Device for cleaning a toilet

Abstract

There is provided an apparatus for cleaning a toilet, the apparatus configured to be placed on a rim of a toilet, the apparatus comprising: a container configured to be placed in the toilet and filled with flush water flowing into the toilet from the rim of the toilet; a sprinkler positioned on a side of the container facing the toilet bowl and configured to spray a jet water flow into the toilet bowl; a control unit attached to the container through a bridge and configured to be located outside the toilet rim and control operation of the device; and a pump positioned in the control unit, fluidly connected to an interior of the container and fluidly connected to the sprinkler, and configured to pump water from the container and force the water to flow towards the sprinkler to form the jet sprayed from the sprinkler.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 483,286, filed February 5, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This topic relates to toilets. More specifically, this topic relates to devices for cleaning toilets. Background Technology

[0004] Cleaning toilets is often a time-consuming and tedious process. This is due to the unique structure of toilets, which requires the cleaner to use meticulous movements and techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of the toilet. Typically, this cleaning is done with a toilet brush, which can expose the cleaner to cleaning agents and grime that may splatter during the process. Another drawback of using a brush to clean toilets is that dirt and microorganisms can accumulate on the brush, especially between the bristles and on the surface, some of which can be pathogenic.

[0005] Several commercially available solutions for toilet cleaning are available that require no human contact. These solutions typically involve a detergent (usually in capsule form) that is embedded in the toilet bowl, for example, attached to the inside of the bowl, and a small amount of detergent is released with each flush. Alternatively, some solutions are embedded in the toilet tank and connected directly to the tap water, so that a small amount of detergent is released from the tank with each flush.

[0006] However, these commercially available solutions cannot thoroughly clean toilets because some stains require physical contact to remove, such as contact with a toilet brush. This is because some stains have a dry surface attached to the inside of the toilet bowl, while the detergent material flushed down the toilet only comes into contact with the outer surface of these stains and does not remove them. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this subject matter pertains. While methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in practice or testing of this subject matter, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including its definitions, shall prevail. Furthermore, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0008] According to one aspect of this subject matter, an apparatus for cleaning a toilet is provided, the apparatus comprising:

[0009] A bridging element configured to be placed on the edge of a toilet bowl and comprising a first edge and a second edge;

[0010] A container extending downward from the first edge of the bridging member and configured to be placed in the toilet below the portion of the toilet's edge into which water flows, wherein the interior of the container is configured to be filled with flushing water flowing into the toilet from the edge of the toilet.

[0011] A sprayer, the sprayer being positioned on the side of the container facing the toilet and configured to spray a jet of water into the toilet, wherein the sprayer includes at least one sprayer motor, the at least one sprayer motor being configured to move the sprayer and direct the jet of water to any point on the toilet.

[0012] A control unit is attached to the second edge of the bridging member and configured to be located outside the toilet rim and control the operation of the device;

[0013] A pump, located in the control unit and fluidly connected to the interior of the container and fluidly connected to the sprayer, wherein the pump is configured to pump water from the container and force the water to flow toward the sprayer in such a manner as to form the jet stream sprayed from the sprayer;

[0014] At least one power source, located in the control unit and electrically connected to the pump via a pump switch; and

[0015] A control electronic circuit is located in the control unit, is connected to the components of the device in a signal manner, and is configured to control the operation of the device.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the bridging element is flexible.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the bridging element is configured to adjust its length.

[0018] According to one embodiment, at least one power source is a battery.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the battery is a disposable battery.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the battery is a rechargeable battery.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the control electronic circuit is a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0022] According to one embodiment, the control electronic circuit is a chip.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to collect water flushed into the toilet.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to collect water in a volume sufficient to spray water over the entire area of ​​the toilet.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to collect water in a volume approximately in the range of 100-200 ml.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to hold water in a volume of approximately 150 ml.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the sprayer is configured to spray a jet of water in a manner that systematically sweeps across the surface of the toilet, thereby cleaning the entire surface of the toilet.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the sprayer is configured to spray a jet stream to clean the bottom surface of the toilet bowl that is covered with water.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the pump is fluidly connected to the interior of the container via a first pipe and fluidly connected to the sprayer via a second pipe.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the pump is configured to generate a jet of water that is sprayed from a sprayer and its intensity is sufficient to remove any type of stains or dirt from the surface of the toilet.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the pump is configured to generate a jet of water with an intensity sufficient to remove stains or grime from the bottom of the toilet bowl surface covered by accumulated water.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the bridging element is configured to change its length to accommodate any width of the toilet's rim.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the bridging element is configured to be curved and allows the container to be positioned below the portion of the toilet bowl from which water is flushed into the toilet, while positioning the control unit outside the toilet bowl rim.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the bridging element is configured to be curved, allowing the device to be securely positioned on the edge of the toilet.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the top surface of the container is at least partially open to allow flushing water to enter the container from the edge of the toilet.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the top surface of the container is open.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the top surface of the container is covered by a container lid, which includes at least one opening to allow flushing water to enter the container from the edge of the toilet.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the container extends beyond the width of the bridging member.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the device further includes at least one wing located on at least one side of the top of the container, wherein the at least one wing is configured to guide rinsing water into the container.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the device further includes a pump switch configured to turn the pump on, or turn the pump off, or turn the pump on and off.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the device further includes a retainer configured to retain the water additive in the container.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the retainer is positioned in the bridging member, above the container.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the additive is a detergent, or a disinfectant, or a fragrance material, or a colored material, or any combination thereof.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the additive is a liquid.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the additive is a solid.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the additive is a solid tablet that is configured to gradually dissolve in water.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the retainer is configured to hold the tablet in such a way that rinsing water entering the container passes over the tablet and dissolves a portion of the tablet's material.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the retainer is configured to hold the tablet in a manner that allows the tablet to be at least partially immersed in water in the container.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the device further includes a lamp electrically connected to at least one power source.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the light is positioned next to the sprayer.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the device further includes a light switch configured to turn the light on, or turn the light off, or turn the light on and off.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the light switch is positioned on the surface of the control unit. Attached Figure Description

[0053] This document describes embodiments by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Referring now to the drawings in detail, it should be emphasized that the details shown are by way of example and for the purpose of illustrative discussion of preferred embodiments only, and are presented to provide the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the embodiments. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding, and the description accompanying the drawings will make it clear to those skilled in the art how several forms can be embodied in practice.

[0054] In the attached diagram:

[0055] Figure 1A -B schematically shows a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] Figure 2 A front perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically, wherein the bridging member is in a bent state.

[0057] Figure 3 A schematic front view of the interior of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0058] Figure 4 A schematic rear view of the interior of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0059] Figure 5A -B schematically shows a front perspective view and a top view of the container according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Figure 6 A rear view and a cross-sectional view of a bridging member are schematically shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the device for cleaning a toilet.

[0061] Figure 7 A top view of a container including a lid, according to an exemplary embodiment, is shown schematically.

[0062] Figure 8 A top view of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The subject matter can have other embodiments or can be practiced or performed in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered limiting. In the discussion of the various drawings described below, similar figures refer to similar parts. The drawings are generally not drawn to scale.

[0064] One objective of this subject matter is to provide a device for automatically cleaning toilets, thereby replacing manual toilet cleaning. Another objective is to provide a device for automatically cleaning hard stains (i.e., stains requiring physical contact for removal) in toilets. Yet another objective is to provide a device that can be installed on and adapted to any type of toilet. Still another objective is to provide a toilet cleaning device that does not require a connection to tap water, but instead uses water that is periodically flushed into the toilet after use. A further objective is to provide a toilet cleaning device that does not require a connection to mains power, but instead uses an internal power source. Yet another objective is to provide a toilet cleaning device that, in addition to cleaning the toilet, also illuminates the toilet and its surroundings. Another objective is to provide a toilet cleaning device that can be easily installed on any existing toilet. Yet another objective is to provide a toilet cleaning device that can be easily removed from the toilet. The toilet cleaning device of this subject matter achieves all of these objectives.

[0065] Now for reference Figure 1A -B, which schematically shows a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment. For simplicity, the device for cleaning a toilet is occasionally referred to as "device 1" below. According to one embodiment, device 1 includes:

[0066] Bridge 12, the bridge is configured to be placed on the edge of the toilet and includes a first edge 122 and a second edge 124;

[0067] Container 14, which extends downward from the first edge 122 of the bridging member 12 and is configured to be placed in the toilet below the portion of the toilet rim into which water is flushed, wherein the interior of container 14 is configured to be filled with flushing water flowing into the toilet from the rim of the toilet.

[0068] A sprayer 16 is positioned on the toilet-facing side of the container 14 and configured to spray a jet of water into the toilet, wherein the sprayer 16 includes at least one sprayer motor configured to move the sprayer 16 and direct the jet of water to any point on the toilet.

[0069] Control unit 18, which is attached to the second edge 124 of the bridging member 12 and configured to be located outside the toilet rim and control the operation of device 1;

[0070] A pump, located in a control unit 18 and fluidly connected to the interior of a container 14 and to a sprayer 16, wherein the pump is configured to pump water from the container 14 and force the water to flow toward the sprayer 16 in such a manner as to form a jet stream sprayed from the sprayer 16.

[0071] At least one power source, located in control unit 18 and electrically connected to pump 20 via a pump switch; and

[0072] A control electronic circuit is located in the control unit 18, is connected to the components of the device in a signal manner, and is configured to control the operation of the components of the device.

[0073] The advantage of this device is that the water supply for the operation of device 1 is the flushing water that falls freely during regular toilet flushing and accumulates in container 14. Therefore, there is no need to connect device 1 to an external water source, such as a toilet tank or tap water.

[0074] Now for reference Figure 2 It schematically shows a front perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the bridging member is in a bent state. Figure 1A In -B, bridge component 12 is straight, while... Figure 2 In this configuration, the bridging member 12 is curved. Therefore, according to one embodiment, the bridging member 12 is configured to be in a straight state (e.g., Figure 1A -B as shown) or in a bent state (such as Figure 2 (As shown). For example, on the one hand, when device 1 is displayed, for example, in an exhibition, or when device 1 is packaged, the bridging member 12 can be in a straight state. On the other hand, when device 1 is installed on the rim of the toilet, the bridging member 12 is in a bent state, thereby allowing the container 14 to be located inside the rim of the toilet and the control unit 18 to be located outside the rim of the toilet.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the bridging member 12 is flexible. This embodiment allows the bridging member 12 to transition between a straight and curved state. This flexibility allows the bridging member 12 to bend along the rim of the toilet to place the container 14 below the rim of the toilet, where flushing water enters the toilet, and to place the control unit 18 above the outer surface of the rim of the toilet. This flexibility also allows the bridging member 12 to adapt to any available size and shape of the rim of the toilet. According to this embodiment, the bridging member 12 is made of a flexible material. Any type of flexible material used to make the bridging member 12 is within the scope of this subject matter, such as, but not limited to, silicone, flexible plastics, fabrics, etc.

[0076] According to another embodiment, the bridging member 12 is configured to adjust its length, for example, to extend or shorten. This embodiment allows the bridging member 12 to adapt to different sizes and shapes of toilets so as to properly position the container 14 below the rim of the toilet. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the bridging member is made of an elastic material to allow for changes in the length of the bridging member 12, or, for example, the bridging member 12 has a harmonica-like structure to allow the bridging member 12 to extend or shorten.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the bridging member 12 has an exposed surface 12E (see [reference]). Figure 1A and 2 ) and contact surface 12C (see Figure 1B and Figure 2 ).like Figure 2 As shown, when the device 1 is placed on the edge of the toilet with the bridging member 12 bent, the exposed surface 12E of the bridging member 12 is exposed to the outside, for example, to the ambient air, while the contact surface 12C of the bridging member 12 is in contact with the surface of the toilet and the edge of the toilet.

[0078] from Figure 1A and 2 As can be seen, the exposed surface 12E of the bridging member 12 is smooth. However, this is merely an exemplary representation of the exposed surface 12E and should not be considered as limiting the scope of this subject matter. The exposed surface 12E can take any structure. However, according to one embodiment, the contact surface 12C of the bridging member is roughened. For example, this embodiment allows the bridging member 12 to be firmly secured to the surface of the toilet and the toilet rim to prevent the device from sliding on the toilet rim, especially during toilet cleaning using the device 1. Any type of mechanism that roughens the contact surface 12C of the bridging member 12 is within the scope of this subject matter. For example, the contact surface 12C can have a high coefficient of friction, for example, by making the contact surface 12C with a material having a high coefficient of friction. Figure 1B and 2 Another example shown is that the contact surface 12C includes a plurality of protrusions 126 extending from the contact surface 12C and has a high coefficient of friction to enable the bridging member 12 to be firmly secured to the toilet rim.

[0079] Now return to Figure 1A According to one embodiment, the control unit 18 includes a door 182. Opening this door 182 provides access to a power supply compartment, which will be shown below.

[0080] Now for reference Figure 3 The diagram schematically shows a front view of the interior of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 The control unit 18 and the second edge 124 of the bridging member 12 attached to the control unit 18 are shown. More specifically, Figure 3 This is a front view of the interior of the control unit 18, for example, in... Figure 1A The control unit 18 shown is visible when its door 182 is open. Therefore, according to one embodiment, the control unit 18 further includes a power supply compartment 184 configured to accommodate at least one power source 22. According to one embodiment, the at least one power source 22 is a battery. Any type of battery is within the scope of this subject matter, such as a disposable battery, a rechargeable battery, etc. Figure 3 A power supply 22 in the form of two batteries 122 is shown. It should be noted that the number of power supplies 22 is merely exemplary and should not be considered as limiting the scope of this subject. Any number of power supplies 22 can be accommodated in the power supply compartment 184.

[0081] Now for reference Figure 4 The diagram schematically shows a rear view of the interior of the control unit according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 Additional components located inside the control unit 18, namely the pump 20 and the control electronics 242, are shown and will be described in detail below.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control electronic circuit 242 is a printed circuit board (PCB). According to another embodiment, the control electronic circuit 242 is a chip.

[0083] According to one embodiment, control electronic circuit 242 is signal-connected to and configured to: control the operation of pump 20; control the voltage distribution from at least one power source 22 to the components of device 1; and control the operation of sprayer 16, including water pressure and movement of sprayer 16.

[0084] Now for reference Figure 5A-B, which schematically illustrates a front perspective view and a top view of the container according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one embodiment, the container 14 is configured to collect water flushed into the toilet. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the container 14 is at least partially open on its top surface and is configured to be positioned below the toilet rim, so that flushing water present at the toilet rim enters the container 14 and collects therein. According to another embodiment, the container 14 is configured to collect water in a volume sufficient to spray water over the entire area of ​​the toilet bowl. According to yet another embodiment, the container 14 is configured to collect water in a volume approximately in the range of 100-200 ml. According to still another embodiment, the container 14 is configured to collect water in a volume approximately 150 ml.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the additive can be inserted into the water in container 14 through at least a partially open top surface. Any type of additive is within the scope of this subject matter, such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, fragrance materials, colored materials, etc., or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the additive can be in any physical state, such as a liquid; or a solid, such as in tablet or powder form. Additionally, the additive can be in the form of a capsule containing the aforementioned material, including all embodiments thereof, and allowing the material to be released into the water in container 14. Alternatively, the additive can be a solid tablet, which can be configured to gradually dissolve in the water in container 14.

[0086] According to one embodiment, container 14 includes a retainer 30, which can be... Figure 5AAs seen in -B. According to the above embodiment, the retainer 30 is configured to contain a solid tablet 35. According to another embodiment, the retainer 30 is configured to hold the tablet 35 above the water level in the container 14 in such a way that flushing water entering the container 14 passes over the tablet 35 and dissolves a portion of the material of the tablet 35. According to this embodiment, the retainer 30 is perforated. Therefore, a small amount of material of the tablet 35 dissolves in the flushing water, which passes through the retainer 30 as it enters the toilet bowl. Thus, after each flush, a portion of the material of the tablet 35 enters the water accumulated in the container 14. According to yet another embodiment, the retainer 30 is configured to hold the tablet 35 in such a way that it allows at least partial immersion of the tablet 35 in the water in the container 14. This embodiment allows the material of the tablet 35 to be slowly released into the water accumulated in the container 14. According to yet another embodiment, the retainer 30 is configured to hold the tablet 35 in such a way that flushing water entering the container 14 passes over the tablet 35 and dissolves a portion of the material of the tablet 35, and to hold the tablet 35 in such a way that it allows at least partial immersion of the tablet 35 in the water in the container 14. An embodiment of the retainer 30 configured to hold a tablet 35 partially immersed in water in container 14 allows material of tablet 35 to be slowly released into the water in container 14, even when pump 20 of device 1 is not turned on.

[0087] According to one embodiment, see Figure 5A Container 14 includes a water sensor configured to sense the presence or absence of water in container 14. According to another embodiment, the water sensor includes a first cable 52 and a second cable 54 configured to be immersed in water accumulated in container 14 and exposed to air when there is no water in container 14. The first cable 52 and the second cable 54 are electrically connected to at least one power source 22 and signal-connected to control electronics 242. When the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 are immersed in water, the circuit is closed, and a signal indicating that container 14 is full of water is transmitted to control electronics 242. When the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 are exposed to air, the circuit is open, and a signal indicating that there is no water in container 14 is transmitted to control electronics 242.

[0088] According to one embodiment, container 14 includes a diaphragm 144 configured to physically separate a first cable 52 and a second cable 54 from each other. Thus, the first cable 52 is positioned on one side of the diaphragm 144, while the second cable 54 is positioned on the other side. This embodiment prevents accidental contact between the first cable 52 and the second cable 54, for example, when there is no water in container 14, which would result in a closed circuit and transmit a false signal that container 14 is full of water when it is actually empty.

[0089] Now return to Figure 1A and 2 According to one embodiment, the sprayer 16 is configured to spray a jet of water systematically across the surface of the toilet bowl, thereby cleaning the entire surface of the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, the sprayer 16 is configured to spray a jet stream to clean the bottom surface of the toilet bowl that is covered with accumulated water.

[0090] Now return to Figure 5A According to one embodiment, the device 1 further includes a housing 146 positioned above the container 14 and configured to house components of the device 1 that are related to various functions of the device 1. Figure 1A and 2 An external view of housing 146 is shown, while Figure 5A An internal view of the housing 146 is shown.

[0091] As mentioned above, according to one embodiment, see [link to example]. Figure 5A The device 1 includes at least one sprayer motor 70, which is configured to move the sprayer 16 and direct the sprayed water flow to any point on the toilet. According to another embodiment, the at least one sprayer motor 70 is positioned within a housing 146. According to yet another embodiment, the at least one sprayer motor 70 is configured to move the sprayer 16 horizontally, for example, during the spraying of the water flow. In other words, the at least one sprayer motor 70 is configured to move the sprayer 16 from right to left, and vice versa. According to yet another embodiment, the at least one sprayer motor 70 is configured to move the sprayer 16 vertically, for example, during the spraying of the water flow. In other words, the at least one sprayer motor 70 is configured to move the sprayer 16 up and down, and vice versa.

[0092] According to one embodiment, both the horizontal and vertical movement of the sprayer 16 are performed by a single sprayer motor 70. According to another embodiment, the horizontal and vertical movement of the sprayer are each performed by a separate sprayer motor 70. In other words, the device 1 includes a sprayer motor 70 configured to move the sprayer 16 horizontally and another sprayer motor 70 configured to move the sprayer 16 vertically.

[0093] Still at Figure 5A In one embodiment, in addition to the control electronics 242 described above, device 1 further includes container electronics 244. In another embodiment, container electronics 244 is a printed circuit board (PCB). In yet another embodiment, container electronics 244 is a chip. In still another embodiment, container electronics 244 is positioned within housing 146, such as... Figure 5A It can be seen in the image.

[0094] According to one embodiment, container electronic circuitry 244 is configured to replace the operation of some functions of control electronic circuitry 242 controlling device 1. According to another embodiment, container electronic circuitry 244 is configured to control the operation of at least one sprayer motor 70 and is wired to at least one sprayer motor 70 to transmit current for controlling the operation of at least one sprayer motor 70. According to yet another embodiment, container electronic circuitry 244 is configured to communicate with a water sensor comprising a first cable 52 and a second cable 54 and is wired to the water sensor to receive signals from the water sensor. According to still another embodiment, container electronic circuitry 244 is configured to control the operation of lamp 40 and is wired to the lamp to transmit current to lamp 40, thereby controlling the operation of lamp 40.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the container electronics 244 is wired to the control electronics 242, as described above. Figure 4 And the following text Figure 6 As shown.

[0096] Now for reference Figure 6 It schematically shows a rear view of a device for cleaning a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a bridging member. Now refer to Figure 4 and 6 As mentioned above, the container electronics 244 is wired to the control electronics 242. This connection is achieved via a communication cable 80 that connects the control electronics 242 and the container electronics 244 and passes through the bridging member 12.

[0097] Still referencing Figure 6 According to one embodiment, pump 20 is fluidly connected to the interior of container 14 via a first pipe 62. According to another embodiment, pump 20 is fluidly connected to sprayer 16 via a second pipe 64. According to yet another embodiment, the first pipe 62 and the second pipe 64 pass through bridging member 12. According to yet another embodiment, the first pipe 62 and the second pipe 64 are narrow.

[0098] According to one embodiment, pump 20 is configured to pump water from inside container 14 into pump 20 via a first pipe 62. Pump 20 is then configured to generate a high-pressure jet stream of water entering pump 20 and direct the jet stream toward a second pipe 64 toward a sprinkler 16, from which the jet stream is sprayed onto the inner surface of the toilet.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the intensity of the jet of water sprayed from the sprayer 16 is sufficient to remove any type of stains or grime from the toilet surface. According to another embodiment, the pump 20 is configured to generate a jet of water that is sprayed from the sprayer 16 and is strong enough to remove any type of stains or grime from the bottom of the toilet surface covered by accumulated water.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the additive released from tablet 35 is configured to improve the toilet cleaning efficiency achieved by a jet of water sprayed through sprayer 16.

[0101] Now return to Figure 5B According to one embodiment, the top surface of container 14 is open. According to another embodiment, the top surface of container 14 is at least partially open. Both embodiments allow flushing water to enter container 14 from the rim of the toilet. According to another embodiment, the top surface of container 14 is open, i.e., the top surface of the container does not have a lid, such as... Figure 2 and 5B As shown.

[0102] Now for reference Figure 7 The diagram schematically illustrates a top view of a container including a lid according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one embodiment, the top surface of the container 14 is covered by a container lid 142, which includes at least one opening 1425 to allow flushing water to enter the container 14 from the rim of the toilet. According to another embodiment, the container lid 142 includes multiple openings 1425. The purpose of the lid 142 with at least one opening 1425 is to prevent water from splashing out of the container 14, for example, when the container 14 is filled with a strong flushing water flow from the rim of the toilet, while allowing water to enter the container 14 through at least one opening 1425.

[0103] One mechanism for improving the efficiency of collecting flush water in container 14 is to install at least one side wing on at least one side of the top surface of container 14. Therefore, according to one embodiment, device 1 further includes at least one side wing located on at least one side of the top of container 14. The at least one side wing is positioned below the opening at the edge of the toilet bowl where flush water enters the toilet bowl and is configured to guide the flush water into container 14.

[0104] Another mechanism for improving the efficiency of collecting flushing water in container 14 is to install at least one check valve on the top surface of container 14 (e.g., at container cover 142). Any type of check valve is within the scope of this subject matter, such as a membrane, which allows flushing water to flow into container 14 and prevents water from flowing out of container 14.

[0105] Now for reference Figure 8 The diagram schematically illustrates a top view of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one embodiment, the device 1 further includes a pump switch 26 configured to allow a user to control the operation of the pump 20. The pump switch 26 can be positioned on the device 1 at any location that allows a user to press the pump switch 26, for example, with a finger. An exemplary location of the pump switch 26 is at the top of the control unit 18, such as... Figure 8As shown. According to one embodiment, pump switch 26 is configured to turn pump 20 on, or turn pump off, or turn pump on and off. In other words, according to one embodiment, pump switch 26 is configured to connect pump 20 to at least one power source 22 by pressing pump switch 26, and to disconnect pump 20 from at least one power source 22 by pressing power switch 26 again. According to another embodiment, pump switch 26 is configured to connect pump 20 to at least one power source 22 only when pump switch 26 is pressed, and then pump 20 automatically disconnects from at least one power source 22. According to another embodiment, the automatic disconnection of pump 26 from at least one power source 22 is controlled by control electronics 242. For example, when the water in container 14 is emptied, pump 20 automatically disconnects from at least one power source 22, which can be sensed by the water sensor comprising the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 described above. In another example, pump 20 disconnects from at least one power source 22 after a predetermined operating duration (e.g., approximately 30 seconds).

[0106] Now return to Figure 2 According to one embodiment, device 1 further includes a lamp 40. The lamp 40 is positioned anywhere on device 1. An exemplary location of the lamp 40 is on container 14, for example, next to sprayer 16. According to another embodiment, the lamp 40 is electrically connected to at least one power source 22.

[0107] According to one embodiment, lamp 40 is configured to turn on when pump 20 is turned on and operated, and to turn off when pump 20 is turned off. This can be achieved, for example, by electrically connecting lamp 40 to at least one power source 22 via pump switch 26, or by controlling the operation of lamp 40 in parallel with the operation of pump 20 by control electronics 242. According to another embodiment, lamp 40 is configured to turn on and off independently of the operation of pump 20. This can be achieved, for example, by electrically connecting lamp 40 to at least one power source 22 via lamp switch 45. Therefore, according to one embodiment, device 1 further includes lamp switch 45, which is configured to turn lamp 40 on, or turn lamp off, or turn lamp on and off. Lamp switch 45 can be positioned on device 1 at any location that allows a user to press lamp switch 45, for example, with a finger. An exemplary location of lamp switch 45 is on the surface of control unit 18, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Therefore, according to this embodiment, lamp 40 is electrically connected to at least one power source 22 via lamp switch 45.

[0108] Still at Figure 8 According to one embodiment, the light switch 45 includes a light source, such as a light-emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light. The advantage of the light source in the light switch is that the light switch 45 can be easily detected, for example, in dark conditions, so that the light 40 can be turned on when the room containing the toilet is dark.

[0109] Still at Figure 8 In one embodiment, pump switch 26 is configured to allow pump 20 to be turned on and off, for example, to clean the toilet by spraying a jet of water through sprayer 16. Turning on pump 20 causes water to be pumped from container 14 through the first pipe 62 and a high-pressure water jet to be pushed toward sprayer 16 through the second pipe 64. Additionally, pressing pump switch 26 turns on at least one sprayer motor 70, thereby moving sprayer 16 as described above to achieve a full and thorough cleaning of the toilet. In another embodiment, when pump 20 and at least one sprayer motor 70 are operating, pressing pump switch 26 turns off pump 20 and at least one sprayer motor 70.

[0110] According to one embodiment, device 1 includes software that enables pump 20 and at least one sprayer motor 70 to operate automatically in an automatic operation mode. According to another embodiment, the software is stored and operated by control electronics 242. According to yet another embodiment, the software is stored and operated by container electronics 244. According to still another embodiment, the software is stored and operated by both control electronics 242 and container electronics 244. According to yet another embodiment, switching to automatic mode is achieved by pressing either pump switch 26 or light switch 45, or a combination of pump switch 26 and light switch 45, for any duration. For example, switching to automatic mode can be achieved by continuously pressing pump switch 26 for approximately three seconds, and switching from automatic mode to manual mode (simply turning on pump 20 by pressing pump switch 26) can be achieved by again continuously pressing pump switch 26 for approximately three seconds. It should be noted that this mode of switching between manual and automatic modes is merely exemplary and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the subject matter.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the sprayer 16 is configured to spray water directly forward. According to another embodiment, the sprayer 16 is configured to spray water to the side. According to yet another embodiment, the device 1 allows the spray direction to be changed for any duration by pressing either the pump switch 26 or the light switch 45, or a combination of the pump switch 26 and the light switch 45. For example, pressing the pump switch 26 and the light switch 45 simultaneously can switch between spraying water directly forward and spraying water to the side, and vice versa. This embodiment can also be implemented using the software described above.

[0112] For clarity, unnecessary elements have been omitted from some of the accompanying drawings.

[0113] It should be understood that, for clarity, certain features of the subject matter described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features of the subject matter described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided individually or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0114] Although the subject matter has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many substitutions, modifications, and variations will be readily apparent. Therefore, it is contemplated that all such substitutions, modifications, and variations falling within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims be covered.

Claims

1. A device for cleaning a toilet, the device comprising: A bridging element configured to be placed on the edge of a toilet bowl and comprising a first edge and a second edge; A container extending downward from the first edge of the bridging member and configured to be placed in the toilet below the portion of the toilet's edge into which water flows, wherein the interior of the container is configured to be filled with flushing water flowing into the toilet from the edge of the toilet. A sprayer, the sprayer being positioned on the side of the container facing the toilet and configured to spray a jet of water into the toilet, wherein the sprayer includes at least one sprayer motor, the at least one sprayer motor being configured to move the sprayer and direct the jet of water to any point on the toilet. A control unit is attached to the second edge of the bridging member and configured to be located outside the toilet rim and control the operation of the device; A pump, located in the control unit and fluidly connected to the interior of the container and fluidly connected to the sprayer, wherein the pump is configured to pump water from the container and force the water to flow toward the sprayer in such a manner as to form the jet stream sprayed from the sprayer; At least one power source, located in the control unit and electrically connected to the pump via a pump switch; as well as A control electronic circuit is located in the control unit, is connected to the components of the device in a signal manner, and is configured to control the operation of the device.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bridging element is flexible.

3. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the bridging member is configured to adjust its length.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one power source is a battery.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the battery is a disposable battery.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control electronic circuit is a printed circuit board (PCB).

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control electronic circuit is a chip.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the container is configured to collect water flushed into the toilet.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the container is configured to accumulate water in a volume sufficient to spray water over the entire area of ​​the toilet.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the container is configured to collect water in a volume approximately in the range of 100-200 ml.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the container is configured to collect water in a volume of approximately 150 ml.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sprayer is configured to spray the jet of water in such a manner that the jet of water systematically sweeps across the surface of the toilet, thereby cleaning the entire surface of the toilet.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the sprayer is configured to spray the jet stream to clean the surface of the bottom of the toilet that is covered with water.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the pump is fluidly connected to the interior of the container via a first pipe and fluidly connected to the sprayer via a second pipe.

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the pump is configured to generate a jet of water that is sprayed from the sprayer and has an intensity capable of removing any type of stains or dirt from the surface of the toilet.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the pump is configured to generate a jet of water with an intensity capable of removing stains or grime from the bottom of the toilet bowl surface covered by accumulated water.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the bridging member is configured to change its length to accommodate any width of the toilet rim.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the bridging member is configured to be curved and allows water positioned in the container at the edge of the toilet to be flushed below the portion of the toilet, and the control unit is positioned outside the edge of the toilet.

20. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the bridging member is configured to be curved and allows the device to be securely positioned on the edge of the toilet.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the top surface of the container is at least partially open to allow flushing water to enter the container from the edge of the toilet.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the top surface of the container is open.

23. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the top surface of the container is covered by a container lid, the container lid including at least one opening to allow flushing water to enter the container from the edge of the toilet.

24. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the container extends beyond the width of the bridging member.

25. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 24, further comprising at least one wing located on at least one side of the top of the container, wherein the at least one wing is configured to guide rinsing water into the container.

26. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 25, further comprising a pump switch configured to turn the pump on, or turn the pump off, or turn the pump on and off.

27. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 26, further comprising a retainer configured to retain the water additive in the container.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the retainer is positioned in the bridging member above the container.

29. The apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 28, wherein the additive is a detergent, or a disinfectant, or a fragrance material, or a colored material, or any combination thereof.

30. The apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the additive is a liquid.

31. The apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the additive is a solid.

32. The apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the additive is a solid tablet configured to gradually dissolve in water.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the retainer is configured to hold the tablet in such a manner that rinsing water entering the container passes over the tablet and dissolves a portion of the tablet's material.

34. The apparatus according to any one of claims 32 to 33, wherein the retainer is configured to hold the tablet in a manner that allows the tablet to be at least partially immersed in the water in the container.

35. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 34, further comprising a lamp electrically connected to the at least one power source.

36. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein the lamp is positioned next to the sprayer.

37. The apparatus according to any one of claims 35 to 36, further comprising a lamp switch configured to turn the lamp on, or turn the lamp off, or turn the lamp on and off.

38. The device of claim 37, wherein the lamp switch is positioned on the surface of the control unit.

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