Flexible toilet seat

Abstract

A toilet seat includes a seat including a top surface, a bottom surface, an inner edge, an outer surface, and a cavity, wherein the bottom surface is opposite the top surface, the top surface and the bottom surface meet at the inner edge, the outer surface connects an outer periphery of the top surface and an outer periphery of the bottom surface, and the cavity extends from the outer surface toward the inner edge. The toilet seat also includes a cushion disposed in the cavity. The top surface and the cushion can be configured to elastically and vertically deform in response to a load applied to the top surface.

Description

[0001] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 319,534 (No. 10222-21035A), filed March 14, 2022, and U.S. National Patent Application No. 18 / 116,062, filed March 1, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application generally relates to the field of toilet seats. More specifically, this disclosure relates to toilet seats including a pad that is configured to deform in a user-specific manner to improve user comfort. Background Technology

[0003] Toilet seats are typically designed for high-volume use and to accommodate users of various shapes and sizes. User comfort is often sacrificed to support the high durability of a generic toilet seat. Therefore, there is a need for a more comfortable toilet seat that offers customization for the user. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to the following accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments.

[0005] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Specifically, Figure 1 The illustration depicts a toilet including a water tank according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, while Figure 2 The illustration shows a tankless toilet according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 3 The illustration shows a toilet including a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0008] Figure 5 A perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0009] Figure 6 The illustration depicts an exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Side view of the seat ring.

[0010] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] Figure 8 The illustration shows a top view of a liner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional view of a gasket according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0013] Figure 10 A perspective view of a liner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 12 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 13 The illustration shows a flowchart of attaching a pad to a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 14 A perspective view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 15 A transparent bottom view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0019] Figure 16 The illustration shows a bottom view of a liner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 17 The illustration shows a bottom view of a liner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 18 A perspective view of a liner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0022] Figure 19 The illustration shows a top view of a liner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 20 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] Figure 21 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figure 22 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 23A partial perspective view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Figure 24 The illustration shows a bottom perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 25 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0029] Figure 26 A perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0030] Figure 27 A perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0031] Figure 28 A partial perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Figure 29 A partial bottom view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] Figure 30 A partial perspective view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0034] Figure 31 A perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0035] Figure 32 A partial bottom view of a seat ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0036] Figure 33 A cam lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0037] Figure 34 A partial perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0038] Figure 35 A partial perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figure 36 A partial perspective view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0040] Figure 37 The diagram illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure for determining the area of ​​the seat ring that may come into contact with the user during use.

[0041] The foregoing and other features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. It should be understood that these drawings depict only a few embodiments according to this disclosure and are therefore not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, and that the disclosure will be described with additional features and details using the drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This document describes a toilet seat assembly (i.e., a toilet seat) that includes a liner disposed within a cavity in the seat. The toilet seat assembly (i.e., the seat and the liner) is configured to elastically and vertically deform when a user sits on the toilet seat. The liner controls the deformation of the seat and is removably attached to the seat. Therefore, the liner can be interchangeable, allowing users to select the liner and thus the deformation based on their preferences. In some examples, the liner can provide multi-level deformation, thus offering a wide range of deformation and improved comfort for users of various shapes, sizes, and weights. In some examples, the liner 300 also includes a locking ring for easily attaching the liner 300 to the seat 200.

[0043] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A toilet according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a skirted toilet 10 is illustrated, which includes a tank 11, a base 21 (or base portion), a seat assembly 17, and coupling or mounting components. The tank 11 may include a reservoir 12, a lid (or cover) 13, and an actuator 14, wherein the reservoir 12 stores water used during an operation (or flushing) cycle, the lid (or cover) 13 provides selective access to the reservoir 12, and the actuator 14 is configured to activate the operation cycle when activated. The actuator 14 or flushing mechanism may be a button configured to be activated when pressed (or pulled) a predetermined distance or when touched, a lever configured to be activated upon rotation of a predetermined angular travel, or any suitable device configured to be activated based on user input manipulation.

[0044] It should be noted that the shape and configuration of the tank, base, seat assembly, and internal components (including the drain passage and other features) may differ from the embodiments shown and described herein, and the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be made of vitreous porcelain. It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be polymer-made and / or overmolded or otherwise fixed to the toilet. It should be noted that, for example, although an exemplary embodiment of toilet 10 is shown as having a tank 11 formed separately from and subsequently attached to the base 21, the tank may be integrally formed with the base as a one-piece design. In other words, the toilet may be a one-piece design, a two-piece design, or have any suitable configuration. The toilets disclosed herein may have a wide variety of skirted toilet configurations, and all such configurations are intended to be included herein. Therefore, the following description of various toilet features is intended to illustrate only one possible embodiment, and those skilled in the art of reading this specification should understand that similar concepts or features may be included in various other embodiments.

[0045] The water tank 11 may include an inlet opening configured to receive water from a connected water supply device, such as a hose (e.g., a pipe, tube). The water tank 11 may also include an inlet valve assembly or other device configured to control the flow of water from the water supply device into the tank through the inlet opening. A float device for controlling the inlet valve assembly may be provided within the water tank 11, such control being achieved, for example, by opening a valve after an operating cycle to refill the reservoir 12 of the water tank 11, and closing the valve when the water in the reservoir 12 reaches a preset volume or height. The water tank 11 may also include an outlet opening configured to transfer (e.g., guide) water stored in the reservoir 12 of the water tank to a base 21 when the actuator 14 is activated. The base 21 may include a toilet bowl 23. The water tank 11 may include an outlet valve assembly or other device configured to control the flow of water from the water tank into the base 21 through the outlet opening.

[0046] The base 21 (or base) of the toilet 10 may include a wall 22 of any suitable shape, configured to form a bowl 23 with an opening formed by an upper edge at the top of the opening. The base 21 may also be configured to include a plurality of walls of different shapes, which together form a bowl with an opening formed by an edge. The wall 22 of the base may extend downward and / or rearward from the bowl 23 to form a lower portion 25 configured to support the base 21 and the toilet 10. The lower portion 25 may be formed from an end (e.g., a lower edge) of the wall 22, or may include a member extending substantially in a horizontal plane from one or more ends of the wall. The base 21 may also include a top member 24 extending between the two sides of the wall 22 (or between two opposing walls) and positioned behind (or behind) the toilet bowl 23, wherein the top member 24 forms a plateau for supporting the tank 11 (e.g., the bottom surface of the reservoir 12 of the tank 11). The top member 24 may include an inlet opening that may be aligned with the outlet opening of the tank 11, for example, when the tank 11 is attached to (or rests on) the base 21, wherein when the toilet is activated by the actuator 14, water is selectively diverted (e.g., guided) from the tank 11 through the outlet opening of the tank to the base 21 via the inlet opening of the base 21. An outlet valve assembly may control the flow of water from the tank to the base. The toilet may also include a gasket or seal disposed between the tank 11 and the base 21 to prevent leakage. For example, a gasket may be disposed between the outlet opening of the tank and the inlet opening of the base to prevent leakage between the tank and the base.

[0047] The platform formed by the top member 24 of the base 21 can also provide a connection between the seat assembly 17 and the base 21 of the toilet 10. For example, the top member 24 may include one or more openings, each configured to receive fastening devices (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) to engage (e.g., attach) the seat assembly 17 to the top member 24 of the base 21. As another example, the top member 24 may include one or more fastening devices (e.g., bolts, recessed nuts, etc.) integrally formed therein (i.e., already configured to connect or attach to the base 21), wherein the fastening devices can be used to engage or secure at least a portion of the seat assembly 17 to the base 21.

[0048] The toilet bowl 23 of the base 21 may be configured to include a container (e.g., a collection trough) and an outlet opening, wherein water and waste are collected in the container until, for example, they are removed through the outlet opening when the actuator 14 is activated. The base 21 may also include an internal passageway, such as a sewage passage, connecting the outlet opening or discharge outlet of the toilet bowl 23 to a drain pipe or waste pipe. The passageway or sewage passage typically includes a first section, a second section, and a weir separating the first and second sections. The first section of the passage extends from the outlet opening of the toilet bowl 23 at an upwardly inclined angle to the weir. The second section of the passage extends downward from the weir to an exit device, such as a drain pipe or waste pipe.

[0049] Between operating cycles (e.g., flushing cycles) of the toilet 10, water (and waste) is collected in a first section of the drain channel (in addition to the container in the bowl), causing a weir to prevent water from passing through the weir and into a second section of the drain channel. The flushing cycle can begin when actuator 14 is activated. When the actuator is activated, additional water (e.g., fresh water and / or grey water) can be discharged into the bowl 23 of the base 21, resulting in a flushing action and waste removal through the waste pipe. The flushing cycle may include generating a siphon to assist the flushing action and waste removal.

[0050] The seat assembly 17 may include a cover member 18 (e.g., a lid), a seat member 19 (e.g., a ring member), and a hinge. The seat member 19 may be configured to include an annular member surrounding an opening, wherein the annular member provides a seating surface for the user of the toilet 10. The seat member 19 may also be pivotally coupled (e.g., attached) to the hinge, wherein the seat member can rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, for example, between a first lowered or seated position and a second raised or upright position. The cover member 18 may be configured as circular, elliptical, or any other suitable shape. Typically, the profile or shape of the outer surface of the cover member will be configured to match (i.e., substantially similar to) the profile of the outer surface of the seat member to improve the aesthetics of the seat assembly and the toilet. The cover member 18 may also be coupled to the hinge, wherein the cover member can rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, for example, between a first lowered or lowered position and a second raised or upright position. When in the downward position, the cover member 18 can be positioned above the seat member, thereby covering the opening of the seat member 19 and the interior of the toilet bowl 23 of the concealed base 21. The cover member 18 can be configured to rest against the outer surface of the tank 11 when the cover member 18 is in the upright position, so that the cover member 18 remains in the upright position so that the user can sit on the seat member 19.

[0051] Figure 2A skirtless toilet 20 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Internal components, including a drain passage 15, are visible in the base 21 of the skirtless toilet 20. It should be noted that the apparatus, methods, and systems described herein may include both skirted and skirtless toilets and / or be used in conjunction with both. It should also be noted that the apparatus, methods, and systems described herein may include both tankless and cistern-mounted toilets or be used in conjunction with them. A water line can supply water to the cistern-mounted toilet during a flushing cycle.

[0052] Figure 3 The illustration shows a toilet 100 including a toilet seat assembly 150 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 1 The toilet 100 includes a base 110 (e.g., a pedestal, bowl). The base is configured to attach to another object, such as a drain pipe, floor, or other suitable object. The base 110 includes a bowl 111, a collection trough 112 disposed below the bowl, and a drain passage 113 fluidly connecting the bowl 111 to a drain pipe or sewer line. In some embodiments, the toilet 100 may include a tank. The tank may be supported by the base 110, for example by the upper surface of an edge 115. In some embodiments, the tank may be integrally formed with the base 110. In other embodiments, the tank may be separately formed from the base 110 and coupled (e.g., attached, secured, fastened, connected, etc.) to the base 110. The toilet 100 may also include a tank lid covering an opening and interior cavity in the tank. The toilet 100 may also include a toilet seat assembly 150 rotatably coupled to the base 110. In some implementations, the toilet 100 may be connected to a water supply line that supplies water to the toilet. Figure 1 The toilet 100 is provided herein as a non-limiting example of such a toilet, namely, that it may be constructed to utilize aspects of this disclosure.

[0053] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly 150 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The toilet seat assembly 150 includes a seat 200 and a pad 300. The pad 300 may be disposed within the seat 200. The pad 300 may be removably coupled (e.g., attached, secured, fastened) to the seat 200. In other examples, the pad 300 may be permanently coupled to the seat 200. The seat 200 and the pad 300 may be configured to elastically and vertically deform in response to a load applied to the seat 200. For example, the seat 200 and the pad 300 may be configured to elastically and vertically deform in response to the weight of a user sitting on the seat 200. In some examples, the pad 300 may be configured to control (e.g., substantially control) the deformation of the seat 200.

[0054] In some examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, the pad 300 can extend below the bottom surface of the cavity formed in the seat ring (i.e., cavity bottom surface 223), thereby concealing or covering the seam or interface between the pad 300 and the bottom portion of the seat ring 200. The portion of the pad 300 extending below the cavity bottom surface can additionally improve the quality of the interface between the pad 300 and the seat ring 200 during deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150.

[0055] Figure 5 A perspective view of a toilet seat assembly 150 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2 As shown, the seat ring 200 includes a top surface 201, a bottom surface 202 opposite to the top surface 201, and an inner edge 203 at the junction of the top surface 201 and the bottom surface 202. The top surface 201 and the bottom surface 202 may each have an oval or elliptical shape. The seat ring 200 also includes an outer surface 204 extending from the outer periphery 205 of the top surface to the outer periphery 206 of the bottom surface. The seat ring 200 may also include a rear end portion 209 and a front end portion 208. The front end portion 208 may be narrower than the rear end portion 209.

[0056] Seat ring 200 also includes a cavity extending from the outer surface 204 of the seat ring toward the inner edge 203 of the seat ring (see See Figure 6 ). In such Figure 5 In the toilet seat assembly 150 shown, a pad 300 is disposed within a cavity. In some examples, the cavity may occupy a large portion of the outer surface 204 of the seat 200, which extends between the outer periphery 205 of the top surface and the outer periphery 206 of the bottom surface. When a user sits on the top surface 201 of the seat 200, the pad 300 can be compressed within the cavity 220 of the seat 200, thereby controlling the deformation of the seat 200.

[0057] Figure 6 The diagram shows... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The seat ring 200 is shown as a side view without the padding 300. As shown, the seat ring 200 includes a cavity 220 in the outer surface 204 of the seat ring 200. In some examples, such as Figure 6 As shown, cavity 220 can occupy a significant portion of the vertical distance between the top surface 201 and the bottom surface 202 of the seat ring and the outer surface 204 of the seat ring. The height of cavity 220 can vary. In other examples, the height of cavity 220 can be smaller or larger. An inner surface 221 (i.e., the internal surface of the cavity) can define cavity 220 within seat ring 200 (e.g., the shape of cavity 220). Inner surface 221 can include a top surface 222 and a bottom surface 223. The shape of cavity 220 can vary.

[0058] In some examples, such as Figure 6 As shown, cavity 220 extends around the entire outer surface 204 of the seat ring (i.e., cavity 220 extends around the entire outer periphery of the seat ring 200). In other examples, cavity 220 extends around a large portion of the outer surface 204 of the seat ring. In other examples, cavity extends around less than half of the outer surface 204 of the seat ring. In some examples, cavity 220 may have an arcuate or parabolic shape corresponding to a portion of the seat ring 200, wherein the end of the arcuate or parabolic shape is located at or near the rear end 209 of the seat ring, and the center of the arcuate or parabolic shape is located at or near the front end 208 of the seat ring. The portion of the outer surface 204 of the seat ring along which the cavity extends may vary. In some examples, the portion of the outer surface 204 of the seat ring along which the cavity 220 extends may be longer or shorter. The depth to which cavity 220 extends into seat ring 200 may vary.

[0059] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some examples, the toilet seat 200 also includes one or more hinge supports 232 configured to attach or connect the seat 200 to a hinge assembly. In some examples, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the seat ring 200 may include two hinge brackets 232. The hinge brackets 232 may be located at or near the rear end 209 of the seat ring. The hinge brackets 232 may extend between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223 of the cavity. The hinge brackets 232 may be configured to receive pins for rotatably connecting the seat ring 200 to the toilet bowl.

[0060] In some examples, the seat ring 200 may include one or more locking protrusions 236. For example, the locking protrusions 236 may extend radially inward from the hinge bracket 232. In some examples, the locking protrusions 236 may extend into the cavity 220 of the seat ring 200. In some examples, such as Figure 5 As shown, the seat ring 200 may include two hinge supports 232 and a locking protrusion 236 extending from each hinge support 232. Each hinge support in the hinge supports 232 and therefore each locking protrusion in the locking protrusions 236 may be located at or near the rear end 209 of the seat ring and may be offset from the centerline of the seat ring 200 on opposite sides of the centerline of the seat ring 200. The locking protrusions 236 may be configured to be surrounded by the pad 300 when the pad 300 and the seat ring 200 are engaged with each other. For example, a locking ring of the pad 300 may be stretched around the locking protrusion 236 to engage the pad 300 and the seat ring 200 with each other.

[0061] Reference Figure 6The seat ring 200 may include a centering rib 234 extending upward from the bottom surface 223 of the cavity inner surface 221. In some examples, the centering rib 234 may extend vertically upward from the bottom surface 223 of the cavity inner surface 221. The centering rib 234 may be configured to serve as a reference point or reference point for attaching the gasket 300 to the seat ring 200. In some examples, the centering rib 234 may extend from the bottom surface 223 of the cavity 220 along the central axis of the seat ring 200. The centering rib 234 may be configured to center the gasket 300 when it is attached to the seat ring 200. When the gasket 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, a portion of the gasket 300 may surround the centering rib 234. A central channel formed in the gasket may be configured to receive the centering rib 234 when the gasket 300 and the seat ring 200 are attached to each other. The centering rib 234 and the center channel of the pad 300 can control the position of the seat ring 200 and the pad 300 relative to each other when the seat ring 200 and the pad 300 are connected. Additionally, the centering rib 234 and the center channel of the pad can control the position of the pad 300 relative to the seat ring 200, such that when the seat ring 200 and the pad 300 are connected, there are equal or substantially similar amounts of deformation or stretching in the pads 300 on both sides of the center channel.

[0062] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of a seat ring 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In some examples, the seat ring 200 may also include one or more locking features, said one or more locking features including slots 225 configured to receive a portion of a pad 300. Each slot in the slots 225 may be configured to secure the pad 300 within the seat ring 200. Additionally, each slot in the slots 225 may advantageously prevent contaminants (e.g., dirt, dust, odors that cause bacteria) from entering the cavity 220.

[0063] In some examples, such as Figure 7 As shown, the seat ring 200 may include two slots 225. Each slot 225 may be disposed in a cavity 220 of the seat ring 200. For example, a first slot 225 may be disposed in a top surface 222 of the cavity 220, and a second slot 225 may be disposed in a bottom surface 223 of the cavity 220. In some examples, the slot 225 in the top surface 222 of the cavity may be disposed closer to the inner edge 203 of the seat ring than the slot formed in the bottom surface 223 of the cavity 220. The position and / or number of slots 225 may vary. For example, the seat ring 200 may include a single slot 225. The shape of the slot 225 may vary. For example, as... Figure 7As shown, the seat ring 200 may include a triangular or approximately triangular slot 225. In other examples, the slot may be rectangular, semi-circular, hemispherical, etc. In some examples, the locking feature may extend along the entire length of the cavity 220. In other examples, the locking feature may be intermittently positioned along the length of the cavity 220.

[0064] The seat ring 200 may also include one or more grooves 227 disposed on the inner surface 221 of the cavity. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, a single recess 227 may be provided in the inner surface 221 of the cavity 220 at or near the top of the cavity 220. In some examples, the recess 227 may be provided between a slot 225 (e.g., a first slot) and the outer periphery 205 of the top surface of the seat ring. The recess 227 may be configured to receive the outer flange of the liner 300 when the liner 300 and the seat ring 200 are engaged with each other. In some examples, the recess 227 may be triangular or generally triangular in shape. In other examples, the recess may be rectangular, semi-circular, semi-elliptical, or any other suitable shape. The shape of the recess 224 and the shape of the outer flange of the liner 300 may be mirror images of each other. In some examples, the seat ring 200 may include two or more recesses 227. For example, the seat ring 200 may include a first recess in the inner surface 221 located at or near the top of the cavity 220 and a second recess in the inner surface 221 located at or near the bottom of the cavity 220. When the seat ring 200 and the pad 300 are connected to each other, the groove in the seat ring 200 can advantageously improve the joint between the seat ring 200 and the pad 300, thereby fixing or locking the position of the seat ring 200 and the pad 300 relative to each other, and preventing contaminants from entering the cavity 220 of the seat ring.

[0065] In some examples, the seat ring 200 may be made of plastic such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, polycarbonate, or other similar materials. In other examples, the seat ring may be made of a different material. The seat ring 200 may be made of a different material than the pad 300. The material constituting the seat ring 200 may have a higher rigidity than the material constituting the pad 300.

[0066] Figure 8 The diagram shows... Figure 5A top view of the pad 300. In this example, the pad 300 has an arcuate shape extending from a first end 301 to a second end 302. The pad 300 includes a pad outer wall 310. In some examples, the vertical height of the outer wall 310 may vary along its length. For example, the outer wall 310 may have a maximum vertical height at or near the first end 301 and the second end 302 of the pad 300, and a minimum vertical height at the front end 307 of the pad 300. The vertical height of the outer wall 310 may gradually increase from the front end 307 of the pad 300 to each of the first end 301 and the second end 302. The thickness of the pad outer wall 310 may vary. When the pad 300 and the seat ring 200 are coupled to each other, the pad outer wall 310 extends between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223 of the cavity 220. The outer wall of the pad 310 is configured to elastically deform when the user sits on the toilet seat assembly 150.

[0067] The outer wall 310 of the liner includes an outer surface 311 that defines the outer periphery of the liner 300. When the liner 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the outer surface 311 of the liner may be exposed to the outside of the toilet seat assembly 150. In some examples, when the liner 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the outer surface 311 of the liner may be the only surface of the liner exposed to the outside of the toilet seat assembly 150.

[0068] The liner 300 also includes an upper flange 330 extending radially inward from the outer wall 310 of the liner. The upper flange 330 may be located at or near the top of the outer wall 310 of the liner. In some examples, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the liner 300 may include a plurality of upper flanges 330 extending radially inward from the liner outer wall 310. In some examples, the plurality of upper flanges 330 may extend along the outer wall 310 at fixed intervals. In other examples, the plurality of upper flanges 330 may extend along the outer wall 310 at non-fixed intervals. In some examples, a single upper flange 330 may extend along the entire length of the liner outer wall 310.

[0069] The upper flange 330 can be configured to reside in a slot 225 provided in the top surface 222 of the cavity 220 when the gasket 300 and the seat ring 200 are joined together. When the seat ring 200 and the gasket are joined together, the upper flange 330 and the slot 225 can advantageously improve the joint or interface between the seat ring 200 and the gasket 300. The upper flange 330 of the gasket can be retained within the slot 225 of the seat ring 200 to prevent the gasket 300 and the seat ring 200 from moving relative to each other.

[0070] The shapes of the upper flange 330 and the slot 225 can be mirror images of each other. In some examples, such as Figures 7 to 9As shown, the upper flange 330 and the slot 225 can be triangular or approximately triangular in shape. The shapes of the upper flange 330 and / or the slot 225 can vary. For example, the upper flange 330 and / or the slot can be rectangular, semi-circular, or semi-elliptical. In some examples, the upper flange 330 and the slot 225 can have different shapes.

[0071] The liner 300 may also include an outer flange 340 extending upward and / or radially outward from the outer wall 310 of the liner. In some examples, such as Figure 8 As shown, a single outer flange 340 may extend along the entire length of the outer wall 310 of the gasket. In some examples, multiple outer flanges may extend from the outer wall of the gasket at fixed or variable intervals. The outer flange 340 may be configured to reside in the recess 227 when the gasket 300 and the seat ring are engaged with each other. Thus, the shape of the outer flange 340 and the shape of the recess 227 may be mirror images of each other. In some examples, the outer flange 340 may be triangular or approximately triangular. In other examples, the outer flange 340 may be rectangular, semi-circular, semi-elliptical, or any other suitable shape.

[0072] The liner 300 may also include a lower flange 350 extending radially inward from the liner outer wall 310. The lower flange 350 may be located below the upper flange 330. The lower flange 350 may be located at or near the bottom of the liner outer wall 310. In some examples, such as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the liner 300 may include a plurality of lower flanges 350 extending radially inward from the liner outer wall 310. In some examples, the plurality of lower flanges 350 may extend along the liner outer wall 310 at regular intervals. In other examples, the plurality of lower flanges 350 may extend along the liner outer wall 310 at irregular intervals. In some examples, a single lower flange 350 may extend along the entire length of the liner outer wall 310.

[0073] The lower flange 350 can be configured to reside in a slot 225 provided in the cavity bottom surface 223 when the gasket 300 and the seat ring 200 are joined together. When the seat ring 200 and the gasket are joined together, the lower flange 350 and the slot 225 can advantageously improve the joint or interface between the seat ring 200 and the gasket 300. The lower flange 350 of the gasket can be retained within the slot 225 of the seat ring 200 to prevent the gasket 300 and the seat ring 200 from moving relative to each other.

[0074] The shape of the lower flange 350 and the shape of the slot 225 can be mirror images of each other. In some examples, such as Figures 7 to 9As shown, the lower flange 350 and the slot 225 can be triangular or approximately triangular in shape. The shapes of the lower flange 350 and / or the slot 225 can vary. For example, the upper flange 330 and / or the slot 225 can be rectangular, semi-circular, or semi-elliptical. In some examples, the lower flange 350 and the slot 225 can have different shapes.

[0075] In some examples, such as Figure 8 As shown, multiple upper flanges 330 and multiple lower flanges 350 can be staggered, such that the upper flanges 330 and lower flanges 350 alternate along the outer wall 310. For example, the outer wall 310 may include only the upper flanges 330 along its length, and then only the lower flanges 350 along its length. This pattern can be repeated along the outer wall 310. In some examples, gaps or spaces may exist between the upper flanges 330 and the lower flanges 350 without either an upper flange 330 or a lower flange 350. In some examples, the length of the upper flanges along the outer wall 310 may be longer than the length of the lower flanges along the outer wall 310. In some examples, the lengths of the upper flanges 330 and the lower flanges 350 may be the same. In some examples, the total length of all upper flanges 330 may be the same as the total length of all lower flanges 350. In other examples, the total length of all upper flanges 330 may be shorter or longer than the total length of all lower flanges 350.

[0076] In some examples, the liner 300 may include an inner liner wall 360 disposed radially inward from the outer liner wall 310. The height and / or thickness of the inner liner wall 360 may vary. In some examples, the height of the inner liner wall 360 may vary along its length. The inner liner wall 360 may be configured to elastically deform when a user sits on the toilet seat assembly 150. In some examples, such as Figure 9 As shown, the inner wall 360 can have a smaller vertical height than the outer wall 310. In other examples, the inner wall 360 and the outer wall 310 can have the same vertical height.

[0077] Multiple bridging members 362 may extend radially inward from the outer wall 310 of the gasket, thereby connecting the outer wall 310 and the inner wall 360 of the gasket. The thickness of the multiple bridging members 362 may vary. The height of the multiple bridging members 362 may vary. For example, the multiple bridging members 362 may have the same vertical height as the inner wall 360 of the gasket. In some examples, the height of the multiple bridging members 362 may vary along the length of the multiple bridging members 362. For example, the height of the bridging members may gradually decrease from the height of the outer wall 310 at the outer wall 310 to the height of the inner wall 360 at the inner wall 360. In some examples, the bridging members 362 may be disposed between adjacent flanges of the gasket 300 (e.g., upper flange 330, lower flange 350).

[0078] Figure 10 The diagram shows... Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 A three-dimensional view of the 300mm padding. In some examples, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the gasket 300 includes locking ribs 371 at each of its first end 301 and second end 302. The locking ribs 371 are configured to extend radially inward from the outer wall 310 and / or the inner wall 360. When the gasket 300 and the seat ring 200 are engaged with each other, the locking ribs 371 are disposed in a cavity 220 of the seat ring 200. When the gasket 300 is engaged to the seat ring 200, the locking ribs 371 can contact the bottom surface 223 of the cavity 220. When the gasket 300 is engaged to the seat ring 200, the locking ribs 371 can contact the top surface 222 of the cavity 220. When the gasket 300 and the seat ring are engaged with each other, the locking ribs 371 help maintain the position of the gasket 300 relative to the seat ring 200. The locking ribs 371 advantageously prevent the gasket 300 from disengaging from the seat ring 200 during deformation of the gasket 300.

[0079] In some examples, the pad 300 may include a center channel 380. The center channel 380 may serve as a reference point or reference point for attaching the pad 300 to the seat ring 200. For example, when the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the center channel 380 may be aligned with a centering rib 234 of the seat ring 200. When the pad 300 slides or is positioned, the center channel 380 may receive the centering rib 234 within the center channel 380. When the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the center channel 380 may fix or hold the position of the centering rib 234.

[0080] In general, when the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the center channel 380 and the center-fixing rib 234 can control the position of the pad 300 relative to the seat ring 200. Additionally, when the pad 300 is stretched to be attached to the seat ring 200, the center channel 380 and the center-fixing rib 234 can control the deformation or stretching of the pad 300. When the pad 300 is in a stretched state attached to the seat ring 200, the center channel 380 and the center-fixing rib 234 can also control the deformation or stretching of the pad 300. For example, the center channel 380 and the center-fixing rib 234 can ensure that there are equal or substantially similar amounts of deformation or stretching in the pads 300 on both sides of the center channel 380.

[0081] In some examples, such as Figure 10As shown, the pad 300 includes a locking protrusion 373 at each of a first end 301 and a second end 302. The locking protrusion may be configured to engage with the seat ring 200 when the pad 300 is in a stretched state, thereby attaching the pad 300 to the seat ring 200. Each locking protrusion of the locking protrusion 373 (and the pad 300 in general) may be configured to stretch around the seat ring to attach the pad 300 to the seat ring 200. For example, each locking protrusion 373 may include a fastening ring 375 and a locking ring 377. The fastening ring 375 may be configured to be fastened by a user and / or a tool to stretch the pad 300 around the seat ring 200. The locking ring 377 may be configured to be stretched to engage or surround a portion of the seat ring 200, thereby attaching the pad 300 to the seat ring 200. For example, the locking ring 377 can be stretched to surround the locking protrusion 236 of the seat ring 200, thereby attaching the pad 300 to the seat ring 200. Figure 11 The illustration shows a locking ring 377 that engages with or surrounds the locking protrusion 236 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Figure 12 A partial cross-section of a toilet seat assembly 150 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 12 As shown, the cushioning pocket 237 extends from the bottom surface 223 through the seat ring 200 to the bottom surface 202 of the seat ring. The shape of the cushioning pocket 237 can vary. For example, when viewed from below the seat ring 200, the cushioning pocket 237 can be elliptical. In other examples, the cushioning pocket 237 can be rectangular, circular, or other shapes. The cushioning pocket 237 can be configured to receive the cushioning member 386. The cushioning pocket 237 and the cushioning member 386 can have the same shape. For example, when viewed from below the seat ring 200, both the cushioning pocket 237 and the cushioning member 386 can be elliptical. The cushioning member 386 may include a cushioning flange 387 projecting from the cushioning member 386. The cushioning flange 387 can contact the bottom surface 223 of the cavity, thereby preventing the cushioning member 386 from translating through the cushioning pocket 237.

[0083] The cushioning element 386 may be made of rubber or a rubbery resin. For example, the cushioning element 386 may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), such as thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), styrene block copolymer (TPE-S), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPE-O), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPE-U), thermoplastic copolyester (TPE-E), melt-processable rubber (MPR), thermoplastic polyether block amide (TPE-A), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or combinations thereof. In this embodiment, the cushioning element 386 may be formed of a different material than the pad 300. In some embodiments, the cushioning element 386 may be made of two or more materials. In one example, the cushioning element 386 may include a polypropylene (PP) shell and be overmolded with rubber or a rubbery resin. Therefore, the gripping performance of the cushioning element can be maximized.

[0084] In addition, refer to Figure 12 In some examples, the pad 300 may include a cushioning pad 383. The cushioning pad 383 may be configured to secure or retain the position of the cushioning member 386. When the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the cushioning pad 383 may be aligned with the cushioning member 386 such that the cushioning pad 383 contacts the cushioning member 386. In some examples, the cushioning pad 383 may extend between the cavity top surface 222 and the cushioning pad 383. In some examples, the cushioning pad 383 may also include a locking edge 388 extending downward from the cushioning pad 383. The locking edge 388 may be configured to engage or contact the cushioning member 386, such as a cushioning flange 387, thereby securing or locking the position of the cushioning member 386 and the pad 300 when the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200. In some examples, seat ring 200 may include two or more cushioning pockets 237, each of which is configured to receive a cushioning member 386, and pad 300 may include a cushioning pad 383 for each cushioning member 386.

[0085] Reference Figures 3 to 11The toilet seat assembly 150 can be configured to elastically and vertically deform when a force is applied to the top surface 201 of the seat 200. Specifically, the seat 200 and the pad 300 can be configured to elastically and vertically deform when the user's weight is applied to the top surface 201 of the seat. More specifically, the inner edge 203 of the seat, the outer periphery 205 of the top surface of the seat, and the pad 300 can be configured to elastically and vertically deform. The shape of the seat 200 and the pad 300, as well as the materials constituting the seat 200 and the pad 300, can be specifically chosen to provide the desired deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150 when a user sits on the seat. The deformation or flexing of the toilet assembly can be controlled to improve the comfort of the user when sitting on the toilet seat assembly 150. In one example, the pad 300 can be configured to maximize the deformation at the outer periphery 205 of the top surface of the seat, thereby improving the comfort of larger users.

[0086] Furthermore, the toilet seat assembly 150 can be configured to deform differently for different users. For example, the deformation of the toilet seat assembly for a smaller user may differ from the deformation for a larger user. In another embodiment, the deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150 for a lighter user may differ from the deformation for a heavier user. The toilet seat assembly can deform differently depending on the magnitude and / or location of the applied load. In another example, the inner edge 203 of the seat 200 can be configured to elastically and vertically deform downward in response to a smaller user (since the user occupies only this portion of the seat). Conversely, the outer periphery 205 of the top surface of the seat can be configured to elastically and vertically deform in response to a larger user (since this is the location occupied by the user and bears most of the load applied by the user).

[0087] The deformation or deflection of the toilet seat assembly 150 can be controlled by the materials comprising the seat 200 and / or the pad 300. The deformation of the toilet seat assembly can be controlled by the shape of the seat 200 and / or the pad 300. For example, the deformation can be controlled by the thickness of the seat 200 and / or the pad 300. The deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150 can also be controlled by varying cross-sectional or curved profiles of the seat 200 and / or the pad 300.

[0088] In some embodiments, the liner 300 can be configured to determine or control the deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150. Therefore, the deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150 can be changed by altering the liner 300. The material constituting the liner 300 can determine or control the deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150. In some embodiments, the liner 300 can be composed of two or more materials. One or more materials constituting the liner can be selected based on their physical properties. For example, one or more materials constituting the liner can be selected based on their hardness. The liner 300 can be composed of rubber or a rubbery resin. For example, the liner 300 can be composed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), such as thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), styrene block copolymer (TPE-S), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPE-O), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPE-U), thermoplastic copolyester (TPE-E), melt-processable rubber (MPR), thermoplastic polyether block amide (TPE-A), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or combinations thereof. In another example, the liner 300 may be made of silicone rubber or flexible PVC.

[0089] During use of the toilet seat assembly 150, the bottom surface 202 of the seat can be supported by the upper or top surface of the edge 115, and a force (e.g., weight) can be applied to the top surface 201 of the seat. The seat 200 and the pad 300 can be configured to elastically and vertically deform in response to compressive forces between the user and the upper surface of the toilet seat edge. The pad 300 can be compressed within the cavity 220 of the seat 200.

[0090] Specifically, when the seat ring 200 deforms, the outer wall 310 of the liner can be compressed between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223 of the cavity. In some examples, the spring constant, or the amount of force required to compress the outer wall 310 of the liner by a specific distance, can control or substantially control the deformation of the seat ring 200. The spring constant of the outer wall 310 can vary. The spring constant of the outer wall 310 can vary based on the material of the outer wall 310, the thickness of the outer wall 310, and the shape of the outer wall 310.

[0091] In some examples, as described above, the liner 300 may also include an inner liner wall 360. The outer liner wall 310 and the inner liner wall 360 can provide two stages of deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150 when a force is applied to the top surface 201 of the seat. During the initial or primary deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150, only the outer liner wall 310 can be compressed between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223. During the secondary deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150, both the outer liner wall 310 and the inner liner wall 360 can be compressed between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223.

[0092] In some examples, the outer wall 310 of the seat liner may be higher than the inner wall 360. Therefore, during the initial deformation of the seat ring 200, only the outer wall 310 can be compressed between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223. After the initial deformation, the seat ring 200 can be displaced so that the top surface 222 comes into contact with the inner wall 360. Therefore, during the secondary deformation of the toilet seat assembly 150, both the outer wall 310 and the inner wall 360 can be compressed between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223. During the initial deformation, the spring constant of the outer wall 310 can control or determine the deformation of the seat ring 200. During the secondary deformation, the combined or total spring constant of both the outer wall 310 and the inner wall 360 can control or determine the deformation of the seat ring 200.

[0093] In some examples, the height of one or more bridging elements 362 can be reduced from the height of the outer buffer wall 310 at the outer buffer wall 310 to the height of the inner buffer wall 360 at the inner buffer wall 360. In these examples, because the portion of the bridging element 362 compressed between the top surface 222 and the bottom surface 223 of the cavity increases as the toilet seat assembly 150 deforms, the liner 300 can provide a continuously increasing spring constant during the initial deformation.

[0094] Figure 13 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure for attaching a seat cushion to a toilet seat ring is shown. This flowchart can be used to attach various toilet seat ring assemblies (e.g., seat cushion and seat ring) described herein. For ease of explanation, reference is made below to a toilet seat ring assembly 150 including a seat cushion 300 and a seat ring 200. Figure 13 The flowchart is used to describe the process. Additional, different, or fewer actions can be provided.

[0095] In action S101, the buffer member 386 is inserted into the buffer pocket 237 of the seat ring 200. The buffer member 386 can be inserted into the buffer pocket 237 through the cavity 220 of the seat ring. The buffer member 386 can be inserted into the buffer pocket 237 to extend through the buffer pocket 237. When the buffer member 386 is inserted into the buffer pocket 237, the buffer flange 387 can contact the bottom surface 223 of the cavity. In some examples, in action S101, two or more buffer members 386 can be inserted into different buffer pockets 237. In some examples, in action S101, each of more than two buffer members 386 can be inserted into a different buffer pocket 237.

[0096] In action S103, the central channel 380 of the pad 300 is aligned with the centering rib 234 of the seat ring 200. When the pad 300 is inserted into the cavity 220 of the seat ring 200, the central channel 380 can be aligned with the centering rib 234 to receive the centering rib 234. When the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, the central channel 380 and the centering rib 234 can be aligned to control the position of the pad 300 relative to the seat ring 200. In some examples, when the pad 300 is stretched to be attached to the seat ring 200, the central channel 380 and the centering rib 234 can control the amount of deformation or stretching in the pad 300. The central channel 380 and the centering rib 234 can control the deformation or stretching of the pad 300 such that when the pad 300 is attached to the seat ring 200, there is the same or substantially similar amount of stretching in the pads 300 on both sides of the central channel 380.

[0097] In action S105, the pad 300 is inserted into the cavity 220 of the seat ring 200. The pad 300 can be inserted into the cavity 220 such that the centering rib 234 is received in the center channel 380 of the pad 300. In some examples, in action S105, only a portion of the pad 300 is inserted into the cavity 220.

[0098] In action S107, the pad 300 is stretched such that a first locking ring 377 located at the first end 301 of the pad 300 can wrap around the first locking protrusion 236 of the seat ring 200. In action S107, the central channel 380 and the centering rib can fix or hold the pad 300 in position at the central channel 380, allowing the first end 301 of the pad 300 to be stretched. The first locking ring 377 can be located on a first locking protrusion 373 located at or near the first end 301 of the pad 300. The first locking protrusion 236 can extend from a hinge bracket 232 located at or near the rear end of the seat ring 200. In some examples, in action S107, a fastening ring 375 located at or near the first end 301 of the pad 300 can be grasped by a user to stretch the pad 300. In other examples, a tool including a hook can be inserted into the fastening ring 375 to stretch the pad 300.

[0099] In action S109, the first locking ring 377 is wrapped around the first locking protrusion 236. The first locking ring 377 can wrap around the first locking protrusion 236 to surround the first locking protrusion 236. When the first locking ring 377 surrounds the first locking protrusion 236, the liner 300 can be stretched between the central channel 380 and the first locking ring 377 to be positioned within the cavity 220 and connected to the seat ring 200.

[0100] In action S111, the pad 300 is stretched such that the second locking ring 377 located at the second end 302 of the pad 300 can wrap around the second locking protrusion 236 of the seat ring 200. In action S111, the central channel 380 and the centering rib can fix or hold the pad 300 in position at the central channel 380, allowing the second end 302 of the pad 300 to be stretched. The second locking ring 377 can be located on the second locking protrusion 373 located at or near the second end 302 of the pad 300. The second locking protrusion 236 can extend from the hinge bracket 232 located at or near the rear end of the seat ring 200. In some examples, in action S111, the fastening ring 375 located at or near the second end 302 of the pad 300 can be grasped by the user to stretch the pad 300. In other examples, a tool including a hook can be inserted into the fastening ring 375 to stretch the pad 300.

[0101] In action S109, the second locking ring 377 is wrapped around the second locking protrusion 236. The second locking ring 377 can wrap around the second locking protrusion 236 to surround the second locking protrusion 236. When the second locking ring 377 surrounds the second locking protrusion 236, the liner 300 can be stretched between the central channel 380 and the second locking ring 377 to be positioned within the cavity 220 and connected to the seat ring 200.

[0102] When the first locking ring 377 and the second locking ring 377 are wrapped around the first locking protrusion 236 and the second locking protrusion 236, the pad 300 can be stretched around the seat ring 200 between the first locking ring and the second locking ring 377, thereby attaching the pad 300 to the seat ring 200. In some examples, a cover can be attached to the rear portion of the seat ring 200 between the first locking protrusion 236 and the second locking protrusion 236 to cover or conceal the locking protrusions 373 respectively located at the first end 301 and the second end 302 of the pad 300.

[0103] Overall reference Figure 14 In some examples, the seat ring 401 may include two or more seat ring cavities 402. Each of the two or more seat ring cavities 402 may be disposed in the outer surface 403 of the seat ring. In some examples, a first cavity 402 may be formed in a first side portion 404 of the seat ring between the front end portion 405 and the rear end portion 406, and a second cavity 402 may be formed in a second side portion 407 of the seat ring. The height and / or portion of the outer surface 403 of the seat ring—along which the cavity extends—may vary. Each cavity 402 may be configured to receive a liner.

[0104] Specifically, Figure 14The illustration shows a perspective view of a toilet seat 401 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to the toilet seat 200, the toilet seat 401 includes an annular top surface 409, an annular bottom surface 410 opposite to the top surface 409, and an inner edge 411 at the junction of the top surface 409 and the bottom surface 410. Additionally, the seat 401 includes an outer surface 403 extending from the outer periphery 413 of the top surface to the outer periphery 414 of the bottom surface. The seat 401 also includes a front end portion 405 and a rear end portion 406. The seat ring 401 may also include a first side portion (e.g., left side portion) 404 and a second side portion (e.g., right side portion) 407, wherein the first side portion 404 extends between the front end portion 405 and the rear end portion 406 of the seat ring, and the second side portion 407 is opposite to the first side portion and extends from the front end portion 405 to the rear end portion 406 of the seat ring.

[0105] Figure 15 The diagram shows... Figure 5 A transparent bottom view of the seat ring 401. (See attached image.) Figure 15 As shown, the seat ring 401 includes a first cavity 416 and a second cavity 417, wherein the first cavity 416 is formed in a portion of the outer surface 403 of the seat ring on a first side 404 of the seat ring 401, and the second cavity 417 is formed in a portion of the outer surface 403 of the seat ring on a second side 407 of the seat ring 401. The first cavity 416 and the second cavity 417 are disposed in the outer surface 403 of the seat ring and extend toward the inner edge 411 of the seat ring 401. The size and shape of the first cavity 416 and the second cavity 417 can vary. For example, the vertical height of the cavity between the top surface 409 and the bottom surface 410 can be greater or less. In another example, the length around the outer surface 403 of the seat ring can be greater or less, wherein the first cavity 416 and the second cavity 417 extend in the outer surface 403 of the seat ring. In yet another example, the depth and shape of the inner surface of the cavity can vary. The first cavity 416 and the second cavity 417 can each be configured to receive a pad therein. In some implementations, the seat ring may have more than two cavities.

[0106] Overall reference Figure 16 and Figure 17In some embodiments, patterns formed within the liner can be used to control or construct the deformation or deflection of the liner. Patterns formed within the liner can include variations in shape (i.e., varying profiles) and / or variations in material. The pattern can include localized compression regions where the profile of the liner, formed of a single material, is altered such that specific areas of the profile extend vertically or bulge away from the remainder of the profile. For example, localized compression regions can include ribs, extrusion blades, and extrusion pads formed in a liner made of a single material. The pattern can also include variable compression regions where a portion of the liner's profile is made of a material different from (or at least different from) the remainder of the profile. In some examples, variable compression regions can be formed within the liner's profile so as not to extend or bulge out of the profile. In other embodiments, variable compression regions can include ribs, extrusion blades, and extrusion pads formed of a material different from the remainder of the profile. In one example, variable compression regions in the liner can include soft gel or air encapsulated within a durable soft shell exterior. Additionally, the variable compression zone may take the form of one or more inserts into the liner, the inserts comprising a material different from the liner. The position of one or more inserts within the liner 300 can vary. In one example, one or more inserts may be inserted at a position in the liner corresponding to a location where the cushioning element on the bottom surface of the seat contacts the upper edge of the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, two inserts may be installed near the front end of the liner, and two inserts may be installed near the rear end of the liner.

[0107] Figure 16 A gasket 420 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. As shown, the gasket 420 includes a plurality of ribs 421. The ribs 421 can form localized compression regions in the gasket 420. Thus, each rib 421 is a region extending vertically along the contour of the gasket 420 away from the remainder of the contour. The vertical distance by which the ribs 421 extend away from the remainder of the gasket contour can vary. The position and size of the ribs 421 can vary. Figure 16 As shown, the rib 421 typically extends from the rear end 422 of the liner to the front end 423 of the liner and extends around the front end 423 of the liner. In other embodiments, the rib may extend from the inner edge 424 of the liner to the outer surface 425 of the liner.

[0108] Figure 17 A liner 430 according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 17The illustrated pad 430 includes a compression pad (i.e., a compression region) 431. The compression pad 431, formed of the same material as the remainder of the pad 430, can create localized compression regions within the pad 430. The compression pad 431, formed of a material different from the material constituting the remainder of the pad 430, can create variable compression regions within the pad 430. The vertical distance by which the compression pad 431 extends away from the contour of the pad 430 can vary. The number, size, and shape of the compression pads 431 can also vary. Figure 17 As shown, the extrusion pad 431 is circular. In other embodiments, the extrusion pad can be any other shape, such as rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.

[0109] Reference Figure 18 The illustration shows a liner 435 comprising multiple compression pads 436. (Example) Figure 18 As shown, a plurality of compression pads 436 may be disposed along the inner portion 437 of the liner 435 and disposed adjacent to the inner periphery 438 of the liner 435. Each of the plurality of compression pads 436 may be compressed within a cavity of the seat ring in response to a force applied to the top surface of the seat ring. The number, size, and constituent material of the compression pads 436 may control the deformation of the toilet seat assembly including the liner 435. Figure 18 As shown, the compression pad 436 can be intermittently arranged around the inner portion of the pad 435.

[0110] Reference Figure 19 The illustration shows a pad 440 including a compression web 441. (See figure.) Figure 19 As shown, the compression web 441 includes a plurality of partitions 443. The plurality of partitions 443 may intersect, thereby forming a relatively thin pocket-like portion 444 between the plurality of partitions 443. The thickness of the partitions 443 may vary on the pad 440. For example, the partitions 443 may be relatively thin at the inner edge 446 of the pad and may gradually increase in thickness toward the outer edge 447 of the pad. The pad 440 may be configured to be disposed within a cavity in the seat ring. When a load is applied to the top surface of the seat ring, the plurality of partitions may be configured to be compressed between the top surface and the bottom surface of the cavity. The pad may have a spring constant or a force required to compress the pad a predetermined distance between the top surface and the bottom surface of the cavity. The pad spring constant may be determined by the material constituting the pad, the number of partitions 443, the height of the partitions 443, and / or the width of the partitions 443. For example, the spring constant of the liner 440 can be increased by increasing the hardness of the material constituting the liner, increasing the number of partitions 443, and / or increasing the width of the partitions 443. Conversely, the spring constant of the liner 440 can be decreased by decreasing the hardness of the material constituting the liner 440, decreasing the number of partitions 443, and / or decreasing the width of the partitions 443.

[0111] Reference Figure 20The illustration shows a cross-section of a toilet seat assembly 450 including a seat ring 451 and a cushion 460 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 20 As shown, in some examples, the pad 460 may include an integral cushion 461 configured to extend through a cushion pocket 452 between the seat ring bottom surface 453 and the cavity bottom surface 454. The integral cushion 461 and the cushion pocket 452 attach the pad 460 to the seat ring 451 and prevent movement of the pad 460 relative to the seat ring 451 at the integral cushion 461. The cushion pocket 452 and the integral cushion 461 may be of the same shape. The shapes of the cushion pocket 452 and the integral cushion 461 may vary. For example, the cushion pocket 452 and the cushion 461 may be rectangular.

[0112] Still refer to Figure 20 In some examples, the pad 460 may also include a retaining feature 464. The retaining feature 464 may be configured to extend out of the cavity 459 of the seat ring 451 and extend around the outer periphery 457 of the seat ring bottom surface 453. In some examples, the integral cushion 461 and the retaining feature 464 may together attach the pad 460 to the seat ring 451. Specifically, a portion of the seat ring 451 may be disposed between the integral pad 460 and the retaining feature 464. The integral cushion 461 and the retaining feature 464 may be used alone or in combination with any other structure used to attach the pad 460 to the seat ring 451.

[0113] Figure 21 and Figure 22 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 21 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly 470, in which the cavity 471 in the seat 472 is completely filled with a pad 473.

[0114] In other examples, such as Figure 22 As shown, the toilet seat assembly 475 may include an air pocket 476 disposed between the inner surface 477 of the cavity 478 and the liner 479. In some examples, the air pocket 476 may be disposed between the inner surface of the cavity 478 and the liner 479 to facilitate the deformation of the liner 479. When the liner 479 deforms vertically, the liner may expand horizontally or radially. Distributing the air pocket 476 between the inner surfaces 477 of the cavity 478 allows the liner 479 to deform horizontally or radially inward and outward (i.e., towards and away from the inner edge of the seat). The portion of the cavity 478 occupied by the liner 479 may vary. Additionally, the cross-sectional shape of the liner may vary.

[0115] Overall reference Figures 23 to 37The diagram illustrates several structures used to attach the pad to the seat ring. Figures 23 to 37 Any of the structures shown and described herein can be used alone or in combination to attach the pad to the seat ring.

[0116] Reference Figure 23 The illustration shows a seat ring 480 including a central locking protrusion 481. The central locking protrusion 481 extends vertically from the bottom surface 482 of a cavity 483 disposed in the seat ring 480. The central locking protrusion 481 may extend vertically from the bottom surface 482 at a point along the central axis of the seat ring 480. The central locking protrusion 481 may be configured to engage with a locking ring (e.g., locking ring 377) disposed at each end of the liner (e.g., end 301, end 302). Specifically, the central locking protrusion 481 may be surrounded by the locking ring disposed at each end of the liner. The seat ring 480 may also include a first guide 485 and a second guide 486.

[0117] The central locking protrusion 481 can be configured to be surrounded or encircled by locking rings one at a time. Specifically, a first locking ring can be wrapped around the central locking protrusion 481. When the first locking ring is wrapped around the central locking protrusion 481, the first locking ring can contact the top surface of the first guide 485. Then, a second locking ring can be wrapped around the central locking protrusion 481. When the second locking ring is wrapped around the central locking protrusion 481, the second locking ring can contact the top surface of the second guide 486.

[0118] Reference Figure 24 The illustration shows a bottom perspective view of a toilet seat assembly 490 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the seat liner 491 includes two cushioning members 492 (i.e., cushioning portions) that protrude or extend from the bottom surface of the seat liner 491. Each of the cushioning members 492 may extend through a cushioning pocket that extends between the bottom surface 493 of the seat ring and the bottom surface (e.g., the bottom surface of the cavity) of a cavity in the seat ring 494. The cushioning members 492 and the cushioning pockets may be configured to attach the seat liner 491 to the seat ring 494. The number of cushioning portions disposed on the bottom surface of the seat liner 491 may vary. In one example, a single cushioning portion 492 may extend or protrude from the bottom surface of the seat liner 491. In another example, three cushioning portions 492 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the seat liner 491.

[0119] Still refer to Figure 24The cushioning element 492 extends through a cushioning pocket-shaped portion in the seat ring, between a cavity in the seat ring and the bottom surface 493 of the seat ring. The cushioning pocket-shaped portion may have a shape corresponding to the cushioning portion 492 of the pad 491, such that the entire cushioning pocket-shaped portion is filled when the pad 491 is disposed in the seat ring 494. In some embodiments, a single cushioning pocket-shaped portion may be formed in the seat ring 200. In other embodiments, more than two cushioning pocket-shaped portions may be formed in the seat ring 494. The number of cushioning pocket-shaped portions may correspond to the number of cushioning portions 492 disposed on the bottom surface of the pad 491. Figure 24 As shown, when the cushioning portion 492 extends through the cushioning pocket formed in the seat ring 494, the pad 491 can be coupled (e.g., fixed) to the seat ring 494.

[0120] Overall reference Figure 25 and Figure 26 The illustration shows a toilet seat assembly 500 including a slot locking feature. Figure 25 The illustration shows a partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly 500 including a slot locking feature. In this example, the liner 501 may have an arcuate shape extending from a first end to a second end. Figure 25 As shown, the pad 501 includes a hook 502 at each of the first and second ends of the pad. The hook 502 includes a hook narrow portion 503 that extends from the end of the pad 501 between the end of the pad 501 and a hook flare portion 504. The hook flare portion may have a larger cross-sectional area than the hook narrow portion 503.

[0121] like Figure 26 As shown, the hook flare portion 504 at the first end of the pad 501 can be configured to be deformed (e.g., compressed) and inserted through a first slot formed in or near the rear end portion 506 of the seat ring, while the hook flare portion 504 at the second end of the pad 501 can be configured to be deformed (e.g., compressed) and inserted through a second slot formed in or near the rear end portion 506 of the seat ring. The first and second slots formed in the seat ring can have shapes corresponding to the hook narrow portion 503 and have a smaller cross-sectional area than the hook flare portion 504. Therefore, after the hook flare portion has been inserted through its corresponding opening, the hook flare portion 504 can return to its undeformed state. The undeformed state of the hook flare portion can have a larger cross-sectional area than the first and second slots in the seat ring 508. Therefore, the pad 501 can be coupled or secured to the seat ring 508. In other embodiments, the first and second slots can be located at different positions. For example, the first slot and the second slot can be located at or near the front end 509 of the seat ring.

[0122] In addition, Figure 25 and Figure 26 In one embodiment, the pad 501 includes a cushioning portion 510 extending through an opening formed in the seat ring 508. As shown, the cushioning portion 510 extends from the cavity through the bottom surface 511 of the seat ring. The seat ring 508 includes an opening corresponding to the shape of the cushioning member 510. When Figure 25 and Figure 26 When the toilet seat assembly is attached to the toilet, the cushioning portion 510 can contact the upper edge of the toilet when the user sits on the toilet seat assembly and prevent the toilet seat assembly from moving (e.g., sliding) relative to the toilet. The cushioning portion 510 and its corresponding opening formed in the seat 508 can connect or secure the pad 501 and the seat 508 to each other.

[0123] Reference Figure 27 The illustration shows a perspective view of a toilet seat assembly 515 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, a cavity formed in the seat 516 extends around the entire outer periphery of the seat 516. Therefore, the pad 517 has an elliptical shape corresponding to the elliptical shape of the top surface 518 and the bottom surface of the seat. In this example, the vertical height of the cavity and the pad 517 varies at different locations around the seat 516 and the pad 517. The pad 517 can be elastically and radially deformed (e.g., stretched) from its natural state, such that the pad can be pulled around the outer periphery of the top surface 518 or the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the seat and into the cavity, thereby securing the pad 517 within the cavity and connecting the pad 517 to the seat 516.

[0124] Overall reference Figures 28 to 31 The padding may include a ring (e.g., a locking ring 377) at each of the first and second ends of the padding. The padding may be configured to elastically deform (e.g., stretch) from its natural state, in which no force is applied to the padding, such that the ring (e.g., locking ring 377) at each of the first and second ends of the cushioning ring surrounds or encloses the first protrusion (e.g., locking protrusion 236) and the second protrusion (e.g., locking protrusion 236), respectively. In these embodiments, the padding may be held taut between the first and second protrusions.

[0125] Reference Figure 28The illustration shows a partial perspective view of a toilet seat assembly 520 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, a first protrusion 521 may extend or project from the outer surface of the seat 522. The first protrusion 521 may be located at or near the rear end of the seat 522. The first protrusion 521 may be biased towards a first side of the central axis of the seat 522 between the front and rear ends of the seat 522. The seat 522 may include a second protrusion biased towards a second side opposite to the first side of the central axis of the seat 522. In some examples, the first protrusion 521 and the second protrusion may each include a hole for engaging the toilet seat assembly 150 to a hinge assembly (e.g., a pin of the hinge assembly). The shape and position of the first protrusion 521 and the second protrusion may vary.

[0126] like Figure 28 As shown, a ring (e.g., a locking ring 377) in the first end 523 of the pad 524 can be configured to surround the first protrusion 521. A ring in the second end of the pad can be configured to surround a second protrusion extending from the seat ring 522. Therefore, when the rings in the first end 523 and the second end of the pad 524 surround the first protrusion 521 and the second protrusion, respectively, the pad 524 can be coupled or secured to the seat ring 522.

[0127] Overall reference Figures 29 to 31 The illustration shows a toilet seat assembly 530 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 29 A partial perspective view of the seat ring 531 is shown. In this example, the first protrusion 532 and the second protrusion 533 are located at or near the rear end 535 of the seat ring. In some examples, such as Figure 29 As shown, the first protrusion 532 and the second protrusion 533 may face each other. In some examples, the first protrusion 532 and the second protrusion 533 may be positioned between the inner edge 537 of the seat ring and the outer surface 538 of the seat ring. The size and position of the first protrusion 532 and the second protrusion 533 may vary.

[0128] Reference Figure 30 A channel 540 may be formed in the rear end 535 of the seat ring, extending from the outer surface 538 of the seat ring to the first protrusion 532 and the second protrusion 533, respectively. (Refer to...) Figure 29 and Figure 30A first channel may be formed in the outer surface 538 of the seat ring and in the first side portion 541 of the seat ring near the rear end portion 535 of the seat ring, and a second channel may be formed in the outer surface 538 of the seat ring and in the second side portion 542 of the seat ring near the rear end portion 535 of the seat ring. The number, size, and position of the channels can vary. Therefore, when the ring in the first end of the pad and the ring in the second end of the pad respectively surround the first protrusion 532 and the second protrusion 533, the portion of the pad near the first end of the pad and the portion of the pad near the second end of the pad can be respectively disposed in the first channel and the second channel.

[0129] Figure 31 The diagram shows... Figure 29 and Figure 30 A perspective view of a toilet seat assembly. In this embodiment, the seat 531 may further include a cover 545, which may be removably attached to the rear end 535 of the seat. The cover 545 may be configured to cover the area of ​​the seat 531 between a channel 540 in the first side 541 and a channel 540 in the second side 542 of the seat. The cover 545 may be configured to conceal a first protrusion 532 and a second protrusion 533 and / or conceal a portion of the liner 546. In some embodiments, the cover 545 may be made of the same material as the seat 531.

[0130] Reference Figure 32 The illustration shows a partial perspective view of a toilet seat 550 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the seat 550 also includes fasteners 552 and fastener holes located in the rear end portion 551 of the seat. The fasteners 552 may be nails, screws, bolts, anchors, etc. The location and number of fastener holes may vary. For example, the seat 550 may include fastener holes located in a first side portion and / or a second side portion of the seat near the rear end portion 551. In another example, four fastener holes may be provided in the bottom surface 554 of the seat. The fasteners 552 may be configured to extend through the fastener holes and into the liner. The fasteners 552 may be configured to engage or secure the liner to the seat 550.

[0131] Overall reference Figures 33 to 35 The toilet seat assembly may include a cam lock for attaching the liner to the seat. Figure 33 A perspective view of a cam lock 560 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The cam lock 560 may have a cylindrical body 561 extending between a cam portion 562 and a lever portion 563. Both the cam portion 562 and the lever portion 563 may be elliptical in shape. In some examples, the cam portion 562 may be pear-shaped. In some examples, the cam lock 560 may be made of polypropylene (PP). In other embodiments, the cam lock 560 may be made of other materials.

[0132] Figure 34 A toilet seat assembly 570 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, a cam lock 560 is inserted through an opening formed in a bottom surface 571 of the seat. When the cam lock 560 is inserted into the opening formed in the bottom surface 571 of the seat, the cam lock 560 can extend into an opening formed in a liner 572. The shape of the opening in the liner can vary. For example, in some embodiments, the opening in the liner 572 can be circular. In another example, the opening can be rectangular. The opening in the liner 572 can be circular. In some embodiments, a portion of the cylindrical body 561 and the cam portion 562 can extend into the opening formed in the liner. When the cam lock 560 is disposed in the seat 573 and the liner 572, the cam lock 560 can be configured to rotate about the axis of the cylindrical body 561. The cam lock 560 can be configured such that a user can rotate the cam lock 560 about the axis of the cylindrical body 561 by moving the lever portion 563 (e.g., rotating, pushing, pulling). When the cam lock 560 rotates, the cam portion 562 can strike the inner surface of the opening in the pad, so that the pad 572 remains in contact with the seat ring 573, thereby engaging or securing the pad 572 to the seat ring 573.

[0133] In some embodiments, the seat ring assembly 570 may include two or more cam locks 560. The positions of the openings in the seat ring 573 and the pad 572 may vary. In one example, the seat ring assembly may include two cam locks 560. The seat ring 573 may include an opening in a first side 291 of the seat ring near the rear end 209 of the seat ring and another opening in a second side 296 of the seat ring near the rear end 209 of the seat ring. When the pad 572 is disposed in the pad 573, the position of the opening in the pad 573 may correspond to the position of the opening in the pad 572. In another example, the seat ring assembly 570 may include four cam locks 560.

[0134] Figure 35 A partial perspective view of a seat ring 580 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, the seat ring 580 is configured to have a recess formed therein, the recess being configured to receive a lever portion 563 of a cam lock 560. In this embodiment, the cam lock 560 is configured such that when the lever portion 563 of the cam lock moves to a position where the cam portion 562 strikes the pad 572, holding it in contact with the seat ring 580 (i.e., the locked position), the lever portion 563 is held within the recess formed in the pad 580 by a lip formed on the top surface of the pad. In other examples, the seat ring may include one or more brakes configured to retain the lever portion, such that the cam lock 560 is held in the locked position.

[0135] Figure 36 A partial cross-sectional view of a toilet seat assembly 590 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, the toilet seat assembly 590 includes a cushioning member 591 having an internal cavity 592. The cushioning member 591 is configured to extend through a hole or cushioning pocket formed in the bottom surface 594 of the seat ring 595, such that the internal cavity 592 engages with a protrusion 597 formed on a pad 599, thereby securing the pad 599 within the internal cavity of the seat ring 595.

[0136] Typically, when a user sits on a toilet seat, they only come into contact with a portion of the top surface of the seat. Specifically, due to the shape of the human body, the user may not come into contact with a portion of the seat at the front and / or back. (See reference...) Figure 37 The illustration shows a surface area of ​​the top surface 601 of the seat ring on which a user typically sits. (See reference...) Figure 37 An elliptical portion 602, corresponding to the general shape of the user, can be overlaid on a top view of the seat ring 600 to define the area of ​​the seat ring that may come into contact with the user during use of the seat ring 600. Specifically, the area 604 of the seat ring within the elliptical portion 602 may come into contact with the user during use, while the area 605 of the seat ring outside the elliptical portion 602 is unlikely to come into contact with the user.

[0137] According to this disclosure, the various modifications of the toilet seat assembly described herein can increase the surface area of ​​the seat 600 that contacts the user during use. This increased surface area in contact with the user can improve the weight distribution between the user and the seat, and thus improve user comfort during use of the seat 600.

[0138] When a component, device, element, etc., of this disclosure is described as having an operational or functional purpose or performing an operational or functional purpose, the component, device, or element shall be considered herein to be "constructed" to satisfy that purpose or perform that operation or function.

[0139] The phrase "connected to" or "connected to" includes direct connection to one or more intermediate components or indirect connection through one or more intermediate components. Additional, different, or fewer components may be provided.

[0140] The descriptions of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. These illustrations are not intended as a complete description of all elements and features of devices and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure. Other embodiments can be utilized and derived from this disclosure, allowing structural and logical substitutions and changes to be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Some scales in the illustrations may be exaggerated, while others may be minimized. Therefore, the disclosure and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0141] While this specification contains numerous details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention or the scope of the claims, but rather as descriptions of specific features of particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features described in the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, and even initially claimed in this way, one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from that combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may be for sub-combinations or variations thereof.

[0142] One or more embodiments of this disclosure may be referred to herein individually and / or collectively by the term "invention," for convenience only and not intended to actively limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Furthermore, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent modifications or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, as well as other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification.

[0143] The foregoing detailed description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that the appended claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be construed as limited to the described order or elements unless stated as having such an effect. Therefore, all embodiments within the scope and spirit of the appended claims and their equivalents are claimed as part of the invention.

Claims

1. A toilet seat ring, comprising: Top surface; The bottom surface is opposite to the top surface; The inner edge, where the top surface and the bottom surface meet; The outer surface connects the outer periphery of the top surface and the outer periphery of the bottom surface; as well as A cavity extending from the outer surface to the inner edge and from the bottom surface to the top surface, the shape of the cavity being defined by an inner surface including an inner top surface and an inner bottom surface opposite to the inner top surface; as well as A liner, slidably inserted into the cavity in a radially inward direction, the liner comprising an outer wall extending between the top surface and the bottom surface of the cavity and an inner wall disposed inside the outer wall, the height of the inner wall being shorter than the height of the outer wall. The top surface and the pad are configured to elastically and vertically deform in response to a load applied to the top surface. The toilet seat also includes multiple slots and multiple flanges. The multiple slots are arranged radially inward in the top and bottom surfaces of the inner cavity and extend into the toilet seat. Each of the multiple flanges extends radially inward from the outer wall and is respectively disposed within each of the multiple slots. The multiple flanges include multiple upper flanges and multiple lower flanges, which are alternately arranged along the outer wall. The gasket also includes a plurality of bridging members that extend radially inward from the outer wall and connect the outer wall and the inner wall, each of the plurality of bridging members being disposed between adjacent flanges of the plurality of flanges.

2. The toilet seat according to claim 1, wherein, An air bag is provided between the liner and the inner surface of the cavity.

3. The toilet seat according to claim 1, further comprising: A groove, wherein the groove is disposed in the inner surface of the cavity and extends into the toilet seat; as well as An external flange extends upward and / or radially outward from the outer wall and is disposed in the groove.

4. The toilet seat according to claim 1, wherein, The toilet seat also includes a locking protrusion; and The liner also includes a locking ring surrounding the locking protrusion.

5. A toilet, comprising: urinal; as well as A toilet seat ring, connected to the toilet bowl, and made of a first material, comprising: Top surface; The bottom surface is opposite to the top surface; The inner edge, where the top surface and the bottom surface meet; The outer surface connects the outer periphery of the top surface and the outer periphery of the bottom surface; A cavity extending from the outer surface toward the inner edge, the shape of the cavity being defined by an inner surface including a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface; and A liner, the liner being made of a second material different from the first material, and the liner being removably and slidably inserted radially inward into the cavity of the toilet seat, the liner comprising an outer wall extending between the top surface and the bottom surface of the cavity and an inner wall disposed inside the outer wall, the height of the inner wall being shorter than the height of the outer wall. The toilet seat also includes multiple slots and multiple flanges. The multiple slots are arranged radially inward in the top and bottom surfaces of the inner cavity and extend into the toilet seat. Each of the multiple flanges extends radially inward from the outer wall and is respectively disposed within each of the multiple slots. The multiple flanges include multiple upper flanges and multiple lower flanges, which are alternately arranged along the outer wall. The gasket also includes a plurality of bridging members that extend radially inward from the outer wall and connect the outer wall and the inner wall, each of the plurality of bridging members being disposed between adjacent flanges of the plurality of flanges.

6. The toilet according to claim 5, wherein, The top surface and the liner are configured to deform elastically and vertically in response to a load applied to the top surface.

7. The toilet according to claim 5, wherein, An air bag is provided between the liner and the inner surface of the cavity.

8. The toilet according to claim 5, wherein The toilet seat also includes a locking protrusion; The liner also includes a locking ring; and The pad is removably attached to the toilet seat by stretching the pad around the toilet seat so that the locking ring surrounds the locking protrusion.

9. The toilet according to claim 5, wherein, The first material is one of polypropylene, polyethylene, or polycarbonate; and The second material is a thermoplastic elastomer.

10. A method for assembling a toilet seat as described in claim 1, the method comprising: Align the center channel of the liner with the centering rib of the toilet seat, wherein the centering rib is disposed in the cavity and on the outer surface of the toilet seat; The pad is inserted into the cavity of the toilet seat so that the central channel receives the center rib; Stretch the pad so that a first locking ring at the first end of the pad surrounds a first locking protrusion provided on the toilet seat; Wrap the first locking ring around the first locking protrusion; Stretch the liner so that a second locking ring at the second end of the liner can wrap around a second locking protrusion provided on the toilet seat; and The second locking ring is wrapped around the second locking protrusion.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: Insert the cushioning element into the cushioning pocket of the toilet seat. Specifically, the cushioning element is inserted into the cushioning bag-shaped portion before the padding is inserted into the cavity.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein, Stretching the pad so that the first locking ring at the first end of the pad can surround the first locking protrusion further includes fastening the first retaining ring at the first end of the pad to stretch the pad; and Stretching the pad so that the second locking ring at the second end of the pad can surround the second locking protrusion also includes a second fastening ring fastening the second end of the pad to stretch the pad.

Images