U.S. patent application number 09/921086 was filed with the patent office on 2003-02-06 for commode bowl guard.
Invention is credited to Cross, Edward C., Cross, Lynette E..
Application Number | 20030024038 09/921086 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25444896 |
Filed Date | 2003-02-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030024038 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cross, Lynette E. ; et
al. |
February 6, 2003 |
Commode Bowl Guard
Abstract
A commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode is
provided. The commode bowl guard is provided with a cover plate
having an upper surface adapted to cover a section of the bowl
portion of the commode when the commode bowl guard is in an
installed position on the commode. The commode bowl guard is
further provided with a means for retaining the cover plate
disposed over the bowl portion of the commode such that the cover
plate covers at least the section of the bowl portion of the
commode.
Inventors: |
Cross, Lynette E.;
(Arlington, TX) ; Cross, Edward C.; (Arlington,
TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Ed Cross
5216 Saratoga Lane
Arlington
TX
76017
US
|
Family ID: |
25444896 |
Appl. No.: |
09/921086 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
4/253 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 13/24 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
4/253 |
International
Class: |
A47K 013/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode,
the commode bowl guard comprising: a cover plate having a sidewall
extending about a portion of the cover plate, the sidewall adapted
for tensioning engagement by a portion of a rim of the bowl portion
of the commode such that the cover plate covers at least a section
of the bowl portion of the commode.
2. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the cover plate is a
substantially oval member having an arcuate shaped end conforming
to a substantially arcuate shaped front of the bowl portion of the
commode.
3. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the sidewall adapted
to be tensioningly received by an inner portion of the rim of the
bowl portion of the commode such that the cover plate substantially
covers the bowl portion of the commode.
4. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the sidewall adapted
to be tensioningly received by an outer portion of the rim of the
bowl portion of the commode such that the cover plate covers at
least the section of the bowl portion of the commode.
5. The commode bowl guard of claim 4, wherein the cover plate is
adapted to inhibit access to at least the section of the bowl
portion of the commode when the commode bowl guard is in an
installed position on the commode.
6. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the cover plate is
constructed of a material selected from the group consisting of
plastic material, polymeric material, resilient polystyrene
plastic, aluminum, and cardboard.
7. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, further comprising a tension
release mechanism attached to the cover plate, the tension release
mechanism adapted to disengage the tensioning engagement of the
sidewall of the cover plate from the portion of the rim of the bowl
portion of the commode.
8. The commode bowl guard of claim 7, wherein the cover plate is
provided with a scored portion further defining the tension release
mechanism.
9. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface and a lower surface such
that the sidewall extends between the upper and lower surfaces of
the cover plate and wherein the sidewall is further defined as at
least a first sidewall and at least a second sidewall extending
between the upper and lower surfaces of the cover plate such that
at least the first and second sidewalls tensioningly engage the
portion of the rim of the bowl of the commode.
10. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface and a lower surface such
that the sidewall extends from the lower surface of the cover plate
and wherein the sidewall is further defined as at least a first
sidewall and at least a second sidewall extending from the lower
surface of the cover plate such that at least the first and second
sidewalls tensioningly engage the portion of the rim of the bowl of
the commode.
11. The commode bowl guard of claim 10, wherein the sidewall is
adapted to tensioningly engage the rim of the bowl portion of the
commode.
12. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface and a lower surface such
that the sidewall extends between the upper and lower surfaces of
the cover plate and wherein the sidewall is further defined as
extending substantially circumferentially about the cover plate
between the upper and lower surfaces of the cover plate.
13. The commode bowl guard of claim 1, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface and a lower surface such
that the sidewall extends from the lower surface of the cover plate
and wherein the sidewall is further defined as extending
substantially circumferentially about the cover plate between the
upper and lower surfaces of the cover plate.
14. A commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode,
the commode bowl guard comprising: a cover plate sized to cover at
least a section of the bowl portion of the commode, the cover plate
having a notch adapted to receive at least a portion of a rim of
the bowl portion of the commode such that the cover plate covers at
least the section of the bowl portion of the commode.
15. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having a substantially flat surface upper
surface.
16. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as substantially oval.
17. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as substantially round.
18. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as substantially rectangular.
19. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate
further comprises a substantially arcuate first end adapted to
cover a substantially arcuate portion of the bowl portion of the
commode.
20. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface, a lower surface and a
sidewall extending between the upper and lower surfaces and wherein
the notch is formed in the sidewall of the cover plate.
21. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface and a lower surface and
wherein the notch is further defined as at least a first groove
formed in the lower surface of the cover plate adapted to receive
at least the section of the bowl portion of the commode.
22. The commode bowl guard of claim 21, wherein the groove is
adapted to receive a portion of a rim of the bowl portion of the
commode.
23. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as having an upper surface, a lower surface and a
sidewall extending from the lower surface and wherein the notch is
defined by the sidewall extending from the lower surface of the
cover plate.
24. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
constructed of a material selected from the group consisting of
plastic material, polymeric material, resilient polystyrene
plastic, aluminum, and cardboard.
25. The commode bowl guard of claim 14, wherein the cover plate is
further defined as a plurality of substantially flat panel members
stackingly attached to one another.
26. The commode bowl guard of claim 25, wherein an upper panel
member of the plurality of substantially flat panel members has a
perimeter greater than a perimeter of at least a lower panel member
of the plurality of substantially flat panel members.
27. A commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode,
the commode bowl guard comprising: a cover plate having an upper
surface adapted to cover a section of the bowl portion of the
commode when the commode bowl guard is in an installed position on
the commode; and at least a first mechanism connected to the cover
plate, a portion of the first mechanism positionable below at least
a portion of a rim of the bowl portion and operable to inhibit
removal of the commode bowl guard when the commode bowl guard is in
an installed position on the commode.
28. The commode bowl guard of claim 27, further comprising a
release mechanism operably connected to at least the first
mechanism, the release mechanism adapted to disengage at least the
first mechanism to promote removal of the commode bowl guard.
29. The commode bowl guard of claim 27, further comprising a
release mechanism operably connected to cover plate, the release
mechanism adapted to disengage at least the first mechanism to
promote removal of the commode bowl guard.
30. The commode bowl guard of claim 27, wherein the at least first
mechanism is further defined as a tension spring having a first end
and a second end such that the first end is connected to the cover
plate and the second end is positionable below at least the portion
of the rim of the bowl portion of the commode.
31. The commode bowl guard of claim 30, wherein the second end of
the tension spring is adapted to engage at least the portion of the
rim of the bowl portion of the commode to inhibit removal of the
commode bowl guard from the commode.
32. The commode bowl guard of claim 27, wherein the at least first
mechanism is further defined as a plurality of brackets connected
to the cover plate, the plurality of brackets adapted to engage the
rim of the bowl of the commode to inhibit removal of the commode
bowl guard from the commode.
33. The commode bowl guard of claim 32, wherein the plurality of
brackets are further defined as at least a first bracket and at
least a second bracket adapted to receive an inner portion of the
rim of the bowl portion to inhibit removal of the commode bowl
guard from the commode.
34. The commode bowl guard of claim 33, further comprising a
release mechanism operably connected to at least one of the
plurality of brackets, the release mechanism adapted to disengage
at least one of the plurality of brackets to promote removal of the
commode bowl guard from the commode.
35. The commode bowl guard of claim 34, wherein cover plate is
further defined as having a first section and a second section
hingingly connected to one another and wherein the release
mechanism is further defined as a latch connected to the cover
plate to inhibit hinging movement of the first and second sections
of the cover plate when the latch is in a locked position.
36. The commode bowl guard of claim 32, wherein the plurality of
brackets are further defined as at least a first bracket and at
least a second bracket adapted to receive an outer portion of the
rim of the bowl portion to inhibit removal of the commode bowl
guard.
37. The commode bowl guard of claim 36, further comprising a
release mechanism operably connected to at least one of the
plurality of brackets, the release mechanism adapted to disengage
at least one of the plurality of brackets to promote removal of the
commode bowl guard.
38. The commode bowl guard of claim 37, wherein cover plate is
further defined as having a first section and a second section
hingingly connected to one another and wherein the release
mechanism is further defined as a latch connected to the cover
plate to inhibit hinging movement of the first and second sections
of the cover plate when the latch is in a locked position.
39. A commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode,
the commode bowl guard comprising: an cover plate having an upper
surface and a lower surface, the cover plate adapted to cover a
section of the bowl portion of the commode when the commode bowl
guard is in an installed position; a lower plate having an upper
surface and an outer peripheral edge, the lower plate connected to
the cover plate; and at least a first mechanism connected such that
a portion of the first mechanism positionable below at least a
portion of a rim of the bowl portion and operable to inhibit
removal of the commode bowl guard when the commode bowl guard is in
an installed position on the commode.
40. The commode bowl guard of claim 39, wherein the cover plate is
adapted to rest such that a portion of the lower surface of the
cover plate contacts a top surface of the rim portion of bowl
portion of the commode.
41. The commode bowl guard of claim 39, wherein the upper surface
of the lower plate is connected to a portion of the lower surface
of the cover plate.
42. The commode bowl guard of claim 41, wherein the upper and lower
plates are substantially unitarily configured.
43. The commode bowl guard of claim 39, wherein the at least first
mechanism is connected to the cover plate.
44. The commode bowl guard of claim 39, wherein the at least first
mechanism is connected to the lower plate.
45. The commode bowl guard of claim 44, wherein the at least first
mechanism is further connected to the cover plate.
46. The commode bowl guard of claim 39, wherein at least the first
mechanism is connected to the outer peripheral edge of the lower
plate.
47. The commode bowl guard of claim 43, wherein the at least first
mechanism is further defined as a tension spring having a first end
and a second end such that the first end is connected to the cover
plate and the second end is positionable below at least the portion
of the rim of the bowl portion of the commode.
48. The commode bowl guard of claim 47, wherein the second end of
the tension spring is adapted to engage at least the portion of the
rim of the bowl portion of the commode to inhibit removal of the
commode bowl guard from the commode.
49. The commode bowl guard of claim 44, wherein the at least first
mechanism is further defined as a tension spring having a first end
and a second end such that the first end is connected to the lower
plate and the second end is positionable below at least the portion
of the rim of the bowl portion of the commode.
50. The commode bowl guard of claim 49, wherein the second end of
the tension spring is adapted to engage at least the portion of the
rim of the bowl portion of the commode to inhibit removal of the
commode bowl guard from the commode.
51. A commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode,
the commode bowl guard comprising: a cover plate having an upper
surface adapted to cover a section of the bowl portion of the
commode when the commode bowl guard is in an installed position on
the commode; and a means for retaining the cover plate disposed
over the bowl portion of the commode such that the cover plate
covers at least the section of the bowl portion of the commode.
52. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the cover plate is
constructed of a material selected from the group consisting of
plastic material, polymeric material, resilient polystyrene
plastic, aluminum, and cardboard.
53. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the means for
retaining the cover plate is further defined as a tensioning means
connected to the cover plate for tensioningly retaining the cover
plate over at least a portion of the bowl portion of the
commode.
54. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the means for
retaining the cover plate is further defined as a coupling means
connected to the cover plate for coupling the cover plate to at
least a portion of a rim of the bowl portion of the commode.
55. The commode bowl guard of claim 54, wherein the means for
retaining the cover plate is further defined as a coupling means
connected to the cover plate for coupling the cover plate to at
least an inner portion of the rim of the bowl portion of the
commode.
56. The commode bowl guard of claim 54, wherein the means for
retaining the cover plate is further defined as a coupling means
connected to the cover plate for coupling the cover plate to at
least an outer portion of the rim of the bowl portion of the
commode.
57. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the means for
retaining the cover plate is further defined as a means for
retaining the cover plate substantially positioned to cover at
least the portion of the rim of the bowl portion of the
commode.
58. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the cover plate is
further provided with indicia thereon the cover plate, the indicia
indicative of the commode being in a non-operational state.
59. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the cover plate is
retained such that the upper surface of the cover plate is disposed
substantially so as to avoid interference with a lid portion of the
commode when the lid portion of the commode rests on the rim of the
bowl portion of the commode.
60. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the cover plate is
retained such that the upper surface of the cover plate is disposed
within the bowl portion of the commode substantially below a top
surface of the rim of the bowl of the commode.
61. The commode bowl guard of claim 51, wherein the cover plate is
retained such that the upper surface of the cover plate is disposed
at a height adjacent a top surface of the rim of the bowl of the
commode.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of commode bowl
guards and more specifically, but not by way of limitation, to a
commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode to
prevent use of the commode.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A myriad of reasons exist for covering toilet bowls or
commodes to inhibit access to the bowl portion of the commode. For
example, small children and animals have been injured by drowning
in an unprotected commode. Children are also known to drop objects
into the commode causing the commode or sewer lines to become
clogged.
[0003] Additionally, when commodes require maintenance, paper signs
are frequently placed near commodes or banners may be strung across
commodes warning of its condition.
[0004] Current devices for covering commode bowls suffer from a
number of disadvantages. Enclosure type devices are large enough to
cover a substantial portion of the commode while others are easily
removed from the commode. The enclosure type covers are cumbersome
to handle, ship and install. These devices are prohibitively
complex and expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, many locking
type covers utilize padlocks or other locking mechanisms that
require keys or combinations and are expensive, complicated and
time-consuming to lock, unlock and remove.
[0005] Thus, it is readily apparent that a need exists for a
commode bowl guard that overcomes the disadvantages of currently
available devices for covering commode bowls to prevent use of the
commodes since current devices are cumbersome and complicated or
inadequate to secure the commode, expensive to construct, and
suffers from a variety of other disadvantages mentioned above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a
commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode. The
commode bowl guard includes a cover plate having a sidewall
extending about a portion of the cover plate. The sidewall is
adapted for tensioning engagement by a portion of a rim of the bowl
portion of the commode such that the cover plate covers at least a
section of the bowl portion of the commode.
[0007] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a
commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode. The
commode bowl guard includes a cover plate sized to cover at least a
section of the bowl portion of the commode. The cover plate is
provided with a notch adapted to receive at least a portion of a
rim of the bowl portion of the commode such that the cover plate
covers at least the section of the bowl portion of the commode.
[0008] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to
a commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode. The
commode bowl guard includes a cover plate and at least a first
mechanism. The cover plate has an upper surface adapted to cover a
section of the bowl portion of the commode when the commode bowl
guard is in an installed position on the commode.
[0009] The at least first mechanism is connected to the cover
plate. A portion of the first mechanism is positionable below at
least a portion of a rim of the bowl portion and operable to
inhibit removal of the commode bowl guard when the commode bowl
guard is in an installed position on the commode.
[0010] In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a
commode bowl guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode. The
commode bowl guard includes an upper plate, a lower plate and at
least a first mechanism. The upper plate is provided with an upper
surface and a lower surface. The upper plate is adapted to cover a
section of the bowl portion of the commode when the commode bowl
guard is in an installed position.
[0011] The lower plate has an upper surface and an outer peripheral
edge, the lower plate connected to the upper plate. The at least
first mechanism is connected such that a portion of the first
mechanism is positionable below at least a portion of a rim of the
bowl portion and operable to inhibit removal of the commode bowl
guard when the commode bowl guard is in an installed position on
the commode.
[0012] In another aspect, the present is directed to a commode bowl
guard for covering a bowl portion of a commode. The commode bowl
guard is provided with a cover plate having an upper surface
adapted to cover a section of the bowl portion of the commode when
the commode bowl guard is in an installed position on the commode;
and
[0013] The commode bowl guard is further provided with a means for
retaining the cover plate disposed over the bowl portion of the
commode such that the cover plate covers at least the section of
the bowl portion of the commode.
[0014] One advantage of the present invention is the reduced size,
simplicity of design and, in one embodiment, the unitary
configuration of the cover plate of the commode bowl guard. The
commode bowl guard is configured for construction from a variety of
lightweight materials, such as plastic, polymeric, aluminum and
cardboard. The reduced size, simplified design and variety of
available construction materials that may be utilized enables the
commode bowl guard of the present invention to be easily and
inexpensively constructed.
[0015] Another advantage of the present invention is the
adaptability of the commode bowl guard of the present invention for
utilization on commodes of varying sizes, shapes and designs. One
advantage of the present invention is that the simplicity of
attachment inhibits removal without the necessity for complex and
expensive locking mechanisms. Yet in other embodiment, where the
locking feature is not necessitated, the present invention is
simple and inexpensively provided.
[0016] Also, during construction and remodeling involving
installation of new commodes, service to commodes have either not
yet been established or may be temporarily interrupted. During this
period, the commode is unusable. Warning signs are often ignored
and removed, particularly at large construction or remodeling sites
where the nearest substitute facilities are a considerable
distance.
[0017] The use of inoperable commodes results in commodes that are
in unsanitary condition and require considerable time and resources
to clean and repair to an operable state once service has been
restored. Also, during construction, the bowl lids may not yet be
attached which limits the use of devices connecting to or utilizing
the bowl lids for these purposes.
[0018] One embodiment of the present invention addresses these
unique problems since the commode bowl guard is adapted for use
with commodes with or without lids. The commode bowl guard has a
low-profile design that does not interfere with the movement or
operation of the lid when a lid is present. Furthermore, the
present invention may be implemented whether or not the commode is
provided with a lid. This design allows for the present invention
to be installed after the commode is manufactured, while not
inhibiting or interfering with the shipment of the commode.
[0019] In one embodiment, the present invention is small,
lightweight, and easy to handle, install, uninstall, efficient to
ship and store, simple and economical to manufacture and utilize.
Another advantage of the present invention is that the low cost
construction promotes disposable commode bowl guards that may be
discarded after remove, particularly, where the commode bowl guard,
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, is
constructed of cardboard or Styrofoam wherein removal of the
commode bowl guard requires breaking or corrupting the commode bowl
guard, such as along a scored portion.
[0020] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present
invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the
following detailed description when read in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings and appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] For a more complete understanding of the present invention
and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following
brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying
drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals
represent like parts, in which:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention shown covering a bowl portion of a commode;
[0023] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the present invention shown
covering the bowl portion of the commode, substantially as shown in
FIG. 1, with a lid of the commode removed;
[0024] FIG. 3 is a side view of one embodiment of the present
invention shown covering the bowl portion of the commode;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a side view, in greater detail, of the invention
shown in FIG. 3;
[0026] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the commode bowl guard shown in
FIG. 3 constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0027] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the
present invention shown covering the bowl portion of the
commode;
[0028] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the commode bowl cover
shown in FIG. 6 taken along 7-7 thereof;
[0029] FIG. 8 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the
commode bowl cover of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 9 is a side view of another embodiment of the commode
bowl cover of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 10 is a side view of yet another aspect of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard, shown engaging a rim portion
of the bowl portion of the commode;
[0032] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the commode bowl guard shown
in FIG. 10 provided with a tension release mechanism;
[0033] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the
present invention showing a plurality of sidewalls in phantom;
[0034] FIG. 13 is a is a perspective view of another aspect of the
commode bowl guard of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the
present invention of the commode bowl guard;
[0036] FIG. 15 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the
commode bowl guard provided with a notch for tensioning engagement
with the commode;
[0037] FIG. 16 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the
commode bowl guard with the sidewalls shown tensioningly engaging
the commode;
[0038] FIG. 17 is a side view of another aspect of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard;
[0039] FIG. 18 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the
commode bowl guard shown with a tensioning spring;
[0040] FIG. 19 is a perspective view, in greater detail, of the
tension spring shown in FIG. 18;
[0041] FIG. 20 is a side view of yet another aspect of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard;
[0042] FIG. 21 is a side view, in greater detail, of the invention
shown in FIG. 20;
[0043] FIG. 22 is a side view of the commode bowl guard
illustrating one embodiment of a tension release mechanism;
[0044] FIG. 23 is a side view of the commode bowl guard shown in
FIG. 22 illustrating use of the tension release mechanism;
[0045] FIG. 24 is a side view of yet another aspect of the commode
bowl cover constructed in accordance with the present invention
provided with a hinge assembly and a locking mechanism;
[0046] FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the commode bowl guard
illustrated in FIG. 24 with the locking mechanism shown in
phantom;
[0047] FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the commode bowl guard shown
in FIG. 24 with the locking mechanism shown in an unlocked
position; and
[0048] FIG. 27 is a side view commode bowl guard illustrated in
FIG. 24 shown in position for placement or removal.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] It should be understood at the outset that although
exemplary implementations of the present invention are illustrated
below, the present invention may be implemented using any number of
techniques whether currently known or in existence. The present
invention should in no way be limited to the exemplary
implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below,
including the exemplary designs and implementations illustrated and
described herein.
[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a commode bowl guard 10 constructed in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention for
covering a bowl portion 12 of a commode 14. Commodes 14 are well
known and are available in a variety of configurations and include
a lid 16, which may have a seat and a seat cover.
[0051] As previously mentioned, commodes 14 frequently require
repair, or are unusable when water or sewer systems are inoperable
or unavailable, such as when the commode is first installed. Under
these circumstances, the commode 14 is without services, such as
water or sewer, and is inoperable. Attempts to use the commode 14
in this condition cause the commode 14 to become unsanitary and
require significant resources to clean and repair the commode 14
once service is provided.
[0052] Furthermore, children and small animals may be injured or
drown by falling into the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14. Also,
objects inadvertently dropped into the bowl portion 12 of the
commode 14 may clog up the commode 14 or the sewer line.
[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates a commode 14 substantially as shown in
FIG. 1 with the lid 16 portion of the commode 14 removed.
Manufacturers of commodes 14 may ship the commodes 14 in several
parts, including a tank 18, the bowl portion 12 and the lid 16.
Prior to installation, the commode parts are assembled. Often, the
lid 16 is not attached until the end of the construction process to
prevent it from being scared or damaged during the construction.
For this reason, toilet covers that utilize the lid 16 are
ineffective in these circumstances.
[0054] The commode bowl guard 10 of the present invention is a
useful device well adapted to address these and other problems
previously discussed. The commode bowl guard 10 of the present
invention is readily adapted for covering the bowl portion 12 of
the commode 14 prior to attachment of the lid 16, and also, as
shown in the present embodiment, is well suited for applications
where the lid 16 has already been attached to the commode 14.
[0055] The commode bowl guard 10 of the present invention is
provided with indicia 20, such as the "out-of-order" warning to
apprise individuals of the inoperable state of the commode 14.
Disposition of the indicia 20 in this manner is useful to warn
individuals of the inoperable condition of the commode 14.
[0056] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the
commode bowl guard 10 for covering the bowl portion 12 of the
commode 14. The commode bowl guard 10 is provided with a cover
plate 22 adapted to cover a section of the bowl portion 12 of the
commode 14 when the commode bowl guard 10 is in an installed
position, substantially as shown.
[0057] The commode bowl guard 10 is provided with a means 30 for
retaining the cover plate 22 disposed over the bowl portion 12 of
the commode 14. The retaining means 30 is adapted to retain the
cover plate 22 disposed to cover at least a section or portion of
the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14.
[0058] It will be appreciated that the bowl portion 12 includes an
inner-bowl area 32 that is substantially defined by a rim 34 of the
bowl portion 12 of the commode 14. As previously mentioned,
commodes 14 and the bowl portion 12 may be of various shapes and
sizes and, for this reason, the commode bowl guard 10 may not
uniformly cover the bowl portion 12 in its entirety. In some
embodiments, the commode bowl guard 10 may covers only a section or
portion of the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14. In the preferred
embodiment, the commode bowl guard 10 is adapted to cover a
significant or substantial portion of the bowl portion 12
sufficient to deter an individual from attempting to use the
commode 14 or easily access the bowl portion 14.
[0059] The commode bowl guard 10 may be constructed from a variety
of materials, such as plastic material, polymeric material,
resilient polystyrene, aluminum and other metallic materials,
cardboard and other paper materials. Furthermore, the commode bowl
guard 10 may be constructed such that the cover plate 22 is
constructed of a substantially polymeric material, while the means
30 for retaining the cover plate 22 is constructed from cardboard
or other material and vice-versa. It will be appreciated that a
variety of combinations of materials may be utilized in this manner
and are well within the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates, in greater detail, the commode bowl
guard 10 shown in FIG. 3. In this view, the cover plate 22 can be
seen as having an upper surface 40 and a lower surface 42. In this
manner, the cover plate 22 is adapted such that the lower surface
42 of the cover plate 22 may rest on a top surface 44 of the rim 34
of the bowl portion 12.
[0061] In one embodiment, the retaining means 30 may be the
formation provided by connecting of the cover plate 22 to a lower
plate 46 about an outer peripheral edge 50 of the lower plate 46.
An upper surface 48 of the lower plate 46 is connected to the lower
surface 42 of the cover plate 22. The connection of the cover plate
22 to the lower plate 46 may be accomplished with a bonding
material, a polymeric or silicone material such as glue, or other
materials well known for accomplishing such bonding connection that
are well known in the art.
[0062] The lower plate 46 and the cover plate 22 may also be
unitarily constructed from a single material, such as cardboard,
injection-molded plastic, other paper or cardboard-like products,
polymeric materials, or other metallic-based products, such that
the cover plate 22 and the lower plate 46 are substantially
unitarily configured. In addition, a plurality of additional plates
52 may be included in other embodiments. As such, the plurality of
additional plates 52 are stackingly configured, or may be unitarily
configured, as previously discussed.
[0063] In this manner, the outer peripheral edge 50 of the lower
plate 46, and the plurality of additional plates 52, are adapted
for positioning adjacent an inner surface of the rim 34. In this
manner, the outer peripheral edge 50 of the lower plate 46 and,
where employed, the plurality of additional plates 52 define the
retaining means 30 for stability and positioning of the commode
bowl guard 10 disposed to cover the bowl portion 12 of the commode
14.
[0064] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the commode bowl guard 10
shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 with the lower plate 46 shown in phantom. It
will be appreciated that while the outer peripheral edge 50 of the
lower plate 46 is configured substantially similar in shape and
configuration to the cover plate 22, the cover plate 22 is larger
in overall size in that the cover plate 22 is provided with a
greater perimeter extending about an outer edge 56 of the cover
plate 22 in relation to the smaller perimeter extending about the
outer peripheral edge 50 of the lower plate 46.
[0065] In other embodiments, the cover plate 22 and the lower plate
46, as well as the plurality of additional plates 52, may be
substantially flat panel members constructed of cardboard and
stackingly attached to one another and bondingly connected. As
such, the cover plate 22 and lower plate 46, and where provided the
plurality of additional plates 52, may be substantially oval,
round, rectangular, triangular, or other useful configurations for
adapting to commodes 14 of various shapes and sizes. The cover
plate 22 is shown having a first end 60 that is generally straight
and a second end 62 that is substantially arcuate for conforming
and covering an arcuate end 64 of the bowl portion 12.
[0066] Yet, in other embodiments, the lower plate 46 and the
plurality of additional plates 52 are not represented as
substantially flat panel members dimensioned similar to the cover
plate 22 extending substantially along the lower surface 42 of the
cover plate 22 and, instead, are considerably smaller plates 66
stacked and attached to the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22
at various points 68 on the lower surface 42 of the cover plate
22.
[0067] FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of of the commode bowl guard
10 showing another embodiment of the lower plate 46 in phantom. In
this embodiment, two lower plates 46 are provided and shown
substantially rectangular in configuration and disposed on the
lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22. The present invention
contemplate a variety of configurations involving one or more lower
plates 46 positioned at various locations to provide stabilizing
and positioning for the cover plate 22 to cover the bowl portion 12
and these configurations are within the spirit and scope of the
present invention.
[0068] Referring also to FIG. 7, a cross-section taken along 7-7 of
FIG. 6 is shown. In this view, the lower plate 46 can be seen as a
substantially unitary stabilizing member which may be constructed
from, for example, cardboard, polymeric material, Styrofoam, or
other materials suitable for these purposes, as previously
discussed. This embodiment uses less materials and is inexpensive
to construct while providing adequate stabilization and positioning
for the commode bowl guard 10. In applications where locking or
securing the commode bowl guard 10 to the commode 14 is
unnecessary, the current embodiment of the commode bowl guard 10
may be useful and inexpensively employed to indicate that the
commode 14 is inoperable and to restrict access to the bowl portion
12 of the commode 14.
[0069] The formation of the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22
and the outer peripheral edge 50 of the lower plate 46 form a notch
70 adapted to receive at least a portion 72 of the rim 34 of the
bowl portion 12. A plurality of configurations of the commode bowl
guard 10 are available and will readily suggest themselves to one
of ordinary skill in the art to form the notch 70 for receiving the
rim 34 and are within the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
[0070] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the commode bowl
guard 10 showing the upper and lower surfaces 40 and 42 of the
cover plate 22 provided with a side wall 80. The sidewall 80 is
shown extending from the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22. In
this manner, the extension of the sidewall 80 from the lower
surface 42 of the cover plate 22 forms the notch 70 adapted to
receive a portion of the rim 34 of the bowl portion 12.
[0071] Thus, it can be readily seen that the sidewall 80 is well
suited to provide positioning and stabilizing support for the
commode bowl guard 10 about the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14.
The sidewall 80 may extend substantially about the lower surface 42
of the cover plate 22 in one embodiment. However, in other
embodiments, the sidewall 80 may be provided as a plurality of
sidewalls 80 extending from the lower surface 42 of the cover plate
22 at various locations and operable for stabilizing and
positioning the commode bowl guard 10 disposed to cover the bowl
portion 12 of the commode 14. On advantage of this construction is
reduction in the amount of materials used and reduced cost by
variously locating and positioning the sidewalls 80.
[0072] It should be appreciated that in the present embodiment, as
shown in FIG. 8, as well as other various embodiments shown herein,
it is within the spirit and scope of the invention that the cover
plate 22 and sidewalls 80 may be constructed from a variety of
materials, such as plastic, polymeric materials, resilient
polystyrene, plastic, aluminum, cardboard and other materials
previously disclosed and discussed herein.
[0073] FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention wherein the cover plate 22 is provided with the upper
surface 40, the lower surface 40 and the sidewall 80 extends
between the upper and lower surfaces 40 and 42 of the cover plate
22. In this embodiment, the commode bowl guard 10 and cover plate
22 may be constructed as a substantially unitary member.
[0074] The formation of the sidewall 80 substantially between the
upper and lower surfaces 40 and 42 of the cover plate 22 form the
notch 70 adapted to receive at least the portion 70 of the rim 34
of the bowl portion 12.
[0075] FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the commode bowl
guard 10 for covering the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14. In
this embodiment, the commode bowl guard 10 includes the cover plate
22 provided with the sidewall 80 extending about at least a portion
of the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22. The sidewall 80, in
this embodiment, is adapted for tensioning engagement by an inner
portion 82 of the rim 34 of the bowl portion 12. In this manner,
the sidewall 80 is tensioningly received by an inner portion 82 of
the rim 34, such that the cover plate 22 substantially covers the
bowl portion 12 of the commode 14.
[0076] Although the sidewall 80 in the currently illustrated
embodiment is shown as being substantially arcuate so as to extend
below the rim portion 34, it should be appreciated that the side
walls 80 may be substantially flat, rounded or angulated for
improved tensioning engagement with the inner portion 82 of the rim
34 and these various configurations are within the spirit and scope
of the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of the
present invention for covering the bowl portion 12 of the commode
14 and further includes a tension-release mechanism 90 adapted to
disengage the tensioning engagement of the sidewall 80 from the
portion of the rim 34 or the inner portion 82 of the rim 82 of the
bowl portion 12 of the commode 14.
[0078] In this embodiment, the tension-release mechanism 90 may be
a scored portion along the upper surface 40 of the cover plate 22
wherein the commode bowl guard 10 may be bent, broken or more
easily disfigured for removal. Such a scoring type tension-release
mechanism 90 may be beneficial where the commode bowl guard 10 is
constructed as a substantially unitary member formed from, for
example, Styrofoam, cardboard, injection-molded polymeric material,
or otherwise such that the commode bowl guard 10 may be snappingly
installed so that the sidewall 80 tensioningly engages the inner
portion 82 of the rim 34.
[0079] As such, the scoring-type tension-release mechanism 90
assists in the removal, such as breaking the Styrofoam along the
scored area for removal purposes. The commode bowl guard 10 of the
present embodiment may be advantageously produced in a mass
manufacture and low-cost environment and installed for on the
commodes 14 for shipment in large numbers. The commode bowl guard
10 would then be removed once the commode 14 is installed and
service has been established.
[0080] FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of the
commode bowl guard 10 constructed in accordance with the present
invention provided with one or more sidewalls 80, which may extend
from the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22. In this manner,
only the necessary amount of materials is utilized to form the
sidewalls 80 for tensioning engagement with the inner portion 82 of
the rim 34 for securing the commode bowl guard 10 to the commode
14. Although the sidewalls 80 are shown oppositely disposed about
the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22, it will be appreciated
that any number of sidewalls 80 may be provided at various points
along the lower surface of the cover plate 22 for tensioningly
engaging the rim portion 82 and are within the spirit and scope of
the present invention.
[0081] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard 10. In this embodiment, the
sidewall 80 is shown extending substantially circumferentially
about the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22. The present
embodiment of the commode bowl guard 10 lends itself towards mass
production in that, for example, it could be readily produced using
cardboard, Styrofoam or injection-molded plastics, and is
light-weight and utilizes a minimum amount of materials for
construction.
[0082] Furthermore, the overall size of the commode bowl guard 10
of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 13, is
advantageous for storage and shipment in that it is designed to be
of minimum height and overall dimension. Furthermore, the commode
bowl guard 10 of the present invention is simple and easy to
install and remove from the commode 14 while the tensioning
engagement of the sidewall 80 with the inner portion 82 of the rim
34 inhibits removal sufficient to deter an individual from
utilizing a commode 14.
[0083] Also, it can be seen that the low profile of the commode
bowl guard 10 will not interfere with commodes 14 that are provided
with lids 16, nor does the commode bowl guard 10 require that the
commode 14 be provided with a lid 16 to operate for its intended
purpose of covering the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14.
[0084] FIG. 14 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard 10 wherein the notch 70 adapted
to receive the portion 72 of the rim 34 is formed in the lower
surface 42 of the cover plate 22. The notch 70 shown in this
embodiment provides greater stability and is readily adapted to
properly orient the cover plate 22 for correct positioning over the
bowl portion 12.
[0085] Referring also to FIG. 15, the notch 70 may also be formed
so as to be substantially arcuate in configuration so as to
tensioningly receive and engage the rim 34 of the bowl portion 12
of the commode 14. In one embodiment, the tension-release mechanism
90 may be a handle or other structure connected to the commode bowl
guard 10 to promote easy removal of the commode bowl guard 10 from
the rim 34. Although the tension-release mechanism 90 shown in the
current embodiment is provided on the upper surface 40 of the cover
plate 22, it will be appreciated that the tension-release mechanism
90 may be provided at various locations about the commode bowl
guard 10 and include a variety of configurations which will readily
suggest themselves to one of ordinary skill in the art and are
within the spirit and scope of the present invention as shown and
disclosed herein.
[0086] FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard 10 for covering the bowl
portion 12 of the commode 14. In the present embodiment, the
sidewall 80 extends from the cover plate 22 and is adapted for
tensioningly engaging an outer portion 92 of the rim 34. In this
manner, the sidewall 80 extends over and covers a portion of the
outer portion 92 of the rim and retains the commode bowl guard 10
disposed so as to cover the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14.
[0087] FIG. 17 illustrates yet another aspect of the present
invention for covering the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14. It
will be appreciated that a number of different configurations may
be adapted and utilized for securing in a tensioning fashion the
commode bowl guard 10, and specifically the cover plate 22 to the
bowl portion of the commode 14. One method of accomplishing this
tension engagement is illustrated wherein the side wall 80 may be
provided on the outer portion 92 or the inner portion 82 of the rim
34 of the bowl portion 12.
[0088] Furthermore, the sidewalls 80 may be provided as coupling
devices, such as brackets or other locking or tensioning mechanisms
extending from the cover plate 22 and adapted for tensioning
engagement with the rim 34. In this manner, the sidewalls 80 may be
brackets for tensioning in a bolting, screwing, threading,
spring-tensioning or other manner well known in the art and
utilized for such purposes. In such configuration, the sidewall 80
may be operably mechanically connectable utilizing a hinge (not
shown) or other configurations operable for disposing the sidewall
80 adjacent the rim 34 for tensioning thereto.
[0089] FIG. 18 illustrates another embodiment of the commode bowl
guard 10 of the present invention for covering the bowl portion 12
of the commode 14. The commode bowl guard 10 is provided with a
cover plate 22 and a plurality of additional plates 52 constructed
from a variety of material, such as, but not limited to, cardboard.
In the present embodiment, the commode bowl guard 10 is provided
with at least a first mechanism 100 connected to the commode bowl
guard 10, such that a portion 102 of the first mechanism 100 is
positionable below at least a portion 104 of the rim 34.
[0090] The first mechanism 100 is operable to inhibit removal of
the commode bowl guard 10 when the commode bowl guard 10 is in an
installed position on the commode 14. It is readily apparent that
the first mechanism 100 tensioningly engages the rim 34 such that
the rim 34 is disposed between the portion 102 of the first
mechanism 100 and the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22. The
first mechanism 100 may be connected to the plurality of additional
plates 52 in a variety of manners, including a seating engagement
within, for example, the cardboard plate 52 and secured with a
bonding or other connection well known in the art and utilized for
such purposes.
[0091] The first mechanism 100 may also be connected between the
plates 52 or attached to a lower surface 106 of the lower plate 52
or other connections suitable for attachment of the first mechanism
100 such that it is adapted for tensioning engagement with a
portion of the rim 104. While the portion 102 of the first
mechanism 100 is shown in contact with the portion 104 below the
rim 34, it is understood that the first mechanism 100 may be
disposed below, but not in contact with, the portion 104 below the
rim 34.
[0092] Referring also to FIG. 19, the first mechanism 100 is shown
in greater detail as a substantially flat member having a first end
110 adapted to be connected to the commode bowl guard 10 and a
second end 112 adapted for positioning below at least a portion of
the rim 104 of the bowl portion 12 of the commode 14. It will be
appreciated that the first mechanism 100 may be provided in various
configurations, such as substantially cylindrical in shape, or as a
substantially hooked or arcuate member, so long as the first
mechanism 100 is adapted and suitable for these purposes.
[0093] The first mechanism 100 may be constructed from aluminum or
other metallic materials, plastic or polymeric materials, or other
substances that are within the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
[0094] FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate another embodiment of the commode
bowl guard 10 of the present invention shown with a cover plate 22
having the first mechanism 100 attached to the lower surface 42 of
the cover plate 22. It will be appreciated that the first mechanism
100 may similarly be attached to the cover plate 22, as shown in
FIG. 18, or may be connected (not shown) to the upper surface 40 of
the cover plate 22 and extend through an opening in the cover plate
22 or angularly bend about the edge of the cover plate 22.
[0095] In the present embodiment, the first mechanism 100 is shown
as being positionable below the portion 104 of the rim 34, such
that the second end 112 of the first mechanism 100 does not contact
the portion 104 of the rim 34 in a tensioning manner. Thus, the
second end 110 of the first mechanism 100 is operable to inhibit
removal of the commode bowl guard 10 when the commode bowl guard 10
is in an installed position on the commode 14.
[0096] Only when an attempt is made to remove the commode bowl
guard 10 will the second end 112 of the first mechanism 100 engage
the portion 104 below the rim 34 to inhibit removal of the commode
bowl guard 10. It will be appreciated that the first mechanism 100
may be a tension spring or other member extendable from the cover
plate 22 for such purposes. In one embodiment(not shown), the first
tension mechanism 100 is formed unitarily form the cover plated 22
such that a portion of the lower surface 42 of the cover plate 22
defines the first tension mechanism 100.
[0097] FIG. 22 illustrates yet another aspect of the present
invention of the commode bowl guard 10 provided with the cover
plate 22 having sidewalls 80 extending therefrom for tensioning
engagement of the sidewalls 80 with the inner portion 82 of the rim
34. In this embodiment, the sidewalls 80 are reinforced by a
stabilizing member 120 extending there between the sidewalls
80.
[0098] The stabilizing member 120 may be constructed of a variety
of materials, as previously discussed, and may be configured
substantially as a shaft or bar extending between the sidewalls 80.
However, the stabilizing member 12 may be a flat plate attached to
the sidewalls 80 and extending substantially below the lower
surface 42 of the cover plate 22. In either embodiment, the
stabilizing member 120 inhibits an untensioning of the sidewalls 80
and further makes removal of the commode bowl guard 10
difficult.
[0099] FIG. 23 illustrates the commode bowl guard 10 substantially
as shown in FIG. 22 with the tension-release mechanism 90 shown as
a key or hook operable for releasing the stabilizing member 120. In
this manner, the tension-release mechanism 90 is operable to
corrupt the stabilizing effect provided by the stabilizing member
120. This may be accomplished in a variety of methods, for example,
such as where the stabilizing member 120 is a cardboard, plastic or
Styrofoam bar or shaft extending between the sidewalls 80, the
tension-release mechanism 90 may be a key operably extendable
through the cover plate 22 and having a hooked-end adapted to hook
and break or bend the stabilizing member 120 upwardly or downwardly
relative to the cover plate 22.
[0100] Where the stabilizing member 120 is a substantially flat
plate, the stabilizing member 120 may be provided with a scored
portion, such that the hooked end 122 of the tension-release
mechanism 90 projects through an opening in the stabilizing member
120 and is adapted to be turned such the hooked end 122 comes into
contact with the scored portion of the stabilizing member 120 for
bending the stabilizing member 120 upward. It will be appreciated
that a variety of different configurations can be utilized as a
stabilizing member 120 and a tension-release mechanism 90 for the
purposes herein and are within the spirit and scope of the present
invention as disclosed and claimed herein. In this manner, the
tension-release mechanism 90 releases the reinforcing effect of the
stabilizing member 120 on the sidewalls 80 and promotes removal of
the commode bowl guard 10 from the commode 14.
[0101] FIG. 24 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the
commode bowl guard 10 of the present invention. Referring also to
FIG. 25, the commode bowl guard 10 is provided with a first section
130 and a second section 132 connected by a hinge 134. The commode
bowl guard 10 of the present invention is further provided with a
latch 136 connected to the first section 130 of the cover plate 22.
The latch 136 is connected to the first section 130 via a connector
138, which may be a screw or a nut and bolt or other connector
operable for connecting the latch 136 to the first section 130 of
the cover plate 22.
[0102] The latch 136 is operable to swivel and lock the first
section 130 to the second section 132 to inhibit hinging movement
of the hinge 134 between the first and second sections 130 and 132
of the cover plate 22. The first section 130 of the cover plate 22
is provided with a first bracket 138 adapted to receive an inner
portion 82 of the rim 34 of the bowl portion 12 to inhibit removal
of the commode bowl guard 10.
[0103] Similarly, the second section 132 is provided with a second
bracket 140 adapted to receive an inner portion 82 of the rim 34 of
the bowl portion 12 to inhibit removal of the commode bowl guard 10
from the commode 14. It will be appreciated that the first and
second brackets 138 and 140 may be provided along various positions
on the first and second sections 130 and 132 of the cover plate 22.
Furthermore, the first and second brackets 138 and 140 may be sized
so as to extend about a significant portion of the first and second
sections 130 and 132 of the cover plate 22.
[0104] In another embodiment (not shown), the first and second
brackets 138 and 140 extend from the cover plate so as to be
positionable about the outer portion 92 of the rim 34 for
tensioning engagement of the outer portion 92 of the rim 34 of the
bowl portion 12.
[0105] The latch 136 may be provided with a handle portion (not
shown) extending therethrough the cover plate 22 so as to promote
easy latching and unlatching by an individual. As such, the handle
portion may be removable to prevent removal of the commode bowl
guard 10. Furthermore, the latch 136, while shown substantially
adjacent to the lower surface 42 of the cover plate, may be
disposed substantially adjacent the upper surface 40 of the cover
plate 22.
[0106] FIG. 26 illustrates a top view of the commode bowl guard 10
shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 with the latch 136 shown in an unlocked
position substantially parallel to the hinge 134. Referring also to
FIG. 27, it is readily apparent that when the latch 136 is in an
unlocked position that the hinge is operably adapted to promote a
folding motion of the first and second sections 130 and 132 of the
cover plate 22 and thereby disengage the first and second brackets
138 and 140 from the engagement with the inner portion 82 of the
rim 34 of the bowl portion 12.
[0107] Thus, the commode bowl guard 10 of the present embodiment is
attachable to the commode 14 and detachable from the commode while
the latch 136 is in an unlocked position. Once the commode bowl
guard 10 is disposed such that the first and second brackets 138
and 140 engaged the inner portion 82 of the rim 34, the latch 136
may be placed in a locked position (as shown in FIG. 25) to inhibit
removal of the commode bowl guard 10 from the commode 14. It will
be appreciated that a variety of locking mechanisms and hinging
configurations, which may include more than one hinge and more than
the first and second sections 130 and 132 comprising the cover
plate, may be utilized for the present purposes and are within the
spirit and scope of the present invention as disclosed and claimed
herein.
[0108] Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in
accordance with the present invention, a commode bowl guard for
covering a bowl portion of a commode to prevent access to the bowl
portion of the commode that satisfies one or more of the advantages
set forth above. Although various embodiments have been described
in detail, it should be understood that various changes,
substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing
from the scope of the present invention, even if all of the
advantages identified are not present. For example, the various
embodiments shown in the drawings herein illustrate that the
present invention may be implemented and embodied in a variety ways
that still fall within the scope of the present invention.
[0109] Also, the techniques, designs, elements, and methods
described and illustrated in the preferred embodiment as discrete
or separate may be combined or integrated with other techniques,
designs, elements, or methods without departing from the scope of
the invention. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and
alterations are readily ascertainable by one skilled in the art and
could be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention.
* * * * *