Devices, systems, and method for mobility assistance in a bathing area

Abstract

A support system for a bathing area includes three or more vertical supports positioned at laterally spaced positions in association with the bathing area. At least one of the vertical support members extend within the bathing area over at least a portion of the length thereof. Lateral supports extend between adjacent vertical supports to extend around at least a portion of an interior perimeter of the bathing area, other than between two vertical supports between which a user passes when entering or exiting the bathing area. The support system further includes one or more structure attachment systems, which are attached to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area. Each of the vertical supports is attached to one of the structure attachment systems at a determined position along the length of the structure attachment system.

Description

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHOD FOR MOBILITY ASSISTANCE IN ABATHING AREACROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 666,221, filed June 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUN D ART

[0002] The following information is provided to assist the reader in understanding technologies disclosed below and the environment in which such technologies may typically be used. The terms used herein are not intended to be limited to any particular narrow interpretation unless clearly stated otherwise in this document. References set forth herein may facilitate understanding of the technologies or the background thereof. The disclosure of all references cited herein are incorporated by reference.

[0003] There is an unmet need for equipment to assist individuals with mobility impairments with bathing and toileting. This shortfall limits an individual's ability to perform an essential activity of daily living (ADL) such as bathing, and, therefore, to live independently at home. The most comprehensive data demonstrating this fact comes from a national US survey indicating that 42% of older adults with disabilities do not have the bathing and toileting equipment they need, which translates to 5 million individuals who lack the necessary supports to perform ADLs to live safely and independently at home. Moreover, a study surveying over 500 older adults in apartment buildings in Canada found that almost half of all reported falls occurred in the bathroom. Of those bathroom falls, the overwhelming majority (~77%) were related to bathing activities, specifically transferring into and out of the tub / shower.

[0004] Research highlights the potential of low-cost interventions, such as grab bars and tub benches, to reduce injuries, foster independence, preserve dignity, and enhance overall quality of life older adults and individuals with disabilities. However, the installation of these interventions often poses challenges, as bathroom walls often lack the necessary support. This is particularly true when it comes to shower inserts made of acrylic and fiberglass, which hinder secure attachment to studs. This limitation necessitates costly removal of shower inserts, addition of proper wall backing, and professional installation, addingsignificant expense and complexity to the process. Essentially, a $100 grab bar morphs into a several thousand dollar shower and bathroom renovation.

[0005] Aside from renovations, other solutions on the market that avoid attaching grab bars into wall studs (and require no subsequent need for shower insert removal and renovation) often use suction cups to adhere externally to the inserts. This solution raises safety concerns as such attachments may not be able to support high loads that traditional grab bars support.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] A support system for use in providing support for a user in a bathing area of a structure includes three or more vertical supports positioned at laterally spaced positions in association with the bathing area, at least one of the vertical support members extending within the bathing area over at least a portion of the length thereof. The support system also includes lateral supports. One or more of the lateral supports extend between adjacent vertical supports to extend around at least a portion of an interior perimeter of the bathing area, other than between two vertical supports between which the user passes when entering or exiting the bathing area. The support system further includes one or more structure attachment systems. Each of the one or more structure attachment systems is attached to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure. The one or more structure attachment systems are positioned so that the connectors extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area. Each of the vertical supports is attached (for example, at an upper section thereof) to one of the one or more structure attachment systems at a determined position along the length of the one of the one or more structure attachment systems.

[0007] In a number of embodiments, each of the structure attachment systems is positioned above the bathing area, and each of the vertical supports is removably attached at the upper section thereof to the one of the one or more structure attachment systems via a connector.

[0008] The lateral supports may extend between adjacent vertical supports to extend around the majority of or the entirety of the interior perimeter of the bathing area. In a number of embodiments, at least one of the vertical supports extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of an entrance to the bathing area. A lower end of the at least one of the vertical supports may contact a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area. In a number of embodiments, another of the vertical supports, which is laterally spaced from the at least one of the vertical supports, extendsoutside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area. A lower end of each of the at least one of the vertical supports and the another of the vertical supports may contact a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

[0009] The one or more lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports are desirably removably attached at each end of the lateral support to one of the adjacent vertical supports via a connector which is adjustable in position along the length of the one of the adjacent vertical supports. The vertical supports and the lateral supports may be spaced from an adjacent wall of the bathing area by a distance to facilitate grasping thereof by the user.

[0010] In a number of embodiments, the support system includes four or more vertical supports. The support system may include four vertical supports including a left front vertical support, a left rear vertical support, a right front vertical support, and a right rear vertical support, at least one of the lateral supports extending between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support, at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support, and at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support. At least two lateral supports may extend between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, at least two lateral supports may extend between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, and at least two lateral supports may extend between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support at vertically spaced positions.

[0011] Each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support may extend outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area. A lower end of each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support may contact a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

[0012] The support system may be modular. Each of the vertical supports may be removably connectible to the structure attachment system via connectors which are adjustable in position relative to the structure attachment system and removable therefrom. Each of the lateral supports may be connected to the vertical supports via connectors which are adjustable in position along the vertical supports and removable therefrom.

[0013] The support system may include one or more attachments removably attachable to the support system. The one or more attachments may be attached to the support systemvia one or more connectors which are removably and adjustably attachable along the length of one or more of the vertical supports and / or one or more of the lateral supports. The one or more attachments may, for example, be selected from the group consisting of a grab bar, a variable height lateral support, a bathtub chair, a transfer chair, an attachment for a handheld shower head, a soap holder, a towel hook, a wash cloth holder, etc.

[0014] Each of the vertical supports and each of the lateral supports may independently include a determined length of tubing. The tubing may, for example, have a circular crosssection. In a number of embodiments, Each of the one or more structure attachment systems includes an extending structural rail which is attached to the structure via the connectors which extend into the structure.

[0015] A method of modifying a bathing area of a structure support system includes providing three or more vertical supports positioned at laterally spaced positions in association with the bathing area, at least one of the vertical supports extending within the bathing area over at least a portion of the length thereof, providing lateral supports, one or more lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports to extend around at least a portion of an interior perimeter of the bathing area, other than between two vertical supports between which the user passes when entering or exiting the bathing area, providing one or more structure attachment systems, each of the one or more structure attachment systems being attached to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure. The one or more structure attachment systems are positioned so that the connectors extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area. Each of the vertical supports is attached (for example, at an upper section thereof) to one of the one or more structure attachments system at a determined position along the length of the one of the one or more structure attachment systems.

[0016] Each of the structure attachment systems may, for example, be positioned above the bathing area, and each of the vertical supports may be removably attached at the upper section thereof via the one of the structure attachment systems via a connector.

[0017] As described above, the lateral supports may extend between adjacent vertical supports to extend around the majority of or the entirety of the interior perimeter of the bathing area. In a number of embodiments, at least one of the vertical supports extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of an entrance to the bathing area. A lower end of the at least one of the vertical supports may contact a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area. In a number of embodiments, another of the vertical supports, which is laterally spaced from the at least one of thevertical supports, extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area. A lower end of each of the at least one of the vertical supports and the another of the vertical supports may contact a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

[0018] The one or more lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports are desirably removably attached at each end of the lateral support to one of the adjacent vertical supports via a connector which is adjustable in position along the length of the one of the adjacent vertical supports. The vertical supports and the lateral supports may be spaced from an adjacent wall of the bathing area by a distance to facilitate grasping thereof by the user.

[0019] In a number of embodiments, the support system includes four or more vertical supports. The support system may include four vertical supports including a left front vertical support, a left rear vertical support, a right front vertical support, and a right rear vertical support, at least one of the lateral supports extending between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support, at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support, and at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support. At least two lateral supports may extend between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, at least two lateral supports may extend between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, and at least two lateral supports may extend between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support at vertically spaced positions.

[0020] Each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support may extend outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area. A lower end of each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support may contact a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

[0021] The support system may be modular. Each of the vertical supports may be removably connectible to the structure attachment system via connectors which are adjustable in position relative to the structure attachment system and removable therefrom. Each of the lateral supports may be connected to the vertical supports via connectors which are adjustable in position along the vertical supports and removable therefrom.

[0022] The support system may include one or more attachments removably attachable to the support system. The one or more attachments may be attached to the support systemvia one or more connectors which are removably and adjustably attachable along the length of one or more of the vertical supports and / or one or more of the lateral supports. The one or more attachments may, for example, be selected from the group consisting of a grab bar, a variable height lateral support, a bathtub chair, a transfer chair, an attachment for a handheld shower head, a soap holder, a towel hook, a wash cloth holder, etc.

[0023] Each of the vertical supports and each of the lateral supports may independently include a determined length of tubing. The tubing may, for example, have a circular crosssection. In a number of embodiments, Each of the one or more structure attachment systems includes an extending structural rail which is attached to the structure via the connectors which extend into the structure.

[0024] A kit for constructing a support system for use in a bathing area of a structure includes tubing for three or more vertical supports, tubing for lateral supports configured to extend between one of the vertical supports and another of the vertical supports, and one or more structure attachment systems. Each of the one or more structure attachment systems is attachable to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure. The one or more structure attachment systems are positionable so that the connectors extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area. The vertical supports are attachable (for example, at an upper section thereof) to one of the one or more structure attachments system at a determined position along the length of the one of the one or more structure attachment systems. The kit may further include connectors removably attachable to each of the vertical supports (for example, at an upper section thereof) and configured to removably attach each of the vertical supports to one of the one or more structure attachment systems at the determined positions along the length of the structure attachment system, and connectors. The connectors are individually, removably attachable to ends of the one or more lateral supports. The connectors are configured to removably attach the end of the lateral support to which the connector is attached to one of the vertical supports at a determined position, which may be adjustable, along the length of the vertical support. The kits hereof may be otherwise equipped to for support structures as described herein.

[0025] The present devices, systems, and methods, along with the attributes and attendant advantages thereof, will best be appreciated and understood in view of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRI PTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric view of a representative embodiment of a support system hereof installed for use in a bathing area (including a combined bathtub and shower) which is attached to one or more structure support or attachment systems outside of (above, in the illustrated embodiment) the bathing area in a floating manner.

[0027] FIG. IB illustrates another isometric view of the support system of FIG. 1A

[0028] FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric view of another representative embodiment of a support system hereof including front vertical supports including jack screw legs attached to a lower section thereof, which contact a floor outside a bathing area in which the support system is installed.

[0029] FIG. 2B illustrates another isometric view of the support system of FIG. 2A.

[0030] FIG. 2C illustrates an expanded isometric view of the support system of FIG. 2A.

[0031] FIG. 2D illustrates an expanded view of an embodiment of a bumper for use in connection with support systems hereof.

[0032] FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric view of a representative embodiment of a channelbased structure attachment system hereof, which may be used to attach support systems hereof to a structure.

[0033] FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric, exploded view of the structure attachment system of FIG. 3A.

[0034] FIG. 3C illustrates isometric views of two flange tube connectors, illustrated in different orientations, for use in connection with the wall attachment system of FIG. 3A.

[0035] FIG. 3D illustrates an isometric view of a representative embodiment of a T clamp connector for use with support systems hereof.

[0036] FIG. 3E illustrates an isometric view of a representative embodiment of a T clamp corner connector for use with support systems hereof.

[0037] FIG. 3F illustrates an isometric exploded view and two different isometric assembled views of another embodiment of a T clamp connector hereof.

[0038] FIG. 3G illustrates an isometric exploded view and an isometric assembled view of another embodiment of a T clamp corner connector hereof.

[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the support system of FIG. 2A including a variable height lateral support extending between the rear vertical supports thereof.

[0040] FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 2A including a tub chair attached to left side lateral supports thereof wherein the seat section of the tub chair is in a down or use position.

[0041] FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 5A wherein the seat section of the tub chair is in an up or stowed position.

[0042] FIG. 5C illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 5A further including a transfer chair attached to left-side lateral supports thereof at a position forward or outside of the tub chair.

[0043] FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 2A including a W- shaped or M-shaped grab bar attached to the right-side front vertical support thereof.

[0044] FIG. 6B illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 6A wherein the grab bar is rotated around the axis of the right-side front vertical support to another position.

[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 2A including a straight or linear grab bar attached to the right-side front vertical support thereof.

[0046] FIG. 8A illustrates the support system of FIG. 2A including a U-shaped grab bar attached to the right-side front vertical support thereof.

[0047] FIG. 8B illustrates the support system of FIG. 8A wherein the U-shaped grab bar is rotated about the axis of the right-side front vertical support to a different position.

[0048] FIG. 8C illustrates an isometric view of the support system of FIG. 8A wherein the grab bar is in a stowed position.

[0049] FIG. 9A illustrates an isometric, front elevational view of the support system of FIG. 2A including a soap holder attached to one of the rear lateral supports thereof.

[0050] FIG. 9B illustrates an expanded isometric view of the soap holder of FIG. 9A attached to the rear lateral support.

[0051] FIG. 10A illustrates an isometric, front elevational view of the support system of FIG. 2A including various attachments or accessories removably and adjustably (in position) attached thereto.

[0052] FIG. 10B illustrates a front view of the support system of FIG. 9ADESCRIPTION

[0053] It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations in addition to the described representative embodiments. Thus, the following more detailed description of the representative embodiments, as illustrated in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments, as claimed, but is merely illustrative of representative embodiments.

[0054] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" (or the like) means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" or the like in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0055] Furthermore, described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the various embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, et cetera. In other instances, well known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obfuscation.

[0056] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a support" includes a plurality of such supports and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth, and reference to "the support" is a reference to one or more such supports and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each separate value, as well as intermediate ranges, are incorporated into the specification as if individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contraindicated by the text.

[0057] Terms such as forward, rearward, upward, downward, left, right, and similar terms, as used herein, refer to the orientation of the illustrated embodiments, wherein rearward is toward a back wall of the bathing area and forward is an opposite direction to rearward, toward the exterior of the bathing area. As used herein, and unless otherwise stated or otherwise clear from the context, terms such as generally or approximately when used in connection with, for example, a value, refer to a range of values with 10%, within 5%, or desirably with 1% of the associated value. As used herein the term "and / or" means one of or both of an entity. Thus, A and / or B means A or B, or both A and B.

[0058] As used herein, the term "bathing area" is a region, space or volume that is defined by the plane of the entranceway into a bathing facility or fixture (for example, a bathtub,shower, a bathtub / shower, or a walk-in shower) and an interior volume thereof up to the height of the highest position of the shower head or the top of any insert (typically a fiberglass insert) in the case that an insert is present. See, for example, FIGS. 1A and IB.

[0059] In a number of embodiments, modular, reversable, and adaptable support systems hereof provide safe and secure assistance in a bathing area such as an alcove bathtub, shower, a bathtub / shower, or a walk-in shower in a range of environments including but not limited to a private residence, assisted living facility, congregant public and private housing, inpatient or outpatient care facility, and nursing home. In various embodiments, support systems hereof are mounted external to the bathing area via one or more structural attachments systems such as strut channels systems, extending attachment tracks or rail, wall plates, or other attachment system(s) positioned outside of or external to the bathing area. In a number of embodiments, a support system hereof is connected to the structure via connectors of a structural attachment system (for example, screws, bolts, anchors etc.) which integrate with or extend into the structure (for example, via structural elements such as wall studs of the structure) only outside of the bathing area (for example, above the bathing area or outside the opening or entrance of the bathing area).

[0060] As, for example, illustrated in the representative embodiments of FIGS. 1A through 2C, one or more channel-based, structure attachment systems 10, which may be placed in connection with the walls or ceiling of a structure above a bathing area 100 as described above (and illustrated in broken lines in FIG. IB for the embodiment of alcove 5 in which a combination bathing facility or fixture including a bathtub 110 and a shower 120 is installed), are used to attach support systems 200 and 200a to the structure. In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 1A through 2C, a combination bathtub 110 and shower 120 (which may be formed as an integral insert as known in the construction arts) is located in, defines or forms bathing area 100 of the structure. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A through 3C, structure attachment system 10 may include one or more extending structural rails 12 having a channel 14 formed therein via which various components of a system hereof such as system 200, 200a may be attached. Screws such as wood screws 16 are illustrated for attachment of extending structural rail 12 to the structures (for example, via studs and / or ceiling joists thereof). In FIGS. 3A through 3C, representative flange-tube connectors 20 are illustrated for connection with wall attachment system 10. Flange-tube connectors 20 may include an extending tube 22 connected to a base or flange 24. Flange 24 includes rearward extending guide members or guides 26 which extend into (and cooperate with) channel 14 and can be positioned anywhere along the length thereof. Once guides 26 are positionedwithin channel 14, bolts 27 and nuts 29 may, for example, be used to secure flange 26 to rail 12 at any desired position along extending channel 14. A T clamp connector as described below or other connector may, for example, be used to connect a component of a system hereof, such as a vertical support, at a desired position along the length of extending tube 22. Alternatively, a connector which cooperates with attachment system 10 may include a clamping connector which seats and clamps to a tubular or otherwise shaped system component such as a vertical support hereof. Other types of connectors which connect to and cooperate with wall attachment system 10 may include flanged or bases similar to flange 26 and a connective section extending therefrom.

[0061] Structure attachment system 10 may further include a modular, decorative cover 40 which can be cut to integrate with various components attached to structure attachment system 10 in a finished or aesthetic manner (that is, by covering structural rail 12, screws, bolts, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3A through 3C, decorative cover 40 includes three moulding sections 42a, 42b, and 42c. Moulding sections 42b and 42c include passages 43b and 43c, respectively, though which tubes 22 of tube-flange connectors 40 may pass. Moulding sections 42a, 42b, and 42c are placed in connection with structural rail 12 via a top moulding cover 44a, a bottom moulding cover 44b, and side moulding covers 46a and 46b. As described above in connection with tube-flange connector 20, elements or components of support systems hereof may, for example, be attached at any point along an extending attachment system such as attachment system 10.

[0062] A representative embodiment of a T clamp connector CIO for use herein is illustrated in FIG. 3D. In general, T clamp connectors such as connector CIO include a first clamp section C12 attached to another clamp connection C16, which is oriented differently (typically orthogonally) from first clamp section C12. First clamp section C12 of FIG. 3D includes a first passage or seating C12' therein, which may be shaped to conform to the shape of an end of a support hereof (that is, arced or closed arced, for example, circular, in the illustrated embodiment). Although supports hereof are illustrated as tubes of circular cross section, one skilled in the art will appreciate that extending members having other cross-sectional shapes (for example, square tubing, etc.) may be used in support systems hereof. First seating C12' is dimensioned, in the illustrated embodiment, for an end of a tube such as a support hereof to be passed thereinto and retained therein. In that regard, a connector element such as a through bolt C14 may be provided to secure the tube to be clamped (via tightened contact therewith) within first seating C12'. First seating C12 may terminate at a point in the vicinity of where first clamping section C12 is attached to anadjusting clamp section C16. Adjusting ciamp section C16 includes an adjusting passage or seating C16' formed therein which passes through the entire length of adjusting clamp section C16. In a number of embodiments, the axis of first seating C12' of first clamping section C12 is orthogonal or generally orthogonal to the axis of adjusting seating C16' of adjusting clamp section C16. Adjusting section C16 may be positioned at any desired position along the length of a support hereof via adjusting the position of seating C16' and then tightening or clamping adjusting clamp section C16 in place via through bolt C14.

[0063] A representative embodiment of a corner T clamp connector C20 for use herein is illustrated in FIG. 3E. Corner T clamp connector C20 operates similarly to T clamp connector CIO. In that regard, corner T clamp connector C20 includes a first clamp section C22 attached to an adjusting clamp connection C16. First clamp section C22 includes a first passage or seating C22' which functions in the same manner as first clamp section C12. In that regard, a seating C22' therein is dimensioned for an end of a tube such as a support hereof to be passed thereinto and retained therein. A through bolt C24 may, for example, be provided to secure the tube to be clamped within first seating C22'. First clamp seating C22' may terminate at a point in the vicinity of where first clamping section C22 is attached to an adjusting clamp section C26. Adjusting clamp section C26 includes an adjusting passage or seating C26' formed therein which passes through the entire length of adjusting clamp section C26. The axis of first seating C22' of first clamping section C22 is orthogonal or generally orthogonal to the axis of adjusting clamp seating C26' of adjusting clamp section C26. In the case of corner T clamp connector C20, a second clamp section C22a is attached to and extends from adjusting section C26. Second clamp section C22a includes a second seating C22a' therein which functions the same as first seating C22 to be attached to an end of a second tube such as a support hereof. The axis of second seating C22a' is similarly orthogonal or generally orthogonal to the axis of adjusting clamp seating C26'. The axes of first clamp seating C22' and second clamp seating C22a' are orthogonal or generally orthogonal to each other and lie in approximately the same plane, which is orthogonal or generally orthogonal to the axis of adjusting clamp seating C26'. As described for adjusting clamp section C16 of T clamp connector CIO, adjusting clamp section C26 may be positioned at any desired position along a support hereof via adjusting the position of seating C26' on the support, and then tightening or clamping adjusting clamp section C26 in place via, for example, a connector such as through bolts C24 and C24a.

[0064] Another representative embodiment of a T clamp connector C110 for use herein is illustrated in FIG. 3F. T clamp connector C110 is formed in two sections CllOa and CllObwhich are removably connectible via cooperating connectors such as a bolt C114 and a nut C115. Each of sections CllOa and CllOb is formed with an aligning passage through which bolt C114 extends when sections CllOa and CllOb are connected. In the illustrated embodiment, the passages connect to a nut seating or recess C115 and a bolt seating or recess C114 formed in section CllOa and section CllOb, respectively. When attached, section CllOa and section CllOb form a first clamp section C112 including a first passage or seating C112' therein, which may be shaped to conform to the shape of an end of a support hereof, and an adjusting clamp section C116 which includes an adjusting passage or seating C116' formed therein. Seating C116' passes through the entire length of adjusting clamp section C116. T clamp connector C110 operates in a very similar manner to T clamp connector CIO. In that regard, adjusting clamp section C116 may be positioned at any desired position along the length of a support hereof via adjusting the position of seating C116' and then tightening clamping bolt C114. Bolt C114 may be loosened to slidingly change such position or disconnected from nut C115 to facilitate removal of T clamp connector C110 from connection with supports hereof.

[0065] Another representative embodiment of a corner T clamp connector C120 for use herein is illustrated in FIG. 3G. Corner T clamp connector C120 operates similarly to T clamp connector C110. In that regard, corner T clamp connector C120 is formed in two sections C120a and C120b which are removably connectible via cooperating connectors such as a two bolts C124 and two cooperating nuts C125. Each of sections C120a and C120b is formed with two aligning passages through which bolts C124 extends when sections C120a and C120b are connected. In the illustrated embodiment, the passages connect to nut seatings or recesses C121a formed in section C120a and a bolt seatings or recesses (not shown, but similar to bolt seating or recess Clllb formed in section CllOb of T clamp C110), respectively.

[0066] When attached, sections 120a and 120b form first clamp section C122(i) and second clamp section C122(ii), which are attached to an adjusting clamp section C126. First clamp section C122(i) includes a first passage or seating C122(i)' which functions in the same manner as first clamp section C112. Second clamp section C122(ii) similarly includes a second passage or seating C122(ii)'. As described above, each of first clamp section 122(i) and second clamp section C122(ii) is attached to and extends from an adjusting clamp section C126 formed when first section 120a and second section 120b are attached. The axes of first seating C 122 ( i )' and second seating Cl 22 ( ii)' are orthogonal or generally orthogonal to the axis of adjusting clamp passage or seating C126', which passes through theentire length of adjusting clamp section C126. As described in connection with T clamp corner connector C20, the axes of first clamp seating C122(i)' and second clamp seating C122(ii)' may be orthogonal or generally orthogonal to each other and lie in approximately the same plane, which may be orthogonal or generally orthogonal to the axis of adjusting clamp seating C126'.

[0067] As described for adjusting clamp section C116 of T clamp connector C110, adjusting clamp section C126 may be positioned at any desired position along a support hereof via adjusting the position of seating C126' on the support, and then tightening or clamping adjusting clamp section C126 in place via tightening bolts C124. Bolts C124 may be loosened to slidingly change the position or disconnected from nuts C135 to facilitate removal of T clamp corner connector C120 from connection with supports hereof.

[0068] In a number of aspects, system 200 (illustrated in FIGS. 1A and IB) and 200a (illustrated in FIGS. 2A through 2C) are similar in construction and function. Components of system 200a which function similarly to like elements of system 200 are labeled similarly to such like elements of system 200 with the addition of the designation “a" to the reference. In the illustrated embodiments, structural systems or systems 200, 200a, include front downward extending or vertical supports 210, 210a, and rear downward extending vertical supports 210', 210a', which are formed as tubes or bars (for example, metal tubes) in the illustrated embodiment, and extend downward from structure attachment systems 10. In the illustrated embodiments, supports 210, 210a and 210', 210a' are attached to one or more channel-based structure attachment systems 10 and extend downward therefrom. A front vertical support 210, 210a and a rear vertical support 210', 210a' are attached on each of the left and right sides of bathing area 100 via an attachment system 10 in the illustrated embodiments. However, such supports may be attached to the structure / wall (outside of, for example, above, the bathing area) individually using, for example, a base plate attachment mechanism as known in the construction arts.

[0069] Front vertical supports 210, 210a and rear vertical supports 210' and 210a' are typically (but not necessarily) aligned or extend vertically or generally vertically (that is, within no greater than 5 degrees, within no greater than 2 degrees, or within no greater than 1 degree of vertical, that is, the orientation of the gravity vector) over at least a portion of the length thereof. As used herein, the term "vertical support" refers to a support hereof which extends in an upward / downward direction over a length thereof. Vertical supports hereof may, for example, be connected to a structure attachment system such as attachment system 10. The load on systems 200 and 200a is supported (wholly or at least inpart) by vertical supports 210, 210a and 210', 210a' which are attached to the building structure (that is, attachment via connector which passes into a structural element of the structure) only outside of above (for example, above) the working elements of a shower / bath. In that regard, systems 200, 200a may be attached to the structure only above the shower nozzle or above a shower / bath insert, such as a fiberglass insert, when present via, for example, attachment system(s) 10 or directly via a base plate as described above. Such a methodology of attachment may, for example, completely avoid any installation into a shower insert, thereby reducing renovation cost and effort.

[0070] In the embodiments of FIGS.1A and IB vertical supports 210 and 210' are supported via the structural elements of the walls and / or ceilings of the structure only via their connection to structure attachment systems 10, which may bear a portion of the load on supports system 100. System 200 may be considered to be fully suspended or fully floated from structure attachment systems 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B in connection with system 200a, one or more supports of a system hereof may contact or rest upon a surface for additional support (for example, a perimeter surface of a tub or a surface of the floor outside of the tub). In general, there is no need to use attachment elements or members such as screws, bolts, adhesives, etc. at the bottom of supports which contact or rest upon a surface to provide additional support for the support systems hereof. No intervening or accompanying attachment system is required. Only surface to surface contact is needed. In system 200a, the two front vertical supports 210a are attached to attachment system 10 and extend downward to the floor outside of the tub / shower. As described above, surface supports (for example, floor supports) may be utilized to support additional force as needed. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A through 2C, front vertical supports 210a include jack screw legs 211a at the lower end thereof to provide secure contact with, and may form a pressure fit with, the floor, while rear vertical supports 210a' do not contact a support at the lower end thereof and may be considered as floating. Although rear vertical supports 210', 210a' are illustrated as floating in each of support systems 200 and 200a, rear vertical supports 210, 210a may extend to and contact a surface such as a perimeter surface of floor surface of tub 100 (for example, via jack screws).

[0071] In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 1A through 2C, front vertical supports 210, 210a are attached to attachment system 10 via a curved tube-flange connector 20' which curves to extend laterally to attach to an upper section of attachment system 10 (for example, via a T clamp connector such as T clamp connector CIO as illustrated in FIG. 3D, and as known in the mechanical art). In other embodiments, a structure attachment systemhereof may extend laterally or horizontally beyond the confines of bath 110 in bathing area or cove 100 to connect to vertical supports 210, 210a. As illustrated by the broken line and crosshatched areas in FIG. IB, which designate alternative positions for a structure attachment system hereof, one or more structure attachment systems may be positioned complete outside the perimeter of a bathing area such as bathing area 100. In a number of embodiments, it is desirable that front vertical supports 210, 210a extend downward outside bathing area 100 (for example, outside a plane (which may, for example, be a flat or curved plane) defining the entrance to bathing area 100) over at least a portion of the length thereof to provide a readily available grab point for a user, which is positioned outside of bathing area 100, to provide the user the ability to close the kinetic chain regardless of the type of movements used in getting into and out of bathing area 100. In general, vertical and lateral supports, as well as various accessories, of support systems hereof provide multiple grab points over the length thereof to ensure that the user can maintain multiple points of contact with their feet and hands to provide stability regardless of the type of movement undertaken by the user while in the associated bathing area, as well as in entering or exiting the bathing area.

[0072] Systems 200 and 200a further include lateral extending members or lateral supports 220, 220a, respectively, which are supports extending between vertical supports 210, 210a. Lateral supports 220, 220a provide further support to systems 200, 200a, and, like vertical supports hereof may operate as handrails or grab bars for the user of bath / shower area 100 as well as supports for the attachment of various accessories. Lateral supports may, for example, extend generally horizontally (that is, generally perpendicular to the gravity vector) over at least a section or portion of the length thereof. In system 200, a lower end section of each of vertical supports 210 and 210' is connect to a lateral extending support 220 via a T clamp connector such as T clamp connector CIO above an upper surface of bathtub 110. Similarly, in system 200a, a lower section of each of vertical supports 210a and 210a', is connected to a lateral extending support 220a via a T clamp connector CIO above the upper surface of bathtub 110. In each of illustrated systems 200 and 200a, the lower end sections of floating rear vertical supports 210', 210a' are connect to two lateral supports 220, 220a via a T clamp or corner connector C20 to provide an approximately 90 degree angle between lateral supports 220, 220a connected thereto. As clear to one skilled in the art, the connection angle may be readily varied to accommodate the shape of a particular bathing area. In other embodiments, floating vertical supports hereof may be connected to lateral supports via an arced, El- or elbow-shaped corner bracket or connector.In general, one skilled in the art will appreciate that many types of connectors as known in the mechanical and construction arts may be used to removably and / or adjustably connect supports of systems hereof as well as to connect various accessories to such supports. Connectors may, for example, be selected upon system design and / or performance requirements. Various connectors described herein are merely illustrative of representative examples. In the illustrated embodiments, no laterally extending supports are connected in a manner to extend across any portion the front of bathing area 100 so that the front thereof is completely open for entry by a user. However, in certain embodiments (depending, for example, upon the layout of the bathing area and the needs of the user), such supports may be present over a portion of the front side or entrance to the bathing area.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, various lateral supports 220, 220a, which are vertically spaced from and above lowermost lateral supports 220, 220a, are also connected between front vertical supports 210, 210a and rear vertical supports 210', 210a' (to extend along the lateral ends of bathing area 100), as well as between rear vertical supports 210', 210a' (to extend along the rearward end of bathing area 100). Such lateral supports may, for example, be connected via T clamp connectors such as connector CIO. Various extending supports hereof (not illustrated) may extend between lateral extending supports 220 and / or between a vertical support 210 and a lateral support 220 to provide additional support to systems 200, 200a, to provide additional grab bars for a user, and to provide additional connection points for one or more accessories.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiments of systems 200 and 200a, a lateral connector 220, 220a extends between rear vertical supports 210, 210a' at approximately the height of the controls 130 for bathtub 110 and shower 120. Another lateral connector 220, 220a extends across the left side end of the bathing area 100 at a similar height between front vertical supports 210, 210a and left-side rear vertical supports 210', 210a'. One skilled in the art appreciates that the number of and position of vertical supports in systems hereof is readily determined and implemented for a particular bathing area and for a particular user. The position of a lateral support hereof is readily altered or adjusted using connectors such as T clamp connectors such as connectors CIO and C20 as known in the mechanical and construction arts.

[0075] Connectors used to connect upper ends of vertical supports 210, 210a to attachment system 10 desirably extend from attachment system 10 to provide spacing as known in the construction arts. Such connections facilitate spacing of vertical support 210,210', 210a, 210a' and the remainder of systems 200, 200a from adjacent wall surfaces of bathing area 100 (for example, from a tiled bathing surface or from the surface of a fiberglass bating insert) by, for example, at least 1.5 inches in a number of embodiments hereof. Such spacing facilitates the gripping of vertical supports 210, 210', 210a, 210a' and lateral supports 220, 220a by a user for providing mobility assistance. Additional spacers or bumper may be place in connection with vertical and / or lateral supports of systems for stability and to maintain spacing. Systems 200, 200a each include two such spacers in the form of bumpers (for example rubber bumpers). System 200a, for example, includes two spacers or bumpers 230a, which are positioned in the vicinity of a bottom corner of rear vertical supports 210a', a short distance above the position of lowermost horizontal supports 220a. Spacers or bumpers 230a may additionally or alternatively be positioned on or along horizontal supports 220a for additional support. As illustrated in FIG. 2D, spacer or bumper 230a includes a first end 232a which is configured to abut, interface with and / or rest upon a wall of bathing area 100. A suction fit may, for example, be provided in connection with first end 232a. A second end 234a of spacer or bumper 230a is arced to form a seating or abutment surface for a support thereof (for example, a tubular support).Second end 234a of spacer or bumper 230a may be oriented to abut or interface with either a vertical support or a horizontal support of a system hereof. Once again, spacing of systems hereof from a wall or surface of bathing area 100 enables the vertical and horizontal supports thereof to serve as a grab bar system for the user to utilize when bathing and transferring into and out of bathing area 100.

[0076] Various modifications, accessories or accessory attachments may be incorporated in or attached to systems hereof. Many such modification or attachments are assistive technology attachments (AT As), which are tools that enhance or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Other such modifications or attachments may provide functionality commonly used in all bathing areas. Modifications, accessories, or accessory attachments hereof include, for example, tub benches, soap dishes or holders, shampoo holders, specialty-shaped grab bars, wrap-around shower curtain rods, handheld shower supports, etc. Many other attachments can be added to the systems hereof based on a user's specific needs as a result of the inherent modularity of the support systems hereof. The design of the systems hereof reduces the number of separate adaptations (for example, structurally interfacing adaptations) required to facilitate safe and independent bathing by combining such adaptations into a single streamlined system. Any added accessory is readily removed from and adjustable in position along vertical supports andhorizontal supports of support systems hereof. Connectors which attach to (for example, clamp onto) supports hereof as known in the mechanical and construction arts may be used to connect accessories to support systems hereof.

[0077] In the representative embodiments of systems 200 and 200a, a first or lower lateral support 220, 220a extends between right-side front vertical connectors 210, 210a and rightside rear vertical connectors 210', 210a' above the position of controls 130. A second or upper lateral support 220, 220a extends between right-side front vertical connectors 210, 210a and right-side rear vertical connectors 210', 210a' above the position of the first rightside lateral support 220, 220a. A vertical support 212, 212a is provided in the illustrated support systems 200, 200a to provide support for attachment of a handheld shower head 132 at a desired position along vertical support 212, 212a. In support system 200a, vertical support 212a is connected to and extends between first and second right-side lateral supports 220, 220a In the embodiment of system 200, vertical support 212 is connected at right-hand support 220 and is connected at an upper end thereof directly to attachment system 10. In support system 200, a second or upper right-side lateral support is absent.

[0078] Many users of support systems hereof may have both mobility and visual limitations. Thus, one or more supports and / or accessories of a support system hereof may include lighting. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2C, rear lateral supports 220a include lighting elements L220 such as LEDs (illustrates schematically). Alternatively, a support hereof may be formed of a translucent material (for example, a translucent polymeric material) and include one or more internal light sources.

[0079] Lateral support members hereof may, for example, be of variable height along the length thereof. For example, FIG. 4 illustrates a support system 200a wherein an upper, rear lateral support member 222a varies in height along its laterally extending length. In that regard, upper, rear lateral support member 222a includes a first or left-side end section 223a connected to left-side rear vertical support 210a' (at a first, lower height thereon) and a second or right-side end section 224a connected to right-side vertical support 210a' (at a second, higher height thereon). Rear vertical supports 210a' are blocked from view by front vertical supports 210a in the front view of FIG. 4. First end section 223a and the second end section 224a of lateral support member 222a extend generally horizontally in the illustrated embodiment, and are connected by a curvilinear intermediate section 225a. Lateral support 222a provides the functionality of a multilevel grab bar which can be attached to, for example, vertical supports of support systems hereof and is height adjustable along suchvertical supports. Such multilevel grab bars or supports may, for example, be used to support the user to transfer from a sitting to a standing position and vice versa.

[0080] A shower curtain support 240, 240a, which may be arced to be concave, U-shaped or C-shaped (for example, having arced or curvilinear lateral ends), may, for example, be placed in connection with wall attachment 10 of systems 210, 210a or in connection with front vertical supports 210, 210a in a manner to be height adjustable. A shower curtain may be suspended from shower curtain support 240, 240a to hang downward as known in the art. The arced, curved, or curvilinear ends of shower curtain support 240, 240a assist with water management in bathing area 100.

[0081] In FIGS. 5A through 5C, an ATA in the form of a representative embodiment of a tub chair 400 is illustrated in attachment with the two (upper and lower) left-side lateral supports 220a of support system 100a. One skilled in the art will appreciate that such a tub chair may be attached anywhere in support systems hereof as dictated by the particularly bathing area and the needs of the user. Tub chair or bench 400 may, for example, be connected to lateral supports 220a via T clamp or similar connectors. Tub chair 400 includes a back section 410 and a seat section 420 which may, for example, be connected via a hinge or hinge mechanism 430 so that seat may be moved or rotated to an up or stowed position as illustrated in FIG. 5B and to a down or use position as illustrated in FIG. 5A. The height of tub chair 400 may be adjusted along vertical supports 210a, 210a' via adjustment of the height of lateral supports 220a extending therebetween or via connection of additional, differently positioned lateral supports 220a.

[0082] FIG. 5C illustrates the addition of a transfer chair or bench 500 at a forward or outer position relative to tub chair 400. Similar to tub chair 400, transfer chair 500 may, for example, be connected to lateral supports 220a via T clamp or similar connectors. Also similar to tub chair 400, transfer chair 500 includes a back section 510 and a seat section 520 which may, for example, be connected via a hinge or hinge mechanism 530 so that seat section 520 may be moved, rotated or pivoted between a down or use position to an up or stowed position. Tub chair 400 and transfer chair 500 may fold up to be placed out of the way or stowed, and fold down for use, independently. Transfer chair 500 may, for example, be folded up while the tub chair 400 is fold down for use. In the illustrated embodiment, a gap G is present between tub chair 400 and transfer chair 500 that allows a shower curtain (not shown) to fully close for water management. Transfer chair 500 may, for example, be used to assist persons using a wheelchair or who otherwise need to be seated when transferring into bathtub 110 of bathing area 100 or into another bathing area.

[0083] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another ATA in the form of a W-shaped grab bar 600 used in connection with support system 200A. One or more W-shaped grab bars or other grab bars can, for example, be placed in connection with any one of vertical supports 210a, 210a,' and are height adjustable along the length thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, W-shaped grab bar 600 is attached to right-side front vertical support 210a. W-shaped grab bar 600 (and other grab bars hereof) may, for example, be attached to a vertical support hereof at any position thereof via one or more connectors 610 that may, for example, allow 360 degree rotation about the axis of the vertical support (which may be inhibited by contact with a wall of bathing area 100 or an element of a support system hereof). Each connector 610 may, for example, include an inner bearing about which an outer portion or component thereof is rotatable. A locking element or lock 620 may be provided to lock W- shaped grab bar 600 in a desired position. In a representative embodiment, locking element 620 enables locking of the angular orientation or position of grab bar 600 at 45 degree increments. FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate different angular positions of W-shaped grab bar 600 around the axis of right-side front vertical support 210a.

[0084] FIG. 7 illustrates a straight or linear grab bar 700 used in connection with support system 200a. Similar to W-shaped grab bar, one or more straight grab bars 700 may be placed in connection with any one of vertical supports 210a, 210a' in a height adjustable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, straight grab bar 700 is attached to right-side front vertical support 210a. As described above, straight grab bar 700 may, for example, be attached to a vertical support hereof via one or more connectors 710 that allow 360 degree rotation about the axis of the vertical support as represented by the curved arrow in FIG. 7 (which rotation may be inhibited by contact with a wall of bathing area 100 or an element of a support system hereof).

[0085] FIGS. 8A through 8C illustrate a U-shaped grab bar 800 used in connection with support system 200a in various positions or states. As described above, one or more U- shaped grab bars can, for example, be placed in connection with any one of vertical supports 210a, 210a' in a height adjustable manner. U-shaped grab bar 800 is illustrated in connection with right-side front vertical support 210a. As described for other grab bars, U- shaped grab bar may be attached to a vertical support hereof via one or more connectors 810 that allow 360 degree rotation about the axis of the vertical support. As illustrated in a comparison of FIGS. 8A and 8C, U-shaped grab bar 800 may be placed in a stowed position (FIG. 8C) in which is it out of the way. In the illustrated embodiment, one end of U-shaped grab bar 800 may be disconnected from associated connector 810 and U-shaped grabbar 800 may be rotated relative to connector 810 (via the end of U-shaped grab bar 800 still connected to the connector) about an axis generally parallel to the axis of right-side vertical support 210a for stowing.

[0086] Grab bar accessories hereof such a grab bars 600, 700, and 800 may be rotatably or statically positioned on (or attached to) a support system hereof (at a user determined, adjustable position). If a grab bar accessory hereof is rotatable about one or more attachment points on the support system, it may also include a stop or locking mechanism as described in connection with W-shaped grab bar 600. Any grab bar hereof may likewise be able to be folded up / down or otherwise repositioned for stowing as described in connection with U-shaped grab bar 800.

[0087] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrates a representative embodiment of a soap holder accessory 900, which may, for example, be attached anywhere along, for example, any of the lateral supports or vertical supports of a support system hereof via connector 910 such as a clamping connector. In the illustrated embodiment, soap holder accessory 900 is attached to an upper rear lateral support 220a of support system 200a. Soap holder accessory 900 is a representative example of many types of accessories such as shampoo dispenser / holder, hooks, handheld shower holder, shelves, baskets, etc. that are attachable to support systems hereof to facilitate bathing needs.

[0088] Depending on the need of the user, multiple AT As can be removably and adjustably added or combined to support the user within a single support system hereof. There is no need to purchase and install (via generally fixed or permanent attachment with the structure) different devices. Support systems hereof allow the user to readily add AT As and / or other attachments or accessories over time depending upon their needs and / or desires. Likewise, AT As may be readily removed from support systems hereof if they are no longer needed or desired. FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrates support system 200a hereof with a number of representative attachments or accessories connected thereto. In that regard, support system 200a of FIGS. 10A and 10B incorporates multilevel lateral support or grab bar 222a, tub chair / bench 400, and W or M-shaped grab bar 600.

[0089] The number and position of support components of support system hereof are determined on the basis of the nature and conformation (for example, cross-sectional shape) of the bathing area and the needs of the user. In general, systems hereof may include two or more vertical supports such as vertical supports 210, 210', 210a, 210a' depending on the nature of the bathing area. Typically at least three vertical supports are included. In general, lateral supports hereof are connected to extend between each of the verticalsupports of support systems hereof and to extend along the wall(s) of the bathing area, while leaving at least a portion of the entrance to the bathing area unobstructed for entry and exit of a user. In that regard, no lateral supports may extend between two vertical supports which provide for entrance into and exit from the bathing area and a supports system hereof installed in the bathing area. Desirably, the lateral supports hereof extend along each wall surface of the interior perimeter of the bathing area. In a number of embodiments, the lateral supports conform to the shape of the wall(s) such that they extend between vertical supports to be parallel or generally parallel to the wall(s) to which they are adjacent along the length of the lateral supports. In other words, the spacing between the lateral supports and the adjacent wall may remain generally constant over the length of the lateral support in a number of embodiments hereof. In a number of embodiments, lateral supports hereof extend between vertical supports hereof such that the lateral supports extend along the entire interior perimeter of the bathing area.

[0090] In a number of embodiments, at least one of front the vertical supports of support system hereof extends downward outside of the bathing area (that is, outside of the bathing area in the vicinity of the entranceway to the bathing facility) over at least a portion thereof to, for example, provide a grab bar or point of contact for the user outside of the bathing area. Two vertical supports may extend downward outside of the bathing area in the vicinity of the entranceway on each side thereof.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiments of support systems 200 and 200a, four vertical supports 210a, 210a are positioned at the corners of a rectangle to enable systems 200 and 200a to fully encompass the interior perimeter of the generally rectangularly shaped bathing area 100. In that regard, lateral supports 220, 220a extend around three sides of systems 200, 200a, while a front side of systems 200, 200a provides unobstructed and assisted access to bathing area 100 by a user. Each of the front vertical supports 210, 210a extend outside of bathing area 100 over at least a portion of the length thereof. One skilled in the art may appreciate that a triangular bathing area may desirably include three vertical supports while a hexagonal bathing area may desirably include six vertical supports. Moreover, although straight or linearly extending lateral supports (that is, extending in a plane defined by the vertical supports between which there are connected), curved or curvilinear extending lateral supports may be provided to conform to the shape of the wall(s) of the bathing area if such walls are curved or curvilinear.

[0092] Support systems hereof may be provided as a system or kit including length of tubing which may be cut to a desired length for a particular use. For example, length oftubing of 6 and or 8 feet may be provided, which may be cut to a determined length during installation of a support system hereof. Otherwise, tubing sections of predetermined length for a particular bathing area may be provided. One or more structural attachment systems such as attachment system 10 may be included for attachment to a structure. Such structure attachment systems may be adjustable in length for a particular use via connectible sections thereof. The system or kit may also include connectors (for example, flanged connectors such as tub-flange connectors) to connect to the structure attachment system. Other connectors such as T clamp connectors CIO, C110 and T clamp corner connectors C20, C220 may be provided to connect vertical support members and lateral support members in desired positions relative to each other. Further, other connectors, which may be clamping connectors (and which may also be rotatable etc.) may be provided to attach various ATAs and other accessories to a support system hereof at any desired position thereon. Each component of support systems hereof is readily adjustable in position and removable with simple and standard tooling.

[0093] The systems hereof may be fabricated from various materials including, for example, polymeric or metal materials. The systems hereof readily satisfy standards such as ASTM Designation: F446-19: Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Grab Bars and Accessories Installed in Bathing Area and ISO 17996: Assistive products for personal hygiene that support users - requirements and test methods. Non-optimized prototype systems hereof have, for example, been shown to support loads in the range of 250 lbs. to 500 lbs. force.

[0094] The support systems hereof provide an innovative solution that offers a modular, reversable, adaptable system designed to provide safe and secure assistance in bathing areas such as an alcove bathtub, a shower, a bathtub / shower, a walk-in shower, etc. The support systems hereof may be structurally mounted to, for example, strut channels or other attachments system attached to the structure (for example, walls and / or ceilings of the structure) via connectors which pass into the structure. The support systems may be attached directly to the structure or attached via an attachment system at a position outside of (for example, above and / or around) the bathing area (for example, above a shower head or outside the confines of an insert). Such an attachment or mounting methodology avoids any installation into, for example, a bathing area (for example, as defined by an insert), reducing renovation cost and effort. Lower surfaces (for example, floor or bathtub surface) supports can be utilized to support additional force as needed via surface contact without interconnection or attachment via screws, adhesives, etc. In a number of embodiments, an adhesive or other material may, for example, be used on the lower surface of a verticalsupport which contacts a surface such as a floor or a bathtub surface to increase friction between the surface and the lower surface of the support (for example, the lower surface of a jack screw as described herein). The lower or user-reachable portion of the supports systems hereof or a base structure thereof (which is reachable by the user) serves as a grab bar system for the user to utilize when bathing (for example, when changing position during bathing) and transferring into and out of the bathing area.

[0095] A number of advantages are provided by the support systems hereof. For example, the systems hereof provide a simple installation process, minimizing adaptations and limiting disruption to daily routines and activities. As described above, a system hereof may be installed by connecting supports thereof to the surrounding wall area or ceilings of a structure via, for example, attachment systems which attach to the structure. Such attachment systems may, for example, include strut channels or structural tracks, and may be placed above the bathing area (for example, above a shower insert) or outside the confines of the bathing area. With estimated installation times as short as just 1-4 hours by a handyperson using a limited number of readily available and standard tools, individuals can swiftly adapt their bathing area or shower space to meet their needs. The readily installed systems hereof may be particularly beneficial for renters, as such systems do not involve permanent renovations that may violate rental agreements. If the need to relocate arises, a system hereof can be easily removed and transported to a new location, providing continuity of accessibility support wherever individuals go.

[0096] The robust design of systems hereof serves as a strong support structure, where all structural members or supports can be utilized by the user to facilitate safe entry, exit from the bathing area and provide stability during showering. As described above, in a number of embodiments, systems hereof readily withstand at least 250 lbs. force.

[0097] The systems hereof are also readily customizable. Once installed, the system can be readily tailored to individual needs, thereby maximizing independence. The modular design of the systems hereof allows for the attachment, removal, or repositioning of assistive technology attachments or ATAs and other attachments, including a variety of grab bar designs, tub benches, handheld shower, soap / shampoo holders, etc. without costly home adaptations or professional installation. Such adaptability ensures that, as needs evolve over time, a system hereof may be modified accordingly, enabling sustained independence. The innovative design of systems hereof may further include a novel arced or concave shower curtain rod which may be attached along an extending attachment system such as a strut channel. The curved design of the shower curtain allows for the curtain to wrap around thesides of the tub, reducing water exiting the shower area that could cause accidents and injuries arising from slippery floors. Whether integrated into an alcove tub, a drop-in bathtub, a shower insert, a walk-in shower or any other type of bathing area, the systems hereof provides essential structural and grab bar support, eliminating the need for additional backing for secure installation without complex home renovations.

[0098] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings set forth a number of representative embodiments at the present time. Various modifications, additions and alternative designs will, of course, become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing teachings without departing from the scope hereof, which is indicated by the following claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes and variations that fall within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

Claims1. A support system for use in providing support for a user in a bathing area of a structure, comprising: three or more vertical supports positioned at laterally spaced positions in association with the bathing area, at least one of the vertical support members extending within the bathing area over at least a portion of the length thereof, lateral supports, one or more of the lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports to extend around at least a portion of an interior perimeter of the bathing area, other than between two vertical supports between which the user passes when entering or exiting the bathing area, one or more structure attachment systems, each of the one or more structure attachment systems being attached to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure, the one or more structure attachment systems being positioned so that the connectors extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area, wherein each of the vertical supports is attached to one of the one or more structure attachment systems at a determined position along the length of the one of the one or more structure attachment systems.

2. The support system of claim 1 wherein each of the structure attachment systems is positioned above the bathing area, and each of the vertical supports is removably attached at an upper section thereof via the one of the structure attachment systems via a connector.

3. The support system of claim 1 wherein the lateral supports extend between adjacent vertical supports to extend around an entirety of the interior perimeter of the bathing area.

4. The support system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the vertical supports extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of an entrance to the bathing area.

5. The support system of claim 4 wherein a lower end of the at least one of the vertical supports contacts a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

6. The support system of claim 4 wherein another of the vertical supports, which is laterally spaced from the at least one of the vertical supports, extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area.

7. The support system of claim 6 wherein a lower end of each of the at least one of the vertical supports and the another of the vertical supports contacts a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

8. The support system of any one of claims 1 through 7 wherein the one or more lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports are removably attached at each end of the lateral support to one of the adjacent vertical supports via a connector which is adjustable in position along the length of the one of the adjacent vertical supports.

9. The support system of any one of claims 1 through 7 where the vertical supports and the lateral supports are spaced from an adjacent wall of the bathing area by a distance to facilitate grasping thereof by the user.

10. The support system of any one of claims 1 through 7 comprising four or more vertical supports.

11. The support system of claim 8 comprising four vertical supports including a left front vertical support, a left rear vertical support, a right front vertical support, and a right rear vertical support, at least one of the lateral supports extending between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support, at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support, at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support.

12. The support system of claim 11 wherein at least two lateral supports extend between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, at least two lateral supports extend between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, and at least two lateral supports extend between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support at vertically spaced positions.

13. The support system of claim 11 wherein each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area.

14. The support system of claim 13 wherein a lower end of each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support contacts a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

15. The support system of any one of claims 1 through 7 wherein the support system is modular, and wherein each of the vertical supports are removably connectible to the structure attachment system via connectors which are adjustable in position relative to the structure attachment system and removable therefrom, and each of the lateral supports are connected to the vertical supports via connectors which are adjustable in position along the vertical supports and removable therefrom.

16. The support system of any one of claims 1 through 7 comprising one or more attachments removably attachable to the support system.

17. The support system of claim 16 wherein the one or more attachments are attached to the support system via one or more connectors which are removably and adjustably attachable along the length of one or more of the vertical supports or one or more of the lateral supports.

18. The support system of claim 17 wherein the one or more attachments are selected from the group consisting of a grab bar, a variable height lateral support, a bathtub chair, a transfer chair, an attachment for a handheld shower head, a soap holder, a towel hook, and a wash cloth holder.

19. The system of any one of claims 1 through 7 wherein each of the vertical supports and each of the lateral supports independently comprise a determined length of tubing.

20. The system of claims 19 wherein the tubing has a circular cross-section.

21. The system of any one of claims 1 through 7 wherein each of the one or more structure attachment systems comprises an extending structural rail which is attached to the structure via the connectors which extend into the structure.

22. A method of modifying a bathing area of a structure support system, comprising: providing three or more vertical supports positioned at laterally spaced positions in association with the bathing area, at least one of the vertical supports extending within the bathing area over at least a portion of the length thereof, providing lateral supports, one or more lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports to extend around at least a portion of an interior perimeter of the bathing area, other than between two vertical supports between which a user passes when entering or exiting the bathing area, providing one or more structure attachment systems, each of the one or more structure attachment systems being attached to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure, the one or more structure attachment systems being positioned so that the connectors extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area, wherein each of the vertical supports is attached to one of the one or more structure attachments system at a determined position along the length of the one of the one or more structure attachment systems.

23. The method of claim 22 wherein each of the structure attachment systems is positioned above the bathing area, and each of the vertical supports is removably attached at the upper section thereof via the one of the structure attachment systems via a connector.

24. The method of claim 22 wherein the lateral supports extends between adjacent vertical supports to extend around an entirety of the interior perimeter of the bathing area.

25. The method of claim 22 wherein at least one of the vertical supports extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of an entrance to the bathing area.

26. The method of claim 25 wherein a lower end of the at least one of the vertical supports contacts a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

27. The method of claim 25 wherein another of the vertical supports, which is laterally spaced from the at least one of the vertical supports, extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area.

28. The method of claim 27 wherein a lower end of each of the at least one of the vertical supports and the another of the vertical supports contacts a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

29. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 wherein the one or more lateral supports extending between adjacent vertical supports are removably attached at each end of the lateral support to one of the adjacent vertical supports via a connector which is adjustable in position along the length of the one of the adjacent vertical supports.

30. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 where the vertical supports and the lateral supports are spaced from an adjacent wall of the bathing area by a distance to facilitate grasping thereof by the user.

31. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 comprising four or more vertical supports.

32. The method of claim 30 comprising four vertical supports including a left front vertical support, a left rear vertical support, a right front vertical support, and a right rear vertical support, at least one of the lateral supports extending between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support, at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the left rear vertical support and the right rear vertical support, at least one other of the lateral supports extending between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support.

33. The method of claim 32 wherein at least two lateral supports extend between the left front vertical support and the left rear vertical support at vertically spaced positions, at least two lateral supports extend between the left rear vertical support and the right rear verticalsupport at vertically spaced positions, and at least two lateral supports extend between the right rear vertical support and the right front vertical support at vertically spaced positions.

34. The method of claim 33 wherein each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support extends outside of the bathing area over at least a portion of a length thereof in the vicinity of the entrance to the bathing area.

35. The method of claim 34 wherein a lower end of each of the left front vertical support and the right front vertical support contacts a floor of the structure outside of the bathing area.

36. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 wherein the support system is modular, and wherein each of the vertical supports are removably connectible to the structure attachment system via connectors which are adjustable in position relative to the structure attachment system and removable therefrom, and each of the lateral supports are connected to the vertical supports via connectors which are adjustable in position along the vertical supports and removable therefrom.

37. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 comprising removably attaching one or more attachments to the support system.

38. The method of claim 37 wherein the one or more attachments are removably attached to the support system via one or more connectors which are removably and adjustably attachable along the length of one or more of the vertical supports or one or more of the lateral supports.

39. The method of claim 38 wherein the one or more attachments are selected form the group consisting of a grab bar, a variable height lateral support, a bathtub chair, a transfer chair, an attachment for a handheld shower head, a soap holder, a towel hook, and a wash cloth holder.

40. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 wherein each of the vertical supports and each of the lateral supports independently comprise a determined length of tubing.

41. The method of claim 40 wherein the tubing has a circular cross-section.

42. The method of any one of claims 22 through 28 wherein each of the one or more structure attachment systems comprises an extending structural rail which is attached to the structure via the connectors which extend into the structure.

43. A kit for constructing a support system for use in a bathing area of a structure, comprising: tubing for three or more vertical supports, tubing for lateral supports configured to extend between one of the vertical supports and another of the vertical supports, andone or more structure attachment systems, each of the one or more structure attachment systems being attachable to the structure via connectors which extend into the structure, the one or more structure attachment systems being positionable so that the connectors extend into the structure only outside of the bathing area, wherein each of the vertical supports is attachable to one of the one or more structure attachments system at a determined position along the length of the one of the one or more structure attachment systems44. The kit of claim 43 further comprising connectors removably attachable to an upper section of each of the vertical supports and configured to removably attach each of the vertical supports to one of the one or more structure attachment systems at the determined positions along the length of the structure attachment system, and connectors which are individually, removably attachable to ends of the one or more lateral supports, the connectors being configured to removably attach the end of the lateral support to which the connector is attached to one of the vertical supports at a determined position along the length of the vertical support.

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