Devices, kits, and methods for temporarily stopping an automatic flushing assembly for a toilet or urinal from flushing

Abstract

The present invention provides devices, kits, and methods for temporarily stopping an automatic flushing assembly on a toilet or urinal from activating. The device may be placed over or on the sensor assembly of the toilet to temporarily block the sensor assembly from sensing the user. In preferred aspects, the device is composed of a material that the user is able to flush down the toilet or urinal such that when the user is finished, the device may be removed and disposed of directly into the toilet or urinal.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 60 / 889,180 filed Feb. 9, 2007, entitled “Systems and Methods for Temporarily Stopping an Automatic Flushing Assembly for a Toilet or Urinal from Flushing,” to Stewart (Reference No. PRBN-0021), the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to automatic flushing toilets and urinals (referred to herein collectively as “toilets”). More specifically, the present invention relates to methods and devices for temporarily stopping automatic flushing toilets from flushing.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The use of toilets with automatic flush valves is becoming widespread in public restrooms. The automatic flush valves are meant to ensure that the toilets are always flushed. The automatic flush valves are further meant to reduce contamination from touching the handle on the t...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]In one aspect, the present invention provides a device or product that is sized and shaped to temporarily block a sensor assembly that controls the flushing of a toilet. The blocking of the sensor assembly allows the user of the toilet to control the timing of the flush and prevents the inadvertent flushing of the toilet while the user is still using the toilet. In preferred aspects, the product is comprised of a flushable and / or biodegradable material and may be disposed of directly in the toilet. Such aspects reduce litter and reduce the possibility of clogging the toilet.

[0007]In another aspect, the present invention provides methods for temporarily stopping an automatic toilet from flushing. In one aspect, the method comprises placing a device over, on, or around the sensor assembly on the toilet so as to prevent the sensor assembly from sensing the presence of the user in the range of the sensor assembly. This will allow the user to use the toilet without the worry of the toilet flushing inadvertently. Once the user is finished using the toilet, the user may remove the product from the sensor assembly so as to allow the sensor assembly to automatically flush the toilet. If the product is comprised of a biodegradable and flushable material, the user may dispose of the product directly in the toilet.

Problems solved by technology

This is a particular problem when a toilet is being used by small children as the sensor assembly associated with the toilet isn'table to reliably detect the presence of their small bodies.

Such ill-timed flushes can seriously hinder a child's ability to be comfortable while using the toilet and is a deterrent to potty-training.

Furthermore, unwanted flushing can also be a problem for adults who prefer to control the timing of the flush, so as to prevent the inadvertent flushing of the toilet (and associated spraying) while it is being used.

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