With Antislip Means Patents (Class 4/582)
  • Patent number: 8021733
    Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable bath mat for use in bath facilities, such as bathtubs and shower stalls. The disposable bath mat comprises a top layer and a bottom layer coupled to a bottom surface of the top layer. The top layer is composed of a biodegradable material and the bottom layer is composed of a slip-resistant material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventors: Renee Carter-Patterson, Pamela Gergal
  • Patent number: 7152256
    Abstract: A padded tub liner for protecting a user from an impact caused by slipping in a bathtub. The padded tub liner includes a bottom portion designed for resting upon a bottom surface of the bathtub; a first side portion operationally coupled to the bottom portion, and designed for abutting a side surface of the bathtub; and a second side portion operationally coupled to the bottom portion opposite the first side portion, and designed for abutting a second side surface of the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Holly Roberts
  • Patent number: 6787215
    Abstract: The present invention relates to specific methods of producing cleated rubber-backed floor mats (such as dust control or rubber mats) through the utilization of the combination of a perforated coated woven fabric article and a cushioned platen liner between the article and the metal platen of an in-line dust control mat manufacturing machine. Such a procedure permits a more efficient manner of producing cleated anti-creep dust control mats than previously followed. In particular, the fabric article is in the form of a conveyor belt and is preferably constructed from Teflon®-coated woven fiberglass which will not adhere to the tacky rubber component of the target mat and can withstand the extremely high vulcanization temperatures and pressures required during the production of a dust control mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: William O. Burke, III, Robert C. Kerr, Aage Lang
  • Patent number: 6709728
    Abstract: The present invention relates to specific methods of producing cleated rubber-backed floor mats (such as dust control or rubber mats) through the utilization of the combination of a perforated coated woven fabric article and a cushioned platen liner between the article and the metal platen of an in-line dust control mat manufacturing machine. Such a procedure permits a more efficient manner of producing cleated anti-creep dust control mats than previously followed. The produced mat as well as the woven fabric article/cushioned platen liner combination are also encompassed within this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Robert C. Kerr, Amy B. Streeton
  • Patent number: 6681416
    Abstract: A method for producing a soft bathroom mat comprising the acts of obtaining a base layer (10), obtaining an upper layer mold (20), applying a surface membrane (24) to the mold (20), pouring gel (26) into fillisters (22) in the mold (20) and applying a bottom membrane (28) to the filled mold (20) to enclose the gel with the surface membrane (24) to form the upper layer and laminating the upper layer to the base layer and trimming any excess material from the completed soft bathroom mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Golden Pond Plastic Manufacturing Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsai-Chin Yang
  • Patent number: 6673417
    Abstract: Anti-slip floor tiles are provided which are textured with a pattern of spikes. The spikes are preferably pyramidal or conical in shape. The height, angle, and base width of the spikes are important to slip resistance coefficients. Preferred spike dimensions range from about 0.2 to about 3.0 mm in height and from about 0.8 to about 3.0 mm in base width (or diameter). Further, a process for manufacturing an anti-slip floor tile which is textured with a pattern of spikes is provided. The tile is manufactured by pressing a powder on a mold, drying the resulting tile, and then firing the pressed tile at a high temperature. The surface texture is formed by the punch of the mold press which includes spike shaped indentations being the negative of the surface of the tile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Crossville Ceramics Company
    Inventor: Christian Pierre Gudet
  • Patent number: 6564397
    Abstract: A bath mat comprises a base member made from a first elastomeric material and at least one contrast member differing from the base member but manufactured to be integral with the base member through an over-molding or co-molding process. The contrast member differs in color and/or hardness or feel from the base member providing improved aesthetics and functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Manco, Inc.
    Inventors: James K. Hawley, Elizabeth A. Flores, Roberta I. Gareau, Christine Hayes, Patrice J. Sarb
  • Patent number: 6455123
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a layer having carpeted upper surface and/or other rubber-like padding material covered by a translucent, elastomeric sheet. The upper elastomeric layer may have downwardly depending projections that engage the carpeted upper surface of the inner padding layer, thereby reducing the likelihood of the upper elastomeric layer from slipping relative to the inner padding layer. The upper elastomeric layer is sewn or otherwise affixed to the carpeted surface to prevent slipping and creasing of the upper elastomeric layer relative to the padding during use. In addition, in a preferred embodiment for use on carpeted surfaces, the lower elastomeric layer may have downwardly depending projections that engage in the underlying carpet surface to reduce slipping of the device relative to the underlying surface. An overcovering material may be provided to further protect the upper elastomeric layer from excessive soiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Ernest B. Poe, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6372323
    Abstract: A slip control article including a backing layer having a first surface with an array of at least 100 upstanding stems per square inch and a second surface. At least a portion of the upstanding stems is an elastomeric material and the stems have an aspect ratio of at least 1.25. The first surface has a static coefficient of friction when dry of at least 0.6 and a static coefficient of friction when wet within 20% of the static coefficient of friction when dry. The first surface has a peel strength and a tensile strength of substantially zero when engaged with another slip control article. The first surface has a relatively high shear strength when engaged with another slip control article. The high shear forces are due primarily to the frictional properties of the elastomeric materials, not a mechanical interlock of the stems, such as on a mechanical fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: James J. Kobe, Leon Levitt
  • Patent number: 6357061
    Abstract: The inflatable bath air mattress cushion includes an inflatable back cushion portion, an inflatable mat cushion portion connected to the inflatable back cushion portion, a pair of inflatable side cushion portions connected to opposing sides of the inflatable back cushion portion, and an inflatable upper pillow cushion portion connected to the inflatable back cushion portion at the head end of the bath air mattress cushion. The inflatable back cushion portion, mat cushion portion, side cushion portion and upper pillow cushion portion each have inflation valves and suction cups on the bottom side, and a top covering of a layer of fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Denise M. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 6353943
    Abstract: A flexible, absorbent, fabric mat or cover is removably affixed to a bathtub over the side or lip thereof. The fabric is advantageously terry cloth. Particularly where a bather's hand is wet or soapy, the coefficient of friction of the bathtub lip is substantially improved relative to an uncovered porcelain or enamel coated bathtub. Safety is improved even if the terry cloth inadvertently becomes saturated with water, and the device is readily removable for washing and readily washable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Emeline A. Stevens
  • Patent number: 6336231
    Abstract: An inflatable liner for use with conventional bathtubs is disclosed. For use with infants, elderly, physically disabled, or other instances where a cushioned and/or sanitary bathing surface is desired. A battery operated air pump is attached to the inflatable liner via small plastic tubes. The air pump is used to inflate the liner. The present invention also has an air trap valve to prevent overinflation. The inflatable liner is composed of separate air reservoir tubes that conform to the shape of the bathtub, surrounding the entire interior surface area of the bathtub. Once inflated, the actual tub itself provides the present invention with its shape and rigidity A convenient drainage hole with cover is incorporated into the inflatable liner, which allows the user to drain water out of the invention and bathtub before the present invention is removed from the tub and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventor: Hermenie I. Smith
  • Patent number: 6101642
    Abstract: An improved watertight bathtub insert having foldable members that are laminated and joined to form a safe portable and easily stored bathtub insert that can be chemically treated on the surface with an antibacterial formulation for the preservation of health. The enclosure is comprised of four upright sidewalls and a bottom platform, forming a watertight, rectangular cubicular space; having a watertight, doubly gasketed, entrance door and a drawbridge styled ramp. Each of the sidewalls is made preferably of a preformed and shaped fiberglass core, laminated between thin sheets of silicone rubber, and electronically bonded and sealed to form a unitized watertight enclosure that can be folded into a portable compact unit that is easily stored. The base platform is made preferably of rubber and has a cushioned bottom surface, that has frictional resistance and stability when the unit is inserted into a bathtub or shower stall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventors: Constance L. Auten, Charla R. Couch
  • Patent number: 6022608
    Abstract: A three layer, non-slip fabric has an upper fabric layer which is bonded through an intermediate flat plastic layer to a lower plastic layer having cup-shaped elements distributed therelong. Each cup has sidewalls and an outwardly concave end wall with one or two holes in the wall to allow the cups to deform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Plantex S.p.A.
    Inventor: Silvano Dell 'Acqua
  • Patent number: 5839132
    Abstract: An improved disposable bathtub liner includes inflatable sub-compartments which detachably adhere to the interior surface of a bathtub through suction devices on the exterior surface of the liner. The bathtub liner includes opposite sidewalls, endwalls, and at least a partial bottom, and is made of a material which is durable, economical and disposable, while at the same time provides frictional engagement with a person, and which can be detachably sealed to the interior of the interior surface of the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Todd D. Rooney
  • Patent number: 5776605
    Abstract: A replacement surface covering an existing surface conforming surface irregularities of the existing surface to present a top surface with a relatively smooth contour, and a self-curing, waterproof adhesive layer which envelops and seals any cracks on the existing surface and promotes an intimate bond between the replacement surface and the existing surface. A design layer may be provided between the replacement surface and the existing surface. Double-sided tape may also be used to secure the replacement surface to the existing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Michael W. May
  • Patent number: 5740567
    Abstract: A blanket with waterproof frictional backing comprising an upper layer attached to a lower layer, and frictional strips attached to the lower layer. The upper layer is a non-abrasive textile such as canvas or terrycloth, and is intended to provide a comfortable seating surface for an occupant. The lower layer is a waterproof material such as plastic or nylon, and serves to protect an occupant from a wet surface upon which the blanket with waterproof frictional backing rests. The frictional strips are fabricated of a material such as rubber or other suitable material, and are intended to prevent the blanket with waterproof frictional backing from slipping on a wet surface, thus enhancing the comfort of an occupant as well as decreasing safety risk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: Kimberly E. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5650228
    Abstract: A replacement surface for bathtub and shower floors comprising a liner covering substantially the entire bottom interior surface of the bathtub or shower with a peripheral relief allowing access to a drain and conforming surface irregularities of the bottom interior surface to present a top surface with a relatively smooth contour, and a self-curing, waterproof adhesive layer which envelops and seals any cracks on the bottom interior surface and promotes an intimate bond between the liner and the bottom interior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Michael W. May
  • Patent number: 5173346
    Abstract: A surgical floor mat having a plurality of compressed sponge sections with a low profile in a dry condition and a expanded profile in a wet condition for absorbing fluids which fall onto the sponge sections over the course of a surgical procedure. Furthermore, the compressed sponge sections are adhered to a waterproof and foldable sheet with a gap between each of the sponge sections to allow the foldable sheet and sponge sections to be easily folded for purposes of storage or later disposal. The waterproof and foldable sheet has a non-slip undersurface for secure engagement between the operating room floor and the surgical floor mat. Additionally, an adhesive strip can be used and affixed to the undersurface of the foldable sheet for greater securement to the floor and a number of different configurations for the surgical floor mat can be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Inventor: Breck Middleton
  • Patent number: 5069951
    Abstract: A magnetized bath mat removably connectable atop the magnetically attractive bottom of a bathtub or shower stall including a thin, flexible magnetic base sheet permanently adhered to and beneath a thin, flexible non-magnetic upper sheet. The base sheet is permanently magnetized so that its bottom surface is releasably attractable to the tub or shower bottom to provide a high degree of slip resistance between the bath mat and the tub or shower bottom during normal use. The upper sheet is coextensive with the base sheet and has a top surface which is generally slip resistant to a user standing or sitting thereatop under wet conditions of use. A very thin intermediate sheet having an opaque coloring similar to that of the upper sheet and permanently adhered between the base and upper sheets may be provided to prevent visual color bleeding of the dark-colored base sheet through to the upper sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Eugene P. Egan
  • Patent number: 5050591
    Abstract: A water massage mat is disclosed which comprises a substantially rectangular cover formed of two leaves of suitable flexible material welded together along weld lines so as to form a structure similar to a small air mattress. The weld lines include a perimetrical weld line extending along the perimeter of the cover and a second internal weld line configured so as to define a first hermetically sealed channel and a second channel closed at one of its ends and connected at its other end to a feeder pipe which is adapted to be connected to a source of compressed air. These internal weld lines, as viewed from above are serpentine shaped. Small holes are formed in the upper surface of the second channel and are capable of allowing the compressed air from the feeder pipe to flow out of the second channel so as to generate a water massage effect. A plurality of suction cups fasten the cover to the bottom of a tub or basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Assignee: Albatros System S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giannino Sandrin
  • Patent number: 4956882
    Abstract: A bathtub liner comprising a bottom panel, two lateral panels and an end panel, the panels having a non-slip surface. The lateral panels are substantially rigid and attach to the tub walls by suction cups. Affixed to the lateral panels are support members or handles. The support members are detachable. The support members may also be detachably affixed to the bottom panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Inventor: Harold S. Cohn, III
  • Patent number: 4931330
    Abstract: The invention relates to a prefabricated, slip-resistant surface coating which comprises a sheet member having a film on its surface, said film embedded therein in plurality of finely divided abrasive particles. This coating can be adapted to make a bathtub surface slip-resistant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Inventors: Sam S. Stier, Robert E. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 4625344
    Abstract: A bath mat has a body provided with a coating of adhesive for attaching the mat to the floor of a tub or shower. The body includes a primary layer underlying two layers in which sand particles are embedded in vinyl. Additional vinyl covers the two layers to a substantially uniform thickness while conforming to the underlying rough surface configuration caused by the sand particles. The adhesive has a protective sheet that is removed for installation. The mat is permanently bonded to the tub and provides a durable, slip resistant surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Inventor: Timothy J. Howard
  • Patent number: 4511621
    Abstract: A repair laminate sheet which can bond faults in fiberglass and acrylic tubs is provided. The repair laminate sheet includes an upper fiberglass sheet ply and a lower epoxy sheet ply. The lower epoxy ply has its upper surface adhered to the lower surface of the upper fiberglass sheet ply. Both plies are substantially the same size and shape. The lower epoxy ply is juxtaposed directly below and in registration with the upper fiberglass sheet ply. The lower surface of the lower epoxy ply is attached to the upper surface of the bottom of a fiberglass or acrylic tub so that the lower ply overlies and bonds any faults in the tub bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1985
    Assignee: Lik-Nu Porcelain, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter Thomas, Peter Lucatuorto