And Aerating Patents (Class 4/541.4)
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Patent number: 12232659Abstract: A reconfigurable water distribution system for a walk-in tub bathing installation including two or more types of discharge ports for discharging water. The system includes a single motorized pump having an input connected to a suction port of the bathing installation, and an output port delivering pressurized water. A pipe system selectively connects the pump to the two or more types of discharge ports to selectively direct the pressurized water to the different ones of the types of discharge ports. The system selectively enables the bathing installation to perform a plurality of different functions using a single pump.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2023Date of Patent: February 25, 2025Inventor: Daniel Oliver
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Patent number: 11980585Abstract: A device for securing a discharge end of a gas discharge apparatus inside a gas delivery conduit of a fluid impermeable liner covering a liquid-receiving basin features a first portion configured to be supported on the basin so as to engage an outer face of the liner which normally engages the basin and a second portion of the device configured to be movable relative to the first portion to selectively engage an inner face of the liner in opposite relation to the first portion in a working position. The inner face of the liner delimits the interior of the liner-covered basin. The first and second portions are configured to cooperatively form a generally tubular cavity substantially encompassing the gas delivery conduit in the working position, to clamp the gas delivery conduit over the discharge end of the gas discharge apparatus to substantially form a fluidic seal therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2021Date of Patent: May 14, 2024Assignee: Contego Spa Designs, Inc.Inventor: Jeff Ta
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Patent number: 11674295Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 19, 2021Date of Patent: June 13, 2023Assignee: PRECISION POLYMERS, LLCInventor: Daniel Oliver
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Patent number: 10874585Abstract: One or more systems are disclosed for producing microbubbles in a standard tub as well as a pedicure tub for performing pedicures on a user. The one or more systems include a microbubble generating device. The microbubble generating device includes its own housing and is portable or can be attachable to one or more structures such as a pedicure chair. The microbubble generating device includes a pump, an air mixing chamber, a solenoid valve, and electrical timer. After passing through the pump and the air mixing chamber of the microbubble generating device, the outgoing water is infused with microbubbles and redirected from an outlet of the microbubble generating device to the tub or pedicure tub. The system further includes an aerator assembly and one or more filters. Microbubbles are included in the water to provide deep cleaning and other health benefits to the user.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2020Date of Patent: December 29, 2020Assignee: Micro Clean CorporationInventor: Henry Vo
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Patent number: 10537492Abstract: An aeration nozzle for spraying water infused with air into an above-ground water cavity defined by a wall, comprising a nozzle body having at least a first internal conical portion including an upstream end and a downstream end, the downstream end being smaller than the upstream end, a water way extending through the nozzle body and the first internal conical portion, an air way extending through the nozzle body, the air way intercepting the water way within the nozzle body downstream of the first internal conical portion, and a check valve disposed along the air way that permits air to be pulled through the air way and into the water way by way of a vacuum force caused by water flowing within the water way through the first internal conical portion and prevents water from entering the air way.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2016Date of Patent: January 21, 2020Assignee: Intex Marketing Ltd.Inventors: Hua Hsiang Lin, Yaw Yuan Hsu
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Patent number: 10279206Abstract: A fire extinguishing system of an aircraft including a nozzle device that is provided on an installation member forming a compartment of the aircraft, wherein the nozzle device includes: a nozzle that is passed into an insertion hole formed in a nozzle installation section provided on the installation member, and discharges a fire extinguishing agent supplied from a supply source into the aircraft compartment; and a lid member that closes a gap between the nozzle and the nozzle installation section.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2014Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: MITSUBISHI AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONInventors: Takafumi Kono, Takashi Shimaoka, Mitsunori Ehara, Koichiro Fushiya
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Patent number: 9931649Abstract: A rotating high pressure air and water nozzle is disclosed. The nozzle includes a head adapted to rotate, a housing adapted to secure the head therein, and a plurality of passageways disposed through the head. In addition, the nozzle includes a supply port disposed at a first end of each of the passageways, where each supply port has a funnel shape adapted to direct fluid into each passageway to reduce hydraulic losses, and a discharge port disposed at an opposing end of each of the passageways adapted to discharge a jet of fluid. Each discharge port is offset from the respective supply port to cause the head to rotate when fluid flows through the passageways.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2012Date of Patent: April 3, 2018Assignee: VAC-TRON EQUIPMENT, LLCInventor: Don M. Buckner
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Patent number: 9849064Abstract: A system for jet hydrotherapy configured to produce a fluid jet from an aerated fluid flow at sufficiently high velocities/pressures for massage or therapeutic treatment, which is accomplished by an internal geometry that places, at least, fluid and gas orifices, vessels and nozzles in the optimum location and configuration to create high fluid flow velocities throughout the system. The system also is configured to produce a fluid jet with sufficiently high gas content such that a user experiences less discomfort and/or pain when the fluid jet is applied to sensitive tissue areas. The system also is configured to provide a tactile interface upon which a system user can mechanically engage to supplement the jet hydrotherapy.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2014Date of Patent: December 26, 2017Assignee: Custom Molded Products, LLCInventors: Victor L. Walker, Zachary T. Vogtner
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Patent number: 9475011Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2015Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: Jason International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
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Patent number: 9198827Abstract: The water massage assembly for massaging a user's feet in a tub includes a tub that may contain a fluid. A user is positioned in the fluid. A pump is coupled to the tub. A control is operationally coupled to the pump. The control controls an operational parameter of the pump. A first jet is coupled to the tub. The first jet is operationally coupled to the pump. The pump urges air outwardly from the first jet onto the user's body. A foot box is operationally coupled to the tub. The foot box may receive the user's feet. A second jet is coupled to the foot box. The second jet is operationally coupled to the pump. The pump urges air outwardly from the second jet onto the user's feet.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2014Date of Patent: December 1, 2015Inventor: Mercella Robinson
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Patent number: 9066635Abstract: An air jet includes a body portion defining a hollow main body portion having an interior opening, and a connection portion having an air passageway in communication with the interior opening. The connection portion includes at least one connection port for attachment to a hose carrying pressurized air, and a flange portion defining a recessed mount surface inside a peripheral lip surrounding a recess, with a plurality of open regions defined in the peripheral lip. At least one protrusion is defined between the peripheral lip and the interior opening to reduce the volume of the recess and the amount of adhesive for installation of the air jet to the wall of the vessel. A nozzle member is fitted into the interior opening and has a nozzle orifice and nozzle tip protruding into the recess.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2013Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.Inventors: Graham J. Campbell, Eric J. Kownacki
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Patent number: 9066634Abstract: An air jet includes a body portion defining a hollow main body portion having an interior opening, and a connection portion having an air passageway in communication with the interior opening. The connection portion includes at least one connection port for attachment to a hose carrying pressurized air, and a flange portion defining a recessed mount surface inside a peripheral lip surrounding a recess, with a plurality of open regions defined in the peripheral lip. A nozzle member is fitted into the interior opening and has a nozzle orifice and nozzle tip protruding into the recess, the nozzle opening configured to allow pressurized air to pass from the connection port through the central opening and through the nozzle orifice into the tub hole and the tub.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2012Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.Inventors: Graham J. Campbell, Eric J. Kownacki
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Patent number: 8984678Abstract: An air injection system for a hydro-massaging bath is described. An air convecting conduit is in communication with a plurality of injecting orifices formed in a peripheral wall of the bath. An air blower injects air under pressure in an entry opening of the air convecting conduit. A water spray injector is located downstream of the entry opening and upstream of the air injecting orifices to inject a spray of a predetermined volume of water in the injected air under pressure. A water supply conduit is connected to the water spray injector and has a flow regulating valve to regulate the volume of water spray injected in the heated air to saturate the air with water. A shut-off valve is provided in the water supply conduit, and a heater is disposed in the air convecting conduit downstream of the water spray injector and upstream of the air injecting orifices wherein heated, humidified air injected in the water contained within the bathtub does not produce a cool sensation on the body of a user person.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Geston Ultra International Inc.Inventors: Henry Brunelle, Louis Gendreau, Danny Grenier, Guy Baillargeon
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Patent number: 8890357Abstract: A line voltage transformer device for a bathing installation includes a housing structure, with a line voltage electrical power connection including a line voltage wiring cable having an electrical connection at a distal end for connection to a line voltage AC supply outlet adjacent the bathing installation. A voltage transformer circuit is disposed within the housing and connected to the line voltage electrical power connection and is configured to transform AC line voltage electrical power from the line voltage electrical power connection to low voltage AC power at first and second low voltage AC terminals, wherein the low voltage AC power is delivered to the first and second low voltage AC terminals.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.Inventor: Graham J. Campbell
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Publication number: 20140157512Abstract: A jet massage device including a pump unit submersible in liquid; an electronic unit electrically coupled to the pump unit, wherein the electronic unit includes a programmable component for determining one or more of the following of the pump unit: power ramp, voltage level, current level, water flow volume, water flow rate or frequency pulsing of a water stream; and a spa jet assembly, coupled to the pump unit and the electronic unit for delivering the water stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2013Publication date: June 12, 2014Inventor: Brian Yanity
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Patent number: 8739323Abstract: An air injection bathtub includes: a body part having a coupling recess formed depressedly on the bottom surface thereof; a plate part adapted to be fit to the coupling recess of the body part and having a connection groove formed depressedly on one side of the underside surface thereof, at least one air passing grooves formed depressedly on the underside surface thereof in a manner as to communicate with the connection groove and to pass the air supplied from the connection groove therethrough, and at least one air injection through-holes formed on the top surface of the plate part to inject the air passing through the air passing grooves into the body part; and a valve part disposed below the connection groove in a manner as to be open and closed through the air pressure supplied from the outside and to supply air to the connection groove.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2012Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Inventor: Sang-Bae Lee
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Patent number: 8720867Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Jason International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
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Patent number: 8671472Abstract: An air control and aromatherapy module for a jetted tub comprising an air control member having a body portion defining an intake opening, a scent container defining a scent opening, and a housing having a body portion. The scent container is positioned within the body portion of the air control member. The air control member and the scent container are at least partially disposed within the body portion of the housing. The air control member and the housing define a central passageway and the scent opening of the scent container is in fluid communication with the central passageway. A method of providing aromatherapy to a jetted tub is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2009Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventors: David M. Groner, Devin J. Callihan, Brian A. Milford
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Patent number: 8646759Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. One method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, to a fluid chamber connected a fitting; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid. Another method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, into an air entrapment chamber; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2012Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: Jason International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
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Patent number: 8579266Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. A micro bubble generating apparatus may include a housing body having a first fluid passage for a pressurized mixture of a liquid and a dissolved gas in a direction towards a fluid flow. An orifice member can be releasably engaged with the housing body and the orifice member may have a second fluid passage being disposed therein; and the second fluid passage being disposed at an angle with respect to the first fluid passage for generating a plurality of micro bubbles from the mixture; and an opening in the housing body for releasing the plurality of micro bubbles.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Jason International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
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Patent number: 8387175Abstract: A soaking basin is provided having a base unit, a disposable liner, and a frame nested therebetween to enable removal of the liner from the base unit, even when filled with liquid. In this manner, a user can remove the liner filled with liquid to pour out the liquid and discard the liner, after a treatment has been completed. Thus, the user need not lift the entire soaking basin to pour out liquid. In addition, the user can use the frame to support the new liner while filling it with liquid, and to transport the filled liner to the base unit to service clients.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Footsiebath LLCInventors: Genya Vinokur, Sasha Vinokur, Michael Vinokur
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Patent number: 8220082Abstract: A far-infrared hydrotherapy device has a bath unit, an oxygen supplier, a booster pump, a pressure modulator and an acupressure jet. The bath unit has a tub, an outlet pipe and a heat pump. The tub is for accommodating a liquid. The outlet pipe is connected to the tub to allow the liquid to flowing through. The heat pump is connected to the tub and has a temperature controller. The oxygen supplier is connected to the outlet pipe and provides oxygen to the liquid. The booster pump is connected to the outlet pipe to elevate pressure of the liquid. The pressure modulator is connected to an outlet of the booster pump and has a pressure-equalizing device, a water pressure modulating valve, a pressure-stabilizer and a hose sequentially connected. The acupressure jet is connected to the hose and has an outlet. The far-infrared hydrotherapy device is useful for hydrotherapy.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Rosace International Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kuo-Kang Chen
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Patent number: 8205277Abstract: In the upper part and the lower part of a micro-nano bubble generation section 34 in a micro-nano bubble bathtub 1, two kinds of micro-nano bubbles different in a size distribution are generated by first and second micro-nano bubble generators (submerged pump-type micro-nano bubble generator 2 and spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) of two kinds, so that bathtub water containing micro-nano bubbles in a wide size distribution can be produced in a large amount. Some of the water containing micro-nano bubbles generated in the lower part is thrown into the first micro-nano bubble generator (spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) in the upper part, so that the spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10 can generate micro-nano bubbles in a smaller size. Therefore, in this bathtub, micro-nano bubbles abundant in size and large in amount can be produced economically.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2007Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuyuki Yamasaki, Kazuyuki Sakata, Kazumi Chuhjoh, Masaki Kataoka
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Patent number: 8201811Abstract: A micro bubble generating system includes a shell having a well for retaining a first liquid to immerse an object. A micro bubble apparatus is provide to the shell for providing a pressurized mixture of a second liquid and a dissolved gas into the well so as to create a plurality of micro bubbles within the first liquid for engaging the object. One method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, to a fluid chamber connected a fitting; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid. Another method of using micro bubbles includes providing a fluid mixture, including a saturated gas, into an air entrapment chamber; and producing a plurality of micro bubbles into a fluid.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Jason International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Cunningham, Eric Jackson, Remo C. Jacuzzi
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Patent number: 8095998Abstract: A spa pool assembly has a pool having an enclosing wall and a base that together defines an interior. The base has a plurality of inflatable sections that are divided by at least one air passage. A hose delivers air from outside the pool to the air passage, with the hose extending partially inside the enclosing wall and having a U-shaped section extending outside the enclosing wall at a vertical level that is higher than the top of the enclosing wall.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Ideal Time Consultants LimitedInventor: Vincent W. S. Lau
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Patent number: 8069505Abstract: A jet face for a jet has a plurality of detents configured to aid gripping the face for rotational operation. The jet face can also include a mounting coupling to accept a removable element. The removable element can be configured as a ring-shaped element, and the coupling a groove sized to accept the element.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2007Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Dimension One Spas, Inc.Inventor: Victor L. Walker
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Patent number: 7832028Abstract: A fine-bubble generator is capable of supplying a fluid mixed with a large quantity of fine bubbles into a fluid without causing an unnecessary liquid flow and turbulent flow in the objective fluid. The fine-bubble generator is constructed by arranging two fine-bubble generating sections in a rectangular parallelepiped casing with spouts of the fine-bubble generating sections facing each other.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignees: Tashizen Techno Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshihiko Yayama, Hisatsune Nashiki, Ichiro Teshiba, Tatsuhiko Takase, Hironori Tanaka, Takaaki Iwasaki
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Patent number: 7802325Abstract: Hartford loop manifold assembly installed in operable communication with an air control assembly in a whirlpool bathing system. The manifold assembly includes a tubular manifold housing having a coupling member in intussusceptible relation therewith. The manifold housing has an elongate body and an elongate wall coextensive with an upper body proximate extent and a lower body distal extent thereof. The elongate wall includes an internal manifold wall delineating a reception lumen that accommodates insertion of the coupling member therein. The internal manifold wall is disposed by a predetermined distance from an external manifold wall in parallel therewith to define a flow area therebetween. The external manifold wall has at least one outlet depending generally normally therefrom. Each outlet has a lumen defined therethrough for unoccluded fluid communication between each manifold flow area and at least one conduit detachably coupled to each outlet extent.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2007Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: AS IP Holdco, LLCInventors: James Reinhart, Kipley Roydon Marks
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Patent number: 7766038Abstract: A manifold device for a multi-jet pool fixture includes a central chamber having a jet interface surface. An inlet in fluid communication with the central chamber allows fluid to flow into the central chamber and out a plurality of openings disposed in the jet interface surface. An outlet in fluid communication with the central chamber allows water to flow out of the central chamber.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2008Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Venturi Jet Sets, Inc.Inventors: Brent Geddes, Scott A. Wilson
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Patent number: 7682562Abstract: A system for decontaminating a fluid-injection system for a tub from organic growth comprises an ozone source and a pressure source, producing an ozone-enriched air output. Piping is connected to a fluid-injection system. A controller device actuates the ozone source and the pressure source such that the ozone-enriched air output is conveyed to conduits of the fluid-injection system. A switch manually actuated to stop an actuation of the ozone source, whereby organic growth in the conduits of the fluid-injection system is exposed to the ozone-enriched air output.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2007Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: C.G. Air Systèmes Inc.Inventors: Dominique Ciechanowski, Miguel Castellote
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Publication number: 20090044328Abstract: An in-line bubble reducer for inducing turbulent flow in a liquid fluid stream in which gaseous bubbles are entrained. The bubble reducer includes a chamber with an inlet and an outlet, an axial flow diverter for directing the fluid stream outwardly and towards a subsequent annular flow diverter. The annular flow diverter extends from an inner wall of the chamber and induces turbulent flow in the fluid stream to reduce the size of the gaseous bubbles entrained in the fluid stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventor: Russ Wooten
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Patent number: 7454802Abstract: An air massage bathtub is disclosed. The air massage bathtub includes a bath well defined by side walls and a bottom portion. The bottom portion includes a recessed area with a drain located within to the recessed area. The bathtub further includes a channel located at least partially below said bath well and in communication with the recessed area, and a plurality of apertures each of which extends through the bath well and into the channel.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2004Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Acryline USA, Inc.Inventors: Scott Tennant, Steve Deland
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Patent number: 7434277Abstract: A fluid flow system for a hydrotherapy tub includes a body adapted for mounting to the hydrotherapy tub. The body includes a water chamber adapted for fluid communication with a water source, an air chamber adapted for fluid communication with an air source, and a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with the water chamber and the air chamber. The plurality of outlets is configured to transmit water from the water chamber and air from the air chamber to an interior of the hydrotherapy tub.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2002Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath, Inc.Inventors: Anthony Brennan, W. John Gardenier
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Publication number: 20080189847Abstract: In the upper part and the lower part of a micro-nano bubble generation section 34 in a micro-nano bubble bathtub 1, two kinds of micro-nano bubbles different in a size distribution are generated by first and second micro-nano bubble generators (submerged pump-type micro-nano bubble generator 2 and spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) of two kinds, so that bathtub water containing micro-nano bubbles in a wide size distribution can be produced in a large amount. Some of the water containing micro-nano bubbles generated in the lower part is thrown into the first micro-nano bubble generator (spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) in the upper part, so that the spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10 can generate micro-nano bubbles in a smaller size. Therefore, in this bathtub, micro-nano bubbles abundant in size and large in amount can be produced economically.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2007Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuyuki Yamasaki, Kazuyuki Sakata, Kazumi Chuhjoh, Masaki Kataoka
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Publication number: 20080172783Abstract: A bathtub having a water pump and heater for heating and circulating water from the bathtub to at least one mixing chamber, an air blower and heater for delivering heated ambient air to the mixing chamber, and a plurality of orifices for delivering an air-water mixture from the mixing chamber to the bathtub. A wall of the mixing space may be associated with a wall of the bathtub, and the orifices may be in the wall providing direct fluid communication between the mixing space and the tub. The invention provides improved thermal stability and eliminates evaporative cooling effects in air-injected tubs.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventors: Scott A. Smith, James Riewe, Michael Faulstich
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Patent number: 7334743Abstract: A fog generating system (20) includes a fluid feed conduit (22) and extension tube assemblies (26) spaced along the conduit (22). The assemblies (26) include nozzle fittings (40) coupled to extension tubes (32). Misting nozzles (44) are releasably engaged with the nozzle fittings (40), and are recessed within the nozzle fittings (40). Installation entails arranging the system (20) on an interior side of an installation form (90), and securing the nozzle fittings (40) using fitting plugs (50) so that an open ends (60) of the nozzle fittings (40) abut the form (90). The fitting plugs (50) further form a fluid resistant seal for maintaining the assemblies (26) under fluid pressure during installation. The system (20) is embedded in a concrete material (124) for the structure (120). Following removal of the installation form (90) and the fitting plugs (50), the misting nozzles (44) are installed within the nozzle fittings (40).Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Fogco Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gary F. Wintering, Jeffrey D. Beeman, Alan M. Whitaker, Steve B. Kizziar
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Patent number: 7334274Abstract: A swirling bathing tub includes a bathing tub, a water ejecting device mounted on an inner side face of the bathing tub and having at least one water outlet defined in the casing and a water inlet for connection with a water source, a water pump mounted inside the casing and having a water inflow pipe in communication with the water inlet and a water outflow pipe corresponding to the at least one water outlet, a baffle rotatably mounted inside the casing and having at least one through hole corresponding to the at least one water outlet so that water flowing through the water outflow pipe of the pump is able to selectively flow to the bathing tub to create a soothing massaging effect to the user.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Cheng-Chung Wang
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Publication number: 20080034493Abstract: A method of foot care for a bather comprises: providing a water container partially filled water therein; adding a first material to the water, the first material including a super absorbent polymer capable of absorbing a substantial amount of water; forming a gelatinous mixture with the first material absorbing the water; placing the feet of the bather in the gelatinous mixture for bathing; adding a second material and water to the gelatinous mixture, the second material including a dissolving agent for transforming the gelatinous mixture to a liquid having a low viscosity and a sanitizing or disinfectant agent for sanitizing without causing toxic effects to the bather; placing for bathing the feet of the bather in the dissolved liquid; and, removing the dissolved liquid from the water container.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2006Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventor: Soo Kyoung Park
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Publication number: 20070209105Abstract: A mixing device for a tub for supplying to a tub a mixed liquid which has mixed gas and water includes: a 1st mixing tub which includes: a chamber with a port which connects to an inlet pipe of the mixed liquid at the top of the chamber, and a cylinder disposed within the chamber and having an upper end opening which connects to an outlet pipe of the mixed liquid and a lower end opening placed in the vicinity of a bottom of the chamber; and a 2nd mixing tub connecting to a flow inlet for supplying the mixed liquid to the inside of the tub and including a supply pipe with multiple holes or bores for the flowing out of the mixed liquid to the mixed liquid which has accumulated inside 2nd mixing tub.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2007Publication date: September 13, 2007Inventor: Masatoshi MASUDA
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Patent number: 7089608Abstract: A spa comprised of a fluid enclosure having a floor and an upstanding sidewall includes a therapy station within the enclosure. The therapy station includes an upright seat to accommodate a single person and includes a plurality of fluid jets in the footwell and sidewall of the enclosure at various targeted hydrotherapy locations. Pressurized water is provided to the hydrotherapy locations by a pair of fluid pumps. Each jet at the hydrotherapy locations is provided with a variable flow controller adapted to control the water flow out of the jet. Each hydrotherapy location is also provided with a variable flow controller adapted to control the flow of air into the jet. Each hydrotherapy location is also provided with a directional flow controller. Each jet discharges water flow at one horsepower or more to provide intense hydrotherapy selectably directed to multiple portions of the body simultaneously or individually.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Charles Gilbert Erb
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Patent number: 7055186Abstract: A combination spa and electronic entertainment system is disclosed. The spa includes a tub with an upper edge from which horizontal surfaces extend. The surfaces have apertures through which water-tight housings may be raised and lowered. The housings hold components of the entertainment system and have tops larger in size than the apertures to form sealing areas engageable with the horizontal surfaces surrounding the apertures for sealing the apertures and the water-tight housings. A moving mechanism is provided to raise and lower the housings. The mechanism has a platform supported on a carriage movable vertically along a support column. A motor raises and lowers the platforms through a cable and pulley system. A motion limiting device having a pivoting arm which engages sensors communicating with the motor through a control system shuts the motor off in response to predetermined upper and lower limits of cable tension.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2002Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Master Spas, Inc.Inventors: Robert Lauter, Terry M. Valmassoi, Samuel K. Badiac, Elmer C. Herbert
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Patent number: 6968581Abstract: A air selection control valve and assembly capable of controlling the flow of air into a water conduit to accelerate, decelerate, or pulse the rate of water flowing in combination with a hot tub spa assembly is described. The control of the air inlet is controlled to control the pulsing of water. An innovative multi-way control valve system can be controlled by as few as a single solenoid for pulsing some or all of the jets of a standard hot tub spa.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Inventor: Steven E. Christensen
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Patent number: 6792627Abstract: An aerated bath 26 is disclosed comprising a plurality of receptacles 10 on the outside of the bath, each receptacle being in communication with the interior of the bath through one or a plurality of openings 16, and fluid supply means 20 connected to some or all of the receptacles characterised in that the receptacles are shallow and of a relatively smooth internal configuration. Preferably, the internal configuration of the receptacles is a part spherical dish. The smooth internal surface reduces locations where moisture can be trapped. Preferably also, the receptacle is made from a material, especially a plastics material, which is hydrophobic which therefore resists wetting by bath water. The plastics material is preferably easily machinable, and tough and durable, and may be selected from known plastics materials of this type such as nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Clearwater Collection LimitedInventors: Mohan Singh Sangha, Darren Kirk Allison
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Patent number: 6775863Abstract: A switching assembly that can be used on a spa, pool, bathtub, or aquarium shell without the need to form a hole in the shell. The switching assembly includes an actuator that is mounted on an interior surface of the shell and is exposed at least in part to water held by the shell. The actuator may be mounted above or below the water line. The switching assembly also includes a switch that is responsive to the actuator and is mounted on the opposite, exterior surface of the shell. The switch responds to stimulus from the actuator without the need to form a hole in the shell between the switch and the actuator. The actuator may include a magnet that produces a magnetic field, and the switch may include a reed switch, which changes state in response to the absence or presence of the magnetic field generated by the actuator magnet. The magnet may be supported by a button attached to the shell, and the button protects the magnet from exposure to water and chemicals held in the shell.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignee: Dimension One SpasInventor: Brent Mark Hutchings
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Patent number: 6760932Abstract: Hydrotherapy-tub coplanar-flow device includes slotted nozzle on a body for discharge of fluids from the nozzle in a substantially coplanar flow. The body is adapted for mounting on an inner surface of a hydrotherapy tub and attachable to first and second fluid supply conduits. Further, the body has a first inlet for flow of water from the first fluid supply conduit and a second inlet for flow of air from the second fluid supply conduit. The slotted nozzle discharges these fluids in the substantially coplanar flow. The second inlet of the body is located between the first inlet and the slotted nozzle. The body includes an air dam located between the inlets, such as an interior face portion having a steep decline toward the second inlet of the body.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2001Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath, Inc.Inventor: John V. Maiuccoro
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Patent number: 6745413Abstract: A hydrotherapy jet system includes a fixture body, an air line connector coupled to the fixture body, and a water line connector coupled to the air line connector. The air line connector is provided with structure adapted to couple about the outside of relatively small fixture bodies and about the inside of relatively large fixture bodies. As such, the air line connector is universal for multiple sizes of fixture bodies. The water line connector is coupled to the rear of the air line connector. The air and water line connectors may be rotated relative to the element to which each is coupled to facilitate assembly and plumbing. Other plumbing components and fittings may be coupled in a manner which provides a fluidtight seal and permits the components and fitting to thereafter be rotated relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: Precision Design Concepts, LLCInventor: John Pinciaro
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Publication number: 20040083544Abstract: An air jet of an air massage system used with a bathtub having a wall defining opposite visible and hidden surfaces and defining a number of openings through the bathtub wall. The air jet comprises a hollow body having opposed inlet and outlet ends and a unidirectional flow device disposed therebetween. The outlet end is mounted directly to the hidden surface of the bathtub wall opposite one of the openings. The inlet end is connected to a source of pressurized air. The unidirectional flow device allows pressurized air therethrough only in a direction from the inlet to the outlet end and then through the opening in the bathtub wall, thereby preventing water in the bathtub from conveying through the air jet when the source of pressurized air is not in use. The outlet end comprises a flange provided on a downstream side thereof with recesses for receiving an adhesive for securing the flange to the hidden surface of the bathtub wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Applicant: C.G. Air Systemes Inc.Inventor: Miguel Castellote
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Patent number: 6643859Abstract: A fluid flow system for a spa is provided. The fluid flow system includes an ejector which discharges fluid in a first direction toward an interior of the spa through an outlet of the ejector and a diverter which is moveable to a position within said first direction between the outlet and the interior of the spa. The diverter is adapted to deflect at least a portion of the fluid to a second direction different from the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2001Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath Co., Inc.Inventors: Anthony Brennan, W. John Gardenier, Wesley Cox
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Patent number: 6581217Abstract: An air-blowing assembly for providing cooling air to the user of a spa, jetted bathtub or other heated water-containing member. The assembly has an air blower with an air blower inlet which received air from outside of the area of the spa. The blower conducts cooling air into a manifold. The manifold directs cooling air out of a series of vents on the upper lip of the spa. The air vents are adjustable in direction so that the user of the spa can direct cooling air to alleviate discomfort from an otherwise hot and moist atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Inventor: Sam M. Marcos
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Patent number: 6406446Abstract: The present invention provides a high velocity current producing apparatus in a bathtub capable of producing high velocity current having an appropriate pressure in a bathtub with a simple construction, and capable of enhancing operability, functional property and safety without narrowing the space in the bathroom. The high velocity current producing apparatus in a bathtub produces the high velocity current in the bathtub by connecting a pump to a circulation passage for circulating hot water in a bathtub to components provided outside the bathtub and the hot water sucked from the bathtub to the circulation passage is pressurized and supplied to the bathtub, wherein the high velocity current is used for massaging a body of a bather.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1999Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Takagi Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazumi Takagi, Yoshitaka Morinaka, Kenichi Ito, Masaru Mochizuki