URINAL PROTECTORS

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a urinal protector having a housing having a back portion configured to be removably coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a recessed area between the back portion and the front portion, the recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat; one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and one or more downwardly protruding members coupled to or formed as a part of the back portion.

Description

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.

BACKGROUND

Field

This disclosure relates generally to embodiments of a protective shield for use with a urinal.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are embodiments of a urinal protector comprising: a housing having a back portion configured to be removably coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a recessed area between the back portion and the front portion, the recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat; one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and one or more downwardly protruding members coupled to or formed as a part of the back portion, the one or more downwardly protruding members configured to engage the wall when the back end is coupled to the wall.

In some embodiments, the one or more downwardly protruding members extend below the one or more magnets. In some embodiments, a ratio of a height from a top of the housing to a bottom of the one or more downwardly protruding members to a depth from a back of the back portion to a front of the front portion is at least ¼. In some embodiments, a ratio of a height from a top of the housing to a bottom of the one or more downwardly protruding members to a depth from a back of the back portion to a front of the front portion is within a range of ⅛ to ½. In some embodiments, the one or more downwardly protruding members extend comprise a back surface that is oriented at a non-perpendicular angle with respect to a floor of the recessed area. In some embodiments, the non-perpendicular angle is within a range of 92.5 degrees to 102.5 degrees, such that, when the back surface of the one or more downwardly protruding members is in full contact with the wall, and no external load is applied to the housing, the floor of the recessed area will tend to be tilted toward the wall. In some embodiments, the back portion of the housing comprises a recess shaped to accept a metal bar that is attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the metal bar. In some embodiments, the one or more downwardly protruding members extend below the recess shaped to accept the metal bar. In some embodiments, the recessed area is configured to retain the absorbent mat in a removable tray that is shaped to fit at least partially within the recessed area. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the removable tray. In some embodiments, the recessed area is configured to directly retain the absorbent mat without a removable tray.

According to some embodiments, a urinal protector comprises: a housing having a back portion configured to be coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a first recessed area between the back portion and the front portion; and a tray shaped to fit at least partially within the first recessed area of the housing, the tray comprising a second recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat.

In some embodiments, the tray comprises a disposable liquid impermeable material. In some embodiments, the tray comprises a pressed paper with a wax coating. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the absorbent mat. In some embodiments, the first recessed area of the housing comprises a floor having a plurality of openings passing therethrough, and wherein the second recessed area of the tray comprises a solid floor. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to be removably coupled to the wall. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises: one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and wherein the back portion of the housing comprises a recess shaped to accept a metal bar that is attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the urinal protector further comprises the metal bar.

Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a urinal protector comprising a housing having a first recess configured to retain an absorbent mat, and a drawer slidable within the housing between an open position and a closed position, the drawer having a second depression configured to retain one or more absorbent mats.

In some embodiments, the drawer can be removable from the housing. In some embodiments, the drawer can be configured to slide along rails on an inner surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the urinal protector can further comprise a plurality of absorbent mats located in the second depression. In some embodiments, the housing can have a larger footprint than the drawer. In some embodiments, the drawer can comprise an extension configured to assist a user in transitioning the drawer between the open position and the closed position. In some embodiments, the urinal protector can be configured to releasably attach to a wall through the use of one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the drawer can be at least partially enclosed on at least four sides when in the closed position. In some embodiments, the drawer can be at least partially enclosed on at least five sides when in the closed position. In some embodiments, the drawer can be made of a disposable material.

Also disclosed herein are embodiments of an absorbent mat comprising a first layer of airlaid, a layer of superabsorbent polyacrylated starch disposed on the first layer of airlaid, a second layer of airlaid disposed on the layer of superabsorbent polyacrylated starch, and a layer of tissue disposed on the second layer of airlaid.

Further disclosed herein are embodiments of a roll of a plurality of the absorbent mats disclosed herein.

Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a floor shield assembly comprising: a frame structure comprising: an upper frame portion; and a lower frame portion; wherein the upper and lower frame portions are connected by an attachment structure; and wherein the upper frame portion is configured to move between an open and a closed configuration; at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure when the upper frame portion is in the closed configuration; and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall; wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.

In some embodiments, the bracket comprises a container defining a cavity for receiving replacement mats. In some embodiments, the container comprises at least one removable boss for removal and replacement of the replacement mats. In some embodiments, the frame structure is configured to move horizontally with respect to the bracket. In some embodiments, at least one of the top or bottom portions of the frame structure comprises at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the at least one fastening element comprises a locking pin or snap. In some embodiments, the attachment structure is a hinge. In some embodiments, the frame structure is configured to rotate with respect to the bracket about an axis. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly further comprises a releasable retainer attached to a bottom of the lower frame portion and configured to secure a mat to the frame structure. In some embodiments, the air freshener is incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the bracket. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly further comprises a locking mechanism to hold at least one of upper frame portion and the lower frame portion in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly further comprises a plurality of replaceable mats, in addition to the at least one replacement mat. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats are positioned on a roll. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats are connected to said at least one replaceable mat. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats are configured to be connected to said at least one replaceable mat while the at least one replaceable mat is retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure.

According to some embodiments, a system for clothing protection in a restroom comprises: a wall; at least one urinal attached to the wall; and at least one floor shield assembly comprising: a frame structure; a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is securable to the frame structure; and a bracket configured to retain the frame structure, wherein the bracket is attached to the wall; wherein the replaceable mat is positioned to protect a user from splashing of urine and is spaced from a floor of the restroom.

In some embodiments, the bracket is integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a plurality of floor shields. In some embodiments, the at least one floor shield is spaced below the urinal. In some embodiments, the frame structure comprises a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure.

According to some embodiments, a floor shield assembly comprises: a frame structure; at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained against the frame structure; and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall; wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.

In some embodiments, the bracket and the frame structure are integrally formed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a top-down view of an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 2 illustrates an open hinge configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 3 illustrates an open configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield with a replacement mat.

FIG. 4 illustrates an open configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield with a mat locked in place.

FIG. 5 illustrates a closed configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIGS. 6A-C illustrate embodiments of a bottom portion of a frame of a floor shield with and without the mat.

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a wall bracket for use with a floor shield.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield attached with a bracket.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example configuration of a floor shield in a restroom.

FIGS. 10A-C illustrate an embodiment of a bracket having replacement mats for a floor shield.

FIGS. 11A-C illustrate an embodiment of floor shield having a bracket with replacement mats.

FIGS. 12A-D illustrate configurations of embodiments of a floor shield.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a gear system which can be used in a floor shield.

FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield having a support leg.

FIGS. 15A-C illustrate an embodiment of a retainer for a floor shield.

FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield without a tucking tray top.

FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield with an open tucking tray top.

FIG. 19 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 20 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a floor shield without a tucking tray bottom.

FIG. 21 illustrates a step in the installation of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 22 illustrates a step in the installation of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 23 illustrates the application of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 24 illustrates a mat held within a top retainer in an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 25 illustrates an attachment mechanism for an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 26 illustrates a side view of a user at a urinal with an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 27 illustrates a top down view of a user at a urinal with an embodiment of a floor shield.

FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of an automated floor shield.

FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment of a drawer urinal shield in a closed position.

FIG. 30 illustrates an embodiment of a drawer urinal shield in an open position.

FIG. 31 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a drawer urinal shield in a closed position.

FIG. 32 illustrates an embodiment of a composite absorbent mat.

FIGS. 33A-33D illustrate an embodiment of a urinal protector.

FIGS. 34A-34D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a housing for a urinal protector.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Urinals can be a significant source of unwanted staining on a person's clothing, especially pants and shoes. For example, due to the currently used shape of urinals, excess liquids, such as water, cleaning chemicals, and/or urine (e.g., from splash-back or drippage) can spill over the edge of the urinal and directly downwards. Because of the location of the urinal, a user's feet would be directly in the area of the spillage, and could lead to damage to the user's clothing. Further, the liquids could splash, thus damaging the pant legs of the user of the urinal. Additionally, spillage can lead to puddles on the ground in a restroom, even when a floor urinal mat is used, which are not merely unsightly but can actually begin to substantially damage the floor or the soles of a person's shoes. It can be expensive to fix any damage done to the floor by the uric acid

In the past, floor mats have been used in restrooms in an attempt to reduce urine and other chemical/liquid levels on the restroom floor. Urine is a significant damager of floors, and can etch or eat away from the floor, and thus it is advantageous to prevent urine from remaining on a floor. While floor mats have typically been used, the restroom environment is harsh on them, both physically and chemically, and the floor mats can quickly collect urine and other chemicals. As users do not want to stand on a urine filled floor mat, they stand aside the floor mats, thus exacerbating the damage to the floor. Further, as a result of the harsh environment, floor mats can quickly lose their air freshening or sanitizing function, become torn so that debris is permitted through them, or become unsightly. Therefore, floor mats need to be changed relatively often to function properly without drawing undue attention. In addition, floor mats can easily be kicked aside, thus eliminating any usefulness in protecting the restroom floor.

Disclosed herein is a device, assembly, and/or system acting as a floor shield, which can prevent liquids from falling from the urinal area and onto the floor and/or a user's clothing. Accordingly, this can prevent clothing from being damaged, as well as improve sanitation in a restroom. Further, embodiments of the floor shield can remain above the floor of a restroom, thus significantly reducing the wear and damage to the floor shield facility, being used effectively for a longer period of time. In addition, being above the floor can allow for the floor shield to catch more liquid than similar sized urinal mats located on the floor. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly can include the floor shield itself, as well as any connection or retaining pieces. However, the terms floor shield and floor shield assembly can be used interchangeably in some embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield. As shown in the figure, the floor shield can have a mat 102 and a frame (or hoop) 104. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be blank, printed, or have advertising on it. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can contain colorful patterns that show through the frame 104. Further, the mat 102 can contain a signal, such as a color change, for when the mat 102 should be removed and replaced. In some embodiments, the mat can be an absorbing mat or pad for collecting any fluids that fall from a urinal. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be made of fabric, cloth, polymer, paper (such as 2 ply toilet paper), absorbents, hydroscopic material, or natural material, and the type of material of the mat 102 does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can contain anti-microbial additives.

Accordingly, most, if not all, liquid can be prevented from reaching the ground or a user's shoes, as most, if not all, liquid can be picked up and absorbed by the mat 102 which can be located directly below a urinal. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a smaller upper surface area than floor mats of the prior art. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have an upper surface area of less than 1000, 900, 800, 700, 750, 625, 600, 500, 400, 300, 280, 270, or 200 in². Advantageously, however, the urinal can have an upper surface area of a sufficient size to protect against urine splattering the floor or the user's clothing. For example, embodiments of the floor shield can have an upper surface area of at least 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 in². In some embodiments, the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 50 and 750, 64 and 625, 80 and 500, 140 and 400, 180 and 300, or 200 and 280 in². In some embodiments, the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 400 and 1600, 600 and 1200, or 800 and 1000 in².

In some embodiments, the mat 102 can have approximately the same size as the floor shield. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long, as shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be greater than approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches wide, as shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be greater than approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches wide. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can less than approximately 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 16 inches long. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can less than approximately 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 16 inches wide.

In some embodiments, the frame 104 can lay both below and on top of the mat 102 and desirably hold it in place, e.g., sandwiching the mat 102, as further described in detail below. Further, the floor shield can contain a replacement box 106 which can contain one or more replacement mats 102. However, in some embodiments a box 106 is not used with the floor shield, and a simple bracket can be used, as described below. In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can operate similar to a paper towel dispenser, wherein a user can pull out replacement mats 102 when the old mat 102 becomes soiled, though other methodologies can be used as well and do not limit the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be in the shape of a partial ellipsoid, such as a half or ¾ ellipsoid. For example, the frame 104 can generally include a generally or substantially parabolic portion, wherein two points of the parabolic portion 103 are connected by a line 105, shown in FIG. 1. This shape can allow for a user to stand at a urinal with their feet underneath the floor shield, advantageously protecting the user's feet. Further, the shape of the frame 104 can allow for a user to stand comfortably around the frame with their legs apart, and thus do not have to stand in an awkward position. However, the particular shape of the frame 104 does not limit this disclosure, and different shapes can be used as well. For example, a generally triangular shape can be used as the frame of the floor shield. Further, in some embodiments the mat 102 can be shaped approximately the same as the frame 104 in order to fit neatly within the frame 104. However, in some embodiments the mat 102 can extend further than the frame 104. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can extend further than the frame 104 and can be partially wrapped around the frame 104, as discussed in more detail below.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield with the frame 104 in an open position. As shown, in some embodiments the frame 104 can be made up of two portions, a top portion 108 and a bottom portion 110, connected to one another by one or more attachment elements, such as a hinge element 112, though the particular attachment element does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, no hinge may be used with the frame 104. In some embodiments, the hinge element 112 can be spring loaded so that it will automatically return the frame 104 to a closed position. In some embodiments, the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can be integrally formed. In some embodiments, the top portion 108, bottom portion 110, and hinge 112 can be integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the frame 104 could have only a top portion 108 or only a bottom portion 110, and the mat 102 can be secured, for example, to the top of the bottom portion 110 or the bottom of the top portion 108 with fastening elements as further described below.

In some embodiments, the top portion 108 can contain at least one fastening element 114. In some embodiments, the top portion 108 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fastening elements 114. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can also contain at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fastening elements 114. The number of fastening elements 144 does not limit the disclosure. The fastening elements 114 of the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 may be the same, or may be different. These fastening elements 114 can be, for example, locking pins or snaps, though the type of fastening element does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can have fastening elements 114 so that the fastening elements 114 on the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 interlock with one another. For example, some fastening elements 114 can be female members, whereas others can be male members. In some embodiments, fastening elements are not used, and the frame can contain a mat 102 using only pressure or frictional forces. In some elements, the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can have magnetic materials on them, and thereby the top portion 108 and bottom 108 can be magnetically attracted to one another, thereby retaining the mat 102.

The top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 of the frame 104 can form an open area 116 inside their respective perimeters or circumferences. However, in some embodiments the frame 104 does not have an open area, and can be formed of a solid or gridded material, thus hiding the mat 102 from view by a user. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can contain a resting platform 118 where a mat 102 can rest. This resting platform 118 can give further support to a mat 102 when the mat 102 is in place on the floor shield. The resting platform 118 can be made of an additional absorbing material, or can be made of a mesh that allows liquids to pass through.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the floor shield with an open frame 104. As shown, the floor shield can have a replacement box 106 attached to the frame 104. A mat 102 can be pulled out of the replacement box 106 and can then be placed onto bottom portion 110, as shown in FIG. 4. Once the mat 102 is in the proper position, the top portion 108 can be lowered onto the top of the mat 102 so that the mat 102 is held in place between the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110, as described above. In some embodiments, the lowering of the top portion 108 onto the bottom portion 110 causes the mat 102 to be removed from the replacement box 106. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be removed first. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be pulled through the frame 104 in the open area 116. Once the mat 102 is within the frame 104, the mat 102 will generally not move during operation until the frame 104 is opened. FIG. 5 shows a closed configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield.

In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can be generally shaped as a rectangular prism having an open internal cavity, though the shape does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can have an open side for insertion of mats 102, though the particular side that is opened is not limiting. In some embodiments, the replacement box 106 can be fully enclosed, but can be opened to insert mats 102. Further, the replacement box 106 may have an opening, aperture, or slot in which mats 102 can be pulled out of to place onto the frame 104, such as shown in FIGS. 11A-C.

In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be made of a reusable material. For example, the mat 102 can be laundered and then reused with the floor shield. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be linen, cloth, or other launderable material, and the type of material does not limit the disclosure. Accordingly, the reusable mat 102 can be pulled out of the replacement box 106 as described above. However, the reusable mat 102 can then be rewound into the box 106 for later use or for laundering. In some embodiments, the box 106 can be generally a towel roll where the mat 102 can be rewound. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be manually rewound into the box 106. In some embodiments, a second box can be provided at the opposite end. In some embodiments, the box 106 (or one or both of the two boxes) can be mechanized, such as through the use of an auto-winder or auto-feed. For example, the box 106 can contain a button, switch, handle, or other advancement device that can cause the mat 102 to exit or reenter the replacement box 106, either by itself or through user force. In some embodiments, a hand-held remote can be used to move the mat 102 in and out of the box 106. In some embodiments, the advancement device can be mechanical or electrical, such as an electric motor to wind and unwind the mats 102. The type of advancement device does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a user may never have to touch the mat 102.

FIGS. 6A-B illustrates the bottom portion 110 by itself without a mat 102. As shown, the bottom portion 110 can contain fastening elements 114. FIG. 6C illustrates the bottom portion 110 with a mat 102 installed. As shown, the fastening elements 114 can protrude through the mat 102, though the fastening elements 114 do not protrude in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the fastening elements 114 can then insert into the top portion 108, thereby locking the mat 102 in place.

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a bracket 700 that can be used to hold a floor shield onto a wall. In some embodiments, the bracket 700 and frame 704 can be integrally formed. The bracket 700 can be attached to a wall by any general attachment means, such as adhesive, magnets, Velcro, or screws, and the attachment of the bracket 700 to a wall does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, the bracket 700 can contain a slot 702. The slot 702 can be sized and configured to receive the floor shield. The slot 702 can include a mechanism so that when the floor shield is inserted, as shown in FIG. 8, it snaps in place or is otherwise held in place. The slot 702 can extend partially or fully across the bracket 700. The type of attachment between the floor shield and the bracket 700 does not limit this disclosure. For example, a snap mechanism or joint could be used to attach the floor shield to the bracket 700.

In some embodiments, the bracket 700 can be wider than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield, similar to the replacement box 106 of FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the bracket 700 can smaller than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the bracket 700 is about 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches wide. The size of the bracket 700 does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be configured to slide horizontally in the slot 702 of the bracket 700, so that the horizontal position of the floor shield can be changed. In some embodiments, a replacement box 106, as described above, can be used with or instead of a bracket 700 while including similar features.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example configuration of a urinal 902 attached to a wall 904 of a restroom using a bracket 700. As mentioned above, in some embodiments a replacement box 106 can be used with or instead of a bracket 700 to attach the floor shield 906 to the wall 904. As shown, the floor shield 906 can be attached directly below a urinal 902 above the floor 908. In some embodiments, the floor shield 906 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than the upper surface area of the urinal 902. In some embodiments, the upper surface area of the urinal 902 can be the footprint of the urinal when viewed from above, such as shown in FIG. 27. In some embodiments, the floor shield 906 can be greater than about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than the upper surface area of the urinal 902. In some embodiments, the floor shield 906 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than a lip of the urinal 902.

In some embodiments, if there is more than one urinal in a restroom, a floor shield can be located below each of the urinals. In some embodiments, the floor shields can be all aligned at the same vertical height. In some embodiments, the floor shields can be at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the floor shield can extend about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches farther from the wall than a farthest point of the urinal it is under. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be approximately 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches off the ground. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be approximately at least 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, or 28 inches above the surface of the floor. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be located at a distance above the ground so that a user can put their shoes underneath the shield. The floor shield can be easily removable from the wall of the restroom, or can be integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the entire floor shield can be disposable.

In some embodiments, a roll holder can be used with a floor shield for replacement of mats 102. FIG. 10A illustrates an embodiment of a roll holder 1002. As shown, the holder 1002 can be shaped generally like a paper towel dispenser. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can hold 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 mats 102. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can hold more than one roll of mats 102, and can include a mechanism to change rolls. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can hold greater than 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 mats 102. The amount of mats 102 held by the holder 1002 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can have a pair of posts/bosses/protrusions 1004 at opposite ends of the holder 1002 that can be configured to insert into a roll of replacement mats 102, which can allow the roll of replacement mats 102 to rotate and be pulled out by a user. In some embodiments, the replacement mats 102 can have length, width, and surface areas similar to those described in detail above. However, the configuration of the internal structure of the roll holder 1002 to hold replacement rolls 102 does not limit this disclosure, and other configuration, such as tabs, clasps, and other structures can be used.

FIG. 10B illustrates an embodiment of a roll holder 1002 with a refill of replacement mats 102 installed. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can be at least partially flexible to accommodate the insertion of the refill. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can be rigid. In some embodiments, at least one of the posts 1004 can be removed to allow for insertion of the replacement mats 102.

FIG. 10C illustrates a top down view of a holder 1002 installed with a floor shield. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can be configured to attach to a wall, such as shown in FIG. 9. In some embodiments, a roll of mats 102 can be located outside the holder 1002. For example, the roll can be located above or below the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the roll can be located about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from a wall. In some embodiments, the roll of mats 102 can be loaded from the side, bottom, or top of the holder 1002.

FIG. 11A illustrates angled perspective view of a floor shield wherein the frame 104 is attached to a holder 1002. As shown, in some embodiments only the bottom portion 110 of the frame 104 can be attached to the holder 1002, and they can be removable or integrally formed. In some embodiments, a top portion 108 is used as well, as described in detail above. In some embodiments, the frame 104 only has the bottom portion 110. In some embodiments, the frame 104 can have an opening 1102 that can allow for mats 102 to be pulled through. Accordingly, in some embodiments the frame 104 can lay directly on top of the holder 1002.

In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be flexibly attached to the holder 1002. Therefore, if excess force was exerted on the frame 104, for example through a kick or step, the frame 104 may be moved but the holder 1002 may not be removed from the wall. Afterwards, the frame 104 may be reattached to the holder 1002. The attachment between the frame 104 and the holder 1002 does not limit this disclosure, and any attachment, such as adhesive or mechanical fastening, can be used. In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be easily removable from the holder 1002, and thus can be easily disposed of while the holder 1002 remains. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can contain the opening 1102, and the frame 104 can attach to the front of the holder 1002. In some embodiments, there is no opening 1102 and a replacement mat 102 can be pulled out and placed in the frame 104, as described above. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can contain an opening on the top so a user can see if more replacement mats 102 should be added.

FIG. 11B illustrates a replacement mat 102 being pulled out of the holder 1002 and on to the bottom portion 110 of the frame 104. As shown, the mat 102 can be pulled through the opening 1102 that can be located either on the holder 1002 or frame 104.

FIG. 11C illustrates a mat 102 attached to an embodiment of a floor shield. As discussed above, the mat 102 can be attached through fastening elements 114. As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, the next refill mat 102 can be attached to the rear of the mat 102 that is attached to the frame 104. Accordingly, when the mat 102 on the frame is removed, the next mat 102 can be pulled into place. In some embodiments, the next mat 102 is not attached to the previous mat 102. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can contain a lever or grip to turn the replacement mats 102, thus positioning the next mat 102 for a user to grab and pull out.

FIG. 12A illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield wherein the shield is configured to move with relation to the holder 1002. This movement can allow for ease of installation. For example, the shield can be attached to the top of the holder 1002 in a slot, and can therefore move horizontally through the slot. This can allow the shield to move left or right while the holder 1002 remains in position, while still maintaining the ability to pull the replacement mat 102 from the holder 1002. In some embodiments, other configurations than a slot can be used for horizontal mobility, and the configuration does not limit the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the floor shield can also move on the holder 1002 to and away from the holder 1002, and therefore the wall. This can be advantageous as different urinals do not always extend the same distance from the wall. For example, the holder 1002 can have at least one guide rail extending perpendicular for the floor shield to move with. In some embodiments, the guide rail can be configured to have sections which lock the floor shield in place. In some embodiments, the shield can rest on top of the guide rails 1006, as shown in FIG. 12D. In some embodiments, the guide rails 1006 can insert into the frame 104 of the floor shield, so that the rails fit within the floor shield. In some embodiments, the guide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the guide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has less than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the guide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has greater than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be configured to move parallel with the holder 1002 as well as perpendicular to the holder 1002 at the same time. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a similar configuration of guide rails that allows the floor shield to move vertically. In some embodiments, a different mechanism for moving horizontally and/or vertically can be used, and the mechanism does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be configured to move both vertically and horizontally.

FIGS. 12B-C illustrate the flexibility of certain embodiments of a floor shield. In some embodiments, the shield can be angled upwards or downwards from its original position. The shield can be angled upwards or downwards without any damage to the shield or the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the frame and/or holder can be made of flexible materials so that they can be angled and return to their original position. In some embodiments, there can be some clearance 1202 between the shield and the holder 1002, and therefore a user can angle the shield and it can remain in the new position. In some embodiments, the shield can be at least partially rotated in the holder 1002 as well.

In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position. In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have greater than approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position.

In some embodiments, a gear system 1300 can be used to allow for the angling of the shield, as shown in FIG. 13. The gear system 1300 can be used to lock the shield in place at a chosen angled position. The gear system 1300 can have approximately 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees of motion. The gear system 1300 can have greater than approximately 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees of motion. However, the angling system does not limit the disclosure.

In some embodiments, an air freshener, fragrance, or other scented product and/or substance can be incorporated into the floor shield. In some embodiments, the freshener may be a part of the material used in the construction of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the floor shield may be at least partially made of a material that is loaded with a fragrance material. In some embodiments, the freshener can be used after the floor shield is made, for example through a liquid spray. The spray could then dry onto the parts of the floor shield, thereby giving the fragrance. The type of freshener does not limit the disclosure. The materials used may be polymers, such as both thermoplastic and thermoset polymers. Some examples of polymers that may be suitable are synthetic resins. Some particular examples of thermoplastic resins that may be suitable for include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (NIPX), ethylene-(meth)acrylate ester copolymers, acrylic-type vinyl resins such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), styrene-type vinyl resins such as polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene (AS) copolymers, other vinyl resins such as polyvinyl acetate, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester resins such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide resins such as nylon 6, nylon 66, nylon 610, nylon 11, and nylon 12, polyoxyalkylene resins such as polyacetal (POM), and other thermoplastic resins such as polycarbonates (PC), modified polyphenylene ethers (modified PPE), polyvinyl acetates (PVAC), polysulfones (PSU), polyethersulfones (PES), polyphenylene sulfides (PPS), polyarylates (PAR), polyamideimides (pAI), polyetherimides (PEl), polyetheretherketones (PEEK), polyimides (PI), as well as copolymers of the preceding. Combinations of different plastics can also be used. Further, different plastics can be used to produce different portions of the floor shield. However, the particular material does not limit the disclosure.

The freshener may be incorporated into different portions of the floor shield. For example, in some embodiments the freshener can be incorporated into the mats 102. In some embodiments, the freshener can be incorporated into any of the portions of the frame 104. In some embodiments, the freshener can be incorporated into the holder 1002. In some embodiments, the freshener can be located in multiple, or all, parts of the floor shield. The location of the freshener does not limit the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the material that can be used to form the urinal screen may be capable of resisting the harsh environment experienced on the restroom floor, which may contain urine, waste products, cleaning solutions, and other undesirable liquids (e.g., contaminants such as paint thinner, paint, motor oil, or chemicals that may be poured into a urinal.) In some embodiments, the material of the floor shield may be designed to maintain a near-pristine condition (evident after a water rinse or basic cleaning operation), without discernable wear for a long period of time, or large amount of uses and flushes. Thus, it may be said that the floor shield may resist damage or alteration due to the environmental conditions within a restroom. In some embodiments, the material of the floor shield, such as the frame 104 or mat 102 may be designed to last a certain amount of time, level or amount of use, or number of flushes, without exhibiting any wear (e.g., tearing, discoloring, disintegration, deformation, shrinkage, loss of scent) for that specified time/usage/period. For example: the lasting time may be 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 6 months, or perhaps 1 year; the level or amount of use may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 uses (e.g., urinations); the number of flushes may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 flushes. In other embodiments, the material of the floor shield may be designed to purposefully start exhibiting wear after the aforementioned predetermined amount of time/usage/period, such that the portions of the floor shield can start to tear, discolor, disintegrate, deform, shrink, or lose scent, which may alert maintenance personnel to replace portions of the floor shield, such as the mat 102.

FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of a floor shield having a support structure 1402 below a urinal 1404. The support structure 1402 can give enhanced strength to the floor shield. Further, it can prevent breakage if excess pressure is put on the top of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 can extend from the bottom portion 110 of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 can be located on an end of the floor shield opposite the wall, as shown in FIG. 14. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 can be configured to rest against a floor 1406 when the floor shield is set up. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 can be generally rectangular, circular, or triangular in cross section, though the shape of the support structure 1402 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, 1, 2, or 3 support structures 1402 can be used. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 can be configured to be rotated or moved on the floor shield. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 can be configured to be removed and replaced. In some embodiments, the support structure 1402 may attach to the shield at a hinge, and the support structure 1402 can be folded into the floor shield for ease of transportation.

FIGS. 15A-C illustrate an embodiment of a floor shield having a retainer 1502. In some embodiments, the retainer 1502 can be used to releasably retain the mat 102 to the bottom portion 110 instead of using a top portion 108. However, in some embodiments, the top portion 108 can be used in conjunction with the retainer 1502. In some embodiments, the retainer can be located on either the top or bottom of the bottom portion 110.

The mat 102 can be pulled over the top of the bottom portion 110 and then at least partially onto the bottom of the bottom portion 110 when the retainer 1502 is open. The retainer 1502 can then closed over a portion of the mat 102 underneath the bottom portion 110, thereby holding the mat 102 in place and providing a pleasing appearance. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 15A, a latch 1504 can be used to keep the retainer 1502 closed, though other mechanisms can be used as well. In some embodiments, the retainer 1502 can be rotatably attached to the bottom portion 110 through the use of at least one hinge 1506.

FIG. 15B illustrates an embodiment of a retainer 1502 by itself. As shown, the retainer 1502 can have a generally v-shape. In some embodiments, the retainer 1502 can have a generally semicircle shape (e.g., the retainer 1502 extends completely across between hinges 1506), and the shape of the retainer 1502 does not limit the disclosure. As shown, the retainer 1502 can have outer walls 1508 configured to fit against the outside of the bottom portion 110, thereby retaining a mat 102 between the bottom portion 110, the walls 1508, and the base 1510 of the retainer. FIG. 15C shows the closed configuration of a retainer 1502 from a top viewpoint. In some embodiments, the retainer 1502 can be flexible.

FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of a floor shield 1600. As shown, the floor shield 1600 can be composed of multiple portions, though some of the portions can be integrally formed. For example, the floor shield 1600 can have a main shelf 1602. The main shelf 1602 can be connected to a tucking tray top 1604, which can be connected to a tucking tray bottom 1606. Further, the main shelf 1602 can include at least one removable boss 1608. In some embodiments, the main shelf 1602, and thus the floor shield 1600, can be attached to a wall by a metal bar 1610 and main attachment magnets 1619.

FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the main shelf 1602 without the tucking tray top 1604. In some embodiments, the main shelf 1602 can have an upper platform 1603 and a lower platform 1605. As shown in FIG. 17, the lower platform 1605 can be shaped similar to half an octagon, though the particular shape of the lower platform 1605 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the lower platform 1605 can be made of a grid containing a plurality of openings as shown in FIG. 17. In some embodiments, the front edge of the lower platform 1605 can have a cutting mechanism, such as teeth, in order to cut any mats to the appropriate size without any tucking. In some embodiments, the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the lower platform 1605 may be smooth and not contain any openings. In some embodiments, the lower platform 1605 can be configured to translate away from the upper platform 1603 while still remaining connected. For example, the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603. In some embodiments, the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate less than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603. In some embodiments, the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate greater than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603.

In some embodiments, the lower platform 1605 may be connected to the upper platform 1603. In some embodiments, they may be removably connected. In some embodiments, they may be integrally formed. The connection between the lower platform 1605 and upper platform 1605 can form a slot 1607 allowing access between the top and bottom of the main shelf 1602. In some embodiments, the slot 1607 can be formed by having the upper and lower platforms 1603/1605 at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the upper and lower platforms 1603/1605 can be at the same height and a gap can be formed between the two, thus forming the slot 1607. The slot 1607 can generally be the width of the main shelf 1602, though the size of the slot does not limit the disclosure.

The upper platform 1605 can contain sidewalls 1609 and a back wall 1611. The side walls 1609 can be configured to hold at least one boss, such as the removable boss 1608. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 have the same width as the upper platform 1605. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 have a greater width than the upper platform 1605. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 have a smaller width than the upper platform 1605. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 1609 and back wall 1611 can be sized to retain a roll of mats.

FIG. 18 shows an embodiment with a tucking tray top 1604 rotatably connected to the main shelf 1602. The tucking tray top 1604 can be rotatably attached to the main shelf 1602 through the insertion of a tab in an aperture 1618 (shown in FIG. 17) on each side of the main shelf 1602. In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can be rotated from an open to a closed position. The tucking tray top 1604 can have a frame 1618 around its perimeter, wherein the frame 1618 is thicker than the rest of the tucking tray top 1604. As shown, the tucking tray top 1604 can be sized and shaped so that the frame 1618 generally surrounds the lower platform 1605 when in the closed position. In some embodiments, when in the opened position, the tucking tray top 1604 can rest against the upper platform 1605, which can allow the tucking tray top 1604 to remain open. In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can be held open by frictional forces between the tucking tray top 1604 and the main shelf 1602.

In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can have the frame 1618 surrounding a grid, similar to the lower platform 1605. The grid can have a plurality of apertures in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can be generally flat with no apertures. In some embodiments, the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be smaller than the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be larger than the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be generally the same size as the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can have the same shapes as the grid of the lower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can have different shapes than the grid of the lower platform 1605.

Further, FIG. 18 shows a tucking tray bottom 1606 attached to the tucking tray top 1604 which is used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the tucking tray bottom 1606 may not be used. The tucking tray bottom 1606 can be generally sized and shaped to fit within the frame 1618 of the tucking tray top 1604 so that the tucking tray bottom 1606 is not exposed within the closed position. In some embodiments, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can fit again the edge of the tucking tray top 1604. In some embodiments, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be shaped in a general c-shape, though the shape of the tucking tray bottom 1606 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be formed from two arms 1620 attached to a connection portion 1622.

FIG. 19 illustrates the tucking tray bottom 1606 when the floor shield 1600 is in the closed position. As shown, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tucking tray top 1604 through an engagement mechanism 1630. Further, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be attached to the underside of the main shelf 1602 through magnetic latching components 1612 on the main shelf 1602. The tucking tray bottom 1606 can have an engagement portion 1615 and magnetic latching component 1611, shown in FIG. 16, to facilitate attachment to the tucking tray top 1604.

The magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be circular magnetic pieces having opposite poles in order to magnetically connect to one another, though the shape of the magnetic pieces does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a force can be used to release the corresponding magnetic latching components 1617/1612. In some embodiments, two magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be used on each of the main shelf 1602 and tucking tray bottom 1606, though the amount of magnetic latching components 1617/1612 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be used on each of the main shelf 1602 and tucking tray bottom 1606. In some embodiments, the magnetic latching components 1617 can be located on opposite ends of the arms 1620 of the tucking tray bottom 1606, though the position does not limit the disclosure and the magnetic latching components 1617 can be used throughout the tucking tray bottom 1606.

The tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tucking tray top 1604 through the use of an engagement mechanism 1630 of the tucking tray top 1606 attached to engagement portion 1615 of the tucking tray bottom 1606. The engagement mechanism 1630 can be configured to be a clipping mechanism that can hold the engagement portion 1615. A user can release the engagement mechanism 1630 by applying pressure, thereby opening the engagement mechanism 1630, as shown in FIG. 20. Through the combination of the engagement mechanism 1630 and magnetic latching components 1617/1612, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached within the tucking tray top 1604. Accordingly, the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to both the tucking tray top 1604 and the main shelf 1602. Further, in some embodiments the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be stored on the tucking tray top 1604 when in the open position, as shown in FIG. 18.

FIGS. 21-24 illustrate an embodiment of incorporating mats into the floor shield 1600. As shown in FIG. 21, at least one of the removable bosses 1608 can be removed. The removable boss 1608 may be attached to the floor shield 1600 in any type of method, such as through screw, friction, or interference, and the attachment of the removable boss 1608 to the floor shield 1600 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the removable boss 1608 may have a gripping portion 1613, such as a handle, to aid a user in removing the removable boss 1608. In some embodiments, the removable boss 1608 can be removed by a twisting motion.

Upon removable of at least one of the removable bosses 1608, a roll of mats 1614 can be inserted into the floor shield 1600, shown in FIG. 22. The roll of mats 1614 can be inserted into another boss 1616, which may or may not be removable. The removable boss 1608 can then be reinserted into the floor shield 1600 so that the roll of mats 1614 can be rotatably held in place by the bosses 1608/1616.

Once the mats are incorporated into the floor shield 1600, one of the mats 1614 can be pulled through the slot 1607 when the floor shield 1600 is in the open position, as shown in FIG. 23. The matt 1614 can be pulled to the edge of the main shelf 1602. FIG. 24 shows a bottom view of the floor shield 1600 with the matt 1614 pulled over the edge of the main shelf 1602. The tucking tray bottom 1606 can then be removed, the corners of the matt 1614 can be folder over, and the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be replaced, thus holding the matt 1614 in place on the floor shield 1600.

FIG. 25 shows an embodiment of attachment of the floor shield 1600 to a wall, though other methods can be used as well as disclosed above, and the attachment method does not limit the disclosure. As shown, brackets, such as a metal bar 1610, can be attached to a wall, such as a wall of a restroom underneath a urinal shown in FIG. 25. The metal bar 1610 can be, for example, steel, though the type of material does not limit the disclosure. The metal bar 1610 can be magnetic in some embodiments. The metal bar 1610 can be screwed into the wall, though the attachment of the metal bar 1610 to the wall does not limit the disclosure and any attachment means, such as adhesive, can be used as well. In some embodiments, the metal bar 1610 has a width less than that of the floor shield 1600. In some embodiments, the metal bar 1610 has a width that is the same as that of the floor shield 1600. In some embodiments, the metal bar 1610 has a width greater than that of the floor shield 1600.

Main attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to the back of the floor shield 1600, as shown in FIG. 16. A number of main attachment magnets 1612 can be used, or a single main attachment magnets 1612 can be used. The main attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to the floor shield 1600 through, for example, adhesive, though the attachment does not limit the disclosure. If a plurality of main attachment magnets 1612 are used, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 main attachment magnets 1612 can be used, and the number of main attachment magnets 1612 does not limit the disclosure.

Once both the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 are in place, the floor shield 1600 can be releasably attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the magnetic hold between the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 is sufficient so that small incidental forces do not separate the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612. In some embodiments, a significant force, such as an average user stepping on the floor shield 1600 can be the minimum force needed to separate the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612.

In some embodiments, the floor shield 1600 can contain a locking mechanism 1632. The locking mechanism 1632 can be on the bottom of the floor shield 1600, though the position of the locking mechanism 1632 does not limit the disclosure. The locking mechanism 1632 can be used to lock the tucking tray top 1604 to the main shelf 1602, thus preventing opening of the floor shield 1600 by an unwanted party.

FIGS. 26 and 27 both illustrate embodiments of a floor shield assembly being used with a urinal. As shown in FIG. 26, a user can position at a urinal 902. When in the proper person, the user's shoes can be located below the floor shield 906 of the floor shield assembly. Further, in some embodiments the bottom of a user's pant legs can be located beneath the floor shield 906. As discussed in detail above, the floor shield 906 can be used in order to adequately cover a user's shoes. FIG. 27 illustrates a top viewpoint of the user in FIG. 26. As shown, a user's shoes can be located directly underneath the floor shield 906, thus protecting the user's shoes from splash.

FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of an automated floor shield. As shown, a new mat role 2804 can be located under the floor shield, such as those described in detail above. A clean mat 2802 can be rolled onto the floor shield. As the clean mat 2802 becomes soiled through use, it can be advanced so that the dirty mat 2808 can be located underneath the floor shield. As further mats are soiled, they can be rolled into a used mat roll 2806. The entire advancement and rolling can be automated, such as with a controller or switch as discussed above, thus allowed for the mats to be continuously refreshed without the user having any contact with the soiled mats. The used mat roll 2806 can then be removed. If the mats are reusable, the mats can be washed. Otherwise, the mats can be disposed of. While FIG. 28 shows a specific positioning of the new mat roll 2804 and used mat roll 2806, different configurations can be used as well, such as the used mat roll 2806 being located on the opposite side of the floor shield from the new mat roll 2804. Accordingly, the positioning of the mats does not limit the disclosure.

Drawer Urinal Protector

Disclosed herein are embodiments of a urinal protector or shield that can be designed with a drawer configuration. FIGS. 29-31 illustrate an embodiment of such a design. This urinal protector can be attached to a wall or above the floor in any manner discussed above, such as through the use of magnets discussed with respect to FIG. 16.

As shown, the urinal protector 3000 can have a housing 3002 and a drawer (or tray) 3004 which can be slidable within the housing 3002. FIG. 29 shows the drawer 3004 in the closed position and FIG. 30 shows the drawer 3004 in the open position. In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 and the housing 3002 can have a generally hexagonal footprint, though the particular shape does not limit the disclosure.

The housing 3002 can include a recess or depression 3006 on the top surface 3003 which can be sized to fit a replacement mat, such as discussed herein. The depression 3006 can have a number of side walls 3020 forming the depression 3006. The depression 3006 can be hexagonal in shape, though the particular shape does not limit the disclosure. Thus, a hexagonal shaped depression 3006, such as shown, can include six sidewalls 3020.

In some embodiments, the top surface 3003 of the housing 3002 can include a back wall or surface 3022. This surface 3022 can be located closer to the wall than the depression 3006 when attached to a wall. The surface 3022 can further include aesthetic designs on it, or may be flat. Alternatively, the back wall/surface 3022 can overhang the depression, so as to form an open pocket.

Additionally, the housing 3002 can include a pair of guides or rails 3024 on either side of the housing 3002. The rails 3024 can be spaced apart so that the drawer 3004 can slide along an internal surface of the rails 3024. Thus, the drawer 3004 can be slidable inside the housing 3002 along the rails 3024 so as to be at least partially enclosed on a top surface, back surface, and both side surfaces in the closed position (shown in FIG. 30). In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 can have a smaller footprint than the housing 3002 so that the drawer 3004 is hidden by the housing 3002 when viewed from above. In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 can be removable from the housing 3002. In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 may not be removable from the housing 3002. In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 can also be at least partially enclosed on a bottom surface in the closed position.

As shown in FIG. 30, in the open position the drawer 3004 may extend out of the housing so that a front surface of the drawer 3004 is farther than the front surface of the housing 3002. This can provide a user access to the depression 3008 of the drawer 3004, and thus provide a user access to excess mats. In the open position, the urinal protector 3000 may contain a stop to prevent the drawer 3004 from being pulled out further. In some embodiments, the stop can be overcome to remove the drawer 3004 from the housing 3002.

The drawer 3004 can similarly have a depression 3008 formed between sidewalls 3011 on the top surface 3005 which can be sized to fit a replacement mat, or a number of replacement mats. Accordingly, the depression 3008 of the drawer 3004 may be deeper than the depression 3006 of the housing 3002 in order to hold more replacement mats.

In some embodiments, the depressions 3006/3008 can have slanted side walls. In some embodiments, the depressions 3006/3008 can have straight sidewalls (e.g., approximately 90°).

FIG. 31 illustrates view showing an underside of an embodiment of urinal protector 3000. Thus, the bottom surfaces 3003/3007 of the housing 3002 and drawer 3004 can be seen. As shown, the drawer 3004 can include a protrusion/handle/extension 3010 extending downwards away from the bottom surface 3007. The protrusion 3010 can allow a user to easily open and close the drawer 3004 to retrieve replacement mats.

The absorbent mat can be placed on the top depression 3006 which can accumulate urine. The depression 3008 in the drawer 3004 can include a supply of replacement mats (such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10) underneath the housing 3002 in the closed configuration. This can be advantageous as in some instances as traffic can be so high that the mat alone doesn't work. It does not have the ability to absorb any more urine, which can drip onto the floor. However, embodiments of the disclosure can prevent this dripping by having a solid surface below the mats.

In some embodiments, the drawer 3004 can be made of a disposable material. For example, the drawer 3004 can be made of pressed paper, such as with a coating like a wax coating or other water impermeable material. Thus, the drawer 3004 can be thrown away and replaced, along with any mats within the drawer 3004, so that a user will never have to clean the drawer 3004.

Absorbent Mat Construction

Embodiments of the disclosed urinal protector or shield can include absorbent mats, as discussed above. In some embodiments, these absorbent mats can be formed form a particular composition which can advantageously retain the most liquid or moisture, such as excess urine.

In some embodiments, the absorbent mat can be as a composite. Thus, the absorbent mat can be formed from a number of different materials put together, such as by layering the different materials on top of each other.

In some embodiments, the absorbent mat can include air-laid paper (or airlaid). Airlaid is wood pulp fluffed up with air (e.g., fluff pulp). Airlaid can be bulky, porous, and soft, giving it good liquid absorption properties while still maintaining reasonable strength. Airlaid can be rinsed and reused, thereby making the absorbent mats reusable if so desired. Further, airlaid can be dyed, printed, embossed, or coated allowing the material to have designs on it.

Further, the absorbent mat can include a superabsorbent polymer (SAP). In some embodiments, the SAP can be a superabsorbent polyacrylated starch. This material can be extremely water absorbent, thus allowing for the mat to retain liquid.

In addition, tissue paper can be incorporated into the mat. Tissue paper is lightweight paper, and in some instances can be made from recycled paper pulp. Similar to the above, tissue paper can also be absorbent of liquid.

In some embodiments, the construction of the replacement mat can be airlaid, SAP, airlaid, and tissue paper. An example of such a material is shown in FIG. 32. As shown, the replacement mat 4000 can be formed of two layers of airlaid 4002 which can sandwich a layer of SAP 4004. The top layer can be tissue 4006. In some embodiments, the construction can be reversed so that the tissue 4006 is on the bottom.

In some embodiments, the replacement mat can also include a plastic backing, such as at the base of the material. This prevents any dripping of excess liquid in the mat. In some embodiments, the absorbent mat can have a tissue layer on top, followed by an SAP, followed by a plastic backing.

The replacement mats can be in the form of individual sheets, or can be in a roll.

Additional Urinal Protector Embodiments

FIGS. 33A-33D illustrate another embodiment of a urinal protector or shield 3300. The urinal protector 3300 can be used in similar situations to the other designs disclosed herein and for similar purposes. The urinal protector 3300 comprises multiple beneficial features, as will be described in greater detail below. FIG. 33A illustrates a perspective view of multiple urinal protectors 3300 attached to a wall 904 beneath urinals 902. FIG. 33B illustrates a housing 3302 of the urinal protector 3300 attached to the wall 904. FIG. 33C illustrates a disposable tray 3304 and a disposable sheet or mat 3305 for use with the housing 3302 of the urinal protector 3300. FIG. 33D illustrates the disposable sheet 3305 removed from the disposable tray 3304.

The urinal protector 3300 can be attached to the wall 904 or above the floor in any manner discussed above, such as through the use of magnets discussed with respect to FIG. 16, or through any other method and still enjoy a number of advantages.

With reference to FIG. 33B, the urinal protector 3300 comprises a housing or dispenser 3302, which is illustrated attached to the wall 904 at a back portion 3356 of the housing 3302. The housing 3302 comprises a main portion extending from the wall 904 that comprises a recess or depression 3306 defined by a floor 3307 and a plurality of side walls 3320. In this embodiment, an outer perimeter of the recess or depression 3306 is defined by six side walls 3320 that are similar in shape to the side walls 3020 of the urinal protector 3000 described above. The recess 3306 may in other embodiments take other forms or shapes, however. In some embodiments, the side walls 3320 may be slanted, and in some embodiments, the side walls 3320 may be straight (e.g., approximately 90°).

With reference to FIG. 33C, a tray 3304 is illustrated with a sheet or mat 3305 position within a recess or depression 3316 of the tray 3304. The sheet 3305 is desirably an absorbent sheet or mat, such as described above, to desirably retain liquid or moisture, such as urine. The sheet 3305 is desirably disposable and formed from a number of different materials, such as described above with reference to FIG. 32 (however, the sheet 3305 may also take other forms). The tray 3304 is desirably a disposable tray, and can be made of pressed paper with a wax coating, or may comprise another water impermeable material and/or coating, such as plastic or other materials. The recess or depression 3316 of the disposable tray 3304 is defined by a plurality of side walls 3330 and a floor, similar to how the recess or depression 3306 of the housing 3302 is defined by a plurality of side walls and a floor. In some embodiments, the side walls 3330 may be non-perpendicular, forming an obtuse or acute angle with respect to the floor formed by the recess 3316, and in some embodiments, the side walls 3330 may be perpendicular (e.g., approximately 90°). The floor of the tray 3304 is not shown in FIG. 33C, because the sheet 3305 is covering the floor. Desirably, the floor of the tray 3304 is configured to not allow liquids to pass therethrough, such as by comprising a flat and/or solid surface without holes therethrough. The shape and size of the recess 3316 can be similar to the shape and size of the recess 3306 of the housing 3302. Desirably, however, the walls 3330 are configured such that an outer perimeter surface of the walls 3330 can fit at least partially within the recess or depression 3306 of the housing 3302. Accordingly, the disposable tray 3304 can desirably be placed at least partially within the recess 3306 of the housing 3302. This will desirably limit lateral movement of the tray 3304 with respect to the housing 3302, because at least some of the side walls 3320 of the housing 3302 will be positioned adjacent to and/or in contact with the side walls 3330 of the disposable tray 3304. FIG. 33A illustrates the tray 3304 in the installed position with respect to the housing 3302.

In some embodiments, it is desirable for a depth of the recess 3316 to be greater than a thickness of the absorbent mat 3305. For example, it may be desirable for the side walls 3330 to extend above a top surface of the absorbent mat 3305, such as to help avoid spillage of any excess urine or other liquids before those liquids have been absorbed into the mat and/or in a case where the mat cannot absorb any more liquid. In some cases, the absorbent mat may be designed to expand, such as to increase its thickness, as it absorbs liquids. In such a case, it can be desirable for the depth of the recess 3316 to be greater than the expanded thickness of the absorbent mat 3305. In some embodiments, the depth of the recess 3316 is greater than 5 mm or greater than 10 mm. In some embodiments, the depth of the recess 3316 is within a range of 2 to 10 mm, 5 to 15 mm, or 5 to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the depth of the recess 3316 is at least twice the expanded thickness of the absorbent mat 3305. In some embodiments, a ratio of the depth of the recess 3316 to the expanded thickness of the mat 3305 is at least 3 to 1 or 4 to 1.

In some embodiments, the disposable tray 3304 may be removably attached to the floor 3307 of the housing 3302, to further limit movement of the disposable tray 3304 with respect to the housing 3302. For example, the disposable tray 3304 may be attached to the housing 3302 using hook and loop fasteners, a removable adhesive, magnets, and/or the like. As another example, the disposable tray 3304 may be attached to the housing 3302 via a press fit or friction fit between one or more of the side walls 3320 of the housing 3302 and the side walls 3330 of the disposable tray 3304. In some embodiments, however, the disposable tray 3304 is not attached to the housing 3302. For example, the disposable tray 3304 may be retained in the recess 3306 of the housing 3302 by gravity. In some embodiments, the construction of the disposable tray 3304 is thick enough that the disposable tray 3304 will have enough mass that normal air currents experienced in a restroom, such as due to people walking, doors and windows opening and closing, HVAC systems moving air, and/or the like, will not cause the disposable tray 3304 to lift up from the recess or depression 3306 of the housing 3302, even when there is no urine absorbed in the absorbent mat 3305. For example, the disposable tray 3304 may comprise a mass of at least 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16 ounces.

With further reference to FIG. 33C, one or more of the side walls 3330 may also comprise a lip 3331 extending transversely from the top portion of the wall 3330. In this embodiment, a lip 3331 extends from each of the walls 3330, causing the lip 3331 to extend about an entire perimeter of the tray 3304. Other embodiments may not have such a continuous lip 3331, however, and some embodiments may not comprise a lip 3331. The lip 3331 can serve one or more purposes. For example, the lip 3331 may provide a convenient handle or lifting point for a user to lift the disposable tray 3304 out of the recess 3306 of the housing 3302 when it is time to replace the disposable tray 3304 and/or the disposable sheet 3305. As another example, the lip 3331 may in some embodiments engage a top edge of the sidewalls 3320 of the housing 3302, to define a vertical positioning of the disposable tray 3304 with respect to the housing 3302. In some embodiments, however, the lip 3331 may not engage the sidewalls 3320, and a bottom surface of the disposable tray 3304 may engage the floor 3307 of the housing 3302 to define the vertical positioning of the disposable tray 3304 with respect to the housing 3302.

The side walls 3330 of the disposable tray 3304, in addition to being sized to fit within the recess 3306 of the housing 3302, can also define a recess or depression 3316 shaped for the disposable sheet or mat 3305 to be positioned therein. FIG. 33D illustrates a perspective view of the disposable sheet or mat 3305 removed from the disposable tray 3304. The disposable sheet or mat 3305 can desirably be an absorbent mat comprising a composite structure, as described above with reference to FIG. 32. The disposable sheet or mat 3305 may in other embodiments comprise different absorbent structures.

In some embodiments, the disposable sheet or mat 3305 is sized to be placed within the recess or depression 3316 of the disposable tray 3304 and to also be removable from the recess or depression 3316. In some embodiments, the disposable sheet 3305 is configured to be attached to the recess or depression 3316 of the disposable tray 3304, either permanently or removably. For example, the disposable sheet 3305 may be attached to the disposable tray 3304 using adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, and/or the like. In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the disposable sheet 3305 to be permanently attached to the disposable tray 3304, such as to make maintenance easier. In such a case, maintenance of the unit may simply mean removing the disposable tray assembly (including the attached disposable sheet) and replacing it with a new disposable tray assembly. In some embodiments, however, the disposable sheet 3305 may be removable from the disposable tray 3304, such as to allow a maintenance worker to replace only the disposable sheet 3305 if the disposable tray 3304 is still serviceable. Replacing the whole assembly (the disposable tray and the disposable sheet together) may be desirable, however, because it can lead to a cleaner and more sanitary restroom environment, and eliminate the need for a maintenance worker to have to make a decision as to whether a questionably serviceable disposable tray is still serviceable.

Returning to FIG. 33B, the housing 3302 comprises a number of additional beneficial features. For example, the floor 3307 comprises two openings 3310 positioned adjacent a front end 3354 of the housing 3302. Such openings 3310 can be beneficial, for example, because they may enable a maintenance worker to place his or her fingers therethrough from an underside of the housing 3302, to help lift up the disposable tray for replacement. Further, the housing 3302 desirably comprises one or more legs or protruding members 3350 extending downward from a back portion 3356 of the housing 3302. The perspective view of FIG. 33B only shows one leg 3350 at a left end of the back portion 3356, although there is also desirably another leg 3350, similar in design, at the right end of the back portion 3356. The one or more legs or protruding members 3350 are desirably positioned adjacent to and/or in contact with the wall 904. The one or more legs or protruding members 3350 can in some embodiments be attached to the wall 904, but in other embodiments are not attached to the wall 904. In the embodiment of FIG. 33B, the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 is attached to the wall 904 desirably using magnets, similar to as described above with reference to FIG. 16, and the legs 3350 are in contact with, but not attached to, the wall 904.

The legs 3350 that extend downward from the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 can be beneficial, because they can help to resist downward forces applied to the portion of the housing 3302 that extends away from the wall 904. For example, as more urine is trapped in the absorbent mat, additional downward force will be applied to the portion of the housing 3302 that extends away from the wall 904. Further, users may bump into the housing 3302 and/or items may be dropped onto the housing 3302. For example, if an item were dropped onto the front portion 3354 of the housing 3302, such as a user's cell phone or a similar device, a bending moment would be applied to the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 equal to the impact force of the item on the front portion 3354 multiplied by the distance that the point of impact is from the wall 904. By having one or more downwardly protruding members, such as legs 3350, in contact with the wall 904, the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 can desirably better resist the impact force of the item falling onto the housing 3302 without becoming detached from the wall 904. Although this embodiment, and the embodiment described below with reference to FIGS. 34A-34D, comprise two legs to perform this function, other configurations are envisioned, such as: a single downwardly protruding member that may extend the full width of the back portion 3356; a single downwardly protruding member that may not extend the full width of the back portion 3356; a number of downwardly protruding members, such as two, three, four, five, or more; one or more upwardly protruding members that are removably attached to the wall, such as via magnets; and/or the like.

In some embodiments, a vertical height A from the top of the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 to a bottom of the leg 3350 is at least ¼ of the horizontal distance B from the wall 904 to the front surface of the housing 3302. In some embodiments, a ratio of height A to distance B is within a range of ⅛ to ½, or ⅛ to ⅜. In some embodiments, the ratio of height S to distance B is at least ⅛ or at least ⅜.

In some embodiments, the downward protruding members or legs 3350 are pivotally or otherwise movably coupled to the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 33B, the legs 3350 are pivotally coupled to the back portion 3356 at pivot axis 3352. Further, the legs 3350 are desirably spring-loaded, such as using a torsional spring or the like, such that a distal end of the legs 3350 is biased into the wall 904. Such a design may be desirable, for example, because if a downward force on the front end 3354 of the housing 3302 is sufficient to separate the back portion 3356 from the wall, the legs 3350 may pivot with respect to the housing 3302 as the housing separates from the wall 904. This may, for example, reduce a risk of the legs 3350 breaking off of the housing 3302 as the housing 3302 separates from the wall 904. In some embodiments, the legs 3350 may be attached to the wall 904, which may enable the housing 3302 to pivot downward about axis 3352 when a sufficient load is placed on the front end 3354 of the housing 3302. Other embodiments may not have the legs 3350 attached to the wall 904, however.

In some embodiments, it may also be beneficial to have the legs 3350 spring-loaded into the wall 904 to help remove any slack or slop in the junction between the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302 and the wall 904. Accordingly, the overall assembly mounted to the wall 904 may be more securely attached to the wall 904 and less susceptible to small movements due to vibrations in the wall 904, air currents acting on the housing 3302, bumps against the housing 3302 by a user, and/or the like. Although the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 33B includes one or more legs 3350 that are movably coupled to the back portion 3356 of the housing 3302, other embodiments may comprise one or more legs or downwardly protruding members that are fixed with respect to the back portion 3356 and are not movable with respect to the back portion 3356. One example of such an embodiment is described below with reference to FIGS. 34A-34D.

With continued reference to FIG. 33B, the floor 3307 of the housing 3302 in this embodiment comprises a plurality of holes 3358 distributed throughout the floor 3307. Such holes 3358 may be desirable, for example, to reduce the weight and/or material usage of the housing 3302, to increase the aesthetics of the housing 3302, and/or the like, while retaining sufficient stiffness or rigidity in the floor 3307 to support a disposable sheet and/or a disposable tray. In some embodiments, when a disposable tray is used, such as the disposable tray 3304 illustrated in FIG. 33C, the floor of the tray itself may provide sufficient stiffness to support the disposable sheet 3305 placed on top, such that the floor 3307 of the housing 3302 can be less stiff or rigid. One embodiment of such a design is described below with reference to FIGS. 34A-34D.

FIGS. 34A-34D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a housing 3402 that could be used, for example, in place of housing 3302 of the urinal protector 3300 of FIGS. 33A-33D. For example, the housing 3402 may be attached to a wall, such as through magnetic or other means, and a disposable tray and disposable absorbent sheet may be placed within a recess 3406 of the housing 3402, such as the disposable tray 3304 and disposable sheet 3305 of FIG. 33C. FIG. 34A illustrates a front perspective view of the housing 3402, FIG. 34B illustrates a back perspective view of the housing 3402, FIG. 34C illustrates a bottom perspective view of the housing 3402, and FIG. 34D illustrates a side view of the housing 3402.

With reference to FIG. 34A, similar to the housing 3302, the housing 3402 comprises a recess or depression 3406 defined by a floor 3407 and a plurality of sidewalls 3420. In some embodiments, the side walls 3420 may be non-perpendicular, forming an obtuse or acute angle with respect to the floor 3407, and in some embodiments, the side walls 3420 may be perpendicular (e.g., approximately 90°). The recess or depression 3406 is shaped for an absorbent mat and/or a tray assembly comprising a tray and a mat (such as the disposable tray and disposable sheet of FIG. 33C) to be positioned at least partially therein. Further, similar to the housing 3302, the housing 3402 comprises a plurality of legs 3450 extending downward from a back portion 3456 of the housing 3402, although the legs 3450 are of a different design.

The housing 3402 is configured to be desirably magnetically attached to a wall, although other ways of attachment may be used, including any attachment configurations described above with respect to other embodiments. FIGS. 34B and 34C illustrate additional details of the magnetic attachment configuration of the housing 3402. For example, the back portion 3456 of the housing 3402 comprises a recess 3460 shaped for a metal bar or the like to be positioned therein. For example, the recess 3460 can be shaped to receive a metal bar, such as the metal bar 1610 illustrated in FIG. 16, when the housing 3402 is attached to the wall. The recess 3460 can be held against the metal bar by a plurality of magnets. For example, in this embodiment, the housing 3402 comprises three pockets 3462 for positioning therein of magnets. For example, three of the magnets 1619 shown in FIG. 16 could be placed in the pockets 3462. In this embodiment, ribs or protrusions within the pockets 3462 are used to retain the magnets within the pockets 3462 via a friction fit. Other retention methods could be used, such as adhesive, a movable tab, a catch, a cover, and/or the like.

Although in this embodiment three magnets are used, other embodiments may comprise less or more magnets. Further, although this embodiment is described as being configured to magnetically coupled to a single rectangular shaped bar (such as bar 1610 of FIG. 16), other configurations may be utilized. For example a non-rectangular shaped bar may be used, multiple magnetic attachment points may be used, a metal bar may not be used if the housing is intended to be attached to a metal wall, and/or the like. In some embodiments, even if the housing 3402 is intended to be attached to a metal wall, it may still be desirable to utilize a separate metal bar attached to the wall, such as bar 1610 of FIG. 16, to provide a locator for locating the position that the housing 3402 is supposed to be at on the wall. The metal bar that attaches to the wall may be attached to the wall using fasteners, adhesive, and/or the like.

Returning to FIG. 34A, it can be seen that the floor 3407 comprises a plurality of holes 3458 that are in a different configuration than the holes 3358 of the housing 3302. In this embodiment, the holes 3458 are generally larger (and/or take up more surface area of the floor 3407), leading to less material used in the floor 3407, allowing the housing 3402 to be lighter, utilize less material, and/or be more efficient to manufacture. Using less material in the floor 3407 and/or having larger holes 3458 may result in a floor 3407 that has more flexibility than the floor 3307 of housing 3302. This may be acceptable, however, for one or more reasons. For example, by using a tray, such as the tray 3304 of FIG. 33C, the floor 3407 may not need to be as stiff as if a floor were directly supporting an absorbent mat itself without a tray. Further, the housing 3402 further desirably comprises one or more ridges or ribs 3421 extending about at least some of the sidewalls 3420. This can help to increase the rigidity or stiffness of the outer frame of the housing 3402 formed by the sidewalls 3420, particularly when the floor 3407 may not be as stiff as some of the other designs disclosed herein.

With reference to FIG. 34A, the housing 3402 further comprises a protrusion or handle 3410 extending downward from the front portion 3454 of the housing 3402. The protrusion or handle 3410 may be desirable, for example, to assist a maintenance worker in placing the housing 3402 against the wall and/or removing the housing 3402 from the wall.

With reference to FIG. 34C, the housing 3402 also desirably comprises a plurality of gussets or reinforced areas 3463 extending from the back portion 3456 of the housing 3402 to the outer walls 3420 and/or the floor 3407. The gussets 3463 can be desirable to, for example, increase the resistance of the housing to bending downward when a downward force is placed on the front portion 3454 of the housing 3402.

Similarly to the housing 3302, the housing 3402 further comprises a plurality of legs or downward protruding members 3450 extending downward from the back portion 3456 of the housing 3402. The legs 3450 can perform a similar function as the legs 3350, as described above. For example, the legs 3450 can help to resist a downward force that is applied to the front portion 3454 of the housing 3402 when the back portion 3456 of the housing is coupled to the wall. With reference to FIG. 34D, it can be seen that in this embodiment, the legs 3450 are formed as part of the back portion 3456 of the housing, instead of being movable or pivotable with respect to the back portion 3456. In some embodiments, the legs 3450 may be a separate piece attached to the back portion 3456 of the housing, instead of being formed as part of the back portion 3456. With reference to FIG. 34C, it can also be seen that the legs 3450 comprise a plurality of stiffening ribs 3451 that can increase a bending stiffness of the legs 3450 over what their bending stiffness would be without the ribs 3451.

In some embodiments, it can be desirable for an angle between a wall engaging surface of the legs 3450 and a plane defined by a top edge of the housing 3402 or the floor 3407 (shown as angle C in FIG. 34D) to be approximately 90°. However, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 34D, it can in some embodiments be desirable for angle C to be greater than 90°. By having angle C greater than 90°, this can, for example, account for some flexing of the housing 3402 when the tray and/or absorbent mat are placed therein, and/or as additional weight is applied to the housing 3402 due to the absorbent mat absorbing more and more urine or other liquids. Desirably, the angle of the legs 3450 is designed such that, when a maximum anticipated full load is applied to the housing 3402 (such as when the absorbent mat is full), the angle C may reduce to approximately 90° but not be less than 90°. This may be desirable, for example, because if the angle C is less than 90°, this may cause any additional urine that falls on the urinal protector to tend to move away from the wall and toward the user of the urinal, potentially spilling over and soiling the user's pants and/or shoes. In some embodiments, the housing is intended to have only minimal flex as the anticipated load is applied to it, but angle C is still desirably greater than 90°, to avoid excess liquid spilling over the front edge of the housing. In some embodiments, angle C, in a relaxed state (meaning with no external load applied to the housing), is greater than 90°. In some embodiments, angle C, in the relaxed state, is greater than 90° and less than 100°. In some embodiments, angle C, in the relaxed state, is greater than 92.5° and less than 102.5°. In some embodiments, angle C, in the relaxed state, is greater than 95° and less than 105°.

FIG. 34D further illustrates a height A of the legs 3450 and a distance B from the wall to the front 3454 of the housing 3402. These dimensions A and B may take any of the values and/or ratios discussed above with respect to dimensions A and B shown in FIG. 33B.

From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that embodiments of an inventive floor protector/shield and absorbent mat are disclosed. While several components, techniques and aspects have been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes can be made in the specific designs, constructions and methodology herein above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations and/or “some embodiments” can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.

Moreover, while methods may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such methods need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and that all methods need not be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other methods that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional methods can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described methods. Further, the methods may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of, within less than or equal to 5% of, within less than or equal to 1% of, within less than or equal to 0.1% of, and within less than or equal to 0.01% of the stated amount.

Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale should not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed inventions. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.

While a number of embodiments and variations thereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methods of using the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that various applications, modifications, materials, and substitutions can be made of equivalents without departing from the unique and inventive disclosure herein or the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A urinal protector comprising:

a housing having a back portion configured to be removably coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a recessed area between the back portion and the front portion, the recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat;

one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and

one or more downwardly protruding members coupled to or formed as a part of the back portion, the one or more downwardly protruding members configured to engage the wall when the back end is coupled to the wall.

2. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein the one or more downwardly protruding members extend below the one or more magnets.

3. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a height from a top of the housing to a bottom of the one or more downwardly protruding members to a depth from a back of the back portion to a front of the front portion is at least ¼.

4. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a height from a top of the housing to a bottom of the one or more downwardly protruding members to a depth from a back of the back portion to a front of the front portion is within a range of ⅛ to ½.

5. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein the one or more downwardly protruding members comprise a back surface that is oriented at a non-perpendicular angle with respect to a floor of the recessed area.

6. The urinal protector of claim 5, wherein the non-perpendicular angle is within a range of 92.5 degrees to 102.5 degrees, such that, when the back surface of the one or more downwardly protruding members is in full contact with the wall, and no external load is applied to the housing, the floor of the recessed area will tend to be tilted toward the wall.

7. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein the back portion of the housing comprises a recess shaped to accept a metal bar that is attached to the wall.

8. The urinal protector of claim 7, further comprising the metal bar.

9. The urinal protector of claim 7, wherein the one or more downwardly protruding members extend below the recess shaped to accept the metal bar.

10. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein the recessed area is configured to retain the absorbent mat in a removable tray that is shaped to fit at least partially within the recessed area.

11. The urinal protector of claim 10, further comprising the removable tray.

12. The urinal protector of claim 1, wherein the recessed area is configured to directly retain the absorbent mat without a removable tray.

13. A urinal protector comprising:

a housing having a back portion configured to be coupled to a wall beneath a urinal, a front portion positioned to be spaced away from the wall when the back portion is coupled to the wall, and a first recessed area between the back portion and the front portion; and

a tray shaped to fit at least partially within the first recessed area of the housing, the tray comprising a second recessed area configured to retain an absorbent mat.

14. The urinal protector of claim 13, wherein the tray comprises a disposable liquid impermeable material.

15. The urinal protector of claim 13, wherein the tray comprises a pressed paper with a wax coating.

16. The urinal protector of claim 13, further comprising the absorbent mat.

17. The urinal protector of claim 13, wherein the first recessed area of the housing comprises a floor having a plurality of openings passing therethrough, and wherein the second recessed area of the tray comprises a solid floor.

18. The urinal protector of claim 13, wherein the housing is configured to be removably coupled to the wall.

19. The urinal protector of claim 18, further comprising:

one or more magnets coupled to the back portion of the housing; and

wherein the back portion of the housing comprises a recess shaped to accept a metal bar that is attached to the wall.

20. The urinal protector of claim 19, further comprising the metal bar.