Bathtub Door with U-Shaped Step Saddle for Accessible Entry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional bathtubs with high sidewalls pose a barrier for individuals with mobility issues, making it difficult for them to access the bathtub, leading to the avoidance of bathing altogether.
Innovation Solution
A bathtub overlay with a U-shaped structure and a watertight, sealable door is retrofitted into the existing bathtub, creating a lower access point and allowing for safe entry and exit while maintaining the bathtub's functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional bathtubs with high sidewalls are used, then the bathtub can hold a large volume of water, but it becomes difficult for individuals with mobility issues to access the bathtub
Solution Approach 1:
The bathtub system is segmented into two functional zones: the main bathtub area with high sidewalls for water containment, and a separate access chamber with a door that provides a lowered entry point. This segmentation allows the bathtub to maintain its water-holding capacity while providing an accessible entry path for individuals with mobility issues.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary access chamber is introduced between the bathroom environment and the main bathtub area. This chamber serves as a mediator that bridges the height difference, allowing easy access while maintaining the original high sidewall structure of the bathtub for water containment.
2Ease of operation
If a door is added to provide easy access, then accessibility is improved, but the bathtub's functionality for showering and bathing may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The access door is designed to be dynamically controllable, allowing it to be opened for easy access or closed to restore the bathtub's traditional enclosed functionality. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt between accessibility mode and traditional bathing/showering mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The access chamber with the door serves multiple functions: it provides easy access for individuals with mobility issues when opened, and it maintains the traditional enclosed bathtub environment for showering and bathing when closed. This multi-functionality preserves the versatility of the bathtub system.
3Ease of operation
If an overlay structure is installed, then accessibility is improved with a lower entry point, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overlay structure with the access chamber is nested within or integrated with the existing bathtub structure. This nesting approach allows the accessibility feature to be incorporated without requiring complete structural replacement, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein include a bathtub that can include a U-shaped step saddle associated with a door assembly. The door assembly can include a hinge coupled with the U-shaped step saddle such that the door assembly can be transitioned between an open position and a closed position. The door assembly can include a catch and a latch to secure the door in the closed position.