AU2007201227A1 - A collapsible shower enclosure - Google Patents

Description

P/00/011 Regulation 3.2

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990

ORIGINAL

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Invention Title: A COLLAPSIBLE SHOWER ENCLOSURE Applicant: James Thomas Doughty and Bev Doughty The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: 1 797085 patreq 2 A COLLAPSIBLE SHOWER ENCLOSURE Field of the Invention The present invention relates to showers. It relates particularly but not exclusively to a collapsible enclosure for a shower, which is especially suitable for use in confined spaces, and to a shower system which incorporates the collapsible shower enclosure.

Background to the Invention The bathrooms of most homes contain a shower and/or bath for the use and enjoyment of occupants. In stationary homes such as houses and apartments there is usually sufficient space to accommodate a shower or a bath or both in the bathroom. However, provision of a shower or bath becomes more challenging where effective use of space is essential. In homes where the amount of space available for accommodating a bathroom is limited, it is common for a shower to be provided over the bath, but generally it is not essential to limit the amount of floor space occupied by a bathroom to an absolute minimum.

This is not the case, however, for motor homes, caravans, campervans, boats and the like where effective use of space is crucial. Because of the limitations on space, it is common for a shower and bath to be completely omitted from the floor plan. In this case, users may utilise bathroom amenities provided by caravan parks or amenities which are available for use by the general public.

This can be inconvenient, create hygiene problems and there are also personal security risks, particularly when showering or using the amenities at night.

Users of caravans and campervans may also set up annex or auxiliary structures nearby in which portable toilets and/or showers are temporarily constructed for the duration of the visit to that location. Whilst this improves the level of comfort, the temporary structures can be time consuming to erect and require extra equipment which must be unpacked, re-packed and transported with the caravan/campervan when moving between sites.

In larger and usually more expensive mobile homes, such as motor homes, larger boats and houseboats, it is becoming increasingly popular to include a bathroom. However, a dedicated room of this kind decreases the amount of space available for other features of the home such as sleeping, cooking and eating areas, as well as storage. It can also give the interior a cluttered appearance and restrict the ability to move inside and enjoy the home.

The discussion of the background to the invention included herein including reference to documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is intended to explain the context of the present invention. This is not to be taken as an admission or a suggestion that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge in Australia as at the priority date of any of the claims.

Summary of the Invention In a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a collapsible shower enclosure, the enclosure including: a base; attachment means for releasably engaging an overhead support; and a flexible membrane attached at a first end to the base and at a second end to the attachment means; wherein, the enclosure is erected by engaging the attachment means with the overhead support thereby extending the membrane between the overhead support and the base to form the enclosure. The enclosure may be dismantled by releasing the attachment means from the overhead support and collapsing the membrane.

The base may be any shape for example, square, round or oval, although a square shape is particularly suitable for use in an area having proportions which are square or rectangular. Preferably, the base includes a drain for waste-water.

The base may be made from any suitable material such as fibreglass, plastic or polycarbonate and is preferably lightweight, easy to clean and can support the weight of an adult using the shower. In one embodiment, the base includes or is in communication with a waste-water tank for storing water collected through 4 the drain. The tank may be removed and emptied when showering is complete.

Alternatively, a hose connected to the drain may be used to re-direct the wastewater to a grey water tank, storm-water conduit or the like.

Preferably, the shower enclosure is used in an area having a floor and a ceiling, with the base provided in the floor and the overhead support being provided by the ceiling. The shower enclosure may be fitted in the floor when the floor is laid, or it may be retro-fitted in an after market modification. Retro-fitting is particularly suitable for caravans, campervans, boats, houseboats and the like and the collapsible enclosure can be installed occupying a depth of around only 100mm.

The attachment means may take any form which is adept to being releasably engaged with the overhead support to erect and dismantle the shower enclosure. For example, the attachment means may include a number of fasteners which releasably engage corresponding fasteners arranged on the overhead support. Alternatively, the attachment means may incorporate a hook or frame capable of engaging an overhead support provided in the form of a lip, rim or flange in the ceiling.

In a preferred embodiment, the attachment means includes a frame member in the form of a hoop or ring, which is attached to the flexible membrane by stitching in, for example. The frame member imparts strength and structure to the enclosure and can assist with assembling the enclosure quickly and easily.

The frame member may have a square, round, rectangular or other shape and may be manufactured from plastic, aluminium or any other suitable lightweight and preferably corrosion-resistant material. The shape of the frame member may correspond with the shape of the base although in a preferred embodiment, the frame member has a smaller diameter than the base for ease of storage. In one embodiment, the overhead support includes a plurality of clips attached to the ceiling which releasably engage the frame member, through the flexible membrane.

The flexible membrane may be plastic, polypropylene, nylon, a textile or other material which is substantially water impervious. Preferably, the flexible membrane is manufactured from a material which is also lightweight and sufficiently flexible so that the shower enclosure, when collapsed, occupies minimal space and has low overall weight. The flexible membrane should also be relatively strong to withstand occasional pulling and stretching which may occur when the enclosure is repeatedly assembled, used and dismantled.

When the flexible membrane and the attachment means are collapsed and ready to be stowed away, it is preferred that they are contained within the base of the shower enclosure. A cover member may also be provided to cover and conceal the shower enclosure so that the collapsed shower enclosure is inconspicuous when the shower is not in use. Where a frame member is provided, it is preferred that it too can be contained within the base and concealed under the cover member.

In one form of the invention, the flexible membrane is removably attached to the base. This may be achieved by use of clips, Velcro® or other fasteners. Thus, the membrane can be removed from the base for cleaning, drying, repair or eventually, replacement. The flexible membrane may be provided in any colour, and can be chosen to match the interior of the caravan, campervan, boat or other space in which the collapsible shower enclosure is installed.

The membrane of the collapsible shower enclosure may be adjustable in height to accommodate, for example, different ceiling heights. This is particularly useful for a shower enclosure installed in a pop-top caravan or campervan as it enables the shower enclosure to be erected and used even when the roof of the van is not extended to its full height capacity.

Adjustability in the height is preferably provided by doubling the membrane over at one end to form a "hem" and holding the hem in place thereby shortening the enclosure. The height of the enclosure depends on the amount of hem. The doubled over portion can be held in position using hooks, clips, ties, hook and loop fasteners such as Velcro® or any other means. Alternatively, membrane extensions could be used to adjust the height of the enclosure by inserting extra widths of material in the membrane. The extensions may be removably attached by a zipper, Velcro® or other fastening means which limit or prevent leakage of water outside the enclosure during use of the shower.

The collapsible shower enclosure preferably includes an opening in the membrane through which the user enters and exits the enclosure to use the shower, although it is also conceivable that the user could stand on the base prior to erecting the enclosure around him as another method of entering the enclosure. Where a designated opening is provided in the membrane, it is preferable that the opening can be held closed for the duration of use of the shower enclosure to maintain the user's privacy and also to prevent leakage of water outside the enclosure. The opening may be held closed in a number of ways, the simplest of which may be a simple overlapping of portions of membrane. Alternatively, a zipper, studs, ties, hooks, buttons or Velcro® could be used.

In one embodiment, the collapsible shower enclosure includes a foot-operable switch for controllably operating a shower pump which is used to pump water through a showerhead positioned over the base. The foot switch may be fixed to or moulded in the base and enables the user to controllably operate the showerhead to release water, while leaving the user's hands free for washing.

In one form, the foot-switch is pressure actuated so that the pump operates only when the user applies pressure to the switch. Thus, when pressure is released from the switch the shower pump stops and water ceases to flow from the showerhead so that it is not wasted. Alternatively, the foot-switch may be a simple on-off switch to start or stop the shower pump. In another form, the foot switch may be more sophisticated and provide the user with control over the mix of hot and cold water (where hot and cold water supplies are available).

Where a foot-switch is provided, it may also be configured to controllably operate a drain pump which draws waste water from the drain during use of the shower. Alternatively, a second foot-switch may be provided for this purpose.

Active removal of waste water entering the drain eliminates the need for or at 7 least reduces the size of a waste water sump or tank which may otherwise be necessary for collecting waste water draining from the shower base during use.

Another aspect of the invention provides a shower system for use in an area having a floor and a ceiling, the shower system including: a base located in the floor; a flexible membrane attachable at a first end to the base; attachment means for releasably coupling a second end of the flexible membrane with the ceiling; and a showerhead positioned over the base.

It is desirable that the collapsed shower enclosure is concealable within the floor. This may be achieved by providing a trap-style door preferably attached to the floor or shower base by one or more hinges. Alternatively, a cover which can be removed and replaced over the base containing the collapsed membrane and attachment means may be used. Preferably, the trap-style door or cover blends in with the general appearance of the floor.

The cover/trap-style door, when open, may be laid flat and used as a platform on which the user may stand to dry off when finished showering. In this arrangement, it is preferable that the surface of the platform is angled toward the base so that any extra water run-off from the user drains into the base. This provides the user with a less confined space in which to dry and dress, without wetting the surrounding floor area. Preferably, any opening in the enclosure membrane is arranged adjacent the drying platform so that it is easy for the user to step from within the shower enclosure to the platform to dry, without getting the surrounding floor area wet. A small channel which transports water run-off from the platform under the membrane to the base may be provided.

The shower system may also include a shower pump and/or a drain pump for pumping waste water away from the drain as described previously. The shower system may be provided in kit form for after-market installation in existing caravans, campervans, boats, houseboats or the like, or may be fitted during construction of the same.

Alternatively, the collapsible shower enclosure may be provided on its own in a portable case which can be used outdoors or in other environments where there is an overhead support with which to engage the attachment means on the membrane. In this rudimentary form, the showerhead could be provided by a simple hose or container with an opening positioned above the shower base.

In another of its aspects, the present invention provides a collapsible shower for use in an area having a floor and a ceiling, the shower including a base with a drain located in the floor, a water-impermeable flexible membrane attached at a first end to the base and attached at a second end to a frame member which is releasably connectable to the ceiling to erect the shower, wherein the membrane is collapsible and can be stored, with the frame member, inside the base and concealed within the floor by a cover.

Brief description of the drawings Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the particularity of the accompanying drawings does not supersede the generality of the preceding description of the invention. Wherever possible, like numerals have been used to designate like parts.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible shower enclosure according to an embodiment of the invention, in the erect configuration with a cut-out portion showing part of the inside of the enclosure.

Figure 2 is a side cross-section of a shower system incorporating a collapsible shower enclosure according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figures 3A to 3D illustrate various stages of assembly of a collapsible shower enclosure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description Referring firstly to Figure 1, there is shown a collapsible shower enclosure 100 illustrated in the erect configuration with a cut out region showing part of the inside of the enclosure. The enclosure has a base 101 on which a user stands 7- 9 whilst showering and the base includes a drain 102 through which waste water exits the base. Preferably, the base includes side walls 101a and a lip 101b around its periphery. The sidewalls prevent leakage of waste water over the edges of the base, and the lip fits over the floor into which the collapsible shower enclosure is installed.

The collapsible shower enclosure also includes a flexible membrane 103 which is substantially impermeable to water. The membrane is attached at one end to the base 101 and at the opposite end to attachment means 104. The membrane 103 is attached to the base 101 using Velcro® (not shown) so that it can be removed for cleaning and drying and then re-attached. The membrane can also be replaced in time if it becomes damaged or discoloured.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, attachment means 104 is provided in the form of a frame member (shown in dotted lines) being a square hoop. The membrane 103 has been folded over the frame member 104 from the inside out, and the doubled over portion is held in position by a strip of Velcro® 105.

Alternatively, the frame member may be stitched or clipped to the flexible membrane. In other embodiments, the attachment means may consist of a number of clasps or fasteners attached to the membrane directly and configured to engage with corresponding fasteners on the overhead support ceiling) and a frame member may be omitted altogether.

As described previously, the enclosure may have adjustable height by increasing the amount of "hem" around the membrane, or inserting extra widths of membrane. The hem or the extra widths of membrane may be held in position using a strip of Velcro® or using other suitable fasteners such as zippers, ties, studs, clips and the like. Alternatively, where the attachment means is provided in the form of a group of fasteners arranged at a certain height around the membrane corresponding to the height of the fasteners on the ceiling, another group of fasteners can be provided at a second height around the membrane. This second height may be lower than the first height and correspond, for example, to the height of the ceiling when the roof of the caravan has not been extended to its full height. Excess membrane can be doubled over on the outside or the inside of the enclosure during use.

The shower enclosure of Figure 1 also has a foot-switch 106 in the base which the user depresses by applying pressure with the foot. This operates a shower pump which pumps water through a showerhead positioned above the base for the user's enjoyment of a refreshing shower. The user depresses and holds the switch when desiring to release water from the showerhead, and releases pressure from the switch when water is not required. Thus, the user can wet down with their foot on the switch, lather up with their foot off the switch and no water flowing, and then rinse off by again, depressing and holding their foot on the switch as long as the user wishes water to flow from the showerhead.

The switch 106 can also be configured to operate a drain pump which pumps water out of the drain, substantially simultaneously with water being pumped into the shower enclosure. This can eliminate the need for a waste water tank in or below the base. The drain pump can pump the waste water into a grey water tank for use in a toilet if there is one on board, into a stormwater receptacle or into a hose and directed elsewhere.

Now referring to Figure 2, there is shown a shower system 200 incorporating a collapsible shower enclosure of the kind described previously. The enclosure also includes an opening in the membrane 103 which is held closed during use of the shower by a zipper 107. The base is located in the floor 210 of a caravan and the overhead support is provided in the form of the ceiling 212 of the caravan. Attached to the ceiling are four clips 219 which engage the frame member 104 to hold the enclosure in the erect position.

In the embodiment illustrated, the shower system also includes a showerhead 213 positioned over the base 101. Water is pumped into showerhead inlet 214 which is in turn connected to a water supply via a shower pump (not shown). In a preferred embodiment, the showerhead is recessed in the caravan ceiling 212 and concealed by a cover 215. The cover may be screwed over or into the recess and minimises the aesthetic impact of the showerhead on the area when it is being used for an alternate purpose. It is to be understood, however, that Sthe showerhead need not be concealed, or that it may be concealed using other means such as a clip-on closure.

A cover member 216 is provided in the form of a trap-style door and is attached by hinges 217 to caravan floor 210. When closed, the trapdoor conceals the collapsible shower enclosure (see Figure 3a) so that the area inside the N caravan can be used for alternate purposes. The trap door may be opened Sthrough 180 degrees to lie on the adjacent floor with the underside of the trap door providing a platform on which the user may stand and dry off when Sfinished showering. Preferably, the platform is angled toward the base so that any additional water run-off from the user drains into the base and down the drain.

The shower system illustrated in Figure 2 also includes a drain pump 218 which draws water entering the drain away from the base of the shower so that a waste water tank is not required.

Now referring to Figures 3A to 3D, the collapsible shower enclosure and the shower system incorporating the enclosure are illustrated in various stages of assembly. Figure 3A shows the floor 210 of the caravan into which the collapsible shower enclosure has been installed with lip 101b resting on the surface of the floor, around the region in which the base has been fitted. Cover member 216 is closed. Figure 3B illustrates the cover member 216 open, revealing the collapsed flexible membrane 103 stowed inside.

Now referring to Figure 3C, two clips 219a on ceiling 212 have been engaged with the attachment means 104 to fasten one side of the enclosure to the ceiling. The two remaining clips 219b must be engaged to complete assembly.

Figure 3D shows the completely assembled collapsible shower enclosure.

Thus, the shower may be assembled in 3 easy steps: 1) remove cover from showerhead; 2) open cover member; and 3) engage attachment means on flexible membrane with ceiling clips.

Embodiments of the present invention provide a space saving alternative to the prior art shower systems which have been used in caravans, campervans, boats, RVs and other confined spaces. It enables a compact and fully functional shower to be incorporated into a restricted space for the comfort and use of occupants. Importantly, because the shower is collapsible and concealable it doubles the usefulness of the floor space it occupies since, when the shower is collapsed and stowed away, the space can be used for alternate purposes. Embodiments of the invention also offer an environmentally sound approach to showering which is desirable to travellers in remote areas where water is a scarce resource.

The shower enclosure is very simple and quick to erect, and can be stowed away quickly when the enclosure is not required for showering. The collapsible enclosure solves the space problem which is prevalent particularly in smaller caravans, campervans and boats, and utilises a region of the floor to provide a shower, whilst also providing the privacy that is enjoyed while showering.

Moreover, there is no leakage or mess created outside the enclosure as the base embedded in the floor contains a drain through which waste water is removed. Unlike a conventional shower curtain, the bottom of the flexible membrane which forms the shower enclosure is attached to the inside of the base so water which splashes off the user or exits the shower head drains into the base and not outside the enclosure.

Whilst embodiments of the invention have been described in the context of their use in caravans, it is to be understood that it is also suitable for use in a range of other environments including boating, ships and in the military. The present invention also has utility in emergency aid areas where temporary buildings are erected. These buildings often have limited floor space which is preferably allocated to sleeping, working and eating areas. However the present invention also enables part of the floor space to incorporate one or more collapsible showers. This is of great use to aid workers who are benefited both physically and mentally by ready access to sanitary and hygiene facilities.

13 It is to be understood that various modifications, additions and/or alterations may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the ambit of the present invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.

Claims (20)

1. A collapsible shower enclosure, the enclosure including: a base; attachment means for releasably engaging an overhead support; and a flexible membrane attached at a first end to the base and at a second end to the attachment means; wherein, the enclosure is erected by engaging the attachment means with the overhead support thereby extending the membrane between the overhead support and the base to form the enclosure.

2. A collapsible shower enclosure according to claim 1, wherein the base includes a drain for waste-water.

3. A collapsible shower enclosure according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the attachment means includes a frame member.

4. A collapsible shower enclosure according to claim 3 wherein the frame member shapes the periphery of the erected enclosure.

A collapsible shower enclosure according to claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the frame member is adapted to be coupled directly to the overhead support.

6. A collapsible shower enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein when collapsed, the membrane and attachment means are configured to be stored in the base.

7. A collapsible shower enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a cover member to cover the collapsed membrane and attachment means.

8. A collapsible shower enclosure according to claim 7 wherein the cover member is adapted for use as a platform on which a user may stand after showering, the platform draining excess water into the base.

9. A collapsible shower enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the membrane is removable from the base.

10. A collapsible shower enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the membrane is configured to facilitate adjustable in height when the enclosure is erected.

11. A collapsible shower enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, including a foot-operable switch for operating a shower pump.

12. A collapsible shower enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, including a foot-operable switch for operating a drain pump.

13. A shower system for use in an area having a floor and a ceiling, the shower system including: a base located in the floor; a flexible membrane attachable at a first end to the base; attachment means for releasably coupling a second end of the flexible membrane with the ceiling; and a showerhead positioned over the base.

14. A shower system according to claim 13 wherein the showerhead is concealable in the ceiling.

A shower system according to claim 13 or claim 14 wherein the collapsed shower enclosure is concealable within the floor by a cover.

16. A shower system according to claim 15 wherein the cover is a trap-style door attached by one or more hinges to the floor.

17. A shower system according to any one of claims 13 to 16 including one or more of a shower pump, a drain pump and a waste-water storage tank. 16

18. A collapsible shower for use in an area having a floor and a ceiling, the shower including: a base with a drain; a water-impermeable flexible membrane attached at a first end to the base and attached at a second end to a frame member; the flexible membrane being releasably connectable to the ceiling to erect the shower; wherein the membrane is collapsible and can be accommodated, with the frame member, inside the base and concealed within the floor by a cover.

19. A collapsible shower enclosure substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

20. A kit for a shower enclosure substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings.