Modular and Tilting Air Dispensing Apparatus for Drying and Relaxation

Abstract

An apparatus and method for dispensing a variable air flow from a pivotable housing chamber. The method comprising the steps of: generating an air flow from a fan assembly, wherein the air flow is in communication with a heating element through a duct to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber; and resting a base on a flat surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber, wherein the housing chamber and/or base pivots on at least one of a x, y, or z axis for enabling up to a parallel tilt in relation to the floor/base for relaxing a prone or supine user.

Description

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to a concealed drying apparatus. Electric body dryers are opportune and ingenious as a replacement for towel drying. For example, they reduce maintenance costs and improve unhygienic environments associated with towel drying, such as, but not limited to, gyms, hotels, and public restrooms. More importantly, wall concealed driers are also aesthetically striking as compared to the bulky conventional ones available in the market. Problems of towel theft are eliminated. Body dryers used in public places can be concealed in the ceiling or on a wall to prevent vandalism and theft. A body dryer would also be quite useful at home, particularly as a supplement to towel drying. Towel drying can be insufficient, particularly in a damp shower area, or in warm, humid weather. After a shower or bath, one is frequently left with a damp, sticky feeling which can be eliminated with a body dryer. Body driers are particularly helpful in drying kids, people with mobility issues and pets. More importantly, drying using a body drier is gentler on the skin. It can also help in reducing the bathroom chill.

Gregory U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,179 describes an air distribution panel for mounting to a wall, and which is fluidically coupled to a blower/motor assembly. The air distribution panel includes a number of vertically extended riser ducts, each riser duct having a series of vertically spaced air flow nozzles. The riser ducts receive forced heated or cool air from the blower/motor assembly, and dispense the forced air outwardly through the air flow nozzles, and toward a user. Further yet, the riser ducts have a tapered configuration towards a closed top end, Such that the volume of air continually decreases from a bottom end portion towards a top end portion. Gregory Suggests that the tapered configuration allows the velocity of air dispensed through the vertically spaced air flow nozzles to remain uniform and constant, and without requiring use of baffles, dampers, throttles or valves.

Various prior art references and competitive products in the market suffer disadvantages in that the apparatuses are bulky and use up space in the bathroom, shower etc. Furthermore, a number of apparatuses include electrical components which may easily come in contact with water or water sources during use, and thus pose potential safety and health risks to the users. Additionally, there are a number of prior art references related to a free-standing tower-like apparatus for drying a body, however, neither of them teach for a body-drier which has a unitary housing chamber and/or base which may move, pivot and/or rotate. There is, likewise, a void in the market for a free-standing apparatus—floor-top or counter-top—which may plug/unplug a fan assembly module/head unit to/from a housing chamber duct for convenient maintenance, not to mention plug-n-dispense versatility. Furthermore, extant apparatuses do not provide the user with an option for differential dispensing. Furthermore, there is currently a void for a floor/counter-top drier with a removable plate or wall, along with easy-to-remove components (fan assembly, etc.), for hassle-free servicing or maintenance. Furthermore, none of the prior art teaches for modular embodiments, allowing for the same apparatus to be floor-top, floor-top on a pivoting/mobile base (carrier), embedded on wall, mounted on a wall, or concealed behind a wall.

There is a additionally a void in the art for a patient or user in a supine/prone/seated position to receive a body-length and proximal dispensing of air flow for relaxation/therapeutic purposes.

SUMMARY

In view of some of the disadvantages of known devices, one possible non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide a concealed dryer assembly which may permit an improved aesthetical look for a convenient and speedy drying. Another possible non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide a wall concealed apparatus which includes various customizable mechanisms allowing modifications to add, change or remove graphics and designs, and to selectively arrange air vents in a plurality of user selectable configurations.

Another possible non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide a concealed dryer assembly, configured for reducing or minimizing potential hazards and health risks to a user, such as injuries or deaths which may be caused by contact with electrical components and water or moisture during operation.

In a simplified aspect, the present invention provides a wall-concealed drying apparatus, comprising: a housing chamber; at least one temperature element within the housing chamber; at least one fan coupled to at least one motor output disposed within the housing chamber to control air flow via a control circuit proximal; at least one duct coupled to the fan and the temperature element to direct a temperature-treated air flow through the housing chamber; said housing chamber flushed against a wall, such that at least one spaced dispensing vent on a front wall of the housing chamber is aligned with at least one spaced apertures through the wall and fastened in place; and said apertures in substantial alignment with the dispensing vents for a user to receive the temperature-treated airflow to accomplish drying. Further yet, the housing chamber may have a plurality of walls including at least one top wall, bottom wall, side wall and a back wall. To dry at least one of a body, hair, feet, nails or hands. The housing chamber may be positioned in either a vertical or horizontal configuration and secured via wing extensions on the front wall with one spaced apertures.

Further yet in another aspect, the present invention has at least one wall of the housing chamber been bolted, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures to secure the housing chamber against a hidden surface of the wall. The wing extensions may be on any wall of the housing chamber. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the air vents at least one of a plurality of a hollow slot, circular slot, continuous slot in at least one of a vertical, horizontal, evenly or unevenly spaced configuration between the one apertures. Additionally, the temperature element blows at least one of a plurality of ambient air, hot air or cool air.

In yet another invention of the present invention, a control panel activates the apparatus via at least one of remote device, LCD control, motion sensor or a user-based gesture. Additionally, the control panel of the concealed drying apparatus, the vents may be adjustable and are activated by said control panel for directing and selectively preventing temperature-treated airflow at desired angles. Further yet, at least one hatch to provide access to the apparatus for maintenance work.

In yet another aspect, a plug-n-air flow dispensing apparatus and method for drying and relaxation is provided. The drying/relaxation apparatus may comprise a vertically upright housing chamber comprising a fan assembly and a resulting air flow in communication with a heating element through a duct to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall (and optionally, a bottom wall); and a base resting on a flat surface in pivotal communication with a base, wherein the housing chamber and/or base pivots on at least one of a x, y, or z axis.

In other aspects, a drying apparatus with a removable plate/wall and, or a removable (unpluggable/re-pluggable) fan assembly head unit for convenient maintenance and/or plug-n-dispense versatility is disclosed. Further, a rotatable/pivotable housing chamber or base is provided. The apparatus may comprise a housing chamber; at least one fan coupled to at least one motor output (and optionally, a heating element) disposed within a unpluggable/re-pluggable head unit/fan assembly module to plug into a duct exposed at a top portion of the housing chamber to direct temperature-treated air flow from the head unit through at least one duct of the housing chamber in communication with at least one dispensing vent or outlet exposed via at least one airway on a (optionally, removable) front and/or bottom wall/panel of said housing chamber.

In further aspects, a body-height drying apparatus with a parallel tilt back-arm is provided. This parallel-tilt apparatus allows substantially for up to a 360 degree tilt degree tilt of the upright housing chamber in relation to the base. Once in the substantially 90 degree tilt state, the air dispensing side of the housing chamber may be completely parallel to a prone/supine (or any tilt angle for accommodating a seated) user for experiencing proximal and relaxing air dispensing while laying down for a therapeutic effect. The base under-side may be equipped with wheels to provide mobility for the body-height drying/relaxation apparatus, particularly for moving the parallel-tilt apparatus from patient to patient within a healthcare setting. An apparatus head unit may be plugged in from one housing chamber to another, while the housing chamber may also be removed from the floor to a base, rendering the chamber with mobility and the ability to pivot/tilt. Moreover, the same housing chamber may be embedded on a wall (front panel—optionally, head unit) flushed against a wall with only the vents exposed for air dispensing and the front panel/head unit exposed for removal for servicing/maintenance. What's more, the housing chamber and head unit may be concealed behind a wall (secured between studs) with only the vents (and optionally, control panel) exposed through a through-wall traversing the sheet-rock/wall structure/façade. The head unit further comprises the ability to rotate around on an axis—in addition to being removable/detachable—in order to face the bulbous portion of the head unit away from a flat surface in order for the apparatus to be flushed against the flat surface (inner wall, outer wall, stud wall, etc.).

Finally, disclosed is a method for dispensing a variable air flow from a pivotable housing chamber. The method comprising the steps of: generating an air flow from a fan assembly, wherein the air flow is in communication with a heating element through a duct to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber; and resting a base on a surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber, wherein the housing chamber and/or base pivots on at least one of a x, y, or z axis, and may further be enabled for a parallel/proximal dispensing of an air flow onto a prone, supine, or seated patient/user for therapeutic effect. The user of the apparatus has the choice of using the apparatus for, either or both, drying parts of the body; drying the entire span of the body; sleeping with relaxing air directly above for relaxation/therapy; and/or sitting with air directly above or in front for relaxation/therapy. Furthermore, the head unit/fan assembly may be removed for ease of service/repair, along with being capable of rotation for establishing a flushed/flat contact with a wall/surface. Above all, the entire housing chamber may be On the wall (anchored, mounted, resting on the floor, and/or secured on a pivoting base); In the wall (embedded with front wall/head unit flushed within the wall and exposed); and/or Within the wall (concealed behind a wall with only the vents/dispensing vents exposed).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top down view of the wall-concealed apparatus along with the environment according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the housing chamber according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a top down view of the wall-concealed housing chamber according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is back view of the wall-concealed apparatus along with the environment according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the housing chamber according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the temperature element and fan assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the wall-concealed apparatus showing bracketing according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is front perspective view of the wall-concealed apparatus showing tiles layer according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective of the floor-top apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective of the side-arm pivotable base in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 11a is front perspective of the counter-top apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 11b is front perspective of the counter-top apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a front perspective of a corner-anchored apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective of an embedded apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 14a is a front perspective of a floor-top or mounted apparatus with the fan assembly unplugged in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 14b is a front perspective of a floor-top or mounted apparatus with the front wall removed in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 14c is a front perspective of a counter-top apparatus with the fan assembly unplugged in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a back perspective of the floor-top apparatus with back-arm pivotable base capable of a parallel tilt in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective of the parallel-tilt apparatus in a parallel position in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a front perspective of the parallel-tilt apparatus in a tilted position in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a front-top perspective of the parallel-tilt apparatus in a tilted position in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 19a is a close-up of the unplugged fan assembly head unit in line to be plugged into a housing chamber duct for plug-n-dispense versatility in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 19b is a close-up of the unplugged fan assembly head unit in line to be plugged into a housing chamber duct for plug-n-dispense versatility in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 20 is a method flow diagram of the parallel-tilt dispensing in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 21 is a method flow diagram of the parallel-tilt dispensing in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a method flow diagram of the parallel-tilt dispensing in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a method flow diagram of the parallel-tilt dispensing in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. However, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 1 illustrates a wall-concealed drying apparatus 100, comprising: housing chamber 102; at least one temperature element within the housing chamber; at least one fan coupled to a motor output disposed within the housing chamber to control air flow via a control circuit proximal; at least one duct coupled the fan and the temperature element to direct a temperature-treated air flow through the housing chamber 102; said housing chamber 102 flushed against a wall 103, such that at least one spaced dispensing vent 105 on a front wall 106 of the housing chamber 102 is aligned with at least one spaced apertures 107 through the wall 103 and fastened in place for outward dispensing of the air; and said apertures 107 in substantial alignment with adjustable dispensing vents 105 for a user to receive the temperature-treated airflow to accomplish drying.

Additionally, in another embodiment of the present invention, housing chamber 102 has at least one top wall, bottom wall, side wall and a back wall (not shown). Further yet, wall-concealed drying apparatus is used to dry at least one of body, hair, feet, nails and hands. The drying apparatus may be placed in a plurality of, but not limited to, spaces such as, kitchen, showers, gym, public restrooms, spas, salons, trains, planes, work environments, airports, hotels, ships, institutions etc. In an embodiment of the invention, the front wall of the housing chamber 102 is fastened to the wall 103 via wing extensions 108 of the housing chamber 102.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the front wall 106 of the housing chamber 102 is aligned within one spaced apertures 107 through the wall 103 and is fastened in place via winged extensions 108. In yet another embodiment any wall of the housing chamber 102 may be aligned within one spaced apertures 107 through the wall 103 and fastened in place via wing extensions 108. In another embodiment of the invention, the wing extensions 108 may be on any wall of the housing chamber 102 to be fastened in place between the apertures 107.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention the front wall of the housing chamber 102 is bolted, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures 107 to secure the housing chamber 102 against a hidden surface of the wall 103. Further yet, in an embodiment of the invention any wall of the housing chamber 102 may be at least one of, but not limited to, bolted, screwed, taped, bracketed or glued to the apertures 107 to secure the housing chamber 102 against a hidden surface of the wall 103 in either a horizontal or vertical configuration.

Further yet, the distance between the apertures 107 in a standard construction for an interior wall is usually 16 inches or 24 inches. The size of the housing chamber 102 may vary depending and is entirely customizable depending on the placement of the apertures 107. For example, if the standard apertures 107 spacing in the interior walls in the United States is 16 inches than the housing chamber 102 may be approximately 16 inches to snugly fit between the one apertures 107. Alternatively, if the standard apertures 107 spacing in the interior walls in Australia is 12 inches, then the housing chamber 102 can be customizable to fit those standard requirements. Additionally, the housing chamber 102 may be customizable according to the size of the apertures 107. For example, in the colder regions of the world like Upstate New York, the apertures 107 standard size is 2 inches by 6 inches for the thicker insulation of homes, however in the tropical regions the apertures 107 have a standard size of 2 inches by 4 inches for regular insulation. The thickness of the housing chamber 102 may vary and be customizable according to local codes and laws.

Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention the thickness of the vents 105 depends on the thickness of the wall 103 and the external tile layer 104. For example, in the United States, the apertures 107 are covered with half an inch wall 103 and a quarter inch of an exterior tile layer 104 hence, the thickness of the vents 105 is not more than three quarter of an inch. Alternatively, the exterior tile layer 104 may be of varied thickness hence, the thickness of the vents 105 may change to being not more than the total thickness of the wall 103 and exterior tile layer 104. Additionally, in various parts of the world depending on the geographic location, the wall layer 103 may be varied thickness for greater insulation, hence the size of the vents 105 varies but, is never greater than the total thickness of the wall 103 and external tile layer 104.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the external layer 104 can be at least one of, but not limited to, a plurality of materials like tile, wood, cement, plaster, plaster of Paris etc.

In an embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 102 may include an electrical/thermal insulation layer for improved safety and/or electrical efficiency. It is to be appreciated that the insulation member is not particularly limited, and may include plastics and polymers such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyimide, polyetherether ketone (PEEK), polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene Sulfide, and polystyrene. It is to be appreciated that a person skilled in the art would readily recognize other insulation materials suitable for use with the invention.

FIG. 2, represents the front view housing chamber 200 according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 200 has at least one top wall 204, bottom wall (not shown), side wall 205 and back wall (not shown) with wing apertures 201 on the front wall 202. Further yet, in an embodiment of present invention, the housing chamber 200 has wing extensions 20 on the front wall 202 on either side to secure fastening with one spaced apertures (not shown). Alternatively, the wing extensions 201 may be on any wall of the housing chamber 200 to securely fasten the housing chamber 200 with the one spaced apertures (not shown) against a hidden surface of the wall (not shown). Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wing extensions 201 on the front wall 202 of the housing chamber 200 is, but not limited to, bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures (not shown) to secure the housing chamber 200 against a hidden surface of the wall. Alternatively, any wall of the housing chamber 200 may be, but not limited to, bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures (not shown) to secure the housing chamber 200 against a hidden surface of the wall.

Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 200 is flushed against a wall (not shown), such that at least one spaced dispensing vent 203 on a front wall 202 of the housing chamber 200 is aligned with at least one spaced apertures (not shown) through the wall and fastened in place. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the vents 203 may be in at least one of a vertical or horizontal configuration.

In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the vents 203 are at least one of a, but not limited to, a plurality of a hollow slot, circular slot, continuous slot in at least one of a vertical, horizontal, evenly or unevenly spaced configuration. Further yet, in an alternate embodiment of the vents 203 may be a series of either horizontally or vertically placed circular slots for the flow of temperature-controlled airflow. Additionally, the direction of the airflow from the vents 203 is customizable by the user via the control panel (not shown).

Further yet, in an embodiment of the present invention, the one dispensing vent 105 has an equal or a slightly less thickness as the total thickness of the wall 103 and the outer layer 104.

FIG. 3 is a top down view of the wall-concealed housing chamber according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 300 has at least one top wall 305 bottom wall (not shown), side wall 303 and back wall 304 with wing extensions 305 on the front wall 301. Further yet, in an embodiment of present invention, the housing chamber 300 has wing extensions 305 on the front wall 305 on either side to secure fastening with one spaced apertures (not shown). Alternatively, the wing extensions 305 may be on any wall of the housing chamber 300 to securely fasten the housing chamber 300 with the one spaced apertures (not shown) against a hidden surface of the wall (not shown). Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wing extensions 305 on the front wall 301 of the housing chamber 300 is, but not limited to, bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures (not shown) to secure the housing chamber 300 against a hidden surface of the wall. Alternatively, any wall of the housing chamber 300 may be, but not limited to, bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures (not shown) to secure the housing chamber 300 against a hidden surface of the wall.

Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 300 is flushed against a wall (not shown), such that at least one spaced dispensing vent 302 on a front wall 301 of the housing chamber 300 is aligned with at least one spaced apertures (not shown) across the wall and fastened in place. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the vents 302 may be in at least one of a vertical or horizontal configuration.

In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the vents 302 are at least one of a, but not limited to, a plurality of a hollow slot, circular slot, continuous slot in at least one of, but not limited to, a vertical, horizontal, evenly or unevenly spaced configuration. Further yet, in an alternate embodiment of the vents 302 may be a series of either horizontally or vertically placed circular slots for the flow of temperature-controlled air. Additionally, the direction of the airflow from the vents 302 is customizable by the user via the control panel (not shown).

Further yet, in an embodiment of the present invention, at least one spaced dispensing vent 302 has an equal or a slightly lesser thickness than the total thickness of the wall (not shown) and the outer layer (not shown).

In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, vents 302 may be adjustable and are activated by said control panel (not shown) for directing and selectively preventing temperature-treated airflow at desired angles. Further yet, the airflow from the vents 302 may be in at least one of, but not limited to, one direction, multiple direction or oscillating.

FIG. 4 is back view of the wall-concealed apparatus along with the environment according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 400 has at least one top wall (not shown), bottom wall (not shown), side wall (not shown) and back wall 401 with wing extensions 402 on the back wall 401. Further yet, in an embodiment of present invention, the housing chamber 400 has wing extensions 402 on the back wall 401 on either side to secure fastening with one spaced aperture 403.

Alternatively, the wing extensions 402 may be on any wall of the housing chamber 400 to securely fasten the housing chamber 400 with the one spaced apertures 403 against a hidden surface of the wall (not shown). Further yet, in an embodiment of the invention, the wing extensions 402 on the back wall 401 of the housing chamber 400 is, but not limited to, bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures 403 to secure the housing chamber 400 against a hidden surface of the wall. Alternatively, any wall of the housing chamber 400 may be, but not limited to, bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures 403 to secure the housing chamber 400 against a hidden surface of the wall.

Further yet, in an embodiment of the invention, the wall-concealed apparatus further comprising a body scan capture means for actuating said vents for at least one of an aperture or angle adjustment, in sections or throughout the length of the vent, by the user or autonomously, for at least one of directing or selectively preventing temperature-treated airflow at directed body parts. Additionally, in an embodiment of the invention, the wall-concealed apparatus wherein at least one of the walls of the housing chamber is disposed with at least one of an air intake or out-take to direct air flow in at least one direction to and from the apparatus.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a wall-concealed apparatus in a kitchen may comprise of: a horizontal housing chamber, wherein said chamber is enclosed with a top wall, bottom wall, side walls, back wall; at least one temperature element within the housing chamber; at least one fan coupled to at least one motor disposed within the housing chamber to control air flow via a control circuit; at least one duct coupled to the fan-coupled motor and the temperature element to direct a temperature-treated air flow through the housing chamber; the housing chamber flushed against a wall, such that at least one horizontally spaced dispensing vent on a front wall of the housing chamber is aligned with at least one apertures across the wall and fastened in place; and said apertures in substantial alignment with the horizontally placed dispensing vent for a user to receive the temperature-treated airflow to accomplish drying of dishes, utensils, or hands.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the temperature element within the housing chamber according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, wall-concealed drying apparatus, comprising: housing chamber 500; at least one temperature element 503 within the housing chamber 500; at least one fan 502 coupled to a motor output disposed within the housing chamber 500 to control air flow via a control circuit proximal to the temperature element 503; at least one duct 507 coupled to the fan 502 and the temperature element 503 to direct a temperature-treated air flow through the housing chamber 500; said housing chamber 500 flushed against a wall (not shown), such that at least one, but not limited to, spaced dispensing vents 505 on a front wall 504 of the housing chamber 500 is aligned with at least one spaced apertures (not shown) through the wall (not shown) and fastened in place via wing extensions (not shown) on the front wall; and said apertures (not shown) in substantial alignment with the dispensing vents 505 for a user to receive the temperature-treated airflow to accomplish drying.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the temperature element 503 to blow at least one of a plurality of ambient air, hot air or cool air. Additionally, the wall-concealed apparatus may be at least one of, but not limited to, electrically or wirelessly connected to the housing chamber 500. Further yet, the wall-concealed apparatus may be activated by a control panel (not shown) by at least one of, but not limited to, a remote device, LCD control, motion sensor, user-based gesture and user-based voice activated controls.

The temperature element 503 preferably includes: a motor, engine or fan 502 adapted for moving or driving an airflow from the air inlet and outwardly from the air dispensing outlet; a resistance heating element for heating the air flow: a control element for selectively activating or deactivating the heating element assembly; and a power supply. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the power supply is via a control panel connected by at least one of, but not limited to, electrically or wirelessly. Alternatively, the power supply is a removable rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery is not particularly limited, and may include a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery, lithium ion battery, and/or lithium-ion polymer battery.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the temperature element and fan assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the temperature element within the housing chamber 600 according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, wall-concealed drying apparatus, comprising: housing chamber 600; at least one temperature element 602 within the housing chamber 600; at least one fan 601 coupled to a motor output disposed within the housing chamber 600 to control air flow via a control circuit proximal to the temperature element 602; at least one duct (not shown) coupled to the fan 601 and the temperature element 602 to direct a temperature-treated air flow through the housing chamber 600; said housing chamber 600 flushed against a wall (not shown), such that at least one, but not limited to, spaced dispensing vents (not shown) on a front wall (not shown) of the housing chamber 600 is aligned with at least one spaced apertures (not shown) through the wall (not shown) and fastened in place via wing extensions (not shown) on the front wall; and said apertures (not shown) in substantial alignment with the dispensing vents (not shown) for a user to receive the temperature-treated airflow to accomplish drying.

Further yet, in an embodiment of the invention, the temperature element 602 and the fan 601 and the motor are attached to the top wall 601 of the housing chamber 600. Alternatively, in an alternate embodiment of the invention, the temperature element 602 and the fan 601 along with the motor are attached to any wall of the housing chamber 600.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the wall-concealed apparatus showing bracketing according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the front of the housing chamber is attached to the wall via brackets. Alternatively, any wall of the housing chamber may be attached to the wall to fasten in place using the brackets. Further yet, in an alternate embodiment of the invention, at least one wall of the housing chamber may be attached using at least one attaching element to secure the housing chamber and fasten in place.

FIG. 8 is front perspective view of the wall-concealed apparatus showing tiles layer according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the outer layer may be a plurality of elements that is used to conceal the housing chamber. The materials used for the outer layer may be at least one of, a plurality of or a combination of, tile, cement, wood, plaster of Paris, wall paper, any water-proof material, any heat-resistant material etc.

Now in reference to the multiple-use/form-factor versatility of the mobile/tilted (angular/parallel)/floor-top (wall-rested/base secured/non-base secured)/wall-mounted or anchored/wall-embedded/and, or wall-concealed embodiments. A user of the apparatus has the choice of using the apparatus for, either or both, drying parts of the body; drying the entire span of the body; sleeping with relaxing air directly above for relaxation/therapy; and/or sitting with air directly above or in front for relaxation/therapy. Furthermore, the head unit/fan assembly may be removed for ease of service/repair, along with being capable of rotation for establishing a flushed/flat contact with a wall/surface. Above all, the entire housing chamber may be on the wall (anchored, mounted, resting on the floor, resting on a counter-top, and/or secured on a pivoting base); in the wall (embedded with front wall/head unit flushed within the wall and exposed); and/or within the wall (concealed behind a wall with only the vents/dispensing vents exposed).

FIGS. 9 and 10 are front perspectives of the floor-top embodiments of the body-drier apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates a stationary embodiment, wherein the vertically upright housing chamber 902 extends vertically from the fan assembly/head unit 906 to the floor. In other embodiments, the upright housing chamber 902 may non-pivotally engage a base resting on a floor. The under-side of the chamber 902/base may be floor-top and resting against a flat/corner surface—not configured for mobility. Additionally, the housing chamber may be anchored or mounted on a flat/corner surface. In an embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 902 has at least one front wall (902a), top wall 902b, bottom wall (not shown), side wall 902c and back wall (not shown). Further yet, in an embodiment of present invention, the housing chamber 902 has wing extensions (not shown) or brackets on the back or side wall (902c) to secure fastening with/between studs within a wall (concealed/embedded) or on a wall surface (anchored). In some embodiments, the anchored/stationary embodiment may be free of a base. Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wing extensions or brackets may be fastened in at least one of the following fashions, but not limited to: Bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to the apertures to secure the housing chamber 902.

Further yet, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing chamber 902 and base is anchored or free-standing, flushed against a wall. In other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 10 (front perspective of the body-drier apparatus with a pivotal (pivotable) base), the vertically upright housing chamber 1002 is pivotally engaging a base 1004. The housing chamber 1002 is in pivotal communication with a base 1004 resting on a flat surface, wherein the housing chamber 1002 pivots on at least one of a x, y, or z axis.

The engagement may be any number of ways, provided the engagement facilitates pivot/tilt, rotation, lift, and/or slide of the housing chamber 1002. Preferably, the engagement may be achieved by a side arm—optionally, dual, opposable arms—extending upwardly to any portion on the top wall 1002b and/or side wall 1002c. Ideally, the point of engagement will be positioned at a mid-point of a side wall 1002c of the housing chamber 1002 for even weight/load distribution. At least one of a rotation, tilt, pivot, slide, extension, etc., of the base 1004 and/or housing chamber 1002 may be possible. Any number of points of articulation along the side arm 1006 may be possible. Furthermore, the under-side of the base 1004 may be disposed with wheels in order provide mobility/rotation to the body-drier apparatus.

In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the vents 908/1008 may be in at least one of a vertical or horizontal configuration. The vents 908/1008 are at least one of, but not limited to, a plurality of slots/outlets: Circular, squared, rectangular, unitary, contiguous, evenly or unevenly spaced, etc. In an alternative embodiment, the vents 908/1008 may additionally have sections/portions selectively shut-off/on for targeted dispensing of temperature-treated and variable air flow. Further yet, the selectively activated vents may additionally adjust the temperature/flow based on the number/type/location of vents 908/1008 selectively deactivated. Additionally, vent 908/1008 selection, air flow/temperature variability may be customizable by the user via the control panel 1007/virtual panel (mobile device, remote device, etc.).

Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the top portion comprises of a removable head element/unit 906, further comprising of at least one of a necessary component for achieving air dispensing. Disclosed is a drying apparatus comprising: a housing chamber 902, 1002; a removable head element 906; at least one fan coupled to a motor output disposed within the removable head element 906 to direct temperature-treated air flow through at least one duct at a bottom side of the removable head element 906 to be user-connected to at least one duct at a top side of the housing chamber 902, 1002; and said connection of ducts enabling air flow between the fan in the head element 906 with at least one dispensing vent or outlet 908, 1008 traversing at least one of a front or bottom wall 902a of the housing chamber 902, 1002. In some embodiments, the head element 906 may form a bulbous portion 906a to accommodate for the plurality of components. As a result, optionally, the head element 906 may be reversible (rotate 180 degrees), in order to allow the apparatus to be flushed against a wall (floor-top/resting on a wall/bulbous portion facing forward) or concealed/embedded within a wall (concealed/embedded/bulbous portion reversed to face away from the user).

FIG. 14a-c is a front perspective of a floor-top/mounted and counter-top apparatus with the front wall removed and, or fan assembly head unit unplugged in accordance with an aspect of the invention. With the front wall/panel 1402 removed and/or (fan assembly) head unit 1404 unplugged, one may remove/service components, such as the filter, ducts, heating element, etc., with ease. Additionally, the head unit 1404 may be unplugged (removed) and may be plugged (installed) on other units elsewhere. For instance, the head unit 1404 may be unplugged from one housing chamber unit in the bathroom and be plugged into the unit in the living room. This would allow a single user to not have to buy multiple fan assembly head units, but rather, simply buy a single head unit, and plug it into any one of the plurality of housing chambers scattered around the residence. The plurality of housing chambers may range from shower corner-anchored, wall embedded, floor-top (with or without pivotable/mobile base), mounted/anchored, to kitchen counter-top. The actual plug point is via the connector rods or plugs 1404a at the bottom surface or underside of the head unit 1404 connecting to side or edge piping 1406a of the housing chamber 1406. The air flow interface or communication pathway between the head unit 1404 and the housing chamber 1406 may be distinct conduit from the plug 1404a/edge piping 1406a. In alternate embodiments, the plug 1404a/edge piping 1406a doubles up as the air flow interface between the head (fan assembly/heating element) and housing (duct/vents), in addition to be a connecting means. Moreover, aside from versatility and ease-of-use, the plug-n-dispense concept enables for convenient servicing/maintenance/repair.

As shown in FIG. 19b, which is a close-up of the unplugged fan assembly head unit 1904 in line to be plugged into a housing chamber duct 1908, the plugging occurs when the duct ends 1906 from the head unit under/over connect with the duct ends 1908 of the top end of the housing chamber—forming a continuous duct line/ducting allowing the heated/blasted air from the head unit 1904 to be in communication with the dispensing vents/outlets traversing the front wall/panel 1902 of the housing chamber. As shown in FIG. 19a, the head unit 1904 is in line to be plugged into a housing chamber duct 1908 via the duct ends (not shown) from the head unit 1904 under/over connect with the duct ends 1908a of the top end of the housing chamber—forming a continuous duct line/ducting allowing the heated/blasted air from the head unit 1904 to be in communication with the dispensing vents/outlets traversing the front wall/panel 1902 of the housing chamber. While not shown in FIG. 19a, the head unit may further comprise a plug for plugging into edge piping of the housing chamber, as in FIG. 19b. Alternatively, the plug/edge piping may function as both an air flow conduit and connecting means. While not shown in either FIG. 19a or 19b, the heating element, control circuit, ducting, in addition to the fan assembly, all may be housed within a unitary housing chamber and not require plugging into a head unit/element. The head element/unit may rotate 180 degrees in place or need to be removed in order to re-assembled in a reverse orientation. This rotation/reversed re-assembly allows for the back-side of a floor-top apparatus to be flushed against an outer side of a wall or the front-side of an embedded/concealed apparatus to be flushed against an inner side of the wall. In both cases, the bulbous portion of the head element containing componentry will be on a side opposing a surface of the wall.

Given the fact that a bathroom setting (FIG. 12 illustrates a shower/tub-cornered anchored apparatus, while FIG. 13 illustrates a bathroom/bedroom wall embedded apparatus) and, or a kitchen setting (FIG. 11a/11b illustrates a free-standing kitchen counter-top apparatus—with horizontally oriented vents—positioned behind a kitchen sink faucet, and a free-standing kitchen counter-top apparatus with vertically oriented vents, respectively) may be the desired location of the apparatus for most consumers, it is imperative to have at least a water-proof enclosure or a marine-grade environment in which the fan assembly (optionally, including a coupled-motor output), heating element, control circuit, and filter operate in. Ideally, the head unit may comprise of a water-resistant or proof enclosure encasing the above mentioned components to provide resistance/proof against water from leaking in and corrupting the electronic-based components. Further yet, the counter-top embodiments may be positioned on the floor in order to maximize dispensing exposure to a low-lying subject: Child and, or pet.

FIG. 15 is a back perspective of the floor-top apparatus with a back-arm 1506 capable of a parallel tilt in accordance with an aspect of the invention. In this configuration, a patient or a fatigued person at home may lay supine or prone on a bed and receive a full-body and proximal dispensing of a relaxing air flow. In this configuration, wherein the back-arms 1506 are pivotally communicative with the housing chamber 1502 and base 1504, allow for the housing chamber 1502 to tilt up to a 180 degrees in relation to the base 1504, rendering it parallel to the base 1504 (90 degree state). FIG. 16 is a front perspective of the parallel-tilt apparatus in a parallel position in accordance with an aspect of the invention and FIG. 17 is a front perspective of the parallel-tilt apparatus in a tilted position in accordance with an aspect of the invention. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the gap created between the parallel chamber 1602, 1702 and base 1604, 1704 may accommodate the height of a standard bed, enabling the base 1604, 1704 to slide underneath the frame of the standard bed and the vent-side of the housing chamber 1602, 1702 directly above the supine or prone user for therapeutic effect. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the back-arm 1606, 1706 comprises two articulation points (1606a, 1706a, 1606b, 1706b). The first articulation point 1606a, 1706a allows for the housing chamber 1602, 1702 to be protracted/retracted from the back-arm upright 1606, 1706; and raised or lowered. Finally, the chamber may be tilted from a 0 to 360 degree tilt rendering the chamber completely parallel and/or angular to the bed/base along the second point of articulation 1606b, 1706b. Moreover, the underside of the base 1604, 1704 may be disposed with wheel/s 1604a, 1704a to render the apparatus with bed-to-bed or room-to-room mobility. FIG. 18 is a front perspective of the parallel-tilt apparatus in a tilted position in accordance with an aspect of the invention. As shown in FIG. 18, the parallel tilt apparatus base 1804 may be slid underneath the side of the bed frame/mattress and the second articulation point 1806b may be rotated such that the parallel housing chamber 1802 extends substantially head to toe. Further yet, the back arm may telescope down and the articulation points may be manipulated in such a way to maximize exposure to a low-lying subject: Child, pet, etc.

FIGS. 20-23 represent method flow diagrams detailing the steps for dispensing at least one of a drying or relaxing air flow for a user standing, sitting, prone, or supine from at least one of a removable head element—air dispensing apparatus or a pivotable/parallel tilted—air dispensing apparatus. FIG. 20 is a method flow diagram of the plug-n-dispense versatility in accordance with an aspect of the invention. Step 1 entails generating an air flow from a fan assembly, wherein the air flow is in communication with a heating element through a duct to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber 2002; and step 2 entails resting a base on a flat surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber via at least one upwardly extending arm, wherein the housing chamber tilts up to 360 degrees in relation to the base in order to provide a proximally angular and/or parallel dispensing of air flow to a supine, prone, or seated user 2004.

FIG. 21 is a method flow diagram of the parallel-tilt dispensing in accordance with an aspect of the invention. Firstly, generating a heat-treated air flow within a removable head element terminating in a duct to be connected to a terminal duct of a housing chamber to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber 2102; and secondly, resting a base on a flat surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber via at least one upwardly extending arm, wherein the housing chamber tilts from 0 up to 360 degrees (base-original housing chamber relation) in order to provide a proximally angular and/or parallel dispensing of air flow to a supine, prone, or seated user for relaxation 2104.

FIG. 22 is a method flow diagram of the parallel-tilt dispensing in accordance with an aspect of the invention. Step 1: Generating a heat-treated air flow within a removable head element terminating in a duct to be connected to a terminal duct of a housing chamber to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber 2202; and step 2: Resting a base on a surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber via at least one upwardly extending arm 2204.

Finally, FIG. 23 is a method flow diagram in accordance with an aspect of the invention, entailing the single step of: generating a heat-treated air flow within a removable head element terminating in a duct to be connected to a terminal duct of any housing chamber to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber 2302.

In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. Although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention being defined by the following claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention admits of a number of modifications, within the spirit and scope of the inventive concepts, and that it may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim all such modifications and variations which fall within the true scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A drying apparatus comprising:

a housing chamber;

a removable head element;

at least one fan coupled to at least one motor output disposed within the removable head element to direct temperature-treated air flow through at least one duct at a bottom side of the removable head element to be user-connected to at least one duct at a top side of the housing chamber; and

said connection of ducts enabling air flow between the fan in the head element with at least one dispensing vent or outlet traversing at least one of a front or bottom wall of the housing chamber.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing chamber comprises at least one of a (any slant) vertical or horizontal configuration for drying at least one of a body, face, hair, hands, feet, pets, or kitchenware.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

at least one wall of the housing chamber to be at least one of bolted, taped, screwed, bracketed or glued to at least one of a stud or wall.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is embedded:

concealed within a wall with at least the front wall of the apparatus exposed for removal to service and/or maintain the apparatus.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the front wall is removed for exposing at least one of a removable fan assembly, temperature element, duct, or dispensing vent/outlet.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the air flow is at least one of a varying temperature and/or velocity.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the dispensing vents are selectively operational or inoperative for targeted dispensing.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein selectively operational vents vary temperature and/or velocity of air flow based on the location and/or number of selectively inoperative vents.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a control circuit being at least one of electrically or wirelessly connected for the activation of the apparatus.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:

said control circuit is activated by at least one of remote device, tablet, smart phone, LCD control panel, motion sensor, user-based gesture and user-based voice activated controls.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the head element connects to the housing chamber via connecting ducts for passage of air flow from the fan assembly in the head element through ducts in the housing chamber to be dispensed via a dispensing vent.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the head element is configured for at least one of rotating on or removable from the housing chamber.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing chamber is in pivotal communication with a base resting on a flat surface, wherein the housing chamber pivots on at least one of a x, y, or z axis.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the housing chamber is in pivotal communication with the base by a back-arm with at least one point of articulation enabling a parallel tilt of the housing chamber in relation to the base.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the base is configured with at least one wheel on a side opposed to the housing chamber-resting side for achieving mobility to the apparatus.

16. An apparatus comprising:

a vertically upright housing chamber comprising a fan assembly and a resulting air flow in communication with a heating element through a duct to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall; and a base resting on a surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber, wherein the housing chamber pivots on at least one of a x, y, or z axis.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the temperature-treated air flow is dispensed through at least one duct in communication with at least one dispensing vent/outlet exposed via at least one airway on a removable front and/or bottom wall of said housing chamber.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising at least one of a fan assembly, motor, temperature element, and/or duct is comprised within at least one of a head element or housing chamber.

19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the base comprises at least one upward extending arm for pivotally engaging at least one side of the housing chamber for enabling a tilt of the housing chamber in relation to the base.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the tilt of the housing chamber is up to 360 degrees in relation to the base providing proximal dispensing of air flow onto a supine, prone, and/or seated user for therapeutic effect.

21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the base is configured with at least one wheel on a side opposed to the housing chamber-resting side for achieving mobility to the apparatus.

22. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the front and/or bottom wall is removed for exposing at least one of a removable fan assembly, temperature element, duct, or dispensing vent/outlet for servicing and/or maintenance.

23. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein at least one of the fan assembly or heating element are housed with a removable head element to be connected to the housing chamber via at least one of a connecting ducts or head-unit plug/housing edge piping.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the head-unit plug/housing edge piping functions to connect the head unit with the housing and form the airflow pathway from the fan assembly in the head unit to the dispensing vents through the housing chamber front wall.

25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the removable head element is configured to connect to any one of a plurality of housing chambers in a residence and/or facility.

26. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the housing chamber may be at least one of installed onto a base for enabling a pivot and/or mobility of the housing chamber, rested on a floor, rested on a counter-top, mounted on a wall, embedded in a wall, and/or concealed within a wall.

27. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a control circuit activated by at least one of remote device, tablet, smart phone, LCD control panel on a wall of the housing chamber, motion sensor disposed on at least one of the housing chamber or base, or a vocal capture.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the control circuit comprises logic for dispensing a user personalized air flow.

29. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said apparatus dispenses the air flow for achieving a state of relaxation for the user.

30. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the dispensing vents are selectively operational based on a user's preferred target.

31. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the selected dispensing vents increase rate and/or temperature of air flow.

32. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a UV-light emission to eradicate viral and/or bacterial build-up.

33. A method for dispensing an air flow from a tilting housing chamber, said method comprising the steps of:

generating an air flow from a fan assembly, wherein the air flow is in communication with a heating element through a duct to be dispensed via a dispensing vent/outlet exposed via a front wall of the housing chamber; and

resting a base on a flat surface in pivotal communication with the housing chamber via at least one upwardly extending arm, wherein the housing chamber tilts anywhere from 0 to 360 degrees in relation to the base in order to provide at least one of an angular or parallel dispensing of air flow to a supine, prone, and/or seated user.

34. The method of claim 33, further comprising the step of disposing at least one wheel on an under-side of the base to providing mobility to the parallel-tilt housing chamber.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein the upwardly extending arm is telescopic allowing for the housing chamber in any one of a tilt position to be adjusted in height to accommodate a size of the bed hosting a prone or supine user.

36. The method of claim 33, wherein the upwardly extending arm is slidably engaged with the base enabling the housing chamber to be slid along a length of the base allowing for the entire length of the base to be slid under a bed frame.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein the telescopic side arm enables the housing chamber to be parallel, rotated, and adjusted in height for proximal dispensing of air flow for a pet and/or child.

38. The method of claim 33, wherein at least one of the fan assembly or heating element are housed with a removable head element to be connected to the housing chamber via at least one of connecting ducts or plug/edge piping.

39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the removable head element is configured to connect to any one of a plurality of housing chambers in a residence and/or facility.

40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the housing chamber is at least one of a floor-top, floor-top with pivotal base, embedded, mounted/anchored, concealed, and/or counter-top.