U.S. patent application number 11/117903 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-02 for disposable personal spa apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.. Invention is credited to Gregory K. Hall.
Application Number | 20060242758 11/117903 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36695025 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060242758 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hall; Gregory K. |
November 2, 2006 |
Disposable personal spa apparatus
Abstract
A disposable spa apparatus has a flexible laminate from which
liquid such as water may be emitted. The laminate is bonded to form
channels, and may be connected to a pre-pressurized liquid supply.
The apparatus may be used in the shower or bath, and may have a
dispenser for dispensing additives into the liquid before it is
emitted from the apparatus.
Inventors: |
Hall; Gregory K.; (Menasha,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.
401 NORTH LAKE STREET
NEENAH
WI
54956
US
|
Assignee: |
Kimberly-Clark Worldwide,
Inc.
|
Family ID: |
36695025 |
Appl. No.: |
11/117903 |
Filed: |
April 29, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
4/601 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 3/28 20130101; E03C
1/0408 20130101; A61H 2009/0035 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/601 |
International
Class: |
A47K 3/28 20060101
A47K003/28 |
Claims
1. A disposable liquid delivery apparatus that uses liquid from a
pre-pressurized liquid supply, the apparatus comprising: a laminate
comprising a flexible back sheet of liquid impervious material that
is bonded to a flexible front sheet of liquid impervious material
to form at least one channel, wherein the flexible front sheet
defines a body-facing surface and the flexible back sheet defines a
rear surface; the front sheet defining a plurality of apertures
therethrough in communication with the at least one channel, and a
node attached to the laminate so that it is in liquid communication
with at least one of the at least one channel, wherein the liquid
can flow into the node and exit from the plurality of
apertures.
2. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the
flexible front sheet comprises a film.
3. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the
flexible front sheet comprises a foam or a nonwoven.
4. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the
flexible back sheet and the flexible front sheet each have a basis
weight of about 5 gsm to about 500 gsm.
5. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the
flexible back sheet and the flexible front sheet each have a basis
weight of about 50 gsm to about 250 gsm.
6. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 further
comprising a storage member attached to the body-facing surface of
the apparatus.
7. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 further
comprising a removable blocking member for selectively blocking the
flow of fluid in the at least one channel.
8. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 8 wherein the
blocking member is a clip.
9. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 further
comprising a hose connector for distributing fluid from the liquid
supply to the node.
10. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 9 further
comprising a dispenser that is in fluid communication with the
pre-pressurized liquid supply for supplying additives to the liquid
prior to exiting the at least one channel.
11. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 10 wherein
the additives are selected from the group consisting of soap,
detergent, medication, dyes, perfumes, water conditioners,
antibacterial agents, and fungicides.
12. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 further
comprising a diverting valve is attached to the pre-pressurized
liquid supply for selectively diverting water to the apparatus.
13. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 further
comprising a securement member adapted for attaching the apparatus
to a fixed structure.
14. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the
apparatus is a shower curtain.
15. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the
apparatus is a bathing mat.
16. The disposable liquid delivery apparatus of claim 1 further
comprising indicia on the body-facing surface.
17. A personal hygiene kit for delivering liquid to a body for the
purpose of bathing, the kit comprising: a disposable liquid
delivery apparatus comprising: a laminate comprising a flexible
back sheet of liquid impervious material that is bonded to a
flexible front sheet of liquid impervious material to form at least
one channel, wherein the flexible front sheet defines a body-facing
surface and the flexible back sheet defines a rear surface, and
wherein the flexible front sheet has a thickness of 0.01 to 0.5 mm;
the front sheet defining a plurality of apertures therethrough in
communication with the at least one channel, and a node attached to
the laminate so that it is in liquid communication with one or more
of the at least one channel, wherein the liquid can flow into the
node and exit from the plurality of apertures; a liquid supply hose
adapted for connecting the node to the liquid supply; and at least
one securement member adapted for selectively attaching the
disposable liquid delivery apparatus to a fixed structure.
18. The personal hygiene kit of claim 17 wherein the at least one
securement member is a shower caddy.
19. The personal hygiene kit of claim 17 further comprising a
dispenser connected to the disposable liquid delivery apparatus and
in liquid communication with the liquid supply so that it is
adapted for dispensing an additive into the liquid supply.
20. The personal hygiene kit of claim 19 further comprising an
additive selected from the group consisting of soap, detergent,
medication, dyes, perfumes, water conditioners, antibacterial
agents, and fungicides.
21. A disposable liquid delivery apparatus that can receive a
supply of pre-pressurized liquid, the apparatus comprising: a
laminate comprising a flexible back sheet of liquid impervious
material that is bonded to a flexible front sheet of liquid
impervious material to form at least one channel, wherein the
flexible front sheet defines a body-facing surface and the flexible
back sheet defines a rear surface; the front sheet defining a
plurality of apertures therethrough in communication with the at
least one channel, and a node attached to the laminate so that it
is in liquid communication with at least one of the at least one
channel, wherein the liquid can flow into the node and exit from
the plurality of apertures; a hose connector that can be attached
between the node and the supply of pre-pressurized liquid; and and
wherein the flexible back sheet and the flexible front sheet each
have a thickness of about 0.02 mm to about 0.3 mm, and a basis
weight of about 20 gsm to about 300 gsm.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a spa apparatus, and more
particularly, the present invention relates to a portable,
disposable spa apparatus that may be used to spray the body with
water in the tub or shower.
[0002] Using a shower or bath having a spray of water emitted from
a relatively large surface area is relaxing and pleasurable. In
more recent years, it has become popular to install multiple shower
heads and shower spray spas in the home, for example products
available from Kohler Co. such as the KOHLER BodySpa products.
Considering the cost of the apparatus and the need for plumbing
work, this activity can be cost prohibitive for some, especially if
more than one bathroom is fitted with such plumbing. Further,
persons that live in rented housing may find it difficult to
install and use spa apparatuses that require special plumbing.
[0003] Several attempts at portable and more affordable spa
apparatuses have been made that may alleviate the inconvenience and
cost of installing multiple shower heads or spray units. One such
apparatus is a rigid pad that has channels with orifices for
spraying water outwardly from one surface of the pad. Water is
supplied from a hose connected to a residential water supply.
Another such apparatus is a flexible pad that is permanently
attached to a pump housing. The pad has orifices for spraying water
outwardly from a pad surface. The pump further pressurizes water
supplied to the apparatus from a residential water supply.
[0004] However, such attempts have not been completely
satisfactory. Both apparatuses are meant to be used for an extended
period of time, and possibly stored between uses. Each such spa
apparatus is used in a moist environment and the interior surfaces
of the water channels may not be accessible without disassembling
and possibly destroying the apparatus. Storing used spa apparatuses
that may not or cannot completely dry invites mold and bacteria
overgrowth. Therefore, unless the user is willing to be
inconvenienced by cleaning these portable apparatuses, what
initially may be a pleasurable bathing experience may turn into a
concerning and unhealthy experience if mold or bacteria is being
transferred to the body and the bath environment.
[0005] Accordingly, despite the attempts to develop portable shower
spas, there remains a need for an apparatus that can provide a
spray of water in the tub or shower without the need for extensive
cleaning of the apparatus. Moreover, there remains a need for an
affordable spa apparatus.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In response to the difficulties and problems discussed
above, a new shower spa apparatus has been discovered. In one
aspect, the present invention concerns a disposable liquid delivery
apparatus that uses water from pre-pressurized liquid supply. The
apparatus includes a laminate made from a flexible back sheet of
liquid impervious material that is bonded to a flexible front sheet
of liquid impervious material to form at least one channel. The
flexible front sheet defines a body-facing surface and the flexible
back sheet defines a rear surface. The front sheet further defines
a plurality of apertures therethrough in communication with the at
least one channel. A node is attached to the laminate so that it is
in liquid communication with at least one channel, allowing liquid
to flow into the node and exit from the plurality of apertures.
[0007] In another aspect, the present invention concerns a personal
hygiene kit for delivering liquid to a body for the purpose of
bathing. The kit may include a disposable liquid delivery
apparatus. The apparatus is made from a laminate formed by a
flexible back sheet of liquid impervious material bonded to a
flexible front sheet of liquid impervious material. The bond forms
at least one channel in the laminate. The flexible front sheet has
a thickness of 0.01 to 0.5 mm and defines a body-facing surface.
The front sheet defines a plurality of apertures therethrough in
communication with the at least one channel. The flexible back
sheet defines a rear surface. A node is attached to the laminate so
that it is in liquid communication with one or more channel,
allowing liquid to flow into the node and exit from the plurality
of aperture. A liquid supply hose is adapted for connecting the
node to the liquid supply. Further at least one securement member
is adapted for selectively attaching the disposable liquid delivery
apparatus to a fixed structure.
[0008] In yet another aspect, the present invention concerns a
disposable liquid delivery apparatus that can receive a supply of
pre-pressurized liquid. The apparatus includes a laminate with a
flexible back sheet of liquid impervious material that is bonded to
a flexible front sheet of liquid impervious material to form at
least one channel. The flexible back sheet and the flexible front
sheet each have a thickness of about 0.02 mm to about 0.3 mm, and a
basis weight of about 20 gsm to about 300 gsm. The flexible front
sheet defines a body-facing surface and the flexible back sheet
defines a rear surface. The front sheet further defines a plurality
of apertures therethrough in communication with the channel. A node
is attached to the laminate so that it is in liquid communication
with one or more channel. A hose connector is attached between the
node and the supply of pre-pressurized liquid. Liquid can flow into
the node from the hose connector and exit from the plurality of
apertures.
[0009] It is understood that both the foregoing general description
and the following detailed description are exemplary and are
intended to provide further explanation of the invention claimed.
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute
part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide
a further understanding of particular embodiments of the article of
the present invention. Together with the description, the drawings
serve to explain the various aspects of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The present invention will be more fully understood and
further advantages will become apparent when reference is made to
the following detailed description of the invention and the
accompanying drawings wherein like numerals represent like
elements. The drawings are merely representative and are not
intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.
[0011] FIG. 1. representatively shows a front perspective view of
one example of a spa apparatus of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 2. representatively shows a partial section view of the
spa apparatus of FIG. 1, taken along line 2-2;
[0013] FIG. 3. representatively shows a partial side view of an
alternate configuration of the spa apparatus, with portions of the
apparatus partially cut away to show node in communication with a
channel.
[0014] FIG. 4. representatively shows a front perspective view of
another example of a spa apparatus of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 5. representatively shows a partial perspective view of
the spa apparatus shown in FIG. 4, with portions of the apparatus
shown in phantom to illustrate a node connected to a supply hose
and in communication with channels;
[0016] FIG. 6. representatively shows a front perspective view of
yet another example of a spa apparatus of the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 7. representatively shows a partial front perspective
view of yet another example of a spa apparatus of the present
invention that includes a shower caddy;
[0018] FIG. 8. representatively shows a front perspective view of a
further example of a spa apparatus of the present invention that
may function as a shower curtain;
[0019] FIG. 9. representatively shows a plan view of yet another
example of a spa apparatus of the present invention that may
function as a bathing mat.
[0020] FIG. 10a. representatively shows a side elevation view of
one example of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 9; and
[0021] FIG. 10b. representatively shows a bottom elevation view of
the dispenser shown in FIG. 10a.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The present disclosure of the invention will be expressed in
terms of its various components, elements, constructions,
configurations, arrangements and other features that may also be
individually or collectively be referenced by the term, "aspect(s)"
of the invention, or other similar terms. It is contemplated that
the various forms of the disclosed invention may incorporate one or
more of its various features and aspects, and that such features
and aspects may be employed in any desired, operative combination
thereof.
[0023] It should also be noted that, when employed in the present
disclosure, the terms "comprises", "comprising" and other
derivatives from the root term "comprise" are intended to be
open-ended terms that specify the presence of any stated features,
elements, integers, steps, or components, and are not intended to
preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,
elements, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.
[0024] Within the context of this specification, each term or
phrase below includes the following meaning or meanings:
[0025] "Attach" and its derivatives refer to the joining, adhering,
connecting, bonding, sewing together, or the like, of two elements.
Two elements will be considered to be attached together when they
are integral with one another or attached directly to one another
or indirectly to one another, such as when each is directly
attached to intermediate elements. "Attach" and its derivatives
include permanent, releasable, or refastenable attachment. In
addition, the attachment can be completed either during the
manufacturing process or by the end user.
[0026] "Bond" and its derivatives refer to the joining; adhering,
connecting, attaching, sewing together, or the like, of two
elements. Two elements will be considered to be bonded together
when they are bonded directly to one another or indirectly to one
another, such as when each is directly bonded to intermediate
elements. "Bond" and its derivatives include permanent, releasable,
or refastenable bonding.
[0027] "Connect" and its derivatives refer to the joining,
adhering, bonding, attaching, sewing together, or the like, of two
elements. Two -elements will be considered to be connected together
when they are connected directly to one another or indirectly to
one another, such as when each is directly connected to
intermediate elements. "Connect" and its derivatives include
permanent, releasable, or refastenable connection. In addition, the
connecting can be completed either during the manufacturing process
or by the end user.
[0028] "Disposable" refers to articles which are intended to be
discarded after limited use and which are not intended to be
laundered or otherwise restored for use.
[0029] The terms "disposed on," "disposed along," or "disposed
toward" and variations thereof are intended to mean that one
element can be integral with another element, or that one element
can be a separate structure bonded to or placed with or placed near
another element.
[0030] "Layer" when used in the singular can have the dual meaning
of a single element or a plurality of elements.
[0031] "Liquid impermeable," when used in describing a layer or
multi-layer laminate means that liquid, such as water, will not
pass through the layer or laminate, under ordinary use conditions,
in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the layer or
laminate at the point of liquid contact.
[0032] "Liquid permeable" refers to any material that is not liquid
impermeable.
[0033] "Nonwoven" and "nonwoven web" refer to materials and webs of
material that are formed without the aid of a textile weaving or
knitting process. For example, nonwoven materials, fabrics or webs
have been formed from many processes such as, for example,
meltblowing processes, spunbonding processes, air laying processes,
and bonded carded web processes.
[0034] These terms may be defined with additional language in the
remaining portions of the specification.
[0035] The present invention is directed to providing a disposable
spa apparatus that can be used in a shower, bath or similar
setting. The spa apparatus may be used in the shower as a shower
curtain or a shower or tub wall covering that provides one or more
streams of water for wetting, washing and/or massaging the body.
The spa apparatus may also be used in a horizontal position by
placing it on a bath tub floor, a shower floor, shower ceiling or
the like.
[0036] FIGS. 1 through 10b representatively illustrate an example
of a disposable spa apparatus, as generally indicated at 10, of the
present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the spa apparatus 10 may be
removably attached to a shower wall surface 11. Spa apparatus 10
includes a laminate 12 generally formed from a back sheet 14 and a
front sheet 16. Desirably, each sheet 14 and 16 is made from a
liquid impervious material which is flexible so that it may be
rolled up or folded for packaging or storage.
[0037] Back sheet 14 may be from film and nonwovens as described
below, or laminate combinations thereof. For example, back sheet 14
may be a separate sheet of film made from the following materials,
including but not limited to: vinyl (polyvinyl chloride or other),
polyolefin (such as polyethylene, polyethylene copolymers,
polypropylene, single-site catalyzed polyethylene and others),
polylactic acid, polystyrene, styrenic block copolymers (such as
Styrene-Isoprene-Styrene, Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene,
Styrene-Ethylene-Propylene-Styrene, and
Styrene-Ethlyene-Butylene-Styrene), polyurethanes, polyesters,
polyamides such as Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6, Nylon 6/10, etc.), polyether
amides, Vinyl acetate polymers (such as Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), or
blends thereof. In the alternative, sheet 14 could be a foam made
from one or more of the above-listed materials.
[0038] Alternatively, backsheet 14 may be a separate sheet of
nonwoven material made from the following materials, including but
not limited to: spunbonded nonwoven, carded nonwoven, meltblown
nonwoven, hydroentangled nonwoven and laminates such as the
spunbond-meltblown and spunbond-meltblown-spunbond laminates such
as are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,041,203 and 4,766,029 to Brock
et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,169,706 to Collier et al., all of which
are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties, to the
extent that they do not present a conflict.
[0039] In a further alternative, backsheet 14 may be a separate
sheet of nonwoven/film laminate made from a combination of the
materials listed above.
[0040] It is understood that those skilled in the art of nonwoven
or film making appreciate that additives such as process aids,
colorants, anti-microbials, inorganic fillers and other ingredients
may be added to the polymer or other blends for reasons of quality,
function or aesthetics. Further, it may be suitable to deliver the
film as a multi-layered coextruded or coated structure to prevent
blocking, facilitate handling, or provide a surface texture or feel
that is desirable to the user of the device. The laminate 12 may be
entirely or partially treated to resist or prevent fungus and
bacteria growth, or may be made from materials which have a
material resistance to such growths.
[0041] Front sheet 16 may be any one of the films, nonwovens,
combined laminates or foams as described herein for back sheet 14.
However, if back sheet 14 and front sheet 16 are made from
identical materials, back sheet 14 may be integrally connected to
front sheet 16 along a fold line, or may be integrally connected
along two fold lines to form a flattened tube. Thus, in
manufacture, the stock from which sheet 14 and sheet 16 are derived
may be two separate webs, a single web, or tube stock.
[0042] The materials from which sheets 14, 16 may be made can vary
in thickness and basis weight. Back sheet 14 and/or front sheet 16
may have a thickness of about 0.01 millimeters (mm) to about 5 mm.
More suitably, sheet 14 and/or 16 may have a thickness of about
0.01 mm to about 0.5 mm; even more suitably, sheet 14 and/or 16 may
have a thickness of about 0.02 mm to about 0.3 mm; and most
suitably, sheet 14 and/or 16 may, have a thickness of about 0.05 mm
to about 0.2 mm. The back sheet 14 and/or front sheet 16 may have a
basis weight of about 5 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 5000
gsm. More suitably, sheet 14 and/or 16 may have a basis weight of
about 5 gsm to about 500 gsm; even more suitably, sheet 14 and/or
16 may have a basis weight of about 20 gsm to about 300 gsm; and
most suitably, sheet 14 and/or 16 may have a basis weight of about
50 gsm to about 250 gsm.
[0043] Back sheet 14 and front sheet 16 each have an inner surface
18 and an outer surface 20. Inner surfaces 18 of each sheet 14 and
16 are placed together and the sheet 14 and sheet 16 are then
permanently bonded together over selected areas to form laminate
12. Bonding may be achieved thermally, ultrasonically, by use of
adhesives, high pressure, combinations thereof, or the like. For
example, patterned embossing rolls or calendar rolls may be used.
The resulting laminate has a rear surface that coincides with back
sheet 14, and a body-facing surface that coincides with front sheet
16.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 2, bonding laminate 12 over only select
areas will create bonded portions 21, and unbonded portions that
define one or more channels 22. Dead portions 23 may also be formed
(see FIG. 4). Dead portions are channels or unbonded sections that
are completely surrounded by bonded portions 21. It is desirable
that no liquid enter or exit a dead portion.
[0045] Channels 22 may have at least one aperture formed in sheet
16 so that it is open to channel 22. The purpose of each aperture
is to allow liquid to exit channel 22 at the body-facing surface of
laminate 12. If channel 22 does not include an aperture extending
through front sheet 12, it may instead fill with liquid so that it
appears raised. This may be used as a desired aesthetic effect as
discussed herein.
[0046] Sheets 14 and 16 may have a variety of configurations, and
the embodiments of laminate 12 as shown in FIGS. 1-9 are not meant
to encompass all the overall possible shapes of laminate 12. For
instance, laminate 12 may be irregular, round, oval, triangular,
novelty-shaped (e.g., animal), hourglass shaped, etc. In addition,
it is not critical to have laminate sheets 14 and 16 overlap so
that outer side edges 17 and top edges 19 are aligned with respect
to each edge of sheet 14 and 16.
[0047] Each channel 22 is designed to receive liquid (e.g. water),
most desirably from a pre-pressurized source. By the term
"pressurized," it is meant that the liquid emanates from a source
having a pressure greater than ambient pressure, such as a
residential or municipal water supply, or the like. The liquid,
such as water, is then pressurized before it reaches the apparatus
10. The liquid may be pressurized by an external pump mechanism or
by gravity, e.g. an overhead tank.
[0048] The size of each channel 22, and the number and sizes of
each aperture 24 located on each channel 22 are factors which
influence the pressure at which liquid exits laminate 12. Several
liquid streams simultaneously striking the body at various points
may be more desirable than one or two streams. Further, liquid
streams exiting at higher-pressures may provide a more satisfying
spa experience. However, if the liquid exits apparatus 10 at too
high of a pressure, it may irritate sensitive skin. If the liquid
exits apparatus 10 at too low of a pressure, the person may find it
necessary to stand uncomfortably close to the body-facing surface
of laminate 12, or the liquid may not be able to satisfactorily
strike the body at all. In the alternative, it may be desirable to
have more of a mist of small liquid droplets than a continuous
liquid stream. The apertures may be sized and/or configured to
produce such a mist.
[0049] With respect to each channel 22, the number and or size of
aperture(s) 24 is inversely proportional to the pressure at which
liquid can exit channels 22 given a constant liquid supply pressure
and total channel volume. The flexibility of the sheets 14 and 16
can also affect pressure. If the sheets 14, 16 can stretch, this
may inversely affect the pressure at which liquid can exit channels
22.
[0050] Referring now to the various embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-9,
it is seen that channels 22 may have various configurations. For
example, channels 22 may be straight or curved, and may be used to
form functional and/or aesthetic designs. The embodiment of FIGS. 1
and 5 are relatively simple designs which include a few straight
channels emanating downward from a node 28 (as described herein).
As seen in FIGS. 7 and 9, some designs have a main channel 22m in
communication with a node 28, with branched channels 22b extending
from the main channel 22m.
[0051] The embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-9 vary in the degree to
which they are both functional and aesthetic. By way of example, as
seen in FIG. 6, the channels 22 may appear to some viewers as a
funny face design, yet have features that correspond with body
parts such as the chest, torso and arms. In FIG. 9, the channels 22
form a pleasing design while possibly providing some cushioning
when used as a bathing mat.
[0052] For any embodiment of the present invention, apertures 24
may be staggered, aligned with each other or even randomly
positioned along the channels 22, keeping in mind the desired water
pressure. Apertures 24 may be strategically placed along channels
22 to correspond with the users body. For example, the apertures
may correspond with certain acupressure sites or body parts. For
relatively long channels, such as channel 22a shown in FIG. 6, it
is likely that relatively few apertures will be desirable along its
length to prevent the liquid pressure from dissipating too quickly.
Thus, for some designs, each channel 22 may contain very few
apertures 24, or no apertures at all. However, to relieve pressure
buildup within the laminate 12, it is most desirable that at least
one channel 22 has at least one aperture 24. For ease of
illustration, not all possible apertures are shown in FIGS. 1-9
[0053] So that water may be directed into channels 22, it is
desirable to connect at least one channel 22 to a common manifold
or liquid distribution node 28. Referring to FIG. 3, node 28 may be
as simple as a cylindrically shaped hose connector 32 having an
exterior or interior thread at a distal end for selective
attachment to a threaded hose, and an outwardly extending flange 34
at a proximal end for connection to the front sheet 16. In the
alternative, node 28 may be constructed from a pair of sheet
members 140 that straddle laminate 12, see FIG. 9. In particular, a
first sheet member is disposed onto a second sheet member and
sealed to form a cavity between the sheet members 140 as it
partially straddles laminate 12. A portion of a tubular member 142
is disposed between the pair of sheet members 140 and secured
thereto by adhesives or another type of bond so that a liquid
supply hose may be connected to tubular member 142 and a
pre-pressurized liquid supplied to the laminate 12. It is also
contemplated that sheet member 140 and tubular member 142 may be
made integrally, such as by a casting or injection molded process.
Other types of connectors or more complex manifolds may be
suitable.
[0054] Apparatus 10 may have more than one node 28 to accommodate
more than one liquid supply source or supply line 26, e.g. from a
bathtub spout and an outlet supply line. Node 28 may be constructed
from materials such as nylon, plastic or metal.
[0055] A liquid supply hose 30 is connected between node 28 and
supply line 26 so that liquid, e.g. water, may flow from the supply
line 26 to node 28, from node 28 to channels 22, and exit the
channels 22 at aperture(s) 24. As seen in FIG. 1, liquid supply
hose 30 may have a collar 36 for connecting the hose 30 between an
outlet (e.g. shower head, faucet or the like) and a liquid supply
line 26. Alternatively, instead of a collar 36, a hose adaptor for
a tub spout may be used as is known in the art, for example, a
rubber collar that attaches to a tub spout for supplying water to a
handheld shower. A diverter valve 40 may be attached to collar 36
for diverting the liquid from the liquid outlet to hose 30, and
vice versa. In the alternative, or as an addition, hose 30 may
further include a shut-off valve 38 located between node 28 and
collar 36 (or at collar 36) to allow water to simultaneously flow
into the apparatus 10 and an outlet such as a shower head, or
prohibit liquid from flowing to apparatus 10 while still allowing
liquid to flow to the outlet. Liquid supply hose 30 may be made
from materials such nylon, vinyl, reinforced PVC, flexible
metal-clad PVC, or the like. The collar 36 and hose 30 may be
referred to in combination as a "supply hose."
[0056] Referring to FIG. 1, laminate bonded portions 21 may be
aesthetically enhanced by printing, embossing or the like. For
example, one or more indicia 42 may be embossed or printed onto
laminate 12 so that the indicia is visible from the body-facing
surface. As shown in FIG. 1, indicia 42 is a floral design meant to
enhance the look of apparatus 10. However, indicia 42 could instead
be informational, portray brand information, or the like. Indicia
42 may also be disposed on outer surface 20 so that it overlaps or
enhances the appearance of channels 22 (not shown).
[0057] Referring to the embodiment of the present invention as seen
in FIG. 4, an area comprising the laminate bonded portions 21 and
or dead portions 23 may be large enough that these portions may
include storage members. For example, one or a variety of storage
members such as pockets 50 may be attached to any convenient
portion of the body-facing surface of laminate 12. Pockets 50 may
be made of transparent vinyl, mesh fabrics, or any of the materials
from which sheet 14 and 16 are made. The pockets 50 may have some
type of drain (aperture) so that any liquid getting into the
pockets may drain out. Other types of storage members may include
loops 52, hook and loop straps (not shown) or the like. Further,
storage members may include bonded portions 21 or dead portions 23
that are partially or completely slit, cut or physically altered to
provide storage.
[0058] Apparatus 10 may be suspended from a fixed structure or used
horizontally on a floor as a bathing mat or on the ceiling as an
overhead shower. If suspension is desired, such as for use in a
shower, a variety of securement members may be used as demonstrated
by the various embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4-8. For
instance, in embodiment shown in FIG. 1, suction cups 54 are used
to hang laminate 12 adjacent a shower wall. Suction cups 54 may be
permanently or removably attached to each corner 56 of laminate 12
either by hooks, adhesives, thermal bonds, clips or the like. More
or less suction cups may be used, and suction cups 54 may be
attached to different portions of laminate in addition to or
instead of corners 56.
[0059] The securement member as seen in the embodiment of FIG. 4 is
a rope member 58 that connects to a support member such as a dowel
60. Dowel 60 may be made from a rigid, water resistant materials
such as plastic, wood or metal. Rope member 58 may be tied to
opposite exposed ends of dowel 60 (shown) or threaded through
apertures located at each end of dowel 60 and knotted (not
shown).
[0060] The securement member as seen in the embodiment of FIG. 6 is
a double-ended hook member 64 that engages a fixed structure such
as supply line 26 at one end and at an opposite end, attaches to a
loop member (shown) or aperture (not shown) located an upper end of
laminate 12.
[0061] The securement member as seen in the embodiment of FIG. 7 is
a shower caddy 70. Shower caddy 70 may be of any configuration, and
includes attachment members such as arms 72. As shown by way of
example, a pair of arms 72 may selectively connect to corresponding
sleeves 73 extending from an upper end portion 76 of laminate 12.
Sleeves 73 are loops of material (for example, the material from
which sheet 14 or 16 is made) that is attached to laminate 12
either integrally or by a bond such as a thermal bond or the like.
Of course, hooks, clips or the like may also be used as attachment
members for selectively connecting the laminate 12 to shower caddy
70. A hook 78 or the like may be used to hang shower caddy 70 from
a fixed structure. Shower caddy 70 may be made of a variety of
materials as is known in the art.
[0062] The securement member as seen in the embodiment of FIG. 8 is
a set of shower curtain rings 80 that attach through corresponding
apertures (not shown) at the top edge portion 82 of laminate 12. In
this embodiment, laminate 12 functions as a shower curtain. Shower
curtain rings 80 are attached to a shower curtain rod 84 as in
known in the art.
[0063] It may be suitable to apply coatings to one or more surfaces
of the laminate 12. If the present invention is used horizontally
as a bathing mat such as shown in FIG. 9, it may be desirable to
include a non-slip coating or the like on the rear surface of
laminate 12 so that it can resist sliding on the tub or shower
surface. If the laminate 12 is used on a floor, wall or ceiling, a
releasable adhesive coating may be applied to the laminate so it
can temporarily adhere to these surfaces.
[0064] Each embodiment of laminate 12 may be configured such that
one portion of the laminate 12 is positioned in one plane, and
other portion(s) of the laminate 12 are position in another plane
or planes (not shown). For example, in a tub, the laminate 12 could
have side sections that attach to the tub side surfaces, and a
bottom section that attaches to the tub floor. This may be useful,
for example, for providing an aromatherapy mist/spray, or for
general bathing. Alternatively, a portion of a laminate 12 used as
a shower bathing mat may be positioned on the shower wall, and the
remaining portion of the laminate 12 on the shower floor. This may
be useful, for example, for shaving legs and washing feet.
[0065] Weights 90 may be used in any of the embodiments to
stabilize the apparatus 10 and/or cause apparatus 10 to hang
straight, especially before its initial use. By way of example, in
the embodiment of FIG. 6, a series of weights (e.g. metal disks)
may be disposed between the sheets 14 and 16 near a bottom portion
92 of laminate 12. In another example as seen in FIG. 4, a dowel 90
is slideably contained within a sleeve 94 located at the bottom
portion 92 of laminate 12. Sleeve 94 may be in addition to laminate
12 or may be formed between sheets 14 and 16. Alternatively, a
channel 22, with or without apertures, may be used to add weight to
a desired location of the laminate. Other weights may be used
anywhere in the surface of laminate 12, as desired.
[0066] It may further be desirable to prohibit liquid from exiting
a portion of at least one of the channels 22. A blocking member may
be used to prohibit the liquid flow, the blocking member being a
clip, press bar or the like, For example, in the embodiment of the
present invention shown in FIG. 4, a large clip 100 is mechanically
biased to prohibit liquid from flowing in channels 22 "downstream"
of clip 100. Optionally, a slot 98 may be cut through a bonded
portion 21 (and or dead portion 23) that is in relatively close
proximity to one or more channels 22. The clip 100 may be disposed
in slot 98 so that the user may selectively move clip 100 along one
or more channels 22 in a slot direction 102. The advantage slot 98
provides is that a shorter clip may be used. Of course, many other
arrangements of slots and blocking members may be possible. For
example, individual valves may be attached to one or more apertures
24 (not shown). Valves may be added to individual nodes and
activated as desired.
[0067] An optional dispenser maybe available for dispensing
additives into the liquid flowing through apparatus 12. Additives
may include perfumes, medications, dyes, soap, detergent, water
conditioners, antibacterial agents and fungicides. As an example,
the additive may be in tablet or bead form, and held within the
node 28 by the dispenser until it dissolves. Other dispensers may
be able to accommodate liquids or powders. For example, as seen in
FIG. 9, the dispenser 110 could be a screened holder that may be
attached to node 28a at a first end 112, and attached to hose 30
(not shown) at second end 114 without being drawn into channel(s)
22 by the liquid flow. In the representative example shown in FIGS.
10a and 10b, the dispenser 110 could have threaded portion 116 at
end 114 (shown) and end 112 (not shown). A screen could be located
at end 112 to trap any larger solids within the dispenser so that
any water flowing through dispenser 110 may dissolve and be
dispersed into the liquid. Alternatively, the dispenser could be a
bottle (not shown) having an opening in liquid communication with
hose 30, and that hangs underneath hose 30 when in use. Liquid
additives placed within the bottle could be drawn into the liquid
stream as the liquid flowed past the bottle opening.
[0068] Hose 30 may be relatively short as seen in FIG. 3, or longer
as seen in FIG. 1. If a longer hose is used, a hose keeper 46 may
be used to keep hose 30 from hanging in the user's way. Hose keeper
46 may be a tie, hook and loop strap or anything that can be used
to selectively connect the hose 30 to a fixed structure such as
supply line 26.
[0069] The spa apparatus 10 may further be provided to users as a
kit. In particular, the kit may include laminate 12 and one or more
of the following as defined herein: a securement member, a
dispenser, additives, spare laminates 12, a hose 30 or supply hose,
a hose keeper 46, and the like. Optional accessories may be made
available.
[0070] One of skill in the art will readily appreciate that the
various personal spa apparatuses described herein may be combined
to arrive at a number of configurations not illustrated herein, yet
quite suitable for use in the bath or shower. Having described the
invention in rather full detail, it will be readily apparent that
various changes and modifications can be made without departing
from the spirit of the invention. All of such changes and
modifications are contemplated as being within the scope of the
invention as defined by the appended Claims and any equivalents
thereto.
* * * * *