Seat Patents (Class 4/578.1)
  • Patent number: 11819466
    Abstract: A bathroom facility transfer system, including a mobile base, a stationary base, and a removable bridge is disclosed. A user seated in a chair, is positioned adjacent to a bathroom facility with the mobile base. The removable bridge connects the mobile base to the stationary base, which is removably affixed to the bathroom facility, to allow the chair carrying the user to be moved between the mobile base and the stationary base. A chair blocking member on the removable base is movable between a) a chair blocking position, and b) a chair unblocking position. At least one opposed end of the chair blocking member interferes with movement of the chair onto the removable bridge from the mobile base or the stationary base, when the chair blocking member is in the chair blocking position. A method of assisting a user with accessing a bathroom facility is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: RAZ DESIGN INC.
    Inventors: Nelson W. H. Pang, Ethan David Maiolo, David James Harding, Lukas Jeroen ten Kortenaar, Steven Yi
  • Patent number: 11680420
    Abstract: A tanning ledge insert for a swimming pool is provided. In various embodiments, the tanning ledge includes a fiberglass insert that is adapted for use within the context of a vinyl liner pool. A depth of the tanning ledge may be, for example, between 14 and 16 inches. However, in other embodiments, the tanning ledge may be of any other suitable depth. The tanning ledge insert may include a vertical wall and a tanning ledge extending horizontally from the vertical wall. A step may be disposed adjacent the tanning ledge's upper surface. The tanning ledge insert may include a connection lip that is dimensioned for use in securing the tanning ledge insert in place within the structure of a vinyl liner pool. Methods of installing and replacing the tanning ledge insert are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: Sun Ledges Unlimited, LLC
    Inventors: Russ Floyd Barnes, Kenneth Dewey Kennedy, Richard Karl Campbell, Joseph Perry Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 11633069
    Abstract: An easily modified bathing chair comprises: two side connecting pedestals, having a beam, two beam tubes and two leg tubes respectively; four legs which are fixed in the leg tubes of the two side connecting pedestals, respectively; a seat, having two front slides and two rear slides on a bottom thereof, wherein the two front slides each have a first seat positioning structure; and a long upper beam set and a short upper beam set, wherein either the long upper beam set or the short upper beam set is slidingly mounted on the seat and set between the beam tubes of the two side connecting pedestals, thereby it is achieved that a bathing chair of any of two types is assembled conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Inventor: Andy Chao
  • Patent number: 11596564
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bath lift with a rotating seat assembly to assist an individual with decreased mobility in and out of a bathtub. The rotating seat includes an assembly that can be raised or lowered using a DC powered linear actuator. The linear actuator will also move a backrest from an upright position to a reclined position. A controller includes logic to prevent operation should the batteries have insufficient power to raise the seat assembly. Slip resistant padding is comprised of medical-grade, closed cell, molded polyurethane padding that does not absorb water and reduces the risk of skin tears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Platinum Health, LLC
    Inventor: Randall L. Smith
  • Patent number: 11333461
    Abstract: A shooting rest, components thereof, and associated methods. The shooting rest includes a frame, a forward firearm support connected to the frame, and a rear firearm support connected to the frame. The rear firearm support includes a stop configured to limit rearward movement of the firearm with respect to the frame when the firearm is fired. A liquid tank is supported by the frame and is configured to hold liquid to increase the effective mass of the shooting rest to reduce recoil felt by a shooter when the firearm is fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: AOB Products Company
    Inventors: Dennis W. Cauley, Jr., James Tayon, Timothy S. Kinney, Michael Cottrell, Justin Burke, Brian Steere, Mark Dalton, Kyle Martin, Anthony Vesich, Matthew Kinamore, Curtis Smith, Joel Yuodsnukis
  • Patent number: 11229567
    Abstract: A transfer seating assembly for facilitating transitioning of a user to a shower enclosure or tub includes a plate, a plurality of legs, and a seat. The legs are engaged to and extend substantially perpendicularly from a bottom of the plate. Each leg comprises a plurality of nested sections so that the leg is selectively extensible. The legs can be selectively extended to position the plate in a substantially horizontal position and at a desired height. The seat is rotationally and slidably engaged to a top of the plate and can be selectively and fixedly engaged to the plate. A user positioned in the seat can selectively slide the seat, and the user, from proximate to a first end to proximate to a second end of the plate. The user also is positioned to rotate the seat, and the user, relative to the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Inventor: Manuel Veloz
  • Patent number: 10782085
    Abstract: A shooting rest, components thereof, and associated methods. The shooting rest includes a frame, a forward firearm support connected to the frame, and a rear firearm support connected to the frame. The rear firearm support includes a stop configured to limit rearward movement of the firearm with respect to the frame when the firearm is fired. A liquid tank is supported by the frame and is configured to hold liquid to increase the effective mass of the shooting rest to reduce recoil felt by a shooter when the firearm is fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: AOB Products Company
    Inventors: Dennis W. Cauley, Jr., James Tayon, Timothy S. Kinney, Michael Cottrell, Justin Burke, Brian Steere, Mark Dalton, Kyle Martin, Anthony Vesich, Matthew Kinamore, Curtis Smith, Joel Yuodsnukis
  • Patent number: 10610433
    Abstract: A swivel seat system comprising a base assembly, further comprising at least one first leg extending downward from a base plate, at least one second leg extending downward from the base plate, and a clamp plate assembly; a swivel assembly attached to an upper surface of the base plate; and a seat attached to an upper surface of the swivel assembly. The clamp plate assembly further comprises a clamp plate, a gear, a shaft extending downwardly from a center bore of the gear, an elongated handle extending outwardly from the shaft, and a rack coupled to the clamp plate, wherein the gear engages the rack via a plurality of teeth on the gear. The clamp plate assembly is structured and arranged to slide linearly along the bottom surface of the base plate by rotating the elongated handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kelsey, Donna D. Kelsey
  • Patent number: 9307868
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bath seat. The bath seat has a top and a pair of centrally disposed and spaced-apart drainage holes in communication with the top. The top of the seat includes a channel extending between the drainage holes. The channel has an enlarged first end, an enlarged second end and a connecting portion connecting the ends of the channel together. Fluid entering into the channel is directed to the drainage holes and thereby drains from the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: EVOLUTION TECHNOLGIES INC.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 9015874
    Abstract: A selectively removable and foldable hot tub seat system that is movable to provide additional free area with the hot tub such as when aquatic exercise is desired in the hot tub, and yet can be readily returned into position for seating when a more relaxing use of the hot tub is desired. The foldable hot tub seat system also includes a seat that has an adjustable height, allowing for use by users of differing heights and/or seat height preferences. The hot tub seat system does not require any mounting hardware and may be installed, removed, and adjusted without requiring any tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Snorkel Hot Tubs, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Arthur Slater, Adam J. Tavin, Michael B. Tavin
  • Publication number: 20150033467
    Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide devices for supporting a caregiver (referred to herein as a “bathing assistant”) while assisting an infant, child, or other individual, or a pet or other animal, in need of assistance during bathing in a conventional bathing tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Laurie Yuko Hirokane
  • Patent number: 8887321
    Abstract: The present invention teaches a swiveling seat assembly for use on an outer wall of a bathtub. The seat assembly has a frame, a swiveling base that is connected to the top of the frame, and a seat that is connected to the swiveling base. The swiveling seat assembly can be placed on an outer wall of a standard size bathtub. A lower footing of an outer side member of the frame contacts a ground surface, and a top member inner surface of the frame contacts an outer wall top surface of the standard size bathtub, and an inner side member inner surface contacts an outer wall inner surface of the standard size bathtub. A user can sit upon the seat assembly, and swivel 360 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: K. Richard Maurer
  • Publication number: 20140331401
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bath seat. The bath seat has a top and a pair of centrally disposed and spaced-apart drainage holes in communication with the top. The top of the seat includes a channel extending between the drainage holes. The channel has an enlarged first end, an enlarged second end and a connecting portion connecting the ends of the channel together. Fluid entering into the channel is directed to the drainage holes and thereby drains from the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Evolution Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Publication number: 20140331400
    Abstract: A bath aid structure for use with a bathtub includes a first plate, a handle disposed on top of the first plate, and a second plate. The first plate is mounted on top of two sidewalls of the bathtub and includes a bend portion disposed on the first plate and having an opening corresponding in position to a cavity of the bathtub; a first pivotal connection portion disposed inside the bend portion and positioned distal to opening; and a first engagement portion positioned proximate to the opening. The second plate is received in the bend portion and includes a second pivotal connection portion corresponding in position to the first pivotal connection portion, such that the second plate is pivotally coupled to the first plate; and a second engagement portion corresponding in position to the first engagement portion, such that the second plate is movably fixed to the first plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventors: LI-SHENG CHIEN, CHIEN-CHANG HO
  • Patent number: 8857109
    Abstract: A tile-ready base includes a triangular top wall disposed in a horizontal plane when the base is secured to a corner. A first side wall depends from a first edge of the top wall and abuts a first vertical wall of a building. A second side wall depends from a second edge of the top wall and abuts a second vertical wall of the building. A front wall depends from a front edge of the triangular top wall and interconnects respective forward ends of the first and second side walls. Structural support ribs underlie the top wall and enhance the structural integrity of the base. Concavities are formed in the top wall in close proximity to the first and second side walls. Each concavity receives a screw and facilitates attachment of the base to the corner. The base is installed and tiled with no delay between installation and tiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Mark E. Kirby
  • Publication number: 20140230139
    Abstract: A bathtub assembly may include a bathtub, a handrail, a draining hole and an adjustable bathtub chair. In one embodiment, the bathtub can be a regular bathtub, and in another embodiment, the bathtub can be a walk-in bathtub that is more easily for the user to enter and exit. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat can gradually slide along the base and the user can stop the movement of the seat according to his/her preferences. The user can further turn the bathtub chair into a recliner to significantly enhance the comfort level during bathing. The user can also have a deeper soaking in the bathtub when the bathtub chair becomes a recliner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventor: Fred X. Jin
  • Patent number: 8793821
    Abstract: A cushion or bathtub mat includes a pair of contiguous layers each with a repeating pattern of upstanding straight walls forming upstanding cells with upstanding openings between the walls. The repeating patterns of the pair of layers are laterally offset with respect to one another to form a dual layer offset honeycomb. The walls are flexible to buckle into the openings of the cells under a compressive force, and resilient to return to an original upstanding orientation, while having at least a strength to be self-supporting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Doug Fowkes
    Inventors: Doug Fowkes, John Omdahl, Mark Schulte, Tyler Allan, Michael Horito
  • Patent number: 8783765
    Abstract: The self-supporting poolside child seat places a partially submerged child seat in a pool, and secures said child seat against a side of an above-ground swimming pool. The self-supporting poolside child seat includes straps that secure the child to the child seat as a safety precaution when in use in the water of said pool. A canopy extends from behind said child seat to provide shade to the child seated therein. Armrests extend from the child seat, and provide a means by which a tray may attach to the child seat for use as a surface to place food or toys thereon. Adjustable supports extend to the rear of the child seat and work in concert with diagonal supports to secure the child seat to the side of the above-ground swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventors: Karen Matus, Ali Matus
  • Patent number: 8757718
    Abstract: A portable submersible seating apparatus is provided, including a support member and a plurality of leg members extending equidistantly from the support member. The plurality of the leg members are adapted to be rested on a floor of a swimming pool, thereby allowing a user to sit on the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: James F. Wloczewski
  • Patent number: 8752219
    Abstract: A bath environment, such as a shower or a tub enclosure, has an outer wall and an area built into the outer wall that extends out of the bath environment. The area supports a user so that a user may pivot thereon to enter into the bath environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Victor Hoernig, Charles A. Patterson, Geraint Krumpe, Man Ki Yoo
  • Patent number: 8677520
    Abstract: Apparatus for a perineal wash system, including a seat with a pair of pads and/or a conduit that redirects fluid from a hand-held spray nozzle to the perineal area of a person on the seat. The pads are separated and have front and rear access areas dimensioned to allow a caregiver to access the perineal area of a seated person. In one embodiment one pad is movable sideways. The frame supporting the seat is spaced a sufficient distance from the gap between the pads to not impede access to the perineum. In one embodiment a perineal washer is supported adjacent the seat. The washer receives a nozzle of a hose sprayer and redirects the fluid spray through a movable elongated conduit to direct a spray of liquid upward to the perineum. In one embodiment a commode pot below the seat has a gap sufficient to avoid pinching dangling body parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: David B. Storm
  • Patent number: 8516627
    Abstract: A bathtub seat that includes a platform upon which a bather sits formed from a plurality of watersealed planks. The planks are chosen of an appropriate length which length corresponds to the width of the bathtub. The platform planks are attached to feet, which feet rest on the top of the bathtub. The back edge of the platform includes a guide rail with a guide slot. The guide slot is utilized to position suction cups which suction cups are employed to adhere the platform to the back wall above the bathtub. Attached to the back of the suction cups are studs and nuts, which are used to attach the suction cups to the guide rails. The suction cups are positioned along the guide rails by loosening the stud from the nut, moving the suction cup along the guide slot and thereupon re-tightening. Once the suction cups are positioned appropriately for the particular application, the bathtub seat is positioned over the bathtub with the feet on the top of the tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: William Corcoran
  • Publication number: 20130205492
    Abstract: A selectively removable and foldable hot tub seat system that is movable to provide additional free area with the hot tub such as when aquatic exercise is desired in the hot tub, and yet can be readily returned into position for seating when a more relaxing use of the hot tub is desired. The foldable hot tub seat system also includes a seat that has an adjustable height, allowing for use by users of differing heights and/or seat height preferences. The hot tub seat system does not require any mounting hardware and may be installed, removed, and adjusted without requiring any tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas Arthur Slater, Adam J. Tavin, Michael B. Tavin
  • Patent number: 8448269
    Abstract: A bathing insert for use with a bathing space, the bathing insert comprising a body including first and second end walls, first and second side walls extending between the end walls, and a support wall connecting first edges of the end walls and the side walls. The walls define an open edge and an interior area of the body. A seat including a sit portion extending generally inward from the first end wall and a seatback portion extending from the support wall to the sit portion, wherein the sit portion and the seatback portion connect to define the seat. The body is positionable in a first orientation for use as a shower seat and a second orientation for use as a bathtub. When the body is in the first orientation, the open edge is positionable on a support surface, and when the body is in the second orientation, the support wall is positionable on the support surface such that the interior area is accessible by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: Sidney M. Libit, Jeffrey M. Libit
  • Patent number: 8407824
    Abstract: A birthing stool is disclosed comprising a series of closed walls constructed from a non porous rigid material, molded into compound curves. The stool facilitates a range of physiologically effective positioning for labor and delivery and can be used submerged underwater during waterbirth. The stool ergonomically supports the body while also achieving structural integrity through a simple organic form that can be produced inexpensively using minimal material. All elements of the stool, including a seat portion that accommodates a laboring woman and her birthing partner, as well as handles and grips for carrying are integrated into a single part design, facilitating effective cleansing and disinfection of the apparatus. The invention includes the method of production of the stool, and describes method of using device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Kara Ayanna Springer
  • Patent number: 8402572
    Abstract: Toilet armrest support system comprises a removable armrest platform having a centrally disposed opening that conforms to the opening over an existing toilet bowl rim. The removable armrest platform supports detachable armrests configured to provide a wider area under the armrests for larger individuals requiring more space. The relatively thin and rigid platform slides underneath an existing toilet seat and engages a docking sub-system fastened to existing hinge openings with toilet seat fasteners on the rear of the toilet. The docking sub-system is of unitary construction comprising docking bar, docking ports at each end of the docking bar, and an anchor block between the docking ports. The removable platform easily slides into the docking ports and under the elevated anchor block. A locking mechanism on the anchor block locks the removable platform securely in place which can then be removed just as easily and quickly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Herasimtschuk
  • Patent number: 8332971
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for supporting a person in a bathtub or shower. The apparatus comprising: an elongated base, comprising a tapered yoke operably coupled to a first end of the elongated base and a stabilizer operably coupled to a second end of the elongated base. The apparatus comprising a rotatable and/or slidable chair, wherein the rotatable and/or slidable chair is operably coupled to the same end of the elongated base as the tapered yolk. The method comprising: providing an apparatus having a rotatable and/or slidable chair, wherein some of the components may be foldable, such as a foldable seat, a foldable back, foldable legs, and a plurality of arms. Folding the foldable components of the slidable and/or rotatable chair make transporting easier and safer because the apparatus is more compact when the foldable components are in the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventors: Roderick Bennett, Christopher W. Callahan
  • Patent number: 8307471
    Abstract: Bather movement apparatus for use with a sidewall opening bath enclosure generally includes a chaise, a stanchion having a stirrup for supporting the chaise along with a pivot post extending exterior to the bath enclosure and a pivot arm interconnecting the pivot post and stanchion for enabling arcuate movement of the chaise between a bathing position within the bath enclosure and a doorway position outside of the bath enclosure. The movement of the chaise passes the chaise through the bath enclosure side opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Axcess Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Wm. Seymour, Deon Colchester, Robert Rotstan, Jr., Carl Tenbrink
  • Patent number: 8281428
    Abstract: A shower unit includes a shower seat having a plurality of moveable seat pads. Each seat pad is moveable between an extended position wherein the pad is in contact with the body of a user sitting on the seat and a retracted position wherein the pad is spaced away from the user's body. When a pad is in the retracted position, the body surface that would normally be occluded by the pad becomes accessible to spray from a nozzle so that the body surface can be cleaned. While any one pad is in the retracted position, the user is supported on enough of the other seat pads to remain in a stable sitting position. The spray nozzles may be mounted in the seat pads themselves, or may be mounted in the shower seat proximate to the pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: William R. Shrewsbury
  • Publication number: 20120233767
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bath seat. The bath seat has a top and a pair of centrally disposed and spaced-apart drainage holes in communication with the top. The top of the seat includes a channel extending between the drainage holes. The channel has an enlarged first end, an enlarged second end and a connecting portion connecting the ends of the channel together. Fluid entering into the channel is directed to the drainage holes and thereby drains from the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 8250683
    Abstract: A baby bathing apparatus comprising an easily stored, relatively planar expanse of material configurable into a relatively concave configuration for deployment at least partially within a basin, and a method of forming the same. A material and configuration of a deployed bathing apparatus comfortably and securely retain a baby during bathing. One or more fastening means can be employed to securely yet detachably retain the expanse in a deployed configuration, while also allowing the bathing apparatus to resume a non-deployed, relatively planar configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Puj, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin Todd Richardson, Kathryn A. Richardson
  • Patent number: 8250684
    Abstract: A baby bathing apparatus comprising an easily stored, relatively planar expanse of material configurable into a relatively concave configuration for deployment at least partially within a basin, and a method of forming the same. A material and configuration of a deployed bathing apparatus comfortably and securely retain a baby during bathing. One or more fastening means can be employed to securely yet detachably retain the expanse in a deployed configuration, while also allowing the bathing apparatus to resume a non-deployed, relatively planar configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Puj, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin Todd Richardson, Kathryn A. Richardson
  • Publication number: 20120204340
    Abstract: A portable shower tub provides an upright enclosure to allow a person to bathe without a fixed tub. The portable shower tub may be a collapsible design formed of telescoping slats concentrically arranged to form substantially a semi-cone. The slats may be configured to interlock with a watertight seal, or a liner may be suspended from the rim to hold water. A liner may be formed of an antimicrobial substance and/or treated with a mold inhibitor to promote sanitary use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: HILDA EUNICE GIBSON
  • Publication number: 20120192351
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to transfer benches and, more particularly, to a transfer bench adapted to facilitate the movement into and out of an enclosure, such as a bathtub, by persons having limited mobility. In one embodiment of the present invention, a transfer bench comprises a first seating section, a second seating section rotatably coupled to said first seating section and configured to rotate from and between a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position, wherein the second seating section cannot rotate more than about 90 degrees from the horizontal position, a first plurality of legs configured to support the first seating section, a second leg configured to support the second seating section, and a back support member extending from a side of the first seating section perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the second seating section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: BRIAN J. WECHTER
  • Patent number: 8225435
    Abstract: A shower bench includes an L-shaped first brace with legs attached to vertical shower walls. A bench subassembly includes a cross brace, a foam block, and a T-shaped beam made of cementitious bonding agent that adheres the cross brace to the foam block and also adds strength to a front edge of the foam block. The brace and the block are cut to fit horizontally against the first brace with legs overlapping, such that the braces form a rigid geometric arrangement that supports the block. Ends of the braces are screwed together. The large uniform surfaces of the block are covered with tile and grout. The resulting assembly is extremely rigid and non-flexing, such that cracking of the tile and grout is substantially minimized, even when the bench is loaded up to 400 lbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Noble Company
    Inventors: Paul Kik, Jr., Jim Wadaga
  • Patent number: 8181285
    Abstract: A seat assembly includes primary and secondary sections. Each section has a primary face and a secondary face. Each face has a peripheral side wall, interior and exterior edges, and front and rear edges. A hinge couples the side walls of the sections at the interior edges. In this manner movement between deployed and collapsed orientations is allowed. Four primary legs are pivotally secured to the primary face between its peripheral side wall. Two secondary legs are pivotally secured to the secondary face adjacent to its exterior edge between its peripheral side wall. The legs are pivotable between the collapsed and deployed orientations perpendicular to the primary and exterior faces. Holes are provided in the peripheral side walls adjacent to the exterior edges. A handle has legs reciprocally received within the holes. The handle has a grip. The grip couples the legs for carrying purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Rhonda G. Jackson
  • Patent number: 8171577
    Abstract: A bathtub seat system a bathtub that has a bottom wall and a perimeter wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. The perimeter wall includes a pair of lateral walls attached to and extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The perimeter wall has an upper edge defining an opening extending into the bathtub. A block is removably positioned in the bathtub and has a bottom side, a top side and a peripheral surface extending between the top and bottom sides. The peripheral surface includes a front side, a back side, a first lateral side, and a second lateral side. A width of the block from the first lateral side to the second lateral side increases from the bottom side to the top side. The block extends between and frictionally engages the lateral walls. The block provides a seating space for a person using the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Michael F. Gutt
  • Patent number: 8152233
    Abstract: A transfer bench and methods for using same to facilitate movement of a person into and out of an enclosure are disclosed. The transfer bench comprises a first seating section that at least partially lies in a horizontal plane. A second seating section rotatably coupled to the first seating section is configured to rotate between a generally horizontal position and a generally vertical position. Each seating section can be supported by one or more legs. The transfer bench can be positioned in the enclosure. A user sits on the second seating section, moves to the first seating section, and can rotate the second seating section to a vertical position such that the transfer bench is disposed within the enclosure. The enclosure may be a wet/dry environment and can be enclosed by means such as a shower curtain, door, or other enclosure means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Brian J. Wechter
  • Patent number: 8122527
    Abstract: A waste collection device suspended below a shower chair for collecting human defecation and other bodily waste before such waste contacts a shower room floor. Due to its function, the mat further provides greater confidence and less anxiety in physically challenged and infirm individuals. The present invention is suspended by a plurality of adjustable support straps which may attach to support structures of any conventional shower chair. Support straps may include upper straps and lower straps that may be used either separately or in combination. A disposable flat collecting material may be held in place atop the upper surface of the mat by holding straps attached along opposing edges of the mat. The present invention serves to eliminate the spread of infection by preventing the shower room floor from becoming contaminated with feces and/or other bodily waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Alice Ruttler
  • Publication number: 20120030870
    Abstract: Apparatus for a perineal wash system includes a seat with a pair of pads spaced apart front to back to define a gap. The pads and frame define front and rear access areas dimensioned to allow a caregiver to access the perineal area of a seated person. In various embodiments at least one pad is movable sideways and may include a biasing spring, an operating handle, and/or a latch. The seat is suitable for a shower chair, a wall-mounted chair, and a bathtub chair. A gas spring optionally lifts one end of the seat. In one embodiment a perineal washer is supported adjacent the seat. The washer receives a nozzle of a sprayer and redirects the spray through a movable conduit to direct liquid upward to the perineum. In one embodiment a commode pot below the seat has a gap sufficient to avoid pinching dangling body parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: David B. Storm
  • Patent number: 8074306
    Abstract: A rotatable and positionable bathing seat includes a rotating device and a positioning device between a cushion and a base. The rotating device includes an upper turntable connected to the bottom of the cushion, a lower turntable connected to the base, and balls between the upper and lower turntables. The lower turntable includes positioning holes. The positioning device includes a fixing plate connected to the bottom of the cushion, a press plate pivotally connected to the fixing plate, a pivoting portion disposed at the middle of the press plate and an end of the pivoting portion forming a force applying portion, and an elastic element installed between the force applying portion and the fixing plate, and another end of the pivoting portion passed into or separated from a positioning pin in the positioning hole, such that the bathing seat can rotate and position the cushion at the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventors: Li-Sheng Chien, Chien-Chang Ho
  • Patent number: 7992234
    Abstract: A seat assembly for sliding along opposing rims of a bathtub is disclosed. The seat assembly includes a seat member, a friction element affixed to the seat member so as to extend under the seat member, and a flexible slider affixed to the seat member so as to also extend under the seat member. The slider and friction element are positioned and configured so that in a first state, if the seat member is positioned on the opposing rims without additional weight on the seat member, the slider holds the friction element up off a rim while facilitating sliding of the seat member along a rim. In a second state, if the seat member is positioned on the opposing rims with a human weighing over 50 pounds sitting on the seat member, the friction element can contact the rim and thereby impede sliding of the seat member along a rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Michael R. Bates, Jeffrey F. Tempas
  • Patent number: 7987535
    Abstract: A shower corner seat assembly is made up of a seat plate and supporting bracket frame. To fit in the corner, the seat is generally triangular like most others, but with the corner tip of the triangle cut away leaving a four-sided shape. Other minor modifications to true triangularity may also be present. The frame follows the contour of the seat and it, too, is formed to match the corner opening of the seat plate, leaving the framework to be more or less “U”-shaped with the arms of the “U” bent inward tending to somewhat follow the sides of the seat plate. Their ends are, in fact, bent even farther inward so they have to be forced or sprung outward to attach the frame to the shower wall. The openness of the frame near the shower corner makes this possible. The seat plate is then attached to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Theodore Allen Tesch
  • Patent number: 7971286
    Abstract: A modular occupant bench unit for use in a swimming pool formed from a plurality of contiguous modular wall panels joined end-to-end to define a pool enclosure having a vertical perimeter wall includes a vertical wall having opposite ends adapted to be joined with contiguous wall panels and being substantially coplanar with the vertical walls of the wall panels and an elongate bench protruding from the vertical wall between the top and bottom thereof into the pool substantially beyond the plane formed by the vertical wall of the pool, the upper side of the bench defining an occupant seating area and the underside being spaced from the floor of the pool. A plurality of hydrotherapy jets are spaced apart along the vertical wall above the upper side of said bench and below the water line of the swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Fox Pool Corporation
    Inventors: William A. Dillen, II, Robert E. Seitz
  • Patent number: 7963613
    Abstract: A padded shower seat for use when showering, the shower seat comprising a seat element having one or more openings therein, and a padded element engaged with the seat element, the padded element including one or more integrally formed projections push-fit received in a respective said opening and at least one reinforcing element associated with at least one said projection for preventing or inhibiting unintentional disengagement of the padded element from the seat element, or damage to the padded element, during lateral urging of the padded element parallel to the seat element. A water-resistant padded element and a reinforcing element are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: DLP Limited
    Inventor: Ian Felmeri
  • Patent number: 7950078
    Abstract: A preformed structural support for ceramic tile for use in constructing a horizontal support surface, such as a seat or a foot rest in a shower or the like installation environment is provided. The preformed structural support includes a base of a corrosion-resistant material that can be trimmed to conform to the irregularities of the structural walls to which it is to be installed against. The base includes tile receiving sides that are textured and are ready for the application of tile using a suitable adhesive, such as a thinset compound. The preformed structural support is installed without the use of penetrating fasteners, thereby preserving the integrity of the waterproofing of the shower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Robin Houpt
  • Patent number: 7856679
    Abstract: A bath aid device includes a base formed with a padded area for kneeling. A seat is carried by a seat support mounted to the base for movement between a sitting position of the seat away from the padded area for kneeling and a stored position of the seat toward the padded area for kneeling, and a chest support mounted to a chest support extension mounted to the base for reciprocal movement between lowered and raised positions of the chest support relative to the base, and in the raised position of the chest support for pivotal movement between a deployed position of the chest support away from the padded area for kneeling and a stored position of the chest support toward the padded area for kneeling. The chest support extension is supported between the base and the seat support in the stored positions of the seat and the chest support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Rebecca M. Finell
  • Publication number: 20100281611
    Abstract: A spa apparatus including a basin releaseably coupled to a base assembly. The basin and base assembly may be configured for quick coupling and releasing. Coupling the basin and base assembly may simultaneously couple electrical components and/or plumbing components. The basin may be interchanged for aesthetic purposes, because of wear, or for sanitation purposes. The spa apparatus may further comprise a base and a seat moveable by a support structure. The seat may be raised and lowered and/or rotated along an axis. The seat may further be moved fore and aft. A joint may releaseably secure seats having any of a number of configurations to the base assembly, with or without the use of tools, providing for quick and easy replacement of the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph Anthony Veltri, Joseph Salvator Montalto
  • Publication number: 20100275365
    Abstract: A portable chair kit for bathing people completely, oneself, and in sitting position is disclosed. The portable chair kit includes a plastic chair, which is now in mass production for outdoor residential use, a tray secured to feet of the chair, a tub mat with suction caps on the bottom surface for securing with bathtub, and a Velcro fasteners on the upper surface for fastening with said tray to provide fixing said chair in the bathtub, a water supply means, and means of a bathtub accessories. All parts of the portable chair kit, except said tray, are in production for sale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Abram Fainberg
  • Publication number: 20100251475
    Abstract: A bathtub transfer bench includes a clamp member having a first arm for engaging an inner wall of a bathtub and a second arm for engaging an outer wall of the bathtub. A support member includes a substantially horizontal bench member and a pair of downwardly extending legs for supporting the bench member adjacent to the outer wall of the bathtub. A coupling mechanism releasably couples the support member to the clamp member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Ferrazzani