US20170314250A1 - Floor shield - Google Patents
Floor shield Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170314250A1 US20170314250A1 US15/653,236 US201715653236A US2017314250A1 US 20170314250 A1 US20170314250 A1 US 20170314250A1 US 201715653236 A US201715653236 A US 201715653236A US 2017314250 A1 US2017314250 A1 US 2017314250A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- floor shield
- floor
- mat
- shield assembly
- shield
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D13/00—Urinals ; Means for connecting the urinal to the flushing pipe and the wastepipe; Splashing shields for urinals
- E03D13/005—Accessories specially adapted for urinals
-
- 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
- A47K17/00—Other equipment, e.g. separate apparatus for deodorising, disinfecting or cleaning devices without flushing for toilet bowls, seats or covers; Holders for toilet brushes
Definitions
- This disclosure relates generally to embodiments of a protective shield for use with a urinal.
- a floor shield and floor shield assemblies which can comprise a frame structure, a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is desirably sized so that the mat can be retained within the frame structure, and a bracket configured to hold the frame structure.
- a portion of the floor shield assembly, such as the bracket can comprise a container carrying replacement mats.
- the frame structure can be configured to move horizontally within the bracket.
- the frame structure can be configured to move vertically and/or horizontally within the bracket.
- the frame structure can comprise a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure.
- At least the top or bottom portion of the frame structure can comprise at least one fastening element.
- the at least one fastening element can comprise a locking pin or snap.
- the bottom portion of the frame structure can contain a resting platform configured to support the replaceable mat.
- the attachment structure can be a hinge.
- the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape.
- the frame structure can be configured to rotate vertically, such as within the bracket.
- the bracket can comprise at least one gear.
- the floor shield can further comprise at least one support leg extending from the frame structure.
- the frame structure can be configured to be releasably retained by the bracket.
- a releasable retainer attached to a bottom of the frame structure can be used to retain the mat within the frame structure.
- the releasable retainer can be attached to the bottom of the frame structure at least in part by at least one hinge.
- air freshener can be incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the bracket.
- system for clothing protection in a restroom which can comprise a wall and a floor and at least one floor shield which can comprise a frame structure, a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is desirably sized so that the mat can be retained within the frame structure, and a bracket configured to retain the frame structure, wherein the bracket is attached to the wall, wherein the at least one floor shield is spaced away from a floor of the restroom.
- the bracket can be integrally formed with the wall.
- the system can further comprise a plurality of floor shields.
- the system can further comprise a urinal attached to the wall, wherein the at least one floor shield is spaced below the urinal.
- the frame structure can comprise a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure.
- the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape.
- a floor shield assembly comprising a frame structure comprising an upper frame portion, and a lower frame portion, wherein the upper and lower frame portions are connected by an attachment structure, and wherein the upper frame portion is configured to move between an open and a closed configuration, at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure when the upper frame portion is in the closed configuration, and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall, wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.
- the bracket can comprise a container defining a cavity for receiving replacement mats.
- the container can comprise at least one removable boss for removal and replacement of the replacement mats.
- the frame structure can be configured to move horizontally with respect to the bracket.
- at least one of the top or bottom portions of the frame structure can comprise at least one fastening element.
- the at least one fastening element can comprise a locking pin or snap.
- the attachment structure can be a hinge.
- the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to rotate with respect to the bracket about an axis.
- the floor shield assembly can further comprise a releasable retainer attached to a bottom of the lower frame portion and configured to secure a mat to the frame structure.
- air freshener can be incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the bracket.
- the floor shield assembly can further comprise a locking mechanism to hold at least one of upper frame portion and the lower frame portion in the closed configuration.
- the floor shield assembly can further comprise a plurality of replaceable mats, in addition to the at least one replacement mat.
- said plurality of replaceable mats can be positioned on a roll.
- said plurality of replaceable mats can be connected to said at least one replaceable mat.
- said plurality of replaceable mats can be configured to be connected to said at least one replaceable mat while the at least one replaceable mat is retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure.
- a system for clothing protection in a restroom comprising a wall, at least one urinal attached to the wall, and at least one floor shield assembly comprising a frame structure, a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is securable to the frame structure, and a bracket configured to retain the frame structure, wherein the bracket is attached to the wall, wherein the replaceable mat is positioned to protect a user from splashing of urine and is spaced from a floor of the restroom.
- the bracket can be integrally formed with the wall.
- the system can further comprise a plurality of floor shields.
- the at least one floor shield can be spaced below the urinal.
- the frame structure can comprise a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure.
- the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape.
- a floor shield assembly comprising a frame structure, at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained against the frame structure, and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall, wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.
- the bracket and the frame structure can be integrally formed.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a top-down view of an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 2 illustrates an open hinge configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 3 illustrates an open configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield with a replacement mat.
- FIG. 4 illustrates an open configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield with a mat locked in place.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a closed configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIGS. 6A-C illustrate embodiments of a bottom portion of a frame of a floor shield with and without the mat.
- FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a wall bracket for use with a floor shield.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield attached with a bracket.
- FIG. 9 illustrates an example configuration of a floor shield in a restroom.
- FIGS. 10A-C illustrate an embodiment of a bracket having replacement mats for a floor shield.
- FIGS. 11A-C illustrate an embodiment of floor shield having a bracket with replacement mats.
- FIGS. 12A-D illustrate configurations of embodiments of a floor shield.
- FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a gear system which can be used in a floor shield.
- FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield having a support leg.
- FIGS. 15A-C illustrate an embodiment of a retainer for a floor shield.
- FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield without a tucking tray top.
- FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield with an open tucking tray top.
- FIG. 19 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 20 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a floor shield without a tucking tray bottom.
- FIG. 21 illustrates a step in the installation of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 22 illustrates a step in the installation of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 23 illustrates the application of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 24 illustrates a mat held within a top retainer in an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 25 illustrates an attachment mechanism for an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 26 illustrates a side view of a user at a urinal with an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 27 illustrates a top down view of a user at a urinal with an embodiment of a floor shield.
- FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of an automated floor shield.
- Urinals can be a significant source of unwanted staining on a person's clothing, especially pants and shoes.
- excess liquids such as water, cleaning chemicals, and/or urine (e.g, from splash-back or drippage) can spill over the edge of the urinal and directly downwards.
- a user's feet would be directly in the area of the spillage, and could lead to damage to the user's clothing. Further, the liquids could splash, thus damaging the pant legs of the user of the urinal.
- spillage can lead to puddles on the ground in a restroom, even when a floor urinal mat is used, which are not merely unsightly but can actually begin to substantially damage the floor or the soles of a person's shoes. It can be expensive to fix any damage done to the floor by the uric acid
- floor mats have been used in restrooms in an attempt to reduce urine and other chemical/liquid levels on the restroom floor.
- Urine is a significant damager of floors, and can etch or eat away from the floor, and thus it is advantageous to prevent urine from remaining on a floor.
- floor mats have typically been used, the restroom environment is harsh on them, both physically and chemically, and the floor mats can quickly collect urine and other chemicals.
- users do not want to stand on a urine filled floor mat, they stand aside the floor mats, thus exacerbating the damage to the floor.
- floor mats can quickly lose their air freshening or sanitizing function, become torn so that debris is permitted through them, or become unsightly. Therefore, floor mats need to be changed relatively often to function properly without drawing undue attention.
- floor mats can easily be kicked aside, thus eliminating any usefulness in protecting the restroom floor.
- a device, assembly, and/or system acting as a floor shield which can prevent liquids from falling from the urinal area and onto the floor and/or a user's clothing. Accordingly, this can prevent clothing from being damaged, as well as improve sanitation in a restroom. Further, embodiments of the floor shield can remain above the floor of a restroom, thus significantly reducing the wear and damage to the floor shield facility, being used effectively for a longer period of time. In addition, being above the floor can allow for the floor shield to catch more liquid than similar sized urinal mats located on the floor.
- the floor shield assembly can include the floor shield itself, as well as any connection or retaining pieces. However, the terms floor shield and floor shield assembly can be used interchangeably in some embodiments.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield.
- the floor shield can have a mat 102 and a frame (or hoop) 104 .
- the mat 102 can be blank, printed, or have advertising on it.
- the mat 102 can contain colorful patterns that show through the frame 104 .
- the mat 102 can contain a signal, such as a color change, for when the mat 102 should be removed and replaced.
- the mat can be an absorbing mat or pad for collecting any fluids that fall from a urinal.
- the mat 102 can be made of fabric, cloth, polymer, paper (such as 2 ply toilet paper), absorbents, hydroscopic material, or natural material, and the type of material of the mat 102 does not limit this disclosure.
- the mat 102 can contain anti-microbial additives.
- the floor shield can have a smaller upper surface area than floor mats of the prior art.
- the floor shield can have an upper surface area of less than 1000, 900, 800, 700, 750, 625, 600, 500, 400, 300, 280, 270, or 200 in 2 .
- the urinal can have an upper surface area of a sufficient size to protect against urine splattering the floor or the user's clothing.
- embodiments of the floor shield can have an upper surface area of at least 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 in 2 .
- the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 50 and 750, 64 and 625, 80 and 500, 140 and 400, 180 and 300, or 200 and 280 in 2 .
- the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 400 and 1600, 600 and 1200, or 800 and 1000 in 2 .
- the mat 102 can have approximately the same size as the floor shield. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long, as shown in FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be greater than approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches wide, as shown in FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be greater than approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches wide. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can less than approximately 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 16 inches long. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can less than approximately 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 16 inches wide.
- the frame 104 can lay both below and on top of the mat 102 and desirably hold it in place, e.g., sandwiching the mat 102 , as further described in detail below.
- the floor shield can contain a replacement box 106 which can contain one or more replacement mats 102 .
- a box 106 is not used with the floor shield, and a simple bracket can be used, as described below.
- the replacement box 106 can operate similar to a paper towel dispenser, wherein a user can pull out replacement mats 102 when the old mat 102 becomes soiled, though other methodologies can be used as well and do not limit the disclosure.
- the frame 104 can be in the shape of a partial ellipsoid, such as a half or 3 ⁇ 4 ellipsoid.
- the frame 104 can generally include a generally or substantially parabolic portion, wherein two points of the parabolic portion 103 are connected by a line 105 , shown in FIG. 1 .
- This shape can allow for a user to stand at a urinal with their feet underneath the floor shield, advantageously protecting the user's feet.
- the shape of the frame 104 can allow for a user to stand comfortably around the frame with their legs apart, and thus do not have to stand in an awkward position.
- the particular shape of the frame 104 does not limit this disclosure, and different shapes can be used as well.
- a generally triangular shape can be used as the frame of the floor shield.
- the mat 102 can be shaped approximately the same as the frame 104 in order to fit neatly within the frame 104 .
- the mat 102 can extend further than the frame 104 .
- the mat 102 can extend further than the frame 104 and can be partially wrapped around the frame 104 , as discussed in more detail below.
- FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield with the frame 104 in an open position.
- the frame 104 can be made up of two portions, a top portion 108 and a bottom portion 110 , connected to one another by one or more attachment elements, such as a hinge element 112 , though the particular attachment element does not limit the disclosure.
- no hinge may be used with the frame 104 .
- the hinge element 112 can be spring loaded so that it will automatically return the frame 104 to a closed position.
- the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can be integrally formed.
- the top portion 108 , bottom portion 110 , and hinge 112 can be integrally formed with one another.
- the frame 104 could have only a top portion 108 or only a bottom portion 110 , and the mat 102 can be secured, for example, to the top of the bottom portion 110 or the bottom of the top portion 108 with fastening elements as further described below.
- the top portion 108 can contain at least one fastening element 114 . In some embodiments, the top portion 108 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fastening elements 114 . In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can also contain at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 110 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fastening elements 114 .
- the number of fastening elements 144 does not limit the disclosure.
- the fastening elements 114 of the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 may be the same, or may be different. These fastening elements 114 can be, for example, locking pins or snaps, though the type of fastening element does not limit this disclosure.
- the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can have fastening elements 114 so that the fastening elements 114 on the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 interlock with one another.
- some fastening elements 114 can be female members, whereas others can be male members.
- fastening elements are not used, and the frame can contain a mat 102 using only pressure or frictional forces.
- the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 can have magnetic materials on them, and thereby the top portion 108 and bottom 108 can be magnetically attracted to one another, thereby retaining the mat 102 .
- the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 of the frame 104 can form an open area 116 inside their respective perimeters or circumferences. However, in some embodiments the frame 104 does not have an open area, and can be formed of a solid or gridded material, thus hiding the mat 102 from view by a user.
- the bottom portion 110 can contain a resting platform 118 where a mat 102 can rest. This resting platform 118 can give further support to a mat 102 when the mat 102 is in place on the floor shield.
- the resting platform 118 can be made of an additional absorbing material, or can be made of a mesh that allows liquids to pass through.
- FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the floor shield with an open frame 104 .
- the floor shield can have a replacement box 106 attached to the frame 104 .
- a mat 102 can be pulled out of the replacement box 106 and can then be placed onto bottom portion 110 , as shown in FIG. 4 .
- the top portion 108 can be lowered onto the top of the mat 102 so that the mat 102 is held in place between the top portion 108 and bottom portion 110 , as described above.
- the lowering of the top portion 108 onto the bottom portion 110 causes the mat 102 to be removed from the replacement box 106 .
- the mat 102 can be removed first.
- the mat 102 can be pulled through the frame 104 in the open area 116 . Once the mat 102 is within the frame 104 , the mat 102 will generally not move during operation until the frame 104 is opened.
- FIG. 5 shows a closed configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield.
- the replacement box 106 can be generally shaped as a rectangular prism having an open internal cavity, though the shape does not limit the disclosure.
- the replacement box 106 can have an open side for insertion of mats 102 , though the particular side that is opened is not limiting.
- the replacement box 106 can be fully enclosed, but can be opened to insert mats 102 .
- the replacement box 106 may have an opening, aperture, or slot in which mats 102 can be pulled out of to place onto the frame 104 , such as shown in FIGS. 11A-C .
- the mat 102 can be made of a reusable material.
- the mat 102 can be laundered and then reused with the floor shield.
- the mat 102 can be linen, cloth, or other launderable material, and the type of material does not limit the disclosure. Accordingly, the reusable mat 102 can be pulled out of the replacement box 106 as described above. However, the reusable mat 102 can then be rewound into the box 106 for later use or for laundering.
- the box 106 can be generally a towel roll where the mat 102 can be rewound. In some embodiments, the mat 102 can be manually rewound into the box 106 .
- a second box can be provided at the opposite end.
- the box 106 (or one or both of the two boxes) can be mechanized, such as through the use of an auto-winder or auto-feed.
- the box 106 can contain a button, switch, handle, or other advancement device that can cause the mat 102 to exit or reenter the replacement box 106 , either by itself or through user force.
- a hand-held remote can be used to move the mat 102 in and out of the box 106 .
- the advancement device can be mechanical or electrical, such as an electric motor to wind and unwind the mats 102 . The type of advancement device does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a user may never have to touch the mat 102 .
- FIGS. 6A-B illustrates the bottom portion 110 by itself without a mat 102 .
- the bottom portion 110 can contain fastening elements 114 .
- FIG. 6C illustrates the bottom portion 110 with a mat 102 installed.
- the fastening elements 114 can protrude through the mat 102 , though the fastening elements 114 do not protrude in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the fastening elements 114 can then insert into the top portion 108 , thereby locking the mat 102 in place.
- FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a bracket 700 that can be used to hold a floor shield onto a wall.
- the bracket 700 and frame 704 can be integrally formed.
- the bracket 700 can be attached to a wall by any general attachment means, such as adhesive, magnets, Velcro, or screws, and the attachment of the bracket 700 to a wall does not limit this disclosure.
- the bracket 700 can contain a slot 702 .
- the slot 702 can be sized and configured to receive the floor shield.
- the slot 702 can include a mechanism so that when the floor shield is inserted, as shown in FIG. 8 , it snaps in place or is otherwise held in place.
- the slot 702 can extend partially or fully across the bracket 700 .
- the type of attachment between the floor shield and the bracket 700 does not limit this disclosure. For example, a snap mechanism or joint could be used to attach the floor shield to the bracket 700 .
- the bracket 700 can be wider than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield, similar to the replacement box 106 of FIG. 5 . In some embodiments, the bracket 700 can smaller than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the bracket 700 is about 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches wide. The size of the bracket 700 does not limit this disclosure.
- the floor shield can be configured to slide horizontally in the slot 702 of the bracket 700 , so that the horizontal position of the floor shield can be changed.
- a replacement box 106 as described above, can be used with or instead of a bracket 700 while including similar features.
- FIG. 9 illustrates an example configuration of a urinal 902 attached to a wall 904 of a restroom using a bracket 700 .
- a replacement box 106 can be used with or instead of a bracket 700 to attach the floor shield 906 to the wall 904 .
- the floor shield 906 can be attached directly below a urinal 902 above the floor 908 .
- the floor shield 906 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than the upper surface area of the urinal 902 .
- the upper surface area of the urinal 902 can be the footprint of the urinal when viewed from above, such as shown in FIG. 27 .
- the floor shield 906 can be greater than about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than the upper surface area of the urinal 902 . In some embodiments, the floor shield 906 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than a lip of the urinal 902 .
- a floor shield can be located below each of the urinals.
- the floor shields can be all aligned at the same vertical height.
- the floor shields can be at different vertical heights.
- the floor shield can extend about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches farther from the wall than a farthest point of the urinal it is under.
- the floor shield can be approximately 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches off the ground.
- the floor shield can be approximately at least 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, or 28 inches above the surface of the floor.
- the floor shield can be located at a distance above the ground so that a user can put their shoes underneath the shield.
- the floor shield can be easily removable from the wall of the restroom, or can be integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the entire floor shield can be disposable.
- a roll holder can be used with a floor shield for replacement of mats 102 .
- FIG. 10A illustrates an embodiment of a roll holder 1002 .
- the holder 1002 can be shaped generally like a paper towel dispenser.
- the holder 1002 can hold 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 mats 102 .
- the holder 1002 can hold more than one roll of mats 102 , and can include a mechanism to change rolls.
- the holder 1002 can hold greater than 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 mats 102 .
- the amount of mats 102 held by the holder 1002 does not limit the disclosure.
- the holder 1002 can have a pair of posts/bosses/protrusions 1004 at opposite ends of the holder 1002 that can be configured to insert into a roll of replacement mats 102 , which can allow the roll of replacement mats 102 to rotate and be pulled out by a user.
- the replacement mats 102 can have length, width, and surface areas similar to those described in detail above.
- the configuration of the internal structure of the roll holder 1002 to hold replacement rolls 102 does not limit this disclosure, and other configuration, such as tabs, clasps, and other structures can be used.
- FIG. 10B illustrates an embodiment of a roll holder 1002 with a refill of replacement mats 102 installed.
- the holder 1002 can be at least partially flexible to accommodate the insertion of the refill.
- the holder 1002 can be rigid.
- at least one of the posts 1004 can be removed to allow for insertion of the replacement mats 102 .
- FIG. 10C illustrates a top down view of a holder 1002 installed with a floor shield.
- the holder 1002 can be configured to attach to a wall, such as shown in FIG. 9 .
- a roll of mats 102 can be located outside the holder 1002 .
- the roll can be located above or below the holder 1002 .
- the roll can be located about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from a wall.
- the roll of mats 102 can be loaded from the side, bottom, or top of the holder 1002 .
- FIG. 11A illustrates angled perspective view of a floor shield wherein the frame 104 is attached to a holder 1002 .
- the frame 104 can have an opening 1102 that can allow for mats 102 to be pulled through. Accordingly, in some embodiments the frame 104 can lay directly on top of the holder 1002 .
- the frame 104 can be flexibly attached to the holder 1002 . Therefore, if excess force was exerted on the frame 104 , for example through a kick or step, the frame 104 may be moved but the holder 1002 may not be removed from the wall. Afterwards, the frame 104 may be reattached to the holder 1002 .
- the attachment between the frame 104 and the holder 1002 does not limit this disclosure, and any attachment, such as adhesive or mechanical fastening, can be used.
- the frame 104 can be easily removable from the holder 1002 , and thus can be easily disposed of while the holder 1002 remains.
- the holder 1002 can contain the opening 1102 , and the frame 104 can attach to the front of the holder 1002 . In some embodiments, there is no opening 1102 and a replacement mat 102 can be pulled out and placed in the frame 104 , as described above. In some embodiments, the holder 1002 can contain an opening on the top so a user can see if more replacement mats 102 should be added.
- FIG. 11B illustrates a replacement mat 102 being pulled out of the holder 1002 and on to the bottom portion 110 of the frame 104 . As shown, the mat 102 can be pulled through the opening 1102 that can be located either on the holder 1002 or frame 104 .
- FIG. 11C illustrates a mat 102 attached to an embodiment of a floor shield.
- the mat 102 can be attached through fastening elements 114 .
- the next refill mat 102 can be attached to the rear of the mat 102 that is attached to the frame 104 . Accordingly, when the mat 102 on the frame is removed, the next mat 102 can be pulled into place. In some embodiments, the next mat 102 is not attached to the previous mat 102 .
- the holder 1002 can contain a lever or grip to turn the replacement mats 102 , thus positioning the next mat 102 for a user to grab and pull out.
- FIG. 12A illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield wherein the shield is configured to move with relation to the holder 1002 .
- This movement can allow for ease of installation.
- the shield can be attached to the top of the holder 1002 in a slot, and can therefore move horizontally through the slot. This can allow the shield to move left or right while the holder 1002 remains in position, while still maintaining the ability to pull the replacement mat 102 from the holder 1002 .
- other configurations than a slot can be used for horizontal mobility, and the configuration does not limit the disclosure.
- the floor shield can also move on the holder 1002 to and away from the holder 1002 , and therefore the wall. This can be advantageous as different urinals do not always extend the same distance from the wall.
- the holder 1002 can have at least one guide rail extending perpendicular for the floor shield to move with.
- the guide rail can be configured to have sections which lock the floor shield in place.
- the shield can rest on top of the guide rails 1006 , as shown in FIG. 12D .
- the guide rails 1006 can insert into the frame 104 of the floor shield, so that the rails fit within the floor shield.
- the guide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from the holder 1002 . In some embodiments, the guide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has less than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from the holder 1002 . In some embodiments, the guide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has greater than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from the holder 1002 . In some embodiments, the frame 104 can be configured to move parallel with the holder 1002 as well as perpendicular to the holder 1002 at the same time. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a similar configuration of guide rails that allows the floor shield to move vertically. In some embodiments, a different mechanism for moving horizontally and/or vertically can be used, and the mechanism does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be configured to move both vertically and horizontally.
- FIGS. 12B-C illustrate the flexibility of certain embodiments of a floor shield.
- the shield can be angled upwards or downwards from its original position.
- the shield can be angled upwards or downwards without any damage to the shield or the holder 1002 .
- the frame and/or holder can be made of flexible materials so that they can be angled and return to their original position.
- there can be some clearance 1202 between the shield and the holder 1002 there can be some clearance 1202 between the shield and the holder 1002 , and therefore a user can angle the shield and it can remain in the new position.
- the shield can be at least partially rotated in the holder 1002 as well.
- the shield can be configured have approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position. In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have greater than approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position.
- a gear system 1300 can be used to allow for the angling of the shield, as shown in FIG. 13 .
- the gear system 1300 can be used to lock the shield in place at a chosen angled position.
- the gear system 1300 can have approximately 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees of motion.
- the gear system 1300 can have greater than approximately 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees of motion.
- the angling system does not limit the disclosure.
- an air freshener, fragrance, or other scented product and/or substance can be incorporated into the floor shield.
- the freshener may be a part of the material used in the construction of the floor shield.
- the floor shield may be at least partially made of a material that is loaded with a fragrance material.
- the freshener can be used after the floor shield is made, for example through a liquid spray. The spray could then dry onto the parts of the floor shield, thereby giving the fragrance.
- the type of freshener does not limit the disclosure.
- the materials used may be polymers, such as both thermoplastic and thermoset polymers. Some examples of polymers that may be suitable are synthetic resins.
- thermoplastic resins that may be suitable for include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (NIPX), ethylene-(meth)acrylate ester copolymers, acrylic-type vinyl resins such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), styrene-type vinyl resins such as polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene (AS) copolymers, other vinyl resins such as polyvinyl acetate, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester resins such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide resins such as nylon 6, nylon 66, nylon 610, nylon 11, and nylon
- the freshener may be incorporated into different portions of the floor shield.
- the freshener can be incorporated into the mats 102 .
- the freshener can be incorporated into any of the portions of the frame 104 .
- the freshener can be incorporated into the holder 1002 .
- the freshener can be located in multiple, or all, parts of the floor shield. The location of the freshener does not limit the disclosure.
- the material that can be used to form the urinal screen may be capable of resisting the harsh environment experienced on the restroom floor, which may contain urine, waste products, cleaning solutions, and other undesirable liquids (e.g., contaminants such as paint thinner, paint, motor oil, or chemicals that may be poured into a urinal.)
- the material of the floor shield may be designed to maintain a near-pristine condition (evident after a water rinse or basic cleaning operation), without discernable wear for a long period of time, or large amount of uses and flushes. Thus, it may be said that the floor shield may resist damage or alteration due to the environmental conditions within a restroom.
- the material of the floor shield such as the frame 104 or mat 102 may be designed to last a certain amount of time, level or amount of use, or number of flushes, without exhibiting any wear (e.g., tearing, discoloring, disintegration, deformation, shrinkage, loss of scent) for that specified time/usage/period.
- the lasting time may be 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 6 months, or perhaps 1 year
- the level or amount of use may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 uses (e.g., urinations)
- the number of flushes may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 flushes.
- the material of the floor shield may be designed to purposefully start exhibiting wear after the aforementioned predetermined amount of time/usage/period, such that the portions of the floor shield can start to tear, discolor, disintegrate, deform, shrink, or lose scent, which may alert maintenance personnel to replace portions of the floor shield, such as the mat 102 .
- FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of a floor shield having a support structure 1402 below a urinal 1404 .
- the support structure 1402 can give enhanced strength to the floor shield. Further, it can prevent breakage if excess pressure is put on the top of the floor shield.
- the support structure 1402 can extend from the bottom portion 110 of the floor shield.
- the support structure 1402 can be located on an end of the floor shield opposite the wall, as shown in FIG. 14 .
- the support structure 1402 can be configured to rest against a floor 1406 when the floor shield is set up.
- the support structure 1402 can be generally rectangular, circular, or triangular in cross section, though the shape of the support structure 1402 does not limit the disclosure.
- 1, 2, or 3 support structures 1402 can be used.
- the support structure 1402 can be configured to be rotated or moved on the floor shield.
- the support structure 1402 can be configured to be removed and replaced.
- the support structure 1402 may attach to the shield at a hinge, and the support structure 1402 can be folded into the floor shield for ease of transportation.
- FIGS. 15A-C illustrate an embodiment of a floor shield having a retainer 1502 .
- the retainer 1502 can be used to releasably retain the mat 102 to the bottom portion 110 instead of using a top portion 108 .
- the top portion 108 can be used in conjunction with the retainer 1502 .
- the retainer can be located on either the top or bottom of the bottom portion 110 .
- the mat 102 can be pulled over the top of the bottom portion 110 and then at least partially onto the bottom of the bottom portion 110 when the retainer 1502 is open.
- the retainer 1502 can then closed over a portion of the mat 102 underneath the bottom portion 110 , thereby holding the mat 102 in place and providing a pleasing appearance.
- a latch 1504 can be used to keep the retainer 1502 closed, though other mechanisms can be used as well.
- the retainer 1502 can be rotatably attached to the bottom portion 110 through the use of at least one hinge 1506 .
- FIG. 15B illustrates an embodiment of a retainer 1502 by itself.
- the retainer 1502 can have a generally v-shape.
- the retainer 1502 can have a generally semicircle shape (e.g., the retainer 1502 extends completely across between hinges 1506 ), and the shape of the retainer 1502 does not limit the disclosure.
- the retainer 1502 can have outer walls 1508 configured to fit against the outside of the bottom portion 110 , thereby retaining a mat 102 between the bottom portion 110 , the walls 1508 , and the base 1510 of the retainer.
- FIG. 15C shows the closed configuration of a retainer 1502 from a top viewpoint.
- the retainer 1502 can be flexible.
- FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of a floor shield 1600 .
- the floor shield 1600 can be composed of multiple portions, though some of the portions can be integrally formed.
- the floor shield 1600 can have a main shelf 1602 .
- the main shelf 1602 can be connected to a tucking tray top 1604 , which can be connected to a tucking tray bottom 1606 .
- the main shelf 1602 can include at least one removable boss 1608 .
- FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the main shelf 1602 without the tucking tray top 1604 .
- the main shelf 1602 can have an upper platform 1603 and a lower platform 1605 .
- the lower platform 1605 can be shaped similar to half an octagon, though the particular shape of the lower platform 1605 does not limit the disclosure.
- the lower platform 1605 can be made of a grid containing a plurality of openings as shown in FIG. 17 .
- the front edge of the lower platform 1605 can have a cutting mechanism, such as teeth, in order to cut any mats to the appropriate size without any tucking.
- the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure.
- the lower platform 1605 may be smooth and not contain any openings.
- the lower platform 1605 can be configured to translate away from the upper platform 1603 while still remaining connected.
- the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603 .
- the lower platform 1605 can be configured to translate about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603 .
- the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate less than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603 . In some embodiments, the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate greater than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the upper platform 1603 .
- the lower platform 1605 may be connected to the upper platform 1603 . In some embodiments, they may be removably connected. In some embodiments, they may be integrally formed.
- the connection between the lower platform 1605 and upper platform 1605 can form a slot 1607 allowing access between the top and bottom of the main shelf 1602 .
- the slot 1607 can be formed by having the upper and lower platforms 1603 / 1605 at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the upper and lower platforms 1603 / 1605 can be at the same height and a gap can be formed between the two, thus forming the slot 1607 .
- the slot 1607 can generally be the width of the main shelf 1602 , though the size of the slot does not limit the disclosure.
- the upper platform 1605 can contain sidewalls 1609 and a back wall 1611 .
- the side walls 1609 can be configured to hold at least one boss, such as the removable boss 1608 .
- the sidewalls 1609 have the same width as the upper platform 1605 .
- the sidewalls 1609 have a greater width than the upper platform 1605 .
- the sidewalls 1609 have a smaller width than the upper platform 1605 .
- the sidewalls 1609 and back wall 1611 can be sized to retain a roll of mats.
- FIG. 18 shows an embodiment with a tucking tray top 1604 rotatably connected to the main shelf 1602 .
- the tucking tray top 1604 can be rotatably attached to the main shelf 1602 through the insertion of a tab in an aperture 1618 (shown in FIG. 17 ) on each side of the main shelf 1602 .
- the tucking tray top 1604 can be rotated from an open to a closed position.
- the tucking tray top 1604 can have a frame 1618 around its perimeter, wherein the frame 1618 is thicker than the rest of the tucking tray top 1604 .
- the tucking tray top 1604 can be sized and shaped so that the frame 1618 generally surrounds the lower platform 1605 when in the closed position. In some embodiments, when in the opened position, the tucking tray top 1604 can rest against the upper platform 1605 , which can allow the tucking tray top 1604 to remain open. In some embodiments, the tucking tray top 1604 can be held open by frictional forces between the tucking tray top 1604 and the main shelf 1602 .
- the tucking tray top 1604 can have the frame 1618 surrounding a grid, similar to the lower platform 1605 .
- the grid can have a plurality of apertures in some embodiments.
- the tucking tray top 1604 can be generally flat with no apertures.
- the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure.
- the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be smaller than the grid of the lower platform 1605 . In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be larger than the grid of the lower platform 1605 .
- the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can be generally the same size as the grid of the lower platform 1605 . In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can have the same shapes as the grid of the lower platform 1605 . In some embodiments, the grid of the tucking tray top 1604 can have different shapes than the grid of the lower platform 1605 .
- FIG. 18 shows a tucking tray bottom 1606 attached to the tucking tray top 1604 which is used in some embodiments.
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 may not be used.
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be generally sized and shaped to fit within the frame 1618 of the tucking tray top 1604 so that the tucking tray bottom 1606 is not exposed within the closed position.
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can fit again the edge of the tucking tray top 1604 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be shaped in a general c-shape, though the shape of the tucking tray bottom 1606 does not limit the disclosure.
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be formed from two arms 1620 attached to a connection portion 1622 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates the tucking tray bottom 1606 when the floor shield 1600 is in the closed position.
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tucking tray top 1604 through an engagement mechanism 1630 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be attached to the underside of the main shelf 1602 through magnetic latching components 1612 on the main shelf 1602 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can have an engagement portion 1615 and magnetic latching component 1611 , shown in FIG. 16 , to facilitate attachment to the tucking tray top 1604 .
- the magnetic latching components 1617 / 1612 can be circular magnetic pieces having opposite poles in order to magnetically connect to one another, though the shape of the magnetic pieces does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a force can be used to release the corresponding magnetic latching components 1617 / 1612 . In some embodiments, two magnetic latching components 1617 / 1612 can be used on each of the main shelf 1602 and tucking tray bottom 1606 , though the amount of magnetic latching components 1617 / 1612 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6 magnetic latching components 1617 / 1612 can be used on each of the main shelf 1602 and tucking tray bottom 1606 .
- the magnetic latching components 1617 can be located on opposite ends of the arms 1620 of the tucking tray bottom 1606 , though the position does not limit the disclosure and the magnetic latching components 1617 can be used throughout the tucking tray bottom 1606 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tucking tray top 1604 through the use of an engagement mechanism 1630 of the tucking tray top 1606 attached to engagement portion 1615 of the tucking tray bottom 1606 .
- the engagement mechanism 1630 can be configured to be a clipping mechanism that can hold the engagement portion 1615 .
- a user can release the engagement mechanism 1630 by applying pressure, thereby opening the engagement mechanism 1630 , as shown in FIG. 20 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached within the tucking tray top 1604 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to both the tucking tray top 1604 and the main shelf 1602 . Further, in some embodiments the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be stored on the tucking tray top 1604 when in the open position, as shown in FIG. 18 .
- FIGS. 21-24 illustrate an embodiment of incorporating mats into the floor shield 1600 .
- the removable bosses 1608 can be removed.
- the removable boss 1608 may be attached to the floor shield 1600 in any type of method, such as through screw, friction, or interference, and the attachment of the removable boss 1608 to the floor shield 1600 does not limit the disclosure.
- the removable boss 1608 may have a gripping portion 1613 , such as a handle, to aid a user in removing the removable boss 1608 .
- the removable boss 1608 can be removed by a twisting motion.
- a roll of mats 1614 can be inserted into the floor shield 1600 , shown in FIG. 22 .
- the roll of mats 1614 can be inserted into another boss 1616 , which may or may not be removable.
- the removable boss 1608 can then be reinserted into the floor shield 1600 so that the roll of mats 1614 can be rotatably held in place by the bosses 1608 / 1616 .
- one of the mats 1614 can be pulled through the slot 1607 when the floor shield 1600 is in the open position, as shown in FIG. 23 .
- the matt 1614 can be pulled to the edge of the main shelf 1602 .
- FIG. 24 shows a bottom view of the floor shield 1600 with the matt 1614 pulled over the edge of the main shelf 1602 .
- the tucking tray bottom 1606 can then be removed, the corners of the matt 1614 can be folder over, and the tucking tray bottom 1606 can be replaced, thus holding the matt 1614 in place on the floor shield 1600 .
- FIG. 25 shows an embodiment of attachment of the floor shield 1600 to a wall, though other methods can be used as well as disclosed above, and the attachment method does not limit the disclosure.
- brackets such as a metal bar 1610
- the metal bar 1610 can be, for example, steel, though the type of material does not limit the disclosure.
- the metal bar 1610 can be magnetic in some embodiments.
- the metal bar 1610 can be screwed into the wall, though the attachment of the metal bar 1610 to the wall does not limit the disclosure and any attachment means, such as adhesive, can be used as well.
- the metal bar 1610 has a width less than that of the floor shield 1600 . In some embodiments, the metal bar 1610 has a width that is the same as that of the floor shield 1600 . In some embodiments, the metal bar 1610 has a width greater than that of the floor shield 1600 .
- Main attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to the back of the floor shield 1600 , as shown in FIG. 16 .
- a number of main attachment magnets 1612 can be used, or a single main attachment magnets 1612 can be used.
- the main attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to the floor shield 1600 through, for example, adhesive, though the attachment does not limit the disclosure. If a plurality of main attachment magnets 1612 are used, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 main attachment magnets 1612 can be used, and the number of main attachment magnets 1612 does not limit the disclosure.
- the floor shield 1600 can be releasably attached to the wall.
- the magnetic hold between the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 is sufficient so that small incidental forces do not separate the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 .
- a significant force, such as an average user stepping on the floor shield 1600 can be the minimum force needed to separate the metal bar 1610 and the main attachment magnets 1612 .
- the floor shield 1600 can contain a locking mechanism 1632 .
- the locking mechanism 1632 can be on the bottom of the floor shield 1600 , though the position of the locking mechanism 1632 does not limit the disclosure.
- the locking mechanism 1632 can be used to lock the tucking tray top 1604 to the main shelf 1602 , thus preventing opening of the floor shield 1600 by an unwanted party.
- FIGS. 26 and 27 both illustrate embodiments of a floor shield assembly being used with a urinal.
- a user can position at a urinal 902 .
- the user's shoes can be located below the floor shield 906 of the floor shield assembly.
- the bottom of a user's pant legs can be located beneath the floor shield 906 .
- the floor shield 906 can be used in order to adequately cover a user's shoes.
- FIG. 27 illustrates a top viewpoint of the user in FIG. 26 . As shown, a user's shoes can be located directly underneath the floor shield 906 , thus protecting the user's shoes from splash.
- FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of an automated floor shield.
- a new mat role 2804 can be located under the floor shield, such as those described in detail above.
- a clean mat 2802 can be rolled onto the floor shield. As the clean mat 2802 becomes soiled through use, it can be advanced so that the dirty mat 2808 can be located underneath the floor shield. As further mats are soiled, they can be rolled into a used mat roll 2806 . The entire advancement and rolling can be automated, such as with a controller or switch as discussed above, thus allowed for the mats to be continuously refreshed without the user having any contact with the soiled mats. The used mat roll 2806 can then be removed. If the mats are reusable, the mats can be washed.
- the mats can be disposed of. While FIG. 28 shows a specific positioning of the new mat roll 2804 and used mat roll 2806 , different configurations can be used as well, such as the used mat roll 2806 being located on the opposite side of the floor shield from the new mat roll 2804 . Accordingly, the positioning of the mats does not limit the disclosure.
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a floor shield which can be located above the floor below a urinal. The floor shield can protect a user's clothing, such as shoes and pants, from being soiled while using a urinal. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a liquid absorbing mat contained between frame elements. The absorbing mat can easily be removed and replaced when the mat is dirty.
Description
- Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.
- This disclosure relates generally to embodiments of a protective shield for use with a urinal.
- Disclosed herein is a floor shield and floor shield assemblies which can comprise a frame structure, a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is desirably sized so that the mat can be retained within the frame structure, and a bracket configured to hold the frame structure.
- In some embodiments, a portion of the floor shield assembly, such as the bracket can comprise a container carrying replacement mats. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to move horizontally within the bracket. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to move vertically and/or horizontally within the bracket. In some embodiments, the frame structure can comprise a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure.
- In some embodiments, at least the top or bottom portion of the frame structure can comprise at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the at least one fastening element can comprise a locking pin or snap.
- In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the frame structure can contain a resting platform configured to support the replaceable mat. In some embodiments, the attachment structure can be a hinge. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to rotate vertically, such as within the bracket. In some embodiments, the bracket can comprise at least one gear. In some embodiments, the floor shield can further comprise at least one support leg extending from the frame structure. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to be releasably retained by the bracket. In some embodiments, a releasable retainer attached to a bottom of the frame structure can be used to retain the mat within the frame structure. In some embodiments, the releasable retainer can be attached to the bottom of the frame structure at least in part by at least one hinge. In some embodiments, air freshener can be incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the bracket.
- Also disclosed herein is system for clothing protection in a restroom which can comprise a wall and a floor and at least one floor shield which can comprise a frame structure, a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is desirably sized so that the mat can be retained within the frame structure, and a bracket configured to retain the frame structure, wherein the bracket is attached to the wall, wherein the at least one floor shield is spaced away from a floor of the restroom.
- In some embodiments, the bracket can be integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the system can further comprise a plurality of floor shields. In some embodiments, the system can further comprise a urinal attached to the wall, wherein the at least one floor shield is spaced below the urinal. In some embodiments, the frame structure can comprise a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape.
- Disclosed herein are embodiments of a floor shield assembly comprising a frame structure comprising an upper frame portion, and a lower frame portion, wherein the upper and lower frame portions are connected by an attachment structure, and wherein the upper frame portion is configured to move between an open and a closed configuration, at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure when the upper frame portion is in the closed configuration, and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall, wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor.
- In some embodiments, the bracket can comprise a container defining a cavity for receiving replacement mats. In some embodiments, the container can comprise at least one removable boss for removal and replacement of the replacement mats.
- In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to move horizontally with respect to the bracket. In some embodiments, at least one of the top or bottom portions of the frame structure can comprise at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, the at least one fastening element can comprise a locking pin or snap. In some embodiments, the attachment structure can be a hinge.
- In some embodiments, the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be configured to rotate with respect to the bracket about an axis.
- In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly can further comprise a releasable retainer attached to a bottom of the lower frame portion and configured to secure a mat to the frame structure. In some embodiments, air freshener can be incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the bracket. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly can further comprise a locking mechanism to hold at least one of upper frame portion and the lower frame portion in the closed configuration.
- In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly can further comprise a plurality of replaceable mats, in addition to the at least one replacement mat. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats can be positioned on a roll. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats can be connected to said at least one replaceable mat. In some embodiments, said plurality of replaceable mats can be configured to be connected to said at least one replaceable mat while the at least one replaceable mat is retained between the upper and lower frame portions of the frame structure.
- Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a system for clothing protection in a restroom comprising a wall, at least one urinal attached to the wall, and at least one floor shield assembly comprising a frame structure, a replaceable mat sized to be supported by the frame structure, wherein the mat is securable to the frame structure, and a bracket configured to retain the frame structure, wherein the bracket is attached to the wall, wherein the replaceable mat is positioned to protect a user from splashing of urine and is spaced from a floor of the restroom.
- In some embodiments, the bracket can be integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the system can further comprise a plurality of floor shields. In some embodiments, the at least one floor shield can be spaced below the urinal. In some embodiments, the frame structure can comprise a top and bottom portion, the top and bottom portion connected by an attachment structure, and the replaceable mat located between the top and bottom portions of the frame structure. In some embodiments, the frame structure can be a generally half elliptical shape.
- Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a floor shield assembly comprising a frame structure, at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained against the frame structure, and a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall, wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor. In some embodiments, the bracket and the frame structure can be integrally formed.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a top-down view of an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 2 illustrates an open hinge configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 3 illustrates an open configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield with a replacement mat. -
FIG. 4 illustrates an open configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield with a mat locked in place. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a closed configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIGS. 6A-C illustrate embodiments of a bottom portion of a frame of a floor shield with and without the mat. -
FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a wall bracket for use with a floor shield. -
FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield attached with a bracket. -
FIG. 9 illustrates an example configuration of a floor shield in a restroom. -
FIGS. 10A-C illustrate an embodiment of a bracket having replacement mats for a floor shield. -
FIGS. 11A-C illustrate an embodiment of floor shield having a bracket with replacement mats. -
FIGS. 12A-D illustrate configurations of embodiments of a floor shield. -
FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a gear system which can be used in a floor shield. -
FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield having a support leg. -
FIGS. 15A-C illustrate an embodiment of a retainer for a floor shield. -
FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield without a tucking tray top. -
FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield with an open tucking tray top. -
FIG. 19 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 20 illustrates an underside view of an embodiment of a floor shield without a tucking tray bottom. -
FIG. 21 illustrates a step in the installation of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 22 illustrates a step in the installation of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 23 illustrates the application of a mat into an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 24 illustrates a mat held within a top retainer in an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 25 illustrates an attachment mechanism for an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 26 illustrates a side view of a user at a urinal with an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 27 illustrates a top down view of a user at a urinal with an embodiment of a floor shield. -
FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of an automated floor shield. - Urinals can be a significant source of unwanted staining on a person's clothing, especially pants and shoes. For example, due to the currently used shape of urinals, excess liquids, such as water, cleaning chemicals, and/or urine (e.g, from splash-back or drippage) can spill over the edge of the urinal and directly downwards. Because of the location of the urinal, a user's feet would be directly in the area of the spillage, and could lead to damage to the user's clothing. Further, the liquids could splash, thus damaging the pant legs of the user of the urinal. Additionally, spillage can lead to puddles on the ground in a restroom, even when a floor urinal mat is used, which are not merely unsightly but can actually begin to substantially damage the floor or the soles of a person's shoes. It can be expensive to fix any damage done to the floor by the uric acid
- In the past, floor mats have been used in restrooms in an attempt to reduce urine and other chemical/liquid levels on the restroom floor. Urine is a significant damager of floors, and can etch or eat away from the floor, and thus it is advantageous to prevent urine from remaining on a floor. While floor mats have typically been used, the restroom environment is harsh on them, both physically and chemically, and the floor mats can quickly collect urine and other chemicals. As users do not want to stand on a urine filled floor mat, they stand aside the floor mats, thus exacerbating the damage to the floor. Further, as a result of the harsh environment, floor mats can quickly lose their air freshening or sanitizing function, become torn so that debris is permitted through them, or become unsightly. Therefore, floor mats need to be changed relatively often to function properly without drawing undue attention. In addition, floor mats can easily be kicked aside, thus eliminating any usefulness in protecting the restroom floor.
- Disclosed herein is a device, assembly, and/or system acting as a floor shield, which can prevent liquids from falling from the urinal area and onto the floor and/or a user's clothing. Accordingly, this can prevent clothing from being damaged, as well as improve sanitation in a restroom. Further, embodiments of the floor shield can remain above the floor of a restroom, thus significantly reducing the wear and damage to the floor shield facility, being used effectively for a longer period of time. In addition, being above the floor can allow for the floor shield to catch more liquid than similar sized urinal mats located on the floor. In some embodiments, the floor shield assembly can include the floor shield itself, as well as any connection or retaining pieces. However, the terms floor shield and floor shield assembly can be used interchangeably in some embodiments.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield. As shown in the figure, the floor shield can have amat 102 and a frame (or hoop) 104. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be blank, printed, or have advertising on it. In some embodiments, themat 102 can contain colorful patterns that show through theframe 104. Further, themat 102 can contain a signal, such as a color change, for when themat 102 should be removed and replaced. In some embodiments, the mat can be an absorbing mat or pad for collecting any fluids that fall from a urinal. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be made of fabric, cloth, polymer, paper (such as 2 ply toilet paper), absorbents, hydroscopic material, or natural material, and the type of material of themat 102 does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, themat 102 can contain anti-microbial additives. - Accordingly, most, if not all, liquid can be prevented from reaching the ground or a user's shoes, as most, if not all, liquid can be picked up and absorbed by the
mat 102 which can be located directly below a urinal. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a smaller upper surface area than floor mats of the prior art. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have an upper surface area of less than 1000, 900, 800, 700, 750, 625, 600, 500, 400, 300, 280, 270, or 200 in2. Advantageously, however, the urinal can have an upper surface area of a sufficient size to protect against urine splattering the floor or the user's clothing. For example, embodiments of the floor shield can have an upper surface area of at least 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 in2. In some embodiments, the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 50 and 750, 64 and 625, 80 and 500, 140 and 400, 180 and 300, or 200 and 280 in2. In some embodiments, the floor shield has an upper surface area of between 400 and 1600, 600 and 1200, or 800 and 1000 in2. - In some embodiments, the
mat 102 can have approximately the same size as the floor shield. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long, as shown inFIG. 1 . In some embodiments, themat 102 can be greater than approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches long. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches wide, as shown inFIG. 1 . In some embodiments, themat 102 can be greater than approximately 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches wide. In some embodiments, themat 102 can less than approximately 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 16 inches long. In some embodiments, themat 102 can less than approximately 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 16 inches wide. - In some embodiments, the
frame 104 can lay both below and on top of themat 102 and desirably hold it in place, e.g., sandwiching themat 102, as further described in detail below. Further, the floor shield can contain areplacement box 106 which can contain one ormore replacement mats 102. However, in some embodiments abox 106 is not used with the floor shield, and a simple bracket can be used, as described below. In some embodiments, thereplacement box 106 can operate similar to a paper towel dispenser, wherein a user can pull outreplacement mats 102 when theold mat 102 becomes soiled, though other methodologies can be used as well and do not limit the disclosure. - In some embodiments, the
frame 104 can be in the shape of a partial ellipsoid, such as a half or ¾ ellipsoid. For example, theframe 104 can generally include a generally or substantially parabolic portion, wherein two points of theparabolic portion 103 are connected by aline 105, shown inFIG. 1 . This shape can allow for a user to stand at a urinal with their feet underneath the floor shield, advantageously protecting the user's feet. Further, the shape of theframe 104 can allow for a user to stand comfortably around the frame with their legs apart, and thus do not have to stand in an awkward position. However, the particular shape of theframe 104 does not limit this disclosure, and different shapes can be used as well. For example, a generally triangular shape can be used as the frame of the floor shield. Further, in some embodiments themat 102 can be shaped approximately the same as theframe 104 in order to fit neatly within theframe 104. However, in some embodiments themat 102 can extend further than theframe 104. In some embodiments, themat 102 can extend further than theframe 104 and can be partially wrapped around theframe 104, as discussed in more detail below. -
FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield with theframe 104 in an open position. As shown, in some embodiments theframe 104 can be made up of two portions, atop portion 108 and abottom portion 110, connected to one another by one or more attachment elements, such as ahinge element 112, though the particular attachment element does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, no hinge may be used with theframe 104. In some embodiments, thehinge element 112 can be spring loaded so that it will automatically return theframe 104 to a closed position. In some embodiments, thetop portion 108 andbottom portion 110 can be integrally formed. In some embodiments, thetop portion 108,bottom portion 110, and hinge 112 can be integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, theframe 104 could have only atop portion 108 or only abottom portion 110, and themat 102 can be secured, for example, to the top of thebottom portion 110 or the bottom of thetop portion 108 with fastening elements as further described below. - In some embodiments, the
top portion 108 can contain at least onefastening element 114. In some embodiments, thetop portion 108 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10fastening elements 114. In some embodiments, thebottom portion 110 can also contain at least one fastening element. In some embodiments, thebottom portion 110 can contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10fastening elements 114. The number of fastening elements 144 does not limit the disclosure. Thefastening elements 114 of thetop portion 108 andbottom portion 110 may be the same, or may be different. Thesefastening elements 114 can be, for example, locking pins or snaps, though the type of fastening element does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, thetop portion 108 andbottom portion 110 can havefastening elements 114 so that thefastening elements 114 on thetop portion 108 andbottom portion 110 interlock with one another. For example, somefastening elements 114 can be female members, whereas others can be male members. In some embodiments, fastening elements are not used, and the frame can contain amat 102 using only pressure or frictional forces. In some elements, thetop portion 108 andbottom portion 110 can have magnetic materials on them, and thereby thetop portion 108 and bottom 108 can be magnetically attracted to one another, thereby retaining themat 102. - The
top portion 108 andbottom portion 110 of theframe 104 can form anopen area 116 inside their respective perimeters or circumferences. However, in some embodiments theframe 104 does not have an open area, and can be formed of a solid or gridded material, thus hiding themat 102 from view by a user. In some embodiments, thebottom portion 110 can contain aresting platform 118 where amat 102 can rest. Thisresting platform 118 can give further support to amat 102 when themat 102 is in place on the floor shield. Theresting platform 118 can be made of an additional absorbing material, or can be made of a mesh that allows liquids to pass through. -
FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the floor shield with anopen frame 104. As shown, the floor shield can have areplacement box 106 attached to theframe 104. Amat 102 can be pulled out of thereplacement box 106 and can then be placed ontobottom portion 110, as shown inFIG. 4 . Once themat 102 is in the proper position, thetop portion 108 can be lowered onto the top of themat 102 so that themat 102 is held in place between thetop portion 108 andbottom portion 110, as described above. In some embodiments, the lowering of thetop portion 108 onto thebottom portion 110 causes themat 102 to be removed from thereplacement box 106. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be removed first. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be pulled through theframe 104 in theopen area 116. Once themat 102 is within theframe 104, themat 102 will generally not move during operation until theframe 104 is opened.FIG. 5 shows a closed configuration of an embodiment of a floor shield. - In some embodiments, the
replacement box 106 can be generally shaped as a rectangular prism having an open internal cavity, though the shape does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, thereplacement box 106 can have an open side for insertion ofmats 102, though the particular side that is opened is not limiting. In some embodiments, thereplacement box 106 can be fully enclosed, but can be opened to insertmats 102. Further, thereplacement box 106 may have an opening, aperture, or slot in whichmats 102 can be pulled out of to place onto theframe 104, such as shown inFIGS. 11A-C . - In some embodiments, the
mat 102 can be made of a reusable material. For example, themat 102 can be laundered and then reused with the floor shield. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be linen, cloth, or other launderable material, and the type of material does not limit the disclosure. Accordingly, thereusable mat 102 can be pulled out of thereplacement box 106 as described above. However, thereusable mat 102 can then be rewound into thebox 106 for later use or for laundering. In some embodiments, thebox 106 can be generally a towel roll where themat 102 can be rewound. In some embodiments, themat 102 can be manually rewound into thebox 106. In some embodiments, a second box can be provided at the opposite end. In some embodiments, the box 106 (or one or both of the two boxes) can be mechanized, such as through the use of an auto-winder or auto-feed. For example, thebox 106 can contain a button, switch, handle, or other advancement device that can cause themat 102 to exit or reenter thereplacement box 106, either by itself or through user force. In some embodiments, a hand-held remote can be used to move themat 102 in and out of thebox 106. In some embodiments, the advancement device can be mechanical or electrical, such as an electric motor to wind and unwind themats 102. The type of advancement device does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a user may never have to touch themat 102. -
FIGS. 6A-B illustrates thebottom portion 110 by itself without amat 102. As shown, thebottom portion 110 can containfastening elements 114.FIG. 6C illustrates thebottom portion 110 with amat 102 installed. As shown, thefastening elements 114 can protrude through themat 102, though thefastening elements 114 do not protrude in some embodiments. In some embodiments, thefastening elements 114 can then insert into thetop portion 108, thereby locking themat 102 in place. -
FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of abracket 700 that can be used to hold a floor shield onto a wall. In some embodiments, thebracket 700 and frame 704 can be integrally formed. Thebracket 700 can be attached to a wall by any general attachment means, such as adhesive, magnets, Velcro, or screws, and the attachment of thebracket 700 to a wall does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, thebracket 700 can contain aslot 702. Theslot 702 can be sized and configured to receive the floor shield. Theslot 702 can include a mechanism so that when the floor shield is inserted, as shown inFIG. 8 , it snaps in place or is otherwise held in place. Theslot 702 can extend partially or fully across thebracket 700. The type of attachment between the floor shield and thebracket 700 does not limit this disclosure. For example, a snap mechanism or joint could be used to attach the floor shield to thebracket 700. - In some embodiments, the
bracket 700 can be wider than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield, similar to thereplacement box 106 ofFIG. 5 . In some embodiments, thebracket 700 can smaller than the width of the frame 704 of the floor shield. In some embodiments, thebracket 700 is about 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches wide. The size of thebracket 700 does not limit this disclosure. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be configured to slide horizontally in theslot 702 of thebracket 700, so that the horizontal position of the floor shield can be changed. In some embodiments, areplacement box 106, as described above, can be used with or instead of abracket 700 while including similar features. -
FIG. 9 illustrates an example configuration of aurinal 902 attached to awall 904 of a restroom using abracket 700. As mentioned above, in some embodiments areplacement box 106 can be used with or instead of abracket 700 to attach thefloor shield 906 to thewall 904. As shown, thefloor shield 906 can be attached directly below aurinal 902 above thefloor 908. In some embodiments, thefloor shield 906 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than the upper surface area of theurinal 902. In some embodiments, the upper surface area of theurinal 902 can be the footprint of the urinal when viewed from above, such as shown inFIG. 27 . In some embodiments, thefloor shield 906 can be greater than about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than the upper surface area of theurinal 902. In some embodiments, thefloor shield 906 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100% bigger than a lip of theurinal 902. - In some embodiments, if there is more than one urinal in a restroom, a floor shield can be located below each of the urinals. In some embodiments, the floor shields can be all aligned at the same vertical height. In some embodiments, the floor shields can be at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the floor shield can extend about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches farther from the wall than a farthest point of the urinal it is under. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be approximately 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 inches off the ground. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be approximately at least 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, or 28 inches above the surface of the floor. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be located at a distance above the ground so that a user can put their shoes underneath the shield. The floor shield can be easily removable from the wall of the restroom, or can be integrally formed with the wall. In some embodiments, the entire floor shield can be disposable.
- In some embodiments, a roll holder can be used with a floor shield for replacement of
mats 102.FIG. 10A illustrates an embodiment of aroll holder 1002. As shown, theholder 1002 can be shaped generally like a paper towel dispenser. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can hold 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40mats 102. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can hold more than one roll ofmats 102, and can include a mechanism to change rolls. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can hold greater than 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40mats 102. The amount ofmats 102 held by theholder 1002 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can have a pair of posts/bosses/protrusions 1004 at opposite ends of theholder 1002 that can be configured to insert into a roll ofreplacement mats 102, which can allow the roll ofreplacement mats 102 to rotate and be pulled out by a user. In some embodiments, thereplacement mats 102 can have length, width, and surface areas similar to those described in detail above. However, the configuration of the internal structure of theroll holder 1002 to hold replacement rolls 102 does not limit this disclosure, and other configuration, such as tabs, clasps, and other structures can be used. -
FIG. 10B illustrates an embodiment of aroll holder 1002 with a refill ofreplacement mats 102 installed. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can be at least partially flexible to accommodate the insertion of the refill. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can be rigid. In some embodiments, at least one of theposts 1004 can be removed to allow for insertion of thereplacement mats 102. -
FIG. 10C illustrates a top down view of aholder 1002 installed with a floor shield. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can be configured to attach to a wall, such as shown inFIG. 9 . In some embodiments, a roll ofmats 102 can be located outside theholder 1002. For example, the roll can be located above or below theholder 1002. In some embodiments, the roll can be located about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from a wall. In some embodiments, the roll ofmats 102 can be loaded from the side, bottom, or top of theholder 1002. -
FIG. 11A illustrates angled perspective view of a floor shield wherein theframe 104 is attached to aholder 1002. As shown, in some embodiments only thebottom portion 110 of theframe 104 can be attached to theholder 1002, and they can be removable or integrally formed. In some embodiments, atop portion 108 is used as well, as described in detail above. In some embodiments, theframe 104 only has thebottom portion 110. In some embodiments, theframe 104 can have anopening 1102 that can allow formats 102 to be pulled through. Accordingly, in some embodiments theframe 104 can lay directly on top of theholder 1002. - In some embodiments, the
frame 104 can be flexibly attached to theholder 1002. Therefore, if excess force was exerted on theframe 104, for example through a kick or step, theframe 104 may be moved but theholder 1002 may not be removed from the wall. Afterwards, theframe 104 may be reattached to theholder 1002. The attachment between theframe 104 and theholder 1002 does not limit this disclosure, and any attachment, such as adhesive or mechanical fastening, can be used. In some embodiments, theframe 104 can be easily removable from theholder 1002, and thus can be easily disposed of while theholder 1002 remains. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can contain theopening 1102, and theframe 104 can attach to the front of theholder 1002. In some embodiments, there is noopening 1102 and areplacement mat 102 can be pulled out and placed in theframe 104, as described above. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can contain an opening on the top so a user can see ifmore replacement mats 102 should be added. -
FIG. 11B illustrates areplacement mat 102 being pulled out of theholder 1002 and on to thebottom portion 110 of theframe 104. As shown, themat 102 can be pulled through theopening 1102 that can be located either on theholder 1002 orframe 104. -
FIG. 11C illustrates amat 102 attached to an embodiment of a floor shield. As discussed above, themat 102 can be attached throughfastening elements 114. As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, thenext refill mat 102 can be attached to the rear of themat 102 that is attached to theframe 104. Accordingly, when themat 102 on the frame is removed, thenext mat 102 can be pulled into place. In some embodiments, thenext mat 102 is not attached to theprevious mat 102. In some embodiments, theholder 1002 can contain a lever or grip to turn thereplacement mats 102, thus positioning thenext mat 102 for a user to grab and pull out. -
FIG. 12A illustrates an embodiment of a floor shield wherein the shield is configured to move with relation to theholder 1002. This movement can allow for ease of installation. For example, the shield can be attached to the top of theholder 1002 in a slot, and can therefore move horizontally through the slot. This can allow the shield to move left or right while theholder 1002 remains in position, while still maintaining the ability to pull thereplacement mat 102 from theholder 1002. In some embodiments, other configurations than a slot can be used for horizontal mobility, and the configuration does not limit the disclosure. - In some embodiments, the floor shield can also move on the
holder 1002 to and away from theholder 1002, and therefore the wall. This can be advantageous as different urinals do not always extend the same distance from the wall. For example, theholder 1002 can have at least one guide rail extending perpendicular for the floor shield to move with. In some embodiments, the guide rail can be configured to have sections which lock the floor shield in place. In some embodiments, the shield can rest on top of theguide rails 1006, as shown inFIG. 12D . In some embodiments, theguide rails 1006 can insert into theframe 104 of the floor shield, so that the rails fit within the floor shield. In some embodiments, theguide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from theholder 1002. In some embodiments, theguide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has less than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from theholder 1002. In some embodiments, theguide rails 1006 can be configured so that the floor shield has greater than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of movement away from theholder 1002. In some embodiments, theframe 104 can be configured to move parallel with theholder 1002 as well as perpendicular to theholder 1002 at the same time. In some embodiments, the floor shield can have a similar configuration of guide rails that allows the floor shield to move vertically. In some embodiments, a different mechanism for moving horizontally and/or vertically can be used, and the mechanism does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the floor shield can be configured to move both vertically and horizontally. -
FIGS. 12B-C illustrate the flexibility of certain embodiments of a floor shield. In some embodiments, the shield can be angled upwards or downwards from its original position. The shield can be angled upwards or downwards without any damage to the shield or theholder 1002. In some embodiments, the frame and/or holder can be made of flexible materials so that they can be angled and return to their original position. In some embodiments, there can be someclearance 1202 between the shield and theholder 1002, and therefore a user can angle the shield and it can remain in the new position. In some embodiments, the shield can be at least partially rotated in theholder 1002 as well. - In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position. In some embodiments, the shield can be configured have greater than approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches from top angled position to bottom angled position.
- In some embodiments, a
gear system 1300 can be used to allow for the angling of the shield, as shown inFIG. 13 . Thegear system 1300 can be used to lock the shield in place at a chosen angled position. Thegear system 1300 can have approximately 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees of motion. Thegear system 1300 can have greater than approximately 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees of motion. However, the angling system does not limit the disclosure. - In some embodiments, an air freshener, fragrance, or other scented product and/or substance can be incorporated into the floor shield. In some embodiments, the freshener may be a part of the material used in the construction of the floor shield. In some embodiments, the floor shield may be at least partially made of a material that is loaded with a fragrance material. In some embodiments, the freshener can be used after the floor shield is made, for example through a liquid spray. The spray could then dry onto the parts of the floor shield, thereby giving the fragrance. The type of freshener does not limit the disclosure. The materials used may be polymers, such as both thermoplastic and thermoset polymers. Some examples of polymers that may be suitable are synthetic resins. Some particular examples of thermoplastic resins that may be suitable for include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (NIPX), ethylene-(meth)acrylate ester copolymers, acrylic-type vinyl resins such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), styrene-type vinyl resins such as polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene (AS) copolymers, other vinyl resins such as polyvinyl acetate, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester resins such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide resins such as nylon 6, nylon 66, nylon 610, nylon 11, and nylon 12, polyoxyalkylene resins such as polyacetal (POM), and other thermoplastic resins such as polycarbonates (PC), modified polyphenylene ethers (modified PPE), polyvinyl acetates (PVAC), polysulfones (PSU), polyethersulfones (PES), polyphenylene sulfides (PPS), polyarylates (PAR), polyamideimides (pAI), polyetherimides (PEI), polyetheretherketones (PEEK), polyimides (PI), as well as copolymers of the preceding. Combinations of different plastics can also be used. Further, different plastics can be used to produce different portions of the floor shield. However, the particular material does not limit the disclosure.
- The freshener may be incorporated into different portions of the floor shield. For example, in some embodiments the freshener can be incorporated into the
mats 102. In some embodiments, the freshener can be incorporated into any of the portions of theframe 104. In some embodiments, the freshener can be incorporated into theholder 1002. In some embodiments, the freshener can be located in multiple, or all, parts of the floor shield. The location of the freshener does not limit the disclosure. - In some embodiments, the material that can be used to form the urinal screen may be capable of resisting the harsh environment experienced on the restroom floor, which may contain urine, waste products, cleaning solutions, and other undesirable liquids (e.g., contaminants such as paint thinner, paint, motor oil, or chemicals that may be poured into a urinal.) In some embodiments, the material of the floor shield may be designed to maintain a near-pristine condition (evident after a water rinse or basic cleaning operation), without discernable wear for a long period of time, or large amount of uses and flushes. Thus, it may be said that the floor shield may resist damage or alteration due to the environmental conditions within a restroom. In some embodiments, the material of the floor shield, such as the
frame 104 ormat 102 may be designed to last a certain amount of time, level or amount of use, or number of flushes, without exhibiting any wear (e.g., tearing, discoloring, disintegration, deformation, shrinkage, loss of scent) for that specified time/usage/period. For example: the lasting time may be 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 6 months, or perhaps 1 year; the level or amount of use may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 uses (e.g., urinations); the number of flushes may be 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, or perhaps 50000 flushes. In other embodiments, the material of the floor shield may be designed to purposefully start exhibiting wear after the aforementioned predetermined amount of time/usage/period, such that the portions of the floor shield can start to tear, discolor, disintegrate, deform, shrink, or lose scent, which may alert maintenance personnel to replace portions of the floor shield, such as themat 102. -
FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of a floor shield having asupport structure 1402 below aurinal 1404. Thesupport structure 1402 can give enhanced strength to the floor shield. Further, it can prevent breakage if excess pressure is put on the top of the floor shield. In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 can extend from thebottom portion 110 of the floor shield. In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 can be located on an end of the floor shield opposite the wall, as shown inFIG. 14 . In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 can be configured to rest against afloor 1406 when the floor shield is set up. In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 can be generally rectangular, circular, or triangular in cross section, though the shape of thesupport structure 1402 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, 1, 2, or 3support structures 1402 can be used. In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 can be configured to be rotated or moved on the floor shield. In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 can be configured to be removed and replaced. In some embodiments, thesupport structure 1402 may attach to the shield at a hinge, and thesupport structure 1402 can be folded into the floor shield for ease of transportation. -
FIGS. 15A-C illustrate an embodiment of a floor shield having aretainer 1502. In some embodiments, theretainer 1502 can be used to releasably retain themat 102 to thebottom portion 110 instead of using atop portion 108. However, in some embodiments, thetop portion 108 can be used in conjunction with theretainer 1502. In some embodiments, the retainer can be located on either the top or bottom of thebottom portion 110. - The
mat 102 can be pulled over the top of thebottom portion 110 and then at least partially onto the bottom of thebottom portion 110 when theretainer 1502 is open. Theretainer 1502 can then closed over a portion of themat 102 underneath thebottom portion 110, thereby holding themat 102 in place and providing a pleasing appearance. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 15A , alatch 1504 can be used to keep theretainer 1502 closed, though other mechanisms can be used as well. In some embodiments, theretainer 1502 can be rotatably attached to thebottom portion 110 through the use of at least onehinge 1506. -
FIG. 15B illustrates an embodiment of aretainer 1502 by itself. As shown, theretainer 1502 can have a generally v-shape. In some embodiments, theretainer 1502 can have a generally semicircle shape (e.g., theretainer 1502 extends completely across between hinges 1506), and the shape of theretainer 1502 does not limit the disclosure. As shown, theretainer 1502 can haveouter walls 1508 configured to fit against the outside of thebottom portion 110, thereby retaining amat 102 between thebottom portion 110, thewalls 1508, and the base 1510 of the retainer.FIG. 15C shows the closed configuration of aretainer 1502 from a top viewpoint. In some embodiments, theretainer 1502 can be flexible. -
FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of afloor shield 1600. As shown, thefloor shield 1600 can be composed of multiple portions, though some of the portions can be integrally formed. For example, thefloor shield 1600 can have amain shelf 1602. Themain shelf 1602 can be connected to atucking tray top 1604, which can be connected to a tuckingtray bottom 1606. Further, themain shelf 1602 can include at least oneremovable boss 1608. In some embodiments, themain shelf 1602, and thus thefloor shield 1600, can be attached to a wall by ametal bar 1610 andmain attachment magnets 1619. -
FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of themain shelf 1602 without the tuckingtray top 1604. In some embodiments, themain shelf 1602 can have anupper platform 1603 and alower platform 1605. As shown inFIG. 17 , thelower platform 1605 can be shaped similar to half an octagon, though the particular shape of thelower platform 1605 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, thelower platform 1605 can be made of a grid containing a plurality of openings as shown inFIG. 17 . In some embodiments, the front edge of thelower platform 1605 can have a cutting mechanism, such as teeth, in order to cut any mats to the appropriate size without any tucking. In some embodiments, the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, thelower platform 1605 may be smooth and not contain any openings. In some embodiments, thelower platform 1605 can be configured to translate away from theupper platform 1603 while still remaining connected. For example, the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from theupper platform 1603. In some embodiments, - the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate less than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from the
upper platform 1603. In some embodiments, the lower platform 1065 can be configured to translate greater than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 inches away from theupper platform 1603. - In some embodiments, the
lower platform 1605 may be connected to theupper platform 1603. In some embodiments, they may be removably connected. In some embodiments, they may be integrally formed. The connection between thelower platform 1605 andupper platform 1605 can form aslot 1607 allowing access between the top and bottom of themain shelf 1602. In some embodiments, theslot 1607 can be formed by having the upper andlower platforms 1603/1605 at different vertical heights. In some embodiments, the upper andlower platforms 1603/1605 can be at the same height and a gap can be formed between the two, thus forming theslot 1607. Theslot 1607 can generally be the width of themain shelf 1602, though the size of the slot does not limit the disclosure. - The
upper platform 1605 can contain sidewalls 1609 and aback wall 1611. Theside walls 1609 can be configured to hold at least one boss, such as theremovable boss 1608. In some embodiments, thesidewalls 1609 have the same width as theupper platform 1605. In some embodiments, thesidewalls 1609 have a greater width than theupper platform 1605. In some embodiments, thesidewalls 1609 have a smaller width than theupper platform 1605. In some embodiments, thesidewalls 1609 andback wall 1611 can be sized to retain a roll of mats. -
FIG. 18 shows an embodiment with a tuckingtray top 1604 rotatably connected to themain shelf 1602. The tuckingtray top 1604 can be rotatably attached to themain shelf 1602 through the insertion of a tab in an aperture 1618 (shown inFIG. 17 ) on each side of themain shelf 1602. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray top 1604 can be rotated from an open to a closed position. The tuckingtray top 1604 can have aframe 1618 around its perimeter, wherein theframe 1618 is thicker than the rest of the tuckingtray top 1604. As shown, the tuckingtray top 1604 can be sized and shaped so that theframe 1618 generally surrounds thelower platform 1605 when in the closed position. In some embodiments, when in the opened position, the tuckingtray top 1604 can rest against theupper platform 1605, which can allow thetucking tray top 1604 to remain open. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray top 1604 can be held open by frictional forces between the tuckingtray top 1604 and themain shelf 1602. - In some embodiments, the tucking
tray top 1604 can have theframe 1618 surrounding a grid, similar to thelower platform 1605. The grid can have a plurality of apertures in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray top 1604 can be generally flat with no apertures. In some embodiments, the grid may be triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, or combinations thereof, and the shape of the grid does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the grid of the tuckingtray top 1604 can be smaller than the grid of thelower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tuckingtray top 1604 can be larger than the grid of thelower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tuckingtray top 1604 can be generally the same size as the grid of thelower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tuckingtray top 1604 can have the same shapes as the grid of thelower platform 1605. In some embodiments, the grid of the tuckingtray top 1604 can have different shapes than the grid of thelower platform 1605. - Further,
FIG. 18 shows a tuckingtray bottom 1606 attached to the tuckingtray top 1604 which is used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 may not be used. The tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be generally sized and shaped to fit within theframe 1618 of the tuckingtray top 1604 so that the tuckingtray bottom 1606 is not exposed within the closed position. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can fit again the edge of the tuckingtray top 1604. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be shaped in a general c-shape, though the shape of the tuckingtray bottom 1606 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be formed from twoarms 1620 attached to aconnection portion 1622. -
FIG. 19 illustrates the tuckingtray bottom 1606 when thefloor shield 1600 is in the closed position. As shown, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tuckingtray top 1604 through anengagement mechanism 1630. Further, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be attached to the underside of themain shelf 1602 throughmagnetic latching components 1612 on themain shelf 1602. The tuckingtray bottom 1606 can have anengagement portion 1615 andmagnetic latching component 1611, shown inFIG. 16 , to facilitate attachment to the tuckingtray top 1604. - The
magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be circular magnetic pieces having opposite poles in order to magnetically connect to one another, though the shape of the magnetic pieces does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, a force can be used to release the correspondingmagnetic latching components 1617/1612. In some embodiments, twomagnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be used on each of themain shelf 1602 and tuckingtray bottom 1606, though the amount ofmagnetic latching components 1617/1612 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6magnetic latching components 1617/1612 can be used on each of themain shelf 1602 and tuckingtray bottom 1606. In some embodiments, themagnetic latching components 1617 can be located on opposite ends of thearms 1620 of the tuckingtray bottom 1606, though the position does not limit the disclosure and themagnetic latching components 1617 can be used throughout the tuckingtray bottom 1606. - The tucking
tray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to the tuckingtray top 1604 through the use of anengagement mechanism 1630 of the tuckingtray top 1606 attached toengagement portion 1615 of the tuckingtray bottom 1606. Theengagement mechanism 1630 can be configured to be a clipping mechanism that can hold theengagement portion 1615. A user can release theengagement mechanism 1630 by applying pressure, thereby opening theengagement mechanism 1630, as shown inFIG. 20 . Through the combination of theengagement mechanism 1630 andmagnetic latching components 1617/1612, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached within the tuckingtray top 1604. Accordingly, the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be releasably attached to both the tuckingtray top 1604 and themain shelf 1602. Further, in some embodiments the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be stored on the tuckingtray top 1604 when in the open position, as shown inFIG. 18 . -
FIGS. 21-24 illustrate an embodiment of incorporating mats into thefloor shield 1600. As shown inFIG. 21 , at least one of theremovable bosses 1608 can be removed. Theremovable boss 1608 may be attached to thefloor shield 1600 in any type of method, such as through screw, friction, or interference, and the attachment of theremovable boss 1608 to thefloor shield 1600 does not limit the disclosure. In some embodiments, theremovable boss 1608 may have agripping portion 1613, such as a handle, to aid a user in removing theremovable boss 1608. In some embodiments, theremovable boss 1608 can be removed by a twisting motion. - Upon removable of at least one of the
removable bosses 1608, a roll ofmats 1614 can be inserted into thefloor shield 1600, shown inFIG. 22 . The roll ofmats 1614 can be inserted into anotherboss 1616, which may or may not be removable. Theremovable boss 1608 can then be reinserted into thefloor shield 1600 so that the roll ofmats 1614 can be rotatably held in place by thebosses 1608/1616. - Once the mats are incorporated into the
floor shield 1600, one of themats 1614 can be pulled through theslot 1607 when thefloor shield 1600 is in the open position, as shown inFIG. 23 . Thematt 1614 can be pulled to the edge of themain shelf 1602.FIG. 24 shows a bottom view of thefloor shield 1600 with thematt 1614 pulled over the edge of themain shelf 1602. The tuckingtray bottom 1606 can then be removed, the corners of thematt 1614 can be folder over, and the tuckingtray bottom 1606 can be replaced, thus holding thematt 1614 in place on thefloor shield 1600. -
FIG. 25 shows an embodiment of attachment of thefloor shield 1600 to a wall, though other methods can be used as well as disclosed above, and the attachment method does not limit the disclosure. As shown, brackets, such as ametal bar 1610, can be attached to a wall, such as a wall of a restroom underneath a urinal shown inFIG. 25 . Themetal bar 1610 can be, for example, steel, though the type of material does not limit the disclosure. Themetal bar 1610 can be magnetic in some embodiments. Themetal bar 1610 can be screwed into the wall, though the attachment of themetal bar 1610 to the wall does not limit the disclosure and any attachment means, such as adhesive, can be used as well. In some embodiments, themetal bar 1610 has a width less than that of thefloor shield 1600. In some embodiments, themetal bar 1610 has a width that is the same as that of thefloor shield 1600. In some embodiments, themetal bar 1610 has a width greater than that of thefloor shield 1600. -
Main attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to the back of thefloor shield 1600, as shown inFIG. 16 . A number ofmain attachment magnets 1612 can be used, or a singlemain attachment magnets 1612 can be used. Themain attachment magnets 1612 can be attached to thefloor shield 1600 through, for example, adhesive, though the attachment does not limit the disclosure. If a plurality ofmain attachment magnets 1612 are used, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7main attachment magnets 1612 can be used, and the number ofmain attachment magnets 1612 does not limit the disclosure. - Once both the
metal bar 1610 and themain attachment magnets 1612 are in place, thefloor shield 1600 can be releasably attached to the wall. In some embodiments, the magnetic hold between themetal bar 1610 and themain attachment magnets 1612 is sufficient so that small incidental forces do not separate themetal bar 1610 and themain attachment magnets 1612. In some embodiments, a significant force, such as an average user stepping on thefloor shield 1600 can be the minimum force needed to separate themetal bar 1610 and themain attachment magnets 1612. - In some embodiments, the
floor shield 1600 can contain alocking mechanism 1632. Thelocking mechanism 1632 can be on the bottom of thefloor shield 1600, though the position of thelocking mechanism 1632 does not limit the disclosure. Thelocking mechanism 1632 can be used to lock thetucking tray top 1604 to themain shelf 1602, thus preventing opening of thefloor shield 1600 by an unwanted party. -
FIGS. 26 and 27 both illustrate embodiments of a floor shield assembly being used with a urinal. As shown inFIG. 26 , a user can position at aurinal 902. When in the proper person, the user's shoes can be located below thefloor shield 906 of the floor shield assembly. Further, in some embodiments the bottom of a user's pant legs can be located beneath thefloor shield 906. As discussed in detail above, thefloor shield 906 can be used in order to adequately cover a user's shoes.FIG. 27 illustrates a top viewpoint of the user inFIG. 26 . As shown, a user's shoes can be located directly underneath thefloor shield 906, thus protecting the user's shoes from splash. -
FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of an automated floor shield. As shown, anew mat role 2804 can be located under the floor shield, such as those described in detail above. Aclean mat 2802 can be rolled onto the floor shield. As theclean mat 2802 becomes soiled through use, it can be advanced so that thedirty mat 2808 can be located underneath the floor shield. As further mats are soiled, they can be rolled into a usedmat roll 2806. The entire advancement and rolling can be automated, such as with a controller or switch as discussed above, thus allowed for the mats to be continuously refreshed without the user having any contact with the soiled mats. The usedmat roll 2806 can then be removed. If the mats are reusable, the mats can be washed. Otherwise, the mats can be disposed of. WhileFIG. 28 shows a specific positioning of thenew mat roll 2804 and usedmat roll 2806, different configurations can be used as well, such as the usedmat roll 2806 being located on the opposite side of the floor shield from thenew mat roll 2804. Accordingly, the positioning of the mats does not limit the disclosure. - From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that an inventive floor shield is disclosed. While several components, techniques and aspects have been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes can be made in the specific designs, constructions and methodology herein above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.
- Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations and/or “some embodiments” can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.
- Moreover, while methods may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such methods need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and that all methods need not be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other methods that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional methods can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described methods. Further, the methods may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.
- Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.
- Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.
- Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of, within less than or equal to 5% of, within less than or equal to 1% of, within less than or equal to 0.1% of, and within less than or equal to 0.01% of the stated amount.
- Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale should not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed inventions. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.
- While a number of embodiments and variations thereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methods of using the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that various applications, modifications, materials, and substitutions can be made of equivalents without departing from the unique and inventive disclosure herein or the scope of the claims.
Claims (20)
1. A floor shield assembly comprising:
a frame structure comprising:
an upper frame portion; and
a lower frame portion;
wherein a portion of the frame structure is configured to move to change the frame structure between an open and a closed configuration;
at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained by the frame structure; and
an attachment portion configured to connect to a wall;
wherein the floor shield assembly is configured to be located above a floor; and
wherein a portion of the frame structure is configured to move horizontally with respect to the attachment portion.
2. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein air freshener is incorporated into at least one of the frame structure, the replaceable mat, and the attachment portion.
3. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a locking mechanism to hold at least a portion of the frame structure in the closed configuration.
4. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein the attachment portion is configured to releasably connect to the wall.
5. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a urinal, wherein the floor shield assembly is spaced below a urinal.
6. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein one of the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion is configured to translate with respect to the other of the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion.
7. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein the at least one replaceable mat is configured to cover a portion of the lower frame portion.
8. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the upper frame portion or the lower frame portion is configured to translate along a rail.
9. The floor shield assembly of claim 8 , wherein the rail fits within the floor shield assembly.
10. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein the attachment portion comprises at least one magnet.
11. The floor shield assembly of claim 1 , wherein the lower frame portion is configured to move horizontally.
12. A floor shield assembly comprising:
a frame structure having an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion;
at least one replaceable mat, wherein the at least one replaceable mat can be retained against the frame structure; and
a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the frame structure, the bracket configured to connect to a wall;
wherein the floor shield is configured to be located above a floor; and
wherein at least one of the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion is configured to translate away from the bracket to an extended position below a urinal.
13. The floor shield assembly of claim 12 , further comprising a locking mechanism to hold at least one of upper frame portion and the lower frame portion in the closed configuration.
14. The floor shield assembly of claim 12 , wherein the bracket comprises at least one magnet and is configured to releasably connect to the wall.
15. The floor shield assembly of claim 12 , wherein the at least one of the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion to provide a gap between an end of the upper frame portion and an end of the lower frame portion.
16. The floor shield assembly of claim 12 , wherein the lower frame portion is configured to translate away from the bracket to the extend position.
17. The floor shield assembly of claim 16 , wherein the lower frame portion is configured to move perpendicular to the wall.
18. The floor shield assembly of claim 16 , wherein the lower frame portion is configured to move horizontally.
19. The floor shield assembly of claim 16 , wherein the lower frame portion is configured to move vertically.
20. The floor shield assembly of claim 16 , wherein the lower frame portion is configured to move along a rail.
Priority Applications (1)
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- 2015-02-10 US US14/618,890 patent/US10087612B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2015-02-10 WO PCT/US2015/015277 patent/WO2015123223A1/en active Application Filing
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20150225937A1 (en) | 2015-08-13 |
US10087612B2 (en) | 2018-10-02 |
CN105980641A (en) | 2016-09-28 |
EP3105382B1 (en) | 2018-03-28 |
WO2015123223A1 (en) | 2015-08-20 |
EP3105382A1 (en) | 2016-12-21 |
CN105980641B (en) | 2018-08-17 |
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