EP1858386A1

EP1858386A1 - Operational and auxiliary features for a bath therapy apparatus

Info

Publication number: EP1858386A1
Application number: EP06738146A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Mordechal Lev; Stephen Chung; Barbara A. Westfield
Original assignee: Homedics Inc
Current assignee: Homedics Inc
Priority date: 2005-03-18
Filing date: 2006-03-14
Publication date: 2007-11-28
Also published as: AU2006227738A1; AU2006227738C1; WO2006101820A1; AU2006227738B2; CA2601341A1; JP2008532697A; NZ562627A; EP1858386A4

Abstract

A bath apparatus is disclosed having auxiliary features, such as a handle, improvements to conventional therapeutic effects, a pedicure apparatus for providing a motorized rotary pedicure effect to the user, and a fluid dispenser is disclosed for dispensing therapeutic additives. A bath apparatus is disclosed with a showerhead mounted to an underside of a lid, oriented towards the bath chamber. A fluid pump draws fluid from the bath chamber and pumps the fluid through the showerhead for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part. A bath therapy apparatus is disclosed having a sound dampened fan assembly for forcing air into a bath chamber for providing a bubbling massage effect. A sound level measurement of the fan assembly under predefined conditions is less than that of the bubbling massage effect.

Description

OPERATIONAL AND AUXILIARY FEATURES FOR A BATH THERAPY APPARATUS

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to an apparatus for bathing body parts, such as the feet or hands.

2. Background Art

Most people experience foot problems at some time in their lives. This is not surprising, considering that many people are employed in jobs that require them to be on their feet all day. In fact, even an average day of walking can exert force equal to several hundred tons of pressure on the feet.

In an attempt to alleviate a variety of podiatric problems, bathing of the feet has become a recognized therapeutic method. For example, soaking soothes the feet and aids in recovery from fatigue. Bathing of the feet also stimulates the circulation of blood therethrough, which results in increased metabolism and excretion. In addition, foot bathing facilitates the removal of painful growths such as calluses, bunions, and corns.

Many types of footbaths have been utilized as therapeutic devices for the feet. Typically, footbaths provide heated water for which the temperature is maintained via electrical means. In addition, current footbaths often provide massage to the feet through vibration of the footbath. Vibratory massage enhances the therapeutic results achieved with soaking alone by further increasing circulation, as well as relaxing and massaging the muscles.

Conventional footbaths may be difficult and/or awkward to transport, fill and empty due to size, weight and difficulty of stabilizing the footbath to prevent splashing or spilling of water from the footbath. The water in the footbath also adds to the weight, thereby increasing the difficulty in manual transportation. The prior art has offered footbaths with handles that are typically on the backside or underside of the bath chamber, and thus, are only useful when the bath chamber is empty and the water is not a factor.

The prior art has also provided footbaths having a peripheral rim or one or more handles displaced about the peripheral rim. Although such peripheral handles are useful for transporting the footbath in an empty condition, two-handed carrying is necessitated. Two-handed carrying may be awkward by requiring the user to carry the footbath close to his/her body. Such transportation often lacks in ergonomics and results in unsteady movements, thereby causing splashing or spilling of the fluid therein.

The prior art has offered various massage features such as rotary massage attachments on the housing of the footbath, for providing a targeted massage or therapeutic effect to a body part of the user. Oftentimes, such features require the user to rest the body on the housing adjacent to the massage attachment. Due to the structural rigidity of the adjacent housing portion, such resting may be uncomfortable or awkward. Additionally, it may difficult for a user to convey the targeted body part to the massage feature.

Personal care for one's feet often extends outside the realm of features conventionally provided in footbaths. For example, consumers may treat their feet to pedicures and lotions as well as bathing, massage and therapy.

Therefore, a need exists for a footbath that can be transported ergonomically when filled ør empty. A need also exists to enhance comfort to a user when operating auxiliary features of a footbath. Incorporation of various foot treatment features into a footbath is also needed so that a user may experience a variety podiatric and pedicure features from a single apparatus. In addition to vibratory massage, a footbath may employ the use of water jets to provide concentrated massage to different areas of the feet. Often the jets recirculate water within a bath chamber of the footbath, and thus, the jets are oriented within the bath chamber for proximity to the water source. The jets that are oriented within the bath chamber are often directed transversely from sidewalls of the bath chamber, or upwards from a platform of the bath chamber.

Alternatively, the prior art has offered immobile foot washing apparatuses that direct water in a downward direction. The immobile foot washing apparatuses are often complex and do not share the benefits of compactness, mobility and price, as do the conventional footbaths with water jets. Further, due to these drawbacks, immobile foot washing apparatuses are generally not targeted to the consumer market.

When marketing footbaths to the consumer market, it is important to display features of the product, particularly at the point of sale. Packaging and advertising are often beneficial for conveying information about a product's features. However, it is common that retailers may market footbaths by displaying the actual products outside of the packaging. Thus, it is beneficial if a consumer may identify features of a product by viewing the product. For example, the pressurized water massage effect of water jet footbaths may be apparent due to the orientation of the water jets in the side walls or the platform of the bath chamber.

Therefore, a need exists for a bath apparatus having a fluid output for providing a fluid massage effect, wherein the location of the fluid output is not limited by proximity to the bath chamber, yet the bath apparatus may be compact and mobile. Additionally a need exists for a bath apparatus having a fluid output that provides a desired fluid massage effect wherein this feature is viewable externally without limiting the location of the output.

In addition to heat and vibratory massage, some footbaths are also capable of creating air bubbles in the water contained in the bath chamber. Contact of the air bubbles with a user's feet provides an additional type of massage therapy.

These footbaths often employ a fan for pumping air into the water contained in the bath chamber. The fan often includes a generally cylindrical volute shroud with an impeller therein. A plurality of radial infeed apertures are provided between a motor that drives the fan and the shroud, and the infeed apertures are generally adjacent to a central region of the fan for permitting air to flow into the shroud. The shroud includes a pair of tangential outfeed ports for forcing air out of the shroud. Tubing is connected to each outfeed port generally perpendicular to the tangential direction of the port. Although a pleasant massage effect is provided, a relatively loud sound is provided by the fan operation.

For example, one prior art footbath with the fan in operation provides a sound level of sixty decibels measured at one meter in an open room with a background sound level of forty-four decibels. Another prior art footbath measured under the same conditions provides a sound level output of sixty-four decibels.

Of course, not all output sound levels require dampening. For example, to provide a desired bubbling massage effect, a resultant bubbling sound level may be necessary. Accordingly, a goal of the present invention is to provide a footbath with both adequate therapy effects and with a lessened output sound level for improving overall comfort to the user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An aspect of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for bathing a body part. The apparatus has a bath chamber for containing fluid with an opening for receiving the body part. A housing is mounted to the bath chamber for retaining an operational assembly that imparts a therapeutic effect to the bath chamber. The housing provides a base for supporting the bath chamber. A handle is mounted to one of the bath chamber and the housing for providing a grip portion that extends above the bath chamber and a center of gravity of the bath apparatus for facilitating manual transportation of the apparatus when filled. A further aspect of the present invention is to provide a spout formed in the bath chamber for emptying the bath chamber.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide the handle grip portion generally perpendicular to a pivot axis of the handle for enhancing ergonomic grasping and transportation.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a plurality of attachment points for attaching the handle in multiple positions.

A further aspect of the present invention is wherein the handle is mounted to the bath chamber and the bath chamber is removable from the housing.

Another aspect of the present invention is wherein the handle has a retracted and an extended position.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a locking mechanism for securing the handle in a fixed position.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a recess within the bath apparatus for receiving the handle in the retracted position.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for extending the handle.

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber for containing fluid. A pair of wheels are mounted to the bath chamber and a telescoping handle is mounted to the bath chamber so that in an extended position of the handle, the bath chamber may be transported upon the wheels.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber for containing fluid, a contact area adapted to be uncovered by fluid, and a flexible contact pad mounted on the contact area for providing flexible support to a body part.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber, a housing, and a motorized pedicure apparatus mounted within a receptacle on the housing.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber and a fluid dispenser for dispensing a fluid upon manual actuation.

An even further aspect of the invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber and a removable bristle pad disposed therein.

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber for containing fluid. A lid is mounted to the bath chamber and extends partially over the bath chamber. A showerhead is provided on an underside of the lid and is oriented towards the bath chamber. A fluid pump draws fluid from the bath chamber and pumps the fluid through the showerhead for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part received within the bath chamber.

A further aspect of the present invention is wherein the showerhead is integrated with the lid.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is wherein the showerhead is viewable from atop the lid.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fluid channel in the lid for conveying fluid to the showerhead.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a pair of showerheads. An even further aspect of the present invention is wherein the lid is at least partially transparent so that a user may view the flow of fluid through the showerhead.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide false nozzle configurations formed within the showerhead so that the user may visually identify the showerhead when the showerhead is not in operation.

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a bath apparatus having a bath chamber for containing fluid. A lid is mounted to the bath chamber and extends partially over the bath chamber. A fluid nozzle is provided on the lid and is oriented towards the bath chamber. A fluid pump draws fluid from the bath chamber and pumps the fluid through the nozzle for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part received within the bath chamber. The lid and the nozzle are at least partially transparent so that a user may view the nozzle and flow of fluid therethrough.

Accordingly, an aspect of the present invention is to provide a footbath with an output sound level that is less than prior art footbaths.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a footbath having a bath chamber for retaining water. A fan is mounted within a housing of the footbath for providing air through a plurality of egress apertures formed within a platform of the bath chamber to thereby provide a bubbling massage effect to an underside of a body part within the bath chamber. A sound level measurement of the fan in operation under defined testing conditions is less than a sound level measurement of the bubbling massage effect measured under the same testing conditions.

Another aspect of the present invention is wherein the fan includes a motor mount bracket mounted to the housing, and a motor mounted to the bracket. The motor includes a rotary output shaft for driving an impeller. The impeller has a series of toric impeller blades. A volute shroud is mounted to the bracket for enclosing the impeller. The shroud includes an axial infeed port and a tangential outfeed port. Rotation of the motor drives the impeller within the shroud and forces air through the infeed port into the shroud and out of the shroud through the tangential outfeed port. The forced air is introduced into the basin through the egress apertures for providing the bubbling massage effect.

The above aspects, and other aspects, objects, features, advantages, embodiments and benefits of the present invention are readily apparent from the detailed description of the embodiments of the invention when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 2 is a top plan view of the bath apparatus shown in Figure

1;

FIGURE 3 is a partially exploded view of the bath apparatus shown in Figure 1 ;

FIGURE 4 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of the bath apparatus of Figure 5, illustrated with a handle in an extended position;

FIGURE 7 is a side elevation view of the bath apparatus of Figure 5, illustrated with the handle in the extended position; FIGURE 8 is an enlarged partial section view of an exemplary pivotal connection between a handle and a bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 9 is an enlarged side perspective view of an exemplary pivotal connection between a handle and a bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 11 is an enlarged partial section view of a bath apparatus and a handle in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 12 is an enlarged partial section view of a pivotal connection of a bath apparatus and a handle in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 13 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 14a is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 14b is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of the bath apparatus of Figure 5, illustrated with a pedicure apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the pedicure apparatus of Figure 15; FIGURE 17 is a perspective view of yet another alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 18 is an enlarged partially exploded perspective view of a fluid dispenser of the bath apparatus of Figure 17;

FIGURE 19 is an enlarged perspective view of an alternative lid for the bath apparatus of Figure 17;

FIGURE 20 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 21 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 22 is a top plan view of the bath apparatus shown in Figure 1 , illustrated with a bristle pad in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 23 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevation view of the bristle pad of Figure 22;

FIGURE 24 is a perspective view of a bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 25 is a top plan view of the bath apparatus shown in Figure 24;

FIGURE 26 is a partially exploded view of the bath apparatus shown in Figure 24;

FIGURE 27 is a partial sectional view of the bath apparatus of Figure 24 shown including a float switch in a first position; FIGURE 28 is a partial sectional view of the bath apparatus of Figure 24 shown with the float switch in a second position;

FIGURE 29 is a partial section side view of a lid of the bath apparatus shown in Figure 24, taken across a showerhead provided on the lid;

FIGURE 30 is a partial sectional top view of an alternative embodiment showerhead in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 31 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment bath apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 32 is a perspective view of a bath apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention;

FIGURE 33 is a top plan view of the bath apparatus of FIGURE 32;

FIGURE 34 is a side elevational view of the bath apparatus of FIGURE 32, wherein the wall structure is partially cut away to show a user's foot engaging the contact portion;

FIGURE 35 is a fragmentary view of a pump, heating, vibration, and massage assemblies located on the underside of a bath chamber of the bath apparatus of FIGURE 32;

FIGURE 36 is a side perspective view of the pump assembly of FIGURE 35;

FIGURE 37 is an enlarged top plan view of the pump assembly of

FIGURE 35, illustrated with a shroud removed; and FIGURE 38 is a side elevational, partial section view of the pump assembly of FIGURE 35.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1 shows a bath apparatus 30 in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 30 can be used to provide heat, water jets, bubbles, and combinations thereof to body parts, such as feet. The bath apparatus 30 is preferably constructed from a plastic material so as to be lightweight and portable, as well as durable, leakproof, and corrosion resistant. Although the bath apparatus

30 is illustrated and described herein as being particularly adaptable for use as a footbath, it is understood that the bath apparatus 30 of the present invention may be used for bathing other body parts, such as the hands.

The bath apparatus 30 includes a bath chamber 32 for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part, such as the foot, therein. The bath chamber 32 includes a bottom surface 34 and a wall structure 36 extending upwardly therefrom. The wall structure 36 terminates in an upper surface 38 that includes a contact portion 40 adapted to be exposed when water is contained in the bath chamber 32. The bottom surface 34 can be generally parallel to a supporting surface on which the bath apparatus 30 is placed, or alternatively, the bottom surface 34 could be slanted downward toward the user.

The bath chamber 32 is of a length and width to accommodate the feet of an adult user, such that sufficient space is provided for the user's feet to be readily inserted and removed, and to allow the feet to be moved about slightly while in position within the bath chamber 32. In a preferred embodiment, the bath chamber 32 is generally U-shaped and the contact portion 40 is generally peninsular and centrally disposed within the bath chamber 32. With this configuration, a user's feet are received on either side of the peninsular contact portion 40, wherein the feet are spaced apart sufficiently to provide comfortable placement. For use, the bath chamber 32 is filled with water to a level such that a user's feet may be submerged up to approximately the height of the ankles. A maximum fill level may be indicated, such as the marking illustrated in Figure 1 , so that an optimal fill level is obtained with the combination of water and feet placed within the bath chamber 32. A user can then easily remove his/her feet for placement on contact portion 40 for targeted therapy as described below. Of course, it is understood that contact portion 40 can have any location on bath apparatus 30 which remains uncovered by water and is accessible to the user.

With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the bottom surface 34 of bath chamber 32 includes a plurality of raised nodes 42 which can be of varying sizes. The nodes 42 function to massage the feet upon contact, and also allow water to flow under them. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, bath apparatus 30 further includes a lid 44 adapted to be attached to the wall structure 16 to at least partially cover an opening of the bath chamber 32. The lid 44 is preferably constructed from a plastic material, and is sufficiently rigid so that it can be used as a foot rest when only one foot is submersed with the bath chamber 32. The lid 44 also includes a pair of showerheads 46, 48 for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect to the user's feet when disposed within the bath chamber 32.

The bath apparatus 30 includes three operational switches, namely massage/heat switch 50, shower switch 52 and bubbles/heat switch 54. Each switch 50, 52, 54 operates a feature independent of one another so that a user may select one or a combination of these features. Wiring interconnects the switches 50, 52, 54 with each of the corresponding mechanical/electrical assemblies described below, which are then powered via connection of a standard power cord 56 to any 110 V AC outlet.

Referring now to Figures 1-3, several mechanical/electrical assemblies of bath apparatus 30 of the present invention will now be described.

The bath chamber 32 is provided within an upper housing portion 58. Each of the following assemblies is housed in a cavity provided between the upper housing portion 58 and a lower housing portion 60. A heater (not shown) is provided in communication with the bath chamber 32 and is powered by either of the massage/heat switch 50 and bubbles/heat switch 54. The heater may be a rope heating element that is operable to conduct heat to the water contained within the bath chamber 32. The heated water maintained by the rope heating element relieves tired muscles and promotes circulation of the blood. The rope heating element is positioned to wind back and forth to substantially cover bath chamber bottom surface 34. The rope heating element preferably includes insulated conducting wires, wherein the conductive materials are capable of transmitting heat to the bath chamber bottom surface 34 without generating temperatures that exceed the melting point of the plastic material used to construct the bath apparatus.

Rope heating elements are well known in the art of footbaths and are disclosed in assignee's U.S. Patent Number 6,568,000 Bl issued to Kaufman et al., titled Bath Apparatus with Therapy Centers; and U.S. Patent Number 6,725,471 B2 issued to Ferber et al. , titled Bath Apparatus. The Kaufman et al. and Ferber et al. patents are incorporated in their entirety by reference herein.

The bath apparatus 30 further includes an air pump (not shown) disposed adjacent to bottom surface 34 of bath chamber 32 and in communication therewith. The pump is turned on and off by the bubbles/heat switch 54. The pump directs air into bath chamber 32 to generate air bubbles in the water contained therein. The pump forces air through an outlet tube which is connected to an injection molded bubble egress strip or tube 62 formed in communication with bath chamber bottom surface 34. The egress tube 62 is generally U-shaped and extends from a first side 64 to a second side 66 of the bath chamber bottom surface 34. Air is forced out of a plurality of egress holes 68 that are provided along the bubble egress tube 62 to form air bubbles in the water contained in bath chamber 32. Of course, the outlet tube and the egress tube 62 could be constructed as a single component. Alternatively, one egress tube could be disposed within the first side 64 of bottom surface 34, and another egress tube could be disposed within the second side 66 of bottom surface 34.

In addition to the generally U-shaped configuration of the bubble egress tube 62 depicted in Figs. 1 and 2, the bubble egress tube 62 can be constructed to have various configurations which provide more complete coverage of bath chamber bottom surface 34. For example, bubble egress tube 62 can have a linear configuration, a continuous curvilinear configuration, including at least one generally S-shaped segment or at least one reverse curve, such as a serpentine configuration, as illustrated in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. Alternatively, the bubble egress tube 62 can include a continuous configuration of linear segments, such as a square- wave or a sawtooth configuration, as illustrated in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent.

The bubble egress tube 62 is disposed below the bath chamber bottom surface 34, such that the plurality of egress holes 68 are flush with bottom surface 34. Alternatively, the bubble egress tube 62 may protrude at least partially above bottom surface 34, such that egress holes 68 are raised above bottom surface 34. The plurality of bubble egress holes 68 can be positioned at multiple axial locations along the egress tube 62, thereby providing an even greater ability to generate bubbles within a given area of bottom surface 34.

Still further, bath apparatus 30 includes a vibration assembly (not shown) in communication with bath chamber 32 for imparting vibration to bath chamber 32 to provide a massaging effect to the feet. The vibration assembly is turned on and off by actuation of the massage/heat switch 50. The vibration assembly includes a motor affixed to an underside of bath chamber 32, an output shaft rotatably driven by the motor, and a counterweight affixed to the output shaft. The vibration assembly is affixed underneath a central portion of bath chamber 32 by a motor support bracket. When the motor is electrically powered by actuation of massage/heat switch 50, rotation of the output shaft and the attached counterweight imparts vibrations to the motor support bracket, and these vibrations are then transferred to bath chamber 32 and the water contained therein in order to massage the feet. Foot baths with vibration assemblies are disclosed in further detail in the Kaufman et al. 6,568,000 and Ferber et al. 6,725,471 patents, which have been incorporated by reference. The lower housing portion 60 includes a plurality of feet 70 constructed from a material such as rubber to resist movement of bath apparatus 30 along a supporting surface. It is fully contemplated that variable vibration intensities could be provided in accordance with the present invention. The contact portion 20 is configured to receive massage attachments such as massage attachment 72, or such as the attachments disclosed in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. Massage attachments advantageously allow for massage to be targeted to specific locations of the foot such as the ball, heel, or arch. As shown in Figure 3, a motor 74 is disposed on an underside of the bath chamber 32, and may be attached to the underside of the contact portion 40 or to the lower housing portion 60 with a motor bracket 76, using screws (not shown). The various massage attachments are adapted to be received on an output shaft that is rotatably driven by the motor 74 and adapted to be accessible through the contact portion 40. The motorized rotation of the massage attachments such as the massage attachment 72, is activated by pressure of a body part applied thereon, which then establishes electrical contact to supply power to the motor 74. Alternatively, the motor 74 can be configured to operate when the user actuates a manual switch (not shown).

The contact portion 40 also includes a gel pad 78 mounted proximate to the massage attachment 72 for providing comfortable, padded, flexible support to a portion of the user's foot, such as the heel, as the user receives a massage effect from the massage attachment 72. The gel pad 78 enhances traction and friction for steady placement of the user's foot or other body part without slipping off of the contact portion 40. Additionally the gel pad 78 is much softer than the typically structurally rigid contact portion 40.

A fluid pump may also be provided for pumping water through the showerheads 46, 48. The pump is controlled by the shower switch 52.

Referring now to Figures 1 to 3, the bath apparatus 30 further includes a handle 80. The handle 80 is generally arcuate and is pivotally connected to the bath chamber upper surface 40 at pivotal connections 82, 84 on lateral sides thereof. In the retracted orientation of the handle 80, as illustrated in Figures 1 to

3, the handle 80 is streamlined into an aesthetic appearance of the bath chamber upper surface 40. The pivotal connections 82, 84 are provided so that when the handle 80 is pivoted to an extended orientation, as illustrated in phantom in Figure 1, a central portion 86 of the handle 80 is disposed over a center a gravity for the bath apparatus 30 and fluid retained therein. Thus, the handle 80 assists in manual transportation and portability of the bath apparatus 30. Although a pair of pivotal connections 82, 84 are illustrated, the invention contemplates that the handle 80 may have only one pivotal connection and the handle 80 may be cantilevered from the pivotal connection.

One-handed transportation is capable by providing the handle 80 with the central grip portion 86 displaced above and generally aligned with the center of gravity of the bath apparatus 30 when filled with fluid. This transportation permits the user to carry the bath apparatus 30 by the user's side, resulting in steady transportation, thereby minimizing spilling and splashing.

The lid 44 generally lessens spilling and splashing during transportation and operation of the bath apparatus 30 by covering a portion of the opening of the bath chamber 32. The lid 44 is further provided with a pair of spouts 88, 90 each disposed adjacent to, and on lateral sides of duct work to the showerheads 46, 48. The spouts 88, 90 provide openings in the lid 44 such that a user may dispose the fluid within the bath chamber 32 by grasping the handle 80 in the upright position and tilting the bath chamber 32 into an orientation wherein the spouts 88, 90 are lowered relative to the pivotal connections 82, 84. Thus, the user may dispose the liquid by lifting a rear portion of the bath chamber 32 upward thereby pouring the liquid at a limited rate and region of flow for disposing the liquid. Of course, the invention contemplates that one spout or any number of spouts may be provided in the bath chamber 32.

Referring now to Figure 4, an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 92 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. Like elements retain same reference numerals wherein new elements are assigned new reference numerals.

The bath apparatus 92 includes a generally arcuate handle 94 pivotally connected to lateral sides of the bath apparatus 92 at pivotal connections 82, 84. The handle 94 pivots about a pivot axis 96 between an extended position and a retracted position. The handle 94 includes a central grip portion 98 that is displaced generally perpendicular to the pivot axis 96. This orientation of the central grip portion 98 facilitates ergonomic transportation, such that a user may grasp the grip portion 98 and carry the bath apparatus 92 with one hand adjacent to a side of the user, without having to rotate the user's wrist. Thus, with the offset central grip portion 98, the user may transport the bath apparatus 92 by grasping the handle 94 in an orientation that is relatively natural and ergonomic for positioning a user's arm and wrist at the user's side.

With reference now to Figures 5 through 7, an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 100 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 100 has a housing 102 with a generally arcuate handle 104 pivotally connected to lateral sides thereof for a retracted position as illustrated in Figure 5, and an extended position as illustrated in Figures 6 and 7. Unlike the prior embodiment wherein the handle 80 is streamlined into the peripheral rim of the bath chamber 32 and the upper surface 38, the handle 104 of the bath apparatus 100 is oriented outboard of the bath chamber 32. Further, the handle 104 is disposed beneath the bath apparatus upper surface 38 for providing a streamlined housing appearance.

The housing 102 includes a recess 106 formed thereabout for receiving the handle 104 in the retracted position thereby enhancing compactness of the housing 102 and handle 104.

As illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the handle 104 extends to an orientation wherein a central grip portion 108 is disposed above the center of gravity of the bath apparatus 100. Additionally, the central grip portion 108 may be provided with an overmolded elastomeric grip surface 110 for enhancing a user's grasp about the grip portion 108.

With reference now to Figure 7, a pivotal connection for the handle 104 is illustrated with dashed lines and referenced by numeral 112. The invention contemplates multiple pivotal connection points such as pivotal connections labeled with numerals 114, 116, 118. By providing multiple pivotal connection points, the user may mount the handle 104 to a desired position on the housing 102 thereby facilitating customized handle orientations for filling, emptying or transporting the bath apparatus 100.

With reference now to Figure 8, an exemplary embodiment pivotal connection 112 is illustrated in greater detail. The housing 102 includes a plurality of threaded inserts that are insert-molded into the housing 102, such as threaded insert 120 that is illustrated at pivotal connection 112. A threaded insert 120 is provided for each of the pivotal connections 112, 114, 116, 118. The pivotal connection 112 includes a shoulder bolt 122 for securing the handle 104 to the threaded insert 120. Specifically, the shoulder bolt 122 includes a threaded end 124 that is threadably engaged within the threaded insert 120. The shoulder bolt 122 also includes a shaft body 126 extending from the threaded end 124 to a knurled head 128. The handle 104 is bearingly supported about the shaft body 126. The knurled head 128 permits a user to rotate the shoulder bolt 122 thereby disengaging the threaded end 124 from the threaded insert 120. The shaft body 126 may include a retaining clip 130 mounted thereto for retaining the shoulder bolt 122 to the handle 104 when disengaged from the housing 102. Thus, the user may unscrew the shoulder bolt 122 at the pivotal connection, such as pivotal connection 112 and reassemble the handle 104 to an alternate pivotal connection.

With reference now to Figure 9, an alternative embodiment pivotal connection 132 is illustrated for mounting the handle 104 at multiple attachment points along the housing 102. Specifically, the housing 102 includes a plurality of cam tracks such as cam track 134 formed within a lateral side of the housing 102 within a peripheral rim of the bath chamber 32. The cam track 134 includes a vertical portion 136 for insertion of a pin 138 that extends from the handle 104. The cam track 134 also includes a horizontal portion 140 for receiving the pin 138. A pair of leaf springs 142, 144 are provided within the horizontal portion 140 for snapping the pin 138 into a locked location within the horizontal portion 140. If the user desires an alternative attachment point from the pivotal connection 132, the user grasps the handle 104 and biases the handle 104 in a direction such that the pin 138 compresses the leaf springs 142, 144 thereby translating the pin 138 through the cam track 134. Thus, the user may disengage the handle 104 from the housing 102 and reengage it at another cam track 134 along the housing 102.

With reference to Figure 10, an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 146 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, the bath apparatus 146 includes an upper housing portion 148 that includes a bath chamber 150. The upper housing portion 148 is removable from a lower housing portion 152. Thus, for filling and emptying the bath chamber 150, the user may grasp the handle 80 and remove the upper housing portion 148 from the lower housing portion 152. This arrangement of the upper and lower housing portions 148, 152 reduces the total amount of weight required for transportation by the user by retaining the therapeutic operational assemblies within the lower housing portion 152. Of course, disconnects may be provided between the operational assemblies such as a disconnect through ducting to the egress strip 62 or a disconnect at the output shaft that drives the massage attachment 72.

With reference now to Figure 11, the handle 80 is illustrated in the retracted position in cooperation with a locking mechanism 154. The locking mechanism 154 may be utilized for retaining the handle 80 in the retracted position. The locking mechanism 154 includes a lever 156 pivotally connected to the upper housing portion 58. A compression spring 158 is mounted between the upper housing portion 58 and the lever 156 for extending the lever 156 to the locked orientation as illustrated in Figure 11. Lever 156 includes a leading edge 160 so that as the handle 80 is translated from the extended position to the retracted position, the handle 80 engages the leading edge 160 thereby translating the lever 156 towards the upper housing portion 58 and compressing the spring 158. Once the handle 80 is translated fully to the retracted position, the spring 158 biases the lever 156 forward to the locked orientation.

The handle 80 may include a mechanism for extending the handle 80 to the extended orientation. With reference now to Figure 12, an enlarged partial section view of an alternative embodiment pivotal connection 162 is illustrated. The handle 80 may include an aperture 164 for receiving a pivot shaft 166 extending laterally from the bath apparatus 30. A torsion spring 168 is provided in engagement to the pivot shaft 166 of the bath apparatus 30 at a first end thereof. A second of the torsion spring 168 is engaged to a projection 170 on the handle 80. Thus, the torsion spring 168 biases the handle 80 to the upright or extended position.

The mechanism for extending the handle 80 may be electronically controlled. For example, with reference again to Figure 11, a solenoid 172 may be provided in the upper housing portion 58. The solenoid 172 may drive a link 174 that is pivotally connected to the lever 156. Thus, the solenoid 172 may actuate the link 174 and the lever 156 thereby releasing the handle 80 so that the torsion spring 168 may extend the handle 80 to the extended position.

Referring now to Figure 13, another alternative bath apparatus 176 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 176 includes a handle 178 that is disposed within a recess 180 formed within the bath chamber bottom surface 34. The handle 178 is pivotally connected to the bath chamber bottom surface 34 about a pivot axis 182 that is generally aligned with a center of gravity of the bath apparatus 176. A pair of notches 184 are provided within the recess 180 so that the user may grasp the handle 178 and translate the handle 178 from a retracted orientation to an extended orientation. In the retracted orientation, the handle 178 is aligned generally flush with the bath chamber bottom surface 34. Thus, a top surface of the handle 178 forms part of the bath chamber bottom surface 34. Accordingly, massage nodes 186 may be provided on the handle 178 for providing a uniform massage node pattern along the bath chamber bottom surface 34. The bath apparatus 176 provides the handle 178 in an orientation that both assists manual transportation and conceals the handle 178 when not in use.

With reference to Figure 14a, an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 188 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 188 includes a pair of wheels 190 disposed along a lower region of the lower housing portion 60. Additionally, a telescoping handle 192 is provided that retracts beneath the lower housing portion 60 and also extends therefrom, as illustrated in Figure 14a, so that a user may grasp the handle and transport the bath apparatus 188 upon the wheels 190. The bath apparatus 188 includes a lid 194 so that the bath apparatus can be transported with fluid contained therein so that when the bath apparatus 188 is tilted to an angle, as illustrated in Figure 14a, the bath chamber 32 and the lid 194 collectively retain the fluid therein.

The bath apparatus 188 may also have a total of four wheels 190 as illustrated in Figure 14b for transporting the bath apparatus 188. Each wheel 190 may be disposed beneath one of the feet 70, and may be retractable into the lower housing portion 60. Additionally the telescoping handle 192 may be pivotally connected to the lower housing portion 60 in the extended position so that the handle 192 may extend upward from the bath apparatus 188. By providing four wheels 190 on the bath apparatus 188, the user may transport the bath apparatus 188 generally horizontally when filled with fluid, thereby minimizing the likelihood of spilling.

Figure 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 196 in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 196 is provided with a pedicure station 198. The pedicure station 198 is a receptacle formed within a housing 200 of the bath apparatus 196 that retains a motorized pedicure apparatus

202 for imparting a rotary pedicure effect to a body part of a user, particularly to the foot. Pedicure apparatuses are well known in the art, for providing treatment to the feet of a user. Pedicure apparatuses are often provided with multiple interchangeable attachments. Accordingly, a secondary lid 204 is pivotally connected to the lid 44 for enclosing a compartment 206 therebetween which retains a plurality of interchangeable pedicure attachments 208.

The pedicure station 198 is generally angled toward the bath chamber 32 so that the pedicure apparatus 202 is positioned whereby a user may place a body part against an attachment of the pedicure apparatus 202 for applying a rotary pedicure effect thereto. Alternatively, the user may manually grasp the pedicure apparatus 202 and remove it from the pedicure station 198 for conveying the pedicure apparatus 202 to the body part, rather than conveying the body part to the pedicure apparatus 202. With reference now to Figure 16, the pedicure apparatus 202 is illustrated in enlarged and in greater detail. The pedicure apparatus 202 has an elongate housing 210 that is sized to be grasped by a user. The pedicure apparatus 202 includes a motor 212 oriented within the housing 210. The motor 212 drives an output spindle 214. The output spindle 214 is adapted to receive multiple pedicure attachments 208 such as pedicure attachment 216 for providing a variety of rotary pedicure effects to the user. These pedicure attachments 208 may include coarse, medium and fine pumice characteristics, as well as brushes, rollers and the like.

The housing 210 is further provided with an elastomeric grip surface

218, which may be overmolded over the housing 210 for providing comfort to the grip of the user and for enhancing the grip of the user.

The pedicure apparatus 202 may be attached to the pedicure station 198 via a tether 220. The tether 220 avoids misplacement of the pedicure apparatus 202 from the bath apparatus 196. Additionally, the tether 220 includes conductive wiring therein for providing a power source from the bath apparatus 196 to the motor 212 of the pedicure apparatus 202. Further, the tether 220 may be retractable within one of the pedicure station 198 and the pedicure apparatus housing 210 for providing cord management of the tether 220.

With reference now to Figure 17, another alternative embodiment bath apparatus 222 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 222 includes a pedicure apparatus 224 having a pedicure station 226 within the pedicure attachment compartment 206. Additionally, the pedicure apparatus 224 has an elastomeric grip surface 228 that is contoured about a forward portion of the housing 210 and partially surrounds an on/off switch 230 of the pedicure apparatus 224.

The bath apparatus 222 further includes a series of comfort attachments 232 for enhancing the therapeutic effects of the bathing operation. The comfort attachments 232 may be interchangeable and may include the options of gel pads, loofahs, pumice, bristles, or the like. The invention contemplates that the bristles may be provided in various arrangements with varying densities and lengths. The bristles may be utilized for cleaning of the feet or for providing a comfortable artificial turf feel to the underside of the user's feet.

The bath apparatus 222 also includes a peninsular contact portion 234 extending from the bath chamber 32. With reference to Figures 17 and 18, the contact portion 234 includes a reservoir 236 for retaining a therapeutic additive, such as lotion, therein. The contact portion 234 further includes a dome-shaped cover 238 that is generally flexible and has a series of apertures 240 formed therethrough. The user may dispense a fluid from the reservoir 236, such as lotion, by depressing cover 238 with a body part so that the lotion is dispensed through the apertures 240 upon the body part.

Referring now to Figure 19, the lid 44 of the bath apparatus may include multiple inserts 240 for providing various therapeutic pedicure effects. For example, the inserts 240 may be formed from pumice, loofah, bristles, gel pads, or the like. Additionally, the inserts may be generally transparent to view an operation performed beneath the lid 44, such as a pressurized fluid massage effect.

In Figure 20, an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 242 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 242 includes a contoured lid 244 having showerheads 246, 248 formed on the underside thereof for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon a top surface of a user's feet. The bath apparatus 242 may be provided with a pedicure station 198 for retaining a motorized pedicure apparatus.

Figure 21 illustrates another alternative embodiment bath apparatus 250. The bath apparatus 250 includes a handle 252 that is integrated into an opening of a bath chamber 254. The handle 252 may be fixed relative to the bath chamber 250 or may be pivotally connected thereto. The handle 252 is displaced above the center of gravity of the bath apparatus 250 and does not need to be retracted during operation. Referring now to Figure 22, the bath apparatus 30 from Figures 1-3 is illustrated with a removable comfort attachment disposed therein. Specifically, a bristle pad 256 is inserted into the bath chamber 32. The bristle pad 256 is sized to rest upon the bath chamber bottom surface 34 and may include suction cups for securing the bristle pad 256 to the bath chamber bottom surface 34. Additionally, the bristle pad 256 is formed to provide clearance for the egress strip 62 so that the bubbling massage effect is not interfered with by the bristle pad.

Figure 23 illustrates an enlarged fragmentary side elevation of the bristle pad 256. The bristle pad 256 includes a series of elastomeric bristles 258 extending from the pad 256. The bristles 258 are formed from a low durometer material so that the bristles 258 are flexible and comforting to the feet of the user. The bristles 258 provide a feel similar to artificial grass or turf and may provide a bristle massage effect to the feet of the user. The invention contemplates that the bristles 258 may have varying lengths, widths, densities, or other characteristics.

During the vibrational massage operation of the bath apparatus 30, the bristles 258 convey a flexible vibratory massage effect upon the feet of the user. Additionally, the bristles 258 may enhance the flow of fluid beneath the user's feet thereby soothing the undersides of the feet.

In summary, multiple auxiliary features are provided for adding to the overall bathing and therapeutic experience, while enhancing transportation and incorporating products that are typically provided separate from bathing apparatuses.

Figure 24 shows a bath apparatus 310 in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 310 can be used to provide heat, water jets, bubbles, and combinations thereof to body parts, such as feet. The bath apparatus 310 is preferably constructed from a plastic material so as to be lightweight and portable, as well as durable, leakproof, and corrosion resistant. Although the bath apparatus 310 is illustrated and described herein as being particularly adaptable for use as a footbath, it is understood that the bath apparatus 310 of the present invention may be used for bathing other body parts, such as the hands. The bath apparatus 310 includes a bath chamber 312 for containing fluid, such as water, and receiving the body part, such as the foot, therein. The bath chamber 312 includes a bottom surface 314 and a wall structure 316 extending upwardly therefrom. The wall structure 316 terminates in an upper surface 318 that includes a contact portion 320 adapted to be exposed when water is contained in the bath chamber 312. The bottom surface 314 can be generally parallel to a supporting surface on which the bath apparatus 310 is placed, or alternatively, the bottom surface 314 could be slanted downward toward the user.

The bath chamber 312 is of a length and width to accommodate the feet of an adult user, such that sufficient space is provided for the user's feet to be readily inserted and removed, and to allow the feet to be moved about slightly while in position within the bath chamber 312. In a preferred embodiment, the bath chamber 312 is generally U-shaped and the contact portion 320 is generally peninsular and centrally disposed within the bath chamber 312. With this configuration, a user's feet are received on either side of the peninsular contact portion 320, wherein the feet are spaced apart sufficiently to provide comfortable placement. For use, the bath chamber 312 is filled with water to a level such that a user's feet may be submerged up to approximately the height of the ankles. A maximum fill level may be indicated, such as the marking illustrated in Figure 24, so that an optimal fill level is obtained with the combination of water and feet placed within the bath chamber 312. A user can then easily remove his/her feet for placement on contact portion 320 for targeted therapy as described below. Of course, it is understood that contact portion 320 can have any location on bath apparatus 310 which remains uncovered by water and is accessible to the user.

With reference to Figures 24 and 25, the bottom surface 314 of bath chamber 312 includes a plurality of raised nodes 322 which can be of varying sizes . The nodes 322 function to massage the feet upon contact, and also allow water to flow under them. As shown in Figures 24 and 25, bath apparatus 310 further includes a lid 324 adapted to be attached to the wall structure 316 to at least partially cover an opening of the bath chamber 312. The lid 324 is preferably constructed from a plastic material, and is sufficiently rigid so that it can be used as a foot rest when only one foot is submersed with the bath chamber 312. The lid 324 also includes a pair of showerheads 326, 328 for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect to the user's feet when disposed within the bath chamber 312. Each showerhead 326, 328 may be, for example, an array of nozzles for conveying pressurized fluid.

The bath apparatus 310 includes three operational switches, namely massage/heat switch 330, shower switch switch 330 and bubbles/heat switch 334. Each switch 330, switch 330, 334 operates a feature independent of one another so that a user may select one or a combination of these features. Wiring interconnects the switches 330, switch 332, 334 with each of the corresponding mechanical/electrical assemblies described below, which are then powered via connection of a standard power cord 336 to any 110 V AC outlet.

Referring now to Figures 24-26, several mechanical/electrical assemblies of bath apparatus 310 of the present invention will now be described. The bath chamber 312 is provided within an upper housing portion 337. Each of the following assemblies is housed in a cavity provided between the upper housing portion 337 and a lower housing portion 338. A heater (not shown) is provided in communication with the bath chamber 312 and is powered by either of the massage/heat switch 330 and bubbles/heat switch 334. The heater may be a rope heating element that is operable to conduct heat to the water contained within the bath chamber 312. The heated water maintained by the rope heating element relieves tired muscles and promotes circulation of the blood. The rope heating element is positioned to wind back and forth to substantially cover bath chamber bottom surface 314. The rope heating element preferably includes insulated conducting wires, wherein the conductive materials are capable of transmitting heat to the bath chamber bottom surface 314 without generating temperatures that exceed the melting point of the plastic material used to construct the bath apparatus.

The bath apparatus 310 further includes an air pump (not shown) disposed adjacent to bottom surface 314 of bath chamber 312 and in communication therewith. The pump is turned on and off by the bubbles/heat switch 334. The pump directs air into bath chamber 312 to generate air bubbles in the water contained therein. The pump forces air through an outlet tube which is connected to an injection molded bubble egress strip or tube 340 formed in communication with bath chamber bottom surface 314. The egress tube 340 is generally U-shaped and extends from a first side 342 to a second side 344 of the bath chamber bottom surface 314. Air is forced out of a plurality of egress holes 346 that are provided along the bubble egress tube 340 to form air bubbles in the water contained in bath chamber 312. Of course, the outlet tube and the egress tube 340 could be constructed as a single component. Alternatively, one egress tube could be disposed within the first side 342 of bottom surface 314, and another egress tube could be disposed within the second side 344 of bottom surface 314.

In addition to the generally U-shaped configuration of the bubble egress tube 340 depicted in Figs. 1 and 2, the bubble egress tube 340 can be constructed to have various configurations which provide more complete coverage of bath chamber bottom surface 314. For example, bubble egress tube 340 can have a linear configuration, a continuous curvilinear configuration, including at least one generally S-shaped segment or at least one reverse curve, such as a serpentine configuration, as illustrated in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. Alternatively, the bubble egress tube 340 can include a continuous configuration of linear segments, such as a square- wave or a sawtooth configuration, as illustrated in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent.

The bubble egress tube 340 is disposed below the bath chamber bottom surface 314, such that the plurality of egress holes 346 are flush with bottom surface 314. Alternatively, the bubble egress tube 340 may protrude at least partially above bottom surface 314, such that egress holes 346 are raised above bottom surface 314. The plurality of bubble egress holes 346 can be positioned at multiple axial locations along the egress tube 340, thereby providing an even greater ability to generate bubbles within a given area of bottom surface 314.

Still further, bath apparatus 310 includes a vibration assembly (not shown) in communication with bath chamber 312 for imparting vibration to bath chamber 312 to provide a massaging effect to the feet. The vibration assembly is turned on and off by actuation of the massage/heat switch 330. The vibration assembly includes a motor affixed to an underside of bath chamber 312, an output shaft rotatably driven by the motor, and a counterweight affixed to the output shaft. The vibration assembly is affixed underneath a central portion of bath chamber 312 by a motor support bracket. When the motor is electrically powered by actuation of massage/heat switch 330, rotation of the output shaft and the attached counterweight imparts vibrations to the motor support bracket, and these vibrations are then transferred to bath chamber 312 and the water contained therein in order to massage the feet. Foot baths with vibration assemblies are disclosed in further detail in the Kaufman et al. 6,568,000 and Ferber et al. 6,725,471 patents, which have been incorporated by reference. The lower housing portion 338 includes a plurality of feet 348 constructed from a material such as rubber to resist movement of bath apparatus 310 along a supporting surface. It is fully contemplated that variable vibration intensities could be provided in accordance with the present invention.

The contact portion 320 is configured to receive massage attachments such as massage attachment 350, or such as the attachments disclosed in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. Massage attachments advantageously allow for massage to be targeted to specific locations of the foot such as the ball, heel, or arch. As shown in Figure 26, a motor 352 is disposed on an underside of the bath chamber 312, and may be attached to the underside of the contact portion 320 or to the lower housing portion 338 with a motor bracket 354, using screws (not shown). The various massage attachments are adapted to be received on an output shaft that is rotatably driven by the motor 352 and adapted to be accessible through the contact portion 320. The motorized rotation of the massage attachments such as the massage attachment 350, is activated by pressure of a body part applied thereon, which then establishes electrical contact to supply power to the motor 352. Alternatively, the motor 352 can be configured to operate when the user actuates a manual switch (not shown).

The contact portion 320 also includes a gel pad 356 mounted proximate to the massage attachment 350 for providing comfortable, padded, flexible support to a portion of the user's foot, such as the heel, as the user receives a massage effect from the massage attachment 350.

Referring now to Figure 26, a fluid pump 358 is provided for pumping water through the showerheads 326, 328. The pump is controlled by the shower switch switch 330. It is shown that the fluid pump 358 includes an inlet 360 and an outlet 362. The inlet 360 is configured to draw fluid through an intake port 364 in the bath chamber bottom surface 314. The fluid pump 358 receives power through the electrical cord 336. Because the bath apparatus 310 may include devices and electrical circuits that require a voltage other than that provided by a standard electrical outlet, a transformer 366 is provided. In order to directly heat water in the bath chamber, the bath apparatus 310 may includes a heater 368. The heater 368 utilizes a resistive heating element 370, though the use of other types of heaters is contemplated. The heater 368 may be utilized in combination with, or as an alternative to the heating rope element.

The bath apparatus 310 may also include a float switch 372, the operation of which is shown in Figures 27 and 28. The float switch 372 includes a switch portion 374 and a float portion 376. The switch portion 374 is in electrical communication with the fluid pump 358, the wiring for which is not illustrated, for clarity. As shown in Figures 27 and 28, the float portion 376 is configured to float in bath chamber fluid 378, thereby rising when the fluid level in the bath chamber 312 rises. As seen in Figures 24 and 26, the bath chamber 312 may include a plurality of slots 380, which allow the fluid to enter a float chamber 382— see Figures 27 and 28. In Figure 27, the float portion 376 of the float switch 372 is at its lowest level. In fact, the level of the fluid 378 is not great enough to even contact the float portion 376. The switch portion 374 is shown in Figure 27 in a first position, which prohibits operation of the fluid pump 358. In this way, the use of the float switch 372 helps to ensure that the fluid pump 358 will not operate unless an adequate amount of fluid 378 is in the bath chamber 312.

In Figure 28, the fluid 378 is at a higher level, which has caused the float portion 376 of the float switch 372 to rise upward. When there is enough fluid 378 in the bath chamber 312, the float portion 376 rises to a certain level that is high enough to actuate the switch portion 374. In particular, an arm 384 is attached to the float portion 376 and contacts a switch lever 386 on the switch portion 374. This places the switch portion 374 in a second position which facilitates operation of the fluid pump 358. In addition to prohibiting operation of the fluid pump 358 when the fluid level in the bath chamber 312 is too low, the float switch 372 can be similarly configured to prohibit operation of the heater 368. Because the heater 368 is configured to heat the fluid in the bath chamber 312, having it connected to the float switch 372 helps to ensure that it will not unnecessarily operate when there is little or no fluid in the bath chamber 312. Of course, if desired, the float switch 372 can be configured to prohibit operation of all of the bath chamber 310 electrical devices, including the massage attachment motor 352 and the vibration motor.

Referring again to Figures 24 and 25, the lid 324 and the showerheads 326, 328 are described with greater detail. An outlet port 388 is provided at a forward region of the bath chamber 312. The outlet port 388 is in fluid communication with the outlet 362 of the fluid pump 358. A pair of fluid channels 390, 392 converge at a first end 394 for receiving fluid from the outlet port 388. The fluid channels 390, 392 each diverge to a second end 396, 398 at one of the showerheads 326, 328 respectively for conveying fluid from the outlet port 388 to the showerheads 326, 328.

Referring now to Figure 29, an exemplary showerhead 326 is illustrated by way of example in partial section view for greater detail. The showerhead 326 includes a cavity 400 bounded by a top portion 402 of the lid 324, a sidewall 404 that extends downward from the lid 324, and a nozzle plate 406 mounted to the sidewall 404. The nozzle plate 406 includes a series of nozzles 408 each having a nozzle aperture 410. Thus, the fluid is pumped through the channel 390 into the cavity 400, and consequently out of the cavity 400 through the nozzle apertures 410 thereby providing a pressurized water massage effect upon a top surface of the user's foot.

The showerheads 326, 328 and the channels 390, 392 are formed integrated with the lid 324. For example, the lid 324 may be injection molded as a single component, and the sidewalls 404, the nozzle plates 406 and the channels 390, 392 may be injection molded as a separate component. The showerheads 326, 328 and the channels 390, 392 may be assembled as water-tight duct-work upon affixing the sidewalls 404 and the channels 390, 392 to the underside of the lid 324. These components may be affixed together by friction welding or the like. By forming the showerheads 326, 328 and channels 390, 392 integral with the lid 324, a relatively lightweight and compact pressurized fluid apparatus is provided for the bath apparatus 310.

The lid 324, the showerheads 326, 328 and the channels 390, 392 are formed from a polymer that is at least partially transparent. This material characteristic permits a user to view activity beneath the lid 324. It also permits the user to view flow of fluid from the outlet port 388 through the channels 390, 392 and through the showerheads 326, 328. Thus, an aesthetically pleasing fluid flow visual effect is provided in combination with the pressurized fluid massage effect. Additionally, the partially transparent material characteristic permits a user to readily identify that showerheads 326, 328 are provided beneath the lid 324. Thus, a manufacturer does not have to rely on packaging alone to identify features of the bath apparatus 310. For example, prior art bath apparatuses that include water jets are readily viewable because they are typically provided on the bottom surface of the bath chamber, or on the sidewalls. Since the showerheads 326, 328 of the present invention are provided beneath the lid 324, the partially transparent feature permits consumers to identify otherwise concealed product traits by visual inspection and without further investigation. In order to enhance such visual recognition, a series of false nozzle formations 412 are provided beneath the showerhead top portion 402, within the cavity 400. Due to the proximity of the false nozzle formations 412 to the top surface of the lid 324, a visual appearance is provided to the user that the showerheads 326, 328 include nozzles, such as the nozzles 408, even if the nozzles

408 are less noticeable than the nozzle formations 412. The false nozzle formations

412 each include a blind-depth hole 414 formed within the showerhead top portion

402 to enhance the recognition of the false nozzle formations 412 as actual nozzles, such as nozzles 408. Accordingly, the visual display of the showerheads 326, 328 is prominent by being viewed from atop the lid 324.

Although a simplified and integrated showerhead is illustrated by the showerhead 326 in Figure 29, the invention contemplates that showerheads of varying complexities, such as having an adjustable nozzle array for providing various spray patterns or directions is contemplated within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Referring now to Figure 30, an alternative embodiment showerhead 416 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The showerhead 416 is similar to prior embodiment showerheads 326, 328 and includes a sidewall 404 enclosed by a nozzle plate 406, which includes a series of nozzles 408 with nozzle apertures 410 formed therethrough. The showerhead 416 includes an impeller 418 within a showerhead cavity 400. The impeller 418 is pivotally connected to at least one of the lid 324 or the nozzle plate 406. For example, blind-depth holes may be provided in the lid 324 and the nozzle plate 406; and the impeller 418 may include a pin 420 extending into the blind-depth holes so that the impeller 418 is fixed for rotation to the showerhead 416.

The impeller 418 includes a series of blades 422 such that the flow of fluid from the channel 390 through the nozzle apertures 410 causes the impeller

418 to rotate in the direction illustrated by an arcuate arrow in Figure 30. The fan blades 422 interfere with the flow of fluid through the nozzles 408 thereby varying the output pressure for a given nozzle 408 as the impeller 418 rotates. Thus, a pulsating fluid massage effect is provided by the fan blades 422 interrupting the flow of fluid through the nozzles 408. Additionally, sequential fan blades 422 may be provided with a band 424 extending therebetween for limiting the flow of fluid through the nozzles 408 and for providing a dwell region across the pair of sequential fan blades 422. Various impeller designs may provide various pulsating pressurized fluid massage effects.

Referring again to Figures 24 to 26, the bath apparatus 310 further includes a handle 426. The handle 426 is generally arcuate and is pivotally connected to the bath chamber upper surface 318 at pivotal connections 428, 430 on lateral sides thereof. In the retracted orientation of the handle 426, as illustrated in Figures 24 to 26, the handle 426 is streamlined into an aesthetic appearance of the bath chamber upper surface 318. The pivotal connections 428, 430 are provided so that when the handle 426 is pivoted to an extended orientation, a central portion 432 of the handle 426 is disposed over a center a gravity for the bath apparatus 310 and fluid retained therein. Thus, the handle 426 assists in manual transportation and portability of the bath apparatus 310.

The lid 324 is further provided with a pair of spouts 434, 436 each disposed adjacent to the outlet port 388 on lateral sides thereof. The spouts 432, 434 provide openings in the lid 324 such that a user may dispose of fluid within the bath chamber 312 by grasping the handle 426 in the upright position and tilting the bath chamber 312 into an orientation wherein the spouts 434, 436 are lowered relative to the pivotal connections 428, 430. Thus, the user may dispose of the liquid by lifting a rear portion of the bath chamber 312 upward thereby pouring the liquid at a limited rate and region of flow for disposing the liquid. In summary, the bath apparatus 310 is provided with a pressurized massage effect from a showerhead, or a pair of showerheads 326, 328 for providing a pressurized massage effect upon an area of the user. In addition, the bath apparatus 310 is generally compact, lightweight and portable for facilitating filling, emptying, transportation and operation of the bath apparatus 310. Referring now to Figure 31, an alternative embodiment bath apparatus 438 is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The bath apparatus 438 includes a contoured lid 440 having showerheads 442, 444 formed on the underside thereof for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon a top surface of a user's feet. Since the contoured shape of the lid 440 provides an inclined surface 446 facing the user, this surface 446 may be provided with false nozzle formations 448 thereunder for viewing and appearance of a showerhead massage effect. The bath apparatus 438 may be provided with a pedicure station 450. The pedicure station 450 may retain a motorized pedicure apparatus for imparting a rotary pedicure effect to a body part of a user, particularly to the foot. Pedicure apparatuses are well known in the art, for providing treatment to the feet of a user. Pedicure apparatuses are often provided with multiple interchangeable attachments. Accordingly, a secondary lid 454 is pivotally connected to the lid 440 for enclosing a compartment 456 therebetween which retains a plurality of interchangeable pedicure attachments 458.

The bath apparatus 438 illustrates that the pressurized fluid massage effects provided by showerheads 326, 328, and the visual indication of such a feature may be provided in various bath apparatuses having various auxiliary features for providing an overall bathing, massage, pedicure and visual experience to the user.

The bath apparatus 438 also includes a handle 460 mounted to the bath chamber 312. Unlike^* the prior embodiment, the handle 460 is generally streamlined into the body of the bath apparatus 438 and is oriented below the top surface 318 of the bath chamber 312.

Referring first to Figures 32-35, a bath apparatus constructed according to the present invention is depicted and designated generally by reference numeral 510. Bath apparatus 510 can be used to provide heat, massage, bubbles, and combinations thereof to body parts, such as the feet. Bath apparatus 510 is preferably constructed from a plastic material so as to be lightweight and portable, as well as durable, leakproof, and corrosion resistant. Although bath apparatus 510 is illustrated and described herein as being particularly adaptable for use as a footbath, it is understood that bath apparatus 510 of the present invention may be used for bathing other body parts, such as the hands.

With reference to Figure 32, bath apparatus 510 includes a bath chamber 512 for containing fluid, such as water, and for receiving the body part, such as the foot, therein. Bath chamber 512 includes a floor or bottom surface 514 and a wall structure 516 extending upwardly therefrom. Wall structure 516 terminates in an upper surface 518 that includes a contact portion 520 adapted to be exposed when water is contained in bath chamber 512. Bottom surface 514 can be generally parallel to a supporting surface on which bath apparatus 510 is placed or, alternatively, bottom surface 514 could be slanted downwardly toward the user.

Bath chamber 512 is of a length and width to accommodate the feet of an adult user, such that sufficient space is provided to permit the user to readily insert and remove his/her foot and to allow the foot to be moved about slightly while in position within bath chamber 512. As shown in Figures 32 and 33, bath chamber 512 is generally U-shaped and contact portion 520 is generally peninsular and centrally disposed within bath chamber 512. With this configuration, a user's feet are received on either side of peninsular contact portion 520, also denoted as first side 519 and second side 521 of bottom surface 514, wherein the feet are spaced apart sufficiently to provide comfortable placement. For use, bath chamber 512 is filled with water such that a user, preferably seated, submerses his/her feet up to approximately the height of the ankles. A user can then easily remove his/her foot for placement on contact portion 520 for targeted therapy as described below. Of course, it is understood that contact portion 520 can have any location on bath apparatus 510 which remains uncovered by water and is accessible to the user.

An outer housing 522 is provided to encase bath chamber 512, wherein outer housing 522 is spaced from bath chamber 512 to provide a location for housing the various mechanical/electrical assemblies of bath apparatus 510, as described below with reference to Figure 35. As best shown in Figures 32 and 34, upper surface 518 of bath chamber 512 includes a downwardly extending flange 524 which aligns with an upwardly extending flange 526 of outer housing 522. Flanges 524, 526 are secured together by screws (not shown) to fix bath chamber 512 in position with respect to outer housing 522. A base 528 of outer housing 522 is preferably provided with feet 530 constructed from a material such as rubber to resist movement of bath apparatus 510 along a supporting surface.

Referring again to the top plan view of Figure 33, bottom surface 514 of bath chamber 512 preferably includes a plurality of raised nodes 532 which can be of varying sizes. Nodes 532 function to massage the feet upon contact, and also allow water and heat to flow under the feet to improve blood circulation. As shown in Figures 32 and 33, bath apparatus 510 further includes a lid 534 adapted to be attached to wall structure 516 to at least partially cover bath chamber 512. As shown, lid 534 is attached to wall structure 516 by a hinge 536, and includes tabs 538 that are securely received in corresponding openings 540 provided on wall structure 516. Therefore, as shown in Figure 32, lid 534 can be positioned to partially cover bath chamber 512 to prevent any accidental splashing of water, or lid 534 can be rotated away from bath chamber 512 about hinge 536 for ease of inserting and removing the feet and filling bath chamber 512 with water.

Lid 534 is preferably constructed from a plastic material, and is sufficiently rigid so that it can be used as a foot rest when only one foot is submersed within bath chamber 512. Alternatively, as disclosed in Ferber et al. United States Patent Number 6,725,471 of same assignee, titled Bath Apparatus, a lid can simply snap fit over wall structure 516 to be completely removable. The Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein. Kaufman et al. U.S. Patent Number 6,568,000 Bl of same assignee, titled Bath Apparatus with Therapy Centers, also discloses advantageous therapeutic effects provided within a bath apparatus, which may be incorporated with the features of the present invention. Accordingly, the Kaufman et al. U.S. 6,568,000 patent is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.

Referring again to Figures 32-34, a selector 542 is located on upper surface 518 of bath chamber 512, wherein selector 542 is rotatable by a user to selectively provide various combinations of heat, massage, and bubbles to the feet. Wiring interconnects selector 542 with each of the mechanical/electrical assemblies described below which are then powered via connection of a standard power cord 544 to any 110 V AC outlet. In a preferred embodiment, selector 542 can be set to provide three different combinations of bath functions: 1) vibration massage, chamber heat, and targeted infrared heat; 2) vibration massage, bubbles, chamber heat, and targeted infrared heat; and 3) bubbles and chamber heat. However, it is understood that other combinations are fully contemplated in accordance with the present invention.

With reference to Figures 32-35, the several mechanical/electrical assemblies of bath apparatus 510 of the present invention will now be described. Each of the following assemblies is housed in the space between bath chamber 512 and outer housing 522 and is selectively powered as determined by the setting of selector 542. First, a heating member 546 is provided on contact portion 520 for providing heat to the foot surface when the foot F is placed on contact portion 520. Advantageously, heating member 546 provides the capability of focusing heat on the specific region of the foot desired by the user. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, heating member 546 uses infrared rays. Infrared rays allow heat to penetrate deep underneath the surface of the skin, causing the pores of the skin to be opened and promoting metabolism and excretion of the body through increased blood circulation. The applied pressure of the foot on heating member 546 can be adjusted by the user for optimum comfort. Although the surface of heating member 546 is shown herein to be generally flat, heating member 546 could have any contour suitable for contact with a user's foot.

In addition to heating member 546, a heater is provided in communication with bath chamber 512. As best shown in Figure 35, the heater preferably includes a rope heating element 548 secured underneath bottom surface 514 of bath chamber 512. Upon receiving electrical power, as determined by selector 542, rope heating element 548 is operable to conduct heat to the water contained within bath chamber 512. The heated water maintained by rope heating element 548 relieves tired muscles and promotes circulation of the blood. Rope heating element 548 is positioned to wind back and forth to substantially cover bath chamber bottom surface 514. Rope heating element 548 preferably includes insulated conducting wires, wherein the conductive materials are capable of transmitting heat to bath chamber bottom surface 514 without generating temperatures that exceed the melting point of the plastic material used to construct bath apparatus 10.

Bath apparatus 510 further includes a pump 550 disposed adjacent to bottom surface 514 of bath chamber 512 and in communication therewith. Pump 550 directs air into bath chamber 512 to generate air bubbles in the water contained therein. As shown in Figure 35, pump 550 forces air through outlet tubes 552 which are connected to injection molded bubble egress strips or tubes 554 formed in communication with bath chamber bottom surface 514. Air is forced out of a plurality of egress holes 556 that are provided along each bubble egress tube 554 to form air bubbles B in the water contained in bath chamber 512, as illustrated in Figure 34. Of course, outlet tube 52 and egress tube 554 could be constructed as a single component. In a preferred embodiment, one egress tube 554 is disposed within first side 519 of bottom surface 514, and the other egress tube 554 is disposed within the second side 521 of bottom surface 514. Alternatively, a single egress tube 554 could be constructed to extend between and generally traverse both first and second sides 519, 521.

In addition to the generally linear configuration of bubble egress tubes 554 depicted in Figures 33 and 35, bubble egress tubes 554 can be constructed to have various configurations which provide more complete coverage of bath chamber bottom surface 514. For example, bubble egress tubes 554 can have a continuous curvilinear configuration, including at least one generally S-shaped segment or at least one reverse curve, such as a serpentine configuration, as illustrated in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. Alternatively, bubble egress tubes 554 can have a generally U-shaped configuration, or can include a continuous configuration of linear segments, such as a square- wave or a sawtooth configuration, as illustrated in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. With reference again to Figure 33, bubble egress tubes 554 are disposed below bath chamber bottom surface 514, such that the plurality of egress holes 556 are flush with bottom surface 514. Alternatively, the bubble egress tubes 554 may protrude at least partially above bottom surface 514, such that egress holes 556 are raised above bottom surface 514. The plurality of bubble egress holes 556 can be positioned at multiple axial locations along the egress tube 554, thereby providing an even greater ability to generate bubbles within a given area of bottom surface 514.

Still further, bath apparatus 510 includes a vibration assembly 558 in communication with bath chamber 512 for imparting vibration to bath chamber 512 to provide a massaging effect to the feet. Vibration assembly 558 includes a motor

560 affixed to an underside of bath chamber 512, an output shaft 562 rotatably driven by motor 560, and a counterweight 564 affixed to output shaft 562. Vibration assembly 558 is affixed underneath a central portion of bath chamber 512 by a motor support bracket 566. When motor 560 is electrically powered, rotation of output shaft 562 and attached counterweight 564 imparts vibrations to motor support bracket 566, and these vibrations are then transferred to bath chamber 512 and the water contained therein in order to massage the feet. It is fully contemplated that variable vibration intensities could be provided in accordance with the present invention.

In further accordance with the present invention, bath apparatus 510 may include one or more interchangeable massage attachments adapted to be received on contact portion 520 for massaging the foot F upon engagement, such as the attachments disclosed in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent. As with infrared heating member 546, massage attachments advantageously allow for massage to be targeted to specific locations of the foot such as the ball, heel, or arch. As best shown in Figures 32 and 33, a cap 582 is provided when the massage attachments are not in use.

Bath apparatus 510 includes a motor 583 disposed on an underside of bath chamber 512, and the massage attachments are adapted to be received on an output shaft that is rotatably driven by the motor 583 and adapted to be accessible through contact portion 520. Rotation of the output shaft causes the massage attachments to rotate, even when in contact with a user's foot F. Optionally, the motorized rotation of massage attachments can be activated by pressure of the foot F applied thereon, which then establishes electrical contact to supply power to motor 583. In this case, the operation of motor 583 is preferably not governed by selector 542, but rather power is supplied to motor 583 as long as bath apparatus 510 is plugged in.

As disclosed in the Ferber et al. U.S. 6,725,471 patent, the bottom surface 514 of the bath apparatus 510 may include detachable rollers provided thereon so that a user can glide his/her foot back and forth across rollers. The rollers help relieve tightness and tiredness along soles of feet, as well as for reflexology purposes.

With reference now to Figures 35-38, the pump 550 is described in greater detail. Specifically, the pump 550 is illustrated as an air fan assembly for forcing air into the egress tubes 554 and consequently through the egress holes 556 to provide a bubbling massage effect. Although the fan assembly 550 is illustrated and described, various fluid fans or pumps are contemplated within the spirit and scope of the invention. The fan assembly 550 includes a motor mount bracket 584 mounted to the housing 522. Specifically, the motor mount bracket 584 is mounted to the housing 522 through a pair of elastomeric pads 586. The elastomeric pads

586 absorb vibrations from the fan assembly 550 to reduce noise and vibrational harshness conveyed to the housing 522.

A motor 588 is mounted to one side of the motor mount bracket 584. The motor 588 includes a rotary output shaft 590, which extends through the motor mount bracket 584 and is driven by the motor 588.

An impeller 592 is mounted to the rotary output shaft 590 and is driven thereby. The impeller 592 includes a disc 594 having an array of toric impeller blades 596 provided thereon. The impeller blades 596 extend axially from the disc 594 in a direction away from the motor 588 and are inclined having a raised height radially inward relative to each blade. To maximize volumetric flow, a series of secondary impeller blades 598 are also provided alternating in length relative to the primary impeller blades 596 and disposed sequentially therebetween.

The fan 550 is a centrifugal fan and includes a volute shroud 600 collectively provided by the motor mount bracket 584 and a top shroud portion 602. Unlike prior art footbath blowers, the motor 588 is provided on an opposite side of the motor mount bracket 584 than the impeller 592. Thus, the shroud 600 is provided with an axial infeed port 604 rather than a plurality of radial infeed ports. The axial infeed port 604 is provided by a generally cylindrical sidewall 606 extending from the shroud 600, with an aperture 608 formed therein. The aperture 608 may be provided with a diverter 610 for assisting flow of air therearound and directly to the impeller blades 596, 598, thereby diverting air flow away from a hub 612 of the impeller. Thus, as air flows around the diverter 610, it is directed away from a dwell region provided at the hub 612 of the impeller 592.

The shroud 600 provides a single tangential outfeed port 614 for directing air out of the shroud 600. Referring to Figure 37, the impeller blades 596, 598 each have a backward curve with respect to the direction of rotation, which is indicated by an arcuate arrow in Figure 37. The impeller blades 596, 598 force air within the shroud 600 circumferentially within the shroud and subsequently out of the tangential outfeed port 614. The shroud 600 also includes a toric interior profile 616 generally corresponding with the profile of the impeller blades 596, 598 to provide efficient flow of air therethrough.

The centrifugal fan assembly 550 is much more efficient than prior art footbath blowers and is configured for efficient ah" flow of a generally consistent flow area through the path within the shroud 600 with a streamlined flow path to avoid turbulence, noise and vibrational harshness associated with prior art assemblies. For example, by eliminating radial infeed ports, a ninety degree change in flow direction is avoided at the inlet 604. By replacing a cylindrical shroud with a toric shroud, a constant flow area is provided so that the flow is not expanded and then contracted, which would otherwise cause turbulence and noise. Additionally, a single tangential outfeed port 614 is provided for consistent uninterrupted and even flow of air through the shroud 600.

Tubing 618 is mounted to the tangential outfeed port 614 in a direction of flow for providing uninterrupted flow from the shroud 600. A check valve 620 is provided downstream from the tubing 618. Although the invention contemplates providing a check valve on each of the outlet tubes 552, by providing a check valve 620 upstream of the outlet tubes 552, only one check valve 620 is required rather than two.

Further improvements to the bath apparatus 510 are provided for dampening sound associated with the fan 550. Downstream of the check valve 620 a Y-fitting 622 is provided. The Y-fitting assists directional flow from the tubing 618 to the outlet tubes 552, which are each mounted to the Y-fitting 622. The tubing 618, check valve 620, Y-fitting 622 and egress tubes 552 are each provided with clearance between each component and the housing 522 to avoid conveyance of vibrations from each of these components to the housing 522. Additionally, as illustrated in Figures 36 and 38, a motor shroud 624 is provided about the motor 588 to dampen acoustical vibrations conveyed from the motor 588.

The fan 550 provides a sound level output that is greatly reduced in comparison to prior art footbath fans. The fan 550 of the present invention provides a sound level output that is less than the sound level output provided from the bubbling massage effect in order to minimize output sound level without affecting the therapy effects of the bath apparatus.

Specifically, the bath apparatus 510 of the present invention has been subjected to the aforementioned sound level measurement conditions of the prior art footbaths. In an open room with a background sound level of forty-four decibels, at one meter away from the bath apparatus 510 in bubbling operation, an output sound level measurement of fifty-three decibels is measured. Thus, a sound level reduction of seven to eleven decibels is provided in comparison to the prior art. Accordingly, great noise reduction is provided by utilization of the fan assembly 550 of the present invention with a bath apparatus, such as the bath apparatus 510.

For sake of comparison, the bubbling massage effect of the bath apparatus 510 is compared with and without use of the fan assembly 550. Specifically, compressed air may be provided to the egress tubes 552 with a pressure corresponding to that provided by the fan assembly 550. The bubbling massage effect without the fan assembly 550 is measured as fifty-one decibels in an open room at one meter distance with the background sound level measurement of forty- four decibels.

Sound levels and decibels do not add numerically as linear figures.

Doubling of power results in a three decibel increase in sound pressure. Since the sound level difference between the bath apparatus with the motor and bubbling massage effect and the bath apparatus with the bubbling massage effect only is less than three decibels, then the power has not been doubled. In other words, the output sound level of the fan assembly 550 only, without the bubbles must be less than the bubbles alone. Thus, an ideal sound level output is obtained by the present invention, because the fan assembly 550 is quieter than the bubbling massage effect. Therefore, the fan assembly 550 of the present invention does not detract from the therapeutic effects of the bath apparatus 510.

In summary, a bath apparatus 510 is provided with a substantially lessened output sound level in comparison to prior art footbaths. The bath apparatus 510 has a dampened sound level and desirous therapy effects optimizing both therapy and comfort to the user.

While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a housing mounted to the bath chamber for retaining an operational assembly that imparts a therapeutic effect to the bath chamber, the housing providing a base for supporting the bath chamber upon an underlying support surface; and a handle mounted to one of the bath chamber and the housing for providing a grip portion extending above the bath chamber, wherein the handle grip portion can be displaced generally above a center of gravity of the apparatus for facilitating manual transportation of the apparatus when fluid is retained in the bath chamber.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the handle is integrated into one of the bath chamber and the housing.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a lid mounted to the bath chamber opening, the lid being sized to extend partially over the bath chamber, the lid having a spout formed therethrough for facilitating disposal of the fluid retained therein.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a spout formed about the bath chamber opening for facilitating disposal of the fluid retained therein.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of handle attachment points for receiving the handle in multiple positions.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the handle is mounted to the bath chamber and the bath chamber is removable from the housing for facilitating disposal of the fluid therein.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a contact area adapted to be uncovered by fluid contained therein; and a flexible contact pad mounted on the contact area for providing padded support to a body part.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a receptacle formed therein external to the bath chamber, and the bath apparatus further comprises a motorized rotary pedicure apparatus that is sized to be received within the receptacle and is adapted for handheld operation so that a user may remove the pedicure apparatus from the receptacle and apply a rotary pedicure effect upon a body part of the user.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a fluid dispenser mounted to the housing for dispensing a fluid upon manual actuation of the dispenser.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a receptacle formed therein external to the bath chamber, and the bath apparatus further comprises a motorized apparatus that is sized to be received within the receptacle and is adapted for handheld operation so that a user may remove the motorized apparatus from the receptacle and apply a motorized effect upon a body part of the user.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the handle is generally arcuate with a pair of ends, each pivotally mounted to the lateral sides of one of the bath chamber and the housing, for rotation of the handle between a retracted and an extended position.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the handle grip portion is oriented generally perpendicular to a pivot axis of the handle to facilitate ergonomic mmaannuuaall g grraassppiinngg ooff tthhee g grriipp p poorrttiioonn..

13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the handle is pivotally mounted to one of the bath chamber and the housing, for rotation of the handle between a retracted and an extended position.

14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the handle is disposed outboard of the bath chamber and beneath the bath chamber opening in the retracted position.

15. The apparatus of claim 13 further comprising a locking mechanism for securing the handle in a fixed position.

16. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the housing further comprises a recess formed therein sized to receive the handle in the retracted position.

17. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the bath chamber includes a peripheral rim extending about the opening and the handle forms part of the rim in the retracted position.

18. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the bath chamber further comprises a platform disposed therein for receiving the body part thereon, wherein the platform has a recess formed therein sized to receive the handle in the retracted position.

19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein a surface of the handle is exposed generally flush with the platform in the retracted position and the exposed surface of the handle and the platform are both provided with a plurality of massage nodes for providing a massage effect to the body part.

20. The apparatus of claim 13 further comprising a mechanism for extending the handle.

21. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the mechanism is electronically controlled.

22. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a pair of wheels mounted beneath the bath chamber; and a telescoping handle mounted to the bath chamber, the handle having a retracted position and an extended position so that a user may grasp the handle and transport the bath chamber upon the pair of wheels.

23. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a contact area adapted to be uncovered by fluid contained therein; and a flexible contact pad mounted on the contact area for providing padded support to a body part.

24. The apparatus of claim 23 further comprising at least one massage attachment adapted to be received on the contact area for massaging the body part when the body part engages the massage attachment, the massage attachment being oriented adjacent to the contact pad so that the user may rest the body part upon the contact pad while engaging the massage attachment.

25. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a housing mounted to the bath chamber for retaining an operational assembly that imparts a therapeutic effect to the bath chamber, the housing providing a base for supporting the bath chamber upon an underlying support surface, the housing having a receptacle formed therein external to the bath chamber; and a motorized rotary pedicure apparatus that is sized to be received within the receptacle and is adapted for handheld operation so that a user may remove the pedicure apparatus from the receptacle and apply a rotary pedicure effect upon a body part of the user.

26. The bath apparatus of claim 25 wherein the pedicure apparatus is operably connected to a power source of the bath apparatus housing.

27. The bath apparatus of claim 25 wherein the pedicure apparatus is angled towards the bath chamber when received within the receptacle.

28. The bath apparatus of claim 25 wherein the pedicure apparatus further comprises: an elongate housing sized to be gripped by the user; a motor oriented within the housing; an output spindle operably driven by the motor; and a detachable pedicure attachment mounted to the output spindle; wherein the user may grasp the pedicure housing to apply the rotary pedicure effect to the body part.

29. The bath apparatus of claim 28 wherein the pedicure apparatus housing is overmolded with an elastomeric grip portion.

30. The bath apparatus of claim 25 wherein the pedicure apparatus is tethered to the bath apparatus housing.

31. The bath apparatus of claim 30 wherein the tether is retractable within one of the bath apparatus housing or the pedicure apparatus.

32. The bath apparatus of claim 25 further comprising a compartment for enclosing a plurality of pedicure attachments.

33. The bath apparatus of claim 32 further comprising a hinged lid for enclosing the compartment.

34. The bath apparatus of claim 32 wherein the housing receptacle for the pedicure apparatus is oriented within the compartment.

35. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a housing mounted to the bath chamber for retaining an operational assembly that imparts a therapeutic effect to the bath chamber; and a fluid dispenser mounted to the housing for dispensing a fluid upon manual actuation of the dispenser.

36. The apparatus of claim 35 wherein the fluid dispenser is further defined as a lotion dispenser.

37. The apparatus of claim 35 fluid dispenser further comprises a flexible dome shaped cover having at least one aperture formed therethrough such that upon the cover being depressed, the fluid is dispensed through the at least one aperture.

38. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a housing mounted to the bath chamber for retaining an operational assembly that imparts a therapeutic effect to the bath chamber; and a removable bristle pad that is sized to be placed within the bath chamber for providing a therapeutic bristle massage effect to the body part.

39. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a housing mounted to the bath chamber for retaining an operational assembly that imparts a therapeutic effect to the bath chamber, the housing providing a base for supporting the bath chamber upon an underlying support surface, the housing having a receptacle formed therein external to the bath chamber; and a motorized apparatus that is sized to be received within the receptacle and is adapted for handheld operation so that a user may remove the motorized apparatus from the receptacle and apply a motorized effect upon a body part of the user.

40. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a lid mounted to the bath chamber opening, the lid being sized to extend partially over the bath chamber; a showerhead mounted to an underside of the lid, the showerhead being oriented towards the bath chamber; and a fluid pump in fluid communication with the bath chamber and the showerhead for drawing fluid from the bath chamber and pumping the fluid through the showerhead for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part received within the bath chamber.

41. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein the apparatus is portable for manual transportation.

42. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein the showerhead is integrated with the lid.

43. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein the showerhead further comprises a pair of laterally spaced apart showerheads for providing the pressurized fluid massage effect to a pair of body parts received within the bath chamber.

44. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein the lid is at least partially transparent so that a user may view the showerhead and the flow of fluid therethrough.

45. The apparatus of claim 40 further comprising a drain disposed within the bath chamber in fluid communication with the fluid pump for providing fluid to the fluid pump.

46. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein the showerhead is at least partially viewable from a top surface of the lid.

47. The apparatus of claim 40 further comprising: a contact area adapted to be uncovered by fluid contained therein; and a flexible contact pad mounted on the contact area for providing padded support to a body part.

48. The apparatus of claim 47 further comprising at least one massage attachment adapted to be received on the contact area for massaging the body part when the body part engages the massage attachment, the massage attachment being oriented adjacent to the contact pad so that the user may rest the body part upon the contact pad while engaging the massage attachment.

49. The apparatus of claim 40 further comprising a fluid channel in fluid communication with the pump and the showerhead for conveying fluid therebetween wherein the fluid channel is oriented on the underside of the lid.

50. The apparatus of claim 49 wherein the fluid channel is integrated with the lid.

51. The apparatus of claim 40 further comprising a float switch having a switch portion in electrical communication with the fluid pump, and a float portion configured to float in fluid contained in the bath chamber, thereby rising when the fluid level in the bath chamber rises, the switch portion having a first position for prohibiting operation of the fluid pump, and a second position for facilitating operation of the fluid pump, the float portion being further configured to cooperate with the switch portion to place the switch portion in the second position when the float portion rises to a certain level.

52. The apparatus of claim 51 further comprising a heater disposed in relation to the bath chamber for heating fluid contained in the bath chamber, the heater being in electrical communication with the float switch such that operation of the heater is prohibited when the switch portion is in the first position and operation of the heater is facilitated when the switch portion is in the second position.

53. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein the showerhead further comprises a cavity bounded by the lid, a sidewall extending from the lid and a nozzle plate mounted to the sidewall, the nozzle plate having a plurality of nozzles so that pressurized fluid is pumped into the cavity and through the plurality of nozzles.

54. The apparatus of claim 53 further comprising an impeller disposed within the cavity for rotation therein, the impeller being rotationally driven by the flow of fluid through the cavity, the impeller further comprising at least one blade that limits flow through at least one of the plurality of showerhead nozzles for providing a pulsating pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part.

55. The apparatus of claim 53 wherein the lid and the showerhead are at least partially transparent so that a user may view the flow of fluid therethrough.

56. The apparatus of claim 55 wherein the showerhead further comprises a plurality of false nozzle formations provided within the cavity on the underside of the lid so that the user may visually identify the showerhead when the showerhead is not in operation.

57. The apparatus of claim 56 wherein each false nozzle configuration includes a blind-depth hole formed within the lid to provide a visual appearance of a nozzle aperture.

58. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a lid mounted to the bath chamber opening, the lid being sized to extend partially over the bath chamber; a fluid nozzle mounted to the lid, the fluid nozzle being oriented towards the bath chamber; and a fluid pump in fluid communication with the bath chamber and the fluid nozzle for drawing fluid from the bath chamber and pumping the fluid through the fluid nozzle for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part received within the bath chamber; wherein the lid and fluid nozzle are at least partially transparent so that a user may view the fluid nozzle, and the flow of fluid therethrough.

59. An apparatus for bathing a body part, the apparatus comprising: a bath chamber for containing fluid, the bath chamber having an opening for receiving the body part therein; a lid mounted to the bath chamber opening, the lid being sized to extend partially over the bath chamber; a fluid nozzle integrally formed with the lid, the fluid nozzle being oriented towards the bath chamber; a fluid channel integrally formed with the lid, the fluid channel having a first end in fluid communication with the fluid nozzle and a second end; and a fluid pump in fluid communication with the bath chamber and the fluid channel second end for drawing fluid from the bath chamber and pumping the fluid through the fluid channel and the fluid nozzle for providing a pressurized fluid massage effect upon the body part received within the bath chamber; wherein the lid, fluid nozzle and fluid channel are at least partially transparent so that a user may view the fluid nozzle, the fluid channel, and the flow of fluid therethrough.

60. A footbath comprising: a housing having a platform with sidewalls extending therefrom forming a bath chamber for retaining water, the bath chamber being sized to receive a body part within the sidewalls, the platform having a plurality of egress apertures formed therethrough; and an air fan mounted to the housing in operable communication with the plurality of egress apertures for forcing air into the bath chamber through the egress apertures to provide a bubbling massage effect to the underside of the body part received in the bath chamber; wherein a sound level measurement of the air fan in operation under defined testing conditions is less than a sound level measurement of the bubbling massage effect measured under the same defined testing conditions.

61. The footbath of claim 60 wherein a sound level measurement of the footbath in operation measured one meter from the footbath in an open room with a moderate background sound level is less than sixty decibels.

62. The footbath of claim 60 wherein a sound level measurement of the footbath in operation measured one meter from the footbath in an open room with a moderate background sound level is equal to fifty-three decibels.

63. The footbath of claim 60 wherein the fan further comprises: a motor mount bracket mounted to the housing; a motor mounted to the motor mount bracket, the motor having a rotary output shaft; an impeller having a disc oriented generally perpendicular to and mounted upon the rotary output shaft, the impeller having a series of toric impeller blades extending axially from the disc; and a volute shroud mounted to the motor mount bracket for enclosing the impeller therein, the shroud having an axial infeed port defined by a cylindrical sidewall extending axially from the shroud, and a tangential outfeed port in fluid communication with the plurality of egress apertures, so that rotation of the motor drives the impeller within the volute shroud for forcing air through the axial infeed port into the volute shroud, out of the shroud through the tangential outfeed port, to the egress apertures, and subsequently into the bath chamber to provide the bubbling massage effect.

64. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the motor is mounted on one side of the motor mount bracket, the rotary output shaft extends through the motor mount bracket, and the impeller is mounted to the rotary output shaft and oriented adjacent to another side of the motor mount bracket.

65. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the impeller blades extend axially from the disc in a direction away from the motor.

66. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the impeller blades are each inclined increasing in height radially inward.

67. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the shroud has a generally toric interior profile corresponding with the toric impeller blades.

68. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the series of impeller blades have alternating blade lengths.

69. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the series of impeller blades each have a backward curve relative to a direction of rotation of the impeller.

70. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the tangential outfeed port is further defined as a single tangential outfeed port that is connected to tubing for conveying the forced air to the bath chamber.

71. The footbath of claim 63 further comprising an elastomeric pad disposed between the housing and the motor mount bracket for dampening vibrations from the motor.

72. The footbath of claim 63 further comprising a motor shroud extending axially from the motor mount bracket for laterally enclosing the motor and dampening acoustical vibrations conveyed therefrom.

73. The footbath of claim 63 wherein the volute shroud is in fluid communication with the plurality of egress apertures via tubing that is isolated from direct contact with the housing along the length of the tubing to avoid translation of vibrations from the tubing to the housing.

74. A footbath comprising: a housing having a platform with sidewalls extending therefrom forming a bath chamber for retaining water, the bath chamber being sized to receive a body part within the sidewalls, the platform having a plurality of egress apertures formed therethrough; and an air fan mounted to the housing in operable communication with the plurality of egress apertures for forcing air into the bath chamber through the egress apertures to provide a bubbling massage effect to the underside of the body part received in the bath chamber; wherein a sound level measurement of the footbath in operation measured one meter from the footbath in an open room with a moderate background sound level is less than sixty decibels.

75. The footbath of claim 74 wherein the sound level measurement is further defined as fifty-three decibels.

76. A footbath comprising: a housing having a platform with sidewalls extending therefrom forming a bath chamber for retaining water, the bath chamber being sized to receive a body part on the platform within the sidewalls, the platform having a plurality of egress apertures formed therethrough; and a fluid fan mounted to the housing in operable communication with the plurality of egress apertures for forcing a fluid into the bath chamber through the egress apertures, the fan having: a motor mount bracket mounted to the housing, a motor mounted to the motor mount bracket, the motor having a rotary output shaft, an impeller having a disc oriented generally perpendicular to and mounted upon the rotary output shaft, the impeller having a series of toric impeller blades extending axially from the disc, and a volute shroud mounted to the motor mount bracket for enclosing the impeller therein, the shroud having an axial infeed port defined by a cylindrical side wall extending axially from the shroud, and a tangential outfeed port in fluid communication with the plurality of egress apertures, so that rotation of the motor drives the impeller within the volute shroud for forcing fluid through the axial infeed port into the volute shroud, out of the shroud through the tangential outfeed port, to the egress apertures, and subsequently into the bath chamber to provide a fluid massage effect to the underside of the body part received in the bath chamber.

77. The footbath of claim 76 wherein a sound level measurement of the fluid fan in operation under defined testing conditions is less than a sound level measurement of the fluid massage effect measured under the same defined testing conditions.

78. The footbath of claim 76 wherein the fluid fan is further defined as an air fan and the infeed port receives ambient air that is subsequently introduced into the bath chamber to provide a bubbling massage effect.

79. The footbath of claim 78 wherein a sound level measurement of the air fan in operation under defined testing conditions is less than a sound level measurement of the bubbling massage effect measured under the same defined testing conditions.