HYBRID ENCLOSURE SYSTEM

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of priority of the co-pending U.S. Utility Provisional Patent Application No. 62/040,400, filed 21 Aug. 2014, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. It should be noted that where a definition or use of a term in the incorporated document is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the incorporated document does not apply.

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to enclosures, and more particularly, to a cost effective hybrid enclosure system that increases the volume of usable space, increases ingress into and egress out of the usable space, and reliably retains and confines water within a shower area (if used as a hybrid shower enclosure).

[0004] 2. Description of Related Art

[0005] Hybrid shower enclosures are known and have been in use for a number of years. Known hybrid shower enclosures are upscale, high-end products that tend to be costly. They are generally complex in that they use a fairly large number of complicated components comprised of costly material that are complicated to manufacture and install, all of which significantly add to the overall cost of the enclosure. A non-limiting example of an upscale, deluxe hybrid enclosure is disclosed in the U.S. Patent Application Publication 2011/0094686 to Christopher M. Kee et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. It should be noted that where a definition or use of a term in the incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the incorporated reference does not apply.

[0006] Accordingly, in light of the current state of the art and the drawbacks to current hybrid shower enclosures mentioned above, a need exists for a hybrid enclosure system that would be significantly cost effective to manufacture and install, with significant reduction in number of parts but without much loss in function, utility, and appearance (or esthetics) of the hybrid enclosure.

[0007] A non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a hybrid enclosure, comprising:

• • [0008] a flexible, lightweight cover coupled within a frame and a stile that functions to confine a space;
  • [0009] the frame includes:
  • [0010] a sill;
  • [0011] a header;
  • [0012] a strike jamb and a wall jamb positioned between the sill and the header at a respective first and second distal ends of the sill;
  • [0013] the flexible, lightweight cover having an upper side coupled with header, and a first and a second lateral ends coupled with the wall jamb and the stile, and a free lower side that drapes within the confined space.

[0014] Another non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a hybrid enclosure, comprising:

• • [0015] a first and a second flexible, lightweight covers coupled within a frame and a respective first and a second stiles;
  • [0016] the first and the second covers functions to confine a space, with minimal structural encroachment into potential ingress and egress area of the space when fully open;
  • [0017] the frame includes:
  • [0018] a sill;
  • [0019] a header;
  • [0020] a first and second wall jambs, positioned between the sill and the header at a respective first and second distal ends of the sill;
  • [0021] the flexible, lightweight covers having an upper side coupled with header, and a first lateral ends coupled with wall jambs and second lateral ends coupled with first and second stile, and free lower sides that drapes within the confined space.

[0022] Yet another non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides stile for a hybrid enclosure, comprising:

• • [0023] a cross-sectional profile that extends longitudinally and includes:
  • [0024] a first channel for assembly and securing of a cover with the stile;
  • [0025] the cover extends below the stile and drapes within a confined space;
  • [0026] the stile is supported and slidingly attached and guided with engagement to a lower track;
  • [0027] the stile is further guided by engagement with a mechanism that travels within an upper track.

[0028] Still another non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a hybrid enclosure, comprising:

• • [0029] a curtain with a top edge and first and second side edges;
  • [0030] an upper track that attaches to a ceiling structure;
  • [0031] the upper track holds and guides the top edge of the curtain;
  • [0032] a wall jamb and a stile that hold the first and second side edges of the curtain; and
  • [0033] a lower track that supports and guides the stile within a channel.

[0034] A further non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a shower enclosure, comprising:

• • [0035] a curtain;
  • [0036] a header;
  • [0037] a sill;
  • [0038] a strike jamb and a wall jamb;
  • [0039] a stile adaptively operates maintaining top and bottom distal ends in association with the respective header and sill;
  • [0040] wherein the curtain:
  • [0041] is supported on an upper region by association to the header;
  • [0042] is held on first and second lateral edges by association to the wall jamb and the stile; and
  • [0043] has a lower region that is not coupled with the sill and freely drapes within a confined space.

[0044] Still a further non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a shower enclosure, comprising:

• • [0045] a curtain;
  • [0046] a header that is coupled to a ceiling structure;
  • [0047] a sill;
  • [0048] a strike jamb and a wall jamb;
  • [0049] a stile adaptively operates maintaining top and bottom distal ends in association with the respective header and sill;
  • [0050] wherein the curtain:
  • [0051] is supported on an upper region by association to the header;
  • [0052] is held on first and second lateral edges by association to the wall jamb and the stile; and
  • [0053] has a lower region that is not coupled with the sill and freely drapes within a confined space.

[0054] Another non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a shower enclosure, comprising:

• • [0055] a curtain;
  • [0056] a header that is coupled to a ceiling structure;
  • [0057] a sill;
  • [0058] a stile adaptively operates maintaining top and bottom distal ends in association with the respective header and sill;
  • [0059] wherein the curtain:
  • [0060] is supported on an upper region by association to the header;
  • [0061] is held on first and second lateral edges by association to a first side wall structure and the stile; and
  • [0062] has a lower region that is not coupled with the sill and freely drapes within a confined space.

[0063] Yet another non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a shower curtain, comprising:

• • [0064] an upper region association with a header;
  • [0065] the shower curtain is held on first and second lateral edges by association with a wall jamb and a stile, and has a lower region that freely drapes within a confined space.

[0066] These and other features and aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of preferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments, taken together with the drawings and the claims that follow.

[0082] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present invention may be constructed and or utilized.

[0083] Throughout the disclosure, references to a shower, shower enclosure, shower space, shower area, or hybrid shower enclosure are meant as illustrative of a preferred embodiment and for convenience of example, only. That is, the use of one or more embodiments of the hybrid enclosure system of the present invention should not be limited to enclosing a shower, shower space, shower area, or as a mere shower enclosure, or a hybrid shower enclosure but may also be used to enclose or close-off a space or an area other than a shower, shower area, or shower space, non-limiting example of which may include dividing and closing off a section of a room.

[0084] One or more embodiments of the present invention provides a hybrid enclosure system that is significantly cost effective to manufacture and install, with significant reduction in number of parts without much loss in function, utility, and appearance (or esthetics) of the hybrid enclosure. As detailed below, one or more embodiments of the present invention may be practiced for left-sided, right-sided, or center operations where the hybrid enclosure closes off access to an area at a left, at a right-side (as viewed from the outside of the enclosed area), or center.

[0085] FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9 are exemplary illustrations of the various views of a fully assembled hybrid enclosure system used in an exemplary shower area in accordance with one or more embodiments the present invention. FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9 progressively illustrate the motion or movement of the hybrid enclosure of the present invention in various corresponding views from a closed position (FIGS. 1A-1 to 1A-11) that closes-off ingress and or egress to and from the shower area, to a fully open position (FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-9). Accordingly, FIGS. 1A-1 to 1A-11 are various views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention in a fully closed position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. FIGS. 1B-1 to 1B-9 are various views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention when the hybrid enclosure is halfway open in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-9 are various views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention when the hybrid enclosure is fully open in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0086] In particular, FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1 are non-limiting, exemplary perspective front views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 used for enclosing the illustrated shower area in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1 exemplarily illustrate from a perspective front view the progressive opening of the hybrid enclosure 100 from a fully closed position (FIG. 1A-1) to a fully open position (FIG. 1C-1) in relation to the entire shower area, with FIG. 1B-1 showing a half-way open position.

[0087] FIGS. 1A-3, 1B-3, and 1C-3 are non-limiting, exemplary top-plan sectional views (without any cover) taken from the respective FIGS. 1A-2, 1B-2, and 1C-2 (which are side views) of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 of FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1, and are used to exemplary illustrate the progressive opening of the hybrid enclosure 100 from the top-plan sectional views in the exact corresponding opening positions shown in the perspective front views of FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1 from a fully closed position (FIG. 1A-3) to a fully open position (FIG. 1C-3), with FIG. 1B-3 showing a half-way open position.

[0088] FIGS. 1A-4, 1B-4, and 1C-4 are non-limiting, exemplary perspective lateral or lateral inside views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 without a surround structure, and FIGS. 1A-5, 1B-5, and 1C-5 are the perspective exterior or outside views of the same (without any cover), and FIGS. 1A-6, 1B-6, and 1C-6 are top views thereof (without any cover), all of which are used to exemplary illustrate the progressive opening of the hybrid enclosure 100 in the exact corresponding opening positions shown in the perspective front views of FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1 from a fully closed position (FIG. 1A-4 to FIG. 1A-6) to a fully open position (FIGS. 1C-4 to 1C-6), with FIGS. 1B-4 to 1B-6 showing a half-way open position. As illustrated, a top end 111 of a cover 101 follows the arc of the curved header 112 while a bottom end 113 of the cover assembly 101 follows a linearly straight sill 114.

[0089] FIGS. 1A-7, 1B-7, and 1C-7 are perspective rear (inside) views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100 without the surround structure, and are used to exemplary illustrate the progressive opening of the hybrid enclosure 100 from the rear perspective (inside) views in the exact corresponding opening positions shown in the perspective front views of FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1, from a fully closed position (FIG. 1A-7) to a fully open position (FIG. 1C-7), with FIG. 1B-7 showing a half-way open position.

[0090] FIGS. 1A-8, 1B-8, and 1C-8 are top-plan views of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure (for purpose of illustrating a section view, where the ceiling hides view of the hybrid enclosure) 100, and FIGS. 1A-9, 1B-9, and 1C-9 are sectional views taken from the respective FIGS. 1A-8, 1B-8, and 1C-8, all of which are used to exemplary illustrate the progressive opening of the hybrid enclosure 100 from the top plan and sectional views in the exact corresponding opening positions shown in the perspective front views of FIGS. 1A-1, 1B-1, and 1C-1, from a fully closed position (FIG. 1A-8 and FIG. 1A-11) to a fully open position (FIG. 1C-8 and 1C-9), with FIGS. 1B-8 and 1B-9 showing half-way open position. As best illustrated in FIG. 1B-9, in the halfway open position, a stile 120 is fully extended, leaning out towards an apex 123 (FIG. 1A-6) of a header 112 while maintaining connection with the sill 114. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 1C-9, the stile 120 is somewhat aligned with a wall jamb 118 at a fully open position (near a distal end 105 of the header 112). However, the stile 120 is perfectly aligned and fully contacts a strike jamb 116 when the hybrid enclosure 100 is in a fully closed position.

[0091] FIG. 1A-10 is a non-limiting, exemplary side view illustration of the fully assembled hybrid enclosure 100, with a side wall 106 of the surround removed (showing an inside, lateral view of the shower area), and FIG. 1A-11 is a non-limiting, exemplary back view illustration with the lateral (104 and 106) and back (102) walls of the surround removed (showing an inside view of the shower area). Both FIGS. 1A-10 and 1A-11 exemplarily illustrate the fully closed position of the hybrid enclosure, including the draping of the free end 113 of the cover 101 over and behind a curb 128 and into the tub 124. The exemplary FIGS. 1A-10 and 1A-11 further illustrate the full contact between the strike jamb 116 and the stile 120 in addition to the connection of a lateral end 115 of the cover 101 with the wall jamb 118 to fully close the shower area from three sides to block water leakage.

[0092] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9, one or more embodiments of the present invention provide a hybrid enclosure system 100, comprising a flexible, lightweight cover 101 coupled within a rigid frame 110 (that includes at least one rigid stile 120) that functions to confine a space, with minimal structural encroachment into potential ingress and egress area of the space when fully open (FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-9).

[0093] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9, the hybrid shower enclosure 100 of the present invention is a combination of part soft enclosure and part rigid enclosure. That is, the present invention uses a flexible, lightweight soft cover (curtain-like) enclosure 101 in combination with a rigid frame 110 (with a rigid stile 120) to close off access to an area when in fully closed position.

[0094] The hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention provides the benefit of a rigid shower enclosure by fully confining the water within the shower space, making it difficult for the water to drip out of the shower area. The hybrid shower enclosure of the present invention provides a rigid frame 110 (with the rigid stile 120) and other rigid closing features to maintain water within the confines of the shower area, but without the drawbacks associated with conventional rigid enclosures. In addition, the hybrid enclosure of the present invention provides minimal structural encroachment into potential ingress and egress access area of the shower space when fully open.

[0095] The hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention provides the rigid stile 120 that is coupled with the flexible, lightweight cover 101 that when pulled (by handles 122 of the stile 120) at a closing direction (FIGS. 1A-1 to 1A-10), the soft enclosure cover 101 is pulled to expand and fully extend the flexible, lightweight cover 101 to substantially close-off the space, confining the water within the shower space. It should be noted that the flexible, lightweight cover 101 is associated with the rigid frame 110 and laterally with the rigid stile 120 from within the enclosed area (e.g., shower area) rather than outside thereof, which facilitates maintaining water confined therein the enclosed space in both the opening and closing process of the hybrid enclosure 100. Therefore, the flexible cover 101 has no part that is outside of the shower area from which water may drip or roll down (no droplets) to a position outside the shower area. Accordingly, whether the hybrid enclosure 100 is open, closed, or moving in a direction to either open or close access to an area, all parts of the flexible cover 101 always remain within the confines of the area, thereby preventing any water droplets from falling outside the shower area.

[0096] When fully closed, the entire length 121 of the stile 120 of the hybrid enclosure 100 physically contacts the length 147 of the strike jamb 116. Additionally, with the lateral side 115 of the cover 101 connected with the entire length 157 of the wall jamb 118 and the free end 113 of the cover 101 draping over behind the curb 128 (and hence the sill 114) and into the tub 124, with the enclosure 100 substantially blocking water from dripping out of the shower area. Therefore, in this embodiment the cover 101 is secured to rigid members of the enclosure from two sides (i.e., wall jamb 118 and stile 120) and associated with the header 112 by guides 138 to block water leakage out of the shower area. The length of the cover 101 (along its lateral ends 115 and 117) is longer than the strike jam 116, wall jamb 118, and the stile 120 so to drape over the sill 114 and into the tub. It should be noted that the sill 114 also functions as a barrier to impound water (e.g., as a dam).

[0097] When the rigid stile 120 is pulled (by the handles 122) to an opening direction (FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-9), the stile 120 pushes the flexible, lightweight cover 101 to fully open an ingress and egress access span 127 (FIG. 1C-1) of the shower space with minimal structural encroachment length 129 (FIG. 1C-7). In general, when in the fully open position (FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-9), the hybrid shower enclosure of the present invention enables access with a span length 127 to the shower area that is almost equal to the total length 131 of the tub 124 (or basin 108) without much encroachment (minus the span length 129 for the volume of space taken by the stile 120 and the gathered cover 101).

[0098] It should be noted that the length of the tub (basin) 131 parallels the width 119 (FIG. 1A-7) of the hybrid enclosure 100. This is particularly critical in smaller length applications where the total length 131 of the tub 124 is less than 32 inches. For example, with conventional in-line enclosures, more than half of the 32-inch access would be blocked due to structural overlap features, leaving less than 16-inches for ingress/egress access to the shower area. Conventional pivot doors may be used instead, but the door for the conventional pivot doors rotate out from the closed position, most commonly outward and away from the shower space and toward the inside of a room, which may also be very limited and minimal (e.g., a small apartment bathroom or an RV). The present invention provides a hybrid enclosure 100 without the conventional overlap feature that encroach to reduce the ingress/egress access area of the shower space, and can be used with both straight or curved shower tubs 124, pans, or substrates 108.

[0099] It should further be noted that the hybrid shower enclosure 100 of the present invention may easily replace most conventional pivot door applications where bathroom space is limited. When fully closed (FIGS. 1A-1 to 1A-11) to close-off access to the shower area, the width 119 of the hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention is equal to the total length 131 of the basin 108 for fully closing-off access and to prevent water leakage. However, when fully open (FIGS. 1C-1 to 1C-9), the potential encroachment width 129 of the hybrid enclosure into ingress/egress access width 127 is very small, leaving almost all of the basin (or curb 128) length 131 for accessing the shower space, enabling the hybrid enclosure to replace the use of conventional pivot door. Further, the flexible, lightweight cover 101 of the present invention has the added benefit in that it can be used in the industries where substantial weight reduction and increased fuel efficiency is desired, including, for example, in the Recreational Vehicle (RV) industry.

[0100] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9 and stated above, an embodiment of the hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention includes the flexible, lightweight cover 101 coupled within the rigid frame 110 and at least one rigid stile 120 that functions to confine a space, with minimal structural encroachment span 129 into potential ingress and egress area of the space when fully open. The rigid frame 110 is comprised of the sill 114 and the header 112 with the strike jamb 116 and the wall jamb 118 positioned between the sill 114 and the header 112. In addition, an embodiment of the hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention includes the soft enclosure 101 with at least one flexible, lightweight cover having an upper end 111 and lower end 113, with the upper end 111 coupled with header 112 and the lower end 113 draped over interior side of the curb 128 of the tub 124. The soft enclosure 101 further includes a first and a second lateral end 115 and 117 coupled with one of the respective strike and wall jambs 116 and 118, and at least one stile 120.

[0101] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9, the frame 110 of an embodiment of the hybrid enclosure 100 is associated with an exemplary shower area defined by a surround comprised of the back wall 102, the first lateral wall 106, and the second lateral wall 104, and the ceiling 133, including the shower tub 124 seated within the basin 108. The strike jamb 116 is generally vertically oriented and is coupled with the first lateral wall 106, and the wall jamb 118 is vertically oriented and is coupled with the second lateral wall 104. The first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112 are associated with the respective first and second lateral walls 106 and 104, with no connection with an upper distal ends 149 and 151 of the respective strike and wall jambs 116 and 118. The first and second distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114 are associated with the lower distal ends 153 and 155 of the respective strike and wall jambs 116 and 118. That is, after installing the sill 114, the first and second lower distal ends 153 and 155 of the respective strike and wall jambs 116 and 118 fit over on top of the respective first and second distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114 and hold in place the sill 114 that rests on the curb 128 of the tub 124.

[0102] The stile 120 of the frame 110 is an elongated assembly with a top distal end section 135 that adjustably couples with the header 112 through a top guide mechanism 134, and a bottom distal end section 137 that adjustably couples with the sill 114 though a bottom guide mechanism 136. The stile 120 has an axial length 121 that may optionally vary longitudinally during an operation of the hybrid enclosure 100 with the aid of the top and bottom guide mechanisms 134 and 136.

[0103] The sill 114 of the frame 110 is coupled with a first structure (in this exemplary instance, a curb 128 of the tub 124). The sill 114 may be coupled with the curb of a shower pan (where there is no tub) or any substrate. In other words, the first structure may be the basin, tub, substrate, or foundation or ground of a space to be enclosed. The sill 114 has a length 624 (FIG. 3A) that extends longitudinally along a length 131 of the first structure (e.g., curb 128) while conforming to a contour of the first structure. In general, the length 624 of the sill 114 must be sufficient to fully cover the full length 131 of the first structure to prevent water leakage. Although the sill 114 conforms to a contour of the first structure with which the sill 114 is associated, the header 112 is configured independent of the sill 114 contour. In other words, the header 112 and the sill 114 are fully independent of one another in terms of their respective shapes. That is, the sill 114 may take on any reasonable configuration independent of the header 112 configuration. Therefore, the sill 114 may have a straight or a curved configuration to accommodate the configuration of the first structure with which the sill 114 is associated. The present invention provides sufficient flexibility in terms of maneuverability of the stile 120 with respect to its association with the sill 114 and the header 112 that it can accommodate different configurations of the sill 114 and header 112 (more details provided below). Accordingly, the header 112 may be of one configuration (shape) and the sill 114 of another shape, different from the shape of the header 112.

[0104] As further illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9, the frame 110 further includes the header 112 that may optionally be curved rather than straight, with an apex 123 of the curved section optionally extending beyond the first structure. This optional feature of extending the curvature of the header 112 beyond the contour (e.g., curb 128) of the first structure (e.g., tub 124) increases the usable shower area or interior volume of the shower space, providing a substantially syncline shower space profile. The distance (indicated by the reference arrow 125) by which the apex 123 of the curved header 112 is optionally extended beyond the first structure (e.g., curb 128) to increase the interior volume of the shower space is only limited by the distance by which header 112 is permitted to encroach the space of the rest of the bathroom. That is, it is preferred that the interior shower space be balanced with the total bathroom space when selecting the radius of the curvature of the header 112 to be extended beyond the first structure. Of course, the greater the extension of the apex 123 of the curved header 112, the greater the volume or space within the shower area. The interior shower space has a width 132, which is the usable width of the tub 124 (where an individual may stand and take a shower). In a conventional shower area, this width 132 would increase slightly in the space above the basin to a width 132a. However, the curved header 112 of the present invention enables the upper section of the interior shower space to have a width 130 that is longer than the width span 132a, thereby increasing the volume of the shower area by the distance 125. Accordingly, the present invention provides a hybrid enclosure system 100 that combines all the beneficial features of the soft and rigid enclosures, but without their respective drawbacks. In addition, the hybrid enclosure system 100 of the present invention increases the usable enclosed space when fully closed, and increases access to and from the enclosed space when fully open.

[0105] As stated above, the hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention provides the rigid stile 120, which has the axial length 121 (FIG. 1B-5) that optionally varies along the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 during the operation of the hybrid enclosure 100, when, for example, the header 112 used is curved out beyond the shower space. In other words, the axial length 121 of the rigid stile 120 may be optionally varied in accordance with the present invention if the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112 and the longitudinal axis 143 of the sill 114 do not coincide (or exist) within same vertical plane. Stated other wise, if a vertical plane passing through the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112 is the same as the vertical plane passing through the longitudinal axis 143 of the sill 114, then the axial length 121 of the stile 120 along its longitudinal axis 139 need not vary. That is, if a header 112 is used wherein any section of the header 112 does not substantially vertically coincide or align with a corresponding section of the sill 114 below the header 112, then the axial length 121 of the stile 120 may be optionally implemented to vary along its longitudinal axis 139 in accordance with the present invention to enable proper opening and closing of the hybrid enclosure 100. It should be noted that although a curved header 112 is illustrated that is extended beyond the shower space, other configurations are contemplated. In other words, the axial length 121 of the rigid stile 120 of the present invention may be optionally varied along its longitudinal axis 139 to enable continuous operation of the shower enclosure when the header 112 and the sill 112 are off from their respective vertical alignment or plane (intentionally to increase shower space or otherwise by design).

[0106] As collectively illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9, in the instance where an exemplary curved header 112 is used (with the curvature of the header 112 extending beyond the curb 128), the stile 120 is continuously and progressively contracted longitudinally along its axial length 121 as it moves along a reciprocating path towards the first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the curved header 112 and the first and second distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114. That is, while the stile 120 moves around the curved header 112 at a top distal end section 135 of the stile 120, the axial length 121 of the stile 120 is continuously and progressively contracted along its longitudinal axis 139 as the stile 120 moves along a reciprocating path towards the first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112 and the first and second distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114. The axial length 121 of the stile 120 is fully contracted along its longitudinal axis 139 at the first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112 and the first and second distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114.

[0107] As best illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1 to 1B-9, the axial length 121 of the stile 120 is continuously and progressively extended along its longitudinal axis 139 as the stile 120 moves along the reciprocating path towards the apex 123 of the curved header 112, and is fully extended at the apex 123. That is, the axial length 121 of the stile 120 is fully extended at the apex 123 (where it is fully extended beyond the traditionally defined curb 128, by the distance indicated by the reference number 125), while the stile 120 moves around the curved header 112 at a top distal end section 135 and the sill 114 at a bottom distal end section 137. Accordingly, the axial length 121 of the stile 120 progressively extends along its longitudinal axis 139 at the center (or apex 123) of the header 112, and progressively shrinks or contracts longitudinally at the end of the closing or opening process while moving around the curved header 112 and a straight sill 114.

[0108] Describing the motion of the stile 120 from another view point, during the movement of the stile 120 along the header/sill track, an angle β (FIG. 1B-9) between the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 and a horizontal plane 145 of the first structure varies, while the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 remains generally at angle Ω, shown in FIG. 1B-7 in relation to both the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112 and the longitudinal axis 143 of the sill 114. Of course, the longitudinal extension and contraction of the axial length 121 of the stile 120 along its longitudinal axis 139 will have different progression from those illustrated if the stile 120 moves along different reciprocating paths defined by a header and sill (with different shapes). For example, both the header and the sill may have axial lengths that extends in an “S” configurations or, alternatively, the header may be as illustrated, but the sill have an “S” shape. Such variations are contemplated, and will affect the stile motions or movements in all aspects, including longitudinal expansion and or contraction.

[0109] FIG. 2 illustrates a disassembled, exploded view of the hybrid enclosure of FIGS. 1A-1 to 1C-9 with the separated parts to show the relationship and manner of assembly of the same in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, an hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention is comprised of the flexible, lightweight cover 101 coupled within the rigid frame 110. The frame 110 is comprised of the sill 114 and the header 112, including the strike jamb 116 and the wall jamb 118 positioned between the sill 114 and the header 112. In addition, the hybrid enclosure 100 of the present invention includes the soft enclosure with at least one flexible, lightweight cover 101 having an upper end 111 coupled with the header 112 through guides 138 by a set of holes (or hanger holes) 220 and the stile 120 by one of the fasteners 222 or 224 (a non-limiting, examples of which may include snap-on type fasteners). As detailed below, the guide 138 is comprised of moving-guides and hangers that interconnect with the holes 220. The lower end 113 of the cover 101 softly drapes over and behind the sill 114 and into the tub 124. The sill 114 may be additionally secured with the curb 128 of the tub 124 by an adhesive tape 140 (usually double sided adhesive tape). The cover further includes a first and a second lateral end 115 and 117 coupled with one of the respective wall jamb 118 and stile 120, depending on installation for right or left operations. For center operations (detailed below), two covers may be used with their respective lateral ends 115 and 117 coupled with one of wall jamb 118 or stile 120.

[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the strike jamb 116 is substantially vertically oriented and is coupled with the first lateral wall 106 by fasteners 201, and the wall jamb 118 is substantially vertically oriented and is coupled with the second lateral wall 104 by fasteners 206. Both the strike jamb 116 and the wall jamb 118 may include caps 232 and 234 (detailed below) that depending on installation may be used to cover over upper distal ends thereof. The first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112 are associated with the respective first and second lateral walls 106 and 104, with the header 112 itself coupled with the ceiling 133 via fasteners 230 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention. The first and second distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114 are associated with the lower distal ends of the respective strike and wall jambs 116 and 118. The stile 120 of the frame 110 has a top distal end section 135 that adjustably couples with the header 112 through a top guide mechanism 134, and a bottom distal end section 137 that adjustably couples with the sill 114 though a bottom guide mechanism 136. The stile 120 further accommodates a first magnetic strip 204 that mates with a second magnetic strip 202, which is accommodated by the strike jamb 116 to close-off access to and from shower area (best illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 and 1A-11), for one of right or left operations otherwise, two stiles 120 and two wall jambs 118 may be used for center operation.

[0111] FIGS. 3A to 3D are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a sill of the hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIG. 1A-1 to FIG. 2 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in its preferred embodiment, the sill 114 includes a cross-sectional profile that extends along a longitudinal axial length 624 of the sill 114. The cross-sectional profile of the sill 114 includes a first section 626 and a second section 628. The first section 626 is comprised of an opening or hollow cavity 608 that is defined by a divider wall 606, a lower portion 632 of a front (exterior facing) 602, a back side 612, and a bottom side 604. The first section 626 further includes a flange 616 that has a profile that extends vertically from the back side 612 for forming a lower track or rail of a channel 618. The second section 628 of the cross-sectional profile of the sill 114 includes the channel 618 that enables the bottom guide mechanism 136 of the stile 120 to move and be confined within the channel 618 (resting on the track or rail defined by the flange 616, detailed below). The channel 618 is defined at a bottom by the divider wall 606, an upper portion 634 of the front 602, a top side 622, and an open backside portion 610 defined by a transversely extending flanges 616 and 614 (in relation to the longitudinal axial length 624) that form the rails of the channel 618 and define the back side opening 610.

[0112] The bottom or base 606 of the channel 618 is positioned above the curb 128 of the structure at a height 630 due to the spacing of the opening or hollow cavity 608. The elevated channel 618 at height 630 provides sufficient distance between the bottom distal end section 137 of the stile 120 (or the bottom guide mechanism 136) and the curb 128 of the structure so that the bottom guide mechanism 136 of the stile 120 does not contact the curb, and freely and smoothly moves along the sill 114. Additionally, a height 636 of the entire front 602 (includes both upper and lower portions 632 and 634) also functions as a “dam” for blocking and preventing water leakage outside the enclosure. Further, the divider wall 606 improves the structural integrity of the sill 114 by adding to its structural strength. That is, the addition of the divider wall 606 to transversally cross-connect the back and front walls 612 and 602 adds support to the walls 602 and 612, maintaining them in the proper position.

[0113] In general, the sill 114 is the first unit of the hybrid enclosure that is installed. Therefore, before the sill 114 is installed, it is first measured lengthwise and cut to appropriate size. Next, the bottom guide mechanism 136 is inserted into the channel 618, and the sill 114 is taped 620 onto the curb 128 of the basin 108. The strike and wall jams 616 and 618 are then placed on top of and covering over the distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114.

[0114] FIGS. 4A to 4E-3 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a strike jamb of an hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIG. 1A-1 to FIG. 3D in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, the strike jamb 116 is shown in its preferred embodiment comprised of a single piece module that is generally linear and includes a first longitudinally extending section 314 for assembly and securing the strike jamb 116 with a structure, and a second longitudinally extending section 316 for assembly and securing of a latching mechanism such as a magnet, with both the first and the second longitudinally extending sections 314 and 316 extending along a longitudinal axis 319 of the strike jamb 116.

[0115] The strike jamb 116 further includes a first transverse section along the longitudinal axis 319 of the strike jamb 116 that forms a general first end section 302. Further included is a second transverse section along the longitudinal axis 319 of the strike jamb 116 that forms a general second end section 304, and a third transverse section along the longitudinal axis 319 of the strike jamb 116 that forms a generally middle section 306. The first and the second end sections 302 and 304 are identical, which facilitate right, left, or center installation and operation of the strike wall jamb 116 and hence, the hybrid enclosure 100.

[0116] A non-limiting method of installing the strike jamb 116 is to trim the strike jamb 116 along one of the indicated dashed lines 310 or 312 (FIG. 4B-1) per desired right, left, or center operations. Accordingly, prior to assembly and installation, the strike jamb 116 may be trimmed per desired handling. That is, one of the generally first or second sections 302 or 304 may be cut along one of the indicated dashed lines 310 or 312 above a marker and severed (removed). The one end section (302 or 304) that remains forms the bottom distal end (one of the 348 or 350) of the strike jamb 116, resulting in the strike jamb 116 illustrated in FIGS. 4A, and 4C-1 to 4E-3. After trimming the strike jamb 116 for desired operational orientation, the strike jamb 116 is placed over the sill 114 (detailed below) and attached to the surround by a set of fasteners (e.g., screws).

[0117] The first longitudinally extending section 314 of the strike jamb 116 is comprised of a cross-sectional profile that extends longitudinally, along an axial length 147 (FIG. 1B-7) of the strike jamb 116 and includes a hollow portion 326 with sufficient depth for accommodating the sill 114 and further, for increasing a structural integrity of the strike jamb 116. The second longitudinally extending section 316 is comprised of a cross-sectional profile that extends longitudinally, along the axial length 147 of the strike jamb 116 and includes a housing for insertion and retention of an axially extending, elongated magnet 202.

[0118] The hollow portion 326 provides sufficient room or space for covering over the sill 114 distal ends 307 and 309 when an opening 328 and or 330 is provided on a fourth side 324 of the strike jamb 116. That is, the opening 328 and or 330 of the hollow portion 326 enables the creation of an arch-way or space or “mouse hole” to receive the sill 114. Therefore, the opening 328 and or 330 of the hollow portion 326 is created to provide housing that accommodates distal ends 307 and 309 of the sill 114. Often, the distal ends 307 and or 309 of the sill 114 are cut too short or the cut made is a rough cut rather than an esthetically pleasing clean cut. The openings 328 and or 330 have sufficient depth to cover over the shorter sill 114 even with a rough cut. Accordingly, the configuration of the strike jamb 116 hollow section 326 provides a great degree of installation tolerance in accommodating the sill 114 that is sized and cut on the job site. As indicated above, the hollow portion 326 also structurally adds stiffness with minimized increase in weight. That is, the hollow portion 326 improves the structural integrity and hence structure strength of the strike jamb 116.

[0119] As illustrated, the hollow portion 326 has a first side 318 that couples with a structure. The first side 318 is preferably flat and includes a set of apertures 334 for receiving fastener that couple the strike jamb 116 with a wall of the surround. The hollow portion 326 also includes a second side 320 that forms the front of the strike jamb 116, viewed from outside of the enclosed area. The second side 320 is slightly rounded or curved, making the look of the strike jamb 116 from the outside more esthetically pleasing. A third side 322 of the hollow portion 326 is substantially perpendicular to the first side and forms a guard wall against water leakage. If there is a high pressure spay, and in an unlikely scenario of water passing through the magnet connection between the stile 120 and the strike jamb 116, the groove 332 comprised of the third side 322 and a bridge 354 will block the escaped leaking water, enabling the water to slide down the groove 332 and into the shower basin, behind the sill 114. The second and the third sides 320 and 322 provide the depth of the hollow portion 326 for covering over the distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114.

[0120] The hollow portion 326 of the first longitudinally extending section 314 is further comprised of a fourth side 324 formed within the generally middle section 306, with the fourth side 324 enclosing the hollow portion 326 along the generally middle section 306 to form an enclosed hollow portion 326. The fourth side 324 is oriented at an angle (tapered portion) in relation to the first side 318, forming a guide (or a bumper guide) that directs (shown by arrow 358 in FIG. 4A) the stile 120 towards the magnet 202 of the strike jamb 116 in cases where the stile 120 is moved out of its proper moving or movement plane. That is, if the stile 120 is moved out of is proper translational plane, the stile 120 will bump against the tapered side 324 and will be redirected (shown by arrow 358) to connect with the magnet 202 of the strike jamb 116.

[0121] As further illustrated (best shown in FIG. 4E-3), the middle section 306 of the first longitudinally extending section 314 includes sets of apertures 308 and 334 that allow the strike jamb 116 to securely couple with the structure. The first set of apertures 308 (on side 324) are aligned with the second set of apertures 334 (on side 318), with the first set 308 having a larger diameter then the second set 334 to allow a fastener to be inserted through the first set 408 and the second set 334, with the second set 334 having smaller diameter than the fastener heads 356. Therefore, the fastener head 356 clears the larger hole 308 but not the smaller hole 334, which enables the fastener to fasten the strike jamb 116 with a structure after the threads of the fastener pass through the smaller hole 334.

[0122] The housing for accommodating the magnet 202 has a transverse profile that includes a back side 336 that extends into a bridge portion 354 that couples the first and second longitudinally extending sections 314 and 316, and laterally extending flanges 340 and 342 for securely accommodating the elongated magnet 202.

[0123] It should be noted that although many methods of manufacturing the strike jamb 116 exist, one non-limiting exemplary method may include using a conventional extruded molding process where the strike jamb 116 includes the fourth side 326 extend along the entire axial length of the strike jamb 116. Thereafter, the fourth side 326 is later sheared at the general distal sections 302 and 306 using a conventional punch process to create the openings 328 and 330.

[0124] The same conventional punch process may also be used to create the sets of apertures 308 and 334 along the general middle section 306. Accordingly, the strike jamb 116 may be finally delivered for installation as illustrated in FIG. 4B with two identical distal sections 302 and 304 that have opening 328 and 330, providing the ability for a right, left, center closing installation where the sill 114 is covered over therein the hollow portion 326 through one of the openings 328 or 330, and the other opening 330 or 328 is either covered by one of the caps 232/234 as described below or, alternatively, severed along one of the transverse lines 310 or 312, resulting in a strike jamb 118 shown in FIG. 4A, and 4C-1 to 4E-3, ready for installation.

[0125] FIGS. 5A to 5F-4 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a wall jamb of the hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIG. 1A-1 to FIG. 4E-3 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, the wall jamb 118 is preferably an elongated linear piece and includes a first longitudinally extending section 414 for assembly and securing the wall jamb 118 with a structure, and a second longitudinally extending section 416 for assembly and securing of the cover 101 with the wall jamb 118. Both the first and the second longitudinally extending sections 414 and 416 extend along a longitudinal axis 456 of the wall jamb 118.

[0126] The wall jamb 118 further includes a first transverse section along the longitudinal axis 456 of the wall jamb 118 that forms a general first end section 402, a second transverse section along the longitudinal axis 456 of the wall jamb 118 that forms a general second end section 404, and a third transverse section along the longitudinal axis 456 of the wall jamb 118 that forms a generally middle section 406. The first and the second end sections 402 and 404 are identical, which facilitate right, left, or center installation of the wall jamb 118 and hence, the hybrid enclosure 100.

[0127] Prior to assembly and installation, the wall jamb 118 may be trimmed per desired handling (right, left, or center operations). That is, one of the generally first or second sections 402 or 404 may be cut along one of the indicated dashed lines 410 or 412 near or adjacent a marker (in a form of a flange 454) and removed. The one end section (402 or 404) that remains forms the bottom distal end of the wall jamb 118, resulting in the wall jamb 118 illustrated in FIGS. 5B-1 to 5F-4. After trimming the wall jamb 118 for desired operational orientation, the wall jamb 118 is placed over the sill 114 and attached to the surround by a set of fasteners such as screws.

[0128] As further illustrated, the first longitudinally extending section 414 is comprised of a cross-sectional profile that extends longitudinally, along a longitudinal axis 456 of the wall jamb 118 and includes a hollow portion 426 with sufficient depth for accommodating the sill 114 and further, for increasing a structural integrity of the wall jamb 118. The second longitudinally extending section 416 is comprised of a cross-sectional profile that extends longitudinally, along the longitudinal axis 456 of the wall jamb 118 and includes a channel 440 for insertion and removal of the cover 101.

[0129] The hollow portion 426 provides room or space for covering over the sill 114 distal ends 307 and 309 when an opening 428 or 430 is provided on a side 424 of the wall jamb 118. That is, the opening 428 or 430 of the hollow portion 426 enables the creation of an arch-way or space or “mouse hole” to receive the sill 114. Therefore, the opening 428 or 430 of the hollow portion 426 is created to provide housing that accommodates distal ends 307 and 309 of the sill 114.

[0130] Often, the distal ends 307 and 309 of the sill 114 are cut too short or the cut is a rough cut rather than an esthetically pleasing clean cut. The openings 428 or 430 have sufficient depth to cover over the shorter sill 114 even with a rough cut. Accordingly, the configuration of the hollow section 426 provides a great degree of installation tolerance in accommodating the sill 114 that is sized and cut on the job site. The hollow portion 426 also structurally adds stiffness with a minimal increase in weight. That is, the hollow portion 426 improves the structural integrity and hence structure strength of the strike jamb.

[0131] The hollow portion 426 has a first side 418 that couples with a structure and is generally flat. As illustrated, the hollow portion 426 has the first side 418 that couples with a structure. The first side 418 is preferably flat and includes a set of apertures 434 for receiving fastener that couple the wall jamb 118 with a wall of the surround. The hollow portion 426 also includes a second side 420 that forms the front of the wall jamb 118, viewed from outside of the enclosed area. The second side 420 is slightly rounded or curved, making the look of the wall jamb 118 from the outside of the enclosed area more esthetically pleasing. The hollow portion 426 also includes a common side 422 that is shared with the second longitudinally extending section 416. The hollow portion 426 at the general distal sections 402 and 404 has the openings 428 and 430 for receiving and covering over the sill 414, with the second and the common sides 420 and 422 providing sufficient depth for the hollow portion 426 to receive and cover over the sill 414.

[0132] As further illustrated, the hollow portion 426 of the first longitudinally extending section 414 is further comprised of a third side 424 formed within the generally middle section 406, with the third side 424 enclosing the hollow portion 426 along the generally middle section 406 to form an enclosed hollow portion 426. The third side 424 is oriented at an angle in relation to the first side 418. The angle orientation of the third side 424 on the wall jamb 118 is optional and exists to match the strike jamb 116 in terms of look and feel and esthetics.

[0133] As further illustrated, the middle section 406 of the first longitudinally extending section 414 includes sets of apertures 408 and 434 that allow the wall jamb 118 to securely couple with the structure. The first set of apertures 408 (on side 424) are aligned with the second set of apertures 434 (on side 418), with the first set 408 having a larger diameter then the second set 434 to allow a fastener to be inserted through the first set 408 and the second set 434, with the second set 434 having smaller diameter than the fastener heads. Therefore, the fastener head clears the larger hole 408 but not the smaller hole 434, which enables the fastener to fasten the wall jamb 118 with a structure after the threads of the fastener pass through the smaller hole 434.

[0134] The channel 440 of the wall jamb 118 includes the common side 422 that is shared with the first longitudinally extending section 414, with a first end of the common side 422 having a first small flange 442 that protrudes and extends within the channel space, extending longitudinally along the longitudinal axis of the channel 440. The channel 440 also includes a back side 436 that flushes against the structure when the wall jamb 118 is installed.

[0135] The channel 440 of the second longitudinally extending section 416 is further comprised of a retainer side 438 formed within the generally middle section 406, with the retainer side 438 forming a third side of the channel 440. The retainer side 438 further includes a second, longitudinally extending small flange 444 that protrudes from the retainer side edge, generally opposite the first small flange 442 that combined (flange 442 and flange 444), define a longitudinally extending, transversely oriented elongated opening 446 to the channel 440 that functions to securely, detachably maintain the cover 101 within the mid-channel. Accordingly, the sides 422, 436, and 438 (and also small flange 444 and 442) define the channel 440 along the generally middle section 406 for securing the cover 101 within the channel 440. The mid-channel is comprised of first and second distal ends 448 and 450 that are chamfered for insertion and removal of the cover 101. The chamfered distal ends 448 and 450 are comprised of beveled edges 452 that are slanted toward the channel 440 to aid in smooth insertion and removal of the cover 101. As detailed below, channel 440 accommodates an interlock section 804a (FIG. 8B) of the first lateral end 115 of the cover 101.

[0136] It should be noted that although many methods of manufacturing the wall jamb 118 exist, one non-limiting exemplary method may include using a conventional extruded molding process where the wall jamb 118 includes the third side 424 extend along the entire axial length 157 (FIG. 1B-7) of the wall jamb 118. Thereafter, the third side 424 is later sheared at the general distal sections 402 and 404 using a conventional punch process to create the openings 428 and 430. The same conventional punch process may also be used to create the sets of apertures 408 and 434 along the general middle section 406. Accordingly, the wall jamb 118 may be finally delivered for installation as illustrated in FIG. 5A with two identical distal sections 402 and 404 that have openings 428 and 430, providing the ability for a right, left, or center closing installation where the sill 114 is inserted therein the hollow portion 426 through one of the openings 428 or 430, and the other one opening 430 or 428 is severed along one of the transverse lines 410 or 412, resulting in the wall jamb 118 shown in FIG. 5B-1 to 5F-4, ready for installation.

[0137] One or more embodiments of the present invention further provide another method of handling the installation of the strike jamb 116 or the wall jamb 118, which is to use a cap 232 and 234 (FIGS. 5G-1 to 5H-4) to simply cover over the upper distal end of the strike jamb 116 or the wall jamb 118 per the desired right, left, or center operations of the hybrid enclosure 100. FIGS. 5G-1 to 5H-4 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of caps used for wall and or strike jamb in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Accordingly, instead of trimming off one of the distal ends of the strike jamb 116 or the wall jamb 118, the selected upper distal end of strike jamb 116 or wall jamb 118 may be covered over by a left-cap 232 or right-cap 234, with left-cap 232 being a mirror image of the right-cap 234. The left-cap 232 (shown in FIGS. 5G-1 to 5G-4) is installed on the left side of the enclosure (viewed from the outside of the enclosed area), and associated with one of the strike jamb 116 or wall jamb 118 (depending on right, left, or center operation of the hybrid enclosure 100). The right-cap 234 (shown in FIGS. 5H-1 to 5H-4) is installed on the right side of the enclosure (viewed from the outside of the enclosed area), and associated with one of the strike jamb 116 or wall jamb 118 (depending on right, left, center operation of the hybrid enclosure 100). In other words, the installer selects whether the strike jamb 116 or wall jamb 118 is installed at the right or left side for one of right, left, or center operations, with the left-cap 232 always associated with the left installed (strike or wall jamb) and right-cap 234 always associated with the right installed (strike or wall jamb). In general, the benefits of using caps 234/236 is that they eliminate the need for trimming the strike or wall jambs during installation and further (and as detailed below), because the caps are designed to have smoothly rounded edges in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, they also facilitate in insertion and removal of the cover in relation to the jambs.

[0138] FIGS. 5I-1 to 5I-4 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of an untrimmed strike jamb using a cap illustrated in FIGS. 5G-1 to 5H-4 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. FIGS. 5J-1 to 5J-6 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of an untrimmed wall jamb using a cap illustrated in FIGS. 5G-1 to 5H-4 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As best illustrated in FIGS. 5G-1 to 5J-6, caps 232/234 are single piece units that include a top covering 458 that covers over the hollow opening 326 or 426 of one of the distal ends of the respective strike jamb 116 or the wall jamb 118. The periphery edges of the top covering 458 rest on the selected distal ends of the lateral sides that constitute the hollow opening 326 or 426 when the caps 232/234 is fully inserted therein along the direction 466. In general, the cover 458 is further provided with an extension 462, which is comprised of a generally rounded tip 472 that is integral with a generally smooth curved side 474 and 476 of the top cover 458. The smoothly rounded top covering 458, including the smoothly rounded specific extension 462 facilitate in insertion and or removal of the cover 101 in relation to the wall jamb 118. As best illustrated in 5J-6, the selected first or second end section 402 or 404 of the wall jamb 118 when covered by the cap 232/234 provides a smooth rounded distal end, defining the upper distal end thereof and allowing for smooth insertion and removal of the cover 101 along the reciprocating path 586 into and out from the channel 440. Accordingly, the top cover 458 (and its extension 462) fully covers the cross-sectional profile opening of the selected distal end of the jambs 116 or 118.

[0139] The caps 232/234 further include a lateral covering 460 that covers over one of the openings 330 or 328 for the strike jamb 116 (FIGS. 5I-1 to 5I-4), or openings 428 or 430 for the wall jamb 118 (FIGS. 5J-1 to 5J-6), depending on the desired right- or left installations of the strike or wall jambs. The caps 232/234 include supporting structures comprised of a set of prongs or posts 470 integrated with a set of chevrons 468 for improved structural integrity in terms of strength. The orientation of the chevrons 468 is set to facilitate ease of insertion of the caps 232/234 (pushing them in the direction 466) within the distal ends of the strike jamb or the wall jamb, while frictionally maintaining and tightly securing the caps 234/232 inside.

[0140] FIGS. 6A to 6N-6 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a header of the hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIG. 1A-1 to FIG. 5J-6 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In general, the header 112 may be delivered to an installation site in straight form as it takes up less packaging to ship because the remaining components of the hybrid enclosure frame in accordance to one or more embodiments are straight (e.g., sill 114, wall jamb 118, strike jamb 116, stile 120, etc.), reducing shipping costs.

[0141] Therefore, if a curved header 112 is desired, an installer may bend the header 112 to a desired arc (FIG. 6I) at the job site. Non-limiting examples of material from which the header 112 may comprise of may include any conventional materials that have flexibility so that the header 112 may be uniformly and smoothly bent, with the resulting curve or arc translated uniformly and smoothly throughout the longitudinal axis of the header and associated with the lateral walls of a surround and ceiling 133. A few non-limiting examples of material that may be used for the header 112 disclosed may include an extruded Polyinvinly Chloride (PVC), Asystole, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, or the like. However, the header 112 may alternately be bent at the factory and package delivered, thus differing materials may be selected that are more rigid such as aluminum.

[0142] As further illustrated, the header 112 includes a cross-sectional profile that extends along a longitudinal axial length 540 of the header 112 with the cross-sectional profile preferably including a first section 536 and a second section 538, defined by a divider wall 508. In general, the divider wall 508 improves the structural integrity of the header 112 by adding to the header 112 structural strength. That is, the addition of the divider wall 508 to transversally cross-connect the back and front walls 504 and 502 adds support to the walls 504 and 502, maintaining them in the proper position even when being bent for installation as curved header. In other words, the divider wall 508 provides support for the lower portion of the front and side walls 502 and 504 when the header 112 is bent. That is, since the channel 530 has an open lower end 544, with no support (or connection) between the lower portions of the front and the back 502 and 504, during bending process of the header 112, the open end 544 may collapse. In other words, the lower portion 538 of the front and back walls 502 and 504 (or the flanges 512 and 514) may bend towards each other when bending the header 112 into a curved arc, closing off the opening 544.

[0143] The divider wall 508 adds sufficient strength to the back and front walls 504 and 502 so that both substantially maintain their parallel orientation or alignment with respect to each other throughout the axial length 540 of header 112 when the header 112 is bent. Accordingly, if the divider wall 508 is absent, the front and back walls 502 and 504 (and hence the flanges 512 and 514) may become misaligned with respect to each other during the bending process. Therefore, by adding the divider wall 508 that transversally cross-connects the back and front walls 504 and 502, the divider 508 adds support to the walls, maintaining them and hence, the flanges 512 and 514 in the proper position when the header 112 is bent.

[0144] As indicated above, the header 112 includes a cross-sectional profile that extends along a longitudinal axial length 540 of the header 112 with the cross-sectional profile including a first section 536 and a second section 538. The first section 536 is comprised of an opening 528 for accommodating end-fasteners (detailed below), with the opening 528 defined by a top side 506 of the header 112, a portion of a front side 502 and a back side 504 of the header 112 (or the areas of the front and back sides 502 and 504 that fall within the first section 536), and the divider wall 508. The first section 536 further including a flange 510 that has a profile span that extends transversely 542 from the back side 504 (within the first section 536) for facilitating securing the header 112 with a structure.

[0145] As further illustrated, the second section 538 of the header 112 is comprised of a channel 530 that enable a set of guides 138 to move within the channel 530. The channel 530 is defined at a top by the divider wall 508, a portion of the front and back sides 502 and 504 of the header 112 (within the second section 538), and a lower open end 544 defined by transversely extending flanges 512 and 514 that form the rails or tracks of the channel 530 and define the lower open end 544. As illustrated in FIG. 6D, it should be noted that the entirety of the front side 502 is slightly curved for esthetics when viewed from the outside of the enclosed area.

[0146] A first distal end 103 and a second distal end 105 of the header 112 are identical and are generally cut at an angle θ (FIG. 6F), with the angled cuts of the first and second distal ends 103 and 105 enabling the first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112 to be flush with the respective lateral walls of the surround when the header 112 is bent and installed (FIG. 6I). The first and second distal ends 103 and 105 further include slot 526 above the opening 528 for insertion of an end-fastener 584 that hold and maintain a position of the header 112 in relation to the lateral walls and the ceiling 133 for final installation in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In general, the illustrated guides 138 are inserted within the channel 530, resting on to the rails 512 and 514, the distal ends of which contact a body 524 of the guides 138 to maintain proper orientation during movement for smooth motion, which prevents the wobbling of the guides 138 during movement. As illustrated, the hanger portion 522 extends out below the lower end opening 544. In general, the guides 138 are first inserted into the channel 530 before installing the header 112 because once the header 112 is installed, the distal ends 103 and 105 thereof will be closed off by the lateral walls 104 and 106.

[0147] In installing the header 112, a set of end-fasteners 584 are positioned on the ceiling first (for at least one embodiment of the present invention), aligned with the strike jamb 116 and wall jamb 118 interior facing ends. After assembly of the guides 138 onto the header 112, the header 112 is then bent, with the distal end slots 526 of the header 112 maneuvered to slide onto the end-fasteners 584, with the walls 516, 534, and 518 of the slot 526 (FIG. 6B) engaging the end-fasteners 584. Accordingly, the header-end fasteners 584 are secured first, then the header 112 is bent to slide the slots 526 of the header 112 onto the header-end fasteners 584. Therefore, the slots 526 (and the header-end fasteners 584 interlocked within the slots 526) hold and maintain the header 112 in a bent position in relation to the lateral walls and the ceiling 133 until the remaining fasteners 520 secure the header 112 to the ceiling 133. It should be noted that the header-end fasteners 584 are not fastened tightly, but are merely used to hold and maintain the position and curved or arced shape of the header 112 to facilitate attachment with the ceiling 133. Once positioned, the entire header 112 is secured to the ceiling 133 using the set of middle fasteners 520. The connection of the header 112 with the ceiling 133 provides the advantage that users can no longer grasp or hang onto the header 112, with the user inadvertently applying vertical shearing and or a torque (or rotational) forces that may tear or rip the header 112 from its position. Further, since the users can no longer hang onto to the header 112 due to the header position, the need for added support (e.g., brackets, adaptations to connect with strike or wall jambs, etc.) to counter those inadvertent forces is eliminated. It should be noted that the axial length 540 of the header 112 is longer than the distance between the lateral walls 104 and 106. Accordingly, a longer header 112 will have an apex when bent that extends further out and a shorter header (still longer than the distance between the walls 104 and 106) will have an apex when bent that extends less out.

[0148] FIGS. 6J-1 to 6N-6 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a header of the hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIG. 1A-1 to FIG. 6I in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention where the header is indirectly coupled with a ceiling. As illustrated, the header 112 is coupled with the ceiling 133 by a header adapter assembly 582 (FIG. 6J-2), which enables the header 112 to be secured with various ceiling configurations. In general, the header adapter assembly 582 facilitates leveling the header 112 in relation to the floor. For example, in the Recreational Vehicles (RV), the ceiling of an RV is generally arched to provide more head room for individuals (or for aerodynamics) whereas the header 112 has a flat top side 506 that extends along its length 540. In some other instances, the ceiling itself may be tilted or sloped at some angle or be positioned too high for practical installation. Therefore, the use of a header adapter assembly 582 enables the header 112 to be coupled with most ceilings, independent of ceiling configurations. FIG. 6J-1 is a non-limiting, exemplary view of a hybrid enclosure coupled with a slated ceiling 133 using a header adapter assembly 582 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, the ceiling 133 is slanted to a point where the distance 570 between the second distal end 105 of the header 112 (near the wall jamb 118) and the ceiling 133 is substantially shorter than the distance 572 between the first distal end 103 of the header 112 (near the strike jamb 116) and the ceiling 133. The present invention provides the header adapter assembly 582 to generally enable and maintain the header 112 at an appropriate level in relation to the horizontal, regardless of ceiling configuration.

[0149] As illustrated in FIG. 6J-2, The header adapter assembly 582 includes an adapter connector assembly 554 that couples the header 112 with the ceiling 133, and a set of supports 546 coupled with the distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112 that maintain the header 112 in a position for coupling the adapter connector assembly 554.

[0150] As best illustrated in FIGS. 6K-1 to 6K-11, the supports 546 are comprised of a set of protrusions 548a and 548b that are inserted into respective opening 528 of the first section 536 and channel 530 of the second section 538 of the header 112, with the divider wall 508 of the header 112 positioned in between the set of protrusions 548a/b, contacting the support body 550. In general, the ends of the protrusions 548a and 548b are rounded and function as chamfered ends for easy insertion. The supports 546 further include a fastener hole 552 for connecting the support 546 and header 112 assembly with a structure. It should be noted that in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, supports 546 replace header-end fasteners 584 functionalities. In this embodiment, the supports 546 are first fastened with the surround lateral walls 104 and 106 first, then the header 112 is bent into an arc, with the distal ends 103 and 105 placed onto the protrusions 548a and 548b of the secured supports 546. This configuration holds and maintains the header 112 in position. Next, the adapter connector assembly 554 of the header adapter assembly 582 is used to couple the header 112 with the ceiling 133 instead of using fasteners 520 to attach the header 112 directly onto the ceiling 133.

[0151] The adapter connector assembly 554 includes a first member 560 that slides over the flange 510 of the header 112, with the first member 560 having a receiving channel 562 for receiving the flange 510. The adapter connector assembly 554 further includes a second member 558 that mounts onto the ceiling 133, and an intermediate member 556 that couples the first member 560 with the second member 558.

[0152] The first member 560 for connecting the header 112 with the intermediate member 556 includes a set of holes 564, 566, 568 (FIG. 6M-3 and 6M-4) that are oriented aligned along a vertical height, perpendicular to the receiving channel 562. When aligned with the fastener holes 532 of the header 112, the set of holes 564, 566, and 568 enable insertion and securing of a fastener through the first hole 564, the header fastener hole 532, the second hole 566, and up through the third hole 568, and through the center 588 of the intermediate member 556, securing the header 112 to the first member 560 and the intermediate member 556, thereafter, the second member 558 (coupled with the intermediate member 556) is fastened with the ceiling using fasteners. It should be noted that the hole 568 is comprised of cylindrical raised wall 574 for added support for a receiving end of the intermediate member 556.

[0153] The intermediate member 556 may be adjusted in height. It should be noted that the adapter connector assembly 554 may be delivered for installation with the intermediate member 556 attached (for example, factory glued) to the second member 558 where the installer may trim the free end of the intermediate member 556 to a desired length prior to coupling with the first member 560. The second member 558 includes two fastener holes 578a and 578b for connecting the second member 558 with the ceiling 133 and a cavity (e.g., a blind-hole) 580 for receiving an end of the intermediate member 556. In general, the cavity 580 is formed by a cylindrical raised wall 590, which adds support for better securing the intermediate member 556.

[0154] FIGS. 7A-1 to 7D-11 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a stile of the hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIG. 1A-1 to FIG. 6N-6 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The stile 120 includes a cross-sectional profile (illustrated in FIGS. 7A-1 to 7A-6), a lower portion 702 (illustrated in FIGS. 7B-1 to 7B-12), an upper portion 715 (illustrated in FIGS. 7C-1 to 7C-27), and a mid-portion 713 (illustrated in FIGS. 7D-1 to 7D-16).

[0155] The stile 120 is generally linear and includes a cross-sectional profile (shown FIG. 7A-1) that extends longitudinally along a longitudinal axis of the stile 120. FIGS. 7A-1 to 7A-6 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of a variety of stile cross-sectional profiles, with FIG. 7A-1 illustrating the cross-sectional profile of the stile 120 shown throughout the figures. In the description given below and the corresponding set of drawing FIGS. 7A-1 to 7A-6, when it is necessary to distinguish the various members, elements, sections/portions, components, parts, or any other aspects (functional or otherwise) or features of the cross-sectional profile of the various stiles in FIGS. 7A-1 to 7A-6 from each other, the description and the corresponding drawing figures may follow reference numbers with a small alphabet character such as (for example) “first channel 788a, 788b, 788c, 788d, 788e, 788f, etc.” If the description is common to all of the various members, elements, sections/portions, components, parts, or any other aspects (functional or otherwise) or features of the cross-sectional profiles of stiles shown in FIGS. 7A-1 to 7A-6 such as (for example) to all first channels 788a, 788b, 788c, 788d, 788e, 788f, etc., then they may simply be referred to with reference number only and with no alphabet character such as (for example) “first channel 788.”

[0156] The cross-sectional profile of the stile shown in FIGS. 7A-1 to 7A-6 includes a first channel 788 for assembly and securing of a cover 101 with the stile. As detailed below, first channel 788 accommodates an interlock section 804b (FIG. 8B) of the second lateral end 117 of the cover 101. The first channel 788 includes a narrower opening 794 that leads to a wider channel base 784, with the opening 794 defined by a set of flanges 790 and 792 that retain and maintain the interlock section 804b of the second lateral end 117 of the cover 101. The interlock section 804b of the second lateral end 117 of the cover 101 extends longitudinally along the length of the second lateral side 117 of the cover 101, extending out of the first channel 788 at the top distal end 135 of the upper portion 715 to couple with a support-connector 719 (detailed below). The interlock section 804b of the second lateral end 117 of the cover 101 also extends out of the bottom distal end 137 of the lower portion 702 of the stile 120 (best shown in FIGS. 1A-10 and 1A-11).

[0157] Further included is a second channel 776 for assembly and securing of the magnet 204 with the stile 120, which longitudinally engages with the magnetic strip 202 of the strike jamb 116 to close-off access to and from the shower area. The second channel 776 has a channel base 782 and is defined by a set of flanges 780 and 778 for retaining the magnet 204. In general, the magnet 204 extends longitudinally along the entire axial length 121 of the stile 120 so to not leave any open gaps when engaged with the magnet 202 of the strike jamb 116. Lateral walls 772 and 774 separate the first and the second channels 788 and 776. The lateral walls 772, 774 and the channel bases 784 and 782 define a cavity 786. FIGS. 7A-2 to 7A-6 show various profile shapes of the stile 120 that functionally perform equivalent to the profile used (shown in FIG. 7A-1), but do offer slight changes in outward appearance and also impacted manufacture by way of altering overall ease of extrusion.

[0158] As indicated above, a lower portion 702 of the stile 120 is best illustrated in FIGS. 7B-1 to 7B-12, the bottom distal end 137 of the lower portion 702 of the stile 120 is associated with the bottom guide mechanism 136 that is single piece and includes a first engaging section 706 (FIG. 7B-8) associated with the sill 114, a second engaging section 708 associated with the stile 120, with the first engaging section 706 generally oriented at an angle (e.g., substantially perpendicular) in relation the second engaging section 708 to form a bend portion 710. As indicated above, prior to securing the bottom guide mechanism 136 to the stile 120, the bottom guide mechanism 136 is first inserted within the sill 114 (prior to installation of the sill 114). Thereafter, when assembling the stile 120, the stile 120 is connected to the bottom guide mechanism 136 with the magnet 204 of the stile 120 facing towards the strike jamb 116. The bottom guide mechanism 136 is inserted into the cavity 786f of the stile 120 via the bottom distal end 137 of the lower portion 702, with the stile 120 and the bottom guide mechanism 136 secured by a fastener 740.

[0159] The first engaging section 706 includes a shaft 712, an engaging member 714, and a support 716 that is associated with the engaging member 714 and the shaft 712. The support 716 functions to support the structural integrity of the shaft 712, functioning as a reinforcement mechanism for the shaft 712 similar to a rebar or a stiffener. This support 716 may be factory installed rather than assembled by an installer on the job site. The first engaging section 706 includes a hole 744 that receives the support 716, with the hole 744 extending from the engaging member 714, through the shaft 712, and the bend portion 710.

[0160] The engaging member 714 has a sufficient height 746 (FIG. 7B-11) to remain within the sill 114, behind the flanges 614 and 616 and so to not be moved out of the opening 610. In other words, the height 746 of the engaging member 714 is generally dictated by the height of the channel 618 and in particular, the span of the backside opening 610 defined by the flanges 614 and 616 so that the engaging member 714 remains within the channel 618 of the sill 114. Additionally, the engaging member 714 has a length 748 with sufficient span to substantially reduce rotation of the engaging member, generally equal or less than a length 762 of the support base 738. Preferably, the length 748 is longer than a span of the height 746 of the engaging member 714. A width 666 (FIG. 7B-9) of the engaging member 714 is sufficient span to enable smooth movement or motion of the engaging member 714, while reducing transverse motion. A first side 750 the engaging member 714 is convex (best illustrated in FIG. 7B-10) to further reduce contact area of the first side with the front wall, and with the first and second sides 750 and 752 of engaging member 714 having curved edges for smooth movement. The second side 752 of engaging member 714 is substantially flat and associated with curved distal end 766 of the shaft 712 that protrudes from the second side 752. The curved distal end 766 of the shaft 712 contacts the rails 614 and 616 of the sill 114 for a smooth movement. That is, the curved distal end 766 of the shaft 712 enables engaging member 714 to have sufficient pitch motion 759 (pivot about the y-axis shown in FIG. 7B-3) in addition to a roll motion 761 (pivot about the x-axis shown in FIG. 7B-3) with minimal yaw motion 763 (pivot about the z-axis shown in FIG. 7B-3). The pivot motions 759 enables an angle β between a longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 and a horizontal plane 145 of the first structure (shown in FIG. 1B-9) to vary while the longitudinal axis of the stile 120 remains substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 141 and 143 of the header 112 and still 114.

[0161] In general, when the stile 120 is moved to close or open access to an area, stile 120 may pivot about its longitudinal axis 139, causing the rotation 754 (FIG. 7B-9) of the engaging member 714 within the channel 618 of the sill 114 while moving along within the sill 114. As the stile 120 is moved and the engaging member 714 is rotated 754, the distal edges 756a/b of the first side 750 and the distal edges 758a/b of the second side 752 of the engaging member 714 move out of their respective intended translational plane (within the channel 618), and bump into the front wall 602 and or the rails 614/616 at some angle. This angular contact would constrain or bind the smooth motion of the stile 120 if the angle of contact is too great. In other words, if the engaging member 714 has plenty of room for rotating 754 with the channel 618 before the distal edges 756a/b and 758a/b bump against the sill (or before the sill blocks any further rotation of the engaging member 714), the engaging member 714 would rotate 754 too much and contact the sill 114 at an angle where it would bind and not move smoothly. Stated otherwise, a shorter span of the length 748 of the engaging member 714 would allow plenty of room for the rotational motion 754 within the channel 618 where the angle of contact would be too high and binding. Accordingly, the length 748 is therefore made sufficiently long so that there is not much room for rotation 754 of the engaging member 714 as it moves within the sill 114, forcing the smooth, translational motion of the stile 120 along the sill 114. That is, the length 748 is sufficiently long so that the distal edges of the engaging member 714 are blocked and prevented from further (or too much) rotation 754 as they slightly bump into the walls of the sill 114 at a substantially reduced angle during normal translational motion. The longer length 748 maintains desired, substantially linear translational motion of the engaging member 714 along the central longitudinal axis of the sill 114. An added benefit is that at the closure, the magnets 204 and 202 of the stile 120 and the strike jamb 116 are substantially aligned (where the stile 120 has a very small or no pivoting action 754) due to the linear motion of the engaging member 714 within the sill 114 as the stile 120 approaches the strike jamb 116.

[0162] It should be noted that the longer the length 748, the less room for rotation 754 of the engaging member 714 however, increasing the length 748 to a greater length than the length 762 of the support base 738 will prevent full closure and in fact, prevent contact between the stile 120 and the strike jamb 116 magnets 204 and 202. That is, the lateral distal ends 764a/b (FIG. 7B-11) of the engaging member 714 (along the length 748) would extend and pass the magnet 204 of the stile 120 (passed the line 760), which is carried and supported by the support base 738. In other words, the lateral distal ends 764a/b would contact the strike jamb 116 before the magnet 204 of the stile 120 if the length 748 exceeds the length 762.

[0163] The second engaging section 708 (FIG. 7B-9) of the bottom guide mechanism 136 includes a supporting base 738 that supports a weight of the stile 120 and caps the bottom distal end 137 of the lower portion 702 of the stile 120. The second engaging section 708 further includes an insert portion 720 that protrudes from the support base 716 and is inserted within the stile 120 via the bottom distal end 137. The support base 738 includes lateral notches 732 and 734 that accommodate right, left, or center assembly of the cover 101. The insert portion 720 includes a first wall 722 associated with a second wall 724 by a middle support structure 726. The insert portion 720 is of sufficient length 742 (FIG. 7B-10) for generally maintaining the stile 120 guide mechanism 136 in alignment with the stile 120. The first and second walls 722 and 724 of the insertion portion 720 have chamfered ends for easy insertion within the stile 120, with the middle support 726 laterally concaved 728 and 730 to facilitate right, left, or center accommodation for the interlock section 804b of the cover 101. The insert portion 720 further includes a through-hole 736 that passes through the first wall 722, the second wall 724, and the middle support 726 for receiving the fastener 740 for securing the bottom guide mechanism 136 with lower portion 702 of the stile 120.

[0164] As indicated above, an upper portion 715 of the stile 120 is illustrated in FIGS. 7C-1 to 7C-24. The stile 120 includes the top distal end section 135 that is adjustably associated with the header 112 through the top guide mechanism 134 (FIG. 7C-1). As stated above, while the stile 120 moves along the curved header 112 at the top distal end section 135 of the stile 120, the axial length 121 of stile 120 is continuously and progressively contracted along its longitudinal axis 139 as the stile 120 moves along a reciprocating path (the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112) towards the first and second distal ends 103 and 105 of the header 112, and is fully contracted at the first and second distal ends 103 and 105. The axial length 121 of the stile 120 is continuously and progressively extended along its longitudinal axis 139 as the stile 120 moves along the reciprocating path towards the apex 123 of the curved header 112, and is fully extended at the apex 123. Accordingly, the axial length 121 of the stile 120 progressively grows at the center (or apex 123) of the header 112, and progressively shrinks at the ends 103 and 105 during the closing or opening process, while moving around the curved header 112, and the sill 114 that may have a straight, linear configuration.

[0165] The stile 120 of the present invention includes the axially moving pivot pin 721 that moves longitudinally as shown by the arrow 731 (FIGS. 7C-1 to 7C-3) along the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 to vary the reach of the stile 120 in relation to the header 112 and the sill 114 as the stile 120 moves along the reciprocating curved path (longitudinal axis 141) of the header 112, thereby varying the overall axial length 121 of the stile 120 to enable articulation of the stile 120 along the curved header 112, and one of a straight and curved sill 114. The curved header 112 (or non-vertical alignment of the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112 in relation to the longitudinal axis 143 of the sill 114) is an optional feature and therefore, all structure that accommodates for functionality of this optional feature is also optional, and this includes the axially moving pivot pin 721 and others, which are further detailed below. Therefore, the vertical up/down motion 731 and a yaw movement 763 (FIG. 7C-3) of axially moving pivot pin 721 that may accompany an optional non-aligned header-sill combination are also optional. In other words, these optional features are used to support a non-aligned header-sill combination feature, only. Therefore, whether a curved basin or straight basin is used, if the header and the sill have commensurate longitudinal vertical alignment, these optional features would not be needed. For example, both the header and the sill may be straight or curved and vertically and parallel aligned on top of one another and therefore, there would not be any need for the vertical and yaw movements of the stile connections in relation to the header and the sill.

[0166] As further illustrated, the stile 120 includes the top distal end section 135 that adjustably associates with the header 112 through the top guide mechanism 134, which provides four types of motions. The top guide mechanism 134 includes the axially moving pivot pin 721 that moves axially 731 that enables the axial length 121 of the stile 120 to extend or contract along the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120, enabling the vertical or longitudinal movement 731 of the top guide mechanism 134. The axially moving pivot pin 721 also pivots 763 about the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120, which enables the yaw motion 763 of the top guide mechanism 134, and the guides 138 enable further free movement of the support-connector 719 and the cover 101 as the cover 101 moves along the header 112. Finally, the entire top guide mechanism 134 has a horizontal or translational motion that moves along the axial length 540 of the header 112, along the channel 530.

[0167] The axially moving pivot pin 721 extends or contracts the axis length 121 of the stile 120 along the illustrated Z-axis (vertical, up-down) 731, and also enables the entire movement of the top guide mechanism 134 (including the axially moving pivot pin 721) to rotate about the Z-axis, providing yaw movement 763. As further illustrated, the axially moving pivot pin 721 is coupled with support-connector 719 that is coupled with the guides 138 that in turn, ride along the channel 530 of the header 112 to enable the stile 120 to move along the curved header 112. The guides 138 include the hangers 522 that allow flexibility to absorb motion at an angle β between the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 and a horizontal plane 145 of the first structure to vary, while the longitudinal axis 139 of the stile 120 remains substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 141 and 143 of the header 112 and sill 114.

[0168] The benefit for using dynamically moving top guide mechanism 134 with moving parts is that it enables the stile 120 to move transversally across the header and the sill while maintaining a generally perpendicular orientation of stile top and bottom distal ends 135 and 137 with the header/sill. This provides an independent movement of the top distal end section 135 of the stile 120 in relation to the header 112 verse the movement of the bottom distal end section 137 of the stile 120 in relation to the sill 114. Therefore, the moving parts of the top guide mechanism 134 allow for the motion of the stile to move beyond the shower space.

[0169] As best illustrated in FIGS. 7C-1 to 7C-27, the stile 120 has the upper portion 715 that includes the top distal end 135, which accommodates the top guide mechanism 134 (best illustrated in FIGS. 7C-5 to 7C-9). The top guide mechanism 134 includes an insert 725 (best illustrated in FIGS. 7C-10 to 7C-16) that has an integral cap 737 (FIGS. 7C-10 to 7C-12) that is configured to cover over a top distal end 135 of the stile 120. The cap 737 has an opening 753 for moveably receiving the axially moving pivot pin 721, and a channel 751 for receiving an interlock section 804b of the lateral side 117 of the cover 101.

[0170] The insert 725 further includes a first and a second flexible prongs 739 and 741 (FIGS. 7C-10, 7C-11, and 7C-13 to 7C-16) with sufficient length 765 to stably maintain the insert 725 within the top distal end 135 of the stile 120, and include a space 743 between the first and second flexible prongs 739 and 741 so to allow the prongs to flex away from each other if the size of the cross-sectional profile of the axially moving pivot pin 721 is large. As best illustrated in FIG. 7C-14, the first and second flexible prongs 739 and 741 have a substantially rectangular configuration with the bottoms having chamfered edges 755. the prongs 741 and 739 have dividers 767 and 769 protruding smoothly (in a curve) from the inner facing surfaces, which define the space 743 between the first and second flexible prongs 739 and 741. Additionally, the dividers 767 and 769 define a insertion space for the axially moving pivot pin 721 and a channel space for the insertion of interlock section 804b of the cover 101. The dividers 767 and 769 divide and separate the movement of the axially moving pivot pin 721 form the interlock section 804b of the cover so that the movement of the pin 721 is not impeded by the inserted interlock section 804b of the lateral side 117 of the cover 101. In general, the axial length of the dividers 767 and 769 is shorter than the axial length 765 of the prongs 739 and 741.

[0171] The top guide mechanism 134 further includes a support-connector 719 (best shown in FIGS. 7C-17 to 7C-24) that has section 727 that has a cavity 747 for receiving a first end of the axially moving pivot pin 721. An extension 729 of the support-connector 719 includes a first aperture 733 for receiving a fastener 717 to connect the cover 101 onto the support connector 719. As best illustrated in FIG. 7C-21, the first aperture 733 is symmetrically configures on either side of the extension 729, enabling connection with the fastener for left, right, or center operation. The first aperture 733 includes radial protrusions 749 for receiving a snap-on type fastener 717. It should be noted that the first aperture 733 may easily be modified to accommodate other types of fasteners. The extension 729 of the support-connector 719 further includes a second aperture 735 for receiving the hanger 522 of the guide 138 to associate the support-connector 719 with the header 112. This arrangement removes the direct connection between the header 112 and the cover 101, which allows the cover 101 to be stretched (detailed below) without damaging or tearing the cover 101 during operation.

[0172] It should be noted that the axially moving pivot pin 721 and the cavity 747 of the support-connecter 719 are circular to allow the axially moving pivot pin 721 to move and pivot within the insert 725 in the case the support connector 719 is inadvertently twisted. Therefore, cylindrical configuration with a circular profile of axially moving pivot pin 721 impedes and in fact, mostly defuses any torque resulting from a twist of the support connecter 719 from transferring to the remaining parts of the stile 120, including the bottom guide mechanism 136, which could damage the cover 101 and the stile 120 itself. As illustrated in FIG. 7C-19, the axially moving pivot pin 721 is in a form of a dowel 721 and may be hallow with a void 745.

[0173] As best illustrated in FIGS. 7D-1 to 7D-11, the stile 120 has a middle portion 713 that includes a set of handles 122 comprised of an internal handle part 796 and an external handle part 798 that are respectively connected to the interior facing lateral sides 774 and exterior facing lateral side 772 of the stile 120 using a set of fasteners 768. The mid-portion 713 further includes a set of through-holes 701 that pass through the lateral sides 772 and 774, with the external handle part 798 including a set of posts 709 that are inserted through through-holes 701. The internal handle part 796 includes fastener holes 707 that are aligned with the stile through-holes 701 and the posts 709, allowing fasteners to pass through the fastener holes 707 and connect to the inserted posts 709 of the handle part 798.

[0174] The stile includes a substantially inconspicuous posturing mechanisms for the flexible cover 101 to provide proper posture for the flexible cover 101 during operation, confine the flexible cover 101 within the shower area to prevent water leakage, and to provide a look that is esthetically pleasing. More specifically, the mid-portion 713 of the stile 120 includes the posturing or securing mechanism comprised of a longitudinally extending elongated slot in a form of a slit 703a along the interior facing lateral side 774 and a slit 703b along a channel base 784 section, near the interior facing lateral side 774, with the slit 703a and 703b aligned and extending partially between the fastener holes 701. It should be noted that the top and bottom of the stile 120 may be rotated (or flipped up aide down) to provide left, right, or center assembly and operation regardless of the specific position of the slits 703a and 703b on the interior side 774 of the stile 120 only. In other words, the external or internal facing lateral sides 772 and 774 are not affected by rotating the top or bottom for left, right, or center operation. That is, when rotating the stile 120 for left, right, or center assembly, the interior facing lateral side 774 will always face the interior of the enclosure. The slits 703a and 703b receive a protruded flange 705 with serrations 711, with the flange 705 extending through the slit 703a and then 703b, and into the first channel 788 of the stile 120, with the flange 705 in general, and the serrations 711 in particular frictionally securing (i.e., holding, biting into, pinching, and maintaining) the cover 101 within the channel 788 in proper posture. As illustrated in FIG. 7D-5 and 7D-11, the flange 705 is protruded from the back side of the internal handle part 796, and has a semi-circular dome for easier insertion into the slits 703a and 703b, that is, it is curved or rounded shape functioning as chamfered edges, but can be any shape. The general apex area of the flange 705 has the serrations 711.

[0175] If the stile 120 is fully assembled but without the connections with the cover 101, the stile 120 will be unstable and may operate, but unstably move with erratic motion in varying directions, including pivoting about its axis. In fact, as described, most of the components that comprise the stile 120 are comprised of separate parts that are loosely, and detachably associated with one another purposefully to allow independent movement of the parts as the stile 120 is moved to one of a closed or open positions. However, the independent movement of some of the parts are “linked” by the cover 101, which detachably couples with the various parts of the stile 120, with some of the independent, loosely, and detachably associated parts of the stile 120 coupled with one another by the cover 101. Accordingly, when the cover 101 is stretched (or tightened) and coupled with the stile 120 (e.g., by the handles 122), the stile components become aligned accordingly and maintain a substantially stable, up-right position as a result of association with the stretched or tightened cover 101.

[0176] In general, the lower portion of the stile 120 rests on bottom guide mechanism 136, with the bottom guide mechanism 136 maintaining the stile 120 above a certain elevation. However, the rest of the stile 120, including the middle portion 715 thereof has no support to remain up-right. In other words, the stile 120 does not have connections with the frame of the enclosure with the exception of its bottom portion. According, it is the cover 101 connection with the stile 120 that substantially maintains the stile up-right. The amount or the degrees by which the stile 120 maintains its up-right position or straightened position in relation to the enclosure frame is commensurate with the tension or its state of being stretched tight or tightness (or the amount of stretch so as to leave no slack) of the cover 101. This tightness or tension of the cover 101 is achieved by the various connection points between the stile 120 and the cover 101, and the cover 101 and the rest of the frame 110 and in particular maintained by the handles 122 that are used to “hang onto” the cover 101 so that the stile 120 remains up-right. The handles (through the flange 705 and serrations 711) tightly hang onto the cover 101, maintaining the created tension or tightness on the lateral side 117 of the cover 101 between the top and middle so that the cover 101 does not slack in relation to other connecting points between the cover 101 and the stile 120, which (the tightness of the cover 101), in turn, maintains the stile 120 in a substantially up-right position with reduced erratic movement. Accordingly, the cover 101 is loosely coupled to the support-connector 719 of the stile 120, with the remaining portion of the lateral side 117 of the cover 101 inserted through the channel 788f of the stile 120. This may maintain the stile 120 up-right, but not sufficiently “firm” for proper operation. Accordingly, the handles of the stile 120 maintain a tight grip onto the stretched cover 101, with the serrations 711 maintaining the stretched out cover 101 in the tight position.

[0177] FIGS. 8A to 8E are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of a cover of the hybrid enclosure illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 7D-11 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As indicated above, the cover 101 includes lateral sides 115 and 117 that are associated with wall jamb 118 and stile 120, and further includes the top end 111 that is associated with the header 112 and a bottom end 113 that is free. As indicated in FIG. 8A, the bottom end 113 of the cover 101 includes a set of weights 802 (which may or may not be magnetic) that are substantially, equally spaced along the bottom end 113 of the cover 101 to further facilitate proper posturing of the cover 101 during operation.

[0178] As best illustrated in FIG. 8B, the lateral sides 115 and 117 of the cover 101 include identical interlock sections 804a and 804b that are associated with the wall jamb 118 and the stile 120 (depending on the right, left, or center operation of the enclosure). That is, one of the interlock sections 804 is inserted into the channel 440 of the wall jamb 118, and the other of the interlock sections 804 is inserted into the channel 751 of the cap 737 of the insert 725, the first channel 788f of the stile 120 passing by the slits 703a/b and maintained in proper posture and position by the posturing mechanism, and exiting the first channel 788f of the stile 120 via one of the lateral notches 732 and 734 of the base support 738 of the bottom guide mechanism 134, draping over the sill 114 and into the tub 124. As illustrated, the interlock sections 804 are comprised of well known piping 806 that add bulk to the very ends 115 and 117 of the cover 101 so that the ends 115 and 117 are not disengaged from the stile 120 and wall jamb 118 during operation of the hybrid enclosure 100. The cover 101 is folded over the piping 806 and itself, with the cover fold swan to secure in place the piping 806, forming the interlock section 804. The benefit of folding the cover edges over itself as illustrated in FIG. 8B at the distal ends to form the interlock section 804 is that the fold prevents fraying of the cover 101 due to wear and tear and extended usage. FIG. 8C illustrates the cross-sectional profile of the mid bottom 113 and mid top 111 of the cover 101, which illustrates similar folding of the cover 101 to prevent fraying.

[0179] FIG. 8D is an enlarged view of the fastener 717 and cover 101 combination taken from FIG. 8A, with FIG. 8E illustrating a cross-sectional profile taken from FIG. 8D. As illustrated, the fastener 717 is very well known and is comprised of a button portion 808 that has a protruded section 812 that passes through the cover 101, and into a stud portion 810, where the protruded section 812 of the button 808 is swaged therein the stud cavity so that the fastener 717 tightly holds onto the cover 101. Once assembled, the entire fastener 717 is snapped onto the radial protrusion (lead-in chamfered) 749 of the aperture 733 of the support connector 719 (FIG. 7C-20). The quick-detachable fastener (e.g., snap-type) facilitates in providing tension within the cover without the cover 101 being ripped or creating a tear at the points where the hangers 522 are connected to the cover 101. Accordingly, the snap-type connection is made, the cover 101 is stretched, and then the handles 122 are coupled, which provide the entire stile 120 “vertebrate” so that it does not wobble.

[0180] FIGS. 9A-1 to 9G are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of a method of installing the hybrid enclosure of the present invention within a shower area in accordance with the one or more embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that the method of installation, actual steps, and the order thereof in installing the hybrid enclosure may be varied based on many factors, a non-limiting example of which may include the amount of space available for assembly and installation, etc.

[0181] As illustrated in FIG. 9A-1, a non-limiting exemplary step for installing the hybrid enclosure 100 includes measuring the curb 128 of the first structure to determine the length 624 of the sill 114 to be used therewith. In general, the length 624 of the sill 114 used should be less than the illustrated total length “A” of the curb 128 by a sufficient distance to enable room for installation of the strike and the wall jambs 116 and 118. As illustrated in FIG. 9A-2, once the sill 114 is measured and trimmed to the desired length to fit the curb 128, the bottom guide mechanism 136 is inserted into the channel 618 of the sill 114, with the combined assembly installed (as shown by arrow 902) onto the curb 128 (using tape 620) with the front side 602 of the sill 114 facing outside the shower area. The strike and wall jams 616 and 618 are then placed on top of and cover over the distal ends 107 and 109 of the sill 114.

[0182] As illustrated in FIGS. 9B-1 to 9B-4, prior to installing the remaining components of the hybrid enclosure 100, a closing-side of the hybrid enclosure for closing-off access to shower space must be determined for one of right or left operations and thereafter, installing one of the strike jamb 116 and the wall jamb 118 on the closing-side, and installing another of the strike jamb 116 and the wall jamb 118, opposite the closing side. As indicated above, both the strike jamb 116 and the wall jamb 118 have markings that according to one or more embodiments of the present invention may be used to sever off the appropriate side to facilitate right, left, or center operation. Accordingly, the jambs 116 and 118 may be trimmed per desired handling and thereafter, both jambs 116 and 118 are slid over the distal ends of the sill 114 as indicated by the arrow 904 in FIG. 9B-2, and as shown in FIG. 9B-3 (strike jamb) and FIG. 9B-4 (wall jamb), they are secured to the surround by fasteners. The trimming operation (FIG. 9B-1) of the wall and strike jambs may be skipped if caps 232/234 are to be used instead (detailed below).

[0183] FIGS. 9C-1 and 9C-2 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations for installation of the caps in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, after installation of the strike and wall jambs, right and left caps are installed onto the top ends of the jambs. Thereafter (if caps are used instead of trimming of the jambs as shown in FIG. 9B-1), the cover 101 may be fed through the channel 440 of the wall jamb 118 as indicated by the arrow 912.

[0184] FIGS. 9D-1 and 9D-4 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations for installation of the header directly onto a ceiling in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, in installing the header 112, a set of end-fasteners 584 (FIG. 9D-2) are positioned on the ceiling 133 first (for at least one embodiment of the present invention), aligned with the strike jamb 116 and wall jamb 118 interior facing ends (alignment marks 910 are schematically illustrated in FIG. 9D-1). The end-fasteners 584 are inserted into ceiling 133 aligned with jambs 116 and 118 in positions 910 shown in FIG. 9D-1, leaving small gap 908 between ceiling 133 and fastener head (FIG. 9D-2). After assembly of the guides 138 onto the header 112, the header 112 is then gently bent in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, with the distal end slots 526 of the header 112 maneuvered to slide onto the end-fasteners 584 (inserted within the gap 908). Accordingly, the header-end fasteners 584 are secured first, and then the header 112 is bent to slide the slots 526 of the header 112 onto the header-end fasteners 584 (within the gap 908). Thereafter, the header 112 is secured onto the ceiling 133 by remaining fasteners 520 as illustrated in FIG. 9D-4.

[0185] FIGS. 9D-5 to 9D-13 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations for installation of the header indirectly onto a ceiling in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in FIGS. 9D-6 and 9D-7, the header end brackets 546 are installed first into the side walls aligned over jamb on the lower ceiling side (usually with the top edge of the bracket 546 against the ceiling 133 as illustrated in FIG. 9D-7). As best illustrated in FIG. 9D-8, the second header-end bracket 546 is installed into the opposing side wall aligned over the jamb on the taller ceiling side, but installed at the same height above the jamb as was done on the lower ceiling side (i.e. horizontally level.)

[0186] As best illustrated in FIGS. 9D-9 and 9D-10, next, the right and left heights of the ceiling 133 are measured to cut the intermediate member 556 to a desired size. The “L” measurement is the lower end of the uneven ceiling 133 and the “R” is the higher end of the uneven ceiling 133, illustrated by the curved line 914. One non-limiting method for determining the desired height for the intermediate member 556 is to simply subtract the low-end height from the high-end (i.e., R−L) and divide the result in half (R−L)/2.

[0187] As best illustrated in FIGS. 9D-11 and 9D-12, first member 560 is installed onto the header 112 (as shown by arrow 916) and attached to the intermediate member 556 via a fastener 920. Finally the header 112 is gently flexed and slid over the header end brackets 546. As finally illustrated in FIG. 9D-13, once the header 112 is confirmed as “level,” the second member 558 is attached to the ceiling 133 via a set of fasteners as illustrated.

[0188] FIGS. 9E-1 to 9E-4 are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations for installation of the stile 120 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The stile 120 top is first selected (with the magnet 204 facing the strike jamb 116) where as indicated in FIG. 9E-1, the top guide mechanism 134 may be assembled onto the stile 120. As best illustrated in FIG. 9E-2, the cover 101 is then fed into and passed through the channel 788f (from the top). Thereafter, as illustrated in FIG. 9E-3, the stile 120 (with its assembled magnet 204) is assembled (as shown by the arrow 906 in FIG. 9E-3) to the bottom guide mechanism 136 so that the stile magnet 204 faces towards the strike jamb 116, with the stile 120 secured to the bottom guide mechanism 136 using a fastener 740. As illustrated in FIG. 9E-4, the corner of the cover 101 is then fastened 717 onto the support-connector 719 and the adjoining hanger portion 522 of the guides 138 (via a small hanger hole 735 illustrated).

[0189] FIG. 9E-5 is a non-limiting, exemplary illustration for installation of the cover in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In one or more embodiments in accordance with the present invention, the cover 101 may be inserted through the respective channels 788f and 440 of the stile 120 and wall jamb 118 simultaneously, and then fastened onto the hanger portion 522 of the guides 138, and then finally fastened to the support-connector 719.

[0190] FIG. 9F is a non-limiting, exemplary illustration for securing of the cover 101 with the stile 120 for proper posture in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. For proper posture of the cover 101, from inside of the shower enclosure, the stile 120 (with the assembled cover 101 thereon) is moved to the half open position (FIGS. 1B-1 to 1B-9), the cover 101 is gently pulled down (removing all slack), and held straight up while tightening fasteners 768 on inside handle 796. This step also automatically clamps/holds the cover 101 in proper posture as the serrations 711 of the protruded flange 705 grip the cover 101 within the handle assembly 122. As illustrated in FIG. 9G, silicone may be applied on outside of enclosure wherever extrusions meet the pan/surround, including locations where sill 114 extrusion contacts jambs 116 and 118.

[0191] FIG. 10 is non-limiting, exemplary illustration of a hybrid enclosure used with in a corner-shower area in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The hybrid enclosure 1000 of FIG. 10 includes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, and or cooperative relationships as the hybrid enclosure 100 that is shown in FIGS. 1A-1 to 9G, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description of FIG. 10 will not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to hybrid enclosure 100 that is shown in FIGS. 1A-1 to 9G.

[0192] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the hybrid enclosure 1000 is comprised of a curved header 112 and a curved sill 1002. In this particular instance, the axial length 121 of the stile 120 of the hybrid enclosure 1000 need not vary since the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112 and the longitudinal axis 143 of the sill 1002 do coincide (or exist) within same vertical plane. Stated otherwise, since a vertical plane passing through the longitudinal axis 141 of the header 112 is the same as the vertical plane passing through the longitudinal axis 143 of the sill 1102, then the axial length 121 of the stile 120 along is longitudinal axis 139 need not vary.

[0193] FIG. 11 is non-limiting, exemplary illustration of a hybrid enclosure used with in a corner-shower area in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The hybrid enclosure 1100 of FIG. 11 includes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, and or cooperative relationships as the hybrid enclosures 100 and 1000 that are shown in FIGS. 1A-1 to 10, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description of FIG. 11 will not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to hybrid enclosure 100 and 1000 that are shown in FIGS. 1A-1 to 10.

[0194] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the hybrid enclosure 1100 is comprised of two stiles 120a and 120b, rather the single stile 120 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1 to 10. In this particular instance, ingress/egress into and from a shower area is accessed from the middle rather than one of the distal ends of the header/sill.

[0195] Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features and or method acts, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Sill 114 may be positioned forward of strike and wall jambs. That is, the strike and wall jambs need not cover over distal ends of the sill 114, but may be positioned behind the sill 114. Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0196] It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, the labels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such as upper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal, distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations between various portions of an object.

[0197] In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. members throughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) is not used to show a serial or numerical limitation but instead is used to distinguish or identify the various members of the group.

[0198] In addition, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. In particular, the use of “step of,” “act of,” “operation of,” or “operational act of” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, Paragraph 6.