Flushing engine

Abstract

A flush engine, particularly a system for flushing a toilet, is provided that includes a flow controller having a housing including a water inlet configured to receive a first flow of water, a first water outlet, and a second water outlet. The flow controller may further include a hydraulic turbine disposed in the housing, the hydraulic turbine in fluid communication with the water inlet and configured to generate electrical power as the first water flow travels therethrough; a rim valve disposed in the housing, the rim valve in fluid communication with the water inlet and configured to control a second flow of water provided to the first water outlet; and a sump jet valve disposed in the housing, the sump jet valve in fluid communication with the water inlet and configured to control a third flow of water provided to the second water outlet.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 529,550 (File No.: 010222-23013A-US) filed on July 28, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 621,040 (File No.: 010222-23013B-US) filed on January 15, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates generally to toilets. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an improved performance flush engine for a toilet. Background Art

[0004] In general, toilets that include direct-discharge pressure flush engines require high direct-discharge water pressures to operate. If the direct-discharge pressure flush engine receives insufficient water pressure, it may not function properly and may not adequately remove waste from the bowl and clean the bowl. Many buildings (e.g., commercial buildings, residential buildings) may not receive sufficient direct-discharge water pressure for the direct-discharge pressure flush engine to operate reliably. Accordingly, there is a need for a direct-discharge flush engine that can reliably flush at lower direct-discharge pressures. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present application provides a gate valve for a toilet, the gate valve comprising:

[0006] Open your mouth;

[0007] a gate configured to selectively block the opening; and

[0008] A hydraulic cylinder includes a piston connected to the gate, the piston being configured to move the gate to open or close the gate valve when the piston moves.

[0009] The present application also provides a toilet, the toilet comprising:

[0010] a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl comprising a sump;

[0011] a trapway in fluid communication with the sump; and

[0012] A gate valve includes a gate and a hydraulic cylinder, wherein the gate is configured to selectively block the drain channel, and the hydraulic cylinder includes a piston connected to the gate, and the piston is configured to move the gate when the piston moves to open or close the gate valve.

[0013] The present application also provides a method for flushing a toilet, the method comprising:

[0014] Opening a first valve, wherein a water inlet of the first valve is connected to a water supply, and a water outlet of the first valve is connected to a hydraulic cylinder and an edge water outlet disposed in the toilet bowl;

[0015] Providing a first water flow through the first valve, the first water flow cleaning the toilet bowl;

[0016] closing the first valve;

[0017] Opening a second valve, wherein a water inlet of the second valve is in communication with the water supply, and a water outlet of the second valve is in communication with the hydraulic cylinder and a sump outlet disposed in the sump of the toilet;

[0018] providing a second water flow through the second valve, the second water flow opening a gate valve disposed in a sewage channel of the toilet and flowing into the sump;

[0019] closing the second valve;

[0020] opening the first valve;

[0021] providing a third water flow through the first valve, the third water flow closing the gate valve, cleaning the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl; and

[0022] Close the first valve.

[0023] The present application also provides a system for flushing a toilet, the system comprising:

[0024] Flow controller, including:

[0025] a housing, the housing having a water inlet, a first water outlet, and a second water outlet, the water inlet being configured to receive a first water flow;

[0026] a hydraulic turbine disposed in the housing, the hydraulic turbine being in fluid communication with the water inlet and configured to generate electricity when the first water flow travels through the hydraulic turbine;

[0027] a rim valve disposed in the housing, the rim valve being in fluid communication with the water inlet and configured to control a second water flow provided to the first water outlet; and

[0028] A sump ejector valve is disposed in the housing, the sump ejector valve being in fluid communication with the water inlet and configured to control a third water flow provided to the second water outlet.

[0029] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0030] Gate valves, including:

[0031] a gate configured to selectively block the trapway; and

[0032] A hydraulic cylinder comprising a first side, a second side and a piston, wherein the first side is fluidically connected to the first water outlet and is configured to receive the second water flow, the second side is fluidically connected to the second water outlet and is configured to receive the third water flow, the piston is connected to the gate, and the piston is configured to move the gate when the piston moves, thereby opening or closing the gate valve.

[0033] In one embodiment, the second water flow is configured to move the piston toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, closing the gate valve, and

[0034] The third water flow is configured to move the piston toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder to open the gate valve.

[0035] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0036] An auxiliary valve is in fluid communication with the first side of the hydraulic cylinder, the auxiliary valve being located downstream of the first side of the hydraulic cylinder.

[0037] In one embodiment, the auxiliary valve is disposed between the first side of the hydraulic cylinder and a rim outlet in fluid communication with the auxiliary valve, and

[0038] The second side of the hydraulic cylinder is in fluid communication with a sump ejector outlet.

[0039] In one embodiment, the flow controller further comprises:

[0040] a battery disposed in the housing and configured to store electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine; and

[0041] A controller is disposed in the housing.

[0042] In one embodiment, further comprising an actuator, the actuator being in communication with the controller.

[0043] In one embodiment, the controller communicates with the edge valve, the sump ejector valve and the auxiliary valve, and the controller is configured to provide control signals or power to the edge valve, the sump ejector valve and the auxiliary valve to operate the edge valve, the sump ejector valve and the auxiliary valve respectively.

[0044] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0045] A flow regulator is in fluid communication with the water inlet, the flow regulator is disposed upstream of the water inlet, and is configured to control a flow rate of the first water flow.

[0046] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0047] A backflow prevention device is in fluid communication with the water inlet, and the backflow prevention device is disposed upstream of the water inlet.

[0048] The present application also provides a method for flushing a toilet, the method comprising:

[0049] Opening the rim valve, wherein the water inlet of the rim valve is connected to the water supply, and the water outlet of the rim valve is connected to the first side of the hydraulic cylinder and the rim water outlet disposed in the toilet bowl;

[0050] opening an auxiliary valve, the auxiliary valve being arranged between the first side of the hydraulic cylinder and the edge water outlet,

[0051] Providing a first water flow through the rim valve, the first water flow cleaning the toilet bowl;

[0052] closing the edge valve;

[0053] Opening a jet valve, wherein a water inlet of the jet valve is in communication with the water supply, and a water outlet of the jet valve is in communication with a second side of the hydraulic cylinder and a sump outlet disposed in the sump of the toilet;

[0054] providing a second water flow through the sump valve, the second water flow opening a gate valve disposed in a sewage channel of the toilet and flowing into the sump;

[0055] Closing the jet valve;

[0056] closing the auxiliary valve;

[0057] Opening the edge valve and providing a third water flow through the edge valve, wherein the third water flow closes the gate valve;

[0058] Opening the auxiliary valve, the auxiliary valve transports the third water flow to the rim outlet, the third water flow cleans the toilet bowl and fills the toilet bowl;

[0059] closing the edge valve; and

[0060] Close the auxiliary valve.

[0061] In one embodiment, the second water flow moves a piston disposed in the hydraulic cylinder and connected to the gate valve, opening the gate valve, and

[0062] The third water flow moves the piston and closes the gate valve.

[0063] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0064] The flow rate of the fourth water flow provided to the water inlet of the edge valve and the water inlet of the jet valve is reduced.

[0065] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0066] a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl comprising a sump;

[0067] a trapway in fluid communication with the sump; and

[0068] A gate valve includes a gate and a hydraulic cylinder, wherein the gate is configured to selectively block the drain channel, and the hydraulic cylinder includes a piston connected to the gate, and the piston is configured to move the gate when the piston moves to open or close the gate valve.

[0069] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0070] a first water inlet disposed at a first end of the hydraulic cylinder; and

[0071] a second water inlet, the second water inlet being disposed at a second end of the hydraulic cylinder;

[0072] The piston is arranged between the first water inlet and the second water inlet.

[0073] In one embodiment, wherein the first water inlet is configured to convey a flow of a first fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, the flow of the first fluid moving the piston towards the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, and

[0074] The second water inlet is configured to transport a flow of a second fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, the flow of the second fluid moving the piston toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder.

[0075] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0076] An edge water outlet, the edge water outlet being arranged at the edge of the toilet bowl;

[0077] A sump ejector water outlet, wherein the sump ejector water outlet is arranged at the sump of the toilet bowl;

[0078] a first valve configured to control flow of the first fluid to the rim outlet and to the first inlet; and

[0079] A second valve is configured to control flow of the second fluid to the sump ejector outlet and to the second inlet.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first valve and the second valve are solenoid valves.

[0081] In one embodiment, the flow of the first fluid is configured to move the piston toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, closing the gate valve.

[0082] In one embodiment, the flow of the second fluid is configured to move the piston toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder, opening the gate valve.

[0083] In one embodiment, further comprising:

[0084] A vent passage extends from a water inlet at a top of the trapway upstream of the gate valve to a water outlet of the trapway downstream of the gate valve.

[0085] In one embodiment, a ventilation channel valve is further included, wherein the ventilation channel valve is configured to selectively open or close the ventilation channel.

[0086] The present application also provides a method for flushing a toilet, the method comprising:

[0087] Opening a first valve and providing a first water flow through a water outlet at the edge of the toilet bowl, wherein the first water flow cleans the toilet bowl;

[0088] closing the first valve;

[0089] Opening a gate valve, the gate valve being disposed in a sewage channel of the toilet;

[0090] opening a second valve and providing a second water flow through a sump ejector outlet disposed in a sump of the toilet;

[0091] closing the second valve;

[0092] closing the gate valve;

[0093] opening the first valve and providing a third water flow through the rim outlet, the third water flow cleaning the bowl and filling the bowl and the trapway; and

[0094] Close the first valve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0095] The objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0096] Figure 1 A perspective view of a toilet according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0097] Figure 2 A front perspective view of a gate valve according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0098] Figure 3 An example of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 3 Side perspective view of a gate valve.

[0099] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a gate valve according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0100] Figure 5 A flush engine is illustrated in a first state according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 6 FIG. 1 illustrates a second state of an example according to the present disclosure. Figure 5 Flush the engine.

[0102] Figure 7 A toilet according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0103] Figure 8 A toilet according to another example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0104] Fig. 9 A flow chart of an operating cycle of a toilet according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0105] Fig.10 An apparatus according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0106] Fig.11 A hydraulic cylinder according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0107] Fig.12 A system for flushing a toilet according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0108] Fig.13 A gate valve according to yet another example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0109] Fig.14 A toilet according to another example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0110] Fig.15 A flow chart illustrating an operating cycle of a toilet according to another example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0111] Fig.16 A system for flushing a toilet according to another example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0112] Fig.17 A toilet according to another example of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0113] These figures illustrate certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in detail. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details and methods set forth in the detailed description, nor to the details and methods illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the terms used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered restrictive. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0114] Described herein are devices, systems and methods for flushing a direct-discharge toilet. Specifically, described herein are gate valves and flushing assemblies for flushing a direct-discharge toilet. The gate valves and flushing assemblies described herein can advantageously allow toilets supplied with relatively low pressure water to be reliably flushed.

[0115] Figure 1 A toilet 10 according to one example of the present disclosure is illustrated. Specifically, Figure 1 A straight-discharge toilet 10 is illustrated, including a base or pedestal 20 and a seat assembly 30. The toilet 10 may include an actuator configured to initiate an operating cycle when activated. The actuator 14 may be a button configured to activate when pressed (or pulled) a predetermined distance or touched, or may be any suitable device configured to activate based on an input operation of a user. In some examples, one or more control signals sent wirelessly (e.g., via the Internet) from a computer (e.g., a cell phone) to the toilet 10 may be used to initiate an operating cycle.

[0116] It should be noted that the shape and configuration of the base 20, seat assembly 30, and internal components (including trapways and other features) may vary 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 a vitreous material (e.g., clay). It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be polymers and / or overmolded or otherwise affixed to the toilet. The toilets disclosed herein may have a variety of skirt toilet configurations, all of which are intended to be covered herein. Therefore, the following description of various toilet features is intended to illustrate only one possible embodiment, and those reading this specification should understand that similar concepts or features may also be included in various other embodiments.

[0117] The base 20 of the toilet 10 can include a wall 23 having any suitable shape, which is configured to form a bowl 21 having an opening formed by an upper rim at the top of the opening. The base 20 can also be configured to include multiple walls having different shapes, which together form a bowl having an opening formed by a rim. The wall 23 of the base can extend downwardly and / or rearwardly from the bowl 21 to form a lower portion 22, which is configured to support the base 20 and the toilet 10. The lower portion 22 can be formed by an end of the wall 23 (e.g., a lower rim), or can include a member extending from one or more ends of the wall 23 generally in a horizontal plane.

[0118] The base 20 may also include a top member extending between the two sides of the wall 23 (or between two opposing walls) and disposed behind (or behind) the toilet bowl 21, wherein the top member forms a platform for supporting the seat assembly 30. For example, the top member may include one or more openings, wherein each opening is configured to receive a fastening device (e.g., a bolt, a screw, etc.) to couple (e.g., attach) the seat assembly 30 to the top member of the base 20. As another example, the top member may include one or more fastening devices (e.g., a bolt, an embedded nut, etc.) integrally formed therein (i.e., already provided for connection or coupling to the base 20), wherein the fastening device may be used to couple or secure at least a portion of the seat assembly 30 to the base 20. The seat assembly 30 may include a hinge, a hinge shoulder configured to receive a fastener, a seat coupled to the hinge, and a cover coupled to the hinge.

[0119] The bowl 21 of the base 20 can be configured to include a container (e.g., a sump) and an outlet, wherein water and waste are collected in the container until removed through the outlet (e.g., when an actuator is activated). The base 20 can also include an internal base channel (e.g., a drain channel) that connects the water outlet or drain outlet of the bowl 21 to a drain or sewer. The channel or drain channel generally includes a first portion, a second portion, and a weir separating the first and second portions. The first portion of the channel can extend from the outlet of the bowl 21 at an angle that is upwardly inclined to the weir. The second portion of the channel can extend downward from the weir to an outlet device (e.g., a drain or sewer).

[0120] Between operating cycles of the toilet 10 (e.g., flush cycles), water (and waste) is collected in the first portion of the trapway (in addition to the container of the bowl) such that the weir prevents water from passing through the weir and entering the second portion of the trapway. Upon activation of the actuator, a flush cycle may be initiated. Upon activation of the actuator, additional water (e.g., from the inline water supply 40) may be discharged into the bowl 21 of the base 20, thereby generating a flushing action and removing waste through the trapway. For example, water may be discharged into the bowl from one or more rim outlets located in or below the rim of the toilet and / or a sump ejector disposed in a sump of the toilet (e.g., the first portion of the trapway). The flush cycle may include the generation of a siphon to assist in the flushing action and waste removal.

[0121] Seat assembly 30 may include a cover member 32 (e.g., a lid), a seat member 31 (e.g., an annular member) and a hinge. Seat member 31 may be configured to include an annular member surrounding an opening, wherein the annular member provides a seat surface for a user of toilet 10. Seat member 31 may also be pivotally coupled (e.g., attached) to a hinge, wherein the seat member may rotate (or pivot) around the hinge, such as rotating (or pivoting) between a first lowered or seated position and a second raised or upright position. Cover member 32 may be configured to be circular, oval 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) the profile of the outer surface of the seat member, to improve the aesthetics of the seat assembly and the toilet. Cover member 32 may also be coupled to a hinge, wherein the cover member may rotate (or pivot) around the hinge, such as rotating (or pivoting) between a first lowered or downward position and a second raised or upright position. The cover member 32 can be disposed above the seat member when in the downward position to cover the opening of the seat member 31 and conceal the inside of the bowl 21 of the base 20. The cover member 32 can be configured to be disposed in an upright position so that the cover member 32 remains in the upright position for a user to sit on the seat member 31.

[0122] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , which is a gate valve 100 according to one example of the present disclosure. The gate valve 100 includes a housing 110, an opening 120 extending through the housing 110, a gate 130 configured to selectively block the opening 120, and a hydraulic cylinder 140 coupled to the gate via one or more connecting devices 150. The gate valve 100, and in particular the opening 120 extending through the gate valve 100, can be configured to be disposed in a drain channel of a toilet (e.g., toilet 10). The gate 130 can be configured to selectively block the opening 120, preventing the contents of the toilet bowl or sump from flowing through the gate valve 100 to an outlet device (e.g., a drain pipe or a drain pipe).

[0123] In some examples, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the housing may have a hollow rectangular prism shape; however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and the shape of the housing may vary. The housing 110 includes an opening 120 extending therethrough. In some examples, two opposing sides of the housing 110 may include openings 120 extending therethrough. In some examples, a gate 130 may be disposed within the housing 110. In other examples, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the housing 110 may include a slot. The slot may be disposed on a side of the housing between the sides including the opening. The slot may be configured to receive the gate 130 and may have a shape corresponding to the side of the gate 130. In some examples, such as Figure 2 As shown, the gate 130 may remain disposed in the groove even when the gate valve 100 is open.

[0124] In some examples, such as Figure 2 As shown, the opening 120 may have a substantially circular shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the opening may have an elliptical or polygonal shape. In some examples, the opening 120 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of a drain channel in which the gate valve 100 is disposed.

[0125] The gate 130 can be configured to selectively block the opening 120 extending through the housing 110. In some examples, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the gate valve may have a square or polygonal cross-sectional shape; however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the gate valve 130 may have a circular (e.g., circular, elliptical) cross-sectional shape. The gate valve 130 may be configured to translate between an open position and a closed position on a plane perpendicular to the opening 120 extending through the housing 110. In the closed position, the gate 130 may block the opening 120. In some examples, the opening 120 may be completely blocked when the gate 130 is in the closed position. For example, the gate 130 may be larger than the opening 120 so that the gate 130 completely blocks the opening 120 in the closed position. In the open position, the gate 130 may be disposed near the opening 120 and may not block the opening 120. For example, during the operating cycle of the toilet, the gate 130 may begin in a closed position to prevent water and / or waste from flowing through the trapway. In some examples, the closed gate may allow the trapway to be pre-prepared with water (i.e., filled with water). At some point in the toilet's operating cycle, the gate may move to an open position, allowing water and / or waste to flow through the gate valve 100. When the gate 130 moves to the open position, a siphon may be formed. The gate 130 may be connected to the hydraulic cylinder 140 via one or more connections 150.

[0126] Overall reference Figure 3 and Fig.11 , illustrates a hydraulic cylinder 140 according to an example of the present disclosure. The hydraulic cylinder 140 may include a first water inlet 160 and a second water inlet 170. The first water inlet 160 may be disposed at a first end 142 of the hydraulic cylinder 140, and the second water inlet 170 may be disposed at a second end 143 of the hydraulic cylinder 140. The first water inlet 160 may include a first channel 161 configured to receive a flow of fluid from a fluid supply (e.g., a direct-discharge water supply), a second channel 162 configured to transport the flow of fluid to the hydraulic cylinder, and a third channel 163 configured to transport the flow of fluid to a rim outlet of a toilet (e.g., toilet 10). The second water inlet 170 may include a first channel 171 configured to receive a flow of fluid from a fluid supply, a second channel 172 configured to transport the flow of fluid to the hydraulic cylinder, and a third channel 173 configured to transport the flow of fluid to a sump ejector of a toilet (e.g., 10). The operation of the hydraulic cylinder 140 will be described below in conjunction with Figure 4 Give a description.

[0127] like Fig.11 As shown, the first water inlet 160, specifically, the second channel 162 of the first water inlet 160, may be connected to the first end 142 of the hydraulic cylinder 140 and communicate with the first end 142 of the hydraulic cylinder 140. In addition, the second water inlet 170, specifically, the second channel 172 of the second water inlet 170, may be connected to the second end 143 of the hydraulic cylinder 140 and communicate with the second end 143 of the hydraulic cylinder 140. The first water inlet 160 (e.g., the second channel 162 of the first water inlet 160) may be configured to transport a flow of a fluid (e.g., water) to the first end 142 of the hydraulic cylinder 140. The second water inlet 170 (e.g., the second channel 172 of the second water inlet 170) may be configured to transport a flow of a fluid to the second end 143 of the hydraulic cylinder 140.

[0128] Still refer to Fig.11, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may further include a piston 141 disposed within the hydraulic cylinder 140. The piston 141 may be freely movable within the hydraulic cylinder 140. The piston may be disposed between the first water inlet 160 and the second water inlet 170. In some examples, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may further include a liner 145. The liner 145 may create a water chamber or reservoir 146 into which the fluid is transported (e.g., via the first water inlet 160, the second water inlet 170). In some examples, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may include a single chamber or reservoir 146. In some examples, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may include two or more reservoirs 146. For example, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may include two or more liners 145, each of the liners 145 being configured to create an independent or isolated reservoir 146. For example, a reservoir 146 may be included on each side of the piston 141 (e.g., the first end 142 and the second end 143). As Fig.11 As shown, the hydraulic cylinder includes two liners 145 and two water reservoirs 146, wherein one water reservoir 146 is provided on each side of the piston 141. In other examples, two or more water reservoirs (e.g., water reservoirs 146) may be provided on each side of the piston 141. In some examples, one or more liners 145 may prevent water or other fluids from contacting the moving parts of the hydraulic cylinder 140, thereby preventing corrosion of the moving parts of the hydraulic cylinder 140.

[0129] Additionally, in some examples, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may include an outer sealed shell 147 that surrounds one or more water reservoirs 146 included in the hydraulic cylinder 140. The outer sealed shell 147 may protect the one or more water reservoirs 146 and may contain fluid within the hydraulic cylinder 140 (e.g., when the liner 145 or the water reservoir 146 is broken). In addition, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may include a mechanism (e.g., a rod) configured to manually open and / or close the hydraulic cylinder 140. For example, the rod can be used to open the hydraulic cylinder 140 so that the gate valve 130 is moved to an open position, preventing overflow of a toilet including the hydraulic cylinder 140. In some examples, the one or more liners 145 may be a coating sprayed on the hydraulic cylinder 140 (e.g., the interior of the hydraulic cylinder 140). In some examples, the hydraulic cylinder 140 may include one or more sealing members 148 (e.g., O-rings) configured to prevent water or fluid from contacting the moving parts of the hydraulic cylinder 140 (e.g., the piston 141).

[0130] refer to Figure 4 , illustrates a cross-sectional view of a gate valve 200 according to an example of the present disclosure. The gate valve 200 includes a housing 210, an opening 220 extending through the housing 210, a gate 230 configured to selectively block the opening 220, and a hydraulic cylinder 240 coupled to the gate via one or more connecting devices 250. The gate valve 200 and the present disclosure Figure 2 and Figure 3 The gate valve 100 described above is substantially similar; however, in the gate valve 200, the gate 230 can be retained in the housing 210 when the gate 230 is in the open position. The housing 210, the opening 220, the gate 230 and the hydraulic cylinder 240 can be similar to those described above. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The housing 110 , the opening 120 , the gate 130 and the hydraulic cylinder 140 are identical.

[0131] like Figure 4 As shown, the hydraulic cylinder 240 may include a first water inlet 260 connected to the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 and in fluid communication with the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240. In addition, the hydraulic cylinder 240 may further include a second water inlet 270 connected to the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 and in fluid communication with the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240. The first water inlet 260 may be configured to transport a flow of a fluid (e.g., water) to the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240, and the second water inlet 270 may be configured to transport a flow of the fluid to the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240.

[0132] The hydraulic cylinder 240 may further include a piston 241 disposed within the hydraulic cylinder 240. The piston 241 may be freely movable within the hydraulic cylinder 240. In some examples, the piston 241 may be disposed between the first water inlet 260 and the second water inlet 270. When a flow of fluid is supplied into the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 through the first water inlet 260, the piston 241 may move toward the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240. Specifically, the pressure of the fluid in the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder may be greater than the pressure of the fluid in the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240, causing the piston to move toward the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240. Conversely, when a flow of fluid is supplied into the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 through the second water inlet 270, the piston 241 may move toward the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240. Specifically, the pressure of the fluid in the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 may be greater than the pressure of the fluid in the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 , causing the piston 241 to move toward the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 .

[0133] like Figure 4 As shown, piston 241 can be connected to gate 230 via one or more connecting devices 250. In some examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, the hydraulic cylinder 240 may be disposed adjacent the housing 210 and the connection may have a generally "U" shape extending from the piston 241 to the gate 230. In other examples, the hydraulic cylinder may be disposed in line with the housing and a linear connection may extend between the piston and the gate.

[0134] One or more connection devices 250 connecting the piston 241 and the gate 230 can move the gate 230 when the piston 241 moves. Therefore, in some examples, when the piston 241 moves toward the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 (e.g., moves toward the second water inlet 270), the connection device 250 can move the gate 230 toward a closed position (e.g., slide) and eventually move to the closed position, in which the gate 230 completely blocks the opening 220. In some examples, when the gate 230 is in the closed position, the gate 230 can abut against the interior of the housing 210, preventing the piston 241 from moving further toward the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240. Similarly, when the piston 241 moves toward the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 (e.g., moves toward the first water inlet 260), the connection device 250 can move the gate 230 toward an open position (e.g., slide) and eventually move to the open position, in which the gate 230 does not block the opening. In some examples, when the gate 230 is in the open position, the gate 230 can abut against an interior surface of the housing 210 , preventing the piston 241 from moving further toward the first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 .

[0135] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , illustrates a flushing engine 300 according to an example of the present disclosure. The flushing engine 300 includes a water supply 310, a rim valve or first valve 320, an ejector valve or second valve 330, a gate valve 340, a rim water outlet 350, and a sump ejector outlet 360. The gate valve 340 may be Figure 2 and Figure 3 The gate valve 100 may also be the above Figure 4 The gate valve 200. The first valve 320 and the second valve 330 can be in fluid communication with a water supply 310. In some examples, the water supply 310 can be a water distribution network of a building (e.g., residential, commercial). In other examples, the water supply can be a well or other water source.

[0136] The first valve 320 may be configured to selectively supply water from the water supply 310 to the gate valve 340 and the edge outlet 350. Specifically, the first valve 320 may be configured to selectively supply water to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140, 240) included in the gate valve 340. Figure 4As described, when water flow is supplied to the first end of the hydraulic cylinder, a piston (e.g., piston 241) disposed in the hydraulic cylinder may move toward or remain at the second end of the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., second end 243). When the piston moves toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, a connection device (e.g., connection devices 150, 250) extending between the piston 241 and the gate (e.g., gate 230) may move the gate toward a closed position, in which the opening (e.g., opening 220) is blocked by the gate. In some examples, when the gate is already in the closed position, water flow flowing into the first end of the hydraulic cylinder may maintain the position of the piston and maintain the position of the gate via the connection device. In some examples, the first valve 320 may be a solenoid valve.

[0137] Additionally, the first valve 320 can selectively supply water to a rim outlet 350 disposed at or near the rim of a toilet (e.g., toilet 10). In some examples, the rim outlet 350 can be positioned downstream of the gate valve 340 so that water flowing through the first valve flows into the first end of the hydraulic cylinder, closing the gate valve 340 before flowing through the rim outlet 350. In some examples, the water flowing through the first valve 320 can flow into the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston to the second end of the hydraulic cylinder (corresponding to the closed position of the gate) before flowing to the rim outlet 350. The water flow supplied to the rim outlet can be used to clean and / or fill the toilet bowl.

[0138] The second valve 330 may be configured to selectively supply water from the water supply 310 to the gate valve 340 and the sump ejector outlet 360. Specifically, the second valve 330 may be configured to selectively supply water to a second end (e.g., second end 243) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinders 140, 150) included in the gate valve 340. Figure 4 As described, when water flow is supplied to the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder, a piston (e.g., piston 241) disposed in the hydraulic cylinder may move toward or remain at the first end of the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., first end 242). When the piston moves toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder, a connection device (e.g., connection devices 150, 250) extending between the piston 241 and the gate (e.g., gate 230) may move the gate toward an open position, in which an opening (e.g., opening 220) is not blocked by the gate. In some examples, when the gate is already in an open position, water flow entering the second end of the hydraulic cylinder may maintain the position of the piston and maintain the position of the gate via the connection device. In some examples, the second valve 330 may be a solenoid valve.

[0139] Additionally, the second valve 330 can selectively supply water to a sump ejector outlet 360 disposed at a sump of a toilet, such as toilet 10. In some examples, the sump ejector outlet 360 can be positioned downstream of the gate valve 340 so that water flowing through the second valve 330 flows into the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, opening the gate valve 340 before flowing through the sump ejector outlet 360. In some examples, the water flowing through the second valve 330 can flow into the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston to the first end of the hydraulic cylinder before flowing to the sump ejector outlet 360, corresponding to the open position of the gate.

[0140] Reference Figure 5 , the flush engine 300 is shown in a state in which the first valve 320 is open, allowing water to flow to the gate valve 340 (eg, the first end 242 of the gate valve) and the rim outlet 350. Figure 5 As shown, when the first valve 320 is open, the second valve 330 may be closed. The second valve 330 may be closed when the first valve 320 is open to ensure that the piston (e.g., piston 241) disposed in the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140, 240) is disposed at the second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder (corresponding to the closed position or state of the gate valve 340).

[0141] Reference Figure 6 , the flushing engine 300 is shown in a state where the second valve 330 is open, allowing water to flow to the gate valve 340 (e.g., the second end 243 of the gate valve) and the sump ejector outlet 360. Figure 6 As shown, when the second valve 330 is open, the first valve 320 may be closed. The first valve 320 may be closed when the second valve is open to ensure that the piston (e.g., piston 241) disposed in the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140, 240) is disposed at the first end (e.g., first end 242) of the hydraulic cylinder, corresponding to the open position or state of the gate valve 340.

[0142] refer to Figure 7 , illustrates a toilet 400 according to an example of the present disclosure. The toilet 400 includes the Figure 5 and Figure 6 The flushing engine 300. Specifically, the toilet 400 includes a first valve 320, a second valve 330, a gate valve 340, an edge outlet 350 and a sump ejector outlet 360. Further, as Figure 7As shown, toilet 400 includes rim channel 410, bowl 420, sump 430, and trapway 440. Rim channel 410 may be disposed within the rim of toilet 400 and / or disposed along the rim of toilet 400. Rim channel may be in fluid communication with one or more rim outlets 350, which are configured to distribute water into bowl 420. Bowl 420 may be in communication with and / or include sump 430 disposed at the bottom of bowl 420. Sump 430 may be a container configured to hold water and / or waste during an operating cycle of toilet 400. Sump 430 may be in communication with trapway 440. As described above with respect to Figure 1 The drain channel may include a first portion, a second portion, and a weir portion separating the first portion and the second portion. The first portion of the drain channel 440 may extend from the sump 430 to the weir portion at an upwardly inclined angle. The second portion of the drain channel may extend downwardly from the weir portion to an outlet device such as a drain pipe or a sewage pipe.

[0143] In some examples, the toilet 400 may further include a ventilation channel 450 extending from a water inlet 451 at the top of the trapway 440 to a water outlet 452 at the trapway 440 downstream of the gate valve 340. The ventilation channel 450 may further include a ventilation channel valve 460, which is configured to selectively allow a flow of a fluid (e.g., water and / or air) through the ventilation channel 450. In some examples, the ventilation channel valve 460 may be a solenoid valve. The ventilation channel 450 may be configured to discharge air from the trapway upstream of the gate valve 340 to the downstream of the gate valve 340 when the gate valve 340 is closed, thereby filling a portion of the trapway upstream of the gate valve with water (e.g., pre-preparation). In addition to discharging the trapway 440, the ventilation channel 450 may provide overflow protection when the gate valve 340 is closed. Specifically, when the water level in the toilet (e.g., toilet bowl 420) is higher than the water inlet 451, the water in the trapway can flow into the water inlet 451 of the ventilation channel 450 disposed at the top of the trapway 440. The water flowing into the ventilation channel can flow to the water outlet 452 downstream of the gate valve 340, preventing the toilet 400 from overflowing. In some examples, when the gate valve 340 is closed, the ventilation channel valve 460 can be opened, allowing the ventilation channel 450 to discharge air downstream of the gate valve 340 and provide overflow protection. In some examples, when the gate valve 340 is opened, the ventilation channel valve can be closed.

[0144] In some examples, toilet 400 can include an additional water supply (e.g., a water supply line) into trapway 440. The additional water supply can advantageously allow the filling of trapway 440 to be separated from the filling of bowl 420. For example, trapway 440 and bowl 420 can be filled with or from different water sources. For example, a separate (e.g., first) water source (e.g., gray water) can be used to fill trapway 440, a second water source (e.g., fresh water) can be used to fill bowl 420, and the action (e.g., closing) of gate valve 340 can be completed. This can advantageously allow the volumes of the two waters (e.g., gray water, fresh water) to remain separate and prevent the user from seeing and or smelling the gray water when the gray water is used during the operating cycle of toilet 400. In some examples, even if only a single water source is included, an additional or separate water supply to trapway 440 can advantageously provide more precise control over the flushing system and the volume of water required.

[0145] In some examples, the toilet 400 and / or the flush engine 300 may further include a controller 800 connected to and / or in communication with the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and the ventilation passage valve 460. The controller 800 may be configured to send a control signal and / or current to the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and / or the ventilation passage valve 460 to open or close the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and / or the ventilation passage valve 460.

[0146] In some examples, the toilet 400 and / or the flush engine 300 may further include a power source 470 connected to the first valve 320, the second valve 330, the ventilation channel valve 460, and the controller 800. The power source 470 may be configured to provide power (e.g., current) to the first valve 320, the second valve 330, the ventilation channel valve 460, and the controller 800. In some examples, the power source 470 may be a battery pack including one or more batteries (e.g., disposable, rechargeable). In other examples, the power source 470 includes a plug and / or a wall socket.

[0147] In some examples, the gate valve 340 may not be operated by a hydraulic cylinder, but instead, the flush engine 300 and / or the toilet 400 may include a pair of solenoids configured to actuate the gate valve 340 (e.g., between an open position and a closed position). The pair of solenoids actuating the gate valve 340 may allow the gate valve to be opened or closed independently of water supplied to the rim outlet 350 and the sump ejector outlet 360 (e.g., independent of the first valve 320 and the second valve 330). For example, the gate valve 340 may be allowed to open for a predetermined period of time before water is dispensed from the sump ejector outlet 360 to initiate siphoning.

[0148] refer to Figure 8, illustrates a toilet 500 according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 8 As shown, the toilet includes a rim channel 410, a rim outlet 350, a bowl 420, a sump 430, a sump ejector outlet 360, a trapway 440, and a vent channel 450. In some examples, the toilet 500 may further include a controller 800 and a power source 470.

[0149] like Figure 8 As shown, toilet 500 may further include a first valve 510 configured to selectively provide water flow to rim outlet 350. Toilet 500 may further include a second valve 520 configured to provide water flow to sump ejector outlet 360. In some examples, first valve 510 and second valve 520 may be solenoid valves.

[0150] The toilet 500 further includes a gate valve 530. The gate valve 530 can be disposed in the trapway 440. Specifically, in some examples, the gate valve 530 can be disposed in a horizontal or substantially horizontal leg of the trapway. In some examples, the gate valve 530 can be a flapper door that is configured to be in an open position where the gate valve 530 does not block the trapway 440 and a closed position where the gate valve 530 blocks the trapway 440 (e.g., Figure 8 530). Specifically, the gate valve 530 may include a flapper configured to rotate about a pivot axis at a predetermined angle between an open position and a closed position. The trapway 440 may be sealed when the flapper is in the closed position. For example, the flapper may have the same size and / or shape (e.g., circular, elliptical) as the trapway so as to seal and engage the trapway (e.g., the inner surface of the trapway 440) in the closed position to prevent water and / or waste from passing through the trapway 440. In some examples, the toilet 500 may include an actuator 531 configured to open and / or close the gate valve 530. For example, the actuator 531 may be a linear actuator configured to move a pin to keep the gate valve 530 closed; the actuator may be a servo motor configured to rotate the gate valve 530; or the actuator may be a servo motor wound with a spring configured to move the gate valve 530. Additionally, in some examples, gate valve 530 can include a manual control configured to open and / or close the gate valve.

[0151] In some examples, the actuator 531 may be a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140) configured to open and / or close the gate valve 530. Specifically, the hydraulic cylinder 140 rotates or pivots the flapper door between an open position and a closed position. In some examples, as described above, when water is supplied to the rim outlet 350, the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140) may move the flapper door of the gate valve 530 to an open position or remain in an open position, and when water is supplied to the sump outlet 360, the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140) may move the flapper door of the gate valve 530 to a closed position or remain in a closed position.

[0152] In addition to selectively blocking the drain channel 440, the gate valve 530 can selectively block or close the ventilation channel 450. Specifically, the gate valve 530 can rotate to block or close the ventilation channel 450 when the drain channel 440 is open or unobstructed, and the gate valve 530 can rotate to open the ventilation channel 450 when the drain channel 440 is closed.

[0153] Accordingly, the toilet 500 can advantageously allow the gate valve 530 to operate independently of the water supplied to the rim outlet 350 and the sump ejector outlet 360 (e.g., independent of the first valve 510 and the second valve 520). For example, the gate valve 530 is allowed to open to initiate siphoning for a predetermined period of time before water is dispensed from the sump ejector outlet 360. However, as described above, in some examples, a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 140) may still be used with the gate valve 530 including a flapper door so that the gate valve 530 is opened and closed when water is supplied to the rim outlet 350 and the sump outlet 360, respectively.

[0154] The controller 800 may be configured to send a control signal and / or current to the first valve 510, the second valve 520, and the actuator 531 to respectively open and / or close the first valve 510, the second valve 520, and the gate valve 530. A power source may be connected to the controller 800, the first valve 510, the second valve 520, and the actuator 531, and configured to supply power to the controller 800, the first valve 510, the second valve 520, and the actuator 531.

[0155] Reference Fig. 9 , illustrates a flowchart 600 of an operating cycle of a toilet according to one example of the present disclosure. Flowchart 600 may be used with any of flush engine 300, toilet 400, or toilet 500. For ease of explanation, flowchart 600 will be described below with respect to toilet 400. Additional, different, or fewer actions may be provided.

[0156] In the first action S101, the first valve 320 (eg, edge valve) is opened. Figures 5 to 7As described, first valve 320 may be configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) included in gate valve 340, and to rim outlet 350. In some examples, first valve 320 may be a solenoid valve, and may be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via controller 800. During action S101, gate valve 340 may be in a closed position, and the flow of fluid into the hydraulic cylinder may maintain gate valve 340 in the closed position.

[0157] In the second action S103, water flows (e.g., transported through the first valve 320) to pre-clean the toilet bowl 420 of the toilet 400. Specifically, the water flow may be provided to the rim outlet 350 of the toilet 400 through the first valve 320. The water flow may flow into the toilet bowl 420 through the rim outlet 350, cleaning (e.g., pre-cleaning) the toilet bowl 420.

[0158] In a third action S105, the first valve 320 (e.g., a rim valve) is closed. In some examples, the first valve 320 may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. In some examples, the controller 800 may be configured to close the first valve 320 within a predetermined time period after the first valve 320 is opened. The predetermined time period may correspond to a desired volume of water for pre-cleaning the bowl 420.

[0159] In a fourth action S107, the second valve 330 (eg, a sump ejector valve) is opened. Figures 5 to 7 As described, second valve 330 may be configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to a second end (e.g., second end 243) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) included in gate valve 340, and to sump ejector outlet 360. In some examples, second valve 330 may be a solenoid valve and may be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via controller 800.

[0160] In the fifth action S109, the gate valve 340 is opened using a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240). Specifically, water (e.g., transported by the second valve 330) flows into the second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston (e.g., piston 241) to the first end (e.g., first end 242) of the hydraulic cylinder. When the piston moves to the first end, one or more connecting devices (e.g., connecting device 250) can move the gate (e.g., gate 230) to an open position. For example, the gate (e.g., gate 230) can slide between an open position and a closed position within a housing (e.g., housing 210). In some examples, as the gate valve 340 is opened, water disposed in the drain channel can flow through the gate valve 340, generating a siphon in the toilet 400.

[0161] In a sixth action S111, water is distributed through the sump ejector outlet 360 (e.g., transported through the second valve 330). Specifically, the water may be provided to the sump ejector outlet 360 disposed in the sump 430 through the second valve 330. Water may flow into the sump 430 of the toilet through the sump ejector outlet 360.

[0162] In a seventh action S113, the second valve 330 (e.g., sump ejector valve) is closed. In some examples, the second valve 330 may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. In some examples, the controller 800 may be configured to close the second valve 330 within a predetermined time period after the second valve 330 is opened. The predetermined time period may correspond to a desired volume of water to be distributed through the sump ejector outlet 360.

[0163] In the eighth action S115, the first valve 320 (eg, edge valve) is opened. Figures 5 to 7 As described, the first valve 320 can be configured to selectively provide a flow of a fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) included in the gate valve 340, and to the rim outlet 350. In some examples, the first valve 320 can be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800.

[0164] In the ninth action S117, a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) is used to close the gate valve 340. Specifically, water (e.g., transported through the first valve 320) flows into the first end (e.g., first end 242) of the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston 241 to the second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder. When the piston moves to the second end, one or more connecting devices (e.g., connecting device 250) can move the gate (e.g., gate 230) to the closed position.

[0165] In a tenth action S119, the bowl 420 is cleaned and the bowl 420 and the trapway 440 are filled with water. Specifically, the flow of water provided to the bowl 420 through the rim outlet 350 (e.g., transported through the first valve 320) cleans the bowl and fills the bowl 420 and the trapway 440 with water. The gate valve 340 may be closed during action S119, preventing the water provided via the rim outlet 350 from flowing through the trapway 440. In some examples, the trapway 440 may be completely filled with water, preparing the trapway for a subsequent operation cycle.

[0166] In an eleventh action S121, the first valve 320 (e.g., a rim valve) is closed. In some examples, the first valve 320 can be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. In some examples, the controller 800 can be configured to close the first valve 320 within a predetermined time period after the first valve 320 is opened. The predetermined time period can correspond to a desired or required volume of water to completely fill the trapway, preparing the toilet for a subsequent operating cycle.

[0167] In some examples, the flowchart 600 may further include opening the vent channel valve 460. For example, the vent channel valve may be opened before the gate valve 340 is closed or when the gate valve 340 is closed. Specifically, when the toilet bowl 420 and the trapway 440 are filled with water provided through the rim outlet 350, the vent channel valve 460 may maintain the vent channel 450 in an open state. Maintaining the vent channel 450 in an open state may allow air to be discharged from the trapway upstream of the gate valve 340 to the trapway downstream of the gate valve 340 and prevent the toilet 400 from overflowing when the toilet bowl 420 and the trapway 440 are filled with water. In some examples, the flowchart 600 may further include closing the vent channel valve 460. In some examples, the vent channel valve 460 may be closed after the toilet bowl 420 and the trapway 440 are filled with water. In other examples, the vent channel valve 460 may be closed before the toilet bowl 420 and the trapway 440 are filled with water. For example, vent passage 460 can be closed after a predetermined volume of water has entered trapway 440 while bowl 420 is still filling, preventing additional water from entering trapway 440 and allowing for partial filling of trapway 440. This can advantageously allow less water to be used during an operating (e.g., flushing) cycle.

[0168] Reference Fig.10, according to one example of the present disclosure, an apparatus 700 for facilitating an operation (e.g., flushing) cycle of a toilet (e.g., toilets 400, 500). The apparatus 700 includes a bus 710 that facilitates communication between a controller 750 and / or an application-specific controller 702 that may be implemented by a processor 701 and one or more components, including a database 703, a memory 704, a computer-readable medium 705, a display 712, a user input device 713, and a communication interface 714.

[0169] The contents of database 703 may include one or more volumes of water (e.g., the volume of water used to pre-clean bowl 420, the volume of water dispensed from sump ejector outlet 360 during an operation cycle, and / or the volume of water required to fill bowl 420 and trapway 440). The database may store volumes of water, flow rates (e.g., flow rates through rim outlet 350, sump ejector outlet 360), and / or predetermined time periods corresponding to (e.g., required to provide) volumes of water. In some examples, database 703 may store an equation or equations for calculating volumes, flow rates, or time periods associated with water dispensed and / or transported through first valve 320 and second valve 330.

[0170] The memory 704 may be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. The memory 704 may include one or more read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), flash memories, electronically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs), or other types of memories. The memory 704 may be removable from the device 700 (e.g., a secure digital (SD) memory card).

[0171] The memory 704 and / or the computer readable medium 705 may include a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the controller to perform any one or more of the methods or computer-based functions disclosed herein. For example, the controller 750 can send one or more controller signals and / or currents to the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and the vent passage valve 460 to open and / or close the valves (i.e., to cause the flush engine 300 and / or the toilet 400 to execute the flowchart 600).

[0172] The user may use the display 712 and / or the user input device 713 to initiate an operation cycle, enter one or more volumes, and / or enter one or more time periods associated with an operation cycle. The display 712 may include a screen, and the user input device 713 may include one or more buttons on the device 700. In some embodiments, the display 712 and the user input device 713 may include a touch-sensitive surface (i.e., a touch screen). In some examples, the user input device may be a touch-sensitive surface such as the one described above. Figure 1The actuator.

[0173] The communication interface 714 can be connected to a network 720, which can be the Internet. In some embodiments, the network 720 can be connected to one or more mobile devices 722. The one or more mobile devices can be configured to send signals to the communication interface 714 via the network 720. For example, the one or more mobile devices can send a signal to the communication interface to start an operating cycle of the toilet 400, or to change one or more water volumes and / or time periods (e.g., predetermined time periods) associated with the operating cycle of the toilet.

[0174] The communication interface 714 may include any operable connection. An operable connection may be a connection in which signals, physical connections, and / or logical communications may be sent and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. The communication interface 714 provides any known or later developed form of wireless and / or wired communication.

[0175] refer to Fig.12 , illustrates a system 1000 for flushing a toilet according to an example of the present disclosure. Fig.12 As shown, the system 1000 includes a flow controller 1100, a gate valve 1210, an auxiliary valve 1220, a flow regulator 1230, a backflow prevention device 1240, and an actuator 1250. The system 1000 for flushing a toilet can be configured to selectively open the gate valve 1210 disposed in the trapway of the toilet, transport water through the rim outlet 350, and transport water through the sump ejector outlet 360. The gate valve 1210 can be the same or substantially similar to any of the gate valves 100, 200, 340, 1300 described herein.

[0176] like Fig.12 As shown, the flow controller 1100 may include a hydraulic turbine 1110, a battery 1120, an edge valve or a first valve 320, a jet valve or a second valve 330, and a controller 800. According to some examples of the present disclosure, various components constituting the flow controller 1100 may be disposed in a housing 1150 (see Fig.13 Specifically, the hydraulic turbine 1110, the battery 1120, the edge valve or the first valve 320, the jet valve or the second valve 330 and / or the controller 800 may be disposed in the housing 1150. Fig.13As shown, the housing 1150 may include a water inlet 1151, which is configured to receive a water flow from a water supply; a first water outlet 1152, which is fluidically connected to a first side or a first water inlet of the hydraulic cylinder and an edge water outlet 350; and a second water outlet 1153, which is fluidically connected to a second side or a second water inlet of the hydraulic cylinder and a sump ejector outlet 360.

[0177] Reference Fig.12 , the flow controller 1100 may include an edge valve or a first valve 320 and a jet valve or a second valve 330. The first valve 320 and the second valve 330 may be related to the above Figure 5 and Figure 6 The valves described are the same. Specifically, (when the auxiliary valve 1220 is open) the edge valve or first valve 320 can control the water flow (e.g., the second water flow) provided to the first outlet 1152, the first end or first side of the hydraulic cylinder, and the edge outlet 350. Similarly, the jet valve or second valve 330 can control the water flow (e.g., the third water flow) provided to the second outlet 1153, the second end or second side of the hydraulic cylinder, and the sump ejector outlet 360. In some examples, the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 can be solenoid valves. In some examples, the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 can be binary valves; for example, the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 can be configured to actuate between two positions (a fully open position and a fully closed position). In other examples, in addition to the fully open position and the fully closed position, the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 can also be operable to open to various intermediate positions.

[0178] like Fig.12 As shown, in some examples, the flow controller 1100 may include a hydraulic turbine 1110. The hydraulic turbine 1110 may be configured to generate electricity (i.e., electric current) when a fluid flows through the hydraulic turbine 1110. Specifically, the hydraulic turbine 1110 may include an impeller disposed in a passage or conduit through which a fluid (e.g., water) flows. When water flows through the passage or conduit where the impeller is located, the water may contact the impeller, causing the impeller to rotate. The hydraulic turbine 1110 may include one or more magnets and one or more coils, which are configured to generate electricity when a fluid flows through the impeller, causing the impeller to rotate.

[0179] The hydraulic turbine 1110 can be in fluid communication with and receive a flow of water from a water supply. The hydraulic turbine 1110 can also be in fluid communication with an edge valve or first valve 320 and a jet valve or second valve 330. In some examples, the hydraulic turbine 1110 can be disposed upstream of the first valve 320 and the second valve 330. Accordingly, in some examples, the flow of water from the water supply can pass through the hydraulic turbine 1110 before passing through the first valve 320 and the second valve 330. In some examples, after passing through the hydraulic turbine 1110, the flow of water can be split so as to be provided to the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 in parallel.

[0180] According to some examples of the present disclosure, the hydraulic turbine 1110 may be disposed in the housing 1150. For example, the hydraulic turbine 1110 may be disposed along a passage or conduit in fluid communication with the water inlet 1151, so that the hydraulic turbine 1110 receives a water flow (e.g., a first water flow) provided to the water inlet 1151. After flowing through the hydraulic turbine 1110, the water flow (e.g., the first water flow) may be provided to the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 in parallel. Specifically, the water flow (e.g., the first water flow) may be divided so that a first portion of the water flow is provided to the first valve 320 and a second portion of the water flow is provided to the second valve 330. In some examples, half of the water flow (e.g., the first water flow) may be provided to each of the first valve 320 and the second valve 330. According to the present disclosure, two or more passages, conduits, hoses, or the like disposed between the hydraulic turbine 1110 and the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 may divide the water flow (e.g., the first water flow) so that the water flow is provided to the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 in parallel.

[0181] According to other examples of the present disclosure, the hydraulic turbine 1110 may be disposed outside the housing 1150; for example, the hydraulic turbine 1110 may be disposed upstream of the housing 1150 between the water supply and the housing 1150. In yet another example, the hydraulic turbine 1110 may be disposed downstream of the first valve 320 or the second valve 330. The hydraulic turbine 1110 may be disposed downstream of the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 within the housing 1150, or may be disposed outside the housing 1150.

[0182] The hydraulic turbine 1110 may be electrically connected to the battery 1120 and / or the controller 800. According to some examples, the battery 1120 and / or the controller 800 may be disposed in the housing 1150. The battery 1120 may be configured to store the electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine 1110. In some examples, the electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine 1110 may pass through the controller 800 before being stored in the battery 1120. Additionally, the battery 1120 and / or the controller 800 may be configured to provide the electricity stored in the battery 1120 to one or more components of the system 1000 for flushing a toilet. Specifically, the battery 1120 and / or the controller 800 may be connected to any one of the first valve 320, the second valve 330, the auxiliary valve 1220, and the flow regulator 1230, and be configured to provide power to any one of these components.

[0183] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the above Figure 7 and Figure 8 The toilets 400 and 500 may further include a hydraulic turbine 1110 as described herein. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The power source 470 may be the battery 1120 described herein.

[0184] The controller 800 may be connected and / or communicate with the hydraulic turbine 1110, the battery 1120, the edge valve or the first valve 320, and the jet valve or the second valve 330. The controller 800 may be configured to provide one or more control signals and / or currents to the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 to actuate (e.g., open, close) the first valve 320 and / or the second valve. The controller 800 may receive power (e.g., current) from the hydraulic turbine 1110 and / or the battery 1120.

[0185] Still reference Fig.12 In some examples, the system 1000 for flushing a toilet may further include an auxiliary valve 1220. The auxiliary valve 1220 may be disposed between the hydraulic cylinder and the rim outlet 350. Specifically, the auxiliary valve 1220 may be disposed along a passage, conduit, tube, hose, or the like extending between a first end or first side of the hydraulic cylinder and the rim outlet 350. The auxiliary valve 1220 may be configured to actuate between a closed position and an open position, in which the passage between the hydraulic cylinder and the rim outlet 350 is blocked, and in which the passage between the hydraulic cylinder and the rim outlet 350 is open (e.g., passable).

[0186] According to various examples of the present disclosure, the auxiliary valve 1220 can be selectively closed so that when water flow is provided through the edge valve or the first valve 320, the water flow is forced to flow into the first end or first side of the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston to the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, closing the gate valve 1210. In some examples, the auxiliary valve 1220 can be a solenoid valve. In some examples, the auxiliary valve 1220 can be a binary valve; for example, the auxiliary valve 1220 can be configured to actuate between two positions (a fully open position and a fully closed position). In other examples, in addition to the fully open position and the fully closed position, the auxiliary valve 1220 can also be operable to open to various intermediate positions.

[0187] According to the present disclosure, the controller 800 may be connected to and / or communicate with the auxiliary valve 1220. The controller 800 may be configured to provide one or more control signals and / or currents to the auxiliary valve 1220 to actuate (e.g., open, close) the auxiliary valve 1220. In addition, the battery 1120 may be configured to provide power to the auxiliary valve 1220.

[0188] refer to Fig.12 In some examples, the system 1000 for flushing a toilet may further include a flow regulator 1230. The flow regulator 1230 may be configured to accommodate changes in water pressure at different plumbing installations. Specifically, the flow regulator 1230 may compensate for changes in water pressure, ensuring that a desired or predetermined amount of water is provided to the toilet bowl each time the rim valve or first valve 320 and the jet valve or second valve 330 are opened. According to some examples of the present disclosure, the flow regulator 1230 may be disposed upstream of the flow controller 1100. Specifically, the flow regulator 1230 may be disposed between the water supply and the flow controller 1100. In some examples, the flow regulator 1230 may be disposed at or near a water inlet where the system 1000 is connected to a water supply (e.g., a building water distribution network). According to some examples, such as Fig.14 As shown, the flow regulator 1230 can be disposed outside the housing 1150. In other examples, the flow regulator 1230 can be disposed within the housing 1150.

[0189] According to some examples of the present disclosure, the flow regulator 1230 may be a pressure regulator including a pressure sensor configured to sense or detect the pressure of water supplied to the flow controller 1100 (e.g., through the water inlet 1151). The pressure sensor may communicate with the controller 800 and may provide sensor data (e.g., sensed pressure) to the controller 800. The controller 800 may be configured to use the sensed pressure and known characteristics of the flow controller 1100 to calculate the flow rate of water provided through the edge valve or first valve 320 and the jet valve or second valve 330 when the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 are open (e.g., fully open). Specifically, the controller 800 can use one or more of the sensed pressures to calculate the flow rate through one of the first valve 320 or the second valve 330; the flow area through the first valve 320 or the second valve 330 when the first valve 320 or the second valve 330 is opened, respectively; the pressure drop caused by the hydraulic turbine 1110; the shape, area, length and / or friction coefficient of the conduit, pipe or tube extending between the flow regulator 1230 and the first valve 320 or the second valve 330, respectively, and the pressure drop caused by the network of passages or conduits required to separate the water flow provided to the flow controller 1100, thereby providing the water flow to the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 in parallel.

[0190] According to some examples of the present disclosure, only one of the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 may be opened at a time. Accordingly, in some examples, when the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 have the same flow area, and the passages or conduits providing water flow to the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 are the same, when the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 are respectively opened, the flow rates through the first valve 320 and the second valve 330 may be the same.

[0191] The controller 800 may be configured to adjust the duration of the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 being open based on the calculated flow rate through the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330. Specifically, the controller 800 may be configured to adjust the duration of the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 being open so that a desired or predetermined volume of water is provided to the bowl (e.g., through the rim outlet 350 or the ejector outlet 360, respectively) each time the rim valve or the first valve 320 and / or the ejector valve or the second valve 330 is opened.

[0192] According to some examples of the present disclosure, the pressure regulator can sense the pressure of the water supplied to the flow controller 1100, and the controller 800 can calculate the flow rate through the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330, and adjust the duration that the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 are periodically kept open during each step or operation of the flushing cycle. For example, the pressure can be periodically sensed, the flow rate calculated, and the time adjusted (e.g., every hour, every 12-hour interval, every day, every week, every month, etc.).

[0193] In other examples of the present disclosure, the flow regulator 1230 may be a flow restrictor. The flow restrictor may be configured to reduce the pressure of the water supplied to the flow controller 1100, thereby providing a water flow having a desired or predetermined flow rate to the flow controller 1100. Specifically, the flow restrictor may be disposed between the water supply and the flow controller 1100, and may block the water flow provided to the flow controller by partially obstructing or blocking the passage between the water supply and the flow controller 1100.

[0194] According to some examples, when the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 are open, the flow restrictor can reduce the flow rate of water provided to the flow controller 1100, so that the flow rate of water supplied to the flow controller 1100 is uniform and constant. Accordingly, when the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 are open, water having a constant flow rate can be provided to the flow controller, so that a desired or predetermined volume of water can be continuously dispensed to the toilet bowl (e.g., through the rim outlet 350 and / or the ejector outlet 360, respectively) without adjusting the duration of the first valve 320 and / or the second valve 330 to help open.

[0195] Still refer to Fig.12 In some examples, the system 1000 for flushing a toilet may further include a backflow prevention device 1240. The backflow prevention device 1240 may be in fluid communication with the flow controller 1100 (e.g., the first valve 320, the second valve 330) and disposed upstream of the flow controller 1100. The backflow prevention device 1240 may be a one-way valve or device configured to allow a flow of a fluid to pass therethrough in a first direction while preventing the fluid from passing therethrough in an opposite second direction. Specifically, the backflow prevention device 1240 may allow a fluid (e.g., water) from a water supply to flow through the backflow prevention device 1240 (e.g., toward the flow controller 1100) while preventing the fluid and / or waste from flowing backward from the flow controller 1100 through the system 1000 to the water supply. The backflow prevention device 1240 may be, for example, a vacuum breaker, a check valve, or the like.

[0196] Specifically, in some examples, the backflow prevention device can be an atmospheric vacuum breaker (AVB). If the pressure upstream of the AVB (i.e., between the AVB and the water supply) is equal to or less than atmospheric pressure, the AVB can be configured to allow air to enter the passage or conduit between the water supply and the flow controller 1100. Specifically, the AVB can include a poppet valve that, during normal use, remains in a closed position under the pressure provided by the water supply. However, if the pressure between the AVB and the water supply drops and is equal to or less than atmospheric pressure, the poppet valve moves to an open position, allowing air to flow into the passage or conduit between the AVB and the flow controller 1100 and blocking the passage or conduit between the AVB and the water supply. According to some examples of the present disclosure, if the fluid downstream of the AVB flows through the air port (e.g., poppet valve) of the AVB during operation of the AVB, the flow traveling through the air port can be contained and transported to the leakage port. In some examples, the backflow prevention device, specifically, the AVB, may be disposed at or above the height of the highest outlet (e.g., the edge outlet 350, the ejector outlet 360) included in the system 1000. Specifically, according to some examples of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention device 1240 may be disposed above the edge channel (e.g., the edge channel 410) and / or the edge outlet 350.

[0197] Still reference Fig.12 In some examples, the system 1000 for flushing a toilet may further include an actuator 1220. The actuator 1250 may be connected to and / or communicate with the controller 800. The actuator 1250 may be configured to provide one or more input signals to the controller 800 in response to actuation by a user. For example, the one or more input signals may initiate one or more operating cycles or flushing cycles.

[0198] According to the present disclosure, the actuator 1250 may include one or more tactile (e.g., movable) buttons and / or one or more sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) configured to receive input when a user approaches the sensor. According to some examples of the present disclosure, the actuator 1250 may be disposed on the skirt or sheath of the toilet. For example, the actuator 1250 may be disposed on the skirt on the right or left side of the toilet.

[0199] Reference Fig.13 , illustrates a gate valve 1300 according to an example of the present disclosure. In addition to the fact that the hydraulic cylinder 240 of the gate valve 1300 may further include an elastic member 1310 (the elastic member 1310 is configured to bias the piston 241 toward the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240 or to apply a force to the piston 241), the gate valve 1300 may be similar to the above Figure 2Specifically, the elastic member 1310 can apply a force to the piston 241 toward the end of the hydraulic cylinder 240 corresponding to the closed position of the gate valve 1300, thereby reducing the pressure and / or flow rate of water (e.g., supplied to the first side or first end 242 of the hydraulic cylinder 240) required to move the piston 241 to the second end 243 of the hydraulic cylinder 240, thereby closing the gate valve 1300. In some examples, such as Fig.13 As shown, the elastic member 1310 may be a spring.

[0200] Reference Fig.14 , illustrates a toilet 1400 according to an example of the present disclosure. The toilet 1400 may include the Fig.12 One or more components of the system 1000 for flushing a toilet may be included. For example, the toilet 1400 may include the system 1000 described above. Fig.12 The flow controller 1100, the gate valve 1210, the auxiliary valve 1220, the edge outlet 350, the ejector outlet 360, the flow regulator 1230, the backflow prevention device 1240 and the actuator 1250.

[0201] like Fig.14 As shown, and as described above, in some examples, the flow controller 1100 may be disposed in a housing 1150. The housing 1150 may include a water inlet 1151 configured to receive a water flow (e.g., a first water flow) from a water supply. The housing 1150 may further include a first water outlet 1152 in communication with an edge valve or first valve 320, a first side of a hydraulic cylinder, an auxiliary valve 1220, and an edge outlet 350 (e.g., when the auxiliary valve 1220 is open). According to some examples of the present disclosure, the first valve 320 may control the water flow (e.g., a second water flow) provided to the first water outlet 1152. The housing 1150 may further include a second water outlet 1153 in communication with an ejector valve or second valve 330, a second side of a hydraulic cylinder, and an ejector outlet 360. According to some examples of the present disclosure, the second valve 330 may control the water flow (e.g., a third water flow) provided to the second water outlet 1153.

[0202] In some examples, the housing 1150 may be disposed within a sheath or skirt of the toilet 1400. In some examples, the housing 1150 may be disposed at the back of the toilet 1400 (e.g., behind the sump 430 of the toilet 1400). In some examples, the housing 1150 may be disposed at the bottom of the toilet 1400 (e.g., below the sump 430 of the toilet). According to some examples of the present disclosure, the housing 1150 may be disposed at the back and bottom of the toilet 1400. For example, the housing 1150 may be coupled to a base of the toilet 1400 that is configured to support the toilet 1400.

[0203] As described above, the flow controller 1100 and / or the housing 1150 may include the hydraulic turbine 1110 , the edge valve or first valve 320 , the jet valve or second valve 330 , the controller 800 , and the battery 1120 .

[0204] like Fig.14 As shown, toilet 1400 may further include rim channel 410, toilet bowl 420, sump 430 and drain channel 440. Rim channel 410, toilet bowl 420, sump 430 and drain channel 440 may be similar to those described above. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some examples, such as Fig.14 As shown, the auxiliary valve 1220 can be located downstream of the first end of the hydraulic cylinder between the hydraulic cylinder and the edge channel 410. In some examples, such as Fig.14 As shown, the backflow prevention device 1240 may be disposed above the rim channel 410 and / or the rim outlet 350 .

[0205] like Fig.14 As shown, in some examples, the toilet 1400 may further include a ventilation channel 450 and a ventilation channel valve 460, and the ventilation channel 450 includes a water inlet 451 and a water outlet 452. The ventilation channel 450, the water inlet 451, the water outlet 452 and the ventilation channel valve 460 can all be the same as those described above. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Same as described.

[0206] refer to Fig.15 , illustrates a flow chart of an operating cycle or flushing cycle of a toilet according to one example of the present disclosure. The flow chart 1500 may be used in conjunction with any of the flush engine 300, toilet 400, toilet 500, system 1000 for flushing a toilet, or toilet 1400 described herein. For ease of explanation, the flow chart 1500 will be described with respect to toilet 1400. Additional, different, or fewer actions may be provided.

[0207] In a first action S201, the edge valve or first valve 320 is opened. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Fig.14As described, the first valve 320 may be configured to selectively provide a flow of a fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) included in the gate valve 1210. Additionally, the first valve 320 may selectively provide a flow of a fluid from a water supply to the auxiliary valve 1220. In some examples, the first valve 320 may be a solenoid valve and may be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. During action S101, the gate valve 1210 may be in a closed position, and the flow of fluid into the hydraulic cylinder may maintain the gate valve 1210 in a closed position.

[0208] In the second action S203, the auxiliary valve 1220 is opened. Fig.12 and 14 As described, auxiliary valve 1220 may be configured to control or selectively provide flow of fluid to rim line 410 and rim outlet 350. In some examples, auxiliary valve 1220 may be a solenoid and may open in response to a control signal and / or current provided via controller 800.

[0209] In a third action S205, water flow (e.g., transported through the first valve 320 and the auxiliary valve 1220) pre-cleans the bowl 420 of the toilet 400. Specifically, the water flow may be provided to the rim outlet 350 of the toilet 400 through the first valve 320, through the auxiliary valve 1220, and through the rim channel 410. The water flow may flow through the rim outlet 350 into the bowl 420, cleaning (e.g., pre-cleaning) the bowl 420.

[0210] In a fourth action S207, the first valve 320 (e.g., a rim valve) is closed. In some examples, the first valve 320 may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. In some examples, the controller 800 may be configured to close the first valve 320 within a predetermined time period after the first valve 320 is opened. The predetermined time period may correspond to a desired volume of water for pre-cleaning the toilet bowl 420. In some examples, the controller 800 may calculate the duration of the opening of the first valve 320 based on the flow rate of water provided through the first valve 320, which is calculated using the pressure of water supplied to the flow controller 1100 sensed by the flow regulator 1230.

[0211] In the fifth action S209, the jet valve or the second valve 330 is opened. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Fig.14As described, second valve 330 may be configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to a second end (e.g., second end 243) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) included in gate valve 1210, and to sump ejector outlet 360. In some examples, second valve 330 may be a solenoid valve, and may be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via controller 800.

[0212] In the sixth action S211, the gate valve 1210 is opened using a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240). Specifically, water (e.g., transported by the second valve 330) flows into the second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston (e.g., piston 241) to the first end (e.g., first end 242) of the hydraulic cylinder. When the piston moves to the first end (e.g., first end 242), one or more connecting devices (e.g., connecting device 250) may move the gate (e.g., gate 230) to the open position. In some examples, as the gate valve 340 is opened, water disposed in the drain channel may flow through the gate valve 340, generating a siphon in the toilet 400.

[0213] In the seventh action S213, water is distributed through the sump ejector outlet 360 (e.g., transported through the second valve 330). Specifically, the water flow may be provided to the sump ejector outlet 360 disposed in the sump 430 through the second valve 330. Water may flow into the sump 430 of the toilet through the sump ejector outlet 360.

[0214] In an eighth action S215, the second valve 330 (e.g., a sump ejector valve) is closed. In some examples, the second valve 330 may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. In some examples, the controller 800 may be configured to close the second valve 330 within a predetermined time period after the second valve 330 is opened. The predetermined time period may correspond to the desired volume of water to be distributed through the sump ejector outlet 360. In some examples, the controller 800 may calculate the duration of the opening of the second valve 330 based on the flow rate of water provided through the second valve 330, which is calculated using the pressure of the water supplied to the flow controller 1100 sensed by the flow regulator 1230.

[0215] In a ninth action S217 , the auxiliary valve 1220 is closed. In some examples, the auxiliary valve 1220 may be a solenoid and may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800 .

[0216] In the tenth action S219, the first valve 320 (eg, edge valve) is opened. Figure 5, Figure 6 and Fig.14 As described above, the first valve 320 may be configured to selectively provide a flow of a fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) included in the gate valve 340, and to the auxiliary valve 1220. In some examples, the first valve 320 may be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800.

[0217] In the eleventh action S221, a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240) is used to close the gate valve 1210. Specifically, water (e.g., transported by the first valve 320) flows into the first end (e.g., first end 242) of the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston (e.g., piston 241) to the second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder. Specifically, since the auxiliary valve 1220 is closed during action S221, all the water provided by the first valve 320 can be forced to flow into the hydraulic cylinder, moving the piston to the second end of the hydraulic cylinder. When the piston moves to the second end, one or more connecting devices (e.g., connecting device 250) can move the gate (e.g., gate 230) to the closed position.

[0218] In a twelfth action S223 , the auxiliary valve 1220 may be opened. In some examples, the auxiliary valve 1220 may be a solenoid and may be opened in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800 .

[0219] In a thirteenth action S225, the bowl 420 is cleaned, and the bowl 420 and the trapway 440 are filled with water. Specifically, the flow of water provided to the bowl 420 through the rim outlet 350 (e.g., delivered through the first valve 320 and the auxiliary valve 122) cleans the bowl and fills the bowl 420 and the trapway 440 with water. The gate valve 340 may be closed during action S119, preventing the water provided via the rim outlet 350 from flowing through the trapway 440. In some examples, the trapway 440 may be completely filled with water, preparing the trapway for a subsequent operation cycle.

[0220] In the fourteenth action S227, the first valve 320 is closed. In some examples, the first valve 320 may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800. In some examples, the controller 800 may be configured to close the first valve 320 within a predetermined time period after the first valve 320 is opened. The predetermined time period may correspond to a desired volume of water for pre-cleaning the toilet bowl 420. In some examples, the controller 800 may calculate the duration of the opening of the first valve 320 based on the flow rate of water provided through the first valve 320, which is calculated using the pressure of water supplied to the flow controller 1100 sensed by the flow regulator 1230.

[0221] In a fifteenth action S229 , the auxiliary valve 1220 is closed. In some examples, the auxiliary valve 1220 may be a solenoid and may be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 800 .

[0222] In some examples, flowchart 1500 may further include a method for opening and / or closing the Fig. 9 The operation of the ventilation channel 460 is described in the flowchart 600.

[0223] In some examples, the device 700 for facilitating a flush or operation cycle can be implemented as a controller 800. The device 700 and / or the controller can be configured to provide one or more control signals and / or power (e.g., current) to the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and the auxiliary valve 1220 (e.g., to perform various actions of the flowchart 1500).

[0224] In some examples, the device 700 and / or the controller 800 for facilitating the flushing or operation cycle may include one or more backup systems configured to start or execute the various steps of the flowchart 600 and / or 1500 when the electronic device fails. Specifically, the device 700 and / or the controller may include buttons corresponding to each of the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and the auxiliary valve 1220, which are configured to override the control algorithm and provide control signals and / or power directly to the corresponding valves to actuate the corresponding valves when part of the electronic device fails. According to some examples of the present disclosure, the button corresponding to each valve (e.g., the first valve 320, the second valve 330, the auxiliary valve 1220) may be pressed to actuate or open the corresponding valve, and the corresponding valve is maintained in the open position until the button is released. Therefore, the operation cycle provided in the flowchart 600 and / or 1500 may be performed by pressing and holding the button corresponding to each valve as provided in the flowchart 600 and 1500, respectively.

[0225] According to some examples of the present disclosure, the flush engine 300, the toilet 400, 500, the system 1000, and / or the toilet 1400 may include a rope coupled to each of the first valve 320, the second valve 330, and / or the auxiliary valve 1220, the rope being configured to manually actuate (e.g., open) the corresponding valve when pulled. Thus, the operation cycle provided in flowcharts 600 and / or 1500 may be performed by sequentially pulling and holding the rope corresponding to each valve as provided in flowcharts 600 and 1500, respectively.

[0226] refer to Fig.16 , illustrates a system 2000 for flushing a toilet according to an example of the present disclosure. The system 2000 can be used with the above-mentioned Fig.12 The system 1000 is substantially similar; however, the flow controller 2100 included in the system 2000 may include four valves, each of which is configured to selectively and independently provide a flow of fluid to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240), a second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder, an edge outlet 350, and one of the ejector outlets 360. Accordingly, as Fig.16 As shown, the flow of fluid (e.g., water) can be provided to the first end (e.g., first end 242) and the second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240), respectively, independently of the rim outlet 350 and the ejector outlet 360. Specifically, according to the system 2000 for flushing a toilet, the flow of fluid can be provided to the first end or the second end of the hydraulic cylinder to open or close the gate valve 1210 independently of the fluid provided to the rim outlet 350 and the ejector outlet 360.

[0227] like Fig.16 As shown, the flow controller 2100 may include a closing valve 2110, which is configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid to a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240), and the flow of fluid provided to the first end of the hydraulic cylinder is configured to close the gate valve 1210. Further, the flow controller 2100 may include an opening valve 2120, which is configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid to a second end (e.g., second end 243) of the hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240), and the flow of fluid provided to the second end of the hydraulic cylinder is configured to open the gate valve 1210. In addition, the flow controller 2100 may include an independent edge valve 2130, which is configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid to an edge outlet 350, and an independent jet valve 2140, which is configured to selectively provide a flow of fluid to an ejector outlet 360. Additionally, the system 2000 for flushing a toilet may omit the components included in the above description. Fig.12Auxiliary valve 1220 in system 1000.

[0228] Each of the closing valve 2110, the opening valve 2120, the independent edge valve 2130 and / or the independent jet valve 2140 can be a solenoid valve. Further, each of the closing valve 2110, the opening valve 2120, the independent edge valve 2130 and / or the independent jet valve 2140 can be connected to and / or communicate with the controller 800. The controller 800 can be configured to provide a control signal and / or power to one or more of the closing valve 2110, the opening valve 2120, the independent edge valve 2130 and / or the independent jet valve 2140 to actuate (e.g., open, close) the respective valves. The battery 1120 can be connected to and configured to provide power to the closing valve 2110, the opening valve 2120, the independent edge valve 2130 and / or the independent jet valve 2140.

[0229] The hydraulic turbine 1110, the flow regulator 1230 and the backflow prevention device 1240 may be connected to Fig.12 Controller 800 can use the pressure sensed by flow regulator 1230 and known characteristics of system 2000 to calculate the flow rate through independent edge valve 2130 and / or independent jet valve 2140 and the duration of independent edge valve 2130 and independent jet valve 2140.

[0230] Reference Fig.17 , illustrates a toilet 2200 according to an example of the present disclosure. The toilet 2200 may include the Fig.16 One or more components of the system 2000 for flushing a toilet. For example, the system 2000 for flushing a toilet may include a flow controller 2100, a gate valve 1210, a rim outlet 350, an ejector outlet 360, a flow regulator 1230, and a backflow prevention device 1240. Fig.17 As shown, in some examples, the flow controller 2100 may be disposed in a housing 2150. The housing 2150 may include a water inlet 2151 configured to receive a water flow from a water supply, a first water outlet 2152 communicating with a closing valve 2110 and a first end (e.g., first end 242) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240), a second water outlet 2153 communicating with an opening valve 2120 and a second end (e.g., second end 243) of a hydraulic cylinder (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 240), a third water outlet 2154 communicating with an independent edge valve 2130 and an edge outlet 350, and a fourth water outlet 2155 communicating with an independent jet valve 2140 and an ejector outlet 360.

[0231] As described above, the flow controller 2100 and / or housing 2150 may include a hydraulic turbine 1110, a closing valve 2110, an opening valve 2120, an independent rim valve 2130, an independent jet valve 2140, a controller 800, and a battery 1120. The flow controller 2100 may be disposed within a skirt or sheath portion of a toilet 2200 at the back and / or bottom of the toilet.

[0232] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the operation or flushing cycle of the toilet 2200 can be performed substantially similarly to the flowcharts 600 and 1500 described herein, except that the gate valve 1210 can be opened and / or closed using the opening valve 2120 and the closing valve 2110, respectively, independently of the water provided to the rim outlet 350 and the ejector outlet.

[0233] When a component, device, element, or the like of the present disclosure is described as having a certain purpose or performing a certain operation, function, etc., the component, device, or element should be considered as “configured to” satisfy the purpose or perform the operation or function.

[0234] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and recognized usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of the present disclosure belongs. Those skilled in the art who review the present disclosure should understand that these terms are intended to allow for the description of some of the features described and claimed without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or insignificant modifications or changes to the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0235] It should be noted that the term "exemplary" and variations thereof, used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or extraordinary examples).

[0236] As used herein, the term "connection" and its variants refer to the direct or indirect joining of two components together. Such joining can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining can be achieved by directly connecting the two components together, or by connecting the two components together using a separate intermediate member and any additional intermediate members that are connected to each other, or by connecting the two components together using an intermediate member that is integrally formed as a single unit body with one of the two components. If "connection" or its variants are modified by additional terms (e.g., direct connection), the general definition of "connection" provided above is modified by the ordinary language meaning of the additional terms (e.g., "direct connection" means the joining of two components without any separate intermediate member), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "connection" provided above. Such connection can be mechanical, electrical or fluid.

[0237] The term "or" as used herein is inclusive (not exclusive), and thus, when used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" refers to one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Connectives such as "at least one of X, Y, and Z" should be understood to mean that an element can be any one of X, Y, and Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z), unless otherwise specified. Therefore, such connectives do not generally mean that some embodiments require at least one of X, Y, and Z to be present, unless otherwise specified.

[0238] References to element positions herein (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below") are only used to describe the orientation of the various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may be different according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0239] Although the figures and descriptions may illustrate a specific order of method steps, unless otherwise specified above, the order of such steps may be different from that depicted and described. In addition, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously, unless otherwise specified above. For example, such variations may depend on the selected software and hardware systems and the designer's choice. All of these variations are within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, software implementations of the method may also complete various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps through standard programming techniques, rule-based logic, and other logic.

[0240] It should be noted that the construction and arrangement of the systems shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. In addition, any element disclosed in one embodiment can be combined or used with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Although only one example of an element in one embodiment is illustrated above and can be incorporated into or used in another embodiment, it should be understood that other elements in various embodiments can be incorporated into or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A gate valve for a toilet, the gate valve comprising: Open your mouth; a gate configured to selectively block the opening; as well as A hydraulic cylinder includes a piston connected to the gate, the piston being configured to move the gate to open or close the gate valve when the piston moves.

2. The gate valve according to claim 1, further comprising: a first water inlet, the first water inlet being disposed at a first end of the hydraulic cylinder; as well as A second water inlet is disposed at a second end of the hydraulic cylinder opposite to the first end. 3 . The gate valve according to claim 2 , wherein the piston is disposed between the first water inlet and the second water inlet. 4 . The gate valve of claim 3 , wherein the first water inlet is configured to convey a flow of a first fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, the flow of the first fluid moving the piston toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder. 5 . The gate valve of claim 4 , wherein the second water inlet is configured to convey a flow of a second fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, the flow of the second fluid moving the piston toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder.

6. The gate valve of claim 5, wherein the piston is configured to close the gate valve when moving toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, and Wherein the piston is configured to open the gate valve when moving toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder.

7. The gate valve of claim 2, wherein the first water inlet is configured to direct the flow of the first fluid into the hydraulic cylinder and direct the flow of the third fluid to the rim outlet of the toilet, and The second water inlet is configured to direct the flow of the second fluid into the hydraulic cylinder and direct the flow of the fourth fluid to the sump ejector outlet of the toilet.

8. A toilet, comprising: a urinal, the urinal comprising a sump; a trapway in fluid communication with the sump; as well as A gate valve includes a gate and a hydraulic cylinder, wherein the gate is configured to selectively block the drain channel, and the hydraulic cylinder includes a piston connected to the gate, and the piston is configured to move the gate when the piston moves to open or close the gate valve.

9. The toilet according to claim 8, wherein the hydraulic cylinder further comprises: a first water inlet, the first water inlet being disposed at a first side of the hydraulic cylinder; as well as a second water inlet, the second water inlet being disposed at a second side of the hydraulic cylinder; The piston is arranged between the first water inlet and the second water inlet.

10. The toilet of claim 9, wherein the first water inlet is configured to convey a flow of a first fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, the flow of the first fluid moving the piston toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, and The second water inlet is configured to transport a flow of a second fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, the flow of the second fluid moving the piston toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder.

11. The toilet according to claim 10, further comprising: An edge water outlet, the edge water outlet being arranged at the edge of the toilet bowl; A sump ejector water outlet, wherein the sump ejector water outlet is arranged at the sump; a rim valve configured to control flow of the first fluid to the rim outlet and to the first inlet; as well as A sump valve is configured to control flow of the second fluid to the sump ejector outlet and to the second inlet.

12. The toilet according to claim 11, further comprising: an auxiliary valve, the auxiliary valve being arranged between the first water inlet and the edge water outlet, Wherein, the edge water outlet is arranged downstream of the first water inlet.

13. The toilet of claim 12, wherein when the rim valve is in an open position and the auxiliary valve is in a closed position, all of the first flow is provided to the hydraulic cylinder.

14. The toilet of claim 11, wherein the flow of the first fluid is configured to move the piston toward the second end of the hydraulic cylinder, closing the gate valve.

15. The toilet of claim 14, wherein the flow of the second fluid is configured to move the piston toward the first end of the hydraulic cylinder, opening the gate valve.

16. The toilet according to claim 11, further comprising: A vent passage extends from a water inlet at a top of the trapway upstream of the gate valve to a water outlet of the trapway downstream of the gate valve.

17. The toilet according to claim 16, further comprising: A ventilation passage valve is configured to selectively open or close the ventilation passage.

18. A method for flushing a toilet, the method comprising: Opening a first valve, wherein a water inlet of the first valve is connected to a water supply, and a water outlet of the first valve is connected to a hydraulic cylinder and an edge water outlet disposed in the toilet bowl; Providing a first water flow through the first valve, the first water flow cleaning the toilet bowl; closing the first valve; Opening a second valve, wherein a water inlet of the second valve is in communication with the water supply, and a water outlet of the second valve is in communication with the hydraulic cylinder and a sump outlet disposed in the sump of the toilet; providing a second water flow through the second valve, the second water flow opening a gate valve disposed in a sewage channel of the toilet and flowing into the sump; closing the second valve; opening the first valve; providing a third water flow through the first valve, the third water flow closing the gate valve, cleaning the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl; as well as Close the first valve.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second water flow moves a piston disposed in the hydraulic cylinder and connected to the gate valve, opening the gate valve, and The third water flow moves the piston and closes the gate valve.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising: After the second water flow flows into the sump, opening the ventilation channel valve; And after the third water flow fills the toilet bowl and the first valve is closed, closing the ventilation channel valve.

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