Personal hygiene capsule and method of use thereof

Abstract

The personal hygiene capsule has a housing, a toilet, at least one spray nozzle, a drain in a lower portion of the housing, and at least one scrubbing brush operatively attached to clean at least a portion of an occupant of the personal hygiene capsule. A method of using the personal hygiene capsule is provided.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Some embodiments relate to devices for facilitating personal hygiene for some individuals who are elderly, have reduced mobility, and / or prefer a more automated approach to personal hygiene. Some embodiments relate to methods for achieving personal hygiene in a more automated and independent manner than can be provided by personal care aids. [Background technology]

[0002] As people age, or for those who suffer from limited mobility, it can become increasingly difficult for a person to perform basic personal care routines. For example, a physically disabled or elderly person may require the assistance of a personal care worker to perform basic routines such as bathing or to assist with excretion. This assistance is difficult for a personal care worker to provide (e.g., of a very physical and cumbersome nature, especially for larger individuals) and also represents an invasion of privacy on the part of the care recipient. Both of these situations can contribute to a person receiving less personal hygiene care than might otherwise be optimal.

[0003] Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly highlighted the importance of controlling the transmission of infectious diseases to susceptible assisted living residents. Many vulnerable older adults have become infected and ultimately died due to transmission via infected caregivers. Therefore, it is desirable to have options that minimize physical contact between people with limited mobility and their caregivers.

[0004] Additionally, there is a continuing problem with a shortage of caregivers and personal aid workers, and the costs of employing such personnel are relatively high. Injuries can occur both during transport and during personal hygiene procedures, and bathing equipment is often not sterilized between uses.

[0005] There is a general need for improved devices, systems, and methods that enable individuals with reduced mobility to perform more of their personal hygiene routines without the assistance of another person. Additionally, such devices, systems, and methods may be useful for able-bodied individuals who simply desire a more automated approach to addressing their personal hygiene needs.

[0006] The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations associated therewith are intended to be illustrative and not exhaustive. Other limitations of the related art will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this specification and studying the drawings. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools, and methods that are intended to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the problems discussed above are reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are directed to other improvements.

[0008] One aspect provides a personal hygiene capsule having a housing, a toilet, at least one spray nozzle, a drain provided at a bottom of the housing, and at least one scrubbing brush operatively attached to clean at least a portion of an occupant of the personal hygiene capsule. Additional features may be provided, such as a sink, optionally a movable sink, a foot massager, a movable shower head, and a hair washing station. The hair washing station may have a scrubbing noodle for massaging the occupant's scalp. The personal hygiene capsule may be provided with one or more white lights for illumination and / or one or more UV lights for sterilization. The personal hygiene capsule may include a digital display screen, which may optionally be a touch screen device and / or voice activated to control the operation of the personal hygiene capsule.

[0009] A method of operating the personal hygiene capsule may be provided, the method may include opening a door of the personal hygiene capsule, optionally activating a light, optionally extending a ramp, allowing a resident to enter the personal hygiene capsule, optionally retracting the ramp, and closing the door of the personal hygiene capsule. Once inside, the resident may use voice and / or touch screen commands to initiate any of a number of operating cycles to use the toilet, initiate a body washing cycle, initiate a dental and / or face washing cycle, a hair washing cycle, a foot massage cycle, a drying cycle, a hair drying cycle, etc. The display screen may optionally be used to provide audio and / or audiovisual entertainment to the resident.

[0010] After the resident exits the personal hygiene capsule, a cleaning and / or sterilization cycle may be provided to clean and / or sterilize the capsule between residents. An emergency cycle may be initiated based on an unexpectedly opened door during a cycle, a voice command, or activation of an emergency stop function on the touch screen display. Initiation of an emergency cycle may alert attendants and / or caregivers that assistance is needed.

[0011] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following detailed descriptions. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the referenced figures in the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive. [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the personal hygiene capsule with the door open. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 shows a further perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 4]FIG. 2 shows a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of an entry cycle for entering a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 7] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a toilet cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 8] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a bath cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 9] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a hair washing cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 10] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a foot massage cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 11] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a tooth brushing and facial cleansing cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 12] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of an exit cycle for exiting the personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 13] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a sterilization / disinfection cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 14] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 15] 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a safety cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 16] 4 is another exemplary embodiment of a safety cycle for a personal hygiene capsule. [Figure 17] 13 is an exemplary embodiment of the operation of the digital screen of the personal hygiene capsule. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Throughout the following description, specific details are set forth to provide a more thorough understanding to those skilled in the art. However, well-known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Thus, the description and drawings should be regarded in an illustrative sense, rather than a restrictive sense.

[0014] The present invention provides an apparatus and method for automated personal hygiene using a hygiene capsule. The hygiene capsule may be provided with various personal care devices such as a toilet, a sink or mouth washing station, a hair washing station, a body scrubbing brush, a foot washer / masser, a spray nozzle and / or a drying vent. Certain aspects of the operation of the hygiene capsule may be mechanized and / or automated. An infotainment screen may be provided within the hygiene capsule. Suitable supports such as doors, entrance ramps, grip handles and back supports may be provided to facilitate use of the hygiene capsule by the occupant. The hygiene capsule may be capable of self-cleaning and / or self-sterilization, for example by using a spray nozzle, a soap dispenser, a drying vent and / or ultraviolet light. A computer processor may be provided to operate some or all aspects of the hygiene capsule. The computer processor may receive voice commands from the occupant to trigger different functions of the hygiene capsule.

[0015] The resident can select the function of the hygiene capsule using, for example, voice commands, which engage pre-programmed functions directed to individual functions of the hygiene capsule or any combination of functions including, but not limited to, flushing the toilet, bathing or showering and drying the resident, washing, rinsing and / or drying the resident's hair, massaging the resident's feet, and controlling what is displayed on the information and entertainment system. In some embodiments, the hygiene capsule functions are engaged by a third party, such as a caregiver, via a mobile application. In some embodiments, the operation of the hygiene capsule may be stopped by a third party, such as a caregiver, using a mobile application in response to an alert that the resident of the hygiene capsule may need assistance.

[0016] Because the operation of the hygiene capsule is highly automated, the personal hygiene capsule represents a step towards automation and / or the use of artificial intelligence to perform personal hygiene functions for those who need or desire such assistance.

[0017] 1-5, in one embodiment, a personal hygiene capsule 100 is provided having an exterior structure 102 for encapsulating the functional features of the personal hygiene capsule 100 within an interior chamber 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the exterior structure 102 is provided by a roof 104, three walls 106, a floor 108, and a door 110. In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the exterior structure 102 is watertight, and the door 110 can be placed in watertight engagement with the exterior structure 102 to contain water dispersed within the interior chamber 103, for example.

[0018] In some embodiments, a ramp 112 is provided to facilitate ease of entry or wheelchair accessibility to the interior chamber 103. The ramp 112 may be extendable to an extended configuration in which the ramp 112 projects outwardly from the interior chamber and outside the exterior structure 102 to enable use, and then retractable to a stored configuration in which the ramp 112 is contained within the interior chamber 103 to allow the door 110 to be closed.

[0019] In some embodiments, a drain 109 is provided to allow water dispensed into the internal chamber to be removed from the personal hygiene capsule 100. In some embodiments, the floor 108 is gently sloped towards the drain 109, for example at an angle of about 0.5° to 5° from the horizontal, including any value therebetween, for example 1°, 2°, 3°, or 4°, to facilitate the flow of water across the floor 108 and into the drain 109.

[0020] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is sized to accommodate a single resident. In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is sized to accommodate a single resident and an assistant, such as a caregiver, who can help the user position themselves within the interior chamber 103 as described below.

[0021] As used herein, "occupant" refers to a person who occupies the interior chamber 103 of the personal hygiene capsule 100 for the purpose of utilizing the personal hygiene aspects of the personal hygiene capsule 100.

[0022] The door 110 is openable and closable to provide access to the interior chamber 103 of the personal hygiene capsule 100. In some embodiments, the door 110 is an automatic door triggered by a proximity sensor or other signal. In some embodiments, the floor 108 and / or the ramp 112 are made from a non-slip material and / or coated with a non-slip coating or otherwise provided with surface features to reduce the likelihood of a resident slipping and falling while utilizing the personal hygiene capsule 100.

[0023] In some embodiments, the ramp 112 is telescoping so that the ramp 112 may automatically extend or unfold to facilitate entry of an occupant into the interior chamber 103. In some embodiments, the ramp 112 is of an appropriate width to accommodate a wheelchair and provides an inclined surface to allow the wheelchair to ascend the ramp 112 (e.g., at an angle of up to about 45° from horizontal, including 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, or 40° from horizontal).

[0024] In some embodiments, at least one status indicator light, shown generally as 114, is disposed on the exterior of the personal hygiene capsule 100 to indicate the status of the capsule, e.g., whether it is empty, occupied, or in a self-cleaning mode. The status indicator light 114 may emit different colors in some embodiments to indicate different states of the hygiene capsule. For example, the status indicator light 114 may be green to indicate that the personal hygiene capsule 100 is ready for use, and red to indicate that the personal hygiene capsule 100 is not ready for use. The status indicator light 114 may indicate when the personal hygiene capsule 100 is empty, occupied, and / or performing a particular pre-programmed function, as described below. In alternative embodiments, other modes of indicating the status of the personal hygiene capsule 100 may be used, e.g., manual dialing, audible indicators such as pre-recorded messages confirming the capsule's status, etc.

[0025] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 includes various features that enable the resident to perform certain personal hygiene routines. For example, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, a toilet 116 is provided to allow the resident to void from their bladder and / or bowels while using the personal hygiene capsule 100. In some embodiments, the user can remain seated on the toilet 116 while utilizing other personal hygiene features of the capsule 100, as described below. In some embodiments, the toilet 116 is self-flushable, for example, by being actuated to flush by a motion sensor that detects when the resident stands up from the toilet 116. In some embodiments, the toilet 116 includes a bidet mechanism to assist the resident in cleaning.

[0026] In some embodiments, the toilet 116 includes a back support 118 that helps support the resident in a seated position on the toilet 116 and helps prevent the resident from falling or tipping off the toilet 116. In the illustrated embodiment, a grab handle 120 is provided that the resident can grasp to assist in standing or sitting off the toilet 116 as needed.

[0027] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 includes a sink 122. The sink 122 may have a bowl 124 for receiving water and / or splashes, a faucet 126 for dispensing water, and a handle 128 for adjusting water temperature and flow rate, e.g., a traditional hot and cold water tap. In some embodiments, rather than using the handle 128 to adjust water temperature and flow rate, a processing system for receiving voice commands from the resident may adjust the temperature and flow rate of water provided to the sink 122. In some embodiments, the sink 122 may be used to clean the resident's mouth (e.g., the sink 122 may function as a mouth cleaning station, providing water to the resident via the handle 128 and faucet 126 and using the bowl 124 to capture splashes).

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the sink 122 is attached to one of the walls 106 via a flexible arm 130 (which facilitates drainage of used water from the bowl 124 and also serves to support the sink 122) so that it can be manually positioned within the internal chamber of the hygiene capsule, for example, allowing the best positioning for each particular resident. For example, if the sink 122 is used as an oral cleaning station, the flexible arm 130 can be used to position the sink 122 in a desired position to perform this function. Although in various embodiments a rigid arm can be used instead of the flexible arm 130, the provision of the flexible arm 130 can facilitate the resident's entry and exit from the personal hygiene capsule 100, and can allow the sink 122 to be moved away from the resident (e.g., to a storage position adjacent to one of the walls 106) during periods when mobility is required, and towards the resident when the resident wishes to use the sink 122 (e.g., to a use position adjacent to the resident while sitting at the toilet 116). In some embodiments, a suitable actuator may be provided as part of the flexible arm 130 to enable positioning of the sink 122 within the internal chamber 103 to be performed automatically, for example in response to a voice command issued by the resident or a helper.

[0029] 2, in some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 includes a unit configured to clean one or more parts of the user's body. For example, for general body cleaning, one or more spray nozzles 132 are provided that dispense water and / or soap at a physiologically comfortable temperature towards the occupant sitting on the toilet 116.

[0030] The personal hygiene capsule 100 may further include one or more scrubbing brushes 134 that can be used to scrub the resident's body. The scrubbing brushes 134 are attached to a suitable actuator 136 that couples to the external structure 102 to allow the scrubbing brushes 134 to be manipulated to clean various parts of the resident's body and to move towards and away from the resident to facilitate the resident's entry and exit. In the illustrated embodiment, two scrubbing brushes 134 are provided, one of which is a horizontally oriented scrubbing brush located at the rear of the toilet 116 that can be actuated vertically up and down and can be used specifically to clean the resident's back, and one of which is a vertically oriented scrubbing brush that can be rotated around the user and actuated vertically up and down to clean the resident's sides, front, and legs. In the illustrated embodiment, the scrubbing brushes 134 are shown as being generally cylindrical in shape, but in other embodiments, other shapes such as contoured, convex, concave, etc. can be used. In some embodiments, the actuator 136 can be driven by a suitable motor to rotate the scrubbing brush 134 and move the scrubbing brush 134 within the interior chamber 103. In other embodiments, the actuator 136 can rotate the scrubbing brush 134, but is resiliently flexible, allowing the occupant to move and manipulate the positioning of the scrubbing brush 134 within the interior chamber 103.

[0031] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 further includes a hair washing station 138. The hair washing station 138 has a dome structure 140 sized to accommodate a person's head, with a scrubbing element, shown diagrammatically as 142, lining the inside of the dome structure 140 for washing and rinsing the hair. The dome structure 140 of the hair washing station 138 may be manually positioned within the interior chamber of the hygiene capsule, or may be positioned above the occupant's head and adjustable in position to accommodate the various heights of different occupants. Water, shampoo, or other liquids and reagents are delivered through the dome structure 140 of the hair washing station 138 to wet, wash, and rinse the person's hair.

[0032] In some embodiments, one or more vents 144 are provided. Air can be forced through the vents 144 to assist in drying the occupant after the bathing function is completed. The air may be at any desired temperature, for example, slightly heated to ensure that the occupant dries quickly and remains warm.

[0033] In some embodiments, one or more lights 146 are provided. In some embodiments, the lights 146 provide conventional white light to illuminate the interior chamber 103 for the occupant. In some embodiments, the lights 146 provide ultraviolet light to help sterilize the interior chamber 103 after use. In some embodiments, the lights 146 provide both white light and ultraviolet light (e.g., by being provided with two different light sources that can be selectively activated), such that the appropriate light 146 can be used to provide either white light for illumination or ultraviolet light for sterilization.

[0034] In various embodiments, the vents 144 and lights 146 may be provided in any or a number of different desired locations within the interior chamber 103, such as in the walls 106, roof 104, floor 108 and / or door 110.

[0035] In some embodiments, a digital screen 148 is provided within the interior chamber 103. In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the digital screen 148 is mounted to the interior surface of the door 110 so as to be easily visible to a resident using the personal hygiene capsule 100. The digital screen 148 may be any suitable type of digital screen, for example a tablet, and may function as an infotainment screen to provide entertaining and / or informative visual content while the resident is using the personal hygiene capsule 100. For example, in some embodiments, the digital screen 148 may display information regarding the status or stage of operation of the personal hygiene capsule 100, including, for example, the amount of time remaining before a personal hygiene routine is completed.

[0036] In some embodiments, the digital screen 148 is controlled by voice commands. In other embodiments, the digital screen 148 may operate as a touch screen device or in any other suitable manner. In some embodiments, the digital screen 148 is associated with virtual assistant software, such as Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri, or Google Assistant.

[0037] In some embodiments, the digital screen 148 may have audio capabilities or the personal hygiene capsule 100 may otherwise be equipped with suitable speakers or other audio devices so that the resident can enjoy audio and / or audiovisual content while using the personal hygiene capsule 100 (e.g., by playing movies, music, news, television programs, podcasts, etc.).

[0038] In some embodiments, the digital screen 148 is waterproof to avoid damage while the personal hygiene capsule 100 is in use. In some embodiments, the digital screen 148 itself is not necessarily waterproof, but is mounted within a waterproof enclosure provided within the internal chamber 103.

[0039] In some embodiments, a foot massager 150 is provided within the personal hygiene capsule 100. In some embodiments, the foot massager 150 is easily removable and reinsertable above the floor 108 and / or retractable into a recessed cavity provided in the floor 108, so that the foot massager 150 does not impede ingress and egress for the resident, particularly for residents who use wheelchairs. For example, the foot massager 150 is shown in a use position in FIG. 2, but is removed and not shown in the remaining figures. The foot massager 150 may comprise suitable water jets and / or scrubbing brushes or massaging fingers as may be desired to facilitate cleaning and / or massaging of the resident's feet during use of the personal hygiene capsule 100.

[0040] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is equipped with an emergency shut-off switch or button, shown diagrammatically as 152. The resident can activate the emergency shut-off switch 152 if the resident becomes distressed for any reason. The emergency shut-off switch 152 may also be configured to alert a caregiver that the emergency shut-off switch 152 has been activated, ensuring that the caregiver is notified to respond promptly to the resident.

[0041] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is provided with a shower head 154. The shower head 154 may be attached to a hose 156 and may be removably supported by a support 158 ​​so that the resident can lift the shower head 154 off the support 158 ​​and direct the flow of water from the shower head 154 wherever may be desired by the resident. The hose 156 may be suitably plumbed to a source of water within the personal hygiene capsule 100 to supply water to the shower head 154.

[0042] In various embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 performs various functions including, but not limited to, flushing the toilet 116, bathing or showering and drying the resident, washing, rinsing, and / or drying the resident's hair, and / or massaging the resident's feet.

[0043] In some embodiments, the status of the personal hygiene capsule 100 is indicated via a status indicator light 114. For example, the status indicator light 114 may be green when the personal hygiene capsule 100 is ready for use, or may be red to indicate that the personal hygiene capsule 100 is not yet ready for use (e.g., because a cleaning and sterilization sequence is still in progress).

[0044] The personal hygiene capsule 100 can be used to perform a variety of cycles, which can be used alone or in combination in a variety of different ways to perform an appropriate personal hygiene routine for a resident. For example, with reference to Figure 6, an exemplary embodiment of an entry cycle 400 for a resident to enter the personal hygiene capsule 100 is shown.

[0045] At 402, a resident approaches the personal hygiene capsule 100. In some embodiments where the door 110 is an automatic door, a proximity sensor is triggered when the resident approaches the door 110, causing the door 110 to automatically open at 404 to allow the resident to enter. In alternative embodiments, the door 110 can be manually opened at 404, or the door 110 can be otherwise actuated in any suitable manner, for example, through a voice command, pressing an appropriate button, etc. In some embodiments, the door 110 can be in an open position by default when the personal hygiene capsule 100 is unoccupied and ready for use, such that a step of opening the door 110 is not required.

[0046] At 406, one or more lights 146 can be turned on to illuminate the interior chamber 103 for the occupant. The lights 146 can be turned on by a control system that controls the operation of the personal hygiene capsule 100, or via a conventional light switch, voice command, or in any other suitable manner.

[0047] At 408, if the personal hygiene capsule 100 is provided with a ramp portion 112 and the resident wishes to utilize the ramp portion 112 (e.g. because the resident is in a wheelchair or has difficulty stepping directly into the internal chamber 103), the ramp portion 103 can be actuated into an extended configuration in which it extends outwardly from the internal chamber 103, for example, upon issuance of a voice command, upon pressing of an appropriate button, or via manual extension by a caregiver or other assistant.

[0048] At 410, the resident enters the interior chamber 103 and at 412 the resident sits on the toilet 116 in a conventional manner. The resident may assist themselves in entering the personal hygiene capsule 100 and positioning themselves on the toilet 116, using the grip handle 120 if necessary, or a caregiver may assist. At 414, if the ramp 112 is extended, it is returned to its retracted position so that the door 110 can be closed at 416.

[0049] 7, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a toilet cycle 500. The toilet cycle 500 is performed after an occupant enters the interior chamber 103 by the method 400 below, although if desired, other cycles may be performed after an occupant enters the interior chamber 103 and before the toilet cycle 500 is performed.

[0050] At 502, the resident utilizes the toilet 116 for normal toilet functions. At 504, the resident activates the toilet 116 to flush the toilet 116. In some embodiments, a voice command such as "flush" is used at 504 to flush the toilet 116. In some embodiments, a traditional lever can be activated to flush the toilet 116, or the toilet 116 can be activated in any other suitable manner to flush the toilet 116.

[0051] At 506, if equipped and if desired, the bidet function of the toilet 116 is activated. For example, the bidet function can be activated by a user using a lever in a traditional manner, or in a more automated embodiment, the software controlling the operation of the toilet 116 is programmed to activate a water spray from the bidet function of the toilet 116 for a predetermined period of time.

[0052] 8, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a bath cycle 600. The bath cycle 600 is performed after the occupant enters the interior chamber 103 via method 400 below, although if desired, other cycles may be performed after the occupant enters the interior chamber 103 and before the bath cycle 600 is performed.

[0053] At 602, water is dispensed through the spray nozzle 132 to provide a shower of water on the resident. The water dispensing can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 604, soap is dispensed through the spray nozzle 132 or other suitable soap dispensing nozzle. In some embodiments, soap is sprayed onto the resident's body from a number of different directions to substantially cover most or all of the resident's body. The soap dispensing can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 606, the scrubbing brush 134 is activated so that the resident's body is scrubbed to aid in effective cleaning. The operation of the scrubbing brush 134 can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper.

[0054] At 608, water is again dispensed through spray nozzles 132 to provide the resident with a water shower to rinse off the soap. Water dispense can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or a helper. Whenever the resident desires and is able, the resident can also optionally use showerhead 154 to manually rinse or wash themselves.

[0055] At 610, a dry air flow is provided from the vent 144. The dry air flow can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. The air used to provide the dry air flow can be gently heated, for example, to a temperature in the range of about 15° C. to about 65° C., including any value therebetween, for example, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60° C., to ensure that the resident stays warm throughout the drying process without becoming overheated.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 9, an exemplary embodiment of a hair washing cycle 700 is shown. At 702, operation of the water jets in the hair washing station 138 is initiated to wet or further wet the resident's hair. Water dispensing can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. Then, at 704, soap or shampoo nozzles are provided in the hair washing station 138 so that soap or shampoo is applied to the resident's hair. Soap / shampoo dispensing can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 706, scrubbing noodles in the hair washing station 138 are activated to scrub the resident's hair and scalp to cleanse the hair. Scrubbing can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 708, the water jets are again activated to rinse the soap / shampoo from the resident's hair. Water dispensing can be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 710, any desired conditioner or follow-on treatment to the soap / shampoo may be applied via the soap or shampoo nozzle. Dispensing of the conditioner may be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 712, if conditioner has been applied, the water jets are again activated to rinse the conditioner from the resident's hair. Dispensing of water may be stopped at a predetermined time or in response to a command from the resident or helper. At 714, the resident's hair is dried using a blow dryer provided at the hair washing station 138. The air blown by the blow dryer may be gently heated, for example, to a temperature ranging from about 15° C. to about 65° C., including any value therebetween, for example, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60° C., so as to keep the resident warm throughout the drying process without becoming excessively hot.

[0057] In some embodiments, the hair washing cycle 700 operates until partway through the bathing cycle 600, for example before or after soap is dispensed at 604. Similarly, the drying step 714 of the hair washing cycle 700 may be postponed until after water has been sprayed at 608, and may optionally occur simultaneously with the drying step 610.

[0058] 10, an exemplary embodiment of a foot massage cycle 800 is shown. At 802, the tub of the foot massager 150 may be optionally filled with warm water if necessary. At 804, the foot massager 150 machine begins operation to provide a massage to the resident's feet. Once a desired level of foot massage time has been reached, the massage operation may be stopped via any suitable command input, as described below, at 806. At 808, if the tub of the foot massager 150 is filled with water, the water is drained from the tub of the foot massager 150. In various embodiments, the foot massage cycle 800 may be performed before the drying step 610 of the wash cycle 600 so that the resident's entire body can be dried. In other embodiments, after the foot massage cycle 800 is completed without the wash cycle 600 operating, the drying step 610 of the cycle 600 may be performed alone to dry the resident's feet following the foot massage cycle 800 in embodiments in which the tub of the foot massager 150 is filled with warm water.

[0059] 11, an exemplary embodiment of a teeth brushing and face washing cycle 850 using the sink 122 is shown. In some embodiments, only certain steps of the cycle 850 may be performed, for example, only those steps required to brush the teeth or only those steps required to wash the resident's face. At 852, the position of the flexible arm 130 is adjusted so that the sink 122 is positioned comfortably close to the resident's face. At 854, the user actuates the handle 128 to initiate the flow of water through the faucet 126. At 856, the user optionally adjusts the temperature of the water flowing through the faucet 126 to a desired temperature using the handle 128. At 858, to brush the resident's teeth, the resident may optionally apply toothpaste to the teeth and / or brush their teeth using a toothbrush in the conventional manner. At 860, the resident may rinse their mouth using the water flowing through the faucet 126, with excess water being drained by the bowl 124.

[0060] At 862, to wash the resident's face, the user can use water flowing through faucet 126 and, optionally, apply soap from a soap dispenser and apply friction by rubbing the resident's hands. At 864, the resident can rinse their face using water flowing through faucet 126 and excess water can be drained through bowl 124. Once the resident has completed the tooth brushing and / or face washing cycle, at 866, the water flow through faucet 126 is stopped by actuating handle 128 and at 868, flexible arm 130 is positioned so that sink 122 is not in the resident's way.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 12, an exemplary embodiment of an exit cycle 900 for exiting the personal hygiene capsule 100 after the resident has finished is shown. At 901, the door 110 opens. At 902, the resident stands up from the toilet 116. At 904, the ramp 112 is extended in an embodiment with a ramp. At 906, if the resident uses a wheelchair for mobility, the resident can sit in his / her wheelchair, optionally with the assistance of a helper or caregiver. At 908, the resident can exit the personal hygiene capsule 100. At 910, the ramp 112 is retracted if used, and at 912, the light 146 is turned off. At 914, the door 110 is closed.

[0062] After each use, the personal hygiene capsule 100 may undergo a sterilization cycle, an exemplary embodiment of which is shown in FIG. 13 as sterilization cycle 1000. In some embodiments, the sterilization cycle 1000 begins automatically after the resident exits and completes the exit cycle 900. In some embodiments, at 1002, the status indicator light 114 is changed to red so that potential residents know that the personal hygiene capsule 100 is not ready for use. In alternative embodiments, any other suitable indicia may be used, such as an audible indicia, a display screen, a backlit status light, etc.

[0063] At 1004, the door 110 is locked to prevent a potential occupant from inadvertently entering the personal hygiene capsule 100 during the sterilization cycle 1000. In some embodiments, the door 110 is locked from the inside so that it cannot be unlocked during the sterilization cycle 1000. At 1006, the UV light of the light 146 is turned on to begin the sterilization process by killing or inactivating any microorganisms or viruses that may have been introduced inside the inner chamber 103 by a previous occupant. After a predetermined period of time (the sterilization period) sufficient for the desired degree of sterilization, the UV light of the light 146 is turned off at 1008.

[0064] At 1010, the door 110 is unlocked and, if desired, at 1012, the door 110 can be opened to facilitate entry of the next resident. At 1014, the status indicator light 114 is changed to green so that the potential resident knows that the personal hygiene capsule 100 is now ready for use. In alternative embodiments, any other suitable indicia may be used, e.g., an audible indicia, a display screen, a backlit status light, etc.

[0065] In some embodiments, as shown with reference to FIG. 14, in addition to or instead of the sterilization cycle 1000, the personal hygiene capsule 100 can undergo a physical cleaning cycle 1050 while the door 110 is locked as described above for the sterilization cycle 1000. At 1052, the spray nozzles and soap dispensers in the personal hygiene capsule 100 are activated so that hot soapy water is sprayed onto the interior surfaces to physically scrub away dirt or microorganisms. At 1054, any soap dispensers are stopped while the spray nozzles continue to spray hot water to rinse the interior surfaces of the personal hygiene capsule 100. At 1056, any remaining water is allowed to drain down the drain 109.

[0066] Suitable safety systems and / or safety cycles can be incorporated into the personal hygiene capsule 100. For example, referring to Fig. 15, in one exemplary embodiment of a safety cycle 1100, if the resident opens the door 110 at 1102 while any cycle of the personal hygiene capsule 100 is in operation, the active cycle of the personal hygiene capsule 100 is frozen at 1104. Optionally, at 1106, any suitable indicia can be activated to alert the caregiver that assistance is needed, for example, the status indicator light 114 can flash red, an audible indicia such as an alarm or voice command can sound, an appropriate notification such as a paging or text message can be sent to the caregiver at a remote location or to an emergency contact, etc.

[0067] An alternative embodiment of the safety cycle is shown as 1200 in Fig. 16. At 1202, the resident activates the emergency shut-off switch 152. In response, at 1204, any cycles of the personal hygiene capsule 100 in operation are frozen. At 1206, optionally, any suitable indicia can be activated to alert the caregiver that assistance is needed, for example, the status indicator light 114 can flash red, an audible indicia such as an alarm or voice command can sound, an appropriate notification such as a paging or text message can be sent to the caregiver or an emergency contact at a remote location, etc.

[0068] Other measures may be taken to ensure the safety of the resident during various stages of operation of the personal hygiene capsule 100. For example, the personal hygiene capsule 100 may not perform any functions related to the resident's personal hygiene unless the door 110 is in the closed position.

[0069] In other embodiments, the user may wear a safety device configured to determine when the user has fallen, and / or the personal hygiene capsule 100 may be equipped with a suitable accelerometer or other device that enables the personal hygiene capsule 100 to sense if the resident has fallen. If a fall is detected, an appropriate warning or alarm may be activated such that a caregiver is alerted to the need to check the safety of the resident of the personal hygiene capsule 100.

[0070] In various embodiments, control of the operation of the various cycles that the personal hygiene capsule 100 can perform can be accomplished in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is configured to accept voice commands to initiate various cycles and / or specific steps within each cycle for hands-free operation. Voice activation encompasses the use of pre-programmed voice commands to start or stop a function of the hygiene capsule or to select a particular function or combination of functions of the hygiene capsule.

[0071] Thus, for example, the resident can use a voice command such as "Flush" to activate the flush function of the toilet 116 during the toilet cycle 500 (and optionally the bidet function after the toilet flush is completed). A voice command such as "Take a bath" can be used to initiate a bath cycle 600. A voice command such as "Wash your hair" can be used to initiate a hair washing cycle 700. A voice command such as "Foot massage" or "Massage" can be used to initiate a foot massage cycle 800. A voice command such as "Wash your face" or "Brush your teeth" can be used to initiate a tooth brushing and / or facial washing cycle 850. At any time, the resident can use a voice command such as "Stop" to stop the current cycle (which may occur after completion of the relevant step in the cycle; for example, when the toilet 116 is flushing at 504, the flush step will be completed before the cycle is stopped). A voice command such as "Help" can be used to activate a safety cycle equivalent to the safety cycles 1100 and 1200. Additionally, the digital screen 148 can be operated using voice commands, for example, a voice command such as "hello" or a touch on the screen can be used to turn on the digital screen 148.

[0072] In alternative embodiments, other modes of processing commands from the resident may be used, such as, for example, input via the digital screen 148, activation of appropriate buttons, or external control by an assistant responding to requests from the resident.

[0073] In various embodiments, the operation of each step of the various cycles that the personal hygiene capsule 100 may perform may be controlled in any suitable manner. For example, voice commands or other suitable prompts (such as pressing a button or providing input via the digital screen 148) may be used by the resident to advance each step of the cycle when the resident determines that the previous step is complete.

[0074] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is automated in that it includes software that executes pre-programmed functions of the hygiene capsule, such as any of cycles 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 850, 900, 1000, 1050, 1100, or 1200. The pre-programmed functions are directed to individual functions or any combination of functions of the hygiene capsule, including, but not limited to, flushing the toilet, bathing or showering and drying the resident, washing, rinsing, and / or drying the resident's hair, massaging the resident's feet, controlling content displayed on a digital screen, and activating the self-cleaning function of the hygiene capsule. The pre-programmed functions execute the functions of the hygiene capsule by controlling the operation of the toilet (e.g., flushing), the delivery of water, soap, shampoo, or other liquids and reagents from a nozzle or hair washing device, the delivery of air through the air vents, the movement and rotation of the scrubbing device, the operation of the foot massage device, and the content displayed on the digital screen.

[0075] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 can be operated remotely via a mobile application. In some embodiments, the personal hygiene capsule 100 is operated by inputs on a digital screen 148, which may be a touch screen.

[0076] In some embodiments, as illustrated as 1300 in FIG. 17, the digital screen 148 can be operated by touch screen interactions provided by the resident or caregiver and / or by voice commands. For example, at 1302, the digital screen 148 can display a menu of available cycles, such as a toilet cycle 500, a bath cycle 600, a hair wash cycle 700, a foot massage cycle 800, a tooth brushing or face washing cycle 850, or any other available cycle. The user can use the touch screen functionality of the digital screen 148 to select and start the appropriate cycle. At 1304, the resident can use voice commands to start any one of the desired cycles via the digital screen 148. At 1306, the digital screen 148 may output entertainment for the user in the form of audio and / or audiovisual content, such as movies, music, news, television programs, podcasts, etc.

[0077] While several exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions, and subcombinations thereof, and it is therefore intended that the following appended claims, and any claims hereafter introduced, be interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions, and subcombinations in a manner consistent with the broadest interpretation of the entire specification.

Claims

1. 1. A personal hygiene capsule comprising: Housing and Toilet, at least one spray nozzle; a drain provided at a lower portion of the housing; and at least one scrubbing brush operatively attached to clean at least a portion of an occupant of said personal hygiene capsule.

2. 2. The personal hygiene capsule of claim 1, wherein the at least one scrubbing brush includes a horizontally oriented scrubbing brush mounted to the rear of the toilet and a vertically oriented scrubbing brush mounted to contact at least one side of the occupant when the occupant is in a seated position on the toilet.

3. 3. The personal hygiene capsule of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing comprises a door which can be opened and closed for water-tight engagement with the housing, the housing being water-tight.

4. A personal hygiene capsule as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising a back support arranged to support the occupant when in a seated position on the toilet.

5. A personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a sink.

6. 6. The personal hygiene capsule of claim 5, wherein the sink is movably mounted on a flexible arm such that the sink can be moved between a use position adjacent an occupant sitting on the toilet and a storage position adjacent a wall of the housing.

7. 7. A personal hygiene capsule as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a hair washing station arranged and configured to contact the resident's hair whilst the resident is seated on the toilet, the hair washing station optionally having rubbing noodles for massaging the resident's scalp.

8. A movable shower head one or more lights, optionally conventional white light and / or ultraviolet light, and / or A personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a gripping bar mounted to support a user moving into a sitting position on the toilet.

9. A personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a foot massage unit, said foot massage unit being optionally retractable within a recessed cavity in the floor of the housing and / or said foot massage unit being removable.

10. A personal hygiene capsule according to any preceding claim, comprising a digital display screen mounted within the interior chamber of the housing.

11. the digital display screen comprises an infotainment unit; and / or The personal hygiene capsule of claim 10 , wherein the digital display screen is configured as a touch screen for receiving input from a resident to operate various functions of the personal hygiene capsule.

12. 1. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule, the method comprising: opening a door of the personal hygiene capsule; Optionally activating a light within the personal hygiene capsule; an optional extending ramp arranged and configured to facilitate entry into said personal hygiene capsule; allowing a resident to enter said personal hygiene capsule; enabling the resident to sit on the toilet of the personal hygiene capsule; Optionally retracting the ramp; and and closing the door of the personal hygiene capsule.

13. allowing the resident to use the toilet; flushing the toilet; 13. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule as claimed in claim 12, comprising: activating a bidet function of the toilet.

14. spraying the occupant with water; and Dispensing soap to said resident; scrubbing the occupant with a scrubbing brush; spraying the occupant with water to rinse soap from the occupant; 14. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule according to claim 12 or 13, comprising drying the occupant.

15. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 12 to 14, comprising washing the resident's hair using a hair washing station.

16. said step of washing said resident's hair using a hair washing station comprising: spraying the resident's hair using water jets from the hair washing station; applying a shampoo to the resident's hair; rubbing the resident's hair with a rubbing noodle; and spraying the resident's hair with the water jet to remove the shampoo; and Optionally, applying a conditioner to said resident's hair and removing said conditioner using said water jet; 16. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule as claimed in claim 15, including drying the resident's hair with an air dryer provided in the hair washing station.

17. adjusting the position of a sink within the personal hygiene capsule; starting a flow of water from a faucet of the sink; and adjusting the temperature of the water flow to a desired level.

18. brushing the resident's teeth; 20. The method of operating a personal hygiene capsule of claim 17, further comprising: allowing the resident to use the sink to rinse their mouth.

19. enabling the resident to use the sink to wash their face; 19. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule as claimed in claim 17 or 18, further comprising: enabling the resident to use the sink to rinse their face.

20. stopping the flow of water through the sink faucet; A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 17 to 19, comprising retracting the sink to a stored position.

21. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 12 to 20, further comprising massaging the resident's feet using massage tabs of the personal hygiene capsule.

22. opening the door of the personal hygiene capsule; causing the occupant to stand; and Optionally extending the ramp; allowing the occupant to exit through the door; and Optionally retracting the ramp; Optionally, turning off said light; and and closing the door of the personal hygiene capsule.

23. using an emergency signal to stop operation of the personal hygiene capsule, the emergency signal optionally comprising: the resident activating an emergency stop button on the personal hygiene capsule; a voice command being issued by the occupant; and the door is open, and / or The method of any one of claims 12 to 22, comprising the personal hygiene capsule detecting that the resident has fallen.

24. and issuing a notification to a caregiver that the emergency signal has occurred, the notification comprising: An audible alarm; a visual indicator, said visual indicator optionally comprising a flashing light; and Text messages, and / or A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule as claimed in claim 23, comprising: a.

25. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 12 to 24, comprising sterilising the personal hygiene capsule after use using ultraviolet (UV) light.

26. sterilizing said personal hygiene capsule using UV light; locking the door of the personal hygiene capsule; activating a UV light within an interior chamber of the personal hygiene capsule; irradiating the interior chamber of the personal hygiene capsule with UV light for a sterilization period; turning off the UV light; and 26. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule as claimed in claim 25, comprising: unlocking the door of the personal hygiene capsule.

27. 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising activating an indicator light on the personal hygiene capsule to indicate that the personal hygiene capsule is unusable during a sterilization cycle, the method further comprising activating the indicator light after the sterilization cycle is completed to indicate that the personal hygiene capsule is usable.

28. 28. A method of operating a personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 12 to 27, comprising physically cleaning the interior surface of the personal hygiene capsule by spraying the interior of the personal hygiene capsule with water and soap, followed by rinsing the interior surface with water.

29. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 28, wherein voice commands are used to operate the personal hygiene capsule.

30. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 29, wherein touch commands inputted via a digital screen are used to operate the personal hygiene capsule.

31. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 30, wherein the digital screen is used to provide entertainment to the occupant of the personal hygiene capsule, said entertainment optionally comprising audio or audiovisual content.

32. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 31, carried out on a personal hygiene capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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