Urinal Screen

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention provide domed urinal screens. In preferred embodiments the screens include a hub, a plurality of spokes radiating downward from the hub, and a plurality of concentric rings supported by the spokes. Compositions deterring accumulation of fluids on urinal screens are also disclosed.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The invention relates to the field of urinal mats and screens. In some embodiments the mats and screens may be scented. Additional embodiments relate to compositions used in the formation of urinal mats and screens.[0003]2. Background of the Related Art[0004]Urinals are commonly used in lavatories. Although flushing urinals have been ubiquitous in men's lavatories for some time, non-flushing (or “waterless”) urinals are growing increasingly popular for their savings in water and energy.[0005]Unfortunately, urinals have a number of drawbacks. Deposit of materials into a urinal other than urine or water, such as chewing gum or cigarette butts may clog the drain or lead to an unsightly appearance until the urinal is able to be cleaned. This is particularly troublesome in a non-flushing urinal, where the drain may lead immediately to a holding and treatment area. Accumulation of non-urine waste in this area could impair the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention provides materials that make urinal screens that reduce the retention of urine by the screen. This is done by increasing the hydrophobicity of the polymer screen.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, urinals have a number of drawbacks.

Deposit of materials into a urinal other than urine or water, such as chewing gum or cigarette butts may clog the drain or lead to an unsightly appearance until the urinal is able to be cleaned.

This is particularly troublesome in a non-flushing urinal, where the drain may lead immediately to a holding and treatment area.

Accumulation of non-urine waste in this area could impair the function of the urinal and require more frequent cleaning of the urinal, the holding and treatment area, and any associated plumbing.

Urinals also suffer from issues of potential “splashback” of urine on a user.

This may have many causes, including the hard surface and angle of the urinal.

The retention of water in the urinal drain at a level that is visible to a user may also contribute to splashback when the urine strikes the standing pool of water.

Unfortunately, as indicated in the '707 patent, these kinds of screens have tendency to float.

These kinds of screens are therefore unsatisfactory for use in urinals in which there is a standing water, because the screen may be lifted or washed out of position, allowing debris to enter the drain.

Furthermore, the alleged benefits offered by the protrusions are not conclusively proven, and given the large, flat surface area splashback remains a significant possibility.

Screens shown in the '707 patent and screens like them are also typically unsatisfactory because they do not shed urine.

The slowly-evaporating urine generates an offensive odor and may leave deposits that gradually build up and clog the holes, interfering with proper urine flow and further exacerbating the problem.

This issue is particularly troublesome with waterless urinals, because the lack of a flushing action means that any urine that is retained remains indefinitely until evaporation.

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