Combined With Diverse Means Patents (Class 4/597)
  • Patent number: 6502796
    Abstract: An adjustable mount for removable attaching a showerhead to a water supply pipe includes a mounting bracket made of resilient material and having a mounting flange which is sized and shaped to clamp the water supply pipe upon applying an external force. The adjustable mount further includes a holder for the showerhead and an attaching assembly for releasably attaching the holder to the mounting bracket. The attaching assembly has a knob formed on either the holder or the mounting bracket frictionally engaging a recess formed on the other element. Upon inserting the knob in the recess, the bracket and the holder are displaceable relative to one another between a release position, wherein they are freely detachable, and a series of locking positions, wherein their displacement is arrested upon ceasing an external torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Resources Conservation, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Wales
  • Patent number: 6446277
    Abstract: A high-capacity chemical and/or radiological decontamination system including: a shower unit (1) designed to shower persons individually with a regeneratable active product for a predetermined time ranging between 5 and 20 seconds; a collecting device (14) for collecting the contaminated active product from the shower unit; and a unit (2) for regenerating the contaminated active product so that it can be recycled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Prevor International
    Inventor: Joël Blomet
  • Patent number: 6443164
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for the coating of a human body with a tanning composition, such as a sunless tanning composition, wherein an arm with a plurality of nozzles thereon traverses within a booth to spray coat a body in the booth. The spray nozzles are oriented to avoid opposing air flows and excessive air flows which cause inefficient and uneven, dripping or streaking in the deposition of tanning composition on the skin. In another aspect, the apparatus provides for a foot rinser to rinse the feet of a user while the apparatus applies a sunless tanning composition to the user to avoid overly darkening the user's feet. In yet another aspect, the apparatus provides for a sanitation system to wash-down the spray booth between successive uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Spectrum Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Joseph Parker, Neil Andrew Flack, Martin Howard Miller
  • Patent number: 6378912
    Abstract: A system and method for installing plumbing spouts, such as shower heads and tub spouts, includes providing a stub out which protrudes out of a wall at shower height. A specialized adapter is then slid onto the protruding stub out until the adapter abuts the wall. The adapter is internally threaded with an integral ferrule, and may also be equipped with a one-way gripper ring and an O-ring to sealingly secure the spout to the stub out. The stub out, if closed, is then cut off outside the adapter and a standard shower arm or nipple for a tub spout is threaded into the adapter. A threaded end of the shower arm or nipple engages the ferrule and compresses it against the stub out creating a seal therebetween. When installing a shower head, an escutcheon plate is adapted to be slid over the shower arm to engage peripheral fingers of the adapter to secure the escutcheon in place. A shower head is then threaded onto the shower arm to complete the installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Duane R. Condon, Frank D. Julian, Joseph P. Ismert
  • Patent number: 6314590
    Abstract: A drainage device (1) for a waste water outlet (12) includes an outer tubular member (102) adapted to fit within the waste water outlet (12). An inner tubular member (103) is located within the outer tubular member (102). The interior of the inner tubular member (103) provides a first outlet and a second outlet is defined by the external wall of the inner tubular member (103) and the internal wall of the outer tubular member (102). A valve member (108, 109) is movably mounted with respect to the inner and outer tubular members (102, 103) for movement between a first position in which the second outlet is obturated and the first outlet is open to permit a liquid to flow therethrough, and a second position in which the second outlet is open to permit liquid to enter the second outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Kok Wing Lee
  • Patent number: 6302122
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for the coating of a human body with a tanning composition, such as a sunless tanning composition, wherein an arm with a plurality of nozzles thereon traverses within a booth to spray coat a body in the booth. The spray nozzles are oriented to avoid opposing air flows and excessive air flows which cause inefficient and uneven, dripping or streaking in the deposition of tanning composition on the skin. In another aspect, the apparatus provides for a foot rinser to rinse the feet of a user while the apparatus applies a sunless tanning composition to the user to avoid overly darkening the user's feet. In yet another aspect, the apparatus provides for a sanitation system to wash-down the spray booth between successive uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Spectrum Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Joseph Parker, Neil Andrew Flack, Martin Howard Miller
  • Patent number: 6257259
    Abstract: There is disclosed herein a multipurpose frame for use with a top mounted vehicle rack wherein the frame telescopingly attaches to the rack. As such, the frame is laterally extensible from the side of the vehicle and may be used to support a canopy, shower or serve as a clothes line or rain catch. A canopy may be attached at the outside ends of a plurality of extensions attached to the frame. The extensions may be removably attachable at the mounting portions of the frame of the present invention. In this fashion the canopy is sturdily supported by the extensions and can provide shade and protection from the elements to one who remains beneath it. Side walls may be attached to the frame to provide additional protection as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Kenneth Ardouin
  • Patent number: 6243891
    Abstract: A valve includes a housing with an input for unheated water and an output for delivering unheated water to a toilet tank and a supplemental input for cooled and hot water in. The valve has a thermally responsive component to open and close the supplemental input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventors: Jack A. Nickerson, Jack A. Nickerson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6098213
    Abstract: A water temperature regulator having a closed container that is provided with a cold-water inlet pipe and a hot-water inlet pipe having flow control connected thereto for introducing cold and hot water, respectively, into the container at a desired flow rate, a discharge pipe for guiding water in the container to an external water storage, at least one water service pipe for guiding water in the container to at least one water supply outlet, such as a showerhead or a faucet, at least one control for controlling open/close of the discharge pipe and of the at least one water service pipe, and a water temperature indicator for showing a temperature of water in the container. Instead of being drained, water introduced into the container that has not reached a desired temperature is discharged to and stored in the water storage for reuse later without being unnecessarily wasted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Hen-Tsung Chen
    Inventor: Li-Tsan Chu
  • Patent number: 5996140
    Abstract: A device for washing a user sitting in or reclining on a wheelchair including an open-bottomed, double-walled housing defining a washing chamber therein and having a top wall opposite the open bottom, opposing side walls, a front wall and a rear opening opposite the front wall. A door is provided for opening and closing the rear opening and a plurality of nozzles are secured to an interior wall of the housing member for injecting warm water toward the user sitting in or reclining on the wheelchair positioned in said washing chamber. The head of the user is located outside the washing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Aluvo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Teruo Kitamura
  • Patent number: 5953770
    Abstract: A device for washing a user sitting in or reclining on a wheelchair including an open-bottomed, double-walled housing defining a washing chamber therein and having a top wall opposite the open bottom, opposing side walls, a front wall and a rear opening opposite the front wall. A door is provided for opening and closing the rear opening and a plurality of nozzles are secured to an interior wall of the housing member for injecting warm water toward the user sitting in or reclining on the wheelchair positioned in said washing chamber. The head of the user is located outside the washing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Aluvo Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Teruo Kitamura
  • Patent number: 5920927
    Abstract: A portable shower and toilet assembly includes a support structure having substantially square upper and lower horizontal tubular frame components which are connected with vertical tubular side supports. The upper frame member has a cross member in fluid communication therewith with a shower head downwardly depending therefrom. An external water source may be coupled with an aperture on the upper frame component to dispense water through the shower head. A toilet seat and lid are hingedly attached to a side wall structure. The support structure is completely enclosable with a removably attached tarpaulin cover member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: John R. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5891329
    Abstract: A water tapping fixture with an outlet opening which is connected to a supply connection through a pipe having at least one valve, wherein an ultraviolet light radiating device is arranged in the pipe connected to the water tapping fixture. The ultraviolet light radiating device is arranged closely adjacent the outlet opening of the fixture. The outlet opening may be arranged in a head which is movable relative to a base part and the ultraviolet light radiating device is arranged in the head. Such a head may be, for example, a shower head which is connected through a hose to a wall fixture. The head may be connected through a flexible line to the base part and a feed line for the ultraviolet light radiating device is attached to the flexible line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Karl F. Massholder
  • Patent number: 5862544
    Abstract: Apparatus for recapture of fresh water flow released from a shower head (12). The collection device (10) includes a supported frame (18) that is proximate the shower head (12) and adjacent a wall (16) to which the shower head (12) is ultimately attached. The device (10) also includes a movable water flow diverter assembly (32), capable of being moved from a first in use position to a second at rest position, and at least one collection container (24) that is supported by the frame (18). The moveable water flow diverter assembly (32) is connected to an upper portion of the frame (20) by a pin (34). Diverter assembly (32) includes an arm (36, 36'), and a collection basin (38) that is connected to arm (36, 36') and a flow director (42) that directs the water flow to the at least one collection container (24, 24').
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Gilbert J. Placencia
  • Patent number: 5839135
    Abstract: A device for washing a user sitting in or reclining on a stretcher including an open-bottomed, double-walled housing defining a washing chamber therein and having a top wall opposite the open bottom, opposing side walls, a front wall and a rear opening opposite the front wall. A door is provided for opening and closing the rear opening and a plurality of nozzles are secured to an interior wall of the housing member for injecting warm water toward the user sitting in or reclining on the stretcher positioned in said washing chamber. The head of the user is located outside the washing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignees: Teruo Kitamura, Aluvo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Teruo Kitamura
  • Patent number: 5768842
    Abstract: A weep drain for a tile wall includes a dam for collecting water, moisture, or other liquids and an extrusion with a plurality of hollow cylindrical tubes for allowing the water, moisture or other liquids to drain from behind the tile wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Robert M. Austin
  • Patent number: 5732421
    Abstract: A solid material corner seat for use in an existing shower stall or tub enclosure which is of generally trapezoidal configuration, spaced from the enclosure walls, and removably retained to brackets fastened to the walls, with openings in the seat to allow water to pass therethrough, and which is of laminated plastic construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: Lutz A. Scherberger
  • Patent number: 5731569
    Abstract: A device for attachment to a mirror to prevent condensation on the mirror surface including: a pad element having at least one interior chamber and containing a heat retaining liquid such as a gel. Heating means such as an electrical heat element is located in the gel in the chamber of the pad element for heating the gel to a desired temperature; and the pad element is connected to the mirror to heat the mirror to prevent condensation from forming on the surface of the mirror. The device may also include heat sensor, a thermostat, and a timer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: George Crescenzo
  • Patent number: 5694653
    Abstract: The invention comprises an apparatus and method for the hands-free controlling of the on and off operation and temperature of the water flow from the spout (100) through the use of proximity sensors (10) that detect the proximity of a person's hand (H) relative to the spout. The spout (100) therefore functions as a transmitter antenna (170) to emit a time varying electrostatic (primary) field (Fp). When a portion of a person's body such as a hand (H) or finger enters the field, the primary field (Fp) is coupled to the person's body. The person's body then radiates a secondary field (Fs) in syncopation with the primary field (Fp). An antenna receiver (140) is located behind the front panel of the vanity of the sink (100) to receive the secondary field (Fs). Electronic circuitry (200) including a microprocessor with software then processes the received signal to perform the desired functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventor: Phillipp Harald
  • Patent number: 5689843
    Abstract: A new Shower Water Conservation System for conserving water during a shower thereby resulting in reduced water bills includes a T-spigot, a first flexible tube coupled to the T-spigot, a water control valve matingly coupled with the first flexible tube opposite of the T-spigot, a second flexible tube matingly coupled to the control valve, and a T-coupler matingly coupled to the second flexible tube and a shower head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventors: Rubin E. Duke, Margaret Duke
  • Patent number: 5664593
    Abstract: An apparatus for applying suntan lotion including a liquid tight enclosure of generally cylindrical shape. The upper wall portions are tilted inwardly to form a central neck enclosure. A door in side walls of the enclosure is spring biased to the closed position. Lotion mist ports are disposed about the interior of the enclosure and supplied from a lotion distribution tube which in turn is supplied from at least one atomizing nozzle. A pump pumps the liquid lotion from a supply dispenser to the atomizing nozzles. As the lotion is pumped through the atomizing nozzle, it is formed into mist droplets which are communicated to the distribution pipe and then to the mist outlets in the chamber. The droplets contact the body of the person in the chamber and are applied to the skin in that manner. A recirculating pump is provided for evacuating the misted droplets and to recirculate them into the distribution tube by means of an impeller fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Edward T. McClain
  • Patent number: 5604633
    Abstract: A condensation-free shower mirror includes a mirror (10) enclosed by a housing (12). The housing is attached to one end of a positionable arm (16), which has a C-clip (17) at another end for clipping onto a water pipe (18) of a shower head (19). The rear surface of the mirror has a protective coating or backing. Prior to shaving or other use, the mirror is positioned in a hot shower stream (20) to be heated. When the mirror is heated above the dew point of water, it will become free of condensation, and can be used for shaving or grooming, either with the hot water continuing to flow onto its rear surface, or after it is moved away from the water spray. After use, it can be easily positioned away from the shower stream so that the user can resume normal showering. The mirror can be easily detached from the pipe and easily clipped onto another, so that it can be used in different hotel rooms when traveling, as well as in the home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: ShowerTek, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Christianson
  • Patent number: 5545314
    Abstract: A shower water filter assembly which includes an elongated housing containing a cartridge of filter media, and which is connected to the water outlet in a shower. In order to permit the elongated housing to have sufficient length to efficiently perform a filtering function, a flexible hose is coupled to the bottom of the housing and extends through a tubular wand to the shower head. The wand and shower head are supported, for example, on the side of the cylindrical housing so as to provide sufficient elevation for the shower head for normal shower use. Alternatively, the wand and shower head may be removed from the supporting bracket and used manually for the shower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventors: Michael C. Parise, Myrl J. Saarem
  • Patent number: 5460192
    Abstract: An apparatus for applying suntan lotion including a liquid tight enclosure of generally cylindrical shape. The upper wall portions are tilted inwardly to form a central neck enclosure. A door in side walls of the enclosure is spring biased to the closed position. Suntan lotion is pumped through vertically spaced nozzles from a pump and supply source exterior of the enclosure. The pump is controlled by a revenue token device outside the apparatus with a time delay arrangement allowing the user to deposit tokens, enter the enclosure, and close the door before the lotion starts spraying for a predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Edward T. McClain
  • Patent number: 5393228
    Abstract: A dental prophylaxis and water conservation device for in-home use. The device includes a tank coupled to the household water supply line and adapted to receive water which causes air contained within the tank to be pressurized. The water and air from within the tank are connected by lines to a handpiece which discharges both mediums simultaneously. Water leaving the tank passes through a container having an abrasive material which is picked up by the water and also discharged. The tank is further coupled to a plumbing fixture, such as a shower head. This enables the tank to be used as a water conservation device by allowing cold water to be purged from a hot water line into the tank, and subsequently used to provide water to the plumbing fixture. To recycle the purged water, the present invention entrains the water from within the tank as water from the supply line is being provided to the plumbing fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: Piero A. Policicchio
  • Patent number: 5353448
    Abstract: A water recycling system primarily adapted for use in shower facilities enabling the user to increase both the time duration of a shower and the quantity of water experienced by a user, by maintaining water in a semi-closed system, while both maintaining water and energy conservation. The system preferably operates with fresh and recirculated hot water. The system utilizes spent hot shower water located in the catchment area of a shower or tub and recycles this water to one or more spray heads located at or in the proximity of the regular water dispensing head or so-called "spray head" of that shower. A selected water temperature can be maintained by periodically introducing fresh water or continuously introducing the fresh water at a very low flow rate from a fresh water source, and mixing that water with the recycled water from a water catchment area. Recycled water can also be re-heated and issued again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventor: Gary M. Lee
  • Patent number: 5329650
    Abstract: A control column includes a housing adapted to be mounted to a side wall of a shower stall adjacent a front edge portion thereof. The housing includes a panel positioned at an angle relative to the side wall and facing a back wall of the shower stall. A shower head assembly extends outward from a top portion of the housing, and water is supplied from a water supply to a bathtub spout or the shower head at a desired temperature and flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Gianfranco Zaccai, Arthur S. Rousmaniere
  • Patent number: 5309582
    Abstract: A water recirculation system which derives energy from an available pressurized tap water supply to filter and return previously discharged water to a water discharge device. A system embodiment includes a shower head and a tap water powered pump for returning water discharged from the shower head to the pump for mixing with the supplied tap water for delivery to the shower head inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventors: Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
  • Patent number: 5299329
    Abstract: A hot water camping or other outdoor shower releasably mounted to a motor vehicle utilizes water-to-water heat exchange through a heat exchanger mounted in-line with the vehicle heater core, and circulates the shower water with an electric water pump through removable hoses. The apparatus may use any source of water such as a lake or stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: Mark Constantini
  • Patent number: 5285537
    Abstract: An apparatus including a pickup head mounted to a shower stall floor and selectively over the drain thereof is operative through a storage tank assembly to direct fluid from the shower stall floor into the storage tank for subsequent pressurized flow to an auxiliary shower head by way of an auxiliary shower head conduit to permit the recycling, heating, and filtering of water directed to the shower stall floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Inventor: Frederick F. Hanks
  • Patent number: 5277218
    Abstract: A delivery conduit operative through a valve member directs fluid selectively from the shower conduit to a storage tank in operative communication with a commode, wherein the storage tank permits selective use of water from a primary conduit or from the delivery conduit for the utilization of water therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald A. Sanchez
  • Patent number: 5261127
    Abstract: A sanitary unit comprises a sink turnable between a horizontal working position and a vertical nonworking position, a shower head located above the sink when it is in the working horizontal position, a shower curtain arranged to lose an area under the shower head when the user takes a shower and movable between the open position and a closed position, and a control element formed so that when the sink is movable from its nonworking position to its working position, the shower curtain is moved from its closed position to its open position and then the sink is moved from its working position to its nonworking position, the shower curtain is moved from its open position to its closed position, so that in the nonworking position of the sink a user can take a shower under the shower head with the shower curtain simultaneously closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Inventor: Michail Tsipov
  • Patent number: 5243715
    Abstract: A shower enclosure is provided in which the conventional shower curtain is replaced by a combination of rigid sliding panels and an intermediate pliable curtain portion. The rigid panels define an outward contour which provides additional space for movement within the shower. The enclosure of the present invention is of simple and inexpensive construction and is easy to install.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: Vladislav Barmak
  • Patent number: 5206963
    Abstract: A shower system and a method for receiving and delivering fresh water for a washing operation and also for recirculating the water, comprises a showerhead, a basin, a fresh water inlet, a waste water outlet, a pump means connected to the showerhead and adapted to deliver waste water thereto, and a general valve means. The general valve means has operative connections to the showerhead, to the basin, to the fresh water inlet, and to the waste water outlet. The general valve means has at least three operating positions. In first, second, and third operating positions, respectively, flow connections are made, respectively, between the fresh water inlet and the showerhead; from the basin through the pump to the showerhead; and between the basin and the waste water outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventor: Donald E. Wiens
  • Patent number: 5168586
    Abstract: A device used to reclaim shower waste water for flushing toilets and watering gardens. During the course of a shower, several shallow-plastic molded reservoirs are situated intermediately between the shower basin and the feet of the person standing upon them. The top surface forms a sloped recess for collecting water and an open inlet port at the recessed end allows the water to drain into the reservoir. The weight of a person standing upon the top surface is supported by an internal array of posts projecting upwardly from the bottom surface. A dispenser is used in conjuction with an outlet to retain and release the collected water. When the full reservoir is placed in an upright position on top of a toilet set with the outlet at the lowermost position, the dispenser is manually actuated thus releasing water through the outlet with sufficient flow rate to flush the toilet. A shoulder strap and sprinkler accessory may be attached for use as a portable watering container in the garden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Inventor: Steven D. Small
  • Patent number: 5165456
    Abstract: A diverter apparatus and method of saving fresh water from being wasted while one waits for the cold or lukewarm water that accumulates in a hot-water pipeline to pass therethrough before the usable hot water begins discharging from a shower fixture or from a faucet fixture. The apparatus comprises a two-way diverter valve having an inlet port and two outlet ports. The inlet port is attached to the shower or faucet discharge fixture whereby the fresh water can be diverted to one of the outlet ports which is connected to one end of a hose. The hose is interconnected between the diverter valve and a storage container so that the initial cold water passes through the hose for storage in the container until hot water is discharged whereby the cold water is prevented from being wasted down a drain. The other outlet port of the diverter valve is adapted to receive a shower-head fixture or a faucet-aerator fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Inventor: Richard F. Woolman
  • Patent number: 5142713
    Abstract: An adapter is described for selectively converting a conventional shower to a steam sauna. The adapter includes a spray mist nozzle for developing a spray mist. In an alternative preferred form, water spray orifices are provided in addition to the spray mist nozzle and are separately controlled by a plate valve mounted to the handle with provisions for selective manual operation. The handle and attached spray nozzle are connected to the shower water outlet to selectively deliver water from the shower water outlet under pressure to the spray nozzle. A mount is provided for operably securing the spray nozzle to one of the shower stall walls; or more particularly, to a deflection plate which in turn is mountable to the one shower stall wall. The deflection plate is oriented angularly in relation to the spray nozzle to receive and deflect spray therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Makool
  • Patent number: 5140714
    Abstract: A device for saving water ordinarily wasted while waiting for the hot water to come from the hot water tank prior to showering. The device consists of an elongated flexible and collapsible tube (16) of waterproof material. The tube (16) has a cuff (14) at the top and a cover (18) at the bottom. A fastening (12) attaches the cuff (14) to a shower arm (20). The cuff (14) can remain around the showerhead (22) directing water through tube (16) to the container (24) or can easily be removed from the showerhead (22) to allow user to shower. Tube (16) is sufficiently large in diameter so hydrodynamic resistance will not put undue pressure on fastening (12). Tube (16) extends through a hole in the cover (18) extending somewhat below cover (18). The cover (18) protects water accumulated in a container (24) from soap, shampoo and/or bodily contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventors: Aureen A. Horenstein, Stewart R. Tongret, Inez E. Tongret, June M. Adler
  • Patent number: 5136735
    Abstract: A shower and skin care unit for immobile patients. A case open at one end receives a shower-type gurney with the patient lying supine thereon with his head extending outwardly outside the open end of the case. Multiple shower heads deliver water and/or skin treating reagents. A closure releasably closes the open end of the case and positions beneath the patient's head a shapmpoo tray which drains into the case interior. A baffle molded on the interior of the closure below the shampoo tray also drains into the case interior. A trough on the case floor collects the waste water from the shower heads and delivers it to a suitably positioned case drain outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Inventor: Phyllis E. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 5100196
    Abstract: A shower stall has a surrounding wall structure, and a movable closet compartment is mounted in the shower stall. An access opening in provided in a first wall portion of the shower stall, with the closest compartment being mounted in a recessed position within an opening in a second wall portion of the shower stall. Suspension apparatus movably connects the closest compartment to the shower stall whereby the closest compartment can be moved to an extended position protruding outwardly from the shower stall so that the shower stall is substantially free from the presence of the movable closest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Inventor: John N. Dodgen
  • Patent number: 5099587
    Abstract: An assembly for efficiently supplying heated air to an enclosed area for drying the body of a person after bathing. The assembly has particular application for installation in an existing bathing area with a minimum of remodeling and with virtually all components being installed behind the walls and ceiling of the bathing area. The assembly includes blower means, duct means and heating means of special construction and location so as to more efficiently supply heated air to the bathing area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Inventor: Robert M. Jarosch
  • Patent number: 5070553
    Abstract: A shower head assembly includes a housing with a filtration matrix therewithin, typically of a charcoal-type filtration medium, and wherein the housing includes a lower end threadedly receiving a shower head, with an upper end threadedly receiving a conduit; a pivot connection mounted to the conduit, as well as the use of a cup-shaped connection member with a cylindrical resilient seal to mount the assembly to an existing shower head; a flexible hose in fluid communication with the lower end of the housing at one end and with a rigid tube at the other end, the rigid tube including a rigid tube sleeve surroundingly mounted around the rigid tube and with a valve to selectively control fluid flow through the rigid tube; and wherein the rigid tube sleeve has a first hook and loop fastener strip cooperative with a second hook and loop fastener strip provided in the housing in order to secure the rigid tube sleeve to the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1991
    Inventor: Keith A. Chambers
  • Patent number: 4993821
    Abstract: To prevent condensation on the mirror, it is heated with water from a supply tube connected from a showerhead pipe to a dispenser which disperses the heated water in either liquid or spray form, preferably from holes in a hose which is mounted in a rear temperature-control space and which surrounds the back of the mirror. The hose has an oval cross-section with holes on one of its flatter sides so that they will all face inward, toward the center of the mirror. Also the tube acts as a gasket to prevent the water from leaking through the mirror's front. The mirror is held by a flex-arm which includes breakaway flex-joints (hinge or ball), allowing rotational and translational movements. A supply tube is carried inside the flex-arm, has a friction fit in the ends of the arm, and is connected to the dispenser hose by a T-fitting. A relief slot in the mirror end of the flex-arm allows water which enters the space in the flex-arm around the supply tube to leave such space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Assignee: Showertek, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Christianson
  • Patent number: 4970734
    Abstract: A shower stall booth is converted into a bath by supporting an integral sheet of waterproof material against the upstanding walls of the shower stall. Support components extend across the open side of the shower stall to further support the waterproof sheet. A second embodiment enables the waterproof insert to extend outward from within the stall shower to any desired length and breadth. A third embodiment enables the waterproof tub insert to extend upward to any desire height. Fourth and fifth embodiments accomplish the shower stall bath conversion by means of affixing either a watertight wall or a partial tub insert to the open side of the shower stall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1990
    Inventors: Moshe Friedman, David Rohinsky
  • Patent number: 4970736
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-functional bed for a patient or a fairly aged person. The bed performs multiple functions. It is provided with a lower capsule supported by a metallic supporting frame, an upper capsule mounted on the lower capsule, a movable and rotatable portion which is supported by the metallic supporting frame, a plurality of removable cushions placed on the movable portion, and a net which can be wound or unwound by a winding portion disposed on the underside of said movable portion. The bed includes a stool, bath tub, shower, dryer and heat lamp. The use of the multi-functional bed allows the patient or the like to excrete lying in bed and also to take a bath by way of having his body lowered in the net into the bath tub, with the consequence that the nurse or attending person can keep the patient in good hygienic condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1990
    Inventor: Yasunori Koizumi
  • Patent number: 4964181
    Abstract: The combination of a shower head attachment having spaced pulsating shower heads to deliver water in pulses at spaced locations of the user's body. A waterproof radio tape player containing a pre-recorded tape of instructions for use in hydrotherapy or for personal use, and a water supply having means for varying the water force and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Assignee: M. A. Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Mayer Alpert
  • Patent number: 4956883
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for dispensing liquid soap into or adjacent to a water stream emitted from a primary shower head mounted to a water line of a selected size. The apparatus has an auxiliary shower head from which a branch line extends of a size smaller than the water line size. It also has a mount for mounting the auxiliary shower head adjacent to the primary shower head with the branch line in fluid communication with the water line. A liquid soap reservoir is mounted in valved fluid communication with the auxiliary shower head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Inventor: Dale Lane
  • Patent number: 4944049
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an adjustable shower head apparatus having a digital clock incorporated therein. The shower head can be adjusted upward, downward, forward and backward in addition to the head itself which can be rotated forward and backward. The shower head arms have adjustable friction joints that will provide a fixed position of the shower head when placed anywhere within the boundaries of the shower head movement. A digital clock is mounted in the body of the shower head that can be easily seen by the person taking a shower. In one embodiment, both real time and elapsed time is available from viewing the shower head clock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Inventor: Robert Leonard
  • Patent number: 4934000
    Abstract: A shower apparatus for controlling water that is being expelled from a showerhead under pressure. A water conduit couples from a pressurized water pipe adjacent to the showerhead and connects to a mat which the user steps upon. The water conduit includes a mat conduit which the user steps upon. The water conduit includes a mat conduit having an actuating or switching means operable by foot pressure from the user to selectively restrict water flow at the showerhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Inventor: Alan E. Freedman
  • Patent number: 4893364
    Abstract: A water recycling shower wherein water once used in the showering process is held in a storage tank and recycled during a portion of the showering process in place of fresh water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1990
    Inventor: Francis R. Keeler