WO2024130144A1

WO2024130144A1 - Foldable tub frame

Info

Publication number: WO2024130144A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/084324
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ka Kuen Leung
Original assignee: Safety Tubs Company, Llc
Priority date: 2022-12-16
Filing date: 2023-12-15
Publication date: 2024-06-20

Abstract

Foldable tub frames are provided. In some embodiments, a foldable tub frame comprises a lower frame portion, a first side frame portion movably attached to a first side of the lower frame portion, and a second side frame portion movably attached to a second side of the lower frame portion opposite the first side of the lower frame portion. The first side frame portion and the second side frame portion are each movable between a folded position and an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion.

Description

FOLDABLE TUB FRAME

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/433,227, filed December 16, 2022, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to tub frames and, particularly, to foldable tub frames for supporting tub bodies.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Tub bodies, such as standard bathtubs or walk-in bathtubs, may be irregularly shaped and unable to stay upright without support. Tub frames can be used to support tub bodies when installed and used. Known tub frames are fixed frames in which all of the components of the frame are secured in a fixed position with respect to one another upon manufacture.

SUMMARY

[0004] As discussed above, current tub frames are provided as fixed frames with all of their components secured in a fixed position upon manufacture of the tub frame.

Because of their size and bulk, fixed frames can be cumbersome to handle, transport, and install. Furthermore, because of their size, fixed frames can take up a large amount of space while in storage (e.g., at a warehouse) or during shipping, making storage and transportation of fixed tub frames inefficient and costly. Accordingly, there is a need for improved tub frames that offer improved ease of handling and installation as well as improved ease and efficiency of transportation and storage. [0005] Disclosed herein are foldable tub frames that may address one or more of the above-identified needs. In some embodiments, a foldable tub frame may include a plurality of frame portions that are foldable (e.g., rotatably movable and/or translatably movable) with respect to one another. A foldable frame may include a lower frame portion configured sit beneath a tub body when installed. The lower frame portion may be movably attached to a first side frame portion and a second side frame portion, such that each of the side frame portions are foldable (e.g., rotatable and/or translatable) with respect to the lower frame portion. In the folded position, each of the side frame portions may lay parallel to (or at a narrow oblique angle to) the lower frame portion; while, in the unfolded position, each of the side frame portions may extend upward at a right angle (or at wide oblique angle). The side frame portions, when in the unfolded position, may extend upward along respective exterior sides of the tub body, and end portions of the side frame portions may support an underside of a lip of the tub body.

[0006] In some embodiments, a side frame portion may be foldably attached to the lower frame portion by one or more rotatable (and optionally translatable) connections. The lower frame portion may include a plurality of comer brackets, each of which may be rotatably (and optionally translatably) connected to a leg of a side frame portion. The side frame portion legs may be configured to rotate upwards from the folded position towards the unfolded position, and then optionally to slide (translate) downward towards the lower frame portion in order to lock into place, such that the side frame portion cannot rotate back down towards the folded position without first being lifted upwards to unlock from the unfolded position.

[0007] Foldable tub frames provided herein may be advantageous because, in a folded position, they can take up less space than traditional fixed frames, improving ease of handling and ease and efficiency of storage and transportation. [0008] In some embodiments, a foldable tub frame is provided, comprising: a lower frame portion; a first side frame portion movably attached to a first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the first side frame portion is movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower frame portion, wherein the first position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the second position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion, and a second side frame portion movably attached to a second side of the lower frame portion opposite the first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the second side frame portion is movable between a third position and a fourth position, wherein the third position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the fourth position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion.

[0009] In some embodiments, when the first side frame portion is in the first position, the first side frame portion extends at an angle of less than or equal to 10 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion; and when the first side frame portion is in the second position, the first side frame portion extends at an angle of greater than or equal to 85 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the second side frame portion is in the third position, the second side frame portion extends at an angle of less than or equal to 10 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion; and when the second side frame portion is in the fourth position, the second side frame portion extends at an angle of greater than or equal to 85 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, when the first side frame portion is in the first position and the second side frame portion is in the third position, the first side frame portion and the second side frame portion overlap one another. [0012] In some embodiments, when the first side frame portion is in the first position and the second side frame portion is in the third position, a height of the foldable tub frame is less than or equal to 11 inches.

[0013] In some embodiments, when the first side frame portion is in the second position and the second side frame portion is in the fourth position, a height of the foldable tub frame is greater than or equal to 40 inches.

[0014] In some embodiments, the foldable tub frame has a first height when the first side frame portion is in the first position and the second side frame portion is in the third position; the foldable tub frame has a second height when the first side frame portion is in the second position and the second side frame portion is in the fourth position; and a ratio of the second height to the first height is greater than or equal to 4: 1.

[0015] In some embodiments, movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises a rotational movement.

[0016] In some embodiments, movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises a translational movement.

[0017] In some embodiments, movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises a rotational movement from the first position to an intermediate position and a translational movement between the intermediate position and the second position.

[0018] In some embodiments, movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises rotation of the first side frame portion by an angle of greater than or equal to 75 degrees.

[0019] In some embodiments, movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises a rotational movement. [0020] In some embodiments, movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises a translational movement.

[0021] In some embodiments, movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises a rotational movement from the third position to an intermediate position and a translational movement between the intermediate position and the fourth position.

[0022] In some embodiments, movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises rotation of the second side frame portion by an angle of greater than or equal to 75 degrees.

[0023] In some embodiments, the lower frame portion comprises a first plurality of corner brackets configured to support the first side frame portion when the first side frame portion is in the second position; and the lower frame portion comprises a second plurality of corner brackets configured to support the second side frame portion when the second side frame portion is in the fourth position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the foldable tub frame comprises steel.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first side frame portion comprises a first plurality of end portions configured to support an underside of a tub body; and the second side frame portion comprises a second plurality of end portions configured to support the underside of the tub body.

[0026] In some embodiments, the lower frame portion comprises a plurality of feet.

[0027] In some embodiments, the lower frame portion comprises two crossbars configured to support one or more components of a tub assembly.

[0028] In some embodiments, a tub assembly is provided, comprising: a foldable tub frame, comprising: a lower frame portion; a first side frame portion movably attached to a first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the first side frame portion is movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower frame portion, wherein the first position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the second position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion; and a second side frame portion movably attached to a second side of the lower frame portion opposite the first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the second side frame portion is movable between a third position and a fourth position, wherein the third position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the fourth position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion; a tub body supported by a first plurality of end portions of the first side frame portion and a second plurality of end portions of the second side frame portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0029] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0030] FIG. 1 A shows a foldable tub frame in an unfolded position, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0031] FIG. IB and 1C show close-up views of a corner bracket of a tub frame, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0032] FIG. ID shows a foldable tub frame in a folded position, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows a foldable tub frame, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 3 shows a tub assembly, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 4 shows a foldable tub frame, in accordance with some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Described herein are exemplary embodiments of a foldable tub frame that may address the problems and shortcomings of known tub frames described above, including the problems of cost, difficulty of transportation, and difficulty of storage.

[0037] The foldable tub frame described herein may address the problems discussed above by folding to take up less space, thereby decreasing the cost and difficulty of storing and transporting the frame.

[0038] Various embodiments of foldable tub frames are described below in detail with reference to the figures included herein.

[0039] FIG. 1A shows a foldable tub frame 100 in an unfolded position in accordance with some embodiments. Foldable tub frame 100 comprises a lower frame portion 102, a first side frame portion 104 movably attached to a first side of lower frame portion 102, and a second side frame portion 106 movably attached to a second side of lower frame portion 102 opposite the first side of lower frame portion 102.

[0040] When first side frame portion 104 is in an unfolded position, it may extend at an angle of greater than or equal to 75, 80, 85, 89, 90, 91, 95, 100, or 105 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102. When first side frame portion 104 is in the unfolded position, it may extend at an angle of less than or equal to 75, 80, 85, 89, 90, 91, 95, 100, or 105 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102.

[0041] When second side frame portion 106 is in an unfolded position, it may extend at an angle of greater than or equal to 75, 80, 85, 89, 90, 91, 95, 100, or 105 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102. When second side frame portion 106 is in an unfolded position, it may extend at an angle of less than or equal to 75, 80, 85, 89, 90, 91, 95, 100, or 105 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102. [0042] In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a height that is greater than or equal to 25, 30, 35, 40, or 45 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a height that is less than or equal to 25, 30, 35, 40, or 45 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a height that is about 38 inches.

[0043] In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a length (e.g., running from a first side of lower frame portion 102 at which first side frame portion 104 is attached to a second side of lower frame portion 102 at which second side frame portion 106 is attached) that is greater than or equal to 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a length that is less than or equal to 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a length that is about 49 inches.

[0044] In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a width (e.g., running in a direction perpendicular to the length) that is greater than or equal to 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a width that is less than or equal to 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in an unfolded position, has a width that is about 28 inches.

[0045] FIG. ID shows foldable tub frame 100 in a folded position in accordance with some embodiments.

[0046] When first side frame portion 104 is in a folded position, it may extend at an angle of greater than or equal to 20, 15, 10, 5, 1, 0, -1, or -5 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102. When first side frame portion 104 is in the folded position, it may extend at an angle of less than or equal to 20, 15, 10, 5, 1, 0, -1, or -5 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102.

[0047] When second side frame portion 106 is in a folded position, it may extend at an angle of greater than or equal to 20, 15, 10, 5, 1, 0, -1, or -5 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102. When second side frame portion 106 is in the folded position, it may extend at an angle of less than or equal to 20, 15, 10, 5, 1, 0, -1, or -5 degrees with respect to lower frame portion 102.

[0048] In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in a folded position, has a height that is greater than or equal to 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 11, 12.5, 15, 17.5, or 20 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in a folded position, has a height that is less than or equal to 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 11, 12.5, 15, 17.5, or 20 inches. In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in a folded position, has a height that is about 10.5 inches.

[0049] In some embodiments, a ratio of the height of foldable tub frame when in an unfolded position to a height of foldable tub frame when in a folded position may be greater than or equal to 1.5: 1, 2: 1, 3: 1, 4: 1, 5: 1, or 10: 1. In some embodiments, a ratio of the height of foldable tub frame when in an unfolded position to a height of foldable tub frame when in a folded position may be less than or equal to 1.5: 1, 2: 1, 3: 1, 4: 1, 5: 1, or 10: 1.

[0050] In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100, when in a folded position, may have a same or similar length and/or width as it has when it is in an unfolded position.

[0051] When first side frame portion 104 and second side frame portion 106 are in folded position, first side frame portion 104 and second side frame portion 106 overlap one another. In some embodiments, second side frame portion 106 may rest on top of first side frame portion 104. In some embodiments, first side frame portion 104 may rest on top of second side frame portion 106. In some embodiments, the side frame portions may overlap one another by a length that is greater than or equal to 0%, 25%, 50%, or 75% of an overall height of one or both of the side frame portions. In some embodiments, the side frame portions may overlap one another by a length that is less than or equal to 0%, 25%, 50%, or 75% of an overall height of one or both of the side frame portions.

[0052] In some embodiments, lower frame portion 102 may comprise a plurality of connected beams. In some embodiments, lower frame portion 102 may comprise two parallel beams oriented lengthwise connected by a plurality of shorter beams oriented perpendicular to the lengthwise beams. The beams may be connected by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, lower frame portion 102 may comprise a singular beam or other surface. In some embodiments, the beams may comprise steel.

[0053] In some embodiments, first side frame portion 104 may comprise a plurality of connected beams. The beams may be connected by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, first side frame portion 104 may comprise two parallel beams configured to be connected to a first side of lower frame portion 102. The parallel beams may be connected by a third beam oriented perpendicular to the parallel beams. In some embodiments, first side frame portion 104 may comprise a singular beam or other surface. In some embodiments, the beams may comprise steel.

[0054] In some embodiments, second side frame portion 106 may comprise a plurality of connected beams. The beams may be connected by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, second side frame portion 106 may comprise two parallel beams configured to be connected to a second side of lower frame portion 102. The parallel beams may be connected by a third beam oriented perpendicular to the parallel beams. In some embodiments, second side frame portion 106 may comprise a singular beam or other surface. In some embodiments, the beams may comprise steel.

[0055] In some embodiments, foldable tub frame 100 comprises feet 108a-e. Feet 108a-e may be configured to support foldable tub frame 100. In some embodiments, feet 108a-e may be connected to lower frame portion 102. Feet 108b and 108c may be connected to the first side of lower frame portion 102 to which first side frame portion 104 is connected. Feet 108a and 108d may be connected to the second side of lower frame portion 102 to which second side frame portion 106 is connected. Foot 108e may be connected to a portion of lower frame portion 102 between the first side and the second side. Feet 108a-e may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, feet 108a-d may be connected to first side frame portion 104 and second side frame portion 106.

[0056] In some embodiments, first side frame portion 104 and second side frame portion 106 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by comer brackets 1 lOa-d. First side frame portion 104 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by corner brackets 110b and 110c. Corner brackets 110b and 110c may be positioned at the convergence of lower frame portion 102 and first side frame portion 104. Second side frame portion 106 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by comer brackets 110a and 1 lOd. Comer brackets 110a and 1 lOd may be positioned at the convergence of lower frame portion 102 and second side frame portion 106. Corner brackets 1 lOa-d may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, corner brackets 1 lOa-d may be triangular in shape. In some embodiments, corner brackets 1 lOa-d may comprise steel.

[0057] In some embodiments, sliding bolts 112a-d may be used to secure comer brackets 1 lOa-d to the side frame portions. Corner brackets 110b and 110c may be secured to first side frame portion 104 by sliding bolts 112b and 112c that can move rotationally and/or translationally within slots in corner brackets 110b and 110c, respectively. Corner brackets 110a and 1 lOd may be secured to second side frame portion 106 by sliding bolts 112a and 112d that can move rotationally and translationally within slots in corner brackets 110a and 1 lOd, respectively.

[0058] In some embodiments, folding the frame comprises a translational movement and a rotational movement of each side frame portion using sliding bolts 112a-d as pivots. [0059] First side frame portion 104 may be moved from its unfolded position to its folded position by a translational movement followed by a rotational movement.

[0060] The translational movement may comprise lifting first side frame portion 104 in a vertical direction (e.g., upward and away from bottom frame portion 102).

Translational movement of side frame portion 104 may be afforded, in some embodiments, by a slidable attachment such as sliding bolts 112b and 112c, which connect side frame portion 104 to bottom frame portion 102 and are configured to allow translational movement of the connected frame portions with respect to one another. In some embodiments, a sliding bolt may be translationally fixed to one of the frame portions while being translationally slidable with respect to the other one of the frame portions. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 A, sliding bolt 112c is translationally fixed in a hole in first side frame portion 104 while it is translationally slidable within an elongated sliding slot in corner bracket 110c. In some embodiments, a frame may have a sliding slot and a corner bracket may have a fixed hole; in some embodiments, a frame may have a fixed hole and a comer bracket may have a sliding slot; in some embodiments, both a frame and a corner bracket may have a sliding slot. It should be noted that sliding bolts may be configured to be able to rotate within one or both of a fixed hole and a sliding slot, even if the bolt does not provide translational movement in within a fixed hole.

[0061] Upon being lifted vertically away from bottom frame portion 102, side frame portion 104 may reach an intermediate position. In the intermediate position, the angle of side frame portion may be the same or about the same as its angle when it is in the unfolded position, but it may be translationally shifted away from bottom frame portion 102. In the intermediate position, bottom edges of side frame portion 104 may be positioned above openings formed respectively in corner brackets 110b and 110c. When side frame portion 104 is in the unfolded position (e.g., by being translated from the intermediate position fully towards bottom frame portion 102), the bottom edges of side frame portion 104 may be located below the openings in comer brackets 110b and 110c, and corner brackets 110b and 110c may therefore prevent rotation of side frame portion 104 by preventing the bottom edges of side frame portion 104 from rotating outwards about sliding bolts 112b and 112c. However, when side frame portion 104 is lifted into the intermediate position and the lower edges of side frame portion 104 are adjacent to the openings in corner brackets 110b and 110c, the lower edges of side frame portion 104 may therefore be permitted to rotate outwards about sliding bolts 112b and 112c, passing through the openings in corner brackets 110b and 110c and allowing the upwardly- extending portions of side frame portion 104 to rotate inwards and downwards, from the intermediate position toward the folded position (shown in FIG. ID).

[0062] In some embodiments, movement of first side frame portion 104 from unfolded to folded position may comprise rotation of first side frame portion 104 by an angle greater than or equal to 55, 75, 90, 100, or 110 degrees. Movement of first side frame portion 104 from unfolded to folded position may comprise rotation of first side frame portion 104 by an angle less than or equal to 55, 75, 90, 100, or 110 degrees.

[0063] Second side frame portion 106 may be moved from its unfolded position to its folded position by a translational movement to an intermediate position followed by a rotational movement from the intermediate position to the folded position in a same or similar manner as described with respect to side frame portion 104.

[0064] When foldable tub frame 100 is in folded position, first side frame portion 104 and second side frame portion 106 may overlap one another, as shown in FIG. ID. In some embodiments, the side frame portions may overlap one another in the lengthwise direction (e.g., side-to-side in FIG. ID) by a length that is greater than or equal to 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% 80%, or 90% of the length (when laid in the folded position) of one or both of the side frame portions. In some embodiments, the side frame portions may overlap one another in the lengthwise direction (e.g., side-to-side in FIG. ID) by a length that is less than or equal to 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% 80%, or 90% of the length (when laid in the folded position) of one or both of the side frame portions.

[0065] In some embodiments, unfolding the frame comprises reversing the folding motions described above, for example by first performing a rotational movement of a side frame portion from the folded position to an intermediate position, and then performing a translational movement of the side frame portion from an intermediate position to the unfolded position.

[0066] In some embodiments, comer brackets 1 lOa-d include an additional through- hole for fixed bolts 114a-d. Fixed bolts 114a-d may be used to further secure the frame in its unfolded position and to prevent rotational movement and/or translational movement of the side frame portion. Fixed bolts 114b and 114c may attach first side frame portion

104 to corner brackets 110b and 110c, respectively. Fixed bolts 114a and 114d may attach second side frame portion 106 to corner brackets 110a and 1 lOd, respectively.

[0067] FIG. IB shows a close-up side view of comer bracket 110b. FIG. 1C shows a close-up end view of comer bracket 110b. As shown, sliding bolt 112b may be configured to move rotationally within slot 113b and to move translationally up and down within slot 113b. When sliding bolt 112 and side frame portion 104 are raised such that sliding bolt 112b is located at the top edge of slot 113b and such that side frame portion 104 is positioned in the intermediate position, side frame portion 104 may be rotatable between a folded position and the intermediate position. When sliding bolt 112 and side frame portion 104 are lowered such that sliding bolt 112b is located at the lower edge of slot 113b and such that side frame portion 104 is positioned in the unfolded position, side frame portion 104 may not be rotatable but may be translatable between the unfolded position and the intermediate position.

[0068] Rotation of side frame portion 104 when side frame portion 104 is lowered from the intermediate position into the unfolded position (such that sliding bolt 112b is located at the lower edge of slot 113b) may be prevented because the lower edge a leg portion of side frame portion 104 may be located beneath a lower edge of opening 115b in comer bracket 110b. Rotation of side frame portion 104 when side frame portion 104 is raised from the unfolded position into the intermediate position (such that sliding bolt 112b is located at the upper edge of slot 113b) may be possible because the lower edge a leg portion of side frame portion 104 may be located above a lower edge of opening 115b in comer bracket 110b, such that the lower edge of the leg portion of side frame portion may rotate outward through opening 115b as the upper portion of side frame portion 104 rotates inward from the intermediate position into the folded position. [0069] As shown, fixed bolt 114b may be configured to be inserted into a corresponding through-hole in corner bracket 110b in order to secure side frame portion

104 in an unfolded position.

[0070] While FIGS. IB and 1C show comer bracket 110b for illustrative purposes, the other corner brackets in frame 100 may have the same or similar corresponding features.

[0071] In some embodiments, a first crossbar 116 may be connected to lower frame portion 102. In some embodiments, first crossbar 116 may support and/or hold one or more components of a tub assembly, such as a motor board that mounts an air blower, motor, and/or electrical control components. In some embodiments, first crossbar 116 may be connected to the first side of lower frame portion 102 to which first side frame portion 104 is connected. In some embodiments, first crossbar 116 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 between the first side of lower frame portion 102 and the second side of lower frame portion 102 to which second side frame portion 106 is connected. First crossbar 116 may be positioned parallel to the first side of lower frame portion 102. First crossbar 116 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, first crossbar 116 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by a plurality of beams positioned perpendicular to both first crossbar 116 and lower frame portion 102. The beams may be connected to lower frame portion 102 and first crossbar 116 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, first crossbar 116 may comprise steel.

[0072] In some embodiments, a second crossbar 118 may be connected to lower frame portion 102. In some embodiments, second crossbar 118 may support and/or hold one or more components of a tub assembly, such as a motor board that mounts an air blower, motor, and/or electrical control components. In some embodiments, second crossbar 118 may support and/or hold one or more components of a tub assembly together with first crossbar 116. Second crossbar 118 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 between first crossbar 116 and the second side of lower frame portion 102 to which second side frame portion 106 is connected. Second crossbar 118 may be positioned parallel to first crossbar 116. Second crossbar 118 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, second crossbar 118 may be connected to lower frame portion 102 by a plurality of beams positioned perpendicular to both second crossbar 118 and lower frame portion 102. The beams may be connected to lower frame portion 102 and second crossbar 118 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, second crossbar 118 may comprise steel.

[0073] In some embodiments, a plurality of end portions 120a-d may be configured to support the underside of a tub body when the tub body is placed atop foldable tub frame 100 in its unfolded position. A first plurality of end portions 120b and 120c may be connected to first side frame portion 104, and a second plurality of end portions 120a and 120d may be connected to second side frame portion 106. End portions 120b and 120c may be connected to first side frame portion 104 and end portions 120a and 120d may be connected to second side frame portion 106 by welding, by a plurality of bolts, screws, nuts, and/or washers, or by a combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more components may be disposed between end portions 120a-120d and the underside of a tub body when the tub body is placed atop foldable tub frame 100 in its unfolded position; for example, a pad, shim (e.g., wooden shim), and/or other component may be disposed between end portions 120a-120d and the underside of a tub body when the tub body is placed atop foldable tub frame 100 in its unfolded position.

[0074] In some embodiments, end portions 120a-d may comprise steel, plastic, and/or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, end portions 120a-d may comprise padding. In some embodiments, end portions 120a-d may comprise an adhesive component.

[0075] In some embodiments, end portions 120a-d may each have a top surface whose area is larger than a cross-section of a post of the side frame portion supporting the respective end portion. By providing a larger area to support an underside of a tub body, more stable support for the tub body may be provided and the chance that the tub body is damaged by the frame may be reduced.

[0076] FIG. 2 shows a foldable tub frame 200 in which first side frame portion 204 and/or second side frame portion 206 may flex without breaking, in accordance with some embodiments. During folding, first side frame portion 204 and second side frame portion 206 are moved from unfolded position to folded position by a translational movement followed by a rotational movement. During unfolding, first side frame portion 204 and second side frame portion 206 are moved from folded position to unfolded position by a rotational movement followed by a translational movement. In some embodiments, first side frame portion 204 and second side frame portion 206 may be folded or unfolded simultaneously or individually.

[0077] Foldable tub frame 200 may comprise lower frame portion 202, first side frame portion 204, second side frame portion 206, feet 208a-d, comer brackets 210a-d, first welded crossbar 216, second welded crossbar 218, and end portions 220a-d, any one or more of which may share any one or more characteristics in common with corresponding features of frame 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 A-1D. [0078] FIG. 3 shows a tub assembly 350 in accordance with some embodiments. The tub assembly may comprise a foldable tub frame 300 and tub body 352. As shown, foldable tub frame 300 may comprise lower frame portion 302, first side frame portion 304, second side frame portion 306, feet 308a-b, comer brackets 310a-d, first welded crossbar 316, second welded crossbar 318, any one or more of which may share any one or more characteristics in common with corresponding components described above with reference to FIGS. 1-2. In some embodiments, the underside of the tub body is supported by the plurality of end portions connected to each side frame portion of foldable tub frame 100. In some embodiments, the tub body may be a walk-in tub or a standard bathtub. In some embodiments, the tub body may comprise one or more materials including but not limited to steel, cast iron, ceramic, acrylic, and/or fiberglass. A surface of the tub body may also be treated with various finishes such as porcelain enamel and the like.

[0079] FIG. 4 shows a foldable tub frame 400 in which first side frame portion 404 and second side frame portion 406 may flex without breaking, in accordance with some embodiments. As shown, foldable tub frame 400 may comprise lower frame portion 402, first side frame portion 404, second side frame portion 406, feet 408a-d, comer brackets 410a-d, and end portions 420a-d, any one or more of which may share any one or more characteristics in common with corresponding components described above with reference to FIGS. 1-3.

[0080] The foregoing description, for the purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the techniques and their practical applications. Others skilled in the art are thereby enabled to best utilize the techniques and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0081] Although the disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying figures, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the disclosure and examples as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A foldable tub frame, comprising: a lower frame portion; a first side frame portion movably attached to a first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the first side frame portion is movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower frame portion, wherein the first position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the second position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion; and a second side frame portion movably attached to a second side of the lower frame portion opposite the first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the second side frame portion is movable between a third position and a fourth position, wherein the third position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the fourth position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion.

2. The foldable tub frame of claim 1, wherein: when the first side frame portion is in the first position, the first side frame portion extends at an angle of less than or equal to 10 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion; and when the first side frame portion is in the second position, the first side frame portion extends at an angle of greater than or equal to 85 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion.

3. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-2, wherein: when the second side frame portion is in the third position, the second side frame portion extends at an angle of less than or equal to 10 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion; and when the second side frame portion is in the fourth position, the second side frame portion extends at an angle of greater than or equal to 85 degrees with respect to the lower frame portion.

4. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, when the first side frame portion is in the first position and the second side frame portion is in the third position, the first side frame portion and the second side frame portion overlap one another.

5. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-4, wherein, when the first side frame portion is in the first position and the second side frame portion is in the third position, a height of the foldable tub frame is less than or equal to 11 inches.

6. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-5, wherein, when the first side frame portion is in the second position and the second side frame portion is in the fourth position, a height of the foldable tub frame is greater than or equal to 40 inches.

7. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-6, wherein: the foldable tub frame has a first height when the first side frame portion is in the first position and the second side frame portion is in the third position; the foldable tub frame has a second height when the first side frame portion is in the second position and the second side frame portion is in the fourth position; and a ratio of the second height to the first height is greater than or equal to 4: 1.

8. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-7, wherein movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises a rotational movement.

9. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-8, wherein movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises a translational movement.

10. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-9, wherein movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises a rotational movement from the first position to an intermediate position and a translational movement between the intermediate position and the second position.

11. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-10, wherein movement of the first side frame portion between the first position and the second position comprises rotation of the first side frame portion by an angle of greater than or equal to 75 degrees.

12. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-11, wherein movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises a rotational movement.

13. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-12, wherein movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises a translational movement.

14. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-13, wherein movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises a rotational movement from the third position to an intermediate position and a translational movement between the intermediate position and the fourth position.

15. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-14, wherein movement of the second side frame portion between the third position and the fourth position comprises rotation of the second side frame portion by an angle of greater than or equal to 75 degrees.

16. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-15, wherein: the lower frame portion comprises a first plurality of corner brackets configured to support the first side frame portion when the first side frame portion is in the second position; and the lower frame portion comprises a second plurality of comer brackets configured to support the second side frame portion when the second side frame portion is in the fourth position.

17. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the foldable tub frame comprises steel.

18. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-17, wherein: the first side frame portion comprises a first plurality of end portions configured to support an underside of a tub body; and the second side frame portion comprises a second plurality of end portions configured to support the underside of the tub body.

19. The foldable tub frame of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the lower frame portion comprises a plurality of feet.

20. The foldable tub frame of any one of any one of claims 1-19, wherein the lower frame portion comprises two crossbars configured to support one or more components of a tub assembly.

21. A tub assembly, comprising: a foldable tub frame, comprising: a lower frame portion; a first side frame portion movably attached to a first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the first side frame portion is movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower frame portion, wherein the first position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the second position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion; and a second side frame portion movably attached to a second side of the lower frame portion opposite the first side of the lower frame portion, wherein the second side frame portion is movable between a third position and a fourth position, wherein the third position is a folded position with respect to the lower frame portion and the fourth position is an unfolded position with respect to the lower frame portion; and a tub body supported by a first plurality of end portions of the first side frame portion and a second plurality of end portions of the second side frame portion.