ELECTRO-MECHANICAL TOILET SEAT SYSTEM

A self-lifting toilet system includes toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat to a base. The hinge is configured so that the toilet seat is transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lifting device is configured to lift the toilet seat towards the up position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the down position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electro-mechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch so that the mechanical lifting device lifts the toilet seat towards the up position.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Illustrative embodiments generally relate to toilets, and more particularly, illustrative embodiments relate to self-lowering or self-lifting toilet systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the home, males often lift the toilet seat to urinate, only to forget to lower it after use. This is a frequent source of annoyance for other occupants of the home. Additionally, a lowered toilet lid inhibits pet or child access to the toilet bowl water, and blocks items such as phones or towels from inadvertently falling into the toilet bowl.

Conversely, toilet seats in public restrooms are frequently soiled, particularly in male and gender-neutral restrooms because men often urinate standing up while the toilet is in the down position. Although more common in male restrooms, soiling of toilet seats can also occur in female restrooms. Because public restroom facilities do not belong to the users, people often have little consideration for the messes they cause. This means that users are less likely to lift the seat up before urinating from a standing position, more likely to make messes, and less likely to clean up after themselves if they do make a mess.

SUMMARY OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a self-lifting toilet system includes toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat to a base. The hinge is configured so that the toilet seat is transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lifting device is configured to lift the toilet seat towards the up position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the down position. En electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electro-mechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch so that the mechanical lifting device lifts the toilet seat towards the up position.

In accordance with another embodiment, a self-lowering toilet seat system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat to a base. The hinge is configured so that the toilet seat is transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet seat towards the down position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the up. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electro-mechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch so that the mechanical lowering device lowers the toilet seat towards the down position.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, a self-lowering toilet lid system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. The system also includes a toilet lid. A hinge rotatably couples the lid with a base. The hinge is configured so that the toilet lid is transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet lid towards the down position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the lid in the up position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a lid time delay before triggering an electro-mechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch so that the mechanical lowering device lowers the toilet lid towards the down position.

In various embodiments, the base may be a toilet bowl. The system may also include a toilet lid. The toilet seat and/or lid may be rotatably coupled with the toilet bowl via the hinge.

An electro-mechanical latch release system may include a servo motor and/or a solenoid. The mechanical latch may includes a clutching feature configured to allow the user to manually disengage the latch before expiration of the time delay. The mechanical latch may include an interlock switch configured to uncouple the delay system from a power source when the interlock switch is disengaged. The interlock switch may be disengaged after the lifting device or the lowering device moves the seat or lid to its bias position.

Various embodiments include a hinge housing. The hinge housing may be substantially sealed to protect components within. Additionally, or alternatively, the timing system and/or the sensing system are preferably substantially sealed as well or instead of the hinge housing. The seal may be specified to be rated at IP54 or above in order to prevent dust ingress and light splashes of water. The seal may preferably be an IP65seal in order to protect the mechanism from any of the harshest bathroom environments the seat system may encounter. The seat system may be integrated with an IOT flushometer.

A sensing system may be configured to detect the absence or presence of a user. The sensing system may include an electronic position sensor, optical time of flight sensor, a load sensor, and/or a capacitive sensor to detect when a user is near the toilet bowl. The seat time delay may be a function of detecting the absence of the user. The electronic timing system may includes a pre-set, fixed delay time that is independent of a sensing system.

In some embodiments, the user raises the seat and lid to the up position. The lowering device may lower lid, which also pushes the to lower to the down position. Some embodiments may include a hard stop configured to prevent over-rotation of the lid or seat when moved to the lifted position. The lowering device and the lifting device may be passive (e.g., spring based).

In accordance with another embodiment, a method self-lifts a toilet seat. The method provides a self-lifting toilet system. The self-lifting toilet system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat. The hinge is configured so that the toilet seat is transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lifting device is configured to self-lift the toilet seat towards the up position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the down position after being lowered by the user. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electro-mechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch (also referred to as disengaging the latch) so as to allow the mechanical lifting device to lift the toilet seat towards the up position.

In some embodiments of the self-lifting system, a delay system is engaged when the user lowers the toilet seat to the down position. The delay system may be disengaged after the expiration of a time delay. The method may lift the toilet seat using a passive lifting system after time delay ends. In some embodiments, the time delay begins after a user is not detected. In some embodiments, the time delay is dynamic as a function of sensing of the user. Alternatively, the time delay may be a static delay.

In accordance with another embodiment, a method self-lowers a toilet seat. The method provides a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat. The hinge is configured so that the toilet seat is transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet seat towards the down position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the up position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electro-mechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch (also referred to as disengaging the latch) so as to allow the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet seat towards the down position.

The method engages a delay system by lifting the toilet seat to the up position. The method disengages the delay system after the expiration of a time delay. The method may lower the toilet seat using a passive lifting system after the time delay ends. The time delay may begin after a user is not detected. In some embodiments, the time delay is dynamic as a function of sensing of the user.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, a method self-lowers a toilet lid. The method provides a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user, and a toilet lid. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat and lid. The hinge is configured so that the toilet lid and seat are transitionable between a down position and an up position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet lid towards the down position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the lid in the up position after being rotated there by the user. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a lid time delay before triggering the lowering device to cause the toilet lid to lower towards the down position.

The method may engage a delay system by lifting the toilet seat to the up position. The method may disengage the delay system after the expiration of a time delay. The toilet seat may be lowered using a passive lifting system after the time delay ends. The time delay may begin after a user is not detected. The time delay may be dynamic as a function of sensing of the user.

In various embodiments, the hinge rotatably couples the base and the seat. The base may be a toilet bowl. Among other things, the delay system may include a latching system, a latch release system, a sensing system, and an electronic timing system, wherein the delay system is sealed.

Illustrative embodiments of the invention are implemented as a computer program product having a computer usable medium with computer readable program code thereon. The computer readable code may be read and utilized by a computer system in accordance with conventional processes.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In illustrative embodiments, a mechanical system self-lowers a toilet seat (e.g., residential), or a toilet seat and toilet lid, from a substantially upright position to a substantially down position after an electro-mechanical time delay. Some embodiments also incorporate various dampers to prevent the seat and/or lid from lowering too quickly and potentially slamming onto the toilet bowl when lowered.

Additionally, illustrative embodiments provide a system to self-lift a toilet seat (e.g., commercial) from a substantially down position to a substantially upright position after an electro-mechanical time delay. Some embodiments also incorporate various dampers to prevent the seat and/or lid from lifting too quickly and potentially slamming onto the toilet tank when lifted.

In various embodiments a delay system is configured to prevent seat and/or lid motion from occurring until the user is out of the path of the seat and/or lid motion. The delay system is activated by the user lifting or lowering the seat between the up and down positions.

Some embodiments are considered to be self-lifting. In other words, the delay system is configured to cause a time delay before a mechanical lifting system causes the seat to lift to the upright position. Furthermore, the delay system is configured with a mechanical latch that restrains the seat in the down position during the duration of the time delay. In various embodiments, the duration of the time delay is determined via an electronic timing system as well as a sensing system. After expiration of the time delay, the mechanical latch is released by an electro-mechanical latch release, which allows the seat to lift to the upright position.

Some embodiments are considered to be self-lowering. In other words, the delay system is configured to cause a time delay before the mechanical lowering device40causes the seat and/or lid to lower to the down position. Furthermore, the delay system is configured with a mechanical latch that restrains the seat and/or lid in the up position during the duration of the time delay. The duration of the time delay is determined via an electronic timing system as well as a sensing system. After expiration of the time delay, the mechanical latch is released by an electro-mechanical latch release, which allows the seat and/or lid to lower to the down position.

In various embodiments, the electronic timing systems may include a sensing system capable of detecting the proximity of the user to the toilet. The sensor system communicates with the computer program to modify the timing system.

Most commercially available electronically actuating toilet seats involve a motorized component that lifts and lowers the seat—a very power-hungry operation that quickly drains internal batteries. Wired outlet connections are impractical alternatives as outlets are typically located far away from toilet seats due to safety concerns. Connecting the seat to an electrical outlet also increases the system's complexity, cost, and installation time. Thus, it is advantageous to employ a lifting/lowering apparatus where the user initially lifts or lowers the seat until it is restrained by a latch. After a delay, a low power electro-mechanical latch release system releases the latch, thus removing the power-hungry motor from the equation. Details of illustrative embodiments are discussed below.

FIGS.1A-1Cschematically shows a toilet seat system1in accordance with illustrative embodiments. The toilet seat system1includes a toilet seat2, and optionally, a lid3for the toilet seat2. The system1includes a hinge50configured to rotatably couple the toilet seat2(and/or the lid3) to a toilet bowl, which allows the seat2and the lid3to rotate from a down position (e.g., as shown inFIG.1A) to an up position (e.g., as shown inFIG.1C).

In general, the toilet seat2typically has two main positions: the up and the down position. The down position is the default position for the seat2when it is being used. The seat2is lowered onto the toilet bowl rim, making it ready for someone to sit. In the up position, the seat2is lifted and held against the toilet tank or remains upright. This position is commonly used by males when urinating to avoid soiling the seat2. It can also facilitate cleaning of the toilet, allowing better access to the rim and bowl.

Although various embodiments refer to a toilet bowl3, it should be understood that some toilet systems do not have a traditional toilet bowl filled with water, like the ones found in permanent restrooms. For example, portable toilets have a holding tank and a seat similar in shape to a regular toilet bowl. Various embodiments may generally refer to the toilet bowl, the holding tank, or any lower support for the toilet seat as a base. Frequently, the hinge50couples the toilet seat2and/or lid3to the base.

In a similar manner, the toilet lid3, like the toilet seat2, primarily has two positions: open (also referred to as up) and closed (also referred to as down). In the open position, the lid3is lifted up and typically stands vertically, resting against the toilet tank or held upright. This allows access to the toilet for usage and allows access for cleaning the bowl and rim. In the closed position the lid3is lowered to cover the toilet bowl. This position is generally used to maintain hygiene by preventing the spread of germs during flushing, as the lid3helps contain aerosol droplets that can be released. The closed position also blocks access to the toilet bowl by children and pets.

It should be understood that the hinge50may be configured to allow the seat2and the lid3to rotate freely relative to one another, such that the lid3may be rotated to the open position while the seat2remains in the down position (e.g., as shown inFIG.1B). Furthermore, various toilet seat systems1may be configured to have different up positions and/or down positions. In other words, the up position does not necessarily imply a 90-degree vertical angle, nor does the down position imply parallel to the ground. However, in general, the up position and the down position may approximate these positions. Those skilled in the art understand how the up position and down position may be changed.

Various embodiments include hinge50comprising a housing102(which may couple to the toilet bowl), as well as an axle that provides rotation of the seat2relative to the housing102and the lid3. Furthermore, the hinge50allows for relative rotation of the lid3relative to the housing102and the seat2. The housing102acts as a casing or enclosure that protects mechanical and/or electrical parts of the toilet seat system1from external elements, like dust, water, other contaminants, and accidental contact. The housing102may also provide organization and alignment of various components of the system1. In various embodiments, an axle of the hinge50(also referred to as a hinge rod) around which the seat2and/or lid3pivot may be at least partially within the housing102. The housing102may be formed of two coupled components, such as a top housing5and a bottom housing4.

The hinge housing102may be substantially sealed such that ingress of liquids and dust is prevented during normal usage and maintenance of the seat2. Additionally, a rotary seal also allows a seal between hinge housing102, and rotating axles. Though considered substantially sealed, various embodiments may allow for a small leak of air between interior compartments within the housing102, such that the air pressure in the hinge housing102may equalize to ambient conditions.

In various embodiments, the sealed housing102has an IP seal rating with a first digit (protection against solid objects) that is5or greater. In other words, the housing102is preferably sealed such that it is protected against dust, with a limited ingress. Various embodiments may have a first digit that of6, i.e., that is totally protected against dust. As dust enters the housing102, the reliability of the delay system11may be undesirably impacted, causing faulty delay timing. Similarly, the sealed housing102may have an IP seal rating with a second digit (protection against liquids) that is 1 or greater. Ingress of fluid within the housing102is undesirable because, similar to dust and other solid objects, it may impact the reliability of the delay system11. Various embodiments position the housing102within a perimeter of the toilet seat bowl. Therefore, it is likely that the housing102may encounter fluid (e.g., from the toilet, the user, and/or cleaning solutions). Therefore, various embodiments may have an IP level 5.1 seal or greater (e.g., IP seal rating 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 6.1, etc.). Some embodiments may have a higher IP rating (e.g., IP 5.5 or above) to account for commercial use environments, where a high-pressure cleaning system may be used (e.g., to remained sealed against liquid ingress when cleaning with KaiVac® 2750 or other similar high pressure cleaning equipment).

Some embodiments include a vent configured to allow an exchange of air through the housing102and ambient external environment (e.g., through a vented bolt used to couple the housing102with the bowl). Such vent advantageously allows collected water vapor within the housing102to evaporate and/or to equalize pressures during shipping or use. The vent is preferably covered by a water repellent screen (such as a self-adhesive GORE® protective vent VE-80205) and/or configured so that the vent is secreted in an area not subject to direct cleaning or water exposure.

In various embodiments, the housing102may be formed of a number of components (e.g., joined together). In some embodiments, the housing102may have movable components. The housing102provides the seal around the delay system11fixedly. In various embodiments, the housing3may be a “fixedly sealed housing”102. In other words, the parts of the housing102that form the seal around the delay device11do not translate relative to one another. The fixedly sealed housing102may include one or more axles that help form the seal. In various embodiments, the one or more axles that form part of the seal may rotate, but not translate, relative to the housing102. Advantageously, the fixedly sealed housing102provides a robust seal that maintains the integrity of the housing102and provides long-lasting operation. Illustrative embodiments having a dynamic housing102with components that translate relative to one another undesirably provide opportunity for contaminants and other filth to more quickly break down the operation of the device. A system1with translationally fixed axles advantageously allows the housing102to be sealed while providing rotational coupling with the seat2and the lid3.

FIGS.2-6generally show a self-lowering toilet system1in accordance with illustrative embodiments.FIGS.7-8schematically show a self-lifting toilet system1in accordance with illustrative embodiments. Generally, with the reconfiguration of a few components, discussion of the operating principles and components of the self-lowering toilet system1also applies to the self-lifting toilet system1.

FIGS.2-3Cschematically show the self-closing toilet seat system1in accordance with illustrative embodiments. In particular, this view shows the components internal to the housing102.

In general, the toilet seat system1includes a mechanical lowering device40configured to mechanically rotate the seat2and/or the lid3from a first position to a second position (e.g., from the up position to the down position or vice-versa). The delay in lowering the seat2and/or the lid3is caused by a mechanical latching system20configured to physically hold the lid3and/or the seat2in a given position when engaged (e.g., in the up position). An electronic timing system35is configured to control the time delay before instructing a latch release system45to release the latch. It should be understood that the term “latch” is used to refer to a device that holds or constrains the seat and/or lid in a given position while also allowing for the release of the seat and/or lid from the given position (e.g., caused by the latch release system45). Examples of the latch include, among other things, the axle link21to latch23connection (which may also be referred to as a keeper or strike), magnets, suction cups with holes having closable openings, cam locks, hairpin triggers, deadbolts, etc.

The electronic timing system35may adjust the time delay based on signals received from a sensing system30that is configured to detect the presence of a user. When the time delay expires, the electronic timing system35may disengage the latching system20using the electro-mechanical latch release system45. The release system45is configured to cause the latching system20to disengage, and thereby release hold of the lid and/or the seat from the given position.

In various embodiments, the electronic timing system35, the sensing system30, the mechanical latching system20, and the latch release system45can be said to form the delay system11. Thus, in general, various embodiments include the delay system11that delays rotational motion of the seat2and/or the lid3triggered by mechanical lowering device40. In particular,FIG.2shows the delay system11configured to delay downward motion of the seat2and the lid3by the lowering device40.

In various embodiments, the seat2rotates about the same axle12as the lid3. The seat2is mounted to the axle12via a free axle connection point10A, thus allowing it to rotate independently of axle12, while still being concentric to it. The lid3is mounted to the axle12via a fixed axle connection point9A. Thus, as the lid3is rotated, its rotation is transferred into the housing102, allowing the delay system11to act upon it. On the other side of the housing102, the seat2and lid3are mounted about the seat damper6. An adaptor8is fitted to the shaft19of the seat damper6such that the seat2mounts to the damper6in a fixedly attached manner9B, whereas the lid3keys into it in a freely rotatable manner10B. The lid3keys into its own lid damper7via its fixed connection9A to axle12, which is in turn fixedly attached to the damper7through the lid-to-axle connector13. Thus, both the lid3and seat2are mounted coaxially and independently dampened, but in various embodiments the delay system11only operates on the lid2. In illustrative embodiments without the damper, the seat may be coupled directly to the shaft extending out of the housing102.

The lowering device40is configured to bias the lid3towards the down position. When the time delay expires, and the latch is disengaged, the lowering device40lowers the lid3. The lowering device40may include a torsion spring41. Though shown as a torsion spring, the spring41could be configured as a linear compression or extension spring on a lever arm, a leaf spring, or a spiral or conical torsion spring.

FIG.4Aschematically shows the delay system11in accordance with illustrative embodiments. In particular, the delay system11includes a latching system20configured to engage when the lid3is raised toward or to the open position. The delay system11also includes a latch release system45configured to disengage the latching system20after expiration of the time delay.FIG.4Bschematically shows the delay system11as the lid is in the process of raising.FIG.4Cschematically shows the delay system11engaged when the lid is sufficiently raised towards the up position.

A typical interaction of a user with the self-closing seat system1begins with a user coming up to the self-closing seat system1and finding the seat2and lid3in the down position. A cross-sectional view of the housing102in this position is shown inFIG.4A.

In various embodiments, the user lifts either the lid3alone, or the seat2and the lid3. In either scenario, the delay system11is engaged due to the actuation of the lid3. As the lid3begins to lift, the axle link21, affixed to the axle12via a spring pin mounted about the locating hole22, rotates with the lid3. As the lid3continues to lift, the axle link21rotates downward in the housing102, through the position shown inFIG.4B, and continues rotating until it brushes past the latch23and reaches the position shown inFIG.4C.

The latch23is biased to the position shown inFIG.4Cby a latch spring24and constrained to rotate about pivot point26. When the axle link21comes into contact with latch23, the latch23is pushed down and the return spring24is compressed until the axle link21rotates to the position shown inFIG.4Cand the axle link21snaps into cutout in the latch23. Once in this position, the axle link21, and therefore the lid3, is fixed in the vertical position. Various embodiments include a clutching feature. For example, the mating faces of the axle link21and latch23may be configured so that a user may manually pull the lid3downwards and the mating faces of the axle link21and the latch23push each other away and slide by one another before the electro-mechanical latch release system45is trigged by the timing system35to disengage the latch23. This in-built clutch capability ensures that the system1does not break or cause injury to a user if the lid3is lowered before expiration of the time delay.

A hard stop16positioned on the housing102is designed to prevent over-rotation of the lid3as well as over stressing of the latch23. Additionally, as the lid3is lifted and the axle link21rotates towards the latched position (shown inFIG.4C), the axle link21comes into contact with, and depresses an electrical limit switch25(best seen inFIGS.2and3B). This positioning of the switch25and the geometry of the axle link21is such that the limit switch25remains in the depressed position until the lid3fully or partially lowers back down. This switch functions as a power saving interlock—only when the limit switch25is pressed does any current flow through the electronic timing system35, the sensing system30, or the electro-mechanical latch release system45. When un-pressed, all current flow ceases. In this way, power is advantageously saved when the lid3is not lifted, maximizing battery life.

After the lid3is in the lifted position shown inFIG.3C, and the delay system11circuit is closed (e.g., the wired combination of a sensor, microcontroller, battery pack, and servo motor), the electronic timing system35and sensing system30are initiated. A shown inFIGS.3A-CandFIG.5, a sensor33(e.g., optical time-of-flight sensor) is mounted on a sensor board32, which is affixed inside of the top housing102. The receiver/emitter of the sensor33may face outwards through a hole in the top housing5, for example. The sensor33may be covered by a protective glass or plastic cover34. The cover may form part of the substantially sealed housing102. The sensor33is configured to send short sensing pulses at predetermined intervals, or continuously, in order to sense if the user is standing or sitting in front of the self-closing seat system1.

When the user is detected, that information is conveyed to the microcontroller36, for example via wire buses not shown in the figures, which then pauses the action of the latch release motor46. There are a plurality of ways to configure the position of the microcontroller36on the control board37.FIG.5shows one such configuration wherein the microcontroller36is mounted on the underside of the control board36so as to provide room on the top of the control board36for wire connections. The control board36is therefore stood up off of the bottom of the bottom housing4to provide room for the microcontroller36mounting.

After the sensor34detects that the user is no longer near the seat1, the microcontroller36delays the electro-mechanical latch release system45for a predetermined amount of time. This ensures that the user is no longer in the path of the lid3and seat2. Then, a signal is sent to release the latch23that holds the lid3in the vertical position. The fidelity of the sensing regime (frequency of the sensing pulses, the number of sensing cycles required to come back negative for user presence before the lid can close, etc.) can be modified and balanced based on user testing and feedback so as to achieve the best performance with minimal power consumption. For example, the sensor could be set up to sense continuously, thus ensuring an exact knowledge of when the user leaves the self-lowering toilet system1, but that may dramatically decrease the lifespan of the batteries. Alternatively, the sensor33may send a sensing pulse in a predetermined time frame, e.g., once every 30 seconds. The non-continuous pulsing advantageously saves power.

Alternatively, other sensors33may be used to determine the presence of a user. For example, an ultrasonic sensor33may be used, but it may be less sensitive and may provide more false readings than a time-of-flight sensor33. Capacitive or load sensors33in the seat2may be used as well. A load sensor33may also be integrated with the axle12Alternatively, some embodiments may include a fixed delay system that begins a preset timer triggered when the seat2is lifted.

The electro-mechanical latch release system45consists of a servo motor46and a cam wheel47that interferes with and forces latch23downwards and out of the way of the axle link21when the servo motor46spins. When the microcontroller36determines it is time to release the lid3, the servo motor46, originally in the position shown inFIG.4C, begins to rotate in the clockwise direction towards the position shown inFIG.6A. As the servo motor46rotates, the part of the wheel47with a larger radius begins to contact the latch23.

As the wheel47continues to rotate, the latch23is pushed to the fully disengaged position shown inFIG.6B. At this point, there is no more interference between the axle link21and the latch23, and the axle link21is free to rotate under the forcing of the lowering device40. The servo wheel47spins slowly enough such that the axle link21has enough time to clear the latch23and move to the position shown inFIG.6C, before the servo wheel47can rotate substantially far enough so as to allow the latch23to return to its spring biased position.

As the servo wheel47continues to rotate, it moves to the position shown inFIG.6D, hitting and depressing a second limit switch48in the process. This switch is used to measure the position of servo46, and when this switch is pressed, a signal is given to the timing system35to stop the rotation of the servo46. Using this limit switch48, the exact position of the servo can be maintained. It is advantageous for the servo wheel47to hit this limit switch48before the axle link21rotates far enough so as to move off of the interlock switch25and turn the power off. If system power is shut off before proper servo46positioning is determined, the servo46may not rotate far enough, or may rotate too far in subsequent cycles, causing either premature lid3lowering, or no lowering at all.

Additionally, or alternatively, a solenoid may be used to disengage the latch23instead of the servo46. In this case, a positioning switch48may not be used, as the solenoid is a binary actuator, with its positions before and after actuation always being the same. However, the solenoid is a disadvantageously high-power draw device that requires higher voltages and power than the servo36. The required current is proportional to the force. Thus, in a low power implementation of a solenoid in the hinge housing102, the latch force is quite weak (e.g., just on the cusp of releasing). In various embodiments, improper placement of the lid3into the vertical position, or any external jolting of the lid3(e.g., a user brushing against it) may cause the latch23to release and prematurely lower the lid3and/or seat2. To resolve this issue, a significantly overpowered solenoid may be used, however this also reduces the battery life of the system1.

In various embodiments, the lowering device40biases the lid3towards the down position, such that when the axle link21is released by the latch23, the axle link21immediately begins to rotate in the lid-lowering direction. If the seat2is in the vertical position along with the lid3, then the lowering device40lowering the lid3causes the seat2to move towards the down position as well. The lowering device40can be best seen inFIGS.3A-C. The torsion spring41is mounted on one side to a fixed point43on the bottom housing4, and on another side to the rotating axle link21at point42. Thus, when the axle link21rotates due to the lifting action of the lid3, the spring41is rotated into a loaded position, applying a load to the axle link21that tends to lower the lid3when it is not constrained by the latch23. The spring41mounting may be reconfigured such that the spring is only compressed when the lid3approaches the fully vertical position. It should be noted that the spring41may only act on the lid3until it passes vertical (e.g., 90 degrees). Subsequently, gravity may bias the lid3to the down position. Though pictured as a torsion spring, the spring41could be configured as a linear compression or extension spring on a lever arm, a leaf spring, or a spiral or conical torsion spring.

Alternatively, in a commercial bathroom environment, the delay system11may be applied to a self-lifting toilet system1. The user may lower the seat2until it latches, storing return-energy in, for example, a torsion spring. As above, the electronic timing system35, along with an electro-mechanical latch release system45releases the seat2so it returns to the upward position when the user is finished and distant from the toilet bowl.

In public bathrooms, the lid3may be omitted. In this case, the mounting of the seat2and the sensor33to the hinge50is flipped by180degrees from the orientation shown inFIGS.1-6. Other than that, the system1remains generally as described above. This configuration is shown inFIGS.7and8. The mechanical latch is engaged when the seat2is moved by a user to the downwards position, and the axle link21engages with the latch23, until it is released by the servo motor46. Such a reconfiguration is advantageous as it means that the top and bottom housing, as well as the delay system components, can be the same between different models (self-lowering and self-lifting) and advantageously re-use some of the same molds in production—saving time and cost in production, and ultimately reducing the cost to the consumer.

In some embodiments, the delay system11can be configured such that both the seat2and lid3are independently latched and released. To that end, some embodiments may include two parallel latches that act on two independent axle links, or by one latch acting on two independent axle links, sequentially. This advantageously provides for greater control of the position of both the seat2and the lid3, but undesirably may increase power consumption and system complexity. A secondary axle may have to be placed between the seat damper6and the seat damper adaptor piece8to transmit the torque of the seat into the hinge50, reducing space for batteries and generally complicating the system.

FIG.9schematically shows details of the toilet seat system controller36ofFIGS.1-8configured in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the invention. Each of these components is operatively connected by any conventional interconnect mechanism.FIG.9simply shows a bus communicating each of the components. Those skilled in the art should understand that this generalized representation can be modified to include other conventional direct or indirect connections. Accordingly, discussion of a bus is not intended to limit various embodiments.

Indeed, it should be noted thatFIG.9only schematically shows each of these components. Those skilled in the art should understand that each of these components can be implemented in a variety of conventional manners, such as by using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, across one or more other functional components. For example, the timing system35(discussed in detail below) may be implemented using a plurality of microprocessors executing firmware. As another example, the user detector244may be implemented using one or more application specific integrated circuits (i.e., “ASICs”) and related software, or a combination of ASICs, discrete electronic components (e.g., integrated circuits), and microprocessors.

Accordingly, the representation of the user detector244and other components in a single box ofFIG.9is for simplicity purposes only. In fact, in some embodiments, the toilet seat system controller ofFIG.9is distributed across a plurality of different components—not necessarily within the same housing or chassis.

It should be reiterated that the representation ofFIG.9is a significantly simplified representation of an actual toilet seat system controller36. Those skilled in the art should understand that such a device has other physical and/or functional components, such as central processing units, other packet processing modules, and short-term memory. Accordingly, this discussion is not intended to suggest thatFIG.9represents all of the elements of the controller36.

The timing system35may be configured to control operation of the delay system. In particular, the timing system35may control operation of the servo motor that releases the latch and allows the mechanical lifting device or lowering device40to operate on the lid3and/or the seat2.

A user detector244may be configured to communicate with one or more sensors33through the sensor interface212to determine whether a user is near the toilet seat system1. In some embodiments, the user detector244may be configured to detect if a user is within a preset distance of the toilet seat system (e.g., within 4 feet of the sensor). In some other embodiments, the user detector244may be configured to determine whether the user is sitting on the seat2.

The electronic microcontroller36of the self-closing seat system may be in communication with an Internet-of-Things (IOT) connected flushometer valve to add further functionality. Specifically, this kind of connection may ensure that the bowl is flushed only after the lid3is closed by communicating the closing of the seat2and lid3to the flushometer. A post-close flushing functionality is useful in both commercial and residential environments in order to ensure that the flushing of the toilet occurs when the seat2and lid3are both in the closed position, so as to reduce the toilet plume and aerosolization of any particulates that are within the toilet, thus preventing their spreading throughout the bathroom and beyond.

A switch, lever, or cable may be actuated in the housing102when the lid3closes (such as switch48), which can be communicated through the microcontroller36to the IOT flushometer through direct electrical wiring or via Bluetooth or other wireless connection means. A Bowden-style cable could mechanically trigger the flushometer. Alternatively, an IOT flushometer could be fitted with a proximity or magnetic (RFID) sensor to detect when the seat moves from the up position (obscuring/near the sensor) to the down position (not obscuring/far from the sensor). This method, however, may disadvantageously require retrofitting of sensors to the flushometer, whereas receiving a signal from the housing102may be easy to implement through a software update alone.

To flush, the user may simply walk away from the toilet when finished. The toilet delay system then sends a signal (mechanical or electronic as described above) to the flushometer instructing the flushometer that the lid has closed, and the flushometer controls the toilet to flush. The microcontroller36may determine that the lid has closed. Alternatively, the flushometer may detect the user has left but delays flushing until it receives a signal from the seat mechanism that the lid has closed. In some examples, the network interface206can facilitate the communication of information between the controller36and one or more other devices or entities over a communications network. For example, the network interface206can be configured to communicate with a remote computing device such as a remote server or other similar computing device. The network interface206can include communications circuitry for transmitting data in accordance with a Bluetooth® wireless standard for exchanging such data over short distances to an intermediary device(s) (e.g., a base station, a “hotspot” device, a smartphone, a tablet, a portable computing device, and/or other devices in proximity of the wearable smart garment110). The intermediary device(s) may in turn communicate the data to a remote server over a broadband cellular network communications link. The communications link may implement broadband cellular technology (e.g., 2.5G, 2.75G, 3G, 4G, 5G cellular standards) and/or Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology or GSM/EDGE and UMTS/HSPA technologies for high-speed wireless communication. In some implementations, the intermediary device(s) may communicate with a remote server over a Wi-Fi™ communications link based on the IEEE 802.11 standard.

In certain implementations, the user interface208can include one or more physical interface devices such as input devices, output devices, and combination input/output devices and a software stack configured to drive operation of the devices. These user interface elements may render visual, audio, and/or tactile content. Thus, the user interface208may receive input or provide output, thereby enabling a user to interact with the controller36.

The user interface208may output a battery level, indicating the amount of battery left (e.g., visually, or audibly when the battery is low). Additionally, or alternatively, an alarm may be sent to a maintenance person informing them that the battery is low, that a leak has been detected in the housing102, or other significant matters. In large commercial operations, advantageously a smartphone enabled application may provide battery levels and identify the toilet system1by identifier or location. Thus, maintenance staff may easily identify and change batteries when desirable.

The controller36can also include at least one battery31configured to provide power to one or more components integrated in the controller36. The battery31can include a rechargeable multi-cell battery pack. In one example implementation, the battery31can include three or more lithium-ion cells that provide electrical power to the other device components within the controller36. For example, the battery31can provide its current output in a range of between 20 mA to 1000 mA (e.g., 40 mA) output and can support 300 hours, 600 hours, 1,000 hours, or more, of runtime between charges or changing of battery. In certain implementations, the battery capacity, runtime, and type (e.g., lithium ion, nickel-cadmium, or nickel-metal hydride) can be changed to best fit the specific application of the controller36.

In various embodiments, the battery31may be disconnected by the limit switch25described previously. The switch functions as a power saving interlock. In this way, power is advantageously saved when the seat2and/or the lid3is not lifted, maximizing battery31life.

The sensor interface212can be coupled to and receive data from one or more sensors configured to monitor whether the user is near the toilet seat system1and/or whether they are using the toilet seat system1. The sensors33may be coupled to the controller36via a wired or wireless connection. The sensors33can include one or more optical time of flight sensors, capacitive sensor, and load sensors, among others. Additionally, in some embodiments, the sensors33may also indicate whether the lid3and/or the seat2are in the up position, the down position, or any position therebetween.

The data storage204can include one or more of non-transitory computer readable media, such as flash memory, solid state memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, cache memory, combinations thereof, and others. The data storage204can be configured to store executable instructions and data used for operation of the controller36. For example, the data storage204may include user login credentials for adjusting functions of certain controllers (e.g., the number of consecutive user detection cycles in step306below before the timing system35begins the latch release process). In certain implementations, the data storage can include executable instructions that, when executed, are configured to cause the processor218to perform one or more functions.

FIG.10shows a process of using the toilet seat system in accordance with illustrative embodiments. It should be noted that this method is substantially simplified from a longer process that may normally be used. Accordingly, the method shown inFIG.10may have many other steps that those skilled in the art likely would use. In addition, some of the steps may be performed in a different order than that shown, or at the same time. Furthermore, some of these steps may be optional in some embodiments. Accordingly, the process1000is merely exemplary of one process in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art therefore can modify the process as appropriate.

FIG.10shows a process of using the toilet seat system in accordance with illustrative embodiments. The process begins at step302, where the user lifts the lid3. If, prior to use, both the toilet seat2and the toilet lid3are in the down position, the user wanting to use the seat2manually raises the lid3. The user may then use the toilet (e.g., sit on the seat2), or they may also lift the seat2in addition to the lid3. Alternatively, the lid3and the seat2may be raised simultaneously.

A step304, raising the lid3stores energy in the lowering device40spring, engages the latching system20and triggers the start of the timing system35, which delays the self-lowering of the lid3. The timing system35provides a timing delay before the lid3starts to lower. In various embodiments, the timing system35is engaged when the lid3is raised. The initial delay may be considered dynamic, in that the length of the delay is a function of detecting the user at step306. Thus, while the detecting intervals are pre-programmed, the total delay time caused by multiple cycles of step304-306vary based on the circumstances encountered during use.

The process then proceeds to step306, which asks if the user is detected. The delay system includes a sensing and timing system which determines when the user is sitting on, or is near the seat. If the user is detected, the delay is extended until the user is no longer detected.

In some embodiments, the system checks at a plurality of intervals whether the user is detected. In some embodiments, the process may only move to step312when the user is not detected for a pre-set number of consecutive intervals. For example, the user detector244may check at three different intervals, such as, at 5 seconds, 10 seconds, and 15 seconds, to confirm that the user is not present during all of the sensing cycles. If the user is present during any of the sensing cycles, the process returns to step304, which restarts the delay. Then, the process returns to step306, and the user detector244again detects for the user. Thus, in some embodiments, the process requires a minimum number of consecutive negative intervals for user detection before proceeding to step312. For a continuous sensor, a pre-set amount of time without detecting the user may be required before the process proceeds to step312. When the user is not detected, the process moves to step308, which begins the static time delay before the latching system20is disengaged. If the delay expires before the user sits down on the seat, or the sensor does not sense a user for a pre-set period of time, the lid3is lowered by the lowering device40to avoid leaving the bowl open when the time delay expires. In some embodiments, the pre-set time delay may be 0 seconds, and the toilet seat2may drop instantaneously after the last check that the user is not detected. In various embodiments, the static time delay may be between 0.5 seconds and 4 seconds.

At step310, the user many manually lower the lid3and/or the seat2. If the user chooses to manually lower the lid3and/or the seat2, the seat2lowers without damaging the system1. For example, this may be accomplished by providing the mating faces of the axle link21and latch23so that the mating faces of the axle link21and the latch23push each other away and slide by one another when the user manually pulls the lid3downwards. Accordingly, the latching system20is not damaged. Although shown as occurring after step306, it should be understood that illustrative embodiments advantageously allow the user to manually lower the lid3and/or the seat2at any time during the process1000.

The process then goes to step314, where the lid3and/or the seat2are lowered. If the user does not manually interrupt the delay, the time delay naturally expires, and the lowering device40lowers the toilet seat2. To that end, the sensor may detect the absence of the user for the pre-determined number of checks, after which point the user detector244sends a signal to the timing system35. The timing system35then determines when the requisite timing delay has expired and sends a signal to the electro-mechanical latch release system45which disengages the latch (e.g., by controlling the servo motor). Alternatively, the electro-mechanical latch release system45may turn a solenoid that releases the latch and allows the lid3to be pressed down by the lowering device40. The process then comes to an end.

FIG.11shows a process1100of using the self-lifting system1in accordance with illustrative embodiments.FIG.11operates similarly toFIG.10, but in reverse, and with the configuration shown, for example, inFIGS.7-8. Accordingly, discussion of similar steps is not repeated in detail here.

Toilet practices are very personal, and because of this, the user may interact with the toilet seat and lid in an unpredictable order according to their preferences and habits. Thus, illustrative embodiments advantageously anticipate and react to numerous use-cases. In residential environments, toilet seats often include a toilet lid.

Illustrative embodiments advantageously provide for a self-closing or self-lifting system wherein the initial lifting/lowering step is purely mechanical so as to minimize battery power drain, replacement cost, and associated maintenance requirements for the user. Thus, illustrative embodiments advantageously provide a robust, low-maintenance, low-power, and low-cost electro-mechanical sensing, timing, and latch release system that allows for a mechanical lifting and/or lowering device to reposition the seat and/or lid to its resting position.

In an alternative embodiment, the disclosed apparatus and methods (e.g., see the various flow charts described above) may be implemented as a computer program product for use with a computer system. Such implementation may include a series of computer instructions fixed either on a tangible, non-transitory medium, such as a computer readable medium (e.g., a diskette, CD-ROM, ROM, or fixed disk). The series of computer instructions can embody all or part of the functionality previously described herein with respect to the system.

In some implementations, the processor218includes one or more processors (or one or more processor cores) that each are configured to perform a series of instructions that result in manipulated data and/or control the operation of the other components of the controller36. In some implementations, when executing a specific process (e.g., determining whether the user is near the toilet seat system), the processor218can be configured to make specific logic-based determinations based on input data received, and be further configured to provide one or more outputs that can be used to control or otherwise inform subsequent processing to be carried out by the processor218and/or other processors or circuitry with which processor218is communicatively coupled. Thus, the processor218reacts to specific input stimulus in a specific way and generates a corresponding output based on that input stimulus. In some example cases, the processor218can proceed through a sequence of logical transitions in which various internal register states and/or other bit cell states internal or external to the processor218may be set to logic high or logic low.

As referred to herein, the processor218can be configured to execute a function where software is stored in a data store coupled to the processor218, the software being configured to cause the processor218to proceed through a sequence of various logic decisions that result in the function being executed. The various components that are described herein as being executable by the processor218can be implemented in various forms of specialized hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For example, the processor can be a digital signal processor (DSP) such as a 24-bit DSP processor. The processor can be a multi-core processor, e.g., having two or more processing cores. The processor can be an Advanced RISC Machine (ARM) processor such as a 32-bit ARM processor. The processor can execute an embedded operating system, and include services provided by the operating system that can be used for file system manipulation, display & audio generation, basic networking, firewalling, data encryption and communications.

As used in this specification and the claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and the” refer to plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to “the housing” in the singular includes a plurality of housings, and reference to “the delay system” in the singular includes one or more delay systems and equivalents known to those skilled in the art. Thus, in various embodiments, any reference to the singular includes a plurality, and any reference to more than one component can include the singular.

While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein.

It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure. Disclosed embodiments, or portions thereof, may be combined in ways not listed above and/or not explicitly claimed. Thus, one or more features from variously disclosed examples and embodiments may be combined in various ways. For example, it is to be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.