Toilet with foot-operated toilet seat lifting apparatus

Abstract

A simplified apparatus for allowing hands-free raising and lowering of a toilet seat. In a preferred embodiment, the toilet seat actuating apparatus includes a ‘U’ shaped foot operated level which when depressed by a user, pivots about a fulcrum and raises the toilet seat via left and right linkages. The fulcrum is formed by a bracket assembly that mounts in between the porcelain throne and the seat. The apparatus is devoid of actuators, dampers, and other cumbersome or costly components that are employed on the toilet seat operating devices of prior art.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is based upon provisional application 61 / 156,987 filed on Mar. 3, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference and the priority of which is claimed.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This invention relates generally to sanitary toilets, and in particular to a foot-operated apparatus for raising and lowering toilet seats.[0004]2. Description of the Prior Art[0005]Toilet seat lifting and lowering devices are known in the art, as it is desirable in certain locations to be able to move the toilet seat without having to touch the seat with one's hands. For example, hospitals, nursing homes, and sanitariums may benefit from hands-free toilet seats. Additionally, public restrooms in service stations, rest stops, restaurants, retail stores and the like may benefit from improved cleanliness if male patrons are more likely to raise the seat prior to urination because they need not touch the seat with ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]A primary object of the invention is to provide a simplified apparatus for hands-free raising and lowering of a toilet seat that does not require or use cumbersome or costly components such as motors, gears, actuators, shock absorbers or dampers.

[0009]It is another object of the invention to provide a toilet seat lifting device that is simple for a homeowner who has limited tools and home repair skills to install.

[0010]It is another object of the invention to provide a toilet seat lifting device that is aesthetically pleasing.

[0011]It is another object of the invention to provide a toilet seat lifting device that mounts to the commode at the toilet seat mounting holes, thus simplifying installation.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Problems solved by technology

The apparatus is devoid of actuators, dampers, and other cumbersome or costly components that are employed on the toilet seat operating devices of prior art.

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