, has a quilt-like feel and texture, is drapeable, has zero specific gravity floatation, can absorb water, acts as a good barrier to prevent heat loss, is quick drying, and can be shaped to cover any size bathtub. In addition, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can float on the upper surface of the water, is non-toxic, is Ultraviolet (UV) light stable and therefore can be used outdoors in the sunlight, is stain resistant, is easy to wipe-off and clean, is quick drying, is land fill safe and is non-allergenic. Furthermore, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is non-suffocating, child safe, has cross-directional strength and is abrasive resistant (wet or dry), is chemically inert, has low thermal conductivity, has a melting point above 300° F., is light weight, non-mildewing, capable of being manufactured at high production speeds and is recyclable. By “mildew” it is meant any of various fungi that form a superficial, usually, whitish growth on plants and various organic material; a discoloration caused by fungi.

It should also be understood that the first layer 18 and the third layer 24 can be made to have the same color. Alternatively, the first layer 18 and the third layer 24 can have a different color. In addition, the texture of the first layer 18 can be identical or different from the texture of the third layer 24.

Applicant conducted an experiment in which he filled a bathtub with water to a depth of 5 inches. The temperature of the water in the bathtub was recorded at 112° F. The room temperature was recorded at 72° F. The temperature of the water was recorded after 15 minutes and a noticeable drop in water temperature was recorded. The experiment was repeated, except this time the 112 ° F. bath water was covered by a bath quilt 10′ which measured 30 inches by 60 inches in dimensions. The room temperature was again recorded at 72° F. After 15 minutes, the recorded temperature showed that the heat drop of the bath water was less than 50% when the bath quilt 10′ was utilized.

Lastly, some secondary uses for the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′, after it has served a reasonable time include, but are not limited to: being used as a collector item, a baby play area, a wall decoration, gifts, a car seat, a trunk protector, a cushioning member, a stuffing member, as insulation, as a picnic table cover, a beach mat, a cover for furniture that is being stored, etc.

Method

The method of using the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 12-14.

Referring to FIG. 12, the method of using a bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ to keep a bathing person 78 warm and comfortable in a bathtub 80 includes the steps of filling the bathtub 80 to a desired depth with water (not shown). The water can be at any temperature and any depth. Desirably, the water is at an elevated temperature, above room temperature. This means that the temperature of the water can range from between about 80° F. to about 115 ° F. Desirably, the temperature of the water ranges from between about 85° F. to about 110° F. More desirably, the temperature of the water can range from between about 90° F. to about 105° F. Even more desirably, the temperature of the water can range from between about 95° F. to about 100° F.

The depth of the water can range from a couple of inches to about 24 inches. The water has an upper surface. The person 78 enters the filled bathtub 80 and sits or reclines in the bathtub 80. In either position, due to the relatively short length of a standard bathtub 80, either the person's knees and a small portion of the adjacent legs and thighs, or a portion of the person's shoulders, torso, neck and head will extend above the upper surface of the water. Such exposed skin can get cold when the surrounding room temperature is below the temperature of the water.

The method also includes positioning the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ over the upper surface of the water so that it essentially covers a major portion of the person's body except for the neck and the head. Normally, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will cover at least about 90% of the person's body. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ serves to limit heat loss from the water and thereby keeps the person 78 warm and comfortable over an extended period of time.

It should be understood that the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ does not interfere with adding additional water to the bathtub 80. Normally, when the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is used, no additional warm water needs to be added to the bathtub. However, if a person wished to add additional water, water could be introduced through a faucet which is located above the upper surface 20 of the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′. Some of the incoming water can be absorbed by the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′. When the person 78 is done bathing or relaxing in the warm water, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is removed from the upper surface of the water. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can be temporarily bunched up into a corner of the bathtub or simply pushed to one side. The person 78 is then free to exit from the bathtub 80 unencumbered. The water remaining in the bathtub can then be drained out and the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can be hung up to dry.

Referring to FIG. 13, a method of hanging up the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ to dry is shown. Since the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can absorb water but has a low affinity for water, its weight will not change appreciably. In other words, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will not be heavy like a wet cotton towel. Instead, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will be relatively light and can be easily handled, even by a child over the age of ten. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ can be hung on a shower fixture 82 positioned several feet above the bathtub 80. The enlarged slit 40 or the enlarged opening 52 is sized to easily slide over a shower spray head 84 such that the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will hang on the adjoining pipe 86. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is designed to be air dried. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will normally be completely dry within about 4-about 6 hours. However, if one wished to place the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ in a dryer, this is also possible provided the heat setting is turned down. Another alternative is to hang the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ outside, such as on a clothes line.

Referring now to FIG. 14, an alternative way of hanging up the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ to dry is shown. In this embodiment, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is hung on a pair of small, spaced apart hooks 88, 88 extending out from a side wall 90. The hooks 88, 88 can be permanently attached or be mounted to the side wall 90 or be removably attached, such as by the use of suction cups. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is hung in a flat and open configuration on the sidewall 90. When hung in this fashion, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ also serves as a wall decoration.

It should be understood that the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ could be hung on a wall other than the sidewall 90. Furthermore, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ could be hung in a flat or open configuration from a horizontal bar that also supports the shower curtain (not shown). Desirably, the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ is hung above the bathtub 80 such that if any water drips down from the bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′, it will fall into the bathtub and not on the bath room floor. The bath quilt 10, 10′, 10″, 11 and 11′ will normally be completely dry within about 3 hours when it is hung from a pair of hooks, in an open configuration, mounted above the bathtub 80.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with several specific embodiments, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bath quilt formed as a non-woven composite comprising:

a) a first, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fibers, said polyolefin fibers having a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns, said plurality of fibers are randomly assembled to form said porous fabric, said first layer having a thickness ranging from between about 1 mm to about 5 mm, said first layer having a density greater than about 40 gsm, and said first layer having an upper surface;
b) a second, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyester fibers, said polyester fibers having a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns, said polyester fibers having a denier ranging from between about 5 to about 10, said plurality of polyester fibers being randomly assembled to form said porous fabric, and said second layer having a thickness which is at least twice the thickness of said first layer;
c) a third, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fibers, said polyolefin fibers having a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns, said plurality of fibers are randomly assembled to form said porous fabric, said third layer having a thickness ranging from between about 1 mm to about 5 mm, and said third layer having a thickness which is less than half of said thickness of said second layer, said third layer having a density greater than about 40 gsm, and said third layer having a lower surface; and
d) said first, second and third layers are joined together with said second layer being sandwiched between said first and third layers to form an integral bath quilt having thermal insulating properties, said bath quilt having a uniform thickness ranging from between about 0.06 inches to about 1 inch, said bath quilt having a specific gravity of about 1.0 such that it can float on water, said bath quilt is breathable and has an open pore structure throughout said first, second and third layers, and said bath quilt having a flexural rigidity of between 90 μNm and 95 μNm.

2. The bath quilt of claim 1 wherein a coating is applied to said upper surface of said first layer to facilitate printing letters, words, graphics and images thereon, and said second layer contains chemical percentages of from about 60% to 64.5% water; about 32.5% to 37% styrene acrylic binder; about 1% of an anionic surfactant; about 1% of a pH stabilizer and about 0.5% of a water repellent.

3. The bath quilt of claim 1 wherein said polyolefin fibers in said first and third layers are polypropylene fibers, said polyester fibers in said second layer have a denier ranging from between about 6 to about 9, and said bath quilt can be re submerged in warm water after having been removed from the bath water whereby said bath quilt again quickly absorbs some of said warm water and keeps a person positioned beneath said bath quilt warm.

4. The bath quilt of claim 3 further comprising a generally rectangular shape with four rounded corners and having a longitudinal central axis and a transverse central axis, and a pair of spaced apart slits formed through said first, second and third layers, said pair of slits being aligned along said transverse central axis and being offset from said longitudinal central axis, each of said pair of slits having a length of at least about 5 inches, and said pair of slits enabling a person positioned in said water, beneath said bath quilt, to extend one of his or her hands up through each of said pair of slits so as to be able to grasp an item.

5. The bath quilt of claim 4 further comprising a third slit formed through said first, second and third layers, said third slit being coaxially aligned with said longitudinal central axis, and said third slit functioning as a hanging mechanism whereby said bath quilt can be hung on a hook to dry.

6. The bath quilt of claim 1 further comprising a first end, a second end, and a pair of sides located between said first and second ends, said bath quilt having a neck opening formed therethrough which is spaced inward from said first end by at least about 3 inches, and having a longitudinal slit formed through said first, second and third layers which extends from said first end to said neck opening.

7. The bath quilt of claim 6 further comprising a generally rectangular shape with four rounded corners and a surface area ranging from between about 6 square feet to about 24 square feet, said second layer having a pore size ranging from between about 2 microns to about 15 microns, and said bath quilt having a pair of openings which extend through said first, second and third layers, each of said pair of openings located adjacent to one of said corners positioned adjacent to said second end, and said pair of openings permitting said bath quilt to be hung in an open configuration on a pair of hooks mounted to a wall above a bathtub.

8. The bath quilt of claim 1 further comprising a generally rectangular shape with four corners, said bath quilt having a longitudinal central axis, said bath quilt is breathable, said second layer is absorbent, said polyester fibers forming said second layer having a denier of 7, said first, second and third layers are joined together by ultrasonic bonds, said bath quilt having a first end, a second end, and a pair of sides located between said first and second ends, and a pair of openings which extend through said first, second and third layers, said pair of openings being aligned parallel to said longitudinal central axis, each of said pair of openings located adjacent to one of said corners positioned adjacent to said second end, and said pair of openings permitting said bath quilt to be hung in an open configuration on a pair of hooks mounted to a wall above a bathtub.

9. The bath quilt of claim 1 further comprising a scent strip secured to said upper surface of said first layer, and said scent strip providing an aromatic aroma when wetted by water.

10. A bath quilt formed as a non-woven composite comprising:

a) a first, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polypropylene fibers, said polypropylene fibers having a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns and randomly assembled to form said porous fabric, said first layer having a thickness ranging from between about 1 mm to about 5 mm, and said first layer having an upper surface;
b) a second, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyester fibers, said polyester fibers having a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns, said polyester fibers having a denier ranging from between about 6 to about 9, said plurality of polyester fibers being randomly assembled to form said porous fabric, and said second layer having a thickness which is at least twice the thickness of said first layer;
a third, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polypropylene fibers, said polypropylene fibers having a diameter ranging from between about 1 micron to about 50 microns, said third layer having a thickness which is less than half of said thickness of said second layer, and said third layer having a lower surface;
d) said first, second and third layers are joined together with said second layer being sandwiched between said first and third layers to form an integral bath quilt having thermal insulating properties, said bath quilt having a uniform thickness ranging from between about 0.06 inches to about 1 inch, said bath quilt having a specific gravity of about 1.0 such that it can float on water, and said bath quilt having an open pore structure throughout said first, second and third layers, and said bath quilt having a flexural rigidity of 92.6 μNm;
e) said bath quilt having a generally rectangular shape with four rounded corners and having a longitudinal central axis and a transverse central axis, and a pair of spaced apart openings formed through said first, second and third layers, said pair of openings being aligned approximately along said transverse central axis, said pair of openings extending essentially parallel to said longitudinal central axis and each having a length of at least about 5 inches, and said pair of openings enabling a person positioned beneath said bath quilt to extend one of his or her hands through each of said pair of openings so as to be able to grasp an item; and
f) a third opening formed through said first, second and third layers and aligned approximately along said longitudinal central axis, and said third opening functioning as a hanging mechanism whereby said bath quilt can be hung by said pair of openings in an open configuration on a pair of hooks mounted to a wall, to dry.

11. The bath quilt of claim 10 further comprising a first end, a second end, and a pair of sides located between said first and second ends, said bath quilt having a neck opening formed therethrough which is spaced inward from said first end by at least about 3 inches, and having a longitudinal slit formed through said first, second and third layers which extends from said first end to said neck opening.

12. The bath quilt of claim 10 wherein each of said pair of openings has an oval shape with a length of at least about 5 inches and a width, aligned perpendicular to said length, of at least about 2 inches.

13. The bath quilt of claim 12 further comprising a pair of cover flaps each secured to said upper surface of said first layer and each of said pair of cover flaps is sized to completely cover one of said pair of openings.

14. The bath quilt of claim 13 wherein said each of said pair of cover flaps contains a small central aperture with a plurality of outwardly extending radial slits, and said plurality of radial slits allows a person to extend one of his or her hands through each of said cover flaps.

15. The bath quilt of claim 10 wherein each of said pair of openings is spaced at least about 12 inches apart, and each of said pair of openings has a first end and a second end, and a seam is constructed tangentially to each of said first and second ends to prevent elongation of each of said openings.

16. A method of using a bath quilt to keep a person warm and comfortable while bathing in a bathtub, said person having a body including a neck and a head, said method comprising the steps of:

a) forming a bath quilt having a first, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fibers; a second, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyester fibers; a third, liquid-permeable layer formed from a porous fabric constructed of a plurality of hydrophilic, polyolefin fibers; said first, second and third layers being joined together with said second layer being sandwiched between said first and third layers to form an integral bath quilt having thermal insulating properties, said bath quilt having a specific gravity of about 1.0 such that it can float on water, said bath quilt having an open pore structure throughout said first, second and third layers, said bath quilt having a rectangular shape with four corners and having a longitudinal central axis, a first end, a second end, and first and second sides located between said first and second ends, said bath quilt having a pair of slits formed through said bath quilt, each of said pair of slits located approximate one of said corners located adjacent to said first end, and a third slit formed through said bath quilt and aligned along said longitudinal central axis and located approximate said second end;
b) filling a bathtub to a desired depth with water, said water being at an elevated temperature and having an upper surface;
having said person enter said filled bathtub and having said person's head and neck extend above said upper surface of said water; and
positioning said bath quilt over said upper surface of said water so as to essentially cover a major portion of said person's body except for said head and neck, said bath quilt limiting heat loss from said water and keeping said person warm and comfortable over an extended period of time, and said bath quilt capable of absorbing some of said water in said bathtub,

17. The method of claim 16 further comprising introducing additional water at an elevated temperature into said bathtub, said additional water being added above said bath quilt and some of said water being absorbed by said bath quilt.

18. The method of claim 16 further comprising hanging said bath quilt by said third slit on a shower fixture, said shower fixture located above said bathtub, and allowing said bath quilt to air dry.

19. The method of claim 16 further comprising hanging said bath quilt by said pair of slits in an open configuration on a pair of spaced apart hooks which are mounted to a wall extending upward from said bathtub, and said bath quilt functioning as a wall decoration.

20. The method of claim 16 further comprising removing said bath quilt from said upper surface of said water before said person exits said bathtub, hanging said bath quilt by said pair of slits in an open configuration on a pair of spaced apart hooks which are mounted to a wall extending upward from said bathtub.

Patent History
Publication number: 20170055778
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 10, 2016
Publication Date: Mar 2, 2017
Inventors: Mark R. Hetland (Appleton, WI), Katie E. Bischoff (De Pere, WI)
Application Number: 15/348,330
Classifications
International Classification: A47K 3/00 (20060101); A47G 9/02 (20060101);