A back scrubbing device

Abstract

A back scrubbing device 99 comprising: a base 4 which supports a frame, a mounting means 3 for the base for removably attaching to a wall, and a detachable scrubbing surface 2 supported within the fra

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a rubbing or scrubbing device for use for example in a shower. In particular the invention relates to a device for a user to scrub their back or other parts of their skin by rubbing against a wall mounted device, particularly but not exclusively, whilst standing in a shower. Background When showering or bathing in general, it can be difficult for some people to clean or scrub their back, especially of that person suffers from a disability or has limited mobility. In such cases other parts of the body may also be difficult to reach to clean or scrub and this may result in someone requiring assistance in personal hygiene and personal care depending on their particular circumstances. Prior Art United states patent application US 2022 0 183 921 (SCOTT) discloses a wallmounted back care apparatus comprising a pair of mounting brackets. Each mounting bracket has a mounting plate and a receiver coupled to the mounting plate. The mounting plate is configured to be mounted to a wall of a shower or a bathroom. United states patent application US 2019 0 282 038 (MARGULIS) discloses a handsfree body scrubbing device comprising a base, a plurality of bristles, and an attachment means for removably attaching the back scrubbing device to a wall. The base has a front side and a back side. The bristles extend from the front side. United states patent application US 9 795 257 (JUNE) discloses an exfoliation panel for hand-free exfoliation of a user's back. The panel comprises a support panel having a first side and a second side. Pads can be arranged along the support panel in an order from most abrasive scrubbing pad to least abrasive scrubbing pad. The inventor has developed an improved back scrubbing device which does not suffer from the drawbacks associated with existing back scrubbing devices. Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a back scrubbing device comprising a base which supports a frame, a mounting means for the base for removably attaching it to a wall and a detachable scrubbing surface supported within the frame. In some embodiments the base and mounting means may be attached to a wall by suction cups and remain in situ; whilst the frame is removed therefrom to allow replacement of the scrubbing surface outside a shower or bath, for example on a table or worktop. The scrubbing surface may take a variety of different forms. For example, it may comprise an array of flexible rubber fingers or relatively rigid swirl brushes arranged to project in the form of adjacent wavy ridges. Alternatively, the scrubbing surface may have brushes or bristles. In another embodiment the scrubbing surface may have one or more sponges pad Optionally an additional standardised flannel or towelling material may be fitted to the frame to provide a scrubbing surface. Optional catches enable a suitably sized sheet of flannel or towelling material to be held in towel clamps within the frame. Unlatching the catches enable removal of the flannel or towelling material Depending on the type of different scrubbing surface, it will be appreciated that each one provides is adapted to provide a different type of scrubbing or abrasion or rubbing to enable a user’s skin to be scrubbed, exfoliated and cleaned. In this way the present invention allows for the device to be mounted in a shower or bath to allow a user to clean or scrub their back or body against the scrubbing surface, and for such surface to be tailored to the user, and / or in a location of multiple users, to be maintained clean and well-suited for each user as required. In some embodiments of the device a rigid backing panel supports each different the scrubbing surface. The panel is easily removed and replaced from the frame without compromising the effectiveness, positioning or mounting of the base. This also assists removal and replacement of worn or damaged scrubbing surfaces or when a scrubbing surface requires changing for a different person or purpose. The device optionally is supplied with different textured scrubbing surfaces including a wave pattern, thin, flexible rubber pins and an absorbent sponge and an abrasive sponge, which is of similar texture to a loofah or pumice stone. These different scrubbing surfaces can be custom made and have colours or patterns or names or logos on them. In one embodiment a layer or array of pumice stone may be exposed to a user so that they are able to abrade their own feet, for example whilst sitting to lying in a bath. In one embodiment a support may be provided to enable a bottle, or other container, to be connected to dispense its contents onto or into the textured scrubbing surface. The support may include a gripping device or a threaded connection so that a bottle of may be squeezed top dispense an amount of soap or shower gel. Alternatively, the container may contain a liquid such as oil or lotion and a user is able to dispense this and apply the oil or lotion to themselves to their back, for example whilst standing in a shower. A seal is ideally positioned around an inlet tube or nozzle which is dimensioned and shaped to seal the bottle, or other container, when connected, so that the bottle, or other container, can be squeezed to dispense its contents without spillage or leakage. Both these embodiments enable a user, who may have limited motor skills or mobility to be able to care for themselves and so improve their independence. The base, frame and mounting means may be formed form an injection moulded synthetic plastics material such as high density polymers, including but not limited to polypropylene, polycarbonate and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which are known for their heat resistance and durability. These typers of polymer are generally dishwasher resistant and so can be washed and cleaned at high temperatures to sterilise them. Ideally within one part of a fame a recess is defined by slots to assist users to hold the device and help install the panels with different textured scrubbing surfaces in a correct orientation. Ideally the different textured scrubbing surfaces may have resilient fingers or raised and lowered textured regions, for example formed from silicone rubber or an elastomeric material which provides a satisfying haptic feel and effective scrubbing experience for a user. In other embodiments the scrubbing surface may comprise fabric or similar, and / or a removable surface, that is adapted for use with for example a hook and loop material such as Velcro (RTM) pads to allow for easier changing. In some embodiments of the device the base comprises a two-part or multi-part frame and the connection means comprises a slot between the parts, allowing the scrubbing surface to be slid into and out of the slot. The slot may further comprise a closure, which may complete the connection means for the slot. In another embodiment of the device the connection means may also comprise a hinged clip means with a door extending along a side of the base, which door closes over the slot. In some embodiments of the device the device comprises a first connection means and a second connection means. In some such embodiments of the device the connection means are separately operable. It may be envisaged that the two connection means may operate on different parts of the base, such that a scrubbing surface may be connected to the base by both connection means. In some embodiments of the device the second connection means comprises displaceable grips adapted to grip over fabric. In some embodiments of the device the mounting means comprises a resiliently deformable means which allows movement between the base and the wall in use to accommodate more force tactile feedback. The mounting means may be such as one or more suction cups, which suction cups may comprise lever vacuum actuation to provide a robust and secure mounting. Ideally the suction cups used are rated to a very high weight capacity and are detachable. Optionally the suction cups are around 10 cm in diameter and have a built-in ergonomic lever to help with engaging them onto a surface. This assists users who may have limited strength or reduced dexterity in their hands. In some embodiments of the device the suction cups include an over-centring lever to maintain them in an active state. This over-centre lever provides a stable lock that holds the suction cups under pressure without continuous force from the user. The suction cups can withstand at least 100 Newton force to prevent them from being pulled off a wall. They have been found to remain firmly in place when weight is applied in both horizontal and vertical directions. The suction cups can be detached by pressing an over-centred or spring clip which is ideally provided for each of the suction cups. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit comprising a device substantially as described herein and a plurality of scrubbing surfaces, including, but not limited to: an array of flexible rubber fingers, relatively rigid swirl brushes arranged to project in the form of adjacent wavy ridges; brushes; bristles; at least one sponge pad; at least one pumice stone; flannel and towelling material. A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the Figures in which: Brief Description of Figures Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention, with first and second surface connection means in a closed position; Figure 2 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment of the device as shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an exploded isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a reverse isometric exploded view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1, with first connection means in an open position and second connection means in a closed position; Figure 6 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment of the device as shown in Figure 5; Figure 7 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1, with the surface wholly displaced; Figure 8 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment of the device as shown in Figure 7; Figure 9 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1 with a first part of the connection means opened; Figure 10 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1 with a part of the mounting means opened; Figure 11 shows an isometric view of a further embodiment of the device showing rubber ribs extending from the surface which provide a texture that rubs or exfoliates a user’s skin; and Figure 12 shows an overall isometric view of a reverse side of the device shown in Figure 11 and shows location of suckers and clip for frame with a first part of the connection means opened. Detailed Description of Figures With reference to the figures there is shown an embodiment of a back scrubbing device 99 generally comprising a base 4, with mounting means 3, such as suction cup, for demountably connecting the base 4 to a wall (not shown), and a scrubbing surface 2. The base 4 is in the form of a frame and has connection means 5 and 6 for connecting the scrubbing surface 2 to the base. This allows the scrubbing surface 2 to be removed for cleaning, repair, replacement or changing to a different scrubbing surface. Referring to Figures 3 and 4 which show front and rear exploded isometric views of the device 99, it can be see that the base 4 comprises a generally square frame with a top portion and a bottom portion and two parallel sides. These parts may be injection moulded and are rigid, ideally have 3 mm walls and ribs for support and strength. Over-centre levers consist of pins 11 and levers 1 pivots in between these parts and prevents the panel that supports the scrubbing surface from sliding out during use. Suction cups, button spring clips and screws are all available off-the-shelf. This makes it easier to test and install components during the prototyping stages while remaining cost effective for mass production. In particular reference to the pictured embodiment the embodiment comprises a substantially rectangular base provided by a two-part or multi-part frame 4 which parts are permanently secured along three sides and has a hinged door 6 along the fourth side. The base has cutouts in the top and bottom sides of the frame, such that a user can put their hand behind the frame and pull it away from the wall in line with the suction cups. Referring to Figures 11 and 12 the latch acts as a lock to hold the panel that supports the scrubbing surface securely in place. Like parts bear the same reference numerals as shown in Figures 1 to 10. A small gap has been added to give enough clearance space for the panel to slide out. When the latch is raised, large cut-outs in the lower housing make it easier to grip the panel that supports the scrubbing surface and enable it to be removed so that it can be replaced with a different one. Over time debris, dirt or even mould may accumulate if left soaked in water with no way for it to escape. Therefore, holes or slots are ideally provided around a perimeter of the device or along a lower edge to allow water to drain out and evaporate after each use. The device can be mounted both vertically and horizontally depending on user preference. The rear surface of the base provides the mounting means 3, which is four suction cups in the corners, allowing the base to be mounted on a wall. The suction cups are connected to the device using button spring clips. The user can easily align the suction cups and click them in place securely - the same way they attach to the existing device from which they were taken. This hinged door 6 extends along the side to form an elongate clip-over door, which is hinged to a rear part of the base and clips over to provide the front part of the base and as a closure means for the base, as shown in Figure 7, or over a panel providing the scrubbing surface 2, as shown in Figure 1, so as to provide a first part of the connection means. This first scrubbing surface is provided on a rigid rectangular panel, which panel is slid laterally between the parts of the base, in a slot 12, as shown in Figure 9. The scrubbing surface as shown in the pictured embodiment comprises a resilient material such as silicone or rubber, providing a plurality of resilient fingers. Other embodiments may comprise fabric panels, or bristles, or other raised and lowered surfaces. Ribs are incorporated throughout each part to increase rigidity and prevent any flexing when the user places their weight against the device. The device is held together with screw bosses in each corner and at the end of the tubes. This helps align parts during assembly and produces a strong joining method without the need for adhesive or seals. The latch uses a snap fit, similar to the flexible lid on a plastic box, to hold the panels firmly in place. The user just needs to hook their fingers under this and apply slight force to disengage it, so that they can replace the panels that supports the scrubbing surface. A second scrubbing surface (not shown) may be provided by a towel or similar, which is provided in use to cover over the base and / or first scrubbing surface, and which is connected to the base by the second connection means 5. This second connection means is provided by two resilient clips 5, which clip over and around the distal side of the base from the hinged door 6 forming the first connection means. The towel may therefore be trapped in the first connection means on one vertical side of the base and clipped onto a distal second vertical side of the base by the second connection means. Referring to Figure 5, which shows an isometric view of the device 99 with its first connection means in an open position and a second connection means in a closed position. The frame is approximately 280 mm wide, 498 mm in height and around 83 mm deep. Both the length and height are able to increase slightly to accommodate new suction cups. The central area for scrubbing is approximately 200 mm wide by 340 mm high. Preferably the suction cups 3 and levers are positioned and oriented below the frame to ensure users are unaffected by any protruding parts while scrubbing their back or feet. Latches or levers may be configured to be wider in parts to make them easier to grip for people with reduced dexterity or limited mobility. Scrubbing surfaces may be mounted or double-sided panels independently so that they can be reversed and used for different types of scrubbing or washing or in order to extend the life of a scrubbing surface. The suction cups comprise actuation by levers 1, which are used to release and attach the base to a wall in use, by controlling the cup vacuum. Figure 12 shows an overall isometric view of a reverse side of the device shown in 5 Figure 11 and shows location of suckers and clip for frame with a first part of the connection means opened. The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing 10 from the scope of protection as defined by the claims. For example, a connector or conduit may be provided to enable a bottle, or other container (not shown), to be connected to dispense its contents onto or into the textured scrubbing surface. The support may include a gripping device or a threaded connection so that a bottle of 15 may be squeezed top dispense an amount of soap or shower gel. Alternatively, the container may contain a liquid such as oil or lotion and a user is able to dispense this and apply the oil or lotion to themselves to their back, for example whilst standing in a shower.

Claims

1. A back scrubbing device comprising a base which supports a frame, a mounting means for the base for removably attaching it to a wall and a detachable scrubbing surface supported within the frame.

2. A back scrubbing device according to claim 1 wherein the base and mounting means are demountably attached to a wall by suction cups.

3. A back scrubbing device according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the scrubbing surface is from the group comprising: an array of flexible rubber fingers, relatively rigid swirl brushes arranged to project in the form of adjacent wavy ridges; brushes; bristles; at least one sponge pad; at least one pumice stone; flannel and towelling material.

4. A back scrubbing device according to claim 3 wherein catches are provided to grip a suitably sized sheet of flannel or towelling material to within the frame.

5. A back scrubbing device according to any preceding claim wherein the scrubbing surface is mounted on a panel.

6. A back scrubbing device according to any of claims 2 to 5 wherein the suction cups include an over-centring lever to maintain them in an active state.

7. A back scrubbing device according to any preceding claim wherein the frame comprises a two-part or multi-part frame.

8. A back scrubbing device according to claim 7 wherein the frame comprises a hinged clip means.

9. A back scrubbing device according to any preceding claim wherein a first pair of mounting means is provided along one frame edge and a second pair of mounting means is provided along a second frame edge.

10. A back scrubbing device according to claim 9 wherein each mounting means is independently operable.

11. A back scrubbing device according to any of claim 3 to 10 wherein displaceable grips are adapted to grip an edge of foam or fabric.

12. A back scrubbing device according to any preceding claim including an 5 attachment for a container to be connected thereto and dispense its contentsonto or into the scrubbing surface.

13. A kit comprising a device according to any preceding claim and a plurality of scrubbing surfaces from the group comprising: an array of flexible rubber 10 fingers, relatively rigid swirl brushes arranged to project in the form of adjacentwavy ridges; brushes; bristles; at least one sponge pad; at least one pumice stone; flannel and towelling material.T +44(0)30 0300 2000A

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