Water supply integrated shower seat

Abstract

A shower system includes a shower frame, a plurality of nozzles, and a shower seat. The shower frame includes a plurality of generally coplanar frame segments forming at least a portion of a perimeter of the shower frame. The plurality of nozzles are distributed across the plurality of generally coplanar frame segments and are configured to spray water inward from the perimeter of the shower frame. The shower seat is pivotally connected to the shower frame and is configured to pivot between a seated position, in which the shower seat is generally perpendicular to the shower frame, and a standing position, in which the shower seat is generally parallel to the shower frame.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,513, filed September 23, 2021, and U.S. National Patent Application No. 17 / 941,988, filed September 9, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to showers and shower assemblies for bathing. More specifically, this disclosure relates to shower assemblies including a shower seat. Summary of the Invention

[0004] At least one embodiment relates to a shower system. The shower system includes a shower frame, a plurality of nozzles, and a shower seat. The shower frame includes a plurality of generally coplanar frame segments forming at least a portion of the periphery of the shower frame. The plurality of nozzles are distributed on the plurality of generally coplanar frame segments and configured to spray water inward from the periphery of the shower frame. The shower seat is pivotally connected to the shower frame and configured to pivot between a seated position and a standing position, in which the shower seat is generally perpendicular to the shower frame and in which the shower seat is generally parallel to the shower frame.

[0005] Another embodiment relates to a shower system. The shower system includes a mounting structure, a shower frame, and a support arm. The mounting structure is configured to mount on a generally vertical surface. The shower frame includes a plurality of generally coplanar frame segments forming at least a portion of the periphery of the shower frame and a plurality of nozzles distributed on the frame segments. The support arm includes a first end pivotally connected to the mounting structure and a second end pivotally connected to the shower frame. The support arm is configured to pivot about the first end to move the shower frame between a first position in which the shower frame is generally coplanar with the mounting structure, and a second position in which the shower frame is offset from the mounting structure.

[0006] Another embodiment relates to a shower system. The shower system includes a water path and a shower seat. The water path includes multiple nozzles. The shower seat includes a seat base and a seat back. The seat base is configured to support a user in a seated position. The seat base includes one or more pressable plates located behind the user in the seated position and configured to control the flow of water to the multiple nozzles.

[0007] The content of this invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. Attached Figure Description

[0008] This disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a front view of a shower system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0010] Figure 2 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 1 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0011] Figure 3 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 1 A 3D view of part of the interaction of the shower system;

[0012] Figure 4 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 1 A 3D view of part of the interaction of the shower system;

[0013] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a part of a shower system according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0014] Figure 6 According to another exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 5 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0015] Figure 7 According to another exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 5 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0016] Figure 8 According to another exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 5 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0017] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of user interaction with a shower system according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0018] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a part of a shower system according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0019] Figure 11 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 9 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0020] Figure 12 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 9 A 3D view of part of the interaction of the shower system;

[0021] Figure 13 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 9 A side view of part of the shower system interaction;

[0022] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a shower system according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0023] Figure 15 According to the exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 14 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0024] Figure 16 According to another exemplary implementation Figure 15 A 3D view of a shower system, in which there are no users;

[0025] Figure 17 According to another exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 14 A 3D diagram of the interactive shower system;

[0026] Figure 18 According to another exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 14 A side view of the shower system interaction;

[0027] Figure 19 According to another exemplary implementation Figure 14 A 3D view of a shower system;

[0028] Figure 20 According to another exemplary implementation, the user and Figure 14 A side view of the shower system interaction;

[0029] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of user interaction with a shower system according to another exemplary embodiment; and

[0030] Figure 22 This is a front view of a shower system according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Before turning to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting. Below is a more detailed description of various concepts and embodiments thereof related to methods, apparatus, and components for shower systems. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in more detail below can be implemented in any of several ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular embodiment. Examples of specific embodiments and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

[0032] Shower systems are typically used in bathing environments (e.g., bathrooms, wet rooms, etc.) to direct water flow and enhance the bathing experience. For use in bathing environments, shower systems are usually limited to providing water only from above and are intended for standing users. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a shower system that offers a comprehensive bathing experience, i.e., provides the option for users to sit.

[0033] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, this document discloses a shower system for bathing environments (e.g., bathrooms, wet rooms, etc.). The shower system can be reconfigured to allow users to shower standing up or sitting down.

[0034] A shower system includes multiple nozzles located in the water path around the user (e.g., above, below, left, right, rear, etc.) to provide a comprehensive showering experience. The user can switch between various configurations of the shower system. Advantageously, in some embodiments, the shower system includes enough nozzles that various parts of the user's body can receive water directly from the shower system. The nozzles can be fixed nozzles or can be redirected manually or automatically (e.g., via a controller or actuator) to change the direction in which the directional water flow is distributed.

[0035] The shower system may also include a system that allows the shower system to switch between a standing configuration and a seated configuration. The seated configuration may include a seat that folds down from the standing configuration. When the shower system is reconfigured into a seated configuration, the water flow can be adjusted to direct water flow towards the seated user (e.g., towards the seat). The shower system may also include a handheld shower head that can be magnetically attached to the water flow. The shower system may also include a large input switch, which may be mechanical or digital, and can be used to control the operation of the shower system and switch between different settings.

[0036] During operation, the nozzles distribute water flow from different positions (e.g., above, to the left, to the right, below, and behind the user) through the airspace. In this way, water flow can approach the central area from different angles (e.g., from various locations along the water path). In the standing configuration, the nozzles are positioned away from the shower system's water path and directed towards the user. In the seated configuration, the nozzles are redirected to point inward. Advantageously, these configurations provide different bathing experiences for the user based on preference. The user can also switch between different water path configurations so that water flow can be directed only from certain portions of the water path. Advantageously, the toggle switch can be operated by a seated user.

[0037] In various embodiments, the shower system can be wall-mounted or freestanding within the bathing environment. For wall-mounted embodiments, the shower system may include a rigid mounting structure (e.g., mounting plate, mounting bracket, shower backrest, housing, etc.) configured to mount on a wall or other generally vertical surface. In some embodiments, the mounting structure is generally rectangular, having a top side, bottom side, left and right sides, a front surface facing away from the wall during installation, and a rear surface facing the wall during installation. In other embodiments, the mounting structure may be circular, elliptical, or have any other shape. The shower system may include a support arm pivotally connected to the mounting structure. In some embodiments, the support arm has a first end connected to the left and right surfaces of the mounting structure. The support arm is rotatable about a pivot point, where the first end is connected to the mounting structure. A second end of the support arm may be pivotally attached to the shower frame.

[0038] A shower frame may include multiple frame segments, including a left and right side segment, a top segment, and, in some embodiments, a bottom segment. The frame segments may form the periphery of the shower frame or at least a portion of the periphery (e.g., a top edge and side edges). In other embodiments, the bottom segment of the shower frame may be omitted, such that the shower frame includes only the top and side segments. The left and right side segments of the shower frame may be pivotally attached to a second end of a support arm. The pivotal connection between the shower frame and the mounting structure via the support arm allows the shower frame to move between a standing position and a seated position, in which the shower frame is substantially coplanar with the mounting structure (e.g., the support arm is substantially parallel to the left and right sides of the mounting structure), and in the seated position, the shower frame is offset from the mounting structure (e.g., the support arm extends outward away from the wall, substantially perpendicular to the mounting structure). In various embodiments, the shower frame may be substantially parallel to the wall in both the standing and seated positions, or may be angled relative to the wall in the seated position. In the seated position, the bottom frame section (or the legs at the bottom ends of the left and right frame sections) can rest on the floor to provide additional support for the shower frame.

[0039] A shower system may include a shower seat that is hingedly attached to a mounting structure. For example, the bottom edge of the mounting structure may be hingedly attached to the rear edge of the shower seat. In this respect, the mounting structure may serve as the backrest of the shower seat (e.g., a backrest, a seat backrest), while the shower seat may serve as a base configured to support the user's weight (e.g., a seat base). The hinged connection between the mounting structure and the shower seat allows the shower seat to pivot between a standing position (e.g., a non-sitting position, a non-use position, etc.) and a seated position. In the standing position, the shower seat is generally parallel to the mounting structure and / or generally parallel to or coplanar with the shower frame (e.g., vertically folded upwards such that the mounting structure is positioned between the shower seat and the wall). In the seated position, the shower seat is generally perpendicular to the mounting structure and / or generally perpendicular to the shower frame (e.g., extending horizontally outwards from the bottom edge of the mounting structure and away from the wall). The left and right edges of the shower seat may be pivotally connected to the left and right frame sections of the shower frame. Therefore, when the shower frame is moved from the seated position to the standing position, both the support arms and the shower seat can pivot relative to the mounting structure and extend away from the wall.

[0040] A shower frame may include a plurality of water nozzles (e.g., outlets, ports, etc.) distributed on sections of the shower frame. In some embodiments, the shower frame includes water nozzles along a top section, a left side section, and a right side section, and along a bottom section in some embodiments. Water nozzles along the left and right side sections may be located anywhere along the side sections, and these locations include, for example, a top portion of the side section extending between the top section of the frame and a pivot connection to a support arm, a middle portion of the side section extending between the pivot connection to the support arm and a pivot connection to the shower seat, and / or a bottom portion of the side section extending between the pivot connection to the shower seat and a bottom section (or the legs of the left and right side sections).

[0041] The water nozzles and / or frame sections can be configured to spray water inward from the frame sections (e.g., towards the space between the frame sections and / or towards the periphery of the frame) in a direction generally coplanar with the shower frame (e.g., + / -10 degrees, + / -20 degrees, + / -30 degrees, etc.) or in a direction angled toward or away from the wall when the shower system is in a seated position. The water nozzles and / or frame sections can be oriented to spray water toward a user seated in the shower seat. In some embodiments, the water nozzles are located on the inner surface of the frame sections (i.e., the surface facing the area between the frame sections) such that the water sprayed from the water nozzles converges toward the user seated in the shower seat. When the shower system is in a standing position, the water nozzles can be redirected to spray water outward away from the wall toward a user standing in front of the shower system. In some embodiments, the shower system includes a first set of nozzles and a second set of nozzles, the first set of nozzles being selectively activated when the shower system is in a standing position, and the second set of nozzles being selectively activated when the shower system is in a seated position. In some embodiments, the shower system includes a set of nozzles positioned along a mounting structure, the set of nozzles spraying water outward toward a user in a standing and / or seated position, away from a wall.

[0042] Users can interact with the shower system via a set of controls, which can be located anywhere on the shower system or on a separate control panel. In some embodiments, the mounting structure includes a pressable panel that functions as a large button, which can be pressed to provide commands to the shower system (e.g., turning the water on / off, changing the spray pattern, changing the water temperature, etc.). The pressable panel may occupy a significant portion of the front surface of the mounting structure (e.g., one-third, two-thirds, at least one square foot, at least two square feet, etc.) to allow the user to easily press the pressable panel while seated in the shower seat and / or when their view is obstructed by water. For example, a user seated in the shower seat may be facing away from the mounting structure with their back to the wall. The user may extend their arm backward and press the pressable panel with their elbow. In some embodiments, the shower system includes a left and a right pressable panel positioned along the front surface of the mounting structure, adjacent to the left and right edges, respectively. In some implementations, the water temperature can be controlled by a slider positioned along the top edge of the mounting structure or other surface. These and other features and advantages of the shower system are described in more detail below.

[0043] Figure 1This is a front view of a shower system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the shower system 100 is configured to be in a standing position. The shower system 100 is configured for installation in a bathing environment. More specifically, the shower system 100 is mounted on a wall. Standard shower systems (e.g., those that include a single showerhead) typically only allow water to be sprayed onto the user from a single direction. In standard shower systems, the user typically stands or sits in a separate seat. When seated, the user may not be able to easily redirect the showerhead. The shower system 100 provides a system that offers a comprehensive bathing experience for both standing and seated users and is operable from both standing and seated positions.

[0044] Shower system 100 includes a water passage 102. The water passage 102 guides water from a water supply system (e.g., a water source in a piping system). The water passage 102 can be formed from various materials suitable for carrying water (e.g., polyethylene (PEX), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), copper pipe, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), galvanized steel, cast iron, etc.). The water passage 102 includes a housing formed in a rectangular shape with rounded corners, wherein a plurality of nozzles 104 are arranged around the housing, the nozzles 104 being fluidly coupled to the water passage 102. The nozzles 104 can be arranged in series to distribute water flow. In some embodiments, the water passage 102 may include additional means (e.g., a motor, actuator, etc.) that can change the direction of the nozzles 104. In some embodiments, the nozzles 104 may include valves (e.g., ball valves, solenoid valves, etc.) configured to open and close the nozzles 104. In some embodiments, the water passage 102 may include a magnetic component configured to be magnetically coupled to a shower accessory (e.g., a shower head, etc.). In some embodiments, water passage 102 may include a pressurizing device (e.g., a pressure booster, etc.) for controlling (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the pressure of the water leaving nozzle 104.

[0045] Shower system 100 includes a shower seat 106. When pulled down from a standing configuration, shower seat 106 provides a seating surface for the user. Shower seat 106 is hinged (e.g., connected with a rotatable hinge) to the rest of shower system 100. Shower seat 106 may be formed of a material suitable for repeated exposure to water (e.g., treated wood, stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, etc.) and is suitable for bearing the full weight of the user.

[0046] Shower system 100 is controlled by an activation switch 108 operably coupled to it. Activation switch 108 activates (e.g., instructs water to be dispensed) or deactivates (e.g., blocks water flow) shower system 100. Activation switch 108 may be a mechanical switch or an electronic switch (e.g., toggles current). In some embodiments, activation switch 108 may directly open and close a valve that can cut off the water supply to shower system 100. In some embodiments, when activation switch 108 is an electronic switch, activation switch 108 is electrically coupled to a controller. The controller is configured to control the function of shower system 100. For example, activation switch 108 sends a signal to the controller, which then opens a digital valve that allows water to flow into shower system 100. In some embodiments, activation switch 108 may include a combination of mechanical and electronic components.

[0047] The shower system 100 is also controlled by a toggle switch 110 operably coupled to it. When activated, the toggle switch 110 alters the water flow configuration of the shower system 100. For example, when the toggle switch 110 is pressed, water can flow to different nozzles 104 within the water passage 102. The toggle switch 110 can be a mechanical switch or an electronic switch. In some embodiments, the toggle switch 110 can operate valves within the nozzles 104, causing the valves to open and close corresponding to certain configurations. For example, when the toggle switch 110 is operated, all valves except one can be closed. In some embodiments, the toggle switch 110 operates valves within a manifold that directs water to the nozzles 104 within the water passage 102. The toggle switch 110 can be a mechanical switch or an electronic switch. In some embodiments, when the toggle switch 110 is an electronic switch, the toggle switch 110 is electrically coupled to a controller. In some embodiments, the toggle switch 110 may include a combination of mechanical and electronic components.

[0048] The shower system 100 is also controlled by a temperature slider 112. The temperature slider 112 regulates the temperature of the water exiting the nozzle 104. In some embodiments, the temperature slider 112 regulates the mixture of hot and cold water entering or leaving the shower system 100. In some embodiments, the temperature slider 112 may adjust the settings on a heating element (e.g., an induction coil, boiler, etc.) configured to heat the water entering or leaving the shower system 100. The temperature slider 112 slides from a first position (cold water position) to a second position (hot water position). The temperature slider 112 may be a mechanical or electrical device. In some embodiments, the temperature slider 112 may have a combination of electrical and mechanical components. In some embodiments, the temperature slider 112 may be a dial configured to rotate from a first position to a second position.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as the one depicted, the shower system 100 includes a handheld shower head 114, which is fluidly connected to the rest of the shower system 100 via a shower head conduit 116. The handheld shower head 114 is configured to allow a user to selectively direct the flow of water through it. The shower head conduit 116 can be formed of various flexible materials suitable for carrying water (e.g., PEX, PVC, ABS, etc.). The handheld shower head 114 can be mounted directly on the water passage 102 or on a wall.

[0050] Figure 2 User 200 and according to the exemplary implementation Figure 1 A perspective view of a shower system 100 with arm 202. The shower system 100 is mounted against a wall 204, and the shower seat 106 is folded down, so that the water passage 102 is in a standing configuration. The user 200 stands upright in front of the shower system 100, and the user 200 uses arm 202 to operate the activation switch 108. When the user 200 desires water flow from the shower system 100, the user 200 operates the activation switch 108.

[0051] Figure 3 It is user 200 and Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the interactive shower system 100. (See diagram below.) Figure 3 As shown, user 200 presses activation switch 108 with arm 202 to operate activation switch 108. In some embodiments, activation switch 108 may include a mechanical component configured to provide tactile feedback to user 200 when activation switch 108 has been operated. User 200 may also repeat this process for toggle switch 110. User 200 may press toggle switch 110 multiple times until the desired configuration is selected. In some embodiments, activation switch 108 and toggle switch 110 may be...

[0052] Figure 4 It is user 200 and Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the interaction of the shower system 100. The user 200 uses arm 202 to adjust the temperature slider 112 to a desired position corresponding to the temperature of the water leaving the shower system 100. The temperature slider 112 can be used during operation of the shower system 100, or it can be used to adjust the water temperature before activating the activation switch 108.

[0053] Overall reference Figures 5 to 8User 200 stands in front of shower system 100. Shower system 100 is configured to shower the standing user 200. User 200 can switch between shower configurations using toggle switch 110. In some embodiments, user 200 selects a configuration by pressing toggle switch 110 a certain number of times (e.g., 1 time, 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, 6 times, etc.). In some embodiments, user 200 selects a configuration by pressing toggle switch 110 continuously for a predetermined amount of time corresponding to the configuration (e.g., 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, etc.).

[0054] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a portion of a shower system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Nozzles 104 of the shower system 100 are arranged in a nozzle array 500. In some embodiments, the nozzles 104 may be arranged in a specific pattern in the nozzle array 500. In this embodiment, the nozzle array 500 is located at the top of the water passage 102 and is oriented to direct water outwards away from the wall 204. The nozzle array 500 is hinged to the water passage 102, allowing the angle to be reoriented. The reorientation of the nozzle array 500 can be manual (e.g., by a user), achieved by mechanical means (e.g., pulleys, etc.) or electrical means (e.g., motors, etc.), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the water passage 102 may include multiple sets of nozzles 104 in various configurations to allow the water passage 102 to direct water in various directions. Multiple nozzle arrays 500 are arranged around the water passage 102. Each nozzle array 500 may be hinged to the water passage 102.

[0055] Figure 6 According to an exemplary implementation, user 200 during operation and... Figure 5 A perspective view of the shower system 100. The shower system 100 is configured to dispense water only from a nozzle array 500 in the top portion 600 of the water passage 102. In the depicted embodiment, the nozzle array 500 directs water away from the wall 204 and toward the head 602 of the user 200. In some embodiments, the nozzle array 500 can be adjusted to accommodate users 200 of different heights.

[0056] Figure 7 According to another exemplary implementation, user 200 during operation and... Figure 5 A perspective view of the shower system 100. The shower system 100 is configured to distribute water only from the nozzle array 500 in the middle section 700 of the water passage 102.

[0057] In the depicted embodiment, the nozzle array 500 directs water away from the wall 204 and toward the torso 702 of the user 200. In some embodiments, the nozzle array 500 can be adjusted to accommodate users 200 of different heights.

[0058] Figure 8 According to another exemplary implementation, user 200 during operation and... Figure 5 A perspective view of the shower system 100. The shower system 100 is configured to dispense water only from the nozzle array 500 in the bottom portion 800 of the water passage 102.

[0059] In the depicted embodiment, the nozzle array 500 directs water away from the wall 204 and toward the user 200's feet 802. This configuration allows the user 200 to check the water temperature using their feet 802. Checking the temperature allows the user 200 to adjust the water to the desired temperature before switching to a different configuration. This provides a comfort benefit to the user 200 because they can avoid water outside the desired temperature range coming into contact with sensitive body parts. An additional benefit is that operating only the bottom portion 800 while the user 200 adjusts the water temperature reduces water waste.

[0060] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of user 200 and shower system 100 in a seated configuration. To show the shower system 100 from, for example... Figure 2 The standing configuration is reconfigured into a seated configuration. The user 200 pulls down the water channel 102, causing the shower seat 106, rotatably connected to the water channel 102, to rotate away from the shower backrest 900 until the shower seat 106 is parallel to the floor of the bathing environment. The water channel 102 is pulled away from the bottom water channel 902, causing the water channel 102 to form an inverted U-shape. Thus, the water channel 102 and the bottom water channel 902 define the water channel assembly. The length of each vertical portion of the water channel 102 is configured such that the shower seat 106 is parallel to the floor of the bathing environment when the legs 903 of the water channel 102 contact the floor of the bathing environment. In some embodiments, the legs 903 of the water channel 102 include a gripping device (e.g., rubber, silicone, etc.) that provides sufficient grip with the floor of the bathing environment (e.g., preventing the legs 903 from slipping).

[0061] Water passage 102 is rotatably connected to shower backrest 900 via two support members 904. The support members 904 support water passage 102 such that it remains in place once the shower system 100 is in a seated configuration. In some embodiments, the support member 904 includes a locking mechanism that prevents further rotation until a release device (e.g., a switch, button, etc.) is activated. The support member 904 also includes a fluid conduit made of a water-carrying material that directs water to water passage 102. The fluid conduit fluidly connects water passage 102 to shower backrest 900. Shower backrest 900 is also fluidly connected to hot water lines and cold water lines. In some embodiments, hot and cold water are mixed in shower backrest 900.

[0062] In some embodiments, when switching between a standing and seated configuration of the shower system 100, the shower system 100 can automatically detect the change in configuration and adjust the nozzles 104 to the correct configuration. In other embodiments, the user 200 may need to manually adjust the nozzles 104.

[0063] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a portion of a shower system 100 in a seated configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. The shower seat 106 includes a shower seat baffle 1000 that rotates away from the rest of the shower seat 106. The shower seat baffle 1000 can rotate from a closed position to an open position. The shower seat baffle 1000 is shaped such that in the closed position, the shower seat baffle 1000 rests on the shower seat 106. In some embodiments, the shower seat baffle 1000 is selectively attached to the shower seat 106 using fastening devices (e.g., hooks, adhesives, etc.). In the open position, the shower seat 106 has an opening 1002. The opening 1002 allows water to flow through from below. The shower seat baffle 1000 is attached to the shower seat 106 via a hinge 1004. In some embodiments, the shower seat baffle 1000 can be removed from the shower seat 106.

[0064] Figure 11 This is a front view of a user 200 sitting on a shower seat 106 of a shower system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The shower seat 106 provides a surface for the user 200 to sit on. The user 200 can sit on the shower seat 106, wherein the shower seat baffle 1000 is in an open or closed position. The advantage of the shower seat 106 is that it is wide, allowing it to accommodate (e.g., to allow for comfortable sitting) users 200 of various sizes. In some embodiments, the shower seat 106 is wide enough that there is additional space 1100 between the user 200 and the water channel 102. The benefit of having additional space 1100 between the user 200 and the water channel 102 is that the water leaving the water channel 102 slows down as it reaches the user 200. This slowing of the water velocity creates a more pleasant showering experience for the user 200.

[0065] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a seated user 200 interacting with a shower system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The user 200 uses arm 202 to activate an activation switch 108. The activation switch 108 is large enough that it can be activated by the user 200 when the user 200 is facing forward in a seated position.

[0066] Figure 13This is a perspective view of a seated user 200 interacting with a shower system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The user 200 uses his arm 202, and more specifically his elbow 1300, to activate a toggle switch 110. The toggle switch 110 is large enough that it can be activated by the user 200 when he is facing forward in a seated position.

[0067] Overall reference Figures 14 to 20 A shower system 100 is configured to shower a user 200 in a seated configuration. When in the seated configuration, the shower system 100 is configured to direct water from water passages 102 toward the seated user 200 into the air space between the water passages 102. The user 200 can switch between shower configurations using a toggle switch 110. In some embodiments, the user 200 selects a configuration by pressing the toggle switch 110 multiple times. In some embodiments, the user 200 selects a configuration by pressing the toggle switch 110 continuously for a predetermined amount of time corresponding to the configuration. In some embodiments, the shower system 100 may include additional water flow configurations not shown in the figures.

[0068] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a shower system 100 in a seated configuration according to another exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the water passage 102 is configured to deliver water only from the nozzle array 500 in the top seated portion 1400 of the water passage 102.

[0069] Figure 15 User 200 and according to the exemplary implementation Figure 14 A perspective view of the shower system 100. A user 200 is seated in the shower system 100. In this embodiment, the shower system 100 directs only water from the nozzle array 500 in the water passage 102 into the head portion 1500. The water passage 102 directs water to the user 200's head 602. Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of a shower system 100, in which there are no users.

[0070] Figure 17 User 200 and according to the exemplary implementation Figure 14 A perspective view of the shower system 100. A user 200 is seated in the shower system 100. In this embodiment, the shower system 100 directs only water from the nozzle array 500 in the water passage 102 into the torso portion 1700. The water passage 102 directs water to the torso 702 of the user 200.

[0071] Figure 18 User 200 and according to a specific implementation method Figure 14A side view of the shower system 100 in interaction. A user 200 is seated in the shower system 100. The shower system 100 is configured to direct water from a nozzle array 500 on a shower backrest 900 toward the back 1800 of the user 200. In some embodiments, the nozzle array 500 on the shower backrest 900 includes a massage setting. The massage setting may include varying water quality (e.g., jet angle, etc.) and pressure (e.g., alternating between low and high pressure, etc.).

[0072] Figure 19 According to another exemplary implementation Figure 14 A perspective view of a shower system 100. The shower system 100 is configured to direct water only from the nozzle array 500 of the leg portion 1900 of the water passage 102.

[0073] Figure 20 User 200 and according to another exemplary implementation Figure 14 A perspective view of the shower system 100. In this configuration, the nozzle array 500 of the water passage 102 is configured to direct water toward the legs 2000 of the user 200. Additionally, the nozzle array 500 of the bottom water passage 902 sprays water toward the thighs 2002 of the user 200 through openings 1002. Furthermore, in this configuration, the nozzle array 500 on the shower backrest 900 is directed to spray water onto the back 1800 of the user 200. This configuration provides the user 200 with a comprehensive lower body showering experience.

[0074] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of a user 200 interacting with a shower system 100 according to another exemplary embodiment. A support member 904 is configured to allow the user 200 to stand up from the shower seat 106 using an arm 202. When the user 200 stands up using the support member 904, the support member 904 is capable of withstanding (e.g., without deformation, damage, etc.) a load associated with the user 200's weight. In some embodiments, each support member 904 is capable of withstanding the full load of the user 200. In some embodiments, the support member 904 includes an internal reinforcement member configured to reinforce (e.g., distribute load, absorb load, etc.) the support member 904.

[0075] Figure 22 This is a front view of a handheld shower head 114 attached to a magnet 2200, which is magnetically connected to a water passage 102. In some embodiments, the water passage 102 may include attachment points (e.g., adhesives, hooks, grooves, etc.) to which the handheld shower head 114 can be selectively attached (e.g., can be removed and reattached). Attaching the handheld shower head 114 to the water passage 102 allows for easy access to the handheld shower head 114 or allows the user to customize the direction of the water flow.

[0076] It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and its variations used in this document to describe various implementations are intended to indicate possible examples, representations and / or illustrations of implementations that are possible (and such terms are not intended to mean that such implementations are necessarily special or superlative examples).

[0077] As used herein, the term "connection" and its variations mean that two components are directly or indirectly linked together. Such a connection can be static (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). This connection can be achieved by directly linking two components together, by linking two components together using a single intermediate component and any additional intermediate components that are linked together, or by linking two components together using an intermediate component that is integrally formed with one of the two components to form a single, unified entity. If "connection" or its variations are modified by an appendix (e.g., direct connection), the general definition of "connection" provided above is modified by the common linguistic meaning of the appendix (e.g., "direct connection" means the connection of two components without any single intermediate component), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "connection" provided above. Such a connection can be mechanical, electrical, or fluid.

[0078] References to the location of elements in this document (e.g., "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc.) are used only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and these variations are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

[0079] This disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable medium for performing various operations. Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a dedicated computer processor incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of this disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available medium accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. As an example, such machine-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disc storage, disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and is accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or a special-purpose processing machine to perform a particular function or group of functions.

[0080] Although the accompanying drawings and description may show a specific order of method steps, the order of these steps may differ from that depicted and described unless otherwise specified above. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified above, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. This variation can depend on, for example, the chosen software and hardware system and the designer's choice. All such variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, software implementations of the described methods can be accomplished using standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to perform various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0081] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the system as illustrated in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be combined with or used in conjunction with any other embodiment disclosed herein. For example, refer to... Figure 22 The system of the exemplary implementation described herein can be incorporated into reference Figures 5 to 9 The system of the exemplary embodiments described herein. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that may be combined or used in another embodiment has been described above, it should be understood that other elements of various embodiments may be combined or used in conjunction with any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A shower system comprising: A shower frame comprising a plurality of generally coplanar frame segments forming at least a portion of the periphery of the shower frame. Multiple nozzles are distributed on the multiple generally coplanar frame segments and configured to spray water inward from the periphery of the shower frame; as well as A shower seat, pivotally connected to the shower frame and configured to pivot between a seated position and a standing position, wherein in the seated position the shower seat is substantially perpendicular to the shower frame, and in the standing position the shower seat is substantially parallel to the shower frame. The shower system also includes: Mounting structure, the mounting structure being configured to be mounted on a generally vertical surface; and A support arm, the support arm including a first end pivotally connected to the mounting structure and a second end pivotally connected to the shower frame; The support arm is configured to pivot about the first end to move the shower frame between a first position and a second position, in which the shower frame is substantially coplanar with the mounting structure, and in the second position, the shower frame is offset from the mounting structure.

2. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of generally coplanar frame segments include at least a left segment, a right segment, and a top segment connecting the left segment and the right segment; and The plurality of nozzles are distributed on the left side section, the right side section and the top section.

3. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of nozzles includes: A first set of nozzles, configured to spray water inward from the periphery of the shower frame in a direction substantially coplanar with the shower frame; and The second set of nozzles is configured to spray water in a direction that is substantially non-coplanar with the shower frame.

4. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of nozzles includes: A first set of nozzles, configured to spray water toward a first area occupied by a user seated on the shower seat when the shower seat is in the seated position; and A second set of nozzles is configured to spray water toward a second area occupied by a user standing adjacent to the shower frame when the shower seat is in the standing position.

5. The shower system according to claim 1, in, The shower seat is hinged to the mounting structure along its rear edge.

6. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein, The shower seat is pivotally connected to the shower frame along its side edge, such that: When the shower seat moves to the standing position, the shower frame moves toward the wall where the shower system is mounted; and When the shower seat moves to the seated position, the shower frame moves away from the wall on which the shower system is installed.

7. A shower system comprising: Mounting structure, the mounting structure being configured to be mounted on a generally vertical surface; A shower frame, the shower frame including a plurality of generally coplanar frame segments and a plurality of nozzles, the plurality of generally coplanar frame segments forming at least a portion of the periphery of the shower frame, the plurality of nozzles being distributed on the frame segments; as well as A support arm, the support arm including a first end pivotally connected to the mounting structure and a second end pivotally connected to the shower frame; The support arm is configured to pivot about the first end to move the shower frame between a first position and a second position, in which the shower frame is substantially coplanar with the mounting structure, and in the second position, the shower frame is offset from the mounting structure.

8. The shower system according to claim 7, wherein, The shower frame includes one or more legs positioned along the bottom of the plurality of generally coplanar frame segments, wherein, When the shower frame is in the second position offset from the mounting structure, the one or more support legs are in contact with the floor of the shower environment, in which the shower system is installed; and When the shower frame is in the first position, which is substantially coplanar with the mounting structure, the one or more legs are raised above the shower floor.

9. The shower system of claim 7 further includes a shower seat hinged to the mounting structure along its rear edge, the shower seat being configured to pivot between a seated position and a standing position, wherein the shower seat is generally horizontal in the seated position and generally vertical in the standing position.

10. The shower system according to claim 9, wherein, The shower seat is pivotally connected to the shower frame along its side edge, such that: When the shower frame moves to the first position, which is substantially coplanar with the mounting structure, the shower seat moves to the standing position; and When the shower frame moves to the second position offset from the mounting structure, the shower seat moves to the seating position.

11. The shower system according to claim 7, wherein, The plurality of generally coplanar frame segments include at least a left segment, a right segment, and a top segment connecting the left segment and the right segment; and The plurality of nozzles are distributed on the left side section, the right side section and the top section.

12. The shower system according to claim 7, wherein, The plurality of nozzles includes: A first set of nozzles, configured to spray water inward from the periphery of the shower frame in a direction substantially coplanar with the shower frame; and The second set of nozzles is configured to spray water in a direction that is substantially non-coplanar with the shower frame.

13. The shower system according to claim 7, wherein, The plurality of nozzles includes: A first set of nozzles, configured to spray water toward a first area occupied by a user standing adjacent to the shower frame when the shower frame is in a first position substantially coplanar with the mounting structure; and The second set of nozzles is configured to spray water toward a second area occupied by a user seated within the periphery of the shower frame when the shower frame is in the second position offset from the mounting structure.

14. A shower system comprising: Water passage, which includes multiple nozzles; Shower seat, the shower seat comprising: Seat base, the seat base being configured to support a user in a seated position; and A seat back, the seat back including one or more pressable panels located behind the user in the seated position, and the one or more pressable panels configured to control the flow of water to the plurality of nozzles; and A support arm, the support arm including a first end pivotally connected to the seat back and a second end pivotally connected to the water passage; The support arm is configured to pivot about the first end to move the water passage between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the water passage is substantially coplanar with the seat back, and in the second position the water passage is offset from the seat back.

15. The shower system according to claim 14, wherein, The one or more pressable panels include: A first pressable panel, configured to open or close the water flow to the water passage; and A second pressable panel is configured to alter the jet pattern of the water flow from the plurality of nozzles or to direct the water flow to a subset of the plurality of nozzles.

16. The shower system according to claim 14, wherein, The pressable panels of the one or more pressable panels are hinged together along the bottom edge of the pressable panel and configured to pivot about the bottom edge when pressed.

17. The shower system of claim 14, wherein the seat back further includes a temperature control slider positioned along the top surface of the seat back and configured to control the temperature of water from the plurality of nozzles.

18. The shower system according to claim 14, wherein: The water passage includes a shower frame, the shower frame comprising a plurality of generally coplanar frame segments forming at least a portion of the periphery of the shower frame; and The plurality of nozzles are distributed on the plurality of generally coplanar frame segments, and the plurality of nozzles are configured to spray water inward from the periphery of the shower frame.

19. The shower system according to claim 14, wherein, The seat base is pivotally connected to the seat back and configured to pivot between a seated position and a standing position, in which the seat base is substantially perpendicular to the seat back and in which the seat base is substantially parallel to the seat back in the standing position.

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