Patent application title: SHOWER APPARATUS
Inventors:
IPC8 Class: AE03C1042FI
USPC Class:
1 1
Class name:
Publication date: 2019-03-21
Patent application number: 20190085540
Abstract:
A shower assembly includes a pipe to carry water, a first stabilizer
operably attached at one end of the pipe, and a second stabilizer
operably attached at the second end of the pipe, where water enters
through the first stabilizer and through the pipe and continues to the
second stabilizer where the water is released.Claims:
1. A shower assembly comprising: a pipe to carry water; a first
stabilizer operably attached at one end of the pipe; and a second
stabilizer operably attached at the second end of the pipe, wherein water
enters through the first stabilizer and through the pipe and continues o
the second stabilizer whereby water is released.
2. The shower assembly of claim 1, wherein the stabilizer is bar-shaped.
3. The shower assembly of claim 1, wherein the first stabilizer is operably attached to the pipe by an elbow joint.
4. The shower assembly of claim 1, wherein the second stabilizer is operably attached to the pipe by an elbow joint.
5. The shower assembly of claim 1, wherein a valve is operably coupled to at least one of the first stabilizer and second stabilizer.
6. The shower assembly of claim 5, wherein the valve is operably coupled to a showerhead.
7. The shower assembly of claim 5, wherein the valve is a sequential shower valve.
8. The shower assembly of claim 1, wherein the pipe, first stabilizer, second stabilizer are inserted into a correspondingly carved out body.
9. The shower assembly of claim 8, wherein the pipe, first stabilizer, second stabilizer are sealed into the body.
10. The shower assembly of claim 8, wherein the body is a surf board.
11. A shower assembly comprising: a first pipe with a first end and second end; a second pipe with a first end and second end; a first stabilizer comprising a first hole and a second hole, wherein the first end of the first pipe is operably attached to the first hole, the first end of the second pipe is operably attached to the second hole; and a second stabilizer comprising a first hole and a second hole, wherein the second end of the first pipe is operably attached to the first hole, the second end of the second pipe is operably attached to the second hole.
12. The shower assembly of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first stabilizer and second stabilizer is bar-shaped.
13. The shower assembly of claim 11, wherein a valve is operably attached to the second stabilizer.
14. The shower assembly of claim 13, wherein the valve is a bar valve.
15. The shower assembly of claim 13, wherein the valve is a diverter
16. The shower assembly of claim 14, wherein the bar valve is operably coupled to a showerhead.
17. The shower assembly of claim 11, wherein the first pipe, second pipe, first stabilizer, and second stabilizer are inserted into a correspondingly carved out body.
18. The shower assembly of claim 17, wherein the first pipe, second pipe, first stabilizer, and second stabilizer are sealed into the body.
19. The shower assembly of claim 17, wherein the body is a surf board.
20. A shower assembly comprising: a first pipe with a first end and a second end; a second pipe with a first end and a second end; a third pipe with a first end and a second end; a fourth pipe with a first end and a second end; a valve; a first stabilizer comprising a first hole and a second hole, wherein the first end of the first pipe is operably attached to the first hole, the first end of the second pipe is operably attached to the second hole, the second end of the first pipe is operably attached to the valve, the second end of the second pipe is operably attached to the valve, the second end of the third pipe is operably attached to the valve, the first end of the third pipe is operably coupled to a showerhead; and a second stabilizer comprising a hole, wherein the second end of the fourth pipe is operably attached to the second stabilizer,the first end of the fourth pipe is operably attached to the valve.
Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/559,438, filed Sep. 15, 2017, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a shower assembly located in a surf board.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Showers are an everyday device which most people do not give a second thought to as long as the hot water comes out hot, and the cold water comes out cold. People have become more creative in terms of how the showerhead and handle work and look. People have also used showers in many different settings. For example, when one goes to the beach, there are outdoor shower structures readily available for the public to use. It may be possible to place the shower structure into other structures such as a surfboard.
[0004] However, a shower structure needs to be bolted to the wall in order to receive support and not fall on itself. As such, when shower structures are placed in other decorative strictures, they are not typically placed inside the structure or body because the shower structure would just fall right through. In the past, people would just punch a hole through the decorative structure and attach a pipe at the back end. This takes up a lot more space and may require the services of a professional plumber in order to make the pipes fit to the exact location of the structure. They also may cause undue wear or damage to the structure because if the user wanted to move the structure, they would have to uncouple the whole structure from the attached pipes.
[0005] To overcome the shortcomings of existing shower assemblies, the present invention provides in one or more embodiments a shower assembly to mitigate or obviate the problems. In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a shower assembly that is easy to use, is constructed of less parts, is simpler, does not require a professional plumber to custom fit the structure, and is more effective than what is currently available.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Embodiments of the present invention provide a simplified construction and a reduction in the number of parts. The reduction in the number of parts has several benefits and advantages over what is currently available. First, the reduction in the number of parts makes it easier to use. Second, since there are less moving parts, there is a reduced likelihood of the surf shower from breaking. Third, because of the reduced number of parts, the cost of manufacturing is decreased. Fourth, since the surf shower has a simplified construction, there is less wear and tear, and thereby prolonging the life of the surf shower. Fifth, also due to the simplified constriction, the need for the services of a professional such as a plumber is not necessary to set up the surf shower. Sixth, the shower assembly may not need the support of a wall or other structure. Last, the internal shower assembly is contained within the surf shower and makes it easier to install and use.
[0007] A shower assembly includes a pipe to carry water, a first stabilizer operably attached at one end of the pipe, and a second stabilizer operably attached at the second end of the pipe, where water enters through the first stabilizer and through the pipe and continues to the second stabilizer where the water is released.
[0008] The stabilizer may be bar-shaped.
[0009] The first stabilizer may be operably attached to the pipe by an elbow joint.
[0010] The second stabilizer may be operably attached to the pipe by an elbow joint.
[0011] A valve may be operably coupled to at least one of the first stabilizer and second stabilizer.
[0012] The valve may be operably coupled to a showerhead.
[0013] The valve may be a sequential shower valve.
[0014] The pipe, first stabilizer, second stabilizer may be inserted into a correspondingly carved out body.
[0015] The pipe, first stabilizer, second stabilizer may be sealed into the body.
[0016] The body may be a surf board.
[0017] A shower assembly includes a first pipe with a first end and second end, a second pipe with a first end and second end, a first stabilizer further includes a first hole and a second hole, wherein the first end of the first pipe is operably attached to the first hole, the first end of the second pipe is operably attached to the second hole, and a second stabilizer further includes a first hole and a second hole, wherein the second end of the first pipe is operably attached to the first hole, the second end of the second pipe is operably attached to the second hole.
[0018] At least one of the first stabilizer and second stabilizer may be bar-shaped.
[0019] A valve may be operably attached to the second stabilizer.
[0020] The valve may be a bar valve.
[0021] The valve may be a diverter valve.
[0022] The bar valve may be operably coupled to a showerhead.
[0023] The first pipe, second pipe, first stabilizer, and second stabilizer may be inserted into a correspondingly carved out body.
[0024] The first pipe, second pipe, first stabilizer, and second stabilizer may be sealed into the body.
[0025] The body may be a surf board.
[0026] A shower assembly includes a first pipe with a first end and a second end, a second pipe with a first end and a second end, a third pipe with a first end and a second end, a fourth pipe with a first end and a second end, a valve, a first stabilizer further includes a first hole and a second hole, wherein the first end of the first pipe is operably attached to the first hole, the first end of the second pipe is operably attached to the second hole, the second end of the first pipe is operably attached to the valve, the second end of the second pipe is operably attached to the valve, the second end of the third pipe is operably attached to the valve, and a second stabilizer further includes a hole, wherein the second end of the fourth pipe is operably attached to the second stabilizer, the first end of the fourth pipe is operably attached to the valve.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the following drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.
[0028] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an embodiment of the shower assembly;
[0029] FIG. 2 is a plan view of another embodiment of the shower assembly;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a plan view of an embodiment of the stabilizer bar;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a close-up view of an embodiment of the pipes in a carved-out surfboard body with a stabilizing bar;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the shower assembly with stabilizing bars;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a close-up view of an embodiment of the pipes in a carved-out surfboard body with a valve;
[0034] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the embodiment seen in FIG. 6 of the shower assembly located in a carved-out surfboard body that has been sealed;
[0035] FIG. 8 is a view of the embodiment of the shower assembly seen in FIG. 2, located inside a surfboard body;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a view of the embodiment of the shower assembly seen in FIG. 1, located inside a surfboard body; and
[0037] FIG. 10 is a view of the embodiment of the shower assembly seen in FIG. 5, located inside a surfboard body.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] Features of the inventive concept and methods of accomplishing the same may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of embodiments and the accompanying drawings. The inventive concept may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the aspects and features of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary to those having ordinary skill in the art for a complete understanding of the aspects and features of the present invention may not be described. Unless otherwise noted, like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the attached drawings and the written description, and thus, descriptions thereof will not be repeated. In the drawings, the relative sizes of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity.
[0039] It will be understood that, although the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section described below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0040] Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "under," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or in operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" or "under" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms "below" and "under" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.
[0041] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers may also be present.
[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as "at least one of," when preceding a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements of the list.
[0043] As used herein, the term "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent deviations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, the use of "may" when describing embodiments of the present invention refers to "one or more embodiments of the present invention." As used herein, the terms "use," "using," and "used" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilize," "utilizing," and "utilized," respectively. Also, the term "exemplary" is intended to refer to an example or illustration.
[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and/or the present specification, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.
[0045] For the purpose of the present application the terms surf shower assembly, surf shower apparatus, shower structure, and shower assembly are used interchangeably and used to illustrate how the shower apparatus may be applied to a surfboard and is not intended to limit the different types of body but will only be used so in this application to describe an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the terms surf shower and surfboard shower are interchangeable and are not intended to limit the different embodiments of the present invention.
[0046] Embodiments of the present invention provide simplified construction and a reduction in the number of parts. The reduction in the number of parts has several benefits and advantages over what is currently available. First, the reduction in the number of parts makes it easier to use. Second, since there are less moving parts, there is a reduced likelihood of the surf shower from breaking. Third, because of the reduced number of parts, the cost of manufacturing is decreased. Fourth, since the surf shower has a simplified construction, there may not be constant wear and tear, and thereby may prolong the life of the surf shower. Fifth, also due to the simplified construction, the need for the services of a professional such as a plumber is not necessary to set up the surf shower. Sixth, the shower assembly may not need the support of a wall or other structure. Last, the internal water pipe system is contained within the surf shower and makes it easier to install and use.
[0047] Now referring to FIG. 1, is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention. The surf shower assembly 100 provides a method to install the apparatus inside of a surfboard. The surf shower apparatus may be placed inside a variety of different bodies, however, for the purposes of this application, a surfboard will be used for illustrative purposes only. The problem with previous shower assemblies is that they need a support wall or some additional structure to support the shower structure. As such, it may not have been possible to place the shower structure inside a surfboard because the weight of the surf shower apparatus would have either collapsed on itself or fall through the body such as a surfboard. The shower assembly may allow for a free-standing shower apparatus without the need for an additional support mechanism. This may allow the user to use the surf shower as an independent unit.
[0048] A surf shower assembly 100 may include a pipe 110 to carry water, a first stabilizer 140 attached at one end of the pipe 125 with an opening 120 through the first stabilizer. There may be a second stabilizer 130 that is attached at the second end of the pipe 155 with an opening 150 through the second stabilizer. The water may enter through the first stabilizer and through the pipe and continue to the second stabilizer. The second stabilizer may be connected to tube, hose, or any other means of connection where the water may continue through. Thereafter, the tube may be connected to a showerhead, retractable cord, sequential shower valve, or any other means of dispersing water.
[0049] Now referring to FIG. 3, an embodiment of the stabilizer is seen. The stabilizer may come in different shapes and forms. Here the stabilizer is bar-shaped. However, the shape may come in an oval, square, or any other shape. For the purposes of definition for this application, the term stabilizer and stabilizing bar may be exchanged. In this particular embodiment, there are two openings. The stabilizer may have a first opening 320 and a second opening 330. Moreover, there may be holes 310 wherein the elbow joints or other coupling mechanisms may attach to. The stabilizing bar may be made of light weight metals such as aluminum or titanium. The stabilizing bar may be made of a heavier metal in order to provide more balance. In another example, the stabilizing bar may be composed of other materials such as plastic, wood, polymers, or other metals, or a combination of different materials. In another non-limiting example, the stabilizing bar may be hollow. The hollow stabilizing bar may provide a strong structure while being light weight. Moreover, the stabilizing bar may have holes to provide an opening to attach to a different medium. It may be attached by different means such as screws, nails, nuts and bolts, plastic pegs, wooden pegs, or any other means.
[0050] The stabilizing bars may be molded or may be forged for strength and durability. Further yet, the stabilizing bar may be milled. In other embodiments, the stabilizing bar may be manufactured by the use of a three-dimensional printer. The openings and holes may be drilled or they may be molded. Moreover, as a non-limiting example, the stabilizing bar may be a solid piece without an opening. This embodiment may allow the user to use the stabilizing bar to hold another object such as a valve or showerhead and give it support. As described previously, using traditional means, if one were to try to bolt a showerhead or valve to a surfboard, the showerhead or valve may break off because of the substantial weight and lack of support. By bolting the valve or showerhead to the stabilizing bar, the item may receive the necessary support to prevent it from breaking off.
[0051] As a non-limiting example, the pipe 110 or pipes may be a standard copper pipe. Then again, it may be a plastic tubing or PVC pipe. Further yet, the pipe may be made of any material. As a non-limiting example, the pipe may be any channel that is able to carry water or liquids. As such, the pipe may be some sort of tube.
[0052] Now referring to FIG. 2, in one or more embodiments, a surf shower assembly 200 may have a second pipe 220 in addition to a first pipe 210. This may come useful if there are two distinct channels of hot and cold-water pipes respectively. As a non-limiting example, there may be one pipe as seen in FIG. 1 and may have pipes that are specialized and may have two, three, four, or any number of pipes. The user may wish to have specialized water or soap, or special color water, or medicinal liquid, or any other combination that may require more than one or two pipes. However, for the purposes of this application and for illustrative purposes, the standard hot and cold-water pipes will be described.
[0053] Similar to the one stabilizer in FIG. 1, there may be two stabilizers, the first stabilizer 240 and second stabilizer 230. However, in this embodiment, there are two openings in each stabilizer. As a non-limiting example, the stabilizer is bar-shaped.
[0054] The second stabilizer may have both a first opening 250 and a second opening 260. A standard hot-water pipe and cold-water pipe may be coupled to the first and second openings respectively. In other embodiments, the hot and cold-water pipes may be switched and may be coupled to the second and first openings, respectively. The coupling may be achieved by any means known. As a non-limiting example, the openings may be coupled to the hot and cold-water pipes through the use of a copper elbow. In another non-limiting example, the opening may be soldered to the pipes.
[0055] Although the openings 250 and 260 may be located on the second stabilizer 230, the second stabilizer may be balanced and weighted. Also, in another embodiment, the second stabilizer may be hollowed-out, but balanced where it may support the assembly. Once the pipe or pipes are coupled to the openings in the second stabilizer, the ends of the pipes 255 and 265 that are attached to stabilizer may carry water through to the other end of the pipes 275 and 285.
[0056] The first stabilizer 240 may have a first opening 270 and second opening 280. In other embodiments, there may be one opening if there is one corresponding pipe. Similar to the second stabilizer, the first stabilizer may be balanced and weighted. Also, in another embodiment, the first stabilizer may be hollowed-out, but it still may be balanced, where it may support the assembly. Once the pipe or pipes are coupled to the openings in the first stabilizer, the ends of the pipes that are attached to stabilizer 275 and 285 may carry water through to the openings in the first stabilizer. The openings may be coupled to a valve that may control the temperature, flow of water to a showerhead, or turn the water flow on and off. The showerhead may be a handheld version where a cord attaches it to a valve. The valve may be a standard fit or it could be customized. In other embodiments, the valve may be a long bar or bar valve. As a further non-limiting example, the valve may be a diverter valve.
[0057] As a non-limiting example, a shower may turn the water on or off. Water may be pulled from the water main or well and then gains pressure through a water meter. After the water leaves the water meter, it then splits into two streams. The cold-water stream is pushed to the shower's cold-water stream and the hot water stream proceeds through to the water heater wherein the water is heated before it streams into the shower's hot water stream. The hot and cold-water stream combine behind the shower wall and the shower valve may control how much hot and how much cold is mixed. The water may then be pushed up into the showerhead, flow to a foot shower, flow to a cord from a valve, or flow to which ever apparatus the diverter valve may guide it towards.
[0058] Accordingly, some of the valves used may be a sequential shower valve, bar mixer valve, vertical thermostatic bar valve, twin thermostatic valve, pressure balancing valve, transfer valve, etc.
[0059] A manual shower valve may have a single lever control that controls the flow of water and temperature.
[0060] A thermostatic shower valve may provide a constant flow of even temperature. The thermostatic shower valve may regulate fluctuations in the flow and temperature of the hot and cold-water pipes. The thermostatic valve may have an anti-scald safety feature and may cut off the flow of water if the cold-water supply fails.
[0061] A twin shower valve may have twin valves that have two controls. One control adjusts for the rate of water flow and the second control adjusts for the water temperature.
[0062] A triple valve has three controls. The first control adjusts the water flow. The second control adjusts the water temperature. The last control is usually a diverter that comes in useful when there are two shower heads. The first shower head is placed above the sower and the second shower head may be hand-held. The diverter valve allows the user to select which shower head the water is diverted to.
[0063] A sequential shower valve has a single lever. When the lever is turned fully counter-clockwise, the water stops. Conversely, if you rotate the lever clockwise, the water starts to flow. When a sequential valve is turned on, there is full pressure available right away. However, when the lever is further rotated clockwise, the temperature of the water increases.
[0064] In another embodiment, shower panels may be used. A variety of valves may be used such as a shower valve, a diverter, a fixed shower head, a hand-held shower, and several body, etc. The shower had may be configured to simulate a rain fall.
[0065] In another embodiment, the shower head may be an electric shower. In this particular embodiment, the water passes through the shower and the electric shower heats the water. As such, a cold-water supply may supply both the cold and hot water. As such, the embodiment seen in FIG. 1 may also be used for both hot and cold-water shower applications.
[0066] In another embodiment, a power shower may be used. A power shower may be a shower with a built-in pump. Although this embodiment may have both a hot and cold-water supply, the power shower pumps water through and increases water pressure thereby giving the user a stronger shower.
[0067] While different valves and embodiments have been seen, the choice of shower components may be customized for the particular shower configuration. As such, the combination of shower valves, diverters and stop valves, different shower heads, or the use of body jets may be used.
[0068] For the purposes of illustration and for this application, soldering is an example of coupling. As such, the user may use any means of coupling such as soldering in order to attach an item.
[0069] There may be different fabrication methods for the surf shower. In this embodiment, the assembly of the embodiment as seen in FIG. 2 is examined. There are two stabilizing bars, each of the stabilizing bars having two holes each. In this embodiment, the plumbing skeleton or shower apparatus is made first. Second, the surfboard or the medium is routed in order to insert the shower apparatus. Third, the shower apparatus is fitted inside the surfboard and is adjusted, if necessary, to fit. Fourth, once the shower apparatus is inserted inside the surfboard, then marine foam is added. Fifth, the marine foam is shaved down. Sixth, a filler such as Q-Cell is added to cover the shaved down marine foam. Seventh, after the board and filler are smoothed out, then the board is fiber glassed and painted. Last, the exterior components are attached.
[0070] As a non-limiting example, this process may start from the backside of the board. It may include soldering two 45.degree. (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper elbows into a (191/2.times.1/2) in. copper line or pipe onto both ends for a total of four (4) elbows, two (2) on one end and two (2) on the other end. In this embodiment there are two pipes, one pipe for hot water and another pipe for cold water, and would result in the need for a total of eight (8) (1/2.times.1/2) in. 45.degree. copper elbows.
[0071] Next, to connect the elbows, the user may couple, or solder, two (2) (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper, brass, or any material, Female High Ear 90.degree. elbows to both ends of intake line, one end and another for the other end for the hot water pipe and one for one end and another for the other end for the cold-water pipe, for a total of four (4) Female High Ear 90.degree. elbows.
[0072] Then, a stabilizing bar may be attached. The stabilizing bar may be made of aluminum that is (2.times.10.times.3/8) in. and may be attached to the top of the water intake. Next, the user may attach another stabilizing bar, also made of aluminum that is (2.times.10.times. 3/16) in. to the bottom of water intake. Then the user may route, with a router bit, a raw surfboard starting 45 inches from the bottom and then go down 22 in. Next, the user may route another plate, horizontally at 56 inches from the bottom up 1/4'' deep size 2.times.10. The user may then insert the plumbing skeleton discussed above, into a raw foam board and add marine foam to seal.
[0073] The user may proceed to incorporate the stabilizing that is (2.times.10.times. 3/16) in., that has already been routed, into the routed space at 56 inches from the bottom. The user may then flip the board to face the front of the board. As an option, the user may add a plate for holding items. As such the user may route 1/4'' deep vertically at 45'' and 2'' in. from the right side, the plate may be (2.times.3.times.1/8) in., and may be made of aluminum. Another plate may be attached and the user may continue in front of the board and route 1/4 in. deep vertically at 80'' center from the bottom up and attach a (2.times.3.times.1/8) in. aluminum plate, a showerhead hook, a handheld showerhead, or any other apparatus.
[0074] The user may shave down the marine foam to 1/16 in. deeper than the raw board level followed by adding a filler (e.g., Q-Cell) on top of the marine foam. Since marine foam expands, there may be a lot of air located in the foam. As such, a filler may provide a waterproof seal. The user may then shape the filler to the board's shape by shaving down the filler. The user may then use any other type of foam filler that may be used for mixing with resin. The user may finish by fiberglassing and then painting it.
[0075] Now referring to FIG. 4, a close-up view of an embodiment of the pipes in a carved-out surfboard body with a stabilizing bar, more specifically the embodiment of the stabilizing bar illustrated in FIG. 2 is seen. The board 420, as seen here in this example, is carved out in the outline of the shower apparatus. The carved-out portion may be a slightly larger than the shower apparatus.
[0076] Next, in similar fashion to what was described for the embodiment described in FIG. 2, the embodiment described in FIG. 1 with one pipe may be assembled and will be described. There are two stabilizing bars, each of the stabilizing bars having one hole each. In this embodiment, the plumbing skeleton or shower apparatus is made first. Second, the surfboard or the medium is routed in order to insert the shower apparatus. Third, the shower apparatus is fitted inside the surfboard and is adjusted, if necessary, to fit. Fourth, once the shower apparatus is inserted inside the surfboard, then marine foam is added. Fifth, the marine foam is shaved down. Sixth, a filler such as Q-Cell is added to cover the shaved down marine foam. Seventh, after the board and filler are smoothed out, then the board is fiberglassed and painted. Last, the exterior components are attached.
[0077] As a non-limiting example, this process may start from the backside of the board. It may include soldering two 45.degree. (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper elbows into a (191/2''.times.1/2) in. copper line or pipe onto one end, and then solder on the other end with the other 45.degree. (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper elbow. The user may then solder the two (2.times.2) in. copper, brass, or any material, Female High Ear 90.degree. elbow to both ends. Then the user may add the stabilizing bar. The stabilizing bar may be an aluminum piece (2.times.5.times.3/8) in. to the top and then add another stabilizing bar, which may also be an aluminum piece (2.times.5.times. 3/16) in. to the bottom of the board.
[0078] Next, the user may route the back raw surfboard starting 45 inches from the bottom up avoiding the spine, and then route 1/2'' deep size 2.times.5'' in front of board starting at 45'' from the bottom up. The user may route another plate, horizontally at 56 inches from the bottom up 1/4'' deep size 2.times.10.
[0079] The user may then insert the plumbing skeleton into the raw foam board and add marine foam. However, any foam with similar qualities may be used.
[0080] The user may then incorporate a stabilizing bar that is (2.times.10.times. 3/16) in., that has already been routed in to the routed space at 56'' from the bottom. The user may then flip the board to face the front of board. As an option, the user may add a plate for holding items. As such, the user may route 1/4'' deep vertically at 45'' and 2'' in from the right edge of the board, the plate may be (2.times.3.times.1/8) in., and be made of aluminum. Another plate may be attached and the user may continue in front of the board and route 1/4'' deep vertically at 80'' center from the bottom up and attach a (2.times.3.times.1/8) in. aluminum plate, a showerhead hook, a handheld showerhead, or any other apparatus.
[0081] The user may shave down the marine foam to 1/16 in. deeper than the raw board level followed by adding a filler (e.g., Q-Cell) on top of the marine foam. Since marine foam expands, there may be a lot of air located in the foam. As such, the filler may provide a waterproof seal. The user may then shape the filler to the board's shape by shaving down the filler. The user may then use any other type of foam filler that may be used for mixing with resin. The user may finish by fiberglassing and then painting it.
[0082] Now referring to FIG.5, a view of the shower assembly of another embodiment is seen with stabilizing bars attached. As seen here, as a non-limiting example, a different combination of one opening stabilizing bar and two opening stabilizing bar may be used. Further yet, any combination of stabilizing bars may be used. In addition, a stabilizing bar with one, two, three, four, or any number of openings may be used.
[0083] In one or more embodiments, a surf shower assembly 500 may have a first pipe 510, second pipe 520, a third pipe 530, and a fourth pipe 540. As discussed for the embodiment as seen in FIG. 1, there may be more than one pipe and the user may wish to have specialized water or soap, or special color water, or medicinal liquid, or any other combination that may require more than one or two pipes. However, for the purposes of this application and for illustrative purposes, the standard hot and cold-water pipes will be described.
[0084] Similar to the one stabilizer in FIG. 1, there may be two stabilizers, the first stabilizer 560 and second stabilizer 570. However, in this embodiment, there are two openings in the second stabilizer and one opening 565 in the first stabilizer. As a non-limiting example, the stabilizer is bar-shaped.
[0085] The second stabilizer may have both a first opening 525 and a second opening 535. A standard hot-water pipe and cold-water pipe may be coupled to the first and second openings respectively. In other embodiments, the hot and cold-water pipes may be switched and may be coupled to the second and first openings, respectively. The coupling may be achieved by any means known. As a non-limiting example, the openings may be coupled to the hot and cold-water pipes through the use of a copper elbow. In another non-limiting example, the opening may be soldered to the pipes.
[0086] Although the openings 525 and 535 may be located on the second stabilizer 570, the second stabilizer may be balanced and weighted. Also, in another embodiment, the second stabilizer may be hollowed-out, but balanced where it may support the assembly. Once the pipe or pipes are coupled to the openings in the second stabilizer, the ends of the pipes that are attached to stabilizer 522 and 532 may carry water through to the other end of the pipes 524 and 534.
[0087] The first stabilizer 560 may have an opening 565. Similar to the second stabilizer, the first stabilizer may be balanced and weighted. Also, in another embodiment, the first stabilizer may be hollowed-out, but it still may be balanced, where it may support the assembly. Once the pipe is coupled to the openings in the first stabilizer, the ends of the pipe that is attached to stabilizer 514 may carry water through to the openings in the first stabilizer. The opening may be coupled to a valve to a showerhead. The showerhead may be an overhead showerhead version where the showerhead is attached to the first stabilizer. At the other end of the pipe 512 may attach to valve 550 such as a diverter valve. By doing so the diverter valve may divert the water flow upward towards the showerhead.
[0088] Conversely, if the diverter valve is rotated in the other direction, then the water may flow downward where the diverter valve attaches to the fourth pipe 540 at one end 544. The water may continue toward through the fourth pipe and to the other end 542 where it may connect to any number of showerhead or spout, or any other valve or apparatus. This may be useful if the user wishes to wash their feet or other item or body part which is located closer to the floor.
[0089] The second 520 and third 530 pipes may attach to the second stabilizer bar at 522 and 532 respectively. Then the water may move towards the diverter valve where the second pipe connects 524 to the diverter valve and the third pipe connects 534 to the diverter valve. The diverter valve or any other type of valve may mix the hot and cold water or divert the direction of the water toward the first pipe 510 or fourth pipe 540.
[0090] Now referring to FIG. 6, a close-up view of an embodiment 600 of the pipes in a carved-out surfboard body 620 with a diverter valve is seen. The showerhead line 510 may be the pipe that provides the water to the top of the shower assembly and to the showerhead. The valve 550 may connect the pipes 520 and 530 to the showerhead line and the third pipe or the spout line 540. As a non-limiting example, the valve may be a diverter valve. As another non-limiting example, the pipe 520 may be connected to the diverter valve by the use of an elbow joint 610. The third pipe may be the pipe that delivers water to the foot head spout. Moreover, the diverter may allocate the right proportion of hot and cold water to either the showerhead spout or the foot spout. It may also act as an on/off valve.
[0091] Now referring to FIG. 7, a view of the shower assembly located inside the surfboard 700 is seen. In this embodiment, the foam 710, such as marine foam, to shape the surfboard is inserted into the craved-out section of the surfboard. The user may shave down the marine foam to 1/16 in. deeper than the raw board level followed by adding a filler (e.g., Q-Cell) on top of the marine foam. Since marine foam expands, there may be a lot of air located in the foam. As such, the filler may provide a waterproof seal. The user may then shape the filler to the board's shape by shaving down the filler. The user may then use any other type of foam filler that may be used for mixing with resin. The user may finish by fiberglassing and then painting it.
[0092] Now referring to FIG. 8, a completed surfboard shower 800 is seen. This embodiment shows how the completed shower assembly of FIG. 2 may look. In this embodiment, there is one valve that is attached to a showerhead with a handle 830. There is a hook 820 located at the top of the surfboard 810 to removably attach the showerhead to simulate a standard shower. Here a horizontal thermostatic bar valve 840 is seen. A thermostatic shower valve may provide a constant flow of even temperature. The thermostatic shower valve may regulate fluctuations in the flow and temperature of the hot and cold-water pipes. The thermostatic valve may have an anti-scald safety feature and may cut off the flow of water if the cold-water supply fails. As seen here, one control may adjust for the rate of water flow and the second control may adjust for the water temperature. Accordingly, the user may adjust the shower to their particular preference.
[0093] Now referring to FIG. 9 another embodiment of the surfboard shower 900 is seen. In this embodiment, there is one pipe located inside the surfboard with the embodiment seen in FIG. 1. A hook 930 that the hand-held showerhead 920 may attach to is seen. The valve 910 attaches to the surfboard and connects to the cord to the showerhead.
[0094] Now referring to FIG. 10, another embodiment of the surf shower 1000 is seen. This embodiment depicts FIG. 5, and was discussed previously. In this embodiment, the shower assembly may have three pipes because the surf shower may have a showerhead 1030 located at the bottom of the surfboard 1040 in addition to a standard showerhead located near the top of the surfboard 1010. As a non-limiting example, although there may be two pipes for both hot and cold water, one pipe may not be used and only operate with one pipe. Moreover, the pipes for the standard showerhead 1010 may be utilized, however, the lower showerhead 1030 may be present but not used. The valve 1020 may control the hot/cold water and also whether the water flows to the showerhead at the top or bottom of the surfboard.
[0095] In another embodiment, the assembly of an embodiment includes a fixed showerhead and an on/off cold valve (not pictured). There are two stabilizing bars, each of the stabilizing bars having one hole each. In this embodiment, the plumbing skeleton or shower apparatus is made first. Second, the surfboard or the medium is routed in order to insert the shower apparatus. Third, the shower apparatus is fitted inside the surfboard and is adjusted, if necessary, to fit. Fourth, once the shower apparatus is inserted inside the surfboard, then marine foam is added. Fifth, the marine foam is shaved down. Sixth, a filler such as Q-Cell is added to cover the shaved down marine foam. Seventh, after the board and filler is smoothed out, then the board is fiberglassed and painted. Last, the exterior components are attached.
[0096] Similar to the previous embodiments, a user may assemble the assembly in different ways. As a non-limiting example, this process may start from the backside of the board. A user may assemble this embodiment by soldering two 45.degree. (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper elbows to the showerhead line on a valve. The user may solder two (2) 45.degree. (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper elbows to the intake h/c line on the valve, for a total of four (4) elbows, one (1) end of the showerhead line, one (1) at the other end of the showerhead line, one (1) at the intake line and another one (1) at the other end of the intake line. The user may continue to solder 30''.times.1/2 in. copper pipe to the showerhead line and solder 221/2''.times.1/2 in. copper pipe to the water intake line. The user may solder three (3) 45.degree. (1/2.times.1/2) in. copper elbows to the showerhead line. The user may solder one (1) (1/2.times.1/2) in. Copper x Female Drop Ear 90.degree. elbow to the shower line and continue to solder one (1) (1/2.times.1/2) in. Copper x Female High Ear 90.degree. elbow to each intake line for a total of two (2).
[0097] Then, a stabilizing bar may be attached. The stabilizing bar may be made of aluminum that is (2.times.10.times. 3/16) in. to water intakes 6'' apart and then attach the other stabilizing bar that is aluminum that is (2.times.5.times. 3/16) in. to top water showerhead line. The user may route the plumbing skeleton on a raw surfboard starting 45'' from the bottom and continue upward. The user may route horizontally 1'' deep to place a (2.times.10.times. 3/16) aluminum plate, place at 56'' from the bottom of the board.
[0098] The user may then insert the plumbing skeleton in the raw foam board and add the marine foam. The user may incorporate the 2.times.10.times. 3/16'' stabilizing bar into the routed space at 56'' from the bottom. The user may then shave down the marine foam to 1/16'' deeper than the raw board level. The user may add the Q-Cell on top of the marine foam and then shape the Q-Cell to the board's shape. The user may finish by glassing and painting the board.
[0099] In another embodiment, the pipe or pipes may be located on the outside of the board (not pictured), wherein the pipe may also act as a decoration. As such, the pipe or pipes may be located outside of the board, close to the user and the pipe or pipes may extend upward and curve over the user's head. The showerhead may be a rainfall shower head. The user may engage the water to flow by a chain that may be attached to the valve to turn the water on or off. The pipe or pipes that are outside the board may also act as a handle for the user, so they don't slip. The pipe or pipes may be supported by the use of the stabilizer bar or bars as discussed previously. As such, the stabilizer bar or bars would be located inside the or outside of the board and then the pipe or pipes may be attached thereto.
[0100] Although examples of different embodiments have been discussed previously, however, there are additional embodiments with additional features. As a non-limiting example, the pipe may be constructed of PEX (i.e. crosslinked polyethylene) pipe for improved flexibility. The surf shower may have a towel rack attached to hold a towel for the user.
[0101] Also, for all of the processes and embodiments described, a showerhead and valve may be attached. In addition, any other structure may be attached at the end of the process.
[0102] Also, the surf shower may have LED or other types of lights. It may include colored lights with different color temperatures and light intensity. Further yet, there may be a heated lamp to warm the user quickly. In addition, the lights may be synchronized or be adjust by a mobile phone or other application wherein the lights may have a pattern. Also, there may be speakers or some other sound system may be attached to or included inside the board. The sound system may be a radio, wireless connection, or any other means to provide music or sounds. With the combination of the speakers and lights, the experience may be controlled by the application or other control. In addition, there may be misting valves attached to the board. On a particular day, the board may mist the area with cool water. A mirror may also be added. In addition, the surfboard shower may be made to operate as a portable shower.
[0103] In addition, the surfboard may be hollowed out to increase mobility and ease of manufacturing as well as to improve the utility of the shower assembly. The surfboard was used as an example for the shower assembly, however, other shapes may be used. As non-limiting examples, a guitar, a musical instrument a particular animal, insect, airplane, cars, race cars, trains, rocket ships or any other shape may be used. Furthermore, although the figures may show the surfboard as a long board, this is shown for illustrative purposes. As such, the surfboard shape may be in different shapes and forms.
[0104] Further yet, the surf shower may have a soap dispenser, a foaming feature, a feature that blows bubbles. The embodiment described previously with the music, lights, color temperature, light intensity may also combine with the bubbles to create a particular mood or entertainment. The surf shower may also have a television or screen inside.
[0105] In another embodiment, the assembly of an embodiment may include a back plate (not pictured). The back plate may allow for the mounting of the surfboard to a structure or pole. The back plate may be embedded in the foam and then sealed like the surf shower assembly as previously discussed.
[0106] In any of the embodiments described, the surfboard shower may attach to a pole or a wall for support. Although the shower apparatus may stand on its own, the surfboard shower or any of the shells or shapes previously described may be supported by a wall or pole.
[0107] The surf shower assembly may provide simplified construction and a reduction in the number of parts. The reduction in the number of parts has several benefits and advantages over what is currently available. First, the reduction in the number of parts makes it easier to use. Second, since there are less moving parts, there is a reduced likelihood of the surf shower from breaking. Third, because of the reduced number of parts, the cost of manufacturing is decreased. Fourth, since the surf shower has a simplified construction, there may not be constant wear and tear, and thereby may prolong the life of the surf shower. Fifth, also due to the simplified construction, the need for the services of a professional such as a plumber is not necessary to set up the surf shower. Sixth, the shower assembly may not need the support of a wall or other structure. Last, the internal water pipe system is contained within the surf shower and makes it easier to install and use.
[0108] It should be understood that embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each exemplary embodiment should typically be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other embodiments.
[0109] While one or more exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope as defined by the following claim.
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