WO2010027252A1

WO2010027252A1 - Multifunctional bath stand and annular positioning part and scales both suitable to be used in such a bath stand

Info

Publication number: WO2010027252A1
Application number: PCT/NL2008/050590
Authority: WO
Inventors: Franciscus Willem Hogestijn
Original assignee: Idfixed B.V.
Priority date: 2008-09-05
Filing date: 2008-09-05
Publication date: 2010-03-11
Also published as: EP2334221A1

Abstract

Multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath containing an assembly comprising a base part (10) that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means (13), an intermediate part (14) that can be placed on the base part, wherein the intermediate part is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means for the base part to bear the intermediate part, a top part (18) placed on the intermediate part, and a positioning part (20) that can detachably be placed on the top part, which positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon: The top part is provided with a central recess (19) in which the positioning part can be placed. Annular positioning part provided with annular lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting, suitable for use in such a multifunctional bath stand. Scales (31) having a display (35), which display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside, suitable for use in such a multifunctional bath stand.

Description

Multifunctional bath stand and annular positioning part and scales both suitable to be used in such a bath stand

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath containing an assembly comprising: - a base part that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means,

- an intermediate part that can detachably be placed on the base part, wherein the intermediate part is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means for the base part to bear the intermediate part,

- a top part placed on the intermediate part, and

- a positioning part that can detachably be placed on the top part, which positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon.

Such a multifunctional bath stand is sold under the name of Tummy Tub Two Step Stool. Said known bath stand comprises a disk-shaped base part that can be placed on a basis. From the disk-shaped base part four protrusions that are rounded off at their upper sides, extend at equal angular distance from each other. At the inwardly oriented side of each protrusion a stepped abutment is provided. The abutments are the support means. A cylindrical intermediate part can detachably be placed between the protrusions. The outer circumference of the intermediate part is shaped such that the intermediate part can be placed in one rotation position with respect to the base part onto the disk-shaped base part, and can be placed in another rotation position with respect to the base part on the stepped abutments. In this way two heights for the bath stand are created. In the known bath stand a lid is used as top part, which Hd can be used as a seat. The known bath stand furthermore comprises a special cup that can be disposed on the lid. which cup has the shape of a dish with an undulated upper edge. A baby bath, in this case the Tummy Tub, can be accommodated in the cup. Said cup cannot be used without the rest of the bath stand. In the intermediate part a storage space is present that can be closed off by the lid. The known multifunctional bath stand apart from being used as a bath stand, can therefore also be used as a sit-down stool or stand-up stool, and also as a piece of furniture in which toys and the like can be stored.

Although the known bath stand is highly versatile, said bath stand can really only be used for baby baths of one particular dimension. In order to be able to use baby baths of other dimensions several special cups should be part of the assembly, which would render the bath stand relatively expensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is among others an object of the invention to provide a multifunctional bath stand which in a relatively simple and cost- effective manner is suitable as a bath stand for baby baths of various dimensions.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a bath stand which if possible is even more multifunctional than the known bath stand.

For that purpose a multifunctional bath stand of the type mentioned in the preamble according to the present invention is characterised in that the top part is provided with a central recess in which the positioning part can be placed. Indeed because of the use of a central recess in which the positioning part can be placed, it is possible in a relatively simple and cost-effective manner to use the bath stand for baby baths of various dimensions.

In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the central recess has an at least substantially circular circumference, and the positioning part is annular, wherein the inner circumference of the annular positioning part is dimensioned for accommodating a part of the baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath on the annular positioning part. Such an annular positioning part is highly suitable for use with a bucket-shaped or barrel-shaped baby bath, such as for instance a Tummy Tub™. Moreover the annular positioning part can be cost-effectively produced. In a further embodiment the circular circumference is provided with a radially extending notch, wherein the annular positioning part is provided with a radially extending cam, wherein the notch is dimensioned for accommodating the cam. In this way on the one hand a unique placement of the positioning part in the recess is guaranteed and on the other hand it is prevented that the positioning part can rotate in the recess.

In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention, the assembly further comprises a second annular positioning part, which second annular positioning part can be fittingly placed in the positioning part, wherein the inner circumference of the second annular positioning part is dimensioned for accommodating a part of a second baby bath therein for positioning a second baby bath on the second annular positioning part. In this way the bath stand is suitable in a simple and cost-effective manner to be used for baby baths of two different dimensions. Please note that the recess can also be dimensioned such that a baby bath of larger dimensions can be supported therein.

In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the top part and/or a positioning part is provided with lighting for irradiating a bottom side of the baby bath. In one embodiment said lighting comprises annular LED-lighting. In this way it is possible when using a baby bath of transparent material to apply light therapy during bathing a baby.

In one further embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention a positioning part is closed off at its bottom side by a disk having a central opening. By using a disk the positioning part acquires a more rigid construction as a result of which the positioning part can also be used without the rest of the bath stand for positioning a baby bath thereon. The central opening is adapted for easily removing the positioning part from the rest of the bath stand. In yet a further embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the assembly is further provided with a lid, wherein the lid is dimensioned for closing off the central recess or is dimensioned for upwardly closing off a positioning part. By using such a lid a closed upper surface of the bath stand can be realised as a result of which the bath stand is also suitable to be used as a sit-down or stand-up stool.

In a further embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the assembly further comprises a disk-shaped children's chamber pot with a collection tray, wherein the collection tray is dimensioned to be accommodated in the central recess. In this way the bath stand can also be used in potty-training children. For hygienic reasons, in one embodiment, the disk-shaped children's chamber pot is adapted for covering the entire upper side of the top part.

In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention, wherein the top part has a pending skirt surrounding the entire intermediate part, a bath stand is created which in assembled condition has a highly aesthetic look, wherein also the inside of the bath stand can easily by closed off against a user's limbs possibly getting dirty and/or wedged.

In one further embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the intermediate part is provided with a pending skirt having an undulatory lower edge, wherein the pending skirt partially surrounds the base part, wherein the undulatory lower edge comprises troughs, which troughs form the bearing means, and wherein the support means of the base part are cams that extend radially from the base part and have an upper contour corresponding with the contour of the troughs, which cams form the support means. In this way in a relatively simple manner as regards construction, a support of the intermediate part on the base part is created. Particularly when the intermediate part comprises several groups of troughs, wherein the troughs belonging to one group are situated at a same distance from an upper side of the intermediate part, wherein the distance to the upper side of the intermediate part of troughs of different groups differs, it is possible to give the bath stand several heights, for instance three different heights.

In an alternative embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the intermediate part is provided with pending protrusions, and the support members of the base part comprise recesses placed within the base part for accommodating the protrusions therein. In this way the support is placed within the base part. A highly stable embodiment is achieved in an embodiment wherein the intermediate part comprises three or more pending protrusions that are placed at equal angular distance from each other. Preferably the internal contours of the recesses are substantially equal to the contours of the protrusions. Particularly when the base part comprises several groups of recesses, wherein the recesses belonging to one group are situated at a same distance from a lower side of the base part, wherein the distance to the lower side of the base part of recesses of different groups differs, it is possible to provide the bath stand with different heights, for instance three different heights.

In one advantageous embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the assembly comprises scales, wherein the base part can be placed on the scales, and wherein the circumference of the base part and the circumference of the scales at least substantially correspond with each other. In this way the weight of a baby can be determined easily during bathing. For that purpose it is furthermore advantageous that the scales are provided with a so-called tare-function. Due to such a tare function it is possible to set the dish of the scales at nil when the bath stand including a baby bath filled with water has been placed on the scales. After the baby is placed in the bath the dish of the scales indicates the weight of the baby. In one embodiment of said multifunctional bath stand a lower edge of the base part is provided with a notch, and the scales are provided with a cam, wherein the notch in the lower edge of the base part is dimensioned for accommodating the cam of the scales. In this way the base part can be placed on the scales in one position only, and rotation of the base part with respect to the scales is also prevented when the base part is placed correctly on the scales. In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the scales have a display, which display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside. In that way it is possible when a person stands on the scales with their feet to read the scales correctly, and it is also possible when the bath stand has been placed on the scales, to read the scales correctly from the outside. Alternatively two displays can be disposed on the scales.

In one embodiment the scales are provided with lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting. In one embodiment the bath stand also comprises an internally open passage for the lighting of the scales to irradiate a bottom side of a baby bath. The same source of energy can thus be used for feeding the scales and for feeding the lighting. More particularly no feeding will be necessary for the other elements of the multifunctional bath stand.

In one embodiment the scales comprise output means for outputting weighing data to a memory device. In one embodiment the output means comprise a USB connection and the memory device comprises a USB memory stick. On the one hand, for instance when used with the bath stand, a care giver is able to collect the weighing data of the weighings during a certain period of time, wherein said weighing data may for instance be provided to a paediatrician or can be used with a periodic health check. On the other hand, for instance when used as scales for a person, the weighing data can be used for checking and/or evaluating the person's weight, for instance when said person is on a diet.

In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention the base part has a cylindrical bush-shape. Thus a robust bath stand can be created which is able to bear up to 50 kg. Particularly when the base part and/or the intermediate part and/or the top part have been provided with reinforcement ribs the bath stand will be able to bear considerable weights.

In one embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention an upper surface of the base part is provided with a cavity. Such a cavity may serve as storage space, and may also be profiled for providing additional firmness.

An advantageous embodiment of a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention that can be used as sit-down stool is provided with an assembly that further comprises a cover, which cover can be placed over the assembled bath stand, in which cover a cushion to sit on has been arranged.

The invention furthermore relates to a positioning part provided with lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting, suitable for use in a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention. Such an annular positioning part may also be used individually as support for a baby bath, and also provides the possibility of light therapy.

The invention further relates to a multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath containing an assembly comprising:

- a base part that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means,

- an intermediate part that can be placed on the base part, wherein the intermediate part is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means for the base part to bear the intermediate part, - a top part placed on the intermediate part, characterised in that the top part comprises a circumferential pending skirt which at least in the assembled condition of the bath stand hides the intermediate part from view, wherein preferably a lower edge of the pending skirt surrounds the base part and is placed adjacent to an outer surface of the base part. Because of the pending skirt the height adjustment mechanism is substantially shielded. This may prevent for instance fingers from getting wedged between the support means and the bearing means.

In one embodiment the top part is provided with a central recess, wherein the recess is dimensioned for accommodating a part of the baby bath therein for positioning the baby bath on the top part. In an alternative embodiment the bath stand comprises a positioning part that can detachably be placed on the top part, which positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon, and wherein the top part is provided with a central recess in which the positioning part can be placed.

The invention further relates to scales having a display, which display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside, suitable for use in a multifunctional bath stand according to the invention. Such scales can also be used separately from the bath stand, and alternatively or additionally may comprise two displays.

In one embodiment the reading accuracy of the scales can be adjusted as desired. In one embodiment the reading accuracy is high when the figures are readable radially from the outside, that means when used together with the baby bath, and the reading accuracy is lower when the figures are readable radially from the inside, that means when used as scales for a person.

In one embodiment the scales are provided with lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting, for irradiating a bottom side of a baby bath. In this way the scales can be used for light therapy by placing a baby bath on the scales. On the one hand the baby bath can be placed directly on the scales, on the other hand the multifunctional bath stand including baby bath can be placed on the scales.

In one embodiment the scales comprise output means for outputting weighing data to a memory device. In one embodiment the output means comprise a USB connection and the memory device comprises a USB memory stick.

The invention further relates to a children's chamber pot comprising an assembly comprising: - a base part that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means, - an intermediate part that can be placed on the base part, wherein the intermediate part is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means for the base part to bear the intermediate part, - a top part placed on the intermediate part, characterised in that the top part is provided with a seat and a collection tray. The base part, intermediate part and/or top part may further be provided with characteristics mentioned above in connection with the multifunctional bath stand.

Particularly a children's chamber pot with adjustable height of the seat is advantageous. Such a children's chamber pot can be used as a transitional step from the known children's chamber pot on the floor to the toilet.

In a multifunctional embodiment the children's chamber pot further comprises a positioning part that can detachably be placed on the top part, wherein the positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon.

The aspects and measures described in this description and the claims of the application and/or shown in the drawings of this application may where possible also be used individually. Said individual aspects, as stated in the sub claims, and other aspects may be the subject of divisional patent applications relating thereto, and may also be used independently from the measures of the main claim.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be elucidated on the basis of a number of exemplary embodiments shown in the attached drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a view in perspective of a known bath stand;

Figure 2 shows a view in perspective of an exemplary embodiment of a bath stand according to the invention, wherein the individual parts of the assembly have been placed spaced apart from each other; Figure 3 shows a view in perspective of the bath stand according to figure 2 in fully assembled condition; and

Figure 4 shows a view in perspective of a further exemplary embodiment of a bath stand according to the invention, wherein the individual parts of the assembly have been placed spaced apart from each other.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In figure 1 a view in perspective is shown of a known multifunctional bath stand sold under the name of Tummy Tub Two Step Stool, and which among other things is suitable as a stand for the baby bath sold under the name of Tummy Tub.

Said known bath stand comprises a disk-shaped base part 1 that can be placed on a basis. From the disk-shaped base part 1 four protrusions 2 that are rounded off at their upper sides, extend at equal angular distance from each other. At the inwardly oriented side of each protrusion 2 a stepped abutment 3 is provided. The abutments 3 form support means on which a cylindrical intermediate part 4 can detachably be placed, as shown in figure 1 .

The outer circumference of the known intermediate part 4 has such a shape that the intermediate part 4 can be placed in one rotation position with respect to the base part 1 with protrusions 2 down to the disk-shaped base part 1 , and can be placed in another rotation position with respect to the base part 1 with protrusions 2 on the stepped abutments 3. In that way two heights for the bath stand are realised.

In the known bath stand a Hd 5 is used as top part, which lid can be used as a seat. The known bath stand furthermore comprises a special cup 6 that can be disposed on the Hd 5, which cup 6 has the shape of a dish with an undulated upper edge. A baby bath 7, in this case a Tummy Tub, can be accommodated in the cup 6. Said cup 6 cannot be used without the rest of the bath stand. In the intermediate part 4 a storage space is present that can be closed off by the lid 5. Apart from being used as bath stand, the known multifunctional bath stand can therefore also be used as sit-down stool or stand-up stool, and also as a piece of furniture in which toys and the like can be stored.

Figure 2 shows a view in perspective of an exemplary embodiment of a bath stand according to the invention, wherein the individual parts of the assembly have been placed spaced apart from each other. In figure 3 a view in perspective is shown of the bath stand according to figure 2 in fully assembled condition.

The embodiment of an inventive multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath shown in figures 2 and 3, contains an assembly which among others comprises the parts mentioned below.

The assembly comprises a base part 10 that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means 13. In the embodiment shown the base part 10 has a cylindrical bush shape, wherein the cross-section of the bush shape is substantially circular. The circumferential wall of the base part 10 is closed. In the embodiment shown the support means 13 are designed as semi-cylindrical arch members extending radially over a certain distance from the wall of the base part 10. In the embodiment shown there are three support means 13 which extend at equal angular distance. In the embodiment shown the base part 10 is furthermore provided with an upper surface 1 1 provided with a cavity 12. The cavity 12 may be profiled for providing the necessary firmness to the base part 10. Optionally reinforcement ribs may have been provided internally in the base part 10. The bottom of the base part may be provided with a grip-enhancing surface or part, so that the base part can be placed on the basis sufficiently fixedly.

An intermediate part 14 can detachably be placed on the base part 10. The intermediate part 14 is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means 13, for the base part 10 to bear the intermediate part 14. In the embodiment shown the intermediate part 14 is provided with a pending skirt 15 having an undulatory lower edge. The pending skirt 15 partially surrounds the base part 10 (considered in the circumference of the base part, not over its full height). The undulatory lower edge comprises troughs 16, 16', 16", which troughs 16, 16', 16" form the bearing means, which can be placed on the support means 13 of the base part 10, which support means in the example shown are cams that extend radially from the base part and have an upper contour corresponding with the contour of the troughs 16, 16', 16". In the embodiment shown the intermediate part 14 comprises several groups of troughs 16, 16'. 16". The troughs belonging to one group, such as for instance shown for the troughs 16' in figure 2, are situated at a same distance from an upper side 17 of the intermediate part 14. In the embodiment shown a group is formed by three troughs. The distance to the upper side 17 of the intermediate part 14 of troughs of different groups differs. In the example shown the troughs 16' are closer to the upper side than the troughs 16" are, which in turn are closer to the upper side 17 than the troughs 16 are.

A top part 18 can detachably be placed on the intermediate part. The top part 18 is provided with a central recess 19 in which a positioning part 20 for positioning the baby bath thereon can detachably be placed. The central recess 19 in the example shown has an at least substantially circular circumference, wherein the positioning part 20 is annular. The inner circumference of the annular positioning part 20 in this case is dimensioned for accommodating a part of a baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath on the annular positioning part 20. The circular circumference of the central recess 19 is provided with a radially extending notch 21 , and the annular positioning part 20 is provided with a radially extending cam 22, wherein the notch 21 is dimensioned for accommodating the cam 22 therein. As a result on the one hand a unique placement of the positioning part 20 in the recess 19 is guaranteed, and on the other hand it is prevented that the positioning part 20 can rotate in the recess 19. The cam 22 may also be designed as a handle, for engaging the positioning part 20. Please note that the central recess 19 can be dimensioned such that a baby bath fits therein {of which bath the part fitting in the positioning part is of other dimensions than the part of a baby bath fitting in the positioning part 20). In the embodiment shown the assembly further comprises a second annular positioning part 23, which can fittingly be placed in the positioning part 20. The inner circumference of the second annular positioning part 23 is in that case dimensioned for accommodating a part of a baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath on the second annular positioning part 23. The part of said baby bath fitting in the positioning part 23 is of other dimensions than the part of a baby bath fitting in the positioning part 20 or in the recess 19.

An annular positioning part, in the embodiment shown positioning part 23, is provided with annular lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting 24. The feeding for the lighting can be accommodated in the positioning part 23 itself, and preferably is formed by a chargeable battery, wherein its charge connection is accessible from the outside. An annular positioning part, in the embodiment shown positioning part 23, is closed off at its bottom side by a disk 25 having a central opening 26. By using a disk 25 the positioning part 23 acquires a more rigid construction as a result of which the positioning part 23 can also be used without the rest of the bath stand for positioning a baby bath thereon. The central opening 26 is adapted for easily removing the positioning part 23, for instance manually, from the rest of the bath stand.

The assembly according to the invention furthermore comprises a lid 27, wherein the lid is dimensioned for closing off the central recess 19 and/or is dimensioned for upwardly closing off an annular positioning part 22, 23. The lid 27 may be provided with a recess 28 for facilitating the removal of the lid 27.

The assembly may furthermore comprise a disk-shaped children's chamber pot 29 with collection tray 30, wherein the collection tray 30 is dimensioned to be accommodated in the central recess 19. In this way the bath stand can also be used in potty training children. For hygienic reasons as well the annular disk 29 extends to broadly beyond the recess 19.

In the embodiment shown the assembly comprises scales 31 , wherein the base part 10 can be placed on the scales 31. The circumference of the base part 10 and the circumference of the scales 31 at least substantially correspond with each other. A lower edge 32 of the base part 10 is provided with a notch 33. The scales 31 are provided with a cam 34 (spherical in the embodiment shown), wherein the notch 33 in the lower edge of the base part 10 is dimensioned for accommodating the cam 34 of the scales. The scales 31 have a display 35, which display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside. In other words the bottom side of the figures to be shown by the display may on the one had be facing the middle of the scales and on the other hand be facing the outside. The display 35 preferably is arranged on a part of the spherical cam 34 which after the base part 10 has been placed thereon, extends radially and as a result remains readable from the outside.

The top part 18 has a pending skirt 36 which surrounds the entire intermediate part 14, in other words the skirt 36 extends over the full height of the intermediate part 14. As a result the bath stand, among other things, acquires a nice look in the assembled condition as schematically shown in figure 3.

The second exemplary embodiment of an inventive multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath shown in figure 4, contains an assembly which among others comprises the parts mentioned below.

The assembly comprises a base part 100 that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means 1 13, 1 13', 1 13". Also in this shown embodiment, the base part 100 has a cylindrical bush shape, wherein the cross-section of the bush shape is substantially circular. The circumferential wall of the base part 100 is closed. In the embodiment shown the support means 1 13 are designed as recesses that extend substantially vertically and are placed at an inner side of the circumferential wall. In the embodiment shown there are three groups of support means 1 13, 113', 113", wherein each group comprises three recesses which are placed at equal angular distance from each other within the base part 100. The recesses belonging to one group 1 13, 1 13', 1 13" are situated at a same distance from a lower side of the base part 100, wherein the distance to tne lower side of the base part 100 of recesses of different groups 1 13, 1 13', 113" differs.

In the embodiment shown the bottom of the base part may be provided with a grip-enhancing surface or part, so that the base part can be placed on the basis sufficiently fixedly.

An intermediate part 1 14 can detachably be placed on the base part 100. The intermediate part 114 is provided with pending protrusions 1 16 that can be placed in the recesses of the support means 1 13, 1 1 3', 1 13". In this embodiment the intermediate part 114 comprises three protrusions 1 16 placed at equal angular distance from each other. The protrusions 1 16 can as desired be placed in one of the three groups of recesses 1 13, 1 13', 1 13", for setting the height of the assembly. Thus an ergonomic use of the assembly according to the invention is provided, particularly because the height can be adjusted as a result of which the baby bath can be placed at a height so as to enable a care giver to bathe the baby with a substantially straight back.

A top part 118 is attached to the intermediate part 1 14, preferably fixedly attached thereto. In one embodiment the top part and the intermediate part can also be integrally formed. The top part 1 18 is provided with a central recess 1 19 in which a positioning part 120 for positioning the baby bath thereon can detachably be placed. The central recess 1 19 in the example shown has an at least substantially circular circumference, wherein the positioning part 120 is an annular. The inner circumference of the annular positioning part 120 is dimensioned for accommodating a part of a baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath on the annular positioning part 120. The circular circumference of the central recess 1 19 is provided with a radially extending notch 121 , and the annular positioning part 120 is provided with a radially extending cam 122, wherein the notch 121 is dimensioned for accommodating the cam 122 therein. As a result on the one hand a unique placement of the positioning part 120 in the recess 1 19 is guaranteed and on the other hand it is prevented that the positioning part 120 can rotate in the recess 1 19. Please note that the central recess 1 19 can be dimensioned such that a baby bath fits therein (of which bath the part fitting in the positioning part is of different dimensions than the part of a baby bath fitting in the positioning part 120).

In the second embodiment shown the assembly further comprises a second annular positioning part 123, which can fittingly be placed in the positioning part 120. The inner circumference of the second annular positioning part 123 is in that case dimensioned for accommodating a part of a baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath on the second annular positioning part 123. The part of said baby bath fitting in the positioning part 123 is of other dimensions than the part of a baby bath fitting in the positioning part 120 or in the recess 1 19.

An annular positioning part, in the embodiment shown positioning part 123, is provided with annular lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting 124. The feeding for the lighting can be accommodated in the positioning part 123 itself, and preferably is formed by a rechargeable battery, wherein its charge connection is accessible from the outside. An annular positioning part, in the embodiment shown positioning part 123, is closed off at its bottom side by a disk 125 having a central opening 126. By using a disk 125 the positioning part 123 acquires a more rigid construction as a result of which the positioning part 123 can also be used without the rest of the bath stand for positioning a baby bath thereon. The central opening 126 is provided for easily removing the positioning part 123, for instance manually, from the rest of the bath stand.

The assembly according to the invention furthermore comprises a lid 127, wherein the Hd is dimensioned for closing off the central recess 1 19 and/or is dimensioned for upwardly closing off an annular positioning part 122, 123. The lid 127 may be provided with a recess 128 for facilitating the removal of the lid 127.

The assembly may furthermore comprise a disk-shaped children's chamber pot with a collection tray 130, wherein the collection tray 130 is dimensioned to be accommodated in the central recess 1 1 9. In this way the bath stand can also be used in potty-training children. In the embodiment shown the assembly comprises scales 131 , wherein the base part 100 can be placed on the scales 131 . The circumference of the base part 100 and the circumference of the scales 131 at least substantially correspond with each other. A lower edge 132 of the base part 100 is provided with a notch 133. The scales 131 are provided with a cam 134 (spherical in the embodiment shown), wherein the notch 133 in the lower edge of the base part 100 is dimensioned for accommodating the cam 134 of the scales. The scales 131 have a display 135, which display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside. In other words the bottom side of the figures to be shown by the display may on the one hand be facing the middle of the scales and on the other hand be facing the outside. The display 135 preferably is arranged on a part of the spherical notch 134 which after the base part 100 has been placed thereon, extends radially and as a result remains readable from the outside.

The top part 1 18 has a pending skirt 136 which at least partially surrounds intermediate part 1 14, in other words the skirt 136 extends over the height of the intermediate part 1 14, so that at least while in use it is hidden from view. As a result the bath stand, among other things has a fine look when in the assembled condition.

Each of the exemplary embodiments of the invention discussed above and shown in the figures, may comprise a cover {not shown), which cover can be placed over the assembled bath stand, in which cover a cushion to sit on has been arranged.

The above description is included to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments of the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention. Starting from the above explanation many variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention, particularly as defined in the attached claims, will be evident to an expert.

Claims

1 . Multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath containing an assembly comprising:

- an intermediate part that can be placed on the base part, wherein the intermediate part is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means for the base part to bear the intermediate part, - a top part placed on the intermediate part, and

- a positioning part that can detachably be placed on the top part, which positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon, characterised in that the top part is provided with a central recess in which the positioning part can be placed.

2. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 1 , characterised in that the centra! recess has an at least substantially circular circumference, and the positioning part is dimensioned for accommodating a part of the baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath, particularly a bucket- shaped or barrel-shaped baby bath, on the annular positioning part.

3. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 2, characterised in that the circular circumference is provided with a radially extending notch, wherein the annular positioning part is provided with a radially extending cam, wherein the notch is dimensioned for accommodating the cam.

4. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 2 or 3, characterised in that the assembly further comprises a second annular positioning part, which second annular positioning part can be fittingly placed in the positioning part, wherein the inner circumference of the second annular positioning part is dimensioned for accommodating a part of a baby bath therein for positioning a baby bath on the second annular positioning part.

5. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the top part and/or a positioning part is provided with lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting, for irradiating a bottom side of the baby bath.

6. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a positioning part at its bottom side is closed off by a disk having a central opening,

7. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the assembly is further provided with a lid, wherein the lid is dimensioned for closing off the central recess or is dimensioned for upwardly closing off a positioning part.

8. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the assembly further comprises a children's chamber pot with a collection tray, wherein the collection tray is dimensioned to be accommodated in the central recess.

9. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the top part has a pending skirt surrounding the entire intermediate part.

10. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the intermediate part is provided with a pending skirt having an undulatory lower edge, wherein the pending skirt partially surrounds the base part, wherein the undulatory lower edge comprises troughs, which troughs form the bearing means, and wherein the support means of the base part are cams that extend radially from the base part and have an upper contour corresponding with the contour of the troughs, which cams form the support means.

1 1. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 10, characterised in that the intermediate part comprises several groups of troughs, wherein the troughs belonging to one group are situated at a same distance from an upper side of the intermediate part, wherein the distance to the upper side of the intermediate part of troughs of different groups differs.

12. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the claims 1-9, characterised in that the intermediate part comprises several pending protrusions, and in that the support members of the base part comprise recesses placed within the base part for accommodating the protrusions therein.

13. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 12, characterised in that the intermediate part comprises three or more pending protrusions that are placed at equal angular distance from each other.

14. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 12 or 13, characterised in that the base part comprises several groups of recesses, wherein the recesses belonging to one group are situated at a same distance from a lower side of the base part, wherein the distance to the lower side of the base part of recesses of different groups differs.

1 5. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the assembly comprises scales, wherein the base part can be placed on the scales, and wherein the circumference of the base part and the circumference of the scales at least substantially correspond with each other.

16. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 15, characterised in that a lower edge of the base part is provided with a notch, and wherein the scales are provided with a cam, wherein the notch in the lower edge of the base part is dimensioned for accommodating the cam of the scales.

17. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 15 or 16, characterised in that the scales have a display, which display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside.

18. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 15, 16 or 17, characterised in that the scales are provided with lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting, and in that the bath stand comprises an internally open passage for the lighting of the scales to irradiate a bottom side of a baby bath.

19. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the claims 15- 18, characterised in that the scales comprise output means for outputting weighing data to a memory device.

20. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 19, characterised in that the output means comprise a USB connection and the memory device comprises a USB memory stick.

21 . Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the base part has a cylindrical bush-shape.

22. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 21 , characterised in that an upper surface of the base part is provided with a cavity.

23. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the assembly further comprises a cover, which cover can be placed over the assembled bath stand, in which cover a cushion to sit on has been arranged.

24. Multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the top part and the intermediate part form one unity or are integrally formed.

25. Multifunctional bath stand for a baby bath containing an assembly comprising: - a base part that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means,

- an intermediate part that can be placed on the base part, wherein the intermediate part is provided with bearing means that can be placed on the support means for the base part to bear the intermediate part,

- a top part placed on the intermediate part, characterised in that the top part comprises a circumferential pending skirt which at least in the assembled condition of the bath stand hides the intermediate part from view, wherein preferably a lower edge of the pending skirt surrounds the base part and is placed adjacent to an outer surface of the base part.

26. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 25, wherein the top part is provided with a central recess, wherein the recess is dimensioned for accommodating a part of the baby bath therein for positioning the baby bath on the top part.

27. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 25, further comprising a positioning part that can detachably be placed on the top part, which positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon, and wherein the top part is provided with a central recess in which the positioning part can be placed.

28. Multifunctional bath stand according to claim 25, 26 or 27, further comprising one or more of the characteristics of claims 2-24.

29. Positioning part dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon, wherein the positioning part is provided with lighting, preferably annular

LED-lighting, and wherein the positioning part preferably is dimensioned for use in a multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the preceding claims.

30. Scales having a display, characterised in that the display as desired is able to show the weight in figures that are readable either radially from the inside or radially from the outside, wherein the scales are dimensioned for use in a multifunctional bath stand according to any one of the claims 1-28.

31. Scales according to claim 30, characterised in that the reading accuracy can be adjusted as desired.

32. Scales according to claim 31 , characterised in that the reading accuracy is high when the figures are readable radially from the outside, and in that the reading accuracy is lower when the figures are readable radially from the inside.

33. Scales according to claim 30, 31 or 32, characterised in that the scales are provided with lighting, preferably annular LED-lighting, for irradiating a bottom side of a baby bath.

34. Scales according to any one of the claims 30-33, characterised in that the scales comprise output means for outputting weighing data to a memory device.

35. Scales according to claim 34, characterised in that the output means comprise a USB connection and the memory device comprises a USB memory stick.

36. Children's chamber pot comprising an assembly comprising: - a base part that can be placed on an at least substantially horizontal supporting surface, wherein the base part is provided with support means,

- a top part placed on the intermediate part, characterised in that the top part is provided with a seat and a collection tray.

37. Children's chamber pot according to claim 36, further comprising a positioning part that can detachably be placed on the top part, wherein the positioning part is dimensioned for positioning a baby bath thereon.

38. Children's chamber pot according to claim 36 or 37, further comprising one or more of the characteristics of claims 5, 6, 7 and 9- 28.