Safety insert for a child's water device

Abstract

A flexible liner that is inserted onto bathtubs or children swimming pools to help cushion an impact and mitigate injury when a bather or swimmer falls on the hard ledges covered by the flexible liner. The device covers the ledges of the bathtub or pool with a soft, cushioning material and is attached to the bathtub or pool to maintain its position along dangerous, hard surfaces. The flexible liner has connectors where toys or other useful devices can be attached for the bather or swimmer to play with or utilize. The flexible liner is designed to add cushioning to decrease impact injury and entertain the bather or swimmer.

Claims

1. A bathtub insert for mounting in a bathtub, the insert comprising: a flexible liner comprising: ledge portions for positioning on top edges, respectively, of the bathtub having a plurality of side walls; skirt portions extending down respectively from the respective ledge portions on inner surfaces, respectively, of the plurality of side walls; an inner surface of the flexible liner disposed between the flexible liner and the bathtub; and an outer surface of the flexible liner opposite the inner surface of the flexible liner; and one or more fasteners disposed between the inner surface of the flexible liner and the bathtub for securing the flexible liner to the bathtub, wherein each skirt portion has a length shorter than that of each side wall of the bathtub such that an inner bottom surface of the bathtub is fully exposed.

2. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the flexible liner further comprises, on outer surfaces of the plurality of side walls: a first side portion configured to be disposed along a first side of the bathtub; a second side portion configured to be disposed along a second side of the bathtub; a back side portion configured to be disposed along a back side of the bathtub, wherein the back side of the bathtub is opposite to a front side of the bathtub, the front side having a faucet or entry point for water; a first slit disposed between the first side portion and the back side portion; and a second slit disposed between the second side portion and the back side portion, the first and second slits permitting the flexible liner to conform to the shape of the bathtub, wherein the first and second sides the bathtub meet the back side of the bathtub.

3. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the flexible liner further comprises an outer jacket for additional cushioning, the outer jacket being made of a flexible waterproof or water-resistant material and configured for placement on the outer surface of the flexible liner.

4. The bathtub insert of claim 3, wherein the outer jacket is formed of a water-resistant padded material.

5. The bathtub insert of claim 4, wherein the water-resistant padded material comprises at least one of: Polyurethane Laminate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane, waxed cotton, nylon, or polyester.

6. The bathtub insert of claim 3, wherein the outer jacket further comprises at least one cushion member configured to be secured to an upper outer surface of a ledge portion to provide additional protection.

7. The bathtub insert of claim 6, wherein the at least one cushion member comprises a water-tight seal to prevent moisture from entering the at least one cushion member.

8. The bathtub insert of claim 6, wherein the at least one cushion member comprises a fill material to obtain a desired softness.

9. The bathtub insert of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein the one or more connectors are configured to support one or more bath attachments, and wherein at least one of the one or more bath attachments comprises a holding receptacle.

10. The bathtub insert of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein the one or more connectors are configured to support one or more bath attachments, and wherein at least one of the one or more connectors includes a hook configured to engage a corresponding retention feature of the one or more bath attachments.

11. The bathtub insert of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein the one or more connectors are configured to support one or more bath attachments, and wherein at least one of the one or more connectors includes a snap fastener to engage a corresponding snap on the one or more bath attachments.

12. The bathtub insert of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein at least one of the one or more connectors includes a hook and loop system.

13. The bathtub insert of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein the one or more connectors are configured to support one or more bath attachments, and wherein at least one of the one or more bath attachments comprises at least one of a hoop with an attached net, a funnel for use with a pail or water squirting toys, or an Alphabetic lettering.

14. The bathtub insert of claim 1, further comprising a decorative theme.

15. The bathtub insert of claim 14, further comprising one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein the one or more connectors are configured to support one or more bath attachments, and wherein the one or more bath attachments correspond to the decorative theme.

16. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the one or more fasteners comprise a suction cup.

17. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the ledge portions are configured to fit a curved surface.

18. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the ledge portions are constructed to fit at least one of a square or rectangle surface.

19. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the skirt portions are configured to cover protrusions on inner surfaces of the plurality of side walls, and wherein the inner surfaces of the plurality of side walls of the bathtub are partially exposed.

20. The bathtub insert of claim 1, wherein the insert further comprises one or more connectors secured along a skirt portion on the outer surface of the flexible liner, wherein the one or more connectors are configured to support one or more bath attachments.

21. A pool insert for mounting in a pool, the insert comprising: a flexible liner comprising: a ledge portion for positioning on a top edge of the pool; a skirt portion extending down from the ledge portion; an inner surface of the flexible liner disposed between the flexible liner and the pool; and an outer surface of the flexible liner opposite the inner surface; and one or more fasteners disposed between the inner surface of the flexible liner and the pool for securing the flexible liner to the pool, wherein the skirt portion has a length shorter than that of each side wall of the pool such that an inner bottom surface of the pool is fully exposed.

22. The pool insert of claim 21, wherein the flexible liner has a length that corresponds to a perimeter of the pool, such that the flexible liner forms a continuous shape corresponding to the perimeter of the pool.

23. The bathtub insert of claim 21, wherein the insert further comprises one or more connectors secured along an upper outer perimeter of the skirt portion of the flexible liner around an inner surface of the pool, wherein the one or more connectors configured to support one or more pool attachments.

Description

SUMMARY OF THE FIGURES

(1) The systems, devices and methods can be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals indicate like structural elements and features in various figures. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, and simply illustrate the principles of the systems, devices and methods. The accompanying drawings illustrate only possible embodiments of the systems, devices and methods and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope.

(2) FIG. 1 is an isometric view illustrating an embodiment of the insert on a bathtub.

(3) FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view from section line B of FIG. 1 of the bathtub and insert.

(4) FIG. 3 is an isometric view illustrating an embodiment of the invention that can be used in a swimming pool for children.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(5) Aspects of the system are described below with reference to illustrative embodiments. The references to illustrative embodiments below are not made to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Instead, illustrative embodiments are used to aid in the description of various aspects of the systems. The description, made by way of example and reference to illustrative reference is not meant to be limiting as regards any aspect of the claimed subject matter.

(6) FIG. 1 is an isometric view illustrating an embodiment of the insert on a bathtub. Referring now to FIG. 1, an embodiment illustrating a bathtub insert 100 mounted to a bathtub 101 is shown. The bathtub insert can 100 cover the ledges of the bathtub 101. The ledges of the bathtub can be covered by the ledge portion 104 of the flexible liner 102. In some embodiments the ledge portion 104 can be constructed to fit one or more of the following surfaces: round, oval, and substantially circular surfaces. In other embodiments, the ledge portion 104 is constructed to fit a square or rectangular surface.

(7) The skirt 106 can extend down edges of the bathtub 101 to cushion the sides of the bathtub and to cushion any protrusions that can extend out a side of the bathtub 101. While not illustrated, these protrusions are commonly found on baths as places to store soap, shampoo, or other bathing devices. In a preferred embodiment the flexible liner 102 attaches to only three sides of the bathtub 100, although in other embodiments it can attach to all four sides. Preferably, the faucet side is not covered, as illustrated in FIG. 1. Additionally, the flexible liner 102 need not cover the bottom of the bathtub 100.

(8) In some embodiments, the edges of the flexible liner 102 affixed to the bathtub wall have a first slit 120 and second slit 122 to allow separation between the two sides of the flexible liner 102. This creates a smoother attachment to the wall at the wall corner 119. In addition, the slits prevent undesirable creasing at the edges.

(9) The inner surface of the liner 108 is disposed between the bathtub 101 and the bathtub insert 100. The outer surface of the liner 110 is disposed between the bathtub insert 100 and the bather. The inner surface of the liner 108 and the outer surface of the liner 110 define two sides of the flexible liner 102. A plurality of fasteners 112 can be disposed on the inner surface of the liner 108 to secure the flexible liner 102 to the bathtub 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 112 are a plurality of suction cups. However, other fasteners 112 can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, such as a hook and loop system, adhesives, or a hook hanging system.

(10) Located along the upper outer perimeter of the skirt 116 is at least one connector 114 which is permanently secured to the flexible liner 102 and configured to support one or more bath attachments 118. In a preferred embodiment, the connector 114 is a snap fastener, also called a press stud, dome fastener, popper, snap, or tich. In other embodiments the connector 114 can be a hook configured to engage a corresponding retention feature of the one or more bath attachments 118. In still other embodiments the connector 114 can be a hook and loop system.

(11) The bath attachments 118 can create a stimulating engagement with the bather for entertainment during bath time. The bath attachments 118 can be interchangeable or they can be permanently affixed. These can create a fun and interactive bath experience for bathing toddlers. The bath attachments can include, but are not limited to, a miniature basketball hoop 124, water squirt guns, a funnel 304, a plurality of alphabetic lettering 306, and meshed bags or other holding receptacles to store bath time supplies and play things. For example, a mesh bag can be used to store cleaning products while bathing, toys to entertain the bather or similar items. The meshing of the mesh bag can allow wet items placed in the interior of the mesh bag to drain and air dry.

(12) While not illustrated, the flexible liner 102 can be designed with different themes. For example, an aquatic or underwater theme. In those embodiments, the flexible liner 102 can contain imagery depicting an underwater adventure to generate feelings of fun and to be immersive for the bather. The bath attachments 118 can be created to be coordinated with the varying themes. In an aquatic theme, the bath attachments 118 can be configured to include fish, mermaid nets, a fish squirting toy, miniature fishing poles and the like. While themes can be supported in different embodiments, themes are optional are should not be seen in a limiting manner. Other themes can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

(13) Referring now to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment in FIG. 1 from section line B. The fasteners 112 can be suction cups, which is one system of fastening the flexible liner 102 to the bathtub 101. Other systems can include a hook and loop system, adhesives, or a hook hanging system. A first side portion 200 of the ledge portion 104 is configured to be disposed along the first side of the bathtub 202. A second side portion 204 of the ledge portion 104 is configured to be disposed along the second side of the bathtub 206. A back side portion 208 of the ledge portion 104 is configured to be disposed along the back side of the bathtub 210. A front side of the bathtub is shown as the faucet-side, where water would enter and fill the bathtub 101.

(14) The first side of the bathtub 202 is illustrated as a vertical wall. The second side of the bathtub 206 is illustrated as the entry point into the bathtub 101. The first side portion 200 and the second side portion 204 can be configured to affix to both a vertical wall and the entry point into the bathtub 101. This serves as additional cushioning against the walls and entry point but also helps prevent movement of the flexible liner 102 once the fasteners 112 are attached.

(15) The first slit 120 is disposed between the first side portion 200 of the ledge portion 104 and the back side portion 208 of the ledge portion 104. The second slit 122 is disposed between the second side portion 204 of the ledge portion 104 and back side portion 208 of the ledge portion 104. The first slit 120 and second slit 122 permit the flexible liner 102 to smoothly conform to the shape of the bathtub 101 or surrounding structure, near where the first side of the bathtub 204 and the second side of the bathtub 206 meet the back side of the bathtub 210.

(16) Referring now to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is an isometric view illustrating an embodiment of the invention to be used in a swimming pool for children. The pool insert 300 comprises a flexible liner 102 that surrounds the edges of the pool 301 and cushions the otherwise hard edges of the pool 301 to protect the children. In the illustrated embodiment, the ledge portion 104 drapes downward over the edge of the pool 301. Similar to the bathtub embodiment, the ledge portion 104 can be attached to the outside of the pool 301 by a plurality of fasteners 112 or left unattached, as shown. A plurality of fasteners 112 are configured to be disposed between the inner surface of the liner 108 and the pool 301.

(17) Along the upper outer perimeter of the skirt 116 are connectors 114. In the illustrated embodiment, a funnel 304 and alphabetic lettering 306 is shown. The alphabetic lettering 306 can be used for fun or as a learning device for the swimmer 302. While only three letters, A, B, and C, are shown, it is understood that any letter or plurality of letters can be attached to connectors 114. The connectors 114 are configured to support one or more pool attachments 308, such as, but not limited to, a miniature basketball hoop 124, water squirt guns, a funnel 304, a plurality of alphabetic lettering 306, and meshed bags or other holding receptacles to store pool time supplies. The purpose of these pool attachments 308 is to create a fun and interactive swimming experience. Consistent with the bathtub embodiment, preferably the embodiments for children's swimming pools do not extend to completely cover the bottom of the pool 301. In some embodiments the pool insert 300 is of a length that corresponds to the perimeter of the pool, such that the flexible liner 102 forms a continuous shape corresponding to the perimeter. Embodiments include the continuous shape forming a contiguous loop such that there is no vertical seam.

(18) What has been described above includes examples of aspects of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the disclosed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the disclosed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms includes, has or having or variations in form thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term comprising as comprising is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.