With Heating Of Tub Structure Patents (Class 4/545)
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Patent number: 10006645Abstract: This heat recovery device replaces the floor drain in a common residential shower. A large circular pan joins flush with the shower stall floor and funnels greywater into the drain piping. The circular pan contains the heat transfer device which preheats the incoming cold water and recovers approximately half of the heat that would otherwise be lost. The incoming cold water travels through a water turbine where it rotates an impeller. The impeller is magnetically coupled with a rotary whisk. The rotary motion continuously washes the draining greywater over a spiral warming coil. The spiral coil transfers the heat to the incoming fresh water as it travels to the shower's mixing valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2017Date of Patent: June 26, 2018Inventor: Paul Howard
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Patent number: 8572769Abstract: A spa heats or cools air in the air space surrounding the water containment vessel to heat or cool the water in the water containment vessel. The air is heated and cooled and is circulated within the spa cabinet in contact with the underside of the tub and the plumbing for transferring or absorbing heat from the water through the tub and the plumbing. The air is heated by a solid state thermoelectric device or a conventional space heater and is cooled using a solid state thermoelectric device. Preferably a single thermoelectric device is mounted through a wall in the spa cabinet and is used for both heating and cooling the air in the air space.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Blue Falls Manufacturing Ltd.Inventors: Jody Gamracy, Gustaaf Maarten Rus, Darcy S. Amendt
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Patent number: 8569663Abstract: The present invention involves a type of small-sized pool and PTC heater for liquid heating. The PTC heating component of PTC heater is composed of several heating cores made of PTC ceramic material, completely eliminating fire risk. Meanwhile, PTC heating component external is equipped with at least one layer of insulation and sealing component, which further includes several insulation layers and at least one sealing layer outside the insulation layer, effectively eliminating electricity leakage risk. Two layers of above mentioned insulation and sealing component could meet the insulation requirements specified in IEC standard and UL standard, so it could be used for applications with large power. In addition, the PTC heater has good water route sealing ability, so it could be used for liquid heating in small size pool. The small-sized pool is equipped with PTC heater with several layers of insulation and sealing for liquid heating, safe and reliable.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2011Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Inventors: Huarong Qin, Zhongxiu Zhang, Minhua Wu
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Publication number: 20130160200Abstract: This is a device and method to keep the temperature of the water in a bathtub at constant temperature throughout the duration of its use. The invention runs off of the electricity supplied to a home. It provides a system that conserves water and energy. The invention only replaces the energy lost to the environment and recycles the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2011Publication date: June 27, 2013Inventor: Richard Kim Cho
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Patent number: 8453275Abstract: A combination bathtub and spa includes a tub enclosure that is adapted to contain a quantity of water, a drain having a drain valve that may be opened to drain water from the tub enclosure or closed to retain water therein, a supply system for supplying water to the tub enclosure, and a lid that is adapted to removably cover the tub enclosure. The combination bathtub and spa also includes a pump having an inlet and an outlet, a suction line that provides a path for water from the tub enclosure to the inlet of the pump, a jet nozzle that is located in the sidewall of the tub enclosure, and a jet nozzle supply line that provides a path for water from the outlet of the pump to the jet nozzle. A filter is provided to filter the water that flows into the tub enclosure, as well as a heater for heating the water that flows into the tub enclosure. A control valve is adapted to open to allow water to flow through the filter or to close to stop the flow of water through the filter.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2009Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: May Manufacturing LLCInventors: Thomas May, Lody Chandra, George T. Hendricks
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Patent number: 8406932Abstract: An embodiment of a spa control system includes a heater, a pump for circulating water through the pump, one or more sensors for monitoring temperature, and an electronic controller coupled to the heater, pump and sensor(s) for controlling the heater and pump based on the rate of change in temperature at the sensor(s). A method of controlling a heater in a spa with a spa control system is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2010Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Balboa Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Jerrell P. Hollaway
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Patent number: 8392027Abstract: A spa control system that measures the flow of water through the heater and accurately reports water temperature in the spa using only one solid-state sensor in the heater. The rate of flow is determined by energizing the pump, with the heater still de-energized, and observing the rate in which the moving water cools the inside of the heater. If there is no circulation of water through the heater, the temperature of the sensor will continue to rise from the energy applied when the heater was briefly energized. This rise will be quite significant and a clear indication of a flow problem. If the flow is found to be adequate, the heater will be energized for a normal period of time. The sensor is now carefully monitored for a sudden increase in temperature, which would indicate loss of a normal flow of water.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Balboa Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Jerrell P. Hollaway
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Publication number: 20130000032Abstract: A comfort bathtub has at least one heated wall portion which is comprised by a composite plyable heat generating envelope integrated with the wall portion. The heat generating envelope has a heated mesh sandwiched between a pair of protection film sheets bonded together about the heated mesh to isolate the heated mesh from molded material of the bathtub. The composite plyable envelope has electrical connections secured to a power supply. A temperature sensor is in communication with the envelope for sensing the temperature thereof. A voltage regulator controls the power supply through a controller circuit to regulate the heat generated by the heated mesh. The composite plyable envelope is configured to heat a discrete wall portion of the bathtub to provide a discrete external heated surface of the bathtub.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2011Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventors: Henry BRUNELLE, Louis GENDREAU, Danny GRENIER, Guy BAILLARGEON, Dave THOMAS
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Patent number: 8104532Abstract: A heat exchanger placed underneath an elevated tub or shower stall or under the bathroom floor includes a flat top heat conductive plate. The top plate is fastened to a flat lower plate, having a serpentine pattern with a shallow depth embedded into the top surface. When the top plate is fastened and sealed to the lower plate, the flow of the incoming cold water is contained within the confines of the serpentine lower plate of the heat exchanger. Heat is transferred from the grey waste water falling onto the top plate to preheat the incoming cold water flowing underneath the top plate in the serpentine conduit chamber of the lower plate in contact with a bottom surface of the top plate. The cold water is thereby preheated and used as a substitute for the incoming cold water that would be normally plumbed to the discharge shower head.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2010Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Inventor: Jeremiah Cardone
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Patent number: 7814584Abstract: Disclosed is a bathing apparatus for a child that comprises a tub and a cradle. The tub is nestable with the cradle and includes a bottom wall and at least one side wall, each wall having an inside and an outside surface. The bottom wall includes a heat conductive means for conducting heat from the outside surface to the inside surface thereof. The cradle comprises a tub receiving portion and a base. The tub receiving portion is adapted for nestable engagement with the tub and further includes a heat generating means. When the tub is nested with the cradle, the heat generating means makes physical contact with the heat conductive means of the tub so as to allow heat transmission thereto. An electric switch is located electrically between the heating element and a power source. The electric switch is preferably a thermostat for deactivating the heat generating means when the water in the tub reaches a selected temperature.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventors: Kenny Robles, Patty Robles
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Publication number: 20100180372Abstract: A portable bathtub for maintaining the temperature of the water used for bathing. The bathtub is comprised of an outer tub comprising an upper rim portion and a receptacle portion, as well as at least a first drain opening and an outlet; and, an inner tub comprising an upper rim portion and a receptacle portion, as well as a second drain opening. The inner tub is positioned within the outer tub such that the receptacle portion of the inner tub is spaced apart a predetermined distance from the receptacle portion of the outer tub, creating a hollow space between the two tubs. The upper rim portion of the inner tub is removably connected to the upper rim portion of the outer tub. At least one inlet is formed between the upper rim portion of the inner tub and the upper rim portion of the outer tub, for introducing a heated liquid to the hollow space.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2009Publication date: July 22, 2010Inventor: Nir David Ossi
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Publication number: 20090089924Abstract: The present invention has four components, a power unit, a flexible air hose, a hydro-jet board, and a remote control. The power unit is a chamber having pressurized air. The power unit further includes an air compressor to create a pressurized air. Air compression typically increases the temperature of the air flow, however it is also desired to further heat the pressurized air before introducing the air into the flexible air hose. The flexible air hose is connected to a water jet board. The flexible air hose has a first and second connector, one at each end. The water jet board is comprised of a bottom plate laminated to a top plate. The hydro-jet board is constructed by laminating two pre-formed plastic sheets to create the specific air channels thereby supplying pulsating water jets at specific zones.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2007Publication date: April 9, 2009Inventor: Jonathan Jan
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Patent number: 7490369Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 25, 2007Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Jason International, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey L. Cunningham
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Patent number: 7461416Abstract: A portable water heating system for use with a spa. The heating system circulates water from a spa, heats the water and returns the heated water to the spa. The portable heating system includes a housing that encloses a heater and a pump; a water intake hose; a water outlet hose; and a thermostat. The heating system may also include temperature-setting dials and flow and pressure regulating switches. A thermostat is also disposed within the portable spa heating system and is attached to the heater. The thermostat may be set to a predetermined temperature so that the heater, and therefore water temperature, may be controlled.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Inventor: John J. Stover
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Patent number: 7448095Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Inventor: Itshak T Agaeliaho
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Publication number: 20080189848Abstract: A foot soak tray includes a base housing, a container disposed above the base housing and having a space for receiving water in the space of the container, and a heating device disposed in the chamber of the base housing for heating the water received in the space of the container. A reflector may be disposed below the heating device for reflecting a heat generated by the heating device. A massage device may be disposed in the container and includes one or more rotatable rollers having a number of protrusions for massaging the feet of the user. The massage device preferably includes a length shorter than that of the container for forming an opening between the container and the massage device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2006Publication date: August 14, 2008Inventor: Chien Hsin Chao
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Patent number: 6943325Abstract: An improved water heater for use in spas, hot tubs, pools, hydrotherapy pools, bath tubs, and similar bodies of water used indoors, outdoors, or both indoors and outdoors are used for both therapeutic and recreational purposes. The water heater uses heating element technology know as thick film on substrate comprising resistive elements bonded to the outer dry surface of a pipe to heat the pipe which in turn heats the water flowing therethrough. The heater is highly efficient due to the direct contact of the wet heating surface with the water and provides a smooth seamless inner heating surface by eliminating the need to pass electrical leads into the wet region of the heater. This virtually eliminates the risk of leaks in the water heater due to bulkhead fittings. The invention further eliminates the need for a heating element to be contained in the inner wet region of a spa heater, thereby reducing the risk of corrosion.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2001Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: Balboa Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Robert Pittman, David J. Cline, Paul Rosenau, Timothy S. Clark
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Patent number: 6925661Abstract: A water control system includes a control panel connected to a power source and is mountable adjacent to a bathtub. The system further includes a plurality of sensors connected to the control panel for determining water temperature and water flow rate wherein the plurality of sensors are selectively connected to a plurality of water supply lines. The water control system further includes a plurality of valves connected to the control panel for regulating water flow wherein the plurality of valves are selectively connected to a plurality of water supply lines. The water control system further includes at least one heating device fluidly connected to a water source for regulating water temperature. The control panel may be programmable for selectively operating the plurality of valves and the at least one heating device.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Inventor: Al T. Anger
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Patent number: 6922856Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 26, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Inventor: Ofir Mazar
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Patent number: 6875961Abstract: Apparatus for controlling heating of a liquid or liquid stream including electrical equipment operated in conjunction with such heating; a device or devices for monitoring the voltage level of electrical power supplied to such equipment; and a control or controls for controlling such electrical power supplied to that equipment, to decrease power delivery in response to a predetermined decrease in voltage level of power supply to the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Thornbury Investments, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey W. Collins
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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: 6453487Abstract: A field sanitation unit provides multiple compartments forming separate sinks. The multiple compartments are heated via a channel located on the underside of the trough, having at one end thereof a firebox. The firebox receives a flame tube from a burner, and supplies hot gases through the firebox to a channel running the length of the trough. By providing baffles within the channel, it is possible to redirect the hot gases laterally, thereby controlling the temperature of each sink.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2001Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Robert S. Babington
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Publication number: 20020074111Abstract: A heat exchanger for swimming pools, formed of generally cylindrical housing, through which flows a first medium while a second medium flows through a line designed as a spiral within the housing. The spiral shaped line is formed of a corrugated hose and possesses separate connection fittings for the second medium, namely the corrugated hose. The corrugated hose is connected by its end sections which extend in an axial direction to likewise axially extending sections of the separate connection fittings for the second medium.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2001Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventors: Bernd Seeger, Matthias Gehring, Christoph Abraham, Bernd Michelfelder
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Publication number: 20020000007Abstract: An improved water heater for use in spas, hot tubs, pools, hydrotherapy pools, bath tubs, and similar bodies of water used indoors, outdoors, or both indoors and outdoors are used for both therapeutic and recreational purposes. The water heater uses heating element technology know as thick film on substrate comprising resistive elements bonded to the outer dry surface of a substrate to heat the substrate which in turn heats the water flowing through the heating chamber. The heater is highly efficient due to the direct contact of the wet heating surface with the water and provides a smooth seamless inner heating surface by eliminating the need to pass electrical leads into the wet region of the heater. This virtually eliminates the risk of leaks in the water heater due to bulkhead fittings. The invention further eliminates the need for a heating element to be contained in the inner wet region of a spa heater, thereby reducing the risk of corrosion.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2001Publication date: January 3, 2002Inventor: Robert Pittman
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Patent number: 6317903Abstract: A hydro massaging tub is used for massage treatment wherein the treatment is performed by ozone-mixed warm air or water jets distributed adjacent the bottom wall of the tub all about its circumference. Ozone generated by an ozone generator is injected in an air distribution duct to sterilize the air distribution system and help clean the skin of the bather's body. The oxygen liberated in the water and the air improves the quantity of oxygen in the bather's environment so that oxygen intake through the skin and lungs is facilitated. A mobile air jet and section control of the air jets enable the bather to massage selective body areas with adjustable intensity of sections of the massage to achieve a desired effect. In one embodiment, orientable valves are mounted in the air jet holes for adjusting the orientation of the air jets. In another embodiment, optical fibers or light emitting diodes are provided to emit light frequencies in the water turbulence for physiological and therapeutic effects.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2000Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Assignee: Bains Ultra Inc.Inventors: Henry Brunelle, Stéphane Baron, Marc Jacques, Louis Morrissette, Berthier Mailloux, Louis Martin, Martin Roy
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Patent number: 6303910Abstract: A paraffin bath apparatus has injection molded components including an inner tub, housing, base, control panel, and lid. The inner tub is provided with paired flanges on its bottom surface to which a wire heating element is assembled and secured. Wire guides are provided on the upstanding wall of the inner tub to which a side heating wire is assembled and secured by means of wire guides and an adhesive coated foil segment.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2001Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.Inventors: Dov Glucksman, Roman S. Ferber
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Patent number: 6243889Abstract: The whirlpool tub includes a rigid tub shell inserted into the opening of a surrounding podium. The tub is to be filled with hot water. A first insulation membrane is installed spacedly around the tub inside the podium, defining a first closed air pocket between the tub and this first insulation membrane. A second insulation membrane is installed spacedly around the first insulation membrane, also inside the podium, defining a second closed air pocket between the first and the second membranes. The first membrane is punctured and hangs loosely from the podium structure, thus allowing limited air circulation between the first and second air pockets. Consequently, positive condensation control is accomplished, preventing same from occurring, in addition to providing thermal and acoustic insulation to the tub. The first membrane comprises an inner reflective metallic foil fixedly mounted on a synthetic felt backing. The second membrane is a mineral wool blanket.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2000Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Maax Inc.Inventors: Robert Ducharme, Régis Giguère, Bruno Pimparé
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Patent number: 6175970Abstract: A spa enclosure for a spa tub is provided with a cabinet having at least one towel bar or towel hook and which at least partially recesses into the wall of the enclosure. The cabinet is provided with vent openings which permit heat cogenerated by a water pump used to pump water in the spa, an air blower, and/or a water heater to enter the cabinet by convection, heat towels provided on the bars or hooks, and exit through an upper portion of the cabinet. No additional dedicated heating element is provided to heat the towels. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the cabinet is hinged at a lower portion to the enclosure and pivots about the hinge to open. The front and sides of the cabinet are preferably insulated to retain heat within the cabinet, and likewise, the enclosure may be insulated. A supply of towels may be kept in the cabinet or towels may be placed in the cabinet just prior to entering the spa tub.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Precision Design Concepts Ltd.Inventor: John Pinciaro
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Patent number: 6059965Abstract: Installation for the sterilization of a body of water wherein the water is conveyed through a heat exchanger to a heat source, where it is heated up to the sterilization temperature. This stream of hot water transfers its heat to the incoming stream of water, leaving the heat exchanger at a temperature that is only slightly higher than that of the incoming water.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Inventors: Karsten Andreas Laing, Johannes Nikolaus Laing
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Patent number: 5930851Abstract: A hydro-thermo massaging tub and method of massage treatment wherein the treatment is performed by warm air jets distributed adjacent the bottom wall of the tub all about its circumference. Air jets are formed by holes made in the tub wall with the longitudinal axis of the holes oriented less than 45.degree. from the plane of the bottom wall. The jets communicate with an air distribution duct which is fed hot air under pressure by a blower. Controls are also provided to vary the pressure of the air as well as the temperature thereof. Warm air jets are released in the water contained within the tub to impart turbulence in the body of water to create acupressure massaging flows of warm air jets and water flows from opposed sidewalls and end walls of the tub towards a central area of least turbulence which is occupied by the body of a person. The acupressure massaging flows perform a massaging action all about the body simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1997Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Assignee: Bains Ultra Inc.Inventor: Henry Brunelle
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Patent number: 5884694Abstract: A dehumidifier for use in a bathroom or the like utilizes the cold surface of a heat exchanger to condense moisture, and the hot surface of a heat exchanger to warm the air after the moisture is removed. The cold surface is provided by having the cold water supplied to the room pass through the cold heat exchanger; and, the hot surface is provided by having the hot water supplied to the room head pass through the hot heat exchanger. The heat exchangers may be concentric circles, so a recirculation fan centrally of the heat exchangers will move air across the two, or may be rectangular with a plenum at each end so air moves across the two. A drip pan beneath the cold heat exchanger catches the condensate. The circular heat exchangers may be less than a full circle, and a light housed in the space defined. Also, an exhaust fan may be mounted concentrically with the recirculation fan in the circular heat exchanger, or may be mounted in the output plenum of the rectangular device.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Inventor: Aaron Tanenbaum
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Patent number: 5794280Abstract: A heated therapeutic spa which comprises a spa tub containing water and having plumbing attached thereto, the tub having a wall which is a relatively good thermal conductor; a thermally efficient, insulating container comprising a load bearing outer wall, and a bottom wall; a plenum chamber formed between the tub wall and the container wall and extending about the tub wall; a motor and pump supplying circulating water to the tub and extending in the plenum chamber; a fan located to circulate air that converts heat from the motor into hot air exhausted into the plenum chamber; the fan operating to force the hot exhaust air to circulate around the tub wall, whereby the temperature of the air drops in flowing about the tub wall before returning to the motor.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1997Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Assignee: Softub, Inc.Inventors: Borg Hansen, Rafael Gonzalez
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Patent number: 5745934Abstract: The method of providing a spa tub, and comprising providing a load-bearing tub side wall having an inner side and an outer side, the tub having an interior to receive liquid; the tub side wall provided to include at least two wall sections, spaced about the interior, the sections assembled end-to-end to form the side wall to extend in a loop, and providing a flexible liner extending at the inner side of the side wall to contain the liquid.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1996Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Softub, Inc.Inventors: Borg Hansen, Rafael Gonzalez, Roc V. Fleishman
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Patent number: 5718007Abstract: A spa is provided wherein fluid circulation equipment is disposed on a movable tray to facilitate maintenance work on such fluid circulation equipment.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1996Date of Patent: February 17, 1998Inventor: Casey Loyd
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Patent number: 5649330Abstract: A self-heating outdoor bathtub to better simulate natural hot spring pools. Allows use of major components salvaged from discarded water heaters. Inconspicuous appearance, low value, and durability, eases concerns of theft or vandalism. A water heating unit and a flexible tarp, serving as a bathing container, joined by an open water passage between the two. The heating unit supplying heat from below.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1995Date of Patent: July 22, 1997Inventor: Alan R. Lind
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Patent number: 5345621Abstract: A portable type spa is insulated by a sequence of steps involving initially the preparation of an insulation blanket having a metal foil heat reflective surface on one side with orthogonal dimensions of the blanket sized larger than the orthogonal dimensions of the spa shell. The spa shell is placed on top of the insulation blanket in a preferred method, with the metal foil heat reflective surface facing the exterior of the spa shell. The spa shell foot well is leveled by shims placed between the bottom of the spa shell and the underlying support surface such as a floor. The periphery of the insulation blanket is preferably sandwiched between the underside of a spa rim and a top edge of wood skirt panels surrounding the exterior of the spa shell. The insulation blanket forms a loose bag about the exterior of the spa shell and about plumbing connections on the exterior of the spa shell including warm water circulating tubing projecting outwardly of the spa shell exterior surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Assignee: Plastic Development Corporation - PDCInventor: David R. Livingston
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Patent number: 5345996Abstract: An adjustable, energy saving, high speed, air bubble and water heating system extracts waste heat from the exhaust of a water heater on a swimming pool, hot tub, or spa to heat air and/or water. The use of the waste heat results in accelerated heating of the water and creation of heated air bubbles without any additional heat energy requirements. The temperature of the water and air bubbles is independently controllable via manual controls or automatic thermostat.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Inventor: Robert H. Druien
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Patent number: 5301745Abstract: An installation for heat recovery from warm household drain water produced at household water consumption points, comprising a distributor tank, a first pipeline system which delivers warm household drain water from the consumption points to the distributor tank, a drain water channel, a heat exchange tank, and a second pipeline system which conveys warm household drain water to the heat exchange tank. The distributor tank has a first outlet leading into the drain water channel with a shut-off device which opens when the household drain water is below a predetermined temperature, and a second outlet into the second pipeline system when the household drain water in the distributor tank is above the predetermined temperature. Within the heat exchange tank is a coil containing cold drinking water which is heated by the household drain water.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1993Date of Patent: April 12, 1994Inventors: Klaus Seib, Hans W. Thomas, Rudolf S. Kodron
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Patent number: 5172754Abstract: A heat exchanger coil for heating water in a spa or hot tub by transferring heat generated by an electric motor driving a pump to the water in the coil while the pump circulates the water through the spa or hot tub. A restrictor mounted on the shaft of the electric motor creates additional friction between its outer surface and the inner surface of the motor seal to further warm the water.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1991Date of Patent: December 22, 1992Inventors: Neil M. Graber, Carol R. Puryear
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Patent number: 5148858Abstract: A water discharge conduit is disposed in a downwardly inclined direction for receiving a flow of waste water at an upper end, for example, from baths, showers and the like. A water trap is disposed below the conduit in parallel relation and has an intake union to receive a flow of hot waste water from the discharge conduit and a discharge union at an opposite end for discharging the waste water back into the conduit. A plurality of pipes extends through the horizontally disposed water trap for conducting fresh water therethrough in heat exchange relation with the flow of hot waste water in the water trap.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1990Date of Patent: September 22, 1992Assignee: Telavag Energiteknikk A/SInventor: Hans A. Ovretveit
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Patent number: 5143149Abstract: A heat recovery system with a heat exchanger and a mixing valve. A drain trap includes a heat exchanger with an inner coiled tube, baffle plate, wastewater inlet, wastewater outlet, cold water inlet, and preheated water outlet. Wastewater enters the drain trap through the wastewater inlet, is slowed and spread by the baffle plate, and passes downward to the wastewater outlet. Cold water enters the inner tube through the cold water inlet and flows generally upward, taking on heat from the wastewater. This preheated water is fed to the mixing valve, which includes a flexible yoke to which are attached an adjustable steel rod, two stationary zinc rods, and a pivoting arm. The free end of the arm forms a pad which rests against a valve seat. The rods and pivoting arm expand or contract as the temperature of the incoming preheated water changes. The zinc rods expand more than the steel rod, flexing the yoke and rotating the pivoting arm.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1991Date of Patent: September 1, 1992Inventor: James W. Kronberg
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Patent number: 5038853Abstract: A heat exchange assembly for use in combination with motor driven fluid pumps and the like, such as a motor, is provided. The assembly comprises a suction manifold, a discharge/diverter manifold, and a heat exchange jacket. The heat exchange jacket is maintained in close contact with the exterior surface of the motor, so that waste heat is transferred to the jacket thereby heating the fluid therein.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1989Date of Patent: August 13, 1991Inventors: James K. Callaway, Sr., James K. Callaway, Jr., Danny W. Callaway
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Patent number: 4924069Abstract: Tubs are supplied with hot water through a water circulation system including a pump, an elongate electric flow-through heater, a water filter and piping connecting that pump, elongate flow-through heater and water filter in series in that water circulation system. The pump, elongate flow-through heater and piping are arranged in a horizontal plane so that water flow passages in that piping, in the elongate flow-through heater and in the pump are intersected by that horizontal plane extending along directions of water flow in the mentioned water flow passages. The pump may be provided with a water inlet and a water outlet both lying in the same horizontal plane as the elongate flow-through heater and piping. The pump also may be provided with an axis of rotation, and even with an electric drive motor, extending in that horizontal plane. The elongate flow-through heater may be provided with an elongate structure molded of an electrically insulating synthetic resin for housing an electric heating element.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1987Date of Patent: May 8, 1990Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.Inventor: Attilio G. Giordani
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Patent number: 4903352Abstract: A fluid jet flow massaging apparatus adapted for use within a bathtub unit comprises a first bathtub and a second bathtub which is accommodated within the first bathtub with a space defined therebetween and which has an inner volume sufficient for accommodating a person. The second bathtub is provided with opposed side walls within which a plurality of fluid circulation holes are formed and a fluid jet circulation flow generating device is disposed within at least one hole of at least one wall of the second bathtub. The fluid jet flow caused by the device is circulated through the holes and the space defined between the first and second bathtubs and the fluid jet flow achieves the massaging operation upon the person disposed within the second bathtub as a result of the circulation of the fluid. The fluid flow direction and the fluid flow rate may be regulated by altering the number of fluid flow generating devices.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1989Date of Patent: February 27, 1990Assignees: Rally Master Co., Ltd., All Max Co. Ltd.Inventor: Eiichi Murakami
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Patent number: 4821793Abstract: A heat exchanger unit to be positioned in the floor area of a bathtub or shower stall which extracts heat from spent shower or bath water, transferring that heat to water yet to be supplied to the shower or bathtub, reducing the amount of hot water required from a water heater for comfortable bathing.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1987Date of Patent: April 18, 1989Inventor: Robert D. Sheffield
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Patent number: 4663613Abstract: A tub is supplied with hot water through a water circulation system including a pump, a water filter and an electric flow-through heater energized through an electric contactor upon closure thereof. A user of the tub is urged to service the water circulation system upon clogging thereof. For this purpose, water flow fluctuations occurring in the circulation system upon restriction of the water circulation system are sensed and closure of the contactor is precluded for a time interval of predetermined duration in response to a sensing of water flow fluctuations.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1985Date of Patent: May 5, 1987Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.Inventors: William F. Raleigh, Patrick J. Keegan
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Patent number: 4455997Abstract: A submerged heating unit fueled by wood and/or coal is disclosed for heating water in a tub or spa unit. The heating unit is composed of a single shell of a highly heat-conductive metal, such as aluminum, and has a generally L-shaped configuration in cross-section. The unit is entirely submerged in the tank of water except for air and fuel inlets and an exhaust outlet.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1981Date of Patent: June 26, 1984Assignee: Snorkel Stove Co.Inventors: Hawley R. Evans, Charles B. Howe
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Patent number: 4409694Abstract: An electronic device is disclosed for controlling the temperature of a liquid such as water flowing into a container such as a bathtub or the like. The device also controls the level of liquid within the container and includes a solid state circuit in conjunction with a temperature sensing device for maintaining the temperature of the liquid within the container to a preselected level. The control device includes a plurality of switches for preselecting the required temperature and liquid level. Switches are also provided for selecting the use of the bathtub as a bath or as a shower. The flow and mixing of water into the bathtub and the flow of water out of the bathtub is accomplished by solenoid flow control valves responsive to the control device. The invention may be applied to industrial, commercial, medical or residential applications and the like.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1982Date of Patent: October 18, 1983Assignee: John P. Barrett, Sr.Inventors: John P. Barrett, Sr., Daniel R. Schulz
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Patent number: 4385724Abstract: An improved temperature sensing and control apparatus for a spa is described, which control apparatus is located at the spa. A switching means is disposed in the series electrical circuit of a water heating mechanism. The switching means is remotely controlled as a function of the water temperature and operates in the low voltage and low current range, thereby minimizing a safety hazard.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1981Date of Patent: May 31, 1983Assignee: Ramco Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Larry R. Ramsauer, Ronald M. Scholer
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Patent number: 4291423Abstract: A shower bath, sink, or other fluid receiving vessel is described wherein heat is reclaimed from the drain fluid to warm the incoming cold water to reduce the amount of hot water which must be mixed in to produce water of the temperature desired for use within the vessel. The improvement consists of a cover pan for collecting the received fluid and depositing it on a particular region of the vessel floor which is contoured to direct the received fluid along a particular channel to a drain. The cold water supply tube is positioned within the channel in contact with the draining fluid. The warmer drain fluid transfers heat energy into the cooler water flowing within the submerged cold water supply tube.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1980Date of Patent: September 29, 1981Inventor: Mahlon T. Wilson