US20060277678A1 - Arrangement for screening-off a space - Google Patents
Arrangement for screening-off a space Download PDFInfo
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- US20060277678A1 US20060277678A1 US10/567,500 US56750004A US2006277678A1 US 20060277678 A1 US20060277678 A1 US 20060277678A1 US 56750004 A US56750004 A US 56750004A US 2006277678 A1 US2006277678 A1 US 2006277678A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- arrangement
- slat
- slats
- projecting portion
- screening
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
- A47K3/00—Baths; Douches; Appurtenances therefor
- A47K3/28—Showers or bathing douches
- A47K3/38—Curtain arrangements
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an arrangement for screening-off a space. More specifically, the present invention relates to an arrangement for screening-off a first space from a second space and preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space. Arrangements of the type under consideration here occur in connection with the screening-off of a space in order to prevent liquid from splashing in environments where liquid splashes and the like take place. Arrangements of the type contemplated here often occur in connection with shower and bathing areas and the like. Normally, this type of arrangement occurs in a domestic environment for screening-off a shower area, such as a bathtub, shower cabinet or the like, in order to prevent water from splashing outside the shower area. This type of arrangement may also occur in connection with car wash installations, painting work, cutting processing and the like.
- One such type of arrangement comprises water-repellent curtains, such as shower curtains, in order to screen-off a space in an environment where liquid splashing takes place, such as a shower area, bathtub or the like.
- shower curtains are produced from a liquid-repellent material and are, in their upper end, moveably connected to a horizontal rod, in which event the shower curtain may be drawn along the rod.
- the shower curtain is moved in front of an opening between the shower area and adjacent space and, when the shower curtain is not in use, it may be moved to the side while at the same time being folded.
- the arrangement according to the present invention entails that liquid splashing from an area such as a shower area or other environment where liquid splashing may occur can be avoided in a reliable and simple way without taking up unusually large space or without being in the way when not in use.
- the arrangement according to the present invention entails that a first space where liquid splashing occurs may be screened-off from a second space, the second space being protected against liquid splashing.
- a further object of the present invention is to realise a more reliable arrangement for preventing liquid from splashing outside a space.
- liquid such as water or the like
- Yet a further object of the present invention is to realise an arrangement of the type contemplated here which is simple to mount in position.
- Still a further object of the present invention is to realise a liquid-repellent Venetian blind or louvre which may advantageously be employed for screening-off a space where liquid splashing occurs.
- Yet a further object of the present invention is to realise an arrangement which remains in the desired position and, for example, is not sucked in towards a person in a shower area.
- This problem occurs in connection with prior art arrangements as a result of the fact that the water in the shower area heats up the air in the shower area, whereafter the air rises. Consequently, cold air outside the shower area is drawn in towards the shower area while entraining the arrangement towards the person in the shower area.
- the present invention comprises an arrangement for screening-off a first space from a second space and for preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space, comprising an element which is displaceable between a first position screening-off the first space and an open second position and which is liquid-repellent, characterised in that the liquid-repellent element includes a plurality of elongate lamellae or slats which are mutually interconnected by the intermediary of at least one ladder and which display a first side, a second side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, the slats being, by the intermediary of at least one operating element, displaceable in the vertical direction between the screening-off first position and the open second position, that the first side of each respective slat is designed with at least one projecting portion, the projecting portion being designed for abutment against the second side of an adjacent slat in the open second position under the formation of at least air gap between adjacent slats.
- the liquid-repellent element includes a plurality
- the arrangement according to the present invention may be designed as a liquid-repellent Venetian blind or a liquid-repellent louvre which may be employed in connection with screening-off a space such as a space where liquid splashing occurs. Examples of such spaces are bathing areas, shower areas, washing installations and areas where paintwork, cutting processing and similar operations occur. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement is thus designed as a shower Venetian blind or shower louvre.
- the projecting portion may be realised in that a distance between the first side and the second side of each respective slat is greater than in an adjacent portion of the slat.
- the projecting portion may be a portion of each respective slat where a distance between the first side and the second side is greater than in other portions of the slat.
- the air gap is formed in order to make possible drying of the slats in that the design of the first side of the slats differs from the design of the second side of the slats.
- spaces may be disposed on the first side of the slats or the second side.
- the first side in the open second position is an underside of the slat and the second side is an upper side of the slat, in which event the projecting portion may be disposed on the underside or upper side of the slat in the open second position.
- the slats may be distributed along the ladder with mutual spacing which is less than a width of each respective slat so that the first longitudinal side of each respective slat projects over the second longitudinal side of an adjacent slat.
- the first longitudinal side of each respective slat may project over apertures and recesses for lifting cords and ladders, respectively, in the second longitudinal side of an adjacent slat, in which event the apertures and recesses as well as the lifting cords and ladders are covered by a superjacent and adjacent slat in a lowered and screening-off position.
- liquid is prevented from passing through the apertures and recesses.
- lifting cords and ladders are protected from liquid splashing, a screening-off arrangement which effectively repels liquid splashing being realised.
- the recesses and apertures may be disposed along the one longitudinal side of the slats, in which event the slats may be rotated about connection points between the slats and the ladders.
- the ladders are disposed at one longitudinal side, the slats will, in the screening-off position, automatically assume a lowered or substantially vertical position.
- the slats When the slats are moved up and together to the open position, they are forced to rotate in a direction towards the horizontal position, or a position where the slats are disposed with a greater angle in towards the first space.
- the slats may, in the screening-off position, be disposed with a gap between adjacent slats so that air may pass between the slats in the arrangement.
- the gap may be disposed between the lower longitudinal side of an upper slat and one side of subjacent slats which is directed in towards the first space, the slats overlapping one another so that liquid which splashes substantially from above cannot pass through the gap.
- the arrangement according to the present invention may also include a conventional top strip for mounting in a ceiling or the like.
- the arrangement may also include a sealing strip for sealing against a substrate such as a floor or a bathtub edge or the like.
- the ladder may include a cord and a device projecting transversely in relation to the line such as balls or knots or the like for abutment against the first side, or the underside, of each respective slat.
- the ladder is connected to each respective slat through the recess, which may be designed so that the ladder may be passed into the recess from one longitudinal side of the slat on mounting, which results in a simpler and less time-consuming mounting operation.
- Operating elements, such as conventional lifting cords may be provided in a conventional manner.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention in the screening-off position seen from one side where liquid splashing occurs, or a second side of the arrangement;
- FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention in the screening-off position seen from one side opposite to that of FIG. 1 , or a first side of the arrangement;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic side elevation of one slat according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement which shows a plurality of slats according to FIG. 3 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position;
- FIG. 10 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement which shows a plurality of slats according to FIG. 4 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position;
- FIG. 11 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement showing a plurality of slats according to FIG. 5 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position;
- FIG. 12 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement showing a plurality of slats according to FIG. 6 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position;
- FIG. 13 is a schematic view of an end portion of one slat according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the recess and aperture of the slat for ladder and lifting cord, respectively;
- FIG. 14 is a schematic view of an end portion of a slat according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing the recess and aperture of the slat for the ladder and lifting cord, respectively;
- FIG. 15 is a schematic side elevation of a lower portion of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention which shows a sealing strip connected to the slats.
- the arrangement 10 for screening-off a first space from a second space and preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- the arrangement 10 is designed for screening-off a space where liquid splashing occurs, such as different types of washing installations, or spaces where various types of work involving liquids or the like occur.
- the arrangement 10 is designed, in connection with showering, to prevent water from splashing outside the shower area.
- the arrangement 10 is thus designed to be mounted between a first space, such a shower area, bathtub or the like, and an adjacent, second space such as the rest of a bathroom or the like.
- the arrangement 10 is designed to be mounted in an upper region of the first space so that the arrangement depends from a ceiling or the like, in which event the arrangement 10 may be moved between a lowered first position screening off the first space and a raised, open second position.
- the arrangement 10 is designed to be mounted between a ceiling and a floor or an edge of a bathtub or the like.
- the arrangement 10 is designed as a liquid-repellent Venetian blind or louvre or a shower Venetian blind or shower louvre.
- the arrangement 10 includes a liquid-repellent element in the form of a plurality of mutually interconnected lamellae or slats 11 in order to prevent liquid from splashing out of the first space.
- the slats 11 are elongate and comprise a first side 12 and a second side 13 .
- the first side 12 is designed, in the screening-off first position, to be directed substantially towards the second space adjacent the first space, such as a space adjacent a shower area, and, in the open, second position, to be directed more downwards or obliquely downwards.
- the first side 12 of the slat 11 in the screening-off first position is disposed substantially vertical in a direction opposed to the first space, while an axis along the extent of the slat is horizontal.
- the slat 11 In the open, second position, the slat 11 is angled in towards the first space, the first side 12 having been turned in a direction towards horizontal position, while the axis along the extent of the slat is still horizontal.
- the second side 13 may be designed in order, in the screening-off first position, to be directed substantially towards the first space and, in the open second position, to be directed more upwards or obliquely upwards so that the slat 11 inclines for example 45°.
- the second side 13 of the slat 11 in the screening-off first position, is disposed substantially vertically in a direction towards the first space, while an axis along the extent of the slat is horizontal.
- the second side 13 of the slat 11 In the open, second position, is disposed obliquely upwardly, while the axis along the extent of the slat is still horizontal.
- the slats 11 are made of a liquid-repellent plastic material which is preferably resistant to chlorine, soap, acids, heat, impact and the like.
- the slats 11 are produced from polycarbonate plastic, acrylic plastic, such as PMMA, thermoplastic such as PET/PETG, or PVC, aluminium or the like.
- the slats 11 are mutually interconnected by the intermediary of one or more ladders 14 which are disposed in recesses in the slats 11 , the recesses being described in greater detail below.
- the ladder 14 is disposed substantially vertically and transversely of the extent of the slats 11 .
- the ladder 14 includes a cord provided with balls, knots or similar devices projecting transversely of the extent of the cord.
- the slats 11 rest on the balls which are distributed with suitable mutual spacing along the extent of the cord.
- the distance between the slats 11 in the screening-off first position is determined by the positions of the balls.
- the ladder 14 is designed in a conventional manner.
- the arrangement 10 includes three ladders 14 which are distributed along one longitudinal side or edge of each respective slat 11 .
- the arrangement 10 includes conventional ladders or ladder tapes which are conventionally distributed.
- the slats 11 are, with the aid of an operating element, movable from the screening-off first position to the open second position.
- the operating element consists of one or more lifting cords 15 which are disposed so that each respective slat 11 is displaceable between the screening-off first position and the open second position during simultaneous rotation about an axis running along the extent of the slat 11 .
- the lifting cord 15 suitably runs through an aperture in each respective slat 11 and through a locking housing so that the arrangement 10 may be locked in position in the open second position.
- the locking housing is a conventional ratchet or locking housing for Venetian blinds and will not be described in greater detail.
- the lifting cord 15 is designed in a conventional manner.
- the arrangement 10 may include two lifting cords 15 .
- lifting cords 15 are provided in a conventional manner.
- the arrangement 10 includes a coving 16 which is connected to the slats 11 by the intermediary of the ladder 14 .
- the coving 16 is designed to be fixed in a ceiling or the like for suspension of the arrangement 10 .
- the locking housing is disposed in the coving 16 .
- the lifting cord runs through the coving.
- the ladder 14 is connected to the coving 16 .
- the coving 16 is designed in a conventional manner.
- the slats 11 are designed in such a manner that they can dry in the open second position, i.e. for example in the raised position, without fastening in adjacent slats or sticking together.
- the first side 12 or the second side 13 of each respective slat 11 includes or is provided with at least one projecting portion 17 for abutment against the second side 13 or the first side 12 of an adjacent slat 11 in the open second position while forming at least one air gap between adjacent slats 11 .
- the projecting portion 17 is realised in that a distance between the first side 12 and second side 13 of the slat 11 is greater than in an adjacent portion of the slat 11 .
- each respective slat 11 is formed with non-constant thickness, at least one portion of the slat 11 being designed with a thickness which is greater than a thickness of other portions.
- the slats 11 are provided with a spacer or the like in order to realise the air gap.
- FIG. 3 there is schematically shown a side elevation of one slat 11 a according to a first embodiment of the invention.
- the slat 11 a is designed with a curvature in one direction transversely of the extent of the slat 11 a so that the profile of the slat 11 a is somewhat curved.
- the slat 11 a is planar.
- the slat 11 a includes a first projecting portion 17 a and a second projecting portion 17 b which extend along the extent of the slat 11 a, i.e. from a first end of the slat 11 a to an opposing second end of the slat 11 a.
- the projecting portions 17 a, 17 b extend along a portion of the slat 11 a.
- the first projecting portion 17 a is disposed along a first longitudinal side 18 of the slat 11 a and the second projecting portion 17 b is disposed along an opposing second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 a.
- the first side 12 and second side 13 of the slat 11 a are bent and have an extent which corresponds to a part of a circumference of a circle, the radius of that circle which corresponds to the first side 12 being less than the radius of that circle which corresponds to the second side 13 .
- the distance between the first side 12 and the second side 13 is greater along the longitudinal sides 18 , 19 of the slat 11 a than in the centre, i.e. the thickness of the slat 11 a is greater along the longitudinal sides 18 , 19 than in a central region of the slat 11 a.
- FIG. 4 there is schematically shown a side elevation of a slat 11 b according to a second embodiment of the invention.
- the slat 11 b is designed with a curvature in a direction transversely to the extent of the slat 11 b so that the profile of the slat 11 b is slightly curved.
- the slat 11 b includes a projecting portion 17 c which extends along the extent of the slat 11 b, i.e. from a first end of the slat 11 b to an opposing second end thereof.
- the projecting portion 17 c extends along one or more portions of the slat 11 b.
- the projecting portion 17 c is disposed along the central region of the slat 11 b, the distance between the first side 12 and the second side 13 being greater in a central region of the slat 11 b than in other regions.
- the slat 11 c includes a first projecting portion 17 d, a second projecting portion 17 e, a third projecting portion 17 f and a fourth projecting portion 17 g which extend along the extent of the slat 11 c, i.e. from a first end of the slat 11 c to an opposing, second end thereof.
- the projecting portions 17 d - g extend along one or more portions of the slat 11 c.
- the first projecting portion 17 d is disposed along the first longitudinal side 18 of the slat 11 c
- the fourth projecting portion 17 g is disposed along the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 c
- the second and third projecting portions 17 e, 17 f are distributed there between, the distance between the first side 12 and the second side 13 of the slat being greater at the projecting portions 17 d - g than in other portions.
- FIG. 6 there is schematically shown a side elevation of a slat 11 d according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.
- the slat 11 d is substantially planar or designed with a gentle curve, with a curvature at the one longitudinal side of the slat 11 d.
- the slat 11 d includes a projecting portion 17 h which extends along the same longitudinal side of the slat 11 d as the curvature.
- the projecting portion 17 h is thus disposed along the one longitudinal side of the slat 11 d, i.e. the second longitudinal side 19 , the distance between the first side 12 and the second side 13 being greater along the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 d than in the rest of the slat 11 d.
- FIG. 7 there is schematically shown a side elevation of a slat 11 e according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
- the slat 11 e is provided with a projecting portion 17 i, 17 j in the form of spacers connected to the slat 11 .
- the projecting portions 17 i, 17 j consist of pins or the like projecting transversely of the extent of the slat 11 e and being, for example, connected to the slat 11 e in a conventional manner.
- the projecting portions 17 i, 17 j are disposed on the second side 13 of the slat in order, in the open second position, to abut against the first side 12 of an adjacent slat while forming an air gap there between.
- the projecting portions 17 i and 17 j are in the form of spacer elements disposed on the first side 12 of the slat 11 .
- FIG. 8 there is schematically shown a side elevation of a slat 11 f according to a sixth embodiment of the invention.
- the slat 11 is planar and provided with a projecting portion 17 k, 17 l and 17 m in the form of spacer elements connected to the slat 11 .
- the projecting portions 17 k, 17 l and 17 m are, for example, disposed on the first side 12 or the second side 13 of the slat 11 .
- FIGS. 9, 10 , 11 and 12 there is schematically illustrated a side elevation of a portion of the arrangement 10 according to a first, second, third and fourth embodiment of the present invention.
- the slats 11 a are shown according to FIG. 3 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position.
- the slats 11 b are shown according to FIG. 4 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position.
- the slats 11 c are shown according to FIG. 5 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position.
- FIG. 12 the slats 11 d are shown according to FIG. 6 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position.
- the slats 11 are mutually interconnected and connected to the coving 16 by the intermediary of at least one and suitably two or more sets of ladders 14 and are displaceable by means of the lifting cords 15 .
- the slats 11 are connected to the coving 16 by the intermediary of three sets of ladders 14 which are distributed along the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 .
- the slats 11 automatically assume a substantially vertical position when the arrangement 10 is lowered down to the screening-off first position.
- the slats are turned so that their ends are rotated from an angled or substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position when the arrangement 10 is brought to the screening-off first position.
- a substantially vertical position includes a gentle inclination of the slat 11 where the first longitudinal side 18 is somewhat offset towards the first space in relation to the second longitudinal side 19 .
- the first longitudinal side 18 is disposed substantially beneath the second longitudinal side 19 in the screening-off first position.
- the slats 11 are rotated about the connection with the ladders 14 so that they are turned substantially about a horizontal axis which runs along the second longitudinal side 19 of the slats 11 .
- the slats 11 are disposed so that the first longitudinal side 18 of the slats 11 projects out over the second longitudinal side 19 of an immediately subjacent slat, an overlapping being realised.
- a first slat 11 partly covers a subjacent second slat 11 so that the recesses and apertures for ladders 14 and lifting cords 15 are covered so as to avoid liquid splashing through them.
- the mutual overlapping of the slats 11 entails that ladders 14 and lifting cords 15 are covered and protected from liquid.
- This overlapping is realised by disposing the balls which are distributed along the ladders 14 and on which the slats 11 rest at a mutual spaced apart relationship which is less than the distance between the first longitudinal side 18 and second longitudinal side 19 of the slats 11 .
- the first longitudinal side of the slats 11 is, in the screening-off first position, free and disposed with a distance to the second side 13 of a subjacent slat while forming a gap 20 .
- air may pass between the first space and the second space in order to prevent the arrangement 10 from being sucked into the shower area when showering or the like.
- warm air in the first space may pass from the first space to the second space through the gaps 20 in an upper region of the arrangement 10 , i.e.
- cool air from the second space may pass from the second space to the first space through the gaps 20 in a lower region of the arrangement 10 .
- the slats 11 are displaced from the screening-off first position to the open second position, the slats 11 being moved upwards, brought together and turned to an angled or substantially horizontal position.
- the second side 13 of the slats 11 is turned upwards from a position where they form a liquid-repellent barrier against the first space.
- the slats 11 incline around 45° in towards the first space in the open second position.
- the slats 11 are substantially horizontal so that the second side 13 is directed upwards in the open second position.
- the portions 17 projecting from the first side 12 of the slats 11 abut against the second side 13 of a subjacent slat 11 while forming at least one air gap 21 therebetween.
- the air gap 21 is formed by the projecting portion 17 or the design of the slats 11 , in which event, in the raised and open, second position they may rapidly dry without sticking together.
- the projecting portion 17 or the projecting portions 17 thus project, in the raised open, second position, downwards and form abutment points against the upper side, or second side 13 of a subjacent slat 11 .
- abutment points constitute only a fraction of the surface of the slats 11 , the air gap 21 being formed between the abutment points so that the air gap 21 extends along the greater part of the surface of the slats 11 .
- the air gap 21 extends substantially from the first longitudinal side 18 of the slats 11 to their second longitudinal side 19 .
- the air gap 21 extends along the extent of the slats 11 with the exception of the abutment points of the projecting portions 17 .
- the arrangement 10 includes, in the open, second position, a plurality of air gaps 21 depending upon the number of projecting portions 17 .
- each respective slat 11 includes at least one recess 22 for the ladder 14 and at least one aperture 23 for the lifting cord 15 .
- the slats 11 are mutually interconnected by the intermediary of the ladder 14 running through the recess 22 in each respective slat 11 .
- the recess 22 is disposed at the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 .
- the recess 22 projects into the slat 11 as a recess in and transversely of the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 so that the ladder 14 may be passed into the recess 22 from the second longitudinal side 19 .
- the recess 22 is designed with a circumference which is larger than the cord of the ladder 14 but smaller than the balls of the ladder 14 so that the ladder 14 may be passed into the recess 22 and the ball abut against the first side 12 of the slat 11 .
- the recess 22 is made with a width which is larger most proximal the longitudinal side 19 than further in, the insertion of the ladder 14 being facilitated.
- the recess 22 is made in the form of a triangle which, in its apex, is terminated with an open area which is circular, rectangular, oval or the like, in which event the ladder 14 may be passed into the triangular area and further into the open region.
- a plurality of recesses 22 is distributed along the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 , as described above.
- the aperture 23 for the lifting cord 15 is disposed inside the recess 22 .
- the aperture 23 is circular, rectangular, oval or the like and is designed so that the lifting cord may readily run therethrough.
- a plurality of apertures 23 is disposed along the second longitudinal side 19 of the slat 11 , as described above.
- FIG. 14 there is shown an end region of one slat 11 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the aperture 23 is disposed at the side of the recess 22 so that the lifting cord 15 is disposed at substantially the same distance from the second longitudinal side 19 as the ladder 14 .
- the arrangement 10 includes a sealing strip 24 connected to the slats 11 .
- the sealing strip 24 is, for instance, connected to the slats 11 through the lifting cords 15 .
- the sealing strip 24 constitutes a lower terminating portion of the arrangement 10 .
- the sealing strip 24 is designed in order, in the lowered and screening-off first position of the arrangement, to constitute a seal against a substrate, such as a bathtub edge, a floor or the like, so that liquid is led down into the bathtub or to a floor drain on showering or the like.
- the sealing strip 24 accompanies the slats 11 when the arrangement 10 is raised and lowered.
- the sealing strip 24 is connected to the ladders 14 and/or the lifting cords 15 .
- the sealing strip 24 is connected to one slat 11 and suitably to a lower slat 11 in the arrangement 10 .
- the sealing strip 24 is connected to the lowermost slat 11 in a conventional manner, such as by means of connecting devices employing a snap-on function or the like, so that the sealing strip 24 may be pressed into position on the longitudinal side of the slat 11 .
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Abstract
The invention relates to an arrangement for screening-off a first space from a second space and for preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space, comprising a liquid-repellent element displaceable between a first position screening-off the first space and an open second position. The liquid-repellent element includes a plurality of elongate slats mutually interconnected by the intermediary of at least one ladder and with a first side, a second side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, the slats being, by the intermediary of at least one operating element, displaceable in a vertical direction between the screening-off first position and the open second position. The first side of each respective slat is designed with at least one projecting portion, the projecting portion being designed for abutment against the second side of an adjacent slat in the open, second position while forming at least one air gap between adjacent slats.
Description
- The present invention relates to an arrangement for screening-off a space. More specifically, the present invention relates to an arrangement for screening-off a first space from a second space and preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space. Arrangements of the type under consideration here occur in connection with the screening-off of a space in order to prevent liquid from splashing in environments where liquid splashes and the like take place. Arrangements of the type contemplated here often occur in connection with shower and bathing areas and the like. Normally, this type of arrangement occurs in a domestic environment for screening-off a shower area, such as a bathtub, shower cabinet or the like, in order to prevent water from splashing outside the shower area. This type of arrangement may also occur in connection with car wash installations, painting work, cutting processing and the like.
- Numerous different types of apparatuses and arrangements for screening-off a space and preventing liquid or water from splashing outside a space are previously known in the art. One such type of arrangement comprises water-repellent curtains, such as shower curtains, in order to screen-off a space in an environment where liquid splashing takes place, such as a shower area, bathtub or the like. Normally occurring shower curtains are produced from a liquid-repellent material and are, in their upper end, moveably connected to a horizontal rod, in which event the shower curtain may be drawn along the rod. In order to screen off the shower area, the shower curtain is moved in front of an opening between the shower area and adjacent space and, when the shower curtain is not in use, it may be moved to the side while at the same time being folded.
- One drawback in such prior art arrangements for preventing liquid from splashing outside the space is that they are bulky and take up considerable space when not in use. For example, a shower curtain or other types of water-repellent curtains which are moved to the side take up relatively large space in an area such as a bathroom, which also entails that the area in question is perceived as being smaller.
- One problem inherent in such prior art arrangements is that they become damp after use and subsequently dry slowly. A water-repellent curtain becomes wet or attracts moisture when in use, whereafter it is often moved to the side after use, during simultaneous folding, with the result that it takes a considerable time for the curtain to dry.
- A further problem inherent in such prior art arrangements is that there is a risk of mould damage or the like to such arrangements after a period of use.
- Yet a further drawback inherent in such prior art arrangements is that, when in use, they are not stable as regards their position. For example, they may be drawn in towards the area where liquid splashing occurs, which may entail problems. When a shower is in use, for example shower curtains are drawn in towards the shower area and a user in the shower. This may reduce the screening function of the arrangement and entail discomfort for the user of the shower area.
- One object of the present invention is to obviate the above-outlined drawbacks and problems inherent in prior art solutions. The arrangement according to the present invention entails that liquid splashing from an area such as a shower area or other environment where liquid splashing may occur can be avoided in a reliable and simple way without taking up unusually large space or without being in the way when not in use. Hence, the arrangement according to the present invention entails that a first space where liquid splashing occurs may be screened-off from a second space, the second space being protected against liquid splashing.
- A further object of the present invention is to realise a more reliable arrangement for preventing liquid from splashing outside a space. One problem inherent in this type of prior art arrangement is that liquid, such as water or the like, may often leak out at the lower region of the arrangement as a result of defective sealing between the arrangement and a floor or the like.
- Yet a further object of the present invention is to realise an arrangement of the type contemplated here which is simple to mount in position.
- Still a further object of the present invention is to realise a liquid-repellent Venetian blind or louvre which may advantageously be employed for screening-off a space where liquid splashing occurs.
- Yet a further object of the present invention is to realise an arrangement which remains in the desired position and, for example, is not sucked in towards a person in a shower area. This problem occurs in connection with prior art arrangements as a result of the fact that the water in the shower area heats up the air in the shower area, whereafter the air rises. Consequently, cold air outside the shower area is drawn in towards the shower area while entraining the arrangement towards the person in the shower area.
- The present invention comprises an arrangement for screening-off a first space from a second space and for preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space, comprising an element which is displaceable between a first position screening-off the first space and an open second position and which is liquid-repellent, characterised in that the liquid-repellent element includes a plurality of elongate lamellae or slats which are mutually interconnected by the intermediary of at least one ladder and which display a first side, a second side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, the slats being, by the intermediary of at least one operating element, displaceable in the vertical direction between the screening-off first position and the open second position, that the first side of each respective slat is designed with at least one projecting portion, the projecting portion being designed for abutment against the second side of an adjacent slat in the open second position under the formation of at least air gap between adjacent slats.
- Thus, the arrangement according to the present invention may be designed as a liquid-repellent Venetian blind or a liquid-repellent louvre which may be employed in connection with screening-off a space such as a space where liquid splashing occurs. Examples of such spaces are bathing areas, shower areas, washing installations and areas where paintwork, cutting processing and similar operations occur. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement is thus designed as a shower Venetian blind or shower louvre.
- The projecting portion may be realised in that a distance between the first side and the second side of each respective slat is greater than in an adjacent portion of the slat. Thus, the projecting portion may be a portion of each respective slat where a distance between the first side and the second side is greater than in other portions of the slat. Thus, the air gap is formed in order to make possible drying of the slats in that the design of the first side of the slats differs from the design of the second side of the slats. Alternatively, spaces may be disposed on the first side of the slats or the second side. For example, the first side in the open second position is an underside of the slat and the second side is an upper side of the slat, in which event the projecting portion may be disposed on the underside or upper side of the slat in the open second position.
- The slats may be distributed along the ladder with mutual spacing which is less than a width of each respective slat so that the first longitudinal side of each respective slat projects over the second longitudinal side of an adjacent slat. By such means, an overlap may be created which makes for a more reliable barrier against splashing liquid. Further, the first longitudinal side of each respective slat may project over apertures and recesses for lifting cords and ladders, respectively, in the second longitudinal side of an adjacent slat, in which event the apertures and recesses as well as the lifting cords and ladders are covered by a superjacent and adjacent slat in a lowered and screening-off position. By such means, liquid is prevented from passing through the apertures and recesses. Further, lifting cords and ladders are protected from liquid splashing, a screening-off arrangement which effectively repels liquid splashing being realised.
- The recesses and apertures may be disposed along the one longitudinal side of the slats, in which event the slats may be rotated about connection points between the slats and the ladders. In that the ladders are disposed at one longitudinal side, the slats will, in the screening-off position, automatically assume a lowered or substantially vertical position. When the slats are moved up and together to the open position, they are forced to rotate in a direction towards the horizontal position, or a position where the slats are disposed with a greater angle in towards the first space.
- According to one embodiment of the present invention, the slats may, in the screening-off position, be disposed with a gap between adjacent slats so that air may pass between the slats in the arrangement. By such means, the risk will be avoided, for example, that the arrangement is sucked in towards a shower area and a person located there. The gap may be disposed between the lower longitudinal side of an upper slat and one side of subjacent slats which is directed in towards the first space, the slats overlapping one another so that liquid which splashes substantially from above cannot pass through the gap.
- The arrangement according to the present invention may also include a conventional top strip for mounting in a ceiling or the like. The arrangement may also include a sealing strip for sealing against a substrate such as a floor or a bathtub edge or the like.
- The ladder may include a cord and a device projecting transversely in relation to the line such as balls or knots or the like for abutment against the first side, or the underside, of each respective slat. The ladder is connected to each respective slat through the recess, which may be designed so that the ladder may be passed into the recess from one longitudinal side of the slat on mounting, which results in a simpler and less time-consuming mounting operation. Operating elements, such as conventional lifting cords, may be provided in a conventional manner.
- Further characterising features and advantages inherent in the present invention will be apparent from the description of embodiments given below, the accompanying Drawings and the dependent Claims.
- The present invention will now be described in greater detail hereinbelow, with the aid of embodiments and with reference to the accompanying Drawings. In the accompanying Drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention in the screening-off position seen from one side where liquid splashing occurs, or a second side of the arrangement; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention in the screening-off position seen from one side opposite to that ofFIG. 1 , or a first side of the arrangement; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic side elevation of one slat according to a first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a second embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a third embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic side elevation of a slat according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement which shows a plurality of slats according toFIG. 3 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position; -
FIG. 10 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement which shows a plurality of slats according toFIG. 4 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position; -
FIG. 11 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement showing a plurality of slats according toFIG. 5 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position; -
FIG. 12 is a schematic side elevation of the arrangement showing a plurality of slats according toFIG. 6 , some being in the open position and some in the screening-off position; -
FIG. 13 is a schematic view of an end portion of one slat according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the recess and aperture of the slat for ladder and lifting cord, respectively; -
FIG. 14 is a schematic view of an end portion of a slat according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing the recess and aperture of the slat for the ladder and lifting cord, respectively; and -
FIG. 15 is a schematic side elevation of a lower portion of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention which shows a sealing strip connected to the slats. - With reference to
FIG. 1 andFIG. 2 , there is schematically illustrated anarrangement 10 for screening-off a first space from a second space and preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, thearrangement 10 is designed for screening-off a space where liquid splashing occurs, such as different types of washing installations, or spaces where various types of work involving liquids or the like occur. For example, thearrangement 10 is designed, in connection with showering, to prevent water from splashing outside the shower area. According to one embodiment of the present invention, thearrangement 10 is thus designed to be mounted between a first space, such a shower area, bathtub or the like, and an adjacent, second space such as the rest of a bathroom or the like. Preferably, thearrangement 10 is designed to be mounted in an upper region of the first space so that the arrangement depends from a ceiling or the like, in which event thearrangement 10 may be moved between a lowered first position screening off the first space and a raised, open second position. For example, thearrangement 10 is designed to be mounted between a ceiling and a floor or an edge of a bathtub or the like. For example, thearrangement 10 is designed as a liquid-repellent Venetian blind or louvre or a shower Venetian blind or shower louvre. - The
arrangement 10 includes a liquid-repellent element in the form of a plurality of mutually interconnected lamellae orslats 11 in order to prevent liquid from splashing out of the first space. Theslats 11 are elongate and comprise afirst side 12 and asecond side 13. For example, thefirst side 12 is designed, in the screening-off first position, to be directed substantially towards the second space adjacent the first space, such as a space adjacent a shower area, and, in the open, second position, to be directed more downwards or obliquely downwards. Thus, thefirst side 12 of theslat 11 in the screening-off first position is disposed substantially vertical in a direction opposed to the first space, while an axis along the extent of the slat is horizontal. In the open, second position, theslat 11 is angled in towards the first space, thefirst side 12 having been turned in a direction towards horizontal position, while the axis along the extent of the slat is still horizontal. For example, thesecond side 13 may be designed in order, in the screening-off first position, to be directed substantially towards the first space and, in the open second position, to be directed more upwards or obliquely upwards so that theslat 11 inclines for example 45°. Thus, thesecond side 13 of theslat 11, in the screening-off first position, is disposed substantially vertically in a direction towards the first space, while an axis along the extent of the slat is horizontal. In the open, second position, thesecond side 13 of theslat 11 is disposed obliquely upwardly, while the axis along the extent of the slat is still horizontal. For example, theslats 11 are made of a liquid-repellent plastic material which is preferably resistant to chlorine, soap, acids, heat, impact and the like. For example, theslats 11 are produced from polycarbonate plastic, acrylic plastic, such as PMMA, thermoplastic such as PET/PETG, or PVC, aluminium or the like. - The
slats 11 are mutually interconnected by the intermediary of one ormore ladders 14 which are disposed in recesses in theslats 11, the recesses being described in greater detail below. Theladder 14 is disposed substantially vertically and transversely of the extent of theslats 11. According to one embodiment of the present invention, theladder 14 includes a cord provided with balls, knots or similar devices projecting transversely of the extent of the cord. Theslats 11 rest on the balls which are distributed with suitable mutual spacing along the extent of the cord. Thus, the distance between theslats 11 in the screening-off first position is determined by the positions of the balls. Alternatively, theladder 14 is designed in a conventional manner. For example, thearrangement 10 includes threeladders 14 which are distributed along one longitudinal side or edge of eachrespective slat 11. Alternatively, thearrangement 10 includes conventional ladders or ladder tapes which are conventionally distributed. - The
slats 11 are, with the aid of an operating element, movable from the screening-off first position to the open second position. For example, the operating element consists of one ormore lifting cords 15 which are disposed so that eachrespective slat 11 is displaceable between the screening-off first position and the open second position during simultaneous rotation about an axis running along the extent of theslat 11. Thelifting cord 15 suitably runs through an aperture in eachrespective slat 11 and through a locking housing so that thearrangement 10 may be locked in position in the open second position. For example, the locking housing is a conventional ratchet or locking housing for Venetian blinds and will not be described in greater detail. According to one embodiment of the present invention, thelifting cord 15 is designed in a conventional manner. For example, thearrangement 10 may include twolifting cords 15. Alternatively, liftingcords 15 are provided in a conventional manner. - According to one embodiment of the present invention, the
arrangement 10 includes acoving 16 which is connected to theslats 11 by the intermediary of theladder 14. Thecoving 16 is designed to be fixed in a ceiling or the like for suspension of thearrangement 10. For example, the locking housing is disposed in thecoving 16. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the lifting cord runs through the coving. Further, for example theladder 14 is connected to thecoving 16. For example, thecoving 16 is designed in a conventional manner. - The
slats 11 are designed in such a manner that they can dry in the open second position, i.e. for example in the raised position, without fastening in adjacent slats or sticking together. Thefirst side 12 or thesecond side 13 of eachrespective slat 11 includes or is provided with at least one projectingportion 17 for abutment against thesecond side 13 or thefirst side 12 of anadjacent slat 11 in the open second position while forming at least one air gap betweenadjacent slats 11. For example, the projectingportion 17 is realised in that a distance between thefirst side 12 andsecond side 13 of theslat 11 is greater than in an adjacent portion of theslat 11. Thus, one formation of thefirst side 12 of theslat 11 is different from thesecond side 13, a profile of thefirst side 12 differing from a profile of thesecond side 13, and the difference between one extent of thefirst side 12 and one extent of thesecond side 13 forming the air gap or a plurality of air gaps betweenadjacent slats 11. Thus, according to one embodiment of the invention, eachrespective slat 11 is formed with non-constant thickness, at least one portion of theslat 11 being designed with a thickness which is greater than a thickness of other portions. Alternatively, theslats 11 are provided with a spacer or the like in order to realise the air gap. - With reference to
FIG. 3 , there is schematically shown a side elevation of oneslat 11 a according to a first embodiment of the invention. Theslat 11 a is designed with a curvature in one direction transversely of the extent of theslat 11 a so that the profile of theslat 11 a is somewhat curved. Alternatively, theslat 11 a is planar. Theslat 11 a includes a first projectingportion 17 a and a second projectingportion 17 b which extend along the extent of theslat 11 a, i.e. from a first end of theslat 11 a to an opposing second end of theslat 11 a. Alternatively, the projectingportions slat 11 a. The first projectingportion 17 a is disposed along a firstlongitudinal side 18 of theslat 11 a and the second projectingportion 17 b is disposed along an opposing secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11 a. According to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3 , thefirst side 12 andsecond side 13 of theslat 11 a are bent and have an extent which corresponds to a part of a circumference of a circle, the radius of that circle which corresponds to thefirst side 12 being less than the radius of that circle which corresponds to thesecond side 13. The distance between thefirst side 12 and thesecond side 13 is greater along thelongitudinal sides slat 11 a than in the centre, i.e. the thickness of theslat 11 a is greater along thelongitudinal sides slat 11 a. - With reference to
FIG. 4 there is schematically shown a side elevation of aslat 11 b according to a second embodiment of the invention. Theslat 11 b is designed with a curvature in a direction transversely to the extent of theslat 11 b so that the profile of theslat 11 b is slightly curved. Theslat 11 b includes a projectingportion 17 c which extends along the extent of theslat 11 b, i.e. from a first end of theslat 11 b to an opposing second end thereof. Alternatively, the projectingportion 17 c extends along one or more portions of theslat 11 b. The projectingportion 17 c is disposed along the central region of theslat 11 b, the distance between thefirst side 12 and thesecond side 13 being greater in a central region of theslat 11 b than in other regions. - With reference to
FIG. 5 , there is schematically shown a side elevation of aslat 11 c according to a third embodiment of the invention. Theslat 11 c includes a first projectingportion 17 d, a second projectingportion 17 e, a third projectingportion 17 f and a fourth projectingportion 17 g which extend along the extent of theslat 11 c, i.e. from a first end of theslat 11 c to an opposing, second end thereof. Alternatively, the projectingportions 17 d-g extend along one or more portions of theslat 11 c. The first projectingportion 17 d is disposed along the firstlongitudinal side 18 of theslat 11 c, the fourth projectingportion 17 g is disposed along the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11 c and the second and third projectingportions first side 12 and thesecond side 13 of the slat being greater at the projectingportions 17 d-g than in other portions. - With reference to
FIG. 6 , there is schematically shown a side elevation of aslat 11 d according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Theslat 11 d is substantially planar or designed with a gentle curve, with a curvature at the one longitudinal side of theslat 11 d. Theslat 11 d includes a projectingportion 17 h which extends along the same longitudinal side of theslat 11 d as the curvature. The projectingportion 17 h is thus disposed along the one longitudinal side of theslat 11 d, i.e. the secondlongitudinal side 19, the distance between thefirst side 12 and thesecond side 13 being greater along the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11 d than in the rest of theslat 11 d. - With reference to
FIG. 7 , there is schematically shown a side elevation of aslat 11 e according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. Theslat 11 e is provided with a projectingportion slat 11. For example, the projectingportions slat 11 e and being, for example, connected to theslat 11 e in a conventional manner. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 7 , the projectingportions second side 13 of the slat in order, in the open second position, to abut against thefirst side 12 of an adjacent slat while forming an air gap there between. Alternatively, the projectingportions first side 12 of theslat 11. - With reference to
FIG. 8 , there is schematically shown a side elevation of a slat 11 f according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 8 , theslat 11 is planar and provided with a projectingportion slat 11. The projectingportions first side 12 or thesecond side 13 of theslat 11. - With reference to
FIGS. 9, 10 , 11 and 12, there is schematically illustrated a side elevation of a portion of thearrangement 10 according to a first, second, third and fourth embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 9 , theslats 11 a are shown according toFIG. 3 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position. InFIG. 10 , theslats 11 b are shown according toFIG. 4 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position. InFIG. 11 , theslats 11 c are shown according toFIG. 5 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position. InFIG. 12 , theslats 11 d are shown according toFIG. 6 in the open, second position and in the screening-off first position. - In the embodiments illustrated in
FIG. 9-12 , theslats 11 are mutually interconnected and connected to thecoving 16 by the intermediary of at least one and suitably two or more sets ofladders 14 and are displaceable by means of thelifting cords 15. For example, theslats 11 are connected to thecoving 16 by the intermediary of three sets ofladders 14 which are distributed along the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11. By such means, theslats 11 automatically assume a substantially vertical position when thearrangement 10 is lowered down to the screening-off first position. Thus, the slats are turned so that their ends are rotated from an angled or substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position when thearrangement 10 is brought to the screening-off first position. A substantially vertical position includes a gentle inclination of theslat 11 where the firstlongitudinal side 18 is somewhat offset towards the first space in relation to the secondlongitudinal side 19. Thus, the firstlongitudinal side 18 is disposed substantially beneath the secondlongitudinal side 19 in the screening-off first position. In the embodiments illustrated inFIG. 9-12 , theslats 11 are rotated about the connection with theladders 14 so that they are turned substantially about a horizontal axis which runs along the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslats 11. - In the lowered and screening-off first position, the
slats 11 are disposed so that the firstlongitudinal side 18 of theslats 11 projects out over the secondlongitudinal side 19 of an immediately subjacent slat, an overlapping being realised. Thus, afirst slat 11 partly covers a subjacentsecond slat 11 so that the recesses and apertures forladders 14 and liftingcords 15 are covered so as to avoid liquid splashing through them. Further, the mutual overlapping of theslats 11 entails thatladders 14 and liftingcords 15 are covered and protected from liquid. This overlapping is realised by disposing the balls which are distributed along theladders 14 and on which theslats 11 rest at a mutual spaced apart relationship which is less than the distance between the firstlongitudinal side 18 and secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslats 11. - The first longitudinal side of the
slats 11 is, in the screening-off first position, free and disposed with a distance to thesecond side 13 of a subjacent slat while forming agap 20. Thus, air may pass between the first space and the second space in order to prevent thearrangement 10 from being sucked into the shower area when showering or the like. For example, warm air in the first space may pass from the first space to the second space through thegaps 20 in an upper region of thearrangement 10, i.e. in a direction from thesecond side 13 of theslats 11 to thefirst side 12 of theslats 11, in which event cool air from the second space may pass from the second space to the first space through thegaps 20 in a lower region of thearrangement 10. - With the aid of the
lifting cords 15, theslats 11 are displaced from the screening-off first position to the open second position, theslats 11 being moved upwards, brought together and turned to an angled or substantially horizontal position. Thus, thesecond side 13 of theslats 11 is turned upwards from a position where they form a liquid-repellent barrier against the first space. For example, theslats 11 incline around 45° in towards the first space in the open second position. Alternatively, theslats 11 are substantially horizontal so that thesecond side 13 is directed upwards in the open second position. In the raised open second position, theportions 17 projecting from thefirst side 12 of theslats 11 abut against thesecond side 13 of asubjacent slat 11 while forming at least oneair gap 21 therebetween. Thus, theair gap 21 is formed by the projectingportion 17 or the design of theslats 11, in which event, in the raised and open, second position they may rapidly dry without sticking together. The projectingportion 17 or the projectingportions 17 thus project, in the raised open, second position, downwards and form abutment points against the upper side, orsecond side 13 of asubjacent slat 11. These abutment points constitute only a fraction of the surface of theslats 11, theair gap 21 being formed between the abutment points so that theair gap 21 extends along the greater part of the surface of theslats 11. For example, theair gap 21 extends substantially from the firstlongitudinal side 18 of theslats 11 to their secondlongitudinal side 19. Alternatively, theair gap 21 extends along the extent of theslats 11 with the exception of the abutment points of the projectingportions 17. For example, thearrangement 10 includes, in the open, second position, a plurality ofair gaps 21 depending upon the number of projectingportions 17. - With reference to
FIG. 13 , there is shown an end region of oneslat 11 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As was described in the foregoing, eachrespective slat 11 includes at least onerecess 22 for theladder 14 and at least oneaperture 23 for thelifting cord 15. Theslats 11 are mutually interconnected by the intermediary of theladder 14 running through therecess 22 in eachrespective slat 11. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 13 , therecess 22 is disposed at the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11. Therecess 22 projects into theslat 11 as a recess in and transversely of the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11 so that theladder 14 may be passed into therecess 22 from the secondlongitudinal side 19. Therecess 22 is designed with a circumference which is larger than the cord of theladder 14 but smaller than the balls of theladder 14 so that theladder 14 may be passed into therecess 22 and the ball abut against thefirst side 12 of theslat 11. For example, therecess 22 is made with a width which is larger most proximal thelongitudinal side 19 than further in, the insertion of theladder 14 being facilitated. For example, therecess 22 is made in the form of a triangle which, in its apex, is terminated with an open area which is circular, rectangular, oval or the like, in which event theladder 14 may be passed into the triangular area and further into the open region. For example, a plurality ofrecesses 22 is distributed along the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11, as described above. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 11 , theaperture 23 for thelifting cord 15 is disposed inside therecess 22. For example, theaperture 23 is circular, rectangular, oval or the like and is designed so that the lifting cord may readily run therethrough. For example, a plurality ofapertures 23 is disposed along the secondlongitudinal side 19 of theslat 11, as described above. - With reference also to
FIG. 14 , there is shown an end region of oneslat 11 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 14 , theaperture 23 is disposed at the side of therecess 22 so that thelifting cord 15 is disposed at substantially the same distance from the secondlongitudinal side 19 as theladder 14. - With reference to
FIG. 15 , there is schematically shown a side elevation of a lower region of the arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention. According to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 12 , thearrangement 10 includes a sealingstrip 24 connected to theslats 11. The sealingstrip 24 is, for instance, connected to theslats 11 through thelifting cords 15. The sealingstrip 24 constitutes a lower terminating portion of thearrangement 10. The sealingstrip 24 is designed in order, in the lowered and screening-off first position of the arrangement, to constitute a seal against a substrate, such as a bathtub edge, a floor or the like, so that liquid is led down into the bathtub or to a floor drain on showering or the like. For example, the sealingstrip 24 accompanies theslats 11 when thearrangement 10 is raised and lowered. Alternatively, the sealingstrip 24 is connected to theladders 14 and/or thelifting cords 15. According to yet a further embodiment of the present invention, the sealingstrip 24 is connected to oneslat 11 and suitably to alower slat 11 in thearrangement 10. For example, the sealingstrip 24 is connected to thelowermost slat 11 in a conventional manner, such as by means of connecting devices employing a snap-on function or the like, so that the sealingstrip 24 may be pressed into position on the longitudinal side of theslat 11.
Claims (18)
1. An arrangement for screening-off a first space from a second space and for preventing liquid from splashing outside the first space, comprising a liquid-repellent element which is displaceable between a first position screening-off the first space and an open second position, comprised in
that the liquid-repellent element comprises a plurality of elongate lamellae or slats mutually interconnected by the intermediary of at least one ladder and displaying a first side, a second side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, said slats being, by the intermediary of at least one operating element, displaceable in a vertical direction between the screening-off first position and the open second position; and
that the first side of each respective slat is designed with at least one projecting portion, said projecting portion being designed for abutment against the second side of an adjacent slat in the open second position while forming at least one air gap between adjacent slats.
2. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the projecting portion is a portion of each respective slat where a distance between the first side and the second side is larger than in remaining portions of the slat.
3. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the slats are distributed along the ladder with a mutual spacing which is less than the width of each respective slat so that the first longitudinal side of each respective slat in the screening-off first position projects over the second longitudinal side of an adjacent slat.
4. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ladder runs through a recess in each respective slat, said re-cess being disposed at the second longitudinal side of the slats.
5. The arrangement as claimed in claim 4 , wherein the recess projects into the slat and is designed as a recess in and transversely of the second longitudinal side of the slat so that the ladder may be moved into the recess from the second longitudinal side.
6. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the slats, in the screening-off first position, are disposed with a gap be-tween the first longitudinal side of a first slat and the second side of an adjacent second slat.
7. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein ends of the slats are, in the screening-off first position, disposed substantially vertically.
8. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the screening-off first position is a raised position and the open, second position is a lowered position.
9. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first space is a shower or bath area.
10. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the arrangement comprises a liquid-repellent louvre or Venetian blind.
11. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ladder includes a cord and a device projecting transversely of the extent of the cord for abutment against the first side of each respective slat.
12. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the slats are pivotal about the ladder so that they may be pivoted about an axis which runs horizontally along the second longitudinal side of the slats.
13. The arrangement as claimed claim 1 , wherein the arrangement includes a sealing strip connected to the slats for abutment against a substrate in the screening-off first position.
14. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the arrangement includes a coving connected to the slats, said coving including a locking housing for locking the slats in the open, second position.
15. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the slats include a first projecting portion disposed at the first longitudinal side and a second projecting portion disposed at the second longitudinal side.
16. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the projecting portion is disposed at a central region of each respective slat.
17. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the projecting portion is disposed at the second longitudinal side of each respective slat.
18. The arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , the slats including a first projecting portion disposed at the first longitudinal side, a fourth projecting portion disposed at the second longitudinal side, a second projecting portion disposed there between, and a third projecting portion disposed between the second projecting portion and the fourth projecting portion.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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SE0302353-8 | 2003-09-03 | ||
SE0302353A SE525742C2 (en) | 2003-09-03 | 2003-09-03 | Device for shielding a space |
PCT/SE2004/001246 WO2005020774A1 (en) | 2003-09-03 | 2004-08-31 | An arrangement for screening-off a space |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20060277678A1 true US20060277678A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/567,500 Abandoned US20060277678A1 (en) | 2003-09-03 | 2004-08-31 | Arrangement for screening-off a space |
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US (1) | US20060277678A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1659913A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2007504380A (en) |
CN (2) | CN1845694A (en) |
RU (1) | RU2006106586A (en) |
SE (1) | SE525742C2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2005020774A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090089927A1 (en) * | 2007-10-08 | 2009-04-09 | Janet Li | Driftless Mold-free Shower Curtain |
US20140289957A1 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2014-10-02 | Outasight Vb Limited | Assembly for Storing a Screen Element |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN101970784B (en) * | 2007-12-28 | 2012-12-26 | 发明祝福股份有限公司 | Blind |
JP2009168333A (en) * | 2008-01-16 | 2009-07-30 | Bridgestone Corp | Water receiving structure of bathtub external pipe |
JP2014102907A (en) * | 2012-11-16 | 2014-06-05 | Pioneer Electronic Corp | Light-emitting device |
WO2015184266A2 (en) * | 2014-05-29 | 2015-12-03 | Global Finishing Solutions Llc | Aluminum repair stations and methods of using the same |
Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US2668298A (en) * | 1949-10-19 | 1954-02-09 | Jewel I Kimmons | Ventilated shower curtain |
US4122559A (en) * | 1976-04-03 | 1978-10-31 | Kelly David B | Shower screens |
US5165459A (en) * | 1990-11-05 | 1992-11-24 | Better Mousetraps, Inc. | Window covering |
US5375642A (en) * | 1992-11-20 | 1994-12-27 | Better Mousetraps, Inc. | Venetian blinds |
US5409050A (en) * | 1993-09-24 | 1995-04-25 | Hong; Amy | Venetian blind |
US5558146A (en) * | 1992-11-26 | 1996-09-24 | Abe; Makio | Blind |
US5918327A (en) * | 1998-09-03 | 1999-07-06 | Vance; Omar D. | Bathtub enclosure |
US6234234B1 (en) * | 1999-12-14 | 2001-05-22 | Ba-Shiuan Shiue | Venetian blind |
US6276002B1 (en) * | 1997-01-20 | 2001-08-21 | Eberhard Oschmann | Partition for showers, in particular roller blind |
US6318441B1 (en) * | 1998-12-18 | 2001-11-20 | University Technologies International Inc. | Window blinds |
US6412124B1 (en) * | 2000-11-21 | 2002-07-02 | James P Anderson | Automatic deploying multi-paneled shower curtain |
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FR1563194A (en) * | 1968-03-01 | 1969-04-11 | ||
FR2438736A1 (en) * | 1978-10-13 | 1980-05-09 | Teste Jean Claude | Blind for shower cabinet - has horizontal inverted V=section blades suspended at vertical intervals by supple braids and is retractable |
DE4408931C2 (en) * | 1994-03-16 | 1998-04-30 | Hueppe Gmbh & Co | Shower partition |
DE29622130U1 (en) * | 1996-12-21 | 1997-02-06 | Boss, Thomas, 63636 Brachttal | Shower screen |
DE19704561A1 (en) * | 1997-02-07 | 1997-11-20 | Schmid Baumgaertner Beate | Shower curtain |
DE10002874B4 (en) * | 2000-01-24 | 2007-08-16 | Heinz-Peter Kalus | Shower room shielding |
-
2003
- 2003-09-03 SE SE0302353A patent/SE525742C2/en unknown
-
2004
- 2004-08-31 EP EP04775352A patent/EP1659913A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-08-31 JP JP2006525303A patent/JP2007504380A/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-08-31 WO PCT/SE2004/001246 patent/WO2005020774A1/en active Application Filing
- 2004-08-31 CN CNA2004800253086A patent/CN1845694A/en active Pending
- 2004-08-31 US US10/567,500 patent/US20060277678A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-08-31 RU RU2006106586/12A patent/RU2006106586A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2004-08-31 CN CNA2004800253071A patent/CN1845693A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2668298A (en) * | 1949-10-19 | 1954-02-09 | Jewel I Kimmons | Ventilated shower curtain |
US4122559A (en) * | 1976-04-03 | 1978-10-31 | Kelly David B | Shower screens |
US5165459A (en) * | 1990-11-05 | 1992-11-24 | Better Mousetraps, Inc. | Window covering |
US5375642A (en) * | 1992-11-20 | 1994-12-27 | Better Mousetraps, Inc. | Venetian blinds |
US5558146A (en) * | 1992-11-26 | 1996-09-24 | Abe; Makio | Blind |
US5409050A (en) * | 1993-09-24 | 1995-04-25 | Hong; Amy | Venetian blind |
US6276002B1 (en) * | 1997-01-20 | 2001-08-21 | Eberhard Oschmann | Partition for showers, in particular roller blind |
US5918327A (en) * | 1998-09-03 | 1999-07-06 | Vance; Omar D. | Bathtub enclosure |
US6318441B1 (en) * | 1998-12-18 | 2001-11-20 | University Technologies International Inc. | Window blinds |
US6234234B1 (en) * | 1999-12-14 | 2001-05-22 | Ba-Shiuan Shiue | Venetian blind |
US6412124B1 (en) * | 2000-11-21 | 2002-07-02 | James P Anderson | Automatic deploying multi-paneled shower curtain |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090089927A1 (en) * | 2007-10-08 | 2009-04-09 | Janet Li | Driftless Mold-free Shower Curtain |
US20140289957A1 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2014-10-02 | Outasight Vb Limited | Assembly for Storing a Screen Element |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
SE0302353D0 (en) | 2003-09-03 |
WO2005020774A1 (en) | 2005-03-10 |
CN1845693A (en) | 2006-10-11 |
SE525742C2 (en) | 2005-04-19 |
JP2007504380A (en) | 2007-03-01 |
EP1659913A1 (en) | 2006-05-31 |
SE0302353L (en) | 2005-03-04 |
RU2006106586A (en) | 2006-08-10 |
CN1845694A (en) | 2006-10-11 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CARLSRUM DESIGN AB, SWEDEN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:JONSON, CARL;REEL/FRAME:017545/0896 Effective date: 20060124 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |