Particular Construction Patents (Class 4/612)
  • Patent number: 11959287
    Abstract: Described herein are methods and systems for installing flooring systems that provide waterproofing or water-control capabilities. The flooring systems can utilize a gypsum material or any other self-leveling or concrete material along with a structural board or any other type of cement, wood, gypsum board, compressed board, cellulose fiberboard, sheathing board, or sheet metal material. The flooring systems include a waterproof coating applied to the structural boards to provide the water-control features. The waterproof coating covers seams between structural boards and between structural boards and the subfloor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: James R. Metzger
  • Patent number: 11851893
    Abstract: Described herein are methods for installing field-assembled flooring systems wherein the underlayment is a hybrid design that includes a combination of structural board and cementitious product. The hybrid design is configured to reduce or eliminate the curing time requirement after pouring the cementitious product (e.g., gypsum concrete). The field-assembled flooring systems can reduce or eliminate the chances of the onset of mold due to high moisture levels by removing the cementitious product from the prone areas and replacing it with structural boards. The structural boards (e.g., cellulose fiberboards) can be installed in non-critical areas such as underneath cabinets, around the perimeter of the floor, under bathtubs, in non-walk-in closets, anywhere drywall reaches the floor, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Inventor: James R. Metzger
  • Patent number: 11680416
    Abstract: Described herein are methods for installing field-assembled flooring systems that include isolation boards on a wall frame, a subfloor, or on both the wall frame and the subfloor. The underlayment can be a hybrid design that includes a combination of isolation panels and cementitious product. The field-assembled flooring systems can use mold-resistant isolation boards to reduce or eliminate the chances of the onset of mold and effects from water damage. The isolation boards can be installed on floors alone, on walls alone, or on both floors and walls to reduce the onset of mold and/or to reduce damage from water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Inventor: James R. Metzger
  • Patent number: 11649644
    Abstract: Described herein are methods and systems for installing flooring systems that provide waterproofing or water-control capabilities. The flooring systems can utilize a gypsum material or any other self-leveling or concrete material along with a structural board or any other type of cement, wood, gypsum board, compressed board, cellulose fiberboard, sheathing board, or sheet metal material. The flooring systems include a waterproof coating applied to the structural boards to provide the water-control features. The waterproof coating covers seams between structural boards and between structural boards and the subfloor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Inventor: James R. Metzger
  • Patent number: 11585101
    Abstract: Described herein are methods for installing field-assembled flooring systems wherein the underlayment is a hybrid design that includes a combination of structural board and cementitious product. The hybrid design is configured to reduce or eliminate the curing time requirement after pouring the cementitious product (e.g., gypsum concrete). The field-assembled flooring systems can reduce or eliminate the chances of the onset of mold due to high moisture levels by removing the cementitious product from the prone areas and replacing it with structural boards. The structural boards (e.g., cellulose fiberboards) can be installed in non-critical areas such as underneath cabinets, around the perimeter of the floor, under bathtubs, in non-walk-in closets, anywhere drywall reaches the floor, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Inventor: James R. Metzger
  • Patent number: 10765267
    Abstract: The shower installation kit includes an elongated drain adapted to be arranged at an inclined shower floor and at least one elongated side member adapted to be arranged at right angles to the elongated drain and at a side of the inclined shower floor. Each elongated side member has a longitudinal flange adapted to define a slope of the inclined shower floor and adapted to be positioned under a floor covering of the inclined shower floor. The drain is adapted to be mounted at a distance from a subfloor structure of the inclined shower floor before installation of the inclined shower floor. The drain is provided with a front flange adapted to be positioned under the floor covering, and the longitudinal flange of the at least one side member is connected to and arranged flush with the front flange of the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: UNIDRAIN A/S
    Inventors: Peter Secher, Jacob Honoré
  • Patent number: 10017320
    Abstract: An enclosure (18) comprises a base (20) and a wall assembly (24). The wall assembly (24) includes a first wall (26A) that is selectively movable from a disassembled configuration to an assembled configuration. The first wall (26A) is disconnected from the base (20) when in the unassembled configuration, and is coupled to the base (20) when in the assembled configuration so that the first wall (26A) is in a substantially upright configuration. Additionally, the first wall (26A) has (i) a first substrate (30) including a plurality of first substrate edges, and (ii) a plurality of first ornamental features (32) that are individually affixed to the first substrate (30) while the first wall (26A) is in the disassembled configuration. Further, at least one of the first ornamental features (32) is positioned substantially adjacent to two of the first substrate edges while the first wall (26A) is in the disassembled configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Inventor: Danny Wallis
  • Patent number: 9771713
    Abstract: A combination for plumbing fixtures, particularly tiled floors with drains, is disclosed. An exemplary combination includes a substantially planar shower tray bonding disk on a flooring substrate and surrounded by a prefabricated polymer foam shower tray on the flooring substrate and at the circumference of the bonding disk. The disk includes an interior rim that defines a drain opening and a plurality of slotted openings for permitting mortar to penetrate the disk. The drain opening in the disk can thus be positioned at a drain cut out in the flooring substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: MGNT Products Group LLC
    Inventors: William M. DeJesus, Peter Nielsen, Larry Meyers
  • Patent number: 9756986
    Abstract: A seal for a bathing enclosure includes a compliant member, a first member, and a second member. The compliant member includes opposing first and second sides defining a plurality of apertures. The plurality of apertures extend from the first side to the second side. The first member includes an inner surface configured to engage the first side of the compliant member. The second member includes an inner surface configured to engage the second side of the compliant member. A plurality of female members project from the inner surface of the first member through the plurality of apertures and a plurality of male members project from the inner surface of the second member through the plurality of apertures. The male members are configured to be received in the plurality of female members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventor: Luke B. Zimbric
  • Patent number: 9550006
    Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to systems and methods for treating passenger transportation vehicle cabin surfaces and surrounding air. The methods may use organic LEDs to produce ultraviolet light. Systems may be provided to ensure safety and operation of the air treatment only when passengers and personnel are not present in the cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Razmik B. Boodaghians, Shane Nazari, Christina Ortolan
  • Patent number: 9049969
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for creating a shower or bath enclosure, in which, given a predetermined area in which to create the shower or bath, a given prefabricated water proof bath or shower floor module is too small to occupy the entire available enclosure space. The apparatus includes the use of one or more additional enclosure components, such as one or more shower benches, to occupy a space between an edge or edges of the floor module and the exterior boundary(ies) of the enclosure space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph R. Cook
  • Publication number: 20150082535
    Abstract: A shower head unit having at least one preferably rain like shower head, where the rain like shower head is connect to a support member for an overhead shower. The support member is adapted to be positioned between opposing walls of a bath tub, stall enclosure or outdoor shower having preferably a wall water pipe and a wall shower head attached to the wall water pipe. The support member is a pipe that has first and second ends and a nipple adapted to be coupled to the wall water pipe near the first end for carrying shower water to the rain like shower head and is located above the wall shower head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: SHAW STAINLESS SHOWER SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Carl D. Parks, Bryan D. Shaw, Jason Tyler Clark, Jerone R. Kollbaum
  • Publication number: 20150074897
    Abstract: A waterproofing flashing and resulting juncture, comprising in a first embodiment a generally horizontally positioned planar member which is positioned in sandwiched engagement between the upper peripheral edge of a shower pan or shower bench sidewall (or equivalent wallboard) and a lower peripheral edge of adjacent wallboard (or equivalent shower bench, shelf or ledge), and a vertically extending member attached to a distal edge of the horizontal member extending vertically upwardly behind the wallboard (or equivalent shower bench, shelf or ledge). An alternative form of the invention comprises a T-shaped flashing member comprised of a mid-section to which are connected first and second attachment members or wings, the wings adapted to connect the flashing to the room-facing side of the wallboard and/or shower module sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph R. Cook
  • Publication number: 20140373268
    Abstract: Outside shower assemblies provided herein offer a sleek yet durable outside showers, that are easy, even for a novice and/or non-plumber, to attach in the spring and remove in fall and which hangs flush and securely to the wall. The assemblies comprise: a shower head; a shower valve; an assembly body having openings for the shower head and the shower valve; one or more pipes in fluid communication with the shower valve, each pipe having a fastener for connection to an external water source; and a mounting cleat on the assembly body, the mounting cleat having a contact surface. Methods of making an using the same are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: Glenn R. Sherman
  • Patent number: 8907257
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a contactlessly chargeable heater. In one example, the contactlessly chargeable heater includes: an induction patch emitting magnetic field by means of current applied to an inner coil; and a heating body, receiving the magnetic field from the charging patch to perform a contactless charging operation, and including a conductive metal yarn for emitting heat via the power generated through the contactless charging operation. The conductive metal yarn is woven together using threads within the heating body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Industrial Technology
    Inventor: Gi Soo Chung
  • Patent number: 8869459
    Abstract: A shower door assembly is provided which comprises a stationary frame, and a movable frame having a guiding groove, wherein the shower door assembly further comprises a fixing block disposed in the stationary frame, the fixing block has a channel and a cam mechanism rotatable about a portion of the fixing block, a first engaging element is provided on at least a part of a bottom surface of the channel, and the shower door assembly further comprises an adjusting block disposed in the guiding groove of the movable frame, the adjusting block has an extension part insertable into the channel of the fixing block, the extension part has a second engaging element, wherein when a force is applied to the extension part by the cam mechanism, the first and second engaging elements are engaged such that the stationary and movable frames do not displace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Foshan Ideal Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wuxiang Wei
  • Patent number: 8857109
    Abstract: A tile-ready base includes a triangular top wall disposed in a horizontal plane when the base is secured to a corner. A first side wall depends from a first edge of the top wall and abuts a first vertical wall of a building. A second side wall depends from a second edge of the top wall and abuts a second vertical wall of the building. A front wall depends from a front edge of the triangular top wall and interconnects respective forward ends of the first and second side walls. Structural support ribs underlie the top wall and enhance the structural integrity of the base. Concavities are formed in the top wall in close proximity to the first and second side walls. Each concavity receives a screw and facilitates attachment of the base to the corner. The base is installed and tiled with no delay between installation and tiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Mark E. Kirby
  • Publication number: 20140259369
    Abstract: A bathing enclosure includes a base, one or more wall panels, and a compliant member. The base includes a first flange extending outward from an upper end thereof to define an upper surface. The wall panels include a second flange extending outward from a lower end thereof to define a lower surface. The compliant member has a length and a width, the length being greater than the width. The base and the one or more wall panels at least in part define a forward entrance into an interior of the enclosure. A generally horizontal interface is formed between the first flange and the second flange. The compliant member is coupled to a first of the one or more wall panels proximate the entrance. The compliant member forms a seal with the first flange, the length of the compliant member extending outward relative to the interior of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Luke B. Zimbric
  • Patent number: 8826472
    Abstract: A bath environment, such as a tub or shower, has a seat upon which a user sits, and a first panel, usually glass, for enclosing a first portion of the bath environment proximal to the seat. The first panel has a width roughly correlated to a width of the seat to allow a user easy access to the seat and to the panel to manipulate the panel. The invention also has a second panel for enclosing a second portion of the bath environment. The second panel has a hinge and a pair of partitions connected by the hinge so that the partitions pivot about the hinge to allow access to the bath environment distal from the seat. Also included is a stanchion that is disposed on and extends upwardly from an outer edge of the bath environment to a given height. The first panel has a length that extends downwardly from an upper region of the bath environment and ends at the height of the stanchion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Victor Hoernig, Charles A. Patterson
  • Patent number: 8819876
    Abstract: An example shower assembly includes a mount for removeably securing and supporting an accessory item to a shower wall. The mounts are permanently attached to the shower wall and are spaced apart a set desired distance. Slots on the accessory item receive the mounts to support the accessory item firmly and substantially rigidly to the shower wall. Removal of the accessory item is performed by lifting to allow installation of another accessory item as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Peter Dabrowski, Michael Krushlin
  • Patent number: 8800073
    Abstract: A surround for use in a bath or a shower has a back and a side. The side has a protrusion extending therefrom. An open shelf attaches to either the back or the side. The protrusion at least partially restricts a view of the shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Victor Hoernig, Geraint Krumpe, Manki Yoo, Andrew Mercidita, Angela Biagi, Chia-Ying Lee, Emilie Williams, Ross Carl
  • 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: 8637842
    Abstract: A method of using automatic whole body personnel contamination monitors and/or means for decontaminating individuals exposed to radioactive material contamination is provided. The inventive method involves the use of these monitors and/or decontamination means in intermodal containers of mobile-unit structures dedicated to responding to radiological emergency situations. Also provided are such mobile-unit structures, as well as systems that employ such mobile-unit structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: UniTech Services Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie B. Case, III, Michael R. Fuller, Gregg A. Johnstone, Thomas Pearce O'Kelley, Glenn E. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8596021
    Abstract: The invention is a modular wall system and floor system for bathrooms, gang showers or any other room space having at least one generally 90 degree room corner with a first wall panel on one of the two intersecting room walls of said room corner intersecting and joining to a second wall panel on the other intersecting room wall. Each embodiment of the invention features a plurality of spring clips that together with a plurality of globs of adhesive form a room corner attaching means for wall panels or other wall members that intersect one another in a generally 90 degree room corner that provides a tight, closely abutting fit between the adjacent, perpendicularly intersecting panels or members in the room corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Best Bath Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Van Ravenhorst
  • Patent number: 8505130
    Abstract: A bath apparatus or a shower machine includes a housing and a showerhead mounted therein. The housing includes a door opening where a door body is installed. The housing has an egg-shell shape with the door opening provided at a front side and a back panel provided at a rear side. A slide rail fixedly connected to an inside wall of the housing, extends from a rear end that is fixed to the back panel to a front end at the door opening. The front end of the slide rail includes a locking clip body that matches a locking clip socket fixed on the housing. A sliding block is installed on the slide rail and fixedly connected to a supporting rod. A top end of the supporting rod is hinge jointed to the door body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Zhongxian Wang, Hanlin Wang
  • Publication number: 20130014323
    Abstract: A bath apparatus or a shower machine includes a housing and a showerhead mounted therein. The housing includes a door opening where a door body is installed. The housing has an egg-shell shape with the door opening provided at a front side and a back panel provided at a rear side. A slide rail fixedly connected to an inside wall of the housing, extends from a rear end that is fixed to the back panel to a front end at the door opening. The front end of the slide rail includes a locking clip body that matches a locking clip socket fixed on the housing. A sliding block is installed on the slide rail and fixedly connected to a supporting rod. A top end of the supporting rod is hinge jointed to the door body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventors: Zhongxian WANG, Hanlin WANG
  • Publication number: 20120297533
    Abstract: A multi-piece shower enclosure includes a base section, a plurality of vertically extending sidewalls and a flange extending horizontally outward along a top portion of sidewalls. A back wall section is removably attachable to the base section, the back wall section having a ledge provided on the bottom portion of the back wall section. One or more side wall panels are removably attachable to the back wall section. A plurality of pins is used for securing the back wall section to the base section and the side wall panels to the back wall section. Each of the pins has a lower rivet portion and an upper threaded portion separated by a central portion. Each of the pins is insertable into a corresponding opening provided on the ledge of the back wall section or a side of the back wall portion adjoining each of the side wall panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: CLARION BATHWARE, INC.
    Inventors: David M. Groner, Brian A. Milford
  • Publication number: 20120266375
    Abstract: An emergency shower system attaches to a water pipe behind a wall and a valve mounted to the pipe. A frame is mounted to the wall around the valve, and a panel connected to the frame for covering an opening in the wall. The panel has an opening, and a plate is mounted to the panel to close the panel opening. A handle is mounted to the plate. A linkage is pivotally connected to the plate and to the valve. Vertical movement of the handle and plate are translated to rotational movement by the linkage to operate the valve. The handle only moves vertically at a constant distance from the wall. An eye/face wash station may be included. The eye/face wash station includes a pull down tray with spray nozzles. The nozzles are connected to another valve which is opened by the rotation of the pull down tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: ENCON SAFETY PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: James Ellis Marrs, Robert James Johnston
  • Publication number: 20120260417
    Abstract: A portable shower has an enclosure formed from non-transparent material to afford privacy to the user. A showerhead is connected to a water container mounted above the showerhead. Water in the water container is heated by solar panels that capture solar energy. The solar energy also powers a re-circulation pump, which re-circulating bathing water between a water collection chamber mounted below the shower enclosure and the water container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Don LeBlanc
  • Patent number: 8185980
    Abstract: A plastic bathing fixture formed substantially or entirely of a laminated composite material comprising a show-surface layer of gel-coat or thermoplastic sheet material which may be non-magnetic; a magnetic or magnetizable layer which may coincide with the show-surface layer or be a subsurface layer; and a non-magnetic structural layer of fiber-reinforced resin material. The magnetic layer materials may be localized or strategically placed, and may comprise a resin with a particulate ferromagnetic filler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Aquatic Co.
    Inventors: Fred Adams, Stuart Leigh, Dante San Miguel, Jose A. Camba, Michael Seymour, Bobby McCoy
  • Patent number: 8176579
    Abstract: A modular shower pan includes at least four polygon panels adapted to interlock in side by side relation to form a body. Each panel has a planar bottom surface and a top surface that is sloped based upon a pre-selected drain position on the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Madison Daniels
  • Publication number: 20120073041
    Abstract: The Wheel Chair Shower Safety provides an adjustable threshold specially designed to be installed in walk-in shower stalls. Created to replace current stall thresholds, this product is essentially rectangular in shape, and is hinge mounted to the entrance of the stall, the Wheel Chair Shower Safety contains a swiveling foot pedal at each end. As such, when a wheelchair is rolled over the pedals, the threshold automatically flattens to facilitate unimpeded entry. As the chair passes over the pedals, the threshold retracts back to a vertical position, thus keeping water confined within the stall. When the shower is over, the patient repeats the above process to exit the stall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Lissa Kaye Daughterty
  • Patent number: 8109044
    Abstract: An outdoor shower enclosure that may include a roof and a base frame having a plurality of metal structural members that are connected together to define a peripheral edge with a plurality of mounting plates. A plurality of substantially vertically extending support posts may be provided that extend between the mounting plates and the roof. In some cases, the support posts may be spaced apart approximately equidistant from each other along the peripheral edge. The shower enclosure may include a plurality of vinyl wall panels disposed between the posts. In some cases, a vinyl floor panel could be carried by the base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Digger Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Loren R. Graber
  • Patent number: 8095999
    Abstract: Shoulder supports extend from a shower enclosure wall and support a shower accessory. The shoulders have an attachment on the side for the shower accessories. The selected shower accessory would have a mating attachment on each of its ends to correspond to two shoulders extending from the enclosure walls. The attachment is preferably a male/female indentation on one of the shoulders and shower accessory and a corresponding attachment on the other. The indentations provide a non-permanent attachment of the shower accessory to the supports so that the chosen accessory may later be removed and replaced if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Aqua Glass Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Wilson, Evan Carpenter Crawford, Jeffrey A. DeBoer
  • Patent number: 8096000
    Abstract: A molded shower surround provides a base portion that receives wall portions and a corner portion. The corner portion includes a multiple of features such that the shower surround may be particularly tailored to customers' desires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: American Shower & Bath Corporation
    Inventors: Eugene A. Helmetsie, Harper F. Zarker, Jr., Tomasz Pracel
  • Patent number: 8082608
    Abstract: An example bathing surround includes a surround wall, a tub basin having a top tub bottom and a plurality of tub sides, and a tub ledge extending from the tub basin transverse to the tub sides. A tub flange extends from the tub ledge away from the tub bottom. The tub ledge and the surround wall defines a groove for receiving a tongue extending the other of the tub ledge and the surround wall. The surround wall is biased toward the tub flange when the tub tongue is received within the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Dabrowski
  • Patent number: 8069506
    Abstract: Disclosed is a clip suitable to removably assemble a bathtub or shower stall base to a shower enclosure surround wall. The clip includes a toe, a leg connected to the toe, a web connected to the leg, and a flexible tang also connected to the web. The web is designed to mount the clip on the bathtub or stall base, while the toe catches under a ledge of the bathtub or stall base. The tang will then project at an angle inwardly. The tang permits the surround wall to pass vertically downward past it to assemble the enclosure. It resists upward movement until a specified force is applied, at which point the clip deforms or breaks to permit disassembly. The clip also has a portion of the web which facilitates keeping the clip on the bathtub or stall base even after the clip has been deformed or partially broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Steven M. Hammond
  • Patent number: 8056157
    Abstract: A shower stall tray includes a plastic shell defining an outer surface and a cavity that is filled with a light weight resinous material and a structural member having a density less than the resinous material. The plastic shell is formed to include a visible surface and a backside surface. The backside of the plastic shell defines an open cavity that is filled with a resinous material. The resinous material provides structural rigidity and the solid substantial feel providing a favorable perception of quality. The structural member not only provides structural support for the shower tray, but also displaces resinous material, thereby reducing the amount of resinous material required to fill the open cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Huang, Scott Kapelanski
  • Publication number: 20110271439
    Abstract: A unit for filling an area having a floor, a first side wall, a second side wall and a back wall has a pan, a shower area, a zero threshold drain, a frame, a space created by the frame and the second side wall and a storage unit disposed in the space. A shower area is defined by a first panel, a second panel and a third panel and has an opening through which a user may enter, the opening also being defined by the panels. The first panel is adapted to be disposed against the first side wall and the pan and the second panel is adapted to be disposed against the second side wall and the pan. The zero threshold drain is disposed across the opening. The frame is adapted to support the third panel and create the space between the second side wall and the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Victor Hoernig, Geraint Krumpe, Man Ki Yoo
  • Publication number: 20110252559
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for adding a polymer form to a fixture such as a bathtub, shower stall, sink, or toilet, and those articles. The polymer form comprises a rigid foam and a topcoat. The polymer form, in some embodiments, imparts improved performance characteristics such as temperature retention, sound deadening, and rigidity, and can allow a steel fixture to better mimic one made of cast iron at significantly less expense. The fixtures include metal fixtures with and without enamel coatings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Charles E. Dockery
  • Patent number: 8037556
    Abstract: A shower cubicle panel comprises a main panel element (14) of composite construction with at least two layers of different material, and means for interconnecting the cubicle panel (10) to an adjacent panel (10) and a shower tray (80). A connector for adjacent shower cubicle panels comprises a first part (36), a second part (38). The first part (36) has a first elongate channel portion (22b) for receiving an edge of a first shower cubicle panel, and a male connector portion (42). The second part (38) has a second elongate channel portion (22b) for receiving an edge of a second shower cubicle panel, and a female connector portion (50) substantially complementarily shaped to receive the male connector portion (42). A sealing element (40) is interposable between the first and second parts (36, 38) for preventing their disengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: DLP Limited
    Inventors: Graham Robin Lock, Robert William Stimpson, James Self
  • Publication number: 20110225723
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a shower attachment capable of affixing to a standard residential or commercial shower enclosure. The shower attachment uses existing plumbing to supply pressurized water to a water intake, which in turn feeds a vertical assembly. The vertical assembly includes a stabilizing rod having a top end and corresponding back end. A pivot arm having a first portion and corresponding second portion connects to the stabilizing rod. A detachable shower wand is positioned at the second portion of the pivot arm, which is capable of receiving pressurized water from the water intake. In addition, a horizontal assembly connects to the bottom end of the shower attachment to secure the device to the shower enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: ELIMO INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventor: Edgar L. Bronstein
  • Publication number: 20110191954
    Abstract: A compact shower for washing a person's head has a basin having a surface that slopes downwardly to a drain, and a continuous overhead structure extending upwardly from two opposing sides of the basin and spanning over the basin. A lower facing surface of the overhead structure is fitted with at least one spray nozzle for directing a sprayed pattern of water downwardly from the overhead structure and into the basin. A water supply pipe, connected to a pressurized source of water flow, extends within the overhead structure and connects to the at least one spray nozzle. Valve control handles are positioned exteriorly of the basin for controlling the water temperature and pressure. The valve handles can be operated by the user while the user's head is positioned under the overhead structure so that only the user's head is drenched with water and the remainder of the user's body remains dry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Kyla D. Fajerstein
  • Patent number: 7979926
    Abstract: A collapsible outdoor shower enclosure that folds up nearly flat to a wall surface when not in use is herein disclosed. The shower enclosure is intended for use in outdoor locations where a general floor drain or similar means exists for removal of waste water. The enclosure comprises a right wall assembly and a left wall assembly that have hinged connections allowing for the shower enclosure to fold up against the wall surface. The wall surface would also be the one containing a shower head and shower controls as well. When in a retracted orientation, the enclosure protrudes approximately thirteen (13) inches from the stationary wall surface. During use, each of the wall assemblies fold out ninety degrees (90°) from the wall surface and include a right door and a left door that form an entrance side for a user to enter the shower enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: David A. Boegler
  • Patent number: 7979927
    Abstract: A modular shower pan includes at least four polygon panels adapted to interlock in side by side relation to form a body. Each panel has a planar bottom surface and a top surface that is sloped based upon a pre-selected drain position on the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Madison Daniels
  • Publication number: 20110035872
    Abstract: The invention is directed towards refurbishing an existing bathtub, which comprises an insert of sufficient size and dimension so as to mirror the contours, recess and essentially flat upper portion of the existing bathtub. Placed on top of the existing bathtub is a three-piece constructed frame that includes (a) an essentially flat primer sheet affixed directly to the upper flat portion of the existing bathtub, (b) a gasket having an essentially flat horizontal portion affixed to the primer sheet, and (c) at least one strip of adhesive tape affixed to the gasket and a concentration of liquid based sealant placed at each of the adjoining corners of the three-piece constructed frame. The related method includes affixing strips of primer sheet on the existing bathtub, securing a gasket on the primer sheet, attaching a strip of adhesive tape onto the gasket, and placing a concentration of sealant at each adjoining corner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Scott Hasselbring
  • Patent number: 7877825
    Abstract: A top corner connector is provided for a shower enclosure or tub/shower enclosure. The connector includes first and second legs which have an interior cavity opening downwardly and opening lengthwise at the end. Each leg is adapted to receive a portion of a header at the top of the enclosure. The corner connector and headers can be secured together and at least the corner connector can be secured to the top end of a vertical corner post at a corner of the enclosure. A method is provided for efficiently connecting the headers at the top of the enclosure with the corner connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventors: Danny Ray Marshall, Richard G. Kluge
  • Patent number: 7849531
    Abstract: A shower system is provided that includes first and second panels that at least partially defining a shower space. The shower system also includes a basin sized to receive a lower edge of the first and second panels such that the panels are arrangeable with respect to the basin in one of at least two configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignees: Sculptured Homes, LLC, Sculptured Homes Limited
    Inventors: Georgina E. Rooke, Cheryl Furtak, Keith A. Grider, Mark D. Begin, Frank J. Wilgus, Geoff Rooke
  • Patent number: 7814586
    Abstract: A base assembly has a major section with an open top, a minor section with a top panel and a cover plate with a down-turned flange. The cover plate is positioned over the major section. Springs between the cover plate and the major section hold the cover plate in an inoperative orientation above the major section and an operative orientation in contact with the major section. A J-shaped tube has a lower end operatively coupled with the minor section and extending upwardly from the top panel. The J-shaped tube has an upper end with a primary sprinkler head positioned over the major section. A water path includes an input coupling on the major section for receiving water from a hose. The water path includes an output coupling on the top panel for removably receiving the lower end of the J-shaped tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Lila A. Samuels