Tubs Patents (Class 4/538)
  • Patent number: 11944243
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a portable bathtub. The portable bathtub includes a bathtub main body, at least one locking member and a supporting member. The bathtub main body includes a framework and an accommodating portion formed by downwards extension of the framework. The supporting member is configured to detachably connect the bathtub main body through the at least one locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: Taizhou Xiaotanglang Infant and Child Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jian Chen
  • Patent number: 11672732
    Abstract: A system for supporting a spa shell may include a structural support paddle. The paddle may include a base portion and a paddle portion, connected to each other through an articulating joint such as a ball-and-socket. The top side of the paddle portion may include one or more pieces of cushioning material, such as EPF foam. The structural paddle assembly may be placed between the base of the spa and the spa shell. Typically, 5 or more paddle assemblies are placed in a spa for support, such as in the lowest areas of the spa shell and/or concavities, or convexities, of the spa shell. Compared to typical large blocks of foam used to support a spa shell from beneath, the structural support paddles provided increased room below the spa shell for ease of maintenance and installation, and more directly controlled support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Bullfrog International, LC
    Inventors: Nathan Tulett, Eric Hales, Creed Larsen, Robert Santos
  • Patent number: 11085178
    Abstract: An accelerated drain system for a walk-in bathtub with a water outlet in a side wall communicates water to a diverter valve biased to circulate the water in the bathtub and movable selectively to communicate water through a reverse check valve to a drain, the reverse check valve biased closed to prevent water flow and movable selectively to allow water flow to the drain, with a controller configured for moving the diverter valve selectively from the second position to the closed position for subsequent use of the walk-in bathtub. A method of rapid draining of a walk-in bathtub is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: PRECISION POLYMERS, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Oliver
  • Patent number: 11058259
    Abstract: A method of sealing a bathing enclosure includes engaging a first side of a compliant member with a first member, engaging an opposing second side of the compliant member with a second member, and inserting the first and second members with the compliant member into a receptacle projecting from a side panel of a bathing enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventor: Luke B. Zimbric
  • Patent number: 10772471
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a collapsible water dam is an end-cap with a semi-cylindrical housing. The end-cap further includes a side flange coupled to each side of the housing at the bottom periphery of the outside wall of housing. The end-cap further includes a barrier wall inside the housing that creates a secure chamber for housing a collapsible water dam. The end-cap further includes a wall flange at the distal end of the housing. The wall flange couples to and joins both side flanges in a configuration that provides a tight fit with the end wall of a shower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: ALIZACH HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventor: Adam Fine
  • Patent number: 10106104
    Abstract: A decorative element for an interior of a motor vehicle having a visible side facing the interior. The visible side has a first glossy surface region. The visible side has a second matte surface region. A device is also provided for an interior of a motor vehicle having such a decorative element and at least one lighting element, wherein when the device is arranged in a motor vehicle as intended, the second surface region is arranged in such a way that a reflection condition between a light beam coming from the lighting element and a line of vision of a passenger of the motor vehicle is geometrically fulfilled, wherein the first surface region of the decorative element is arranged in such a way that no reflection condition between a light beam coming from the lighting element and the line of vision is geometrically fulfilled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Johannes Rottmann
  • Patent number: 10071018
    Abstract: A method of purging a whirlpool bathtub includes providing a pump having an off condition and an on condition, the pump configured to circulate water to a basin through a water feed line. The method further includes providing a blower having an off condition and an on condition, the blower configured to provide air to the basin through an air feed line. The method further includes turning the blower to the on condition and the pump to the off condition, and introducing at least a portion of the air from the blower into the water feed line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventors: Jeff Tempas, Ravikanth Manchiraju, Santosh R. Narasimhan, Fred Ogreenc
  • Patent number: 9808124
    Abstract: A waterproof juncture comprised of a water-impermeable membrane applied over at least the upper peripheral edge of a wallboard or shower pan sidewall and a portion of an adjacent wall-forming member which is coplanar with the wall studs, which in turn will form a waterproof covering over the seam between the upper peripheral edge of the wallboard or shower pan sidewall (or equivalent shower bench, shelf or ledge) and the adjacent wall-forming member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Joseph R. Cook
  • Patent number: 9357884
    Abstract: A waterproofing flashing and resulting juncture, comprising in a first embodiment a generally horizontally positioned planar member which is positioned in sandwiched engagement between the upper peripheral edge of a shower pan or shower bench sidewall (or equivalent wallboard) and a lower peripheral edge of adjacent wallboard (or equivalent shower bench, shelf or ledge), and a vertically extending member attached to a distal edge of the horizontal member extending vertically upwardly behind the wallboard (or equivalent shower bench, shelf or ledge). An alternative form of the invention comprises a T-shaped flashing member comprised of a mid-section to which are connected first and second attachment members or wings, the wings adapted to connect the flashing to the room-facing side of the wallboard and/or shower module sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventor: Joseph R. Cook
  • Patent number: 9095493
    Abstract: A representative spa apparatus includes a basin having a drainage opening. The drainage opening is located at the lowest point of the basin so that water can be drained. The spa apparatus further includes a basin structure that houses the basin, a chair that is attached to the basin structure and a fluid drainage system that includes a drainage element and an external control element. The drainage element is coupled to the drainage opening and the external control element controls the drainage element to open and shut the drainage opening. The external control element is attached to the basin structure remote from the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Inventor: Quy That Ton
  • Patent number: 8904614
    Abstract: Provided is bathtub accessory product and installation method. The bathtub accessory product is designed to be secured to a bathtub wall and have a universal end that permits the attachment of any number of bath accessories such as a grab bar or swivel seat. The bathtub accessory may be installed within the inner cavity of a bathtub to ensure a secure fit while also allowing ideal placement of a bath accessory for use by a bather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Safeway Safety Step, LLC
    Inventor: Chris Stafford
  • Patent number: 8671471
    Abstract: A bath includes a water outlet or outlets arranged to in use direct a flow of water from behind onto the upper body of a bather or bathers sitting in the bath and leaning back against the wall of the bath. The upper body water outlet(s) may comprise two spaced water outlets one positioned to direct a water flow onto the left-side upper body of a bather and the other positioned to direct a water flow at the same temperature onto the right-side upper body of the bather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler New Zealand Limited
    Inventors: John Hatrick-Smith, David Gordon Arthur
  • Patent number: 8566972
    Abstract: A liquid aroma injector for a spa having a reservoir comprising an upper chamber, a lower chamber, and a subchamber, a plunger assembly comprising a plunger button, a shaft, and an annular flanged gasket. The shaft extends through said upper and lower chamber of the reservoir. The liquid aroma injector further comprises a hose through which liquid aroma travels to the liquid aroma diffuser that releases liquid aroma into the water of a spa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Custom Molded Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary Thomas Vogtner, Nathan Zahora
  • Patent number: 8549678
    Abstract: The present invention provides a drain system for a walk-in bathtub. The drain system includes a conventional drain opening in the bottom of the walk-in bathtub and a second drain opening in the side of the foot well of the bathtub. A motorized pump pumps water out of the bathtub through the second drain opening in the foot well. A first drain line provides water outflow from the conventional drain opening to a primary drain pipe. A second drain line provides outflow from the motorized pump to the primary drain pipe, and a third drain line joins the primary drain pipe from an overflow opening near the top of the bathtub. A low water sensor is coupled to the second drain line and motorized pump and deactivates the pump when the water level in the bathtub is equal to or lower than the second drain opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignees: Safety Tubs Company, LLC, Balboa Water Group
    Inventors: Andre J. Neidich, Robert Buete, Graham Campbell
  • Patent number: 8505128
    Abstract: A closure for a bathtub is disclosed. The bathtub has a walk-through bound by a generally U-shaped structure having a central sill portion and jamb portions projecting upwardly and from opposite ends of said sill portion. The closure comprises an exterior insert and an interior insert. The exterior insert, in use, is disposed exteriorly of the U-shaped structure. The interior insert, in use, is disposed interiorly of the U-shaped structure and releasably secured to the exterior insert to seal against the U-shaped structure to permit the bathtub to be filled to a height above the sill portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Herbert Staudinger
  • Publication number: 20130117925
    Abstract: Attachable and reattachable panels, particularly for water enclosing units, protect, enclose and/or cover an area such as a bathroom, steam room, shower, shower stall, bathtub, whirlpool bath, spa or the like. The panels include a clip assembly associated therewith for removably securing the panels in position and/or to other structural members. The clip assembly includes a male member and a female member, where the female member is configured for receiving the male member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: JACUZZI INC.
    Inventor: Jacuzzi Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130007953
    Abstract: Providing: a molding material for a household plumbing equipment which has superior surface hardness as well as superior water resistance for use in the household plumbing equipment inherent from a polymethyl methacrylate resin, and yet has improved solvent resistance; and a household plumbing equipment fabricated using the molding material. The molding material for a household plumbing equipment is characterized by containing a thermoplastic resin comprising the polymethyl methacrylate resin and a polytrimethylene terephthalate resin in a mass ratio of 90:10-50:50.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takaya Niu, Kazumasa Rokushima
  • Publication number: 20120328808
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-layer structure in which one or more layers contain an acrylic polymer, and one or more layers contain biopolymers. The acrylic polymer and biopolymer could be in different layers of the structure, or in the same layer ofteh structure. The combination of acrylic polymer and biopolymer in the same multi-layer structure provides improved properties, such as improved adhesion, improved mechanical properties, and improvements in the ease of manufacturing. An inner layer containing a biopolymer gains significantly improved UV resistance, abrasion resistance, and surface appearance, when covered with an outer acrylic layer. The multi-layer structure may be in the form of a sheet, a film, a tube or pipe, or a profile, and could used by itself or as a cap-layer over another substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventors: Florence Mehlmann, Robert J. Barsotti, Charles C. Crabb, Thomas H. Richards, Steven B. Lacock, Mark A. Aubart
  • Publication number: 20120223022
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to the use of rare earth-containing additives, particularly rare earth-containing additives comprising rare earths of plural oxidation states, to remove, particularly from recreational waters, various target materials, such as disinfectant by-products and precursors thereof, phosphates, and organophosphates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: MOLYCORP MINERALS, LLC
    Inventors: Carl Hassler, John Burba, Robert Cable
  • Patent number: 8230568
    Abstract: Provided is bathtub accessory product and installation method. The bathtub accessory product is designed to be secured to a bathtub wall and have a universal end that permits the attachment of any number of bath accessories such as a grab bar or swivel seat. The bathtub accessory may be installed within the inner cavity of a bathtub to ensure a secure fit while also allowing ideal placement of a bath accessory for use by a bather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Safeway Safety Step, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher Brian Stafford
  • Patent number: 8065757
    Abstract: A bath includes a water outlet or outlets (5) arranged to in use direct a flow of water from behind onto the upper body of a bather or bathers sitting in the bath and leaning back against the wall (1) of the bath. The upper body water outlet(s) may comprise two spaced water outlets one positioned to direct a water flow onto the left-side upper body of a bather and the other positioned to direct a water flow at the same temperature onto the right-side upper body of the bather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Kohler New Zealand Limited
    Inventors: John Hatrick-Smith, David Gordon Arthur Crichton
  • Publication number: 20110088158
    Abstract: The Baby Bucket is one single plastic extrusion poured product. The upright shape and the specially contoured smooth internal surface of the Baby Bucket simulate the shape and inside of a mother's womb and enable a baby to take a fetal position; therefore, the Baby Bucket gives a baby a natural and stress free bathing experience. Furthermore, the upright position reduces the chance of a baby swallowing water and/or drowning in water like in a conventional flat bath tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony Cerasani
  • Publication number: 20100216357
    Abstract: A watercraft having a main hull and at least one deployable outrigger pontoon moveable between a stored condition in which the at least one outrigger pontoon is located adjacent the main hull, and a use condition in which the at least one outrigger pontoon is located spaced from the main hull to increase at least one footprint dimension of the watercraft at the waterline, the at least one deployable outrigger pontoon moving at least partially outwardly and downwardly during deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: BRINGABOATALONG PTY LTD
    Inventors: Hilary Eric Hanslow, Elizabeth Margaret Hanslow
  • Patent number: 7691481
    Abstract: A composite article includes an acrylic layer, a UV-cured layer formed from a UV-curable composition, and a polyurethane backing layer. A method of forming the composite article includes applying the UV-curable composition to the acrylic layer such that the composition is between the acrylic layer and the polyurethane backing layer to enhance bonding between these layers. The UV-curable composition includes at least one monomer which is an ethylenically unsaturated methacrylate monomer, an ethylenically unsaturated acrylate monomer, or both. The at least one monomer has a hydroxy functional group. The monomer is compatible with the acrylic layer and the hydroxy functional group of the monomer is reactive with a polyisocyanate from the polyurethane backing layer. The UV-curable composition also includes a curing initiator that is reactive with the monomer. Upon exposure of the UV-curable composition to UV electromagnetic radiation, the curing initiator enables the composition to cure to the acrylic layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventors: Calvin T. Peeler, Michael C. May, Theresa A. Howard
  • Patent number: 7610634
    Abstract: A bathtub device includes a bathtub internal wall made of a flexible material, a pressure unit for changing a shape of a tub, which is a concavity surrounded with the internal wall, by applying a pressure on the internal wall, a setting unit for setting a movement range that is a changeable range of the shape of the tub, and a pressure control unit for controlling the pressure unit based on an operation entry by a user and the movement range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsujiro Kondo
  • Publication number: 20090133766
    Abstract: A dual inlet and dual outlet valve controls a flow from dual inlet pipes through dual outlets to dual outlet pipes to increase flow where space is not available for a single larger diameter pipe. The valve includes a rotatable cylindrical plug with vertically spaced apart plug mouths. The plug may be rotated to align the plug mouths with one of both dual outlets to allow a flow to the dual outlet pipes, or the plug may be rotated to block the flow to both outlets. The dual inlet and dual outlet valve is particularly useful in a spa where narrow spa walls limit pipe sizes. The valve allows parallel pipes into the valve and from the valve to jets, thus increasing the water flow to the jets and the resulting turbulence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: JOSEPH G. ELNAR
  • Patent number: 7490369
    Abstract: A bathtub has a shell for transmitting light thorough a thickness. A light emitting diode is disposed under the shell, in which the light from the light emitting diode is transmitted thorough the thickness of the shell. A bathtub includes a reflector sheet for reflecting light from the light emitting diode. The light emitting diode may be disposed between the reflector sheet and the shell. A bathtub includes a light diffuser panel disposed between the shell and the light emitting diode. A bathtub includes a support panel disposed between the shell and the light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Jason International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 7488416
    Abstract: A bathing pool assembly with water full of nano-scale ozone bubbles for rehabilitation has a bath, a reservoir and two circulating systems. The bath and the reservoir both have a main inlet and a main outlet. The reservoir further has a tap to allow water to flow out of the reservoir, which is provided for people to drink or gargle. The circulating systems are connected respectively to and communicate respectively with the bath and the reservoir to recycle water. The circulating systems are further connected to a gas generator assembly having an oxygen generator and an ozone generator to provide water full of oxygen and ozone to release free radicals and anions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Rosace International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo-Kang Chen
  • Patent number: 7448095
    Abstract: A tub having a water holding tank or jacket and a plurality of apertures in the tub so that water from the water jacket can be quickly transferred to the tub and controls within the system to provide means for the user to define water temperature, volume and rate of flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventor: Itshak T Agaeliaho
  • Publication number: 20080222787
    Abstract: A closure for a bathtub is disclosed. The bathtub has a walk-through bound by a generally U-shaped structure having a central sill portion and jamb portions projecting upwardly and from opposite ends of said sill portion. The closure comprises an exterior insert and an interior insert. The exterior insert, in use, is disposed exteriorly of the U-shaped structure. The interior insert, in use, is disposed interiorly of the U-shaped structure and releasably secured to the exterior insert to seal against the U-shaped structure to permit the bathtub to be filled to a height above the sill portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Herbert Staudinger
  • Publication number: 20080222788
    Abstract: A bathtub has a shell for transmitting light thorough a thickness. A light emitting diode is disposed under the shell, in which the light from the light emitting diode is transmitted thorough the thickness of the shell. A bathtub includes a reflector sheet for reflecting light from the light emitting diode. The light emitting diode may be disposed between the reflector sheet and the shell. A bathtub includes a light diffuser panel disposed between the shell and the light emitting diode. A bathtub includes a support panel is disposed between the shell and the light emitting diode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: JASON INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20080127406
    Abstract: Disclosed is a clip suitable to removably assemble a bathtub or shower stall base to a shower enclosure surround wall. The clip includes a toe, a leg connected to the toe, a web connected to the leg, and a flexible tang also connected to the web. The web is designed to mount the clip on the bathtub or stall base, while the toe catches under a ledge of the bathtub or stall base. The tang will then project at an angle inwardly. The tang permits the surround wall to pass vertically downward past it to assemble the enclosure. It resists upward movement until a specified force is applied, at which point the clip deforms or breaks to permit disassembly. The clip also has a portion of the web which facilitates keeping the clip on the bathtub or stall base even after the clip has been deformed or partially broken.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Steven M. Hammond
  • Publication number: 20070277304
    Abstract: A bathing apparatus for thermotherapy includes a bathtub provided with sensors for measuring a water temperature in the bathtub and for measuring the body temperature of a bather. A water supply/heating device adjusts the temperature of water by heating the water in a boiler based on the difference in temperatures measured by the sensors and circulates the water through a circulating passage leading to the bathtub. An oxidation-reduction potential reducing unit is provided in the circulating passage. It includes a container through which water in the circulating passage passes, and vitreous inorganic particles stored in the container for reducing the oxidation-reduction potential of water in the circulating passage when brought into contact with the water in the circulating passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventors: Kenichi Horinoue, Kenji Hatanaka
  • Patent number: 7258783
    Abstract: A water tub including a fluid delivery system utilizes a removeable carrier to provide fluids to the fluid delivery system. In some instances, the carrier is disposable such that depletion of the fluids within the container results in the carrier being thrown away and replaced by an unused carrier. In other instances, the carrier is re-usable and is removed from the fluid delivery system when the fluids within the carrier need to be replenished. In some instances, the carrier can be manually attached and removed from the fluid delivery system without the use of any tools. In some such instances it will include a latching mechanism temporarily coupling the carrier to the fluid delivery system. The carrier may include a plurality of fluid containers, each container containing a fluid used for different types of maintenance of the water tub. The delivery system may utilize a dosing engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Keith W. Harbol
  • Patent number: 6948287
    Abstract: The invention concerns a permanently functional gap seal on structures, in particular building structures, which ensures a reliable seal against penetrating moisture, this being achieved in that the cover layer has a profile which can be adapted to an installation situation over a joint or on an inner or outer corner and has a central part and side wings disposed on both sides of the central part, and in that at least the side wings have contact surfaces for contacting a sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Doris Korn
  • Patent number: 6922856
    Abstract: A safety bathtub including at least one upstanding wall; and a built-in thermometer in the wall, the thermometer including a measuring portion and a scale portion, and the thermometer being mounted such that the measuring portion is immersed in water when the bathtub has water in it, and the scale portion is out of the water when the bathtub has water in it, for continual monitoring from outside and above the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Ofir Mazar
  • Patent number: 6895609
    Abstract: A tub and shower surround assembly is initially molded as a single molded component having a waste strip which separates each individual tub and shower surround portion. The waste strip readily protects the mold and simplifies post molding operations and assures that each portion will meet final tolerances. Another waste strip is located between the tub portion and the wall portions to provide for positive draft between a tub flange which extends about the tub portion and the wall portions. Positive draft is required to assure proper removal of the mold component from the mold. The single component provides for finishing operations to be performed prior to separating the individual components. Since the majority of finishing operations are performed simultaneously prior to separating the portions, the likelihood of damage to the portions are reduced and the finish of the individual portions are of greater consistency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Aqua Glass Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Ingram, Charles M. Brown, Bradford Kenneth Hillam
  • Patent number: 6857139
    Abstract: A tactile therapy system for use in a spa, hot tub, or pool. The tactile therapy system is based, at least in part, on the hand or foot maps specified in the reflexology art. The system thus includes a pattern of protrusions configured in accordance with reflexology hand map or foot map on which an individual may apply his or her hands or feet. The reflexology-based tactile therapy system may optionally be combined with hydrotherapy, by placing hydrotherapy jets among the pattern of protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Dimension One Spas
    Inventor: Victor Lee Walker
  • Patent number: 6775861
    Abstract: A hydrotherapy unit has a housing supporting a tub. The tub has an exterior sidewall configured to resemble an object of amusement for a child such as a duck or an automobile. When configured as an automobile, a steering wheel is attached to the exterior sidewall with mounting arms and thumbscrews. A bracket extends downwardly from the arms and forms an accelerator pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas Devereaux, Sherry Devereaux
  • Publication number: 20040107492
    Abstract: An adjustable lifting device for a spa cover has a frame for securing to the spa cover and at least one extendible mount for adjustably extending a distance between the frame of the lifting device and a mounting point on the housing of a spa. The extendible mount has an extendible member attached to the frame of the lifting device, and a mounting bracket adapted to be fixed at a mounting location on the housing of a spa. The extendible member is adjustably coupled to the mounting bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: John Cunerty
  • Publication number: 20040088784
    Abstract: A tub and shower surround assembly is initially molded as a single molded component having a waste strip which separates each individual tub and shower surround portion. The waste strip readily protects the mold and simplifies post molding operations and assures that each portion will meet final tolerances. Another waste strip is located between the tub portion and the wall portions to provide for positive draft between a tub flange which extends about the tub portion and the wall portions. Positive draft is required to assure proper removal of the mold component from the mold. The single component provides for finishing operations to be performed prior to separating the individual components. Since the majority of finishing operations are performed simultaneously prior to separating the portions, the likelihood of damage to the portions are reduced and the finish of the individual portions are of greater consistency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Ingram, Charles M. Brown, Bradford Kenneth Hillam
  • Patent number: 6601247
    Abstract: According to the present invention, on a back surface side of a peripheral wall of a bathtub vessel formed of material having light transmittance by molding, a strip-like optical fiber which is formed into a strip shape by weaving a plurality of optical fibers in a meshy form which have end portions thereof directed to a light source of a light source device for illumination and perform the side surface illumination upon receiving an illumination light from the light source is circumferentially mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Hideo Shimizu
  • Patent number: 6547635
    Abstract: A doll bath for bathing dolls and the like. The doll bath includes a housing having a top wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, a third side wall, and a fourth side wall. The first and second side walls is opposite of each other. The top wall has an opening therein. A toy bathtub is positioned in the opening and has a size substantially equal to the opening. An upper edge of the bathtub has a lip thereon coupled to the top wall. A pipe is elongated and has a first end and a second end. The pipe has a pair of bends therein each generally equal to 90 degrees. Each of the bends is located generally adjacent to one of the ends of the pipe such that the ends are directed in opposite directions of each other. The pipe is positioned in the first side wall and extends upwardly from the top wall such that the first end of the pipe is directed toward the bath tub and the second end of the pipe extends through the back side of the first side wall. The first end of the pipe has a nozzle thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Edward J. Gildea
  • Publication number: 20020194674
    Abstract: An overflow system suitable for use in controlling the level of water in, for example, a bathtub (3) is described. The overflow system comprises a conduit attached to the overflow outlet (21) of the bathtub (3) and is arranged so that when the bathtub (3) is overfilled, any excessive flow rate of overflow water through the conduit (19) is detected. The excessive flow rate is detected by arranging for the outlet (25) of the conduit to have a smaller maximum flow rate than the inlet (23) of the conduit so that water backs up within the conduit during an excessive flow rate condition. The backed up water may be detected by a reed switch (31) in conjunction with a magnetic float (27) in order to actuate a solenoid valve (9) to prevent any more water from entering the bathtub (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Malachi C. McKenna
  • Patent number: 6418573
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a base having an opening on the top; a body supporting member having a number of openings, placed inside of the base; a lid covering the opening of the base; a plurality of upper shower nozzles arranged on the lid; a plurality of lower shower nozzles arranged under the body supporting member in the base; a hot-water supplying part; a hot-water supply route to connect a plurality of the upper shower nozzles and a plurality of the lower shower nozzles and the hot-water supplying part; and a heater to heat a space formed by the base and the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Masatoshi Masuda
  • Patent number: 6378145
    Abstract: A device consisting of a combination of a bathtub (1) with a shower tray (3), in which the bathtub (1), when in position B=Bathing, is positioned over shower tray (3) in such a way that its water outlet ends up over the shower tray (3), whilst when in the other possible position S=Showering, it stands upright, i.e. end over end, on one of its ends, thereby freeing access to shower tray (3). Bathtub (1) can easily be manoeuvred from one position to the other by a lifting mechanism and the application of force, preferably generated by an electric motor (13). By completely separating the bathtub from the shower tray and by positioning the bathtub over the shower tray, the edge of the shower tray is on the one hand kept as low as it would be if there were indeed a separate shower tray, whilst on the other hand, the edge of the bathtub is only slightly raised. As a result, both parts are extremely user-friendly, especially for elderly or handicapped persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Martin Wyss
  • Patent number: 6308349
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary tub with an outer shell made of steel sheet, an inner shell made of plastic, and an intermediate layer connecting the two shells. A protective coating is applied to the outer shell to protect against corrosion. The outer shell is provided with a coating applied to both the inner and outer sides. This coating consists of a conversion layer produced by phosphatizing, and a lacquer forming on the outer side the abrasion and impact resistant protective coating. On the inner side of the shell an agent effectively imparts adhesion between the steel sheet and the intermediate layer without mechanical roughening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Franz Kaldewei GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Fritz Pieper
  • Publication number: 20010025389
    Abstract: A device for washing a user with a washing liquid, including a longitudinally extending, open topped vessel having a mat member for supporting the user lying thereon. The mat member is provided with a multiplicity of openings for permitting the washing liquid to pass therethrough. A cover member defining an open space is rotatably secured to the vessel and is displaceable between an open position and a closed position where the cover member engages with the vessel such that the body of the user lying on the mat member is accommodated within the open space of the cover member. The cover member has a front opening such that, when the cover member is in the closed position, the neck of the user lying on the mat member is loosely fitted in the front opening with the head of the user being projected from the cover member. Upper and lower liquid injection nozzles are disposed above and below the mat member for injecting the washing liquid toward the user lying on the mat member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: Teruo Kitamura
  • Publication number: 20010005911
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary tub with an outer shell made of steel sheet, an inner shell made of plastic, and an intermediate layer connecting the two shells. A protective coating is applied to the outer shell to protect against corrosion. The outer shell is provided with a coating applied to both the inner and outer sides. This coating consists of a conversion layer produced by phosphatizing, and a lacquer forming on the outer side the abrasion and impact resistant protective coating. On the inner side of the shell an agent effectively imparts adhesion between the steel sheet and the intermediate layer without mechanical roughening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Publication date: July 5, 2001
    Inventor: Fritz Pieper
  • Patent number: 6158065
    Abstract: A portable top-opening receptacle for holding water for a child bathing in standing position having a horizontal bottom and having a sufficient diameter to accommodate use by a child for standing. A round vertical wall keeps water inside of said receptacle, having a sufficient height to provide water at least to the waist level. The receptacle being laterally dimensioned so that the child can rest it's buttocks on a wall of the receptacle behind the child while holding onto a wall of the receptacle in front of the child providing an infant a facility to practice standing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventors: Frances Kyra Tuoriniemi, Veijo Matias Tuoriniemi, Cornelia Frances Tuoriniemi