Particular Construction Or Configuration Details Patents (Class 4/584)
  • Patent number: 12256872
    Abstract: A foldable bath tub includes a base, a rim, and a basin wall disposed between and interconnecting the base and the rim. The bottom wall has an upwardly extending crotch support. The basin wall includes at least one crease. The basin wall is configured to be positioned in one of a folded condition in which the basin wall is folded into itself at the at least one crease an extended condition in which the basin wall is configured to receive an associated child. Where in the extended condition of the basin wall a distance from the base to the at least one crease increases along a length direction of the bath tub from a first end of the bath tub to a second end of the bath tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2025
    Assignee: HELEN OF TROY LIMITED
    Inventors: Martin Mutch, Elizabeth Kaye Steenwyk, Sunny Kim, Thomas Chia Hanson
  • Patent number: 12241623
    Abstract: A situational air bubble spa machine is provided, which includes a control host, an air provider, pipe fittings, and a bubble bathmat. The control host is communicated to the air provider. The air provider and the bubble bathmat are connected through the pipe fittings. The control host includes a main body, a light emitting element arranged inside the main body, a control button set arranged on the top surface of the main body. The control button set includes a startup/shutdown button which is used to regulate the startup/shutdown of the control host, an intensity button is used to regulate the air flow provided by the air provider to the bubble bathmat, thereby regulating the bubble density, and a lighting button is used to control the startup, shutdown, and lighting mode of the light emitting elements, and a fixing bracket is arranged on the bottom surface of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2024
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2025
    Inventor: Tsai-Ying Wu
  • Patent number: 12186445
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for verifying hygienic hand cleaning including a wash basin, having a contaminant sensor positioned in proximity to a drain of the wash basin, to measure a level of contamination of rinse fluid leaving the wash basin; and a processor and associated memory having instructions that when executed by the processor implement: receiving a signal from the contaminant sensor indicative of the level of contamination; and responsively, determining the level of contamination and comparing the level of contamination with a contamination threshold to determine a hand washing status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2025
    Assignee: SOAPY CARE LTD.
    Inventor: Maxim Simonovsky
  • Patent number: 12123184
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment, among others, of the present disclosure is directed to a drain closure assembly. Such an assembly has a domed cap at a top portion of the drain closure assembly and a flange that is positioned below the domed cap. The assembly further includes a stem that extends from below the flange to a bottom portion of the drain closure assembly and a gasket seal that is positioned around the stem at a bottom of the drain closure assembly. The gasket seal has a frusto-conical shape, wherein a top portion of the gasket seal has a wider diameter than a bottom portion of the gasket seal, and the gasket seal has a central circular opening that fits closely around the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Assignee: Danco, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Clifton Jones, Jr., Muhammad Towheed Hossain, Casey J. Fregoe
  • Patent number: 12043997
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of kitchen sink, a kitchen sink capable of replacing decorative plates. The kitchen sink capable of replacing decorative plates comprises a kitchen sink body, decorative plates and mounting plates, wherein the upper edge, the edge of the front side wall of the kitchen sink body are provided with mounting grooves with an open inner side, the decorative plates are capable of being inserted into the mounting grooves from bottom to top, the mounting plates comprise a bottom plate bent backwards and a front plate bent upwards, the bottom plate is magnetically connected or clamped with the kitchen sink body, and the front plate is attached to the front side of the decorative plates. By disassembling and assembling the mounting plates, the decorative plates can be quickly replaced, which is convenient to use different decorative plates according to the demands of users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2024
    Assignee: FORTUNE INDUSTRIAL (VIETNAM) JOINT STOCK COMPANY
    Inventors: Cali Chen, Mincong Ye
  • Patent number: 12031662
    Abstract: Insulated portable spas and processes for insulating spas are described herein. The processes can include filling the undercabinet cavity of the spa with insulative fiberglass while the spa is in an upright position. The insulative fiberglass can be blown-in through sidewalls of the box frame. The portable spas can include an insulative air barrier at the bottom of the spa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2024
    Assignee: Sundance Spas, Inc.
    Inventors: Oscar H. Otanez Trewartha, Adrian Alfaro, Erica Aloisia Moir
  • Patent number: 11877704
    Abstract: A retractable shower floor in various embodiments is convertible between an operating position and a retracted position. The retractable shower floor in the operating position spans across a bathtub and facilitates support of at least one person and drainage of water through the retractable shower floor and into the bathtub underneath. The retractable shower floor in the retracted position facilitates unobstructed use of the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: BRIAN K. PEARSON, LLC.
    Inventor: Brian K. Pearson
  • Patent number: 11840837
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to roofing products, for example, shingles suitable for covering and protecting the roofs of houses, buildings, and other structures. The present disclosure relates more particularly to a roofing shingle including an upper edge, a lower edge, a first end, a second end, a headlap section, and an exposed section. A nail zone extends across the roofing shingle from the first end to the second end within the headlap section. The roofing shingle includes a top shingle layer including a top surface and a bottom surface. A reinforcement strip is secured to the bottom surface of the top shingle layer and overlaps with the nail zone. Further, a self-sealing material is disposed within the nail zone and is configured to form a seal around a mechanical fastener that punctures the roofing shingle in order to secure the roofing shingle to an underlying roof structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: Certain Teed LLC
    Inventors: Mark W. Simon, Robert L. Jenkins, Michael J. Lembo, Gregory F. Jacobs, Ying Wang, Matthew O'Boyle, Alexandre Alberto Arruda Pecora
  • Patent number: 11684543
    Abstract: An ionized pedicure chair system provides a pedicure treatment experience to a user with treated water. The system includes a built-in ionizer device configured to adjust the pH level of the water used for the pedicure as desired in the 2.5 to 6.0 pH range. The system includes a base supported built in water lines, a reclinable chair, and a double bowl system. The double bowl system includes an inner bowl and an outer bowl provided a decorative feature and eliminates spills from the inner bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Inventor: Ben Thai Pham
  • Patent number: 11659928
    Abstract: A panel assembly for providing an apron-front aesthetic for a sink installed in a cabinet. The panel assembly includes a mounting body configured for coupling to a cabinet and a cover panel coupled to the mounting body to provide an apron-front aesthetic for a sink coupled to the cabinet. The mounting body may include an opening and the cover panel may be located within the opening. The mounting body may be configured to couple to a portion of the cabinet where a false drawer would normally be located. The panel assembly may include a fastener configured to extend through a portion of the mounting body to engage the cover panel so as to secure the cover panel in place with respect to the mounting body. The cover panel may be generally planar and have a metallic finish or a textured surface finish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Jason R. Miller
  • Patent number: 11608977
    Abstract: The present invention provides a visual experience in the bathtub setting. A bathtub overflow cover, which may be removably affixed to an inner wall of a bathtub, with a dedicated portion of a housing to secure a lighting device below a bathtub waterline, is described herein. The lighting device illuminates bathtub water and produces a bathtub glow. Embodiments described for the present invention comprise a bathtub overflow valve cover, a power source, a housing, which attaches to an inner wall of a bathtub, where the housing provides a watertight seal around a bathtub overflow valve preventing water from escaping a bathtub overflow port, and one or more LED lights. The embodiment may further comprise one or more RGB LED lights with color changing capability. Embodiments may further comprise one or more pushbuttons to adjust one or more integrated features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Jasco Products Company, LLC
    Inventors: Phil Cascia, Adele Fischman, Nathan Moran
  • Patent number: 11603987
    Abstract: A lighting system for fixtures comprising a removable façade configured to connect or being prior mounted or fabricated with a fixture, the removable façade including an outermost apron, a translucent panel including at least one opening, a sheet panel having at least one reinforcement element, and at least one light source disposed therein, wherein the apron includes at least one opening disposed thereon, and wherein the at least one light source is configured to emit light thought the at least one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Kraus USA Plumbing LLC
    Inventors: Russell Levi, Serhiy Torak
  • Patent number: 11330940
    Abstract: A method of making a safe egress bathtub providing safe egress by reducing slide forces extended on a user's feet upon a slippery bathtub floor, wherein the formed bathtub has a limited rectangular footprint, and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar inwardly, cantilevered upper apron deck in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: Brak Tub Corp.
    Inventors: Bruce Ahmes, Ryan Ahmes, Kenneth Piccininni
  • Patent number: 11324318
    Abstract: A panel assembly for providing an apron-front aesthetic for a sink installed in a cabinet. The panel assembly includes a mounting body configured for coupling to a cabinet and a cover panel coupled to the mounting body to provide an apron-front aesthetic for a sink coupled to the cabinet. The mounting body may include an opening and the cover panel may be located within the opening. The mounting body may be configured to couple to a portion of the cabinet where a false drawer would normally be located. The panel assembly may include a fastener configured to extend through a portion of the mounting body to engage the cover panel so as to secure the cover panel in place with respect to the mounting body. The cover panel may be generally planar and have a metallic finish or a textured surface finish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventor: Jason R. Miller
  • Patent number: 11286652
    Abstract: A sink is provided that includes a basin configured to hold water; an apron extending from a front of the basin and having a plurality of walls and a rear surface defining an opening in a front of the apron; and a panel assembly removably received in the opening, wherein an outer perimeter of the panel assembly is spaced apart from an inner perimeter of the plurality of walls of the apron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Jason R. Miller, Ryan R. Detlaff
  • Patent number: 11149421
    Abstract: The present application provides an embedded sink, comprising a basin liner and a mounting panel; the basin liner comprises a bottom plate and a side plate, the bottom plate and the side plates are suitable to be connected to form a cavity having an upper opening, the basin liner is suitable for embedded installation in a cabinet, and the front side plate of the basin liner protrudes relative to the cabinet; the mounting panel is detachably connected to the front side plate of the basin liner, the mounting panel is suitable to cover the front side plate of the basin liner. The embedded sink of the present application can avoid destructive alterations of the embedded sink on the basis of improving the overall visual consistency of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: GUANGDONG YINGAO KITCHEN UTENSILS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Huakun Liang, Jiazhi Chen
  • Patent number: 11001999
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for plumbing a conventional bathtub drain to a conventional shower drain. A wooden framework is used wherein a pipe is placed that has one end connected to a pre-existing bathtub drain and the other end connected to a shower stall drain. The framework requires a minimal height because the pipe is oval shaped, thus providing a large enough volume for fluid flow while limiting the height required for such a pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Inventor: David Betts
  • Patent number: 10624812
    Abstract: A method and a control panel are described for facilitating the control of a bathing unit system so that the bathing unit system is caused to transition between operating in accordance with a first operational mode to operating in accordance with a second operational mode. A control signal is generated in response to a unitary user input event performed by a user at a control panel of the bathing unit system, the control signal conveying an ambiance activation command associated with a specific ambience setting, the generation of the control signal comprising selecting the specific ambience setting from a set of ambience settings stored in a memory device. The control signal is then transmitted from the control panel to the controller over a communication link where it is processed to cause the bathing unit system to transition from being in the rest mode to operating in accordance with the specific ambience setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: GECKO ALLIANCE GROUP INC.
    Inventors: Benoit Laflamme, Christian Brochu
  • Patent number: 10501919
    Abstract: A sink includes a basin body having a generally concave shape that forms at least one sink basin, a top flange integrally formed with the basin body, the top flange extending around the at least one sink basin, an apron connected to a front edge of the top flange, a replaceable panel removably connected to the apron, and a fastening system disposed between the apron and the replaceable panel, the fastening system releasably connecting the replaceable panel to the apron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: Elkay Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jonathan Chee Yeen Chong, Sharon Dupuy, John Conway, Myrna Morales, Christopher Waas, Erik Lynch, Brian Chung, Norris Swilley
  • Patent number: 10221566
    Abstract: A panel member for a cyclorama includes a concavo-convex body having integrally-formed first and second side portions with an intermediate portion therebetween. The first side portion, the second side portion, and the intermediate portion have a radius of curvature in a Y-Z plane, and the first and second side portions have a radius of curvature in an X-Y plane that is different from the radius of curvature in the Y-Z plane to uniformly reflect or diffuse sound and light incident on the panel member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: Frederick William von Tagen and Denise M. von Tagen
    Inventor: Frederick William von Tagen
  • Patent number: 10213057
    Abstract: A bathing vessel includes a base and at least one wall extending vertically from the base. The wall includes a multi-layer structure that includes a layer of acrylic material on a first layer of polyurethane material, a layer of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material between the layer of acrylic material and the first layer of polyurethane material, and a second layer of polyurethane material between the layer of ABS material and the first layer of polyurethane material. A wood-containing composite panel is chemically bonded to at least one of the first or second layers of polyurethane material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: DELTA FAUCET COMPANY
    Inventors: Michael Glenn Geels, Jeffrey McKinley Boyd, Scott Kapelanski
  • Patent number: 10208496
    Abstract: A combination of a first separate and independent pool component and a second separate and independent pool component includes a first frame portion having a frame support component for the first pool component, and a second frame portion having a frame support component for the second pool component. The second frame portion is complementary with the first frame portion. A latch assembly has a first latch component and a second latch component. The first latch component is adapted to be removably coupled to the second latch component. The first latch component of the latch assembly is attached to the frame support component of the first frame portion of the first pool component, and the second latch component of the latch assembly is attached to the frame support component of the second frame portion of the second pool component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: May Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Manuel Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9848739
    Abstract: A bathtub with a limited rectangular footprint and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar upper apron deck that extends inwardly from an outer substantially vertical front wall surface for a fixed amount in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Brak Tub Corp.
    Inventors: Bruce Ahmes, Ryan Ahmes, Kenneth Piccininni
  • Patent number: 9801504
    Abstract: A method of making a safe egress bathtub providing safe egress by reducing slide forces extended on a user's feet upon a slippery bathtub floor, wherein the formed bathtub has a limited rectangular footprint, and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar inwardly, cantilevered upper apron deck in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: BRAK TUB CORP.
    Inventors: Bruce Ahmes, Ryan Ahmes, Kenneth Piccininni
  • Patent number: 9648989
    Abstract: A bathtub providing safe egress by reducing slide forces extended on a user's feet upon a slippery bathtub floor, has a limited rectangular footprint, and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar upper apron deck for a fixed amount in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: BRAK TUB CORP.
    Inventors: Bruce Ahmes, Ryan Ahmes, Kenneth Piccininni
  • Patent number: 9648987
    Abstract: A bathtub providing safe egress from a slippery bathtub floor has a limited rectangular footprint and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar upper apron deck that extends inwardly from an outer substantially vertical front wall surface for a fixed amount in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: BRAK TUB CORP.
    Inventors: Bruce Ahmes, Ryan Ahmes, Kenneth Piccininni
  • Patent number: 9648988
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a bathing vessel includes forming a base by contacting an incompletely cured polyurethane material with a wood-containing composite panel. The polyurethane material is then cured while in contact with the wood-containing composite panel to chemically bond the polyurethane material with the panel. At least one wall is then attached to extend vertically from the base. The wall is a multi-layer structure of layers of acrylic material, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene material and the polyurethane material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Delta Faucet Company
    Inventors: Michael Glenn Geels, Scott Kapelanski
  • Patent number: 9561571
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for aiding in manual handling of a work piece during machining, which method comprises the steps of: reading a predetermined work plan, comprising a required orientation of the work piece for each machining step of the work plan; detecting the orientation of the work piece; comparing the detected orientation of the work piece with the required orientation; and projecting an indication on the work piece for aiding to manually orient the work piece to the required orientation for the machining step to be performed. Al disclosed is a device for performing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignee: Nivora IP B.V.
    Inventors: Peter Hermanus Gerhardus Wielens, Niels Tielenburg, Alexander Stefan Kok
  • Patent number: 9416538
    Abstract: Attachable and reattachable panels, particularly for water enclosing units, protect, enclose and/or cover an area such as a bathroom, steam room, shower, shower stall, bathtub, whirlpool bath, spa or the like. The panels include a clip assembly associated therewith for removably securing the panels in position and/or to other structural members. The clip assembly includes a male member and a female member, where the female member is configured for receiving the male member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Jacuzzi Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond C. Torres, Hong Charles Li
  • Patent number: 9357885
    Abstract: A bathing vessel includes a base support having a base board that extends between a top, a bottom, first and second side edges, and first and second ends. Two legs are attached on the bottom of the base board, inboard from the respective first and second side edges. The base board is at least partially encapsulated in a polyurethane material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: MASCO BATH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joel Lynn Hatchett, Jeffrey McKinley Boyd, Michael Glenn Geels, Scott Kapelanski
  • Patent number: 9027176
    Abstract: An example bathing area surround includes panels having a slot flange and a hook flange. A hook-like projection on the hook flange of a first panel is extendable into a slot on the slot flange of a second panel. Another example bathing area surround includes the slot flange on a first bathing panel and the hook flange on a second bathing panel, and a seal located on at least one of the slot flange or the hook flange. The seal may comprise foam. The foam may be compressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Dabrowski
  • Publication number: 20150113721
    Abstract: A tiled bathtub (B) in which tiles (T) are selected from among a variety of tiles and are attached to the side of the tub in a selected pattern. Once a pattern is determined and the tiles are selected, a bonding agent is applied to the tub. The bonding agent is an adhesive agent. After the adhesive sets, tiles are fitted to the side of the tub in accordance with the chosen design. Once the tile mesh appliquè is in place, attached and bonded to the side of the tub, a grout is applied between the tiles. After the grout has set a clear coat can be optionally applied over the tile to protect them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Leland Allemang
  • Publication number: 20150107018
    Abstract: An injection molded shower stall assembly or bathtub assembly particularly for use in a recreational vehicle includes an injection molded tub or shower base, which includes an integrally formed drainpipe which is externally threaded and adapted to easily and permanently be connected to plumbing for the recreational vehicle. Injection molded walls are formed to surround either the shower stall or tub. The injection molded walls have lower edges that interfit with edges of the tub or shower stall in a way which prevents water from flowing behind the preformed walls and holds the lower edges of the preformed walls in position, eliminating the need for any type of penetrating fastener along the base of the walls. The walls are formed in multiple sections that fit one on top of the other, with interfitting lower and upper edges, again to reduce the need for penetrating fasteners and to hold the sections in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Alpha Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Vagedes
  • Patent number: 9009879
    Abstract: An air management system for an insulated spa cabinet is provided. The air management system monitors the temperature of an equipment air space in the cabinet and vents overheated air in a controlled manner from the cabinet. The air management system comprises an air passageway, formed by a U-trap, between an inlet in the air space and an exterior of the cabinet. The system also comprises an air mover and a sensor. The sensor monitors the temperature in the air space and when the temperature is above a set temperature threshold, the air mover is operated to direct air from the air space through the passageway from the inlet to the discharge for controlled venting of overheated air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: SPA Logic, Inc.
    Inventor: Darcy S Amendt
  • Patent number: 8973177
    Abstract: A drop-in mounted bath tub has a peripheral rim that is uniquely shaped to both support the tub on a mounting platform and provide integral handgrips used to assist the bather in entering and exiting the tub. The rim curves out from the top of the basin downward toward the mounting platform. The rim extends down further at the end walls of the basin than at the side walls so that it contacts the mounting platform only at the end walls while being spaced up from the mounting platform at the sides. The contoured rim provides a stable, comfortable surface for the bather to grasp. One or more partition walls extending from the rim between the basin side walls and the outer edge of the rim provides for sealing the basin to the mounting platform as well as keeping items from falling between the tub and the mounting platform and preventing the bather from touching or viewing the rough unfinished outer shell of the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Michael R. Bates
  • Patent number: 8918924
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of systems and methods directed to a pedicure spa apparatus. A pedicure spa can include a basin having an embedded light aperture on a first interior surface of the basin. The embedded light aperture can further includes a light passing layer configured to fluidically seal the embedded light aperture and be substantially seamless with the first interior surface of the basin. The pedicure spa can also include a water agitation device coupled to an interior surface of the basin and a magnetic actuator coupled to an opposing surface of the interior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Quy That Ton
  • Patent number: 8904614
    Abstract: Provided is bathtub accessory product and installation method. The bathtub accessory product is designed to be secured to a bathtub wall and have a universal end that permits the attachment of any number of bath accessories such as a grab bar or swivel seat. The bathtub accessory may be installed within the inner cavity of a bathtub to ensure a secure fit while also allowing ideal placement of a bath accessory for use by a bather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Safeway Safety Step, LLC
    Inventor: Chris Stafford
  • Publication number: 20140333189
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for creating a realistic granite or other pattern on a substrate, such as a sink, bath, or piece of furniture. The apparatus and method may use gelcoat to create a regular or irregular pattern. The apparatus may use pressurized air or gear pumps to pump paint from tanks to a spraying device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Abraham Tanus
  • Patent number: 8863324
    Abstract: A bathtub rim assembly is disclosed that includes a support structure that is capable of engaging a rim of a bathtub to prevent substantial deformation and damage to a cantilevered ledge of the bathtub. The rim assembly further includes a skirt that obscures the support structure to maintain a unitary appearance of the overall bathtub assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Jeffrey F. Tempas, Christopher B. Hisey, Steven A. Abitz, Scott R. Knapp
  • Patent number: 8850632
    Abstract: A method for assembling a bathing enclosure includes providing a base on a support, the base having an upper rim. The method includes providing a first wall on the upper rim of the base, providing a second wall in pivotable engagement with the first wall at upper portions thereof, and pivoting the second wall relative to the first wall to mount the second wall on the upper rim of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Bullis, Daniel J. Lee, Jake W. Myre
  • Publication number: 20140259362
    Abstract: An apron assembly may be designed for a bathtub having an above-floor drain. The apron assembly may include an apron attached to an upper surface of the bathtub, an apron extension which snaps onto a bottom portion of the apron, and an apron cover that snaps onto a front surface of the apron extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Luke Benjamin Zimbric
  • Publication number: 20140173821
    Abstract: A bathing vessel has a bottom, and a drain disposed in the bottom adjacent a blended area that is disposed between the side wall and the bottom. The side wall, the bottom wall, and the blended area are made of a first layer of rigid polyurethane material and a second layer of capping material attached to said first layer. A ratio of a density of the polyurethane backing adjacent the drain to a thickness of polyurethane backing is between 1-80:1. The side wall, the blended area and the bottom wall flex to absorb loads adjacent the drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: MASCO BATH CORPORATION
    Inventors: David Stuart Paskman, Scott Kapelanski, Michael Glenn Geels
  • Publication number: 20140165284
    Abstract: A basin includes a basin body that can house a device for athletic activities for executing physical exercises in an aquatic environment. The device for athletic activities includes a frame that can be removably housed in the basin body. With the basin body including at least two opposite walls, at least one of the opposite walls defines a wall extension forming a projection into the basin body, with the free end of the wall extension including a device for receiving/holding one end of the frame. The frame includes a cassette that can move in translation along an axis of displacement and a drive system for moving the cassette along the axis of displacement. The cassette includes a body, with the cassette body being provided with at least one hole that laterally passes through the cassette body for accommodating a pedal system making it possible to perform physical exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: SOCIETE DYNAMIKA
    Inventor: Didier ROUX
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140130248
    Abstract: A water-resistant, flexible sealing member having a lower portion, a central lateral portion, and an upper portion offset from the lower portion, the lower portion including an adhesive for affixing the sealing member to a facing of a tile flange of a shower base or bathtub. The central lateral portion of the sealing member contacts and overlies an upper edge of the tile flange and the upper portion extends upwardly from the tile flange. The sealing member contacts and seals against the tile flange and a bottom wall of a drywall board positioned above the tile flange to inhibit ingress of water between the tile flange and the bottom wall of the drywall board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: E.L. Mustee & Sons, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin F. Mustee
  • Publication number: 20140109308
    Abstract: A ledge that incorporates a spill sill as a portion of the ledge is disclosed. The ledge includes one or more ports and the spill sill is shaped in a manner that catches liquid as it overflows and directs the water to the port(s). The port(s) are utilized to drain the liquid from the ledge so that the liquid can be routed away for disposal. In addition to being functional, the ledge includes dimensions and/or configurations that make the ledge aesthetically pleasing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: MAAX Spas Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Emil NYGARD, Robert LANGE
  • Patent number: 8695131
    Abstract: A tub assembly is provided with a tub and a surround wall. The surround wall is spaced from a nail flange on the tub by a desired distance with a simple wall fastener. The wall fastener clips onto the nail flange, and has a forward face spaced from the nail flange by a desired distance. The forward face provides a stop and securement surface for the surround wall. The wall fastener includes a clip portion that clips onto the nail flange, and has a plurality of discrete clip portions. The clip portions can be broken away from the wall fastener at locations which will be aligned with a wall stud. In this manner, the wall fastener can be quickly clipped onto the nail flange of the tub once the tub is installed. The surround wall can then be simply adhered to a forward face of the wall fastener, such that the entire tub assembly can be easily and properly assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Masco Bath Corporation
    Inventor: Brent Thomas
  • Publication number: 20140087187
    Abstract: Cultured stone materials, and products including the same, have a plastic component and particulate calcium sulfate filler, which may be a calcium sulfate filler in the form of calcium sulfate dihydrate filler that provides fire retardancy, and the filer provides other processing and product benefits. The cultured stone materials may be made by converting a mixture of a plastic component and particulate calcium sulfate filler to a rigid shaped form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: AMERICAN SELENITE, LLC
    Inventor: George C. Hawley
  • Patent number: 8646120
    Abstract: Systems and methods provide improved bathing or soaking mechanisms. A vessel may be provided with a plurality of horizontal support surfaces disposed in a cavity and a plurality of separate drain paths. A lid is adapted to span the cavity and be received in the top of the vessel. The lid may be a two-piece hinged lid, which may be actuated from a closed position to an open position and back again. The lid is provided with one or more drain holes which may cooperate with one of the plurality of drain paths when the lid is in the closed position. The vessel and lid combination may be installed through a floor, beneath a conventional shower stall, to enable showering with such stall without substantial contamination to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: In Reserve LLC
    Inventor: Robert A. Schueler
  • Patent number: 8640276
    Abstract: A molded tub and surround which is formed of a multiple of portions. Wall portions meet a tub portion at a joint with a retaining ledge which extends inward toward a tub bowl from a flange. A ledge interface within the bottom of the wall portions engages the ledge. An angled interface surface is located directly in front of the ledge and slopes downward toward the bowl. A shallow interface within the bottom of the wall portions engages the angled interface surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Aqua Glass Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Ingram, Brent Thomas