Bathtub closure systems and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional bathtubs pose a barrier for individuals who cannot step over the usual sidewall due to advancing age or infirmities, requiring costly solutions like removing the bathtub or installing a shower system, which can be costly and invasive.
Innovation Solution
A bathtub closure system featuring a step with a U-shaped cavity and a support portion, which can be coupled with a hinged door or plug to create a watertight seal, allowing easy access and egress while maintaining the bathtub's water retention capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional bathtub sidewall is used, then water retention is maintained, but accessibility for individuals with age-related or physical limitations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bathtub sidewall is segmented into a removable insert portion and a fixed surrounding structure. The insert can be removed to create an accessible opening or replaced with a lowered threshold version, while the fixed surrounding structure maintains the overall water containment capability of the bathtub.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed sidewall to a dynamic configuration where the insert can be selectively removed or replaced. This allows the bathtub to adapt between two states: a traditional enclosed configuration for water retention and an open configuration with lowered threshold for accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If the bathtub is removed and replaced with a shower system, then accessibility is improved, but cost and complexity of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of removing the entire bathtub and installing a complete shower system, only the problematic portion (the high threshold sidewall) is extracted and replaced with a lowered threshold insert. This selective extraction maintains the existing shower system while solving the accessibility problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The lowered threshold insert serves multiple functions: it provides accessible entry for individuals with limitations, maintains water containment when installed, and can be easily removed or replaced. This single component addresses accessibility needs while preserving the existing bathtub and shower infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If the bathtub is removed and replaced with a shower system, then accessibility is improved, but renovation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Only the specific problematic portion of the bathtub (the high threshold sidewall section) is extracted and replaced, rather than removing the entire bathtub. This minimizes renovation scope, labor costs, and material expenses while achieving the accessibility improvement.
Solution Approach 2:
The lowered threshold insert is designed as a replacement component that replicates the essential function of the original sidewall (water containment) while providing improved accessibility. This allows the existing bathtub structure to be retained and reused, avoiding the need for complete replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
A bathtub closure system may include a step configured to be retrofit onto a bathtub and a plug. The step may include a first side panel, a second side panel, and an elongated platform defining a cavity configured to facilitate ingress and egress into the bathtub, and a first attachment recess extending downward from the first top surface less than an entire height of the first side panel or extending downward from the second top surface less than an entire height of the second side panel. The plug includes a body and a first attachment member affixed to the body and corresponding to the first attachment recess defined by the step. The plug cooperates with the step to form a substantially watertight seal when the first attachment member is mated with the first attachment recess and the body of the plug is positioned at least partially within the cavity.