Patent Application
20200359861
This invention relates to a plumbing system, specifically a toilet system, which is a toilet that comes equipped with pedestals built directly into the base of the unit. This creates a new category of toilets—pedestal toilets—this new line of toilets is a new innovation in the art and a thorough search of all previous patents will not disclose a system which has offered this feature.
Additionally, this particular invention is the premium model in the series which offers “spa” features, which are simply additional features, in addition to offering automatic pedestals which are released at the touch of a button. This model offers five different levels for the user to select to raise the feet of the user to achieve the “squatting” position which has been shown to be the most efficient position for human beings while in the process of defecation. Further, this unit offers the user the luxury features available at the convenient touch of a button which are a seat warmer, bidet jet spray, hydro-flush, air freshener, and sound system.
The modern day toilet most commonly used in the western world has remained the same for quite a long time. There have been numerous attempts to improve the bathroom experience while defecating over the years. All of the inventions and innovations over the years have required the user to employ the use of an additional device to achieve the “squatting” position which has been proven to be the most efficient body alignment to cleanse the bowels thoroughly. The present invention renders obsolete the need to add an additional device to the toilet because the toilet comes equipped with pedestals which are built directly into the base. This innovation creates a new category in toilets—pedestal toilets. A thorough search of all commercially available toilets will not disclose a toilet system which has this new and innovative feature.
In addition, this particular model offers luxury “spa” features which have been included as additional benefits available to the user, however, the Applicant asserts and emphasizes that these features are ancillary and incidental to this invention. The features have been included to simply make the experience more enjoyable and effective for the user. The Applicant makes no representations that these “spa” features are either new or unique. Any consumer can check the world marketplace and find examples of toilets which possess these “spa” features. There are multiple inventions that are already patented and are available in the market which either facilitate the user with an automatic flush system or automatic fragrance system etc.
There have been a large number of proposed automatic toilet flushing systems for use in various commercial and industrial establishments. As an example, automatic toilet flushing systems, which cause the automatic flushing operation of a toilet after a user leaves the immediate proximity of the toilet is frequently found in hotels, airports, train stations, and like public use facilities.
The commercially available automatic toilet flushing systems generally operate on the principle of using a beam of radiation which can be interrupted to initiate a circuit operation and when the interruption, such as the person using the toilet system, removes himself from the interrupting position, a control circuit causes a flushing operation. A battery-operated automatic toilet flushing system has also been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,169,118 dated Dec. 8, 1992, entitled “Solenoid-Operated Battery-Powered Flush Valve”. In this particular system, the valve itself is actually powered by a battery and also uses infrared sensors connected to the battery along with a solenoid operable valve mechanism. However, the system taught in the '118 patent is again designed for commercial or industrial type toilet or urinal use.
Various types of toilet assemblies having an odor mitigation system are known in the art. An efficient way for odor removal from a water closet is by drawing odorous air from the toilet bowl through the flush rim. Ventilation systems utilizing this air passage have been disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,703,010, 4,165,544, 4,583,250, 4,989,276, 5,321,856, and 5,617,590. The system described in the '010 patent includes a suction means in air communication with the airspace between the water within the water tank and the lid of the tank. The suction device is capable of withdrawing the odorous air that moves from the toilet rim through an overflow pipe into the airspace, and subsequently disposing it away from the water closet through an exhaust pipe. Withdrawing the air from the airspace in a tightly closed water tank may create suction pressure especially when the toilet is flushed. Thus, the '010 system requires a regulating valve to reduce suction in the water tank.
Similarly, the flush toilet exhaust systems disclosed in the '856 and '590 patents are also designed to withdraw the odorous air from the airspace above the water level inside the water tank. These systems include a sealing means {'856} patent or a flexible strip {'590} patent that can be installed at the upper edge of the water tank. The sealing means of the '856 patent is a hollow strip being in air communication with a hose connector and a blower. The sealing means defines holes facing the interior of the water tank for receiving the odorous air from the airspace. After the odorous air enters the sealing means, it is pulled into the hose connector for remote exhaust. The flexible strip of the '590 patent seals the lid of the tank to create an airtight space from which the odorous air is withdrawn. Both systems require a vent device to reduce the problem of undesirable suction when the toilet is flushed.
Unlike the patents described earlier, the '544 patent describes a system that is designed to withdraw the odorous air from the upper end of the overflow pipe. This system includes a hollow, open bottom, and a vertical sleeve that is positioned over the upper end of the overflow pipe. The lower end of the sleeve terminates below the water level in the water tank so that a water seal is achieved to provide closed communication between the overflow passageway and the sleeve. The system also includes a means for creating low air pressure connected to the sleeve so that odorous air is drawn from the sleeve for remote exhaust. The inefficiency in withdrawing the odorous air from the sleeve into the exhaust pipe can be a drawback with this system, because only low air pressure can be applied so that the water within the sleeve is not also withdrawn. Yet another system disclosed in the '276 patent shows a toilet system that includes vent channels formed along the base and the back inside of the water tank. The system also includes a vent adapter mounted inside of the passage that directs the flow of ventilating air along the vent channels to an exhaust fan to the outside atmosphere. One drawback of this system is the requirement of a specially designed toilet bowl and water tank.
Similar to the ventilated toilet systems, several patents have disclosed different types of toilet systems that include automatic flushing mechanisms. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,831,670 and 5,369,816 disclose toilet systems having a weight-activated flushing mechanism. This type of mechanism includes an electric motor that is activated by the weight of the user sitting on and then leaving the seat. When the motor is activated, the tripping mechanism trips the flush valve open to allow the water to flush. A major drawback for the weight-activated flushing mechanism is that it does not operate when the user does not sit down on the seat. Therefore, when people who normally do not sit down on the seat for a urinal purpose use the toilet, the toilet will need to be flushed manually.
A different flushing mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,384. This mechanism comprises a motion-sensing device positioned in the water tank and aligned with a window in the toilet cover when the cover is in a raised position. The motion-sensing device is operatively connected to a motor that drives an L-shaped lever that is connected to a flapper valve. The flushing system operates when the motion-sensing device is activated when the user uses the toilet and then moves away from the toilet. The motion-sensing device charges electric current to the motor which drives the lever upward such that the flapper is lifted to open the valve for the water to flush.
A similar flushing system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,141,091. This system comprises three functional blocks: an input sensor or switch, a logic control circuit, and an Electro-mechanically operated liquid dispenser or flusher. The whole assembly, which is attached to the inner side of the water tank, is hermetically sealed in order to protect the actuator against moisture and possible corrosion. The movable end of the plunger is with a chain or wire connected to the flush handle and drain valve. In the flushing system of '384 and '091 patents, most of the components have to be fitted inside the water tank. Possible concerns of these systems are in the limitation of fitting all the parts into an existing toilet system and the need to modify the water tank and the toilet lid for positioning the motion-sensing device.
So it is safe to say that there are numerous products available on the market which offer automatic features for the user when using the bathroom and toilet facilities, however, heretofore there has never been a commercially available toilet system offered in the world marketplace, whether for residential or commercial or industrial use which has offered the user a toilet which comes fully equipped with automatic pedestals which are built directly into the base of the stool and are attached as one unit. No thorough search will disclose any patents or products which offer a toilet system whereby the pedestals are built directly into the toilet and are automatically released at the touch of a button to raise the feet of the user to achieve the “squatting” position. Additionally, there has never been a toilet system offered in this art which has automatic, elevating pedestals and also comes equipped with “spa” features for the comfort and efficiency of the user while enjoying their bathroom experience.
This invention, although the luxury model in the series, is also very attractive to serve the disabled population, those who suffer temporary or permanent disabilities which may preclude easy usage and control during the bathroom usage. In other cases, forgetfulness or lack of attentiveness of impaired individuals may prevent them from manually completing all tasks necessary for hygiene. In these and other situations, an automatic toilet system like the “Throne” would be a significant advantage in all bathroom settings.
In many cases, governmental regulations now require the use of facilities which meet certain health standards. Thus, a toilet operation which did not require engagement of a handle would have particular attractiveness in these types of environments. Specifically, the U.S. Government Aid for Disabilities Act is a law which would welcome this adaptation for an automatic toilet system. This system should make compliance with this law that much easier.
It is to be noted that as per the Applicant's knowledge, none of these prior art methods have been found to be completely suitable to meet these needs and are cumbersome and non-durable. Hence, the Applicant of the present invention proposes to resolve and surmount existing technical difficulties and to eliminate the aforementioned shortcomings of prior art. Therefore, the object of the “Throne” invention is to deliver a toilet system which comes equipped with automatic pedestals built directly into the base of the stool. Additionally, this toilet system includes “spa” features which enhance the bathroom experience and are also automatic and are activated with the touch of a button.
In light of the disadvantages of the prior art, the following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the present invention and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the invention can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.
According to a first embodiment, the “Throne” toilet system is a toilet system that includes a toilet which has inherent in its design the innovative feature of including pedestals for the feet of the user in the base of the toilet. This precludes the user from needing to outfit the toilet with any additional devices to achieve the “squatting” position which has been shown to be the most efficient placement of the spine to cleanse the bowels completely and most efficiently.
A second embodiment for this invention is that the pedestals which are built into the base are automatic pedestals which are summoned at the touch of a button and which retract back into their compartments in the base of the toilet when defecation is not needed so that they are conveniently recessed into the base of the toilet and do not present an impediment to a user and their mobility near the toilet when they are not needed.
A third embodiment for this invention is that this toilet system also includes “spa” features which can be found in many commercially available toilet systems. There are five features and they are activated by the user by pressing buttons which are conveniently located on the base of the toilet. These features are namely: (1) seat warmer (2) bidet jet spray (3) hydro-flush (4) sound system and (5) air freshener.
Therefore it can be seen that the right combination of features incorporated in the device of the present invention produces surprising results that are not produced by prior art.
This summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example embodiments, so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description, Figures and Claims.
The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments of concepts that include the claimed invention, and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments.
Image 1 shows the top front view of the invention;
Image 2 shows the left view of the invention;
Image 3 shows the front view of the invention;
Image 4 shows the right view of the invention;
Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.
The apparatus and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner. Moreover, the Applicant asserts that this new and innovative system in toilet design actually creates a new category in toilet design—the pedestal toilet—which the Applicant asserts should be the new standard in toilet design worldwide.
According to the Mayo Clinic, many people in the world do not possess a safe way to use the toilet and bathroom facilities around the world to promote maximum health and hygiene. Medical doctors, naturopaths, and assorted holistic health professionals have pointed out the hazards of the conventional toilet for years. There is empirical evidence that conventional toilet systems do not promote proper hygiene for the user. The Applicant asserts that the present invention will surmount the present difficulties found in the current state of the art and will offer a solution to overcome the present difficulties.
In any residential or commercial structure the bathroom has to command the attention as one of the most vital places in the building and for good reason. A safe, comfortable, and convenient toilet system provides the basis for maximum health and hygiene for all humans and the bathroom is the place of importance to utilize the system. The present invention delivers a new standard in the art—the pedestal toilet system—but in addition, this luxury model also offers “spa” features which serve to highlight the system for maximum comfort for the user.
The first embodiment is that the system comes equipped with pedestals which are included with the basic toilet as they are built into the base and attached as one unit. This luxury model is automatic and the pedestals are released by touching a button to activate the pedestals on both sides of the base of the stool. The pedestals have the ability to raise the feet of the user to five different levels to achieve the most efficient position for the user.
In another embodiment of the present invention, this luxury pedestal toilet system offers a hydro-flush feature at the touch of a button which allows a user the ability to flush the toilet without touching a handle. This automatic hydro-flush system will remove all of the stoppages, impurities and waste to clean the toilet bowl effectively.
In another embodiment of the system the invention provides a bidet-like jet spray to thoroughly clean all of the users private areas. Once again this feature is automatic and at the touch of a button.
In another embodiment of the system is an automatic seat warmer to provide ultimate comfort to the user while on the seat.
In another embodiment of this system is an automatic sound system that the user activates by pressing a button and the music entertains the user while using the bathroom to enhance the experience.
In another embodiment of this system is an automatic air freshener that the user can release at the touch of a button to minimize any unpleasant or noxious odors associated with proper cleansing of the body.
Hence, the “Throne” luxury pedestal toilet system is an advancement in the art as it provides inclusive in the design of the system a set of automatic pedestals which are built into the base and are attached to the base as one unit. This automatic version in the series comes with “spa” features which have been highlighted in this application to describe the increased bathroom experience for the user. The Applicant asserts that the automatic, elevating pedestals and the additional “spa” features will make this toilet system one of the most prized possessions in every household and building where it appears.
The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.
This invention relates to a toilet system comprising:
