Flush valve cleaner dispenser system

Abstract

A toilet cleaner dispenser system is centered above an overflow tube and configured to deliver cleanser solution directly to the overflow tube without a hose. A disposable cartridge containing a cleanser tablet is removably coupled to a dispenser housing. Refill water is directed to the housing through an inlet and brought into contact with the cleanser tablet to form a cleanser solution. The cleanser solution exits an outlet of the housing into a receptacle which directs the solution downwardly and directly into the overflow tube. Inlet and outlet water traps prevent fumes from escaping the housing.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application relates to, claims priority from, and incorporates herein by reference, as if fully set forth, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 675,529 filed on Apr. 27, 2005 and entitled “INTEGRATED CLEANER DISPENSER WITH FLUSH VALVE”.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates generally to cleaner dispenser systems for toilets. [0004] 2. Description of Prior Art and Related Information [0005] Cleaning dispenser systems for toilets are commonly located in the toilet tank. Since conventional dispensers are often purchased as an add-on, after-market product, some common drawbacks are associated with prior art dispensers. [0006] For example, dispensers typically include clips in order to fasten the dispenser to the wall of the toilet tank. These clips often get in the way of the toilet lid being able to fully close on the toilet tank. [0007] Cleaning agents, such as tablets, which dissolv...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0022] In summary, a toilet cleaner dispenser system is centered above an overflow tube and configured to deliver cleanser solution directly to the overflow tube without a hose. A disposable cartridge containing a cleanser tablet is removably coupled to a dispenser housing. Refill water is directed to the housing through an inlet and brought into contact with the cleanser tablet to form a cleanser solution. The cleanser solution exits an outlet of the housing into a receptacle which directs the solution downwardly and directly into the overflow tube. Inlet and outlet water traps prevent fumes from escaping the housing.

Problems solved by technology

Since conventional dispensers are often purchased as an add-on, after-market product, some common drawbacks are associated with prior art dispensers.

Cleaning agents, such as tablets, which dissolve into the refill water upon contact often generate harmful fumes that can damage the interior components of the toilet tank.

The need to prevent the escape of fumes has led to awkward and bulky structures that also cause the entire dispenser unit to take up the limited space within the toilet tank.

Accordingly, certain dispenser units in the prior art do not enable the lid to close on a standard toilet tank, thereby creating a rocking or tilted appearance which is undesirable.

Hoses can come loose, thereby dumping harmful chemicals into the toilet tank without the awareness of the consumer.

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