Closestool

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to a toilet, in particular to a vacuum toilet including a base including a toilet bowl, a sump tube, and a tank coupled to the toilet bowl via the sump tube. A vacuum generator is coupled to the tank. The vacuum generator is configured to apply a first pressure during a flush cycle and a second pressure during a drain cycle. In one embodiment, a vacuum toilet includes a toilet bowl, a drain valve compartment, a tank coupled to the toilet bowl, and a vacuum generator including a high pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment and a low pressure outlet connected to the tank.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 632,287, filed April 10, 2024 (Docket No. 010222-23059A-US) and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 747,664, filed January 21, 2025 (Docket No. 010222-23059B-US), the entire contents of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to toilets. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to toilets having features that reduce water consumption. BACKGROUND

[0004] In view of environmental and economic considerations, it would be advantageous to reduce the amount of fresh water used during a flush cycle of a toilet. During each flush cycle, water is used to perform several functions, for example, water is used to perform seal restoration, odor prevention, waste removal, bowl cleaning, and drain line transmission. Reducing the amount of water used with each flush can negatively impact one or more of the functions of water during the flush cycle. Accordingly, there is a need for apparatuses and methods for reducing the amount of fresh water used during a flush cycle while maintaining the performance of the several functions performed by water during the flush cycle. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides a vacuum toilet comprising:

[0006] a base including a toilet bowl;

[0007] a sump pipe;

[0008] a tank coupled to the bowl via the sump pipe; and

[0009] a vacuum generator coupled to the tank, wherein the vacuum generator is configured to apply a first pressure during a flush cycle and a second pressure during a drain cycle.

[0010] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding, further comprising:

[0011] a sump valve configured to selectively open the sump pipe between the toilet bowl and the tank.

[0012] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding, further comprising:

[0013] a drain valve configured to empty the tank to a septic tank path.

[0014] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0015] a pump configured to evacuate the tank to the septic tank path.

[0016] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0017] a sump valve configured to selectively open the sump pipe between the toilet bowl and the tank, wherein the sump valve is open during a first time period and the drain valve is open during a second time period after the first time period.

[0018] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0019] a vacuum valve between the vacuum generator and the tank and configured to selectively connect the vacuum generator to the tank.

[0020] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0021] a reverse vacuum valve between the vacuum generator and the tank and configured to selectively connect the vacuum generator to the tank.

[0022] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0023] a controller configured to actuate a valve driver in response to the flush cycle or the drain cycle.

[0024] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0025] a user input device configured to receive input for the flush cycle or the drain cycle.

[0026] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein a floor of the tank is sloped.

[0027] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0028] a water supply valve configured to provide water to the toilet bowl.

[0029] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0030] a sensor configured to detect sensor data indicative of contents in the bowl, wherein the water supply valve actuates in response to the sensor data.

[0031] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor, a chemical sensor, a turbidity sensor, a collision sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an image sensor.

[0032] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sensor comprises a weight sensor, a pressure sensor, a rotational load sensor, or a vacuum sensor.

[0033] The present application also provides a method for flushing a toilet, the method comprising:

[0034] opening a sump valve connecting a toilet bowl to a storage tank;

[0035] providing water to the toilet bowl to clean the toilet bowl;

[0036] opening a vacuum valve;

[0037] closing the sump valve;

[0038] closing the vacuum valve; and

[0039] emptying the storage tank.

[0040] In an example method of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0041] receiving sensor data from a sensor indicative of contents in the toilet bowl;

[0042] performing a comparison of the sensor data to one or more thresholds; and

[0043] selecting the amount of water based on the comparison.

[0044] In an example method of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor, a chemical sensor, a turbidity sensor, a collision sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an image sensor, a weight sensor, a pressure sensor, a rotational load sensor, or a vacuum sensor.

[0045] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0046] a base comprising a toilet bowl;

[0047] a sump pipe;

[0048] a tank coupled to the bowl via the sump pipe;

[0049] a vacuum generator coupled to the tank, wherein the vacuum generator is configured to apply a first pressure during a flush cycle and a second pressure during a drain cycle; and

[0050] a controller configured to operate the vacuum generator according to a flush cycle of the vacuum toilet.

[0051] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0052] a water supply valve configured to provide water to the toilet bowl, wherein the controller operates the water supply valve according to the flush cycle of the toilet.

[0053] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0054] a sensor configured to detect sensor data indicative of contents in the bowl, wherein the water supply valve is actuated in response to the sensor data.

[0055] The present application also provides a toilet comprising:

[0056] a base including a toilet bowl;

[0057] a chamber coupled to the toilet bowl;

[0058] a pressure inlet connected to the chamber; and

[0059] a sewer gate valve configured to selectively connect the chamber and a drain pipe.

[0060] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sewer gate valve is a check valve that closes in response to pressure in the chamber.

[0061] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the chamber is disposed below the toilet bowl.

[0062] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0063] a flush gate valve configured to selectively connect the toilet bowl and the chamber.

[0064] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the flush gate valve includes at least one magnetic member to hold the flush gate valve in an open position or a closed position.

[0065] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0066] A vacuum pump valve configured to selectively connect and disconnect the pressure inlet and a vacuum pump.

[0067] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sewer gate valve includes at least one magnetic member to hold the sewer gate valve in an open position or a closed position.

[0068] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0069] An air passageway coupled to the chamber and including the vacuum pump.

[0070] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0071] An outlet ring configured to discharge contents of the chamber and air from an air passageway.

[0072] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the vacuum pump valve closes in response to pressure in the chamber.

[0073] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0074] A controller configured to open and close the vacuum pump valve.

[0075] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0076] A manual handle configured to open and close the vacuum pump valve.

[0077] The present application also provides a gate system for flushing a toilet, the gate system comprising:

[0078] comprising:

[0079] A flush gate solenoid configured to selectively connect a toilet bowl and a chamber;

[0080] A sewer gate solenoid configured to open the chamber to a drain passageway;

[0081] A pressure regulator configured to pressurize the chamber; and

[0082] A controller configured to actuate the flush gate solenoid, the sewer gate solenoid, and the pressure regulator according to a flushing cycle.

[0083] In an example gate system of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0084] a water supply jet configured to supply water to the toilet bowl.

[0085] In an example flapper system of any of the foregoing, wherein the controller activates and deactivates the water supply jet according to the flush cycle.

[0086] In an example flapper system of any of the foregoing, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the flush flapper solenoid to close the chamber from the toilet bowl prior to activating the pressure regulator to pressurize the chamber.

[0087] In an example flapper system of any of the foregoing, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the sewer flapper solenoid to open the chamber to the drain passage after activating the pressure regulator to pressurize the chamber.

[0088] The present application also provides a method for flushing a vacuum toilet, the method comprising:

[0089] closing an outlet valve for the vacuum toilet;

[0090] energizing a vacuum pump configured to generate a vacuum for the vacuum toilet;

[0091] opening the outlet valve in response to a delay time period;

[0092] de-energizing the vacuum pump; and

[0093] closing the outlet valve.

[0094] In an example method of any of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0095] flushing the vacuum toilet with water.

[0096] In an example method of any of the foregoing, wherein the flushing occurs in response to when the outlet valve is opened or in response to when the outlet valve is closed.

[0097] The present application also provides a pivoting toilet comprising:

[0098] a movable toilet bowl assembly comprising a bowl opening;

[0099] a discharge outlet in fluid communication with the movable toilet bowl assembly; and

[0100] a pivot support configured to support the movable toilet bowl assembly in rotation from an operational position to an emptying position in which the discharge outlet is aligned with a drain path.

[0101] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0102] a drain portion comprising the drain path through the pivotable toilet, the drain portion coupled to a floor flange.

[0103] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the bowl opening of the movable toilet bowl assembly is substantially horizontal when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the operational position and substantially vertical when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the emptying position.

[0104] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drain outlet of the movable toilet bowl assembly is substantially vertical when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the operational position and substantially horizontal when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the emptying position.

[0105] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drain outlet of the movable toilet bowl assembly is in an upper position when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the operational position and in a lower position when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the emptying position.

[0106] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the movable toilet bowl assembly further comprises:

[0107] a toilet bowl comprising the bowl opening;

[0108] a drain cavity comprising the drain outlet; and

[0109] a water seal dam separating the toilet bowl from the drain cavity.

[0110] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0111] a toilet base, wherein the pivot support is coupled to the toilet base and the movable toilet bowl assembly rotates relative to the toilet base.

[0112] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the toilet base comprises a bowl latch configured to hold the movable toilet bowl assembly in the emptying position.

[0113] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the bowl latch is magnetic or electronic.

[0114] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0115] a first telescoping portion coupled to the movable toilet bowl assembly; and

[0116] a second telescoping portion coupled to the toilet base, wherein the first telescoping portion moves relative to the second telescoping portion when the movable toilet bowl assembly moves from the operational position to the emptying position.

[0117] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the first telescoping portion slides into the second telescoping portion when the movable toilet bowl assembly moves from the operational position to the emptying position.

[0118] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the movable toilet bowl assembly rests below a lavatory in the emptying position.

[0119] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the lavatory and the pivot toilet empty into the drain path.

[0120] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0121] a flexible seal between the discharge outlet and the drain path.

[0122] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0123] a discharge door configured to cover the discharge outlet, wherein the discharge door is closed when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the operational position and the discharge door is open when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the emptying position.

[0124] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0125] a tank comprising a flush valve; and

[0126] a rim channel configured to connect the flush valve to the movable toilet bowl assembly.

[0127] In an example pivot toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0128] a sensor configured to detect the movable toilet bowl assembly.

[0129] The present application also provides a rotatable toilet comprising:

[0130] a movable toilet bowl assembly comprising a bowl opening; and

[0131] a drain outlet in fluid communication with the movable toilet bowl assembly, wherein the movable toilet bowl assembly is rotatable from an operational position to an emptying position in which the drain outlet is aligned with a drain path.

[0132] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding, further comprising:

[0133] a track configured to support the movable toilet bowl assembly in the operational position and the emptying position.

[0134] The present application also provides a method for operating a pivoting toilet, the method comprising:

[0135] actuating a movable toilet bowl assembly comprising a bowl opening to an emptying position in which a drain outlet of the movable toilet bowl assembly is aligned with a drain path; and

[0136] actuating the movable toilet bowl assembly to an operational position in which waste is received from a user.

[0137] The present application also provides a sink comprising:

[0138] a sink basin having a first drain outlet; and

[0139] a movable toilet bowl assembly comprising a bowl opening and a second drain outlet,

[0140] wherein the movable toilet bowl assembly is movable from an operational position in which the movable toilet bowl assembly is rotated away from the sink basin to an emptying position in which the movable toilet bowl assembly is rotated below the sink basin.

[0141] In an example sink of any one of the preceding, wherein the first drain outlet and the second drain outlet are coupled to a common drain path.

[0142] In an example sink of any one of the preceding, further comprising:

[0143] a toilet bowl shaped to contain water in the operational position and to release water in the emptying position.

[0144] In an example sink of any one of the preceding, wherein the toilet bowl comprises a back wall having a forward angle.

[0145] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0146] a drain engagement base coupled to the first discharge outlet and aligned with the second discharge outlet in the operational position.

[0147] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0148] a drain channel curved to form a water seal between the movable toilet bowl and the drain engagement base.

[0149] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, wherein the second discharge outlet moves relative to the drain engagement base.

[0150] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0151] a flexible joint coupled to the first discharge outlet, wherein in the operational position at least the flexible joint extends from the first discharge outlet at an angle above horizontal and in the emptying position at least the flexible joint extends from the first discharge outlet at an angle below horizontal.

[0152] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0153] a frame; and

[0154] a pivot joint configured to support the movable toilet bowl assembly and allow the movable toilet bowl assembly to rotate relative to the frame.

[0155] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0156] a bracket coupled to the movable toilet bowl assembly and the frame, wherein the bracket rotates when the movable toilet bowl assembly moves from the operational position to the emptying position.

[0157] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0158] a handle coupled to the movable toilet bowl assembly.

[0159] In an example sink of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0160] a trap fluidly coupled to the sink basin, wherein in the emptying position the movable toilet bowl is adjacent the trap of the sink basin.

[0161] In an example sink of one of the foregoing, wherein in the evacuated position, the movable toilet bowl is positioned below the sink basin.

[0162] The present application also provides a method of assembling a sink, the method comprising:

[0163] attaching a base to a floor or wall;

[0164] placing at least one frame on the base;

[0165] installing a rotatable toilet assembly into the frame; and

[0166] installing a basin onto the frame.

[0167] In an example method of one of the foregoing, wherein the at least one frame comprises a support frame and an outer shell.

[0168] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0169] sealing the base to a floor gasket.

[0170] In an example method of one of the foregoing, wherein the rotatable toilet assembly rotates relative to the basin.

[0171] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0172] coupling a bracket to the rotatable toilet assembly and the frame.

[0173] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0174] attaching a flexible joint between the base and the rotatable toilet assembly.

[0175] The present application also provides a combination toilet and sink, comprising:

[0176] a sink basin having a first drain outlet;

[0177] a movable toilet bowl assembly comprising a bowl opening and a second drain outlet; and

[0178] a drain junction base coupled to the first drain outlet and the second drain outlet.

[0179] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0180] a toilet bowl;

[0181] a rotatable hopper coupled to a sump of the toilet bowl; and

[0182] a drive device configured to actuate the rotatable hopper between an operational position and an emptying position.

[0183] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drive device comprises a manual lever actuated by a hand or foot.

[0184] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drive device comprises an electric motor.

[0185] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drive device comprises a ratchet gear.

[0186] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drive device comprises a ratchet gear.

[0187] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0188] a sleeve configured to contact the toilet bowl and rotate relative to the toilet bowl.

[0189] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sleeve supports the rotatable hopper.

[0190] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sleeve defines a cavity.

[0191] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the sleeve comprises a circular cross-section over a majority of the sleeve.

[0192] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0193] at least one sprayer configured to spray the rotatable hopper in the emptying position.

[0194] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the rotatable hopper is downstream of the sump.

[0195] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0196] a water tank, wherein the rotatable hopper is located below the water tank and behind the toilet bowl.

[0197] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the rotatable hopper is below the toilet bowl.

[0198] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the rotatable hopper is cylindrical.

[0199] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the rotatable hopper is tilted at an angle relative to a front or back portion of the toilet bowl.

[0200] The present application also provides a flushing system, comprising:

[0201] a toilet bowl;

[0202] a rotatable hopper coupled to a sump of the toilet bowl;

[0203] a drive device configured to actuate the rotatable hopper between an operational position and an emptying position; and

[0204] at least one sprayer configured to spray the rotatable hopper in the emptying position and to clean the toilet bowl in the operational position.

[0205] In an example flushing system of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the at least one sprayer comprises a bidirectional sprayer mounted on the rotatable hopper.

[0206] In an example flushing system of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the at least one sprayer comprises a hopper sprayer configured to spray the rotatable hopper and a bowl sprayer configured to clean the toilet bowl.

[0207] In an example flushing system of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the drive device comprises a motor or a lever.

[0208] The present application also provides a method of flushing a toilet, the method comprising:

[0209] providing water to a rotatable hopper in an operational position;

[0210] rotating the rotatable hopper from the operational position to an emptying position in response to actuation of a drive device; and

[0211] providing water to the rotatable hopper in the emptying position.

[0212] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0213] a toilet bowl;

[0214] a sewer passage coupled to the toilet bowl such that contents discharged from the toilet bowl travel through the sewer passage to a drain path;

[0215] A strip-shaped sealing assembly, comprising:

[0216] an upstream seal coupled to the toilet bowl;

[0217] a downstream seal coupled to the trapway; and

[0218] A sealed cavity is between the upstream seal and the downstream seal, the sealed cavity expanding under air pressure and substantially blocking the trapway between the toilet bowl and the drain path.

[0219] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0220] An air source is coupled to the sealed cavity.

[0221] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0222] A water tank is configured to provide water to the toilet bowl, wherein the air source is connected to the water tank of the toilet.

[0223] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0224] A compartment within the water tank, wherein filling the water tank establishes air pressure in the compartment.

[0225] In one exemplary toilet, the air source comprises a compressed air tank.

[0226] In one exemplary toilet, the air source comprises an air pump.

[0227] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0228] A valve is associated with the air source.

[0229] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0230] A flush actuator is provided, wherein the valve connects or disconnects the air source to or from the sealed cavity in response to the flush actuator.

[0231] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0232] A controller is provided, wherein the valve connects or disconnects the air source to or from the sealed cavity in response to a command from the controller.

[0233] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0234] a first vacuum coupling on the trap and connected to the air source.

[0235] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0236] a vacuum chamber downstream of the trap.

[0237] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0238] a second vacuum coupling on the vacuum chamber.

[0239] The present application also provides a band seal assembly for a toilet, the band seal assembly comprising:

[0240] an upstream seal coupled to a toilet bowl of the toilet;

[0241] a downstream seal coupled to a trapway of the toilet; and

[0242] a seal cavity that expands under air pressure and substantially blocks the trapway between the toilet bowl and a drain path of the toilet.

[0243] In an example band seal assembly of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein an air source is coupled to the seal cavity.

[0244] In an example band seal assembly of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the air source is connected to a water tank of the toilet and is supplied by filling the water tank with water.

[0245] In an example band seal assembly of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the air source comprises a compressed air tank.

[0246] In an example band seal assembly of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the air source comprises an air pump.

[0247] In an example band seal assembly of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0248] a first vacuum coupling on the trap and connected to the air source;

[0249] a vacuum chamber downstream of the trap; and

[0250] a second vacuum coupling on the vacuum chamber.

[0251] The present application also provides a method for sealing a trapway of a toilet, the method comprising:

[0252] providing a gas pressure to a sealing cavity, the sealing cavity expanding under the gas pressure and substantially blocking a trapway of a toilet bowl;

[0253] receiving a flush actuation; and

[0254] releasing the gas pressure from the sealing cavity in response to the flush actuation.

[0255] In an example method of one of the foregoing, wherein the flush actuation comprises an electronic signal.

[0256] The present application also provides a toilet comprising:

[0257] a toilet bowl;

[0258] a hopper configured to transport contents evacuated from the toilet bowl to a drain path;

[0259] a chamber coupled to the toilet bowl and the hopper; and

[0260] an impeller configured to provide centripetal motion to the contents in the chamber to push the contents from the chamber to the hopper.

[0261] In an example toilet of one of the foregoing, wherein the water seal is maintained between the chamber and the hopper.

[0262] In an example toilet of one of the foregoing, wherein the hopper is tangentially connected to the chamber.

[0263] In an example toilet of one of the foregoing, wherein the impeller comprises a plurality of curved ridges and curved recesses between each two consecutive curved ridges of the plurality of curved ridges.

[0264] In an example toilet of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0265] an impeller disc configured to support the impeller and provide a path for the contents from the chamber to the hopper.

[0266] In an example toilet of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0267] a motor coupled to the impeller and configured to rotate the impeller.

[0268] In an example toilet of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0269] at least one oscillator to provide water to clean the toilet bowl and the chamber.

[0270] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0271] a water input passage configured to provide water to the contents.

[0272] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the water input is aligned with the chamber or the impeller.

[0273] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the water input is aligned with the chamber of the toilet bowl.

[0274] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0275] a valve configured to selectively provide water to the water input passage.

[0276] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the valve operates according to a flush cycle.

[0277] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the valve opens when the impeller rotates.

[0278] The present application also provides a centrifugal trap for a toilet, the centrifugal trap comprising:

[0279] a hopper configured to transport contents evacuated from a toilet bowl of the toilet to a drain path;

[0280] a chamber coupled to the toilet bowl and the hopper; and

[0281] an impeller configured to provide centripetal motion to the contents in the chamber to push the contents from the chamber to the hopper.

[0282] In an example centrifugal trap of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the water seal is maintained between the chamber and the hopper.

[0283] In an example centrifugal trap of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the impeller comprises a plurality of curved ridges and curved depressions between each two consecutive curved ridges of the plurality of curved ridges.

[0284] In an example centrifugal trap of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0285] an impeller disc configured to support the impeller and provide a path for the contents from the chamber to the hopper.

[0286] In one exemplary centrifugal trap, further comprising:

[0287] A motor is coupled to the impeller and configured to rotate the impeller.

[0288] In one exemplary centrifugal trap, further comprising:

[0289] A water input channel is configured to provide water to the contents, wherein the water input is aligned with the chamber or the impeller.

[0290] The present application also provides a method, comprising:

[0291] supplying water to a toilet bowl or a chamber coupled to the toilet bowl;

[0292] rotating the impeller to provide centripetal motion to the contents of the chamber; and

[0293] The contents received from the toilet bowl are pushed from the chamber to a hopper.

[0294] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0295] Toilet bowl;

[0296] a discharge chamber having an inlet and a discharge outlet;

[0297] a first one-way valve located between the outlet of the toilet bowl and the inlet of the discharge chamber;

[0298] a second one-way valve at a discharge outlet of the discharge chamber; and

[0299] A plunger is configured to apply pressure to remove contents from the toilet bowl through the first one-way valve to the discharge chamber and to push the contents out of the discharge chamber through the discharge outlet.

[0300] In one of the exemplary toilets, the pressure is air pressure.

[0301] In one of the exemplary toilets, the pressure is water pressure.

[0302] In one exemplary toilet, the plunger is configured to displace air into the discharge chamber and change the volume of water in the chamber.

[0303] In one exemplary toilet, further comprising:

[0304] a front wall of the discharge chamber, the front wall having a predetermined slope.

[0305] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the plunger is manually actuated.

[0306] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the plunger is actuated by a pump.

[0307] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0308] a water source, the water source providing water to the toilet bowl.

[0309] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the water source is connected to a rim channel of the toilet bowl.

[0310] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the water source is passively connected to the toilet bowl.

[0311] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the water source is activated based on the plunger.

[0312] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the plunger opens the water source when actuated in a first direction and draws the water into a rim channel when actuated in a second direction.

[0313] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0314] a toilet seat including a lever that actuates the plunger when weight is placed on the toilet seat.

[0315] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the plunger is spring loaded.

[0316] The present application also provides a plunger system for a toilet, the plunger system comprising:

[0317] a discharge chamber having an inlet and a discharge outlet;

[0318] a first one-way valve at an outlet of a toilet bowl of the toilet and the inlet of the discharge chamber;

[0319] a second one-way valve at the discharge outlet of the discharge chamber; and

[0320] a plunger member configured to exert pressure to remove contents from the toilet bowl through the first one-way valve to the discharge chamber and push contents from the discharge chamber out through the discharge outlet.

[0321] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0322] a counterweight configured to reset a position of the plunger member.

[0323] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0324] a handle coupled to the plunger.

[0325] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0326] a toilet bowl coupled to the first one-way valve; and

[0327] a water supply device configured to flush the toilet bowl.

[0328] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the plunger comprises a flexible membrane.

[0329] The present application also provides a method for a plunger toilet, the method comprising:

[0330] providing water to a toilet bowl;

[0331] receiving a vacuum pressure from a plunger; and

[0332] advancing the water and other bowl contents through at least one one-way valve in response to the vacuum pressure.

[0333] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0334] a toilet bowl;

[0335] a waste passage configured to transport contents evacuated from the toilet bowl to a drain path; and

[0336] a ring-shaped jetor assembly coupled to the waste passage.

[0337] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the ring-shaped jetor assembly comprises a plurality of jetor nozzles arranged in a pattern around the waste passage.

[0338] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0339] a diffuser that receives water from an input nozzle of the ring-shaped jetor assembly and divides the water to the plurality of jetor nozzles.

[0340] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the trapway and the toilet bowl are shaped to form a water seal, and the annular jet assembly overlaps the water seal.

[0341] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the trapway includes a lower leg and an upper leg, the upper leg being above the lower leg, wherein the annular jet assembly is connected to the upper leg.

[0342] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0343] an input nozzle connected to the annular jet assembly.

[0344] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the annular jet assembly is angled upward from the trapway.

[0345] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0346] a valve configured to selectively open and close the annular jet assembly.

[0347] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein force from water opens the valve.

[0348] The present application also provides a method for operating a pressure-assisted toilet, the method comprising:

[0349] providing a high velocity water stream to an annular jet assembly positioned around a circumference of a trapway; and

[0350] evacuating a toilet bowl in response to the high velocity water stream through the trapway.

[0351] The present application also provides a toilet, comprising:

[0352] a toilet bowl;

[0353] an overflow path in the toilet bowl;

[0354] a trapway configured to transport contents evacuated from the toilet bowl to a drain path; and

[0355] an overflow inlet on the trapway, the overflow inlet being fluidly connected to the overflow path.

[0356] The present application also provides a vacuum toilet, comprising:

[0357] a toilet bowl;

[0358] a trapway valve compartment;

[0359] a tank coupled to the toilet bowl; and

[0360] a vacuum generator comprising a high pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment and a low pressure outlet connected to the tank.

[0361] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0362] a vacuum tube connecting the tank and the toilet bowl.

[0363] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the vacuum tube is angled upward between the toilet bowl and the tank.

[0364] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0365] a flapper supported by the drain valve compartment and configured to open and close an opening between the drain valve compartment and the tank.

[0366] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the vacuum generator provides a positive air flow to the high pressure outlet to apply a force to the flapper in a direction to seal the drain valve compartment.

[0367] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein when the flapper seals the drain valve compartment, a negative air pressure provided from the vacuum generator to the low pressure outlet results in a vacuum in the tank to extract contents from the toilet bowl.

[0368] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the vacuum generator stops providing the positive air flow and negative air pressure, the flapper opens the seal of the drain valve compartment, and the contents from the bowl fall from the drain valve compartment.

[0369] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the contents from the bowl pass through the drain valve compartment to a sanitary path.

[0370] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0371] a controller configured to provide a control signal to activate the vacuum generator for a predetermined duration.

[0372] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0373] a water inlet configured to provide water to the toilet bowl, wherein the control signal from the controller activates a valve for the water inlet.

[0374] The present application also provides a method of operating a vacuum toilet, the method comprising:

[0375] providing a high pressure air stream from a pump to a high pressure outlet connected to a drain valve compartment;

[0376] providing a low pressure vacuum from the pump to a tank coupled to a toilet bowl; and

[0377] closing a valve to the tank in response to the high pressure air stream and the low pressure air stream.

[0378] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0379] activating the pump to provide the high pressure air stream and the low pressure vacuum.

[0380] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0381] deactivating the pump, wherein the valve opens at least partially in response to deactivating the pump.

[0382] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0383] opening a flush water valve to release water to the toilet bowl.

[0384] In an example method of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0385] generating a first control signal for the pump; and

[0386] generating a second control signal for the flush water valve.

[0387] In an example method of one of the foregoing, wherein the second control signal is generated a predetermined period of time after the first control signal is generated.

[0388] The present application also provides a vacuum toilet, comprising:

[0389] a drain valve compartment; and

[0390] a pump, the pump comprising a high pressure outlet and a low pressure outlet, the high pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment, the low pressure outlet connected to a tank,

[0391] wherein the pump generates a vacuum through the low pressure outlet and pushes air through the high pressure outlet to close an opening between the tank and the drain valve compartment.

[0392] In an example vacuum toilet of one of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0393] a baffle supported by the drain valve compartment and configured to close the opening between the drain valve compartment and the tank under air pressure.

[0394] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein when the baffle seals the drain valve compartment, negative pressure provided from the vacuum generator to the low pressure outlet causes a vacuum in the tank to flush the vacuum toilet.

[0395] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the vacuum generator stops providing the negative pressure, the baffle opens the seal of the drain valve compartment, and contents from the bowl fall from the drain valve compartment.

[0396] The present application also provides a wall-in toilet, comprising:

[0397] a waste inlet connectable to a toilet bowl;

[0398] a drain cavity;

[0399] a tank coupled to the toilet bowl and the drain cavity; and

[0400] a pump configured to provide a vacuum to the tank to pull contents from the toilet bowl to the drain cavity.

[0401] In an example wall-in toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the pump is configured to close a connection between the tank and the drain cavity.

[0402] In an example wall-in toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0403] a baffle configured to selectively open and close the connection between the tank and the drain cavity.

[0404] In an example wall-in toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0405] a valve configured to selectively open and close the connection between the tank and the drain cavity.

[0406] In an example wall-in toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein a motor or solenoid closes the valve during a flushing cycle.

[0407] In an example wall-in toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0408] a vent configured to vent gas to an exterior of the wall-in toilet.

[0409] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the vent is connected to a main chimney of the building.

[0410] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0411] a water outlet configured to supply water to the toilet bowl.

[0412] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0413] a user input device configured to initiate a flushing cycle of the wall-in vacuum toilet.

[0414] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0415] a controller configured to generate a control signal for the flushing cycle.

[0416] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the control signal comprises a start time and an end time or a duration for the pump.

[0417] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the control signal comprises a start time for water supply to the bowl.

[0418] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the control signal comprises a start time for a valve at the connection between the tank and the drain cavity.

[0419] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the user input comprises a sensor or a button.

[0420] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, wherein the user input is a button, the button completing a loop to the pump.

[0421] In an example wall-in vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding items, further comprising:

[0422] a fastener configured to connect to a housing comprising the toilet bowl.

[0423] The present application also provides a wall-in tank for a vacuum toilet comprising a bowl, the tank comprising:

[0424] an air inlet;

[0425] an air outlet;

[0426] a drain cavity; and

[0427] a tank coupled to the vacuum toilet via the air inlet and to the drain cavity via the air outlet, wherein a vacuum in the tank causes contents from the bowl to move to the drain cavity in response to the vacuum.

[0428] In an example in-wall tank of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the connection between the drain cavity and the tank is selectively closable by a flap.

[0429] In an example in-wall tank of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the connection between the drain cavity and the tank is selectively closable by a valve.

[0430] In an example in-wall tank of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the connection between the drain cavity and the tank is selectively closable by a valve.

[0431] The present application also provides a vacuum toilet comprising a toilet bowl, the vacuum toilet comprising:

[0432] a pressure chamber configured to provide a vacuum to the toilet bowl;

[0433] a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure in the pressure chamber; and

[0434] a controller configured to determine a status of the vacuum toilet based on the pressure in the pressure chamber.

[0435] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the status is a fault mode, the fault mode corresponding to a first predetermined range of the pressure in the pressure chamber.

[0436] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the controller is configured to generate a message indicative of the fault mode.

[0437] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the controller is configured to disable a vacuum generator in response to the fault mode.

[0438] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0439] an indicator configured to display the status of the vacuum toilet.

[0440] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the status is a cleaning mode, the cleaning mode corresponding to a second predetermined range of the pressure in the pressure chamber.

[0441] In an example vacuum toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the controller is configured to open a valve for the cleaning mode.

[0442] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0443] a water distributor configured to distribute water to the pressure chamber or the toilet bowl, wherein the valve opening the cleaning mode causes the distributor to provide water to the pressure chamber or the toilet bowl.

[0444] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the state is a clog removal mode, the clog removal mode corresponding to a third predetermined range of the pressure in the pressure chamber.

[0445] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein a positive pressure is applied to the pressure chamber during the clog removal mode.

[0446] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0447] a vacuum generator configured to provide the vacuum to the pressure chamber, wherein the vacuum generator provides the positive pressure to the pressure chamber during the clog removal mode.

[0448] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the state is an altitude mode.

[0449] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein during the altitude mode, the controller changes a parameter of a flush cycle based on a measured pressure in the pressure chamber.

[0450] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein during the altitude mode, the controller changes a parameter of a flush cycle based on an ambient pressure near the toilet.

[0451] The present application also provides a controller for a toilet, the controller comprising:

[0452] a sensor interface configured to receive sensor data for a pressure in a pressure chamber of the toilet;

[0453] a memory comprising at least one pressure threshold; and

[0454] a processor configured to determine a state of the toilet based on a comparison of the sensor data to the at least one pressure threshold.

[0455] In an example toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0456] a display configured to indicate the status of the vacuum toilet.

[0457] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the at least one pressure threshold comprises a clean mode threshold, a clog mode threshold, and a fault mode threshold.

[0458] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0459] a communication interface configured to transmit a message for the status of the vacuum toilet.

[0460] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the message is transmitted to a server or a mobile device.

[0461] The present application also provides a method for operating a vacuum toilet, the method comprising:

[0462] receiving first sensor data for a pressure of a vacuum chamber of the vacuum toilet;

[0463] receiving second sensor data for a presence of a user at the vacuum toilet; and

[0464] detecting a leak based on the first sensor data and the second sensor data.

[0465] The present application also provides a vacuum toilet, comprising:

[0466] a toilet bowl;

[0467] at least one sensor configured to detect at least contents of the toilet bowl; and

[0468] a controller configured to select a parameter for a flush cycle of the vacuum toilet in response to the sensor.

[0469] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0470] a water dispenser configured to provide water to the toilet bowl during the flush cycle.

[0471] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter is an amount of water supplied by the water dispenser for the flush cycle, or the parameter is a water time period in which water is supplied by the water dispenser.

[0472] In an example vacuum toilet of any one of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0473] a pump configured to provide a vacuum to the vacuum toilet.

[0474] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter is a pump time period for operation of the pump connected with the toilet.

[0475] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter is a speed for the pump.

[0476] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter is a reverse direction for the pump.

[0477] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter is a delay time period for the flush cycle.

[0478] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a millimeter wave sensor configured to detect contents of the toilet bowl.

[0479] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the at least one sensor comprises an ultrasonic sensor configured to detect contents of the toilet bowl.

[0480] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter for the flush cycle is assigned a first value when the at least one sensor detects solid waste in the toilet bowl and a second value when the at least one sensor detects liquid waste in the toilet bowl.

[0481] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter for the flush cycle is assigned a first value when the at least one sensor detects solid waste in the toilet bowl below a threshold size and a second value when the at least one sensor detects solid waste in the toilet bowl above the threshold.

[0482] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein a controller identifies a type of waste from a Bristol Stool Scale and assigns the parameter according to the Bristol Stool Scale.

[0483] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the parameter for the flush cycle is assigned a first value when first sensor data is received from the at least one sensor and a second value when second sensor data is received from the at least one sensor.

[0484] In an example toilet of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising:

[0485] a pressure chamber connected to the toilet bowl, wherein the flush cycle comprises a vacuum at the pressure chamber that extracts contents from the toilet bowl.

[0486] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, further comprising:

[0487] a pump configured to provide a vacuum to the vacuum chamber; and

[0488] a conduit connecting the pressure chamber to an exhaust of the pump.

[0489] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the exhaust opens a connection between the vacuum chamber and the toilet bowl.

[0490] In an example toilet of any of the foregoing, wherein the at least one sensor is supported by the toilet bowl.

[0491] The present application also provides a controller for a toilet, the controller comprising:

[0492] a sensor interface configured to receive sensor data describing contents of a toilet bowl of the toilet;

[0493] a memory comprising at least one template; and

[0494] a processor configured to select, responsive to a comparison of the sensor data to the at least one template, a parameter of a flush cycle for the toilet.

[0495] The present application also provides a method for operating a toilet, the method comprising:

[0496] receiving sensor data describing contents of a toilet bowl of the toilet;

[0497] comparing the sensor data to at least one template; and

[0498] selecting, responsive to a comparison of the sensor data to the at least one template, a parameter of a flush cycle for the toilet. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0499] The objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed descriptions of the

[0500] Figure 1 FIGURE illustrates an example toilet.

[0501] Figure 2A block diagram of a vacuum toilet and corresponding control system is illustrated.

[0502] Figure 3 Another example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0503] Figure 4 Another example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0504] Figure 5 A toilet having a gate chamber is illustrated.

[0505] Figure 6 A toilet having a gate chamber and vacuum assist is illustrated.

[0506] Figure 7 Another view of a toilet is illustrated. Figure 6

[0507] Figure 8 Another example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0508] Figures 9A to 9B An example toilet outlet ring is illustrated.

[0509] Figure 9C Another example vacuum toilet including an outlet ring is illustrated.

[0510] Figure 10 A flowchart of operations for a vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0511] Figure 11 Another example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0512] Figure 12 A flowchart of operations for a vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0513] Figure 13 Another example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0514] Figure 14 A flowchart of operations for a vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0515] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15B A wall-in vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0516] Figure 16 A vacuum toilet having an active-passive valve is illustrated.

[0517] Figure 17 An example passive valve for a vacuum toilet is illustrated. Figure 16

[0518] 18A to 18B An example internal feature for a vacuum toilet is illustrated. Figure 16 ​​​

[0519] Figures 19A to 19B A toilet having a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated.

[0520] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B Another toilet having a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated.

[0521] Figures 21A to 21B Another toilet having a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated.

[0522] Figure 22 Another toilet having a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated.

[0523] FIG. 23A to FIG. 23B A combination sink and toilet is illustrated.

[0524] FIG. 24A to FIG. 24B Another combination sink and toilet is illustrated.

[0525] FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B An exemplary flexible joint for a pivoting toilet is illustrated.

[0526] Figure 26 Another combination sink and toilet is illustrated.

[0527] Figures 27A to 27F Components of a combination sink and toilet are illustrated.

[0528] Figure 28 A flowchart for assembling a combination sink and toilet is illustrated.

[0529] Figures 29A to 29B A tip-out flushing action toilet is illustrated.

[0530] Figure 30 Another view of a tip-out flushing action toilet is illustrated.

[0531] Figures 31A to 31B Another tip-out flushing action toilet is illustrated.

[0532] FIG. 32A to FIG. 32B Another tip-out flushing action toilet is illustrated.

[0533] Figures 33A to 33B Another tip-out flushing action toilet is illustrated.

[0534] Figure 34 A flowchart for operation of a tip-out flushing action toilet is illustrated.

[0535] Figures 35A to 35B An exemplary toilet having a pneumatic waste passage is illustrated.

[0536] Figure 36 A cross-sectional view of a pneumatic waste passage is illustrated.

[0537] Figures 37A to 37B A pneumatic trap is illustrated.

[0538] Figures 38A to 38B A semi-centrifugal trap is illustrated.

[0539] Figures 39A to 39B Another example of a semi-centrifugal trap is illustrated.

[0540] Figure 40 Another view of a semi-centrifugal trap is illustrated.

[0541] Figure 41 Another view of a semi-centrifugal trap is illustrated.

[0542] Figures 42A to 42B Another example of a grinding trap is illustrated.

[0543] Figures 43A to 43F Another example of a grinding trap is illustrated.

[0544] Figures 44A to 44D Other views of a semi-centrifugal trap are illustrated.

[0545] Figure 45 An example toilet with plunger flushing is illustrated.

[0546] Figure 46 Another example toilet with plunger flushing is illustrated.

[0547] Figures 47A to 47C An example toilet with jetter trap is illustrated.

[0548] Figures 48A to 48C An example toilet with jetter trap is illustrated.

[0549] Figures 49A to 49C An example toilet with jetter trap is illustrated.

[0550] Figure 50 An example toilet with urine diversion and overflow passage is illustrated.

[0551] Figure 51 An example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0552] Figure 52 Another example vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0553] Figure 53 An example flowchart for operation of a vacuum toilet is illustrated.

[0554] Figure 54A And Figure 54B An example toilet with in-wall vacuum system is illustrated.

[0555] Figure 55A and Figure 55B FIG. 1 illustrates another example toilet with an in-wall vacuum system.

[0556] Figure 56A and Figure 56B FIG. 1 illustrates an example toilet with an in-wall vacuum system and an external vent.

[0557] Figure 57A and Figure 57B FIG. 1 illustrates another example toilet with an in-wall vacuum system and a ball valve.

[0558] Figure 58A and Figure 58B FIG. 1 illustrates an example toilet with a partial in-wall vacuum system.

[0559] Figure 58C FIG. 1 illustrates an example in-wall vacuum system with a dual venting device.

[0560] Figure 59A and Figure 59B FIG. 1 illustrates an example toilet with a partial in-wall vacuum system.

[0561] Figure 60 FIG. 1 illustrates an example wall-hung toilet with a vacuum system.

[0562] Figure 61 FIG. 1 illustrates a toilet with a vacuum system and a dual water seal.

[0563] Figure 62 FIG. 1 illustrates a vacuum system for a plumbing system.

[0564] Figure 63 FIG. 1 illustrates an example controller for use in any of the embodiments.

[0565] Figure 64 FIG. 1 illustrates an example flowchart of a controller for Figure 63

[0566] Figure 65 FIG. 1 illustrates an example flowchart for a flush cycle.

[0567] The figures detail certain example embodiments of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details and methods set forth in the detailed description and figures. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0568] ​The following embodiments relate to toilets and related systems. One or more of the related systems can also apply to any plumbing fixture. The term "plumbing fixture" refers to a device that is connected to a plumbing system of a house, building, or other structure. The term "plumbing fixture" can include toilets, urinals, faucets, showerheads, bathtubs, urinals, and dishwashers. The terms "bathroom fixture" and "kitchen fixture" can refer more specifically to individual types of plumbing fixtures found in bathrooms or kitchens, respectively, and these terms can overlap in certain examples (e.g., a faucet). While each of the fluidic devices described herein can be described as included in a single type of plumbing fixture, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not so limited, and each of the fluidic devices described herein can be included in or used in conjunction with any type of plumbing fixture. For example, a fluidic device described with respect to a urinal can be included in or used in conjunction with any of a showerhead, faucet, toilet, dishwasher, and the like.

[0569] For each of the example toilets described herein, it should be noted that the shape and configuration of the tank, the bowl, the seat assembly, and the internal components (including the trapway and other features) can differ from the embodiments shown and described herein, and the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that the various components of the toilet can be made of china. It should be noted that the various components of the toilet can be polymeric and / or overmolded or otherwise secured to the toilet. For example, it should be noted that while in example embodiments of the toilet the tank is formed separately from the bowl and then coupled with the bowl, the tank can be integrally formed with the bowl as a one-piece design. In other words, the toilet can be a one-piece design, a two-piece design, or have any suitable configuration. The toilets disclosed herein can have a variety of skirted toilet configurations, all of which are intended to be encompassed herein. Accordingly, the following description of various toilet features is intended to illustrate only one possible embodiment, and a person reading this specification should understand that similar concepts or features can be included in other various embodiments as well. While an actuator for initiating a flush cycle is not described in every embodiment, all of the examples herein can include an actuator or another type of flush mechanism, e.g., a button configured to activate upon being pressed (or pulled) a predetermined distance or upon being touched, a lever configured to activate upon being rotated a predetermined angular travel, or any suitable device configured to activate based on a user's input operation. Any of the embodiments described with respect to a toilet and / or the toilet's trapway can apply to the structure of a urinal.

[0570] In the discussion of each embodiment, the seat and the cover can also be omitted at times. However, each of the following examples can include a toilet seat assembly that includes a cover member (e.g., a cover), a seat member (e.g., a ring member), and a hinge. The seat member can be configured to include a ring-shaped member that surrounds an opening, where the ring-shaped member provides a seating surface for a user of the toilet. The seat member can also be pivotally coupled (e.g., attached) to the hinge, where the seat member can rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, such as between a first, lowered or seated position and a second, raised or upright position. The cover member can 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 to) the profile of the outer surface of the seat member to improve the aesthetics of the seat assembly and the toilet. The cover member can also be coupled to the hinge, where the cover member can rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, such as between a first, lowered or downward position and a second, raised or upright position. The cover member, when in the downward position, can be disposed above the seat member to cover the opening of the seat member and conceal the interior side of the bowl of the base. The cover member, when in the upright position, can be configured to rest against the outer surface of the tank such that the cover member remains in the upright position for a user to sit on the seat member.

[0571] Some toilets have only one option for flushing. Dual flush toilets provide the user with the option to flush with a lesser amount of water, but typically use a larger amount of water. Dual flush toilets can save water in a 2: 1 ratio. The following embodiments introduce other devices and techniques to consume less water in the flushing operation of a toilet.

[0572] Figure 1 An example vacuum toilet 10 is illustrated. For illustrative purposes, the vacuum toilet 10 is shown as being exposed such that operations can be observed. In installation, the vacuum toilet 10 can be partially enclosed in a wall and / or partially enclosed within a housing 30. The vacuum toilet 10 can include a base that includes a toilet bowl 11 and that includes a vacuum tank 20. The housing 30 can extend to enclose both the toilet bowl 11 and the vacuum tank 20. The housing 30 can include at least one vertical wall 12a and at least one horizontal wall 12b. The vacuum tank 20 can be connected to the toilet bowl 11 via a passageway 14. The vacuum tank 20 can be connected to a drain path 22. The vacuum tank 20 can be connected to a vacuum device 40, which can be any vacuum generator configured to apply varying pressures to the vacuum tank 20. The vacuum generator can apply a first pressure (negative pressure) during a flush cycle to extract contents from the toilet bowl 11 and a second pressure (positive pressure) during a drain cycle to empty the tank 20 to the drain path 22. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0573] Figure 2 A block diagram is illustrated for a vacuum toilet 10 and a corresponding control system. A tank 20 includes connections to a plurality of valves. A sump valve 15 selectively and fluidly connects the tank 20 to a sump of a toilet bowl 11. A vacuum valve 16 selectively and fluidly connects the tank to a vacuum apparatus 40. A drain valve 21 selectively and fluidly connects the tank 20 to a drain path 22 that leads to a sewer, septic apparatus, or another sanitary system. The path to the sanitary system can be referred to as a septic path. A reverse valve 41 can be a separate connection to the vacuum apparatus 40 for reverse flow of air (e.g., reverse of vacuum).

[0574] The controller 100 can operate the sump valve 15, the vacuum valve 16, the drain valve 21, the supply valve 42, and / or the reverse valve 41 to provide a flush cycle at the vacuum toilet 10. The controller 100 can operate the sump valve 15, the vacuum valve 16, the drain valve 21, the supply valve 42, and / or the reverse valve 41 using one or more valve drivers 31. Each valve driver 31 can include a mechanism to open or close the corresponding valve. Each valve driver 31 can include a solenoid or motor to open or close the corresponding valve. Additionally or alternatively, the sump valve 15, the vacuum valve 16, the drain valve 21, the supply valve 42, and / or the reverse valve 41 can include a manual handle to open and close the corresponding valve.

[0575] The controller 100 can operate the valve drivers 31 in a predetermined sequence for a flush cycle. Initially, the sump valve 15, the vacuum valve 16, the supply valve 42, and the drain valve 21 are closed. The controller 100 can operate the valve driver 31 for the supply valve 42 to release water into the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100 can operate the sump valve 15 to open a passageway 14 to the tank 20. In some examples, water is provided to the toilet bowl 11 at the same time that the sump valve 15 is opened. The water washes the contents of the toilet bowl 11 and enters the tank 20 through the passageway 14.

[0576] In other examples, the controller 100 opens the supply valve 15 to provide water to the toilet bowl 11 when the sump valve 15 is closed. After a user deposits contents into the toilet bowl 11 and initiates a flush cycle, the sump valve 15 is opened by the controller 100 and the vacuum pressure in the tank 20 provides a suction force to the passageway 14 to extract the contents from the toilet bowl 11.

[0577] The controller 100 can also operate the vacuum apparatus 40 and the vacuum valve 16 to create a vacuum pressure in the tank 20. The controller 100 can turn on the vacuum apparatus 40, which includes a pump, to draw air out of the tank 20 and create a partial vacuum in the tank 20. The controller 100 can also cause the vacuum apparatus to run in reverse to cause the pump to blow air out of the tank 20 and evacuate the tank 20 to the drain path 22. The air pressure for drawing air out of the tank 20 and the air pressure for blowing air to evacuate the tank can be provided to the tank through the vacuum hose 13. In some examples, air is drawn out of the tank 20 to create a vacuum using the vacuum hose 13, and air for evacuating the tank is provided through the reverse hose 19 (e.g., by turning on the reverse valve 41).

[0578] When a vacuum pressure is present in the tank 20 and the controller 100 turns on the sump valve 15, suction is provided to the passageway 14 to extract contents from the toilet bowl 11. In turn, the toilet bowl 11 is flushed to the tank 20.

[0579] The controller 100 can also cause the tank 20 to be flushed to the drain path 22. The tank 20 can be flushed by turning on the drain valve 21 while applying positive pressure to the tank 20. The pressure can be provided by the vacuum apparatus 10 through the hose 13 and the vacuum valve 16. In an alternative embodiment, the reverse valve 41 is provided separately to provide positive pressure. In other words, when the tank 20 is being flushed or blown out, the vacuum valve 16 is turned off and pressure is provided through the reverse valve 41 and the reverse path. The tank 20 can be flushed each time the bowl 11 is flushed. The tank 20 can be flushed once every predetermined number of bowl flushing operations. The tank 20 can be flushed in response to a user command (e.g., from the user input device 99).

[0580] The pressure in the tank 20 can be monitored by a pressure gauge 18 or other pressure sensor. The manual lever 17 can turn on pressure sensing. The pressure sensor can be connected to a light indicator that indicates the status of the toilet 10. Example statuses include ready and not ready.

[0581] The pressure in the tank can be controlled by a pressure regulator. One example pressure regulator is the vacuum valve 16. The pressure regulator is configured to pressurize the chamber. The controller 100 can operate the pressure regulator according to a flushing cycle.

[0582] The controller 100 can also provide instructions or commands to one or more indicators 102. The indicators 102 can include lights, displays, audio emitters or speakers (e.g., the speakers 351 of the Figure 63 , LEDs, or other devices configured to convey the status of the vacuum toilet. The indicators 102 can indicate which valves are being driven. The indicators 102 can indicate whether the vacuum apparatus 40 is being driven.

[0583] Figure 3Another exemplary vacuum toilet 50 is illustrated and includes a base structure having at least one toilet bowl 11 coupled to a sump 23 at the bottom of the toilet bowl 11. The sump 23 is configured to hold water and other contents deposited into the toilet bowl 11. The toilet bowl 11 or the sump 23 can be coupled to a sump pipe 52. The sump pipe 52 can be connected to the sump 23 using a sump connector 51. The sump connector 51 can be threaded to receive the sump pipe 52.

[0584] The sump tube 52 may include a sump valve assembly 53 mounted to the exterior of the sump tube 52 and including a sump valve member 54 extending through the sump tube 52. The sump valve member 54 is configured to selectively open and close an opening through the sump tube 52.

[0585] The vacuum tank 20 may include one or more openings (e.g., a top opening for a vacuum valve 16) that selectively and fluidly connect the tank to a vacuum device. The bottom opening may include a drain valve for selectively and fluidly connecting the tank 20 to a drain path.

[0586] The sump tube 52 includes a downstream end or outlet 55 that extends into the vacuum tank 20. The legs of the sump tube 52 can be angled with respect to the horizontal plane so that they point generally upward. The predetermined angle can be equal to or greater than 45 degrees or equal to or greater than 60 degrees.

[0587] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the upward leg of the sump tube 52 defines a volume 56 that extends from the sump 23 of the bottom basin 11 and through the sump tube 52. The size of the volume 56 is determined by the angle of the sump tube 52 so that the liquid level at the end of the outlet 55 is flush with the liquid level in the sump 23 (when the sump valve member 54 is open). Figure 3 As shown, volume 56 may include a sump-side 56a that includes liquid in sump 23 up to sump valve member 54 and a trapway-side 56b that includes liquid in sump 52 up to sump valve member 54. Sump-side volume 56a may be substantially equal to trapway-side volume 56b. In the example shown, sump-side volume 56a may be less than trapway-side volume 56b (e.g., in one example, sump-side volume 56a measures 452 milliliters and trapway-side volume 56b measures 523 milliliters).

[0588] Figure 4An example toilet 60 is illustrated in which the trapway does not extend into the vacuum tank 20. The trapway can include a bottom portion 61 and a top portion 62 that forms an S-shape and provides a water seal. The top portion 62 of the trapway can be substantially horizontal. Correspondingly, the volume of space 66 for the water seal also does not extend into the vacuum tank 20. The top portion 62 of the trapway can be coupled to the vacuum tank 20 via a vacuum valve assembly 63. The vacuum valve assembly 63 can include a valve member to open and close the connection between the trapway and the vacuum tank 20.

[0589] As Figure 4 illustrated, the volume of space 66 can include a sump side 66a that includes liquid in the sump 23 and a trapway side 66b that includes liquid in the trapway. The sump side 66a and the trapway side 66b can be separated by a vertical line. The sump side 66a and the trapway side 66b can be separated by a connection 64 between the sump 23 and the lower portion 61 of the trapway. The sump side volume 66a can be substantially equal to the trapway side volume 66b. In the illustrated example, the sump side volume 66a can be less than the trapway side volume 66b (e.g., in one example, the sump side volume 66a measures 320 milliliters and the trapway side volume 66b measures 404 milliliters).

[0590] Figure 5 A toilet 70 is illustrated with a flapper chamber 73. Figure 5 Embodiments of the toilet 70 can omit the vacuum apparatus or the vacuum chamber. Instead, contents can be evacuated from the toilet bowl 11 to the flapper chamber 73 relying on gravity. As illustrated, the flapper chamber 73 can be disposed below the toilet bowl 11, but other arrangements can be used. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0591] The flush flapper valve 71 is configured to selectively open a fluid connection between the toilet bowl 11 and the flapper chamber 73. The sewer flapper valve 72 is configured to selectively open a fluid connection between the flapper chamber 73 and a sewer or septic pipe (e.g., sanitary line). The controller 100 can operate a solenoid, motor, or other transmission apparatus to open and close the flush flapper valve 71 and the sewer flapper valve 72.

[0592] Figure 6 A toilet is illustrated with a flapper chamber 73 and a vacuum assist. The vacuum assist can be provided by a vacuum apparatus, such as a vacuum generator of a pump, connected to the flapper chamber 73 via a pressure inlet 75. The pressure inlet 75 can be an extension configured to fit a hose or other connection to the vacuum apparatus. The flapper chamber 76 can include a sloped wall to help push the contents of the chamber through the sewer flapper valve 72.

[0593] The sewer gate valve 72 is configured to selectively open a fluid connection between a gate chamber 73 and a sewer or septic tank pipe (e.g., a sanitary line). The controller 100 can operate a solenoid, a motor, or other transmission device to open and close the flush gate valve 71 and the sewer gate valve 72. The sewer gate valve 72 can include a check valve that is configured to close in response to pressure in the gate chamber 73. The vacuum valve can open or close a connection between a pressure inlet 75 of the gate chamber 73 and a vacuum device. The controller 100 can operate a solenoid, a motor, or other transmission device to open and close the vacuum valve, the flush gate valve 71, and the sewer gate valve 72.

[0594] The controller 100 can operate the vacuum valve to apply no pressure or low pressure during the flush cycle and positive pressure during the drain cycle. Contents (e.g., urine and / or feces) can be provided by the user to the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100, activated by user input 99 or based on sensor data, opens the flush gate valve 71, allowing the water and other contents of the toilet bowl 11 to drain into the gate chamber 73. This process can be repeated a predetermined number of times. This process can be repeated based on the user's selection. This process can be repeated until terminated in response to sensor data.

[0595] For example, the gate chamber 73 may include a fill sensor that indicates when the gate chamber 73 is full and needs to be drained. To drain, the controller 100 may close the flush gate valve 71 if it is not already closed. The controller 100 may open the vacuum valve to apply positive pressure to the gate chamber 73. Simultaneously, or after a predetermined time, the controller 100 opens the sewer gate valve 73. Through gravity and air pressure, the gate chamber 73 is drained into the septic tank or sewer line.

[0596] Figure 7 Pictured Figure 6 Another view of a toilet including an exemplary pressurized tank 81 as a vacuum device or an air compressor as a vacuum device, which is connected to the gate chamber 73 via a vacuum passage 85. The air compressor can be selectively connected to the pressurized tank 81 by a manual control lever 82, which is configured to open and close a valve between the vacuum generator and the pressurized tank 81. Figure 7 A controller electrically connected to the flush gate valve 71 and the sewer gate valve 72 is further illustrated.

[0597] Figure 8Another example vacuum toilet 90 is illustrated, which includes a toilet bowl 91, a flush tank 92, and an air channel 95. The air channel 95 connects to the flush tank 92 and two different points. For example, the air channel 95 can connect to the flush tank 92 at a top portion and a bottom portion. The air channel 95 can include a vacuum pump 94 or otherwise be connected to a source of air pressure (e.g., negative air pressure) such that the air channel 95 provides low pressure at a first portion of the flush tank 92 and high pressure at a second portion of the flush tank 92. As Figure 8 illustrated, the vacuum pump 94 is disposed in-line with the air channel 95. The vacuum pump 94 draws air out of the flush tank 92 (e.g., providing negative pressure) at the top portion. This causes the contents in the toilet bowl 91 (e.g., water and human waste) to be drawn into the flush tank 92. The vacuum pump 94 pushes air into the bottom portion of the flush tank 92 (e.g., providing positive pressure), which helps gravity to expel the contents of the flush tank 92 to a sanitary path (e.g., a sewer pipe or other passageway). In Figure 8 the example, the vacuum toilet 90 includes a vacuum pump valve 93 configured to selectively connect and disconnect the air channel 95 and the flush tank 92, and the vacuum toilet 90 includes an outlet valve 96 configured to selectively connect and disconnect the flush tank 92 and the sewer passageway. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0598] The vacuum toilet 90 includes an outlet ring 97. The outlet ring includes at least one input passageway to receive waste from the flush tank 92. The outlet ring 97 includes at least one input passageway to receive air from the air channel 95. The outlet ring 97 combines the waste and air to provide a pressurized waste path away from the vacuum toilet 90.

[0599] Figures 9A to 9C An example toilet outlet ring 97 is illustrated. The toilet outlet ring 97 includes a toilet flange 811 and an air annulus 112. The toilet outlet ring 97 can include passageway couplers and flanges on each side to form a pressure seal fit. The top of the toilet outlet ring 97 includes a toilet flange 114 and toilet passageway couplers 113, as shown in Figure 9A the top view. The bottom of the toilet outlet ring 97 includes a drain flange 117 and drain passageway couplers, as shown in Figure 9B the bottom view. The annular path 112 for air through the toilet outlet ring 97 can be seen in Figure 9B the cross-sectional view.

[0600] Figure 9C Another view of the toilet 90 is also included, which shows the connecting passageways for the toilet outlet ring 97. The toilet outlet ring 97 is coupled to the air channel 95. Also, a sewer passageway 973 is illustrated between the toilet bowl 91 and the chamber 92. Additionally, a first valve 971 and a second valve 972 can be connected to the air channel 95.

[0601] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating operation of a vacuum toilet during a flush cycle is shown. Additional, different, or fewer actions can be included.

[0602] In act S101, the vacuum pump 94 is powered on. For example, an impeller or motor is accelerated to a predetermined rotational speed (e.g., a rated RPM) to initialize or prime the system for flushing.

[0603] In act S103, the vacuum pump valve 93 is opened. The control circuit can provide power to a solenoid or another mechanical drive to cause the vacuum pump valve 93 to open. As air is drawn out by the vacuum pump 94, a vacuum is formed in the flush tank 92. The vacuum draws the contents of the bowl 91 into the flush tank 92.

[0604] In act S105, the outlet valve 96 is opened. Act S105 can occur simultaneously with act S103 or shortly after act S103 (e.g., with a 1 second or less delay between the vacuum pump valve 93 opening and the outlet valve 96 being opened). With the outlet valve 96 open, water and waste in the flush tank 92 can fall into the drain. This can be due to gravity. Additionally or alternatively, exhaust from the pump 94 uses the toilet outlet ring to help the flow of water of waste in the flush tank 92 into the drain.

[0605] In act S107, the vacuum pump 94 is deactivated or turned off. The control circuit can deactivate the vacuum pump 94 by removing power to the vacuum pump 94.

[0606] In act S109, the outlet valve 96 is closed and the vacuum pump valve 93 is also closed. The control circuit can close the outlet valve 96 by removing power to the solenoid or other mechanical device that keeps the outlet valve 96 open.

[0607] In act S111, the toilet bowl 91 is cleaned and / or refilled in preparation for the next flush cycle. The control circuit can open a water supply to the bowl 91 to fill the water to a predetermined level.

[0608] Figure 11 Another example vacuum toilet 90 is shown that includes a vacuum pump switch 104 in place of the vacuum pump valve 93.

[0609] Figure 12 Another example flowchart illustrating operation of a vacuum toilet 90 for Figure 11 is shown. Except that the vacuum pump valve 93 is omitted, Figure 12 the operations shown are similar to Figure 10 . Additional, different, or fewer actions can be included.

[0610] In act S201, the outlet valve 96 is closed.

[0611] In act S203, the vacuum pump 94 is energized.

[0612] In act S205, the outlet valve 96 is opened.

[0613] In act S207, the vacuum pump 94 is de-energized or turned off.

[0614] In act S209, the outlet valve 96 is closed.

[0615] In act S211, the toilet bowl 91 is cleaned and / or refilled in preparation for the next flush cycle.

[0616] Figure 13 Another example toilet 90 is illustrated. In one embodiment, the toilet 90 includes a trap valve 98 (and omits the vacuum pump valve 93). Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0617] Figure 14 Another example flowchart of operations for a toilet 90 is illustrated. Additional, different, or fewer acts can be included. Figure 13

[0618] In act S301, the vacuum pump 94 is energized.

[0619] In act S303, the trap valve 98 is opened. The control circuit can provide power to a solenoid or another mechanical drive to cause the trap valve 98 to open. The trap valve 98 separates the flush tank 92 and the bowl 91 when the toilet is not in a flush cycle.

[0620] In act S305, the outlet valve 96 is opened.

[0621] In act S307, the vacuum pump 94 is de-energized or turned off.

[0622] In act S309, the outlet valve 96 is closed and the trap valve 98 is closed.

[0623] In act S311, the toilet bowl 91 is cleaned and / or refilled in preparation for the next flush cycle.

[0624] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15B A wall-in toilet is illustrated. Figures 1 to 14 Any of the embodiments of the toilet can be applied to a wall-in toilet. The wall-in toilet includes a bowl 11 that extends away from a wall. At least one component of the toilet is included within the wall. As illustrated, at least the vacuum tank 227 is mounted within the wall. From Figure 15A ​In a depth cross-sectional view in FIG. 22, a vacuum tank 227 is installed behind at least one section of a drywall 221. The vacuum tank 227 can be installed between drywall sections 221 of an adjacent room. From Figure 15A In a width cross-sectional view in FIG. 23, a vacuum tank 227 is installed between studs (e.g., boards 2211) in a wall in a stud pocket. The vacuum tank 227 can be coupled to at least one stud. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0625] In one embodiment, a wall-in vacuum toilet can include a toilet wall flange 228 that extends through one section of a drywall 221 to connect to a toilet bowl 11. Also in the wall, a vacuum tank 227 can be connected to a vacuum pump valve 223 that selectively opens to pressurize the vacuum tank 227 with vacuum pressure provided by a vacuum apparatus 224. Also in the wall, the vacuum tank 227 can be connected to an outlet valve 226 that selectively opens the vacuum tank 227 to evacuate to a sewer passage (e.g., under pressure provided by the vacuum apparatus 224). The vacuum tank 227, also included in the wall, can be connected to an air passage 225 by two points, including a vacuum pressure point at the vacuum pump valve 223 and an outlet pressure point at the outlet valve 226.

[0626] A vacuum pump 224 can provide suction to a vacuum pressure point of the vacuum tank 227 in order to draw contents from the bowl 11 into the vacuum tank 227. The vacuum pump 224 can vent air from the air passage of the flush valve 225 to an outlet pressure point in order to push contents of the vacuum tank 227 out of the vacuum tank 227 and into a sewer passage.

[0627] Figure 16 A vacuum toilet with valves is illustrated. A toilet bowl 11 is connected to a vacuum tank 227 by a waste passage 2241 that can be opened and closed via a flush gate valve 2250. A hose 13 can be connected to a vacuum source of the vacuum tank 227 that can be installed outside of the vacuum toilet or inside of the vacuum toilet (e.g., underneath the bowl 11). The vacuum tank 227 can be connected to the hose 13 via a vacuum pump valve 223. The vacuum tank 227 can be evacuated to a sewer passage 22 via a sewer gate valve 226.

[0628] One or more of the flush gate valve 2250, the vacuum pump valve 223, and the sewer gate valve 226 can be a swing check valve (as opposed to a slide check valve). A swing check valve includes a valve member that pivots or rotates about an axis. Pressure in the vacuum tank 227 can cause the valve member to close. Pressure outside of the vacuum tank 227 can cause the valve member to open.

[0629] One or more of the flush gate valve 2250, the vacuum pump valve 223, and the sewer gate valve 226 can be a passive valve. Figure 17 An example passive valve 230 is illustrated. The passive valve 230 includes a biasing member that creates a resistance against the air pressure behind the valve. The biasing member is configured such that the valve 230 opens at a predetermined pressure. The biasing member provides a predetermined mechanical resistance against the pressure that tends to push the valve 230 open. The biasing member can include one or more magnets and / or one or more ferromagnetic members. As Figure 17 illustrated, the biasing member includes a magnet 231 and a metal tab 232. The magnet 231 attracts the metal tab 232 to keep the valve member 233 closed. When a predetermined amount of pressure is behind the valve 230, the pressure will overcome the attraction between the magnet 231 and the metal tab 232, and the valve member 233 will open. In one embodiment, two magnets can be used. In one embodiment, the biasing member can include a spring.

[0630] In another example, one or more of the flush gate valve 2250, the vacuum pump valve 223, and the sewer gate valve 226 can be an active valve. The active valve 230 includes an electronic biasing member that creates a resistance against the air pressure behind the valve. The electronic biasing member is configured such that the valve 230 opens at a predetermined pressure. The biasing member provides a predetermined mechanical resistance against the pressure that tends to push the valve 230 open. The biasing member can include one or more electromagnets (e.g., one or more electromagnets can replace the magnet 231 in Figure 17

[0631] The valve 230 can be advantageous over a slide / gate valve because operation can be less prone to fouling. If there is some debris on the valve seat of a slide / gate valve, problems can arise with respect to closing sufficiently, resulting in problems with the performance of the toilet.

[0632] 18A to 18B An example internal feature for a vacuum toilet is illustrated. Figure 16 Figure 18A ​​A vacuum toilet is illustrated that includes an extended trapway. The trapway includes an upstream portion 236 located upstream of the flush valve 225 and a downstream portion 235 located downstream of the flush valve 225. The downstream portion 235 of the trapway extends into the tank 227. The end of the downstream portion 235 is within a predetermined distance of the sewer valve 226. As waste and water is drawn from the bowl 11 into the tank 227, it follows the downstream portion 235 of the trapway to a location near the sewer valve 226. Thus, the downstream portion 235 reduces the likelihood that material will get stuck or otherwise slowed down somewhere within the tank 227, which improves the performance of the vacuum toilet. Any of these valves can be a flapper valve, a passive valve, or an active valve as described herein.

[0633] Figure 18B A baffle 236 is illustrated inside the tank 227. The baffle 236 can be vertical or positioned within a predetermined angle from vertical. The baffle 236 can be positioned between the outlet of the trapway 2241 near the flush valve 225 and the inlet of the vacuum valve 223. Material is directed downward and away from the vacuum valve 223. The baffle 2356 enables gravity to take over the momentum of the high-speed air flow from the vacuum source and the hose 13. Thus, the baffle 236 reduces the likelihood that material will get stuck or otherwise slowed down somewhere within the tank 227, which improves the performance of the vacuum toilet. Any of these valves can be a flapper valve, a passive valve, or an active valve as described herein.

[0634] Referring back to Figure 2 , its control system can be applied to Figures 1 to 18B any of the vacuum toilets therein. The controller 100 operates any of the valves as described herein.

[0635] The user input device 99 can be a button, a touch screen, a joystick, or other device by which a user provides commands to the toilet 10. The user input device 99 can initiate a command to flush the toilet bowl 11. The user input device 99 can initiate a command to flush the tank 20. The user input device 99 can initiate a command to clean the toilet bowl 11. The user input device 99 can initiate a command to clean the tank 20. In response to a command from the user input device 99, the controller 100 can cause the valve driver 31 to actuate one or more of the sump valve 15, the vacuum valve 16, the drain valve 21, the supply valve 42, and / or the reverse valve 41.

[0636] The sensor array 101 can include one or more sensors to detect sensor data related to the toilet 10. The sensor array 101 can include a flush trigger. An example flush trigger can be a pressure sensor, a button, a proximity sensor, or other type of sensor that detects when the lid is in an open position. The flush trigger can be a gesture sensor, a position sensor, or another sensor that detects the presence of a user or detects a gesture made by a user.

[0637] In any of the disclosed embodiments, the water saving devices and techniques can be combined with a load-based flush control system or feedback system. A toilet that includes at least a load-based flush control system or feedback system can be referred to as a load-based flush toilet. The load-based flush toilet is configured to flush an appropriate amount of water depending on the amount of waste or wall stain present in the bowl. The amount of waste or wall stain can be determined by internal measurement and calculation. There can be various levels of flush water volume, from a basic two-level “low and high” (as in a dual flush system) to many levels. The toilet is capable of flushing at all of the prescribed water volumes. As described in the embodiments below, vacuum and flapper toilets are likely candidates for this type of system.

[0638] The sensor array 101 can include one or more sensors configured to detect waste in the toilet bowl 11.

[0639] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a turbidity sensor. The turbidity sensor measures the cloudiness or clarity of the water or liquid of the bowl. The turbidity sensor can include light or laser that passes through a portion of the liquid. The turbidity sensor can be submerged or submerged in the toilet bowl 11 in order to take the measurement. The turbidity sensor can be included in a cavity of the toilet bowl such that liquid from the toilet bowl 11 flows into the cavity under the force of gravity. The controller 100 can receive data from the turbidity sensor and compare the data to one or more turbidity thresholds or turbidity ranges, which can be values in nephelometric turbidity units (NTU). The controller 100 can determine a waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0640] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a pH sensor or electrode to measure the pH of the water in the toilet bowl 11. The pH sensor can be placed inside the toilet bowl 11 and in contact with the contents of the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100 can receive data from the pH sensor and compare the data to one or more pH thresholds or pH ranges. One pH threshold or range can indicate a substantial concentration of urine in the toilet bowl 11. One pH threshold or range can indicate a substantial concentration of fecal matter in the toilet bowl 11. One pH threshold or range can indicate a substantial concentration of vomit in the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type or combination of waste types in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0641] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a flow sensor. The toilet bowl can include an overflow channel. The overflow channel can be located near the fill level of the toilet bowl 11 and have a small diameter (e.g., 0.5 cm or 0.25 inches). As contents are added to the toilet bowl 11, the liquid level in the toilet bowl 11 rises and a small amount of liquid overflows into the overflow channel. The flow sensor is located in the overflow channel and measures the amount of displaced liquid that overflows into the overflow channel. The amount of displaced liquid can be proportional to the amount of waste deposited in the toilet bowl 11 or the type of waste deposited in the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100 can receive data from the flow sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet 11 based on the comparison.

[0642] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a collision sensor. The toilet bowl 11 can be formed of a flexible material (e.g., rubber or plastic). The toilet bowl 11 can include a cavity or window covered by the flexible material. The collision sensor is placed on or behind the flexible material such that a collision is detectable when contents fall into the bowl. The controller 100 can receive data from the collision sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0643] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a vibration sensor. The vibration sensor can include a membrane that is mounted to the sump and configured to sense vibrations from a user using the toilet. In some examples, a cavity formed in the toilet bowl 11 is covered by the membrane that is the vibration sensor. The membrane can be connected to a position sensor or other device that detects movement in the membrane. The controller 100 can receive data from the vibration sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0644] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes an ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor is configured to measure a liquid level within the toilet bowl 11. In one example, the ultrasonic sensor is placed or mounted in the sump and measures a distance from the ultrasonic sensor to the surface of the water. In one example, the ultrasonic sensor is placed or mounted near the rim and measures a distance from the ultrasonic sensor to the surface of the water. The depth of the water can be indicative of the contents and / or type of waste deposited in the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100 can receive data from the ultrasonic sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0645] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a microphone. The microphone detects sounds emitted by waste as it splashes or otherwise deposits into the toilet bowl 11. In one example, the microphone is placed or mounted near the toilet bowl 11 to detect the sounds. Feces that splashes into the toilet bowl 11 can produce different sound characteristics or frequency spectrums, and urine that splashes into the toilet bowl 11 can produce different sound characteristics or frequency spectrums. The controller 100 can receive data from the microphone and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0646] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a conductivity sensor. The conductivity of the water in the bowl can change significantly when urine is added. The controller 100 can receive data from the conductivity sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds of urine presence. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0647] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a light sensor. The light sensor can be configured to detect a particular wavelength of light. The light sensor can include a light-dependent resistor (LDR) or a photoconductive element. The toilet bowl 11 can include a window made of a transparent or other light- permeable material. The light sensor can be placed or otherwise mounted at the window. The window can be in the sump. The controller 100 can receive data from the light sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0648] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a camera or other image sensor. The camera or sensor can be angled to only collect images of an interior portion of the toilet bowl 11 or a particular portion of the interior of the toilet bowl 11 (e.g., the sump). The camera can be a low resolution image sensor. The camera can be infrared. The controller 100 can analyze the image to determine a waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11. The analysis can include template comparison or object recognition. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0649] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a weight sensor. The weight sensor can be a piezoelectric sensor or a pressure sensor. The weight-based sensor can be integrated with or otherwise associated with the toilet seat. The controller 100 can receive data from the weight sensor indicating whether a user is seated on the toilet seat. The controller 100 can associate the weight sensor reading with a flush cycle or specifically with a flush request from the lever or electronic actuator. The controller 100 can compare the duration of the user’s seat to a threshold. When the user is seated for a long time, the controller 100 determines a high level of waste. When the user is seated for a short time, the controller 100 determines a low level of waste.

[0650] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can be embedded in the toilet bowl 11 or installed in the sump. The temperature sensor collects data of temperature changes caused by urine and / or fecal matter deposited into the toilet bowl 11. The controller 100 can receive the data from the temperature sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or the waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0651] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a vacuum sensor. The vacuum sensor can be a PT sensor, an air switch, or a temperature sensor. The vacuum sensor can be placed at the passageway 14 or the drain path 22. The controller 100 can receive data from the vacuum sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine that more water should be added to the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0652] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a chemical sensor. The chemical sensor can detect a protein, glucose, bilirubin, urobilinogen, ketone bodies, nitrite, white blood cells, or another component of urine. The controller 100 can receive data from the chemical sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or the waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0653] In one example, the sensor array 101 includes a toilet paper monitoring sensor. The toilet paper monitoring sensor can collect images of a toilet paper roll and the toilet paper monitoring sensor is installed on the toilet. The toilet paper monitoring sensor can be an accelerometer or other inertial sensor installed on the toilet paper roll or holder. The controller 100 can receive data from the toilet paper monitoring sensor and compare the data to one or more thresholds. The controller 100 can determine a waste level or a waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison. Similarly, the controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or the waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on the comparison.

[0654] In one example, sensor array 101 includes load sensors for devices connected to a toilet. The load sensors can detect the mechanical load on an impeller located in or near the sump. The load sensors can also detect the mechanical load on a pump associated with the toilet. Controller 100 can receive data from the load sensors and compare the data to one or more threshold values. Based on this comparison, controller 100 can determine the waste level or type in toilet bowl 11. Similarly, based on this comparison, controller 100 can determine a load value based on the waste level or type in toilet bowl 11.

[0655] In one example, the user input device 99 provides input data that determines a load value, waste level, or waste type in the toilet bowl 11. For example, a bidet setting may indicate the type of waste deposited in the toilet bowl 11. The user input device 99 may include input indicating feces, urine, menstrual fluid, or other contents of the toilet bowl 11. An activated rear bidet may indicate one waste type. An activated front bidet may indicate another waste type. The controller 100 identifies a load value based on the input data. The input data may also be used to determine a threshold for another technique. For example, the controller 100 may select a pH threshold based on user input indicating the type of waste in the bowl 11.

[0656] The controller 100 can use the duration that supply valve 42 is open and supplies water to toilet bowl 11 to select the amount of water to provide. The controller 100 can select the duration of supply valve 42 opening in response to a load value, waste level, or waste type in toilet bowl 11, based on any of the above-described techniques and a comparison of sensor data. The duration can be set by water volume or time period. In any of these examples, the controller 100 can also select the amount of water used to fill the toilet bowl when sump valve 15 is closed. Additionally or alternatively, in any of these examples, the controller 100 can also select the amount of water used to rinse the toilet bowl when sump valve 15 is open.

[0657] The controller 100 may also activate the waste disposal device in response to a load value or waste level or waste type in the toilet bowl 11 based on any of the above techniques and a comparison of sensor data.

[0658] Waste treatment equipment can include ultrasonic cavitation equipment configured to break down solid particles into a slurry that can be easily rinsed. In one example, a nozzle is used to dissolve a stream of pressurized air into a liquid to generate bubbles based on the principles of cavitation. The nozzle can be a venturi tube. In cavitation, the static pressure of a liquid is lower than its vapor pressure, resulting in the formation of a vapor-filled cavity. Vapor pressure is the pressure in thermodynamic equilibrium with other phases (liquid and solid) at a specific temperature.

[0659] The waste treatment apparatus can include a distributor to release a chemical digestant to break down solid particles so that it will facilitate easy transportation of waste using low water flow. The waste treatment apparatus can include a mechanical grinder, a shredder, or an incinerator.

[0660] Figures 19A to 19B A toilet 125 with a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated. The toilet 610 includes a tank 659 and a base 690. The tank 659 includes a lid 1201, a lever 268, and a flush valve 669. The base 690 is coupled to a seat assembly including a hinge 668, a lid 661, and a seat 2651. The tank 659 can be placed on and coupled to the base 690, which includes a bowl and a sump disposed at the bottom of the bowl. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included. The base 690 can also support a pivoting bowl assembly that includes a bowl 664 that pivots on a pivot member 128. The pivot member 128 can be a pivot or a swivel that supports the bowl 664 and is rotatably coupled to the base 690. Optionally, the tank 659 can include a lid sensor 2661 and a presence sensor 2662. The toilet 610 can include a plurality of locations to attach one or more flush triggers. The flush triggers can include levers, buttons, touchscreens, or other user input devices. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0661] Each side of the base can include an opening or recess to rotatably mount the pivot member 128. That is, the left side wall can include an opening and the right side wall can include an opening such that the pivot member 128 extends between the openings. Thus, the pivot member 128 and coupled bowl 664 are rotatably supported by the base 690. Other mechanisms can be used to support the bowl 664. The bowl 664 can include a guide rail that rests on a track coupled to the base 690 such that the guide rail slides along the track to allow the bowl 664 to pivot.

[0662] The bowl 664 can include a drain side compartment 662, which can be referred to as a drain portion of the bowl 664, and a fill side compartment 663, which can be referred to as a storage portion of the bowl 664. The fill side compartment 663 includes a bowl opening (at the toilet seat 2651) where a user can deposit contents (e.g., urine and fecal matter) into the bowl 664. The bowl opening of the movable toilet bowl assembly is substantially horizontal when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in an operational position in state 1 and is substantially vertical when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in an emptying position in state 2.

[0663] Between the drain side compartment 662 and the fill side compartment 663 is a narrow passageway at the lowest point of the bowl, where a water seal 665 is formed when water is added to the bowl 664. The narrow passageway can be directly below the pivot member 128. Corresponding to the narrow passageway is a water seal dam 127 between the drain side compartment 662 and the fill side compartment 663. The water seal dam 127 can be formed from the same material at the bowl 664. The water seal dam 127 separates the storage portion of the toilet bowl or drain side compartment 662 from the discharge cavity of the fill side compartment 663.

[0664] The drain side compartment 662 can include a discharge outlet 666 in fluid communication with the movable toilet bowl 664. As shown in Figure 19A State 1 or the operational position, the discharge outlet 666 in the first position is above the water level in the water seal 665, thereby forming the water seal 665 and preventing air from escaping through the drain side compartment 662. The discharge outlet 666 of the movable toilet bowl assembly is substantially vertical when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the operational position in State 1 and substantially horizontal when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the emptying position in State 2. The discharge outlet 666 of the movable toilet bowl assembly is in an upper position when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the operational position in State 1 and in a lower position when the movable toilet bowl assembly is in the emptying position in State 2.

[0665] Optionally, the drain side compartment 662 can include a door 129 to additionally seal the drain side compartment 662. The door 129 can be rotatable. The door 129 can be spring loaded such that the door 129 is biased into a closed position, as shown in Figure 19A .

[0666] As shown in Figure 19B State 2, the bowl 664 is pivoted such that the discharge outlet 666 is aligned with a drain of the toilet 610. The drain can include a drain pipe 121. When the bowl 664 is rotated to State 2 or the emptying position, the contents of the bowl 664 exit the discharge outlet 666 and travel to the drain pipe 121 under the force of gravity.

[0667] Rotation of the bowl 664 can be caused by a variety of mechanisms. In one example, the pivot member 128 is connected to a handle or foot pedal. That is, the pivot member 128 can extend through either side wall of the toilet 610 to be mounted to a handle or foot pedal. When the handle or foot pedal is typically pressed, rotated, or pulled, the bowl 664 is rotated between Figure 19A State 1, as shown, and Figure 19B State 2, as shown. By operation of the handle or foot pedal, the user flushes the pivoting toilet.

[0668] The pivot member 128 can be connected to a control lever 268. In one example, the bowl 664 is weighted. That is, the drain side compartment 662 includes weight such that the drain side compartment 662 is heavier than the fill side compartment 663 and the bowl 664 tends to rotate from state 1 to state 2 under the force of the weight. The locking member 671 can hold or lock the toilet 610 in state 1.

[0669] The locking member 671 can include a bar that extends into the cavity 672 of the bowl 664. The locking member can be mechanically coupled by one or more pivots, gears, pulleys, or other mechanisms such that rotation of the control lever 268 pulls the bar out of the cavity 672, which allows the bowl 664 to rotate under the force of the weight of the drain side compartment 662. The locking member 671 can be manually released by a handle or pull tab that extends from the toilet 610 (e.g., from the base 690).

[0670] The locking member 671 can include a solenoid that engages and disengages the bar from the cavity 672 of the bowl 664. The solenoid can be electrically coupled to the control lever 268 such that actuation of the control lever 268 causes the solenoid to retract from the cavity 672 and allows the bowl 664 to rotate under the force of the weight of the drain side compartment 662. An electric motor can be used in place of the solenoid. Another button or user input can be used in place of the control lever 268. The solenoid can be triggered in response to a sensor that detects a user at the toilet 610 or sitting on the seat 2651 based on when the user leaves the toilet 610 or stands up from the seat 2651.

[0671] The pivoting toilet can also include a toilet latch 674 configured to hold the movable toilet bowl 664 in the emptying position or state 2. The bowl latch 674 can include a solenoid electrically coupled to the control lever 268 such that reverse actuation of the control lever 268 causes the solenoid to retract from the cavity 672 and allows the bowl 664 to return to the operational position or state 1. An electric motor can be used in place of the solenoid and the electric motor can apply a rotational force to the bowl 664 to return to the operational position or state 1. Another button or user input device can be used in place of the control lever 268. The user can manually push the bowl 664 to return it to the operational position. The solenoid can be triggered in response to a sensor that detects a user approaching the toilet 610 or is otherwise detected.

[0672] The bowl latch 674 can be magnetic. That is, the bowl 664 can include a magnet or metallic material that is held in place by a magnet of the bowl latch 674. The magnetic holding force can be electronically released. The user can manually push the bowl 664 to overcome the magnetic force to return it to the operational position.

[0673] The handle 268 can be coupled to the flush valve 669 in various techniques. In one example, a cable connects the handle 268 and the flush valve 669. The cable can include a cord or wire that travels within a sheath. A small rotational span of the handle 268 can be used with the cable. In other examples, a motor responsive to the handle 268 can be mounted inside the water tank so that the handle 268 does not require a hole or aperture in the water tank. The motor and handle 268 can be connected with an electromagnetic trip, wireless communication, a magnetic circuit, or another device that signals through the wall of the water tank. In the case of a magnetic circuit, a wire coil within the water tank can generate a magnetic field that is also detectable by a sensor within the water tank. When the handle 268 is moved, it disrupts the magnetic field detected by the sensor (e.g., causes a change in the magnetic field). The sensor data is analyzed, for example, by the controller 100, and when the disruption is detected, a command is generated for the motor to cause the motor to wind up the cord of the cable to open the flush valve 669. Other mechanisms can be used between the motor and the flush valve 669.

[0674] The handle 268 can also include one or more springs to help bias the handle 268 to the starting position. In examples of magnetic or inductive triggering between the handle 268 and the flush valve 669, there can be little or no magnetic resistance. This can feel strange or broken to the user. The springs exert a force that resists the user’s action on the handle 268 and also return the handle 268 to the starting position.

[0675] When the bottom basin 664 moves from state 1 to state 2, the door 129 of the drain outlet 666 can automatically retract. The door 129 can rest against a protrusion 673 at the drain portion of the bottom basin 664. When the bottom basin 664 rotates, the door 129 contacts the protrusion 673 and is pushed away by the protrusion 673.

[0676] The drain portion 121 can be coupled to the floor flange and / or the septic tank access. The drain portion 121 can be fastened to an intermediate gasket that is connected to the floor flange by a wax ring or other seal. The drain portion 121 can be connected to the floor flange with a wax ring or other seal.

[0677] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20BAdditional views of the toilet 610 with a pivoting bowl assembly are illustrated. The pivoting bowl assembly can be connected to a flush valve 669 via a water passageway 675. The water passageway can be connected to the pivoting bowl assembly at the door 129 of the drain compartment 662. The water passageway can include a spout that contacts the door 129 when the pivoting bowl assembly is in an operational position or state 1. The spout pushes the door 129 inward (e.g., against a spring bias force that holds the door 129 closed). In the case that the spout protrudes into the drain compartment 662, water can be provided from the flush valve 669 into the drain compartment 662 and ultimately into the fill side compartment 663, creating a water seal at the narrow passage below the dam 127.

[0678] In one example, water is automatically provided to the pivoting bowl assembly in response to the pivoting bowl assembly returning to the operational position. For example, the flush valve 669 can remain open. A predetermined amount of water can be present in the tank 659 and / or the water passageway 675. When the pivoting bowl assembly returns to the operational position, the door 129 is opened and provides a path for water to pour into the bowl 664. The water passageway 675 can be angled to assist water flow.

[0679] In one example, water is provided to the pivoting bowl assembly in accordance with electronic control of the flush valve 669. When the pivoting bowl assembly returns to the operational position, as detected by a position sensor, the controller 100 instructs the flush valve 669 to open and release water to the water passageway 675 and the bowl 664. Alternatively, the controller 100 can release water into the bowl 664 in response to actuation of the lever 268 (e.g., in a direction opposite to flushing the pivoting bowl assembly).

[0680] Figures 21A to 21B Another toilet 125 with a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated. The pivoting bowl assembly can include a bowl base 120 and a toilet bowl 111. The toilet bowl 111 is configured to rotate relative to the toilet base 120. One of the toilet bowl 111 and the toilet base 120 can have a track and the other of the toilet bowl 111 and the toilet base 120 can have a sliding member that matches the track. In one example, the toilet bowl 111 includes a ball bearing that rolls in the track of the toilet base 120.

[0681] Figure 21A An operational position or state 1 of the pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated. In the operational position, the toilet bowl 111 is configured to receive excrement from a user seated at the toilet bowl 111. The toilet bowl includes a weir or dam that allows a water seal to be formed when water is filled into the bowl 111 up to the weir or dam. In the operational state, the toilet bowl 111 is aligned to block the drain portion 121.

[0682] The toilet bowl 111 can be rotated relative to the toilet base 120. A user can grasp (e.g., by a handle) the toilet bowl 111 and rotate the toilet bowl 111 from state 1 to state 2. As previously described, the toilet bowl 111 can be rotated relative to the toilet base 120 using a motor, solenoid, or other drive mechanism.

[0683] When moving from state 1 to state 2, the toilet bowl 111 can be latched to the top of the toilet base 120 using a latching mechanism 131. The latching mechanism 131 can include an electromagnet that, when energized, creates a magnetic field that attracts a magnet or other ferromagnetic material on the toilet bowl 111 to hold the toilet bowl 111 in state 2. The latching mechanism 131 can include a snap-fit tab or a detent that mechanically holds the toilet bowl 111 in state 2. Other fastening mechanisms can be used.

[0684] The pivoting toilet 125 can be connected to the floor using a flange 126. As described above, the flange 126 can be coupled to the floor and sealed with a wax ring. Other mounting techniques can be used. In some examples, the pivoting toilet 125 can be portable. The pivoting toilet 125 can be coupled to a tank below the drain 121 using the flange 126. When actuated (rotated), the bowl 111 empties into the tank, and the tank is emptied as needed.

[0685] Figure 22 Another toilet 130 with a pivoting bowl assembly is illustrated. The toilet 130 includes a toilet bowl 111 and a toilet base 124. The toilet bowl in the flushing position is illustrated by the dashed line 1200. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0686] The toilet 130 can include a curved drain 121 as a first telescoping portion coupled to a movable toilet bowl assembly. The curved drain 121 extends to a height above at least a portion of the bowl 111. Thus, there is a water seal between the curved drain 121 and the bowl 111 and the water height is defined by the height of the curved drain 121. The curved drain 121 can be referred to as a male portion as it fits into the toilet base 124.

[0687] The toilet base 124 includes a curved cavity 119 to receive the curved drain 121. The curved cavity 119 is a second telescoping portion coupled to the toilet base 125. The curved drain 121 moves relative to the curved cavity 119 when the movable toilet bowl assembly moves from the operational position to the emptying position. The curved drain 121 slides into the curved cavity 119 when the movable toilet bowl assembly moves from the operational position to the emptying position.

[0688] The toilet bowl 111 is configured to rotate relative to the toilet base 124. A user can grasp the toilet bowl 111 (e.g., by a handle) and rotate the toilet bowl 111 from an operational position to a drain position. Similarly, to reset, the pivoting toilet 130 can be moved from the drain position to the operational position. The toilet bowl 111 can be rotated relative to the toilet base 120 using a motor, solenoid, or other drive mechanism.

[0689] FIG. 23A to FIG. 23B A combination sink and toilet is illustrated, including a sink basin 141 (which can be referred to as a sink), a cabinet or frame 144, and a movable toilet assembly 142. The combination sink and toilet can be fixed to a wall 158, a floor 147, or both the wall 158 and the floor 147. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0690] Figure 23A A combination sink and toilet is illustrated in an operational position, i.e., the movable toilet assembly 142 is rotated down so that a user can sit on the toilet opening. Figure 23B A combination sink and toilet is illustrated in a drain position, so that the toilet bowl 142 is drained under the force of gravity. The movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is movable from an operational position (in which the movable toilet bowl assembly is rotated away from the sink basin 141) to a drain position (in which the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is rotated under the sink basin 141).

[0691] FIGS. 24a to Figure 24B An interior view of a combination sink and toilet is illustrated. Figure 24A A movable toilet assembly 142 is illustrated in an operational state and rotated down and away from the sink basin 141. Figure 24B A movable toilet assembly 142 is illustrated in a drain position, which is stowed under the sink basin 141, or rotated up under the sink basin 141. The toilet bowl and movable toilet assembly 142 are shaped to retain water in the operational position and release water in the drain position. In other words, the toilet bowl of the movable toilet assembly 142 is shaped to form a water seal in the operational position and a gravity path to drain the toilet bowl in the drain position. The sink basin 141 includes a first drain outlet, and the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 includes a bowl opening and a second drain outlet, so that the first and second drain outlets are at least indirectly connected to a drain pipe 156. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0692] The combination sink and toilet includes an internal plumbing system in which the sink basin 141 and the movable toilet assembly 142 are connected. The sink 141 includes a first discharge outlet and the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 includes a bowl opening and a second discharge outlet. The first and second discharge outlets are coupled to a common drain path (e.g., a drain pipe 156 that connects to a sewer system, a septic system, or other water treatment system). The drain pipe 156 passes through the floor 147. In other examples, the drain pipe 156 can pass through a wall 158.

[0693] The front of the toilet bowl of the movable toilet assembly 142 is shaped with a downward slope (e.g., along a curved wall 1420) such that a water seal is formed in the valley between the toilet bowl and the trapway 159. The rear of the toilet bowl of the movable toilet assembly 142 is shaped with a downward slope or forward angle relative to the toilet bowl (e.g., along a rear wall 152). As shown, when the movable toilet assembly 142 is moved to the emptying position, the rear wall 152 provides a downward slope for any water and other contents to slide under the force of gravity from the toilet bowl through the trapway 159 and ultimately to the drain pipe 156. Figure 24B

[0694] The internal plumbing system of the combination sink and toilet includes a basin pipe 151 that includes a trap 153 (basin path) fluidly coupled to the sink basin 141. The trap 153 includes one or more bends in the basin pipe 151 to form a water seal. The trap 153 can include an S-shaped trap that flows downward from the drain of the sink basin 141, curves upward, and then curves downward. In one embodiment, when the drain path 156 enters the wall 158 at the rear of the combination sink and toilet, the trap 153 can include a P-shaped trap that flows downward from the drain of the sink basin 141 and curves only once into a horizontal pipe that removes waste. In the emptying position, the movable toilet bowl 144 is adjacent to the trap 153 of the sink basin 141. In the emptying position, the movable toilet bowl 144 is below the sink basin 141. The toilet bowl 144 can be in contact with the housing that supports the basin pipe 151. The toilet bowl 144 can be latched onto the housing that supports the basin pipe 151. The toilet bowl 144 can be latched directly to the basin pipe 151. Downstream of the trap 153, the basin pipe 151 or basin path connects to the first discharge outlet.

[0695] ​The internal plumbing system of the combination sink and toilet includes a drain junction base 148 coupled to a first discharge outlet coupled to the sink basin 141 and a second discharge outlet connected to the movable toilet bowl assembly 142. The drain junction base 148 can be a bowl-shaped chamber that allows the water flow from the sink basin 141 to combine with the water flow from the movable toilet bowl assembly 142. The drain junction base 148 includes inputs from the sink basin 141 and the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 and a common drain output to the drain pipe 156. The drain channel 159 is curved to form a water seal between the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 and the drain junction base 148. The drain junction base 148 can include a sliding path so that the drain channel 159 can rotate into the drain junction base 148 when the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is rotated from the operational position to the emptying position. In this way, the second discharge outlet for the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is moved relative to the drain junction base 148. In one example, the drain junction base 148 can include an aperture for the end of the drain channel to seat when the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is in the emptying position. The aperture can include one or more openings at the bottom of the seat of the drain channel 159 so that water or waste has an additional path to the drain path 156.

[0696] The internal plumbing system of the combination sink and toilet includes a water supply path to the movable toilet bowl assembly 142. In some examples, the water supply path provides water to fill the toilet bowl and form a water seal. In some examples, the water supply path provides water to flush the bowl. The flushing and filling can be performed simultaneously. The water supply path can be line water from the plumbing inside the building. The water supply path can be connected to a water tank that includes a flush valve. In either case, the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 can include a rim passage configured to connect the flush valve to the movable toilet bowl assembly 142.

[0697] In one embodiment, the sink basin 141 and the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 share a water inlet pipe. When the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is in the emptying position, the bowl and the drain channel 159 are flushed. In addition, the drain channel 159 can be blocked from draining so that subsequent water fills the drain channel 159. When the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is rotated back to the operational position, the water in the drain channel 159 moves to the portion of the sump and a water seal is formed.

[0698] A valve can be used to open and close the drain of the drain channel 159. In one embodiment, when the drain channel 159 is seated against the housing structure or frame, as Figure 24BThe waste passage 159 can be blocked as indicated by arrow 1149. Alternatively, a discharge door is configured to cover the discharge outlet of the movable toilet bowl assembly 142. The discharge door is closed when the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is in the operational position and is opened when the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is in the emptying position.

[0699] The combination sink and toilet includes at least one frame that supports the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 and the sink basin 141. The pivot joint 157 is configured to support the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 and allow the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 to rotate relative to the frame.

[0700] The combination sink and toilet includes a bracket 155 that is coupled to the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 and the frame. The bracket 155 rotates when the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 is moved from the operational position to the emptying position. In the emptying position, the bracket 155 can be stowed against the frame. In the operational position, the bracket 155 can be angled above the horizontal to provide additional support to the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 from the frame. In one embodiment, the bracket 155 can contact the floor 147 and provide support to the movable toilet bowl assembly 122 from the floor 147.

[0701] The combination sink and toilet includes a handle 146 that is coupled to the movable toilet bowl assembly 142. The handle 146 can include a grip or handhold for a user to lift and rotate the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 from the operational position to the emptying position. The movable toilet bowl assembly 142 can include a counterweight to facilitate the rotation of the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 from the operational position to the emptying position. In one embodiment, a motor or other drive mechanism is provided to rotate the movable toilet bowl assembly 142 from the operational position to the emptying position.

[0702] FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B An example illustration of a flexible joint 162 for a pivoting toilet is illustrated. The flexible joint can be an adapter for use in any of the pivoting toilets described herein. Figure 25A An example illustration of a flexible joint 162 in a bent state in the operational position of the toilet bowl 154, Figure 25BThe extended state of the flex joint 162 in the emptying state of the toilet bowl 154 is illustrated. In the folded state of the flex joint 162, one side of the flex joint 162 is above the outlet of the toilet bowl 154 and one side of the flex joint 162 is below the outlet of the toilet bowl 154. The flex joint 162 can fold over itself and substantially block any flow out of the outlet of the toilet bowl 154. In the folded state of the flex joint 162, no flow through the flex joint is required when the toilet bowl 154 is in the operational position. The folded portion of the flex joint 162 is above the water seal of the toilet bowl 154. In the extended state of the flex joint 162, the sides of the flex joint are substantially straightened, providing a path from the outlet of the toilet bowl 154 so that the contents of the bowl can be evacuated from the pivoting toilet.

[0703] In one embodiment, the pivot member 161 connecting the toilet bowl 154 to the frame or other support structure coincides with the connection of the flex joint 162 to the outlet of the toilet bowl 154. In other words, a straight line at the outlet of the toilet bowl 154 can overlap the flex joint 162, the pivot member 161, and the outlet of the toilet bowl 154. In this way, with reference to the example in FIG. 23A to FIG. 23B

[0704] Figure 26 Another combination sink and toilet 200 is illustrated, which includes the previously disclosed components and includes a frame 143 and a housing 144. Figures 27A to 27F An assembly of a combination sink and toilet is illustrated. Figure 28 is an example method for assembling a combination sink and toilet 200. Additional, different, or fewer acts can be included.

[0705] At act S401, a base (drain engagement base 148) is attached to a floor 147. In some cases, a grommet 149 is first installed on the floor, as shown in Figure 27A The grommet 149 can be fastened to a sewer line or floor joist. In one embodiment, the base 148 can be attached to a wall instead of a floor. The support cleats 139 can be attached to a wall. As shown in Figure 27B The base 148 is attached to the grommet 149, as shown in

[0706] ​At act S403, at least one frame is placed on the base 148, as shown in Figure 27C One example frame includes a reinforced frame 143 adapted to support the weight of the sink basin 141 and the movable toilet assembly 142. In some examples, the frame is secured to the non-slip wedge 139. In some examples, the frame 143 is sized to fit around the base 148 without contacting the base 148. The frame 143 can include a pivot member 157 to rotatably support the movable toilet assembly 142. At least one frame can also include a housing or shell 144, as shown in Figure 27D The shell 144 can be secured to the frame 142 and extend upward to support the sink basin 141.

[0707] At act S405, the sink basin 141 is mounted to the at least one frame, for example to the shell 144. The sink basin 141 can be secured to the shell 144 with one or more fasteners. The sink basin 141 can be placed on the shell 144 and held in place by weight. The basin pipe 151 can be secured to the base 148 and the sink basin 141 to provide a fluid connection between the sink basin 141 and the base 148, as shown in Figure 27E

[0708] At act S407, the rotatable toilet assembly 142 is mounted to the frame 143. The rotatable toilet assembly 142 can be fastened into the pivot member 157. The rotatable toilet assembly 142 can be snapped into the pivot member 157. The rotatable toilet assembly 142 can include a collar for a ball bearing or another rotational device such that the pivot member 157 passes through the rotational device. The additional pivot member 1157 can couple the bracket from the rotatable toilet assembly 142 to the frame 143.

[0709] At act S409, a flexible joint, for example, the flexible joint 162 in FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B is attached between the base 148 and the rotatable toilet assembly 142.

[0710] Figures 29A to 29B A rolling bucket or hopper-flushing action toilet 170 is illustrated that includes a toilet pan 160 and a rotatable hopper 161 coupled to a sump of the toilet pan 160. An open end of the hopper of the rotatable hopper 161 faces upward, as shown in Figure 29A ​As shown, the rotatable hopper 161 can be referred to as an operational position. In the operational position, the rotatable hopper 161 receives excretions from a user seated on the toilet bowl 160 and is configured to contain or hold water and any discharges. The opening of the rotatable hopper 161 faces downward in the direction of gravity, or within a predetermined angular range downward, which can be referred to as a dumping or flushing position. One example predetermined angular range is + / - 45 degrees to cause a downward slope along the sides of the rotatable hopper. Thus, the rotatable hopper 161 can be tilted at an angle relative to either side, front, or back of the toilet bowl. When the rotatable hopper 161 is in the dumping position, the contents of the rotatable hopper 161 are dumped or fall into the drain line passage 168. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0711] The rotatable hopper or bucket 161 and the drain line passage 168 are substantially vertically aligned. The dashed line C or centerline illustrates the alignment of the rotatable hopper 161 and the drain line passage 168. Further, the user drop zone, which is the area where the majority of excretions from a user drop on the toilet bowl 160 and / or the rotatable hopper 161, is also aligned with the centerline. This alignment provides the shortest path and most efficient transfer of excretions to the drain line passage 168.

[0712] Below the toilet bowl 160 of the hopper-flushing action toilet 170 is a sump chamber 163. The sump chamber 163 can be spherical or cylindrical. The sump chamber 163 can be formed from two hemispherical halves that are joined at a seam 1631, for example, using one or more fasteners 1632.

[0713] The hopper-flushing action toilet 170 can also include a sleeve 164 configured to support the rotatable hopper 161. The sleeve 164 defines a cavity for holding the rotatable hopper 161. As Figure 29A As shown, the majority of the sleeve 164 can be spherical, or otherwise have a circular cross-section, and then the remaining circumference of the sleeve 164 is shaped to allow the profile of the rotatable hopper 161. Other shapes for the rotatable hopper 161 and the sleeve 164 can be used. Figure 30 Another view of the hopper-flushing action toilet 170 is shown, including the toilet bowl 160, the rotatable hopper 161, and the sleeve 164.

[0714] Sleeve 164 can provide a watertight seal with sump chamber 163 so that no water or other material can travel between sleeve 164 and sump chamber 163. When rotatable bucket 161 is in the operating position, the only path out of basin 160 is into rotatable bucket 161. Likewise, when rotatable bucket 161 is in the drain position, the only path out of rotatable bucket is into drain line 168. In the drain position, sleeve 164 blocks the opening below sump 1632 of basin 160.

[0715] Sleeve 164 is configured to contact the toilet bowl and rotate relative to toilet bowl 160 and within sump chamber 163, wherein sump chamber 163 supports rotatable tipping bucket 161. Lubricant may be applied between sleeve 164 and sump chamber 163. In other examples, rollers or ball bearings may be included between sleeve 164 and sump chamber 163.

[0716] The tipping-bucket flush action toilet 170 may include a sump 1634 located in the lower portion of the bowl 160. The sump 1634 may be separate from the sump chamber 163 such that the sleeve 164 extends to the side of the sump chamber 163 but not into the sump 1634 of the bowl 160. A rotatable tipping bucket 161 is located downstream of the flow of water and other materials from the sump 1634. The rotatable tipping bucket 161 is located below the toilet bowl 160 and below the sump 1634 of the bowl 160.

[0717] As shown in the previous embodiments, the tipping bucket flush action toilet 170 may also include a water tank, wherein the rotatable tipping bucket is located below the water tank and behind the toilet bowl 160. The water tank can be connected to one or more water passages that provide water to the bowl 160 to clean the bowl 160 and / or fill the rotatable tipping bucket 161 with water.

[0718] like Figure 29B As shown, the bucket flush action toilet 170 may further include at least one sprayer 1620 configured to spray the rotatable bucket 161 in the empty position. The at least one sprayer 1620 may be operated using a variety of techniques.

[0719] In one example, the controller 100 is configured to send instructions to the at least one sprayer 1620 to open a valve or each sprayer 1620 and spray water toward the rotatable hopper 161. Additionally or alternatively, a position sensor can detect the position of the rotatable hopper 161. The controller 100 can receive sensor data from the position sensor and activate the sprayers 1620 in response to the sensor data. The position sensor can detect the position of the sleeve 164 or other component. In one embodiment, a separate sensor as described herein can be used to detect that a user has stood up or otherwise moved away from the hopper-flushing action toilet 170.

[0720] A switch can be activated based on the position of the rotatable hopper 161. For example, there can be a switch that detects the presence of the rotatable hopper 161 in the emptying position, rather than instructions from the controller 100. The switch can be a mechanical switch 1635. When the sleeve 164 is in the operational position, the sleeve 164 depresses the mechanical switch 1635, which causes the at least one sprayer 1620 to remain closed. When the sleeve 164 moves to the emptying position, the sleeve 164 releases the mechanical switch 1635, which causes the at least one sprayer 1620 to clean the rotatable hopper 161. In one embodiment, different switches are used for different sprayers. Electronic switches can be used instead of mechanical switches. The electronic switches can include motion sensors or other sensors.

[0721] A motor 167 or other drive device is configured to actuate the rotatable hopper between the operational position and the emptying position. Other examples of drive devices can include one or more solenoids, one or more gears, or one or more spring-loaded mechanisms.

[0722] In some examples, power is provided to the motor 167 or other drive device to rotate the rotatable hopper 161. The controller 100 can send instructions to the motor 176 to rotate the sleeve 164 and the rotatable hopper 161 to a particular position.

[0723] In one embodiment, the drive device includes a hand control lever that is driven by a hand or by a foot. The hand control lever can extend from the hopper-flushing action toilet 170.

[0724] In both electric and manual embodiments, the drive device is configured to actuate the rotatable hopper in a single rotational direction between the operational position, the emptying position, and back to the operational position. The drive device can include a transmission system and can include a ratchet gear that causes the sleeve 164 and the rotatable hopper 161 to rotate in only a single rotational direction.

[0725] Figures 31A to 31BAnother tip-up flush toilet 180 is illustrated in a tank or gravity-fed configuration. The tip-up flush toilet 180 includes a tank 181, a toilet bowl 182, a base 184 supporting the toilet bowl 182 and / or the tank 181, and at least one channel (e.g., a rim channel) connecting the tank 181 and the toilet bowl 182. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0726] In this example, the rolling drum or rotatable bucket 166 is placed below the water tank 181 and behind the bottom bowl 182 in the rear portion of the toilet 180. In other words, the rolling drum or rotatable bucket 166 is not below the bottom bowl 182 or is only below the bottom bowl 182 to a very small extent. Water and waste placed in the bottom bowl 182 travel to the drainage passage 188 through the rotatable bucket 166.

[0727] The rotatable bucket 166 can be coupled to a housing 185 that supports the rotatable bucket 166. The rotatable bucket 166 can be coupled to the housing 185 so that the rotatable bucket 166 and the housing 185 rotate together. The rotatable bucket 166 includes an inner portion for carrying water and waste. The rotatable bucket 166 and the housing 185 form an outer portion between the rotatable bucket 166 and the housing 185. The outer portion can be weighted to assist in the movement of the rotatable bucket 166. The outer portion can include one or more translating or sliding members to facilitate the movement of the rotatable bucket 166.

[0728] The rotatable bucket 166 may include an input opening 187 and an output opening 186. In the operating position, as shown Figure 31A As shown, the input opening 187 is aligned with the sump of the toilet bowl 182. In addition, the output opening 186 is vertically positioned, for example, the output opening 186 abuts the base 184 of the toilet 180. As shown by arrow A and the rotation axis R, when the rotatable tipper 166 and the housing 185 are rotated from the operating position to the emptying position, as shown Figure 31B As shown, the input opening 187 rotates to separate from the trapway of the toilet bowl 182, and the output opening 186 rotates to align with the toilet's drain passage 188. Thus, water or waste in the rotatable bucket 166 falls through the drain passage 188 toward a sewer or septic tank system.

[0729] As described above, the rotatable hopper 166 can be driven by a solenoid, a motor, or a manual lever. In some examples, the rotatable hopper 166 and the housing 185 can rotate 180 degrees to cause a flush. The rotatable hopper 166 and the housing 185 can rotate 360 degrees to cause a flush. The rotatable hopper 166 and the housing 185 can rotate 180 degrees in one direction and then 180 degrees in the opposite direction to cause a flush. The rotatable hopper 166 and the housing 185 can rotate 2 or more revolutions to cause a flush.

[0730] FIG. 32A to FIG. 32B Another hopper-flushed action toilet 190 is illustrated that is tankless or line driven configuration that includes a toilet bowl 182 supported by a base 184 and at least one water passageway 183 connected to a water supply. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0731] The rotatable hopper 166 is coupled to a sump of the toilet bowl 182. According to any of the examples described herein, the hopper-flushed action toilet 190 includes a drive apparatus configured to actuate the rotatable hopper 166 between an operational position and an emptying position.

[0732] Figure 32A And Figure 32B Embodiments include at least one sprayer 169 configured to spray the rotatable hopper 166 in the emptying position and to wash the toilet bowl 182 in the operational position. In one example, a single sprayer is used. In other examples, multiple sprayers are used. The at least one sprayer 169 can include a bi-directional sprayer mounted on the rotatable hopper 166.

[0733] For example, Figure 32A An operational position of the rotatable hopper 166 is illustrated in which the sprayer emits a spray S1 toward the toilet bowl 182 (a bowl sprayer). Water from the spray S1 can be used to wash the toilet bowl 182. Water from the spray S1 can be used to fill the toilet bowl 182 to a predetermined level.

[0734] Figure 32B An emptying position of the rotatable hopper 166 is illustrated in which the at least one sprayer 169 can also include a hopper sprayer configured to spray the rotatable hopper 166 as shown by spray S2.

[0735] Figures 33A to 33BAnother flipper flush action toilet 191 including a toilet bowl 192 and a base 195 is illustrated. Also, a seat 2651 and a lid 661 are illustrated. In these examples, the rotatable flipper 161 can be tilted at an angle relative to the front or back of the toilet bowl. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0736] The flipper flush action toilet 191 includes a rolling bucket 196. As shown, the rolling bucket 196 rotates on an axis A2 and the rolling bucket 196 is tilted toward the back of the flipper flush action toilet 191. In other words, the end of the rolling bucket 196 coupled with the bowl 192 is closer to the front of the toilet bowl 192 than the end of the bucket 196 that is aligned with the drain 197. The end of the rolling bucket 196 at the bowl 192 is higher than the end of the rolling bucket 196 that is aligned with the drain 197. Although illustrated as having space between the two, the end of the bucket 196 can be coupled to the drain 197 or otherwise coupled through a sleeve or septum. Figure 33A

[0737] As shown, the rolling bucket 196 rotates on an axis A3 and the rolling bucket 196 is tilted toward the front of the flipper flush action toilet 191. In other words, the end of the rolling bucket 196 coupled with the bowl 192 is closer to the back of the toilet bowl 192 than the end of the bucket 196 that is aligned with the drain 197. The end of the rolling bucket 196 at the bowl 192 is higher than the end of the rolling bucket 196 that is aligned with the drain 197. Although illustrated as having space between the two, the end of the bucket 196 can be coupled to the drain 197 or otherwise coupled through a sleeve or septum. Figure 33B

[0738] In other examples, the rolling bucket 196 can be coupled to a front control lever 193. A user can press the foot control lever 193 while sitting on the toilet 191 or standing next to the toilet 191. The control lever 193 can be geared (e.g., ratcheting gears) such that multiple presses of the control lever 193 or a pump causes the rolling bucket 196 to rotate.

[0739] Figure 34 A flowchart of operations for a flipper flush action toilet according to any of these embodiments is illustrated. Additional, different, or fewer actions can be included.

[0740] At action S501, water is provided to the rotatable flipper in an operational position.

[0741] At action S503, in response to actuation of the drive device, the rotatable flipper is rotated from the operational position to an emptying position.

[0742] At action S505, water is provided to the rotatable flipper in the emptying position. ​​

[0743] Figures 35A to 35B An example toilet 210 is illustrated having a toilet bowl 201 and a pneumatic trapway 202. The trapway 202 is coupled to the toilet bowl 201 such that contents evacuated from the toilet bowl 201 travel through the trapway to a drain path. The trapway includes a band seal assembly 217 having an upstream seal 243, a downstream seal 204, and an inflatable body extending between the upstream seal 243 and the downstream seal 204. When contracted, the band seal assembly 217 closes the trapway 202. When expanded, the band seal assembly 217 opens the trapway 202. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0744] The upstream seal 243 is coupled to the toilet bowl 201. The downstream seal 204 is connected to the trapway 202. A seal cavity between the upstream seal 243 and the downstream seal 204 expands under air pressure and substantially blocks the trapway 202 between the toilet bowl 201 and the drain path. The seal cavity is between the trapway 202 and the inflatable body of the band seal assembly 217. An air source 203 is coupled to the seal cavity between the trapway 202 and the inflatable body of the band seal assembly 217.

[0745] Figure 35A A closed state of the band seal assembly 217 is illustrated. In the closed state, the air source 203 has applied (or is applying) air pressure to the band seal assembly 217 to close the band seal assembly 217. Figure 35B An open state of the band seal assembly 217 is illustrated. In the open state, the air source has not applied (or has removed) air pressure to the band seal assembly 217 to open the band seal assembly 217 such that water and contents can travel through the trapway 202. In response to opening the band seal assembly 217, water and contents fall downstream through the trapway 202 to break a water seal or siphon and cause the toilet 210 to flush.

[0746] The valve associated with the air source 203 can be configured to open and close to activate and deactivate the supply of air from the air source 203 to the belt seal assembly 217. The valve can be operated by the controller 100 (e.g., via an electronic solenoid), so the valve connects the air source 203 to the seal cavity or disconnects from the seal cavity in response to instructions from the controller 100. The controller 100 can provide instructions to the valve in response to sensor data. The sensor data can indicate whether a user has arrived or is approaching the toilet 210. When a user is detected, the belt seal assembly 217 closes the venting passage 202. When the user leaves, the belt seal assembly 217 opens the venting passage. The sensor data can indicate whether the user is sitting or standing at the side of the toilet 210. When the user sits down, the belt seal assembly 217 closes the venting passage 202. When the user stands, the belt seal assembly 217 opens the venting passage 202.

[0747] In one embodiment, the belt seal assembly 217 operates in response to actuation of a flush actuator (e.g., a flush lever or button). The valve is connected to the flush actuator, so that when the flush actuator is in a first position, the valve opens and releases air from the air source 203 to the belt seal assembly 217, and when the flush actuator is in a second position, the valve closes to stop the release of air from the air source 203 to the belt seal assembly 217. In some examples, the flush actuator is electronically driven and provides input data to the controller 100, and in response, the controller 100 generates commands for the valve of the air source 203.

[0748] Various embodiments implementing the air source 203 are disclosed. In one example, the air source 203 includes a compressed air tank. The air tank can be compressed by an air tank compressor (the air source 203 can also include an air pump).

[0749] In one example, air for the air source 203 can be provided from a tank of the toilet 210 or compressed in the tank. The tank of the toilet 210 can be sealed, so that when the tank is filled with water (e.g., by a fill valve), the incoming water creates a high air pressure. The air pressure in the tank is another example of an air source 203 provided to the belt seal assembly 217. In one example, the tank can include a sealed compartment. The sealed compartment can receive water from the fill valve, and similarly create a high air pressure within the compartment. The air pressure in the compartment is another example of an air source 203 provided to the belt seal assembly 217.

[0750] Figure 36A cross-sectional view of the pneumatic trapway 220 coupled to the toilet bowl 201 and the discharge apparatus 205 is illustrated. The pneumatic trapway 220 can include an upstream seal 243 and a downstream seal 204. Between the upstream seal 243 and the downstream seal 204 is an expandable member 207 that forms a trapway passage 206. The size of the trapway passage 206 depends on the size of the expandable member 207. The expandable member 207 changes size depending on the amount of air inside the expandable member.

[0751] A first vacuum coupler 208 on the trapway 220 is connected to an air source to provide air to the expandable member 207 through an air hose 209. The air hose 209 is connected to any of the air sources described herein. The vacuum coupler 208 can provide positive or negative pressure to the trapway 220 at different times. When air is provided through the air hose 209 and the vacuum coupler 208, the trapway passage 206 closes or otherwise becomes smaller to restrict the flow of water and waste through the pneumatic trapway 220.

[0752] A second vacuum coupler 211 is connected to the discharge apparatus 205 downstream of the trapway 220. The discharge apparatus 205 can include a pressure chamber 213. The vacuum coupler 211 is connected to another air hose 212. The vacuum coupler 211 is connected to any of the air sources described herein. The vacuum coupler 211 can provide positive or negative pressure to the pressure chamber 213 at different times. The pressure chamber 213 can assist in flushing the toilet 210 by providing a low pressure or vacuum pressure to the trapway 220. When water and waste passes from the toilet bowl 201 through the trapway 220 and is drawn into the discharge apparatus 205, it reaches a drain passage 214 and eventually a sewer, septic tank, or other treatment system.

[0753] Figure 37A A cross-sectional view of the pneumatic trapway 220 is illustrated, including another view of the trapway passage 206 and the expandable member 207.

[0754] Figure 37B A cross-sectional view of the pneumatic trapway 220 is illustrated, including another view of the trapway passage 206 and the expandable member 207.

[0755] A method for sealing a toilet's trapway can include providing air pressure to a sealing cavity, the sealing cavity expanding under the air pressure and substantially blocking the toilet bowl's trapway, receiving a flush actuation, and releasing the air pressure from the sealing cavity in response to the flush actuation. The flush actuation includes an electronic signal from a sensor, a button, a remote control, or another electronic device.

[0756] Figures 38A to 38B A toilet 280 with a semi-centrifugal trapway is illustrated. The toilet 280 includes a rim washer 281, at least one fluidic oscillator 282, a bowl 261, a water line 284, an impeller 289, an impeller disc 286, a motor 287, a spindle 288, a hopper 290, and one or more support feet 291. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0757] The impeller 289 and the impeller disc 286 can be unitary. The impeller 289 and the impeller disc 286 can be formed from a single construction (i.e., the same component). The impeller disc 286 is configured to contain water. A throat 299 of the bowl 261 fits into a cavity of the impeller disc 286. The throat 299 of the bowl 261 is partially submerged in water contained in the impeller disc 286. In this way, a water seal is formed in the impeller disc 286. The impeller disc 286 is an example chamber between the toilet bowl 261 and the hopper 290.

[0758] The toilet bowl 261 can receive water from one or more sources. The toilet bowl 261 can also receive water through a rim opening connected to a rim channel that receives water from a tank or water supply. Water from the rim opening can be provided around the circumference of the toilet bowl 261 or at a large single opening that provides a spiral around the wall of the toilet bowl 261. This water source can be referred to as the rim washer 281.

[0759] The toilet bowl 261 can receive flushing water from one or more modular fluidic oscillators 282 or structures configured to control water flow through one or more fluidic jets (e.g., fluid outlets, outlet openings, etc.). The modular fluidic oscillator includes interconnected flow channels (e.g., passages, etc.) that can be changed in geometry to selectively control the water flow ejected from the modular fluidic oscillator. For example, the channels can be configured to provide a pulsating or oscillating water flow to achieve improved water delivery performance through the plumbing fixture, which advantageously improves the cleaning ability of the plumbing fixture. Alternatively or in combination, the modular fluidic oscillator can be configured to control the timing of the flow through the one or more fluidic jets. Multiple modular fluidic oscillators can also be interconnected through flow channels. This water source can be referred to as the oscillating bowl washer 283.

[0760] The impeller 289 is configured to provide centripetal motion to contents in the impeller disc 286 to push the contents from the impeller disc 286 to the hopper 290. The impeller 289 can pulverize or otherwise change the consistency of the contents deposited in the bowl 261. Water can also be provided at the impeller 289 from a water input line 284, which includes a passageway, tube, or hose to pass from a water tank or water supply to the impeller disc 286. The water input line 284 can also provide an impeller throat wash 285.

[0761] The water input line 284 can include a water input passageway configured to provide water to contents in the chamber or impeller disc 286. The water input passageway can be formed in the vitreous of the toilet 280 (e.g., in a base supporting the toilet bowl 261). The water input line 284 can be adjustable to different angles.

[0762] In one embodiment, the water input line 284 is aligned with the chamber or impeller disc 286. In other examples, the water input line 284 can be aligned with a ridge or surface of the impeller 289. The water line 284 can be aligned with a throat between the impeller disc 286 and the bowl 261.

[0763] A valve can selectively operate the water line 284. The valve can be electronically driven or driven by a solenoid and receive commands from the controller 100. The valve can operate according to a flush cycle. In some examples, water is provided and the valve is opened for the entire flush cycle from the time a flush is initiated (e.g., user input at a flush lever) to when a water seal is reestablished. In other examples, water is provided by the valve and water line 284 at a selected time during the flush cycle. Some example selected times can be at the beginning of the flush cycle and last for a predetermined period of time.

[0764] In one embodiment, water is provided from the water line 284 as the impeller rotates. The controller 100 can provide a single instruction to activate or turn on both the impeller 298 and the valve for the water line 284.

[0765] The hopper 290 is configured to transport contents emptied from the toilet bowl to a drain path. The impeller disc 286 is coupled to the toilet bowl 261 and the hopper 290. The hopper 290 can be tangentially connected to the chamber. A water seal is maintained between the chamber 286 and the hopper 290. The impeller disc 286 and the chamber can be separate. The impeller disc 286 is configured to support the impeller and provide a path for contents from the chamber to the hopper.

[0766] The toilet 280 can include a motor 287 coupled to the impeller 289 and configured to rotate the impeller 289. One or more intermediate transmission system devices, such as gears, pulleys, belts, or other devices, can be included. Other drive mechanisms can be used. In one example, a spring or spring-loaded device stores energy to drive the impeller 289.

[0767] Figures 39A to 39B Another example of a semi-centrifugal wasteway 262 is illustrated. Figure 29A The bowl 261 is illustrated opening to a chamber 263 (the impeller disk 286 can be omitted in this embodiment). Figure 39B A cross-sectional view of the chamber 263 is illustrated, and the opening 260 between the chamber 263 and the waste way 264 is illustrated. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0768] In this concept, the centripetal motion generated by the rotating impeller at the bottom of the chamber 263 provides energy to push water and waste in the chamber 263 up through the waste way 264 connected to the chamber 263. The waste way 264 is configured to connect to the chamber 263 in a tangential manner. The waste way entrance hole 260 where the waste way 264 meets the body of the chamber 263 is configured to have a smooth transition to minimize energy loss of the water entering the waste way 264. The waste way 264 can include an upper leg 267 and a lower leg 266 downstream of the upper leg 267. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0769] The water inlet 265 can provide cleaning water directly to the chamber 263 of the impeller. The water inlet 265 can be connected to a valve (e.g., as described for the water line 284) for the purpose of cleaning the chamber 263 and / or the impeller.

[0770] In one embodiment, the water inlet 265 can be aligned with one or more features of the impeller for the purpose of driving the impeller. In other words, the impeller can be water-powered. The impeller can include fins or turbine protrusions that cause the impeller to rotate when water comes into contact with it. The valve connected to the water inlet 265 can be driven by the controller 100 according to an impeller drive signal. The controller 100 can use water propulsion to rotate the impeller at a predetermined time or a predetermined sequence. The controller 100 can use water propulsion to rotate the impeller throughout the flush cycle (e.g., from starting the flush until the water seal inside the chamber 263 recovers). Water from the water inlet 265 can both drive the impeller and clean the impeller and / or the chamber 263. In other examples, the impeller can be air-powered (rotate under the force of air).

[0771] Figure 40Another view of the semi-centrifugal wasteway assembly 262 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the impeller 298 in the chamber 263 can be seen by looking down into the toilet bowl 261 and through the inlet 270 (e.g., an opening in the toilet bowl 261 that connects to the chamber 263). Water and waste are propelled from the wasteway assembly 262 through the outlet 269.

[0772] Figure 41 Another view of the semi-centrifugal wasteway assembly 262 is illustrated, which illustrates the assembly of the impeller 298 within the chamber 263. The impeller 298 includes a plurality of curved ridges 272 and curved depressions 271 between each two consecutive curved ridges 272. Other geometric patterns can be used for the impeller 298. The geometric pattern creates centripetal motion from the rotating impeller 298 to propel water and waste in the chamber 263 upward and into the wasteway 264.

[0773] The impeller 298 (any of the impellers described) is configured to have a geometry that minimizes splashing out from the top of the chamber 263 and the ability to rotate at a range of speeds (various revolutions per minute - RMP). In addition to the orientation illustrated here, the rotation can be performed vertically (rotated 90 degrees from the exterior path of the bowl 261).

[0774] Figures 42A to 42B An exemplary grinder wasteway assembly 240 is illustrated. The grinder 241 is an exemplary impeller. The grinder 241 can have various shapes and sizes of burrs. The grinder 241 is driven by a shaft 276 and motor to rotate with the chamber 275. The chamber 275 can be formed from two metal or other solid halves that are joined together to form the chamber 275. The grinder 241 can be placed in the chamber 275 or between the halves before the halves are joined together.

[0775] As the contents C of the toilet bowl descend into the chamber 275 that includes the grinder 241, the grinder rotates to pulverize or liquefy the contents. The grinder 241 can have burrs of different lengths, shapes, or sizes that provide different stages of liquefaction as the contents C move through the space between the chamber walls and the grinder 241. Figure 42B Different burr shapes and sizes G1, G2, and G3 are illustrated.

[0776] Figures 43A to 43F Other shapes and sizes of the grinder wasteway with the grinder 241 are illustrated. The grinder 241 can also be an impeller. The impeller is configured to move upward toward the bowl 242 to seal the bowl 242 when the motor that turns the impeller is not running.

[0777] Figure 43A And Figure 43B A conical shape for an impeller is illustrated. In Figure 43AIn this view, the impeller is running and the basin opening 244 is open. In this view, the impeller is running and the basin opening 244 is open. Figure 43B In this view, the basin opening 244 is closed and the impeller is stopped.

[0778] Figure 43C and Figure 43D A flat shape is illustrated for the impeller. In this view, the impeller is running and the basin opening 244 is open. In this view, the impeller is running and the basin opening 244 is open. Figure 43C In this view, the basin opening 244 is closed and the impeller is stopped. Figure 43D

[0779] Figure 43E and Figure 43F A parabolic shape is illustrated for the impeller. In this view, the impeller is running and the basin opening 244 is open. In this view, the impeller is running and the basin opening 244 is open. Figure 43E In this view, the basin opening 244 is closed and the impeller is stopped. Figure 43F

[0780] In FIG. 43, there are various impellers for grinding and moving waste. I did not do this part of the project. I believe the arrows indicate that the impeller moves up to seal the basin outlet when the motor is not running. Water is more effectively contained in the basin. When the motor is activated, the impeller drops and opens the waste path. The shape of the impeller varies from a flat shape with some surface features to a tall shape.

[0781] Figures 44A to 44D Various views of a semi-centrifugal waste evacuation channel 390 are illustrated. The waste evacuation channel 390 includes an impeller 392 submerged in a water seal 393 and upstream of a downward passageway 394. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0782] In this example, the basin 391 is oriented horizontally. That is, a top opening of the basin 391 (facing the user) and a bottom opening of the basin 391 (facing the drain) are in corresponding substantially horizontal planes. The impeller 392 is in a substantially vertical plane. Any additional features and modifications described herein can be applied to the semi-centrifugal waste evacuation channel 390.

[0783] Figure 45 ​​An example toilet 400 with plunger flush is illustrated. The toilet 400 includes a bowl 4011 and a base 410. A discharge chamber 404 is coupled to the base 410. The entry port (inlet) of the chamber 404 includes a first valve (e.g., one-way valve) 402, and the exit port (outlet) of the chamber 404 includes a second valve 403. The chamber 404 can include one or more sloped surfaces 411. The chamber 404 also includes a plunger 401 configured to regulate or control air or water pressure in the chamber 404. The plunger 401 also includes a handle or grip coupled to the plunger 401. The plunger 401 is movable up and down, or alternatively, the plunger 401 includes a flexible membrane that is pushed down and automatically retracts upon release. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0784] The plunger 401 is configured to exert pressure to remove contents from the toilet bowl 419 through the first one-way valve 402 to the discharge chamber 404, and to push the contents from the discharge chamber 404 through the discharge outlet. The plunger 401 acts as a pump when moved up and down. The plunger is sealed to the toilet 400 with a seal or sealing material such that the space in the discharge chamber 404 is air-tight and / or water-tight except for passage through the valves 402 and 403. The plunger 401 is configured to displace water or air into the discharge chamber 404 and change the volume of the chamber 404.

[0785] In one embodiment, the pressure in the chamber 404 is air pressure. The air pressure pulls material through the first valve 402 using a vacuum. The air pressure pushes material through the second valve 403.

[0786] In one embodiment, the pressure in the chamber 404 is water pressure. A predetermined amount of water is always in the chamber 404. The plunger 401 pushes the water by pressing on the water or increasing the air pressure in the space above the water.

[0787] The chamber 404 can have one or more walls or sloped surfaces 411. The sloped surfaces can be at a predetermined angle from horizontal. The predetermined angle can be 45 degrees. The sloped surface 4011 can be a front wall (the wall facing or closest to the bowl 4011).

[0788] In one embodiment, the plunger 401 is manually driven. A user’s hand can press down on the plunger and into the chamber 404. In one embodiment, the plunger 401 is driven by a pump.

[0789] The toilet 400 can also include a water source to provide water to the toilet bowl 419, as described in other embodiments herein. The water source can include a water tank and / or a water supply from a plumbing system. The water source is connected to the rim channel 412 of the toilet bowl 419. For a gravity feed example such as a water tank, the water source is connected to the toilet bowl 419 and gravity provides water from the water tank to the bowl 4011.

[0790] In one embodiment, water is passively provided to the bowl 4011 by siphon. For example, the toilet bowl 419 can be connected to a water supply via a hose or passageway. When water exits the toilet bowl 419 through the valve 402, more water is drawn from the water supply by siphon. In another example, when the plunger 401 is actuated, the plunger 401 also provides air pressure to move water from the water supply to the toilet bowl 419.

[0791] The plunger 401 can provide air pressure to different passageways depending on the direction. For example, in a down stroke, when the plunger 401 is moved down, air pressure is provided to the chamber 404. In an up stroke, when the plunger 401 is moved up, the plunger 401 opens the water source and / or draws water into the rim passageway when actuated.

[0792] Figure 46 Another example toilet 400 with plunger flushing is illustrated. In this example, the plunger 401 can be driven by a user sitting at the toilet. For example, a flexible seat or other control lever can be bent over while sitting on the toilet 400, which pushes the plunger 401 down.

[0793] In one example, when a user sits at the toilet 400, the counterweight 251 can move up. Thus, the counterweight 251 stores energy. Then, when the user stands, the counterweight 251 is released and pushes the plunger 401 down to flush the toilet 400.

[0794] A method of flushing a toilet with a plunger can include providing water to a toilet bowl, receiving vacuum pressure from a plunger, and advancing water and other bowl contents through at least one one-way valve in response to the vacuum pressure.

[0795] FIGS. 47-49 include a jetted toilet 400 with a toilet bowl 451 and an annular jet 420. Figures 47A to 47C An example toilet is illustrated with a jetted trapway that includes an annular jet 420 proximate to a water seal 453 (and drives waste out of the bowl 451 by suction). Figures 48A to 48C An example toilet is illustrated with a jetted trapway that includes an annular jet 420 that overlaps a water seal 454 (and drives waste out of the bowl 451) by impact. Figures 49A to 49C An example toilet 400 is illustrated with a jetted trapway 452 that includes an annular jet 420 that forms a siphon at an upper leg of the trapway 452. The annular jet 420 can form a Venturi within the trapway 452. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0796] The annular jet assembly 420 is coupled to the trapway 452. The annular jet assembly 420 includes a plurality of jet nozzles arranged in a pattern around the trapway 452. The nozzles can be spaced a predetermined distance apart around the circumference of the trapway 452 and arranged parallel to the flow through the trapway 452.

[0797] An input nozzle 421 can be connected to the annular jet assembly 420. A diffuser receives water from the input nozzle 421 and distributes the water to the jet nozzles. The diffuser can be one or more branches of a conduit to distribute the flow of water. The input of the diffuser can have a flow area that is greater than the cumulative flow area of the jet nozzles.

[0798] The trapway 452 and the toilet bowl 451 are shaped to form a water seal 453. The water seal 452 is formed when a weir or dam causes a low pass between the bowl 451 and the trapway 452 that causes water to pool on either side of the low pass. In this way, no air (e.g., sewer gas) can travel in the opposite direction through the trapway 452 and be released into the bowl 451.

[0799] Figures 47A to 47C It is illustrated that the annular jet assembly 420 can be just downstream (e.g., within a predetermined distance) of the water seal 453. From this position, the annular jet causes a suction from the Venturi effect that draws the contents of the water seal 453 and the bowl 451 toward the sewer system (or other sanitary reservoir) parallel to the direction of flow through the annular jet assembly 420. In this example, the annular jet assembly 420 is angled upward from the trapway 452.

[0800] Figures 48A to 48C It is illustrated that the annular jet assembly 420 can overlap the water seal 453. From this position, the annular jet causes an impact parallel to the direction of flow through the annular jet assembly 420. The water from the jet contacts the water in the water seal 453 and draws the water and contents of the bowl 451 downward to the sewer system (or other sanitary reservoir). In this example, the annular jet assembly 420 is angled upward from the trapway 452.

[0801] Figures 48A to 48C It is illustrated that the annular jet assembly 420 can be positioned on the lower leg of the trapway 452. From this position, the annular jet causes a siphon in the upper leg of the trapway 452 parallel to the direction of flow through the annular jet assembly 420. The siphon from the jet contacts and draws the contents of the water seal 453 and the bowl 451 toward the sewer system (or other sanitary reservoir).

[0802] The annular ejector assembly 420 can include a valve that selectively opens the passage through the trapway 452 and the annular ejector. The valve can be controlled electronically, manually, or using any of the techniques described herein for other valves. In one embodiment, the valve is opened by the force of water passing through the input nozzle 421. The water source of the input 421 can be recycled water or grey water.

[0803] A method for operating the pressure-assisted toilet of Figures 47-49 can include providing a high-velocity water flow to an annular ejector assembly positioned about a circumference of a trapway, and emptying the toilet bowl through the trapway in response to the high-velocity water flow.

[0804] Figure 50 An exemplary toilet is illustrated having a urine diversion passage 502 and an overflow passage or path 501. The particular toilet 500 illustrated includes a sump ejector 510 for driving the flush of the toilet 500. These passages can help conserve water in any type of toilet and are not limited to the toilets described herein. A trapway 514 is configured to convey the contents of the toilet bowl 512 to the drainage path. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0805] The toilet bowl 512 may include an opening 513 for capturing urine. The shape of the bowl 512 around the opening 513 may be a recessed or otherwise shaped like a funnel to help guide the urine flow. The opening 513 may be a slit extending along the approximate extent (circumference) of the bowl 512. The user may deposit urine in a direction that helps collect urine at the opening 513. The urine diversion passage 502 provides a path for urine from the opening to the downstream portion of the drain channel 514. Because urine is not added to the water 511, urine travels down the drainage path without consuming any water. Similarly, because urine does not increase the volume of the water seal, no water overflows the weir 515 and is not used for flushing purposes.

[0806] The overflow passage 501 includes an overflow opening 516 that leads to the trapway 514. The overflow passage 501 fluidly connects the overflow opening 516 to the trapway 514.

[0807] Figures 1 to 50Any of the embodiments in the foregoing can include a treatment device that treats the bowl of the toilet, the tank of the toilet, the seat of the toilet, the vacuum chamber, the impeller chamber, the rotatable hopper, or any surface associated with the toilet. The controller 100 is configured to operate the fill valve and at least one treatment device according to a fill cycle. For example, when the tank is emptied by actuation of the flush valve, the controller 100 can open the treatment device to treat the surface. Further, the controller 100 can delay operation of the fill valve so that the treatment device has time to treat and the treatment is effective before the tank is refilled. The time delay can be selected according to the type of treatment device. Exemplary delays can include 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 1 minute. In some instances, multiple treatments are applied. The time delay can be calculated according to the multiple treatments. The controller 100 can include a timer for determining when the elapsed time equals the predetermined time delay. The timer can be started with the flush valve actuation in the flush cycle. The end of the time can cause the controller to actuate the fill valve. In other examples, the treatment device can be applied according to a schedule (e.g., time of day, day of week, time of night). The user can also provide a separate input to start the timer for the treatment device.

[0808] The treatment device can include a delivery system for introducing a chemical (e.g., cleaning compound) into the water to reduce scale, slipperiness (e.g., slickness), and / or sanitation in the toilet or other device that uses water. The systems and methods of the present application can affect other aspects related to cleanliness. For example, odor associated with the system (and its use) can be affected (e.g., masked, improved, reduced, etc.) by the systems and methods of the present application, such as but not limited to, using an active filter (e.g., hydroxyl, etc.), a passive filter (e.g., carbon, gas, etc.), and / or a scent applied to or contained within a component of the system.

[0809] The treatment device can be configured to utilize a chemical to advantageously aid in cleaning (e.g., up to a level slightly below disinfecting) or to aid in maintaining cleanliness for a longer period of time than a device without the improved chemical. As a non-limiting example, the chemical disclosed herein can advantageously aid in preventing scale formation, removing scale that has already formed, preventing or removing biofilm, preventing or masking odor, and / or disinfecting components of the toilet or other device disclosed in the present application. A toilet utilizing the improved chemical can be able to be used for one to six months (e.g., eight weeks) or more without cleaning (e.g., before sediment builds up). More specific examples of chemicals / cleaning compounds are described in more detail below.

[0810] The treatment apparatus is configured to utilize one or more compounds / chemicals to improve the cleanliness of the system. In the present application, the terms "chemicals," "compounds," and "cleaning compounds" are used interchangeably to imply the use of a chemical substance, chemical compound, chemical element, or any combination thereof, beyond the use of water alone. Thus, while the systems described in the present application can use water (e.g., to dilute cleaning compounds, for rinsing, etc.) and the cleaning compounds can include water, the chemicals / compounds / cleaning compounds include at least one additional chemical substance (e.g., element, compound, etc.) beyond water.

[0811] Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can be introduced onto the surface from the treatment apparatus. In addition to H2O2, chlorine, and peracetic acid (PAA) are additional non-limiting examples of chemical substances / compounds that can be used. Some additional non-limiting examples of chemical substances / compounds that can be used with the systems and methods of the present application include, but are not limited to, polyphosphates (e.g., sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP), tetrapotassium pyrophosphate (TKPP), etc.), low pH acids (e.g., hydrogen chloride (HCL), dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4), trisodium phosphate (TSP), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and compounds thereof, and other acids and / or complexing agents. These chemicals / compounds can be most beneficial, for example, to prevent and / or remove scale. Yet other examples of chemicals / compounds that can be used with the systems of the present application include, but are not limited to, didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), H2O2, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) (e.g., bleach), PAA, triclosan, formic acid, TSP and compounds thereof, and other disinfectants (such as quaternary ammonium salt disinfectants) and antimicrobial agents. These chemicals / compounds can be most beneficial, for example, to prevent and / or remove biofilm. Notably, other chemicals / compounds can also be used with the systems and methods disclosed herein, and any such chemicals / compounds disclosed can be used with any of the systems and / or methods disclosed.

[0812] The treatment apparatus can include a system to generate the chemical substances / compounds, such as one of those disclosed above. For example, the system can include a generator to generate H2O2, such as from oxygen (e.g., in air) and water or a utility supply. In turn, the chemical substance / compound generator can be provided within the system to generate the cleaning compounds. According to one example, the generator can be configured to generate a chemical substance (e.g., H2O2) that is diluted to a particular range in ppm (parts per million), such as with water or other suitable diluent. According to one example, the generator is configured to generate a chemical substance that is diluted to a range of 2-4 ppm. In another example, the range is 1-100 ppm.

[0813] Non-chemical methods can be employed to mitigate (e.g., reduce, remove, etc.) scale and other contaminants. One such example is the use of beads, which can involve template assisted crystallization (TAC). Certain minerals (e.g., calcium, magnesium, etc.) can attach to surfaces (e.g., interior surfaces of a water tank) when in ionic form (e.g., state), but not when crystallized (i.e., in crystalline form). Beads comprising TAC change the minerals from their ionic form to their crystalline form to prevent the minerals from attaching to surfaces of the system and / or induce the minerals to detach from surfaces.

[0814] The treatment device can include ultraviolet light or far-UVC light. The ultraviolet light irradiates the interior walls. The ultraviolet light can have a predetermined frequency or wavelength, which can be a range of wavelengths or frequencies of light emitted from the lamp. Germicidal radiation can be optimized by a wavelength band of 200 to 280 nanometers (nm), other examples can include 200 to 222 nm, 230 to 250 nm, 240 to 315 nm, or other ranges. An example wavelength can be 254 nm. The controller 100 can send a command to the lamp to turn the lamp on or turn the lamp off. The controller 100 can send a command to the lamp to set the wavelength of the light. The ultraviolet light sterilizes the particles.

[0815] The treatment device can operate a germicidal dispenser. The treatment device can operate an ultrasonic emitter to provide ultrasonic waves to the surface. The ultrasonic emitter can include an ultrasonic atomizer or transducer that converts high-frequency sound waves into mechanical energy that is transferred into a standing wave in the disinfectant liquid, causing a mist or fog to be emitted.

[0816] The treatment device generates ozone using a variety of techniques, including corona discharge, ultraviolet, cold plasma, and other techniques. In a corona discharge, a corona discharge tube or ozone plate is to be used. For example, a high voltage can be applied to an electrode on the discharge tube or ozone plate. Corona discharge is a discharge caused by the ionization of air around a conductor carrying high voltage. The air around the conductor is subjected to electrical breakdown and becomes conductive (e.g., temporarily), so that the charge leaks from the conductor into the air. A corona occurs when the electric field strength (potential gradient) around the conductor exceeds the dielectric strength of the air.

[0817] In another technique, ozone can be generated by ultraviolet light. This ozone generator includes a light source that produces narrow-band ultraviolet light. The narrow-band ultraviolet light can be smaller than the spectrum produced by sunlight. Ultraviolet light can produce a lower concentration (e.g., 1%) of ozone compared to corona techniques. A device that produces ultraviolet ozone can not include an air dryer and an oxygen generator.

[0818] In another technique, ozone can be generated by cold plasma. This ozone generator includes a dielectric barrier discharge configured to generate plasma. Pure oxygen is provided to the plasma, and oxygen molecules split into individual atoms, which recombine in groups of three to form ozone or O3. Cold plasma technology can produce high concentrations of ozone (e.g., 5% or more) using a small amount of space.

[0819] In another technique, electrolytic ozone generators produce ozone by splitting water molecules. This ozone generator includes a water electrolysis device that splits water molecules into H2, O2, and O3. The hydrogen gas H2 can be removed, leaving oxygen and ozone as the only products of the reaction. Electrolytic ozone generation can produce higher concentrations (20-30%) of ozone than corona discharge techniques. Electrolytic techniques can also avoid nitrogen.

[0820] Figure 51 An example vacuum toilet 600 is illustrated. The vacuum toilet 600 can include a bowl 601, a drain valve compartment 602 (drain compartment), and a tank 603 (e.g., air tank) that includes water 642, into which contents (e.g., urine and / or fecal matter) are deposited. The vacuum toilet 600 operates using air pressure to perform a flush cycle. The vacuum toilet 600 does not include a traditional sewer passage or a gravity water tank as in a gravity toilet, forming a siphon to move the contents from the toilet. The vacuum toilet 600 also does not use pressurized water to push the contents out of the toilet. Instead, a negative air pressure or vacuum is established in the tank 603 to draw the contents from the bowl 601 into the tank 603, which then transfers the bowl contents to the drain valve compartment 602 and ultimately to a sanitary line (e.g., to a septic system or sewer system). Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0821] The tank 603 is connected to a pump 604 or other type of vacuum generator. The pump 604 includes a high pressure outlet 605 connected to the drain valve compartment 602 and a low pressure outlet 606 connected to the tank 603. The high pressure outlet 605 blows air from the pump 604 to a forward flow path 608. The forward flow path 608 can be a pipe or tube that connects the pump 604 to the drain valve compartment 602. The low pressure outlet 606 draws air from the tank 603 to create a vacuum. In one example, the low pressure outlet 606 is connected to the tank 603 using a path (e.g., a pipe or tube). The forward flow path 608 connects the drain valve compartment 602 at an air intake 609.

[0822] A valve 698 can be included between the pump 604 and the impeller and the tank 603. For example, the valve 698 can be positioned at the low pressure outlet 606. The valve 698 can be a check valve that opens when the pump 604 provides a threshold amount of pressure to the valve 698. Once the threshold pressure is provided, the check valve opens and a vacuum is drawn from the tank 603. Other types of valves can be used.

[0823] The forward flow path 608 has various sizes and shapes configured to prevent water from reaching the impeller of the pump 604. The forward flow path 608 can include an S-curve such that any water traveling in the opposite direction is trapped in the S-curve. The forward flow path 608 can have sufficient height between the drain valve compartment 602 and the pump 604 such that water cannot reach the pump 604 in the opposite direction. The forward flow path 608 can also include a bulkhead that prevents water from flowing back towards the pump 604. An example bulkhead can include a spiral with the forward flow path 608.

[0824] The vacuum toilet 600 also includes a vacuum tube 613 that connects the tank 603 and the toilet bowl 601. The vacuum tube 613 meets the tank 603 at the waste inlet 607. The vacuum tube 613 angles upward between the toilet bowl 601 and the tank 603.

[0825] The vacuum toilet 600 can also include a flapper 611 that is supported by the drain valve compartment 602 and is configured to open and close an opening between the drain valve compartment 602 and the tank 603. The flapper 611 can be in an open position 610a in which the flapper 611 can be at any angle within the drain valve compartment 602 or against or near the air outlet 609. The flapper 611 can be in a closed position 610b in which the flapper 611 is pressed against the tank 603 to seal or at least partially seal the tank 603 such that a vacuum pressure can be established within the tank 603. Alternative valves for the flapper 611 will be described in more detail for subsequent embodiments.

[0826] During a flush cycle of the vacuum toilet 600, several actions occur within a relatively short period of time. An example duration of this period of time can be any amount of time up to 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 1.5 seconds, or 4 seconds.

[0827] The entire action of the flush cycle can be based on and caused by the operation of the pump 604. In other words, no substantial amount of energy is provided to the system of the vacuum toilet 600 for the flush cycle other than the operation of the pump 604.

[0828] The pump 604 operates to provide a forward air flow to the high pressure outlet 605 and the forward flow path 608 to apply a force to the flapper 611 in the direction of sealing the drain valve compartment 602. In some examples, the flapper 611 does not seal the opening between the drain valve compartment 602 and the tank 603 air-tightly. Rather, the flapper 611 partially seals the opening between the drain valve compartment 602 and the tank 603. Even with a small leak, sufficient vacuum pressure can be applied to the tank 603 to sufficiently seal the tank 603 and draw in contents from the bowl 601.

[0829] Simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pump 604 applies negative pressure to low-pressure outlet 606, drawing vacuum from tank 603. The vacuum provides suction to vacuum tube 613, which extracts the contents from toilet bowl 601. The contents of toilet bowl 601 can be extracted very quickly, for example, within approximately 0.5 to 1.0 seconds. After extracting the contents, pump 604 is turned off. That is, pump 604 stops providing positive pressure to forward flow path 608 and stops providing negative pressure to tank 603. In the absence of negative pressure pulling flapper 611 toward tank 603 and positive pressure pushing flapper 611 toward tank 603, flapper 611 opens the seal between tank 603 and drain valve compartment 602. Opening flapper 611 provides a path for the contents of the bowl, now in tank 603, to pass directly downward (e.g., substantially downward or in the direction of gravity) through drain valve compartment 602. Thus, the contents from the basin 601 that were pulled into the tank 603 by the vacuum now fall into the drain through the drain valve compartment 602. The drain may include a floor gasket that leads to a sanitary path to a septic or sewer system.

[0830] The vacuum toilet 600 may include a controller 100 to control the operation of the pump 604. The controller 100 receives data from a user input or a user sensor to trigger a flush cycle for the vacuum toilet 600. The controller 100 provides a control signal to turn on the pump 604 to initiate the flush cycle. The controller 100 recognizes the user input or sensor data for the user and, in response, turns on the pump 604. As described herein, the pump 604 creates a vacuum in the tank 603, evacuating the toilet bowl 601 and allowing the contents to fall through the drain valve compartment 602 into the sanitary passage.

[0831] The vacuum toilet 600 may also include a water inlet to provide water to the toilet bowl 601. The water inlet may include multiple components. The vacuum toilet 600 may be connected to a water supply (e.g., a plumbing system) that provides line-level pressure. The water inlet may include a water distributor in the rim of the toilet bowl 601. In examples where the toilet bowl 601 is plastic, resin, or other synthetic materials, the water distributor may include a housing that passes through the toilet bowl 601 or a hose or pipe that is otherwise mounted to the toilet bowl 601. In examples where the toilet bowl 601 is ceramic or glass material, a water passage may be directly formed in the glassy material for conveying water from the water inlet to the toilet bowl 601. Additionally, or in an alternative, the water inlet may include a supply valve 619 configured to open and close the water supply. The water inlet may include an edge ejector. Various types of water channels may be used. Figure 51A single water channel ending in the water distributor 612 is illustrated. Water can be distributed in the water channel with many ports around the bowl. The water ports can be arranged in the water such that the water flows down the surface of the bowl in a curtain (e.g., completely different from a vortex or clockwise / counter clockwise motion). The controller 100 can also provide a control signal to the water supply valve 619 according to a predetermined duration. The water supply valve 619 can be operated simultaneously with the pump 604. Thus, the signal control signal can be used for both the pump 604 and the water supply valve 619. The water supply valve 619 can be activated after the pump 604 or activated at a time that overlaps with the pump 604 but after the pump 604.

[0832] Figure 52 Another example toilet 620 is illustrated. Many of the components described with respect to the toilet 600 have been included and configured as described above. An example of the toilet 620 includes an angled pipe 626, which can be referred to as a horn, that directs water and waste from the toilet bowl 601 through the tank 603 towards the drain valve compartment 602. When the vacuum in the tank 603 pulls the waste and water through the pipe 626 towards the drain valve compartment 602 to minimize contact of the waste with the upper region of the tank 603. This operation helps to maintain the cleanliness of the tank 603. The angled pipe 626 can include an upper leg pipe and a lower leg pipe. The lower leg pipe can have a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the upper leg pipe. The lower leg can be tapered such that the top of the lower leg has a greater diameter than the bottom of the lower leg.

[0833] Additionally, the toilet 620 can include a floor gasket attachment device 621 that is configured to couple to a floor gasket of the floor on which the toilet 620 is located. The floor gasket attachment device 621 can also be attached to a sanitary pipe 622 as a passageway to a sewer system or a septic system.

[0834] The controller 100 can also include a sensor array interface 623 that receives data from one or more sensors 101 mounted on or otherwise associated with the vacuum toilet 620. The at least one sensor 101 can include any type of sensor configured to detect a particular action and / or provide a function (e.g., dispensing, flushing, etc.). The sensors can include any type of sensor configured to detect a particular condition and / or provide a function. Odor sensors, proximity sensors, and motion sensors are non-limiting examples of sensors that can be used with the system of the present application. Odor sensors, such as volatile organic compound (VOC) sensors, can be used to detect organic chemicals and compounds, including man-made and naturally occurring chemicals / compounds. Proximity sensors can be used to detect the presence of an object within a detection area without requiring physical contact between the object and the sensor. Potential, capacitive, projected capacitive, and infrared sensors (such as projected infrared sensors, passive infrared sensors) are non-limiting examples of proximity sensors that can be employed by the system of the present application. Motion sensors can be used to detect motion (e.g., a change in position of an object relative to the surrounding environment). Potential, optical, radio frequency (Rf), sound, magnetic (such as magnetometers), vibration, and infrared sensors (such as projected infrared sensors, passive infrared sensors) are non-limiting examples of motion sensors that can be employed by the system of the present application. The sensors can include pressure sensors or weight sensors in the seat ring to determine that a user is sitting on the vacuum toilet 620. Sensors for health, including urine flow measurement, can also be included.

[0835] In another example, the sensors can include sensors configured to detect a water level. The sensors can include float sensors, pressure level sensors, ultrasonic water level transmitters, capacitive level sensors (e.g., RF sensors), and radar level sensors. In addition, optical sensors can be used to determine a water level.

[0836] The controller 100 can also include an indicator interface 625 that transmits data to one or more indicators 102. Exemplary indicators 102 include light emitting diodes, displays, projections, LCD panels, or other electronic indicators. The housing can provide a water-resistant enclosure to protect the electronic display and associated internal electronic components from moisture. A touch-sensitive panel (e.g., capacitive touch panel) can also be provided on the housing for receiving user input. A portion of the touch-sensitive panel can overlay the electronic display to provide a touch screen interface. The electronic display can be caused to display a graphical user interface and receive user input via the touch screen interface.

[0837] The vacuum toilet 620 can also include a controller 100 that operates the pump 604 using a vacuum driver module 624. The vacuum driver module 624 can determine a duration of operation with the pump 604. The controller 100 can operate the pump 604 for a predetermined duration at any time that a user, waste, or use of the vacuum toilet 620 is detected.

[0838] The duration can be determined or otherwise calculated based on various factors. In one example, the vacuum driver module 624 can calculate the duration based on the identity of the user. For example, the identity of the user can be determined based on the weight of the user determined by a weight sensor 101 in the seat ring. The user signature can also be determined based on capacitive sensors, infrared sensors, and other sensors. The vacuum driver module 624 can include a table that matches user signatures, weights, or sizes to corresponding durations of operation of the pump 604.

[0839] In another example, a combination of sensor data is analyzed by the vacuum driver module 624. For example, when sensor data is received from a predefined set of sensors, the controller 100 operates the pump for a predefined duration. The duration can be calculated based on a subset of the received sensor data.

[0840] The indicator interface 625 can receive status or error information from the controller 100. The indicator can light "red" during operation of the pump 604 and "green" when the pump 604 is inactive. The controller 100 can determine an error when the pump 604 is not in an operational attribute and send the error to the indicator interface 625 to display at the indicator 102.

[0841] The controller 100 can also include a user input device 99 that receives input for operation of the pump 604. In some examples, the user can select an operating mode (e.g., automatic or manual). During automatic operation, the controller 100 activates the pump 604 in response to sensor data. In manual operation, the controller 100 activates the pump 604 only when the user sends such a command through the user input device 99. The user can also use the user input device 99 to select a duration (e.g., enter a number of seconds or milliseconds).

[0842] In one example, the sensor 101 is a load sensor configured to detect the amount (or quantity) of waste (e.g., urine or fecal matter) in the bowl 601. The sensor 101 can include an optical sensor that determines the height of the water in the bowl by distance calculation (e.g., time of flight). The optical sensor can also analyze images of the contents of the bowl and determine the presence of waste by image analysis. The sensor 101 can include a temperature sensor (e.g., IR or simple thermocouple) to measure the amount of urine added to the bowl 601. The controller 100 that operates the pump 604 using the vacuum driver module 624 can determine the duration of operation of the pump 604 to set the appropriate amount of water for the amount of waste within the bowl 601. An algorithm can dictate the time and amount of water per use. This reduces the amount of water needed for flushing.

[0843] The sensor 101 can include a millimeter wave sensor, which is referred to as a millimeter wave (mmwave) sensor. The millimeter wave sensor can be in various locations. The millimeter wave can be attached or otherwise supported by the bowl 601. The millimeter wave sensor can be attached or otherwise supported by the tank 603. The millimeter wave sensor can be attached or otherwise supported to a housing, such as on the front of a vacuum toilet. In some examples, multiple millimeter wave sensors can be used such that one of the millimeter wave sensors is behind the bowl 601 and one of the millimeter wave sensors is on the front of the bowl 601 and near the expected location of a user standing near or sitting at the toilet.

[0844] The sensor 101 can emit a wave (e.g., pulse) of millimeter electromagnetic wave energy that reflects off an object (e.g., a user or the contents of the bowl 601). The returning wave (e.g., pulse) includes a lesser amount of electromagnetic wave energy than the emitted wave. The returning wave is received at at least one receiver after a propagation delay and at a reflection angle. The controller 100 can be configured to calculate one or more kinematic properties of the object based on the energy, time, and / or angle of the returning pulse. The controller 100 or an integrated control unit of the millimeter wave sensor performs a fast Fourier transform (FFT) operation on the intermediate frequency signal to obtain distance, intensity, and velocity information of the object. Based on the characteristics of the radar signal, it can be identified when a person is approaching or leaving. The transmitted wave and the reflected wave are mixed in a mixer to generate an intermediate frequency signal in the millimeter wave sensor.

[0845] In particular, the intermediate frequency signal is an electrical signal that has a frequency and an intensity (e.g., amplitude). The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal ranges from a few hundred Hz to about a few KHz. The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal has a mathematical relationship to the distance between the sensor and the object (e.g., a user or a urine stream). Based on the Doppler principle (e.g., Doppler shift), the frequency of the intermediate frequency signal also has a mathematical relationship to the speed of the motion of the object. An object moving relative to the sensor 101 causes a change in the frequency of the wave generated by the sensor 101.

[0846] The sensor data can describe a user in proximity to the toilet. The sensor 101 can detect when a user is within a distance range. As described above, the distance range can depend on the state of the sensor 101 and the motion of the user. The sensor 101 can detect a gesture of the user. The sensor 101 can detect a position of the user, e.g., standing vs. sitting. The controller 100 is configured to receive sensor data from the microwave sensor and generate a control signal response for the toilet in response to the sensor data from the microwave sensor.

[0847] The sensor 101 can include an ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor can detect contents of the bowl 601. From the sensor data of the ultrasonic sensor, the controller 100 can determine whether urine or fecal matter is deposited into the bowl 601. The ultrasonic sensor can send waves to the bowl 601 and receive reflected waves that depend on the contents of the bowl 601. The ultrasonic sensor can use similar techniques to determine whether a user is present at the toilet. In some examples, two ultrasonic sensors are used, one targeting the interior of the bowl 601 and the other targeting the front of the toilet or an area of the top of the toilet. In some examples, a millimeter wave sensor is used with an ultrasonic sensor.

[0848] Various load-based flushing algorithms can be used based on the sensor data from the sensor 101. In these examples, the controller 100 selects a parameter for a flushing cycle of the toilet in response to the sensor data from the sensor 101. In one example, the controller 100 sets the parameter for the flushing cycle to a first value when at least one sensor detects solid waste in the toilet bowl and sets the parameter for the flushing cycle to a second value when at least one sensor detects liquid waste in the toilet bowl. In another example, the parameter for the flushing cycle is assigned a first value when at least one sensor detects that solid waste in the toilet bowl is below a threshold size and is assigned a second value when at least one sensor detects that solid waste in the toilet bowl is above the threshold size. In other examples, the parameter for the flushing cycle is selected based on a type of waste (e.g., on the Bristol scale). The parameter for the flushing cycle is assigned a first value when first sensor data is received from the at least one sensor and is assigned a second value when second sensor data is received from the at least one sensor.

[0849] In response to the sensor data, the controller 100 can send a command signal to the water supply valve 619 for the inlet to set how much water volume is provided by the water distributor 612. A parameter of the flush cycle can be the amount of water provided to the water distributor. For example, the controller 100 can cause the water distributor 612 to release a small amount of flush water when the controller 100 determines that only urine is present in the bowl 601, a medium amount of flush water when the controller 100 determines that a small amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601, and a large amount of flush water when the controller 100 determines that a large amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601.

[0850] In response to the sensor data, the controller 100 can send a command signal to the water supply valve 619 for the inlet to set the duration for which the valve upstream of the water distributor 612 is open. A parameter of the flush cycle can be the duration of the valve opening. For example, the valve can be open for a first amount of time when the controller 100 determines that only urine is present in the bowl 601, a second amount of time when the controller 100 determines that a small amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601, and a third amount of time when the controller 100 determines that a large amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601. The first amount of time can be less than the second amount of time, and the second amount of time can be less than the third amount of time.

[0851] In response to the sensor data, the controller 100 can send a command signal to the pump 604 to set the vacuum in the bowl 603 of the vacuum toilet. For example, the controller 100 can operate the pump 604 for a period of time or at an intensity based on the detection of the contents in the bowl 601.

[0852] A parameter of the flush cycle can be the duration of the pump 604 being on. For example, the pump 604 can be powered for a first amount of time when the controller 100 determines that only urine is present in the bowl 601, a second amount of time when the controller 100 determines that a small amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601, and a third amount of time when the controller 100 determines that a large amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601. The first amount of time can be less than the second amount of time, and the second amount of time can be less than the third amount of time.

[0853] A parameter of the flush cycle can be the speed of the pump 604 (e.g., motor speed, impeller speed, or pump speed, as measured in revolutions per minute or RPM). For example, the pump 604 can operate at a first speed or RPM when the controller 100 determines that only urine is present in the bowl 601, a second speed or RPM when the controller 100 determines that a small amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601, and a third speed or RPM when the controller 100 determines that a large amount of fecal matter is present in the bowl 601. The first speed can be less than the second speed, and the second speed can be less than the third speed.

[0854] A parameter of the flush cycle can be a direction or polarity of the pump 604. In other words, the controller 100 can cause the pump 604 to operate in an opposite direction. Reversing the pump 604 or a motor or impeller therein can be caused by switching the polarity of the electrical leads to the pump 604 (i.e., switching the connections of the positive lead of the pump 604 to the negative lead of the power supply and the negative lead of the pump 604 to the positive lead of the power supply). For example, when the controller 100 determines that the contents of the bowl are not moving significantly or otherwise determines that a clog exists, the controller 100 causes the pump 604 to operate in reverse. This causes a positive air flow into the tank 603, which pushes water downward through the waste inlet 607. This disturbance to the water can remove the clog. Subsequent flush cycles can operate normally.

[0855] A parameter of the flush cycle can be a delay time period during the flush cycle. The delay time period can occur before the pump 604 is turned on. The delay time period can be before the water dispenser valve is turned on. For example, the delay time period is used when the controller 100 determines that a first waste type is present. In another example, the delay time period is used when the controller 100 determines that a second waste type is present. In another example, the delay time period is used if the controller 100 determines that a size of waste is present. For example, the controller 100 can apply the delay time period when a size of a fecal matter exceeds a threshold.

[0856] The controller 100 can also monitor operation of the vacuum toilet with a temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor can measure a temperature of the pump 604. If the temperature exceeds a threshold value, the controller 100 can generate a signal to shut off or otherwise deactivate the pump 604. In this way, the vacuum toilet can be placed in a standby mode or a fault mode in the event of a clog or other disturbance that overloads the pump 604.

[0857] The sensors 101 can include a barometric pressure sensor. Various control systems are possible that control one or more operations of the vacuum toilet based on the barometric pressure sensor. In some examples, the pressure in the vacuum chamber (e.g., the tank 603) is monitored to assess operation of the vacuum chamber. In other examples, the pressure in the environment is detected to optimize operation of the vacuum toilet at different altitudes.

[0858] The controller 100 is configured to determine a state of the vacuum toilet based on the pressure in the pressure chamber. The state can indicate that a malfunction or error has occurred in the vacuum toilet. The controller 100 can compare the measured pressure of the pressure chamber to a threshold or threshold range. When the pressure falls outside of the threshold range or below the threshold, the controller 100 can identify a malfunction. The state of a malfunction in the vacuum toilet can be referred to as a fault mode. In the fault mode, the controller 100 can prevent operation of the pump 604 (e.g., vacuum generator) and / or one or more of the valves can close to prevent more water from entering the vacuum toilet.

[0859] The controller 100 can generate a message indicating the fault mode. The message can be sent to a server or other central location to track the vacuum toilet at a service or administrator level. The message can be sent to a device (e.g., mobile device) of the user, such as a phone or tablet. The message can indicate the malfunction (e.g., error number) or that the vacuum toilet has been disabled. The controller 100 can also cause an indicator to display the state of the vacuum toilet. The indicator can be a light (e.g., LED) that can be located on the vacuum toilet or a remote control for the vacuum toilet. The indicator can be a screen.

[0860] In another example, the state of the vacuum toilet is a cleaning mode. For example, when the pressure falls outside of a predetermined range, it can indicate that dust or foreign matter has caused a partial air leak related to the vacuum chamber. The range of pressure values indicating this state can be different than other malfunctions. The controller 100 is configured to open a valve for providing water for the cleaning mode. An additional cleaning jet can be used for the cleaning mode. In some examples, the vacuum chamber can include a water distributor configured to distribute water to the pressure chamber.

[0861] The state of the vacuum toilet can be a clog removal mode. A clog in the drain portion of the vacuum toilet or between the vacuum chamber and the bowl 601 can cause the pressure measured in the pressure chamber to be measured as higher than a clog threshold. When the controller 100 determines that the pressure in the pressure chamber has exceeded the clog threshold, the controller 100 can report the clog removal mode to an indicator. In the clog removal mode, the pump 604 can operate at a higher speed to attempt to remove the clog. Alternatively, the pump 604 can operate in the opposite direction to push water down and dislodge the potential clog. In this way, the vacuum generator is configured to provide a vacuum to the vacuum chamber, and during the clog removal mode, the vacuum generator provides a positive pressure to the pressure chamber to push water in the opposite direction at the waste inlet 607.

[0862] The controller 100 can adjust the operation of the vacuum toilet based on pressure measurements in the vacuum toilet's surrounding environment. The pressure sensor can be mounted on the outer surface of the vacuum toilet or anywhere within the vacuum chamber outside of the vacuum chamber. The controller 100 can adjust any of the aforementioned parameters. Specific parameters adjusted based on ambient pressure can include the operating time (e.g., duty cycle) of the pump 604 and / or the amount of water dispensed into the basin 601.

[0863] These adjustments to the flush cycle based on ambient pressure may be referred to as altitude mode. During altitude mode, which may be active at all times, the controller 100 accounts for different behaviors or performance that may exist at high altitudes. The controller 100 may compare the ambient pressure to a pressure threshold, or calculate the altitude based on the measured pressure and compare the altitude to the altitude threshold.

[0864] The controller 100 can increase the amount of water used for the flush cycle at high altitudes above an altitude threshold (or pressure below a pressure threshold). The controller 100 can increase the speed of the pump 604 used for the flush cycle at high altitudes above an altitude threshold (or pressure below a pressure threshold). Altitude mode can also be implemented by sensing the pressure in the pressure chamber and using a feedback loop or control system to maintain the pressure in the vacuum chamber within a predetermined pressure range during the flush cycle.

[0865] Also like Figure 52 As shown, any of the vacuum toilets can include a baffle 699 within the tank 603 as a waterproof shield. The baffle 699 can be formed from plastic into a cylindrical shape and mounted within the tank 603. In some cases, the angled duct 626 can intersect the baffle. The baffle 699 can be mounted into the angled duct 626.

[0866] Figure 53 An exemplary flow chart illustrating the operation of any of the vacuum toilets described herein to operate a flush cycle of a toilet bowl may include additional, different, or fewer actions.

[0867] At action S601, the controller 100 generates an instruction or signal to generate a high-pressure air flow from a vacuum generator to a high-pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment 602. This instruction can be a control signal for a pump 604 or other vacuum generator. The control signal initiates a flush cycle for the vacuum toilet. The control signal includes a start time and an end time or duration for the pump 604.

[0868] In action S603 , the controller 100 generates a command or signal to create a low pressure vacuum from the vacuum generator to a tank 603 coupled to the toilet bowl.

[0869] At act S605, in response to the high pressure air flow and the low pressure air flow, the valve to the tank 603 is closed.

[0870] At act S607, the controller 100 generates an instruction or signal to deactivate the high pressure flow and the low pressure vacuum. In other words, the pump 604 is deactivating the pump 604 that opened the valve. Alternatively, when the valve is an electronic valve, the controller 100 can directly control the electronic valve with a control signal that includes a start time for the valve at the connection between the tank 603 and the drain cavity 602.

[0871] At act S609, the controller 100 generates an instruction or control signal to cause the cleaning water valve to release water to the toilet bowl. The control signal includes a start time for the supply of water to the bowl.

[0872] Act S609 can be performed substantially simultaneously with act S605, substantially simultaneously with act S607, or after act S607. In some examples, the controller 100 generates a first control signal for the pump 604 and a second control signal for the cleaning water valve. In other examples, the controller 100 generates a single control that operates both the pump 604 and the cleaning water valve. In other examples, the second control signal is generated a predetermined period of time after the first control signal is generated.

[0873] The following examples provide additional embodiments of a vacuum toilet that operates under similar principles as the vacuum toilet described above and includes at least a portion of the structure within a wall. As a portion of the vacuum toilet is located within the wall, the overall footprint and space requirements are reduced. Additionally, any potential noise emitted from the vacuum generator can be mitigated by the wall. Finally, with the vacuum portion placed within the wall, the exposed portion of the toilet can have an appearance similar to a common wall-hung toilet, which can have an aesthetic that users are accustomed to.

[0874] Figure 54A and Figure 54BAn example toilet 630 with an in-wall vacuum system is illustrated. The toilet 630 includes a bowl assembly 627 and a tank assembly 647. The bowl assembly 627 includes at least a toilet bowl 601 and an attached sump that can be incorporated into a vacuum pipe 613. The tank assembly 647 can include a tank 603, a drain valve compartment 602, and a flapper 611. The vacuum pipe 613 can be divided into an upstream leg in the bowl assembly 627 and a downstream leg in the tank assembly 647. The upstream leg and the downstream leg can be connected by a vacuum pipe joint 616 including one or more screws, fasteners, or adhesives. The tank assembly 647 includes a waste inlet that is aligned with the vacuum pipe joint 616 and can be connected to the toilet bowl 601. A forward flow path 608 connects a vacuum generator to the drain valve compartment 602 within the tank assembly 647. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included.

[0875] The tank assembly 647 can be installed within a stud cavity of a wall. The stud cavity can be defined by one or more studs or plates (e.g., vertical studs 632 or horizontal plates (e.g., cross- ties, lintels, etc.)) 631. In some examples, the depth of the tank assembly 647 can be 4 inches, 5 inches, or 6 inches, depending on the configuration of the stud cavity. The dimensions of the flapper 611 can be selected according to the depth of the stud cavity. Additionally, the direction of rotation of the flapper 611 can be selected based on the depth of the stud cavity. As shown, the flapper 611 can rotate in a vertical plane that is parallel to the wall of the tank 603 and the longitudinal axis. In other embodiments, the flapper 611 can rotate in a “front-to-back” direction such that the flapper 611 rotates in a vertical plane that is perpendicular to the wall of the tank 603 and the longitudinal axis. Figure 54A

[0876] In some examples, the bowl assembly 627 is supported by a base or leg that contacts the floor 633. Additionally or alternatively, as shown, the bowl assembly 627 is coupled to the wall in the stud cavity and / or the tank assembly 647 using one or more supports 615. The supports 615 can include bolts, screws, or other fasteners.

[0877] The tank assembly 647 can include a button 614. In response, the button 614 is pressed for a pre-determined amount of time. In some alternatives, the button 614 can be replaced or augmented with a presence sensor or a weight sensor that detects a user. Other user input devices (e.g., a touchscreen, a phone or tablet, or another electronic device) can include a user input device configured to initiate or operate a flush cycle for an in-wall vacuum toilet.

[0878] ​The pump 604 provides a vacuum to the tank 603 for a predetermined amount of time to pull contents from the toilet bowl 601 to the drain cavity 602. Initially, when the vacuum is established, the vacuum also helps pull the flapper 611 toward the drain cavity 602.

[0879] Further, the pump 604 blows air through the forward flow path 608 to push the flapper 611 toward the tank 603 to close the connection between the tank and the drain cavity 602. Specifically, the flapper 611 closes the connection between the tank 603 and the drain cavity 602.

[0880] The tank assembly 647 can include a water supply connection 617. The water supply connection 617 can be a water outlet for connecting a water line in the tank assembly 647 to a water line (e.g., the water inlet 619) in the bowl assembly 627 so that water is supplied to the toilet bowl 601 for flushing the toilet bowl 601.

[0881] In one example, the power supply for the pump 604 includes an electrical circuit that is completed by pressing the button 614. The pump 604 can be turned on for the amount of time that the button 614 is pressed. In another example, the electrical circuit includes a latch so that the pump 604 is turned on (i.e., connected to the power supply) for a predetermined amount of time defined by a timer.

[0882] Figure 55A And Figure 55B Another example toilet 630 is illustrated with an in-wall vacuum system. Figure 56A And 56B Another example toilet 640 is illustrated with an in-wall vacuum system and a ball valve. In these examples, the electronic valve separates the tank 603 and the drain valve compartment 602.

[0883] In Figure 55A And 55B The electronic valve can include a gate valve 635 operated by a solenoid 636. The controller 100 can operate the electronic valve to selectively open and close the connection between the tank 603 and the drain cavity 602.

[0884] In Figure 56A And 56B The electronic valve can include a ball valve 637 driven by a motor 638. As an alternative to the motor 638, a solenoid or other drive mechanism can operate the ball valve 637. When the motor 638 brings the ball to one angle or rotational position, air passes from the path 608c to the drain cavity 602.

[0885] Figure 57A And Figure 57BAn example toilet 650 is illustrated with an in-wall vacuum system and an external vent 618. The positive air path 608 can also be omitted. Instead of blowing air from the pump 604 to the drain valve compartment 602 to move the flapper 611, the expelled air is vented from the toilet 650. The external vent 618 can open to an open outlet in the wall. The external vent 618 can provide an exhaust vent to the outside of the house or building. The external vent 618 can be connected to a main chimney that combines with other exhaust devices in the building (e.g., a sewer vent) and opens to an external opening.

[0886] In this example, the drain valve compartment 602 can also be omitted. Instead, an active electronic valve can open and seal the vacuum tank 603, as well as open the vacuum tank 603 to flush the contents to the drain. The electronic valve can include a flapper valve 645 and a solenoid 646 to operate the flapper valve. Other types of valves can be used.

[0887] In this example, the flapper valve 645 is first closed to establish a seal in the tank 603. When the pump 604 is operated, the vacuum in the tank 603 pulls the contents from the toilet bowl 601 into the tank 603. After a predetermined period of time, the flapper valve 645 is opened. By gravity, the contents from the toilet bowl 601 fall from the tank 603 into the drain.

[0888] Figure 58A and Figure 58B An example toilet 650 is illustrated with a partial in-wall vacuum system. The toilet 650 includes a bowl assembly 628, a tank assembly 687, and a flush assembly 641. The bowl assembly 628 includes at least a toilet bowl 601 and an attached sump that can be incorporated into a vacuum pipe 613. The tank assembly 648 can include a tank 603. The flush assembly 641 can include a drain valve compartment 602 and a flapper 611. The flush assembly 641 and the tank assembly 687 can be combined into a single unit.

[0889] The flush assembly 641 can be attached to the tank assembly 648. The flush assembly 641 can be placed on the floor and partially enclosed in the wall and partially exposed. The tank assembly 687 can then be attached to the flush assembly 641.

[0890] Figure 58C An alternative example tank assembly 648 is illustrated with dual exhaust devices. In this example, the vacuum pump 604 is connected to a positive air flow tube, including a left positive air flow tube 608B and a right positive air flow tube 608A.

[0891] The left positive air flow tube 608B can be connected or otherwise associated with a left damper 611B, which is configured to contact the drain valve compartment 602. The right positive air flow tube 608A can be connected or otherwise associated with a right damper 611A, which is also configured to contact the drain valve compartment 602. When the pump 604 provides a lower pressure to the tank 603, the exhaust of the pump 604 divides between the left positive air flow tube 608B and the right positive air flow tube 608A, the left positive air flow tube 608B blows against the left damper 611B to close or partially seal a first connection to the drain valve compartment 602, and the right positive air flow tube 608A blows against the right damper 611A to close or partially seal a second connection to the drain valve compartment 602.

[0892] Figure 59A and Figure 59B An example toilet 660 with a partial wall-in vacuum system is illustrated. In this example, the toilet bowl assembly 629 includes a toilet bowl 601, a drain valve compartment 602, and a damper 611. The tank assembly includes a tank 603 and a positive flow path 608.

[0893] Figure 60 An example wall-hung toilet 670 with a vacuum system is illustrated. A single housing 639, which can be formed of a vitreous material or plastic, can include a bowl 601, a vacuum tube 613, a drain valve compartment 602, a tank 603, and a positive flow path 608. The housing 639 can also support a pump 604 and a damper within the drain valve compartment 602.

[0894] Figure 61 A toilet 1100 with a vacuum system and dual water seals is illustrated. The toilet 1100 includes a base 1104 and a vacuum tank assembly 1101. The vacuum tank assembly 1101 can include a tank 603, a pump 604, and a water supply 619. The base 1104 includes a toilet bowl 1110 and a waste passage 1102. As illustrated, the vacuum tank assembly 1101 can be supported by the base 1104. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included. The water supply 619 can include a valve to selectively allow water to flow through a rim passage 1119 and wash the toilet bowl 1110. The waste passage 1102 can be a compound waste passage including an upstream waste passage 1105 and a downstream waste passage 1107. Water from the bowl 1110 flows through a primary sump 1103 into the upstream waste passage 1105, to a secondary sump 1129 into the downstream waste passage 1107. The upstream waste passage 1105 includes an upstream weir 1106 that defines an upstream water seal. The downstream waste passage 1107 includes a downstream weir 1108 that defines a downstream water seal. Between the downstream water seal and the upstream water seal is a waste passage cavity 1130.

[0895] A vacuum passageway 1122 connects the trapway 110 (particularly the upstream trapway 1105) to the vacuum box 603. In some examples, the vacuum passageway 1122 can be external to the toilet 1100. A pump 604 can create a vacuum in the vacuum box 603. The vacuum can be released through the opening of the air valve, through the vacuum passageway 1122.

[0896] The exhaust of the pump 604 can be connected to a positive air passageway 608 that blows air into the downstream trapway 1107, which helps to push the rinsed contents down to the drain line. The exhaust effectively flows to the drain line. After a rinse, the trapway cavity 1130 should be closed and not leak through the flow passageway 608. A check valve or positive displacement volumetric pump can be used to prevent any backflow. If the area 1130 is sealed during refilling of the bowl, there can be a positive pressure in the trapway cavity 1130 to prevent a double seal from turning into a siphon.

[0897] Figure 62 A vacuum assist 682 for a plumbing system 680 is illustrated. The toilet 1104 can be a gravity flush toilet that includes a tank that holds water that is released into the bowl and trapway to break the siphon and extract the contents including water, urine, and / or fecal matter from the bowl. Other toilets such as a vacuum toilet as described herein can be used with the plumbing system 680.

[0898] A drain line 681 is coupled to the trapway of the toilet 1104 and a predetermined pitch (e.g., 0.25 inches vertical per foot horizontal or 2 centimeters vertical per meter horizontal) and provides a path to the vacuum assist 682. In some examples, the drain line 681 can include a flexible tube 686 (e.g., plastic) that provides a directional connection between the vacuum assist 682 and the toilet 1100.

[0899] The vacuum assist 682 can include a pump 604, a drain valve compartment 602, a positive flow passageway 608, and a vacuum box 603. When the vacuum assist 682 is activated, the pump 604 draws a vacuum from the box 603 and provides an exhaust flow to the drain valve compartment 602. As described in the above examples, the flapper 611 can be pushed closed by the exhaust flow through the positive flow passageway 608 to seal the drain valve compartment 602 and create a suction through the drain line 681 and evacuate the sump and / or bowl of the toilet 1104.

[0900] The flexible tube 686 connects the outlet of the toilet 1100 to the vacuum assist system 682 to allow the toilet 1100 to be retrofitted onto a drain network that does not have a full passageway or a drain network that has a shower or sink drain that is inserted between the toilet and the vacuum assist system 682. The waste in the toilet runs out through the flexible tube.

[0901] Downstream of the vacuum assist is a horizontal link pipe 684 that connects the vacuum assist 682 to a stack vent or main stack 683 of a building or house that includes sanitary piping 680.

[0902] Figure 63 An exemplary controller 301 is illustrated for use in any of the embodiments and can be used in any of the examples herein, such as for a controller 100 in any of the embodiments in Figures 1 to 62 The controller 301 can include a processor 300, a memory 352, and a communication interface 353 for interacting with devices or the internet and / or other networks 346. In addition to the communication interface 353, a sensor interface can be configured to receive data from sensors described herein or from any source. The components of the control system can communicate using a bus 348. The control system can be connected to a workstation or other external device (such as a control panel) and / or a database for receiving user input, system characteristics, and any values described herein.

[0903] The sensor interface (e.g., shown in Figure 52 The sensor interface can receive measurements or sensor data from a variety of sensors. The sensor interface is configured to receive sensor data of a pressure in a pressure chamber of a vacuum toilet. The sensor interface is configured to receive sensor data of contents of a toilet bowl of a vacuum toilet. The sensor interface is configured to receive sensor data of a user present at or near the vacuum toilet.

[0904] The sensor interface can condition the sensor data. For example, the sensor interface can sample the sensor data at predetermined intervals. The sensor interface can also send control signals from the controller 301 to the various sensors. The control signals can turn on or activate the sensors. The control signals can calibrate the sensors.

[0905] The memory 352 is configured to store thresholds or ranges for the sensor data. The memory 352 can store a pressure threshold that indicates a normal operating condition of the vacuum toilet. The memory 352 can store a plurality of pressure thresholds for triggering various modes of the vacuum toilet. The thresholds can include a cleaning mode threshold, a clog mode threshold, and a fault mode threshold. The memory 352 can store an altitude of the vacuum toilet that indicates a need for operational adjustments to operate at a rated level. The memory 352 can store a pressure range that includes a high pressure threshold and a low pressure threshold for any of the foregoing scenarios.

[0906] Memory 352 can store a bowl waste threshold for analysis from the millimeter wave sensor or the ultrasonic sensor. The threshold can indicate an amount of waste detected. In some examples, memory 352 stores templates for various sizes of solid waste and liquid waste. The templates can be compared to detected sensor data.

[0907] Processor 300 is configured to determine a state of the vacuum toilet based on a comparison of the sensor data to at least one threshold. Pressure 300 can determine a particular mode of the vacuum toilet that should be initiated (e.g., a cleaning mode threshold, a clog mode threshold, and a fault mode threshold) by comparing the sensor data to the pressure thresholds.

[0908] Processor 300 is configured to determine a flush type or parameters for a flush based on a comparison of the sensor data to at least one threshold. Processor 300 can identify that the vacuum chamber is operating at a low pressure and adjust the flush cycle accordingly. Processor 300 can identify a type or amount of waste in the bowl and adjust the flush cycle accordingly. In one example, a half flush is selected when urine is detected and a full flush is selected when fecal matter is detected. Adjusted parameters of the flush can include a vacuum pump speed, a vacuum pump duration, a water volume, a water duration, or a time delay before one or more of the intervals.

[0909] Processor 300 is configured to identify a leak in the vacuum toilet based on a comparison of the sensor data to at least one threshold. Processor 300 can receive first sensor data for a pressure of a vacuum chamber of the vacuum toilet and second sensor data for a user presence at the vacuum toilet. Processor 300 can identify when there is no user present at the vacuum toilet for a set amount of time (e.g., 1 hour, 1 day, or other value). When there is no user present, processor 300 can monitor the pressure in the vacuum toilet. If the pressure fluctuates, this is an indication that a leak can be occurring. Accordingly, processor 300 is configured to identify a leak when the sensor data indicates that there is no user present at the vacuum toilet and the pressure fluctuates by more than a predetermined amount.

[0910] Display 350 or other indicator can be configured to indicate a state of the vacuum toilet. Display 350 can be replaced with one or more lights (e.g., LEDs). Display 350 can indicate normal operation of the toilet, a detected fault, or that cleaning is in progress. Display 350 can indicate one or more parameters of a flush. Display 350 can monitor water usage, such as an average water volume per flush over a period of time.

[0911] The communication interface 353 is configured to send a message for the status of the vacuum toilet. The message can include the flush parameters, the mode of the vacuum toilet, or the water used, for example, the average water volume per flush over a period of time. The message can be sent to a server via a network 346 that monitors a plurality of vacuum toilets. The message can be sent to a user device (e.g., a tablet or phone).

[0912] Figure 64 An example flowchart for a controller of a vacuum toilet is illustrated. Additional, different, or fewer actions can be used. Figure 63

[0913] At action S701, the air source is activated. The controller 301 can send an instruction to an electronic valve to open an air passage for the air source. The controller 301 can send an instruction to the air source to start a pump.

[0914] At action S702, a valve associated with the toilet is opened. The valve can open a vacuum chamber. The valve can connect the toilet to a sewage system (or other drainage system).

[0915] At action S703, water is provided to the bowl. The water can be a small amount of water (e.g., 0.6 liters or 0.8 liters) sufficient to form a water seal. The water is provided by a water supply jet configured to supply water to the toilet bowl. The controller 301 can send an instruction to an electronic valve to activate and deactivate the water supply jet according to a flush cycle.

[0916] Figure 65 An example flowchart for a flush cycle 800 is illustrated. The flush cycle 800 can be applied to any of the vacuum toilets described herein. The flush cycle can be modified. Some of the cycle steps C1-C9 can be performed concurrently. Some additional cycle steps can be added. The flush cycle can also be considered a subset of steps C1-C9.

[0917] At C1, the flush cycle starts with a bowl with water for a water seal. Then, at C2, the flush is initiated. The flush can be initiated when a user moves a lever, presses a button, or the controller 301 sends an instruction.

[0918] At C3, the bowl is cleaned by cleaning water. C3 can be omitted in some embodiments. At C4, the vacuum is initiated by opening the air source. For example, the controller 301 can open the air source (e.g., a vacuum generator). At a certain point in time or pressure level, a vacuum valve opens at C4. For example, the controller 301 can open the vacuum valve at C5. Shortly thereafter (e.g., 1 second later), an outlet valve opens at C6. For example, the controller 301 can open the outlet valve.

[0919] ​After a predetermined delay at C7 (which can be measured by the controller 301 in time), the vacuum is stopped. For example, the controller 301 can turn off the air supply and / or turn off the vacuum valve at C8. Finally, more water is provided to the footbath at C9. For example, the controller 301 can open an electronic valve that supplies water to the footbath. The water can be supplied under gravity or from a supply pressure.

[0920] Optionally, the control system can include an input device 355 and / or sensing circuitry 356 in communication with any of the sensors. The sensing circuitry receives sensor measurements from the sensors described above. The input device can include any user input such as buttons, touchscreens, keyboards, microphones for voice input, cameras for gesture input, and / or other mechanisms.

[0921] Optionally, the control system can include a drive unit 340 for receiving and reading a non-transitory computer medium 341 having instructions 342. Additional, different, or fewer components can be included. The processor 300 is configured to execute the instructions 342 stored in the memory 352 for performing the algorithms described herein. The display 350 can be an indicator or other screen output device. The display 350 can be combined with the user input device 355.

[0922] The processor 300 can be a general purpose processor or a special purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a set of processing components, or other suitable processing components. The processor 300 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in the memory 352 or received from other computer readable media (e.g., embedded flash, local hard disk storage, local ROM, network storage, remote servers, etc.). The processor 300 can be a single device or a combination of devices, such as associated with a network, distributed processing, or cloud computing.

[0923] Memory 352 can include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for completing and / or facilitating the various methods described herein. Memory 352 can include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk storage, temporary storage, non-volatile storage, flash memory, optical storage, or any other suitable type of memory for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. Memory 352 can include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structures for supporting various activities and information structures described herein. Memory 352 can be communicably connected to processor 300 via processing circuitry and can include computer code that, when executed by processor 300, is used to perform one or more methods as described herein. For example, memory 352 can include graphics, webpages, HTML files, XML files, script code, spray configuration files, or other resources for generating a graphical user interface for display and / or for interpreting user interface input to make command, control, or communication decisions.

[0924] In addition to including an ingress port and an egress port, communication interface 353 can include any operable connection. An operable connection can be a connection over which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications can be sent and / or received. An operable connection can include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. Communication interface 353 can connect to a network. The network can include a wired network (e.g., Ethernet network), a wireless network, or a combination thereof. The wireless network can be a cellular telephone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, a Bluetooth pairing of devices, or a Bluetooth mesh network. Further, the network can be a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or a combination thereof, and can utilize various protocols to communicate, including but not limited to TCP / IP based protocols.

[0925] While a computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 352) is shown as a single medium, the term "computer-readable medium" includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term "computer-readable medium" shall also include any medium that is capable of storing or encoding a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that is capable of storing or encoding data that can be read by a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations described herein.

[0926] In particular non-limiting, exemplary embodiments, the computer readable medium can include a solid-state memory such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. Further, the computer readable medium can be a random access memory or other volatile re-writable memory. Additionally, the computer readable medium can include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk or tapes or other storage device that captures carrier wave signals such as a signal communicated over an electrical, optical, and / or physical interface. A digital file attachment to an e-mail or other self-contained information archive or set of archives is considered a distribution medium equivalent to a tangible storage medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include a computer readable medium or distribution medium, as well as other equivalents and successor media, in which data or instructions can be stored.

[0927] In another embodiment, dedicated hardware implementations, such as application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices, can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that can include the apparatus and systems of various embodiments can broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein can implement functions using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals that can be communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Accordingly, the present system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0928] The drawings of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. The drawings are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of devices and systems that utilize structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the present disclosure. Other embodiments can be derived from application of the teachings of the present disclosure to the practices of the present disclosure and are within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, the drawings can be merely representative and can not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions of the drawings can be exaggerated, while other proportions can be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the drawings are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0929] While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the application or of what can be claimed, but rather as descriptions of particular embodiments of the application. Certain features that are, for clarity, described above and below in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. In addition, while the above description has been made with respect to specific embodiments, it will be appreciated that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that what is desired to be protected by letters patent is defined by the claims as set forth and any equivalents thereof.

[0930] One or more embodiments of the disclosure can be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term "application" merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the application to any particular application or implementation. Moreover, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated that various modifications to the illustrated order and / or elements of those embodiments can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art, having the benefit of this disclosure, without departing from the scope of the application. The disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

[0931] The detailed description above is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. The following claims are hereby expressly intended to include all alternatives for claim elements as set forth in the detailed description. The claims should not be construed to be limited to the described order or elements unless such is specifically recited in the claims. Thus, all embodiments and examples are intended to be within the scope of the application.

[0932] When components, devices, elements or the like of the present disclosure are described as having a certain purpose or performing a certain operation, function, etc., that component, device or element is / are herein intended to also cover any component, device or element that can serve the same or similar purpose or perform the same or similar operation, function, etc.

[0933] As used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially" and the like are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage of the term in the field of the present disclosure. It is to be understood by those of skill in the art that such terms are intended to allow for a number of variations and permutations of portions of the recited steps or elements. It is further noted that the terms "substantial" and "substantially" are used to describe useful and meaningful results. Thus, these terms are not intended to be construed as requiring a perfect or absolute value.

[0934] 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, representatives, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or exceptional examples).

[0935] As used herein, the term "couple" 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 removable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining can be achieved by directly joining the two components together, by mutually joining the two components together using a separate intermediate member and any additional intermediate members that are mutually joined, or by mutually joining the two components together using an intermediate member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two components. If "couple" or its variants are modified by additional terms (e.g., directly coupled), the general definition of "couple" provided above is modified by the ordinary language meaning of the additional terms (e.g., "directly coupled" means the joining of two components without any separate intermediate member), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "couple" provided above. Such coupling can be mechanical, electrical or fluid.

[0936] As used herein, the term "or" 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" are understood to mean, unless otherwise specifically stated, 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). Therefore, unless otherwise specified, such connectives do not generally imply that some embodiments require at least one of each of X, Y, and Z to be present.

[0937] References to element positions herein (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below") are intended only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0938] Although the diagrams and descriptions can illustrate the specific order of method steps, unless expressly stated otherwise, the order of such steps can differ from those depicted and described. Also, two or more steps can be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation can depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations of the described methods could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps and decision steps.

[0939] It should be noted that the construction and arrangement of the system as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, any elements disclosed in one embodiment can be incorporated or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein. While one or more embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, different element and / or act orderings can be performed in other embodiments. Accordingly, although specific functions have been assigned to certain elements, other elements can perform the described functions in other embodiments.

Claims

1. A vacuum toilet, comprising: Toilet bowl; drain valve compartment; a tank coupled to the toilet basin; as well as A vacuum generator includes a high-pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment and a low-pressure outlet connected to the tank.

2. The vacuum toilet according to claim 1, further comprising: A vacuum tube connects the tank and the toilet bowl.

3. The vacuum toilet of claim 2, wherein the vacuum tube is angled upward between the toilet bowl and the tank.

4. The vacuum toilet according to claim 1, further comprising: A flapper is supported by the downpipe valve compartment and is configured to open and close an opening between the downpipe valve compartment and the tank.

5. The vacuum toilet of claim 4, wherein the vacuum generator provides a positive air flow to the high pressure outlet to apply a force to the flapper in a direction to seal the drain valve compartment.

6. The vacuum toilet of claim 5, wherein when the flapper seals the drain valve compartment, negative air pressure provided from the vacuum generator to the low pressure outlet causes a vacuum in the tank to extract contents from the toilet bowl.

7. The vacuum toilet of claim 6 , wherein the vacuum generator stops providing the positive air flow and negative air pressure, the flapper opens the seal of the drain valve compartment, and the contents from the basin fall out of the drain valve compartment.

8. The vacuum toilet of claim 7, wherein the contents from the bowl pass through the drain valve compartment to a sanitary path.

9. The vacuum toilet according to claim 1, further comprising: A controller is configured to provide a control signal to activate the vacuum generator for a predetermined duration.

10. The vacuum toilet according to claim 9, further comprising: A water inlet is configured to provide water to the toilet bowl, wherein the control signal from the controller activates a valve for the water inlet.

11. A method of operating a vacuum toilet, the method comprising: providing a high-pressure air flow from the pump to a high-pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment; providing a low-pressure vacuum from the pump to a tank coupled to the toilet bowl; as well as A valve to the tank is closed in response to the high pressure air flow and the low pressure air flow.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: The pump is activated to provide the high-pressure air flow and the low-pressure vacuum.

13. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: The pump is deactivated, wherein the valve opens at least partially in response to deactivating the pump.

14. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Open the rinse water valve to release water to the toilet bowl.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: generating a first control signal for the pump; as well as A second control signal for the wash water valve is generated. 16 . The method of claim 15 , wherein the second control signal is generated a predetermined period of time after the first control signal is generated.

17. A vacuum toilet comprising: drain valve compartment; as well as a pump comprising a high-pressure outlet connected to the drain valve compartment and a low-pressure outlet connected to the tank, Wherein the pump creates a vacuum through the low pressure outlet and pushes air through the high pressure outlet to close the opening between the tank and the drain valve compartment.

18. The vacuum toilet according to claim 17, further comprising: A flapper is supported by the drain valve compartment and is configured to close the opening between the drain valve compartment and the tank under air pressure.

19. The vacuum toilet of claim 18, wherein when the flapper seals the drain valve compartment, negative pressure provided from the vacuum generator to the low pressure outlet causes a vacuum in the tank to flush the vacuum toilet.

20. The vacuum toilet of claim 19, wherein the vacuum generator stops providing the negative pressure, the flapper opens the seal of the drain valve compartment, and contents from the basin fall out of the drain valve compartment.

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