U.S. patent application number 12/713437 was filed with the patent office on 2010-08-26 for retrofit bathtub door.
Invention is credited to Chris Stafford.
Application Number | 20100212083 12/713437 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42629587 |
Filed Date | 2010-08-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100212083 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stafford; Chris |
August 26, 2010 |
Retrofit Bathtub Door
Abstract
Provided is an installation process and product designed to
retrofit an existing bathtub by cutting and removing a section of
the existing sidewall of the bathtub and adding a generally
U-shaped structure featuring an operational and watertight and
sealable door. The surface of the U-shaped structure may also
feature a skid resistant tread plate on its top surface to help
prevent a user from slipping and/or falling. The door may also
feature a handle for ease in opening and closing the door and a
latch to secure the door in a closed position.
Inventors: |
Stafford; Chris; (Fairfield,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FROST BROWN TODD, LLC
2200 PNC CENTER, 201 E. FIFTH STREET
CINCINNATI
OH
45202
US
|
Family ID: |
42629587 |
Appl. No.: |
12/713437 |
Filed: |
February 26, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61155640 |
Feb 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
4/555 ;
29/401.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 29/49716 20150115;
A47K 3/006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
4/555 ;
29/401.1 |
International
Class: |
A47K 3/02 20060101
A47K003/02; B23P 17/04 20060101 B23P017/04 |
Claims
1. A method of modifying an existing bathtub, the method comprising
the steps of: creating an opening by cutting through an external
sidewall of the bathtub, the opening extending for a predetermined
length of the sidewall and from the top of the sidewall to a
predetermined distance above the bottom of the bathtub, the opening
being generally U-shaped; and positioning in the opening an insert,
the insert comprising: a. a generally U-shaped step-saddle having
an elongated step-plate to cover the bottom edge of the opening; b.
a pair of generally parallel end plates extending from the ends of
the step-plate to cover the sides of the opening; c. a pair of
generally rectangular housings attached to the bottom of the
step-plate and extending to rest directly on the bathroom floor,
thus supporting said insert; and d. a door, the door being affixed
to the step-saddle and having a closed and open position.
2. A bathtub insert comprising: a. a retrofit frame configured to
cover an opening in a sidewall of a bathtub; b. a door, the door
configured for attachment to the frame, wherein the door is movable
from an open position to a closed position; c. a handle, the handle
being attached to and moveable relative to the frame, wherein the
handle is configured to secure the door in the closed position.
3. The bathtub insert of claim 2, wherein the retrofit frame has a
substantially U-shaped configuration.
4. The bathtub insert of claim 2 further comprising a latch,
wherein the latch is coupled with the frame and is configured to
retain the handle in the closed position.
5. The bathtub insert of claim 2 further comprising at least one
handle magnet and at least one first frame magnet, wherein the at
least one handle magnet and the at least one first frame magnet are
configured for engagement to secure the handle when the handle is
in the closed position.
6. The bathtub insert of claim 5, wherein the at least one handle
magnet is embedded in the handle.
7. The bathtub insert of claim 2 further comprising a seal, wherein
the seal is positioned on the frame and is configured to prevent
leakage when the door is in the closed position.
8. The bathtub insert of claim 7 further comprising a channel in
the frame, wherein the seal is positioned within the channel.
9. The bathtub insert of claim 2 further comprising at least one
door magnet and at least one frame magnet, wherein the at least one
door magnet and the at least one second frame magnet are configured
for engagement to secure the door against the frame when the door
is in the closed position.
10. The bathtub insert of claim 9, wherein the at least one door
magnet is embedded in the door.
11. The bathtub insert of claim 9, further comprising at least one
handle magnet and at least one first frame magnet, wherein the at
least one handle magnet and the at least one frame magnet are
configured for engagement to secure the handle when the handle is
in the closed position.
12. A bathtub sidewall insert, comprising: a. a generally U-shaped
step-saddle having an elongated step-plate to cover the bottom edge
of the opening; b. a pair of generally parallel end plates
extending from the ends of the step-plate to cover the sides of the
opening; c. a pair of generally rectangular housings attached to
the bottom of the step-plate and extending to rest directly on the
bathroom floor, thus supporting said insert; and d. a door, the
door being affixed to the step-saddle and having a closed and open
position.
13. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 12 further comprising a
handle, wherein the handle is configured to secure the door to the
step-saddle.
14. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 13 further comprising at
least one handle magnet and at least one first step-saddle magnet,
wherein the at least one handle magnet is configured to engage the
at least one first step-saddle magnet when the door is in the
closed position.
15. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 14 further comprising at
least one door magnet and at least one second step-saddle magnet,
wherein the at least one door magnet is configured to engage the at
least one second step saddle magnet when the door is in the closed
position.
16. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 15 further comprising a
seal, wherein the seal is positioned between the door and the
step-saddle when the door is in the closed position to prevent
leakage.
17. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 16, wherein the at least
one handle magnet is embedded in the handle.
18. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 17, wherein the at least
one door magnet is embedded in the door.
19. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 18, wherein the at least
one door magnet comprises a plurality of magnets arranged along the
periphery of the door.
20. The bathtub sidewall insert of claim 18, wherein the at least
one handle magnet comprises a plurality of magnets arranged along
the length of the handle.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims priority from the disclosure of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/155,640, entitled
"Retrofit Bathtub Door," filed Feb. 26, 2009, which is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate, in general, to
a bathtub door addition, and, in particular, to a bathtub door
addition allowing for easier ingress and egress from a bathtub,
while providing the ability to continue utilizing the bathtub for a
shower or full bath. Priority
BACKGROUND
[0003] Traditional bathtubs may have high sidewalls, referred to as
tub aprons, that allow a bathtub to hold a large volume of water.
Many individuals, particularly the elderly and those suffering from
arthritis, debilitating injury, handicap, and/or general loss of
mobility, may have trouble accessing a bathtub area due to the high
step that is typically required to step into and out of a bathtub.
For such persons, the sidewall of a bathtub may be an
insurmountable hurdle. Even with the assistance of a health aide,
many individuals may not be capable of safely stepping over the
sidewall of a bathtub and into the bathtub to take a bath or
shower. Consequently, these persons may forego taking a bath or
shower altogether and settle for alternate bathing methods, such as
sponge baths and the like. Many people, however, may not find such
alternative bathing methods satisfactory. Because the act of
cleaning oneself may be considered by most people to be a very
private affair, the need for the assistance of another person to
use existing bathtubs or to participate in an alternate bathing
method may be a very degrading and embarassing experience. In
addition, the presence of another person does not permit
independence in the home.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part
of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present
disclosure, and together with the description serve to explain the
principles of the invention; it being understood, however, that the
described embodiments are not limited to the precise arrangements
shown. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like
elements in the several views. In the drawings:
[0005] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according to
one embodiment.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a rear view of a bathtub insert according to one
embodiment.
[0007] FIG. 3 is a side view of a bathtub insert according to one
embodiment.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a top view of a bathtub insert according to one
embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according to
one embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a side view of a bathtub insert according to one
embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according to
one embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 8 is a more detailed partial view of the bathtub insert
door shown in FIG. 7.
[0013] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according to
one embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 10 is a top view of a bathtub insert according to one
embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according
to one embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a support structure for a
bathtub insert according to one embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 13 is a side view of an assembled support structure for
a bathtub insert according to one embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according
to one embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according
to one embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according
to one embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a bathtub insert according
to one embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of an alternate version of a
bathtub insert door and handle assembly configured for attachment
to a frame (not shown).
[0023] FIG. 19 is a front view of the insert door of FIG. 18
illustrating the placement of magnets along the periphery of the
insert door.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] Versions of a bathtub insert described herein comprise a
product and process to provide easier access to a bathtub. In one
embodiment, an insert may be placed in a cutout section of an
exposed wall of a bathtub. This insert, when properly positioned in
the cutout section of the tub wall, may effectively lower the tub
wall to permit easy access to the interior of the tub for those who
are physically challenged by the height of the wall of a typical
bathtub. In another embodiment, an existing bathtub may be
retrofitted by cutting and removing a section of the existing
sidewall and adding a generally U-shaped structure featuring an
operational, watertight, and sealable door. Such a door may allow
for easy access to the interior of the bathtub while providing the
ability to continue to utilize the bathtub for a shower or full
bath. The surface of the U-shaped structure, step-saddle, or framed
insert may feature a skid-resistant tread plate on its top surface
to help prevent a user from slipping and/or falling.
[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, one example of a bathtub insert 20 is
shown. Bathtub insert 20 may generally comprise a U-shaped box
frame with a hinged door attached to the frame. For example, FIG. 1
shows bathtub insert 20 as comprising a step-saddle 22, or frame,
and a door 24. Step-saddle 22 may further comprise a step-plate 26
and an end-plate 28. FIG. 1 shows, for example, step-saddle 22 as
comprising a pair of end-plates 28. Step-plate 26 may be stepped
over or upon by a user to gain access to the interior or exterior
of a bathtub. End-plates 28 may originate at the ends of step-plate
26 and extend upwards from and perpendicular to the step-plate 26
and generally parallel to each other. End-plates 28 may define the
ends of bathtub insert 20 and cover the sides of the U-shaped
opening cut in the sidewall of the bathtub.
[0026] In one version, bathtub insert 20 may be retrofitted to an
existing bathtub, where the dimensions of the bathtub insert 20 are
configured to cover all of the cut lines from the removal of a
portion of the bathtub. The bathtub insert 20 may be sized such
that the removed portion of the bathtub need not have precise
dimensions with tight tolerances. Bathtub insert 20 may effectively
seal the cutout portion of the tub even if the cutout does not, for
example, have the exact dimensions suggested for the installation.
Bathtub insert 20 may comprise any suitable material as will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, bathtub
insert 20 may be made of a polymer, such as a polyethylene. The
bathtub insert 20 may be fabricated using a rotational molding
process or any other suitable method of fabrication.
[0027] Referring to FIG. 2, bathtub insert 20 may also comprise a
door 24. In one version, the door 24 is watertight and is
configured to allow easy access to the inside of a tub while
allowing the tub to fully function as a bath when the door 24 is in
the closed position. The door 24 may comprise any suitable material
as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art such as a
polymer, polyethylene, metal, stainless steel, ceramic, composite
material, and/or glass. Door 24 may comprise a solid sheet of
material or a plurality of sheets of material.
[0028] Versions of the door 24 may have any suitable construction
or structure as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the
art. For example, door 24 may comprise a single panel. In another
example, door 24 may comprise a plurality of panels. Multi-panel
versions of the door 24 may include an accordion configuration of a
plurality of integral panels, two generally equally sized doors
that meet towards the center of the bathtub insert 20 and swing
inwardly, telescoping panels, and the like. For example, bathtub
insert 20 may include two doors (not pictured) that latch together
in the middle. In another example, bathtub insert 20 may include
two doors that function in a similar fashion to saloon doors,
wherein one door may be closed and secured within a channel formed
in step-saddle 22 and the second door may be closed and secured
within another channel formed in step-saddle 22 with a latch, seal,
or magnet.
[0029] The door 24 may comprise an accessory such as, for example,
a latch, magnet, snap, or other means for locking or securing the
door, multiple panels of a door, selected panels of the door, or
the like. It will be appreciated that any suitable configuration of
latch, connector, or adhesive is contemplated. An accessory, such
as a latch, magnet, snap, etc., may be fabricated along with door
24 such that the door and accessory may be considered an all-in-one
system or integral. Alternatively, an accessory may be attached to
door 24 after the door is fabricated. For example, a latch may be
attached to door 24 after the door is fabricated.
[0030] In an alternate version, the door 24 may be secured within a
groove around the internal perimeter of the bathtub insert, where a
removable component is lowered into the groove or channel to seal
the tub.
[0031] In an alternate version, a door, blocking member, or capsule
may be lowered into the opening of the bathtub insert 20 and/or
over the bathtub insert 20 to effectively seal off the opening in
the bathtub insert 20. The door, blocking member, or covering may
be a solid material that, after a bather has entered the tub, is
placed over the top of the bathtub insert 20 to provide a complete
seal of the tub. For example, door 24 may lay horizontally within
the generally U-shaped opening in step-saddle 22. In this version,
the door or blocking member may completely fill the void in
step-saddle 22. This door or blocking member may be affixed to the
inside of the insert opening in any suitable manner such as, for
example, with a magnet, seal, or both. In another version, a
capsule or covering may cover the entire bathtub insert 20. The
capsule or covering may be hinged or be a retrofit component that
is placed over the top of the bathtub insert 20 to fully or
partially obstruct the space in the insert. Any suitable connector
or seal may be located around all or a portion of bathtub insert 20
to facilitate attachment of a door, blocking member, capsule,
covering, or the like.
[0032] In one version (not shown), the door 24 is fastened with a
hinge such that door 24, when in a closed position, fits
horizontally over the generally U-shaped opening in step-saddle 22.
In this embodiment, door 24 may be opened by pulling up on the
door. In another embodiment, door 24 may be opened by removing the
door from bathtub insert 20 completely. For example, bathtub insert
20 may not include a hinge 30, the interior and/or exterior of door
24 may comprise a plurality of magnets, and step-saddle 22 may
comprise a plurality of corresponding magnets or strike plates or a
recessed groove or channel. In this way, door 24 may be closed by
pressing the magnetized door into place to seal the generally
U-shaped opening in the step-saddle 22. Correspondingly, door 24
may be opened by pulling door 24 with sufficient force to overcome
the magnets or to pull the seal out of the groove. In another
example, one side of door 24 may be magnetic, while the other side
is not.
[0033] Referring to FIG. 2, door 24 may be affixed to the U-shaped
frame via a hinge 30. FIG. 2 shows, for example, a pair of hinges
30 that attach door 24 to step-saddle 22. Hinge 30 may be affixed
to step-saddle 22 in any suitable manner as will be apparent to one
of ordinary skill in the art. For example, hinge 30 may be fastened
into step-saddle 22 with a screw or other fastener. In this way,
door 24 may be in an open or closed position. FIG. 1 shows door 24
in an open position. Hinges 30 may be affixed to the door 24, to
the step-saddle 22, to the top of the step-saddle, and/or may have
any other suitable placement or configuration.
[0034] Referring to FIG. 3, the inner surface of door 24 may
comprise a magnet 40. FIG. 3 shows, for example, a pair of magnets
40. Magnets 40 may bond to a strike plate (not pictured in FIG. 3)
mounted on or within step-saddle 22. Magnets 40 may provide a
watertight seal for door 24 against step-saddle 22. Alternatively
or in addition to a magnet, door 24 may be secured in any other
suitable manner as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the
art. For example, door 24 may be secured with a sealant, seal,
adhesive, buffer, or the like.
[0035] FIG. 4 shows one version of the door 24 in an open position.
In this embodiment, the door 24 is closed by positioning it within
a recess 50. Recess 50 may be integrally formed as part of
step-saddle 22, and may provide a cavity dimensioned to accept the
door 24, such that when door 24 is positioned in recess 50, door 24
is flush with step-saddle 22. Referring to FIG. 5, the inner
surface of door 24 may also include a seal 52 configured within a
channel that, when door 24 is in a closed position, may be
compressed tightly against recess 50 of step-saddle 22 to provide a
watertight seal. Seal 52 and a corresponding channel may be
positioned at any suitable location on door 24 as will be apparent
to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, as shown in FIGS.
6-8, seal 52 may be generally located on the edges of door 24. In
another example, seal 52 may be positioned on door 24 to correspond
with the position of recess 50 on step-saddle 22. In another
example, seal 52 may be located within recess 50 to correspond with
the position of door 24. Seals may be placed on the surface of the
door 24 such that the seals engage one another when the door is in
the closed position or, in an alternative version, the seals may be
offset. The one or a plurality of seals 52 may comprise any
suitable material as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in
the art. For example, seal 52 may be made of a hydrophobic polymer.
Any suitable number of seals is contemplated where, for example,
there may be a seal mounted on door 24 as well as within recess 50
that compress tightly against each other when the door is in a
closed position. Alternatively, the seals may be situated adjacent
to each other when the door is in the closed position, such that
they compress against alternate surfaces. In addition, seal 52 may
be magnetized. For example, magnets may be incorporated into the
core center of a seal 52. Referring to FIGS. 9-10, seal 52 may be
located on door 24 in such a position so as to correspond to the
shape of recess 50 on step-saddle 22. In this way, when door 24 is
in a closed position, seal 52 may be compressed so as to form a
watertight barrier. In another embodiment, seal 52 may be located
on step-saddle 22. For example, seal 52 may be located in recess
50. In this way, when door 24 is in a closed position, seal 52 may
be compressed so as to form a watertight barrier.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 11, another version of a bathtub insert 20
is shown. By way of example only, the bathtub insert 20 may be
installed in accordance with methods described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,272,698, to Stafford, which is hereby incorporated by reference
in its entirety. Although not required, the installation process
may include applying a template to a bathtub and cutting a
generally U-shaped section out of the existing sidewall of the
bathtub. Referring to FIGS. 12-13, bathtub insert 20 may also
comprise an adjustable housing 54 and a support housing 56 as will
be described in more detail herein. Once the section of the bathtub
has been cut and removed, a support structure comprising two
generally rectangular housings may be sized and fit into the open
channel extending from the floor to the bottom of bathtub insert
20. These housings may provide support for bathtub insert 20. In an
alternate version (not shown), a support system may be implemented
that comprises a plurality of supporting members that extend from
the floor to the bottom or underside of step-plate 26. The
supporting members of a support system may be secured to the floor
and to the bottom or underside of step-plate 26 in any suitable
manner such as, for example, with a sealant or with a fastener. The
supporting members may be configured from wood, polymer, plastic,
ceramic, metal, or any other suitable material.
[0037] In another alternate version (not shown), support bracing
for the bathtub insert 20 may be affixed to or otherwise mounted
directly on a bathtub. For example, support bracing may be affixed
to a sidewall of the bathtub. Such support bracing may be affixed
to the bathtub in any suitable manner as will be apparent to one of
ordinary skill in the art. For example, support bracing may be
adhered to or screwed into a wall of the bathtub. Support bracing
may also be made of any suitable material, such as metal support
bracing. Support bracing may be expandable, like an accordion, to
fit the dimensions of a given bathtub and/or cutout portion of the
bathtub. In still another version (not shown), support for a
bathtub insert 20 may be built into the underside of step-plate 26
such that the support bracing is integral with the step-plate 26.
Such support bracing may extend from the underside of step-plate 26
to the floor in, for example, a telescoping configuration. Support
bracing may be adjustable to fit the width and/or depth of a given
bathtub. The support bracing may have pre-set holes into which
tangs on a corresponding brace member fit to correctly size the
support structure.
[0038] The adjustable housing 54 may be, for example, a rectangular
box-like structure extending from the bottom or underside of
step-plate 26, through the elongated bottom opening cut in the
bathtub for placement of bathtub insert 20, and secured to the
bathroom floor or subfloor. It is this adjustable housing 54, in
conjunction with a support housing 56, that may provide the
improved strength and adjustability afforded by bathtub insert 20.
Rather than resting on the edges of the opening cut in the bathtub
sidewall, the housings may be configured to rest on the floor or
subfloor. In one embodiment, the adjustable housing 54 may be a
five-sided rectangular box-like structure. Its top panel may mate
with or adhere to the bottom of step-plate 26. For added support,
the top panel may include transverse ribs incorporated or molded
into the panel. These may aid in distributing any load or weight
generally attributed to a user of the bathtub. Adjustable housing
54 may also have two side panels and two end panels with an open
bottom panel. Exhaust ports for the escape of air when the
adjustable-housing is used in conjunction with the support-housing
may be located in the end panels. Adjustable housing 54 may fit
over and enclose support housing 56 with a snug friction fit, and
may ultimately be sealed or secured in place to support housing 56.
Air, which may be temporarily entrapped in adjustable housing 54,
may escape through the exhaust ports. Alternatively, adjustable
housing 54 may be secured to support housing 56 in any suitable
manner as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For
example, adjustable housing 54 may be secured to support housing 56
with a sealant or a fastener, such as a screw, a rod, a nut and
bolt, a nail, a staple, a brad, or the like.
[0039] The support housing 56 may be a rectangular box-like
structure similar to the adjustable housing 54. Support housing 56
may feature a pair of side panels, a pair of end panels, and a
bottom panel. The bottom panel may be configured for attachment of
the support housing 56 to the bathroom floor. An elastomeric
sealant may be all that is necessary to fix the support-housing in
place, but metal fasteners such as nails, staples, brads, etc., may
also be used. Additional ports for the escape of air compressed by
the nesting of the support housing 56 within the adjustable housing
54 may be provided in the end panels.
[0040] The housings 54 and 56 may rest on the bathroom floor, for
example, and may not rest on the edges of the opening cut in the
bathtub sidewall. In this way, bathtub insert 20 may permit direct
weight to be placed on step-plate 26, as it may be supported by the
two housings. Once the two support housings 54 and 56 are properly
fit to support the U-shaped box structure (the step-saddle 22 of
insert 20), the housings may be secured to the floor. The housings
may be secured to the floor in any suitable manner as will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the
housings may be secured with a sealant or with a fastener.
[0041] During the installation process, the cavity formed by the
removal of the cutout from the side of the tub may be sealed to
prevent leakage into the cavity between the tub walls. The cavity
may be sealed by providing a plurality of waterproof sheets or
pieces that are fashioned together to cover a section of the
bathtub that has been cut and removed. The waterproof sheets may
have an adhesive or other bonding agent on its surface allowing it
to adhere to the bathtub and/or a support housing. Such sheets may
be a waterproof membrane similar to materials commonly used for
roofing applications. In an alternate version, expandable foam or
other suitable materials may be sprayed or applied to the top of
the support housings and in the voids in the sidewall on each side
where the cutout has been made on the bathtub to provide a
watertight seal. Any suitable waterproofing material may be used as
will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example,
materials used to seal the foundation of a house may be utilized to
seal the exposed bathtub cavity. In still another version, a
plurality of pieces of lumber, Styrofoam, or other suitable
material may be cut to fit the open channel and the sidewalls of
the bathtub and adhered or fastened to the sides of the bathtub and
to the top of the support housings.
[0042] Once the section of the bathtub sidewall is removed, the
bathtub insert 20 may be sized to fit over the cut opening of the
bathtub. This installation step may include cutting or trimming the
sides and the bottom of the step-saddle 22 to fit over the section
of the bathtub where the cutout has been made. Bathtub insert 20
may then be adhered to both the bathtub and/or to the top of the
sealed housings. Bathtub insert 20 may fit into the cut opening in
the bathtub without an overlap over the cut section of the tub. A
bead of waterproof sealant or caulk may be applied to the entire
perimeter along the outer surface of the U-shaped box and the
bathtub to provide a watertight barrier.
[0043] The installation of bathtub insert 20 may proceed generally
as follows, although other methods are contemplated: An opening,
generally U-shaped, may be cut in the sidewall of any suitable
bathtub. In most instances, a built-in bathtub has three sides
encased in or by the surrounding wall with a bottom perimeter that
is flush with the floor on the exposed side. It is the exposed side
that is chosen for alteration with the bathtub insert 20 to make
entry and departure easier. This opening, cut into the exposed
sidewall of the bathtub, may extend for a predetermined length
within the sidewall and from the top of the sidewall and extend to
a predetermined distance above the bottom of the bathtub. These
predetermined distances may be generally the dimensions of
step-saddle 22. Alternatively, these predetermined distances may be
slightly smaller than the dimensions of step-saddle 22 to allow for
a secure and watertight coupling.
[0044] More specifically, a template may be used to outline the
portion of the bathtub sidewall to be removed for the insertion and
placement of bathtub insert 20. With the aid of the template, an
outline may be drawn on the sidewall of the bathtub, and the
defined section may be cut out and removed with the appropriate
tools dictated by the composition of the bathtub. A pattern may
then be made of the cutout area of the bathtub. The pattern outline
may be transferred to the lips (not pictured) on bathtub insert 20
to mirror the cutout section of the bathtub, and the insert 20 may
be cut to fit.
[0045] Bathtub insert 20, with all of its components, may then be
positioned in the cutout of the bathtub and aligned in the void of
the cutout. Insert 20 may then be removed to permit a support
housing 56 to be secured to the floor or subfloor. A support
housing 56 may be secured to the floor in any suitable manner as
will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example,
a support housing 56 may be secured to a floor with sealant or
metal fasteners.
[0046] Bathtub insert 20 may be repositioned over the cutout
opening with the underside of step-plate 26 resting on an edge of
the cutout void. The adjustable housing 54 may be bonded to the
support housing 56 with a suitable sealant. The entire perimeter of
the step-saddle 22 may be joined to the bathtub with a waterproof
caulk or sealant to finish the placement of bathtub insert 20.
After allowing a suitable period of time for the sealant and/or
caulk to crosslink and cure, bathtub insert 20 may be ready for
use.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of a bathtub insert 20
is shown. As shown in FIG. 14, bathtub insert 20 may comprise a
handle 60. Handle 60 may facilitate the opening and/or closing of
door 24 and may be attached to door 24 in any suitable manner as
will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example,
as shown in FIG. 14, handle 60 may be fashioned as part of a
bracket 62 that is secured to door 24 with a fastener 64. Fastener
64 may be, for example, a screw or a bolt. Alternatively, handle 60
may be fashioned as part of door 24 in such a way that handle 60
and door 24 may be considered one integral piece. A strike plate 66
may also be located on the surface of step-saddle 22. For example,
FIG. 14 shows two strike plates 66. Such strike plates 66 may serve
to bond with a magnet 40 affixed to the inner surface of door 24.
In this way, magnets 40 and strike plates 66 may help to secure
door 24 in a closed position. In an alternate version, the strike
plate 66 may be concealed on the back side of step-saddle 22. Any
suitable number and configuration of handles is contemplated where,
for example, multiple brackets may be provided to seal the door 24
at locations where leakage is likely to occur. The handle and/or
bracket may be configured to translate vertically to lock and
unlock the door or, alternatively, may be configured to latch and
unlatch the door horizontally.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 15, another version of step-saddle 22 is
shown. In this version, in contrast to the step-saddle 22 displayed
in FIGS. 1-4 and FIG. 11, step-saddle 22 has an open cavity 70.
Such a cavity 70 may run underneath step-plate 26. Such a cavity 70
may provide for quicker installation of bathtub insert 20, as the
insert 20 may be easier to trim to needed dimensions. The
step-saddle 20 may be solid, have an open cavity, or any other
suitable configuration.
[0049] FIG. 16 shows another example of a bathroom insert 20. In
this example, a tread 80 may be applied to or fashioned as part of
the top surface of step-plate 26. Tread 80 may serve to provide
traction and/or friction to the surface of step-plate 26. In this
way, tread 80 may help prevent a user from slipping and/or falling
while stepping on or over step-saddle 22 and into or out of the
bathtub. Tread 80 may comprise any suitable material as will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, tread 80
may be made of fabric, an absorbent material, an aesthetically
pleasing material, a removable material, a material with a high
coefficient of friction, or the like. Tread 80 may be applied or
fabricated as part of step-plate 26 in any suitable manner as will
be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, tread
80 may be molded into the bathtub insert 20 or may be glued or
stapled onto step-plate 26 after the step-plate 26 has been formed,
as an aftermarket material. The tread 80 may be permanently affixed
to step-plate 26 or it may be removable. The finish on tread 80 may
be any suitable finish as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill
in the art. For example, tread 80 may have an etched surface.
[0050] In addition to or in place of magnets 40, a bathtub insert
20 may comprise a latch to secure a closing of door 24. Referring
to FIG. 17, one example of a latch 90 is shown. Latch 90 may be,
for example, fashioned out of the same bracket 62 to which handle
60 may be fashioned. Alternatively, latch 90 may be completely
separate from handle 60. As shown in FIG. 17, when door 24 is in a
closed position, latch 90 may be secured by a holder 92. FIG. 17
shows, for example, latch 90 being secured by two holders 92.
Holder 92 may include a means for securing a latch 90. For example,
FIG. 17 shows holder 92 as including a flange or lip 94 to secure
latch 90. Holder 92 may be secured to step-saddle 22 in any
suitable manner as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the
art. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, holder 92 may be screwed
into step-saddle 22. Alternatively, holder 92 may be fashioned out
of step-saddle 22 in such a way that holder 92 and step-saddle 22
may be considered to be one piece. In addition, bracket 62 may be
moveably secured to door 24 in such a way that a user may lift
handle 60 (or if a handle 60 is not present, the bracket 62 itself)
to release latch 90 from holder 92 to move door 24 into an open
position. Conversely, a user may push handle 60 (or if handle 60 is
not present, the bracket 62 itself) down to secure latch 90 in
holder 92 and therefore, close and secure door 24. In another
example, a user may place latch 90 in holder 92 to secure the
closed door 24. Bracket 62 may be moveably secured to door 24 to
allow for such movement of latch 90 by screwing or otherwise
fastening bracket 62 to door 24 through a cutout 96 in bracket
62.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 18, another example of a bathtub door 100
is shown that may be associated with any suitable frame (not
shown). As shown in FIG. 18, the bathtub door 100 may be associated
with a handle 102. Handle 102 may facilitate the opening and/or
closing of door 100 and may be attached to door 100 in any suitable
manner as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For
example, as shown in FIG. 18, handle 102 may be pivoted about a
frame coupling 104 that attaches the handle 102 to the frame. The
handle 102 may be pivoted such that it engages a latch 106 that is
secured to the frame. Referring to FIG. 18, the handle 102 is shown
in the "closed" position, where the handle is engaged with the
latch 106 to secure the door 100 against the frame and, thus,
prevent the door 100 from opening.
[0052] In one version, the handle 100 further comprises one or a
plurality of magnets 108 that are associated with corresponding
magnets embedded or otherwise associated with the frame (not
shown). When in the "closed position", the magnets 108 in the
handle 100 are configured to align with the corresponding frame
magnets to secure the handle 100 in the "closed position". In one
version, to open the door the handle 100 must be pivoted away from
a friction fit latch 106 and must also overcome the coupling of the
magnets 108. It will be appreciated that any suitable magnet 108
arrangement is contemplated, where a second set of frame magnets
(not shown) may be associated with the frame to secure the handle
100 when in the "open position". In this manner, the handle 100 is
configured to securely hold the door 100 against the frame to
prevent leakage, where the magnets 108 prevent the handle 100 from
being accidentally opened.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 19, the door 100 includes a plurality of
door magnets 110 arranged around the periphery of the door 100 to
secure the door 100 to a frame or step saddle (not shown). The door
magnets 110 are associated with corresponding magnets imbedded in
the frame such that when the door 100 is in the "closed position"
the magnetic coupling resists accidental opening of the door 100.
The door magnets 110 may be embedded within the door, attached to
the outside surface of the door, or otherwise configured to provide
a secure attachment between the door 100 and the frame. It will be
appreciated that the door 100, handle 102, and latch 106 may be
used with any suitable frame such as, for example, those described
herein.
[0054] The versions presented in this disclosure are examples.
Those skilled in the art can develop modifications and variants
that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the bathtub door
addition. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by
appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the
examples given.
* * * * *