With Support Patents (Class 4/643)
  • Patent number: 11488267
    Abstract: A trans-boundary water resource usage detection method, system, and computer program product, including predicting an estimated water usage by an upstream administrative region using a machine learning model and a tracked water usage, detecting an excess water usage when the estimated water usage exceeds a contracted usage value by more than a threshold value by executing a smart contract on blockchain, and penalizing, via a token exchange in blockchain, the upstream administrative region for the excess water usage by executing the smart contract on blockchain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES COPRORATION
    Inventors: Timothy Nyota, Isaac Waweru Wambugu, Shikhar Kwatra, Komminist Weldemariam, Fred Ochieng Otieno
  • Patent number: 11268269
    Abstract: A sanitary installation, including a ceramic or porcelain wash basin or wash stand and a vanity unit, wherein the vanity unit has at least one pull-out drawer having two side walls and a front wall, wherein the shape of the side walls and of the front wall conforms to the shape of the front and side end faces of the wash basin or wash stand, wherein the end faces are aligned with the side walls and the front wall, and wherein the side walls, the front wall and the end faces are coated with a veneer, applied via an adhesive bond, or with a paint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: DURAVIT AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Thomas Stammel, Thomas Konstanzer, Ulrich Weber
  • Patent number: 11229328
    Abstract: In one aspect, a freestanding, portable raised tub for infants, toddlers and young children is provided herein which includes: a basin with a base and an upstanding side wall bounding the base; a plurality of legs secured to the basin; a rigid panel pivotably connected to the basin so as to be angularly adjustable relative thereto; and, an adjustable guard pivotably connected to the rigid panel so as to be angularly adjustable relative thereto, the guard extending continuously from a first location on the rigid panel to a second location on the rigid panel, the first and second locations being spaced apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Inventor: Kenobi Ramirez
  • Patent number: 10813504
    Abstract: A portable campground sink. The portable campground sink includes a frame having at least one sidewall, wherein an interior portion of the frame is divided into a first section and a second section by a cross bar. A plurality of legs are removably affixed to the frame, wherein the plurality of legs extend perpendicularly away from the frame. A container having an upper compartment in liquid communication with a lower compartment is received by the frame such that the lower compartment lies within the first section. An outlet is disposed on the lower compartment can receive a hose thereon. An adaptor having an inlet that can receive the hose thereon can be removably secured within a sewer drain such that the contents of the lower compartment exit through the outlet, through the hose, into the inlet, and out of the adaptor into the sewer drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Inventor: Kenneth Harding
  • Patent number: 10422671
    Abstract: A water usage monitor can include a housing having a fluid flow path, a fluid inlet in fluid communication with the fluid flow path, and a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The housing can include a dry housing interior fluidly isolated from the fluid flow path. The monitor preferably includes a power generator configured to generate a voltage when fluid flows through the fluid flow path and at least one sensor configured to measure at least one characteristic of a fluid flowing through the fluid flow path. The monitor can include a signal generator configured transmit signals from the power generator and from the at least one sensor to a remote processor. The power generator can be configured to power both the at least one sensor and the signal generator in response to fluid flow through the fluid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Ketos Inc.
    Inventors: Meena Sankaran, Mazhar N. Ali
  • Publication number: 20150082536
    Abstract: A waterproof sink insert for installing an under-mount sink in a built-up surround having a non-waterproof support structure so as to inhibit water damage to the support structure. The sink support insert is mounted within an insert opening formed in the support structure. The sink support insert comprises a mounting region located radially inward from the outer periphery of the sink support insert. The sink is secured to the sink support structure within the mounting region. The sink support insert may optionally include one or more apertures for receiving a faucet or other sink appurtenance(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Gregory J. Aldrich
  • Patent number: 8887324
    Abstract: The present invention is a water use and/or a water energy use monitoring apparatus that is affixed to the hot and cold water supply piping for continuously (or on demand) monitoring displaying the water and water energy (hot vs. ambient) use within a residential or commercial building. A first wire or wireless means is incorporated to communicate with a remote display for viewing by the owner of a commercial building or occupier/resident of a home. A second optional wire or wireless means can be incorporated that can be monitored by civil, commercial, governmental or municipal operators or agencies, using a remote display and/or recorder means or by a secure wire or wireless communication network (e.g. cell phone technology communication means). A third wireless means communicates water parameter data utilizing typical cell tower technology and/or mesh network technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Klicpera
  • Publication number: 20140259379
    Abstract: A sink assembly includes a wash basin having a rim. The sink assembly further includes a tire having an opening therethrough to receive the wash basin. The rim of the wash basin engages the tire. A foam insert is disposed within the tire. A support assembly engages the tire and is configured for coupling the sink assembly to a supporting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Beltz
  • Publication number: 20140259378
    Abstract: A portable sink stand may be foldable between a stowed state and a deployed state. In some examples, the portable sink stand may have a substantially rectangular cuboid profile in the stowed state. The portable sink stand may comprise a sink retaining body, an upstanding partition, and a support structure. A fluid distribution system may be disposed below the sink retaining body that includes a first pipe that runs the length of the portable sink stand. In some examples, the portable sink stand may be quickly moved between the stowed state and the deployed quickly with minimal assembly. When multiple portable sink stands are utilized, the fluid distribution systems of the sink stands may be coupled together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Douglas Wayne Combs, Travis Tully
  • Publication number: 20140250589
    Abstract: A sink assembly includes a basin including one or more sidewalls having interior and exterior surfaces, the one or more sidewalls defining an interior and a top opening; a layer of bonding material provided on the exterior surfaces of the one or more sidewalls and extending about the top opening; and a mounting flange coupled to the layer of bonding material and extending about the top opening of the basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: BRADLEY FIXTURES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jonathan Ross Sgarlata, Robert Michael Piekarski
  • Patent number: 8739326
    Abstract: The mounting device includes a mounting frame (6) on which there is set a front cladding (2). Through the front cladding (2) there pass securing means (4) anchored to a cross piece (5) of the mounting frame (6), for securing a sanitary element (3). The front cladding (2) comprises at least an upper part (8) and a lower part (9) which are plate-shaped. Between the two parts (8, 9) there is a gap (16) in which there is arranged a securing rail (25) through which the said securing means (4) pass. The two parts (8, 9) can be aligned on the securing rail (4) during mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Geberit International AG
    Inventor: Tom Stäubli
  • Publication number: 20140109309
    Abstract: An undermount sink that can be integrally mounted to a laminate or solid surface countertop. The undermount sink has a novel mounting structure to accomplish mounting to a laminate countertop. A mounting flange is attached to an outer perimeter of the undermount sink bowl, and is reinforced by way of a mounting flange support within the mounting flange that is mechanically fastened to the upper outer perimeter of the undermount sink bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Chad Michael Cusimano
  • Patent number: 8661577
    Abstract: An undermount sink that can be integrally mounted to a laminate or solid surface countertop. The undermount sink has a novel mounting structure to accomplish mounting to a laminate countertop. A mounting flange is attached to an outer perimeter of the undermount sink bowl, and is reinforced by way of a mounting flange support within the mounting flange that is mechanically fastened to the upper outer perimeter of the undermount sink bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Chad Michael Cusimano
  • Publication number: 20130263373
    Abstract: A sink comprising a basin, a rim extending outwardly from the basin, a support member in the form of a channel coupled to an underside of a portion of the rim to increase the rigidity of the rim, and a mounting element operatively coupled to the channel and configured to secure the rim to a fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Jason R. Miller, Brian Siehr, Theodore Nikolai, Joseph Bolden
  • Publication number: 20130212801
    Abstract: A wheeled cart is configured to removably carry a patient's personal wash basin. The cart includes a lid that covers the personal wash basin when the cart is moved from a bathroom to the patient so that liquid in the wash basin cannot splash out onto the floor if the cart strikes an obstruction. A flexible tube is provided for filling the basin from a sink. A drain pipe is provided to empty the wash basin without the need to lift the wash basin. A disposable thin personal wash basin having a funnel-shaped outlet may be used with the cart to minimize potential contamination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Shamirra Slayton
  • Publication number: 20130185865
    Abstract: A sink cabinet system that includes a water collection tray disposed over a sink cabinet's floor that collects water from m joints, hoses and fixtures located above and inside the cabinet. In one embodiment, a single large collection tray is used that includes a full extending bottom panel, two raised sidewalls, a rear wall, and a front wall. Formed on each sidewall is a lateral extending flange that either abuts against the inside surface of the side panels or extends into an optional horizontal slots formed on the cabinet's side and rear panels. Mounted over the rear wall is a detachable drip shield with a diagonally aligned top flange. Also, formed on the floor of the tray is a elevated platform upon which an electric moisture detector may be placed. In a second embodiment, the large single tray is replaced by two half trays connected together by a detachable drip plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: Tom Joehnck
  • Patent number: 8438674
    Abstract: A dish washing pan constructed of a housing having a bottom and multiple sidewalls integrally formed with the bottom to provide a washing chamber, a plurality of legs attached at the underside of the housing bottom to support the bottom over a sink surface and a plurality of holes provided in each of the sidewalls at a location spaced downwardly from a top rim of the sidewall. The plurality of holes is disposed closer to the top rim than the bottom of the housing. An outlet is provided in one of the sidewalls that can be closed to retain water in the washing chamber or opened to enable the water to be discharged from the washing chamber. The outlet is disposed closer to the bottom of the housing than the top rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Frank R. Balkum
  • Patent number: 8347427
    Abstract: A water use and/or a water energy use monitoring apparatus that is affixed to the hot and cold main water supply piping for continuously (or on demand) monitoring and displaying the water use within a residential or commercial building. A first wire or wireless communication is incorporated to electronically communicate with a remote display for viewing by the owner of a commercial building or occupier/resident of a home. A second optional wire or wireless communication can be incorporated that can be monitored by civil, commercial, governmental or municipal operators or agencies, using a remote display and/or recorder or by a secure wire or wireless communication network (e.g. cell phone communication technology). A third wireless communication can be incorporated to electronically communicate water parameter data utilizing typical cell tower technology and/or mesh network technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Klicpera
  • Publication number: 20120124737
    Abstract: An undermount sink system is provided for mounting beneath a countertop having an upper counter surface. The undermount sink system includes a sink basin and a discharge conduit coupled to the sink basin, which is positioned to expel fluid into the sink basin via an outlet thereof. The discharge conduit and basin are configured to mount to the countertop entirely below the upper counter surface. The flow of fluid through the discharge conduit may be activated via a motion sensor or switch coupled directly to the basin or a spacer ring positioned between the basin and the countertop. Controls for adjusting the temperature and/or flow rate of fluid through the discharge conduit may also be coupled to the basin or a spacer ring positioned between the basin and the countertop, or alternatively, to a surface of the countertop. Methods of making and using undermount sink systems are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Rod Gibson
  • Patent number: 8171579
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for mounting a glass or glass-ceramic vessel-style washbasin (1). The inventive device is characterised in that it essentially takes the form of an adapter (3) which is disposed between the lower face of the glass or glass-ceramic vessel-style washbasin and a support (2) at the drain hole (1?), said adapter (3) being connected to the lower face of the washbasin (1) with a layer of glue (6) or an adhesive and fixed to the support (2) by means of a flow element (4). The invention is particularly suitable for household equipment, in particular vessel-style washbasins and vessel-style washbasins that are made from glass or glass-ceramic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Schott VTF
    Inventor: Bertrand Epp
  • Publication number: 20120077166
    Abstract: A portable brushing station for encouraging good brushing habits in children includes a cabinet assembly having a countertop and a concave sink with a portable water supply and removable drainage unit. Additionally, the portable brushing station can include a removable sink and drain combination which can be easily cleaned after each use. Additionally, the portable brushing station can include an instructional and entertainment unit for interactively teaching children proper brushing habits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Dwayne Cyr
  • Patent number: 8122532
    Abstract: The invention refers to a mechanism for the preferably length-adjustable fastening of a semi-pedestal (1) under furniture (2), such as a basin (2?), in particular a wash basin in a kitchen or washroom, having at least one tension member (3), which is attached, preferably releasably, on the one hand, to a mounting plate, e.g. a wall holder (4) of the furniture (2) provided with a fastening bolt (10) and, on the other hand, to the wall (5) of the semi-pedestal (1), where the tension member (3), which may be elastically compliant, is equipped in at least one terminal region (6) in the manner of a cable tie, with latching means (7), e.g. a toothed formation, and which can be introduced by way of the terminal region (6) into an accommodating element (8) which can be attached to the holder (4) of the furniture (2) and/or the wall (5) of the semi-pedestal (1) and formed as a counter-latching element and can be held there as well as furniture equipped with at least one such mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Villeroy & Boch AG
    Inventor: Jörg Krämer
  • Publication number: 20110296605
    Abstract: An oral hygiene station (10) for children has a portable, hand held body (12), and a suction cup (26) for releasably mounting the body to a vanity unit. The body (12) has a basin (16) and a lid (18) hingedly connected thereto for opening and closing the basin. The basin has slots (20) each of which can receive therethrough the shaft of a toothbrush. The basin also has a mouth wash cup holder (22). The lid (18) has a mirror (24) supported on its inside surface so that a child using the oral hygiene station (10) can see themselves in the mirror when the lid is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Andrew John Kerr
  • Patent number: 8070110
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of sink support systems. An exemplary embodiment includes a cross-member having respective first and second cross-member attachment structures attached at respective ends. First and second mount brackets are configured for attachment to a vertical surface of the support structure. Each of the cross-member attachment structures is configured to engage a corresponding mount bracket to vertically support the cross-member. The cross-member has a plurality of leveling devices to support the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas M. Jones, E. Wayne Lytle
  • Patent number: 7954183
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable sink or container with a lid that is preferably capable of closing and sealing the sink or container. In certain embodiments, the sink is preferably adapted to be connected to an existing water supply, such as an outdoor hose or faucet, such that running water can be provided inside the sink in an outdoor environment. The sink or container preferably has features that make it easy to use in an outdoor environment, such as folding legs, an adjustable spigot, a spray nozzle, a storage drawer, a shelf, a drain, a funnel, a strainer for the drain, cutting boards, baskets, etc. In one aspect, the sink preferably has handles that support utility panels that can be folded up or down on top of the sink or container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Gregory Stuart Cawthon
  • Publication number: 20100319119
    Abstract: A movable sink is provided with a body which is connected with a discharge element. The movable sink also includes at least one sink and one moving device, and the sink is located inside the body and is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The outlet is connected to the discharge element, and the moving device is located at a bottom of the body. After a water supply has been replenished from the inlet, the movable sink can be moved to any place to provide the water supply by the moving device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Shih-Feng Wu
  • Publication number: 20100216357
    Abstract: A watercraft having a main hull and at least one deployable outrigger pontoon moveable between a stored condition in which the at least one outrigger pontoon is located adjacent the main hull, and a use condition in which the at least one outrigger pontoon is located spaced from the main hull to increase at least one footprint dimension of the watercraft at the waterline, the at least one deployable outrigger pontoon moving at least partially outwardly and downwardly during deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: BRINGABOATALONG PTY LTD
    Inventors: Hilary Eric Hanslow, Elizabeth Margaret Hanslow
  • Patent number: 7698753
    Abstract: A sink setting cross-member supports a non-linear sink support surface relative to a support structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross-member includes a first bracket portion at a first bracket end, and a second bracket portion at a second bracket end. A support portion is disposed between the first bracket portion and the second bracket portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas M. Jones, E. Wayne Lytle
  • Publication number: 20090255052
    Abstract: A utility sink system is disclosed comprising a sink and a bucket. The sink has a basin extending from an upper edge to a drain. The bucket has walls extending to a lip and has at least one opening formed therein. The lip is configured to contact the upper edge of the basin such that the bucket is suspended in the basin. The at least one opening of the bucket, in addition to facilitating handling, may provide a form of overflow when the bucket is suspended in the basin of the sink, such that the at least one opening places an interior volume of the bucket and the basin of the sink in communication with one another. Further, the at least one opening of the bucket may provide a pouring spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Shawn J. Booth
  • Publication number: 20090211020
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for mounting a glass or glass-ceramic vessel-style washbasin (1). The inventive device is characterised in that it essentially takes the form of an adapter (3) which is disposed between the lower face of the glass or glass-ceramic vessel-style washbasin and a support (2) at the drain hole (1?), said adapter (3) being connected to the lower face of the washbasin (1) with a layer of glue (6) or an adhesive and fixed to the support (2) by means of a flow element (4). The invention is particularly suitable for household equipment, in particular vessel-style washbasins and vessel-style washbasins that are made from glass or glass-ceramic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Bertrand Epp
  • Patent number: 7571497
    Abstract: A lavatory carrier including at least one vertical upright, a horizontal cross plate, a clamp secured to the cross plate and releasably coupled to the upright, wherein the vertical position of the cross plate on the upright can be adjusted using the clamp, at least two horizontal arms for supporting a lavatory, and brackets secured to the arms and adjustably coupled to the cross plate. The positions of the arms, therefore, can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. In addition, horizontal positions of each of the arms on the cross plate can be independently adjusted using the brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Roy Hetzler, Bushra Awad Ghaly
  • Publication number: 20090144893
    Abstract: An undermount sink that can be integrally mounted to a laminate or solid surface countertop. The undermount sink has a novel mounting structure to accomplish mounting to a laminate countertop. A mounting flange is attached to an outer perimeter of the undermount sink bowl, and is reinforced by way of a mounting flange support within the mounting flange that is mechanically fastened to the upper outer perimeter of the undermount sink bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Chad Michael Cusimano
  • Publication number: 20080313803
    Abstract: In order to provide a retaining device for retaining a built-in appliance, in particular a built-in sink unit, on a worktop, comprising at least one appliance-side retaining element, at least one worktop-side retaining element and at least one tensioning element for bracing the worktop-side retaining element and the appliance-side retaining element relative to one another, wherein the tensioning element comprises a threaded portion, a retaining portion and a reduced-diameter portion, which is disposed between the threaded portion and the retaining portion and the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the retaining portion, and wherein the appliance-side retaining element has at least one through-opening, through which in the fitted state of the retaining device the reduced-diameter portion of the tensioning element extends, that enables reliable mounting of the built-in appliance on the worktop and does not spoil the appearance of the built-in appliance, it is proposed that the appliance-side reta
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: BLANCO GmbH + Co KG
    Inventors: Michael Osterroth, Frank Merkel, Bernd Elsinger
  • Publication number: 20080196158
    Abstract: A sink setting cross-member supports a non-linear sink support surface relative to a support structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross-member includes a first bracket portion at a first bracket end, and a second bracket portion at a second bracket end. A support portion is disposed between the first bracket portion and the second bracket portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas M. Jones, E. Wayne Lytle
  • Publication number: 20080087778
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a system for mounting a sink to a support structure includes first and second support members. The first and second support members are adapted for fitting together along a range of positions to provide a variable length sink support system. Leveling devices are adapted for engagement with the support member and for contacting sink surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventors: Steven B. Sather, Thomas M. Jones
  • Patent number: 6980126
    Abstract: A unit for pedestrian control of traffic lights operated by a traffic light controller, comprises a casing adapted to be mounted to a traffic light post, the casing having a bottom face carrying a window, and a photocell mounted in the casing for directing a beam through the window in a downward direction generally parallel to the post to which the casing is mounted. The photocell is responsive to the presence of a pedestrian's hand placed beneath the window in the beam. The photocell is adapted to be operatively connected to the traffic light controller to send a signal thereto when the presence of a pedestrian has been detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Logisig Inc.
    Inventor: Serge Fournier
  • Patent number: 6957452
    Abstract: An optical coupler for use within a sink assembly comprising a countertop having a countertop bore formed therethrough and a sink basin mounted above the countertop, the basin having a bore co-axial with the countertop bore for receiving the terminal end of a water drain pipe passing up through the countertop to the sink basin. The light coupler includes a light coupler body having a lower portion received through the countertop bore and an upper portion resting on the countertop about the countertop bore. The water drain pipes passes up through a bore formed through the light coupler body, the coupler further having a light-transmissive portion coupling the lower portion with the upper portion. Light from a light source located proximal the lower surface of the light coupler body lower portion is admitted through the lower surface and transmitted up through the light coupler body and out the upper surface to the sink basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: O'Ryan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Grant
  • Patent number: 6938283
    Abstract: A sink and faucet support assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall, a top wall and a peripheral wall attached to and extending between the top and bottom walls. The peripheral wall includes a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. A back side of the housing is open. The top wall has an opening extending therethrough. A sink apparatus includes a bowl portion and a base that has a shape adapted for being positioned in the opening. The bowl portion has a drain opening therein extending through the base. A ledge is attached to an upper edge of the bowl portion. A faucet apparatus is mounted on the ledge. A water supply is fluidly coupled to the ledge. A drainpipe extends into the housing through the back side and is fluidly coupled to the drain opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Graciela Martinez
  • Patent number: 6848126
    Abstract: A mobile, portable washing bowl or bidet, sink bowl and shower primarily for use indoors. The system uses running water and there is no need for electronic pumps. The entire device is easily transported and meets the personal hygiene needs of people with limited mobility. The washing bowl and sink bowl are mounted to a vertical support riser and washing bowl support plate. The entire frame is mounted to a pneumatic height adjuster assembly, which in turn is mounted to a five-legged caster base. Each leg of the wheelbase terminates with locking casters. There is a water tank which allows water to flow, via gravity, through three sets of flexible hoses to the sink, then the washing bowl and finally through the draining hose. Each hose has a shut off valve so that water can either be contained or released in each of the holding places —the water tank, the sink bowl or the washing bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Saint-Ange Marcellus
  • Patent number: 6836910
    Abstract: The portable sink is capable of being connected to an existing water supply, such as an outdoor hose or faucet, such that running water can be provided inside the sink in an outdoor environment. The sink preferably has features that make it easy to use in any outdoor environment, such as folding legs, an adjustable spigot, a spray nozzle, a storage drawer, a shelf, a large drain, a funnel, a strainer for the drain, cutting boards, baskets, etc. The lid also enables the sink to be used as a container for storing items during travel. In this respect, the sink can be made of an insulating material so that it can double as an ice chest when desired. A pressurized water tank can be provided which is preferably sized to fit inside the sink and adapted to supply water where no other water supply is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Cawthon Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Stuart Cawthon
  • Patent number: 6820290
    Abstract: A movable bathroom-fixture system, comprising bathroom fixtures modified to allow adjustment of their position in a bathroom; and the means to mount said fixtures on bathroom walls so that the fixture placement is adjustable. The modifiable fixtures include a moveable sink fixture, a moveable shower fixture, a moveable wet wall, a height adjustable toilet seat, and drainage tiles. Depending on the size of the bathroom the modifiable fixtures can be slideably and/or removably attached to moveable wall panel units, moveable walls, moveable panels, or fixture interface units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: The Research Foundation of SUNY at Buffalo
    Inventors: Abir Mullick, Edward Steinfeld, Drew Kelley
  • Patent number: 6763533
    Abstract: A coupling system for securing a sink to a drain pipe. The coupling system of the present invention can include a support member and a flange connector. The flange connector can be coupled to the support member about opposite surfaces of a sink. The support member can include both a shoulder and a support surface opposite to the shoulder. The shoulder can be configured to support a sink and a gasket can be positioned thereon or within a recess therein to provide enhanced communication between a sink and the shoulder. The support surface, by comparison, can be configured to rest upon a support surface able to support the sink when coupled to the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventors: Robert H. Mayer, Nicole D. Mayer
  • Patent number: 6643867
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a faucet stand for positioning a faucet in operative relationship to a free-standing bowl mounted on a table or counter top. The faucet stand includes a base with a curved front surface for receiving the bowl, first and second sides extending from the base, and at least one through hole extending through the base for receiving the faucet. The faucet stand allows the use of conventional faucets with free-standing bowls thereby eliminating the need for either specially sized faucets or faucets extending from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Deco Lav, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome Louis Silverman, Robert Howard Mayer
  • Patent number: 6637049
    Abstract: A personal care module for use by a patient within a room of a healthcare facility comprises a first washing station, at least one of a toilet and a second washing station, and a housing coupled to the first washing station and the at least one of the toilet and the second washing station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis J. Gallant
  • Publication number: 20030163868
    Abstract: A support arrangement for a sink comprises a leg support under the sink including an internal space and a bottom hole in communication with the space; and a fastening assembly including a plurality of branches each having an open end fixed to a wall, a first fastener at an interconnected portion of the branches, and a threaded rod driven through the fastener and a second fastener to secure at the hole. This can secure the leg support and the fastening assembly together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventors: Chen Kao Chiang, Wen Chang Lu
  • Patent number: 6574805
    Abstract: A collapsible sink device includes a collapsible frame movable between an extended position and a collapsed position and a sink detachably mounted on the collapsible frame. The collapsible frame includes four legs and two foldable plank assemblies each including two planks each pivotally connected with one of the legs so that the foldable plank assemblies are parallel to each other in the extended position and that the planks of each of the foldable plank assemblies overlap in the collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Jack Liu
  • Patent number: 6427259
    Abstract: The invention is a portable sink with a lid that is capable of being connected to an existing water supply, such as an outdoor hose or faucet, such that running water can be provided inside the sink in an outdoor environment. The sink preferably has features that make it easy to use in any outdoor environment, such as folding legs, an adjustable spigot, a spray nozzle, a storage drawer, a shelf, a large drain, a funnel, a strainer for the drain, cutting boards, baskets, etc. The lid also enables the sink to be used as a container for storing items during travel. In this respect, the sink can be made of an insulating material so that it can double as an ice chest when desired. A pressurized water tank can be provided which is preferably sized to fit inside the sink and adapted to supply water where no other water supply is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Cawthon Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Stuart Cawthon
  • Patent number: 6256803
    Abstract: A baby changing and washing station is disclosed, designed as an apparatus to aid in the washing and/or cleansing of an infant. The present invention comprises a frame that is attached to a wall and provides for a fold down table portion, similar in design to a conventional diaper changing station. A padded vinyl area for the infant is provided along with restraining straps to hold the infant. A water bottle is provided in a heated container to allow the water to be slightly warmed. Tubing is designed to carry the water through a release device at the end of the tube to allow cleansing of the infant after a diaper change or may be used to wash the entire infant. A drain system in the fold down table collects the waste water in a catch basin which may be removed and emptied after bathing duties are complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventors: Roxanne Sauerbrei, Sasha Orihuela Dorsey
  • Patent number: 6108832
    Abstract: A sink assembly includes a sink top, a sink base being one or the other of at least two different styles, such as a central pedestal or a pair of front corner legs, and an arrangement of mounting elements defined on the different sink bases and at different locations on an underside of the sink top providing interchangeability of one for the other of the different styles of bases with the one sink top. The sink top has a basin, underside and pair of front corners. A first of the mounting elements in the arrangement thereof includes a convex-shaped bottom portion on the underside of the sink top at the basin thereof for receiving and supporting a first of the different sink bases in the form of a central pedestal at the location of the bottom portion of the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Bryan C. McIntire
  • Patent number: 6101643
    Abstract: A portable hot sink system comprising a frame having two parallel upper elongated tubes with a first end and a second end. The system also comprises a first inverted U-shaped support with two intermediate cross braces and an upper cross handle. A second inverted U-shaped support is provided with three substantially similarly sized and shaped tubs. Each tub has closed rectangular lower ends and four upwardly extending generally rectangular vertical walls and with upper open ends. The central tub shares a common wall with the adjacent tubs. Drains are located within each of the tubs. Lastly, a heating element is located within a vertical wall of each tub with electrical lines coupling the heating elements to a common control element with a common light at the control element to illuminate until the preselected temperature of about 180 degrees Fahrenheit is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Sherlann D. Moore