U.S. patent application number 11/280420 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-17 for portable shower device.
Invention is credited to Kermit Ingraham.
Application Number | 20070107120 11/280420 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38039210 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070107120 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ingraham; Kermit |
May 17, 2007 |
Portable shower device
Abstract
A portable shower device having a water tight cabinet with a
built-in seat to accommodate a bather, an inflow means to direct
water from a water source onto the bather, and a waste handling
means to direct waste water out of the cabinet for disposal. The
device is light weight and small enough such that a single person
can maneuver it through standard residential doorways and into such
areas for convenient use by persons with limited mobility.
Inventors: |
Ingraham; Kermit; (Canaan,
ME) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ANTHONY D. PELLEGRINI RUDMAN & WINCHELL, LLC
84 HARLOW STREET
P.O. BOX 1401
BANGOR
ME
04402-1401
US
|
Family ID: |
38039210 |
Appl. No.: |
11/280420 |
Filed: |
November 16, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
4/612 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 3/286 20130101;
A47K 3/325 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/612 |
International
Class: |
A47K 3/36 20060101
A47K003/36 |
Claims
1. A portable shower device comprising a cabinet, said cabinet
comprising a floor, said floor being oriented substantially
horizontally and having a lowest point, a side wall structure, said
side wall structure being adjacent to the floor and oriented
substantially vertically, an interior portion defined by the floor
and side wall structure, an exterior surface, a seat, said seat
located within the interior portion of the cabinet and suitably
adapted to support the weight of a person, and an access means,
said access means integrated with the side wall structure and
suitably adapted to allow a person to enter into the interior
portion of the cabinet, whereby the cabinet is substantially
water-tight such that fluids directed into the interior portion of
the cabinet are substantially contained therein, the cabinet is
suitably dimensioned to fit through a standard residential doorway,
the cabinet is light enough to be moved by one person, and the
cabinet is suitably adapted to permit a person to be at least
partially contained within the interior portion of the cabinet; a
fluid inflow means suitably adapted to convey fluid from a fluid
source into the interior portion of the cabinet; and a waste fluid
handling means suitably adapted to convey fluid out of the interior
portion of the cabinet; whereby the device is moveable and the
fluid inflow means is removably connectable to a fluid source.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein the cabinet further comprises a
liner, said liner being substantially water-tight and situated
within the interior portion of the cabinet.
3. The device of claim 2 wherein the liner is a monolithic unit
constructed of one of the following group of materials: plastic,
fiberglass, rigid foam, epoxy, and gel-coat.
4. The device of claim 2 wherein the cabinet further comprises a
frame, said frame suitably adapted to support and reinforce the
liner.
5. The device of claim 2 wherein the seat is integrated into the
liner.
6. The device of claim 2 wherein the cabinet further comprises an
exterior shell, said exterior shell attached to and substantially
enclosing the liner.
7. The device of claim 6 wherein the cabinet further comprises a
frame, said frame located under the liner and internal to the
exterior shell, said frame suitably adapted to support and
reinforce the liner.
8. The device of claim 1 wherein the floor comprises a non-skid
surface.
9. The device of claim 1 wherein the cabinet further comprises at
least one grab rail located within the interior portion of the
cabinet, said at least one grab rail suitably adapted to be gripped
by a person to assist said person in moving within the interior
portion of the cabinet.
10. The device of claim 1 wherein the access means of the cabinet
comprises an aperture in the side wall structure, and a shower
curtain, said shower curtain suitably adapted to be removably
placed across the aperture.
11. The device of claim 1 wherein the access means of the cabinet
comprises an aperture in the side wall structure, and a hinged
door, said door attached to the side wall structure and suitably
adapted to be positionable between an open position and a closed
position, whereby when in the open position the door uncovers the
aperture sufficiently to allow a person to pass through the
aperture and enter into the interior portion of the cabinet, and
when in the closed position the door substantially covers the
aperture.
12. The device of claim 1 wherein the cabinet further comprises at
least two wheels located on the underside of the cabinet, and at
least one locking device suitably adapted to prevent movement of at
least one said wheel.
13. The device of claim 1 wherein the cabinet further comprises at
least two casters located on the underside of the cabinet, and at
least one locking device suitably adapted to prevent movement of at
least one said caster.
14. The device of claim 1 wherein the fluid inflow means comprises
an inflow conduit means having a first end and a second end; a
connection means, connected to the first end of the inflow conduit
means and suitably adapted to removably connect the inflow conduit
means to a fluid source; and a fluid delivery means, connected to
the second end of the inflow conduit means and suitably adapted to
deliver fluid into the interior portion of the cabinet.
15. The device of claim 14 wherein the inflow conduit means is a
flexible hose.
16. The device of claim 14 wherein the inflow conduit means
comprises a first flexible hose, having a first end and a second
end, and a second flexible hose, having a first end and a second
end; and the connection means comprises a first connection device,
connected to the first end of the first flexible hose and suitably
adapted to removably connect the first flexible hose to a hot water
source, and a second connection device, connected to the first end
of the second flexible hose and suitably adapted to removably
connect the second flexible hose to a cold water source; and the
fluid delivery means comprises a mixing device, with the second end
of the first flexible hose connected to the mixing device and the
second end of the second flexible hose connected to the mixing
device, said mixing device suitably adapted to combine hot and cold
water into a desired temperature, and a delivery hose, said
delivery hose having a first end and a second end, with the first
end of the delivery hose connected to the mixing device and the
second end of the delivery hose suitably adapted to deliver water
having a desired temperature into the interior portion of the
cabinet.
17. The device of claim 16 wherein the first connection device of
the fluid delivery means is a quick connect coupling suitably
adapted to be removably attached to a standard sink faucet; and the
second connection device of the fluid delivery means is a quick
connect coupling suitably adapted to be removably attached to a
standard sink faucet.
18. The device of claim 16 wherein the mixing device of the fluid
delivery means is a mixing valve.
19. The device of claim 16 wherein the fluid delivery means is
integrated with the cabinet; and the mixing device of the fluid
delivery means comprises a control means suitably adapted to
control the amount of hot and cold water being combined in the
mixing device in order to achieve a desired temperature and volume
of the water.
20. The device of claim 14 wherein the connection means comprises a
quick connect coupling suitably adapted to be removably attached to
a standard sink faucet; and the inflow conduit means comprises a
flexible hose, having a first end and a second end, with the first
end of the flexible hose connected to the quick connect coupling
and the second end of the flexible hose connected to the fluid
delivery means.
21. The device of claim 14 wherein the fluid delivery means
comprises a shower head, wherein the shower head is suitably
adapted to be held by a human hand and positionable to direct fluid
as desired.
22. The device of claim 21 wherein the cabinet further comprises a
mounting bracket fixedly attached to the side wall structure of the
cabinet and suitably adapted to retain the shower head.
23. The device of claim 21 wherein the shower head comprises an
on/off controller suitably adapted to be operated by a human hand
and suitably adapted to either permit the flow of fluid through the
shower head or to prevent the flow of fluid through the shower
head.
24. The device of claim 14 wherein the fluid delivery means is
integrated with the cabinet; and the fluid delivery means comprises
a delivery hose, said delivery hose connected to the inflow conduit
means and suitably adapted to deliver fluid from the inflow conduit
means into the interior of the cabinet, said delivery hose having a
first end and a second end, with the first end of the delivery hose
connected to the inflow conduit means.
25. The device of claim 24 wherein the fluid inflow means further
comprises a pressure reducing device such that the pressure of the
fluid delivered to the delivery hose by the inflow conduit means
may be reduced prior to the fluid being delivered through the
delivery hose.
26. The device of claim 24 wherein the cabinet further comprises an
on/off controller suitably adapted to be operated by a human hand
and suitably adapted to either permit the flow of fluid through the
delivery hose or to prevent the flow of fluid through the delivery
hose.
27. The device of claim 1 wherein the waste fluid handling means
comprises a drain integrated into the lowest point of the floor of
the cabinet; and a conduit means connected to the drain, suitably
adapted to carry fluids from the interior portion of the cabinet
out the drain.
28. The device of claim 27 wherein the conduit means is a flexible
hose.
29. The device of claim 27 wherein the waste fluid handling means
further comprises a pump, said pump being in direct connection with
the conduit means and suitably adapted to move fluids out of the
conduit means in opposition to the forces of gravity.
30. The device of claim 29 wherein the pump is electrically
powered, said pump having a power supply suitably adapted to be
used with a standard electrical outlet, said power supply suitably
adapted to convert alternating current from the standard electrical
outlet to direct current having between 12 and 24 volts.
31. The device of claim 1 wherein the waste fluid handling means
comprises a drain integrated into the lowest point of the floor of
the cabinet; and a holding tank suitably adapted to contain fluid,
said holding tank located within the cabinet and at least partially
beneath the drain; and a conduit means connected to the drain and
to the holding tank, suitably adapted to carry fluids from the
interior portion of the cabinet through the drain to the holding
tank.
32. The device of claim 31 wherein the conduit means is a flexible
hose.
33. The device of claim 31 wherein the conduit means is detachably
connected to the holding tank; and the holding tank is removable
from the cabinet.
34. The device of claim 31 wherein the waste fluid handling means
further comprises an outflow conduit, said outflow conduit
connected to the holding tank and suitably adapted to carry fluids
from the holding tank to the exterior of the cabinet.
35. The device of claim 34 wherein the outflow conduit is a
flexible hose.
36. The device of claim 34 wherein the waste fluid handling means
further comprises a pump, said pump being suitably adapted to move
fluids out of the holding tank and through the outflow conduit in
opposition to the forces of gravity.
37. The device of claim 36 wherein the pump is located within the
holding tank.
38. The device of claim 36 wherein the pump is electrically
powered, said pump having a power supply suitably adapted to be
used with a standard electrical outlet, said power supply suitably
adapted to convert alternating current from the standard electrical
outlet to direct current having between 12 and 24 volts.
39. The device of claim 36 wherein operation of the pump is
controlled by a float switch situated within the holding tank.
40. A portable shower device comprising a cabinet, said cabinet
comprising a floor, said floor being oriented substantially
horizontally and having a lowest point, said floor comprising a
non-skid surface, a side wall structure, said side wall structure
being adjacent to the floor and oriented substantially vertically,
an interior portion defined by the floor and side wall structure, a
liner, said liner being substantially water-tight and situated
within the interior portion of the cabinet, an exterior shell, said
exterior shell attached to and substantially enclosing the liner, a
frame, said frame located under the liner and internal to the
exterior shell, said frame suitably adapted to support and
reinforce the liner, a seat, with said seat integrated into the
liner and suitably adapted to support the weight of a person, said
seat comprising a non-skid surface, an access means, said access
means integrated with the side wall structure and suitably adapted
to allow a person to enter into the interior portion of the
cabinet, at least two of the group of wheels, casters, and skids
located on the underside of the cabinet, whereby the cabinet is
suitably dimensioned to fit through a standard residential doorway,
the cabinet is light enough to be moved by one person, the cabinet
is suitably adapted to permit a person to be at least partially
contained within the interior portion of the cabinet, and the
cabinet is substantially water-tight such that fluids directed into
the interior portion of the cabinet are substantially contained
therein; a fluid inflow means suitably adapted to convey fluid from
a fluid source into the interior portion of the cabinet, said fluid
inflow means comprising an inflow conduit means comprising a
flexible hose and having a first end and a second end, a connection
means comprising a quick connect coupling connected to the first
end of the inflow conduit means and suitably adapted to removably
connect the inflow conduit means to a standard sink faucet, a fluid
delivery means, connected to the second end of the inflow conduit
means and suitably adapted to deliver fluid into the interior
portion of the cabinet, said fluid delivery means comprising a
delivery hose, said delivery hose connected to the inflow conduit
means and suitably adapted to deliver fluid from the inflow conduit
means into the interior of the cabinet, said delivery hose having a
first end and a second end, with the first end of the delivery hose
connected to the inflow conduit means, a pressure reducing device
such that the pressure of the fluid delivered to the delivery hose
by the inflow conduit means may be reduced prior to the fluid being
delivered through the delivery hose, an on/off controller
integrated with the fluid delivery means and suitably adapted to be
operated by a human hand and suitably adapted to either permit the
flow of fluid through the delivery hose or to prevent the flow of
fluid through the delivery hose, a shower head, wherein the shower
head is suitably adapted to be held by a human hand and
positionable to direct fluid as desired, said shower head connected
to the second end of the delivery hose, said shower head having an
on/off controller suitably adapted to be operated by a human hand
and suitably adapted to either permit the flow of fluid through the
shower head or to prevent the flow of fluid through the shower
head, and a mounting bracket fixedly attached to the side wall
structure of the cabinet and suitably adapted to retain the shower
head; and a waste fluid handling means suitably adapted to convey
fluid out of the interior portion of the cabinet, said waste fluid
handling means comprising a drain integrated into the lowest point
of the floor of the cabinet, a holding tank suitably adapted to
contain fluid, said holding tank located within the cabinet and at
least partially beneath the drain, with said holding tank being
vented, a conduit means connected to the drain and to the holding
tank, suitably adapted to carry fluids from the interior portion of
the cabinet through the drain to the holding tank, said conduit
means being a flexible hose, an outflow conduit, said outflow
conduit connected to the holding tank and suitably adapted to carry
fluids from the holding tank to the exterior of the cabinet, said
outflow conduit being a flexible hose, and an electric pump, said
electric pump being suitably adapted to move fluids out of the
holding tank and through the outflow conduit in opposition to the
forces of gravity, with operation of said electric pump controlled
by a float switch situated within the holding tank.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Technical Field
[0002] The invention relates generally to the field of healthcare
devices to be used by home-based persons with limited mobility.
More specifically, the invention is directed to an improved
portable shower device that is light weight and small enough such
that a single person can maneuver it through standard residential
doorways and into such areas of the home for convenient use by
persons with limited mobility.
[0003] 2. Description of Prior Art
[0004] Portable shower devices are known in the art. Some examples
emphasize the portability aspects of the devices, disclosing easily
disassembled devices which can be transported in carrying cases.
See, e.g., Patterson, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,975,992 (Dec. 11,
1990), "Portable Shower Stall", which discloses a portable shower
stall having a ceiling and a base, designed to be carried in a
suitcase. It features a means for connecting the device to a sink
faucet and a sump pump for removing waste water. The device must be
assembled for use and disassembled for portability. See also
Roberts, U.S. Pat. No. 5,544,369 (Aug. 13, 1996), "Portable
Shower/Multi Use Stall", which discloses a shower stall which is
disassembled for storage and reassembled for use. It features an
optional holding tank for containing waste water. See also The
SHS-2 Shower Stall.TM. by Shower Anywhere of Temecula, Calif.,
which discloses a shower stall which may be disassembled for
portability. None of these devices have wheels or other means for
assisting with movement. Moreover, they all lack the utility of the
present invention, which comes fully assembled and due to its rigid
construction is suitable for use by mobility impaired persons.
[0005] Other known devices are sturdier and intended to assist
those with mobility impairments. See, e.g., Reid, U.S. Pat. No.
6,374,434 (Apr. 23, 2002), "Therapeutic Shower", which discloses a
horizontally oriented compartment into which a wheeled chair is
rolled. The bathing function occurs within the compartment by
built-in water jets. Unlike the present invention, Reid is not
intended to be used to bathe the head or upper torso, and the seat
is not affixed to the compartment, thereby increasing the risk of
injury to the bather. See also Queen, et al., U.S. Pat. No.
5,978,983 (Nov. 9, 1999), "Portable Showering Cabinet", discloses a
portable showering device directed towards use by the mobility
impaired. While it shares several features with the present
invention, for example a built-in seat and casters for
repositioning the device, it is a far more complicated device
involving hydraulic lifting means for the seat and multiple shower
heads. These overly complicated devices cannot be manufactured as
inexpensively as the present invention and therefore cannot provide
the universality of use as does the present invention.
[0006] Yet other devices achieve partial portability without
providing all the benefits of the present invention. See, e.g.,
Storm, U.S. Pat. No. 6,516,477 (Feb. 11, 2003), "Shower Apparatus
for Seated Occupant", discloses a device intended to be used in
conjunction with a standard toilet. As such, it lacks the complete
portability of the present invention, which can be used in
locations not having a toilet, such as a bedroom.
[0007] Thus none of the disclosed prior art anticipates the present
invention.
[0008] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a
useful, improved portable shower device that is suitably adapted to
be used to administer a shower to a person with limited
mobility.
[0009] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a
useful, improved portable shower device that is light weight and
can be easily moved by one person to a convenient location.
[0010] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a useful, improved portable shower device that can be moved
through standard residential doorways.
[0011] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a useful, improved portable shower device that can be
safely used by the person receiving the shower or by a second
person administering the shower.
[0012] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a useful, improved portable shower device that can be
quickly connected to a standard sink faucet for use, and then
easily disconnected when no longer being used so that the faucet
may be used for other purposes.
[0013] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a useful, improved portable shower device that can be used
in locations having no access to waste water disposal
facilities.
[0014] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a useful, improved portable shower device that does not
require assembly by the user.
[0015] It is a further objective of the present invention to
provide a useful, improved portable shower device that is easy and
inexpensive to manufacture.
[0016] Other objectives of the present invention will be readily
apparent from the description that follows.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention is a portable shower device created
for people who are unable to use conventional bathing facilities
due to restricted mobility. This would include people who are
unable to navigate stairs to get to their bath/shower, or those who
are unable to use conventional facilities for other reasons. The
usual alternative for these folks is sponge bathing. The present
invention can easily be moved to a convenient location due to its
light weight and then stored out of the way when not in use. The
bather may be assisted by a home health care provider to enter and
exit the unit and who may also assist in bathing.
[0018] The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises
a water tight cabinet with a built-in seat. It can easily be
brought into a home through the front door and has wheels or
casters and handles that make it easy to deliver and move about.
Water is provided through an inflow hose attached to a sink faucet
with a quick connect coupling. Water is directed into the cabinet
and onto the bather through a delivery hose having a hand held
shower head. Waste water is removed through a drain in the floor by
an electric pump, which empties the waste water through an outflow
hose back into the sink drain. The cabinet has interior grab rails
for safety and a shower curtain to accommodate entrance and
exit.
[0019] As will be readily evident from the following detailed
description and the accompanying claims, the present invention may
have other uses beyond providing a means for addressing the hygiene
of persons with limited mobility. For example, the present
invention may be used as a temporary camp shower or wherever a
permanent facility is not available or desired.
[0020] Other features and advantages of the invention are described
below
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the cabinet and fluid inflow
means of the present invention. Elements internal to the cabinet
are depicted by the use of dotted lines.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the cabinet
of the present invention using a liner and an exterior shell.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the cabinet
of the present invention using a frame. The location of the liner
relative to the frame is depicted by the use of dotted lines.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the access
means of the cabinet of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the fluid
inflow means of the present invention using multiple water sources.
A portion of the cabinet side wall structure of the present
invention is depicted cut away to show elements contained
therein.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
cabinet, the fluid inflow means, and the waste fluid handling means
of the present invention. Elements internal to the cabinet are
depicted by the use of dotted lines.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] The portable shower device 1 of the present invention
comprises three principle components: a cabinet 100, a fluid inflow
means 200, and a waste fluid handling means 300. See FIG. 6.
[0028] The cabinet 100 must be suitably adapted to permit a person
to be at least partially contained within its interior 122, for
purposes of receiving a shower. The cabinet 100 must be
substantially water-tight, such that fluids directed into the
interior portion 122 of the cabinet 100 during the provision of a
shower are substantially contained by the cabinet 100, except as
such fluids are removed from the cabinet 100 by the waste fluid
handling means 300. Some escape of fluids from the cabinet 100 is
expected during showering, however, given that the cabinet 100 is
not enclosed over its top and thus some splashing of fluids against
the person receiving the shower may occur, but this escape of
fluids would be minimal. To achieve the primary goals of the
invention, the cabinet 100 must be suitably dimensioned to fit
through a standard residential doorway, and be light enough to be
moved by one person. As such, in the preferred embodiment the
cabinet 100 has a width of no greater than thirty-six (36) inches,
a height of between thirty (30) and fifty-four (54) inches, and
weighs no more than one hundred (100) pounds. In the most preferred
embodiment the cabinet 100 has a width of thirty (30) inches, a
height of forty-eight (48) inches, and weighs between fifty (50)
and seventy-five (75) pounds.
[0029] The fluid inflow means 200 must be suitably adapted to
convey fluid 410 from a fluid source 420 into the interior 122 of
the cabinet 100, thus providing the fluid 410 necessary for a
shower. The fluid inflow means 200 is removably connectable to the
fluid source 420. The preferred embodiment contemplates the fluid
source 420 to be a standard sink, and the fluid inflow means 200 is
connected to the faucet 450 of the sink by any non-permanent means
known in the art. Operation of the sink causes water to flow
through the fluid inflow means 200 to be conveyed into the cabinet
100. When the portable shower device 1 is not being used, the fluid
inflow means 200 is disconnected from the water source, which can
then be used for other purposes.
[0030] The waste fluid handling means 300 must be suitably adapted
to convey fluid 410 out of the interior 122 of the cabinet 100.
Waste fluids may be conveyed into an intermediate holding tank 320
or completely out of the portable shower device 1. It is
anticipated that the waste fluid handling means 300 may discharge
waste fluids into a standard home toilet, or a bathtub, or a sink,
though it may discharge waste fluids into a floor drain or into a
portable receptacle, such as a bucket. The flow of waste fluids
through the waste fluid handling means 300 may be directed by
gravity or may be assisted by a pumping device 340.
[0031] The cabinet 100 must comprise the following subcomponents: a
floor 110, a side wall structure 120, an exterior surface 130, a
seat 140, and an access means 150. See FIG. 1. The floor 110 is
oriented substantially horizontally and has a lowest point, such
that fluids directed onto the floor 110 will drain towards the
lowest point. The floor 110 must be suitably adapted to support the
weight of a person entering the cabinet 100. In the preferred
embodiment the floor 110 is substantially rigid and has a non-skid
surface.
[0032] The side wall structure 120 of the cabinet 100 is adjacent
to the floor 110 and oriented substantially vertically. In the
preferred embodiment the floor 110 and side wall structure 120 are
integrated with each other, thereby forming an open-ended
enclosure, with the interior 122 of the cabinet 100 defined by the
floor 110 and side wall structure 120. The side wall structure 120
must be substantially rigid and may have any suitable
configuration, but in the preferred embodiment the side wall
structure 120 comprises four side walls, each side wall being
substantially planar and each side wall being substantially
perpendicular to its adjacent side walls, thereby forming a
rectangular enclosure. In other embodiments the side wall structure
120 may have a curved shape, thereby creating a cylindrical or
ovoid or elliptical enclosure, or may have a combination of curved
and planar surfaces.
[0033] In an alternative embodiment, the side wall structure 120 of
the cabinet 100 comprises an extension means to vertically extend
the height of at least a portion of the side wall structure 120.
The extension means may be adjustable. One embodiment of the
extension means comprises one or more shower curtains and a shower
curtain support structure attached to the side wall structure 120.
The extension means are useful to add privacy to a person capable
of administering a shower to him- or herself, while it can be
lowered or removed where a caregiver is needed to administer the
shower.
[0034] The exterior surface 130 of the cabinet 100 may be of any
suitable material, including thermoformed plastic, acrylic,
fiberglass, rigid foam, epoxy, gel-coat, or wood. The exterior
surface 130 should be scuff and dent resistant. In the preferred
embodiment the cabinet 100 comprises at least one grab bar 184
located on the exterior surface 130, suitably adapted to be gripped
by a person to assist that person in moving the cabinet 100. In the
most preferred embodiment the cabinet 100 comprises several grab
bars 184 located about the exterior surface 130. In another
embodiment the cabinet 100 further comprises at least one storage
compartment located on the exterior surface 130 of the cabinet 100.
This storage compartment may contain items of use to the showering
process, such as soap, shampoo, wash cloths, and the like, or may
contain various components of the fluid inflow means 200 when the
portable shower device 1 is not being used. In yet another
embodiment multiple storage compartments may be located on the
exterior surface 130 of the cabinet 100.
[0035] The cabinet 100 must have an access means 150 suitably
adapted to allow a person to enter into the interior 122 of the
cabinet 100. The access means 150 is integrated with the side wall
structure 120 of the cabinet 100, and comprises at least an
aperture 152 and a means for covering and uncovering the aperture
152. The aperture 152 may be of any suitable shape, but in the
preferred embodiment is substantially rectangular. In one
embodiment the access means 150 utilizes a hinged door to cover and
uncover the aperture 152. The door is attached to the side wall
structure 120 and suitably adapted to be positionable between an
open position and a closed position, whereby when in the open
position the door uncovers the aperture 152 sufficiently to allow a
person to pass through the aperture 152 and enter into the interior
122 of the cabinet 100, and when in the closed position the door
substantially covers the aperture 152 and prevents the escape of
fluids from the interior 122 of the cabinet 100 through the
aperture 152. In another embodiment the access means 150 utilizes a
drop-in panel to cover and uncover the aperture 152. The panel is
removably attachable to the side wall structure 120 by inserting it
into or removing it from grooves integrated into the lateral sides
of the aperture 152. In the preferred embodiment the access means
150 utilizes a shower curtain 154 to cover and uncover the aperture
152. See FIG. 4. The shower curtain 154 may be supported across the
aperture 152 by a fixed curtain rod, with the rod removably
attached to the side wall structure 120, or the shower curtain 154
may be suspended from a flexible support cord removably attached to
the side wall structure 120. In either embodiment, either the
curtain rod or the support cord may be non-removably attached to
the side wall structure 120 at one end and removably attached at
the other end, such that the shower curtain 154 may swing away from
the aperture 152 to uncover it and permit a person to enter the
interior 122 of the cabinet 100.
[0036] The cabinet 100 must comprise a seat 140, located within the
interior 122 of the cabinet 100. See FIGS. 1 and 2. The seat 140
must be suitably adapted to support the weight of a person. In the
preferred embodiment the seat 140 is fixedly attached to the
cabinet 100 to prevent its movement therein, thus providing
stability and safety to the person sitting within the cabinet 100.
The seat 140 may be integrated with the side wall structure 120 and
the floor 110. The seat 140 may also comprise a non-skid
surface.
[0037] In the preferred embodiment, the cabinet 100 comprises a
liner 160. See FIG. 2. The liner 160 must be substantially
water-tight and is situated within the interior 122 of the cabinet
100. The liner 160 defines the floor 10 and side wall structure 120
of the cabinet 100. The seat 140 may be integrated into the liner
160. The cabinet 100 may have at least one storage compartment
integrated into the liner 160, used for holding items of use to the
showering process, such as soap, shampoo, wash cloths, and the
like.
[0038] In one embodiment, the liner 160 is a monolithic unit
constructed of thermoformed plastic, acrylic, fiberglass, rigid
foam, epoxy, or gel-coat. In the preferred embodiment the liner 160
is constructed of thermoformed acrylic. This embodiment allows for
ease of manufacture and water-tight construction. When so
configured, the liner 160 may be sufficiently rigid to comprise the
entire structure of the cabinet 100. In an alternative embodiment,
the liner 160 may be supported and reinforced by a frame 170. See
FIG. 3. The frame 170 may be made of any light weight, rigid
material. In the preferred embodiment the frame 170 is aluminum. In
another embodiment the cabinet 100 may comprise an exterior shell
180. See FIG. 2. The exterior shell 180 is attached to and
substantially encloses the liner 160, thereby finishing off the
liner 160 and providing structural support to the cabinet 100.
Where a frame 170 is used to support and reinforce the liner 160,
the frame 170 is located under the liner 160 and internal to the
exterior shell 180. Where an exterior shell 180 is used, the
exterior surface 130 of the cabinet 100 is the exterior of the
exterior shell 180. In another embodiment, the liner 160 may be a
multi-piece unit. Each of the pieces of the liner 160 are joined
together and sealed so as to render the liner 160 substantially
water tight.
[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cabinet 100
comprises at least one grab rail 182 located within the interior
122 of the cabinet 100. See FIG. 1. The grab rail 182 is suitably
adapted to be gripped by a person to assist that person in moving
within the interior 122 of the cabinet 100. The grab rail 182 may
be made of any suitably durable material, such as stainless steel,
brass, or plastic. In the preferred embodiment several grab rails
182 are located within the interior 122 of the cabinet 100.
[0040] In order to facilitate the goal of portability, the cabinet
100 comprises a movement means. The movement means is located on
the underside of the cabinet 100 and suitably adapted to ease
movement of the portable shower device 1 over floors or the ground.
The movement means may be wheels 190, see FIG. 1, casters 192, see
FIG. 6, or skids. When the movement means comprises wheels 190, it
is preferred that at least two wheels 190, situated along a common
axis, be utilized. In the most preferred embodiment four wheels 190
are utilized, one substantially under each corner of the cabinet
100. There should be at least one locking device 196 associated
with at least one wheel 190, suitably adapted to prevent movement
of that wheel 190. See FIG. 1. Preferably multiple wheels 190 will
have locking devices 196. When the locking devices 196 are engaged
the portable shower device 1 cannot be easily moved, thereby
increasing stability and safety for the user. When the locking
devices 196 are disengaged the portable shower device 1 can be
easily moved to a new location. Locking devices 196 may also be
used with casters 192. Skids are preferred when the portable shower
device 1 is intended to be used primarily on carpeting.
[0041] The fluid inflow means 200 may comprise the following
subcomponents: an inflow conduit means 210, a connection means 220,
and a fluid delivery means 230. See FIG. 6. The inflow conduit
means 210 is suitably adapted to convey fluids from a water source
to the portable shower device 1. The connection means 220 is
suitably adapted to removably connect the inflow conduit means 210
to the water source. The fluid delivery means 230 is suitably
adapted to deliver fluid 410 into the interior 122 of the cabinet
100.
[0042] In the preferred embodiment the inflow conduit means 210 is
a single flexible hose 212. The flexible hose 212 may be removably
connected to a standard sink faucet 450, whereby the temperature
and volume of water to be used for showering is controlled by using
the faucet controls. See FIG. 1.
[0043] In an alternative embodiment the inflow conduit means 210
comprises a first flexible hose 214 and a second flexible hose 216.
See FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the first flexible hose 214 is
suitably adapted to be removably connected to a hot water source by
a first connection device 224, and the second flexible hose 216 is
suitably adapted to be removably connected to a cold water source
by a second connection device 226. See FIG. 5. In addition, the
fluid delivery means 230 may comprise a mixing device 232, with the
first flexible hose 214 and the second flexible hose 216 connected
to the mixing device 232. See FIG. 5. The mixing device 232 is
suitably adapted to combine hot and cold water into a desired
temperature. The mixing device 232 may include a separate control
means 234 suitably adapted to control the amount of hot and cold
water being combined within it, in order to achieve a desired
temperature and volume of the water. See FIG. 5. The mixing device
232 may be a mixing valve. A delivery hose 236 is connected to the
mixing device 232 and is suitably adapted to deliver water having a
desired temperature into the interior 122 of the cabinet 100. This
configuration may be used, for example, with a typical two-spigot
washing machine hookup.
[0044] In the preferred embodiment, the connection means 220 for
removably connecting the fluid inflow means 200 to a water source
comprises a quick connect coupling 222 suitably adapted to be
removably attached to a standard sink faucet 450. Such quick
connect couplings 222 are well-known in the art and are typically
utilized with portable dishwashing machines. Two quick connect
couplings 222 may be used, one for each flexible hose 214,216, when
the dual water source configuration described above is
employed.
[0045] The fluid delivery means 230 of the fluid inflow means 200
may comprise a delivery hose 236. The delivery hose 236 is
connected to the inflow conduit means 210 and is suitably adapted
to deliver fluid 410 from the inflow conduit means 210 into the
interior 122 of the cabinet 100. The delivery hose 236 may be
connected to the inflow conduit means 210 by a coupler located
within the side wall structure 120 of the cabinet 100. In this
embodiment the inflow conduit means 210 attaches to the coupler
from the exterior of the cabinet 100, and the delivery hose 236
attaches to the coupler from the interior 122 of the cabinet 100.
In another embodiment the delivery hose 236 attaches to the coupler
within an exterior storage compartment of the cabinet 100, where it
may be stored when not in use. This configuration minimizes the
overall length of the free moving portion of the fluid delivery
means 230, limiting it to the delivery hose 236. That is, in this
configuration the inflow conduit means 210 is fixed to the cabinet
100 and thus need not be manipulated by the user while
administering a shower, thereby making use of the portable shower
device 1 more convenient. In one embodiment, the fluid inflow means
200 may comprise a pressure reducing device. The pressure reducing
device is suitably adapted to reduce the pressure of the fluid
delivered to the delivery hose 236 by the inflow conduit means 210.
This is to prevent excess water pressure from a water source from
causing discomfort or even harm to the person receiving the shower.
The pressure reducing device may be located in-line the coupler. An
on/off controller 234 suitably adapted to be operated by a human
hand and suitably adapted to either permit the flow of fluid 410
through the delivery hose 236 or to prevent the flow of fluid 410
through the delivery hose 236 may be integrated into the cabinet
100 side wall structure 120.
[0046] The fluid delivery means 230 of the fluid inflow means 200
may also comprise a shower head 240 attached to the end of a
delivery hose 236. See FIGS. 1 and 6. The shower head 240 is
suitably adapted to be held by a human hand and positionable to
direct fluid 410 as desired. In one embodiment, a mounting bracket
242 is-fixedly attached to the side wall structure 120 of the
cabinet 100 and is suitably adapted to retain the shower head 240.
See FIG. 6. In another embodiment the shower head 240 comprises an
on/off controller 244 suitably adapted to be operated by a human
hand and suitably adapted to either permit the flow of fluid 410
through the shower head 240 or to prevent the flow of fluid 410
through the shower head 240. See FIG. 6. In yet another embodiment
the shower head 240 is suitably adapted to discharge fluid 410 in a
variety of conditions, including as a spray, a stream, or a pulse.
Any or all of these embodiments of the shower head 240 may be
combined in the present invention.
[0047] The waste fluid handling means 300 may comprise the
following subcomponents: a drain 310 and a conduit means 330
connected to the drain 310. See FIG. 6. The drain 310 is integrated
into the lowest point of the floor 110 of the cabinet 100. The
conduit means 330 is connected to the drain 310, and is suitably
adapted to carry fluids from the interior 122 of the cabinet 100
and out the drain 310. In one embodiment the conduit means 330 is a
flexible hose.
[0048] In the preferred embodiment the waste fluid handling means
300 comprises a pump 340. See FIG. 6. The pump 340 is in direct
connection with the conduit means 330 and suitably adapted to move
fluids out of the conduit means 330 in opposition to the forces of
gravity. The pump 340 may be electrically powered. If the pump 340
is run from electricity from a standard wall outlet, it must have a
power supply 342 suitably adapted to convert alternating current
from the standard wall outlet to direct current having between 12
and 24 volts. A fuse and a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
will also be used. This combination of components is required to
eliminate the risk of electrocution and ensure the safety of users
of the portable shower device 1. In the alternative, the pump 340
may be powered by direct current by means of a battery. This
embodiment may also include a battery charger within the
cabinet.
[0049] In another embodiment, the waste fluid handling means 300
may comprise the following subcomponents: a drain 310, a holding
tank 320, and a conduit means 330 connecting the drain 310 to the
holding tank 320. See FIG. 6. The drain 310 is integrated into the
lowest point of the floor 110 of the cabinet 100. The holding tank
320 is at least partially located beneath the drain 310 and is
suitably adapted to contain fluid. The conduit means 330 is
suitably adapted to carry fluids from the interior portion 122 of
the cabinet 100 out the drain 310 to the holding tank 320. In this
embodiment the conduit means 330 may be a flexible hose. In this
embodiment the holding tank 320 may be vented 322. In another
embodiment the conduit means 330 may be detachably connected to the
holding tank 320, allowing the holding tank 320 to be removable
from the cabinet 100. These embodiments permit the temporary
collection of waste fluids when the portable shower device 1 is
used where no outside drain source is present, such as in a
bedroom. The waste fluids are then disposed of after the showering
is completed.
[0050] In another embodiment there is an outflow conduit 350
connected to the holding tank 320. See FIG. 6. The outflow conduit
350 is suitably adapted to carry fluids from the holding tank 320
to the exterior of the cabinet 100. The outflow conduit 350 may be
a flexible hose. In this configuration a pump 340 is employed,
suitably adapted to move fluids out of the holding tank 320 and
through the outflow conduit 350 in opposition to the forces of
gravity. The pump 340 may be electrically powered, as described
above. The pump 340 may also be located within the holding tank
320. Operation of the pump 340 may be controlled by a float switch
344 situated within the holding tank 320. This configuration
improves upon the tankless embodiment in that the pump 340 need not
be operational the entire time a shower is being administered, but
only when a sufficient amount of waste fluid collects in the
holding tank 320. In yet another embodiment the pump 340 may
further comprise a manual override switch to control operation of
the pump 340 independently of the float switch 344.
[0051] Modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed
embodiments of the invention without departing from the subject or
spirit of the invention.
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