Ergonomic toilet seat

Abstract

The invention relates to a comfortable toilet seat, wherein said seat comprises a top circumferential seat arrangement surface having an inner edge, an outer edge, a front portion and a rear portion, wherein said seat is substantially symmetrical about a bisecting centre line from the front portion to the rear portion, said inner edge comprises a downward curvature from the front portion of the seat towards the rear portion of the seat, said outer edge comprises a downward curvature followed by a smaller upward curvature from the rear portion to the front portion, and the rear top seat arrangement surface comprises a steep upward curvature from the front portion to the rear portion.

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates to a toilet seat, and more particularly to a comfortable ergonomic toilet seat. Background Technology

[0002] Seat comfort has always been, and will continue to be, very important. This includes, and for many people especially, the comfort of the toilet seat. There is a need for a toilet seat that provides comfort for all body types. Summary of the Invention

[0003] It has been found that toilet seats with specific x, y, z spatial coordinates provide comfort to most people when they sit on them.

[0004] Therefore, an ergonomic toilet seat is disclosed, wherein the seat includes a top circumferential seat arrangement surface having an inner edge, an outer edge, a front portion, and a rear portion, wherein the seat is substantially symmetrical about a bisecting center line from the front portion to the rear portion, the inner edge includes a downward curvature from the front portion of the seat towards the rear portion of the seat, the outer edge includes a downward curvature from the rear portion to the front portion followed by a smaller upward curvature, and the rear top seat arrangement surface includes a steep upward curvature from the front portion to the rear portion.

[0005] In some embodiments, the inner edge includes a curved thigh support surface positioned toward the front of the seat ring, the curved thigh support surface extending inward toward the bisecting center line.

[0006] An ergonomic toilet seat is also disclosed, wherein the seat includes a top circumferential seat arrangement surface having an inner edge, an outer edge, a front portion, and a rear portion.

[0007] The seat ring is substantially symmetrical about the bisector of the center line from the front to the rear.

[0008] The rear top seat ring arrangement surface includes a steep upward curve from the front to the rear, wherein the slope along the bisector from the center point of the rear inner edge to the highest rear point is about 25 degrees to about 55 degrees.

[0009] An ergonomic toilet seat was also disclosed, wherein a sample size of a person sitting on it provides ≥115 inches measured at a pressure threshold of 0 psi. 2 The average contact area and average pressure ≤2.0 psi, and ≤4.5 in measured at a pressure threshold of 5 psi. 2 The average contact area and average pressure ≤7.4 psi, and ≤2.5 in measured at a pressure threshold of 7 psi. 2 The average contact area and average pressure ≤8.6psi.

[0010] A modular toilet seat assembly is also disclosed, the assembly including a toilet seat as disclosed herein and a toilet seat cover having an outer edge configured to complement, correspond to, and rest on the outer edge of the toilet seat.

[0011] A modular toilet seat assembly is also disclosed, comprising a toilet seat as disclosed herein and a set of lateral stabilizing pads. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The disclosure described herein is shown in the accompanying drawings by way of example and not limitation. For the sake of simplicity and clarity, features shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some features may be enlarged relative to others for clarity. Furthermore, reference numerals have been repeated in the drawings where deemed appropriate to indicate corresponding or similar elements.

[0013] Figure 1 A top view of the left side of a toilet seat according to an embodiment is provided.

[0014] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Different toilet seats according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0015] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of a toilet seat installed on a toilet according to an embodiment is shown.

[0016] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A view of a toilet seat attached to a seat cover is provided according to some embodiments.

[0017] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C The image shows a toilet seat and lid, as well as a lateral stabilizing pad, viewed from the bottom according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Figure 1A top view of a toilet seat 100 according to an embodiment is provided. The top view essentially shows a symmetrical half (left) of the toilet seat 100 bisected by a center line. Although the bisecting center line from front to back is not shown, it includes surface points 128), 123), 117), 111), 21), 1), 42), 41), 40), and 22). Inner edge point 13) has a corresponding outer edge point 34) (having the same Y value). The top view shows a top circumferential seat arrangement surface 101 including surface points 40) to 128). An inner edge 102 including surface points 1) to 21) and an outer edge 103 including surface points 22) to 39) are also shown. The rear top seat arrangement surface 104 includes surface points 85) to 128). A thigh support surface 105 is located in the front half of the seat 100, extending inward toward the bisecting center line, and includes inner edge points 4) to 10). The inner edge 102 curves downward from the center point 1) of the front inner edge to the center point 21) of the rear inner edge, curving below the top surface of the toilet once installed, allowing the buttocks to settle into the seat 100. The outer edge 103 includes a downward curve from the rear point 39) to the front point 22) followed by a smaller upward curve. The rear top seat arrangement surface 104 includes a steep upward curve from the front to the rear. The center point 1) of the inner edge is assigned x, y, z spatial coordinates 0, 0, 0. The inner edge 102 is at least partially defined by surface points 1) to 21). The outer edge 103 is at least partially defined by surface points 22 to 39). The rear seat arrangement surface 104 is at least partially defined by surface points 85) to 128). The rear seat arrangement surface 104 may also be at least partially defined by points 35) to 39) and / or points 15) to 21). The thigh support surface 105 may be at least partially defined by points 4) to 10) and / or points 28) to 32) and / or points 54) to 74). The following are the spatial coordinates in millimeters of points 1) to 128) on the top seat surface of the seat ring 100.

[0019] 1) 0mm, 0mm, 0mm

[0020] 2) Approximately -18mm, approximately 3mm, approximately 0mm

[0021] 3) Approximately -34mm, approximately 11mm, approximately -0mm

[0022] 4) Approximately -49mm, approximately 27mm, approximately -1mm

[0023] 5) Approximately -57mm, approximately 47mm, approximately -2mm

[0024] 6) Approximately -63mm, approximately 68mm, approximately -3mm

[0025] 7) Approximately -72mm, approximately 88mm, approximately -5mm

[0026] 8) Approximately -82mm, approximately 107mm, approximately -7mm

[0027] 9) Approximately -93mm, approximately 126mm, approximately -9mm

[0028] 10) Approximately -102mm, approximately 146mm, approximately -11mm

[0029] 11) Approximately -108mm, approximately 167mm, approximately -13mm

[0030] 12) Approximately -112mm, approximately 188mm, approximately -14mm

[0031] 13) Approximately -112mm, approximately 210mm, approximately -16mm

[0032] 14) Approximately -109mm, approximately 231mm, approximately -18mm

[0033] 15) Approximately -102mm, approximately 250mm, approximately -19mm

[0034] 16) Approx. -92mm, Approx. 269mm, Approx. -20mm

[0035] 17) Approximately -78mm, approximately 284mm, approximately -21mm

[0036] 18) Approx. -61mm, Approx. 296mm, Approx. -21mm

[0037] 19) Approximately -41mm, approximately 305mm, approximately -22mm

[0038] 20) Approximately -21mm, approximately 310mm, approximately -22mm

[0039] 21) Approximately 0mm, approximately 311mm, approximately -22mm

[0040] 22) Approximately 0mm, approximately -66mm, approximately 14mm

[0041] 23) Approximately -39mm, approximately -59mm, approximately 14mm

[0042] 24) Approximately -74mm, approximately -40mm, approximately 13mm

[0043] 25) Approximately -95mm, approximately -22mm, approximately 12mm

[0044] 26) Approximately -114mm, approximately -0mm, approximately 11mm

[0045] 27) Approximately -130mm, approximately 23mm, approximately 11mm

[0046] 28) Approx. -144mm, Approx. 47mm, Approx. 11mm

[0047] 29) Approx. -156mm, Approx. 73mm, Approx. 11mm

[0048] 30) Approx. -165mm, Approx. 99mm, Approx. 12mm

[0049] 31) Approximately -173mm, approximately 126mm, approximately 13mm

[0050] 32) Approximately -179mm, approximately 154mm, approximately 15mm

[0051] 33) Approximately -182mm, approximately 182mm, approximately 17mm

[0052] 34) Approximately -183mm, approximately 210mm, approximately 20mm

[0053] 35) Approx. -181mm, Approx. 239mm, Approx. 24mm

[0054] 36) Approx. -176mm, Approx. 267mm, Approx. 29mm

[0055] 37) Approx. -170mm, Approx. 295mm, Approx. 35mm

[0056] 38) Approx. -161mm, Approx. 322mm, Approx. 42mm

[0057] 39) Approx. -143mm, Approx. 347mm, Approx. 42mm

[0058] 40) Approximately 0mm, approximately -50mm, approximately 13mm

[0059] 41) Approximately 0mm, approximately -30mm, approximately 8mm

[0060] 42) Approximately 0mm, approximately -10mm, approximately 3mm

[0061] 43) Approximately -20mm, approximately -50mm, approximately 13mm

[0062] 44) Approximately -20mm, approximately -30mm, approximately 9mm

[0063] 45) Approximately -20mm, approximately -10mm, approximately 4mm

[0064] 46) Approximately -40mm, approximately -50mm, approximately 13mm

[0065] 47) Approximately -40mm, approximately -30mm, approximately 10mm

[0066] 48) Approximately -40mm, approximately -10mm, approximately 5mm

[0067] 49) Approximately -60mm, approximately -30mm, approximately 11mm

[0068] 50) Approximately -60mm, approximately -10mm, approximately 8mm

[0069] 51) Approximately -60mm, approximately 10mm, approximately 4mm

[0070] 52) Approximately -80mm, approximately -10mm, approximately 10mm

[0071] 53) Approximately -80mm, approximately 10mm, approximately 7mm

[0072] 54) Approximately -80mm, approximately 30mm, approximately 4mm

[0073] 55) Approximately -80mm, approximately 50mm, approximately 2mm

[0074] 56) Approximately -80mm, approximately 70mm, approximately -1mm

[0075] 57) Approximately -100mm, approximately 10mm, approximately 10mm

[0076] 58) Approximately -100mm, approximately 30mm, approximately 7mm

[0077] 59) Approximately -100mm, approximately 50mm, approximately 5mm

[0078] 60) Approx. -100mm, Approx. 70mm, Approx. 3mm

[0079] 61) Approximately -100mm, approximately 90mm, approximately -0mm

[0080] 62) Approximately -100mm, approximately 110mm, approximately -4mm

[0081] 63) Approximately -120mm, approximately 30mm, approximately 10mm

[0082] 64) Approximately -120mm, approximately 50mm, approximately 8mm

[0083] 65) Approx. -120mm, Approx. 70mm, Approx. 6mm

[0084] 66) Approximately -120mm, approximately 90mm, approximately 4mm

[0085] 67) Approximately -120mm, approximately 110mm, approximately 1mm

[0086] 68) Approximately -130mm, approximately 70mm, approximately 9mm

[0087] 69) Approximately -130mm, approximately 90mm, approximately 8mm

[0088] 70) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 110mm, Approx. 10mm

[0089] 71) Approximately -150mm, approximately 110mm, approximately 6mm

[0090] 72) Approximately -160mm, approximately 130mm, approximately 10mm

[0091] 73) Approximately -140mm, approximately 130mm, approximately 4mm

[0092] 74) Approximately -120mm, approximately 130mm, approximately -2mm

[0093] 75) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 150mm, Approx. 2mm

[0094] 76) Approximately -140mm, approximately 150mm, approximately 2mm

[0095] 77) Approximately -120mm, approximately 150mm, approximately -5mm

[0096] 78) Approximately -160mm, approximately 170mm, approximately 8mm

[0097] 79) Approximately -140mm, approximately 170mm, approximately 0mm

[0098] 80) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 190mm, Approx. 8mm

[0099] 81) Approximately -140mm, approximately 190mm, approximately -1mm

[0100] 82) Approximately -120mm, approximately 190mm, approximately -10mm

[0101] 83) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 210mm, Approx. 9mm

[0102] 84) Approximately -140mm, approximately 210mm, approximately -1mm

[0103] 85) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 230mm, Approx. 13mm

[0104] 86) Approximately -140mm, approximately 230mm, approximately 2mm

[0105] 87) Approximately -120mm, approximately 230mm, approximately -11mm

[0106] 88) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 250mm, Approx. 18mm

[0107] 89) Approximately -140mm, approximately 250mm, approximately 6mm

[0108] 90) Approx. -120mm, Approx. 250mm, Approx. -7mm

[0109] 91) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 270mm, Approx. 24mm

[0110] 92) Approx. -140mm, Approx. 270mm, Approx. 12mm

[0111] 93) Approximately -120mm, approximately 270mm, approximately -1mm

[0112] 94) Approx. -100mm, Approx. 270mm, Approx. 32mm

[0113] 95) Approx. -160mm, Approx. 270mm, Approx. 32mm

[0114] 96) Approx. -140mm, Approx. 290mm, Approx. 21mm

[0115] 97) Approx. -120mm, Approx. 290mm, Approx. 8mm

[0116] 98) Approximately -100mm, approximately 290mm, approximately -5mm

[0117] 99) Approx. -140mm, Approx. 310mm, Approx. 31mm

[0118] 100) Approx. -120mm, Approx. 310mm, Approx. 34mm

[0119] 101) Approx. -100mm, Approx. 310mm, Approx. 8mm

[0120] 102) Approx. -80mm, Approx. 310mm, Approx. -3mm

[0121] 103) Approx. -60mm, Approx. 310mm, Approx. -11mm

[0122] 104) Approx. -140mm, Approx. 330mm, Approx. 42mm

[0123] 105) Approx. -120mm, Approx. 330mm, Approx. 34mm

[0124] 106) Approximately -100mm, approximately 330mm, approximately 23mm

[0125] 107) Approx. -80mm, Approx. 330mm, Approx. 14mm

[0126] 108) Approx. -60mm, Approx. 330mm, Approx. 7mm

[0127] 109) Approximately -40mm, approximately 330mm, approximately 2mm

[0128] 110) Approximately -20mm, approximately 330mm, approximately -2mm

[0129] 111) Approximately 0mm, approximately 330mm, approximately -3mm

[0130] 112) Approximately -100mm, approximately 350mm, approximately 41mm

[0131] 113) Approx. -80mm, Approx. 350mm, Approx. 34mm

[0132] 114) Approx. -60mm, Approx. 350mm, Approx. 28mm

[0133] 115) Approx. -40mm, Approx. 350mm, Approx. 24mm

[0134] 116) Approx. -20mm, Approx. 350mm, Approx. 24mm

[0135] 117) Approximately 0mm, approximately 350mm, approximately 20mm

[0136] 118) Approx. -100mm, Approx. 370mm, Approx. 55mm

[0137] 119) Approx. -80mm, Approx. 370mm, Approx. 54mm

[0138] 120) approx. -60mm, approx. 370mm, approx. 52mm

[0139] 121) Approx. -40mm, Approx. 370mm, Approx. 49mm

[0140] 122) Approx. -20mm, Approx. 370mm, Approx. 47mm

[0141] 123) Approximately 0mm, approximately 370mm, approximately 46mm

[0142] 124) Approx. -88mm, Approx. 381mm, Approx. 60mm

[0143] 125) approx. -66mm, approx. 381mm, approx. 61mm

[0144] 126) Approx. -44mm, Approx. 381mm, Approx. 62mm

[0145] 127) Approx. -22mm, Approx. 381mm, Approx. 63mm

[0146] 128) Approximately 0mm, approximately 381mm, approximately 63mm

[0147] In some embodiments, the term "about" may mean an index value that can be modified to ±1%, ±2%, ±5%, ±7%, ±10%, ±15%, ±20%, or greater. In some embodiments, the term "about" relating to a point on the seat surface may mean ±1mm, ±2mm, ±3mm, ±4mm, ±5mm, ±6mm, or greater.

[0148] In some embodiments, the rear top seat ring arrangement surface may be defined as approximately one-third of the rear portion of the seat ring surface. In some embodiments, the rear seat ring arrangement surface, from the lowest point of the inner edge to the highest rear point, may rise from any of approximately 65 mm, approximately 66 mm, approximately 67 mm, approximately 68 mm, approximately 69 mm, approximately 70 mm, approximately 71 mm, approximately 72 mm, approximately 73 mm, approximately 74 mm, approximately 75 mm, approximately 76 mm, approximately 77 mm to any of approximately 78 mm, approximately 79 mm, approximately 80 mm, approximately 81 mm, approximately 82 mm, approximately 83 mm, approximately 84 mm, approximately 85 mm, approximately 86 mm, approximately 87 mm, approximately 88 mm, approximately 89 mm, approximately 90 mm, approximately 91 mm, approximately 92 mm, approximately 93 mm, approximately 94 mm, approximately 95 mm, approximately 96 mm, approximately 97 mm, approximately 98 mm, approximately 99 mm, approximately 100 mm, approximately 101 mm, 102 mm, approximately 103 mm, approximately 104 mm, or greater. For example, from... Figure 1 (point 21) to point 128).

[0149] In some embodiments, the slope along the bisector from the center point of the rear inner edge to the highest rear point may be any one of about 25°, about 26°, about 27°, about 28°, about 29°, about 30°, about 31°, about 32°, about 33° or about 34° to about 35°, about 36°, about 37°, about 38°, about 39°, about 40°, about 41°, about 42°, about 43°, about 44°, about 45°, about 46°, about 47°, about 48°, about 49°, about 50°, about 51°, about 52°, about 53°, about 54°, about 55° or greater. Figure 1 The seat ring 100 has an inclination of about 50 degrees from point 21 to point 128. In some embodiments, the term "steep" may refer to an inclination of about 25° to about 55°.

[0150] In some embodiments, the slope along the bisector from the center point of the inner front edge to the center point of the outer front edge can be any from about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8° or about 9° to about 10°, about 11°, about 12°, about 13°, about 14°, about 15°, about 16°, about 17°, about 18°, about 19°, about 20°, about 21° or greater. Figure 1 The seat ring 100 has an inclination of approximately 12 degrees from point 1) to point 22).

[0151] In some embodiments, the highest slope may be present in the rear seat arrangement surface along the bisector, wherein the slope gradually decreases from rear to front. In some embodiments, the slope from the inner edge point to the corresponding outer edge point decreases from the rear to the front of the toilet seat. The corresponding inner and outer edge points may refer to points at the same Y value, for example, from... Figure 1 The inner edge points are 1 to 21.

[0152] In some embodiments, the downward curvature of the inner edge from the front to the rear may be represented by a decrease in height from the center point of the inner edge of the front to the center point of the inner edge of the rear, wherein the decrease in height is any one of about 5 mm, about 6 mm, about 7 mm, about 8 mm, about 9 mm, about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, about 17 mm, about 18 or about 19 mm to about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm, about 23 mm, about 24 mm, about 25 mm, about 26 mm, about 27 mm, about 28 mm, about 29 mm, about 30 mm or greater. Figure 1 The seat ring 100 has a drop of approximately 22 mm from point 1) to point 21).

[0153] In some embodiments, the downward curvature of the outer edge from the rear to the front may be represented by a drop from the high point of the outer edge of the rear to the low point of the outer edge, wherein the drop is any one of about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, about 17 mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm, about 23 mm, about 24 mm, about 26 mm or about 27 mm to any one of about 28 mm or about 29 mm, to any one of about 30 mm, about 31 mm, about 32 mm, about 33 mm, about 34 mm, about 35 mm, about 36 mm, about 37 mm, about 38 mm, about 39 mm, about 40 mm or greater. Figure 1 The seat ring 100 has a drop of approximately 31 mm from point 39 to point 28.

[0154] In some embodiments, the smaller upward curve of the outer edge from the rear to the front may be represented by a rise from the low point of the outer edge to the center point of the front outer edge, the rise being any one of about 1 mm, about 2 mm, about 2 mm, about 2 mm or about 2 mm to any one of about 2 mm, about 3 mm, about 3 mm, about 3 mm, about 3.2 mm, about 3 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4 mm, about 4.6 mm, about 5 mm, about 5 mm, about 5 mm, about 5 mm, about 5 mm or greater. Figure 1 The seat ring 100 has an increase of about 3 mm from point 28) to point 22).

[0155] In some embodiments, the toilet seat may include a rise from the center point of the rear inner edge to the highest rear point, said rise being any one of about 30 mm, about 33 mm, about 36 mm, about 39 mm, or about 42 mm to any one of about 47 mm, about 51 mm, about 56 mm, about 60 mm, about 64 mm, about 69 mm, about 73 mm, about 79 mm, about 81 mm, about 84 mm, about 85 mm, about 88 mm, about 95 mm, about 99 mm, about 101 mm, about 105 mm, or greater. Figure 1 The seat ring 100 has an elevation of approximately 85 mm from point 21 to point 128.

[0156] In some embodiments, the lowest point of the outer edge may be located in the front third of the toilet seat. In some embodiments, the lowest point of the outer edge may be located in the same area as the thigh support surface.

[0157] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Views are provided of a toilet seat 200 without a thigh support surface and a toilet seat 100 with a thigh support surface 105, mounted on a toilet according to some embodiments. The seat 200 includes a seat arrangement surface 201, an inner edge 202, an outer edge 203, and a rear top seat arrangement surface 204. The seat 100 includes an inner edge 102, an outer edge 103, a rear seat arrangement surface 104, and a thigh support surface 105. The seat 100 includes a front thickness T of approximately 24 mm. F Minimum thickness T of approximately 20mm S And a maximum thickness of approximately 57mm T L Seat rings 100 and 200 include a partially bowl-shaped design.

[0158] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of a toilet seat 100 according to an embodiment is provided. It can be seen that the inner edge 102 includes a downwardly curved portion from front to rear, such that after installation, the inner edge 102 curves downward toward the edge of the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, the inner edge may curve downward below the edge of the toilet bowl. Figure 3B Provides a view of the steep rear seat ring arrangement surface 104.

[0159] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A toilet seat 100 is depicted, according to some embodiments, attached to a seat cover 420. The seat 100 includes an irregular shape because its outer edge includes a downward curve from rear to front followed by an upward curve. Therefore, the cover 420 includes a complementary shape to compensate for this irregular shape, thereby allowing the cover 420 to correspond to and fit (rest) on the seat 100 in a closed position.

[0160] Figure 5A A bottom perspective view of a toilet seat 100 having a cover 420 according to an embodiment is provided. A rear lateral stabilizing pad 550 and a front lateral stabilizing pad 555 are visible. According to some embodiments, Figure 5B A close-up view of the front lateral stabilizing pad 555 is shown, and Figure 5C A close-up view of the lateral stabilizing pad 556 is shown. The stabilizing pad is available in different sizes, such as 555 (large) and 556 (medium). Stabilizing pads 555 and 556 include an "L" shape. The stabilizing pad prevents lateral movement of the toilet seat and contributes to providing comfort and ergonomics. In some embodiments, the lateral stabilizing pad may be provided as part of a modular toilet seat assembly, wherein an appropriate size is selected depending on the size of the toilet bowl and inserted into the seat. The "downleg" 555a or 556a of the lateral stabilizing pad may be configured to rest on the inside of the upper rim of the toilet bowl.

[0161] Although the accompanying drawings show an ergonomic toilet seat with a closed front, they also include an ergonomic toilet seat with a top circumferential seat arrangement surface and an open front, as well as the subject matter of the present invention.

[0162] In some embodiments, toilet seats may be manufactured via injection molding. The toilet seat may comprise one or more of a thermoplastic material, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, other polyolefins, polyamides, polystyrene, polyesters, blends thereof, copolymers thereof, or composites thereof. In some embodiments, the surface of the toilet seat may be smooth and continuous. In other embodiments, the surface of the toilet seat may include a texture.

[0163] A set of lateral stabilizing pads can refer to one or more pads, such as two, three, four or more pads. Lateral stabilizing pads may include the same material as the toilet seat or may include a different material. In some embodiments, lateral stabilizing pads may include softer or more flexible thermoplastics, such as elastomers.

[0164] In some embodiments, the toilet seat may include one or more areas configured to receive and attach to a lateral stabilizing pad. In some embodiments, the lateral stabilizing pad may be "hook-and-loop" attached to the toilet seat. In some embodiments, the lateral stabilizing pad may be attached to the toilet seat via an adhesive.

[0165] In some embodiments, the toilet seat of this disclosure may have a pressure pad or cushion placed thereon, and the pressure of a person sitting on the seat may be measured. Such measurements may be directly related to ergonomic performance. In some embodiments, pressure measurements may be taken at different minimum thresholds (e.g., 0 psi, 5 psi, or 7 psi). At the 0 psi threshold, a high contact area and low pressure are required. At 5 psi and 7 psi, a low contact area and low pressure are required.

[0166] In some embodiments, the toilet seat of the present invention can provide ≥115 inches of sample size for different individuals at a 0 psi threshold. 2 ≥120in 2 ≥125in 2 ≥130in 2 ≥135in 2 ≥140in 2 ≥145in 2 ≥150in 2 ≥155in 2 ≥160in 2 ≥165in 2 ≥170in 2 ≥175in 2 Or a larger average contact area. In some embodiments, the toilet seat of the present invention can provide average pressure of ≤2.0psi, ≤1.8psi, ≤1.6psi, ≤1.4psi, ≤1.2psi or less for different sample sizes at a 0psi measurement threshold.

[0167] In some embodiments, the toilet seat of the present invention can provide a sample size of ≤4.5 inches for different individuals at a 5 psi threshold. 2 ≤4.3in 2 ≤4.1in 2 ≤3.9in 2 ≤3.7in 2 ≤3.5in 2 ≤3.3in 2 ≤3.1in 2 ≤2.9in 2 ≤2.7in 2 ≤2.5in 2 ≤2.3in 2 Or a lower average contact area. In some embodiments, the toilet seat of the present invention can provide average pressures of ≤7.4psi, ≤7.3psi, ≤7.2psi, ≤7.1psi, ≤7.0psi, ≤6.9psi, ≤6.8psi or less for different sample sizes at a 5psi measurement threshold.

[0168] In some embodiments, the toilet seat of the present invention can provide a sample size of ≤2.5 inches for different individuals at a 7 psi threshold. 2 ≤2.3in 2 ≤2.1in 2 ≤1.9in 2 ≤1.7in 2 ≤1.5in 2 ≤1.3in2 ≤1.1in 2 ≤1.0in 2 Or a lower average contact area. In some embodiments, the toilet seat of the present invention can provide average pressures of ≤8.6psi, ≤8.5psi, ≤8.4psi, ≤8.3psi, ≤8.2psi, ≤8.1psi, ≤8.0psi, 7.9psi, ≤7.8psi, ≤7.7psi, ≤7.6psi or less for different sample sizes at a 7psi measurement threshold.

[0169] The term "average person" may refer to the average adult. In some embodiments, the average adult sample size has an average height of about 59 inches to about 73 inches and an average weight of about 164 pounds to about 204 pounds. In some embodiments, the sample size may include 5 to 10 adults or more within these ranges. The toilet seat of the present invention has been found to perform well for a wide variety of body types.

[0170] The term “adjacent” can mean “close to”, “near”, or “right next to”.

[0171] The term "connection" means that one element is "attached" or "associated with" another element. A connection can mean a direct link or a link via one or more other elements. Elements can be connected to one element in a sequential or non-sequential manner by two or more other elements. The term "via" when referring to "via an element" can mean "through" or "by means of" the element. A connection or "associated with" can also mean that elements are not directly or indirectly attached, but the elements are "joined together" because one element can function together with another.

[0172] The term "flow connectivity" indicates, for example, a configuration through which liquids or gases flow and can be synonymous with "fluid connection." The terms "upstream" and "downstream" indicate the direction of gas or fluid flow, that is, from upstream to downstream.

[0173] The term “orientation” when referring to an attachment point may mean exactly at the location or point, or alternatively, it may mean closer to the point than to another different point, such as “orientation to the center” meaning closer to the center than to the edge.

[0174] The term "similar to" means similar but not necessarily identical. For example, "ring-shaped" means that it is usually shaped like a ring, but not necessarily a perfect circle.

[0175] The articles “a” and “an” in this document refer to one or more (e.g., at least one) grammatical objects. Any range referenced herein includes end values. The term “about” as used throughout the text is used to describe and explain small fluctuations. For example, “about” can mean that a numerical value can be modified by ±0.5%, ±0.1%, ±0%, ±0%, ±0%, ±0%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, ±10%, ±15%, ±20%, or greater. All numerical values ​​are modified by the term “about”, whether explicitly stated or not. Numerical values ​​modified by the term “about” contain a specific identifying value. For example, “about 5” contains 5.

[0176] The term "substantially" is similar to "about," and the defined term may differ from the definition by, for example, ±0.5%, ±0.1%, ±0%, ±0%, ±0%, ±0%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, ±10%, or greater; for example, the term "substantially vertical" may mean 90°, and a vertical angle may mean "about 90°." The term "approximately" can be equivalent to "substantially."

[0177] Even if not explicitly stated otherwise, the features described in connection with one embodiment of this disclosure may be used in conjunction with other embodiments.

[0178] The embodiments disclosed herein include any and all parts and / or portions of the embodiments, claims, description, and drawings. The embodiments disclosed herein also include any and all combinations and / or sub-combinations of the embodiments.

[0179] Example 1

[0180] A flexible pressure pad is placed on the toilet seat; the pad is configured to detect and report the pressure exerted by a person sitting on the seat. Ten individuals were randomly selected as a sample to sit on the toilet seat 100 of the present invention with thigh support, as well as on a commercially available seat (Kohlera arc type). Results were obtained at pressure thresholds of 0 psi (pounds per square inch), 5 psi, and 7 psi. The results are shown below for the average contact area in square inches and the average pressure (average of 10 individuals) in psi. The average height of the 10 adult samples ranged from approximately 59 inches to approximately 73 inches, and the average weight ranged from approximately 164 pounds to approximately 204 pounds.

[0181]

[0182] At a low pressure threshold of 0 psi, a large contact area is required, representing the pressure distribution. Lower pressure is also needed. Compared to commercially available seat rings, the seat ring 100 of this invention demonstrates a 66% increase in contact area and a 31% reduction in average pressure.

[0183]

[0184] At a low pressure threshold of 5 psi, a smaller contact area and lower pressure are required. Compared to commercially available seat rings, the seat ring 100 of this invention exhibits a 50% reduction in contact area and a 9% reduction in average pressure.

[0185]

[0186] At a low pressure threshold of 7 psi, a smaller contact area and lower pressure are required. Compared to commercially available seat rings, the seat ring 100 of this invention exhibits a 62% reduction in contact area and a 13% reduction in pressure.

[0187] The results show that the toilet seat height disclosed herein is ergonomically designed.

[0188] Example 2

[0189] A flexible pressure pad is placed on a toilet seat; the pad is configured to detect and report the pressure exerted by a person sitting on the seat. Seven people were randomly selected as a sample to sit on another toilet seat of the present invention with thigh support and on a commercially available toilet seat (Kohlera arc type). The toilet seat of the present invention in Example 2 includes a 30° incline from the center point of the rear inner edge to the highest rear point along the bisecting center line, a 38mm height increase from the center point of the rear inner edge to the highest rear point, a 7° incline from the center point of the front inner edge to the front outer edge along the bisecting center line, a 7mm height decrease from the center point of the front inner edge to the center point of the rear inner edge, an 18mm height decrease from the high point of the rear outer edge to the low point of the outer edge, and a 2mm height increase from the low point of the outer edge to the center point of the front outer edge. Results were obtained at pressure thresholds of 0 psi (pounds per square inch), 5 psi, and 7 psi. The results for the average contact area in square inches and the average pressure in psi (average of 10 people) are shown below. The seven adult participants had an average height of approximately 59 to 73 inches and an average weight of approximately 164 to 204 pounds.

[0190]

[0191] At a low pressure threshold of 0 psi, a large contact area is required, representing the pressure distribution. Lower pressure is needed. Compared to commercially available seat rings, the Example 2 seat ring of this invention demonstrates a 16% increase in contact area and a 22% reduction in average pressure.

[0192]

[0193] At a low pressure threshold of 5 psi, a smaller contact area and lower pressure are required. Compared to commercially available seat rings, Example 2 of the present invention demonstrates an 83% reduction in contact area and a 6% reduction in pressure.

[0194]

[0195] At a low pressure threshold of 7 psi, a smaller contact area and lower pressure are required. Compared to commercially available seat rings, the Example 2 seat ring of this invention demonstrates an 85% reduction in contact area and a 14% reduction in pressure.

[0196] The results show that the toilet seat height disclosed herein is ergonomically designed.

Claims

1. An ergonomic toilet seat, wherein the ergonomic toilet seat includes a top circumferential seat arrangement surface having an inner edge, an outer edge, a front portion, and a rear portion. The ergonomic toilet seat is substantially symmetrical about the bisecting center line from front to back, and the rear top seat surface includes a steep upward curve from front to back. The slope along the bisecting center line from the center point of the inner rear edge to the highest rear point is 25 degrees to 55 degrees. The ergonomic toilet seat includes a set of L-shaped lateral stabilizing pads and includes one or more areas configured to receive and connect to the L-shaped lateral stabilizing pads; wherein the "descending section" of the lateral stabilizing pads is configured to rest on the interior of the upper edge of the toilet bowl. The seat ring structure provides at least 115 inches of sample size for a person sitting on it, measured at a pressure threshold of 0 psi. 2 The average contact area and average pressure of 2.0 psi, measured at a pressure threshold of 5 psi, are no greater than 4.5 in. 2 The average contact area and average pressure of 7.4 psi, and the maximum 2.5 in diameter measured at a pressure threshold of 7 psi. 2 The average contact area and average pressure of 8.6 psi; The slope along the bisecting center line from the center point of the front inner edge to the center point of the front outer edge is 5 to 21 degrees; the height decrease from the center point of the front inner edge to the center point of the rear inner edge is 5 to 30 mm; the height decrease from the high point of the rear outer edge to the low point of the outer edge is 12 to 40 mm; and the height increase from the low point of the outer edge to the center point of the front outer edge is 1 to 5 mm.

2. The ergonomic toilet seat according to claim 1, wherein the rise from the center point of the inner rear edge to the highest rear point is 30 mm to 105 mm.

3. The ergonomic toilet seat according to claim 1, wherein the slope from the inner edge point to the corresponding outer edge point decreases from the rear to the front of the toilet seat.

4. The ergonomic toilet seat according to claim 1, wherein the inner edge includes a downward curve from the front portion to the rear portion of the seat.

5. The ergonomic toilet seat according to claim 4, wherein the downward curving portion of the inner edge is such that, after installation on the toilet, the rear inner edge portion is positioned below the edge of the toilet bowl top.

6. The ergonomic toilet seat according to claim 1, wherein the outer edge includes a downward curve from the rear to the front followed by a smaller upward curve.

7. The ergonomic toilet seat of claim 1, wherein the inner edge includes a curved thigh support surface positioned toward the front of the seat, the curved thigh support surface extending inward toward the bisecting center line.

8. An ergonomic toilet seat, wherein the ergonomic toilet seat includes a top circumferential seat arrangement surface having an inner edge, an outer edge, a front portion, and a rear portion, wherein the ergonomic toilet seat is substantially symmetrical about a bisecting center line from the front to the rear portion, the inner edge includes a downward curve from the front portion to the rear portion, the outer edge includes a downward curve from the rear portion to the front portion followed by a smaller upward curve, and the rear top seat arrangement surface includes a steep upward curve from the front to the rear portion; wherein the ergonomic toilet seat includes a set of L-shaped lateral stabilizing pads and includes one or more regions configured to receive and connect to the L-shaped lateral stabilizing pads; wherein a "descending section" of the lateral stabilizing pads is configured to rest on the interior of the upper rim of the toilet bowl; wherein the seat structure provides at least 115 inches of pressure at a 0 psi pressure threshold for a sample size of a person sitting on it. 2 The average contact area and average pressure of 2.0 psi, measured at a pressure threshold of 5 psi, are no greater than 4.5 in. 2 The average contact area and average pressure of 7.4 psi, and no more than 2.5 in at a pressure threshold of 7 psi. 2 The average contact area and average pressure of 8.6 psi; The slope along the bisecting center line from the center point of the front inner edge to the center point of the front outer edge is 5 to 21 degrees; the height decrease from the center point of the front inner edge to the center point of the rear inner edge is 5 to 30 mm; the height decrease from the high point of the rear outer edge to the low point of the outer edge is 12 to 40 mm; and the height increase from the low point of the outer edge to the center point of the front outer edge is 1 to 5 mm.

9. The ergonomic toilet seat according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a sample size of 5 to 10 adults having an average height of 59 to 73 inches and an average weight of 164 to 204 pounds.

10. A modular toilet seat assembly comprising an ergonomic toilet seat according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and a toilet seat cover having an outer edge configured to correspond to and rest on the outer edge of the ergonomic toilet seat in a closed position.

11. A modular toilet seat assembly comprising an ergonomic toilet seat according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and a set of lateral stabilizing pads.

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