Shower area safety drain cover

Abstract

A drain cover is fabricated with a plurality of apertures in patterns of varying shapes. The cover is formed as a plate, suitable for installation proximate to a drain, and capable of bearing sufficient weight, the latter a function of the plate's size and intended use. The construction and arrangement of the plate, particularly the apertures, is such that the cover is operative to protect the drain from clogging, protect an individual near the drain from slips and falls, and still effectively and efficiently pass fluids.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates to the field of shower area drain covers and more particularly, to shower / bathing area safety drain covers.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Facilities for people with special needs must accommodate a variety of ergonomic and safety requirements which are vital to their beneficial use. Wet environments, in particular, must be adapted to a variety of needs, while promoting a higher degree of safety. Circumstances which present mild or minimal risk to some individuals represent a higher level of risk to others.[0003]In the field of shower or bathing facilities for special needs, a variety of appurtenances are well known, including grab bars, seats, low level access ramps, appropriately placed controls, and non-slip flooring. The drain, similarly, plays an important role within a safe and effective facility.[0004]Prior art drain covers, such as is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,998,387, commonly comprise a series of elongated slots defining a...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]The pattern of apertures presents a supporting structure which allows sufficient fluids to pass there through to support the highest anticipated fluid volume to be drained. Ideally, the apertures are elongated arcuate shapes. As such, they are resistant to clogging, and are easily cleaned. The edges of the apertures may be advantageously formed with an angular or curved bevel along their periphery, particularly on the upper face of the plate. This further facilitates cleaning, further reduces clogging, and forms a more comfortable surface.

Problems solved by technology

Circumstances which present mild or minimal risk to some individuals represent a higher level of risk to others.

Such covers suffer from a variety of deficiencies which have the potential to adversely affect those with special needs.

In particular, each requires a raised portion, as well as an enlargement of the drain area, presenting difficulties for people who may be unsteady on their feet, or who have reduced eyesight, as well as obstructing the passage of wheels or walking assistance devices.

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