Modular roll-in shower system

Abstract

A modular roll-in shower system includes a base having an upper surface and a lower surface and a plurality of side walls extending upward from the upper surface and a door attached to a first of the plurality of side walls. The side walls, the door and the base are connected together to form a substantially water tight bathing chamber having an opening above the base. The door is attached to a side wall or a door jamb. The door may be attached at an angle biased to swing the door into the closed position or the door may be attached with spring loaded hinges that swing the door into the closed position. The door may also be electronically controlled to open and close. The system also includes an access ramp that is substantially flush with a floor surface on a first side and substantially flush with the upper surface of the base on a second side to allow a wheel chair to roll from the floor surface onto the upper surface of the base.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 62 / 425,819 filed 23 Nov. 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.GOVERNMENT RIGHTS[0002]The U.S. Government has a paid-up license in this invention and the right in limited circumstances to require the patent owner to license others on reasonable terms as provided for by the terms of Grant No. F0627-R awarded by The Department of Veterans Affairs.BACKGROUNDField of the Invention[0003]The present disclosure generally relates to bathing devices and more particular relates to a roll-in shower apparatus.Related Art[0004]Lavatory devices that assist in bathing or showering are common among the elderly and disabled patient population. The National Center for Health Statistics has reported that about 10 percent of all people over the age of 65 have difficulty bathing, and about 6 percent receive help. In an assessment of home aids, adaptations and personal ass...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The modular roll-in shower system is designed to safely accommodate bathers with wheelchairs and provide support for the bathing process. It includes features like an angled floor, water trough, and appropriately-sized door handle. The system also has hands-free self-opening and closing doors and side wall openings with translucent windows for caregiver access. These features make the shower more accessible and comfortable for people with disabilities.

Problems solved by technology

This is because the greatest danger in the bathroom is slipping and falling when entering and exiting the bathtub or shower.

This level of injury leads to diminished abilities and, in some cases, individuals will require caregiver assistance for bathing and other activities of daily life.

Assistive technology is used to increase independence and decrease burden of care; however, an equitable system for providing assistive devices among the elderly and patients with SCID is lacking.

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