Lateral access-based bathing assisting method convenient for sitting and sitting posture adjustment

By introducing sliding and rotating mechanisms into the bathing aid, the three-dimensional adjustment and locking of the seat can be achieved, solving the problem of inconvenience for users to enter, exit, and sit down, and improving the efficiency and safety of the bathing aid.

CN120918501APending Publication Date: 2025-11-11TAICANG KANGHUI TECH DEV

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511226367.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-08-29
Publication Date
2025-11-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing bathing aids, users have difficulty getting in and out of the bathtub and sitting down, requiring the assistance of multiple caregivers. Furthermore, the position and angle of the seats cannot be adjusted, leading to inconvenience and safety hazards.

Method used

A bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, is designed. By setting sliding and rotating mechanisms on the bathtub and seat, three-dimensional motion adjustment of the seat is achieved. Combined with locking components and the follow-up flipping of the cover, it assists users to smoothly enter, exit, and sit down.

Benefits of technology

It reduces the difficulty of getting in and out of the bathtub, improves bathing efficiency, reduces the workload of caregivers, enhances user safety and comfort, and meets the needs of different patients.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a bath assisting method based on lateral access and convenient for sitting and sitting posture adjustment. The method comprises the following steps: S1, sitting; s2, carrying out hip bath; and S3, taking out of the seat. On one hand, on the premise that water does not need to be discharged and water can be discharged in advance to shorten the time required for bath assistance, the bath door descends to reduce the bath entering height, the difficulty of bath entering and exiting is reduced, the bath efficiency is improved, and especially in winter, the effect is very obvious; on the other hand, the requirements for convenient sitting and hip bath are met, time and labor are saved, the accidental injury risk is reduced, meanwhile, the seat part can be rotationally adjusted in the Z-axis direction, angle sitting posture locking is formed through a radial clamping force locking set provided by the current locking station, and the sitting posture setting or adjusting of the seat part is combined, so that the use requirements of different patients are met, and the use effect is improved. Meanwhile, on the basis of overturning follow-up of the shielding part, shielding protection during hip bath is achieved, supporting and supporting of the outer suspension end are formed during entering and exiting of the bath, and entering and exiting of the bath are safely assisted.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of bathing assistance technology, specifically relating to a bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, which facilitates sitting and posture adjustment. Background Technology

[0002] Assisted bathing is a professional bathing assistance service provided for special groups with limited mobility (such as the elderly, disabled / semi-disabled people, people with disabilities, and postoperative recovery patients). Its core objectives are to ensure their hygiene needs, enhance their dignity in life, and reduce safety risks (such as slipping, physical exhaustion, etc.) caused by independent bathing.

[0003] Currently, conventional bathing assistance equipment includes bathtubs and bathing chairs. During bathing, the user is first transferred to the bathing chair and seated, then sits in the chair for a sitz bath to meet the needs of special groups. However, for users with mobility impairments, sitting down and getting in and out of the bathtub becomes a significant challenge, thus presenting the following shortcomings:

[0004] 1) Due to the excessive height of the bathtub entrance, it is difficult for users to transfer from a wheelchair into the bathtub, often requiring the assistance of multiple caregivers. Therefore, it is very important to ensure smooth and humane entry and exit from the bathtub. At the same time, in order to solve the problem of convenient entry and exit, the conventional operation is to assemble the bathtub in sections. That is, the user is transferred into the bathtub first, and then the bathtub is assembled. Therefore, it is impossible to pre-fill the water or get out of the bath at any time, which not only affects the bathing efficiency but also reduces the user's comfort.

[0005] 2) Since the seat position cannot be adjusted, multiple caregivers are needed to assist with the bathing, which not only poses a safety hazard but also makes sitting and getting up very inconvenient. At the same time, the seat angle cannot be adjusted, and caregivers have to repeatedly move to assist with the bathing, which greatly increases the difficulty of the bathing and also reduces the user's comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a novel bathing method based on lateral entry and exit, which is convenient for sitting and adjusting the sitting posture.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] A bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, utilizes bathing equipment including a bathtub and a seat, wherein a three-dimensional X, Y, Z space is established based on the length, width, and height of the bathtub.

[0009] The bathtub includes a tub body with an inlet and outlet recessed from the top to the side, and a bath door that slides up and down to the outside of the inlet and outlet of the tub body.

[0010] The seat includes a seat, a seat body, and a locking assembly. The seat travels along the X-axis and is mounted on the top edge of the cylinder body on the opposite side of the inlet and outlet. The seat body includes a support, a seat portion, and a shield. The support slides on the seat along the Z-axis. The seat portion slides from the chassis assembly along the Y-axis and rotates around the Z-axis while being mounted on the support. The shield rotates around the X-axis and is mounted on the support. The locking assembly forms multiple locking stations side-by-side along the Y-axis and includes the following steps:

[0011] S1. Take your seats

[0012] Based on the pre-filling of water into the tank body, with the water level below the bottom surface of the inlet and outlet, the shower door descends to open the inlet and outlet, while the shielding part follows and flips down and disengages from the shower door until the shielding part is suspended and flattened outwards. The unlocking operation is then performed, and the seat part moves laterally outwards along the Y-axis from the inlet and outlet. At this time, part of the seat part passes outwards from the inlet and outlet and is mounted on the chair support and shielding part. Simultaneously, the seat part is moved to the current locking position by lifting and / or rotating in the Z-axis direction, and coordinated with the X-axis displacement adjustment. Then, it is locked by radial alignment clamping to assist in sitting at the required angle and height.

[0013] S2, sitz bath

[0014] After the user sits down, based on the unlocking, the seat moves into the bathtub and rotates inward, and is rotated to the desired position and angle of sitting posture. Then, it is locked by the radial alignment clamp of the current locking position. At the same time, the bath door is lifted up and the cover is triggered to flip until the top of the bath door is flush with the top of the bathtub body. The cover forms the side enclosure of the seat, that is, the user takes a bath on the seat.

[0015] S3, Leaving the Seat

[0016] Repeat step S1 to assist in getting out of the seat.

[0017] According to a specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the present invention, in step S1, water is simultaneously pre-emptively added to the tank body, and the water level is lower than the bottom surface of the inlet and outlet. Pre-emptive water is generally required in winter to shorten the bathing time.

[0018] Furthermore, during the assisted seating in step S1, the seat is oriented towards the Y-axis. This angle allows for optimal transfer seating and also avoids excessive contact with the cylinder body.

[0019] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the invention, during the sitz bath in step S2, the seat is oriented towards the X-axis. This angle makes it easier for caregivers to operate.

[0020] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the invention, in step S1, the top surfaces of the chair support and the shield are flush. The chair support includes a backrest assembly and a base assembly, wherein the backrest assembly is slidably mounted on the seat along the Z-axis; the base assembly is rotated and mounted on the bottom of the backrest assembly around the X-axis, and the rotation angle formed with the backrest assembly is 0 to 90°; the shield is mounted on the outside of the base assembly. The combination of the backrest and base assembly enables movement along the Y and Z axes, while the seat can also be rotated and adjusted to meet posture adjustment needs; furthermore, the base assembly can be folded based on its rotational adjustment for easy assembly and disassembly.

[0021] Preferably, the base assembly includes a base plate with a groove extending along the Y-axis, frame molds mounted on the bottom of the base plate and located on opposite sides of the groove, and end molds, wherein two frame molds extend along the Y-axis, and the end molds are connected to the ends of the two frame molds away from the back support assembly, and a displacement groove with an open bottom and sealed end is formed between the two frame molds and the end molds; the chassis assembly includes a frame plate mounted on the base plate, a frame axle extending downward from the bottom of the frame plate through the groove, and frame wheels mounted on the lower end of the frame axle and mating with the displacement groove; a locking assembly is mounted on the frame mold and is used for relative locking of the position and angle of the frame wheels. The movement and rotation of the seat portion are achieved based on the rotation and sliding of the frame wheels, thereby assisting in sitting, getting out of the seat, and taking a bath.

[0022] Furthermore, multiple locking holes are evenly distributed around the circumference of the frame wheel. Two locking holes on the same diameter form a group, and the locking group engages with any group of locking holes on the frame wheel for locking. The locking mechanism allows the seat to be positioned at the desired angle and position to assist in sitz bathing. Through holes are formed on the sidewalls of the frame mold forming the shifting groove. The locking group includes a locking tongue that elastically extends through the through hole and an actuating element mounted on the end mold. The actuating element triggers the retraction or reset of the locking tongue, engaging with any group of locking holes on the frame wheel for locking or unlocking. Employing a resilient locking tongue extension mode, pressing the actuating element inward retracts the locking tongue, allowing for angle and position adjustment of the frame wheel; once the actuating element is released, the locking tongue resets and enters the corresponding locking hole to form a lock.

[0023] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the present invention, each frame mold has a plurality of through holes arranged side by side along the Y-axis direction, and the locking tongue corresponds to each through hole. The locking assembly also includes a locking bar installed inside the frame mold and extending along the Y-axis direction. The plurality of locking tongues are installed side by side on the locking bar, and a wedge-shaped module is formed at the actuating end of the locking bar. The actuating element includes a contact that matches and weds into the wedge-shaped modules respectively and a spring, wherein the other end of the contact forms an actuating button that penetrates the end mold, and the spring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the actuating button and abuts against the contact and the end mold. A plurality of elastic elements are provided in each frame mold, wherein each elastic element is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the locking tongue, and the two ends of each elastic element abut against the frame mold and the locking bar respectively. And / or, the end of the locking bar away from the wedge-shaped module is connected by a tension spring. Based on the cooperation of the wedge module and the contact, the two locking bars can be simultaneously extended outward to retract the bolt and unlock. This allows for adjustment of the angle and position of the locking wheel. The parallel arrangement of multiple bolts selects the nearest bolt to engage based on the position of the locking wheel. In short, the angle can be adjusted by rotation in place or during movement. Furthermore, the contact, based on a spring, can be positioned in its current state. Pressing it inward creates an actuation, and the contact automatically resets when the pressure is released.

[0024] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the invention, the bathtub further includes a power component concealed in the tub body for driving the bath door to open or close laterally, wherein a height difference in liquid level required for bathing is formed between the bottom edge of the inlet and the bottom of the tub body.

[0025] Preferably, the shower door includes a door body and a door seat slidably installed in the slide rail, wherein the door body is fixedly installed in the door seat and the door seat partially extends into the slide rail; the door seat includes a seat plate and a connecting ear, the connecting ear having a first connecting piece connected to the seat plate and a second connecting piece concealed in the tub body, and the second connecting piece is in contact with the inner side of the tub body and moves up and down relative to each other.

[0026] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the invention, the bathroom door includes a door body and a door seat slidably mounted within a slide rail, wherein the door body is fixedly mounted on the door seat, and a portion of the door seat extends into the slide rail. This track-based motion guidance makes the movement of the bathroom door more stable.

[0027] Preferably, the door seat includes a seat plate and a connecting ear. The connecting ear has a first connecting piece connected to the seat plate and a second connecting piece concealed within the cylinder body. The second connecting piece is fitted against the inner side of the cylinder body and moves vertically relative to it. Based on the fit of the second connecting piece, the door body moves in close contact with the cylinder body, preventing any loosening of the movement and ensuring stable opening and closing of the door.

[0028] In some specific embodiments, the slide rail is a groove recessed inward from the outer side of the cylinder body, the seat plate fits against the outer side of the cylinder body, the first connecting piece is inserted into the groove, and the second connecting piece is perpendicular to the first connecting piece and fits against the inner side of the cylinder body. Here, on the one hand, a groove is used to replace the slide rail, eliminating the need for external installation on the cylinder body; on the other hand, the right-angle fit facilitates assembly.

[0029] Furthermore, the connecting lug formed by the first connecting piece and the second connecting piece is L-shaped or T-shaped. Generally, an L-shaped lug is sufficient.

[0030] In some specific embodiments, the telescopic end of the power component is fixedly connected to the second connecting piece. The extension and retraction of the built-in power component enables the shower door to be raised and lowered.

[0031] Preferably, the slide rail, connecting lug, and power component constitute a sliding guide assembly. The bathtub has multiple sliding guide assemblies, in which the power components of multiple sliding guide assemblies move up and down synchronously. Based on multiple sets of sliding guides, and in synchronous movement, the up and down movement is smoother.

[0032] Furthermore, there are two sets of sliding guide assemblies, which are symmetrically arranged at opposite ends about the inlet and outlet. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0033] Furthermore, when the shower door is closed, the top of the door body is flush with the top of the bathtub body; when the shower door is open, the top of the door body is lower than or flush with the bottom edge of the inlet and outlet. The flush top when the door is closed avoids obstructing movement and also enhances the overall aesthetics; the open position of the door maximizes the opening of the inlet and outlet, facilitating entry and exit from the bathtub.

[0034] Preferably, an anti-slip protrusion module is also provided at the top of the door body. Based on the anti-slip protrusion module, it can provide anti-slip support during bathing.

[0035] Preferably, the tub body is also equipped with handrails at both ends. The handrails are mainly for assisting bathing.

[0036] Preferably, the edges of the inlet and outlet are chamfered. This chamfering helps prevent accidental scratches when entering or exiting the bathtub.

[0037] Due to the implementation of the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0038] In current assisted bathing procedures, on the one hand, the excessively high height of the bathtub entrance makes it difficult for users to transfer from a wheelchair into the tub, often requiring the assistance of multiple caregivers. Therefore, a smooth and user-friendly way to enter and exit the bathtub is crucial. Furthermore, to address this issue, the conventional method involves modular assembly: the user is first transferred into the tub, and then the tub is assembled. This prevents pre-filling with water and allows for unpredictable exit, impacting bathing efficiency and reducing user comfort. On the other hand, the seat position cannot be adjusted, requiring assistance from multiple caregivers, which poses safety hazards and makes sitting and getting out inconvenient. Additionally, the seat angle cannot be adjusted, only… Traditional assisted bathing methods rely on repeated repositioning by caregivers, significantly increasing the difficulty and reducing the user's comfort. This invention cleverly addresses these shortcomings by employing a side-entry, easy-to-settle, and posture-adjustable assisted bathing method. The method involves pre-filling the tub with water below the bottom of the inlet and outlet. The bath door then descends to open the inlet and outlet, while the shield folds down and detaches from the door until it is suspended and flattened outwards. Unlocking is then activated, and the seat moves laterally along the Y-axis outwards from the inlet and outlet. At this point, part of the seat extends outwards from the inlet and outlet and rests on the chair support and shield, while simultaneously rising, falling, and / or rotating along the Z-axis. The system, in conjunction with X-axis displacement adjustment, moves the seat to the current locking position, and then locks it using radial alignment clamping to assist in sitting at the desired angle and height. After the user sits down, based on unlocking, the seat moves and rotates inward into the bathtub, returning to the desired position and angle, and is then locked by radial alignment clamping at the current locking position. Simultaneously, the bath door is raised and the blocking part flips until the top of the bath door is flush with the top of the bathtub body, and the blocking part forms the side enclosure of the seat, i.e., sitting in the bath on the seat. The same sitting action is repeated to assist in getting out of the seat. Therefore, this invention, on the one hand, is based on the premise of not needing to flush water and being able to flush water in advance to shorten the time required for assisted bathing, and on the other hand, involves the lowering of the bath door. The low bathing height not only reduces the difficulty of getting in and out of the bath, but also improves bathing efficiency, which is especially noticeable in winter. On the other hand, based on one side of the bathtub, the three-dimensional movement of the seat adjusts the seat position to meet the needs of convenient sitting and bathing, saving time and effort and reducing the risk of accidental injury. At the same time, the seat can also rotate and adjust around the Z-axis, and the radial clamping force locking group provided by the current locking position forms an angle sitting posture lock. Combined with the sitting posture setting or adjustment of the seat, it not only meets the needs of different patients, but also greatly reduces the workload of assisting bathing. At the same time, based on the flip-following of the shield, it meets the shielding protection when bathing, and forms a flat support for the outer cantilever when getting in and out of the bath, safely assisting in getting in and out of the bath. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the bathing aid device in this embodiment (during a sitz bath);

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the bathing aid device in this embodiment (side outlet).

[0041] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the bathing aid device in this embodiment (inlet and outlet of the bath);

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the bathtub structure in this embodiment;

[0043] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the bathtub structure in this embodiment;

[0044] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the middle seat structure;

[0045] Figure 7 for Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the middle seat structure;

[0046] Figure 8 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the middle seat structure;

[0047] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Front view diagram;

[0048] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the sectional view along the central AA direction;

[0049] Figure 11 for Figure 9 A top-down view;

[0050] Figure 12 for Figure 11 Schematic diagram of a local structure in the middle;

[0051] Wherein: G, bathtub; 1, tub body; 10, inlet / outlet; 10a, end edge; 10b, bottom edge; 12, handrail; 2, shower door; 20, door body; 200, anti-slip protrusion module; 21, door seat; 210, seat plate; 211, connecting ear; p1, first connecting piece; p2, second connecting piece; 3, slide rail; 4, power component;

[0052] W, Seat; w1, Seat; w2, Chair body; w20, Chair support; w200, Backrest assembly; w201, Base assembly; w21, Seat section; w210, Chassis assembly; w22, Covering section; w23, Armrest; w3, Locking assembly; w30, Locking tongue; w31, Actuating element; 310, Contact; 311, Spring; w32, Locking bar; 320, Wedge module; a, Base plate; b, Frame mold; b1, Through hole; b2, Elastic element; c, End mold; d, Frame plate; e, Frame shaft; f, Frame wheel; f1, Locking hole; h, Slide groove; s, Shift groove; m, Tension spring; n, Actuating button. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be practiced in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0054] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0055] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0056] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0057] In this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0058] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, the bathing aid device involved in this embodiment includes a bathtub G and a seat W.

[0060] Specifically, the bathtub G includes a tub body 1, a bath door 2, a slide rail 3, and a power component 4. One side of the tub body 1 has an inlet / outlet 10 recessed from the top inwards. A height difference in the liquid level required for bathing is formed between the bottom edge of the inlet / outlet 10 and the bottom of the tub body 1. A slide rail 3 extending vertically is formed on the side where the inlet / outlet 10 is located. The bath door 2 slides vertically and adjusts on the slide rail 3, moving in contact with the outside of the tub body 1 to laterally open or close the inlet / outlet 10. In some specific embodiments, the inlet / outlet 10 has downwardly extending end edges 10a on both sides and a bottom edge 10b at the bottom. The end edges 10a and bottom edges 10b are vertically arranged, and the edges of the inlet / outlet 10 are chamfered. The chamfered design prevents accidental scratches when entering or exiting the bathtub.

[0061] The shower door 2 includes a door body 20 and a door seat 21 slidably installed in a slide rail 3. The door body 20 is fixedly installed in the door seat 21, and part of the door seat 21 extends into the slide rail 3. The track-based motion guide makes the shower door movement more stable. The door seat 21 includes a seat plate 210 and a connecting ear 211. The connecting ear 211 has a first connecting piece p1 connected to the seat plate 210 and a second connecting piece p2 concealed in the tub body 1. The second connecting piece p2 fits against the inner side of the tub body 1 and moves up and down relative to it. Based on the fit of the second connecting piece, the door body moves in close contact with the tub body, preventing loosening and ensuring stable opening and closing. The connecting ear formed by the first connecting piece p1 and the second connecting piece p2 is L-shaped or T-shaped. Generally, an L-shape is sufficient. The power component 4 is concealed in the tub body 1 and moves up and down. The telescopic end of the power component 4 is fixedly connected to the second connecting piece p2. Based on the telescopic movement of the concealed power component, the shower door can be raised and lowered.

[0062] In this example, the slide rail 3 is a groove recessed inward from the outside of the cylinder body 1. The seat plate 210 fits against the outside of the cylinder body 1. The first connecting piece p1 is inserted into the groove, and the second connecting piece p2 is perpendicular to the first connecting piece p1 and fits against the inside of the cylinder body 1. Here, on the one hand, a groove is used to replace the slide rail, eliminating the need for external installation of the cylinder body; on the other hand, the right-angle fit facilitates assembly. The slide rail 3, connecting ear 211, and power component 4 constitute a sliding guide group. The bathtub has two sliding guide groups, in which the power components of the two sliding guide groups move up and down synchronously. Based on multiple sets of sliding guides, and in synchronous movement, the up and down movement is smoother. Furthermore, the two sets of sliding guide groups are symmetrically arranged at opposite ends about the inlet and outlet 10. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0063] In addition, an anti-slip protrusion module 200 is provided at the top of the door body 20. Based on the anti-slip protrusion module 200, it can provide anti-slip support during bathing. Bathing handrails 12 are also provided at both ends of the tub body 1. The bathing handrails 12 are mainly for assisting with bathing.

[0064] The seat W includes a seat w1 and a seat body w2. The X, Y, and Z three-dimensional space is established based on the length, width, and height of the bathtub. The seat w1 is installed on one side of the top edge of the bathtub and moves along the X-axis. The seat body w2 can move relative to the seat w1 along the Y and Z axes.

[0065] Specifically, the chair seat w1 is mounted on the side edge along the length of the bathtub G, and a conventional wheel mechanism can be used. In short, the X-axis movement is adjusted by using the side edge as a guide rail and a trolley moving along the guide rail.

[0066] In some specific embodiments, the chair body w2 includes a chair support w20, a seat w21, and a screen w22. The chair support w20 slides on the seat w1 along the Z-axis. The seat w21 is mounted on the chair support w20, sliding along the Y-axis and rotating around the Z-axis from the chassis assembly w210. The seat w21 can be adjusted for angle based on the backrest and / or bottom, or for posture based on the cushion (optional, depending on actual needs). The screen w22 is mounted on the chair support w20 and rotates around the X-axis. Specifically, the chair support w20 includes a backrest assembly w200 and a base assembly w201. The backrest assembly w200 slides on the seat w1 along the Z-axis. The base assembly w201 is horizontally positioned, and the chassis assembly w210 is slidably and rotatably mounted on the base assembly w201. The combination of the backrest and base assembly enables movement along the Y and Z axes, while the seat can also be rotated for adjustment. The base support assembly w201 includes a base plate a having a slide groove h extending along the Y-axis, frame molds b and end molds c installed at the bottom of the base plate a and located on opposite sides of the slide groove, wherein the two frame molds b extend along the Y-axis, and the end molds c are connected to the ends of the two frame molds b away from the back support assembly w200, and the two frame molds b and the end molds c form a displacement groove s with an open bottom and a sealed end; the chassis assembly w210 includes a frame plate d mounted on the base plate a, a frame shaft e extending downward from the bottom of the frame plate d through the slide groove h, and a frame wheel f installed at the lower end of the frame shaft e and mating with the displacement groove s.

[0067] In some specific embodiments, the bathing assistance seat also includes a locking assembly w3 mounted on the seat support w20 and capable of adjusting and locking the position and angle of the frame wheels f of the chassis assembly w210 and the seat support w20. The locking assembly w3 forms a locking force that is applied radially along the frame wheels f to the opposite sides of the frame wheels f, and after unlocking, the chassis assembly w210 moves and / or slides relative to the seat support w20.

[0068] In this example, multiple locking holes f1 are evenly distributed around the circumference of the frame wheel f. Two locking holes f1 located on the same diameter form a group, and the locking group w3 engages with any group of locking holes on the frame wheel f to lock. Based on the locking formed by the locking holes, the seat can be positioned at the desired angle and position to assist with bathing needs. Simultaneously, a through hole b1 is formed on the side wall of the frame mold b, which forms the displacement groove s. The locking group w3 includes a locking tongue w30 that elastically protrudes from the through hole b1 and an actuating element w31 mounted on the end mold c. The actuating element w31 triggers the retraction or reset of the locking tongue w30, engaging with any group of locking holes on the frame wheel f to lock or unlock. Using a resilient locking tongue that remains extended, pressing the actuating element inward retracts the locking tongue, allowing for angle and position adjustment of the frame wheel; once the actuating element is released, the locking tongue resets and enters the corresponding locking hole to form a lock.

[0069] Furthermore, each mold b has multiple through holes b1 arranged side by side along the Y-axis direction. The locking tongue w30 corresponds to each through hole b1. The locking group w3 also includes a locking bar w32 installed inside the mold b and extending along the Y-axis direction. Multiple locking tongues w30 are installed side by side on the locking bar w32, and a wedge-shaped module 320 is formed at the actuating end of the locking bar w32. The actuating element w31 includes a contact 310 that matches and weds into the two wedge-shaped modules 320 respectively, and a spring 311. The other end of the contact 310 forms an actuating button n that penetrates the end mold c. The spring 311 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the actuating button n and abuts against the contact 310 and the end mold c. Based on the cooperation of the wedge-shaped module and the contact, the two locking bars can be simultaneously extended outward to retract the bolt and unlock. This allows for adjustment of the angle and position of the locking wheel. The parallel layout of multiple bolts selects the nearest bolt to engage based on the position of the locking wheel. In short, the angle can be adjusted by rotation in place or during movement. Furthermore, the contact, based on a spring, can be positioned in its current state. Pressing it inward actuates the mechanism, and the contact automatically resets when the pressure is released.

[0070] In this example, multiple elastic elements b2 are provided within each mold frame b, with each elastic element b2 corresponding to a locking tongue w30, and both ends of each elastic element b2 abutting against the mold frame b and the locking bar w32, respectively. This alignment ensures that each locking tongue can provide the required locking force. Simultaneously, the end of the locking bar w32 furthest from the wedge module 320 is connected by a tension spring m. This tension spring primarily balances the forces acting on the two locking bars along the X-axis, allowing for relatively parallel displacement of the locking bars.

[0071] Furthermore, the shielding part w22 is rotatably mounted on the end mold c around the X-axis, and the shielding part w22 flips with the movement of the shower door 2. When the shower door 2 is closed, the shielding part w22 freely flips and rests on the inside of the shower door 2; when the shower door 2 is lowered, the shielding part w22 flips down to a horizontal state and then disengages from the shower door 2, and the shielding part w22 is suspended above the entrance / exit. The base support assembly w201 is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the back support assembly w200 around the X-axis, and the flip angle formed with the back support assembly w200 is 0 to 90°. The combination of the back support and the base support enables movement in the Y and Z axes, and the seat part w21 can also be rotated and adjusted to meet posture adjustment needs; in addition, the flip adjustment based on the base support assembly allows for folding, making it easy to disassemble and assemble. The chair body w2 also includes an armrest bar w23 mounted on the chair support part w20. Based on the design of the armrest w23, it is convenient for users to hold on and support themselves, increasing the safety of bathing. When sitting in the bath, the seat w21 faces the X-axis, the back support group w200 and the shield w22 are located on the left and right sides of the seat w21, and the armrest w23 is located in front of the seat w21.

[0072] The implementation process of this embodiment is as follows:

[0073] S1. Take your seats

[0074] Based on the pre-filling of water into the tank body, with the water level below the bottom surface of the inlet and outlet, the shower door descends to open the inlet and outlet, while the shielding part follows and flips down and disengages from the shower door until the shielding part is suspended and flattened outwards. The unlocking operation is then performed, and the seat part moves laterally outwards along the Y-axis from the inlet and outlet. At this time, part of the seat part passes outwards from the inlet and outlet and is mounted on the chair support and shielding part. Simultaneously, the seat part is moved to the current locking position by lifting and / or rotating in the Z-axis direction, and coordinated with the X-axis displacement adjustment. Then, it is locked by radial alignment clamping to assist in sitting at the required angle and height.

[0075] S2, sitz bath

[0076] After the user sits down, based on the unlocking, the seat moves into the bathtub and rotates inward, and is rotated to the desired position and angle of sitting posture. Then, it is locked by the radial alignment clamp of the current locking position. At the same time, the bath door is lifted up and the cover is triggered to flip until the top of the bath door is flush with the top of the bathtub body. The cover forms the side enclosure of the seat, that is, the user takes a bath on the seat.

[0077] S3, Leaving the Seat

[0078] Repeat step S1 to assist in getting out of the seat.

[0079] In step S1, the top surfaces of the chair support and the shield are flush; water is simultaneously pre-filled into the tub, with the water level below the bottom surfaces of the inlet and outlet. Pre-filling is generally necessary in winter to shorten the bathing time. During assisted seating in step S1, the seat faces the Y-axis. This angle allows for optimal transfer and avoids excessive contact with the tub body. During sitz bathing in step S2, the seat faces the X-axis. This angle makes it easier for caregivers to operate.

[0080] In summary, this invention, on the one hand, reduces the time required for assisted bathing by lowering the bathing height through the downward movement of the bath door, based on the premise of eliminating the need for water filling and allowing water to be filled in advance to shorten the bathing time. This not only reduces the difficulty of entering and exiting the bath but also improves bathing efficiency, especially noticeable in winter. On the other hand, based on one side of the bathtub, the three-dimensional movement of the seat adjusts the seat position, meeting the needs for convenient sitting and bathing, saving time and effort and reducing the risk of accidental injury. Simultaneously, the seat can rotate and adjust around the Z-axis, and the radial clamping force locking group provided by the current locking position forms an angled sitting posture lock. Combined with the seat posture setting or adjustment, this not only meets the needs of different patients but also significantly reduces the workload of assisted bathing. Furthermore, the rotating and following motion of the shielding part... The system provides several advantages: firstly, it offers protection during bathing, and secondly, it provides support for the cantilevered end when entering and exiting the bath, ensuring safe entry and exit; thirdly, it utilizes a combination of backrest and base support to allow movement along the Y and Z axes, while the seat can also be rotated and adjusted, specifically based on the rotation and sliding of the frame wheels to facilitate seating, getting out of the seat, and bathing; fourthly, it employs a locking mechanism with a flexible latch that remains extended, allowing the latch to retract when the trigger is pressed inward, enabling angle and position adjustment of the frame wheels; and finally, it resets and engages the corresponding lock hole to lock the seat. The fourth aspect is based on a wedge-shaped mold. The cooperation of the block and the contact allows the two locking bars to be extended outwards simultaneously, retracting the bolt to unlock. This enables adjustment of the angle and position of the frame wheel. The parallel arrangement of multiple bolts allows for selection of the nearest bolt based on the position of the frame wheel. In short, the angle and seating position can be adjusted by rotation in place or during movement. Furthermore, the contact, spring-loaded, can be positioned in its current state; pressing it inward creates an actuation, and the contact automatically resets when the pressure is released. Fifthly, each elastic element corresponds to a bolt, with both ends of each element abutting against the frame and locking bar, ensuring each bolt provides the necessary locking force. Simultaneously, the end of the locking bar furthest from the wedge module is spring-loaded. The connection spring primarily balances the forces exerted by the two locking bars on the X-axis, allowing the locking bars to shift relatively parallel. The sixth aspect involves controlling the opening and closing of the shower door using a sliding guide, facilitating side entry and exit from the bathtub while maintaining the door's contact with the outside of the tub body, enhancing stability. The seventh aspect utilizes the height difference between the inlet and outlet to store water in the tub body, allowing for direct exit after opening, improving bathing efficiency and enhancing the user's experience. The eighth aspect, based on the fit of the second connecting piece, ensures the door body moves in contact with the tub body, preventing loosening and ensuring stable opening and closing. Furthermore, the use of a sliding groove instead of a sliding rail eliminates the need for external installation of the tub body and facilitates the fitting and assembly of the right-angle connecting ears.The ninth aspect utilizes two synchronously telescopic power components for raising and lowering the shower door. This not only facilitates the lifting and lowering operation but also allows for better control of the door height (when the door is closed, the top of the door body is flush with the top of the bathtub body; when the door is open, the top of the door body is lower than or flush with the bottom edge of the inlet and outlet. The flush top formed when the door is closed avoids obstruction of movement and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal; the open position of the door body maximizes the opening of the inlet and outlet, facilitating entry and exit from the bathtub). The tenth aspect features anti-slip protrusions that provide support during bathing. Additionally, handrails are provided at both ends of the bathtub body for assistance. Furthermore, the edges of the inlet and outlet are chamfered to prevent accidental scratches or damage when entering or exiting the bathtub.

[0081] The present invention has been described in detail above, with the aim of enabling those skilled in the art to understand and implement the invention. However, this description should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of the invention should be included within the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. A bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, characterized in that, The bathing aids it uses include a bathtub and a seat, with the X, Y, and Z three-dimensional space established based on the length, width, and height of the bathtub. The bathtub includes a tub body with an inlet and outlet recessed from the top to the side, and a bath door that slides up and down to the outside of the inlet and outlet of the tub body. The seat includes a seat, a seat body, and a locking assembly. The seat travels along the X-axis and is mounted on the top edge of the cylinder body on the opposite side of the inlet and outlet. The seat body includes a support, a seat portion, and a shield. The support slides on the seat along the Z-axis. The seat portion slides from the chassis assembly along the Y-axis and rotates around the Z-axis while being mounted on the support. The shield rotates around the X-axis and is mounted on the support. The locking assembly forms multiple locking stations side-by-side along the Y-axis and includes the following steps: S1. Take your seats Based on the pre-filling of water into the tank body, with the water level below the bottom surface of the inlet and outlet, the shower door descends to open the inlet and outlet, while the shielding part follows and flips down and disengages from the shower door until the shielding part is suspended and flattened outwards. The unlocking operation is then performed, and the seat part moves laterally outwards along the Y-axis from the inlet and outlet. At this time, part of the seat part passes outwards from the inlet and outlet and is mounted on the chair support and shielding part. Simultaneously, the seat part is moved to the current locking position by lifting and / or rotating in the Z-axis direction, and coordinated with the X-axis displacement adjustment. Then, it is locked by radial alignment clamping to assist in sitting at the required angle and height. S2, sitz bath After the user sits down, based on the unlocking, the seat moves into the bathtub and rotates inward, and is rotated to the desired position and angle of sitting posture. Then, it is locked by the radial alignment clamp of the current locking position. At the same time, the bath door is lifted up and the cover is triggered to flip until the top of the bath door is flush with the top of the bathtub body. The cover forms the side enclosure of the seat, that is, the user takes a bath on the seat. S3, Leaving the Seat Repeat step S1 to assist in getting out of the seat.

2. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... During the assisted seating in step S1, the seat faces the Y-axis.

3. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... During the sitz bath in step S2, the seat is oriented towards the X-axis.

4. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... In step S1, the top surfaces of the chair support and the shield are flush; the chair support includes a back support assembly and a bottom support assembly, wherein the back support assembly is slidably mounted on the seat along the Z-axis; the bottom support assembly is rotated around the X-axis and mounted on the bottom of the back support assembly, and the rotation angle formed with the back support assembly is 0 to 90°, and the shield is mounted on the outside of the bottom support assembly.

5. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 4, is characterized in that... The base support assembly includes a base plate with a slide groove extending along the Y-axis, frame molds installed on the bottom of the base plate and located on opposite sides of the slide groove, and end molds, wherein two frame molds extend along the Y-axis, and the end molds are connected to the ends of the two frame molds away from the back support assembly, and the two frame molds and the end molds form a displacement groove with an open bottom and a sealed end; the chassis assembly includes a frame plate mounted on the base plate, a frame shaft extending downward from the bottom of the frame plate through the slide groove, and a frame wheel installed at the lower end of the frame shaft and mating with the displacement groove; a locking assembly is installed on the frame mold and is used for relative locking of the position and angle of the frame wheel.

6. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 5, is characterized in that... Multiple locking holes are evenly distributed around the circumference of the frame wheel. Two locking holes on the same diameter form a group, and the locking group cooperates with any group of locking holes on the frame wheel to lock. A through hole is formed on the side wall of the frame mold forming the displacement groove. The locking group includes a locking tongue that elastically protrudes from the through hole and an actuating element installed on the end mold. The actuating element triggers the retraction or reset of the locking tongue to cooperate with any group of locking holes on the frame wheel to lock or unlock.

7. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 6, is characterized in that... Each frame mold has multiple through holes arranged side by side along the Y-axis. The locking tongue corresponds to each through hole. The locking assembly also includes a locking bar installed inside the frame mold and extending along the Y-axis. Multiple locking tongues are installed side by side on the locking bar, and a wedge-shaped module is formed at the actuating end of the locking bar. The actuating element includes a contact and a spring that respectively match and wedge into the wedge-shaped modules. The other end of the contact forms an actuating button that penetrates the end mold. The spring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the actuating button and abuts against the contact and the end mold. Multiple elastic elements are provided in each frame mold, and each elastic element is arranged one-to-one with the locking tongue. The two ends of each elastic element abut against the frame mold and the locking bar respectively. And / or, the end of the locking bar away from the wedge-shaped module is connected by a tension spring.

8. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... The bathtub also includes a power component concealed within the tub body for driving the shower door to open or close laterally, wherein the bottom edge of the inlet and outlet forms a height difference between the bottom edge of the inlet and outlet and the bottom of the tub body to assist in bathing.

9. The bathing assistance method based on lateral entry and exit, facilitating seating and posture adjustment, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... The shower door includes a door body and a door seat that is slidably installed in the slide rail, wherein the door body is fixedly installed in the door seat and the door seat extends into the slide rail; the door seat includes a seat plate and a connecting ear, the connecting ear having a first connecting piece connected to the seat plate and a second connecting piece concealed in the tub body, and the second connecting piece is in contact with the inner side of the tub body and moves up and down relative to each other.

10. The bathing aid device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The top of the shower door is also provided with an anti-slip protrusion module; and / or, both ends of the tub body are also provided with bathing handrails; and / or, the edges of the inlet and outlet are chamfered.

Citation Information

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Cited By

  • Automated bathing chair device

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