LU505770B1

LU505770B1 - Shower cup for controlling water dripping or splashing from overhead showers

Info

Publication number: LU505770B1
Application number: LU505770A
Authority: LU
Inventors: Bernard Zimmer
Original assignee: Goudsmit & Tang Man Company
Priority date: 2023-12-13
Filing date: 2023-12-13
Publication date: 2025-06-19
Also published as: WO2025125204A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a shower cup (1) addressing the issue of cold water dripping or water splashing from overhead shower head (10). The shower cup (1) comprises two parts, namely a cup (5) aiming at collecting the water drops, and a support arm (3) allowing the cup (5) to rotate in order to cover, or not, the shower head (10). The assembly is designed to be mounted on the exterior of the shower, particularly on a shower arm (9), providing a universal solution to the problem. Also, the present invention relates to a method of assembling the shower cup (1) and mounting the same on the shower arm (9).

Description

x S LAIDEREUR & PARTNERI 1 > N rotons apr RAIA 7

SHOWER CUP FOR CONTROLLING WATER DRIPPING OR SPLASHING LUS05770

FROM OVERHEAD SHOWERS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to devices in the field of bathroom accessories and more particularly to an apparatus designed to control cold water dripping from overhead showers.

Moreover, the present invention relates to mechanisms addressing the challenge of water dispersion, dripping or splashing during shower use. Also, the present invention relates to a method of assembling the apparatus and mounting the same to the exterior of the shower.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the field of bathroom utilities, the problem of cold water drops escaping from overhead showers has persisted, often linked not just to the design but also to different other factors like water pressure, water hardness, internal pipe conditions (such as limescale build-up in the pipes), etc. The mentioned problem persists regardless of the modernity/outdatedness of the equipment.

Another existing problem is that water dispersion provided by some shower heads, such as rain shower heads, cannot be controlled to provide a directed flow.

Also, there exists a challenge with water dripping or splashing during shower use, which leads to frequent and unsightly water dispersion outside the showering area.

The existing solutions often comprise fixed, non-adaptive or inadequate structures that struggle to accommodate varying shower sizes or water flow directions or offer partial coverage or cumbersome designs that impede practical usability.

These limitations hinder their efficacy in controlling unexpected and undesirable cold water dripping from overhead showers, or continuous water dripping or splashing during the use.

Therefore, the existing technologies for shower containment lack universality and

À É LADEREUR à aan 2 > & tete tun Boney boars A effectiveness, failing to address the comprehensive concerns of cold water drops escaping LUS05770 from overhead showers or uncontrollable water flow.

Consequently, users face challenges with suboptimal containment mechanisms that fail to adapt to different needs. The lack of a universal and adjustable solution aggravates this issue, leaving users with limited options to mitigate water dripping or splashing effectively.

Additionally, the absence of comprehensive support structures in these solutions compromises their ability to contain and redirect water flow effectively. These deficiencies result in bad experience when taking ashower, increased dampness and even potential damage to surrounding bathroom surfaces.

Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome all the aforementioned drawbacks. Particularly, there is a need for a shower assembly providing a universal solution to the problems of cold water dripping or water splashing from overhead showers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to effectively solve the above-mentioned problems, a shower cup for controlling water dripping or splashing from overhead showers, which is designed to be mounted on the exterior of the shower, has been developed according to the invention.

The present invention is set out in the appended set of claims.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shower cup to be mounted on a shower arm of an overhead shower, the shower cup comprising: a collar; a support arm comprising a first support arm element and a second support arm element attached to the first support arm element, the first support arm element adapted for mounting on the shower arm via the collar; a sleeve with a rotatable base, attached to the second support arm element; and a cup attached to the sleeve such that when the shower cup is mounted on the shower arm, the cup is under a shower head of the overhead shower.

AQ mms se ’

According to one preferred embodiment, the first support arm element is straight and has a LU505770 first end and a second end, and is configured to be attached at its first end to the second support arm element, and at its second end, to the shower arm via the collar; and the second support arm element is straight or L-shaped and has a first end and a second end and is configured to be attached at its first end to the first support arm element, and at its second end, to the sleeve.

According to another preferred embodiment, the first support arm element is telescopic to adapt to various shower sizes.

According to another preferred embodiment, the first support arm element and the second support arm element are configured such that they are screwable one into another without using any tools.

According to one more preferred embodiment, the collar comprises a tightening mechanism for secure attachment over the shower arm. Preferably the collar is attachable to the shower arm by two screws, preferably stainless steel BTR screws.

According to another preferred embodiment, the shower cup further comprises a spout provided on the cup to channel water draining from the cup. Preferably the spout is an integral part of the cup or a separate part secured under the cup. Preferably, the spout comprises two pieces, the first piece attachable to the cup and the second piece attachable to the first piece thus making the spout longer.

According to another preferred embodiment, the rotatable base of the sleeve is designed to enable a 360° horizontal rotation for pulling the cup out from under the shower head and towards under the shower head. Preferably the sleeve is provided with a pin enabling the 360° horizontal rotation.

In another preferred embodiment, the cup attached to the sleeve is round or square. The cup can be configured such that it tilts, preferably towards the spout, to prevent water accumulation during use.

3 a poe ee °

LU505770

According to another preferred embodiment, the shower cup is designed such that: when mounted on the shower arm that comes from the ceiling or on a vertical part of an L-shaped shower arm that comes from the wall, the straight first support arm element (31) is positioned horizontally and if the second support arm element (32) is straight, it is positioned vertically, and if the second support arm element (32) is L-shaped, it is positioned such that it comprises a horizontal part and a vertical part; when mounted on a horizontal part of the L-shaped shower arm that comes from the wall, the straight first support arm element (31) is positioned vertically and the second support arm element (32) is straight and positioned vertically.

In another preferred embodiment, the sleeve is screwed into the second end of the second support arm element with the help of a screw, preferably a stainless steel BTR screw.

According to another preferred embodiment, the cup is screwed into the sleeve, preferably such that no tools are required.

According to another preferred embodiment, the shower cup is designed such that upon mounting on the shower arm, the distance between the cup and the shower head is not more than 4 to 5 cm, so that the cup stays close to the shower head, without touching it.

In another preferred embodiment, one or more of the elements of the shower cup are made of corrosion resistant materials, preferably plastic, chrome-plated materials or bamboo, more preferably chrome-plated plastic.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of assembling the shower cup and mounting the shower cup on a shower arm of an overhead shower, the method comprising the following steps: - attaching the first support arm element to the second support arm element, preferably screwing the first support arm element and the second support arm element one into another such that no tools are required;

... aRTNES ) - screwing the sleeve into the second support arm element, preferably using a screw, with the LUS05770 help of a screwdriver; - attaching the cup to the sleeve, preferably screwing the cup into the sleeve such that no tools are required; - using the collar, securing the shower cup assembly to the shower arm, preferably, using two screws, with the help of a screwdriver.

As can be seen from the above aspects and preferable embodiments of the present invention, the shower cup according to the present invention, which is designed to be mounted on the exterior of the shower, is a sophisticated assembly of components designed to address the persistent challenge of cold water dripping or water splashing in shower systems. This innovation combines technical precision with user-centric design, aiming to revolutionize the showering experience while minimizing water dripping and dispersion issues. Its universal, adaptable, robust structure and strategic assembly and placement of components provide a significant leap forward in addressing the existing problems without compromising on durability or visual appeal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which prominent aspects and features of the invention are illustrated.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a shower cup assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which is mounted on a shower arm of an overhead shower.

Fig. 2 is a bottom view of a sleeve of the shower cup assembly illustrated in Fig.1.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a preferred arrangement of a shower cup assembly on a vertical part of an L-shaped shower arm that comes from the wall (the way of attachment of a cup to a support arm as particularly shown in Fig. 3 does not form a part of the present invention).

AQ mms se °

Fig. 4 is another perspective view of the preferred arrangement shown in Fig. 3 (the way of LU505770 attachment of a cup to a support arm as particularly shown in Fig. 4 does not form a part of the present invention).

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a collar used in the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a top view of the preferred embodiment of the collar shown in Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the collar shown in Figs. 5 and 6, which is mounted on a vertical part of an L-shaped shower arm that comes from the wall.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a spout provided on a cup, according to the present invention (the way of attachment of the cup to a support arm as particularly shown in Fig. 8 does not form a part of the present invention).

Fig. 9 is another perspective view (from the bottom) of the preferred embodiment of the spout shown in Fig. 8.

Fig. 10 is a close view of the preferred embodiment of the spout shown in Figs. 8 and 9.

The present figures relate to schematic drawings so that any dimension of the elements shown in the drawings may deviate from a specifically implemented setup.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is now described in more details with reference to non-limiting examples. For example, modifications of specific elements of the preferred embodiments described hereafter may be combined with other modifications so as to provide further embodiments of the present invention.

A shower cup 1 assembly is to be mounted on the exterior of the overhead shower, particularly on a shower arm 9 of an overhead shower comprising a shower head 10, as shown in Fig. 1. In

3 a poe ee ' the context of the present application, the term “shower arm” should be understood as a LUS05770 shower inlet, a pipe that brings water to an overhead shower head. The shower arm 9 can come from the wall or ceiling. The shower arm 9 that comes from the wall is L-shaped, as shown in Fig. 7, and comprises a horizontal part 91 coming from the wall and a vertical part 92 that comes to the shower head 10. The shower arm 9 that comes from the ceiling is straight and vertical, as shown, e.g., in Fig. 1.

The shower cup 1 comprises a collar 2, a support arm 3 comprising a first support arm element 31 and a second support arm element 32, asleeve 4 with a rotatable base, a cup 5, and preferably a spout 6.

The collar 2 is provided for mounting the shower cup 1 assembly on the shower arm 9 and comprises a tightening mechanism for secure attachment over the shower arm 9. The collar 2 has a design providing universal application. In one preferable embodiment, the collar is designed such that it is attachable to the shower arm by two screws 7, as shown in Fig. 7 (see also Figs. 5 and 6).

The support arm 3 comprising the first support arm element 31 and the second support arm element 32 is provided for supporting the cup 5 under the shower head 10.

The first support arm element 31 is straight and has a first end 311 and a second end 312 (see

Fig. 1). The first support arm element 31 is configured to be attached at its first end 311 to the second support arm element 32, and at its second end 312, to the shower arm 9 with the help of the collar 2. According to one preferred embodiment, the first support arm element 31 is telescopic to adapt to different shower sizes. In order to reduce manufacturing costs, the first support arm element 31 can be non-telescopic. In this case, more than one model, e.g. two models, of the first support arm element 31, having different lengths, can be supplied at the same time for the user to have different options of the final shower cup assembly.

The second support arm element 32 has a first end 321 and a second end 322 (see Fig. 1) and is configured to be attached at its first end 321 to the first support arm element 31, and at its second end 322, to the sleeve 4. The second support arm element 32 can be straight or L-

x S LAIDEREUR & PARTNERI 8 > N rotons apr RAIA 7 shaped (like a swan neck, as shown in Fig. 1). The straight second support arm element 32 is LU505770 suitable and preferably provided when the shower cup 1 assembly is to be mounted on the shower arm 9 that comes from the wall, particularly on the horizontal part 91 of the shower arm 9 that comes from the wall (this embodiment is not shown in the figures). The L-shaped second support arm element 32 is suitable and preferably provided when the shower cup 1 assembly is to be mounted on the shower arm 9 that comes from the ceiling or on the vertical part 92 of the L-shaped shower arm 9 that comes from the wall (as shown in Fig. 1).

When the shower cup 1 assembly is mounted on the horizontal part 91 of the L-shaped shower arm 9 that comes from the wall, the straight first support arm element 31 is positioned vertically, and the straight second support arm element 32 is positioned vertically too.

When the shower cup 1 assembly is mounted on the shower arm 9 that comes from the ceiling or on the vertical part 92 of the L-shaped shower arm 9 that comes from the wall, the straight first support arm element 31 is positioned horizontally (see Fig. 1), and in case the second support arm element 32 is L-shaped it is positioned such that it comprises a horizontal part and a vertical part of the L shape (see Fig. 1), or in case the second support arm element 32 is also straight, the second support arm element 32 is positioned vertically (see Figs. 3 and 4).

According to one possible embodiment, the first support arm element 31 and the second support arm element 32 can be manufactured such that they are screwable one into another without using any tools, but can have any other suitable design.

The support arm 3 should be strong enough to take all the weight, even if there is a pendulum effect between the top and the bottom of the assembly.

The sleeve 4 has a pin, with the help of which the sleeve 4 can be rotated 360° horizontally to pull the cup 5 out from under the shower head 10 (see Fig. 1).

According to one preferred embodiment, the sleeve 4 can be screwed into the second end 322 of the second support arm element 32 with the help of a screw 8, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

À É LADEREUR à aan 9 > & DOS tot a

The cup 5 functions as a tray for “catching” water drops. The cup 5 can be supplied in two sizes, LU505770 one small and one large, and can preferably be round or square, but it also can be shaped differently to adapt to a market.

The cup 5 preferably screws into the sleeve 4 as shown in Fig. 1, and more preferably the cup is configured to screw into the sleeve 4 such that no tools are required.

The cup 5 is designed such that being screwed and suspended, it is not horizontal, on the contrary, it tilts to prevent water from accumulating by directing the same to flow down. In the embodiment where the spout 6 is provided in the shower cup 1 assembly (as shown in

Figs. 8-10), the cup 5 tilts towards the spout 6. At the same time, the cup 5 is designed such that it remains stable during the use to withstand sudden water flow or manipulation without cracking or falling at the slightest cm of water (for example, the user can open the shower without first moving the cup being under the shower head and, with a sudden gesture, fold it back outwards).

Accordmg to one Dossiois ambodiment, the support arm 32 15 designen such that the angle hebween The stralght Hal support arm element 31 and the cfragnt second surport arm clement 22 15 variatle between SO and 100 degrees, ın order fo improve the evacuation of lament 37 is designed such that the angle between two parts of the Lohaped second support army sisment 32, which form the shape, is variable between 80 and 100 degrees, In order to improve the evacuationr of water frorn the cup 5, Due to the variability of the angle balwesn the straight first support arr element 31 and the ctraiaht second support arm element 32 or of the angle of the Lahaped second support arm slement 32, he user dan gaudy change the shower oun 1 assembly is secured to the shower arm © such that the angle of the oun 5 changes tonether with the angle of the second support arm element 32 and the cup © ES

3 a poe ee to

Upon mounting the shower cup 1 assembly on the shower arm 9 the distance between the LU505770 cup 5 and the shower head 10 should not be more than 4 to 5 cm, so that the cup 5 stays close to the shower head 10, without touching it.

According to one preferred embodiment, the spout 6 is provided to channel the water draining from the cup 5 (see Figs. 8-10). The spout 6 can be either an integral part of the cup 5, or a separate part that can be secured under the cup 5. According to one preferred embodiment, the spout 6 can be designed as two pieces to have the option to make it longer. In this embodiment, the first piece of the spout 6 is intended to be attached to the cup 5 and the second piece of the spout 6 is intended to be attached to the first piece thus making the spout 6 longer.

A water drainage hole (not shown in the figures) can optionally be provided in the cup 5, which is concentric with the cup joint and should only be used for facilitating rinsing and cleaning the cup under the open shower head. Optionally or alternatively, a water drainage gutter (not shown in the figures) can optionally be provided in the cup 5 and should only be used for facilitating rinsing and cleaning the cup under the open shower head. The design of the optional water drainage hole or water drainage gutter can optimize water flow management without compromising the structural integrity of the cup.

The materials for the shower cup components can be any materials known for a skilled person to be suitable for the purposes of the present invention, the present invention is not focused on a specific material. For example, the plastic and chrome-plated materials can be used for the reasons of corrosion and cost (corrosion-resistant and cost-effective). Particularly, chrome- plated plastic can be used. The addition of chrome plating further augments the durability and visual appeal of the shower cup. However, other suitable materials can fit also, even bamboo.

The screws 7 and 8 used in the assembly can be stainless steel BTR screws. One or two nylon,

Rilsan or Teflon (or the like) washers (not shown in the figures) can be additionally used to assembly the shower cup 1. Elements used for shower cup 1 assembly can be 3D printed or manufactured parts (produced by any industrial process such as using molds or a press).

3 a poe ee tH

The shower cup 1 is assembled on the outside of the shower, except for the final fixing to the LU505770 shower arm 9. Preferably the assembly process comprises the following steps: - the first support arm element 31 is attached to the second support arm element 32 (preferably the first support arm element 31 and the second support arm element 32 are screwed one into another such that no tools are required); - then, the sleeve 4 is screwed into the second support arm element 32 at the second end 322 of the second support arm element 32 using one screw 8 and one screwdriver; - then, the cup 5 is attached to the sleeve 4 (preferably, the cup 5 is screwed into the sleeve 4 such that no tools are required); and - after that, using the collar 2, the shower cup 1 assembly is secured to the shower arm 9 (preferably, using two screws 7 and one screwdriver).

Therefore, advantageously the first and second support arm elements 31 and 32 and the cup can be screwed even without any tools, except for screwing the sleeve 4 and the final fixing of the assembly to the shower arm 9 by the collar 2, which can require a screwdriver. The proposed assembly process thus ensures simplicity in installation, promoting user-friendly setup while preserving the overall structural stability of the shower cup.

Compared to existing technologies in the field of shower fixtures, the shower cup according to the present invention offers several distinct advantages: 1. Comprehensive water containment: the shower cup assembly's design ensures comprehensive containment of water within the showering area, mitigating the common issue of cold water dripping from the shower head or water dripping or splashing beyond the designated shower space. 2. Universal adaptability: its adaptable nature (such as telescopic features of the first support arm element, two possible shapes of the second support arm element, elongating design of the spout, etc.) allows for easy installation across various shower types, providing a versatile solution to a widespread problem. This adaptability addresses not only different shower sizes and configurations but also potential variations in water pressure and flow. 3. Enhanced user safety and comfort: by preventing unexpected cold water dripping from the shower head and water dripping or splashing, the invention ensures user's comfort when

3 a poe ee te taking a shower and helps to maintain dry bathroom floors, and thus significantly reduces slip LU505770 hazards, enhancing overall user safety. 4. User-friendliness: any user, without having specific skills, can easily assembly the shower cup and secure the same to the shower arm. After installation, the user can also easily rotate the cup from under the shower head and towards under the shower head.

Thus, the design of the shower cup according to the present invention signifies a holistic solution to the persistent issue of cold water dripping or water dripping or splashing from overhead showers. Its adaptable and user-centric design, robust construction and precisely orchestrated component layout stand as a testament to its functional prowess, all without compromising on durability or aesthetic appeal.

Beyond its immediate use in residential showering systems, the invention holds potential applications in various settings. Its adaptable nature and efficient water containment make it suitable for: 1. Hospitality industry: hotels and resorts can benefit from this innovation to enhance guest experiences and minimize the risk of accidents due to wet floors. 2. Public facilities: gyms, swimming pools, and communal shower spaces can utilize this invention to maintain cleanliness and reduce slip hazards. 3. Healthcare settings: hospitals and care facilities could employ this invention to ensure safer showering environments for patients and caregivers.

The above disclosed subject-matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and serves to provide a better understanding of the present invention set out in the appended set of claims.

Claims

3 am te CLAIMS LU505770

1. A shower cup (1) to be mounted on a shower arm of an overhead shower, the shower cup (1) comprising: - a collar (2), - a support arm (3) comprising a first support arm element (31) and a second support arm element (32) attached to the first support arm element (31), the first support arm element (31) adapted for mounting on the shower arm via the collar (2); - a sleeve (4) with a rotatable base, attached to the second support arm element (32); and - a cup (5) attached to the sleeve (4) such that when the shower cup is mounted on the shower arm, the cup (5) is under a shower head of the overhead shower.

2. The shower cup (1) according to claim 1, wherein: the first support arm element (31) is straight and has a first end (311) and a second end (312), and is configured to be attached at its first end (311) to the second support arm element (32), and at its second end (312), to the shower arm via the collar (2); and the second support arm element (32) is straight or L-shaped and has a first end (321) and a second end (322) and is configured to be attached at its first end (321) to the first support arm element (31), and at its second end (322), to the sleeve (4).

3. The shower cup (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first support arm element (31) is telescopic to adapt to various shower sizes.

4. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first support arm element (31) and the second support arm element (32) are configured such that they are screwable one into another without using any tools.

5. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collar (2) comprises a tightening mechanism for secure attachment over the shower arm, preferably the collar (2) is attachable to the shower arm by two screws (7), preferably stainless steel BTR screws.

à mre A Ses 14 ERE Apea

6. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a LU505770 spout (6) provided on the cup (5) to channel water draining from the cup (5), preferably the spout (6) is an integral part of the cup (5) or a separate part secured under the cup (5), more oreferaibly the spout {51 comprises two pieces, the Hrst pisos attachable to the cup {55 and the second piece attachablie to the fret piace thus maldng the spout (8) longer, TL The shower ous (IT according to claim 2, wherein: arm element (311 and the straight second support arme element (32) 19 variable between SC and LOG degrees, or the chapped second support arm element (2j ie designed such that the angle between

8. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotatable base of the sleeve (4) is designed to enable a 360° horizontal rotation for pulling the cup (5) out from under the shower head and towards under the shower head, preferably the sleeve (4) is provided with a pin enabling the 360° horizontal rotation.

9. The shower cup (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the cup (5) attached to the sleeve (4) is round or square and preferably is configured such that it tilts, preferably towards the spout (6), to prevent water accumulation during use.

10. The shower cup (1) according to claim 2, wherein the shower cup (1) is designed such that: when mounted on the shower arm that comes from the ceiling or on a vertical part of an L-shaped shower arm that comes from the wall, the straight first support arm element (31) is positioned horizontally and if the second support arm element (32) is straight, it is positioned vertically, and if the second support arm element (32) is L-shaped, it is positioned such that it comprises a horizontal part and a vertical part;

3 am to when mounted on a horizontal part of the L-shaped shower arm that comes from the LU505770 wall, the straight first support arm element (31) is positioned vertically and the second support arm element (32) is straight and positioned vertically.

11. The shower cup (1) according to claim 2, wherein the sleeve (4) is screwed into the second end (322) of the second support arm element (32) with the help of a screw (8), preferably a stainless steel BTR screw.

12. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cup (5) is screwed into the sleeve (4), preferably such that no tools are required.

13. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shower cup (1) is designed such that upon mounting on the shower arm, the distance between the cup (5) and the shower head is not more than 4 to 5 cm, so that the cup (5) stays close to the shower head, without touching it.

14. The shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the elements of the shower cup (1) are made of corrosion resistant materials, preferably plastic, chrome-plated materials or bamboo, more preferably chrome-plated plastic.

15. A method of assembling the shower cup (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and mounting the shower cup (1) on a shower arm (9) of an overhead shower, the method comprising the following steps: - attaching the first support arm element (31) to the second support arm element (32), preferably screwing the first support arm element (31) and the second support arm element (32) one into another such that no tools are required; - screwing the sleeve (4) into the second support arm element (32), preferably using a screw (8), with the help of a screwdriver; - attaching the cup (5) to the sleeve (4), preferably screwing the cup (5) into the sleeve (4) such that no tools are required; - using the collar (2), securing the shower cup (1) assembly to the shower arm (9), preferably using two screws (7), with the help of a screwdriver.