CA2586517C - Shower curtain bar - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention comprises a flexible shower curtain bar system with accompanying mounting brackets. The bar may have a rectangular cross section with a rounded top edge and can be fabricated from aluminum or plastic. The bar may be curved to match the curvature of shower tub stalls. The bar length can be adjusted by adjoining multiple sections or cutting. The system may be installed on multiple adjacent wall orientations. The mounting brackets are configured to mount to the wall using multiple techniques. Both the bar and mounting bracket have complementary mating features to attach the bar.

Description

SHOWER CURTAIN BAR
BACKGROUND
[0001] Shower curtains, like shower doors, are used to hold water flowing from a showerhead fixture in a shower enclosure (e.g., shower stall, tub). Typically a shower rod is used to hang the shower curtains. The shower rod, as the name would suggest, is a cylindrical tube having a circular cross section. The shower rod extends across an opening in the shower enclosure. The shower rod may be permanently affixed to the shower enclosure walls using some type of mount. Alternatively, the shower rod could be designed to provide tension so that it may be temporarily affixed to the walls. A spring bracket or other means may provide the tension. The shower curtains are hung on the rods typically with hooks. The hooks slide on the rod and the shower curtain moves with the hooks to allow access to the enclosure.

[0002] A problem with the typical shower rod is that the cylindrical shape may make it apt to rotate either within the mount or while in tension on the wall.
Due to the construction of the typical rod and the circular cross section there is typically little or no flexibility in the rod. Accordingly, the rod may rotate or shift under the weight of the shower curtain or with continued movement when opening and closing the curtain.
Additionally, if a bathroom door was opened and hit the rod the rod would not give and the round cross section of the typical rod can mar the door. Moreover, the impact of the door can affect the integrity of the rod or its' mounting. For example, a spring tension rod may fall if enough tension is lost when the rod either is moved or rotates when hit by a door.
Also, the mounts used to hold the rod may loosen as they absorb the shock of a door hitting the rod.

[0003] The limited flexibility also inakes installation of the rod more complicated, as the rod cannot be flexed to fit into a mount. Another problem with installation of a rod is that due to the circular cross section of the rod, the edge of the rod needs to be parallel to the wall or receiving portion of the mount. If the walls are not parallel or if the rod or mounts are not installed level, the edge may not be parallel and there will be less surface area in contact with the wall or mount. For a spring loaded rod this may result is less surface area providing the tension and a less stable connection. In addition, a rod cannot easily be installed in shower enclosures not having two parallel walls due to the circular cross section. That is, the mount and the edge of the rod need to be at the same angle so that the mount can receive the rod. For a spring-loaded rod, the edge would have to be formed to have a specific angle that aligned with the walls.

[0004] Additionally, a rod cannot easily be formed to other shapes that may be desirable. For example, it may be desirable to have a shower rod that conforms to the curvature of a tub. However, due to its' circular cross section the rod would require straight ends surrounding a curved portion so that the rod could be received by a mount.
Such a configuration of different portions is not desirable and may not be ascetically pleasing. Additionally, if the rod needs to be shortened or the amount of arc needed to be reduced it would require cuts to each end of the rod so as to maintain the arc in the middle.
Moreover, unless the straight portions were of significant length, the length of the curved rod could not be shortened too much without eliminating the straight portions.

[0005] Furthermore, using a shower rod doesn't allow a curtain to lay flat.
Rather, if the rod is fed through a shower curtain seem the roundness of the rod will bulge through the curtain. Alternatively, if hooks are used, the curtain may be folded or pleated where the hooks are located. Moreover, the round cross section may cause friction with some fastening systems.

[0006] Accordingly, there is need for an apparatus to hang shower curtains that is not apt to rotate, is flexible, does not require an edge to be parallel to the wall or mount, can be formed to different shapes and or sizes, can easily be modified, and provides an aesthetically pleasing look (e.g., allows the curtain to lay flat).

SUMMARY

[0007] A shower curtain bar is provided to hold shower curtains. The shower bar has a rectangular cross section with a flat front face. The rectangular cross section means that the bar is not apt to rotate. The flat front face helps prevent objects (e.g., doors) from being marred if they make contact with the bar. The shower bar may be made of a flexible but strong material so that the bar can be flexed to aid in installation while supporting the weight of the shower curtains. For example, the exact formation of the bar can change to support installations with non-parallel walls. The flexibility may also absorb contact from a door. The bar may be made of aluminum, plastic or other materials that provide the flexibility, strength and rectangular cross section (e.g., flat front face).
The bar may be extruded, or it may be injected, poured, stamped or machined.

[0008] The bar may be a single piece or may be multiple pieces that are connected together. For the multi-piece bar, the pieces may have either male and/or female ends that can be connected together. The pieces may have groove(s) formed therein and a brace or coupling may be placed in the groove(s) of each piece of the bar to secure the bar together.

[0009] The bar may be supported using mounting brackets. The brackets may be formed as mirror images of one another so only a single mount can be used to secure both ends. The mounting brackets may be permanently attached or removably attached to walls.
The mounting brackets may have a groove formed therein for receiving the bar.
The grove may be larger than the bar to provide additional flexibility in installation.
The mounting bracket may include a set screw that can be used to help hold the bar in place. The mounting brackets may be mounted to the walls using screws that can be inserted into holes that are formed therethrough.

[0010] The mounting brackets may include one or more suction cups to removably secure the bracket to the wall without requiring any modification to the wall.
The mounting brackets may also include a handle to hold that can also be used to force the air out of the suction cup and thus provide a vacuum sealed connection to the wall. The mounting bracket may include fingers to be received within grooves in the bar.
The fingers may be angled, and the angle may be changeable.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the shower bar may be curved for certain installations. For example, the shower bar may be curved (arced) to follow an arc of a tub (e.g., edge between tub portion and platform portion). The curved shower bar enables a shower curtain hanging therefrom to drape within the outer edge of the bathtub thus keeping the water within the tub while at the same time providing use of the entire tub.
The curved shower bar has a particular arc and depth to it depending on the specifications of the tub that it is used with. The arc and depth can be modified by cutting a single edge of the bar.

[0012] The shower bar can be used with shower curtains that use hooks or with Hookless shower curtains, such as those described in US Patent 5,186,232. The shower bar enables the shower curtains to lay flat against the bar. The shower bar may include designs on the face of it to improve aesthetic appearance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The features and advantages of the various embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description in which:

[0014] FIGs. lA-B illustrate perspective and cross-sectional views of an example shower bar, according to one embodiment;

[0015] FIGs. 2A-B illustrate top views of example shower bar installations between parallel and perpendicular walls respectively, according to one embodiment;

[0016] FIGs. 3A-C illustrate top views of example curved shower bar installations between parallel, perpendicular and single walls respectively, according to one embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates the end of several example bars that are made up of separate pieces that are connected together, according to one embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a front and back perspective view of an example mounting bracket receiving a shower curtain bar, according to one embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a sectional view of an exemplary mounting bracket, according to one embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an example partially hollow mounting bracket, according to one embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an example extended mounting bracket, according to one embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates an example mounting bracket, according to one embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates an example mounting bracket, according to one embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates an example shower configuration using a multi-piece curved shower bar and suction cup mounting brackets, according to one embodiment; and [0025] FIGs. 12A-C illustrate various types of curtains installed on an example shower bar, according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] FIG. lA illustrates a perspective view of an example shower bar 100.
The bar 100 has a rectangular cross section that eliminates problems associated with rotation in standard shower rods that have circular cross sections. Moreover, the rectangular cross section provides a flat exterior surface that may prevent damage (marring) to a bathroom door if it hits the shower bar 100. The bar 100 has a length 110, a height 120 and a width (depth) 130 associated with it. The length 110 is dictated by size of space that it is to be installed in (e.g., size of opening of shower enclosure). The height 120 and the depth 130 of the bar 100 may be selected so as to provide the necessary support as well as an aesthetically pleasing look. It should be noted that it is possible that the height 120 and depth 130 may vary based on the length 110 of the bar 100. According to one embodiment, a top edge 140 of the bar 100 may be rounded. The rounded edge 140 may enable the shower curtains to lie flat against the shower bar 100 and provide a cleaner aesthetic look. The rounded edge 140 may provide a smooth surface for shower curtain holders (e.g., hooks, grommets), a shower curtain, drapes, or other items to slide on.

[0027] As illustrated, the example shower bar 100 has a height 120 of 1 inch and a depth 130 of 1/8th inch. However, the bar 100 is in no way intended to be limited by the illustrated dimensions as variations of these parameters are well within the scope of the various embodiments described herein.

[0028] FIG. IB illustrates several cross-sectional views of the bar 100. The bar 100 may be solid 150, hollow 160 or partially hollow 170 (hollow but with supports 180 to provide more strength or rigidity). The supports 180 in the partially hollow bar 170 may extend horizontally, vertically, diagonally or some combination thereof (illustrated as being horizontal). The type of cross section that is used depends on several factors including at least some subset of the dimensions (e.g., thickness) of the bar 100, the material used in making the bar 100, how flexible the bar 100 needs to be, type of mounting mechanism used to secure the bar 100, where the bar 100 is to be installed, how much weight the bar 100 needs to support, whetlier the bar 100 is a single piece or multiple pieces, and cost.

[0029] The bar 100 may be made of a lightweight, relatively strong, and/or flexible material. Lightweight materials may be used for ease of installation and transport.
Relatively strong materials may be used so the bar 100 can support the weight of shower curtains as well as possibly a shower liner and/or an individual leaning on them. The flexible material may allow the bar 100 to be flexed during installation to make installation easier. The flexible material may also enable the bar 100 to flex when a door bangs into the bar 100 so as to not damage the door or the bar 100 or to put undue stress on the components holding the bar 100 (e.g., act as a safety bumper). The flexible material may also enable the bar 100 to be easily removed from a mounting mechanism. For example, the bar 100 may be removed from a mounting mechanism on one side and be flexed in such a fashion as to allow for easy installation or removal of shower curtain holders (e.g., hooks, grommets), a shower curtain, drapes, or other items. The bar 100 may be made of a material that can be cut (e.g., with a hack saw) if the length of the bar 100 needs to be shortened.

[0030] The bar 100 may be molded (e.g., extrusion, injection, poured).
Alternatively, the bar 100 may be stamped, machined, or fabricated via other methods that are now known by those skilled in the art or are later discovered. The material may be an aluminum material such as a variation of the 6000 series of aluminum.
According to one embodiment, the bar 100 may be made of 6021 aircraft aluminum that provides a flexible but yet strong bar 100. The material may be plastic (e.g., PVC, acrylic, ABS).
The material may also be carbon fiber, fiber glass, graphite, wood or other materials that are now known by those skilled in the art or are later discovered that would provide a bar having the strength, flexibility, and weight parameters defined above. The bar 100 may have an anodized finish applied to provide enhanced exterior surface protection.

[0031] The bar 100 may be straight and be connected in between walls of a shower enclosure (e.g., shower stall, tub). The walls may be parallel and form the sides of the shower enclosure or may be perpendicular walls that are the walls of a corner shower.
Alternatively, the shower enclosure may be any shape with the bar 100 being placed within an opening to the shower enclosure (between walls at opposite sides of the opening).

[0032] FIG. 2A illustrates an example shower bar 200 (e.g., 100 of FIG. 1) installed between two parallel walls 210 and FIG. 2B illustrates an example shower bar 250 (e.g., 100) installed between two perpendicular walls 260.

[0033] The bar may also be curved. The curvature of the bar may follow (or reasonably follow) the curvature of a tub. Utilizing a curved shower bar in a tub enclosure may enable shower curtains to drape substantially along an edge of the tub, which may enable an individual to utilize the entire tub while at the same time maintaining water within the tub. Moreover, a curved shower bar may provide additional room when it is used as a third wall between two perpendicular walls. A curved shower bar may also be used when only a single wall is available with which to mount the shower bar.
Furthermore, a curved shower bar may look aesthetically pleasing.

[0034] FIG. 3A illustrates a curved shower bar 300 (e.g., 100) between two parallel sidewalls 310. A shower opening (distance between sidewalls) 320 will be some length.
For example, a typical tub may have an opening of approximately 60 inches. The shower bar 300 is curved so that it extends from each of the sidewalls 310 at an angle 330. At a center point 340 of the shower opening 320 (and the shower bar 300), the shower bar 300 may be extended a maximum distance 350 (e.g., 8 and 1/2 inches). The curved shower bar 300 has an overall length that takes into account the opening 320, the angle 330 (arc of the bar 300), and the maximum distance 350. The shower opening 320 and the curvature of the tub will dictate the arc (angle) 330, the maximum distance 350, and accordingly the overall length of the shower bar 300. The bar 300 may have a continuous radius of curvature (e.g., 58 inches). According to one embodiment, the curved shower bar 300 can be made to fit certain standard sized shower enclosures.

[0035] As illustrated, the example shower bar 300 is designed to fit a tub that has an opening 320 of approximately 60 inches (from wall to wall) and has an edge that extends out a maximum distance 350 of approximately 8 and 1/2 inches.
Accordingly, the angle 330 may be approximately 30 degrees and the overall length may be approximately 63 inches. However, the invention should in no way be construed to be limited to the embodiment illustrated. As previously mentioned, variations of these parameters are well within the scope of the current invention. As one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize, specifications of the bar 300 (e.g., amount of curvature (arc), length) are dependent on size and shape of the shower enclosure.

[0036] The bar 300 may come prefabricated in an arc shape to closely follow the edge of a tub. The bar 300 may come in one of several prefabricated shapes that correspond to different tub sizes and shapes. According to one embodiment, the arc 330 and maximum distance 350 can be changed by shortening the overall size of the bar 300.
For example, by cutting a'/z inch off of either end of the bar the maximum distance 350 may be reduced by 1 inch. According to one embodiment, the bar 300 may come with a predetermined radius and be adjusted to fit the specific application for which it is to be installed. According to one embodiment, the bar 300 may come straight and be bent to the specific application for which it is installed.

[0037] The curved bar 300 is not limited to being installed between parallel walls.
Rather, the curved bar 300 may be installed between an opening in perpendicular (or near perpendicular) walls. Furthermore, if the arc of the bar 300 is large enough it is possible that the bar 300 may be installed on one wall with the arc of the bar 300 forming the remainder of the shower area. Alternatively, the shower enclosure may be any shape with the bar 300 being placed within an opening of the shower enclosure (between walls at opposite sides of the opening).

[0038] FIG. 3B illustrates an example curved shower bar 360 connected to two perpendicular walls 370. The curved bar 360 provides an individual taking a shower with additional room over a straight bar connected at the same points. FIG. 3C
illustrates an example curved shower bar 380 connected to a single wall 390. The curved bar enables a shower curtain to be hung in tubs or shower enclosures that only have a single wall for mounting without the need for supports from the ceiling.

[0039] So far, the bar has been discussed as a single piece. However, the bar is clearly not limited thereto. In fact, for packaging and shipping it may be advantageous to have a bar that is made up of smaller pieces that are assembled together. For example, the bar may come as two pieces that are put together. The two pieces may be secured together by various means. For exainple, pieces of the bar may have male or female formed ends that can be connected or snapped together.

[0040] FIG. 4 illustrates ends of several example multi-piece bars that that may be connected together. A split bar 400 may include a first side 410 having a slot 420 formed therein (a female end) and a second side 430 having a shaft 440 extending therefrom (a male end). A split bar 450 may include a first side 460 having a plurality (e.g., 2) of slots 470 formed therein and a second side 480 having a plurality (e.g., 2) of shafts 490 formed therein in alignment with the plurality of slots 470 in the first side 460.
Alternatively, the first side 460 could have some slots 470 and some shafts 490 (e.g., slot 470 on top and shaft 490 on bottom) with the second side 480 having an opposite alignment of slots 470 and shafts 490 (e.g., shaft 490 on top and slot 470 on bottom).

[0041] The slots 420, 470 may extend a portion of the first side 410, 460 (e.g., enough to except the shaft 440, 490) or may extend through the first side 410, 460. The shafts 440, 490 may be formed as part of the second side 430, 480 or may be a separate piece that is installed in a slot (e.g., 420, 470) in the second side 430, 480.

[0042] If the shaft 440, 490 is a separate piece that is installed in a slot in the second side 430, 480 the second side 430, 480 may have a slot that extends a portion of the second side 430, 480 or through the second side 430, 480. That is, the first side 410, 460 and the second side 430, 480 may be symmetrical with the shaft 440, 490 being installed within one or both of the sides. The shaft 440, 490 may be secured to the slot 420, 470 permanently (e.g., welding, gluing, press fit). Alternatively, the shaft 440, 490 may simply be inserted in a slot 420, 470 and possibly be removed from the slot 420, 470.
According to one embodiment, the shaft 440, 490 may come as a separate piece (e.g., a brace) that is installed within each of the slots 420, 470 during installation. The shaft 440, 490 may be made of a sturdy material that will provide support for the connection. The shaft 440, 490 may extend a large enough distance into each slot 420, 470 so that it is not likely to fall out and can provide support for the connection of the two sides. However, the shaft 440, 490 should not be too long as to make it complicated to install in the slot 420, 470 or to possibly inhibit the flexibility or arc of a bar.

[0043] The bar may be connected to the walls using various means. For example, a mounting bracket may be used to secure the bar to the wall. The mounting bracket may include a groove to receive the bar. The mounting bracket may include a shaft (or shafts) that is connected to a slot (or slots) within the bar. Conversely, the mounting bracket may include a slot (or slots) to receive a shaft (or shafts) from the bar. The mounting bracket may be connected to the wall in a permanent or semi-permanent manner with screws, nails, glue, VELCRO or other means.

[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates a front and back perspective view of an example mounting bracket 500 receiving a shower curtain bar 510 (e.g., 100, 400). The mounting bracket 500 may include a receiving face 520, a mounting face 530, an exterior (front) face 540, an interior (inner) face 550, an upper face 560 and a lower face 570. The receiving face 520 includes a groove (hidden by the bar 510 as illustrated) formed therein for receiving the bar 510. The mounting face 530 abuts against a wall (e.g., sidewalls of the shower/tub) and provides a connection point between the mounting bracket 500 and the wall.
According to one embodiment, the mounting bracket 500 may be screwed to the wall.
Accordingly, the mounting bracket 500 may include hole(s) 580 for allowing screws to pass through and secure the mounting bracket 500 to the wall. The holes 580 may extend from the inner face 550 through the mounting bracket 500 and exit the mounting face 530.

[0045] The receiving face 520 and the mounting face 530 may be parallel to one another. The upper and lower faces 560, 570 may be parallel to one another.
The front face 540 may be perpendicular to the receiving face 520 and the mounting face 530. The mounting face 530 may be longer that the receiving face 520. The interior face 550 may be angled to connect an inner edge of the receiving face 520 to an inner edge of the mounting face 530. The holes 580 may be formed on the angled interior face 550 so as to be closer to the wall. However, the shape and configuration of the mounting bracket is in no way intended to be limited to that illustrated. For example, the receiving face 520 and the interior face 550 may be a single face so that the mounting bracket 500 was pyramid shaped (a triangular bisection). Additionally, the mounting bracket 500 need not be screwed to the wall but could be connected in numerous manners that are permanent, semi-permanent (removable) or temporary. For example, the mounting bracket 500 could be connected to the wall with nails, tape, glue, or VELCRO , etc.

[0046] FIG. 6 illustrates a sectional view of an exemplary mounting bracket (e.g., 500). The mounting bracket 600 includes a receiving face 610 (e.g., 520), a mounting face 620 (e.g., 530), a front face 630 (e.g., 540), a slanted connection face 640 (e.g., 550), and rear face 650. In this embodiment, the receiving face 610 and the mounting face 620 are parallel and the front face 630 and the rear face 650 are parallel. The rear face 650 is shorter than the front face 630 and the receiving face 610 is shorter than the mounting face 620 and the slanted face 640 connects the two shorter faces (rear 650 and receiving 610). This embodiment provides a symmetrical exterior.

[0047] The receiving face 610 has a groove 660 formed therein for receiving a shower bar. The groove 660 is illustrated as being perpendicular to the receiving face 610 and parallel to the front face 630 so as to receive a straight bar. If the bar was curved, the groove may be angled (e.g., slanted toward the slanted face 640). The slanted face 640 has a hole 670 formed therein that extends through the mounting bracket 600 and exits the mounting face 620. The hole 670 may receive a screw 680 to secure the mounting bracket 600 to a wall. The hole 670 includes a wide portion 672 and a narrow portion 674, and has a ledge 676 formed between the two. The screw threads can pass all the way through the hole 670 into the wall while the head of the screw may pass through the wide portion 672 but can not pass throw the narrow portion 674 so it comes to rest on the ledge 676. This embodiment allows the screw to be counter sunk (or recessed) within the slanted face 640.
According to one embodiment, filler caps (not illustrated) may be provided that fit within the holes 670 to cover the screw head. The filler caps can be used as a water seal and aesthetic finish.

[0048] According to one embodiment, a set screw (not illustrated) is included that can be used to hold the bar within the groove 660. The set screw could be placed on an upper or lower surface (not illustrated) of the mounting bracket 600.
Alternatively, the set screw may be placed in the front face 630 or the inner face 640.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the bar may be adjusted within the groove 660. The grove 660 may have a width and height that is wider and longer then the width and height of the bar to accommodate any necessary adjustments and/or so that the bar need not be inserted at an exact angle. For example, if the walls to which the mounting bracket 600 connect are not level the groove 660 may not be perfectly straight. If the shower walls to which the mounting brackets 600 are to be connected are not parallel the grooves 660 in each mounting bracket 600 may not be at the same angle. If the mounting brackets 600 were not installed at the same height and/or depth the bar would enter each groove 660 at a different angle.

[0050] The mounting bracket 600 may be made of a sturdy material capable of supporting the bar. The mounting bracket 600 may be made of a lightweight material. For example, the mounting brackets 600 may be made of white metal such as zinc powder.
Alternatively, the mounting brackets 600 may be made of plastic (e.g., PVC, acrylic, ABS).
The material may also be carbon fiber, fiber glass, graphite, wood or other materials that are now known by those skilled in the art or are later discovered that would provide the strength and weight parameters defined above. The mounting bracket 600 may be molded (e.g., injection, poured). Alternatively, the mounting bracket 600 may be stamped, machined or fabricated via other methods that are now known by those skilled in the art or are later discovered. The mounting bracket 600 may be plated and/or lacquered.
The mounting bracket 600 may be designed so the same bracket can be used to support either end of the shower bar (e.g., the left and right brackets are identical). The mounting brackets 600 may be solid with the only open area in the bracket being the groove and the holes or may be partially hollow.

[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an example partially hollow mounting bracket 700. The mounting bracket 700 may include a mounting face 710 having an exterior surface 720, groove walls 730, screw hole walls 740, and structural supporting features 750. A partially hollow bracket 700 may be light weight while still providing the necessary support. The mounting bracket 700 may also include a set screw hole 760 for installing a set screw 770. The set screw hole 760 may enable the set screw 770 to enter the grove and secure the bar in place. The partial hollow mounting bracket 700 is in no way limited to the illustrated embodiment. Rather as one skilled in the art would recognize, numerous variations of a partially hollow mounting bracket 700 would be within the scope of the current invention.

[0052] A curved shower bar that extends out and away from a mounting bracket (e.g., 500, 600, 700) inay act a lever arm and act to pull the mounting bracket away from the wall. In order to counter this, the mounting brackets may extend along the mounting wall to provide additional surface area for contact. The added surface area provides additional support to hold the bar in place minimize the bar and/or bracket rotation.

[0053] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an example extended mounting bracket 800. The mounting bracket 800 includes a groove 810 formed in a receiving face and mounting holes 820 formed in a slanting face much like the mounting brackets discussed with respect to FIGs. 5 through 7. The mounting bracket 800 includes an extension portion 830 that also provides a mounting surface. Within the extension portion 830 is another mounting hole 820 so that the mounting bracket 800 can be mounted at another point (three points are illustrated). It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the number of mounting holes 820 that are used to connect the mounting bracket 800 to the wall with screws or bolts. In fact, the mounting holes 820 and screws/bolts are not needed to connect the mounting bracket 800, as other means could be used (e.g., glue, VELCRO ).

[0054] As previously mentioned, the mounting bracket connects to shower walls.
The shower walls may be drywall, tile, masonry board, and/or a tub insert. The mounting brackets may be bolted to the wall using toggle bolts, molly bolts, anchors or other connection apparatus. Many of the connection apparatus require that a relatively large hold be drilled in the wall so that the connection apparatus (e.g., toggle bolt) can be inserted through the hole and then open within the wall to hold in place. If the shower wall is a tub insert, the large hall probably extends through the insert into the wall behind the insert so that the wall can provide support, as the tub insert is likely a thin material that can't provide the support for the mounting brackets itself. Bolting the mounting brackets to the wall behind the tub insert is likely to create stresses on the insert.
According to one embodiment, inserts (e.g., polypropylene) can be used to provide support for the tub insert.

[0055] FIG. 8 also illustrates the use of exemplary bolts (or screws) 840 and fastening inserts 850 to mount the mounting bracket 800 to a tub insert. The fastening inserts 850 may have an exterior diameter the size of the hole that needs to be drilled in the tub insert, may be as long as the gap between the tub insert and the wall, and have a hole formed therein for receiving the screw (or bolt) 840. The fastening inserts 850 may act as a mechanical surface that distributes loads and resists rotational forces, thus reducing stress on the tub insert. Moreover, the fastening inserts 850 may provide a guide for the bolt 840.
The fastening inserts 850 may be separate pieces that are inserted over the bolt 840 during installation. Alternatively, the fastening inserts 850 may be mounted to the mounting brackets 800.

[0056] Connecting the mounting bracket to the mounting surface (e.g., walls, tiles, tub inserts) in permanent fashion (e.g., screws) requires some installation skill (e.g., drilling holes, installing toggle bolts). If the installation is not performed correctly or if the mounting brackets are not closely aligned and thus need to be taken down and reinstalled one may be left with damaged walls. Accordingly, a mounting bracket that is simple to install and/or reinstall and that can be installed (or secured) to a mounting surface without requiring any modifications to the surface (e.g., no holes) is desirable so that one with limited mechanical aptitude can install the shower bars.

[0057] According to one embodiment, a mounting bracket includes a suction cup for connecting to the walls. As one of ordinary skill in the art knows, suction cups stick to the wall best if all the air between the suction cup and the wall is removed.
One manner to do this is to squeeze the suction cup against the wall. However, while this method may create an initial suction capable of sticking to the wall all of the air is not normally removed thus leading to the eventual slippage of the suction cup from the wall.
Accordingly, a manner in which to remove the air is desirable. There are multiple ways to remove the air from a suction cup. For example, a finger pump may be used to allow one to press the pump with their finger in order to remove the air from between the suction cup and the wall. A suction cup may come with a switch or latch that when turned in one direction allows air to exist between the suction cup and the wall but when flipped in the other direction forces out the air therebetween and creates a vacuum seal.

[0058] FIG. 9 illustrates an example mounting bracket 900. The mounting bracket 900 includes a suction cup 910 for securing it to the wall. Mounted to the top of the suction cup 910 is an arm 920 for securing the mounting bracket 900 to the bar. The arm 920 may be secured to the suction cup 910 in numerous manners. For example, the suction cup 910 may have a threaded bolt extending therefrom and the arm 920 may have a hole in alignment with the threaded bolt and be placed over the threaded bolt and then held in place using a nut (e.g., fly nut). The arm 920 may extend from the suction cup 910 and then be angled to accept the bar. An angled portion 930 of the arm 920 may have fingers 940 (e.g., 2) that are used to insert into a slot (or slots) in the bar. If the bar is a flat bar, the arm 920 may be rotated by 90 degrees so that the angled portion 930 is perpendicular (or nearly perpendicular) to the wall. If the bar is curved, the arm 920 will be rotated the appropriate angle (e.g., 30 degrees) necessary to receive the bar. It should be noted that a device for removing the air (e.g., pump, latch) is not included in FIG. 9 for ease of illustration.

[0059] A single suction cup as illustrated in FIG. 9 may not be sufficient to provide a secure connection. For example, a curved shower bar that extends out and away from the mounting bracket 900 may act a lever arm and act to pull the mounting bracket (suction cup) away from the wall. In order to counter this, a second suction cup may be added to the mounting bracket or an elongated suction cup that extends away from the bar may be utilized.

[0060] FIG. 10 illustrates an example mounting bracket 1000. The mounting bracket 1000 includes two suction cups 1010, a mounting arm 1020, and a pressure handle 1030. The suction cups 1010 are used to secure the bar to the wall. The pressure handle 1030 is used as a handle to carry the mounting bracket 1000. In addition, the pressure handle 1030 is the device used to remove the air between the suction cups 1010 and the wall and create a vacuum tight hold. When the pressure handle 1030 is in one configuration (e.g., down) there is no pressure between the suction cups 1010 and the wall but when the handle 1030 is rotated to the other configuration (e.g., up) the air is forced out creating the vacuum tight hold. To install the mounting bracket 1000 a user would grasp the handle 1030 and place the bracket 1000 against the wall. Once the bracket 1000 was at the approximate desired location the handle 1030 is bent up thus securing the bracket 1000 to the wall. If it is determined that the bracket 1000 is not in the correct location the handle 1030 is bent down to remove the bracket 1000 and the bracket 1000 is moved to the correct location.

[0061] The mounting arm 1020 is used to secure the bar to the mounting bracket 1000. The arin 1020 is secured to both suction cups 1010. The arm 1020 extends past one of the suction cups 1010 and then is angled away from the wall so as to receive the bar. An angled portion 1040 includes mating features 1050. The mating features 1050 may be aligned with slots in the bar so that they can be mated accordingly. According to one embodiment, the angled portion 1040 may be hinged to the arm 1020 so that the degree of the angle can be manipulated.

[0062] FIG. 11 illustrates an example shower configuration using a multi-piece curved shower bar 1100 and suction cup mounting brackets 1150. The curved shower bar 1100 is made up of two pieces 1105. Each of the pieces 1105 is formed with two grooves 1110 running therethough. The two pieces 1105 are connected to one another using two braces 1115. The braces 1115 are inserted into a groove 1110 on one piece and then the other piece is inserted over the remaining portion of the brace 1115. The braces 1115 support the connection of the two pieces 1105.

[0063] Each of the suction cup mounting brackets 1150 include two suction cups 1155, an arm 1160 connected between the suctions cups 1155, and a pressure handle 1165 connected between the two suction cups 1155. The suction cups 1155 are used to secure the mounting brackets 1150 to walls 1190 of the shower (parallel walls as illustrated). The pressure handle 1165 is used to hold the bracket 1150 and to fasten it to the wall by turning the handle 1165 in a direction that will create a pressurized connection between the suction cups 1155 and the wall 1190. The arm 1160 has an angled portion 1170 that extends toward the bar 1100. The amount of angle is based on the arc of the bar 1100.
According to some embodiments the amount of angle may be modified. The angled portion includes fingers 1175 that can be inserted in the groves 1110 in the bar 1100.

[0064] Installing the shower bar is simple as the mounting bracket can easily be secured to a wall and the bar can be flexed to fit on the mounting bracket or within a certain space (e.g., tub opening). Moreover, in the case of multi-piece bars it is easy to flex the bars to connect with one another (e.g., using brace). The basic steps for installing the bar are (a) securing the mounting brackets to the wall; (b) securing the pieces of the bar together if a multi-piece bar, and (c) securing the bar to the mounting brackets. The steps need not be performed in any particular order. For example, the bar may be installed on the mounting brackets prior to securing the mounting brackets on the wall or the mounting brackets may be secured and then the bar may be installed on the brackets. If the bar is multiple pieces the bar may be put together before of after mounting to the mounting brackets.

[0065] Removing the bar is simple as well. The basic steps for removing the bar are (a) removing the bar from the mounting brackets, (b) removing the mounting brackets from the wall; and (c) separating the pieces of the bar if a multi-piece bar.
The steps need not be performed in any particular order. For example, the bar may be removed from the mounting brackets prior to removing the mounting brackets from the wall or the mounting brackets may be removed prior to removing the bar from the brackets. If the bar is multiple pieces the bar may be separated before of after removing from the mounting brackets.

[0066] If the shower curtains or hardware (e.g., brackets, grommets, hooks) need to be removed or installed once the bar is in place, the entire bar may be removed or a single end may be removed. Removing only a single end requires less work and also enables one of the mounting brackets to aid in holding the bar up so that the shower curtains or the hardware can be easily inserted or removed. In order to remove one end you may either flex the bar and remove it from the bracket or remove the bracket from the wall and then separate the bracket from the bar. Once the shower curtains or hardware are removed or installed the end of the bar can be reattached to the mounting bracket (and the mounting bracket can be reinstalled if necessary).

[0067] The removable mounting brackets of FIGs. 9-11 were discussed with respect to supporting a bar such as that disclosed in FIGs. 1-4. It should be noted that the mounting brackets could be used to hold other objects as well (e.g., standard shower rods, non-flexible bars). While these other objects may not provide the benefits of the bar (e.g., flexibility, flat surface) the mounting brackets could still provide an easy to install/remove feature. In order to support rods, the fingers of the mounting brackets may be replaced with either a rod that was slid into an opening in the rod or a circular opening that accepted the rod.

[0068] As previously mentioned, the flat surface of the shower bar enables the bar to accommodate all types of shower curtains. Moreover, any type of fastening systems (e.g., grommets, hooks) can be used with the shower bar. In fact, the flat bar and curved upper end provides less friction than a standard shower bar so that shower curtains and/or fasteners slide easier on the shower bar. Moreover, using the shower bar enables the shower curtains to lay flat. When the shower curtain lays flat it gives the shower curtain a much cleaner and nicer look (e.g., the look of drapes).

[0069] FIGs. 12A-C illustrate various types of shower curtains being connected to an example shower bar 1200. FIG. 12A illustrates a shower curtain 1210 hanging from the shower bar 1200 using standard hooks (rings) 1212. The hooks 1212 are inserted over the bar 1200 and connect to the shower curtain 1210 via eyelets 1214 formed in the shower curtains 1210. The hooks 1212 may come in any number of sizes and shapes (circular, oblong, pear shaped). The hooks may be fully enclosed with one end connecting to the other via some sort of snap or clip, likely at the eyelet. Alternatively, the hooks may be open with one end having a large end (possibly decorative) that will not go through the eyelet and the other end having a loop that goes around the shower bar.
According to one embodiment, the hooks 1212 may be an integral part of the shower curtains (e.g., stitched or glued in the shower curtain) so that the eyelets would not be required.

[0070] FIG. 12B illustrates a shower curtain 1220 that has a pocket 1222 formed therein. The bar 1200 is inserted into the pocket 1222 to hold the shower curtain 1220.
The pocket 1222 may be a single pocket that extends across the whole shower curtain 1220 or may be a series of pockets (if the packets are small enough they in effect become straps).
The pocket 1222 may be permanent (e.g., stitched) in which case the bar would need to be inserted threw the shower curtain 1220 and then installed. Alternatively, the pocket 1222 may be disconnectable (e.g., snap, VELCRO ) so that the shower curtain 1220 could be installed on the bar 1200 while the bar 1200 is in place.

[0071] FIG. 12C illustrates a shower curtain 1230 (e.g., Hookless shower curtain covered by US Patent 5,186,232) that has loops 1232 formed therein and has slits 1234 formed between alternating pairs of loops 1232. The shower curtain can be installed over the shower bar 1200 by popping the loops 1232 connected by the slit over the shower bar 1200 so that the loops 1232 are now connected around the shower bar 1200.
After installation is complete, the shower bar will be in front of every other set of loops and behind every other set of loops 1232. In an alternative embodiment, the loops 1232 may be formed in a back layer of the shower curtain 1230 and a front layer (e.g., valance) may cover the back layer so that you do not see the bar 1200.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the bar may come in decorative colors or have decorative designs formed thereon.

[0073] The various embodiments above were described with respect to bars and brackets that are used to hold shower curtains in a shower enclosure environment. The invention is not limited thereto but could be used in any number of other environments (e.g., to hold curtains, drapes, or valances for windows or doors). For example, a curved bar and suction cup-mounting bracket could be used to install window treatments in a bay window where the arc of the bar traversed the arc of the bay window. The suction cup mounting could also be used to easily install the bar and associated materials (e.g., curtains), for example, in hospitals to separate adjacent beds.

[0074] The many features and advantages of the various embodiments are apparent from the detailed specification. Thus, the appended claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of the various embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the various embodiments. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the various embodiments to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described.
Accordingly, all appropriate modifications and equivalents may be included within the scope of the various embodiments.

[0075] Although the various embodiments have been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made which clearly fall within the scope. It is intended that the embodiments be protected broadly within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (48)

1.~An apparatus to hold shower curtains, the apparatus comprising:
a shower bar; and mounting brackets, connected to at least one wall, to receive the shower bar.

2. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shower bar has a rectangular cross section.

3. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shower bar is made of a flexible material.

4. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shower bar is made of aluminum.

5. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shower bar is made of plastic.

6. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bar has a rounded upper edge.

7. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mounting brackets have holes formed therein for mounting to a shower wall with screws.

8.~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mounting brackets include suction cups for removably connecting to a mounting surface.

9. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mounting brackets have a groove formed therein for receiving the shower bar.

10. ~The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the mounting brackets have a set screw for aiding in holding the shower bar therein.

11. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mounting brackets are made of metal.

12. ~The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shower bar is curved.

13. ~The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the curved shower bar has an arc formed therein that is similar to an arc in a curved bathtub shower.

14. ~The apparatus of claim 12, wherein cutting either edge of the curved shower bar can modify an arc of the curved shower bar.

15. ~A shower bar having a rectangular cross section and a rounded upper edge, wherein the rectangular cross section enables shower curtains hanging therefrom to lay flat on the bar, and wherein the bar is made of a flexible material so that the shower bar can be flexed during installation or to absorb contact from an object.

16. ~The shower bar of claim 15, wherein the shower bar is made of an extruded aluminum.

17. ~The shower bar of claim 15, wherein the shower bar is curved to substantially align with curvature of a bathtub and enable the curtains hanging therefrom to drape with the bathtub.

18. ~The shower bar of claim 15, wherein the shower bar is made of at least two pieces that are connectable to each other.

19. ~The shower bar of claim 15, wherein the shower bar is supported by mounting brackets.

20.~The shower bar of claim 19, wherein the mounting brackets have holes formed therein for mounting to a surface with screws.

21.~The shower bar of claim 19, wherein the mounting brackets include suction cups for removably connecting to a mounting surface.

22. ~An apparatus comprising:

a bar having a rectangular cross section, wherein the bar is made of a flexible material; and a pair of mounting brackets to hold the bar, wherein each mounting bracket has a groove formed therein for receiving an end of the bar, and wherein the bar can be flexed to be received by the groove or to absorb impact of an object.

23. ~The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the bar is made of aluminum.

24. ~The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the bar is made of plastic.

25. ~The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the bar is curved.

26. ~The apparatus of claim 25, wherein an arc of the curved bar can be modified by cutting a single edge of the curved bar.

27. ~An apparatus comprising a bar capable of holding curtains, wherein said bar has a rectangular cross section so that curtains installed thereon are capable of laying flat, and wherein said bar is made of a flexible material; and mounting brackets capable of supporting said bar, wherein said mounting brackets can be securely affixed to a mounting surface without requiring any modifications to the mounting surface.

28. ~The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said bar is made of at least two pieces that can be connected together.

29. ~The apparatus of claim 28, wherein a first piece has a slot formed therein and a second piece has a shaft extending therefrom, and wherein the first piece and the second piece are secured together by placing the shaft in the slot.

30. ~The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the at least two pieces have slots formed therein, and wherein the at least two pieces are secured together by placing a brace within each slot and moving the pieces together.

31.~The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said bar includes a slot formed therein and said mounting brackets include fingers, and wherein said bar is supported by said mounting brackets by inserting the fingers in the slot.

32. ~The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said mounting brackets include a suction cup for securely affixing said mounting brackets to the mounting surface.

33. ~The apparatus of claim 32, wherein said mounting brackets further include a handle to grasp said mounting brackets and to create a vacuum tight connection between said mounting brackets and the mounting surface when handle is moved to a lock position.

34. ~The apparatus of claim 33, wherein said mounting brackets can be removed from the mounting surface by moving handle from the lock position.

35. ~The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said bar is made of aluminum.

36. ~The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said bar is made of plastic.

37. ~The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said bar is curved.

38. ~An apparatus comprising a flexible bar capable of holding curtains, wherein said bar is arc shaped, and wherein said bar includes at least two pieces capable of being connected together; and mounting brackets capable of supporting said bar, wherein said mounting brackets include suction cups for securely affixing said mounting brackets to a mounting surface.

39. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein said bar is capable of being aligned with an arc in a tub.

40. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the at least two pieces have slots formed therein, and wherein a brace can be secured within the slots to hold the pieces together.

41. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein said bar includes a slot formed therein and said mounting brackets include fingers, and wherein said bar is supported by said mounting brackets by inserting the fingers in the slot.

42. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the bar is made of aluminum.

43. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the bar is made of plastic.

44. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein said mounting brackets further include a handle to grasp said mounting brackets, wherein when the handle is moved to a locked position it creates a vacuum tight connection between suction cups and the mounting surface and secures said mounting bracket to the wall, and wherein the handle is moved away from the locked position the vacuum tight connection is released and said mounting brackets can be removed from the mounting surface.

45. ~The apparatus of claim 38, wherein amount of arc associated with said bar could be modified by cutting a single edge of said bar.

46. ~A method comprising securing mounting brackets to a wall, wherein the mounting brackets are secured to the wall by placing a suction cup against the wall and moving a handle to a locked position to create a vacuum tight seal;

connecting pieces of a flexible bar together; and connecting a flexible bar to the mounting brackets.

47. ~The method of claim 46, further comprising removing the mounting brackets from the wall, wherein the mounting brackets are removed from the wall by moving the handle away from the locked position to remove the vacuum tight seal;

disconnecting the pieces of the flexible bar; and disconnecting the flexible bar from the mounting brackets.

48. ~The method of claim 46, further comprising removing one end of the bar from the associated mounting bracket;

adjusting configuration of items on the bar; and reinstalling the one end of the bar on the associated mounting bracket.