Self-lowering toilet seat system

Abstract

A self-lowering toilet seat system includes a toilet bowl and a toilet seat. The system includes a hinge rotatably coupling a toilet seat and a toilet bowl. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is switchable between a lowered position and a raised position. The lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position. A fixedly sealed hinge housing has a delay device therein. The delay device is configured to cause a seat time delay before the lowering device lowers the toilet seat toward the lowered position. The delay device is engaged by applying a seat raising force to raise the toilet seat toward the raised position and remove the seat raising force from the toilet seat. The delay device is configured to reset the time delay when the lift force is re-applied before the seat delay device has expired.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This patent application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 395,168, filed Aug. 4, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 987,746, filed Nov. 15, 2022, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Illustrative embodiments generally relate to toilet seats, and more particularly, illustrative embodiments relate to self-lowering toilet seats. Background Art

[0004] Toilet seats in public restrooms are often soiled, especially in men's and unisex restrooms, because men often stand to urinate with the toilet seat in the lowered position. Soiling of the toilet seat can also occur in women's restrooms. Since the restroom facilities do not belong to the user, people generally give little thought to the mess they create. This means that users are less likely to lift the seat before use, more likely to make a mess, and less likely to clean up if they do make a mess. Conversely, at home, users of the toilet seat often lift the toilet seat to urinate but forget to lower the toilet seat afterwards. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a self-lowering toilet seat system includes a toilet bowl and a toilet seat configured for a user to sit thereon. The system includes a hinge rotatably coupling the toilet seat and the toilet bowl. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is convertible between a lowered position and a raised position. A lowering device is configured such that the toilet seat self-lowers toward the lowered position. A fixed-sealed hinge housing has a mechanical seat delay device located therein. The seat delay device is configured to cause a seat time delay before the lowering device causes the toilet seat to lower toward the lowered position. The seat delay device engages by applying a seat lift force to raise the toilet seat toward the raised position and removing the seat lift force from the toilet seat. The seat delay device is configured to reset the seat time delay when a lift force is reapplied before the seat delay device has expired.

[0006] In various embodiments, the system may include a toilet seat lid rotatably coupled to the hinge. The lid and / or the seat may include a coupling portion such that when the coupling portion is engaged, the lid lowers when the seat is lowered by the seat delay device. In various embodiments, the delay device engages when the seat is lifted to the raised position.

[0007] Among other things, the system can include a second lowering device configured to cause the lid to lower itself toward a lowered position. The system can also include a lid delay device within a sealed hinge housing. The lid delay device can be configured to cause a lid time delay before the lowering device causes the lid to lower toward the lowered position. The lid delay device can be engaged by applying a lid lifting force to raise the lid toward a raised position and removing the lid lifting force from the lid. The lid delay device can be configured to reset the lid time delay when the user reapplies the lifting force before the lid delay device has expired.

[0008] In some embodiments, the lid time delay is equal to or greater than the seat time delay. The duration of the seat time delay and / or the lid time delay can be user-adjustable. Some embodiments can include a latching system configured to prevent the lid and / or the seat from moving from the lowered position toward the raised position when the latching system is engaged. The seat time delay can be between about 1 minute and about 60 minutes.

[0009] Among other things, the lid delay device can include a suction cup and an attachment surface. The temporary adhesion of the cup to the attachment surface causes a delay in the lid lowering to the lowered position. In a similar manner, the seat delay device can include a suction cup and an attachment surface. The temporary adhesion of the cup to the attachment surface causes a delay in the seat lowering to the lowered position. In some embodiments, the attachment surface includes one or more controlled leakage channels.

[0010] In various embodiments, the system can include dampers located on the seat and / or the lid. A first shaft can be coupled to the seat, and a second shaft can be coupled to the lid. The first shaft and the second shaft can be coaxially rotatable. The first shaft and the second shaft can be translationally fixed relative to each other. Additionally, the first shaft and the second shaft can be translationally fixed relative to the toilet bowl. However, the first shaft and the second shaft can rotate relative to each other. The axes of rotation of the seat and the lid can be fixed relative to each other. For example, the first shaft and the second shaft can rotate about the same axis of rotation. However, some embodiments can include a single shaft.

[0011] The system can also include a second hinge housing. The second lowering device and the second delay device for the lid can be located within the second hinge housing. The perimeter of the first housing and / or the second housing can fit within a coverage area defined by the perimeter of the toilet.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the self-lowering toilet seat cover system is configured to rotate relative to the toilet seat ring. A hinge rotatably couples the cover and the toilet bowl. The hinge is configured such that the cover can be switched between a lowered position and a raised position. The lowering device is configured such that the cover self-lowers toward the lowered position. The sealed hinge housing has a mechanical delay device located therein. The delay device is configured to cause a time delay of the cover before the lowering device lowers the cover toward the lowered position. The delay device is engaged by a user applying a cover lifting force to raise the cover toward the raised position and removing the cover lifting force from the cover. The delay device is configured to reset the cover time delay if the user reapplies the lifting force before the delay device has expired.

[0013] The system can include a toilet seat ring rotatably coupled to the hinge. The duration of the cover time delay can be user-adjustable. The cover time delay can be between about 1 minute and about 60 minutes. A latch system can be configured to prevent the cover and / or the seat ring from moving from the lowered position toward the raised position when the latch system is engaged. The latch system can automatically engage when the seat ring and the cover are fully lowered, or can be manually engaged by the user.

[0014] In various embodiments, the cover delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface. The temporary adhesion of the cup to the attachment surface can cause a delay in the cover self-lowering to the lowered position. The attachment surface can be part of a plate. The attachment surface can include one or more controlled leakage channels.

[0015] According to another embodiment, a system includes a toilet bowl and a hinge that rotatably couples the toilet bowl to a seat ring and / or a cover. The hinge is configured such that the seat ring and / or the cover can be switched between a lowered position and a raised position. The lowering device is configured such that the seat ring and / or the cover self-lowers toward the lowered position. The hinge housing has a mechanical seat ring delay device located therein. The seat ring delay device is configured to cause a seat ring time delay before the lowering device lowers the seat ring and / or the cover toward the lowered position. The seat ring delay device is engaged by applying a seat ring lifting force to raise the toilet seat ring toward the raised position and removing the seat ring lifting force from the toilet seat ring. The seat ring delay device is configured to reset the seat ring time delay when the user reapplies the lifting force before the seat ring delay device has expired. The mechanical delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface. In addition to or instead of the mechanical delay device, some embodiments can also include an electronic delay device.

[0016] In various embodiments, the temporary coupling of the disk to the attachment surface causes a delay in the lowering of the seat ring and / or lid to the lowered position. The hinge housing may be fixedly sealed. Some embodiments may include a second lowering device configured to lower the seat ring and / or lid that is not lowered by the first lowering device. The lid delay device may be engaged by raising the lid toward the raised position. The lid delay device may be configured to reset the lid time delay when the lid is pushed toward the raised position before the seat ring delay device has expired.

[0017] According to another embodiment, a device includes a hinge housing having a mechanical seat ring delay device therein. The housing is configured to couple to a toilet bowl. The housing includes a hinge configured to rotatably couple the toilet bowl to the seat ring and / or lid such that the seat ring and / or lid are convertible between a lowered position and a raised position. The housing has a seat ring delay device therein. The seat ring delay device is configured to cause a seat ring time delay before a lowering device lowers the seat ring and / or lid toward the lowered position. The seat ring delay device is engaged by raising the toilet seat toward the raised position.

[0018] In various embodiments, the seat ring delay device is configured to reset the seat ring time delay when the toilet seat is forced toward the raised position before the seat ring delay device has expired. The mechanical delay device may include a suction cup and an attachment surface. The housing may be sealed, such as fixedly sealed. The axes of the hinges may be fixed relative to each other.

[0019] According to yet another embodiment, a method lowers a toilet seat. The method provides a lowering device. The lowering device includes a housing having a mechanical seat ring delay device therein. The housing couples to a toilet bowl. The housing includes a hinge configured to rotatably couple the toilet bowl to the seat ring and / or lid such that the seat ring and / or lid are convertible between a lowered position and a raised position. The housing has a seat ring delay device therein. The seat ring delay device is configured to cause a seat ring time delay before a lowering device lowers the seat ring and / or lid toward the lowered position. The seat ring delay device may be engaged by raising the toilet seat toward the raised position. The seat ring delay device may be configured to reset the seat ring time delay when the toilet seat is forced toward the raised position before the seat ring delay device has expired. The method raises the seat ring and / or lid toward the raised position to engage a delay system that delays the lowering of the seat ring and / or lid by a lowering device. The method uses the lowering device to lower the seat ring and / or lid.

[0020] In various embodiments, a delay system provides a predetermined time delay. At any time before the expiration of the predetermined time delay, the toilet seat and / or the lid can be forced towards the raised position to reset the predetermined time delay. The toilet seat and / or the lid can be manually lowered in a standard manner at any time before the expiration of the predetermined time delay without damaging the delay device or reducing the device, and without causing harm to the user. In some embodiments, the lid is freely rotatable. In some other embodiments, the toilet seat is freely rotatable.

[0021] In some embodiments, the mechanical delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface. The attachment surface can be the surface of a plate. A leakage channel can pass through the attachment surface. The leakage channel can be covered with a flow-limiting material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Those skilled in the art will more fully understand the advantages of the various embodiments of the present invention from the "DETAILED DESCRIPTION" discussed below with reference to the drawings, which are now briefly described.

[0023] Figure 1 A domestic bathroom according to a schematic embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0024] Figure 2 A top view of a toilet with a self-lowering system according to a schematic embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0025] Figure 3A A toilet seat lowered position and a lid lowered position according to a schematic embodiment are schematically shown.

[0026] Figure 3B A toilet seat lowered position and a lid raised position according to a schematic embodiment are schematically shown.

[0027] Figure 3C A toilet seat raised position for a toilet without a lid according to a schematic embodiment is schematically shown.

[0028] Figure 3D A toilet seat raised position and a lid raised position according to a schematic embodiment are schematically shown.

[0029] Figure 4 A front view of a toilet seat and a lid both in the raised position according to a schematic embodiment is schematically shown.

[0030] Figures 5A - 5B A hinge with a transparent housing according to a schematic embodiment is schematically shown.

[0031] Figure 6A Schematically shown according to a schematic embodiment in the lowered position Figure 5ACross-sectional side view of the toilet seat

[0032] Figure 6B Schematically shows, according to a schematic embodiment, when Figure 5A the toilet seat approaches the raised position, a cross-sectional side view

[0033] Figure 6C Schematically shows, according to a schematic embodiment, the toilet seat Figure 5A in the raised position, a cross-sectional side view

[0034] Figure 7A Schematically shows a top view of the self-lifting device and the delay device according to a schematic embodiment

[0035] Figures 7B - 7C Schematically shows a perspective view of the device when the seat is in the lowered position and the raised position respectively Figure 7A of the device

[0036] Figure 7D Schematically shows Figure 7A a perspective detailed view of the delay system of the device

[0037] Figures 8A - 8B Schematically shows an alternative embodiment of the delay device when the seat is in the lowered position and the raised position respectively

[0038] Figure 9 Schematically shows the delay device according to a schematic embodiment

[0039] Figure 10A Schematically shows the timing board according to a schematic embodiment

[0040] Figures 10B - 10C Schematically shows the timing board with a quick release channel according to a schematic embodiment

[0041] Figure 10D Schematically shows the timing board with a groove according to a schematic embodiment

[0042] Figure 11 Shows a method for self-lowering a toilet seat according to a schematic embodiment of the present invention

[0043] Figures 12A - 12D Schematically shows the seat and the lid in various positions according to a schematic embodiment

[0044] Figure 13 Schematically shows a transparent housing showing details of the toilet seat lowering system according to a schematic embodiment

[0045] Figure 14Details of a delay device according to a schematic embodiment are schematically illustrated.

[0046] Figure 15 A lid closing system that couples the downward movement of a toilet seat to a lid according to a schematic embodiment is schematically illustrated.

[0047] Figures 16A - 16B An embodiment of a toilet seat lowering system according to a schematic embodiment is schematically illustrated. Detailed Description

[0048] In a schematic embodiment, a self - lowering toilet seat system is configured to automatically lower a toilet seat to a seat - down position. To this end, the self - lowering toilet seat system has a lowering device that is configured to bias the toilet seat and / or lid towards the down position. In a schematic embodiment, the delay device provides a lowering delay for a pre - determined amount of time after a user removes force from the lifted toilet seat. After the lowering delay expires, the lowering device moves the seat towards the down position. In some embodiments, the lowering device lowers the seat directly (e.g., by acting on the seat) and / or indirectly (e.g., by acting on the lid that pushes the seat).

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, the self - lowering toilet seat system is configured such that a toilet lid is self - lowered to a lid - down position. Further, the self - lowering toilet seat system may also be referred to as a self - lowering toilet lid system (commonly referred to as a lowering system). Details of the schematic embodiment will be discussed below.

[0050] The lowering system can be configured such that a user can manually lower the seat and / or lid to the down position at any time without significant resistance and without damaging the delay device. Advantageously, lowering the lid 2 after use prevents children or pets from accessing the interior of the toilet bowl and prevents items (e.g., a phone or a towel) from falling into the water. Lowering the seat 1 also ensures that the seat is generally in the down position (e.g., horizontal), so that a user does not inadvertently sit on the edge of the toilet bowl. Accordingly, various embodiments advantageously provide an overall improved user experience (e.g., in a residential environment).

[0051] Furthermore, the schematic embodiment advantageously withstands moisture, dirt, cleaning chemicals, and other factors commonly encountered in commercial or residential restrooms. To this end, the schematic embodiment includes a robust housing that is sealed against external contaminants and a lowering system that can withstand rough use for many consecutive years, ensuring durable and reliable performance.

[0052] Figure 1Schematically illustrated is a household bathroom 38 according to a schematic embodiment of the present invention. The bathroom 38 has a toilet 40, and the toilet 40 includes a self-lowering system 100 (not visible from this view). The toilet 40 includes a toilet seat 1 on which a user can sit, a lid 2, and a toilet bowl 5 configured to receive waste from the user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat 1 to the toilet bowl 5. Additionally, the same hinge can rotatably couple the toilet lid 2 to the toilet bowl 5. However, some embodiments may use different hinges for the seat 1 and the lid 2. In various embodiments, the hinge can include a housing 3, a shaft 7, and a connection to the seat 1 and / or the lid 2. Some embodiments may include one or more hinges.

[0053] Although the schematic embodiment relates to the toilet 40 in the household bathroom 38, it should be understood that the schematic embodiment is applicable to the toilet 40 in any environment. For example, the schematic embodiment can be applied to a portable toilet 40, a residential bathroom toilet 40, and / or a public restroom toilet 40. The schematic embodiment provides a passive, non-electrically driven system and is thus particularly suitable for high-capacity environments without a nearby electrical connection (e.g., portable toilets at sporting events / festivals). Some embodiments may include a battery-powered system. However, the preferred embodiment is non-electrically driven. It is not desirable that a battery-powered system is high-maintenance, requires battery replacement at fixed intervals (and proper disposal), and battery connections and access may compromise long-term reliability. Additionally, as Figure 2 best shown, the self-lowering system 100 preferably maintains a small footprint such that the perimeter defined by the housing of the system 100 is within the footprint of the bowl 5.

[0054] Figure 2 Schematically illustrated is a top view of the toilet 40 with the self-lowering system 100 according to a schematic embodiment of the present invention. For clarity, the seat 1 and the lid 2 have been removed, but it should be understood that the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 can be coupled to the hinge 46. Additionally, the shaft 7 is truncated, but it should be understood that the shaft 7 can be coupled to the seat 1 and / or the lid 2. The hinge 46 has a housing 3, and the housing 3 is preferably sealed to prevent external contamination. The housing 3 can be formed as a single piece or from two or more components joined together.

[0055] As will be described in further detail below, the housing 3 can have an opening to receive one or more shafts 7 that rotatably couple the seat ring 1 and / or the lid 2 to a lowering device 52 within the housing 3. In some embodiments, a single shaft 7 can be coupled to one or both of the seat ring 1 and the lid 2. In some other embodiments, a first shaft 7S can be coupled to the seat ring 1 and a second shaft 7L can be coupled to the lid 2. In either case, in various embodiments, the rotational axes of the seat ring 1 and / or the lid 2 are preferably fixed translationally relative to each other. In other words, the rotational axes do not translate relative to each other. In various embodiments, the rotational axes of the seat ring 1 and the lid 2 are parallel or coaxial.

[0056] The housing 3 has a first axis 43 (also referred to as the longitudinal axis 43) and a second axis 45 (also referred to as the transverse axis 45). The first axis 43 extends across the toilet 40 (i.e., from one side to the other side) and is aligned with or parallel to the rotational axis of the seat ring and / or the toilet (best visible in Figure 4 ). The second axis 45 generally extends in a direction from the front portion 40A to the rear portion 40B of the toilet 40. Generally, these two axes 43, 45 are perpendicular to each other. Preferably, the housing 3 has one or more openings for receiving the shaft 7 such that the shaft 7 is aligned with or parallel to the first axis 43. By providing the opening on the side of the housing 3, the shaft 7 can be positioned to pass through the side of the housing 3. Positioning the shaft 7 on the side of the housing 3 advantageously allows each shaft 7 to be easily coupled to one or both of the seat ring 1 and / or the lid 2. In addition, the movement of the seat ring 1 and / or the lid 2 from the raised position to the lowered position (and vice versa) causes a corresponding rotation of one or more shafts 7 (rather than a translational movement of the shaft 7, thus allowing a rotational seal of the shaft 7). For this purpose, the housing 3 can include one or more rotational seals configured to seal around each of the rotational shafts 7.

[0057] In various embodiments, the shafts 7 are preferably fixed translationally relative to each other. However, some other embodiments can include shafts 7 that slide up or down relative to each other. The inventors have determined that translational shafts 7 (e.g., that slide up and down relative to each other) undesirably allow dust and other particles to more easily enter the housing 3 and stick in the sliding / moving connection. This can reduce the service life and performance of the lowering device 52 and / or the delaying device 54. The sliding shafts 7 are also more difficult to clean and disinfect. It is undesirable that the entire slot rather than just the opening of the shaft 7 must be sealed. Various embodiments include shafts 7 that can rotate relative to each other but are fixed in a translational manner. Further, the system 100 having shafts 7 that are fixed translationally advantageously allows the housing 3 to be sealed while providing a rotational coupling to the seat ring 1 and the lid 2.

[0058] In addition, as Figure 2As shown in the top view, the coverage area 8 of the housing 3 (e.g., the perimeter 8 defined by the top view of the housing 3) is within the coverage area 9 of the toilet bowl 5 (i.e., does not extend beyond the perimeter 9 formed by the top view of the toilet bowl 5). The exemplary embodiment advantageously minimizes the size of the housing 3 to fit within the coverage area 9 of the toilet bowl 5, such that the visual impact of the housing 3 is minimized.

[0059] Figures 3A - 3D Schematically shown is a reduction system 100 in various configurations according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Like many toilets 40, the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 are configured to transition from a lowered position to a raised position and vice versa (e.g., by rotating about a hinge 46). Generally, for the seat 1, the lowered position 50 is the position where a user intends to sit on the toilet seat 1, and the raised position 48 is the stable position after the toilet seat 1 is raised (e.g., a position often adopted when a male user urinates). Similarly, for the lid 2, the lowered position 51 is the position where the lid 2 covers the seat 1 in the lowered position 50, and the raised position 49 is the stationary position after the lid 2 is raised, typically against the toilet tank.

[0060] Figures 3A - 3B Schematically shown is the lowered position 50 of the seat according to an exemplary embodiment. In Figure 3A the lid 2 is also in the lowered position 51. In Figure 3B the lid 2 is in the raised position 49. Although not shown, another configuration includes the seat 1 in the lowered position 50, where the toilet 40 does not have a lid 2. Instead, Figures 3C - 3D schematically shown is the raised position 48 of the seat. Figure 3C Shown is a toilet 40 without a lid 2, while Figure 3D shown is a toilet 40 with a lid 2 in the raised position 49.

[0061] In the exemplary embodiment, the lowered position 50 is a general indication of the position of the seat 1. In the lowered position 50, the bottom plane of the seat 1 (e.g., if the seat has a bump 16, the intersection of the surfaces of the bump 16 of the seat 1, or any component that first contacts the toilet bowl 5) is generally substantially parallel to the top plane of the toilet bowl 5 (e.g., from about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees).

[0062] In a schematic embodiment, the raised position 48 and the lowered position 50 are general indications of the positions of the seat 1. In the raised position 48, the bottom plane of the seat 1 is generally substantially perpendicular to the top plane of the toilet bowl 5 (e.g., about 80 - 115 degrees from the lowered position 50). In the lowered position 50, the bottom plane of the seat 1 is generally substantially horizontal and is placed directly or indirectly on the toilet bowl 5. In a similar manner, the raised position 49 of the lid 2 is a general indication of the position of the lid 2. In the raised position 49, the bottom plane of the lid 2 is generally substantially perpendicular to the top plane of the toilet bowl 5. In the lowered position 51, the bottom plane of the lid 2 is generally horizontal and is placed on the seat 1. However, the exact positions of the seat 1 and the lid 2 in their respective raised and lowered positions will vary from toilet to toilet. A person skilled in the art can easily identify the raised and lowered positions of the seat 1 and the lid 2, without being limited to specific angles or relatively fixed positions.

[0063] In various embodiments, "towards" the raised position 48 raising or forcing the toilet seat 1 can include raising the toilet seat 1 until the seat 1 reaches the raised position 48. In a similar manner, "towards" the raised position 49 raising or forcing the lid 2 can include raising the lid 2 until the lid 2 reaches the raised position 49. In some embodiments, the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 can be in the raised positions 48, 49 (e.g., held there by the delay device 54), and the user can reset the delay device by pressing on the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 "towards" the raised positions 48, 49, even though the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 are already in the raised positions 48, 49. Thus, even though the seat 1 may already be positioned in the raised position 48, the user can still "towards" the raised position 48 force / press on the seat 1.

[0064] In various embodiments, resetting the time delay can include a full restart, a partial restart (i.e., setting the time delay back to a number of seconds or minutes), or pausing the time delay (i.e., during the period of force application). In various embodiments, the magnitude of the reset of the time delay can be based on the force applied to the seat 1 or the lid 2, and / or the amount of time of the force applied to the seat 1 or the lid 2. For example, applying a force below a given threshold can partially reset or pause the time delay. In a schematic embodiment where the delay device 54 includes the suction cup 13, the material of the suction cup 13 can affect the amount of force used to reset the time delay to varying degrees. However, some embodiments can be configured to easily restart or partially restart the time delay when a normally applied user force is applied.

[0065] In a similar manner, even though the lid 2 may already be positioned in the raised position 49, the user can still "towards" the raised position 49 force / press the lid 2. In some embodiments, the toilet seat 1 can be indirectly lowered by the lowering device 52. For example, the lowering device 52 can operate on the lid 2, which simultaneously pushes the toilet seat 1 to the lowered position 50. The delay device 54 causes the lowering device 52 to delay the self-lowering of the toilet seat 1 towards the lowered position 50. Additionally or alternatively, the delay device 54 causes the lowering device 52 to delay the self-lowering of the lid 2 towards the lowered position 51.

[0066] Figure 4 A front view schematically shows a toilet seat 1 and a lid 2 in raised positions 48, 49 according to a schematic embodiment. The hinge 46 allows the toilet seat 1 to rotate from the raised position 48 to the lowered position 50 (e.g., the position where the toilet seat 1 contacts the toilet bowl 5), and to rotate to a plurality of positions between the raised position 48 and the lowered position 50, and vice versa. For example, as further discussed below, when the toilet seat 1 is lifted by the user to the raised position 48 and released (i.e., the force holding the toilet seat 1 in the raised position 48 is removed), some embodiments (e.g., self-lowering) start a time delay.

[0067] The toilet seat 1 has a contact surface on which the user sits when the toilet seat 1 is in the lowered position. In some embodiments, particularly in a commercial environment, the toilet seat 1 can have one or more bumps 16 configured to contact the toilet bowl 5. The bumps 16 can be formed of a durable material, either as a part of the toilet seat 1 or as a separate component attached later. The bumps 16 sandwich the weight of the user on the toilet seat 1 and the toilet bowl 5. Optionally, the toilet seat 1 can include a handle to assist the user in lifting and / or lowering the toilet seat 1. The hinge 46 couples the toilet seat 1 to the toilet bowl 5 such that the toilet seat 1 can rotate about a rotational axis 11 defined by a rotation axis 7.

[0068] As described above, the hinge 46 includes a hinge housing 3 that is substantially dust-proof and / or sealed. The housing 3 has a base 4 that is coupled to the toilet bowl 5 (e.g., via bolts). The connection between the hinge housing 3 and the housing base 4 is sealed to prevent the entry of liquid and dust during normal use and maintenance of the toilet seat 1. Additionally, a rotary seal also allows such a seal between the hinge housing 3, the housing base 4, and the rotation axis 7. Although considered to be substantially sealed, various embodiments can allow a small leakage of air between the internal compartments within the housing 3 such that the air pressure within the hinge housing 3 can equalize with the ambient conditions.

[0069] In various embodiments, the sealed housing 3 has an IP sealing rating with a first digit (protection against solid objects) of 5 or greater. In other words, the housing 3 is preferably sealed to limit the ingress of dust. Various embodiments may have a first digit of 6, i.e., complete dust protection. When dust enters the housing 3, the reliability of the delay system 54 may be undesirably affected, resulting in incorrect delay timing. Similarly, the sealed housing 3 may have an IP sealing rating with a second digit (protection against liquids) of 1 or greater. The ingress of fluid into the housing 3 is undesirable because, similar to dust and other solid objects, it may affect the reliability of the delay system 54. Various embodiments position the housing 3 within the perimeter 9 of the toilet bowl 5. Thus, the housing 3 may encounter fluids (e.g., from the toilet 40, the user, and / or cleaning solutions). Accordingly, various embodiments may have a seal with an IP rating of 5.1 or higher (e.g., IP sealing ratings 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 6.1, etc.). Some embodiments may have a higher IP rating (e.g., IP 5.5 or higher) to account for commercial use environments where high-pressure cleaning systems may be used (e.g., when cleaning with 2750 or other similar high-pressure cleaning equipment, maintaining the seal to prevent the ingress of liquids).

[0070] Some embodiments include a vent that is configured to allow air exchange through the housing 3 and the surrounding external environment (e.g., through a vent bolt that couples the housing 3 to the bowl 5). Such a vent advantageously allows the water vapor collected within the housing 3 to evaporate and / or equalize pressure during transportation or use. The vent is preferably covered by a waterproof mesh (e.g., a self-adhesive protective vent VE-80205) and / or is configured such that the vent is hidden in an area that is not subject to direct cleaning or exposure to water.

[0071] In various embodiments, the housing 3 may be formed (e.g., joined together) from a number of components. In some embodiments, the housing 3 may have movable components. The housing 3 provides a fixed seal around the delay device 54. In some embodiments, the housing 3 may be a "fixed-sealed housing" 3. In other words, the portions of the housing 3 that form a seal around the delay device 54 do not translate relative to each other. The fixed-sealed housing 3 may include one or more shafts 7 that assist in forming the seal. In various embodiments, one or more shafts 7 that form part of the seal may rotate relative to the housing 3 but do not translate. Advantageously, having a fixed-sealed housing 3 provides a robust seal that maintains the integrity of the housing 3 and provides durable operation. A schematic embodiment with a dynamic housing 3 having components that translate relative to each other undesirably provides an opportunity for contaminants and other dirt to more quickly disrupt the operation of the device.

[0072] Figures 5A - 5BSchematically shows a hinge 46 with a transparent housing 3. Specifically, Figure 5A Schematically shows a rear perspective view of the toilet seat 1 in the lowered position 50. Figure 5B Schematically shows a front perspective view of the toilet seat 1 in the raised position 48.

[0073] In some embodiments, the self - lowering toilet seat system 100 includes a lowering device 52 configured to cause the toilet seat 1 to self - lower towards the lowered position 50. In various embodiments, the lowering device 52 may include a spring 9 (e.g., a torsion spring 9), but may also include a linear compression or tension spring and / or a helical torsion spring.

[0074] As Figure 6A best seen, the torsion spring 9 of this configuration can be coupled (e.g., via a first bolt 58) to a fixed spring mount 8. At the other end, the torsion spring 9 is coupled to the shaft link 11 (e.g., via a second bolt 58, as Figure 6A best shown). The shaft link 11 is fixed to the shaft 7, and thus, when the seat 1 rotates, the shaft link 11 rotates with the shaft 7. Thus, when the seat 1 is lifted by a user, the torsion spring 9 is loaded (e.g., via the connection of the shaft link 11) and begins to apply a torque in the direction of causing the seat 1 to self - lower back to the lowered position 50.

[0075] Figures 6A - 6C Schematically shows a side view of the seat 1 when the seat 1 is lifted by a user from the lowered position 50 to the raised position 48. In Figure 6A , the seat is in the lowered position 50. In Figure 6B , the seat 1 is approaching the raised position 48, but the delay device 54 has not yet engaged (e.g., the suction cup 13 has not yet engaged with the plate 14). In Figure 6C , the seat 1 is in the raised position 48.

[0076] The shaft link 11 is coupled to the shaft 7 and to one end of the spring 9. When the seat 1 is lifted by a user towards the raised position 48, the spring 9 is loaded and applies a counter - torque in the direction of the unloaded lowered position 50. Since the spring 9 is coupled to the shaft link 11, the torque of the spring 9 is applied to the shaft link 11, which transfers this torque to the shaft 7 and then to the seat 1. Lowering the toilet seat 1 towards the lowered position 50 may include lowering the toilet seat until the seat 1 reaches the lowered position 50.

[0077] As previously described, it is desirable to provide a delay in the self-lifting of the toilet seat 1. Accordingly, the illustrative embodiment provides a delay device 54 that is configured to delay and / or slow down the self-lowering of the toilet seat 1 achieved by the lowering device 52. Preferably, the delay device 54 provides sufficient delay to allow the user to be ready to use the toilet 40 and to complete using the toilet 40. In the illustrative embodiment, the delay device 54 delays and / or slows down the self-lowering of the toilet seat 1 to the lowered position 50 for about 1 second to about 5 minutes.

[0078] When the toilet seat 1 is lifted by a user (e.g., by a user who wishes to lift the seat 1) to the lifted position 48, the movement of the seat 1 causes a corresponding movement of the engagement delay device 54 (e.g., within the housing 3). For example, as Figure 6B and Figure 6C shown, the delay device 54 is configured such that when the toilet seat 1 approaches or reaches the lifted position 48, the suction cup 13 is coupled to the attachment surface 56.

[0079] In the illustrative embodiment, when the seat approaches the lifted position 48, the suction cup 13 contacts the attachment surface 56. When the seat 1 reaches the lifted position 48, the suction cup 13 compresses on the surface 56 and expels the fluid (e.g., air or oil) between the suction cup 13 and the surface 56. This creates a pressure imbalance force such that when the seat 1 experiences torque from the lowering device 52 that biases the seat 1 towards the lowered position 50, the suction cup 13 uses this pressure imbalance force to "stick" to the surface 56 and delay the self-lowering of the seat 1.

[0080] In various embodiments, the delay in the self-lowering of the seat 1 by the delay device 54 is formed by integrating a controlled leakage channel 18 (discussed further below in detail) into the suction cup 13 or the plate 14 to allow the fluid to slowly leak back into the suction cup 13. Due to the force that separates the suction cup 13 and the plate 14 from the lowering device 52 and is translated to the delay device 54 via the link members 10, 11, and 12, (and the elastic memory of the suction cup) forces the fluid to leak into the suction cup 13. After sufficient fluid has entered to make the internal and external pressures of the suction cup 13 substantially equal, the suction cup 13 and the plate 14 can be easily separated. Carefully controlling the flow back into the suction cup 13 allows for the formation of an adjustable delay device 54 such that when sufficient fluid has re-entered the suction cup 13 to balance the pressure, the suction cup 13 no longer has any holding force, and the spring 9 simply self-lowers the seat 1 back to the lowered position 50. When this occurs, the suction cup 13 is driven back to their starting position via the link. Further, the suction cup 13 coupled to the plate 14 serves as the delay device 54, and the toilet seat 1 does not immediately self-lower after the user removes their lifting force, thus giving the user time to complete using the toilet before the delay expires.

[0081] Advantageously, the pressure - differential - based force that holds the suction cup 13 down against the plate 14 allows the user to lower the seat 1 to the down position 50 at any time during the duration of the delay device 54. If the force transferred to the delay device 54 caused by the force applied by the user on the seat 1 is greater than the holding force of the suction cup 13 on the plate 14, the delay device 54 disengages and allows the user to lower the seat to the down position 50. Further, compared to the relatively short lever arm of the suction cup 13 within the hinge 46, the user can relatively easily overcome the holding force of the suction cup 13 on the plate 14 because the user has a significantly longer lever arm at the tip of the seat 1. Additionally, the elasticity of the suction cup 13 means that the suction cup 13 can easily disengage from the plate 14 under a relatively low lowering force from the user, thus causing no harm to the user or damage to the seat and internal linkage components (discussed below).

[0082] The suction cup 13 can be mounted relative to the shaft 7 such that rotational movement from the toilet seat 1 is transmitted through the shaft 7 to the suction cup 13. Although the suction cup 13 is shown engaging the plate 14 when the toilet seat 1 is near the raised position 48, it should be understood that the position and / or extent of the plate 14 and the internal linkages (e.g., linkages 10, 11, 12) and the position and size of the suction cup 13 can be adjusted to engage at any point along the transition of the seat 1 from the down position 50 to the raised position 48.

[0083] The shaft linkage 11 can be coupled to the inter - linkage 12 (e.g., via the rotary linkage 15), and the inter - linkage 12 is fixed to the delay device 54 (e.g., the suction cup 13 and the plate 14), as further discussed below. Thus, movement of the toilet seat 1 can be transmitted through the shaft 7 and various linkages (e.g., linkages 10, 11, 12, etc.) to the delay device 54. In some embodiments, the second linkage 10 is coupled to the inter - linkage 12 (e.g., via the rotary linkage 16) to maintain the desired orientation of the delay device 54.

[0084] Further, some embodiments may include linkages (e.g., linkages 10, 11, 12) to transfer the rotational movement of the seat ring 1 to the suction cup 13, as the suction cup may operate most effectively when it travels linearly and is normally applied to a contact surface (e.g., surface 56 of the timing plate 14). The linkages may include a drive linkage 11 (also referred to as a shaft linkage) and a secondary linkage 10 rotatably attached to a pivot point 21. These two linkages may be rotatably attached to another intermediate linkage 12 via rotatable connection points 15 and 16, thereby forming a four-bar linkage. This configuration is advantageous because the suction cup 13 may be fixed to the intermediate linkage 12 to achieve a substantially vertical movement of the suction cup 13 relative to the plate surface 56 when the seat ring 1 moves to the lowered position 50 and contacts the timing plate 14, but to achieve rotation of the suction cup 13 when the seat ring 1 is in any other position. This allows for a compact design of the housing 3 and a robust, low-friction coupling between the suction cup 13 and the plate 14.

[0085] In an alternative embodiment, the seat ring 1 is held fixed to the rotating shaft 7 at the housing base of the seat ring 1. As Figure 7A shown, the shaft 7 translates the rotational movement of the seat ring 1 to a shaft linkage 11 rotatably fixed to the shaft 7. As Figure 7B and Figure 7C shown, the shaft linkage 11 in turn drives a linkage 32, which in turn drives a linkage 33, and a delay device 54 is mounted on the linkage 33. The linkage 33 is constrained to travel linearly, and thus, in some embodiments, Figures 7A - 7C the linkages shown in

[0086] Figures 7B - 7C translate the rotational movement of the seat ring 1 into a linear movement (e.g., similar to linear piston actuation). Figure 7A A perspective view of the device of Figure 7D is schematically shown. Figure 7A A rear perspective view of the device of Figure 7B is schematically shown. In Figure 7C the delay device 54 is disengaged. In

[0087] When the seat ring 1 is lifted, the shaft linkage 11 causes the suction cup 13 to move relatively unobstructed through the fluid medium via the pin linkages 32 and 33 until the seat ring 1 approaches or reaches the lifted position 48. Figure 8A and Figure 8B Other linkages, such as the planar change linkage 30 shown in Figure 9The six-link 31 shown and other links such as barrel cam links, rack and pinion links, etc. are other embodiments of the motion translation system, which allow linear or substantially linear motion of the suction cup when the suction cup 13 approaches and contacts the plate 14. In some other embodiments, there is a direct link between the seat ring 1 and the delay device 54, where the suction cup 13 is directly attached to the shaft link 11. Accordingly, the delay device 54 may have an abnormal pull-off force due to the rotation of the seat ring 1, thereby affecting the suction cup 13. Although this can advantageously simplify the linkages, it undesirably requires a taller housing to accommodate the end effector 13 of the delay device 54 rotating a full 90 degrees or more with the seat ring. Desirably, the abnormal force may also deform the shape of the suction cup, resulting in unpredictable / inconsistent timing delays.

[0088] In various embodiments, the delay device 54 can include one or more suction cups 13 that are configured to couple with a timing plate 14 having a contact surface 56. In various embodiments, the shape, hardness, and / or positioning of the suction cup 13 in combination with the size and placement of the fluid leakage channels 18 are configured to provide the desired time delay. Specifically, when the suction cup 13 disengages from the contact surface 56, the seat ring 1 begins to lower itself due to the torque from the lowering device 52 (e.g., including gravity). Preferably, both the contact surface 56 and the suction cup 13 are kept clean of contaminants to allow for consistent time delays. For example, waste and / or dust on either the contact surface 56 or the suction cup 13 results in unreliable and / or premature time delays. Accordingly, various embodiments seal the contact surface 56 and / or the suction cup 13 within a dust-proof housing 3 via a rotary seal 17.

[0089] However, as discussed further below, the suction cup 13 and / or the timing plate 14 can include one or more controlled leakage channels 18. In some embodiments, the controlled leakage channels 18 can be integrated into the suction cup 13 by using a material having a known and suitable overall porosity. Similarly, when the material used for the plate 14 has an appropriate overall porosity, the timing plate 14 itself can serve as a controlled leakage channel 18. The controlled leakage channels 18 can also be augmented with additional filters or other flow-reducing materials (e.g. covered by a porous PTFE material). Depending on the manufacturing method, the controlled leakage channels 18 may be too large to achieve the desired time delay. Thus, the exemplary embodiment may further provide a flow reducing material in or above the leakage channels 18 to limit the flow rate of the airflow through the channels 18. In various embodiments, to provide an appropriate time delay range, the flow reducing material may be configured to provide an airflow rate between about 0.01 L / hr / cm² at a pressure differential (deltaP) of 70 mbar to about 50 L / hr / cm² at a deltaP of 70 mbar. More specifically, the flow reducing material may be configured to provide an airflow rate between about 0.05 L / hr / cm² at a deltaP of 70 mbar to about 0.1 L / hr / cm² at a deltaP of 70 mbar.

[0090] In other embodiments, as Figure 10D shown, the plate 14 may include grooves 57 such that when the suction cup 13 contacts the plate 14, the grooves 57 span the distance between the inner and outer sides of the suction cup 13, thereby allowing a controlled amount of fluid to flow into the suction cup and serve as the controlled leakage channel 18. From the perspective of mass manufacturing, this configuration has the advantage of simplicity because the plate 14 can be directly integrated into the housing base 4. In another embodiment, the plate 14 or the suction cup 13 may be coated with an adhesive substance such that when the suction cup 13 contacts the plate 14, the suction cup 13 adheres to the plate 14 using a temporary adhesive force. In such an embodiment, the suction cup 13 may be composed of a rigid material.

[0091] Figure 10A The timing plate 14 according to the exemplary embodiment is schematically shown. In some embodiments, the timing plate 14 has a smooth surface 56 to ensure a strong seal between the suction cup 13 and the surface 56. Various embodiments may form the plate 14 or the surface 56 from, for example, a smooth, shiny plastic. Some other embodiments may form the plate 14 or the surface 56 from acrylic, HDPE, Teflon, glass, and / or polished metal.

[0092] As previously described, the timing board 14 can include one or more controlled leakage channels 18. The controlled leakage channels 18 can include one or more small holes / via holes in the board 14 that are configured to allow a slow and controlled fluid flow (e.g., air, viscous oil) between the suction cup 13 and the board 14 when the suction cup 13 engages the board 14. Placing these controlled leakage channels 18 in the board 14 such that they are aligned with the center of the suction cup 13 allows fluid to be constantly drawn back into the suction cup 13 when the linkage pulls the suction cup 13 via the lowering spring 9. Preferably, various embodiments use several small holes with a diameter of 0.1 mm - 0.5 mm to achieve a preferred timing range of 5 seconds - 45 seconds. However, some embodiments can have larger small holes (e.g., diameter >.5 mm), which advantageously reduces the likelihood of the controlled leakage channels 18 being blocked by dust particles or other contaminants. Additionally or alternatively, the controlled leakage into the suction cup can travel via the attachment surface 56, where the attachment surface 56 can include grooves 57, porous material, and / or textured material.

[0093] To assist in preventing dust particles from passing through the controlled leakage channels 18 and to help reduce the fluid flow through the controlled leakage channels, some embodiments can include a filter above the controlled leakage channels 18. Examples of filter materials include Tyvek, heat-pressed Teflon powder (e.g., Porex), tightly woven fabric, and vapor-permeable air barrier tape. The diameter of the channels 18 and the filter permeability have a significant impact on timing. While the small hole / filter arrangement is advantageous for delaying devices, other methods for causing a controlled flow through the controlled leakage channels to control the delay device 54 include needle valves, textured surfaces, porous surfaces 56, porous suction cups 13, etc.

[0094] Figures 10B - 10CAnother embodiment of the plate 14 according to a schematic embodiment is schematically illustrated. The plate 14 may include a quick release channel 18B at a specified distance from the controlled leakage channel 18A. Since the suction cup 13 adheres to the plate 14 due to pressure imbalance and adhesive viscosity, it may be difficult to control the precise release point of the suction cup 13. When it is about to expire, the suction cup 13 may be held on the plate 14 only by its outermost edge. At this time, the release point uncertainty may be very high. To avoid dealing with this uncertainty, a quick release channel 18B may be added to the plate 14 at a specific radial distance away from the controlled leakage channel 18A. When the suction cup 13 is first compressed, these small holes 18B are covered by the suction cup 13 material, so no fluid can be transmitted into the suction cup 13. However, when the suction cup 13 deflects to a certain level after enough fluid has flowed in through the controlled leakage channel 18A, the quick release channel 18B (optionally covered by a filter) is connected to the fluid collection point at the center of the suction cup 13. The quick release channel 18B allows a larger flow rate and basically immediately allows enough flow to equalize the pressure and quickly release the suction cup 13.

[0095] In various embodiments, the characteristics of the suction cup 13 can eliminate the problems presented by the uncertain release points seen in non-ideal suction cups 13. Various embodiments may use a flat suction cup 13 with a low nominal deflection. It should also be noted that in various embodiments, the suction cup 13 and the link move through room temperature air. However, some embodiments provide a new ambient fluid (e.g., viscous oil). Accordingly, the size of the controlled leakage channel 18 required to achieve the same flow rate as air becomes much larger, while protecting the suction cup 13 elastomer from oxidation. This also advantageously solves problems such as dust clogging the system. Additionally, if the suction cup 13 is mounted on the end of an oil-filled piston actuated by a cylinder, the circular plate 14 may be attached to the piston, and its outer diameter is similar to the inner diameter of the cylinder. Doing so forms a damping effect that eliminates any potential slamming of the seat ring 1 on the way to the lowered position 50 (e.g., by lowering the device 52), and further may eliminate the need for additional damper components (e.g., damper 19).

[0096] It should be understood that various embodiments may provide a passive lowering device 52 and / or a delaying device 54. The biasing system 52 and / or the delaying device 54 may operate without using power-driven components. Further, the lowering device 52 and / or the delaying device 54 advantageously operate without the need for a power connection or battery replacement. Thus, the lowering device 52 and / or the delaying device 54 reduce the need for maintenance and additionally allow use in a toilet 40 (e.g., a portable toilet) that is not close to an electrical connection. Even further, the schematic embodiment provides a single action for activating the lowering device 52 and the delaying device 54 (e.g., lowering the toilet seat 1).

[0097] Figure 11 Schematically shows the process of self - lowering toilet seat 1 and / or lid 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The process starts at step 1102, which provides a self - lowering toilet seat system 100 as described herein. Figure 12A Shows a toilet seat system 100, where the seat 1 and the lid 2 are in the lowered positions 50, 51. Generally, the self - lowering toilet seat system 100 can be provided as described elsewhere in this application. For example, the self - lowering system 100 can include a seat 1, a lid 2, and a hinge 46 that rotatably couples the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 to the toilet bowl 5. Sealed within the housing 3 are a lowering device 52 and a delay device 54. The lowering device 52 can act directly on the seat 1, directly on the lid 2, and / or directly on both the seat 1 and the lid 2. As discussed further below, multiple lowering devices 52 and / or delay devices 54 can be sealed within the housing 3 (e.g., one set for the seat 1 and a second set for the lid 2).

[0098] In various embodiments, the toilet seat system 100 includes a toilet seat 1, a lid 2, a toilet bowl 5, and a hinge 46. However, some embodiments can omit the lid 2. Generally, the toilet bowl 5 is already installed in the desired location. Thus, the system 100 can include a toilet seat 1 and a hinge 46, and the toilet seat 1 and the hinge 46 can be retrofitted to couple with the toilet bowl 5. In various embodiments, the hinge 46 (e.g., the housing 3 and the housing base 4) can be configured to be bolted or otherwise coupled to the toilet bowl 5. As described below, the hinge 46 is also coupled to the seat 1 and preferably allows the seat 1 and the lid 2 to move and / or rotate relative to the bowl 5.

[0099] The self - lowering toilet seat system 100 includes a lowering device 52 that is configured to self - lower the seat 1 towards the lowered position 50. The system 100 also includes a delay device 54 that is configured to delay the lowering device 52 from causing the toilet seat 1 to self - lower to the lowered position 50. Preferably, the delay device 54 and / or the lowering device 52 are located within the sealed hinge housing 3 and the housing base 4. For example, this prevents or reduces the amount of contaminants, dirt, waste (e.g., urine), and / or dust that can accumulate between the suction cup 13 of the delay device 54 and the attachment surface 56. This advantageously allows the delay device 54 to operate more reliably and requires less component maintenance relative to an unsealed delay device 54.

[0100] In some embodiments, the self-lowering toilet seat system 100 includes a lowering device 52 configured to lower the toilet seat 1 towards a lowered position 50. In various embodiments, the lowering device 52 may include a spring 9 (e.g., a torsion spring 9), but may also include a linear compression spring or a tension spring and / or a helical torsion spring.

[0101] Figure 13 A transparent housing 3 showing details of the toilet seat lowering system 100 is schematically illustrated according to a schematic embodiment. Specifically, Figure 13 A front view of the toilet seat 1 in a raised position 48 is schematically illustrated (similar to Figure 4 ). The lid 2 is also shown in a lowered position 49.

[0102] As Figure 13 best shown, in order to achieve proper mounting of both the lid 2 and the seat 1 about the hinge 46, the seat 1 is coupled to the shaft 7S via a fixed connection point 105. In some embodiments, the shaft 7S rotates about a hinge bearing 17 and translates the rotational movement of the seat 1 directly to the lowering device 52 and the delay device 54. The shaft 7S is then supported via a secondary hinge bearing 17 and then coupled to the seat damper 108. The lid 2 is linked to the shaft 7L via a fixed connection point 105. As Figure 13 shown, the shaft 7L includes the output rotating shaft of the lid damper 107.

[0103] It is also advantageous to include one or more slow-closing dampers for both the seat 1 and the lid 2 to avoid slamming into the toilet bowl 5 when they are lowered. Figure 13 A configuration of two dampers working in series with the lowering device is shown. The damper 108 is attached to the fixed housing 3 and mounted to the shaft via a connector part 103. Further, the damper 108 translates the damping force to the seat via the shaft 7 and the fixed connection 105. The damper 107 is also attached to the housing 3 and then passes through the seat 1 via a freely rotating connection 106. The damper 107 further extends into the lid 2 via the fixed connection 105. The seat shaft 7S and the lid shaft 7L are separated by a gap 111 to form two independently rotating shaft sections.

[0104] Inside the housing 3 is a delay device 54. Additionally, the housing 3 and the housing base 4 may contain the lowering device 52 and linkages. In some embodiments, as Figure 14 shown, the suction cup 13 and the plate 14 are further isolated within the housing 3 using a bellows 55 or other seal that encloses the plate 14 and the suction cup 13 in a completely dust-proof manner while still allowing the full range of motion of the suction cup 13.

[0105] In step 1104, the user raises the toilet seat 1. Figure 12B The toilet seat 1 is schematically shown in the raised position 48. In a schematic embodiment having a lid 2, the lid 2 is raised before or by the lifting force applied to the seat 1. Alternatively, some embodiments may completely omit the lid 2. When the toilet seat 1 is raised by the user, the lowering device 52 begins to provide a counter-torque to the seat 1 towards the lowered position 50. At a point during the raising of the seat 1, preferably when the seat approaches the raised position 48, the delay device 54 engages such that the toilet seat 1 remains in the raised position 48 until the user removes the force they applied to the seat 1.

[0106] Then, the process proceeds to step 1106 where a time delay begins once the lifting force applied by the user is removed. When the lifting force applied by the user is removed, the time delay 54 begins. As previously described, the delay device 54 may include a suction cup 13 and a plate 14. In some other embodiments, the delay device 54 may include some other type of adhesive. Further still, some embodiments may additionally or alternatively include a gear-based delay device 54 or a fluid-channel-based delay device 54.

[0107] Various embodiments include an adjustment knob in the housing that is configured such that the user can adjust the length of the delay of the lowering device 52 of the seat 1 and / or the lid 2. Various embodiments may provide a knob that changes the balance spring torque and / or restricts the airflow through the controlled leak channel 18.

[0108] In step 1108, the process asks whether the user applies a lifting force to the seat 1 and / or the lid 2 before the time delay expires? If so, then in some embodiments, the time delay is reset. In some embodiments, the time delay may be partially reset or paused based on the force applied by the user (e.g., based on the hardness of the suction cup 13 and the force with which the user presses). However, in some other embodiments, the time delay pauses when the user applies a lifting force. Thus, if the user applies a threshold lifting force to the toilet seat 1 before the delay expires, the toilet seat 1 does not lower itself via the lowering device 52. Instead, the process returns to step 1106 where the delay device 54 is reset, partially reset, or paused. The lifting force may be an indirect force, such as the lifting force from the user applied to the seat 1 to raise the lid 2.

[0109] Although the delay device 54 has initiated a time delay before the toilet seat 1 and / or the lid 2 is lowered, various embodiments advantageously allow the user to lower the toilet seat 1 and / or the lid 2 before the time delay expires. For example, various embodiments have a delay device 54 that includes a suction cup 13 and a plate 14, as described elsewhere in this application. The user can apply a lowering force to overcome the delay device 54. However, some embodiments may include a latch system that prevents premature or accidental termination of the time delay. The latch system can include, for example, a button or a latch that is disengaged to lower the lid 2 or the toilet seat 1 from the raised position. Additionally or alternatively, the latch system can be used to lock the toilet seat and / or the lid in the lowered position. This can be a beneficial child-proof feature that will allow the user to avoid any situation where a young child or a pet may accidentally open the lid or the toilet seat and fall in.

[0110] If the user does not reapply a raising force to the toilet seat 1 and the optional latch system is not activated, the process moves to step 1110, in which the toilet seat 1 is lowered after the time delay expires.

[0111] Figure 12C The toilet seat 1 is schematically shown in the lowered position 50 with a freely rotatable lid. In some embodiments, the lid 2 can rotate freely, and the lowering device 52 can be operated to lower the toilet seat from the raised position to the lowered position after a delay. If, before use, both the toilet seal 1 and the lid 2 are in the lowered position 50, the user manually raises the lid before use. Thus, when the lid 2 is raised, the toilet seat 1 remains in the lowered position 50, and the user can sit down and use the toilet seat in a conventional manner. When the lid 2 and the toilet seat 1 are raised together, the self-lowering system 100 automatically self-lowers the toilet seat 1 after the time delay expires, while the freely rotatable lid 2 remains in the vertical position unless (or until) it is manually lowered by the user.

[0112] However, some embodiments can be configured such that when the toilet seat 1 is self-lowered, the lid 2 is manually moved downward by the toilet seat 1. To this end, various embodiments can include a friction clutch mechanism that couples the toilet seat 1 and the lid 2.

[0113] For example, in use, the toilet seat 1 can be in the lowered position 50 and the lid 2 can be in the upright position 49. Further, the user can sit on the toilet seat 1 and use it in a conventional manner without further interaction. In this example, the toilet seat 1 remains in the lowered position 50, and the lid 2 remains in the raised position 49. However, when the user raises the toilet seat 1 (either alone or together with the lid 2), the lowering device 52 self-lowers the toilet seat 1 to the lowered position 50 after the time delay expires, and the lid 2 is also lowered due to the linked friction clutch mechanism (as described below with reference to Figure 15 ).

[0114] In some embodiments, as Figure 13 shown, the lowering device 52 is coupled to the seat ring 1 via the shaft 7S as described above. The dampers 107 and 108 can also be installed in the same manner.

[0115] Figure 15 A lid closing system 101 that couples the downward movement of the seat ring 1 to the lid 2 according to a schematic embodiment is schematically shown. The lid closing system 101 can be, for example, a friction clutch mechanism. The lid closing system 101 can be installed inside or outside the housing 3. The lid closing system 101 operates based on the torque difference between the seat ring and the lid. When the user manually lifts the lid 2 from the lowered position 51 to the upright position 49, the torque generated by friction in the lid closing system 101 is much smaller than the torque caused by the weight of the horizontal seat ring 1, thus allowing the lid 2 to be lifted without moving the seat ring 1.

[0116] When the seat ring 1 and the lid 2 are both in the upright positions 48, 49, they have short horizontal lever arms relative to the shaft 7 and thus also have low gravitational torques relative to the shaft 7. Therefore, when the seat ring 1 begins to be lowered via the lowering device 52, the low gravitational torque of the lid 2 in the upright position enables the friction in the lid closing system 101 to overcome the relatively low torque of the lid 2. When the seat ring 1 closes itself towards the lowered position 50, this effectively locks the seat ring 1 and the lid 2 together, causing the lid 2 to move downward with the seat ring 1. Figure 12D The seat ring 1 and the lid 2 lowered to the lowered positions 50, 51 by the lowering device 52 after the expiration of the delay are schematically shown.

[0117] Figures 16A - 16B An embodiment of a seat ring lowering system 100 according to a schematic embodiment is schematically shown. The schematic embodiment can include multiple lowering devices 52 and / or delay devices 54. For example, Figures 16A - 16B a layout of dual lowering devices 52 and delay devices 54 within a single housing 3 is shown. One set of the lowering devices 52 and the delay devices 54 operate to lower the seat ring 1, and the other set of the lowering devices 52 and the delay devices 54 operate to lower the lid 2. Although shown in a single housing 3, the seat ring lowering device 52 and the seat ring delay device 54 can be in a different housing 3 from the lid lowering device 52 and the lid delay device 54. Additionally, although the rotational axes of the shaft 7 for the seat ring lowering device 52 and the shaft 7 for the lid lowering device 52 are shown as offset and parallel, it should be understood that some embodiments can be coaxial (e.g., see Figure 16B ). However, positioning the shaft 7 to be parallel can advantageously allow the housing 3 to have a smaller circumference.

[0118] In some embodiments, contrary to the seat ring 1, the lowering system 100 lowers the lid 2. Correspondingly, in some embodiments, the seat ring 1 can rotate freely. After a time delay, the toilet seat lid 2 can be driven by the self-lowering device 52 while the seat ring 1 remains substantially free to rotate. For example, the user can only raise the lid 2 to use the toilet with the seat ring 1 in the lowered position. In this case, the self-lowering system 100 is configured to lower the lid 2 after a preset time delay, which preferably has a sufficient length (e.g., 10 minutes or longer) to allow most users to complete their use and stand up from the seat before the lid 2 is released.

[0119] In another usage scenario, the user can raise both the lid 2 and the seat ring 1 simultaneously to use the toilet with the seat ring 1 in the upright position (usually a male in a standing position). Further, the lid 2 can be held in the raised position until the delay device 54 expires. Then, the lowering device 52 lowers the lid 2 towards the lowered position 51. The downward movement of the lid 2 also pushes the seat ring 1 towards the lowered position 50. Various embodiments can include a mechanical damper 108 to partially restrain the seat ring 1 and prevent it from falling too quickly and hitting the toilet bowl 5.

[0120] In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the lowering system 100 to lower both the lid 2 and the seat ring 1. For this purpose, both the seat ring 1 and the lid 2 can have their own independent lowering devices 52 and delay devices 54.

[0121] Each of the two independent lowering devices 52 and delay devices 54 can be configured as previously described. In various embodiments, the time delays associated with the two independent lowering devices 52 can be the same or different. Additionally, the illustrative embodiments can include two separate hinge housings 3, one coupled to the lid 2 and the other coupled to the seat ring 3.

[0122] When the lid delay is set to be shorter than the seat ring delay, the expiration of the lid delay may cause the seat ring 1 to be prematurely forced downward under the load of the lid 2. To avoid this, various embodiments have a time delay for lowering the seat ring 1 that is equal to or shorter than the time delay for lowering the lid 2, such that the lid 2 is not released before the seat ring 1.

[0123] Various embodiments can be configured such that the lid delay is much longer than the seat ring delay as a way to accommodate people sitting on the seat for a long time. For example, the lid delay device 54 can be set to delay the lid in the upright position for between about 1 minute and about 60 minutes (e.g., 5 minutes to 50 minutes), thus providing sufficient time for most users.

[0124] Figure 11A method of self-lowering a toilet seat 1 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention is described. It should be noted that this method substantially simplifies a longer process that might typically be used. Thus, Figure 11 The method shown may have many other steps that a person skilled in the art might use. Additionally, some of these steps may be carried out in a different order than shown, or simultaneously. Moreover, some of these steps may be optional in some embodiments. Thus, the process 1100 is merely an exemplary process according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, a person skilled in the art may modify the process appropriately.

[0125] As used in this specification and the claims, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents. For example, a reference to "a lowering device" in the singular includes a plurality of lowering devices, and a reference to "a suction cup" in the singular includes one or more suction cups and equivalents known to those skilled in the art. Thus, in various embodiments, any reference to the singular includes the plural, and any reference to more than one component may include the singular.

[0126] Although various creative embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision various other means and / or structures for performing the functions and / or obtaining the results and / or advantages described herein, and each such variation and / or modification is considered to be within the scope of the creative embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily understand that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are exemplary, and the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on the specific manner in which the teachings of the present invention are utilized. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to determine, many equivalents to the specific creative embodiments described herein only by routine experimentation.

[0127] Accordingly, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are presented by way of example only, and that within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, inventive embodiments may be practiced in ways other than as specifically described and claimed. The inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. Moreover, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the invention of the present disclosure. The disclosed embodiments or portions thereof may be combined in ways not listed above and / or not expressly claimed. Accordingly, one or more features from various disclosed examples and embodiments may be combined in various ways. For example, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates, to the extent possible, that one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

[0128] Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, examples of which have been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though the acts are shown as sequential in exemplary embodiments.

[0129] Although the foregoing discussion discloses various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be clear that those skilled in the art may make various modifications to achieve some of the advantages of the present invention without departing from the true scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An auto-lowering toilet seat system, comprising: Toilet pan; Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured to be sat on by a user; Hinge, the hinge rotatably coupling the toilet seat and the toilet pan, the hinge being configured such that the toilet seat is capable of being switched between a lowered position and a raised position; Lowering device, the lowering device being configured to cause the toilet seat to lower itself towards the lowered position; Fixed-sealed hinge housing, the hinge housing having a mechanical seat delay device located therein, the seat delay device being configured to cause a seat time delay before the lowering device causes the toilet seat to lower towards the lowered position, the seat delay device being engaged by a user applying a seat lifting force to raise the toilet seat towards the raised position and removing the seat lifting force from the toilet seat, the seat delay device being configured to reset the seat time delay when the user reapplies the lifting force before the seat delay device has expired.

2. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, further comprising: Lid, the lid being rotatably coupled to the hinge.

3. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 2, further comprising a coupling member located between the lid and the seat, such that when the coupling member engages, the lid is lowered when the seat is lowered by the seat delay device.

4. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, wherein the duration of the seat time delay is user-adjustable.

5. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 2, further comprising: Second lowering device, the second lowering device being configured to cause the lid to lower itself towards the lowered position; Lid delay device, the lid delay device being located within the sealed hinge housing, the lid delay device being configured to cause a lid time delay before the lowering device causes the lid to lower towards the lowered position, the lid delay device being engaged by a user applying a lid lifting force to raise the lid towards the raised position and removing the lid lifting force from the lid, the lid delay device being configured to reset the lid time delay when the user reapplies the lifting force before the lid delay device has expired.

6. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 5, wherein the lid time delay is equal to or greater than the seat time delay.

7. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 5, further comprising a latching system configured to prevent the lid and / or the seat from moving from the lowered position towards the raised position when the latching system engages.

8. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 5, wherein the lid delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface, wherein the temporary adhesion of the suction cup to the attachment surface prevents the lid from auto-lowering to the lowered position.

9. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 8, wherein the attachment surface includes one or more controlled leakage channels, and the leakage channels are covered with an airflow restricting material configured to restrict the airflow rate through the channels.

10. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, wherein the seat delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface, wherein the temporary adhesion of the suction cup to the attachment surface prevents the toilet seat from auto-lowering to the lowered position.

11. The auto-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, wherein the perimeter of the housing fits within a coverage area defined by the perimeter of the toilet.

12. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, further comprising a damper, wherein the damper is located on the seat and / or the lid.

13. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, further comprising a first shaft and a second shaft, wherein the first shaft is coupled to the seat, the second shaft is coupled to the lid, and the first shaft and the second shaft are coaxial.

14. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, further comprising a first shaft and a second shaft, wherein the first shaft is coupled to the seat, the second shaft is coupled to the lid, and the first shaft and the second shaft rotate about the same axis of rotation.

15. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, further comprising a first shaft and a second shaft, wherein the first shaft is coupled to the seat, the second shaft is coupled to the lid, and the axes of rotation of the seat and the lid are fixed relative to each other.

16. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 2, further comprising a second hinge housing having a second lowering device and a second delay device for the lid.

17. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 1, wherein the delay device is engaged when the seat is lifted to the lifted position.

18. A self - lowering toilet seat lid system, comprising: Toilet pan; Toilet seat lid, the toilet seat lid being configured to rotate relative to the toilet seat; Hinge, the hinge rotatably coupling the lid and the toilet pan, the hinge being configured such that the lid is capable of being switched between a lowered position and a raised position; Lowering device, the lowering device being configured to cause the lid to lower itself towards the lowered position; Sealed hinge housing, wherein the hinge housing has a mechanical delay device located therein, the delay device being configured to cause a lid time delay before the lowering device causes the lid to lower towards the lowered position, the delay device being engaged by a user applying a lid lifting force to raise the lid towards the raised position and removing the lid lifting force from the lid, the delay device being configured to reset the lid time delay if the user reapplies the lifting force before the delay device has expired.

19. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 18, further comprising: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being rotatably coupled to the hinge.

20. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 18, wherein the duration of the lid time delay is user - adjustable.

21. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 18, wherein the lid time delay is between about 1 minute and about 50 minutes.

22. The self - lowering toilet seat system according to claim 18, further comprising a latch system configured to prevent the lid and / or the seat from moving towards the lifted position when the latch system is engaged.

23. The self-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 18, wherein the lid delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface, and the temporary adhesion of the suction cup to the attachment surface causes the lid to be delayed in self-lowering to the lowered position.

24. The self-lowering toilet seat system according to claim 23, wherein the attachment surface includes one or more controlled leakage channels.

25. A self-lowering toilet seat system, comprising: Toilet pan; Hinge, the hinge rotatably coupling the toilet pan to the seat and / or the lid, the hinge being configured such that the seat and / or the lid is capable of being switched between a lowered position and a raised position; Lowering device, the lowering device being configured to cause the seat and / or the lid to lower itself towards the lowered position; A hinge housing having a mechanical seat ring delay device therein, the seat ring delay device configured to cause a seat ring time delay before the lowering device lowers the seat ring and / or the lid towards the lowered position, the seat ring delay device being engaged by raising the toilet seat towards the raised position, the seat ring delay device configured to reset the seat ring time delay when the toilet seat is forced towards the raised position before the seat ring delay device has expired, wherein the mechanical delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface.

26. The system according to claim 25, wherein the temporary coupling of the suction cup to the attachment surface causes the seat and / or the lid to be delayed in self-lowering to the lowered position.

27. The system according to claim 25, wherein the hinge housing is fixedly sealed.

28. The system according to claim 25, further comprising a second lowering device configured to cause the seat and / or the lid that is not self-lowered by the first lowering device to self-lower.

29. The system according to claim 28, further comprising a lid delay device that engages by raising the lid toward the raised position, the lid delay device being configured to reset the lid time delay when the lid is forced toward the raised position before the seat delay device has expired.

30. A device, comprising: A housing having a mechanical seat ring delay device therein, the housing configured to be coupled to a toilet bowl, the housing including a hinge configured to rotatably couple the toilet bowl to the seat ring and / or lid such that the seat ring and / or the lid is convertible between a lowered position and a raised position. The housing has a seat ring delay device therein, the seat ring delay device configured to cause a seat ring time delay before a lowering device lowers the seat ring and / or the lid towards the lowered position, the seat ring delay device being engaged by raising the toilet seat towards the raised position, the seat ring delay device configured to reset the seat ring time delay when the toilet seat is forced towards the raised position before the seat ring delay device has expired.

31. The device according to claim 30, wherein the mechanical delay device includes a suction cup and an attachment surface.

32. The device according to claim 30, wherein the housing is sealed.

33. The device according to claim 30, wherein the housing is fixedly sealed.

34. A method for a self-lowering toilet seat, the method comprising: A self-lowering device is provided, the self-lowering device comprising: A housing having a mechanical seat ring delay device therein, the housing being coupled to a toilet bowl, the housing including a hinge configured to rotatably couple the toilet bowl to the seat ring and / or lid such that the seat ring and / or the lid is convertible between a lowered position and a raised position. The housing has a seat ring delay device therein, the seat ring delay device configured to cause a seat ring time delay before a lowering device lowers the seat ring and / or the lid towards the lowered position, the seat ring delay device being engaged by raising the toilet seat towards the upright position, the seat ring delay device configured to reset the seat ring time delay when the toilet seat is forced towards the raised position before the seat ring delay device has expired; raising the seat ring and / or the lid towards the raised position to engage a delay system that causes the seat ring and / or the lid to be lowered by the lowering device with a delay. Lowering the seat ring and / or the lid by the lowering device.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein the delay system provides a pre-determined time delay.

36. The method according to claim 35, further comprising: Forcing the seat ring and / or the lid towards the raised position at any time before the predetermined time delay has expired to reset the predetermined time delay.

37. The method according to claim 34, further comprising manually lowering the toilet seat and / or the lid at any time before the expiration of the pre-determined time delay without damaging the delay device or the lowering device.

38. The method according to claim 34, wherein the lid is freely rotatable.

39. The method according to claim 34, wherein the mechanical delay device comprises a suction cup and an attachment surface.

40. The method according to claim 39, further comprising a leakage channel passing through the attachment surface, wherein the leakage channel is covered with a flow-limiting material.

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