Ceramic shower tray

Abstract

The present invention provides a design that improves the water drainage efficiency of ceramic shower trays, prevents water accumulation at the edges, and enhances hygiene conditions. While the surface structure calculated with optimum slope angles directs water toward the drainage point, it also improves bathroom hygiene by preventing water pooling and limescale formation. Due to its natural anti -slip surface characteristic, the durable ceramic material minimizes the risk of falls and slips by providing a non-slippery surface. It also offers a long-lasting and aesthetic solution. The said shower tray, which is designed for mass production, is suitable for a wide range of applications, from homes to commercial areas.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] CERAMIC SHOWER TRAY

[0003] Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to a ceramic shower tray that is developed to improve the water drainage systems of shower trays which are used in indoor and outdoor spaces, and to enhance hygiene conditions. The invention particularly falls within the technical field of sanitary installations and bathroom equipment, and it comprises structural and design improvements that increase the water drainage efficiency of ceramic shower trays.

[0005] Background of the Inventi on

[0006] Today, bathrooms and other wet areas are constantly evolving in terms of comfort, hygiene, and aesthetics. Modern bathroom designs are equipped with various materials and technologies to enhance user experience and to offer longlasting and hygienic solutions. In this context, shower trays stand out as essential sanitary elements that ensure effective water drainage and maintain hygiene in bathroom areas.

[0007] Shower trays which are commonly available on the market, are manufactured from various different and composite materials. Each material type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

[0008] Although acrylic shower trays are widely preferred due to their lightweight and ease of shaping, they have disadvantages such as susceptibility to scratching and impact, yellowing over time, and lack of resistance to chemical cleaning agents. Additionally, due to the surface becoming matte over long -term use and its porous structure, it tends to retain dirt, which poses a disadvantage in terms of hygiene.

[0009] Turkish Patent with No. TR2011 / 11718 is a document which is known from the prior art. Said document relates to the application of a zero -roughness ceramic surface (1 ) to all ceramic sanitarywares (sinks, basins, toilets, squatting pans, shower trays) and all ceramic kitchenwares, and its characteristic is the reduction in the roughness rate on normal ceramic surfaces (2). Another known document from the prior art is Turkish Patent with No. TR2023 / 014454. Said document relates to tiles or panels that include a fired ceramic mat erial having a chemical composition formed by a specific combination of oxides, as well as a method for manufacturing said tiles or panels and their use in construction or decoration applications.A further known document from the prior art is Turkish Patent with No. TR2018 / 11615. Said document discloses a method for manufacturing a ceramic tile, wherein the upper surface of said tile comprises at least two regions, each of which is flat, and the normal vectors of these two surfaces form an angle greaterthan 0°with respectto each other. The invention further comprises a combination of tiles according to the invention and a drain, wherein at least one edge ofthe tile abuts the drain.

[0010] Another known document from the prior art is European Patent with No. EP4070703A1. Said document relates to a shower tray which comprises at least one first surface and / or outer layer and at least one second inner layer; wherein the first layer consists of a composite material comprising at least one base material and at least one photoluminescent material, and the second layer consists of at least one base material.

[0011] Another known document from the prior art is European Patent with No. EP4303256A1. Said document relates to a composite material comprising a base material and a coating layer. The invention also relates to a method for producing the composite material and its application and use.

[0012] In the known state ofthe art, various shower trays with different characteristics exist. In current showertrays, water accumulation occurs on flat surfaces. This situation leads to prolonged water retention in the tray and delays in the drainage process, causing water pooling and thereby deteriorating hygiene conditions.

[0013] Traditional shower trays have flat surfaces at the edges, where water accumulates, resulting in limescale stains, hygiene problems, and unpleasant odors. Additionally, soap residues can accumulate in these areas overtime, creating a slippery surface.

[0014] In traditional showertrays, the intersections between the floor and side walls typically have sharp or right-angled transitions, causing both aesthetic and ergonomic problems. Due to these sharp transitions, water pools may form, and cleaning becomes more laborious.

[0015] Despite some improvements which are introduced in current technology, effective and permanent solutions to the above-mentioned problems have not yet been achieved. Recently, the demand for innovative and hygiene-focused solutions in bathroom technologies is increasing rapidly. Users tend to use products that enable more efficient water drainage, ease ofcleaning, and elevated hygiene standards.

[0016] The increasing demands in the field of bathroom technologies are not limited to aesthetics or durability, but also necessitate innovative solutions in terms of hygiene and water management.In this context, traditional shower trays are inadequate in fully meeting hygiene and ergonomic needs and fail to fully satisfy user expectations.

[0017] Therefore, due to the low water drainage efficiency and hygiene problems in traditional shower trays, there is a clear need for new technologies that enable faster water drainage, offer ease of cleaning, and provide long-term usage.

[0018] Technical Problems Intended to be Solved by the Invention

[0019] In the known state of the art, various shower trays made of different materials have a significant place. These products are regarded as preferred solutions in modem bathroom designs for both aesthetic and functional purposes. However, problems such as low slopes in existing shower trays, water accumulation at the edges, and difficulties in cleaning, fail to meet users’ hygiene and comfort expectations. The slow water drainage process may lead to hygiene issues such as limescale buildup, bacterial growth, and unpleasant odors overtime. To eliminate such problems, new-generation shower trays are being developed to offer innovative solutions that ensure more efficient water drainage, raise hygiene standards, and provide long-lasting use.

[0020] The primary objective of the present invention is to develop ceramic shower trays that enhance water drainage efficiency, improve hygiene conditions, offer ease of cleaning through ergonomic design, and prevent water accumulation at the edges.

[0021] The most significant advantage of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is its enhanced water drainage efficiency. While water drainage in existing shower trays is delayed due to low -slope surfaces, the present invention increases the slope to ensure quicker water removal. Thus, water accumulation is prevented, and the shower area dries more rapidly.

[0022] Another advantage of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is that it provides a hygienic use. In the present invention, the rapid drainage of water prevents the accumulation of soap and dirt residues, thereby facilitating easier cleaning of the shower area. Consequently, it minimizes the formation of bacteria and fungi, ensuring a hygienic environment. A further advantage of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is its design that prevents water accumulation at the edges. In traditional shower trays, flat areas at the edges cause water to accumulate, leading to issues such as limescale stains, bacterial growth, and foul odors, in the present invention, the edges are designed with a sloped structure to prevent water from accumulating in those areas.Another advantage ofthe ceramic showertray according to the present invention is its ergonomic and aesthetic design. Instead ofthe sharp transitions between the floor and the sides in current shower trays, a more aesthetic and ergonomic structure is provided in the present invention, by using smoother and sloped transitions. The said design in the present invention offers a suitable solution formodem bathroom decoration.

[0023] Another advantage ofthe ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is the ease of cleaning. Because water does not accumulate at the edges in the current invention and is drained more rapidly, the shower tray can be cleaned more easily and remains clean for longer in the present shower trays. Therefore, it offers an eco-friendly solution by requiring fewer chemical cleaning products.

[0024] Afurther advantage ofthe ceramic showertray according to the present invention is its durability and long-lastinguse, because ceramic was selected as the materialtype in the present invention. The durability of ceramic makes it more resistant to scratches, yellowing, and chemicals compared to acrylic shower trays. Additionally, it provides a more long-lasting solution against impacts and high temperatures.

[0025] Another advantage ofthe ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is its water¬ saving feature thanks to its design. Due to faster drainage of water in the present invention, unnecessary' water usage is prevented, thus contributing to water conservation. Accordingly, it provides an environmentallyfriendlybathroom solution by helping reduce water consumption. Another advantage ofthe ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is its natural anti-slip property due to its ceramic structure. While the smooth and glossy surfaces used in traditional showertrays become slippery when in contact with water, the ceramic material used in the invention prevents slipperiness due to its natural surface texture, thereby enhancing user safety. 'The micro -te tured structure ofthe ceramic surface minimizes the slipperiness caused by water on the surface, reducing the risk of slipping and falling and maximizing bathroom safety. Said natural anti-slip feature provide s a long-lasting solution without requiring chemical coatings and eliminates issues such as wear or increased slipperiness overtime. The natural anti-slip ceramic surface used in the invention also aids in the rapid drainage of water from the surface, offering a dry' and safe floor, improving hygiene standards, and contributing aesthetically to modern bathroom designs.

[0026] To better understand the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention, the following figures will be used.Brief Description of The Drawings

[0027] Figure 1: A perspective view of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is provided.

[0028] Figure 2: A top view of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is provided. Figure 3: A sectional view of the long edge of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is provided.

[0029] Figure 4: A sectional view of the short edge of the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is provided.

[0030] Reference Numbers of Components and Sections Described in the Invention

[0031] 1 - Edge profile

[0032] 2 - shower tray surface

[0033] 3- Transition region

[0034] 4- Drainage point

[0035] Detailed Description of The Invention

[0036] The present invention was developed to overcome the water drainage problems and hygiene deficiencies encountered in existing shower trays. Low-sloped surfaces delay water discharge, causing water accumulation on the floor and the formation of slippery surfaces, which pose safety hazards for users. Additionally, water pooling at the edges leads to the build-up of limescale, soap, and dirt residues overtime, thereby promoting bacterial growth and unpleasant odors. In current systems, drainage is generally focused on the central areas, making it difficult to eliminate stagnant water in the periphery.

[0037] The present invention is designed to address these deficiencies by offering an innovative ceramic shower tray that improves water drainage efficiency, prevents edge water accumulation, enhances hygiene conditions, and facilitates cleaning through its ergonomic design. Thanks to the optimized si oped surface configuration, it ensures rapid water drainage while preventing water accumulation at the edges through a specially designed connection structure. Moreover, with its durable and hygienic ceramic structure and ergonomic form, the invention ensures user safety, simplifies maintenance and cleaning, and provides a long -lasting solution compatible with modem bathroom designs.As shown in Figure 1, the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention comprises essential components such as the edge profile (1), shower tray surface (2), transition region (3), and drainage point (4). Figure 1 provides a perspective view ofthe invention.

[0038] Figure 2 shows a top view of the ceramic shower tray. 'The visual also depicts the basic components: edge profile (1), shower tray surface (2), transition region (3), and drainage point (4). Figure 3 presents a sectional view of the long edge of said shower tray, illustrating the direction of waterflow during drainage in detail.

[0039] Figure 4 provides a sectional view' ofthe short edge ofthe show'ertray.

[0040] In the illustrations within the description, arrows are used to indicate the direction of water drainage. Said arrow's in Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4 are placed to visualize how water is directed along the sloped surfaces ofthe ceramic shower tray toward the drainage point (4). These indicators support water flow analysis and help explain the operating principle of the surface slopes and drainage system.

[0041] While the present invention minimizes slippery’ surface formation by facilitating taster drainage through a precisely calculated slope angle, the transition region (3)prevents water pooling at the edges, thereby avoiding limescale and soap stain formation. Tie shower tray surface (2), designed with an optimized slope angle, directs water toward the drainage point (4), preventing water stagnation and accelerating the drainage process. This surface is designed in accordance with fluid dynamics to allow water to flow easily, thereby enhancing hygiene standards.

[0042] The edge profiles (1) are designed with a specific slope angle to prevent water retention at the edges and to optimize the flowprocess. This structure particularly minimizes water retention in the edge areas, thereby reducing the risk of limescale, soap scum, and bacterial buildup. Its ergonomic design also simplifies cleaning and improves the maintenance process.

[0043] The ceramic construction ofthe shower tray according to the present invention imparts water- repellent properties, shortens cleaning time, increases hygiene, and prevents deformation such as cracking, scratching, or discoloration, thereby extending the product’s service life. 'The drainage point (4), which is designed with optimized water discharge features, enables rapid and efficient water rem oval and prevents odorand bacterial growth.

[0044] Additionally, its aesthetic and modem design allows it to blend with various bathroom decors, offering an elegant appearance and enhancing user comfort through its ergonomic structure.With these characteristics, the present invention delivers superior performance in terms of hygiene, durability, and user safety.

[0045] The ceramic showertray according to the present invention comprises:

[0046] • at least one drainage point (4) which is located within 10-25% of the total length of the long edge ofsaid showertrayforwater discharge;

[0047] • at least four edge profiles (1) which are positioned at the four comers so as to prevent water accumulation at the edges and to optimize the drainage and are designed with a slope angle of 1-1,5%to ensure a controlled water flow to the drainage point (4);

[0048] • a showertray surface (2)which is located atthe bottom ofthe showertrayand is designed so as to have a slope angle of 0.5-0.7% to ensure controlled water flow toward the drainage direction;

[0049] • a transition region (3) which is designed so as to have a slope angle of 12-16% between the edge profiles (l)and the shower tray surface (2), in order to direct water accumulated in the edge profiles (l)directly to the shower tray surface (2) and then to the drainage point (4).

[0050] Operating Principle of the Invention

[0051] As illustrated in Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4, arrows are used to indicate the direction of water flow, in existing technologies, water accumulation and overflow problems occur when the water level exceeds a certain point, resulting in adverse effects in terms of hygiene and usability. However, due to engineering calculations and the optimized angular design employed in the ceramic shower tray according to the present invention, such technical problems are eliminated. The calculated slopes and drainage point ensure fast and balanced water flow, minimizing the risks ofwater retention and overflow.

[0052] As shown in Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4, strategically the drainage point (4) is located to optimize the water drainage system of the shower tray according to the present invention. The drainage point (4) is iocaed directly beneath the showerhead and aligned centrally with respect to the short edge, within 10-25% of the total length of the long edge. It is thus positioned to guide water most efficiently. By considering optimum slope angles and flow dynamics, the drainage point (4) facilitates rapid drainage and prevents accumulation.This configuration directs water from the point of impact beneath the showerhead straight to the drainage point (4), increasing flow efficiency and reducing drainage time. Moreover, the symmetric alignment ofthe drainage point (4)relative to the short edge ensures balanced water flow from both sides, preventing pooling.

[0053] The edge profiles (1) shown in Figures 1 and 2 are designed to prevent water accumulation and optimize drainage. Said edge profiles (l)are positioned at the four comers ofthe showertray and guide water efficiently toward the drainage point (4). Each edge profile (l)has a slope angle of 1-1.5%, ensuring controlled water flow toward the drainage point (4) so as to prevent water accumulation in said comers. As mentioned, the edge profiles (1) in the four comers, symmetrically and evenly direct water flow. The slope angle of 1-1.5% which is determined through engineering optimization, improves drainage efficiency and maximizes hygiene conditions by increasing the speed of water flow to drainage point (4).

[0054] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, the shower tray surface (2) according to the present invention is designed and optimized through engineering calculations to enable controlled water flow toward the drainage direction. The surface has a slope angle of0.5-0.7%, which ensures effective water direction toward the drainage point (4). This can be clearly seen in Figure 3, which shows a sectional view ofthe long edge ofthe invention. Said slope (%0.5-0.7) prevents water stagnation and accelerates drainage, i.e. optimizes the drainage, by directing water to the drainage point (4). Moreover, engineering analyses are conducted to assess water flow dynamics and apply surface friction-reducing design criteria. As a result, water accumulation and stagnant water are prevented, and residue build-up such as limescale and soap scum is minimized.

[0055] The optimized slope and surface profile ofthe shower tray surface (2) according to the present invention ensures uninterrupted and balanced water flow toward the drainage point (4), thereby improving bathroom hygiene and contributing to the long-term usability ofthe shower area. An optimized transition region (3) is also located within the shower tray according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4, said transition region (3) is located between the edge profiles (1) and the shower tray surface (2) and is designed to optimize water flow dynamics and prevent water accumulation.

[0056] Said transition region (3)has a slope angle of 12.-16%, directs water coliected at the edge profiles (1) directly to the shower tray surface (2) and then to the drainage point (4). Hie 12-16% slope accelerates water flow, prevents stagnation, and optimizes drainage.Additionally, the transition region (3) ensures that water flows directly toward the drainage point (4) without dispersing or settling on the surface.

[0057] The optimized slope and position of the transition region (3) enhance flow continuity during the drainage process, preventing water accumulation, soap residue, and limescale build-up, thus supporting the long-term hygienic use ofthe showertray.

[0058] The ceramic shower tray according to the present invention is designed to improve the water drainage process and enhance hygiene standards through optimized sloped surfaces. The sloped structures applied to the edge profiles (1), shower tray surface (2), and transition region (3) are specifically designed to prevent water accumulation in these areas and maintain flow continuity. These precisely calculated slope angles allow for the rapid and directed discharge of water toward the drainage point (4) without accumulating in any single area. As a result, water pooling, slippery surfaces, and residue buildup are prevented: cleaning is simplified, and hygiene conditions are enhanced. Engineering calculations based on optimal slope angles have not only improved water drainage efficiency and user safety but also ensured a durable and long-lasting s ho we r tray s o lution.

[0059] Furthermore, the ceramic construction ofthe shower tray according to the present invention improves resistance against impact, scratching, chemicals, and heat. Due to its natural properties, the ceramic material exhibits anti-slip characteristics, minimizing the risk of slipperiness when in contact with water and enhancing user safety. It increases the coefficient of friction, reducing the risk of slips and falls, and contributes to the drainage process by allowing waterto flow easily across the surface.

[0060] Also the water-repellent properties ofthe ceramic surface reduce dirt adhesion, offering superior performance in terms of cleanliness and hygiene. In addition, with its aesthetic and modem appearance, it is compatible with various bathroom decors, providing long-lasting, safe, and hygienic use.

[0061] Industrial Applicability

[0062] The shower tray according to the present invention provides an innovative solution in the field of bathroom equipment and sanitary installations by addressing the water drainage efficiency, hygiene, and usability problems encountered in existing shower trays. Its optimally sloped surface structure enables rapid and effective drainage, offering more hygienic, safe, and durable usage. Because it is made up of ceramic, the surface is more resistant to water, chemicals, and abrasion, offering a long -lasting advantage. This shower tray, which is suitable for massproduction, has a wide range of applications, from residential homes and apartments to commercial areas such as hotels, resorts, spas, and wellness centers. By combining aesthetics, functionality, and high hygiene standards, itprovides a long-term and sustainable solution.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A ceramic shower tray, characterized in that it is designed to eliminate water accumulation, hygiene problems, and cleaning difficulties, comprising:• at least one drainage point (4) which is located within 10-25% of the total length of the long edge ofsaid showertrayforwater discharge;• at least four edge profiles (1) which are positioned at the four comers so as to prevent water accumulation at the edges and to optimize the drainage and are designed with a slope angle of 1-1,5%to ensure a controlled water flow to the drainage point (4);• a showertray surface (2)which is located atthe bottom ofthe showertrayand is designed so as to have a slope angle of 0.5-0.7% to ensure controlled water flow toward the drainage direction;• a transition region (3) which is designed so as to have a slope angle of 12-16% between the edge profiles (1) and the shower tray surface (2), in order to direct water accumulated in the edge profiles (1) directly to the shower tray surface (2) and then to the drainage point (4).

Images