TOILET SHELL

FIELD

The present application relates generally to toilets. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a toilet shell configured to be coupled to a toilet.

BACKGROUND

Generally, the exterior surfaces of a toilet are configured to conceal plumbing elements (e.g., a trapway, bowl, plumbing connections, etc.) included in a toilet, defining an aesthetic or appearance of the toilet. In addition to defining an appearance of the toilet, the exterior surfaces of a toilet serve several functional purposes. For example, the exterior surfaces of a toilet may be comprised of materials that are easy to clean and have shapes that are easy to clean, improving bathroom hygiene. Generally, the exterior surfaces of a toilet are defined or included in one or more integral components of the toilet, and thus the entire toilet must be replaced in order to change an appearance or shape of the toilet. Accordingly, there is a need for a toilet shell capable of being coupled to a toilet, such that an appearance or shape of the toilet may be changed without replacing the toilet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure should become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a toilet shell in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a toilet shell in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a hinge assembly in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a base assembly in accordance with one example of the preset disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cowling in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of a cowling taken along line AA of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a bottom of a cowling in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cowling coupled to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of a cowling and a hinge assembly in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates an act of coupling a main shell to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a main shell in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 Illustrates a cross sectional view of a cowling and a main shell coupled to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of a cowling and a main shell coupled to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates an act of coupling a main shell to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates an act of coupling a first side panel to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a partial cross section view of a cowling, a main shell, and a first side panel coupled to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates an act of coupling a hinge cover to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of a cowling and a main shell coupled to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates a hinge assembly and a seat cover in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a hinge assembly and a seat cover in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 illustrates a flow chart for coupling a toilet shell to a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 26 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 27 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 28 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 29 illustrates a partial cross section view of a toilet in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.

The figures illustrate certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in detail. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details and methodology set forth in the detailed description or illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purposes of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are toilet shells, methods of coupling toilet shells to a toilet, and toilets including toilet shells. Specifically, described herein are toilet shells configured to be coupled to a toilet to change an aesthetic or appearance of the toilet. The toilet shells described herein may be coupled to, for example, a base or pedestal of the toilet. In some examples, the toilet shells described herein may be coupled to a flush engine, either with or without an enclosure (e.g., skirt, apron, etc.). Additionally, described herein are methods of assembling or coupling a toilet shell to a toilet.

Referring generally to the FIGS., in some examples, the toilet shells described herein may include a base assembly, a cowling, a main shell, a first (e.g., right) side panel, a second (e.g., left) side panel, and a hinge cover. Each of the base assembly, cowling, main shell, first side panel, second side panel, and hinge cover may include one or more features or elements (e.g., coupling features) configured to couple the respective coupling features configured to couple the respective components of the toilet shell to one another and/or a toilet. Additionally, the coupling features may indicate and/or maintain a position of the respective components of the toilet shell relative to one another and/or the toilet.

Referring to FIG. 1, a toilet 10 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. Specifically, FIG. 1 illustrates an in-line toilet 10 including a pedestal 20 and a seat assembly 30. The toilet 10 includes an actuator that is configured to initiate an operational cycle when activated. The actuator may be a button configured to activate when depressed (or pulled) a predetermined distance or when touched, or any suitable device configured to activate based upon an input manipulation by a user. In some examples, an operational cycle may be initiated using one or more control signals sent wirelessly (e.g., via the internet) from a computer (e.g., cell phone) to the toilet 10.

It should be noted that the shapes and configurations of the pedestal 20, seat assembly 30, and the internal components (including the trapway and other features) may vary from the embodiments shown and described herein, and that the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended as limitations. It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be made of a vitreous material such as clay. It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be polymeric and/or over molded or otherwise fixed to the toilet. The toilet disclosed herein may have a wide variety of skirted toilet configurations, and all such configurations are intended to be encompassed herein. The following description of various toilet features is therefore intended as illustration only of one possible embodiment, and it should be understood by those reviewing the present description that similar concepts or features may be included in various other embodiments.

The pedestal 20 of the toilet 10 may include a wall 23 having any suitable shape that is configured to form a bowl 21 having an opening formed by an upper rim at the top of the opening. The pedestal 20 may also be configured to include a plurality of walls having varying shapes that together form a bowl having an opening formed by a rim. The wall 23 of the pedestal may extend downward and/or rearward from the bowl 21 to form a lower portion 22 configured to support the pedestal 20 and the toilet 10. The lower portion 22 may be formed by the end (e.g., lower rim) of the wall 23, or may include a member that extends generally in a horizontal plane from one or more than one end of the wall 23.

The pedestal 20 may also include a top member that extends between two sides of the wall 23 (or between two opposing walls) and is provided rearward (or behind) the bowl 21, wherein the top member forms a plateau for supporting the seat assembly 30 or a hinge assembly. For example, the top member may include one or more than one opening, wherein each opening is configured to receive a fastening device (e.g., bolt, screw, etc.) to couple (e.g., attach) the seat assembly 30 to the top member of the pedestal 20. As another example, the top member may include one or more than one fastening device (e.g., bolts, recessed nuts, etc.) integrally formed therein (i.e., already provided connected or coupled to the pedestal 20), wherein the fastening device may be used to couple or secure at least a portion of the seat assembly 30 to the pedestal 20. The seat assembly 30 may include a hinge, hinge shoulders configured to receive a fastener, a seat coupled to the hinge and a cover coupled to the hinge.

The bowl 21 of the pedestal 20 may be configured to include a receptacle (e.g., sump) and an outlet opening, wherein the water and waste is collected in the receptacle until being removed through the outlet opening, such as upon activation of the actuator. The pedestal 20 may also include a pedestal internal passageway, such as a trapway, that connects the outlet opening or discharge outlet of the bowl 21 to a drain or soil pipe. The passageway, or trapway, generally includes a first portion, a second portion, and a weir separating the first and second portions. The first portion of the passageway may extend from the outlet opening of the bowl 21 at an upwardly oblique angle to the weir. The second portion of the passageway may extend from the weir downwardly to the exiting device, such as the drain or soil pipe.

Between operational cycles (e.g., flush cycles) of the toilet 10, the water (and waste) is collected in the first portion of the trapway (in addition to the receptacle of the bowl), such that the weir prohibits the water from passing past the weir and into the second portion of the trapway. A flushing cycle may begin upon activation of the actuator. Upon activation of the actuator, additional water (e.g., from an in-line water supply 40) may be discharged into the bowl 21 of the pedestal 20, resulting in the flushing action and waste removal through the soil pipe. For example, water may be discharged into the bowl from one or more rim outlets located in or below a rim of the toilet and/or a sump jet disposed in a sump (e.g., first part of the trapway) of the toilet. The flushing cycle may include generation of a siphon to assist the flushing action and waste removal.

The seat assembly 30 may include a cover member 32 (e.g., lid), a seat member 31 (e.g., ring member), and a hinge. The seat member 31 may be configured to include an annular member that encircles an opening, wherein the annular member provides a seating surface for the user of the toilet 10. The seat member 31 may also be pivotally coupled (e.g., attached) to the hinge, wherein the seat member may rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, such as between a first lowered or seated position and a second raised or upright position. The cover member 32 may be configured to be round, oval, or any other suitable shape. Typically, the profile or shape of the outer surface of the cover member will be configured to match (i.e., to be substantially similar) to the profile of the outer surface of the seat member to improve the aesthetics of the seat assembly and toilet. The cover member 32 may also be coupled to the hinge, wherein the cover member may rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, such as between a first lowered or down position and a second raised or upright position. The cover member 32 may be provided above the seat member in the down position to thereby cover the opening of the seat member 31, as well as to conceal the inside of the bowl 21 of the pedestal 20. The cover member 32 may be configured to be disposed in an upright position, such that the cover member 32 remains in the upright position in order for a user to sit upon the seat member 31.

Referring generally to the Figures, a shroud or toilet shell 100 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure includes a cowling 200, a front or main shell 250, a first side panel 300, a second side panel 350, and a pedestal or hinge cover 400. According to the present disclosure, the toilet shell 100 may be coupled to a pedestal (e.g., 20) or a flush engine of a toilet. A flush engine, according to the present disclosure may include one or more components of a pedestal, for example, the pedestal 20 described above with respect to FIG. 1. For example, the flush engine may include one or more of wall(s) 23 configured to form the bowl 21 having an opening by an upper rim at the top of the opening, the bowl 21, a top member that extends between two sides of the wall 23 (or between two opposing walls), a receptacle or sump at an outlet opening of the bowl 21, an internal passageway or trapway in fluid communications with the bowl 21, and/or a hinge assembly, for example, hinge assembly 502 (see FIG. 4). In some examples, the toilet shell 100 may further include a base assembly 700 and/or seat cover 450. In some examples, the pedestal 501 or a flush engine of a toilet 500 may be assembled on our coupled to a base assembly 700 and the cowling 200 may be coupled to the pedestal 501 as illustrated in FIG. 9. The toilet 500 may be the same or substantially similar to the toilet 10 described above with respect to FIG. 1. As illustrated, the cowling 200 may be coupled to the pedestal 501 along a rim of the toilet 500. As described hereinafter, the cowling 200 may include one or more indexing ribs (e.g., 208) and the pedestal 501 may include one or more sockets (e.g., 504). Collectively, the one or more indexing ribs and the one or more sockets may control a position of the cowling 200 relative to the toilet (e.g., pedestal 501). Additionally, in some examples, as described in detail hereinafter the one or more indexing ribs (e.g., 208) may be used to indicate or control a position of the main shell 250, first side panel 300, second side panel 350, and/or hinge cover 400 relative to the cowling 200 and the pedestal 501. In some examples, a pedestal, for example, a hinge assembly of a pedestal may include one or more keys (e.g., 509) protruding therefrom and the cowling 200 may include a keyway 220 configured to receive each key 509. Collectively, the key(s) 509 and keyway(s) 220 may control a position of the cowling 200 relative to the pedestal 501.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the toilet shell 100 is illustrated in an assembled state or a state in which it is coupled to a toilet. For example, the toilet shell 100 may be coupled to one of the toilets 10 or 500 described herein. As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the main shell 250 may cover a front portion, a first (e.g., right) side portion, and a second (e.g., left) side portion of a pedestal (e.g., 501) of a toilet. Additionally, the first side panel 300 may cover a first side portion and the second side panel 350 may cover a second side portion of the toilet (see FIG. 18). In some examples, the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may mirror one another. Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the hinge cover 400 may cover a top surface of the toilet or pedestal, for example, a top surface behind a bowl in the toilet.

Referring to FIG. 4, a hinge assembly 502 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. In some examples, the hinge assembly 502 may be a part of the pedestal 501 of the toilet 500 (See FIG. 9). In other examples, the hinge assembly 502 may be coupled to the pedestal 501. As illustrated in FIG. 4, in some examples, the hinge assembly 502 may include a socket 504 configured to receive a fastener extending through an indexing rib (e.g., 208) of a cowling into the socket 504. A toilet seat and/or toilet seat cover (e.g., 450) may be rotatably coupled to the pedestal of a toilet via the hinge assembly 502. In some examples, the hinge assembly 502 may further include a key 509. When a cowling 200 is coupled to the pedestal 501 the key 509 may be configured to extend into a keyway 220 formed in the cowling 200. The key 509 and the keyway 220 may collectively control and/or maintain a position of the cowling 200 relative to the pedestal 501 when the cowling 200 is connected to the pedestal 501. In some examples, the cowling 200 may be configured to elastically deform so as to receive the key 509 in the keyway 220.

Referring to FIG. 5, a base assembly 700 according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. In some examples, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the pedestal 501 of a toilet may be assembled on and/or coupled to the base assembly 700. For example, the pedestal 501 may be assembled on or coupled to the base assembly 700 so as to be disposed on top of the base assembly 700. The base assembly 700 may be configured to adjust a height of the pedestal 501. In some examples, the base assembly 700 may have a predetermined height corresponding to a bottom flange 255 of the main shell 250 (see FIG. 13) and/or a difference in height between the main shell 250 and the pedestal 501.

Referring to FIG. 6, a cowling 200 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 4, the cowling 200 may have a horseshoe or substantially “u” shape. For example, the cowling 200 may have a bent shape including to parallel side or ends. Specifically, the cowling 200 may include a first end 206 on a first (e.g., right) side of cowling 200 and a second end 207 on a second (e.g., left) side of the cowling 200. Both the first end 206 and the second end 207 may be disposed at a back of the cowling 200. Further, the cowling 200 may include a horizontal portion 201, a vertical portion 202 extending (e.g., downward) from the horizontal portion 201, and an inner lip 203 extending (e.g., downward) from an inner edge of the cowling 200. Each of the horizontal portion 201 and/or the vertical portion 202 may have a substantially “u” shape. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of the cowling 200 of FIG. 6 taken along section line AA.

In some examples, the cowling 200 may include one or more indexing ribs 208. Each of the one or more indexing ribs 208 may be configured to receive a fastener 800. The fastener 800 may be configured to extend through the indexing rib 208 and into a socket 504 formed in the pedestal 501. For example, the fastener 800 may extend through the indexing rib 208 into a socket 504 formed in the hinge assembly 502. In some examples, the cowling 200 may include two indexing ribs 208. For example, the cowling may include an indexing rib 208 disposed on a first (e.g., right) side of the cowling 200 proximate to the first end 206 and an indexing rib 208 disposed on a second (e.g., left) side of the cowling 200 proximate to the second end 207. In other examples, the cowling 200 may include a single indexing rib 208 disposed on one (e.g., a first, a second) side of the cowling 200.

In some examples, the cowling 200 may include one or more rib walls 209 extending upward from the horizontal portion 201. For example, the cowling 200 may include a rib wall 209 disposed on a first side of the cowling 200 proximate to a first end 206 and a rib wall 209 disposed on a second side of the cowling 200 proximate to a second end 207. In some examples, each of the one or more indexing ribs 208 may be disposed in one or more rib walls 209. In other examples, each of the one or more indexing ribs 208 may be disposed in a vertical portion 202 of the cowling 200.

In some examples, the cowling 200 may be comprised of a flexible material and may be configured to elastically deform. For example, the cowling 200 may be configured to elastically deform so that the one or more indexing ribs may accommodate variations in size and/or position of the main shell 250, first side panel 300, second side panel 350, and/or hinge cover 400. In some examples, the cowling 200, including the indexing rib 208, may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the cowling 200 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials.

Referring to FIG. 8, a bottom perspective view of a cowling 200 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. In some examples, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the vertical portion 202 of the cowling 200 may include an inclined section including an inclined surface 213. In some examples, the inclined surface 213 may be disposed at a front or a nose of the vertical portion 202. In some examples, an inclination angle of the inclined surface 213 may correspond to an angle of a front surface of the pedestal, such that the inclined surface is flush to a surface of the pedestal 501 when the cowling 200 is coupled to the pedestal 501. In some examples, one or more pieces of foam tape 214 may attached or fixed to the inclined surface 213. For example, a one-sided foam tape 214 may be adhered to the inclined surface 213. The foam tape 214 may be configured to accommodate variations in the dimensions of the pedestal 501 and/or the cowling 200.

Referring to FIG. 9, a cowling 200 coupled to a toilet 500 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. The toilet 500 may be the same or substantially similar to the toilet 10 described above. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the toilet 500 may include a pedestal 501, a hinge assembly 502, a bowl 503, and one or more sockets 504. The pedestal 501 may be disposed around a lower portion of the toilet 500, concealing one or more plumbing elements (e.g., bowl 503, trapway) included in the toilet 500. In some examples, the pedestal 501 may include or conceal one or more functional or mechanical elements disposed at a rear of the toilet (e.g., behind the bowl 503). In some examples, the pedestal 501 may support the toilet (e.g., above a floor).

In some examples, the pedestal 501 may include the hinge assembly 502. In other examples, the hinge assembly 502 may be coupled to the pedestal 501. The hinge assembly 502 may be located behind and/or above a bowl 503 of the toilet 500. A seat and/or a seat cover (e.g., 450) may be rotatably coupled to the hinge assembly 502. In some examples, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the cowling 200 may extend below the hinge assembly 502, for example, between a rim (e.g., 506) of the bowl 503 and the hinge assembly 502, when the cowling 200 is coupled to the pedestal 501.

In some examples, the toilet 500 may include one or more keys 509 extending from the pedestal 501, for example, from the hinge cover 502 (see FIG. 4). Each of the keys 509 may be configured to indicate a position of the cowling 200 relative to the pedestal 501 in which the cowling 200 should be coupled to the pedestal 501. Specifically, one or more keyways 220 in the cowling 200 may be configured to receive the one or more keys 509 when the cowling 200 is in a correct position relative to the pedestal 501. In some examples, the cowling 200 may be configured to deform (e.g., elastically) such that each of the keys 509 may be inserted into a keyway 220. Accordingly, the key(s) 509 and the keyway(s) 220 may collectively indicate, control, or maintain a position of the cowling 200 relative to the pedestal. In some examples, a key 509 may be formed or extend from each side of the pedestal 501 (e.g., hinge assembly 502). Additionally, in some examples, the cowling 200 may include a keyway 220 on each side of the cowling 200, for example, proximate to the first and second ends 206, 207, respectively of the cowling 200.

The toilet 500 may further include one or more sockets 504. Each of the sockets 504 may be also configured to indicate, control, or maintain a position of the cowling 200 when it is coupled to the pedestal 501. Specifically, an indexing rib 208 the cowling 200 may be aligned with the socket 504 and a fastener 800 may be inserted through (e.g., an opening formed) in the indexing rib 208 and into the socket 504 formed in the pedestal 501. When the one or more keys 509 are disposed in the one or more keyways, the indexing rib(s) 208 may be aligned with the socket(s) 504. Accordingly, the socket 504 and the indexing rib 208 may collectively control or maintain a position of the cowling 200 relative to the pedestal 501. Additionally, the indexing rib 208 may be used to indicate and/or control a position of additional components or elements (e.g., first side panel 300, second side panel 350, hinge cover 400) as they are coupled to the pedestal 501. In some examples, the one or more sockets 504 may be disposed in the pedestal 501 of the toilet 500. In some examples, the one or more sockets 504 may be disposed in the hinge assembly 502. In some examples, the pedestal 501 and/or hinge assembly 502 may include two or more sockets 504. For example, the pedestal 501 may include a socket 504 disposed in a first (e.g., right) side of the pedestal 501 and a socket 504 disposed in a second (e.g., left) side of the pedestal 501. In some examples, a socket 504 may be disposed in each of a first (e.g., right) side of the hinge assembly 502 and a second (e.g., left) side of the hinge assembly 502.

As shown in FIG. 9, the cowling 200 is coupled to a pedestal 501 of the toilet 500. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the cowling 200 is coupled to the pedestal 501 such that a key 509 of the pedestal 501 is disposed in a keyway 220 of the cowling 200, an indexing rib 208 of the cowling 200 is aligned with a socket 504 of the toilet 500, and a fastener 800 extends through the indexing rib 208 and into the socket. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the cowling 200 may be coupled to the pedestal 501 so as to cover a rim of the pedestal 501. Further, when the cowling 200 is coupled to the pedestal 501, the inner lip 203 of the cowling 200 may extend downward into the bowl 503 of the toilet. In some examples, two or more indexing ribs 208 may each be aligned with a respective socket 504 when the cowling 200 is coupled to the pedestal 501 and a fastener 800 may extend through the indexing rib 208 and into a respective socket 504. In some examples, an interface or alignment between corresponding indexing ribs 208 and sockets 504 and in interface between the front or nose of the pedestal 501 may control a position of the cowling 200 with relative to the pedestal 501. As noted above, with respect to FIG. 8, in some examples, the vertical portion 202 of the cowling 200 may include an inclined surface 213 configured to correspond to an inclined front surface of the pedestal 501. Further, in some examples, foam tape 214 may be adhered to the inclined surface 213. The foam tape 214 may advantageously accommodate dimensional tolerance in the pedestal 501 and/or the cowling 200.

Still referring to FIG. 9, in some examples, the cowling 200 may further include a front cowling mounting hole 216. In some examples, the cowling 200 may include two front cowling mounting holes 216. For example, the cowling 200 may include a front cowling mounting hole 216 near a first end 206 of the cowling 200 and a front cowling mounting hole 216 near a second end 207 of the cowling 200. In some examples, after the indexing rib(s) 208 in the cowling 200 have been aligned with the socket(s) 504 of the pedestal 501 and a fastener 800 has been inserted through the indexing rib 208 and into the socket 504, another fastener (e.g., screw, bolt, rivet, and the like) may be inserted through each of the front cowling marking holes 216 and into the pedestal 501.

Referring to FIG. 10, an enlarged view of a cowling 200 and a hinge assembly 502 according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the cowling 200 include an indexing rib 208 and a front cowling mounting hole 216. As illustrated in FIG. 10, a fastener 800 may extend through the indexing rib 208 and into the socket 504 when the cowling 200 is coupled to the toilet 500. Further, the front cowling mounting hole 216 may be configured to receive a fastener for coupling the cowling 200 to the toilet 500. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the cowling 200 may include a keyway 220. The keyway 220 may be configured to receive a key 509 of the toilet 500. Collectively, the key 509 and keyway 220 may be configured to indicate and/or control a position of the cowling 200 relative to the toilet 500.

Referring to FIG. 11, an act of coupling a main shell 250 to a toilet 500 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. According to some examples, as shown in FIG. 11, one or more surface of the main shell 250 may be textured. As shown in FIG. 11, in some examples, the main shell 250 may be slid below the cowling 200. The main shell 250 may include a front portion 251, a first (e.g., right) side portion 252, and a second (e.g., left) side portion 253. Referring generally to FIGS. 2 and 11, when the main shell 250 is coupled to the pedestal 501, the front portion 251 of the main shell may cover or conceal a front portion of the pedestal 501, the first side portion 252 may cover or conceal a first (e.g., right) side of the pedestal 501, and the second side portion 253 may cover or conceal a second (e.g., left) side of the pedestal 501.

In some examples, the main shell 250 may be comprised of a flexible material and may be configured to elastically deform. For example, the main shell 250 may be configured to deform making it easier to couple the main shell 250 to the housing. In one example, the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may be integrally formed with the main shell 250 and the main shell 250, comprised of a flexible material, may be coupled to a back of the pedestal 501. In other examples, the main shell 250 may be comprised of a rigid material. In some examples, the main shell 250 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the main shell 250 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. In other examples, the main shell 250 may be comprised of another material, such as, a vitreous material, metal, wood, a composite material, concrete, or stone.

Referring to FIG. 12, a main shell 250 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the main shell 250 includes a plurality of pads 270 disposed on a bottom surface thereof. In some examples, the main shell 250 may include four pads, for example, two on each side of a bottom surface of the main shell 250. The one or more pads 270 may help the main shell 250 to slide (e.g., on a floor) as it is installed (e.g., slid) below the cowling 200. Additionally, the one or more pads 270 may provide minimum clearance so that the main shell 250 may be slid on an unlevel floor. In some examples, the pads 270 may be comprised of felt.

Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the main shell 250 may include one or more protective pads 275 disposed below a top flange 256 of the main shell 250. The one or more protective pads 275 may be disposed between the top flange 256 and a channel flange 211 of the cowling 200. The protective pads 275 to ensure constant contact between the main shell 250 and the cowling 200 when the main shell 250 is coupled to the pedestal 501 and/or the cowling 200 (see FIG. 14). In some examples, the protective pads 275 may be comprised of felt.

Further, as illustrated in FIG. 13, in some examples, the main shell 250 may include a bottom flange 255. The bottom flange 255 may extend or protrude inward from the main shell 250 at or near a bottom of the main shell 250. In some examples, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the bottom flange 255 may extend along the entire length (e.g., “u” shape) of the main shell 250. Referring to FIG. 13, when the main shell 250 is coupled to the pedestal 501 and/or the cowling 200, the bottom flange 255 may abut or engage a bottom surface 505 of the pedestal 501. The interface between the bottom flange 255 and the bottom surface 505 of the pedestal 501 may be configured to control and/or maintain a position of the main shell 250 relative to the pedestal 501.

Referring to FIG. 14, a partial cross-sectional view of a cowling 200 and main shell 250 coupled to a toilet 500 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 14, the horizontal portion 201 of the cowling 200 may abut a rim 506 of the pedestal covering the rim 506. According to some examples, an adhesive and/or sealant may be provided between the horizontal portion 201 of the cowling 200 and the rim 506. Specifically, an adhesive or sealant may be provided in a channel formed by the inner lip 203 and the vertical portion 202 of the cowling 200 in which the rim 506 is disposed. The adhesive or sealant may be a liquid adhesive or sealant applied to the cowling 200 and/or the rim 506 that cures or hardens over time. For example, the adhesive or sealant may be comprised of silicone, for example, a Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) silicone. According to another example, the adhesive or sealant may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the cowling 200 may include a channel 210. In some examples, the channel 210 may be disposed below the horizontal portion 201. In some examples, the channel 210 may be disposed on outside or exterior of the vertical portion 202. In some examples, the horizontal portion 201 and/or the vertical portion 202 may each define a wall of the channel 210. In some examples, the cowling 200 may further include a channel flange 211 extending from the vertical portion 202 of the cowling 200. The channel flange 211 may extend from the vertical portion 202 outward or toward an exterior of the cowling 200. In some examples, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the horizontal portion 201, vertical portion 202, and channel flange 211 may collectively form or define the channel 210. The channel 210 may be open to an outside or exterior of the cowling 200 may be configured to receive a top flange (e.g., 256) of the main shell 250.

Still referring to FIG. 14, in some examples the main shell 250 may further include a top flange 256. The top flange 256 may extend or protrude inward from the main shell 250 at or near a top of the main shell 250. For example, the top flange 256 may extend along the entire length (e.g., “u” shape) of the main shell 250. As illustrated in FIG. 14, when the main shell 250 is coupled to the pedestal 501 and/or cowling 200, the top flange 256 of the main shell 250 may be disposed within the channel 210 of the cowling 200. The interface between the top flange 256 and the channel 210 may control and/or maintain a position of the main shell 250 relative to the pedestal 501.

Referring to FIG. 15, an act of coupling the main shell 250 to a pedestal 501 and the cowling 200 in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. Referring to FIG. 15, in some examples, the cowling 200 may further include one or more vertical ribs 212. Each of the one or more vertical ribs 212 may extend or protrude outward from the vertical portion 202 and/or downward from the horizontal portion 201 of the cowling 200. In some examples, the cowling 200 may include two or more vertical ribs 212. For example, the cowling 200 may include a vertical rib 212 at or near each of the first end 206 and the second end 207 of the cowling.

Still referring to FIG. 15, in some examples, the main shell 250 may further include one or more inner ribs 260. Each of the one or more inner ribs 260 may extend inward from the main shell proximate to an end of the main shell 250. In some examples, the main shell 250 may include two or more inner ribs 260. For example, the main shell 250 may include an inner rib 260 proximate to an end of the first side 252 of the main shell 250 and end of the second side 253 of the main shell 250.

Referring to FIG. 15, when the main shell 250 is coupled to the pedestal 501 and/or the cowling 200, the one or more inner ribs 260 of the main shell 250 may abut the one or more vertical ribs 212 of the cowling 200. For example, the main shell 250 may be slid or pushed below the cowling 200 until the inner rib(s) 260 of the main shell 250 contact the vertical ribs 212 of the cowling 200. Accordingly, the inner rib(s) 260 and/or vertical rib(s) 212 may be used to indicate or control a position of the main shell 250 relative to the cowling 200 and/or pedestal 501.

In some examples, the pedestal 501 may be integrally formed with the cowling 200. Specifically, the pedestal 501 may include one or more features of the cowling 200 such that the main shell 250, first and second side panels 300, 350, and/or hinge cover 400 may be directly coupled to the pedestal 501. For example, the pedestal 501 may include one or more of the horizontal portion 201, vertical portion 202, channel flange 211, channel 210, inclined surface 213, indexing rib 208, and rib wall 209 described above with respect to the cowling 200.

Referring to FIG. 16, the act of coupling a first side panel 300 to a pedestal 501, cowling 200, and/or main shell 250 is illustrated. In some examples, the first side panel 300 may be coupled to the pedestal 501 after the cowling 200 and main shell 250 are coupled to the pedestal 501. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the first side panel 300 may be configured to cover or conceal a first (e.g., right) side of the pedestal 501. Additionally, a second side panel 350 may be configured to cover or conceal a second (e.g., left) side of the pedestal 501 (see FIG. 14). In some examples, the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may mirror one another.

Still referring to FIG. 16, each of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include one or more hook features 301 and/or an opening 305. The one or more hook features 301 may extend inward from (e.g., away from an outer surface of) the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350, respectively. Each of the hook features 301 may be configured to engage or abut the main shell 250 when the first side panel 300 or second side panel 350, respectively, are pushed into the cowling 200 and/or main shell 250. For example, each hook feature 301 may be configured to be inserted into a latch 280 in the main shell 250, engaging the latch 280 and coupling the side panel to the main shell 250. For example, the one or more hook features 301 may be snap-fit into a respective latch 280 disposed in the main shell 250. In some examples, the one or more hook features 301 may be disposed along or near a front edge of the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350, respectively.

In some examples, each of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include an opening 305. Each of the openings may be configured to receive an indexing rib 208 extending or protruding from the cowling 200. For example, an opening 305 in the first side panel 300 may be configured to receive an indexing rib 208 extending from a first (e.g., right) side of the cowling 200. Further, an opening 305 in the second side panel 350 may be configured to receive an indexing rib 208 extending from a second (e.g., left) side of the cowling 200. In some examples, each of first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include two or more openings 305 each configured to receive an indexing rib (e.g., 504).

Each of the openings 305 disposed in the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350, respectively, may be aligned with an indexing rib 208 extending from the cowling 200 before the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 are coupled to the pedestal 501, the cowling 200, and/or the main housing 250. Accordingly, each pair of corresponding openings 305 and indexing ribs 208 may be used to indicate a position of the first side panel 300 or the second side panel 350 for coupling to the pedestal 501, the cowling 200, and/or the main shell 250. Additionally, in some examples, each pair of corresponding openings 305 and indexing ribs 208 may control or maintain a position of the first side panel 300 or the second side panel 350 relative to the pedestal 501, cowling 200, and/or main shell 250 when the first side panel 300 or second side panel 350 is coupled to the pedestal 501, cowling 200, or main shell 250.

Referring to FIG. 17, in some examples each of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include an outer seem 307. The outer seam 307 may extend inward from each of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350, respectively. In some examples, the outer seem 307 may be disposed along each of a front edge of the first side panel 300 or the second side panel 350, respectively.

Still referring to FIG. 17, in some examples the main shell 250 may further include one or more vertical slots 265. In some examples, the main shell 250 may include two or more vertical slots 265. For example, the main shell 250 may include a vertical slot 265 disposed within a first side portion 252 of the main shell 250 proximate to an end (e.g., back end) of first side portion 252 and a vertical slot 265 disposed within a second side portion 253 of the main shell 250 proximate to an end (e.g., back end) of the second side portion 253.

As illustrated in FIG. 17, when the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350 are coupled to the main shell 250, an outer seam 307 of the first side panel 300 and/or second side panel 350 may be disposed within a vertical slot 265 in the first side portion 252 or the second side portion 253, respectively, of the main shell 250. An interface between the outer seem(s) 307 and the vertical slot(s) 265 may indicate and/or control a position of the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350 relative to the main shell 250.

Returning to FIG. 16, in some examples, each of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include a side panel mounting hole 308. When the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 are coupled to the pedestal 501, the cowling 200, and/or the main shell 250, the side panel mounting hole 308 in each of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may align with a front cowling mounting hole 216 in the cowling 200. After the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 are coupled to pedestal 501, the cowling 200, and/or the main shell 250, a fastener (e.g., 800) may be inserted through each of the side panel mounting holes 308, through a front cowling mounting hole 216 and into the pedestal 501.

In some examples, the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may be integrally formed with the main shell 250. Accordingly, in some examples, the side panel mounting hole 308 and/or the opening 305 as described above with respect to the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may be included in the main shell 250. Additionally, in some examples, the main shell 250 may include the one or more grooves 310 described with respect to the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 for coupling with the one or more locking tabs 403 of the hinge cover 400. In some examples, when the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 are integrally formed with the main shell 250, the main shell 250 may be coupled to a back of the pedestal 501, hinge assembly 502, cowling 200, or hinge cover 400. For example, one or more fasteners, detents and protrusions, locking tabs and grooves, and the like may be used to couple to main shell 250 to a back of the pedestal 501, hinge assembly 502, cowling 200, and/or hinge cover 400.

Referring generally to FIG. 18 an act of coupling or pressing a hinge cover 400 into a first side panel 300 and a second side panel 350 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the hinge cover 400 may include one or more locking tabs 403. The one or more locking tabs 403 may be configured to fit into a groove 310 formed in the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350, respectively, when the hinge cover 400 is coupled to the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350. According to some examples, the hinge cover 400 may include four locking tabs 403. For example, a front wall or panel of the hinge cover 400 may include a locking tab 403 extending inward (e.g., toward a center of the hinge cover 400) proximate to each of a left and right end of the front panel. Similarly, a back wall or panel of the hinge cover 400 may include a locking tab 403 extending inward proximate to each of a left and right end of the back panel.

Referring generally to FIG. 18, in some examples the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350 may include a top flange 314 and/or one or more grooves 310. The top flange 314 may extend upward from the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350. The top flange 314 of the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350 may be aligned with the hinge cover 400 so as to be disposed within the hinge cover 400 when the hinge cover 400 is coupled to the first side panel 300 and/or second side panel 350.

In some examples, the first side panel 300 and/or second side panel 350 may include one or more grooves 310. The grooves 310 may be configured to receive a locking tab 403 protruding from the hinge cover 400. A corresponding number of locking tabs 403 and grooves 310 may be provided. In some examples, both the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include two grooves 310. In some examples, a groove 310 may be included or disposed in front wall or panel of a top flange 314 of the first side panel 300 or the second side panel 350, respectively. Additionally, a groove 310 may be formed in a back wall 312 of the first side panel 300 or the second side panel 350 respectively.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 3, in some examples the main shell 250 may further include one or more (e.g., primary) shell mounting holes 267 and the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 may include side panel mounting holes 320. In some examples, the main shell 250 may include two shell mounting holes 267. For example, the main shell 250 may include a shell mounting hole 267 in a first side portion 252 of the main shell 250 and a shell mounting hole 267 in a second side portion 253 of the main shell 250. In some examples, the one or more shell mounting holes 267 may be disposed at or near a bottom and/or a back end of the main housing 250. The side panel mounting holes 320 may be located to proximate to a bottom and/or front of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350, respectively. When the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 are coupled to the pedestal 501, the side panel mounting holes 320 and the shell mounting holes may align. In some examples, after the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 are coupled to the pedestal 501, a location of the side panel mounting holes 320 and the shell mounting holes 267 may be marked on the base assembly 700. After a location of the side panel mounting holes 320 and the shell mounting holes 267 is marked, the side panels 300, 350 and the main shell 250 may be removed and a rivet nut 701 may be punched in the base assembly 700 (see FIG. 5). The rivet nut 701 may include a threaded interior configured to receive a fastener (e.g., 800) for coupling the main shell 250 and one of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350, respectively, to the base assembly 700. The main shell 250 and side panels 300, 350 may then be coupled to the pedestal 501 and a fastener may be inserted through one of the first side panel 300 or the second side panel 350 and the main shell 250, coupling the respective side panel and the main shell to the base assembly 700.

Still referring to FIG. 19, in some examples, the main shell 250 may further include one or more secondary shell mounting holes 268. For example, the main shell 250 may include a secondary shell mounting hole 268 in each of the first side portion 252 and the second side portion 253 of the main shell 250. In some examples, the secondary shell mounting holes 268 may be disposed at or near a bottom and/or back of each side of the main shell 250 (e.g., proximate to the shell mounting hole 267). Each of the secondary shell mounting holes 268 may be configured to receive a fastener for coupling the main shell 250 to the base assembly 700. In some examples, each of the secondary shell mounting holes 268 may be configured to receive a fastener (e.g., 800) such as a self-taping screw for coupling the main shell 250 to the base assembly 700.

Referring generally to FIGS. 20 and 21, in some examples, the hinge assembly 502 may further include one or more arms 511 rotatably coupled to the hinge assembly 502 and/or the pedestal 501. In some examples, two arms 511 may be rotatably coupled to the hinge assembly 502. For example, an arm 511 may be coupled to each of a first (e.g., right) and second (e.g., left) side of the hinge assembly 502.

Still referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, in some examples the seat cover 450 may further include one or more brackets 451. In some examples, each of the one or more brackets 451 may be disposed on a bottom side of the seat cover 450. In some examples, the seat cover 450 may include two brackets 451. Specifically, the seat cover 450 may include a bracket 451 disposed on a bottom surface of the seat cover 450 at or near a back end of the seat cover 450 on a first (e.g., right) side and a second (e.g., left) side of the seat cover 450. As illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21, each of the arms 511 may include one or more cover mounting holes 512 configured to receive a fastener for coupling an arm 511 to a bracket 451 of the seat cover 450. Further, the seat cover 450 may include one or more inserts 452 configured to cover or conceal a bracket 451 after the arms 511 have been coupled to the bracket 451. For example, the one or more inserts 452 may be press fit or snap fit into a corresponding bracket 451.

Referring to FIG. 22, a flow chart 600 for assembling a toilet shell 100 or coupling a toilet shell 100 to a toilet (e.g., 10, 500) in accordance with one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. The flow chart 600 may be used to assemble or couple any of the toilet shells (e.g., 100) described herein to a toilet (e.g., 10, 500). Additional, different, or fewer acts may be included. The flow chart 600 for assembling a toilet shell may be implemented in the order shown but may also be implemented in or according to any number of different orders.

In a first act S101, a cowling 200 may be inserted into a bowl 503 of a toilet 500. Specifically, the cowling 200 may be placed on an upper surface or rim 506 of the toilet 500 such that an inner lip 203 of the cowling 200 extends into the bowl 503 of the toilet 500.

In a second act S103, a first indexing rib 208 may be aligned with a first socket 504 in the pedestal 501. In some examples, the first indexing rib 208 may extend or protrude from a first (e.g., right) side of the cowling 200 and the first socket 504 may be disposed in a first (e.g., right) side of the pedestal 501. After the first indexing rib 208 and the first socket 504 are aligned a fastener 800 may be inserted through the first indexing rib 208 and into the first socket 504.

In some examples, the pedestal (e.g., hinge cover 502) may include a first key 509 protruding therefrom and the cowling 200 may include a first key way 220 configured to receive the first key 509. Accordingly, in some examples, the flow chart 600 may further include aligning a first keyway 220 in the cowling 200 with a first key 509 in the pedestal 501. In some examples, the first keyway 220 and the first key 509 may be used to align the first indexing rib 208 and the first socket 504.

In a third act S105, a second indexing rib 208 may be aligned with a second socket 504 in the pedestal 501. In some examples, the second indexing rib 208 may extend or protrude from a second (e.g., left) side of the cowling 200 and the second socket 504 may be disposed in a second (e.g., left) side of the pedestal 501 After the second indexing rib 208 and the second socket 504 are aligned a fastener 800 may be inserted through the second indexing rib 208 and the into the second socket 504.

In some examples, the pedestal 501 (e.g., hinge cover 502) may include a second key 509 protruding therefrom and the cowling 200 may include a second keyway 220 configured to receive the second key 509. Accordingly, in some examples, the flow chart 600 may further include aligning a second keyway 220 in the cowling 200 with the second key 509 in the pedestal 501. In some examples, the second keyway 220 and the second key 509 may be used to align the second indexing rib 208 and the second socket 504.

In a fourth act S107, a main shell 250 may be slid below the cowling 200. In some examples, main shell 250 may include one or more pads 270 configured to facilitate sliding of the main shell 250 below the cowling 200. In some examples, main shell 250 may be slid below the cowling 200 such that a top flange 256 of the main shell 250 is disposed in a channel 210 of the cowling 200. In some examples, the main shell 250 may be slid below the cowling such that a bottom flange 255 of the main shell 250 abuts or engages a bottom surface 505 of the pedestal 501. In some examples, the main shell 250 may be slid below the cowling 200 until an inner rib 260 of the main shell contacts a vertical rib 212 of the cowling 200.

In a fifth act S109, a first (e.g., right) side panel 300 may be aligned with the cowling 200 and the main shell 250. Specifically, the opening 305 in the first side panel 300 may be aligned with the indexing rib 208 in the cowling 200. In some examples, one or more hook features 301 included in the first side panel 300 may be aligned with a back end of the main shell 250 and/or one or more latches 280 in the main shell 250 configured to receive the hook features 301.

In a sixth act S111, the first side panel 300 may be pressed into the cowling 200 and main shell 250 coupling the first side panel 300 to the cowling 200, main shell 250, and/or toilet 500. Specifically, the first side panel 300 may be pressed into the cowling 200 and the main shell 250 such that the opening 305 in the first side panel 300 circumscribes the indexing rib. Additionally, the first side panel 300 may be pressed into the cowling 200 and the main shell 250 such that the hook features 301 engage the main shell 250.

In a seventh act S113, a second (e.g., left) side panel 350 may be aligned with the cowling 200 and the main shell 250. Specifically, an opening 305 in the second side panel 350 may be aligned with the indexing rib 208 in the cowling 200. In some examples, one or more hook features 301 included in the second side panel 350 may be aligned with a back end of the main shell 250 and/or one or more latches 280 in the main shell 250 configured to receive the hook features 301.

In an eight act S115, the second side panel 350 may be pressed into the cowling 200 and main shell 250 coupling the second side panel 350 to the cowling 200, main shell 250, and/or toilet 500. Specifically, the second side panel 350 may be pressed into the cowling 200 and the main shell 250 such that the opening 305 in the second side panel 350 circumscribes the indexing rib 208. Additionally, the second side panel 350 may be pressed into the cowling 200 and the main shell 250 such that the hook features 301 engage the main shell 250.

In a ninth act S117, the hinge cover 400 may be aligned with the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350. In some examples, the hinge cover 400 may be aligned with the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 such that a top flange 314 of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350, respectively are disposed below the hinge cover 400 such that if the hinge cover 400 were moved or pressed downwards the top flanges 314 of the first side panel 300 and second side panel 350, respectively, would be disposed within the hinge cover 400. Additionally, each of one or more grooves 310 in the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350, respectively, may be aligned with a locking tab 403 protruding from the hinge cover 400.

In a tenth act S119, the hinge cover 400 may be pressed over the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 coupling the hinge cover 400 to the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350. Specifically, the hinge cover 400 may be pressed into the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 such that top flange 314 of the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350 are disposed within the hinge cover 400. Additionally, in some examples, the hinge cover 400 may be pressed into the first side panel 300 and the second side panel 350 until one or more locking tabs 403 included in the hinge cover 400 engage one or more grooves 310 formed in the first side panel 300 and/or the second side panel 350, respectively.

In some examples, the flow chart 600 may further include the acts of marking the location of the primary shell mounting hole 267 and the side panel mounting hole 320 (e.g., a single location) when the main shell 250 and one of the first side panel 300 and the second side panel, respectively, are coupled to the pedestal 501 and installing a rivet nut 701 in the base assembly 700 at the marked location. In some examples, a location of the primary shell mounting hole 267 and the side panel mounting hole 320 may be marked on each side of the base assembly 700 and a rivet nut 701 may be installed at both marked locations.

Referring generally to FIGS. 23-29, partial cross section views of various toilets illustrating various connections or ways of coupling a toilet bowl and a cowling and/or a shell of a toilet are provided.

Referring to FIG. 23, a partial cross section view of a toilet 710 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 23, the toilet 710 includes a bowl 711, a shell 712, and a cowling 713. The bowl 711 may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 712 and/or cowling 713 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 712 and/or cowling may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. The cowling 713 may have an annular shape or a “u” shape, similar to the cowling 200 described above. According to some examples, as shown in FIG. 23, the cowling 713 may include an exterior rib or protrusion 714 extending downward from a body of the cowling 713 near an exterior perimeter of the cowling 713. As shown in FIG. 23, the exterior protrusion 714 may be configured to fit or nest into a corresponding groove disposed in the shell 712. According to some examples, silicone, for example, a Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) silicone, or another sealant and/or adhesive may be provided between the shell 712 and the cowling 713, coupling the shell 712 and the cowling 713. For example, silicone or another sealant and/or adhesive may be provided within the groove in the shell 712 so as to secure the exterior protrusion 714 within the groove. Additionally, silicone, or another sealant or adhesive may be provided at an interface between a bottom surface of the cowling 713 and a top surface of the shell 712.

Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the cowling 713 may include an interior rib or protrusion 715 extending downward from a body of the cowling 713 near an interior perimeter of the cowling 713. As shown in FIG. 23, the interior protrusion 715 may be configured to engage (e.g., abut) an interior surface of the bowl 711. According to some examples, silicone, for example, a Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) silicone, or another sealant and/or adhesive may be provided between the cowling 713 and the bowl 711. For example, silicone or another sealant and/or adhesive may be provided between the interior protrusion 715 and an interior surface of the bowl 711, coupling the interior protrusion 715 and the bowl 711. According to some examples, silicone or another sealant and/or adhesive may be disposed between an interface between a bottom surface of the cowling 713 and a top surface of the rim of the bowl 711.

Referring to FIG. 24, a partial cross section view of a toilet 720 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 24, the toilet 720 includes a bowl 721, a shell 722, and a cowling 723. The bowl 721 may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 722 and/or cowling 723 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 722 and/or cowling may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. The cowling 723 may have an annular shape or a “u” shape, similar to the cowling 200 described above.

As shown, the cowling 723 may include a substantially horizontal body portion 724, an interior rib or protrusion 725, and a central rib or protrusion 726. The interior protrusion 725 may extend downward from the horizontal body portion 724 at or near an interior perimeter of the cowling 723. The central protrusion 726 may extended downward from the horizontal body portion 724. The central protrusion 726 is offset from the interior protrusion 726, so as to form a channel between the interior protrusion 725 and the central protrusion 726 configured to receive a top portion of a rim of the bowl 721.

As shown in FIG. 24, a seal 727 may be disposed within the channel between the cowling 723 and the bowl 721. According to some examples, the seal 727 may be an adhesive and/or sealant applied to the cowling 723 and/or a rim of the bowl 721. For example, the seal 727 may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied the cowling 723 and/or bowl 721 that cures or hardens over time. For example, the seal 727 may be silicone, for example, a Room Temperature Vulcanizing (RTV) silicone. According to other examples, the seal 727 include double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to some examples, the seal 727, may couple the cowling 723 and the bowl 721 to one another. Additionally, the seal 727 may seal or waterproof an interface between the cowling 723 and the bowl 721.

According to some examples, the seal 727 may be a silicone component co-molded to the cowling 723. For example, the seal 727 may be a silicone pad formed within the channel of the cowling 723. For example, a two-shot or over molding process may be used to form (e.g., mold) the silicone pad on the cowling 723.

Further, as shown in FIG. 24, a joint 728 is disposed between the shell 722 and the cowling 723. The shell 722 and the cowling 723 may be coupled to one another at the joint 728. According to some examples, an adhesive and/or sealant may couple the shell 722 and the cowling 723 at the joint 728. According to other examples, an interference fit connection, a press fit connection, a snap fit connection, or the like may couple the shell 722 and the cowling 723 at the joint 728. According to yet other examples, a fastener, such as, a bolt, screw, rivet, or the like may couple the shell 722 and the cowling 723 at the joint 728. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the shell 722 and the cowling 723 may be coupled to one another in any way at the joint 728.

Referring to FIG. 25, a partial cross section view of a toilet 730 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 25, the toilet 730 includes a bowl 731, a shell 732, and a cowling 733. The bowl 731 may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 732 and/or cowling 733 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 732 and/or cowling 733 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. The cowling 733 may have an annular shape or a “u” shape, similar to the cowling 200 described above.

As shown, the cowling 733 may include a substantially horizontal body portion 734, an interior rib or protrusion 735, a central rib or protrusion 736, and an exterior rib or protrusion 737. The interior protrusion 735 may extend downward from the horizontal body portion 734 at or near an interior perimeter of the cowling 733. The central protrusion 736 may extended downward from the horizontal body portion 734. The central protrusion 736 is offset from the interior protrusion 736, so as to form a channel between the interior protrusion 735 and the central protrusion 736 configured to receive a top portion of a rim of the bowl 731. As shown in FIG. 25, a seal 738 may be disposed within the channel between the cowling 733 and the bowl 731. The seal 738 may be the same as or substantially similar to the seal 727 described above with respect to FIG. 24. For example, the seal 727 may be an adhesive and/or sealant applied to the cowling 733 and/or the bowl 731 or a silicone component coupled to (e.g., molded on) the cowling 733. Further, as shown in FIG. 25, the exterior rib or protrusion 737 may extended downward at or near an exterior perimeter of the cowling 733. The exterior protrusion 737 may extend downward, such that a bottom end of the exterior protrusion 737 is coupled to the shell 732. According to some examples, a seem 739 between the exterior protrusion 737 and the shell may be visible on an exterior of the toilet 730.

Referring to FIG. 26, a partial cross section view of a toilet 740 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 26, the toilet 740 includes a bowl 741 and a shell 742. The bowl may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 742 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 742 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials.

As shown in FIG. 26, the shell 742 may include a substantially horizontal upper portion 743 configured to be coupled directly to the bowl 741. As shown in FIG. 26, a seal 744 may be disposed between the bowl 741 and the horizontal upper portion 743 of the shell 742. According to some examples, the seal 744 may be an adhesive and/or a sealant applied to the shell 742, for example, a bottom surface of the horizontal upper portion 743 of the shell 742, and/or the bowl 741, for example, an upper or top surface of the rim of the bowl 741. For example, the seal 744 may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the shell 742 and/or the bowl 741 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the seal may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to another example, the seal 744 may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to other examples, the seal 744 may be another adhesive or sealant. According to some examples, the seal 744 may couple the shell 742 to the bowl 741. Additionally, the seal 744 may seal or waterproof an interface between the shell 742 and the bowl 741. According to some examples, the seal 744 may be a silicone component co-molded to the shell 742. For example, the seal 744 may be a silicone pad formed on a bottom surface of the upper portion 743 of the shell 742. For example, a two-shot or over molding process may be used to form (e.g., mold) the silicone pad on the shell 742. According to other examples, the shell 742 may be molded directly on to the bowl 741 of the toilet 740.

Referring to FIG. 27, a partial cross section view of a toilet 750 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 27, the toilet 750 included a bowl 751 and a shell 752. The bowl 751 may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 752 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 752 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. As shown in FIG. 27, the shell 752 may include a substantially horizontal upper portion 753. Further, as shown in FIG. 27, the upper portion 753 of the shell 752 may be coupled to a side surface of the bowl 751. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, an adhesive and/or sealant 754 may be applied to an exterior edge of the upper portion 753 of the shell 752 for coupling the shell 752 to the bowl 751. The adhesive and/or sealant 754 may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the shell 752 and/or the bowl 751 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant 754 may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to another example, the adhesive or sealant 754 may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to other examples, the adhesive or sealant 754 may be another adhesive or sealant. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant 754 may couple the shell 752 to the bowl 751. Additionally, the adhesive and/or sealant 754 may seal or waterproof an interface between the shell 752 and the bowl 751.

Referring to FIG. 28, a partial cross section view of a toilet 760 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 28, the toilet 760 included a bowl 761 and a shell 762. The bowl 761 may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 762 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 762 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. As shown in FIG. 28, the shell 762 may include a substantially horizontal upper portion 753. Further, as shown, the toilet 760 may include a connector 764 disposed between the bowl 761 and the shell 762. According to some examples, the connector 764 may be comprised of a rubber or silicone material. As shown, the connector 764 may include a body portion 765 extending in a substantially horizontal direction, an interior protrusion 766 extending vertically from the body portion 765 at or along an inner perimeter of the connector 764, and an exterior protrusion 767 extending vertically from the body portion 765 at or near an outer perimeter of the connector 764.

The interior protrusion 766 may be configured to abut a side surface of the bowl 761. For example, an adhesive and/or sealant may be provided between the interior protrusion 766 and bowl 761 for coupling the connector 764 and the bowl and/or sealing or waterproofing an interface between the connector 764 and the bowl 761. The adhesive and/or sealant may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the connector 764 and/or the bowl 761 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to another example, the adhesive or sealant may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to other examples, another adhesive and/or sealant may be used.

The exterior protrusion 767 may be configured to fit or nest within a groove formed in the shell 762. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, the exterior protrusion 767 may be disposed within a groove formed in a bottom surface of the upper portion 763 of the shell 762, when the connector 764 is coupled to the shell 762. An adhesive and/or sealant may be provided between the exterior protrusion 767 and the shell 762 for coupling the connector 764 and the shell 762 and/or sealing or waterproofing an interface between the connector 764 and the shell 762. The adhesive and/or sealant may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the connector 764 and/or the shell 762 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to another example, the adhesive or sealant may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to other examples, another adhesive and/or sealant may be used.

Referring to FIG. 29, a partial cross section view of a toilet 770 is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 29, the toilet 770 includes a bowl 771, a shell 772, and a connector 774. The bowl 771 may be comprised of a vitreous material, such as, clay. The shell 772 may be comprised of a plastic. For example, the shell 772 may be comprised of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. The connector 764 may be comprised of a rubber or silicone material.

The toilet 770 may be substantially similar to the toilet 760 described above with respect to FIG. 28. For example, the shell 772 may include a substantially horizontal upper portion 773 and the connector 774 may be coupled to and disposed between the bowl 771 and the shell 772. Further, the connector 774 may include a body portion 775 extending in a substantially horizontal direction, an interior protrusion 776 extending vertically from the body portion 775 at or along an inner perimeter of the connector 774, and an exterior protrusion 777 extending vertically from the body portion 775 at or near an outer perimeter of the connector 774.

Similar to the interior protrusion 766, described above, the interior protrusion 776 may be configured to abut a side surface of the bowl 771. For example, an adhesive and/or sealant may be provided between the interior protrusion 776 and bowl 771 for coupling the connector 774 and the bowl and/or sealing or waterproofing an interface between the connector 774 and the bowl 771. The adhesive and/or sealant may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the connector 774 and/or the bowl 771 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to another example, the adhesive or sealant may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to other examples, another adhesive and/or sealant may be used.

Similar to the exterior protrusion 767, the exterior protrusion 777 may be configured to fit or nest within a groove formed in the shell 772. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 29, the exterior protrusion 777 may be disposed within a groove formed in a bottom surface of the upper portion 773 of the shell 772, when the connector 774 is coupled to the shell 772. An adhesive and/or sealant may be provided between the exterior protrusion 777 and the shell 772 for coupling the connector 774 and the shell 772 and/or sealing or waterproofing an interface between the connector 774 and the shell 772. The adhesive and/or sealant may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the connector 774 and/or the shell 772 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to another example, the adhesive or sealant may be a double sided tape, for example, a Very High Bond (VHB) double sided tape. According to other examples, another adhesive and/or sealant may be used.

Further, as shown in FIG. 29, an adhesive and/or sealant 778 may be provided on a top surface of the interior protrusion 777, between the shell 772, for example, the upper portion 773 of the shell 72, and the bowl 771, coupling the bowl 771, shell 772, and connector 774 and sealing or waterproofing an interface between the bowl 771, shell 772, and connector 774. The adhesive and/or sealant 778 may be a liquid adhesive and/or sealant applied to the bowl 771, shell 772, and/or connector 774 that cures or hardens over time. According to some examples, the adhesive and/or sealant may be comprised of silicone, for example, an RTV silicone. According to other examples, another adhesive and/or sealant may be used.

When a component, device, element, or the like of the present disclosure is described as having a purpose or performing an operation, function, or the like, the component, device, or element should be considered herein as being “configured to” meet that purpose or to perform that operation or function.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

The term “or,” as used herein, is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to convey that an element may be either X, Y, Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise indicated.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations of the described methods could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the system as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that can be incorporated or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

TOILET SHELL

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