Lap-Height Bathtub Shower Frame for Users with Breathing Difficulties
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Solution Overview
Problem
Showering for individuals with breathing difficulties, such as those with COPD, asthma, or emphysema, is challenging due to steam and the need to bend over, and existing solutions like shower chairs or new units are not feasible or accessible.
Innovation Solution
A lap-high rolling basin and surface with adjustable supports that fit over a bathtub, allowing users to maneuver the showering apparatus to a position above them, featuring a basin and showerhead cutout for easy access without bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional shower setup is used, then water flow and showering function are provided, but users with breathing difficulties must bend over and maneuver in steam, causing physical strain and breathing issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by positioning the showerhead and basin above the user rather than requiring the user to bend down to a traditional shower level. The top surface is positioned at lap height or higher, allowing users to shower in an upright seated position, effectively changing the spatial dimension of the showering interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable top surface with basin as an intermediary element between the fixed showerhead and the user. This top surface can be positioned directly above the user and includes a cutout for the showerhead, serving as a mediator that delivers water to the user without requiring the user to reach or bend.
2Ease of operation
If a shower chair is used, then some support is provided, but it does not facilitate accessibility and only has marginal effect
Solution Approach 1:
The top surface serves multiple functions: it provides a supportive surface for the user to rest on, holds washing materials in its basin, positions the showerhead cutout directly above the user, and can be moved to different positions. This multi-functionality makes it more effective than a simple shower chair.
Solution Approach 2:
The top surface is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned directly above the user and adjusted to different locations. This dynamic positioning capability enhances accessibility and effectiveness compared to static shower chairs.
3Ease of operation
If an adjustable top surface is introduced, then maneuverability and positioning above user are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shower system is divided into separate components: a fixed showerhead, a movable top surface with basin, and supporting structures. This segmentation allows the top surface to be independently moved and positioned above the user while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
4Ease of operation
If the top surface is made lap-high with basin and cutout, then ease of access without bending is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The showerhead cutout is integrated into the top surface, with the showerhead fitting into a recessed area. The basin is also integrated into the top surface structure. This nesting approach allows multiple features to be combined in a single component without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A shower apparatus including a stationary frame configured to sit atop a bathtub. The stationary frame includes a first support that contacts the first edge of said bathtub. A second support is configured to contact a second edge opposite the first edge of said bathtub. Additionally, a connecting support extends between the first support and the second support defining an inner area configured to fit a top surface. The top surface includes a basin for retaining water, and a cutout for holding a showerhead.