GB2519210A

GB2519210A - A washroom drainage tray

Info

Publication number: GB2519210A
Application number: GB1414445.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: William Hogg; Paul Williams
Original assignee: Contour Showers Ltd
Current assignee: Contour Showers Ltd
Priority date: 2013-09-10
Filing date: 2014-08-14
Publication date: 2015-04-15
Also published as: GB201414445D0; WO2015036743A1; GB201316090D0

Abstract

The invention relates to a rotatable washroom drainage tray 10 operable to assist disabled persons and to reduce space requirements in disabled washrooms. The tray comprises a base tray 12, a rotatable platform 14 mounted on the base tray, an annular ring 44 and a means 48 for rotating the annular ring to cause the rotatable platform to rotate relative to the base tray. The washroom drainage tray is further provided with a water-proofed housing formed between the tray 12 and the rotatable platform 14 when mounted on the base tray, where working components of the tray can be safely disposed away from exposure to water. The ring may be driven by a motor (48, Fig 4) disposed upon a raised central portion 25 of the base tray. The base tray may comprise a track 34, and the rotatable platform a track follower 54 (Fig.7). The annular ring may comprise a plurality of teeth 46 which engage with corresponding teeth 50 driven by the motor. The tray may comprise a brake to reduce the speed of the rotatable platform.

Description

A WASHROOM DRAINAGE TRAY

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a washroom drainage tray and particularly to a rotatable washroom drainage tray operable to assist disabled and less-abled persons and to reduce space requirements in disabled and less-abled compliant washrooms, shower-rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms.

Background of the Invention

Washrooms, shower-rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms for disabled and less-abled people are typically enclosed spaces in which a user can be relatively restricted in movement. This is compounded further if the user has a disability and requires a carer's assistance and more particularly if the user is a wheelchair user.

Movement is particularly awkward and restricted for disabled persons when they are turning around. For example, if a wheelchair user enters a shower cubicle in a forwards direction, they must then leave the cubicle backwards, which is awkward and inconvenient for the user and/or carer and can be dangerous in some circumstances.

The problem of enabling a user's movement in and out, and within, shower cubicle was addressed in GB2296656, which describes a rotatable shower tray. The shower tray described is provided with an electric motor that powers the rotation of the turntable upon which a user is positioned.

By providing a rotatable turntable as part of the shower tray a wheelchair user can enter the shower cubicle in a forwards direction, use the shower, and then activate the turntable to rotate the wheelchair user so that they can leave the shower cubicle in a forwards direction.

One problem faced by the rotatable shower tray described in 0B2296656 is that of positioning of the electric motor to prevent the water from the shower coming into contact with the motor. The solution provided in GB2296656 is to locate the electric motor in a separate unit that is positioned adjacent to the shower tray. It will be appreciated that this arrangement is undesirable when the rotatable shower tray is to be fitted in a location where space is at a premium (which is not uncommon in en-suite bathrooms) and where potential exposure to water remains significant.

Summary of the Invention

In view of the disadvantages of the prior art the present invention provides a rotatable washroom drainage tray that is capable of being more self-contained so that installation of the tray is made easier.

According to the present invention there is provided a washroom drainage tray comprising: a base tray; a rotatable platform mounted on the base tray; an annular ring; means for rotating the annular ring to cause the rotatable platform to rotate relative to the base tray; and characterised in that the washroom drainage tray is provided with a water-proofed housing that is formed when the rotatable platform is mounted on the base tray.

By providing the washroom drainage tray with a water-proofed housing it is possible to safely house essential components (such as braking means, a drive motor and drive biasing means) within the footprint of the tray (and in doing so produce a more self-contained unit that is easier to install) whilst ensuring that the components are not exposed to water. Preferably, although not essential, the water-proofed housing is centrally located on the tray.

Although the washroom drainage tray of the present invention may be rotated manually, the washroom drainage tray preferably comprises a motor for driving the annular ring. Advantageously the motor may be disposed within the water-proofed housing.

Preferably the annular ring may be disposed on the rotatable platform and the motor may be disposed on the base tray. Alternatively, the motor may be disposed on the rotatable platform and the annular ring may be disposed on the base tray.

Preferably the base tray may comprise a raised central portion and a raised outer portion, extending around the circumference of the base tray, such as to form a drainage channel between the raised central portion and the raised outer portion. Further preferably the raised central and outer portions of the base tray may help define the water-proofed housing.

Preferably the motor may be disposed in the raised central portion.

Preferably the base tray may comprise a track and the rotatable platform comprises a track follower. The base tray track may preferably be annular.

Preferably the annular ring may comprise a plurality of teeth disposed around the circumference thereof for engaging with corresponding teeth driven by the motor.

Further preferably the plurality of teeth on the annular ring may be disposed to face radially inwards. It will be appreciated that in such an arrangement the interaction between the corresponding teeth of the motor and the annular ring takes place within the protected area of the water-proofed housing.

Preferably the washroom drainage tray may further comprise a brake (or locking mechanism) operable to at least reduce the speed of rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray. Further preferably the brake may be disposed within the water-proofed housing.

Further preferably the brake may be operable to selectively lock the rotatable platform in place relative to the base tray. A brake for locking the rotatable platform in place relative to the base tray is preferably a solenoid activated brake.

Preferably the washroom drainage tray may further comprise drive biasing means operable to bias the motor towards the annular ring. In this way the level of grip applied to the annular ring can be increased. This is considered beneficial when the system is working to rotate heavier loads.

Further preferably the drive biasing means may be an adjustable drive biasing means. The drive biasing means may be operable to adjust the angle at which the motor is set relative to the annular ring. In this way the level of torque can be adjusted to accommodate different weight loads placed on the

rotatable tray.

Advantageously the washroom drainage tray may further comprise a load sensor that measures the weight load placed on the rotatable platform and signals the drive biasing means to adjust accordingly.

Preferably the drive biasing means may be disposed within the water-proofed housing.

Preferably the washroom drainage tray may further comprise a controller operable to start and stop rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray.

Preferably the controller may be operable to rotate the rotatable platform by a predetermined angle and then stop. It is envisioned that suitable rotation angles would include 900, 180° and 3600 The controller may also be operable to control the speed of rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray.

Preferably the controller may be provided with a panic button that, when activated, immediately stops the rotation of the rotatable platform and/or triggers an alarm (e.g. visual and/or sonic).

Preferably the controller may be operable to adjust the drive biasing means to accommodate different weight loads placed on the rotatable platform.

Preferably the controller may be a remote control unit. Further preferably the controller may be a wireless remote control unit Preferably the washroom drainage tray may further comprise platform support means operable to support the rotatable platform. The platform support means may comprise a plurality of support units arranged to underlie the peripheral region of the platform.

Preferably the plurality of support units may each comprise conveying means operable to contact the under-surface of the platform and facilitate movement of the platform over the support units.

Preferably said conveying means may comprise a roller-ball. Alternatively, the conveying means may comprise a roller-bar.

As highlighted above, one of the main beneficiaries of the present invention would be wheelchair users. In view of this it is considered particularly desirable (although not essential if ramped access is used) for the washroom drainage tray of the present invention to be capable of being sunk within the flooring of a room so that the tray can sit flush with the existing floor level of the room.

To this end, preferably the washroom drainage tray of the present invention may further comprise a floor support frame. The floor support frame can be installed into an area of sub-floor space where joints or cross-beams have been removed in order to accommodate the various components (e.g. motor, drainage pipe, etc...) of the washroom drainage tray of the present invention.

Preferably the floor support frame may comprise four frame members arranged into a rectangular shape, dimensioned to correspond with the dimensions of the base tray and having a plurality of bracing members, each bracing member extending between adjacent frame members. Further preferably the floor support frame may comprise four bracing members.

An alternative approach to installing the washroom drainage tray of the present invention so that it lies flush with the floor which does not require the removal of floor joists, cross-beams and the like is contemplated.

To this end the washroom drainage tray may further comprise an adjustable motor mount, upon which the motor is secured, that is connectable to the base tray by one or more fixing means; and wherein the orientation of the motor mount relative to the base tray can be adjusted. In this way the position of the motor mount, and thus the motor itself, can be adjusted during installation to accommodate the position of the existing floor support structures (e.g. floor joists, cross-beams, etc...) and utilities (e.g. water pipes, waste water pipes, gas pipes, etc...). In this way the need to remove joists and the like is avoided.

Preferably the motor mount is provided with one or more slots through which said one or more fixing means are receivable. In this way the motor mount can be moved relative to the base tray and the partially secured fixing means to adjust the positioning of the motor (and thereby avoid any undertloor obstacles, such as joints) before the motor mount is secured in position.

Advantageously the slots are arcuate in shape.

Preferably the motor mount may be in the form of plate.

Also according to the present invention there is provided a washroom comprising a washroom drainage tray.

Also according to the present invention there is provided a shower room or cubicle comprising a washroom drainage tray.

Also according to the present invention there is provided a bathroom comprising a washroom drainage tray.

Also according to the present invention there is provided a toilet room comprising a washroom drainage tray.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be described in more detail by way of reference to the embodiments shown in the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a washroom drainage tray according to a first embodiment the present invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a base tray of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a cross section through the washroom drainage tray of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 1, with portions of the rotatable platform cut-away to show more detail; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the base tray of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 1 with additional operational components present; Figure 6a shows a plan view of a motor plate of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 5; Figure 6b shows a perspective view from above of drive biasing means of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 5; Figure 6c shows a perspective view from below of drive biasing means of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a partial cross section through the washroom drainage tray of Figure 5; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a floor support frame for supporting a washroom drainage tray; Figure 9 shows a perspective view from above a washroom drainage tray fitted in a floor structure using the floor support frame of Figure 8; Figure 10 shows a perspective view from below the washroom drainage tray fitted in a floor structure using the floor support frame of Figure 8; Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a washroom drainage tray according to an alternative, slim-line embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 shows a cross section through the washroom drainage tray of Figure 11; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 11, with portions of the rotatable platform cut-away to show more detail; Figures 14a andl4b show enlarged perspective views of the base tray of the washroom drainage tray of Figure 11; Figure 1 5a shows a perspective view from above of an alternative embodiment of the drive biasing means of the washroom drainage tray of Figuresl4a and 14b; Figure 1 5b shows a perspective view from below the alternative embodiment of the drive biasing means of the washroom drainage tray of Figuresl4a and 14b; Figure 16 shows a perspective view from above the washroom drainage tray of Figure 11 fitted flush in a floor structure; and Figure 17 shows a perspective view from below the washroom drainage tray of Figure 11 fitted flush in a floor structure.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

Referring to the drawings, a washroom drainage tray 10 comprises a base tray 12 and a rotatable platform 14.

Referring particularly to Figure 2, the base tray 12 may be, for example, rectangular in shape and moulded from, for example, a plastics or any other suitable material. The base tray 12 has an upper surface 16 and in this example four walls 18. The walls 18 may be approximately 100mm high (orientated in normal use). However, it will be appreciated that other heights may be used (see Figure 11) for other applications. It is envisioned that the base tray may be sunk into the floor such as to provide a rotatable platform at floor surface height.

The upper surface 16 has a peripheral lip 20, a drainage surface 22, a drainage trough 24 and a raised central portion 25.

The peripheral lip 20 extends around the circumference of the upper surface 16 at a height substantially equal to the height of the walls 18.

A drainage surface 22 extends at an incline, from the peripheral lip 20, radially towards the centre of the base tray 12 such that, when orientated in normal use, liquid flows down the drainage surface 22 towards the centre of the base tray 12.

The drainage surface 22 terminates at the drainage trough 24. The drainage trough 24 as shown is annular but can be of any suitable shape and is of a predetermined external diameter. The drainage trough 24 is disposed around the centre of the base tray and is formed from an outer annular wall 26, an inner annular wall 28 and a trough base 30 disposed there between.

The trough base 30 has a drainage hole 32, disposed therein and fitted with a waste trap. Orientated in normal use, the trough base 30 is circumferentially inclined such that liquid will flow towards and into the drainage hole 32 under the force of gravity.

The raised central portion 25 is formed at the centre of the base tray 12 and is surrounded by the drainage trough 24. The raised central portion 25 is formed by the inner annular wall 28.

An annular base tray track 34 extends around the periphery of the raised central portion 25.

The raised central portion 25 also has an opening 36. As will be explained in more detail hereinafter, the opening 36 can be used to accommodate components involved in the controlling the rotating action, such as a drive motor to operate the rotation of platform 14.

Referring also to Figure 3, the rotatable platform 14 is a circular plate-like platform 38, formed from a plastics or any other suitable material, having a planar upper surface 40. The upper surface 40 has a non-slip finish, such as, for example, a non-slip vinyl layer.

In use, the rotatable platform 14 is removeably mounted on the raised central portion 25.

The tray 12 has a predetermined diameter which is less than the external diameter of the drainage trough 24, such that a drainage gap 42 is formed between the rotatable platform 14 and the top of the outer annular wall 26 (i.e. where the drainage surface 22 terminates into the drainage trough 24).

The planar surface 40 is cambered such that, orientated in normal use, it has an incline from the centre of the rotatable platform 14 to the periphery of the rotatable platform 14, such that, in use, liquid will flow off the planar surface through the drainage gap 42 and into the drainage trough 24.

Referring particularly to Figures 3 and 4, an annular ring 44, having a plurality of radially inward facing teeth 46, is attached to the underside of the rotatable platform 14. Having the annular ring 44 attached to rotatable platform 14 allows the rotatable platform to be easily removed. This is advantageous for cleaning both the rotatable platform 14 and the base tray 12.

Referring particularly to Figures 2, 4 and 6c which show an embodiment wherein a motor 48 is disposed within the raised central portion 25 and has a driving cog 50 extending through the opening 36 to engage with the plurality of radially inward facing teeth 46. The motor 48 may be, for example, a spring loaded motor arrangement (12v, 1P55 Rated).

The motor 48 is controlled by a low voltage controller 52 which may be wired or wirelessly linked to the motor 48.

Although the washroom drainage tray of the present invention preferably includes a motor to power the rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray, the motor is not essential to the claimed invention in its broadest sense.

The manual version of the present invention excludes the motor mechanism referred to above, but, includes a locking mechanism holding the central portion in a locked position unless specifically released by the user/carer to enable rotation. In such a variation of the shown embodiment the locking mechanism would be accommodated within the central region of the washroom drainage tray.

The raised central portion 25 provides a significant advantage as it allows moisture sensitive equipment, such as the motor 48, to be housed within the footprint area of the shower tray 10. The raised central portion represents a preferred embodiment of the water-proofed housing that is considered essential to the present invention.

However, it is envisaged that alternative arrangements may be adopted to provide a water-proofed housing within the footprint of the washroom drainage tray without departing from the scope of the claimed invention.

In use, a user selects to rotate the rotatable platform 14, relative to the base tray 12, by selecting the appropriate operation on the controller 52. The controller 52 transmits a signal to the motor 48 which drives the driving means 50 to engage and drive the annular ring 44 through the radially inward facing teeth 46 and thereby drive the rotatable platform 14.

The rotatable platform 14 has a track follower 54 (see Figure 7) disposed on its underside, which rides over the annular base track 34. In a preferred embodiment, the annular base track 34 is formed from a seal disposed on the top of the inner annular wall 28.

A seal 56 is disposed between the track follower 54 and the annular base track 34 to at least substantially mitigate the passage of liquid there between and in doing so facilitates the creation of the water-proofed housing within the footprint of the washroom drainage tray.

In the preferred embodiment, wherein the annular base track 34 is formed from top of the inner annular wall 28, the seal 56 may be disposed on the top of the inner wall 28 and may be operable as the annular base track.

The seal 56 acts to at least substantially mitigate moisture and condensation passes through to the region around the central portion 25. Once again this facilitates the formation of the aforementioned water-proofed housing.

It is envisioned that alternative mechanisms may be employed to form a water-tight seal between the base tray 12 and the rotatable platform 14 to achieve the required water-proofed housing or area within the footprint of the washroom drainage tray 10.

The controller 52 may be programmed to allow only a predetermined angle of rotation of the rotatable platform 14 relative to the base tray 12, before coming to a gentle stop. For example, predetermined angles may be 45°, 90° and 180°. Alternatively, the controller may be programmed to simply provide a start and stop control. A variable speed control may also be programmed into the controller and a slow start/stop operation such that no sudden movements are experienced by a user.

The controller 52 is preferably a wireless waterproof remote control unit which can be worn as a pendent by the user or care assistant. The controller 52 is paired with a specific shower tray 10 such that it can only control the tray with which it is paired. This prevents a user or care assistant accidently controlling the rotation of a different tray.

The controller 52 has one or more function buttons 58. The function buttons 58 are potentially pressure sensitive such that the rotatable platform 14 comes to a slow stop if it is sensed that pressure is removed from the function button 58 being used or operate to start/stop the rotation each time the button is depressed.

In use, for example, a wheelchair user enters a shower cubicle in a forwards direction and then operates the controller to rotate the rotatable platform 14 by 1800, either before, during or after showering, to exit the shower cubicle in a forwards direction. Whilst in the shower cubicle the wheelchair user can rotate the tray 14 to, for example, reach for soap or to shower different parts of their body as appropriate.

It is envisioned that additionally the controller is preferably capable of adjusting the speed and/or direction of rotation. The controller may also be provided with a panic button' which, in addition to activating an emergency stop of the rotating tray, triggers an alarm to alert third parties (such as a carer) that the user of the washroom drainage tray requires assistance.

Referring to Figure 5, a preferred embodiment of a washroom drainage tray, according to the present invention, the base tray 12 and the rotatable platform 14 are both as described above and as illustrated in Figures ito 4, but optionally have additional features as described below.

The motor 48 additionally comprises a drive biasing means 60 which is operable to bias the driving cog 50 of the motor 48 towards the teeth 46 of the annular ring 44, such that mechanical engagement between the driving cog 50 and the teeth 46, of the annular ring 44, is improved.

Referring also to Figure 6a the drive biasing means 60 comprises a motor plate 62 having a first through hole 64, a second threaded through hole 66, a third through threaded hole 68, a fourth threaded through hole 70 and a through travel slot 72. The through travel slot 72 is arcuate in shape. The motor plate 62 also has four attachment through holes 74 for attaching the plate to the base tray 12.

Referring also to Figure 6b and 6c, the drive biasing means 60 also has an adjustable biasing mechanism 76 and a biasing stop 78.

The biasing stop 78 is L-shaped having an attachment member 80 and a stop member 82, wherein the attachment member 80 is at least substantially perpendicular relative to the stop member 82.

The attachment member 80 has a first attachment hole and a second attachment hole (both hidden).

The adjustable biasing mechanism 76 has a biasing member 86 having a first end 88 and a second end 90 and a central portion 92.

A threaded portion extends from the first end 88 to the central portion 92. A biasing spring 94 is coaxially disposed around the first end 88. It will be appreciated that other types of biasing means may be used instead of a spring, such as, for example, resilient rubber. An adjusting threaded nut 96 is disposed at the central portion 92 end of the threaded portion.

The second end 90 also has a threaded end onto which a connecting member 98 having a threaded opening is threadably attached. The connecting member 98 is attached to the second end 90 of the biasing member 86 such that it shares the same longitudinal axis therewith.

The connecting member 98 has a joint 100 at the opposite end which is free to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the connecting member 98.

A linkage member 102 is fixed to and extends from the joint 100 in a direction at least substantially perpendicular, or at an angle, to the longitudinal axis of the connecting member 98.

In an assembled state, the biasing stop 78 is attached to the plate 62 using a first threaded bolt 104 and a second threaded bolt (hidden) extending through the first attachment hole and the second attachment hole (both hidden), of the attachment member 80, and threadably attached to the plate 62, in the third threaded through hole 68 and fourth threaded through hole 70, of the plate 62, respectively.

The first attachment hole and the second attachment hole of the attachment member 80 (both hidden), and the third threaded through hole 68 and fourth threaded through hole 70 are arranged such that when the biasing stop 78 is attached to the plate 62, the stop member 82 is disposed at least substantially perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the biasing member 86.

Referring particularly to Figure 6b and 6c, the first end 88 of the biasing member 86 extends through a through hole 106 positioned centrally in the stop member 82.

The linkage member 102 extends from the joint 100, through the travel slot 72, and is attached to an attachment member 108 on the motor 48, as shown in Figure 6c.

Therefore, the linkage member 102, connecting member 98 and biasing member 86 are fixed relative to the motor 48.

The motor 48 is also fixed to the plate 62 using threaded bolt 110 which extends through the hole 66, in the plate, and threadably attaches with a threaded attachment hole (hidden) in the motor 48.

A drive shaft 112 extends from the motor 48 and through the first through hole 64 of the plate 62. The cog 50 is disposed on the end of the drive shaft 112 such that it is disposed on the opposite side of the plate 62, relative to the motor 48.

In use, biasing spring 94 exerts a biasing force off the stop member 82 in the direction of the connecting member 98. The biasing force is translated via the linkage member 102 onto the motor 48, which, in turn, acts to bias the cog towards the teeth 44 on the annular ring 46, as shown in Figure 5. The adjustment nut 96 may be rotated around the threaded portion of the biasing member 86 to shorten or lengthen the biasing spring 94 and therefore adjust the biasing force being applied.

It is understood that the drive biasing means may be adjusted to increase the biasing force pushing the motor towards the annular ring and in doing so help to prevent the intermeshing teeth of the motor and the annular ring slipping relative to one another when higher loads are being placed on the rotation platform.

Although not shown, it is envisaged that the drive biasing means may be automatically adjusted to accommodate occasions when higher loads are placed on the system. The adjustment may be controlled using the controller 52. Alternatively the washroom drainage tray may further comprise a load sensor which measures the load placed on the rotating platform and signals an adjustment of the biasing force to accommodate the load (e.g. the weight of the user and their wheel chair).

Referring again to Figure 5, a preferred embodiment of a washroom drainage tray 10, according to the present invention, comprises a base tray 12 having platform support means. The platform support means comprise a plurality of roller ball support units 114, disposed circumferentially in a spaced apart arrangement around the trough base 30.

Referring also to Figure 7, each roller-ball support unit 114 has a base 116 having a recess 118, on which a ball 120 rests, and a retaining cover 122, having an aperture 124. The retaining cover 122 acts to retain the ball 120 in the recess 118 such that it is able to roll therein. The ball 120 protrudes through the aperture 124 and thereby provides a moveable supporting surface.

A roller-ball track is formed in the underside of the platform 14 in the form of a continuous recess 130 extending around the circumference of the underside of the platform 14 and disposed such that the roller-ball track 128 is supported by and rides over each of the balls 120.

In use, when the platform 14 is rotated it rides over the balls 120 which provides improved stability and ease of rotation of the platform 14. It is appreciated that alternative support arrangements are possible without departing from the claimed invention.

Referring to Figure 8, another aspect of the present invention is a floor support frame 132 for supporting a washroom drainage tray 10, as described above. The floor support frame 132 can be deployed in situations where the washroom drainage tray is to be deployed flush with floor level.

The support frame 132 has four frame members, 134, 136, 138 and 140, arranged into a rectangular shape and dimensioned to correspond with the dimensions of the washroom drainage tray 10. The support frame 132 also has four bracing members, 142, 144, 146 and 148. Each bracing member 142, 144, 146 and 148 extends between adjacent frame members 134, 136, 138 and 140. The support frame is preferably made from a metal such as angle iron or can be made from any other suitable materials.

Referring to Figures 9 and 10, an alternative embodiment of a washroom drainage tray 100, according to the present invention, is identical to previously described embodiments except that it does not have the walls 18.

This allows the washroom drainage tray 100 to be fitted into the structure of a floor 150 such that the top surface of the washroom drainage tray 100 is at the same height as the surface 152 of the floor 150 (i.e. is lies flush).

Referring particularly to Figure 10, the floor 150 has a plurality of floor joists 154a to f, arranged in parallel relative to each other, and a rim joist 154g arranged perpendicular relative to the floor joists 1 54a to f. Two of the floor joists, 154 band c, are cut to provide an opening 156. An additional joist 1 54h is fixed to provide sufficient load support and trimmers, 1 58a, 1 58b and 1 58c, are attached between joists 1 54a and 1 54b, 1 54b and 1 54c, and 1 54c and 154d, respectively. The opening 156 is thereby defined by the internal surfaces of the rim joist 1 54g, floor joist 1 54a, the trimmers, 1 58a, 1 58b and 158c and the additional joist 154h.

The support frame 132 is fixed to the internal surfaces of the joists and trimmers surrounding the opening with, for example, screws or bolts (not shown), at a depth such that, when seated on the support frame 132, the top surface of the washroom drainage tray 100 is at the same height as the floor surface 152. The washroom drainage tray 100 is fixed to the support frame 132 either directly or using brackets (not shown).

Figure 11 shows an alternative slim-line embodiment of the washroom drainage tray 200 of the present invention, which is similar, but not identical, to that shown in situ in Figures 9 and 10.

It will be appreciated that all of the embodiments of the washroom drainage tray shown in the figures share a number of features in common. Where the features are shown in more than one of the embodiments, and in order to avoid unnecessary repetition, subsequent description of the features will be less detailed.

The skilled person will appreciate that certain features shown in the one of the embodiments may be adopted in the other embodiments, with the exception of features that are provided as alternative, incompatible solutions to the same problem.

Once again the washroom drainage tray 200 comprises a base tray 212 with a rotatable platform 214 mounted thereon. In this embodiment the rotatable platform is secured to the annular ring (244 shown in Figure 12) using screw fixings 217, which pass through holes (218 shown in Figure 13) in the platform. It will be understood that other removable fixings might alternatively be employed.

Turning now to Figure 12, which shows the tray 200 of Figure 11 in cross-section, allows the interaction of the rotating platform 214 and the base tray 212 to be better understood. Similarly to the embodiment shown in Figure 2 the base tray 212 is provided with drainage trough 230 which is shaped to direct water collected by the washroom drainage tray 200 to the waste water trap 232.

As with the embodiment shown in Figure 2 the washroom drainage tray 200 is provided with a water-proof housing 225 that is at least partially defined by the base tray 212 and the rotating platform 214.

It will be appreciated that, although not shown in Figure 12, the base tray is provided with an opening to accommodate the operational components (e.g. motor, etc...). The opening is disposed within the water proofed-housing 225.

Unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the central region of the base tray 212 is not raised with respect to the drainage trough 300. However, the water-proof barrier between the drainage trough 300 and the water-proof housing 225 is provided in a similar manner to that used in the embodiment shown in Figure 2.

Specifically, inner annular wall 228 of the base tray 212 forms a water-proof seal 256 with a corresponding region of the underside of the rotating platform 214. It will be appreciated that this interaction between the base tray and the rotating platform also helps to distribute the load placed on the platform during use.

The rotational movement of the platform relative to the base tray is further supported by the centrally located axle point provided by the interaction of corresponding base tray axle component 226 and rotating platform axle component 227. The skilled person will appreciate that any bearing arrangement which facilitates the rotation of the loaded rotating platform relative to the base tray can be applied without departing from the claimed invention.

Once again, as shown in Figure 2, the rotational movement of the platform 214 relative to the base tray 212 is achieved by way of the interaction of the teeth on the annular ring 244, which is attached to the underside of the platform 214, and the motor (not shown) located preferably in the water-proofed housing or area.

The motor driven cog 50 (motor hidden from view) referred to above can be seen in the alternative view of washroom drainage tray 200 shown in Figure 13. The cut-away graphic also reveals the drive biasing means, which is mounted along with the motor, on the motor mount plate 262.

A particularly advantageous preferred feature of the present invention will now be described with reference the Figures 14a, 14b, 15a and 15b. This advantageous feature relates to an adjustable motor mount plate 262, which provides much greater flexibility than the standard plate 62 shown in Figures 6a, 6b and 6c when installing the washroom drainage tray of the present invention within a floor space to achieve a flush fitting with the floor level.

Figures 1 4a and 1 4b both show a closer view of the motor driven cog 50 and the drive biasing means 260 mounted to the motor mounting plate 262, which is in turn attached to the base tray 212 by multiple fixings 275.

Unlike the motor mounting plate shown in Figures 6a, 6b and 6c, which is provided with through holes 74 at specific locations to facilitate the plate to be attached to the base tray using standard fixing means, the preferred embodiment of the plate 262 now being described is provided with arcuate slots 274.

As will be appreciated upon comparison of Figures 14a and 14b, the arcuate slots allow the motor mount plate 262 to be attached to the base tray 212 in various orientations. As will be explained later in more detail, this allows the position of the motor, which extends downwards from the washroom drainage tray, to be adjusted around the curve of the slots 274.

In addition to the replacement of the through holes 74 with arcuate slots 274 the motor mounting plate 262 also differs from mounting plate 62, shown in Figures 6a, 6b and 6c, in that the biasing stop 278 is formed as part of the plate rather than secured to the plate. This simplifies the construction of the plate.

Other than the differences identified above the main features of mounting plate 262 and the operation of the drive biasing means 260 are consistent with the description provided for Figures 6a, 6b and 6c above.

Also visible in Figure 14a and 14b are dampening pads 219, which are preferably made of rubber, that serve to reduce vibration as the platform rotates.

Figures 16 and 17 both show the benefits of the adjustable motor mounting plate 262 when installing the washroom drainage tray of the present invention (i.e. 200) in a floor space 300 such as to achieve a flush finish with the floor level 302.

It will be appreciated that by adopting the adjustable motor mounting plate 262 it is possible to accommodate under floor obstacles (such as joists 302, waste pipes, etc..) rather than require their remove or relocation -as is the case in the arrangement shown in Figures 9 and 10, which requires the use of the support frame 132.

As can be seen in Figure 17 the adjustable motor mounting plate 262 allows the position of the motor 48 to be adjusted so that it does not conflict with existing joist 302c, for example. As a result, rather than replacing part of joists 302b and 302c with a support frame (e.g. 132), the installation process involve the installation of cross beams 304a, 304b and 304c to support the weight of the washroom drainage tray 200. This is quicker and much less disruptive.

In view of the clear benefits provided by the adjustable motor mounting plate 262 it is envisioned that it can be adopted in any of the described embodiments of the washroom drainage tray; even when the supporting frame is employed (although this may not always be necessary).

Claims

CLAIMS1. A washroom drainage tray comprising: a base tray; a rotatable platform mounted on the base tray; an annular ring; means for rotating the annular ring to cause the rotatable platform to rotate relative to the base tray; and characterised in that the washroom drainage tray is provided with a water-proofed housing that is formed when the rotatable platform is mounted on the base tray.
2. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 1 further comprising a motor for driving the annular ring.
3. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the annular ring is disposed on the rotatable platform.
4. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the motor is disposed on the base tray.
5. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base tray comprises a raised central portion and a raised outer portion, extending around the circumference of the base tray, such as to form a drainage trough between the raised central portion and the raised outer portion.
6. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 5, wherein the raised central portion and the raised outer portion help define the water-proofed housing.
7. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the motor is disposed in the raised central portion.
8. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base tray comprises a track and the rotatable platform comprises a track follower.
9. A washroom drainage tray as claimed in claim 8, wherein the base tray track is annular.
10. A washroom drainage tray according to any of claims 2 to 8, wherein the annular ring comprises a plurality of teeth disposed around the circumference thereof for engaging with corresponding teeth driven by the motor.
11. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of annular ring teeth are disposed to face radially inwards.
12. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a brake operable to at least reduce the speed of rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray.
13. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 12, wherein the brake is disposed with the water-proof housing.
14. A washroom drainage tray according to any of claims 2 to 14, further comprising drive biasing means operable to bias the motor into engagement with the teeth of the annular ring.
15. A washroom drainage tray as claimed in claim 14, wherein the drive biasing means is operable to adjust the angle in which the motor is set relative to the annular ring.
16. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising a load sensor that measures the weight load placed on the rotatable platform and signals the drive biasing means to adjust accordingly.
17. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a controller operable to start and stop rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray.
18. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 17, wherein the controller is operable to control the speed of rotation of the rotatable platform relative to the base tray.
19. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the controller comprises a panic button that, when activated, immediately stops the rotation of the rotatable platform and/or triggers and alarm.
20. A washroom drainage tray according to any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the controller is a remote control unit.
21. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the proceeding claims, further comprising platform support means operable to support the platform.
22. A washroom drainage tray as claimed in claim 21, wherein platform support means comprises a plurality of support units arranged to underlie the peripheral region of the platform.
23. A washroom drainage tray as claimed in claim 22, wherein the plurality of support units each comprise conveying means operable to contact the under-surface of the platform and facilitate movement of the platform over the support units.
24. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 23, wherein the conveying means comprises a roller-ball or a roller-bar.
25. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a floor support frame.
26. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 25, wherein the floor support frame comprises four frame members arranged into a rectangular shape dimensioned to correspond with the dimensions of the base tray and having a plurality of bracing members, each bracing member extending between adjacent frame members.
27. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 26, wherein the floor support frame comprises four bracing members.
28. A washroom drainage tray according to any of the preceding claims when a motor present, further comprising an adjustable motor mount, upon which the motor is secured, that is connectable to the base tray by one of more fixing means; and whereby the orientation of the motor mount relative to the base tray is adjustable.
29. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 28, wherein the motor mount is provided with one or more slots through which said one or more fixings are received.
30. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 29, wherein the slots are arcuate.
31. A washroom drainage tray according to claim 28, 29 or 30, wherein the motor mount is in the form of a plate.
32. A washroom comprising a washroom drainage tray according to any of claims ito 31.
33. A shower room or cubicle comprising a washroom drainage tray according to any of claims ito 31.
34. A bathroom or toilet room comprising a washroom drainage tray according to any of claims ito 31.
35. A washroom drainage tray as substantially described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.