Bathing floor

Abstract

Methods and floor covering products which provide an existing surface of a floor of a bathing environment having a poor coefficient of friction properties with an increased coefficient of friction. Methods and floor covering products provide increased static friction between the bottom of a bather's foot or feet and the floor of a bathing environment which reduces the likelihood of slippage of the bather's foot or feet thereby reducing the possibility of a fall by the bather during a bathing event.

Description

[0001] TITLE OF THE INVENTION

[0002]

[0001] Bathing Floor

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004]

[0002] The present invention relates to a floor of a bathing environment.

[0005] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0006]

[0003] This application is a nonprovisional and PCT international application of and claims benefit of the filing date of copending US provisional patent application number 63 / 692,049 titled “Bathing Floor” filed 07 September 2024 (September 7, 2024; 07.09.24).

[0007]

[0004] This application is also a nonprovisional and PCT international application of and claims benefit of the filing date of copending US provisional patent application number 63 / 574,750 titled “Bathing Floor” filed 04 April 2024 (April 4, 2024; 04.04.24).

[0008]

[0005] Herein, the European date numeric format recites DD.MM.YY, where YY is the last two digits of the year, i. e. 20YY.

[0009] INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0010]

[0006] This patent application incorporates by reference in its entirety copending U S provisional patent application number 63 / 692,049 titled “Bathing Floor” filed 07 September 2024 (September 7, 2024; 07.09.24).

[0011]

[0007] This patent application also incorporates by reference in its entirety copending US provisional patent application number 63 / 574,750 titled “Bathing Floor” filed 04 April 2024 (April 4, 2024; 04.04.24). BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0012]

[0008] Bathing environments, such as a bathtub or a shower, include a floor upon which a bather will enter, step upon, stand, move about, turnaround, step off and / or exit from during a bathing event. When entering a bathing environment, a bather will step into the bathing environment with one foot and will stand and balance upon that one foot while bringing the other foot into the bathing environment and onto the floor of the bathing environment. The floor of a typical bathtub or the floor of a typical shower is generally flat, smooth and slightly angled, z.e., slightly not horizontal, to facilitate movement of water, or water composition, toward a drain area where a majority of the water, or water composition, exits the bathtub or shower. Prior to a bather entering a bathing area, such as a bathtub or shower, it is a common practice to start the flow of the water, or water composition, into the bathtub or shower to regulate the temperature of the water, or water composition, to the bather’s preference. While regulating the water, or water composition, the water, or water composition, flows from a faucet or shower head positioned above the floor of the bathtub or the floor of the shower and onto the floor of the bathtub or the floor of the shower thereby creating a wet floor environment for the bather to step into and bathe. This wet floor environment creates a wet bathing floor surface that will increase the possibility of one or both of the bather’s feet to slip while entering, standing, moving about and exiting this wet bathing floor environment. The possibility of a bather slipping and falling on a wet bathing floor environment is a daily threat for everyone who steps into a bathtub or shower, but there is an increased threat of slipping and falling by elderly people who often become unstable while walking and standing. The threat of slipping and falling is also an increased threat to all people who have developed an abnormal gait as the result of an on-going or previous medical injury, for example. For at least these reasons, the floor of conventional bathtubs and the floor of conventional showers, during a bathing event are dangerous and pose an increased risk of slipping and falling, which, or course, can well cause injury or death to the bather. There is a need for providing a safer bathing environment for reducing the possibility of slips and falls while a bather showers in a bathtub or shower.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014]

[0009] Bathing floor Surface Overlay

[0015]

[0010] In its several and varied embodiments, the bathing floor surface overlay, also referred to herein as a bathing floor overlay, and as a laminate, provides a slip resistant surface upon which a bather can stand and which can be dimensioned and / or configured to cover at least 50% to 100% of the bathing floor. Additionally, the overlay can have at least one of a visual layer having a visual content including printed matter and / or an image and / or graphic design and / or visual element, or content, which can be seen by the bather through the slip resistant surface. The bathing floor overlay can also have a visual layer that is clear, transparent and / or translucent and which includes no visual content.

[0016]

[0011] In an embodiment, the floor covering, also referred to herein as a floor overlay, achieves a safer bathing environment for a bather by converting a floor of a bathing environment having a low coefficient of friction into a floor of a bathing environment with an increased or high coefficient of friction. In an embodiment the floor of the bathing environment can be a floor of a bathtub. In an embodiment the floor of the bathing environment can be a floor of a shower. This disclosure is not limited only to a floor where the actual bathing event takes place, but can be a floor near the bathing event or in an area where water, or a water combination, can accumulate.

[0017]

[0012] Additionally, in addition to its ordinary and customary meaning, the term “bathtub” expressly encompasses a bathtub which has an associated shower and / or shower function and / or shower attachment. It is common for bathtubs to be the receptacles for the outlet from a shower and / or shower attachment. Herein, the term “bathtub floor” and “shower floor” will be used synonymously when the bathing environment has a combination of a shower and bathtub in which the bathtub is used to receive the water flowing from an associated shower and / or shower function and / or shower attachment, e.g. means for showering in a bathtub.

[0018]

[0013] In an embodiment, a floor covering can be configured for use in a bathing environment and from a polymeric substrate, such as, for example, but not limited to, polyester, having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; the top surface having a plurality of spaced apart protrusions extending from the top surface and configured to form a plurality of channels between the plurality of spaced apart protrusions; each of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions are configured to have a protrusion base, a protrusion wall and a distal protrusion top; the protrusion base being attached to the top surface; the protrusion wall extending to a protrusion height from the protrusion base and terminates at the distal protrusion top; the protrusion height being in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, such as, for example, but not limited to 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, etc.,' the plurality of channels between the plurality of spaced apart protrusions have a channel depth proportional to the protrusion height of each of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions that form the plurality of channels; the channel depth being in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, such as, for example, but not limited to 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, etc. The plurality of spaced apart protrusions and the plurality of channels, like the polymeric substrate, can be, such as, for example polyester, but is not limited to, polyester. The opposing bottom surface of the polymeric substrate comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive, wherein when the opposing bottom surface of the polymeric substrate is applied to a floor of a bathing area, the adhesive secures the polymeric substrate to the floor of the bathing area to cover at least a portion of the floor of the bathing area in an area where at least a portion of a bottom of at least one foot of a bather will contact and interact with the textured surface by applying a downward force to the textured surface to produce a static friction between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the textured surface. When the textured surface becomes wet with a water, or water composition, during a bathing event the water, or water composition, will enter the plurality of channels and flow toward a drain zone in the floor of the bathing area; when the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface the at least a portion of the at least a portion of the foot of the bather applies the downward force with the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather onto the textured surface at a first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions and a first corresponding portion of the plurality of channels between the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions the at least the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface. The downward force will cause the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions to interact with a first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and cause the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions to displace a first sub-portion of the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather upward toward the bather and the downward force will cause a second sub-portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather to pillow into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels and push at least a portion of the water, or water composition, out of the corresponding second portion of the plurality of channels to form at least a suction, or partial vacuum, between the second portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels. A combination of the first sub-portion of the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions upwardly displacing the first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the second portion of the bottom of the foot of the bather that pillows into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels to form the at least the suction, or partial vacuum, create the static friction between the textured surface and the at least a portion of the bottom of the foot of the bather in an amount greater than a kinetic friction in a lateral direction created by movement between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather on the textured surface to minimize a possibility that the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather will slip on the textured surface during a bathing event.

[0019]

[0014] In an embodiment, the floor of the bathing environment can be a floor of a bathtub. In an embodiment, the floor of the bathing environment can be a floor of a shower. In an embodiment, the floor of the bathing environment can be a floor of a shower base or floor of a shower pan.

[0020]

[0015] In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate comprises a length of at least 50% of a length of the floor of the bathing environment, such as, for example, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the length of the floor of the bathing environment.

[0021]

[0016] In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate comprises a width of at least 60% of a width of the floor of the bathing area, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the width of the floor of the bathing area.

[0022]

[0017] In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate comprises a length of at least 50% of a length of the floor of the bathtub floor, such as, for example, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the length of the bathtub floor.

[0023]

[0018] In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate comprises a length of at least 50% of a width of the floor of the bathtub floor, such as, for example, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the width of the bathtub floor.

[0024]

[0019] In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate covers at least 50% of the surface area of the bathing surface floor, e.g. covers 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of a bathing surface floor. In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate covers at least 50% of the surface area of the bathtub floor, e.g. covers 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of a shower floor. In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay and / or laminate and / or polymeric substrate covers at least 50% of the surface area of the bathtub floor, e.g. covers 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of a bathing surface.

[0025]

[0020] In an embodiment, a method comprising the steps of: providing a floor of a bathing environment, the floor having a floor top surface with a floor top surface area, the floor top surface area having at least a top floor surface area length and at least a top floor surface area width; providing a polymeric substrate having a polymeric substrate top surface and an opposing polymeric substrate bottom surface; texturing the polymeric substrate top surface with a plurality of spaced protrusions throughout the polymeric substrate top surface forming a plurality of spaced channels between the plurality of spaced protrusions thereby forming a textured surface; providing each of the plurality of spaced protrusions with a protrusion base, a protrusion wall and a distal protrusion top, the protrusion base being attached to the polymeric substrate top surface; each protrusion wall extending to a protrusion height from the protrusion base and terminating at the distal protrusion top; the plurality of spaced channels between the plurality of spaced protrusions having a channel depth proportional to the protrusion height of each of the plurality of spaced protrusions forming the plurality of spaced channels; providing the opposing polymeric substrate bottom surface of the polymeric substrate with a pressure sensitive adhesive, shaping and dimensioning the polymeric substrate thereby forming a shaped and dimensioned polymeric sheet; positioning the opposing bottom surface of the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate upon the floor top surface of the floor of a bathing environment, thereby placing the pressure sensitive adhesive on the opposing bottom surface of the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate into intimate contact with the top surface of the floor of a bathing environment; applying a force upon the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate thereby pressing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate forming a secure removable bond between the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate and the top surface of the floor of a bathing environment; the pressure sensitive adhesive securing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate to the floor of a bathing environment, thereby covering a bathing area of the floor with the textured surface, at least a portion of a bottom of at least one foot of a bather will contact and interact with the textured surface by applying a downward force to the textured surface to produce a static friction between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the textured surface, when the textured surface becomes wet with a water, or water composition, during a bathing event the water, or water composition, will enter the plurality of channels and flow toward a drain zone in the floor of the bathing environment, when the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface at least a portion of the at least a portion of the foot of the bather applies the downward force with the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather onto the textured surface at a first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions and a first corresponding portion of the plurality of channels between the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions the at least the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface, the downward force will cause the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions to interact with a first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and cause the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions to displace a first sub-portion of the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather upward toward the bather and the downward force will cause a second sub-portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather to pillow into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels and push at least a portion of the water composition out of the corresponding second portion of the plurality of channels to form at least a suction, or partial vacuum, between the second portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels; and a combination of the first sub-portion of the first portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions upwardly displacing the first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the second portion of the bottom of the foot of the bather that pillows into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels to form the at least the suction, or partial vacuum, create the static friction between the textured surface and the at least a portion of the bottom of the foot of the bather in an amount greater than a kinetic friction in a lateral direction created by movement between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather on the textured surface to minimize a possibility that the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather will slip on the textured surface during a bathing event.

[0026]

[0021] In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of: providing a floor covering to a floor of a bathing environment and wherein the step of shaping and dimensioning the polymeric substrate comprises providing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate to have a length at least 60% of the top floor surface area length, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the top floor surface area length, and providing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate to have a width of least 60% of the top floor surface area width, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the top floor surface area length.

[0027]

[0022] In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of: providing a floor covering to a floor of a bathing environment, wherein the floor of the bathing environment is a floor of a bathtub. In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of: providing a floor covering to a floor of a bathing environment, wherein the floor of the bathing environment

[0028] 9

[0029] ] is a floor of a shower. In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of: providing a floor covering to a floor of a bathing environment, wherein the floor of the bathing environment is a floor of a shower base or floor of a shower pan.

[0030]

[0023] In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of: providing a floor covering to a floor of a bathing environment, wherein the protrusion height being in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, such as, for example but not limited to: 30 microns, 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, 150 microns, 200 microns, 250 microns, etc.

[0031]

[0024] In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of: providing a floor covering to a floor of a bathing environment as recited in claim 8, wherein the channel depth is in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, such as, for example but not limited to: 30 microns, 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, 150 microns, 200 microns, 250 microns, etc.

[0032]

[0025] In an embodiment, a bathing floor for a bathing environment can be configured to have at least one of a floor and a sub-floor having a sub-floor bathing area configured for one or more of a bather; the at least one of a floor comprises a polymeric substrate having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface; the top surface having a plurality of protrusions extending from the top surface and configured to form a plurality of channels between the plurality of protrusions. Each of the plurality of protrusions are configured to have a protrusion base, a protrusion wall and a distal protrusion top, the protrusion base being attached to the top surface; the protrusion wall extending to a protrusion height from the protrusion base and terminates at the distal protrusion top; the plurality of channels between the plurality of protrusions have a channel depth proportional to the protrusion height of each of the plurality of protrusions that form the plurality of channels. The opposing bottom surface of the polymeric substrate comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive, wherein when the opposing bottom surface of the polymeric substrate is applied to a the sub-floor within the sub-floor bathing area, the adhesive secures the polymeric substrate to the sub-floor to cover at least a portion of the sub-floor in the sub-floor bathing area where at least a portion of a bottom of at least one foot of at least one of a bather will contact and interact with the textured surface by applying a downward force to the textured surface to produce a static friction between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the textured surface. When the textured surface becomes wet with a water, or water composition, during a bathing event the water, or water composition, will enter the plurality of channels and flow toward a drain zone in the subfloor. When the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface the at least a portion of the at least a portion of the foot of the at least one of a bather applies the downward force with the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather onto the textured surface at a first portion of the plurality of protrusions and a first corresponding portion of the plurality of channels between the first portion of the plurality of protrusions the at least the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface. The downward force will cause the first portion of the plurality of protrusions to interact with a first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and cause the first portion of the plurality of protrusions to displace a first subportion of the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather upward toward the at least one of a bather and the downward force will cause a second sub-portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least oner of bather to pillow into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels and push at least a portion of the water, or water composition, out of the corresponding second portion of the plurality of channels to form at least a suction, or partial vacuum, between the second portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels. A combination of the first sub-portion of the first portion of the plurality of

[0033] 11

[0034] ] protrusions upwardly displacing the first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the second portion of the bottom of the foot of the at least one of a bather that pillows into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels to form the at least the suction, or partial vacuum, create the static friction between the textured surface and the at least a portion of the bottom of the foot of the at least one of a bather in an amount greater than a kinetic friction in a lateral direction created by movement between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather on the textured surface to minimize a possibility that the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather will slip on the textured surface during a bathing event.

[0035]

[0026] In an embodiment, the sub-floor can be a floor of a bathtub. In an embodiment, the sub-floor can be a floor of a shower. In an embodiment, the floor of a shower can be a floor of a shower base or floor of a shower pan.

[0036]

[0027] In an embodiment, the protrusion height can be in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns. In an embodiment, the channel depth can be in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns.

[0037]

[0028] In an embodiment, the polymeric substrate comprises a length of at least 60% of a length of the sub-floor bathing area and a width of at least 60% of a width of the sub-floor bathing area.

[0038]

[0029] In an embodiment, a method comprising the steps of providing at least one of a floor and sub-floor of a bathing environment, the sub-floor having a sub-floor top surface with a subfloor top surface area, the sub-floor top surface area having at least a top floor surface area length and at least a top floor surface area width; providing a polymeric substrate having a polymeric substrate top surface and an opposing polymeric substrate bottom surface; texturing the polymeric substrate top surface with a plurality of spaced protrusions throughout the polymeric substrate top surface forming a plurality of spaced channels between the plurality of

[0039] 12

[0040] ] spaced protrusions thereby forming a textured surface; providing each of the plurality of spaced protrusions with a protrusion base, a protrusion wall and a distal protrusion top, the protrusion base being attached to the polymeric substrate top surface, each protrusion wall extending to a protrusion height from the protrusion base and terminating at the distal protrusion top; the plurality of spaced channels between the plurality of spaced protrusions having a channel depth proportional to the protrusion height of each of the plurality of spaced protrusions forming the plurality of spaced channels; providing the opposing polymeric substrate bottom surface of the polymeric substrate with a pressure sensitive adhesive; shaping and dimensioning the polymeric substrate thereby forming a shaped and dimensioned polymeric sheet; positioning the opposing bottom surface of the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate upon the subfloor top surface of the sub-floor, thereby placing the pressure sensitive adhesive on the opposing bottom surface of the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate into intimate contact with at least a portion of the sub-floor top surface of the sub-floor; applying a force upon the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate thereby pressing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate forming a secure removable bond between the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate and the sub-floor top surface of the; the pressure sensitive adhesive securing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate to the sub-floor top surface, thereby covering a bathing area of the sub-floor top surface with the textured surface thereby forming a bathing area of the bathing floor; at least a portion of a bottom of at least one foot of at least one of a bather will contact and interact with the textured surface by applying a downward force to the textured surface to produce a static friction between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the textured surface; when the textured surface becomes wet with a water, or water composition, during a bathing event the water, or water composition, will enter the plurality of channels and flow toward a drain zone in the sub-floor of the bathing environment, when the at least a portion of the bottom

[0041] 13

[0042] ] of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface at least a portion of the at least a portion of the foot of the at least one of a bather applies the downward force with the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather onto the textured surface at a first portion of the plurality of protrusions and a first corresponding portion of the plurality of channels between the first portion of the plurality of protrusions the at least the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface, the downward force will cause the first portion of the plurality of protrusions to interact with a first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and cause the first portion of the plurality of protrusions to displace a first sub-portion of the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least the one of a bather upward toward the bather and the downward force will cause a second subportion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather to pillow into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels and push at least a portion of the water, or water composition, out of the corresponding second portion of the plurality of channels to form at least a suction, or partial vacuum, between the second portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels; and a combination of the first sub-portion of the first portion of the plurality of protrusions upwardly displacing the first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the second portion of the bottom of the foot of the at least one of a bather that pillows into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels to form the at least the suction, or partial vacuum create the static friction between the textured surface and the at least a portion of the bottom of the foot of the at least one of a bather in an amount greater than a kinetic friction in a lateral direction created by movement between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather on the textured surface to minimize a possibility that the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at

[0043] ] least one of a bather will slip on the textured surface during a bathing event.

[0044]

[0030] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of: the step of shaping and dimensioning the polymeric substrate comprises providing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate to have a length at least 60% of the sub-floor top surface area length and providing the shaped and dimensioned polymeric substrate to have a width of least 60% of the sub-floor top surface area width.

[0045]

[0031] In an embodiment, the method further comprises: wherein the sub-floor of the bathing environment is a floor of a bathtub. In an embodiment, the method further comprises: wherein the sub-floor of the bathing environment is a floor of a shower. In an embodiment, the method further comprises: wherein the floor of shower is a floor of a shower base or floor of a shower pan.

[0046]

[0032] In an embodiment, the method further comprises: wherein the protrusion height is in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns. In an embodiment, the method further comprises: wherein the channel depth is in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, for example but not limited to: 30 microns, 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, 150 microns, 200 microns, 250 microns, etc.

[0047]

[0033] In an embodiment, the floor covering, or bathing floor surface covering overlay can be configured to have at least one of a first polymer layer having an embossed surface; at least one of a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive; at least one of a visual layer; at least one of a second polymer layer; at least one of a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive, wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the indicia, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon the visual layer and adhered by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is translucent to show the visual layer when laminated to the visual layer; wherein the first adhesive layer is translucent to show the visual

[0048] 15

[0049] ] layer when said first adhesive is in a cured state bonding set first polymer layer to said visual layer; wherein at least one of the visual layer and set first polymer layer is laminated upon said second polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of a bathing floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the first polymer layer is permanently adhered to the visual layer the first polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive is configured to be reversibly attached to the bathing surface laminate overlay to a bathing floor.

[0050]

[0034] In an embodiment, the bathing surface overlay has a backing, also referred to as a baking layer, reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer. The backing layer is removed prior to installation of the bathing surface overlay by an operator.

[0051]

[0035] In an embodiment, the visual layer of the bathing surface overlay includes indicia, wherein the indicia is an image and / or printed matter and / or other form of indicia.

[0052]

[0036] In an embodiment, a method comprising the steps of providing a bathing surface overlay; providing a first polymer layer having an embossed surface; providing a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive; providing a visual layer; providing a second polymer layer; providing a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual layer, said second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; laminating the first polymer layer upon the visual layer and being adhered by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is translucent and / or transparent to show the visual layer when laminated to the visual layer; wherein the first adhesive layer is translucent and / or transparent to show the visual layer when said first adhesive is in a cured state bonding set first polymer layer to the visual

[0053] 16

[0054] ] layer; laminating at least one of said visual layer and said first polymer layer upon the second polymer layer; adhering the second adhesive layer to the second polymer layer; dimensioning the laminate having a shape to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a bathing floor; providing the said laminate with a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; adhering the first polymer layer permanently to the visual layer and the first polymer layer; configuring the second adhesive to be reversibly attached to a bathing surface laminate overlay to a bathing floor.

[0055]

[0037] In an embodiment, a method of providing a bathing surface overlay further comprising a step of: reversibly adhering a backing to the second adhesive layer.

[0056]

[0038] In an embodiment, a method of providing a bathing surface overlay further comprising a step of providing the visual layer having an indicia and / or visual content.

[0057]

[0039] In an embodiment, a method of providing a bathing surface overlay further comprising in the step of providing said indicia with indicia, said indicia is an image. In an embodiment, a method of providing a bathing surface overlay further comprising in the step of providing said indicia with indicia. In an embodiment, the indicia can be a printed visual element or printed matter.

[0058]

[0040] In an embodiment, a bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay, including: a bathing floor; a first polymer layer having an embossed surface; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive; a visual layer; a second polymer layer; a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual layer, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon the visual layer and adhered by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is translucent to show the visual

[0059] 17

[0060] ] layer when laminated to the visual layer; wherein the first adhesive layer is translucent to show the visual layer when the first adhesive is in a cured state bonding the first polymer layer to the visual layer; wherein at least one visual layer and the first polymer layer is laminated upon the second polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of said bathing floor; wherein said laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the first polymer layer is permanently adhered to the visual layer and the first polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive is reversibly attached to the bathing surface laminate overlay to the bathing floor.

[0061]

[0041] In an embodiment, a bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay, wherein, the visual layer includes indicia. In an embodiment, a bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay, wherein, the indicia is an image. In an embodiment, a bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay, including, wherein the indicia is printed matter.

[0062]

[0042] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay can be configured to have at least one of a first polymer layer having an embossed surface; at least one of a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive; at least one of a visual layer; at least one of a second polymer layer; at least one of a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual layer, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein said first polymer layer is laminated upon the visual layer and adhered by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is translucent to show the visual layer when laminated to the visual layer; wherein the first adhesive layer is translucent to show the visual layer when the first adhesive is in a cured state bonding set first polymer layer to the visual layer; wherein at least one of the visual layer

[0063] 18

[0064] ] and set first polymer layer is laminated upon the second polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of a bathing floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the first polymer layer is permanently adhered the visual layer and the first polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive is configured to be reversibly attached to said bathing surface laminate overlay to a bathing floor.

[0065]

[0043] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay can have a backing reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer.

[0066]

[0044] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay, wherein the visual layer includes visual content. In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay, wherein, the visual content is an image. In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay, wherein, the visual content is printed matter.

[0067]

[0045] In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay can be configured to have at least one of a first polymer layer having an embossed surface; at least one of a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive; at least one of a visual layer; at least one of a second polymer layer; at least one of a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than said first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual layer, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon the visual layer and adhered by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is translucent to show the visual layer when laminated to the visual layer; wherein the first adhesive layer is translucent to show the visual layer when the first adhesive is in a cured state bonding set first polymer layer to the visual layer; wherein at least one of the visual layer and set first polymer layer is laminated upon the second polymer layer; wherein the second

[0068] 19

[0069] ] adhesive layer is adhered to the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of a bathing floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the first polymer layer is permanently adhered the visual layer and the first polymer layer; wherein the second adhesive is configured to be reversibly attached to the bathing surface laminate overlay to a bathing floor.

[0070]

[0046] In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay having a backing reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer.

[0071]

[0047] In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay, wherein the visual layer includes visual content. In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay, wherein, the visual content is an image. In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay, wherein, said visual content is printed matter.

[0072]

[0048] In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor, can be configured to include a floor; at least one of a first polymer layer having an embossed surface; at least one of a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive; at least one of a visual layer; at least one of a second polymer layer; at least one of a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the image or image layer, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon the visual layer and permanently adhered to the first polymer layer by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is translucent to show the visual layer when laminated to the visual layer; wherein the first adhesive layer is translucent to show the visual layer when the first adhesive is in a cured state permanently bonding the first polymer layer to the visual layer; wherein at least one of the visual layer and the first polymer layer is laminated upon the second polymer layer; wherein

[0073] 20

[0074] ] the second adhesive layer is adhered to the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of the bathing floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the bathing surface overlay reversibly attached to the bathing floor by the second adhesive.

[0075]

[0049] In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor has a bathing floor surface overlay, wherein the visual layer has a visual content. In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay wherein, the visual content is an image. In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay wherein, the visual content is printed matter.

[0076]

[0050] In an embodiment, the ink printability of the visual content includes, but no limited to, solvent, eco solvent, UV, latex, screen printing, dye transfer, dye direct and / or other suitable materials.

[0077]

[0051] In an embodiment, a bathtub floor overlay can be configured to include a first polymer layer having a first polymer and an embossed surface; a first adhesive layer in contact with the first polymer layer and having a first adhesive; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of a second polymer layer having a second polymer different than the first polymer; a second adhesive layer in contact with the second polymer layer and having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual content, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon at least a portion of the visual content and bonded to the at least a portion of the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is also laminated upon at least a portion of the second polymer and

[0078] 21

[0079] ] bonded to the at least a portion of the second polymer by the first adhesive; wherein the visual content is visible to an observer through the first polymer layer and the first adhesive when the first polymer layer is laminated to the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the visual content is visible to an observer when the first polymer layer is permanently bonded to the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to at least a portion of the second polymer layer; wherein said laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a bathtub floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a portion of a drain of a bathtub floor; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface when the embossed surface is dry; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the second adhesive is configured to reversibly adhered the laminate to the bathtub floor by an operator and the second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove the laminate from a bathtub floor.

[0080]

[0052] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay can have a backing reversibly adhered to said second adhesive layer.

[0081]

[0053] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay, wherein, said visual content is an image.

[0082]

[0054] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay can be configured to have: a first polymer layer having a first polymer and an embossed surface; a first adhesive layer in contact with the first polymer layer and having a first adhesive; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of a second polymer layer having a second polymer different than the first polymer; a second adhesive layer in contact with the second polymer layer and having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual content , the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon at least a portion of the visual content and bonded to the at least a portion of the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein

[0083] 22

[0084] ] the first polymer layer is also laminated upon at least a portion of the second polymer and bonded to the at least a portion of the second polymer by the first adhesive; wherein the visual content is visible to an observer through the first polymer layer and the first adhesive when the first polymer layer is laminated to the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the visual content is visible to an observer when the first polymer layer is permanently bonded to the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to at least a portion of the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a shower floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part and / or portion of a drain of a shower floor; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface when the embossed surface is dry; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the second adhesive is configured to reversibly adhere the laminate to the shower floor by an operator and the second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove the laminate from a shower floor.

[0085]

[0055] In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay can have a backing reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer.

[0086]

[0056] In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay; wherein, the visual content is an image.

[0087]

[0057] In an embodiment, a bathtub or shower bathing floor, can be configured to have: a floor; a first polymer layer having a first polymer and an embossed surface; a first adhesive layer in contact with the first polymer layer and having a first adhesive; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of a second polymer layer having a second polymer later different than the first polymer layer; a second adhesive layer in contact with the second polymer layer and having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual content , the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer layer is laminated upon at least a

[0088] 23

[0089] ] portion of the visual content and permanently bonded to the at least a portion of the visual content to the first polymer layer by the first adhesive; wherein the first polymer layer is also laminated upon at least a portion of the second polymer and bonded to the at least a portion of the second polymer by the first adhesive; wherein the visual content is visible to an observer through the first polymer layer and the first adhesive when laminated to the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the visual content is visible to an observer when the first polymer layer is permanently bonded to the visual content by the first adhesive; wherein the second adhesive layer is adhered to at least a portion of the second polymer layer; wherein the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a shower floor; wherein the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least aportion of a drain of a shower floor; wherein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the embossed surface when the embossed surface is dry; herein the embossed surface is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the embossed surface is wet; wherein the second adhesive is configured to reversibly adhere the laminate to the shower floor by an operator and the second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove the laminate from a shower floor.

[0090]

[0058] In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor can have a bathing floor surface overlay, wherein the visual layer has a visual content. In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor can have a bathing floor surface overlay, wherein the visual content is an image. In an embodiment, the bathtub or shower bathing floor having a bathing floor surface overlay, wherein the visual content is printed matter.

[0091]

[0059] In an embodiment, a bathtub floor overlay has: a first polymer layer having a first polymer and a textured surface having a first texture and configured for contact with a foot of a bather; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive adhered to the first polymer layer; a second polymer layer having a second texture different from the first texture; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of the second polymer layer; a second adhesive layer having a

[0092] 24

[0093] ] second adhesive different than the first adhesive adhered to the second polymer layer and / or at least a portion of the second polymer layer. In an embodiment, the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual content, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate. In an embodiment, the first polymer layer is laminated to at least a portion of the visual content and permanently bonded to the at least a portion of the visual content by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, the first polymer layer is also laminated to at least a portion of the second polymer and / or second polymer layer and permanently bonded to the at least a portion of the second polymer and / or second polymer layer by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, the visual content is visible to an observer through the first polymer layer and the first adhesive when the first polymer layer is laminated to the visual content by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, the second adhesive layer is adhered to at least a portion of the second polymer layer. In an embodiment, the laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a bathtub floor. In an embodiment, the laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a drain of the bathtub floor. In an embodiment, the textured surface is slip-resistant having a wet coefficient of friction of greater than 0.42 (measured by ANSI / NFSI test method 101.3-2012) and which is in contact with a bather’s foot when the textured surface is wet and the laminate is adhered to a bathtub floor. In an embodiment, the second adhesive is configured to reversibly adhere the laminate to the bathtub floor by an operator and the second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove the laminate from the bathtub floor.

[0094]

[0060] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a backing reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer.

[0095]

[0061] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a first polymer layer which is a polymer sheet. In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a first polymer and the second polymer which are the same material. In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a first polymer

[0096] 25

[0097] ] and the second polymer which are different materials. In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a first polymer and the second polymer which have the same physical properties. In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a first polymer and the second polymer which have different physical properties.

[0098]

[0062] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a visual content has an image and / or graphic and / or graphic element and / or a text and / or a stylized text.

[0099]

[0063] In an embodiment, the bathtub floor overlay has a textured surface which is a pebble textured surface and / or an embossed surface.

[0100]

[0064] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has: a first polymer layer having a first polymer and textured surface having a first texture and configured for contact with a foot of a bather; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive adhered to the first polymer layer; a second polymer layer having a second texture different from the first texture; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of the second polymer layer; a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive adhered to the second polymer.

[0101]

[0065] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual content, the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer configured to form a laminate. In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a first polymer layer is laminated to at least a portion of the visual content and permanently bonded to the at least a portion of the visual content by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a first polymer layer is also laminated to at least a portion of the second polymer layer and permanently bonded to the at least a portion of the second polymer layer by the first adhesive;

[0102]

[0066] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a visual content which is visible to an observer through the first polymer layer and the first adhesive when the first polymer layer is laminated to the visual content by the first adhesive.

[0103]

[0067] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a first adhesive layer which is adhered

[0104] 26

[0105] ] to at least a portion of the first polymer layer. In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a second adhesive layer which is adhered to at least a portion of the second polymer layer. In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a laminate which has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a shower floor. In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a laminate which has a drain opening configured to surround at least a part of a drain of the shower floor.

[0106]

[0068] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a textured surface which is slip-resistant having a wet coefficient of friction of greater than 0.42 (measured by ANSI / NFSI test method 101.3-2012) and which is in contact with a bather’s foot when the textured surface is wet and the laminate is adhered to the shower floor.

[0107]

[0069] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a second adhesive which is configured to reversibly adhere the laminate to the shower floor by an operator and the second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove the laminate from the shower floor.

[0108]

[0070] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a backing reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer.

[0109]

[0071] In an embodiment, a shower floor overlay has a visual content which has an image and / or graphic and / or graphic element and / or a text and / or a stylized text.

[0110]

[0072] In an embodiment, the shower floor overlay has a textured surface which is a pebble textured surface and / or an embossed surface.

[0111]

[0073] In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has: a bathtub floor or shower floor; a first polymer layer having a first polymer and a textured surface having a first texture and configured for contact with a foot of a bather; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive adhered to the first polymer layer; a second polymer layer having a second texture different from the first texture; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of the second polymer; a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than the first adhesive

[0112] 27

[0113] ] adhered to the second polymer.

[0114]

[0074] In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has the first polymer layer, the first adhesive layer, the visual content , the second polymer layer and the second adhesive layer configured to form a laminate. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a first polymer layer laminated to at least a portion of the visual content and the first polymer layer is permanently bonded to the at least a portion of the visual content by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a first polymer layer also laminated to at least a portion of the second polymer layer and bonded to the at least a portion of the second polymer layer by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a visual content which is visible to an observer through the first polymer layer and the first adhesive when the first polymer layer is laminated to the visual content by the first adhesive. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a second adhesive layer which is adhered to at least a portion of the second polymer layer. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a laminate which has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of the bathtub floor or shower floor. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a laminate which has a drain opening configured to surround at least a portion of a drain of the bathtub floor or shower floor. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a textured surface which is slip-resistant having a wet coefficient of friction of greater than 0.42 (measured by ANSI / NFSI test method 101.3-2012) and which is in contact with a bather’s foot when the textured surface is wet and the laminate is adhered to the bathtub floor or shower floor. In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor has a second adhesive which is configured to reversibly adhere the laminate to the bathtub floor or shower floor by an operator and the second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove the laminate from the

[0115] 28

[0116] ] bathtub floor or shower floor.

[0117]

[0075] In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor can have a visual content which is printed.

[0118]

[0076] In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor can have a first polymer layer which is a polymer sheet.

[0119]

[0077] In an embodiment, a bathtub bathing floor and / or shower bathing floor can have a first polymer layer which has at least one of a vinyl polymer and a polyvinyl chloride polymer.

[0120] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0121]

[0078] The present invention, in it several aspects and varied embodiments, solves the problems discussed above and significantly advances safety and stability of a bather during a bathing event in a bathtub or shower by reducing the possibility of a slip or fall by the bather. The present invention can become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanied drawings, wherein:

[0122]

[0079] FIG. 1 A is a top view of a bathtub for use with an embodiment of the invention;

[0123]

[0080] FIG. IB is a perspective view of the bathtub of FIG. 1 A;

[0124]

[0081] FIG. 2A is a top view of a shower base;

[0125]

[0082] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the shower base of FIG. 2A;

[0126]

[0083] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0127]

[0084] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0128]

[0085] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0129]

[0086] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention along line AA or line BB of FIGS. 3, 4 A and 4B;

[0130]

[0087] FIG. 6A is an elevated view of a bathtub utilizing an embodiment of the present invention;

[0131] ]

[0088] FIG 6B is a top view of a shower base, utilizing an embodiment of the present invention;

[0132]

[0089] FIG 6C is a top view of a multi-bather shower base, utilizing an embodiment of the present invention;

[0133]

[0090] FIG. 7A is a view of the bottom of a typical bare human foot;

[0134]

[0091] FIG. 7B is a view of the bottom of a typical human foot, as shown in FIG. 7A, showing a representation an ink-type foot print of the bottom of a normal bare human foot showing the portions of the foot that will contact with a floor while standing;

[0135]

[0092] FIG. 8A shows a perspective side view of a human foot in contact with a top surface of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0136]

[0093] FIG 8B is a magnified cross-sectional view along either dotted line segment AA or dotted line segment BB, as shown in FIG. 3, 4 A and 4B of an embodiment of the invention with a portion of the bottom of a human foot thereon;

[0137]

[0094] FIG. 9A is a first cross-sectional view of a first laminate;

[0138]

[0095] FIG. 9A1 is a cross-sectional view of a second laminate;

[0139]

[0096] FIG. 9A2 is a cross-sectional view of a laminate showing visual content;

[0140]

[0097] FIG. 9B is an top view of an embodiment of the invention; and

[0141]

[0098] FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the invention along line CC, as shown in FIG 9B.

[0142]

[0099] Throughout this specification and figures like reference numbers identify like elements.

[0143] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0144]

[0100] Numeric values and ranges herein, unless otherwise stated, also are intended to have associated with them a tolerance and to account for variances of design and manufacturing. Thus, a number can include values “about” that number. For example, a value X is also intended to be understood as “about X”. Likewise, a range of Y-Z, is also intended to

[0145] 30

[0146] ] be understood as within a range of from “about Y-about Z”. Unless otherwise stated, significant digits disclosed for a number are not intended to make the number an exact limiting value. Variance and tolerance are inherent in mechanical design and the numbers disclosed herein are intended to be construed to allow for such factors (in non-limiting e.g., ± 10 percent of a given value). Likewise, the claims are to be broadly construed in their recitations of numbers and ranges.

[0147]

[0101] The floor covering material and its applications disclosed herein solve the problems which exist by providing a safer bathing area, such as a wet floor of a bathtub or a wet floor of a shower upon which a bather’s wet feet will interact during a bathing event, in particular, a bathing event that is a shower and / or standing in a bathtub when the bathtub floor is wet. During a bathing event the floor of a bathing area will become wet with water, or a water composition. Water, or water composition, used herein is intended to refer to water exiting a faucet of a bathtub and / or the shower head of a shower in which the bather is bathing as well as the water mixed with soap, shampoo, bathing oils and other bathing products being used by and rinsed off of the bather and onto the floor of the bathing area where the bather’s feet with interact. The disclosure herein provides solutions which will result in a safer floor of a bathing area, which can be a floor of a bathtub or the floor of a shower, by increasing the amount of static friction, or traction, that will be generated due to the interaction of the bottom of the feet of the bather when the floor covering material, as disclosed herein, has been installed on the floor of the bathing area, such as, a floor of a bathtub or a floor of a shower base, or pan, as opposed to the floor of a bathing environment prior to the installation of the floor covering shower of the present invention. The floor covering of the present invention can be installed and utilized upon any bathing surface and, in particular, any bathing surface that presents a slipping and falling hazard to a bather during a bathing event and, specifically, a bathing event that is a shower. It should be understood that the floor covering material disclosed herein can

[0148] 31

[0149] ] be installed and utilized upon the floor surface of any bathing area. The floor covering, as disclosed herein, can also be installed and utilized, in addition to the floor of a bathtub or shower, on the floor of a bathroom adjacent to the bathtub, shower and / or bathroom sink, as well as the floor of a kitchen adjacent to the kitchen sink or in a utility room adjacent a sink or a washing machine. The floor covering disclosed herein, can also be installed and utilized on the top surface of pool decks, stairs of a pool, the bottom surface of a pool for children, entryways of homes and other buildings, and on any other surface where people can walk and / or stand. The floor covering material can also include printed designs, or other printed indicia.

[0150]

[0102] Static friction is a force between two non-moving objects in contact with one another that resists movement between the two non-moving bodies. Dynamic friction, also referred to as dynamic, kinetic and / or sliding friction is a force greater than the static friction and is created when one or more of the contacting bodies slide, or in sliding motion relative to one another. A standard test method for measuring dynamic friction is American National Standards Institute ANSI A326.3. A purpose of the present invention is to increase static friction between the bottom of a bare human foot and the floor to thereby decrease the possibility of the bottom of a bare human foot to slide against the floor, thereby lowering the possibility of creating dynamic, kinetic or sliding friction, between the bottom of a human foot and the floor, thereby decreasing a risk of sliding or falling by a bather during a bathing event.

[0151]

[0103] Static friction is defined by the following equation:

[0152] Fs= jisFn; where,

[0153] Fsis the force of static friction; Fnis the normal force exerted by each surface on the other and directed perpendicular, or normal, to the surface; and

[0154] Ms is the coefficient of static friction, which is a dimensionless empirical property, i.e., gs= Fs / Fn.

[0155]

[0104] Kinetic friction occurs when the two objects in contact with one another are moving and rubbing relative to each other. Kinetic friction is defined by the following equation:

[0156] Fk = jikFn; where,

[0157] Fk is the kinetic friction;

[0158] Fnis the normal force exerted by each surface on the other and directed perpendicular, or normal, to the surface; and

[0159] |lk is the coefficient of kinetic friction and is a dimensionless empirical property, i.e.,

[0160] Jlk = Fk / Fn.

[0161]

[0105] Before the obj ects in contact can move relative to one another, the force of static friction must be overcome by an applied force. The maximum possible friction between two surfaces before slipping, or sliding, relative to one another can is defined by the following equation:

[0162] Fmax JlsFn; where, F max is the maximum possible friction force;

[0163] Fnis the normal force exerted by each surface on the other and directed perpendicular, or normal to the surface; and

[0164] |lsis the coefficient of static friction, which is a dimensionless empirical property, z.e., |1K=Fmax / Fn.

[0165]

[0106] Any applied force that is less than or equal to Fmax will be opposed by a force of static friction of equal magnitude and no slipping, or sliding will occur. Any force larger than Fmax will overcome the opposing force of static friction and cause slipping, or sliding to occur. Once slipping, or sliding, occurs the friction between the two surfaces in contact is kinetic, or dynamic, friction and static friction becomes inapplicable.

[0166]

[0107] Definition Of “Textured” And “Texture”

[0167]

[0108] In addition to its ordinary and customary meaning, the term “texture” expressly encompasses the surface quality of a material as it feels to the touch or against a bather’s foot, as well as to how it appears visually. In embodiments, the term “texture” of a layer and / or polymer layer encompasses a wide range of options ranging from smooth to very rough and / or course, for nonlimiting example:

[0168] • Smooth and / or glassy, e.g. having a sleek, polished surfaces like glass, marble, and lacquer;

[0169] • Glossy and / or shiny, e.g. having high reflectivity and sleek surface;

[0170] • Matte, e.g. having a Flat and soft to the eye appearance and feel with a comfortable texture without tactilely noticeable ridges, bumps or patterns;

[0171] • Brushed, e.g. having a linear and / or linearly patterned texture rougher than matte; • Embossed and / or raised, e.g. having a tactile patterns such as but not limited to: geometric patterns, dots, lines, grids, curves, shapes; floral or ornamental designs; logos, icons, decals or branding marks; pebbled or grained textures; brushed or mattegloss contrasts; woodgrain or fabric texture replicas; dots or tactile indicators; raised ridges or grip textures; molded-in textures on plastics; raised lettering or typography; 3d printed surface features; coin edges or decorative stamping; mold-pressed glass textures; raised ink or heat transfer embellishments; etched background with raised foreground in relief style; embossed seals or certificates; pores and porous elements; and material voids and void walls;

[0172] • Woven and / or fibrous, e.g. having interlaced or thread-like look and / or feel noticeably more tactile than matte;

[0173] • Grainy, e.g. having visible parti culate(s) or small bumps e.g., sandpaper and raw wood in appearance and feel;

[0174] • Textured, e.g. having a surface which is pebbled, honed, Hammered, patterned and having an unevenness which can be from fine to coarse;

[0175] • Pebble and / or aggregate, e.g. having a rough surface with embedded or exposed particles;

[0176] • Ribbed and / or grooved, e.g. having a strong linear or patterned ridges, very tactile; and

[0177] • Rough, e.g. having a coarse and rugged to both sight and touch.

[0178]

[0109] In an embodiment, texture can be provided by porosity of the material at a surface and / or throughout the material. In addition to its ordinary and customary meaning, the term “porosity” expressly encompasses “porosity” at a material’s surface and / or “surface porosity” referring to the presence of voids and / or protrusions around voids present at or on the surface of a material. As use herein, the term porosity expressly encompasses the texture contributed

[0179] 35

[0180] ] to a surface by the voids and ridges and / or protrusions of the pores and providing the physical result of the tactile and slip-resistant properties of the surface.

[0181]

[0110] In embodiments, the texture of a surface can be and / or result from an inherent characteristic of the material, or can be imparted to the material by a variety of means including but not limited to one or more of the following: mechanical working such as in nonlimiting example physically altering the surface using tools or abrasion, such as sanding, brushing, embossing, debossing orblasting; chemical treatment such as in nonlimiting example use reactions like acid etching or anodizing to change the surface at a microscopic level; thermal treatment methods such as in nonlimiting example apply heat to create texture, including flame treatments or precise laser texturing; additive processing such as in nonlimiting example applying materials on top-like grit coatings, flocking, or 3D printing, to build up texture; using natural and / or inherent textures such as in nonlimiting example such as a wood grain, a fabric weaves, or other textural characteristic of a utilized material.

[0182]

[0111] In addition to its ordinary and customary meaning, the term “textured” expressly encompasses a material and / or surface and / or layer having, or possessing and / or expressing the characteristics of, a “texture” or having a “texture” resulting from any means regarding producing or achieving “texture” or having a “texture” inherent to a material and / or materials.

[0183]

[0112] In its many and varied embodiments, the “texture” of the “textured surface” disclosed herein can result at least in part from “protrusions”. In addition to its ordinary and customary meaning, the term “protrusion” expressly encompasses physical elements projecting upward and away from and / or above a surface. For nonlimiting example, a plurality of spaced apart protrusions 330 project projecting upward and away from the top surface 310 as shown in FIG. 3. Herein, the term “protrusion” is not limited as to the nature of how the protrusion was formed. In nonlimiting example, and individual “protrusion”, or plurality of “protrusions”, expression encompasses raised, protruding, or material projecting upward and away from a top surface which results from in nonlimiting example: mechanical working such as in nonlimiting example physically altering the surface using tools or abrasion, such as sanding, brushing, embossing,

[0184] 36

[0185] ] debossing orblasting; chemical treatment such as in nonlimiting example use reactions like acid etching or anodizing to change the surface at a microscopic level; thermal treatment methods such as in nonlimiting example apply heat to create texture, including flame treatments or precise laser texturing; additive processing such as in nonlimiting example applying materials on top-like grit coatings, flocking, or 3D printing, to build up texture; natural and / or inherent textures such as in nonlimiting example such as a wood grain, a fabric weaves, or other textural characteristic of a utilized material, porosity of the material and / or porosity of the surface of a material. The term “protrusion” is expressly intended to encompasses the walls around and / or forming a void or pore existing at a materials surface.

[0186]

[0113] FIG. 1 A is an elevated view of the structure of a bathtub 100. Bathtub 100 comprises a smooth substantially horizontal bathtub floor 110 upon which a bather will enter into, or onto, stand, move about, turnaround and exit from, or exit off of, during a bathing event, in particular, a showering event. It is the substantially horizontal bathtub floor 110 that is of particular interest, as this is the bathing area where the bottom of the bather’s feet will interact with the surface of the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 during a bathing event. It should be understood that the terminology “substantially horizontal” is intended to mean horizontal or slightly not horizontal so as not to be exactly horizontal to allow water, or a water composition, to flow toward a drain area, or drain zone, 125, or drain 120, or drain flange 120, depicted in FIG. 1 A by a dotted circle surrounding a drain flange 120. Drain flange 120 used herein synonymously with a drain 120 is, for example, a circular opening in the bathtub floor 110 where the drain assembly, not shown, is secured to the bathtub 100. Bathtub 100 also comprises bathtub walls 130 that extend around the periphery of the bathtub floor 110 and extend vertically upward away from the bathtub floor 110 from a lower edge 132 and terminates at an upper bathtub edge, or bathtub rim, 140 that extends about the periphery of bathtub 100 providing stability and support for the bathtub walls 130. The upper bathtub edge, or rim, 140 also provides for a place for setting bath and shower accessories, such as soap, shampoo, bathing oils and other

[0187] ] various bathing products the bather can use. Extending about the periphery of the bathtub floor 110 connecting the bathtub floor 110 to the lower end 132 of the bathtub walls 130 is a curved apron 150, also referred to herein as a tub apron 150. The tub apron 150 is a curved portion which transitions the lower end 132 of the bathtub wall 130 to meet the floor 110 of the bathtub 100. The floor 110 of the bathtub 100 has a length LB and a width WB that will vary according to the size and style of the bathtub 100. The floor 110 of bathtub 100 defines the bathing area.

[0188]

[0114] FIG. IB is a perspective view of the bathtub 100 that provides a different view of its structure and the relationship between its various parts. Bathtub floor 110, which comprises drain flange 120, is connected around its periphery to the periphery of the lower end 132 of the bathtub walls 130 via the curved apron, or tub apron 150. A bathtub overflow 160 is a hole in the bathtub wall 130, typically located near the drain flange 120, for preventing water, or a water composition, from spilling over the bathtub rim 140. The upper bathtub edge, or bathtub rim 140 is connected about its inner periphery to the upper edge 134 of the bathtub walls 130 and provide stability and support to the bathtub walls 130.

[0189]

[0115] When a bather steps onto the smooth substantially horizontal floor 110 of bathtub 100, as shown in FIGS. 1A and IB, for commencing a bathing event, the bather can turn on and adjust the temperature of the bathing water, or water composition, before stepping onto a now wet floor 110 of the bathtub 100 to begin a bathing event. Alternatively, a bather can instead step onto a dry smooth substantially horizontal floor 110 of bathtub 100 and then commence a bathing event by turning on and adjusting the temperature of the water, or water composition. Either way, the bather places themself standing with wet bare feet on a wet smooth substantially horizontal floor 110 of bathtub 100. Water, or a water composition, acts as a lubricant and when introduced onto the smooth substantially horizontal floor 110 of bathtub 100, the presents of the water, or water composition, reduces the coefficient of static friction psof the floor 110 from the coefficient of static friction (is it possessed when it was dry, or before the water, or water composition, was introduced onto the floor 110.

[0190]

[0116] As the bather stands or moves about the wet smooth floor 110 of the bathtub 100, both the applied force for the bather’s weight upon the floor 110 by one or both feet will vary, as well as the angle such force is applied, which can lead to an increased potential of kinetic, or dynamic, friction. When and if the amount of kinetic, or dynamic, friction produced becomes greater than the amount of opposing static friction, or traction, the bottom of the bather’s feet will slip on the wet surface of the smooth floor 110 of the bathtub 100, thereby causing the bather to become unstable, slip and possibly fall. A fall in a bathing area, or bathing environment, often results in injury or worse, especially for the elderly.

[0191]

[0117] It should be understood that bathtubs are made in a large variety of differing shapes, sizes and / or drain flange locations, which can include multiple drain flange locations, as well as differing sizes, z.e., lengths LB and widths WB, as shown in FIG. 1 A, and shapes of bathing areas. The specific structure of the bathtub depicted and discussed herein are for illustration purposes only and do not limit the use of the present invention with bathtubs of other shapes and / or sizes and / or drain flange locations. The present invention can be utilized with any bathtub where a bathing event takes place, and in particular, a bathing event that is a shower.

[0192]

[0118] FIG. 2A is an elevated view of the structure of a shower base, or pan, 200. Shower base, or pan, 200 comprises a smooth substantially horizontal shower floor 210 upon which a bather will enter onto, stand, move about, turnaround and exit from or exit off of during a bathing event. It is the smooth substantially horizontal shower floor 210 that is of particular interest, as this is the bathing area where the bottom of the bather’s feet will interact with the shower floor 210, which can be smooth, of the shower base, or pan, 200 during a bathing event. It should likewise be understood that the terminology “substantially horizontal” is intended to mean horizontal or slightly not horizontal so as not to be exactly horizontal to allow water, or

[0193] 39

[0194] ] a water composition, to flow toward a drain area, or drain zone, 225, depicted in FIG. 2A by a dotted circle, that comprises a drain flange 220. Drain flange 220 is, for example, a circular opening in the shower base, or pan, where a drain assembly, not shown is secured to the shower base, or pan, 200. In an embodiment, a shower has a drain and / or shower drain in the shower floor 210 for effluent water to exit the shower. Shower base, or pan, 200 also comprises shower base, or pan, walls 230 that extend around the periphery of the shower base, or pan, floor 210 and extend vertically upward away from the shower base, or pan, floor 210 and terminate at an upper shower base or pan, edge, or rim, 240 that extends about the periphery of shower base, or pan, floor 210 providing stability and support for the shower base, or pan, walls 230. Unlike the bathtub walls 130, as shown in FIG. 1 A and FIG. IB, the shower base, or pan, walls 230 are relatively short and can be utilized to also provide support for walls of a shower or in combination with the shower base, or pan, rim 240. Extending about the periphery of the shower base, or pan floor 210 connecting the shower base, or pan, floor 210 to the lower end of the bathtub walls 230 is an apron, or shower base, or pan apron, 250, as shown in FIG. 2B, which can be curved or not curved

[0195]

[0119] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the shower base, or pan, 200, as shown in FIG 2A, and provides a different view of its structure and the relationship between its various parts. Like reference numbers, as shown in FIG. 2B, represent like features, as depicted in FIG. 2A. Shower base, or pan, shower floor 210 (also as floor 210) is connected around its periphery to the periphery of the lower end of the shower base, or pan, walls 230 via the apron 250. Upper shower base or pan, edge, or shower base, or pan, rim, 240 is connected about its inner periphery to the upper edge of the shower base, or pan, walls 230 and provide stability and support to the shower base, or pan, walls 230. and can be utilized to also provide support for walls of a shower or in combination with the shower base, or pan, rim 240.

[0120] When a bather steps onto the smooth substantially horizontal floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200, as shown in FIGS. 2 A and 2B, for commencing a bathing event, the bather can turn on and adjust the temperature of the bathing water, or water composition, before stepping onto a now wet floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 to begin a bathing event. Alternatively, a bather can instead step onto a dry smooth substantially horizontal floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200 and then commence a bathing event by turning on and adjusting the temperature of the water, or water composition. Either way, the bather places themself standing bare-foot on a wet smooth substantially horizontal floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 100. Water, or a water composition, acts as a lubricant and when introduced onto the smooth substantially horizontal floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200, the presents of the water, or water composition, reduces the coefficient of static friction |lsof the floor 210 from the coefficient of static friction |lsit possessed when it was dry, or before the water, or water composition, was introduced onto the floor 210.

[0196]

[0121] As the bather stands or moves about the wet smooth floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200, both the applied force for the bather’s weight upon the floor 210 by one or both feet will vary, as well as the angle such force is applied, which can lead to an increase of kinetic, or dynamic, friction. When and if the amount of kinetic, or dynamic, friction produced becomes greater than the amount of opposing static friction, or traction, the bottom of the bather’s feet will slip on the wet surface of the smooth floor 210 (also as shower floor 210) of the shower base, or pan, 200, thereby causing the bather to become unstable, slip and possibly fall. Fall in a bathing area, or bathing environment, often result in injury or worse, especially for the elderly.

[0197]

[0122] It should be understood that shower bases, or pans, are made in a large variety of differing shapes, sizes and / or drain flange locations, which can include a plurality of drain flanges at various locations, as well as differing sizes, i.e. lengths Ls and widths Lw, as shown in FIG. 2A, and shapes of bathing areas for carrying out bathing events. The specific structure

[0198] 41

[0199] ] of the shower base or pan, depicted and discussed herein are for illustration purposes only and do not limit the use of the present invention with shower bases, or pans, of other shapes and / or sizes and / or drain flange locations. The present invention can be utilized with any shower base or pan, where a bathing event takes place that is a shower.

[0200]

[0123] FIG. 3 shows an elevated perspective view of an embodiments of a floor covering material 300. The floor covering material 300, as shown in FIG. 3, depicts a polymeric stock sheet, or polymeric substrate 305, prior to shaping and dimensioning, such as, for example, by measuring and cutting the polymeric stock substrate 305 to the dimensions necessary for being installed or laid out and secured onto the floor of a bathtub, such as, for example, the floor 110 of the bathtub 100, as shown in FIG. 1 A and FIG. IB, or, laid out and secured onto the floor of a shower, such as, for example, shower floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200, as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. The floor covering 300 has a width W, length L and a thickness T. The overall width W, which is shown along the bisecting line AA, and length L, which is shown along the bisecting line BB, of the floor covering 300. The thickness T is in the range of about 300 microns to about 400 microns plus (+) or minus (-) 10 microns, such as, for example, 322 microns, 350 microns, 375 micron and / or 400 microns. The total weight of the floor covering material is in the range of about 400 g / m2plus (+) or minus (-) 10 g / m2to about 430 g / m2plus (+) or minus (-) 10 g / m2, such as, for example, 410 g / m2, 415 g / m2, 420 g / m2and 425 g / m2.

[0201]

[0124] As shown in FIG. 3, throughout the top surface 310 of the floor covering 300, as shown in FIG. 3, projecting upward and away from the top surface 310 are a plurality of spaced apart protrusions 330 that also form a plurality of spaced channels 340 therebetween throughout the top surface 310 of the floor covering 300. The spacing of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions 330 can be random or a systematic pattern, although random spacing is preferred. The spacing of the plurality of channels 340 are dependent upon the spacing of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions 330, as interconnecting spaces between the plurality of spaced apart

[0202] 42

[0203] ] protrusions 330 define the plurality of channels 340. Stated differently, the spacing of the plurality of protrusions 330 are dependent upon the spacing of the plurality of spaced apart channels 340, as interconnecting spaces between the plurality of spaced apart channels 340 define the plurality of protrusions 330. There are thousands of these spaced protrusions 330 throughout the top surface 310 that increase the surface area of the top surface 310 creating thousands of contact points for a person’s foot or feet to interact with while standing or walking upon the top surface 310. These thousands of contact points provide for an increase of the coefficient of static friction rating of the floor covering 300 either dry or wet. In a preferred embodiment, when wet the top surface 310 has a coefficient of friction rating ANSI / NFSI 101.3-2012 of 0.48, which exceeds the minimum ANSI / NFSI 101.3-2012 wet coefficient of friction rating of 0.42. In an embodiment, ANSI being the American National Standards Institute. NF SI being the National Floor safety Institute and 101.3-2012 being the test method for measuring wet dynamic coefficient of friction of common hard surface floor materials. The floor covering material 300 has a classification rating of Rll via the German Institute for Normalization (DIN) standard DIN 51130. The polymer of the polymeric stock sheet, or polymeric substrate 305, the plurality of spaced apart protrusions 330 and the plurality of channels 340, such as, for example, can be polyester, but is not limited to, polyester.

[0204]

[0125] A pressure sensitive adhesive 350 is applied to a bottom surface 320 opposing the top surface 310 that will be utilized for securing a properly shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, onto the floor of a bathtub or the floor of a shower base, or pan, to be used during a shower event. The pressure sensitive adhesive 350 is also a removeable adhesive. A protective sheet 360 is placed against the pressure sensitive adhesive 350 during manufacture for protecting the pressure sensitive adhesive from the outside environment by keeping the adhesive 350 clean to ensure the adhesive 350 will retain its strength and properly adhere to the floor of the bathtub or the floor of a shower base, or pan, in accordance with its intended use and purpose.

[0205]

[0126] FIG. 4 A shows an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a shaped and dimensioned floor covering material 300 fabricated from the floor covering 300, as shown in FIG. 3, which has been shaped and dimensioned, for example only, to be installed onto the floor of a bathtub which defines the bathing area, such as, for example, the floor 110 of bathtub 100, as shown in FIG. 1 Aand IB. For purposes of illustration only, FIG. 4B shows an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 fabricated, or cut, from the floor covering 300, which has been shaped and dimensioned, for example only, to be installed onto the floor of a shower base, or pan, which defines the bathing area, such as, for example, the floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200, as shown in FIG. 2A and 2B. It should be understood that the floor covering 300 and the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300, are structurally identical, except that the overall shape and size of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 will vary depending on the overall shape, size and / or location of the drain flange of the floor of the bathtub or the floor of the shower base, or pan, onto which the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 will be installed.

[0206]

[0127] In the example shown in FIG. 4 A, for purposes of illustration only, each of the corners of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 are rounded so as to resist peeling from the floor 110 of the bathtub 100. With rounded corners the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300, after it has been adhered to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100, will resist peeling away from the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 after it has been adhered to the floor 110 and will remain resistant to peeling during its natural lifetime of repeated bathing events. The length Lc of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 and the width Wc of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 represent the length and width of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300, which are proportional to the length LB of the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 and the width

[0207] 44

[0208] ] Wb of the floor 110 of the bathtub 100, as illustrated by example in FIG. 1 A. In addition to the rounding of the corners, as shown in FIG. 4A, a cutout 370 is made completely through the thickness of the shaped and dimensioned floor cover 300 so as to provide an opening in the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 in the drain area, or drain zone, 125, as illustrated by example in FIG. 1 A, thereby allowing water, or water composition, during a bathing event to run into, through and out of the plurality of spaced channels 340 into the drain area, or drain zone, 125 and then into the drain 120, shown in FIG. 4 A by the phantom dotted oval positioned adjacent to and within the cutout 370. For bathtubs having multiple drain areas, or drain zones, 125, a cutout 370 for each one of the multiple drain areas, or drain zones, 125 is provided. Regardless of the shape, style, and location of the drain 120 the floor covering material is shaped and dimensioned to a length of at least 60% of a length of the floor of the bathing area, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%; the width of at least 60% of a width of the floor of the bathing area, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

[0209]

[0128] In the example shown in FIG. 4B, for purposes of illustration only, each of the corners of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 are rounded so as to resist pealing from the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200. With rounded corners the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300, after it has been adhered to the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200, will resist peeling away from the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 after it has been adhered to the floor 210 and will remain resistant to pealing during its natural lifetime of repeated bathing events. The length Lcand the width We represent the length and width of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300, which are proportional to the length Lsand the width Ws of the shower base, or pan, 200 as illustrated by example in FIG. 2 A and FIG. 2B. In addition to the rounding of the comers, as shown in FIG. 4B, a cutout 370, such as in nonlimiting example, a circular cut out 370, is made completely through the thickness of the

[0210] 45

[0211] ] shaped and dimensioned floor cover 300 so as to provide an opening in the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 in the drain area, or drain zone, 225, as illustrated by example in FIG. 2 A and FIG. 2B, thereby allowing water, or water composition, during the bathing event to run in, through and out of the plurality of randomly spaced channels 340 into the drain area, or drain zone, 225 and then into the drain 220, shown in FIG. 4B by the phantom oval shape positioned within the cutout 370. The cut out 370 can be of any shape necessary to correspond with the overall perimeter shape of the drain zone 225 and / or drain flange 120 / 220. For shower bases, or pans, 200 having multiple drain areas, or drain zones, 225, a cutout 370 for each one of the multiple drain areas, or drain zones, 225 is provided. Regardless of the shape, style, and location of the drain 220 the floor covering material is shaped and dimensioned to a length of at least 60% of a length of the floor of the bathing area, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%; the width of at least 60% of a width of the floor of the bathing area, such as, for example, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

[0212]

[0129] FIG. 5 shows a magnified cross-sectional view along either dotted line segment AA and / or dotted line segment BB, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4A and / or 4B, of an embodiment of a floor covering 300. Since the floor covering 300 and the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 are structurally identical, to the exception of their overall shape and size, any reference to floor covering 300 is likewise a reference to shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 and vice versa. Shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 is configured for use in a bathing environment. Floor covering 300 is configured from a sheet of polymeric substrate 305, shows the top surface 310 and an opposing bottom surface 320. The top surface 310 has, or comprises, a plurality of spaced generally cone-shaped protrusions 330 extending throughout the vast majority of the surface area of the top surface 310. The plurality of spaced protrusions can be randomly spaced or systematically spaced in a repeating manner. The

[0213] 46

[0214] ] plurality of spaced protrusions 330 are configured to form a plurality of spaced channels 340 therebetween. The channels can also be randomly spaced or systematically spaced in a repeating manner. Each of the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 are configured to have a protrusion base 332, a protrusion wall 334 and a distal protrusion top 336. Each protrusion base 332 being attached to the top surface 310 of the polymeric substrate 305, or floor covering 300. Each protrusion side 334 extends upwardly from its protrusion base 332 to a protrusion height 338 where it terminates at the distal protrusion top 336. The protrusion heights 338 are in the range of about 50 microns to about 200 microns. The plurality of spaced channels 340 between the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 have a channel depth 345 that is proportional to the protrusion heights 338 of the plurality of spaced apart protrusions 330 form the plurality of spaced channels 340 and vice versa. As such, the depth of the plurality of spaced channels are in the range of about 50 microns to about 200 microns. The opposing bottom surface 320 of the polymeric substrate 305 of floor covering 300 comprises the pressure sensitive adhesive 350, which is shown edgewise in FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, along with protective sheet 360 which is placed against the pressure sensitive adhesive 350 during manufacture for protecting the pressure sensitive adhesive from the outside environment and for keeping the adhesive 350 clean and damage free to ensure adhesion of the adhesive 350 to the floor of a bathtub 110 or the floor of a shower base, or pan, 210 when installed thereon.

[0215]

[0130] In an embodiment, the protrusions 330 can be embossed and / or textured and can be a part of a top layer, e.g. 4A, 4B, 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9A1, 9A2, 9B and 9C.

[0216]

[0131] The adhesion between laminate layers can be chosen in range from permanent to reversible and / or removable. The adhesion between the laminate and / or laminate overlay can be an adhesion chosen to achieve and installed state in range from permanent to reversible and / or removable from the surface upon which the laminate is installed.

[0132] Example 1, as shown in FIG. 6A, is an elevated view of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 in position and pressure adhered to the floor 110 of bathtub 100 by the pressure sensitive adhesive 350. In an embodiment, dimensioned floor covering 300 can be a bathing surface overlay 500. In an embodiment, dimensioned floor covering 300 can be a laminate adhered to a bathtub floor or shower floor.

[0217]

[0133] Example 2, as shown in FIG. 6B, is an elevated view of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303 in position and pressure adhered to the floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200 by the pressure sensitive adhesive 350. Example 3, as shown in FIG. 6C, is an elevated view of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 in position and pressure adhered to the floor 210 of shower base 200, which is a multi-bather shower, by the pressure sensitive adhesive 350. The shower base, or pan, 200, as in Example 3, as shown in FIG. 6C, comprises a plurality of drain flanges 220 to allow for the drainage of water, or water composition, from multiple bathers showering at multiple locations within the bathing environment. To apply the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 and / or to the floor 210 to the shower base, or pan, 200, an installer will partially peel off, or remove, a segment of the protective sheet 360 along the width Wc from an end portion of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300. Once the pressure sensitive adhesive has been at least partially exposed, the installer will adjust the position of the end of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 with the exposed pressure sensitive adhesive and when the end of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 is properly placed, the installer presses the exposed pressure sensitive adhesive into place on the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or on the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200. Using an elongated pressing or roller tool, not shown, the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303 is worked with a force pressing, or rolling, the elongated pressing tool back and forth and left to right until that end of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 becomes properly adhered to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100

[0218] 48

[0219] ] or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 by the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 506. Once properly secured, an additional segment of the protective sheet 360 is removed in the same manner exposing an additional segment of the pressure sensitive adhesive 350 which is then placed against the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200. Once again, the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303 is worked with the elongated pressing or roller tool to ensure its proper adhesion to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200. The procedure of removing the protective sheet 360 to expose additional segments of the pressure sensitive adhesive 350 and pressed or rolled with the elongated pressing or roller tool to ensure proper adhesion is repeated until the entire length and width of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 is properly positioned and properly adhered to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200. The shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 is applied to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 to cover a portion of the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 in an area where at least a portion of a bottom of at least one foot of a bather will contact and interact with the textured surface, z.e., the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 and the plurality of randomly placed channels 340 formed between the plurality of spaced protrusions 330.

[0220]

[0134] When a bather steps into the bathing area to take a shower during a bathing event, the bather will place at least the bottom of at least one foot onto the installed shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 which will cause at least a portion of the bather’s weight to be applied downward and onto the textured surface 310, thereby creating static friction, or traction, between the bottom of the foot of the bather and the textured surface 310. This static friction, or traction, will be greater than the static friction, or traction, that would otherwise be present if the bather was stepping onto the smooth surface of floor 110 of bathtub 100, as shown in FIGS. 1 A and IB, or the smooth surface 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200, as shown in

[0221] 49

[0222] ] FGS 2A and 2B. As such, when the bather steps onto the textured surface 310 of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303, the risk of the bather’s foot slipping along the surface of the textured surface and, perhaps, causing the bather to fall is greatly reduced due to the interaction between the bottom of the bather’s foot and the textured surface 310 of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303. With one foot securely positioned upon the textured surface 310 the bather will bring the bottom of their other foot into contact with the textured surface 310 to complete their entry for the bathing event. During the bathing event, the bather will move their feet so as to walk forward, backward and / or turn around plural times throughout the bathing event. During the movements of the bather throughout the bathing event, the amount of the bather’s weight that is applied by each foot varies along with the amount of static friction, or traction, created by the interaction of the bottom of the feet of the bather and the textured surface 310. Throughout the bathing event, the bather is less likely to slip and / fall while bathing on the textured surface 310, as opposed to bathing on the smooth surface of the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the smooth floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200. Each time the bather lifts one foot off of the textured surface 310, the amount of static friction, or traction, and its distribution changes between the bottom of the foot in contact with the textured surface 310 due to an increase in the weight, or force, being applied by the bather to the textured surface 310 via the foot in contact with the textured surface 310. When the lifted foot is once again back in contact with the textured surface 310, z.e., both of the bather’s feet are back in contact with the textured surface 310, the amount of static friction, or traction, and its distribution changes, as the static friction, or traction, is created by the interaction of the textured surface 310 and the bottom of both feet of the bather. The amount of static friction, or traction, will be constantly changing from one moment to another throughout the entire bathing event. Likewise, the static friction, or traction, during a bathing event on the smooth floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or the smooth floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 will also

[0223] 50

[0224] ] change from one moment to another. However, the amount of static friction, or traction, created by the bottom of the bather’s feet and the smooth surface of the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 or floor 210 of the shower base or pan, 200 is far less than the static friction, or traction, created by bathing on the textured surface 310 of the shaped and dimensioned floor cover 300. In addition, throughout the bathing event the bather will introduce and use various items during the bathing event, such as, for example, but not limited to and including, soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc., that will be rinsed from the bather and onto the textured surface 310 that will cause temporary changes in the conditions between the bottom of the bather’s feet and the textured surface 310. These temporary changes will be sporadic and momentary until the bathing water rinses the various items from the textured surface 310 and, in particularly, the plurality of channels 340, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0225]

[0135] Since a bathtub, such as bathtub 100, as shown in FIGS. 1 A and IB, can be used for a bathing event other than a shower, typically referred to as a bath, the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 adhered to the floor 110 of the bathtub 100 will also provide for increased safety, through an increase in static friction, or traction, between the bottom of at least one foot of the bather, or other body part(s), and the top surface 310 of the shaped, dimensioned floor covering 300. As a result of the increased static friction, or traction, when a bather steps into a tub of water, or water composition, sits down, stands up and steps out of the bathtub 100 the possibility of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather slipping on the top surface 310 of the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 is minimized in the same fashion as during a bathing event that is a shower.

[0226]

[0136] With the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 adhered to the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 200 will likewise provide for increased safety, through an increase in static friction, or traction, between the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the top surface 310 of the shaped, dimensioned floor covering 300. As a result of the increased static friction,

[0227] 51

[0228] ] or traction, when a bather steps onto a shower base, or pan, 310, steps and moves around the bathing area and ultimately steps off of the shower base, or pan, 310 at the conclusion of a bathing event the possibility of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather slipping on the top surface 310 of the floor covering 300 is minimized during the bathing event.

[0229]

[0137] FIG. 7A shows a view of the bottom 400 of a typical human foot (also herein as “human foot 400”). The bottom 400 of the foot will be the area of the foot that will interact with the textured surface 310 of the installed floor covering 303 during a bathing event of a bather. The bottom 400 of the foot comprises toe pads 410, 411, 412, 413 and 414 located at a distal end of the foot. The toe pad 410 is the pad of the Hallux, sometimes referred to as the great toe or the big toe, which is the largest toe of a typical human foot. The toe pad 414 is the pad of the little toe, or pinky toe, which is the littlest toe of a typical human foot. The bottom of the foot 400 to which the toes 410-414 are connected is known as the ball 420 of the foot 400 that comprises a ball pad 420 that is comprised by a ball pad of the Hallux 421 and a ball of the little toe 422. The heal pad 430 of the bottom of the foot 400 is located at a proximal end of the foot 400. The bottom of the human foot 400 (also herein as “foot 400”)located between the ball pad 420 and the heal pad 430 are the lateral arch pad 440 and the medial arch pad 450. With a typical human foot, the toe pads 410-414, the ball pad 420, the lateral arch pad 440 and the heal pad 430, primarily and collectively make up the bottom of the foot 400 that will come in contact and interact with the textured surface 310 of the installed shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300. It should be understood, however, that a portion of the medial arch pad 450 can also contact and interact with the installed shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 depending on the upward curve of the arch of the foot to which the medial arch pad 450 covers. FIG. 7B is a represents an ink-type foot print 460 of the bottom of a typical human foot 400 to provide a general visualization of the extent the bottom of a typical human foot 400 will contact and interact with a surface upon which the foot is placed while a person is standing.

[0230] 52

[0231] ]

[0138] As a person, for example, executes a walking step forward, one foot, i.e., a fore foot, is extended out in front of the person and the heal pad 430 will first make contact with the surface. As the step continues, the foot will be rotated forward downward towards the surface thereby adding the lateral arch pad 440 into contact with the surface. To complete the step forward, the foot is rotated further downward adding the ball pad 420 and toe pads 410-414 into contact with the heel pad 430 and lateral arch pad 440 into contact and interaction with the surface. Thus, at the completion of the step the entire bottom of the foot 400, from heal pad 430 to toe pads 410-414 that are capable of contacting the surface, is in contact with the surface upon which the person is walking. It should be understood that as the person extends the fore foot forward and executes the step, the other foot which is the aft foot, rotates in an opposite directions as the fore foot, thereby rotating upwardly and lifting its heel pad to its toe pads off of the surface in a reverse order. As the aft foot has been raised off of the surface and moved forward and becomes the fore foot for the next step, the person walking will be supported by only by the foot now becoming the aft foot. In a bathing environment, a bather will make similar walking motions while entering the bathing area to start a bathing event, move around in the bathing area during a bathing event, and exiting the bathing area at the completion on a bathing event. From time to time, the bather can also be briefly standing and / or balancing on only one foot. The installed shaped and dimensioned floor covering 303 provides a textured surface 310 upon which the interactions thereof with the bottom 400 of the bather’s foot, or feet, will increase the amount of static friction, or traction, well and about the amount of static friction, or traction, that would be present if the bather was bathing on the smooth surface of the floor of the 110 of the bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of the shower base, or pan, 210.

[0232]

[0139] FIG. 8A shows a perspective side view of a bather’s foot in contact with the sized and dimensioned floor covering 300. As the bottom 400 of the foot of a bather is placed upon the textured surface 310 of the sized and dimensioned floor cover 300 installed on a floor of a

[0233] 53

[0234] ] bathtub, or floor of a shower base, or pan, and pressure is applied due to the weight of the bather, a portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusion 330 push up into a corresponding first portions of the bottom of the bather’s foot 400. At the same time, second portions of the bather’s foot will push down upon and pillow onto the plurality of spaced channels 340 formed by the portion of the plurality of spaced apart protrusion 330. The combined interaction of the portion of the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 pushing upward into the first portion of the bather’s foot and the interaction of the second portion of the bottom of the bather’s foot pushing down and pillowing into the second portion of the plurality of spaced apart channels that causes the increased static friction, or traction, that reduced the possibility that the bottom of the bather’s foot 400 will slip laterally on the textured surface 310 on the installed sized and dimensioned floor covering 300 during a bathing, thereby reducing the possibility of a fall by the bather.

[0235]

[0140] FIG. 8B shows a magnified cross-sectional view along either dotted line segment AA and / or dotted line segment BB, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4A and / or 4B, of an embodiment of installed shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300. Here, the shaped and dimensioned floor covering 300 is shown as installed and secured via the pressure sensitive adhesive 350 to either one of the floor 110 of bathtub 100 or the floor 210 of shower base, or pan, 200, which is identified in FIG. 8B by reference number 110 / 210. During a bathing event when the textured surface 310 becomes wet with water, or a water composition, during a bathing event, the water, or water composition, will enter the plurality of placed channels and flow toward a drain flange in the floor of the bathtub or the floor of the shower base, or pan. As shown in FIG. 8B, for example and for non-limiting illustration only, the water, or water composition, composition used during the bathing event, which is either clean flowing water or water mixed with soap, shampoo, conditioner and / or other products being used by the bather, falls onto and / or cascades onto and / or comes into contact with the textured surface 310, z.e., onto the plurality of spaced

[0236] 54

[0237] ] protrusions 330 and into the plurality of spaced channels 340. Prior to the bottom of any one or both of the bather’s feet contacting the textured surface 310, the water, or water composition, will pool into and flow through the plurality of spaced channels 340 at a water level generally shown by the dotted line WLI. When at least a first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface 310; the at least a portion of the foot 400 for the bather, as shown in FIG. 7, applies the downward force with the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather onto the textured surface 310 at a first sub-portion Pi of the portion of the at least one foot of the bather at the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 and a second corresponding sub-portion P2 of the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather at the plurality of spaced channels 340 between the first portion of the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 at least the first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface 310, as shown in FIG. 8B. The downward force will cause the first portion of the plurality of spaced protrusions 330 to interact with a first sub-portion of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather and cause the first portion of the plurality of randomly spaced protrusions 330 to displace the first sub-portion Pi of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather upward toward the bather. The downward force will also cause the second sub-portion P2 of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather to pillow into the corresponding second corresponding portion of the plurality of spaced channels 340 and force at least a portion of the water, or water composition, out of the corresponding portion of the plurality of spaced channels by the several arrows F, as shown in FIG. 8B, depicting the water, or water composition, flow from the corresponding portion of the plurality of spaced channels 340 from a general water, or water composition, level, as shown by the dotted line WLI to a level WL2, to form at least a suction, or partial vacuum, between the second portion of the bottom of the at least one foot 400 of the bather and the corresponding first portion of the channels.

[0238] 55

[0239] ]

[0141] The combination of the first portion of said plurality of spaced apart protrusions upwardly displacing the first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather and the second portion of the foot of the bather that pillows into the corresponding portion of the corresponding first plurality of channels to form at least the suction, or partial vacuum, create the static friction, or traction, between the textured surface and the at least a portion of the bottom of the foot of the bather in an amount greater than a kinetic friction in a lateral direction created by movement between the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather on the textured surface to minimize a possibility that the at least a portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the bather will slip on the textured surface during a bathing event causing the bather to become unstable which can perhaps cause the bater to experience a fall during a shower event, which can cause injury or death to the bather.

[0240]

[0142] A bathing floor for a bathing environment can also be configured to have at least one of a floor, 300, as shown in at least FIGS.6A, 6B, and 8B, and a sub-floor 110 and 210, as shown in at least FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 8B, having a sub-floor bathing area, as defined by the top surface area of textured surface 310, configured for one or more of a bather. The at least one of a floor 300 comprises a polymeric substrate 300 having a top surface 310 and an opposing bottom surface 320, as shown in FIG. 8B. The top surface 310 having a plurality of protrusions 330 extending from the top surface 310 and configured to form a plurality of channels 340 between the plurality of protrusions 330. Each of the plurality of protrusions 330 are configured to have a protrusion base 332, a protrusion wall 334 and a distal protrusion top 336. The protrusion base 332 being attached to the top surface 310. The protrusion wall 334 extending to a protrusion height 338 from the protrusion base 332 and terminates at the distal protrusion top 336. The plurality of channels 340 between the plurality of protrusions 330 have a channel depth 345 proportional to the protrusion height 338 of each of the plurality of protrusions 330 that form the plurality of channels 340.

[0241] 56

[0242] ]

[0143] The opposing bottom surface 320 of the polymeric substrate 300 comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive 350. When the opposing bottom surface 320 of the polymeric substrate 300 is applied to the sub-floor 110 and / or 210 (also herein as floor 110 / 210, or bathtub floor 110, or shower floor 210) within the sub-floor bathing area, z.e., the area of the sub-floor 110 and / or 210, or floor 110 / 210, or bathtub floor 110 or shower floor 210, upon which the polymeric substrate 300 is applied, the adhesive 350 secures the polymeric substrate to the sub-floor 110 and / or 210 to cover at least a portion of the sub-floor 110 and / or 210 in the sub-floor bathing area where at least a portion of a bottom 400 of at least one foot of at least one of a bather will contact and interact with the textured surface 310 by applying a downward force to the textured surface 310 to produce a static friction between the at least a portion of the bottom 400 of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the textured surface 310. When the textured surface 310 becomes wet with a water, or water composition, during a bathing event the water, or water composition, will enter the plurality of channels 340 and flow toward a drain zone 125 and / or 225 in the subfloor 110 and / or 210. As at least shown in FIG. 8B, when the at least a portion of the bottom 400 of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface the at least a portion of the at least a portion of the foot of the at least one of a bather applies the downward force with the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather onto the textured surface 310 at a first portion of the plurality of protrusions 330 and a first corresponding portion of the plurality of channels 340 between the first portion of the plurality of protrusions 330 the at least the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather contacts and interacts with the textured surface 310. The downward force will cause the first portion of the plurality of protrusions 330 to interact with a first portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and cause the first portion of the plurality of protrusions 330 to displace a first sub-portion Pl of the portion of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a

[0243] 57

[0244] ] bather upward toward the at least one of a bather. The downward force will also cause a second sub-portion P2 of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather to pillow into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels 340 and push at least a portion of the water, or water composition, out of the corresponding second portion of the plurality of channels 340 to form at least a suction, or partial vacuum, between the second portion of the bottom 400 of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels 340. A combination of the first sub-portion of the first portion of the plurality of protrusions 330 upwardly displacing the first portion Pl of the bottom of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather and the second portion P2 of the bottom of the foot of the at least one of a bather that pillows into the corresponding first portion of the plurality of channels 340 to form the at least the suction, or partial vacuum, create the static friction between the textured surface 310 and the at least a portion of the bottom 400 of the foot of the at least one of a bather in an amount greater than a kinetic friction in a lateral direction created by movement between the at least a portion of the bottom 400 of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather on the textured surface 310 to minimize a possibility that the at least a portion of the bottom 400 of the at least one foot of the at least one of a bather will slip on the textured surface during a bathing event.

[0245]

[0144] Herein “floor” and “sub-floor” are used synonymously to refer to a supporting floor and / or a surface upon which the bathtub floor overlay, shower floor overlay, laminate, floor covering 300 / 500 / 555, or bathing floor surface covering overlay, can be or is adhered.

[0246]

[0145] In an embodiment, the sub-floor 110 is a floor of a bathtub, such as, for example, the bathtub 100, as shown in at least FIGS. 1 A, 2A, 6A and 8B. In an embodiment, the sub-floor 210 is a floor of a shower, and can be a floor of a shower is a floor 210 of a shower base, or pan, 200, as shown in at least FIGS. 2A, 2B, 6B, 6C and 8B.

[0146] In an embodiment, the protrusion height 338 is in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, e.g. 30 microns, 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, 150 microns, 200 microns, 250 microns, etc.

[0247]

[0147] In an embodiment, the channel depth 345 is in the range of about 25 microns to about 300 microns, e.g. 30 microns, 50 microns, 75 microns, 100 microns, 150 microns, 200 microns, 250 microns, etc.

[0248]

[0148] In an embodiment, the polymeric substrate 300 comprises a length Lc or Ls of at least 60% of a length LB or Ls of the sub-floor 110 or 210 bathing area and a width Wc of at least 60% of a width WB or Ws of the sub-floor bathing area.

[0249]

[0149] FIG. 9 A shows that the bathing surface overlay can have a laminated structure, shown in cross-section, in which the slip resistant surface 501 is a textured and / or embossed polymer material which is translucent at least upon contact with and / or when laminated and / or adhered to the visual layer 504 such that when the visual layer 504 includes indicia 530 (FIG. 9B) and / or visual content 600, which is shown through the slip resistant surface 501 and can be viewed by an observer and / or bather when viewing the bathing surface overlay 500. Alternatively, the visual layer can be optional and / or without indicia, depending at least in part on the location of its use.

[0250]

[0150] The indicia 530 (FIG. 9B), which is shown through the embossed slip resistant surface 501, and can be indicia borne by being printed upon and / or painted upon and / or etched upon and / or dyed into a polymer laminate layer 504 (aka visual layer 504) upon which the embossed slip resistant surface layer 501 is laminated. The embodiments herein are not limited as to the number of layers above or below the visual layer 504. In the various embodiments disclosed herein, regardless of the number and type of laminate layers, the embossed slip resistant surface 501 benefits a bather’s safety and the indicia can be viewed by an observer and / or bather through the laminate layers existing between the indicia and the observer and / or bather.

[0251] 59

[0252] ]

[0151] First Polymer layer 502

[0253]

[0152] The first polymer layer 502 has a polymer and textured and / or embossed slip-resistant surface 501. The polymer layer 502 and its embossed slip-resistant surface 501 are also referred to herein as a “surface layer”.

[0254]

[0153] In an embodiment, the first polymer layer 502 is formed from a polymer sheet or polymer fabric. In an embodiment, the first polymer layer 502 can be a polyester sheet or polyester fabric.

[0255]

[0154] In an embodiment, the slip-resistant surface 501 is embossed and is formed by embossing at least one side of the material of the first polymer layer 502. In an embodiment, the slip resistant surface 501 which is a textured and / or embossed surface of a polymer sheet or fabric, such as for nonlimiting example polyester sheet, polyester fabric, vinyl sheet, vinyl fabric, polyvinyl chloride sheet and polyvinyl chloride fabric, or other polymer sheet or fabric, as well as blends of polymers.

[0256]

[0155] Herein, the term “vinyl” refers to any type of vinyl polymer.

[0257]

[0156] Herein, the term “polyester” refers to any type of polyester polymer.

[0258]

[0157] First Adhesive Layer 503

[0259]

[0158] In an embodiment, the first adhesive layer 503 can have a first adhesive 1stADH permanently adhered to the first polymer layer 502 and to the visual layer 504 that can include at least one of an indicia borne by being printed upon and / or painted upon and / or etched upon and / or dyed into a printed matter and / or on the visual layer or another layer. Herein, the first polymer layer 502 is also referred to as the “surface adhesive layer”.

[0260]

[0159] In an embodiment, the first polymer layer 502 adheres to the visual layer 504 to a second layer in which either no indicia and / or visual layer 504 is present. In other words, the polymer layer 502 can adhere to a second surface layer as a supporting layer with or without indicia. Herein “1st” and “first”, and “2nd” and “second”, etc., are used synonymously.

[0261] 60

[0262] ]

[0160] Visual layer 504

[0263]

[0161] In an embodiment, the visual layer 504 is a polymer layer upon which an indicia, such as, for example, an image and / or graphic element can be printed, painted, etched and / or dyed can be present on either or both of its opposing surfaces. In another embodiment, the visual layer 504 can be laminated to a second polymer layer 505 optionally by means of a visual layer adhesive ILA (also shown as optional layer 533) which adheres the visual layer 504 to the second polymer layer 505. The image layer adhesive ILA can be another adhesive layer of the same adhesive as the first adhesive layer 1stADIL In an embodiment, the image layer adhesive ILA can be another adhesive layer of a different adhesive than the first adhesive layer 1stADIL

[0264]

[0162] The visual layer 504 is also referred to herein as the “visual support layer”.

[0265]

[0163] In an embodiment, the visual layer 504, or visual support layer is a polymer layer having at least one of a vinyl, a polyvinyl chloride and a polyester.

[0266]

[0164] In an embodiment, the visual layer 504, or visual support layer, optionally bears indicia 530 (FIG. 9B), such as, for example, an image and / or graphic printed, painted etched directly upon the visual support layer and / or dyed into the visual support layer, as shown in FIG. 9B. In another embodiment, the visual support layer bears a visual layer having at least an image, graphic element, or other form of indicia.

[0267]

[0165] Configuration Of Visual Content

[0268]

[0166] In its many and varied embodiments, visual content 530 can be viewed and or seen by an observer, operator and / or bather (collectively as a “viewer”) through the first layer 502 and the first adhesive layer 1stADH when configured as a laminate upon that which has visual content. Visual content 530 which can be seen by a viewer exists in a variety of embodiments. For example, visual content 530 can be provided by the following non-limiting embodiments: visual content printed upon a layer to which the first polymer layer 502 and first adhesive 1stADH are laminated; visual content dyed and / or infused into a layer to which the first polymer layer 502 and first adhesive 1stADH are laminated; an insert having visual content 530 configured between the first polymer layer 502 and first adhesive

[0269] 61

[0270] ] 1stADH when in a laminated configuration; a visual layer of material having visual content 530 upon its surface and / or incorporated into the visual layer by dyeing and / or infusion or other means.

[0271]

[0167] Visual content 530 can be incorporated into the laminate structure such that the visual content 530 can be observed by a viewer through at least the first layer 502 and / or the first adhesive 1stADH and / or first adhesive layer 503. There is no limitation as to the number and type of layers laminated upon the visual content and a laminated configuration as long as the viewer can perceive and / or see the visual content 530 through the laminate layers between the viewer and the visual content 530.

[0272]

[0168] There is no limitation regarding the number and / or type of layers and / or elements supporting the visual content 600 and / or indicia 530 and / or visual layer 504.

[0273]

[0169] In an embodiment, the visual content is supported by a second polymer layer 505. Optionally, the visual content 600 (FIG. 9A2) and / or visual layer 504 can be laminated upon the second polymer layer 505 and / or adhered to the second polymer layer 505 by image layer adhesive 533. In an embodiment a first polymer layer 502 is laminated over a visual content 600. In embodiment, a first polymer layer 502 is adhered to a visual content 600 by a first adhesive. In an embodiment, a first polymer layer 502 is adhered to a visual content 600 which is printed upon a second polymer layer 505.

[0274]

[0170] In embodiments, visual content 600 can be provided as printed content, an indicia, a decal, a decorative layer, a design layer, a printed layer, a graphic layer, a visual layer, a pattern layer, a color layer, and indicia layer, and etched layer, a textured layer, visual element having layer, or visual element bearing layer.

[0275]

[0171] Definition Of Visual Content

[0276]

[0172] In addition to its ordinary and customary meaning, “visual content” expressly encompasses any image, representation or element perceptible by sight to a viewer. A “visual content” is any visually perceptible item, element, graphic, factor, presence or representation that can be seen by a viewer.

[0277]

[0173] The term “visual content” expressly encompasses a range of visually perceptible forms ranging from clear as perceived by the viewer to black as seen by the viewer, as well as visually perceptible forms ranging from smooth lacking any texture to very rough textures. A “visual content” expressly encompasses visually perceptible forms that have color, and absence of color, indicia, etching, texture,

[0278] 62

[0279] ] acid wash, or other elements of at least one laminate material which creates a visual perception when viewed by viewer.

[0280]

[0174] The term “visual content” expressly encompasses the following non-limiting embodiments: transparency; indicia; watermark; etching; texture; color; color pattern; image; images; visual representation; visual element; photo; photographic image; text; letters; words; drawing and / or drawings; graphic; graphics; graphic design; artistic design; visual composition; illustration; illustrative or artistic image and / or representation; cartoon and / or character representation; design mark; logo; icon; design; pattern; digital art; painting and / or reproduction; informational image; graph and / or chart; map; infographic; and banner.

[0281]

[0175] The term “visual content” expressly encompasses visual images and / or visual elements and / or perceptible visual representations which are in non-limiting embodiment: embossed; debossed; etched; acid etched; engraved; carved; in relief; collaged; assembled and / or assemblage; photographs; prints; inserted materials and / or shapes; textured; burned and / or branded; printed; painted; dyed; stained; infused; embedded; sandwiched between laminate layers; glued and / or adhered; fused; matte; frosted; and patterned.

[0282]

[0176] The term “visual content” expressly encompasses visual images and / or visual elements and / or perceptible visual representations which are in non-limiting embodiment: glossy, shiny, smooth, polished, matte, flat, satin, semi-gloss, iridescent, pearlescent, rough, brushed, ground, inlayed, varnished, lacquered, metallic, translucent, clear, transparent and opaque.

[0283]

[0177] First Adhesive Layer 503

[0284]

[0178] In an embodiment, the first adhesive layer 503 can have a water-resistant adhesive ILA permanently adhered to at least one of visual layer 504, visual content 530 and polymer layer 505 depending upon whether an optional visual layer 504 is used. If a visual layer 504 is used, the ILA shown as layer 533 will adhere the underside of visual layer 504 to at least one of visual layer 504, visual content 530 and polymer layer 505. In embodiments, the visual content can include at least one of an indicia borne by and / or printed upon and / or painted upon and / or

[0285] 63

[0286] ] etched upon and / or dyed into the visual layer, or another layer. Herein, the polymer layer 505 is also referred to as a second polymer layer 505 and also as an Image support layer 505.

[0287] Second Polymer Layer 505

[0288]

[0179] FIG. 9A also shows a second polymer layer 505. In an embodiment, visual content can optionally be printed directly upon the second polymer layer 505. In an embodiment, the optional visual layer 504 can be adhered and / or bonded and / or laminated to the second polymer layer 505. Optionally, an image layer adhesive ILA or an image layer adhesive layer 533 can be used to adhere and / or bond the optional visual layer 504 to the second polymer layer 505.

[0289]

[0180] In an embodiment, the second polymer layer physically supports at least one of visual content 530, visual layer 504, and polymer layer 505, as well as first polymer layer 502.

[0290]

[0181] In an embodiment, the second polymer is in physical contact with at least one of visual content 530, visual layer 504, and polymer layer 505.

[0291]

[0182] Second Adhesive Layer 506

[0292]

[0183] Second adhesive layer 506 is an adhesive layer which can be the same adhesive as the 1stADH as of the surface adhesive layer 503, or can be a different adhesive than the 1stADH. In an embodiment, the first adhesive, 1stADH, can be a permanent adhesive bonding the first polymer layer 502 to at least one of the visual content 530, the visual layer 504 and second polymer layer 505, while the second adhesive 2ndADH can be of a type that does not form a permanent bond, but rather reversibly adheres the second polymer layer 505 to a removeable backing 507 or to the bathing floor 110 / 120.

[0293]

[0184] Adhesive Layer 506 is also referred to herein as a “floor adhesive layer”.

[0294]

[0185] In an embodiment, the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH has an adhesive which permanently bonds the bathing surface overlay 500 and / or laminate to the bathing floor 110 / 120, e.g. bathtub floor, or shower floor.

[0186] In another embodiment, the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH can have an adhesive which reversibly adheres the bathing surface overlay 500 to the bathing floor 110 / 120, e.g. bathtub floor, or shower floor, such that the bathing surface overlay 500 can be selectively removed from the bathing surface 110 / 210 by an operator.

[0295]

[0187] Removable Backing Layer 507

[0296]

[0188] Removable backing layer 507 (also herein as backing 507) can be a selectively removable reversibly attached backing layer. Herein, this removable backing layer 507 is also referred to as a “backing layer”.

[0297]

[0189] In an uninstalled bathing floor surface overlay 500, the backing layer 507 can be reversibly adhered to the floor adhesive layer for easy handling and packaging of the bathing floor surface overlay 500. Prior to installation, an operator can selectively remove the backing layer 507 exposing the adhesive 2ndADH of the floor adhesive layer 506.

[0298]

[0190] Once the adhesive 2ndADH of the floor adhesive layer 506 is exposed, the operator can place, or adhere, the bathing surface overlay 500 onto the bathing floor 110 / 210 such that the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH is in adhesive contact with the bathing floor 110 / 210. Once the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH is in contact with the bathing floor 110 / 210, the floor adhesive 2ndADH reversibly adheres to the floor 110 / 210 of the bathing surface.

[0299]

[0191] In an embodiment, the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH can be an adhesive which cures and in a permanent manner attaches the bathing surface overlay 500 to the bathing floor 110 / 210. In an embodiment, the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH can be an adhesive which cures and reversibly attaches the bathing surface overlay 500 to the bathing floor 110 / 210.

[0300]

[0192] In an embodiment, the floor adhesive layer 2ndADH can be an adhesive which reversibly adheres the bathing surface overlay 500 to the bathing floor 110 / 210. Herein, bathing surface overlay 500 and laminate when referring to a laminate which can be and / or is in a condition to be installed in a bathing environment, with or without the optional / removable backing layer 507 adhered, are used synonymously.

[0301]

[0193] FIG. 9A1 shows an embodiment of bathing surface overlay 500 adhered the bathing floor 110 / 210 in and installed state. In an embodiment, bathing surface overlay 500 is permanently, or in a permanent manner, attached to the bathing floor 110 / 210. In another embodiment, bathing surface overlay 500 is reversibly adhered to the bathing floor 110 / 210. As shown in FIG. 9A1, the backing layer 507 has been removed prior to installation exposing the floor adhesive layer 506 which upon installation can be adhered either permanently or reversibly to the bathing floor 110 / 210.

[0302]

[0194] FIG. 9A2 shows another embodiment of bathing surface overlay 500 adhered the bathing floor 110 / 210 in and installed state. In an embodiment, visual content 600 can be printed, or otherwise adhered, directly upon the second Polymer layer 505. In an embodiment, the visual elements 640, 645, 650, 655 and 660 are printed, or otherwise adhered, directly upon the second Polymer layer 505. In embodiments, visual elements 640, 645, 650, 655 and 660 of the visual content 600 can be separated by spaces. In such embodiments, adhesive of the adhesive layer 503 forms upon, around and / or between elements 640, 645, 650, 655 and 660 such that the first polymer layer 502 is laminated to both visual content 600 and / or the visual elements 640, 645, 650, 655 and 660 and also laminated to the second polymer layer 505 by the adhesive layer 503.

[0303]

[0195] FIG. 9A2 applies to a variety of embodiments in which the visual content, e.g. visual content 600 does not entirely cover the second polymer layer 505. Stated differently, FIG. 9A2 applies to embodiments which have one or more visual elements 640, 645, 650, 655 and 660 each printed on and / or adhered to the second Polymer layer 505 at a distance from one another. Nonlimiting examples of configurations of the visual content 600 having one or more visual elements 640, 645, 650, 655 and 660 can encompass: text, stylized text, cut-outs, decals,

[0304] 66

[0305] ] graphic laminates, printed content, physical objects or visual elements, as well as other visual content existing between the polymer layer 502 and the second polymer layer 505 in a laminated configuration by adhesive layer 503.

[0306]

[0196] As shown in figure 9 A2, the backing layer 507 has been removed prior to installation exposing the floor adhesive layer 506 which upon installation can be adhered either permanently or reversibly to the bathing floor 110 / 210.

[0307]

[0197] Definition Of “Floor”

[0308]

[0198] In addition to its ordinary and customary meaning the term “floor” expressly encompasses a physical surface which supports at least an embodiment of a laminate and / or overlay as disclosed herein. In embodiment, the term “floor” is a supporting layer of a laminate and / or overlay embodiments disclosed herein.

[0309]

[0199] The term “floor” is not limited by type of material, location and / or use . The term “floor” herein is a genus-level term encompassing many species within its definition such as but not limited to: “bathtub floor”, “shower floor”, “bathing floor”, as well as other types of floors which support and / or are part of the laminate and / or overlay embodiments disclosed herein.

[0310]

[0200] Herein the terms, “floor”, “bathing floor”, “bathtub floor” and “shower floor” are used synonymously to the extent that each term refers to a surface upon which an embodiment is being adhered to in an installed state. Herein, “floor” also encompasses a “sub-floor”, or other surface, to which an embodiment of the floor covering, bathing floor surface overlay, the bathing surface overlay, the bathing floor overlay, the bathtub floor overlay, the shower floor overlay, and the laminate 300 / 500 / 555 can be or is adhered and / or attached.

[0311]

[0201] In the embodiments described herein, more than one type of floor can be present. For nonlimiting example, a bathtub and / or shower floor, 110 and / or 210, respectively, rests upon another floor which is referred to herein as a sub-floor. In another non-limiting example embodiment, a bathing floor is of a material and / or construction supported by another floor which is referred to herein as a sub-floor.

[0312]

[0202] The term “floor” is not limited by material of construction and expressly includes a floor having a polymer, a plastic, a tile, a ceramic, a ceramic tile, porcelain, porcelain coated material, porcelain

[0313] 67

[0314] ] coated metal, porcelain coated steel, solid surface materials (e.g. acrylic, polyester resins, minerals, alumina trihydrate materials, as well as compositions having acrylic resins and minerals, and also compositions having polyester resins and minerals, and compositions having resins and minerals, and compositions having methacrylate resin and minerals), Corian® (DuPont Safety & Construction Inc., 974 Centre Road, Wilmington, DE 19805 US, phone (302) 774-1000, dupont.trademarks@dupont.com) and similar materials also known as solid surface materials, a grout, a marble, a concrete, a wood, a hardwood, a glass, an engineered wood, a bamboo, a stone, a brick, a porcelain, a terra-cotta, a vinyl, a linoleum, a rubber, and epoxy, a terrazzo, steel, metal, or other material configured to support and / or are part of the laminate and / or overlay embodiments disclosed herein.

[0315]

[0203] The term “floor” is not limited by location and expressly includes the following locations where a floor is used to support and / or as part of the laminate and / or overlay embodiments disclosed herein: bathtub, shower, bathing area, bathroom, pool, mobile home, boat, houseboat, ship, residence, House, apartment, recreational vehicle (RV), hotel, motel, cruise ship, lounge, gym, fitness Center, spa, wellness Center, swimming pool, aquatic Center, sports stadium, Arena, office building, campground, public bathrooms, beaches, parks, truck stops, rest stops, lodges, cabins, hospital, assisted living facility, rehabilitation Center, medical facility, institutional facility, nursing home, senior facility, school, university, military barracks, military base, shelters, emergency shelter, homeless shelter, workplace, chemical plant, factory, industrial site, laboratory, clean room, construction site, as well as other locations where bathing occurs and / or showers and bathtubs are used.

[0316]

[0204] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9A, FIG. 9A1, FIG. 9A2, FIG 9B and FIG. 9C, floor covering 300 / 500 / 555, or bathing floor surface covering overlay, or bathing surface overlay, or laminate, can be configured to have at least one of a first polymer layer 502 having a textured and / or embossed surface 501. At least one of a first adhesive layer 503 having a first adhesive 1stADH; at least one of a visual layer 504. At least one of a second polymer layer 505. At least one of a second adhesive layer 506 having a second adhesive 2ndADH which can be the same or different than the first adhesive 1stADH, wherein the first polymer layer 502, the first adhesive layer 1stADH, the visual layer 504, the second polymer layer 505 and the second adhesive layer 2ndADH are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer 502 layer is laminated upon the visual layer 504 and can be adhered by the first adhesive 1stADH; wherein the first polymer layer 502 is translucent and / or transparent to show the visual layer 504 when laminated to the visual layer 504. The first adhesive layer 1stADH is translucent and / or transparent to show the visual layer 504 when the first adhesive 1stADH is in a cured state bonding the first polymer layer 502 to the visual layer 504; At least one visual layer and the first polymer layer 502 is laminated upon the second polymer layer 505. The second adhesive layer 506 is adhered to the second polymer layer 505. The laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of a bathing floor 110 / 210, as shown in FIG. IB though FIG. 2B, FIG 8B, FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B . The laminate, as shown in FIG 9B has a drain opening 520 configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain 120 / 220. The textured and / or embossed surface 501 is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the textured and / or embossed surface 501. The textured and / or embossed surface 501 is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when the textured and / or embossed surface 501 is wet. The first polymer layer 502 can be permanently adhered to the visual layer 504. The second adhesive 2ndADH can be configured to be reversibly attached to the bathing surface laminate overlay 300 / 500 / 555, as shown in FIG. 9B, to the bathing floor 110 / 210. The bathing surface overlay 300 / 500 / 555 has a backing 507 reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer 506. The visual layer 504 of the bathing surface overlay 300 / 500 / 555 includes indicia 530, as shown in FIG 9B, wherein the indicia 530 can be indicia, such as, for example, an image and / or printed matter and / or other form of indicia.

[0317]

[0205] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9A2, floor covering 300 / 500 / 555, or bathing floor surface covering overlay, can be configured to have at least one of a first polymer layer 502 having a textured and / or embossed surface 501. At least one of a first adhesive layer 503 having a first adhesive 1stADH; at least one of a visible layer surface. At least one of a second polymer layer 505. At least one of a second adhesive layer 506 having a second adhesive 2ndADH the same or different than the first adhesive 1stADH, wherein the first polymer layer 502, the first adhesive layer 1stADH, the visible layer, the second polymer layer 502 and the second adhesive layer 2ndADH are configured to form a laminate; wherein the first polymer 502 layer is laminated upon the visible layer 504 and adhered by the first adhesive 1stADH; wherein the first polymer layer 502 is translucent to show the visible layer when laminated to the visible layer 504. The first adhesive layer 1stADH is translucent to show the

[0318] 69

[0319] ] visible layer 504 when the first adhesive 1stADH is in a cured state bonding the first polymer layer 502 to the visible layer 504; at least one visible layer and the first polymer layer 502 is laminated upon the second polymer layer 505. The visible content 600, which comprises multiple sections 640, 645, 650, 655, and 660, upon a surface of the second polymer layer 505. The second adhesive layer 506 is adhered to the second polymer layer 505. The laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of the surface area of a bathing floor 110 / 210, as shown in FIG. IB though FIG. 2B, FIG 8B, FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B. The laminate, as shown in FIG 9B has a drain opening 520 configured to surround at least a part of a bathing floor drain 120 / 220. The textured and / or embossed surface 501 is slip-resistant to a bather’s foot when upon the textured and / or embossed surface 501. The embossed surface 501 is slip- resistant to a bather’s foot when the textured and / or embossed surface 501 is wet. The first polymer layer 502 can be permanently adhered to the visual layer 504. The second adhesive 2ndADH can be configured to be reversibly attached to the bathing surface laminate overlay 300 / 500 / 555, as shown in FIG. 9B, to the bathing floor 110 / 210. The bathing surface overlay 500 has a backing 507 reversibly adhered to the second adhesive layer 506. The visible layer 504 of the bathing surface overlay 300 / 500 / 555 includes visible content 530, as shown in FIG 9B, wherein the visible content 530 is visible content, such as, for example, an image and / or printed matter and / or other form of visual content.

[0320]

[0206] Physical Properties Of Polymer Layers

[0321]

[0207] In the various embodiments, the polymer floor covering material 300, including, 500 and 555, are interchangeable in their use and can be configured from vinyl or polyester, or any suitable polymer can include the following material characteristics:

[0322] • Thickness: about 300 p plus (+) or minus (-) about 10 p to about 400 p, plus (+) or minus (-) about 10 p;

[0323] • Total weight: about 400gm2plus (+) or minus (-) 10 g\m2 to about 430 g / m2plus (+) or minus (-) about 10 g / m2;

[0324] • Wet Coefficient of Friction: ANSI / NFSI 101.3-2012 of at least 0.48 to about 0.6 or higher, or of at least 0.42 to about 0.6 or higher;

[0325] 70

[0326] ] • Density: about 1050 kg / m3plus (+) or minus (-) about 175 kg / m3to 1400 plus (+) or minus (-) about 175 kg / m3;

[0327] • Specific Gravity: about 1.36 G / cm3.

[0328] • Elastic Modulus: about 2.5 GPa (Giga Pascals) plus (+) or minus (-) about 0.45 GPa to about 3.50 plus (+) or minus (-) about 0.45 GPa;

[0329] • Poisson’s Ration: about 0.32 plus (+) or minus (-) about 0.057 to about 0.45 plus (+) or minus (-) about 0.057;

[0330] • Tensile Strength: about 35.0 MPa (Mega Pascal) plus (+) or minus (-)about 15.0 MPa to about 65.0 MPa plus (+) or minus (-) about 8.0 MPa;

[0331] • Yield Strength: about 30 MPa plus (+) or minus (-) about 10 MPa to about 40 MPa plus (+) or minus (-) about 10 MPa;

[0332] • Shore-D: about 82 plus (+) or minus (-) about 10;

[0333] • Ball Indentation / Rockwell hardness: about 100 MPa plus (+) or minus (-) about 20 MPa;

[0334] • Flexural Strength: 90 MPa plus (+) or minus (-) about 20 MPa;

[0335] • Porosity: about 0.12 cc / g to about 0.233 cc / g;

[0336] • Coefficient Of Linear Thermal Expansion: about 0.8 x 10'4;

[0337] • Volume Electrical Resistivity: less than (<) or equal (=) to 1015Q cm;

[0338] • Surface Electrical Resistivity: less than (<) or equal (=) to 1013Q;

[0339] • Dielectric Strength: about 20-40 KV / mm.; and

[0340] • Water absorption: 0.2% plus (+) or minus (-) about 0.2%.

[0341]

[0208] In an embodiment the first polymer layer 502 (aka “overlaminating film” or “film”) can have physical properties including but not limited to thickness (pm, as determined by ASTM-D645), peel adhesion (N / 25mm, as determined by PSTC-1)), dimensional stability (%, as determined by ASTM

[0342] DI 593- 19) and chemical resistance.

[0343] 71

[0344] ]

[0209] In an embodiment, thickness of the film face only of the first polymer layer can be in a range of 50 pm to 5000 pm or greater, e.g. 75 pm, 100 pm, 150 pm, 167 pm, 200 pm, 250 pm, 300 pm, 350 pm, 500 pm, 600 pm, 1000 pm, 1500 pm, 2000 pm, 2500 pm, 3000 pm, 3500 pm, 4000 pm, 4500 pm, or greater, as measure by ASTM-D645. In an embodiment, thickness of the film face only of the first polymer layer can be in a range of 50 pm to 300 pm or greater, e.g. 100 pm, 167 pm, 200 pm, or greater, as measure by ASTM-D645.

[0345]

[0210] In an embodiment, thickness of the film face of the first polymer layer plus adhesive can be in a range of 10 pm to 5500 pm or greater, e.g. 75 pm, 100 pm, 150 pm, 167 pm, 205 pm, 250 pm, 300 pm, 350 pm, 500 pm, 600 pm, 1000 pm, 1500 pm, 2000 pm, 2500 pm, 3000 pm, 3500 pm, 4000 pm, 4500 pm, 5000 pm, or greater, as measure by ASTM-D645. In an embodiment, thickness of the film face only of the first polymer layer can be in a range of 150 pm to 300 pm or greater, e.g. 175 pm, 205 pm, 300 pm, or greater, as measure by ASTM-D645.

[0346]

[0211] In an embodiment, peel adhesion of the first polymer layer adhered by an adhesive to the visual content 530, 600, 640, 645, 650, 655, 660 and / or visual layer 504 and / or second polymer layer 505 can be in a range of 10 N / 25mm to 100 N / 25mm, or greater, e.g. 10 N / 25mm, 15 N / 25mm, 20 N / 25mm, 25 N / 25mm, 30 N / 25mm, 35 N / 25mm, 40 N / 25mm, 45 N / 25mm, 30 N / 25mm, 40 N / 25mm, 50 N / 25mm, or greater, when measured in accordance with PSTC-1 at a 180 at 180° angle of peel and at a test duration of 30 minutes tested. In an embodiment, peel adhesion of the first polymer layer adhered by an adhesive to the visual content 530, 600, 640, 645, 650, 655, 660 and / or visual layer 504 and / or second polymer layer 505 can be in a range of 15 N / 25mm, 20 N / 25mm, 23 N / 25mm, 30 N / 25mm, or greater, when measured in accordance with PSTC-1 at a 180 at 180° angle of peel and at a test duration of 30 minutes tested.

[0347]

[0212] In an embodiment the first polymer layer 502 can have dimensional stability (%, as determined by ASTM D1593-19) in a range of 0.10 %MD to 0.80 %MD (MD, in Machine Direction) or greater, e.g. 0.10 %MD, 0.20 %MD, 0.30 %MD, 0.40 %MD, 0.45 %MD, 0.50 %MD, 0.55 %MD, 0.60 %MD, 0.65 %MD, 0.70 %MD, 0.75 %MD, or greater, as determined by ASTM D1593-19. In an embodiment the first polymer layer 502 can have dimensional stability (%, as determined by ASTM DI 593- 19) in a

[0348] 72

[0349] ] range of 0.50 %MD to 0.80 %MD, or greater, e.g. 0.60 %MD, 0.65 %MD, 0.70 %MD, or greater, as determined by ASTM DI 593- 19.

[0350]

[0213] In an embodiment the first polymer layer 502 can have dimensional stability (%, as determined by ASTM D1593-19) in a range of 0.10 %CD to 0.80 %CD, or greater, e.g. 0.40 %CD, 0.45 %CD, 0.50 %CD, 0.55 %CD, 0.60 %CD, 0.65 %CD, 0.70 %CD, 0.75 %CD, or greater, as determined by ASTM DI 593- 19. In an embodiment the first polymer layer 502 can have dimensional stability (%, as determined by ASTM DI 593- 19) in a range of 0.10 %CD to 0.50 %CD, or greater, e.g. 0.15 %CD, 0.20 %CD, 0.25 %CD, 0.30 %CD, 0.35 %CD, 0.40 %CD, or greater, as determined by ASTM D1593-19

[0351]

[0214] In an embodiment, the first polymer layer 502 can have chemical resistance to water, detergent, 10% ammonium hydroxide, gasoline. For example, exposure to distilled water for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to detergent for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to liquid bath soap for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to hair conditioner for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to bath oil for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to soap and water for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to detergent and water for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to conditioner and water for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502. For example, exposure to soap, detergent, conditioner and bath oil and water for a period of 24 hours has no observable effect on the first polymer layer 502.

[0352]

[0215] Materials Of Construction

[0353]

[0216] In an embodiment the first polymer layer 502 (aka “overlaminating film” or “film”) and second polymer layer 505 can be made from a variety of materials as provided in one more of a various forms for use in constructing the structures and / or products and / or laminates and / or layered embodiments and / or overlays disclosed herein, including but not limited to the following: sheets, fabrics, rolls, polymer sheets, blended materials sheets, nonwoven fabrics, polymer fabrics and woven polymers, or

[0354] 73

[0355] ] other form in which a material can be laminated upon a visual layer and / or content and / or other polymer layer and / or other support material or layer.

[0356]

[0217] In an embodiment, a PermaFlex® overlaminating fdm, e.g. PF68, manufactured by Morgan Adhesives Company LLC, aka Mactac which is a Lintec Company, located at 4560 Darrow Road, Stow Ohio 4424 can be used to form a first polymer later 502 and / or a second polymer layer 505.

[0357]

[0218] In an embodiment, a first polymer later 502 and / or a second polymer layer 505 can be a clear pebble textured vinyl having a thickness of between 5 and 10 mil, e.g. 6.7 mil.

[0358]

[0219] In embodiments, the first polymer later 502 can be embossed and / or textured.

[0359]

[0220] The scope of this disclosure is to be broadly construed. The embodiments herein can be used together, separately, mixed or combined or interchangeable. It is intended that this disclosure disclose equivalents, means, systems and methods to achieve the designs, operations, control systems, controls, activities, mechanical actions, dynamics and results disclosed herein. It is intended that this disclosure also encompasses within the scope of its disclosure and teaches equivalents, means, system and methods for practicing the many aspects processes, mechanisms and devices disclosed herein. The claims of this application are likewise to be broadly construed.

[0360]

[0221] The description of the technology therein in its many and varied embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the claims and the disclosure herein. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the sprit and scope of the disclosed technologies.

[0361]

[0222] It will be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made to the abovedescribed embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the sprit and the scope of the claims.

Claims

CLAIMSI claim:

1. A bathtub floor overlay, comprising: a first polymer layer having a first polymer and a textured surface having a first texture and configured for contact with a foot of a bather; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive adhered to said first polymer layer; a second polymer layer having a second texture different from said first texture; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of the second polymer layer; a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than said first adhesive adhered to said second polymer layer; wherein said first polymer layer, said first adhesive layer, said visual content, said second polymer layer and said second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein said first polymer layer is laminated to at least a portion of said visual content and permanently bonded to said at least a portion of said visual content by said first adhesive; wherein said first polymer layer is also laminated to at least a portion of said second polymer layer and permanently bonded to said at least a portion of said second polymer layer by said first adhesive; wherein said visual content is visible to an observer through said first polymer layer and said first adhesive when said first polymer layer is laminated to said visual content by said first adhesive; wherein said laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a bathtub floor; wherein said laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a portion of a drain of the bathtub floor;wherein said second adhesive is configured to reversibly adhere said laminate to said bathtub floor by an operator and said second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove said laminate from said bathtub floor.

2. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, further comprising a backing reversibly adhered to said second adhesive layer.

3. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein said first polymer layer is a polymer sheet.

4. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein said first polymer and said second polymer are the same material.

5. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein said first polymer and said second polymer are different materials.

6. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein said first polymer and said second polymer have the same physical properties.

7. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein said first polymer and said second polymer have different physical properties.

8. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein, said visual content has an image or graphic element.

9. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein, said visual content has a text or a stylized text.

10. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein, said visual content has a graphic.

11. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1 , wherein said textured surface is a pebble textured surface.

12. The bathtub floor overlay according to claim 1, wherein said textured surface is an embossed surface.

13. A shower floor overlay, comprising: a first polymer layer having a first polymer and textured surface having a first texture and configured for contact with a foot of a bather; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive adhered to said first polymer layer; a second polymer layer having a second texture different from said first texture; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of the second polymer layer; a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than said first adhesive adhered to said second polymer layer; wherein said first polymer layer, said first adhesive layer, said visual content, said second polymer layer and said second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein said first polymer layer is laminated to at least a portion of said visual content and permanently bonded to said at least a portion of said visual content by said first adhesive; wherein said first polymer layer is also laminated to at least a portion of said second polymer layer and permanently bonded to said at least a portion of said second polymer layer by said first adhesive; wherein said visual content is visible to an observer through said first polymer layer and said first adhesive when said first polymer layer is laminated to said visual content by said first adhesive; wherein said laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of a shower floor; wherein said laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a portion of a drain of the shower floor; wherein said second adhesive is configured to reversibly adhere said laminate to said shower floor by an operator and said second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove said laminate from said shower floor.77]14. The shower floor overlay according to claim 13, further comprising a backing reversibly adhered to said second adhesive layer.

15. The shower floor overlay according to claim 13, wherein, said visual content has an image or graphic element.

16. The shower floor overlay according to claim 13, wherein, said visual content has a text or stylized text.

17. A bathtub bathing floor or shower bathing floor, comprising: a bathtub floor or shower floor; a first polymer layer having a first polymer and a textured surface having a first texture and configured for contact with a foot of a bather; a first adhesive layer having a first adhesive adhered to said first polymer layer; a second polymer layer having a second polymer and having a second texture different from said first texture; a visual content printed upon at least a portion of the second polymer layer; a second adhesive layer having a second adhesive different than said first adhesive adhered to said second polymer layer; wherein said first polymer layer, said first adhesive layer, said visual content, said second polymer layer and said second adhesive layer are configured to form a laminate; wherein said first polymer layer is laminated to at least a portion of said visual content and said first polymer layer is permanently bonded to said at least a portion of said visual content by said first adhesive; wherein said first polymer layer is also laminated to at least a portion of said second polymer layer and bonded to said at least a portion of said second polymer layer by said first adhesive;wherein said visual content is visible to an observer through said first polymer layer and said first adhesive when said first polymer layer is laminated to said visual content by said first adhesive; wherein said laminate has a shape dimensioned to cover at least 80 percent of a surface area of the bathtub floor or shower floor; wherein said laminate is reversibly adhered to said bathtub floor or shower floor by said second adhesive; wherein said laminate has a drain opening configured to surround at least a portion of a drain of the bathtub floor or shower floor; wherein said second adhesive is configured to allow an operator to selectively remove said laminate from the bathtub floor or shower floor.

18. The bathtub bathing floor or shower bathing floor according to claim 17, wherein said visual content is printed.

19. The bathtub bathing floor or shower bathing floor according to claim 17, wherein said first polymer layer is a polymer sheet.

20. The bathtub bathing floor or shower bathing floor according to claim 17, wherein said first polymer layer has at least one of a vinyl polymer and a polyvinyl chloride polymer.

Images