Multi-Layer Shower Curtain Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/553,159, which was filed on Feb. 14, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of shower curtains. More specifically, the present invention relates to a multi-layer shower curtain device that provides a plurality of tear-able shower curtain layers. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Over time, shower curtains and showers inevitably accumulate soap scum, grime, and mildew, creating an unsightly buildup that can be difficult to remove. If these areas, especially shower curtains, are not regularly cleaned or replaced, they can become breeding grounds for mold, which poses not only an aesthetic issue but also a potential health hazard. Mold growth in bathrooms can contribute to poor air quality and exacerbate respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies. Repeatedly purchasing new shower curtains and liners becomes frustrating and expensive, especially as these items tend to wear out quickly in humid conditions. While washable liners offer a reusable solution, they require frequent laundering, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming. The task of constantly scrubbing away soap scum, grime, and mildew from shower walls can also be exhausting, as it often requires the use of harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both the user and the environment. These chemicals can cause skin irritation, breathing problems, and even damage the surfaces they are meant to clean. As a result, the cumulative effort, time, and resources needed to maintain a clean and safe shower environment can lead to frustration for many people.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved shower curtain. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-layer shower curtain device. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-layer shower curtain device that provides a shower curtain that can be easily disposed of when necessary. In addition, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-layer shower curtain device that provides a shower curtain that can be easily disposed of when necessary and that allows a new shower curtain to be installed easily.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a multi-layer shower curtain device. The device is comprised of a body made from waterproof materials such as vinyl, polyester, or PEVA, and features at least one eyelet for suspension on a shower rod. The body is equipped with at least one magnet, optionally housed within a waterproof pocket, allowing secure attachment to a shower or tub surface. The device may also include alternative fasteners like suction cups or adhesive strips for added stability. The rear surface of the body holds multiple disposable shower curtain layers attached via perforations for easy removal. Each waterproof layer resists mildew and microbes, ensuring a clean shower environment, and a portion of unused layers may be stored in the pocket. The invention also comprises a method for using the device, including securing it with the magnet, utilizing the layers during use, and replacing them as needed.

In this manner, the multi-layer shower curtain device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides an improved shower curtain. The device also provides an improved shower curtain that can be more easily changed than existing shower curtains known in the art. In addition, the device provides a shower curtain that allows for a clean shower curtain to be quickly re-installed/used.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a multi-layer shower curtain device. The device is comprised of a body, preferably square or rectangular in shape, constructed from materials such as vinyl, polyester, or PEVA, though alternative materials like nylon, PVC, or treated fabric may be used for enhanced durability and water resistance. The body may be opaque, transparent, or semi-translucent, depending on functional or aesthetic preferences. At least one eyelet is integrated into the body, allowing it to be suspended from a standard shower curtain rod. The eyelet is made from corrosion-resistant metals, such as stainless steel or brass, or durable plastic, ensuring long-term durability in moist environments.

Additionally, the body comprises at least one magnet, which may be positioned at various locations, such as a bottom corner or along the sides or top edge, depending on design requirements. The magnet can be a neodymium or ceramic type, or another magnet suitable for adhering to metal or magnetic surfaces typically found in showers or tubs. The magnet is coated or made from waterproof materials to prevent corrosion. In some embodiments, the magnet is housed within a waterproof pocket integrated into the body, providing secure attachment to the shower or tub surface. Alongside the magnet, the body may include additional fasteners, such as suction cups, adhesive strips, or hook-and-loop fasteners, to further enhance its attachment. Suction cups may be affixed along the edges or corners, offering a non-permanent, stronghold, while adhesive strips may be designed for single-use or removable applications, depending on user preferences.

The rear surface of the body is further comprised of at least one, and preferably multiple, disposable shower curtain layers. Each layer is attached to the rear surface via tear-able perforations, allowing for easy removal of a used layer to expose a fresh one. These layers are compactly housed on the rear surface, with unused layers tucked into the waterproof pocket for protection when not in use. The materials for the layers include waterproof, mildew-resistant substances like PEVA or other biodegradable plastics, designed to repel water and provide anti-microbial properties in certain embodiments. Each layer is slightly staggered to keep the edges visible, enabling easy identification and removal of the next layer.

The invention also includes a method of use, starting with providing the device, which is comprised of a body with at least one magnet and multiple disposable shower curtain layers attached to the rear surface via perforations. The body is then positioned and secured to the interior surface of the shower or tub using the magnet. Once the device is secured, the shower can be used normally, with the body and attached layers providing protection for the shower area. When a layer becomes dirty or worn, it is removed by tearing along the perforation, exposing a fresh layer underneath. Unused layers are stored in the pocket for future use, ensuring cleanliness and convenience over multiple uses.

Accordingly, the multi-layer shower curtain device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides an improved shower curtain. The device also provides an improved shower curtain that can be more easily changed than existing shower curtains known in the art. In addition, the device provides a shower curtain that allows for a clean shower curtain to be quickly re-installed/used. In this manner, the multi-layer shower curtain device overcomes the limitations of existing shower curtains known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one potential embodiment of a multi-layer shower curtain device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a multi-layer shower curtain device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a multi-layer shower curtain device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved shower curtain. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-layer shower curtain device. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-layer shower curtain device that provides a shower curtain that can be easily disposed of when necessary. In addition, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a multi-layer shower curtain device that provides a shower curtain that can be easily disposed of when necessary and that allows a new shower curtain to be installed easily.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a multi-layer shower curtain device. The device is comprised of a body, preferably square or rectangular, made from materials such as vinyl, polyester, or PEVA, though alternative materials like nylon, PVC, or treated fabric may be used for added durability and water resistance. The body may be opaque, transparent, or semi-translucent based on functional or aesthetic needs. At least one eyelet is integrated into the body, allowing it to be suspended from a standard shower curtain rod. The eyelet is constructed from corrosion-resistant metals, such as stainless steel or brass, or durable plastic, to ensure long-term durability in moist environments.

The body also includes at least one magnet, which may be placed at various locations, such as a bottom corner or along the sides or top edge, depending on design needs. The magnet can be a neodymium, ceramic, or another type suitable for adhering to metal or magnetic surfaces commonly found in showers or tubs. The magnet is coated or made from waterproof materials to prevent corrosion. In certain embodiments, the magnet is housed within a waterproof pocket integrated into the body, providing secure attachment to the shower or tub surface. In addition to the magnet, the body may feature other fasteners, such as suction cups, adhesive strips, or hook-and-loop fasteners, to enhance attachment. Suction cups may be placed along the edges or corners for a non-permanent but strong hold, while adhesive strips may be designed for either single-use or removable options, depending on user preferences.

The rear surface of the body further comprises at least one, and preferably multiple, disposable shower curtain layers. Each layer is attached via tear-able perforations, allowing for easy removal of used layers to expose fresh ones. These layers are compactly housed on the rear surface, with unused layers tucked into the waterproof pocket when not in use. The layers are made from waterproof, mildew-resistant materials such as PEVA or other biodegradable plastics, designed to repel water and, in some embodiments, provide anti-microbial properties. Each layer is staggered slightly to keep the edges visible, allowing for easy identification and removal of the next layer.

The invention also includes a method of use, beginning with providing the device, which is comprised of a body with at least one magnet and multiple disposable shower curtain layers attached to the rear surface via perforations. The body is then positioned and secured to the interior surface of the shower or tub using the magnet. Once secured, the device allows the shower to be used normally, with the body and attached layers protecting the shower area. When a disposable layer becomes dirty or worn, it can be removed by tearing along the perforation, revealing a fresh layer beneath. Unused layers are stored in the pocket for future use, ensuring continued cleanliness and convenience over multiple uses.

Thus, the multi-layer shower curtain device provides a significant improvement over existing shower curtains by allowing for easier replacement of the curtain layers. The device facilitates quick reinstallation of a clean shower curtain, effectively addressing the limitations of traditional shower curtains.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one potential embodiment of a multi-layer shower curtain device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of a body 110, which is preferably square or rectangular in shape. The body 110 may be made from any suitable shower curtain material, including but not limited to vinyl, polyester, or PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate). In alternative embodiments, materials such as nylon, PVC, or treated fabric may also be used, providing durability and water resistance. Additionally, the body 110 may be opaque, transparent, or semi-translucent depending on aesthetic or functional preferences. The body 110 is further comprised of at least one eyelet 117, which allows the device 100 to be suspended from a standard shower curtain rod. The eyelet 117 may be made from a corrosion-resistant metal such as stainless steel or brass, or from a durable plastic, to ensure long-term durability in moist environments.

The body 110 is comprised of at least one magnet 114. In one embodiment, the magnet 114 is positioned at a bottom corner 111 of the body 110, though alternative embodiments may position the magnet 114 at any location along the body 110, such as along the sides or top edge, depending on the design requirements. The magnet 114 may be a neodymium magnet, ceramic magnet, or any other type of magnet capable of adhering to metal or magnetic surfaces commonly found in showers or tubs. The magnet 114 may also be comprised of or coated with a waterproof material to prevent corrosion from moisture.

In some embodiments, the magnet 114 is housed within a pocket 112 integrated into the body 110. The pocket 112 may be constructed from a waterproof material and sealed to prevent water intrusion. The magnet 114 allows the body 110 to securely attach to the interior surface of a shower or tub, ensuring stability during use. In addition to the magnet 114, the body 110 may further be comprised of an additional and/or alternative fastener 116 to enhance attachment to a shower or tub surface. The fastener 116 may include, but is not limited to, suction cups, adhesive strips, or hook-and-loop fasteners. Suction cups, for instance, could be affixed along the edges or corners of the body 110, providing a non-permanent but strong hold. Adhesive fasteners could be designed for single-use or removable options, depending on user preference.

A rear surface 113 of the body 110 is further comprised of at least one, and preferably a plurality of, disposable shower curtain layers 120. Each layer 120 is attached to the rear surface 113 via at least one tear-able perforation 122, as seen in FIG. 2. The perforations 122 are designed to allow a user to easily tear away an old layer 120 and expose a fresh layer 120 beneath it. This feature facilitates easy replacement and helps maintain a clean shower environment. The layers 120 may be housed compactly on the rear surface 113, with a portion (i.e., a corner) of the remaining layers 120 tucked into the pocket 112 for protection when not in use.

Each layer 120 is comprised of waterproof materials such as but not limited to PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate), a non-chlorinated alternative to PVC, or other lightweight, biodegradable plastics. The materials selected are designed to repel water, resist mildew, and provide anti-microbial properties in certain embodiments. In one embodiment, each layer 120 is staggered slightly to ensure the edges of each subsequent layer 120 remain visible, allowing the user to easily identify and tear off the next layer 120.

The present invention is also comprised of a method 200 of using the device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100 is provided, comprised of a body 110 with at least one magnet 114 and at least one disposable shower curtain layer 120 attached to a rear surface 113 of the body 110 via at least one tear-able perforation 122 [Step 202]. Next, the body 110 is positioned and secured to the interior surface of a shower or tub by attaching the magnet 114 to the desired surface [Step 204]. Once the device 100 is secured, the user can use the shower as normal while the body 110 and the layers 120 protect the shower area [Step 206]. After use, if the disposable layer 120 becomes dirty or worn, the user can remove the layer 120 by tearing along the perforation 122 to expose a fresh layer 120 underneath [Step 208]. Remaining layers 120 not yet in use may be tucked into the pocket 112 for later use [Step 210].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “multi-layer shower curtain device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the multi-layer shower curtain device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the multi-layer shower curtain device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the multi-layer shower curtain device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the multi-layer shower curtain device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the multi-layer shower curtain device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the multi-layer shower curtain device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples 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 may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed 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 term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is 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.