Foot Patents (Class 4/622)
  • Publication number: 20090100590
    Abstract: A spa device including a basin with at least one agitation device and at least one foot massaging device. The agitation device is a pipeless fluid jet. The massaging device may be a three piece massaging foot roller which is placed in a cavity in the bottom surface of the basin. The spa device may include electronic controls for controlling the fluid and agitation devices. The spa device electronic control system may include a fluid level sensor. When the fluid level in the basin reaches a predetermined high level the control system turns off the fluid. When the fluid level in the basin reaches a predetermined low level the control system turns off the jets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph J. Galati, JR., John Meyerovich
  • Publication number: 20090094739
    Abstract: A soaking basin is provided having a base unit, a disposable liner, and a frame nested therebetween to enable removal of the liner from the base unit, even when filled with liquid. In this manner, a user can remove the liner filled with liquid to pour out the liquid and discard the liner, after a treatment has been completed. Thus, the user need not lift the entire soaking basin to pour out liquid. In addition, the user can use the frame to support the new liner while filling it with liquid, and to transport the filled liner to the base unit to service clients.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Genya Vinokur, Sasha Vinokur, Michael Vinokur
  • Publication number: 20090065353
    Abstract: An ionic foot bath array for generating an ionic foot bath includes an upper rod support structure, at least one electrically non-conductive support structure leg depending downwards from the upper rod support structure and a plurality of generally cylindrical electrically conductive ionic rods each having the same diameter, the ionic rods being removably mounted and depending downwards from the upper rod support structure, each of the ionic rods extending generally parallel with one another in spaced-apart relationship in at least two generally parallel rows, the ionic rods having an intra-row spacing therebetween of no greater than two times the diameter of each ionic rod, the rows being spaced no greater than three times the diameter of each ionic rod, with at least one of the rows being positively charged and at least one of the rows being negatively charged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Steven Haase, Sherry Haase, Greg Holle, Tamera Holle
  • Patent number: 7490374
    Abstract: A spa apparatus includes an internal support structure having a front end and a rear end; a basin removably coupled and supported by the internal support structure proximate the front end, with the basin including a fluid circulation device; a seat coupled to the internal support structure, intermediate the basin and the rear end of the internal support structure; and at least a first and second shroud panel removably coupled to the internal support structure and configured to enclose a portion of the internal support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: European Touch Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman R. Fugate, Robert J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20080301870
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a bath apparatus having auxiliary features. The auxiliary features include a handle for providing ergonomic manual transportation of the bath apparatus. Additionally, improvements to conventional therapeutic effects are provided for enhancing the overall therapeutic bathing experience. Further, a bath apparatus is disclosed having a pedicure apparatus for providing a motorized rotary pedicure effect to the user. Even further, a bath apparatus having a fluid dispenser is disclosed for dispensing therapeutic additives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: FKA Distributing Co. d/b/a HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Mordechai Lev, Stephen Chung, Barbara A. Westfield
  • Publication number: 20080276365
    Abstract: Embodiments of a disposable liner that is disposed in a cavity of a basin are disclosed. In one embodiment, a disposable liner comprises: sidewalls that are design to adapt to the contours of the cavity of the basin; and a bottom wall that is attached to the sidewalls and includes a drainage hole that is aligned with the drainage hole of the basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Quy That Ton
  • Patent number: 7434792
    Abstract: A carbonic water production apparatus equipped with a carbonic acid gas dissolving apparatus 3 and a circulation pump 1, wherein water in a bath 11 is circulated by the circulation pump 1, and a carbonic acid gas is fed into the carbonic acid gas dissolving apparatus 3 to dissolve the carbonic acid gas in the water. The circulation pump 1 is a positive-displacement metering pump having a self-priming ability. A carbonic water production method using this apparatus is also provided, including an early step for producing carbonic water and a concentration maintaining step for the carbonic water. The carbonic water production apparatus includes a control for controlling the feeding pressure of carbonic water gas to give an intended concentration of carbonic acid gas. The carbonic water production apparatus automatically discharges out a drain. The carbonic water production apparatus is combined with a portable foot bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignees: Mitsubishi Rayon Engineering Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Nagasaka, Hiroki Sakakibara, Yuichi Morioka, Katsuya Sanai, Michio Kanno, Satoshi Takeda
  • Patent number: 7426757
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a bath apparatus having auxiliary features. The auxiliary features include a handle for providing ergonomic manual transportation of the bath apparatus. Additionally, improvements to conventional therapeutic effects are provided for enhancing the overall therapeutic bathing experience. Further, a bath apparatus is disclosed having a pedicure apparatus for providing a motorized rotary pedicure effect to the user. Even further, a bath apparatus having a fluid dispenser is disclosed for dispensing therapeutic additives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: FKA Distributing Co.
    Inventors: Mordechai Lev, Stephen Chung, Barbara A. Westfield
  • Publication number: 20080189848
    Abstract: A foot soak tray includes a base housing, a container disposed above the base housing and having a space for receiving water in the space of the container, and a heating device disposed in the chamber of the base housing for heating the water received in the space of the container. A reflector may be disposed below the heating device for reflecting a heat generated by the heating device. A massage device may be disposed in the container and includes one or more rotatable rollers having a number of protrusions for massaging the feet of the user. The massage device preferably includes a length shorter than that of the container for forming an opening between the container and the massage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Chien Hsin Chao
  • Publication number: 20080184481
    Abstract: A pedicure spa, including a fluid retaining basin including a plurality of channels defined in a lower portion of the basin. A contour bulge is aligned between two channels on each side of the basin. There is also provided an impeller, the impeller operatively coupled to the basin and an enclosure removably coupled to the basin. The enclosure includes an upper region and a lower region, and defines a plurality of orifices in the upper region and the lower region, with the enclosure configured to enclose the impeller and direct fluid flow through the plurality of channels towards a foot region of the basin defined between a wall of the basin and the lower region of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: James Robert Patterson, Thai Hoang Dang, Norman Fugate, Yin Qian
  • Patent number: 7380294
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bath apparatus for bathing a body part. The bath apparatus includes a chamber for containing fluid, and a lid mounted to the bath chamber. A showerhead is mounted to an underside of the lid and is oriented towards the bath chamber. A fluid pump draws fluid from the bath chamber and pumps the fluid through the showerhead for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part. The showerhead may be viewable from atop the lid for visual identification of a product feature and for a visual fluid flow effect in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: FKA Distributing Co.
    Inventors: Mordechai Lev, Stephen Chung
  • Patent number: 7367067
    Abstract: A warm bath apparatus for safely and comfortably warming a part of a user's body such as feet and hands by use of a previously prepared mixture of air and heated liquid particles such as steam is provided. This apparatus comprises a housing having a warm bath room, a tank for storing a liquid, a heater for heating the liquid to provide heated liquid particles, a mixing room separately formed from the warm bath room in the housing to mix the heated liquid particles with air; and a supply port for supplying a resultant mixture of the heated liquid particle and the air provided from the mixing room into the warm bath room According to this apparatus, it is possible to provide a warm bath therapy effect to the user suffering from sensitivity to cold with a high degree of satisfaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shunichi Watanabe, Shigenori Kugumiya, Shingo Ohmura
  • Publication number: 20080022453
    Abstract: Methods are disclosed for making a base of a spa apparatus to resemble artificial rocks and wood. In one embodiment, the method is comprised of the following steps: making a mold in which its inner surface has the shape and surface texture of a rock or wood; placing a first structure on the inner surface of the mold, the first structure being operative to prevent warping of the base; spraying polymer on the mold; allowing the polymer to harden; and removing the hardened polymer from the mold, the hardened polymer having substantially the shape and surface texture of rock or wood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Quy That Ton
  • Publication number: 20080010741
    Abstract: Methods are disclosed for making artificial rocks and wood. In one embodiment, the method is comprised of the following steps: making a mold that has the shape and surface texture of a rock or wood; applying cementitious material within the mold, the cementitious material including acrylic and/or resin-modified cementitious material; applying a hardcoat on the cementitious material; allowing the cementitious material and hardcoat to harden; and removing the mold, the hardened cementitious material and hardcoat having the shape and surface texture of rock or wood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventors: Quy That Ton, John Kells
  • Publication number: 20070283489
    Abstract: A pedicure spa including a fluid retaining basin. An impeller operatively coupled to the basin. An enclosure removably coupled to the basin, the enclosure including an upper region and a lower region, and defining a plurality of orifices in the upper region and the lower region, with the enclosure configured to enclose the impeller and direct fluid flow towards a foot region of the basin defined between a wall of the basin and the lower region of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventors: Yin Qian, Norman R. Fugate
  • Publication number: 20070283488
    Abstract: A personal hygiene device is provided that integrates a toilet, sink basin, and rinser into a single stand-alone, fully self contained appliance with the sole requirement of needing to be connected to a hot and cold water supply, to a vented waste (sewage) line and/or to an electrical outlet. The device encapsulates the toilet, sink basin, and rinser mechanisms within six walls with a base and ceiling. Entrance to the appliance is gained through a door that when closed forms a water-tight seal. The device can come to the consumer fully assembled and ready to use after making the aforementioned connections. The device is extremely space efficient in that it provides maximum functional capabilities in the usable interior space while consuming a relatively small amount of room area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Douglas Birdsall
  • Spa
    Publication number: 20070226896
    Abstract: A spa apparatus includes an internal support structure having a front end and a rear end; a basin removably coupled and supported by the internal support structure proximate the front end, with the basin including a fluid circulation device; a seat coupled to the internal support structure, intermediate the basin and the rear end of the internal support structure; and at least a first and second shroud panel removably coupled to the internal support structure and configured to enclose a portion of the internal support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Norman R. Fugate, Robert J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20070136944
    Abstract: A whirlpool foot bath for a pedicure chair having a housing with a removable cap and a rotor and stator magnetic motor within the housing. Water in the bath is circulated through an inlet in the cap and out through at least one outlet in the cap. A method of use is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Publication date: June 21, 2007
    Inventor: Christopher L. Long
  • Patent number: 7100220
    Abstract: A bath apparatus for bathing a body part, such as feet, includes a bath chamber for containing fluid and receiving the user's feet therein. The bath apparatus includes a heater for heating the bath chamber fluid, and a fluid pump for directing streams of water into the bath chamber to massage the user's feet. A float switch is provided so that the heater and the fluid pump only operate if there is an adequate amount of fluid in the bath chamber. The bath apparatus also includes a selection device disposed within the bath chamber, that is configured to be actuated by the user's feet when they are submerged within the bath chamber fluid. This provides a higher water pressure only after the feet are disposed within the bath chamber, thereby reducing the likelihood that water will be expelled from the bath chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Mordechai Lev, Roman S. Ferber, Stephen Chung
  • Patent number: 7065808
    Abstract: A foot therapy device is provided. The foot therapy device includes a housing having a side wall, and a floor defining a reservoir for receiving a fluid. The foot therapy device has at least one water jet disposed in the reservoir and a pump for pumping the fluid in the reservoir to the water jet. The water jet circulates the fluid disposed in the reservoir. The fluid circulates in a predetermined fluid flow pattern in the reservoir. The predetermined flow pattern of the fluid may include a substantially circular, elliptical or vortex motion for a relaxing and pleasant massage therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony Kit Lun Leung, Kam Fai Fung
  • Patent number: 7028362
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved sanitary foot washing device that is designed for washing feet in both private and public locations. This device has been created for the purposes of reducing the occurrences of foot mediated transmutable diseases that are prevalent in public locations like public showers and swimming pools. The device consists of a support having a system that administers fluid like detergents to scrubbing cords that enable the cleaning of all areas of the foot specially the regions between the toes. The support also has scrubbing sheets that enable the cleaning of the regions under feet as well as the regions on the sides of feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Harry Davallou
  • Patent number: 6973683
    Abstract: A bath apparatus for bathing a body part, such as feet, includes a bath chamber for containing fluid and receiving the user's feet therein. The bath apparatus includes a heater for heating the bath chamber fluid, and a fluid pump for directing streams of water into the bath chamber to massage the user's feet. A float switch is provided so that the heater and the fluid pump only operate if there is an adequate amount of fluid in the bath chamber. The bath apparatus also includes a selection device disposed within the bath chamber, that is configured to be actuated by the user's feet when they are submerged within the bath chamber fluid. This provides a higher water pressure only after the feet are disposed within the bath chamber, thereby reducing the likelihood that water will be expelled from the bath chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Mordechai Lev, Roman S. Ferber, Stephen Chung
  • Patent number: 6931675
    Abstract: A foot washer including a tray for holding water and a removable foot support member for insertion into the tray. The foot support member includes a grid member having a plurality of openings therethrough to thereby allow sand or other particulate debris to fall through the grid member and to the closed bottom of the tray. The grid member is supported by a support member such that the grid member is positioned above the closed bottom and below the open top of the tray. The tray is filled with water in order to submerge the grid member. The grid member is preferably substantially flat. To assist in draining water from the tray, the tray is preferably provided with a spigot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Hager
  • Patent number: 6886191
    Abstract: A soaking apparatus utilizing a soaking basin and a disposable liner configured to fit within the basin cavity. The basin is comprised of a material layer formed to define an integral floor and a peripheral wall projecting upwardly therefrom. The basin floor and peripheral wall together define the boundary of a basin cavity. An elongate protrusion protrudes from the floor into the basin cavity between left and right foot areas. The liner is comprised of a thin (e.g., 3-12 mils) material layer formed to define an integral floor and peripheral wall projecting upwardly therefrom. The liner floor and peripheral wall are dimensioned to closely nest within the basin cavity. The liner floor also defines left and right foot areas spaced by a protrusion projecting into the liner cavity. The underside of the liner protrusion forms a concave recess for accommodating the basin floor protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Vladimir Zolotnik
  • Patent number: 6880182
    Abstract: A spa apparatus and method for cleaning the same. The spa apparatus includes a basin for retaining fluid, a removable foot rest plate positioned within the basin, an impeller coupled to the basin, and a motor drivably coupled to the impeller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: European Touch Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Gruenwald
  • Publication number: 20040261173
    Abstract: A foot massaging tub includes a main body having a bottom provided with a drain hole, a draining pipe mounted on the main body and connected to the drain hole, a pumping motor mounted on the main body and connected to the draining pipe, and an operation control device mounted on the main body and including a controller, a power output unit, and a sensor. Thus, the sensor detects if liquid enters the draining pipe and sends a signal to the controller which controls the power output unit to operate, so as to open or close the pumping motor automatically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Ya Jyue Chen
  • Publication number: 20040244107
    Abstract: A pedicure treatment system includes a receptacle for immersion treatment with jet action. A recirculating circuit is coupled to a source of sanitizing agent through a metering pump. Different automated sanitizing modes are carried out according to programmed recirculation of the sanitizing agent. Automated fill control with level sensors and power drain features are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: Belvedere USA Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Waldron
  • Patent number: 6805678
    Abstract: A foot treating apparatus comprising a basin that is adapted for accepting and containing bathing water and is shaped and arranged to accommodate two human feet within the bathing water. A steam generator is included and adapted to accept and contain steamable water, to convert the steamable water into steam, and to direct the steam through a steam vent disposed above the bathing water and at one or both of the soles of those feet when the feet are removed from the bathing water. Dry massage means, heating means, vibration, and aeration are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Helen of Troy
    Inventor: Michael Cafaro
  • Publication number: 20040199994
    Abstract: A disposable liner is positioned within a foot/pedicure tub to protect clients from risks associated with unsanitary tubs. The foot tub includes an upper peripheral edge portion and an interior portion having a two-tiered foot platform molded therein. The disposable liner includes an elastic or drawstring band that fits snugly around and can be hidden under the upper peripheral edge portion of the foot tub. In addition, the disposable liner includes a plastic portion covering the interior portion of the foot tub. The plastic portion of the liner is shaped to conform to the two-tiered foot platform of the foot tub. When a pedicure is complete, a used liner may be easily removed and disposed of and a new liner may be arranged to prepare for the next client.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Fatima Sherif, Elizabeth A. Rudolph
  • Publication number: 20040194205
    Abstract: A portable foot bath has a reservoir for holding a volume of liquid. The reservoir has a floor. The foot bath also has a jet connected to a pump. A first outlet is in a first location of the floor and a second outlet is in a second location of the floor that is a location different than the first location. The jet circulates the liquid in the reservoir. The liquid goes through the first outlet and the second outlet to create a first whirling flow pattern and a second whirling flow pattern, respectively, from the liquid in the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: CONAIR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Anthony Kit Lun Leung
  • Patent number: 6790188
    Abstract: A foot-immersing massaging machine includes a body and an immersing vessel combined on the body. The body has a housing, a motor, a switch, a power cord, and a vibrator. The vibrator is fixed on an upper end of the shaft of the motor, and produces vibration when rotated by the motor. The immersing vessel has a vessel body and a soft massage cushion. The vessel body has a through hole in the bottom center for an upper portion of the vibrator to extend through upward, and the massage cushion is placed on the bottom of the vessel body and closes up the through hole, covering the vibrator with a gap between itself and the vibrator. Then a user can put the feet in the immersing vessel and receive massage performed by the vibrator at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Chao Yang Chen
  • Patent number: 6772800
    Abstract: A pedicure basin liner system, for preventing transmission of pathogens between pedicure clients when using a common pedicure basin. The pedicure basin has side walls, a bottom portion, and a top lip, which together define an interior volume capable of containing and supporting a quantity of water during a pedicure procedure. To prevent the water from actually contacting the basin while allowing the basin to support the weight of the water, the basin is covered with a liner that is shaped to fit closely within the basin against its bottom portion and side walls, and extend over the top lip. The liner is subsequently filled with water and the basin supports the weight of the water while remaining isolated from the water. After the pedicure procedure is performed, the water and the liner are disposed of.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Maria Garcia
  • Patent number: 6739003
    Abstract: There is disclosed a treatment table that has a footbath in the leg section. The treatment table can be positioned in many different configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: John M. Fanuzzi
  • Patent number: 6732387
    Abstract: A pedicure treatment system includes a receptacle for immersion treatment with jet action. A recirculating circuit is coupled to a source of sanitizing agent through a metering pump. Different automated sanitizing modes are carried out according to programmed recirculation of the sanitizing agent. Automated fill control with level sensors and power drain features are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Belvedere USA Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Waldron
  • Patent number: 6725471
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bathing body parts, such as the feet. The apparatus includes a bath chamber for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part therein. The bath chamber includes a bottom surface and a wall structure extending upwardly therefrom. A pump is disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the bath chamber, and a bubble egress tube is provided in communication with the pump and the bath chamber bottom surface. The bubble egress tube has a continuous configuration which traverses a surface area of the bath chamber bottom surface having a width dimension greater than the width of the egress tube. Air from the pump is directed into the bath chamber through egress holes formed in the bubble egress tube, thereby generating air bubbles in the fluid contained in the bath chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Roman S. Ferber, Alex Wong Chi To
  • Publication number: 20040060108
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a footcare whirlpool massage instrument equipped with a water flow-switching valve connected to the discharge sides of the circulation pump circulating the water of the footbath part and for freely switching water flows, which can re-circulate or drain water past through the circulation pump into the footbath part or out of the footbath part. The footcare whirlpool massage instrument equipped with the water flow-switching valve according to the present invention, in a footcare whirlpool massage instrument having a support base, a footbath part formed in the support base and holding water, and a circulation pump installed inside the support base and circulating the water of the footbath part to form whirlpool, further comprises a water flow-switching valve coupled to the discharge side of the circulation pump to switch water flows so that the water discharged from the circulation pump is re-circulated into the footbath part or drained outside the footbath part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: BEAUNIX CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jung Hoon Park
  • Patent number: 6699606
    Abstract: A sanitary ware comprises a sanitary ware body and a surface glaze layer provided on the sanitary ware body. The surface glaze layer has a center line average roughness Ra of less than 0.07 &mgr;m as measured with a stylus type surface roughness tester according to JIS B 0651-1996.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Machida, Koichi Hayashi, Hirotaka Ishibashi, Tomoyasu Ichiki, Masaaki Ito, Masami Ando, Atsushi Kitamura, Toshihiro Aoshima, Katsuhiro Kawakami, Satoshi Horiuchi, Makoto Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 6698038
    Abstract: A foot massager adapted to hold a fluid that may be deposited from above onto a user's feet including a housing having a foot supporting floor and walls extending upwardly therefrom to form a basin and adapted to hold a fluid. There may be a fluid transport device disposed within the housing and being operatively connected to a fluid inlet disposed in the basin. A pump may be used in the fluid transport device to dispose the fluid out of a fluid outlet to a place disposed above and spaced a distance from the floor of the basin. The fluid outlet and the floor defines a foot receiving space there between whereby the fluid exiting the fluid outlet falls through the foot receiving space and into the basin. There may be a fluid distributor which allows the fluid to fall in a uniform layer to create a waterfall effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Paul A. Bastia, Alan E. Strick
  • Patent number: 6698039
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a footcare whirlpool massage instrument equipped with an ozone generator which can massage entire feet with jets of high-pressure water and simultaneously sterilize minute germs on the feet with ozone jets. In a footcare whirlpool massage instrument having a support base and a footbath part formed on the support base and into which water is jetted, the footcare whirlpool massage instrument equipped with an ozone generator according to the present invention further comprises an ozone generator installed inside the support base and for jetting ozone into the footbath part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Beaunix Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jung Hoon Park
  • Publication number: 20040003460
    Abstract: A soaking apparatus utilizing a soaking basin and a disposable liner configured to fit within the basin cavity. The basin is comprised of a material layer formed to define an integral floor and a peripheral wall projecting upwardly therefrom. The basin floor and peripheral wall together define the boundary of a basin cavity. An elongate protrusion protrudes from the floor into the basin cavity between left and right foot areas. The liner is comprised of a thin (e.g., 3-12 mils) material layer formed to define an integral floor and peripheral wall projecting upwardly therefrom. The liner floor and peripheral wall are dimensioned to closely nest within the basin cavity. The liner floor also defines left and right foot areas spaced by a protrusion projecting into the liner cavity. The underside of the liner protrusion forms a concave recess for accommodating the basin floor protrusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Vladimir Zolotnik
  • Publication number: 20040006289
    Abstract: A human body massager is constructed to include a base, the base having a supporting portion adapted for supporting a part of the user's body, and a magnetic field generator installed in the base and adapted for generating a variable magnetic field involved with the part of the user's body supported on the supporting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Lu-Jung Liao
  • Publication number: 20030226201
    Abstract: A foot therapy device is provided. The foot therapy device includes a housing having a side wall, and a floor defining a reservoir for receiving a fluid. The foot therapy device has at least one water jet disposed in the reservoir and a pump for pumping the fluid in the reservoir to the water jet. The water jet circulates the fluid disposed in the reservoir. The fluid circulates in a predetermined fluid flow pattern in the reservoir. The predetermined flow pattern of the fluid may include a substantially circular, elliptical or vortex motion for a relaxing and pleasant massage therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: CONAIR CIP, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony Kit Lun Leung, Kam Fai Fung
  • Publication number: 20030220593
    Abstract: A foot spa and a method for controlling the foot spa is provided. The foot spa has a housing defining a reservoir for locating feet and a touchpad control unit for controlling a function of the foot spa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: CONAIR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kevin Joseph Morton
  • Patent number: 6598244
    Abstract: An ozone water foot massager includes a container disposed on top of a water compartment and having a recess for receiving feet of users. A tubular member is received in the water compartment and coupled to a nozzle, an ozone generator is coupled to the tubular member for supplying an ozone to a neck of the tubular member. The fluid may flow fastener through the neck of the tubular member, for drawing and mixing the ozone and the fluid with each other into an ozonized water, and for supplying the well mixed ozonized water to clean the feet of the users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Fu Fong Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo Chung Yeh
  • Publication number: 20030126679
    Abstract: A foot spa and a method for controlling the foot spa is provided. The foot spa has a housing defining a reservoir for locating feet, a remote control unit for controlling a function of the foot spa by transmitting a control signal to the foot spa via wireless communication, and a receiver located in or on the housing for receiving the control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: CONAIR CIP, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony Kit Lun Leung, Chung Shun Tse
  • Patent number: 6568000
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bathing body parts, such as the feet. The apparatus includes a bath chamber for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part therein. The bath chamber includes a bottom surface and a wall structure extending upwardly therefrom. A hood is attached to the wall structure and is arranged to at least partially cover the bath chamber, and a motor is mounted on an underside of the hood. At least two spaced therapy centers are disposed on the hood, where the therapy centers are operably connected to the motor for providing therapy to the body part when the body part is placed on one of the therapy centers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Alon D. Kaufman, Alex Wong Chi To
  • Publication number: 20030074730
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bathing body parts, such as the feet. The apparatus includes a bath chamber for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part therein. The bath chamber includes a bottom surface and a wall structure extending upwardly therefrom, wherein the wall structure has a contact area adapted to be exposed when fluid is contained in the bath chamber. A heating member is provided on the contact area for providing heat, such as infrared rays, to the body part when the body part is placed on the contact area. In addition, the bath apparatus can include at least one massage attachment adapted to be received on the contact area for massaging the body part when the body part engages the massage attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Roman S. Ferber, Alex Wong Chi To
  • Publication number: 20030070222
    Abstract: A foot massager adapted to hold a fluid that may be deposited from above onto a user's feet including a housing having a foot supporting floor and walls extending upwardly therefrom to form a basin and adapted to hold a fluid. There may be a fluid transport device disposed within the housing and being operatively connected to a fluid inlet disposed in the basin. A pump may be used in the fluid transport device to dispose the fluid out of a fluid outlet to a place disposed above and spaced a distance from the floor of the basin. The fluid outlet and the floor defines a foot receiving space there between whereby the fluid exiting the fluid outlet falls through the foot receiving space and into the basin. There may be a fluid distributor which allows the fluid to fall in a uniform layer to create a waterfall effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Paul A. Bastia, Alan E. Strick
  • Patent number: 6505358
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bathing body parts, such as the feet. The apparatus includes a bath chamber for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part therein. The bath chamber includes a bottom surface and a wall structure extending upwardly therefrom, wherein the wall structure has a contact area adapted to be exposed when fluid is contained in the bath chamber. A heating member is provided on the contact area for providing heat, such as infrared rays, to the body part when the body part is placed on the contact area. In addition, the bath apparatus can include at least one massage attachment adapted to be received on the contact area for massaging the body part when the body part engages the massage attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Roman S. Ferber, Alex Wong Chi To
  • Publication number: 20030005515
    Abstract: A sanitary liner for a manicure or pedicure soaking basin. The sanitary liner is formed from a plastic or rubber which is light and inexpensive so that it can hold soaking solution when necessary and dump out the solution when necessary. It is disposable so that customers of beauty salons can each have soaking solution held in a different liner and thereby avoid the possibility of soaking in a basin that is contaminated with pathogens from a prior customer. It fits smoothly inside the reservoir of a common commercial salon soaking basin. It may be rigid or it may be pliable so that fluid pressure causes it to conform to the inside of the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Vladimir Zolotnik, Genya Vinokur