Electromechanical toilet seat system

Abstract

A self-raising toilet system includes a toilet seat configured to be seated on by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat to the base. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is switchable between a lowered position and a raised position. The mechanical lifting device is configured to lift the toilet seat toward the lifted position. The mechanical latch is configured to hold the race in the lowered position. The electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay prior to triggering the electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of the mechanical latch causing the mechanical lifting device to lift the toilet seat toward the lifted position.

Description

[0001] Priority

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 461,628, filed April 25, 2023, entitled “SELF-LOWERING TOILET SEAT,” and naming Max Pounanov, Mingyuan Li, Kevin Z. Tang, and Greg E. Blonder as inventors, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 544,429, filed October 16, 2023, entitled “Self-Closing Toilet Seat and Lid Post-Close Flush System,” and naming Max Pounanov, Mingyuan Li, Kevin Z. Tang, and E. Greg Blonder as inventors, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] This patent application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 549,495, filed February 3, 2024, entitled “Electronic Self-Lifting Toilet Seat System,” and naming Max Pounanov, Mingyuan Li, and Greg E. Blonder as inventors, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] This patent application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 466,676, filed May 15, 2023, entitled “Self-Closing Toilet Seat System,” and naming Max Pounanov, Mingyuan Li, and Greg Blonder as inventors, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0006] Illustrative embodiments relate generally to toilets, and more specifically, illustrative embodiments relate to a self-lowering or self-raising toilet system. BACKGROUND

[0007] At home, men often raise the toilet seat to urinate, but forget to lower it after use. This is a source of frequent annoyance to other occupants of the home. In addition, a lowered toilet lid prevents pets or children from accessing the toilet water, and prevents items (e.g., a phone or towel) from inadvertently falling into the toilet.

[0008] Conversely, toilet seats in public washrooms are often soiled, particularly in men's and unisex washrooms, because men often urinate standing up with the toilet in the lowered position. Although more common in men's washrooms, toilet seat soiling can also occur in women's washrooms. Because public washroom facilities do not belong to the user, people generally give little thought to the mess they create. This means that users are less likely to raise the seat before urinating from a standing position, more likely to make a mess, and less likely to clean up after themselves if they do make a mess. SUMMARY

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a self-raising toilet system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat to a base. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is transitionable between a lowered position and a raised position. A mechanical raising device is configured to raise the toilet seat toward the raised position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the lowered position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of the mechanical latch causing the mechanical raising device to raise the toilet seat toward the raised position.

[0010] According to another embodiment, a self-lowering toilet seat system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge rotatably couples the toilet seat to a base. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is transitionable between a lowered position and a raised position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the raised position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of the mechanical latch causing the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position.

[0011] According to yet another embodiment, a self-lowering toilet lid system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. The system also includes a toilet lid. A hinge rotatably couples the lid to the seat. The hinge is configured such that the toilet lid is transitionable between a lowered position and a raised position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet lid toward the lowered position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the lid in the raised position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a time delay of the lid before triggering a electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of the mechanical latch causing the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet lid toward the lowered position.

[0012] In various embodiments, the seat can be a toilet bowl. The system can also include a toilet lid. The toilet seat and / or lid can be rotatably coupled to the toilet bowl via a hinge.

[0013] The electromechanical latch release system can include a servo motor and / or a solenoid. The mechanical latch can include a clutch feature configured to allow a user to manually disengage the latch prior to expiration of the time delay. The mechanical latch can include an interlock switch configured to decouple the delay system from a power source when the interlock switch is disengaged. The interlock switch can be disengaged after the raising device or lowering device moves the seat or lid to its biased position.

[0014] Various embodiments include a hinge housing. The hinge housing can be substantially sealed to protect components therein. Additionally or alternatively, the timing system and / or the sensing system are preferably substantially sealed as with or instead of the hinge housing. The seal can be rated IP54 or higher to prevent dust ingress and light water spray. The seal can preferably be an IP 65 seal in order to protect the mechanism from any of the most severe bathroom environments that the seat system can encounter. The seat system can be integrated with an IOT flush valve.

[0015] The sensing system can be configured to detect an absence or presence of a user. The sensing system can include an electronic position sensor, an optical time-of-flight sensor, a load sensor, and / or a capacitive sensor to detect when a user is in proximity to the toilet bowl. The seat time delay can be a function of detecting an absence of a user. The electronic timing system can include a preset fixed delay time independent of the sensing system.

[0016] In some embodiments, a user raises the seat and lid to the raised position. The lowering device can lower the lid, which also pushes the lid down to the lowered position. Some embodiments can include a hard stop configured to prevent over-rotation of the lid or seat when moved to the raised position. The lowering device and raising device can be passive (e.g., spring-based).

[0017] According to another embodiment, a method causes a toilet seat to self-lift. The method provides a self-lifting toilet system. The self-lifting toilet system includes a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge is rotatably coupled to the toilet seat. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is transitionable between a lowered position and a lifted position. A mechanical lifting device is configured to cause the toilet seat to self-lift toward the lifted position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the lowered position after being lowered by the user. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, which allows the mechanical lifting device to lift the toilet seat toward the lifted position.

[0018] In some embodiments of the self-lifting system, the engagement delay system is engaged when the user lowers the toilet seat to the lowered position. The delay system can disengage engagement after the time delay expires. The method can use a passive lifting system to lift the toilet seat after the time delay ends. In some embodiments, the time delay starts after the user is not detected. In some embodiments, the time delay is dynamic as a function of a sensing of the user. Alternatively, the time delay can be a static delay.

[0019] According to another embodiment, a method causes a toilet seat to self-lower. The method provides a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user. A hinge is rotatably coupled to the toilet seat. The hinge is configured such that the toilet seat is transitionable between a lowered position and a lifted position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to cause the toilet seat to self-lower toward the lowered position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the seat in the lifted position. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, which allows the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position.

[0020] The method engages a delay system by lifting the toilet seat to the lifted position. The method disengages the delay system after the time delay expires. The method can use a passive lifting system to lower the toilet seat after the time delay ends. The time delay can start after the user is not detected. In some embodiments, the time delay is dynamic as a function of a sensing of the user.

[0021] According to yet another embodiment, a method self-lowers a toilet lid. The method provides a toilet seat configured to be sat upon by a user and a toilet lid. A hinge is rotatably coupled to the toilet seat and the lid. The hinge is configured such that the toilet lid and seat are transitionable between a lowered position and a raised position. A mechanical lowering device is configured to self-lower the toilet lid toward the lowered position. A mechanical latch is configured to hold the lid in the raised position after being rotated to the raised position by the user. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a time delay of the lid before triggering the lowering device to lower the toilet lid toward the lowered position.

[0022] The method can engage the delay system by raising the toilet seat to the raised position. The method can disengage the delay system after the time delay expires. After the time delay ends, the toilet seat can be lowered using a passive lift system. The time delay can begin after a user is not detected. The time delay can be dynamic as a function of a user's sensing.

[0023] In various embodiments, the hinge rotatably couples a base and a seat. The base can be a toilet bowl. Wherein the delay system can include a latch system, a latch release system, a sensing system, and an electronic timing system, wherein the delay system is hermetic.

[0024] Illustrative embodiments of the application are implemented as a computer program product having a computer usable medium (or media) having computer readable program code. The computer readable code can be read and utilized by a computer system in accordance with conventional processes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0025] The advantages of various embodiments of the present application will become more fully understood from the detailed description, discussion, accompanying drawings, and the like, discussed below.

[0026] FIG. 1A A toilet seat system according to an illustrative embodiment is schematically shown.

[0027] FIG. 1B A lid in a raised position and a seat in a lowered position according to an illustrative embodiment are schematically shown.

[0028] FIG. 1C A lid and seat in a raised position according to an illustrative embodiment are schematically shown.

[0029] FIG. 2 A cross-sectional view of a hinge according to an illustrative embodiment is schematically shown.

[0030] FIG. 3A Exposed internal components of a hinge housing according to an illustrative embodiment are schematically shown.

[0031] FIG. 3B schematically shown FIG. 3A Different 3D images.

[0032] FIG. 3C schematically shown FIGS. 3A-3B Top view.

[0033] FIGS. 4A-4C A cross-sectional side view of the delay system is schematically shown according to an illustrative embodiment as the lid changes from a substantially lowered position to a substantially raised position.

[0034] FIG. 5 A cross-sectional side view of an electronic sensor board and a main control board according to an illustrative embodiment is shown schematically.

[0035] FIGS. 6A-6D A cross-sectional side view of the delay system according to an illustrative embodiment is shown schematically as the lid changes from a substantially raised position to a substantially lowered position.

[0036] FIG. 7 An alternative embodiment of a delay system for a self-lifting toilet system is schematically shown as a cross-sectional side view according to an illustrative embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 8 A perspective view of the interior of a self-lifting embodiment according to an illustrative embodiment is shown schematically.

[0038] FIG. 9 Details of a toilet system according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention are shown schematically.

[0039] FIG. 10 The process of using a self-lowering toilet seat according to an illustrative embodiment is shown.

[0040] FIG. 11 The process of using a self-lifting toilet system according to an illustrative embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0041] In illustrative embodiments, the mechanical system lowers the toilet seat (e.g., residential) or both the toilet seat and lid from a substantially upright position to a substantially lowered position after an electromechanical time delay. Some embodiments also incorporate various dampers to prevent the seat and / or lid from descending too quickly and potentially impacting the toilet bowl during descent.

[0042] Additionally, illustrative embodiments provide a system for lifting a toilet seat (e.g., commercially available) from a substantially lowered position to a substantially upright position after an electromechanical time delay. Some embodiments also incorporate various dampers to prevent the seat and / or lid from lifting too quickly and potentially slamming against the toilet tank during lifting.

[0043] In various embodiments, the delay system is configured to prevent seat and / or lid movement from occurring until the user leaves the path of seat and / or lid movement. The delay system is activated by the user raising or lowering the seat between a raised position and a lowered position.

[0044] Some embodiments are considered self-lifting. In other words, the delay system is configured to introduce a time delay before the mechanical lifting system raises the seat ring to an upright position. Furthermore, the delay system is configured with a mechanical latch that holds the seat ring in a lowered position for the duration of the time delay. In various embodiments, the duration of the time delay is determined by an electronic timing system and a sensing system. After the time delay has elapsed, the mechanical latch is released via an electromechanical latch release device, which allows the seat ring to be raised to the upright position.

[0045] Some embodiments are considered self-lowering. In other words, the delay system is configured to cause a time delay before the mechanical lowering device 40 lowers the seat and / or lid to the lowered position. Furthermore, the delay system is configured with a mechanical latch that holds the seat and / or lid in the raised position for the duration of the time delay. The duration of the time delay is determined by an electronic timing system and a sensing system. After the time delay has elapsed, the mechanical latch is released by an electromechanical latch release device, which allows the seat and / or lid to lower to the lowered position.

[0046] In various embodiments, the electronic timing system may include a sensing system capable of detecting a user's approach to the toilet. The sensor system communicates with a computer program to modify the timing system.

[0047] Most commercially available electronically actuated toilet seats involve an electric component for raising and lowering the seat—a very power-intensive operation that quickly depletes the internal battery. A wired outlet connection is impractical because outlets are typically located away from the toilet seat for safety reasons. Connecting the seat to a power outlet also increases system complexity, cost, and installation time. Therefore, it is advantageous to employ a raise / lower mechanism where the user initially raises or lowers the seat until it is latched. After a delay, a low-power electromechanical latch release system releases the latch, thus eliminating the need for a high-power motor. Details of the illustrative embodiments will be discussed below.

[0048] FIGS. 1A-1CA toilet seat system 1 according to an illustrative embodiment is shown. The toilet seat system 1 includes a toilet seat 2 and an optional lid 3 for the toilet seat 2. The system 1 includes a hinge 50 configured to rotatably connect the toilet seat 2 (and / or lid 3) to the toilet bowl, allowing the seat 2 and lid 3 to move from a lowered position (e.g., as...) FIG. 1A (As shown) Rotate to the raised position (e.g., as shown) FIG. 1C (As shown).

[0049] Typically, toilet seats 2 have two main positions: the raised position and the lowered position. The lowered position is the default position for use. The seat 2 is lowered to the rim of the toilet bowl, making it ready for a person to sit on. In the raised position, the seat 2 is raised and held against the toilet tank or kept upright. Men usually use this position when urinating to avoid soiling the seat 2. It also facilitates cleaning the toilet, allowing better access to the rim and bowl.

[0050] Although the various embodiments involve a toilet bowl 3, it should be understood that some toilet systems do not have a traditional water-filled toilet bowl, such as those found in permanent toilets. For example, portable toilets have a receiving trough and a seat that is similar in shape to a conventional toilet bowl. In general, any lower support of the toilet bowl, receiving trough, or toilet seat can serve as a base in the various embodiments. Typically, a hinge 50 connects the toilet seat 2 and / or lid 3 to the base.

[0051] Similarly, the toilet seat 3, like the toilet seat 2, primarily has two positions: the open (also known as the raised) position and the closed (also known as the lowered) position. In the open position, the seat 3 is raised and typically stands upright, resting against the toilet tank or remaining upright. This allows access to and use of the toilet, as well as access to and cleaning of the basin and rim. In the closed position, the seat 3 is lowered to cover the toilet basin. This position is typically used to maintain hygiene by preventing the spread of bacteria during flushing, as the seat 3 helps to contain any aerosol droplets that may be released. The closed position also prevents children and pets from entering the toilet basin.

[0052] It should be understood that hinge 50 can be configured to allow seat 2 and cover 3 to rotate freely relative to each other, such that cover 3 can rotate to the open position while seat 2 remains in the lowered position (e.g., as shown in the image). FIG. 1B (As shown). Furthermore, various toilet seat systems 1 can be configured to have different raised and / or lowered positions. In other words, the raised position does not necessarily mean a 90-degree vertical angle, and the lowered position does not necessarily mean parallel to the ground. However, typically, the raised and lowered positions can be close to these positions. Those skilled in the art will understand how the raised and lowered positions can be varied.

[0053] Various embodiments include a hinge 50, which includes a housing 102 (which can be coupled to the toilet bowl) and an axis providing rotation of the seat 2 relative to the housing 102 and the lid 3. Furthermore, the hinge 50 allows relative rotation of the lid 3 relative to the housing 102 and the seat 2. The housing 102 serves as a shell or enclosure protecting the mechanical and / or electrical components of the toilet seat system 1 from external elements such as dust, water, other contaminants, and accidental contact. The housing 102 may also provide organization and alignment of the various components of the system 1. In various embodiments, the axis (also referred to as the hinge bar) of the hinge 50 about which the seat 2 and / or lid 3 pivots may be at least partially located within the housing 102. The housing 102 may be formed from two coupled components, such as a top housing 5 and a bottom housing 4.

[0054] The hinge housing 102 can be substantially sealed, preventing the ingress of liquids and dust during normal use and maintenance of the seat ring 2. Additionally, a rotary seal also allows for a seal between the hinge housing 3 and the rotating shaft. Although considered substantially sealed, various embodiments may allow minor air leakage between the internal compartments within the housing 102, allowing the air pressure within the hinge housing 102 to be equal to ambient conditions.

[0055] In various embodiments, the sealed housing 102 has an IP seal rating with a first digit (solids protection) of 5 or greater. In other words, the housing 102 is preferably sealed to protect it from dust, but allows limited dust ingress. The first digit in various embodiments can be 6, i.e., completely dustproof. When dust enters the housing 102, the reliability of the delay system 11 may be undesirably affected, leading to incorrect delay timing. Similarly, the sealed housing 102 may have an IP seal rating with a second digit (liquid protection) of 1 or greater. Fluid ingress into the housing 102 is undesirable because, similar to dust and other solids, it may affect the reliability of the delay system 11. Various embodiments position the housing 102 within the perimeter of the toilet bowl. Therefore, the housing 102 may encounter fluids (e.g., from the toilet, the user, and / or cleaning solutions). Therefore, various embodiments may have an IP seal rating of 5.1 or higher (e.g., IP seal ratings 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 6.1, etc.). Some embodiments may have a higher IP rating (e.g., IP 5.5 or higher) to suit commercial use environments that may use high-pressure cleaning systems (e.g., maintaining a seal to prevent liquid ingress when cleaning with a KaiVac® 2750 or other similar high-pressure cleaning equipment).

[0056] Some embodiments include a vent configured to allow air exchange between the housing 102 and the surrounding external environment (e.g., via vent bolts for connecting the housing 102 to the toilet bowl). This vent advantageously allows water vapor collected within the housing 102 to evaporate and / or balance pressure during transport or use. The vent is preferably covered with a waterproof mesh (e.g., self-adhesive GORE® protective vent VE-80205) and / or configured such that the vent is concealed in an area not subjected to direct cleaning or exposure to water.

[0057] In various embodiments, housing 102 may be formed from several components (e.g., joined together). In some embodiments, housing 102 may have movable components. Housing 102 provides a fixed seal around delay system 11. In some embodiments, housing 3 may be a “fixed-seal housing” 102. In other words, portions of housing 102 forming a seal around delay device 11 do not translate relative to each other. Fixed-seal housing 102 may include one or more shafts that aid in forming the seal. In various embodiments, one or more shafts forming part of the seal may rotate relative to housing 102 but not translate. Advantageously, fixed-seal housing 102 provides a robust seal that maintains the integrity of housing 102 and provides durable operation. Illustrative embodiments with dynamic housing 102 having components that translate relative to each other undesirably provide a faster opportunity for contaminants and other dirt to damage the operation of the device. System 1 with translationally fixed shafts advantageously allows housing 102 to be sealed while providing rotational engagement with seat ring 2 and cover 3.

[0058] FIG. 2 Figure 6 generally illustrates a self-lowering toilet system 1 according to an illustrative embodiment. FIGS. 7-8 A self-lifting toilet system 1 according to an illustrative embodiment is schematically shown. Generally, the discussion of the operating principles and components of the self-lowering toilet system 1 also applies to the self-lifting toilet system 1 with some component reconfigurations.

[0059] FIGS. 2-3C A self-closing toilet seat system 1 according to an illustrative embodiment is schematically shown. In particular, this view shows the components inside the housing 102.

[0060] Typically, the toilet seat system 1 includes a mechanical lowering device 40 configured to mechanically rotate the seat 2 and / or lid 3 from a first position to a second position (e.g., from a raised position to a lowered position, or vice versa). The delay in lowering the seat 2 and / or lid 3 is caused by a mechanical latching system 20 configured to physically hold the lid 3 and / or seat 2 in a given position (e.g., in the raised position) upon engagement. An electronic timing system 35 is configured to control a time delay before instructing the latch release system 45 to release the latch. It should be understood that the term "latch" is used to refer to a device that holds or restrains the seat and / or lid in a given position while also allowing the seat and / or lid to be released from the given position (e.g., caused by the latch release system 45). Examples of latches include, in particular, a connection from a shaft link 21 to a latch 23 (which may also be referred to as a retainer or impactor), a magnet, a suction cup with a hole having a closable opening, a cam lock, a hairpin trigger, a deadbolt, etc.

[0061] The electronic timing system 35 can adjust the time delay based on signals received from a sensing system 30 configured to detect the presence of a user. When the time delay expires, the electronic timing system 35 can disengage the latching system 20 using an electromechanical latch release system 45. The release system 45 is configured to disengage the latching system 20, thereby releasing the retention of the cover and / or seat ring from a given position.

[0062] In various embodiments, the electronic timing system 35, sensing system 30, mechanical latching system 20, and latch release system 45 can be said to form a delay system 11. Therefore, typically, various embodiments include a delay system 11 that delays the rotational movement of the seat ring 2 and / or cover 3 triggered by the mechanical lowering device 40. Specifically, FIG. 2 A delay system 11 is shown, which is configured to delay the downward movement of the seat ring 2 and the cover 3 achieved by the lowering device 40.

[0063] In various embodiments, the seat ring 2 rotates about the same shaft 12 as the cover 3. The seat ring 2 is mounted to the shaft 12 via a free shaft connection point 10A, allowing it to rotate independently of the shaft 12 while remaining concentric with it. The cover 3 is mounted to the shaft 12 via a fixed connection point 9A. Thus, when the cover 3 rotates, its rotation is transferred to the housing 102, allowing the delay system 11 to act thereon. On the other side of the housing 102, the seat ring 2 and the cover 3 are mounted around a seat ring damper 6. An adapter 8 is fitted onto the shaft 19 of the seat ring damper 6 such that the seat ring 2 is mounted to the damper 6 in a fixed attachment 9B, while the cover 3 is inserted therein in a freely rotatable manner 10B. The cover 3 is keyed to its own cover damper 7 via its fixed connection 9A to the shaft 12, and the shaft 12 is in turn fixedly attached to the damper 7 via a cover-shaft connector 13. Thus, both the cover 3 and the seat ring 2 are mounted coaxially and damped independently, but in various embodiments, the delay system 11 operates only on the cover 2. In the illustrative embodiment without a damper, the seat ring can be directly connected to the shaft extending out of the housing 102.

[0064] The lowering device 40 is configured to bias the cover 3 toward the lowered position. When the time delay expires and the latch disengages, the lowering device 40 lowers the cover 3. The lowering device 40 may include a torsion spring 41. Although shown as a torsion spring, the spring 41 may be configured as a linear compression or tension spring on a control lever arm, a leaf spring, or a helical or conical torsion spring.

[0065] FIG. 4A A delay system 11 according to an illustrative embodiment is schematically shown. Specifically, the delay system 11 includes a latch system 20 configured to engage when the cover 3 is oriented toward or raised to the open position. The delay system 11 also includes a latch release system 45 configured to disengage the latch system 20 after the time delay period has elapsed. FIG. 4B The delay system 11 is schematically shown when the lid is in the process of rising. FIG. 4C The delay system 11 is schematically shown when the lid is fully raised toward the raised position.

[0066] A typical user interaction with the self-closing seat system 1 begins with the user arriving at the self-closing seat system 1 and finding the seat 2 and lid 3 in the lowered position. FIG. 4A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the housing 102 in this position.

[0067] In various embodiments, the user lifts the cover 3 individually, or lifts both the seat ring 2 and the cover 3. In either case, the delay system 11 engages due to the actuation of the cover 3. As the cover 3 begins to lift, the shaft connecting rod 21, which is fixed to the shaft 12 via a spring pin mounted around the positioning hole 22, rotates together with the cover 3. As the cover 3 continues to lift, the shaft connecting rod 21 rotates downward within the housing 102, via... FIG. 4B Position it as shown, and continue rotating until it brushes past latch 23 and reaches... FIG. 4C The location shown.

[0068] Latch 23 is biased to by latch spring 24 FIG. 4C The position shown is constrained to rotate about pivot point 26. When the shaft link 21 contacts the latch 23, the latch 23 is pushed downward and the return spring 24 is compressed until the shaft link 21 rotates to the position shown. FIG. 4C The position is shown, and the connecting rod 21 engages with a notch in the latch 23. Once in this position, the connecting rod 21, and thus the cover 3, is secured in a vertical position. Various embodiments include a clutch feature. For example, the mating surfaces of the connecting rod 21 and the latch 23 can be configured such that the user can manually pull down the cover 3, and the mating surfaces of the connecting rod 21 and the latch 23 push against each other and slide against each other before the electromechanical latch release system 45 is triggered by the timing system 35 to disengage the latch 23. This built-in clutch capability ensures that if the cover 3 is lowered before the time delay expires, the system 1 will not break or cause injury to the user.

[0069] The rigid stop 16 positioned on the housing 102 is designed to prevent excessive rotation of the cover 3 and excessive stress on the latch 23. Additionally, when the cover 3 is lifted and the shaft link 21 is in the latched position (e.g., FIG. 4C When the shaft connecting rod 21 rotates, it contacts and presses down the electric limit switch 25 (as shown). FIG. 2 and FIG. 3B (Best viewed from the center). This positioning of switch 25 and the geometry of the shaft linkage 21 allow the limit switch 25 to remain in the pressed position until the cover 3 is fully or partially lowered. This switch functions as a power-saving interlock—only when the limit switch 25 is pressed does any current flow through the electronic timing system 35, the sensing system 30, or the electromechanical latch release system 45. When not pressed, all current flow ceases. In this way, power is advantageously saved when the cover 3 is not raised, thereby maximizing battery life.

[0070] In the position of lid 3 FIG. 3C After the raised position is indicated and the circuit of delay system 11 is closed (e.g., a wired combination of sensor, microcontroller, battery pack, and servo motor), the electronic timing system 35 and sensing system 30 are activated. FIGS. 3A-3C and FIG. 5As shown, sensor 33 (e.g., an optical time-of-flight sensor) is mounted on sensor plate 32, which is fixed inside the top housing 102. For example, the receiver / transmitter of sensor 33 can face outward through a hole in the top housing 5. Sensor 33 can be covered by a protective glass or plastic cover 34. The cover can form part of the substantially sealed housing 102. Sensor 33 is configured to send short sensing pulses at predetermined intervals or continuously to sense whether the user is standing or sitting in front of the self-closing seat system 1.

[0071] When a user is detected, this information is transmitted to the microcontroller 36 (e.g., via a wired bus not shown in the figure), and the microcontroller 36 then suspends the operation of the latch release motor 46. There are several ways to configure the position of the microcontroller 36 on the control board 37. FIG. 5 A configuration is shown in which the microcontroller 36 is mounted on the underside of the control board 36 to provide space on top of the control board 36 for wiring connections. Thus, the control board 36 stands upright from the bottom of the bottom housing 4 to provide space for mounting the microcontroller 36.

[0072] After sensor 34 detects that the user is no longer near seat 1, microcontroller 36 delays electromechanical latch release system 45 for a predetermined amount of time. This ensures that the user is no longer in the path of lid 3 and seat 2. A signal is then sent to release latch 23, which holds lid 3 in the upright position. The fidelity of the sensing mechanism (frequency of sensing pulses, number of sensing cycles required for a negative return for the user's presence before the lid can be closed, etc.) can be modified and balanced based on user testing and feedback to achieve optimal performance with minimal power consumption. For example, the sensor could be set to sense continuously, thus knowing precisely when the user leaves self-lowering toilet system 1, but this could significantly reduce battery life. Alternatively, sensor 33 can send sensing pulses in predetermined time frames, such as once every 30 seconds. Discontinuous pulses advantageously save power.

[0073] Alternatively, other sensors 33 can be used to determine the presence of a user. For example, an ultrasonic sensor 33 could be used, but it may be less sensitive than the time-of-flight sensor 33 and may provide more false readings. A capacitive sensor or a load sensor 33 in the seat ring 2 could also be used. The load sensor 33 can also be integrated with the shaft 12. Alternatively, some embodiments may include a fixed delay system that starts a preset timer triggered when the seat ring 2 is lifted.

[0074] The electromechanical latch release system 45 consists of a servo motor 46 and a cam 47. When the servo motor 46 rotates, the cam 47 interferes with and forces the latch 23 downward away from the shaft link 21. When the microcontroller 36 determines it is time to release the cover 3, it is initially in the position... FIG. 4C The servo motor 46 at the indicated position begins to rotate clockwise towards... FIG. 6A The wheel rotates to the position shown. As the servo motor 46 rotates, the portion of the wheel 47 with the larger radius begins to contact the latch 23.

[0075] As wheel 47 continues to rotate, latch 23 is pushed to... FIG. 6B The fully disengaged position is shown. At this point, there is no longer any interference between the shaft link 21 and the latch 23, and the shaft link 21 rotates freely under the force of the reducing device 40. The servo wheel 47 rotates slowly enough that the shaft link 21 has sufficient time to disengage from the latch 23 and move to its spring-biased position before the servo wheel 47 can rotate substantially far enough to allow the latch 23 to return to its spring-biased position. FIG. 6C The location shown.

[0076] As the servo wheel 47 continues to rotate, it moves to FIG. 6D The servo wheel 47 strikes the second limit switch 48 at the indicated position during this process. This switch is used to measure the position of the servo device 46 and, when pressed, signals the timing system 35 to stop the rotation of the servo device 46. Using the limit switch 48, the precise position of the servo device can be maintained. Advantageously, the servo wheel 47 strikes the limit switch 48 before the shaft linkage 21 rotates far enough to disengage the interlock switch 25 and shut off the power. If the system power is cut off before the correct positioning of the servo device 46 is determined, the servo device 46 may not rotate far enough, or it may rotate too far in subsequent cycles, causing the cover 3 to lower prematurely or not at all.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, a solenoid can be used instead of the servo 46 to disengage the latch 23. In this case, the positioning switch 48 can be omitted because the solenoid is a binary actuator, and its position is always the same before and after actuation. However, a solenoid is a disadvantageous high-power draw-out device, requiring higher voltage and power than the servo 36. The required current is proportional to the force. Therefore, in a low-power implementation of a solenoid in the hinge housing 102, the latching force is quite weak (e.g., just at the tip of release). In various embodiments, improper placement of the cover 3 in the vertical position, or any external vibration of the cover 3 (e.g., a user rubbing the cover), may cause the latch 23 to release and prematurely lower the cover 3 and / or the seat ring 2. To address this issue, a solenoid with significantly excessive power could be used; however, this would also reduce the battery life of the system 1.

[0078] In various embodiments, the lowering device 40 biases the cover 3 toward the lowered position such that when the shaft link 21 is released by the latch 23, the shaft link 21 immediately begins to rotate in the lowering direction of the cover. If the seat ring 2 is in the vertical position together with the cover 3, the lowering device 40 for lowering the cover 3 also moves the seat ring 2 toward the lowered position. FIGS. 3A-3C The lowering device 40 can be best seen from the center. A torsion spring 41 is mounted on a fixed point 43 on one side of the bottom housing 4 and on a point 42 on the other side of the rotating shaft linkage 21. Therefore, when the shaft linkage 21 rotates due to the lifting action of the cover 3, the spring 41 rotates to a loaded position, applying a load to the shaft linkage 21 that tends to lower the cover 3 when it is not restrained by the latch 23. The mounting of the spring 41 can be reconfigured so that the spring is compressed only when the cover 3 is near its fully vertical position. It should be noted that the spring 41 can act on the cover 3 only before the cover passes through the vertical (e.g., 90 degrees) position. Subsequently, gravity can bias the cover 3 to the lowered position. Although drawn as a torsion spring, the spring 41 can be configured as a linear compression or tension spring on the control lever arm, a leaf spring, or a helical or conical torsion spring.

[0079] Alternatively, in a commercial bathroom environment, the delay system 11 can be applied to the self-lifting toilet system 1. The user can lower the seat 2 until it is locked, thereby storing the return energy in, for example, a torsion spring. As described above, the electronic timing system 35, together with the electromechanical latch release system 45, releases the seat 2 so that when the user finishes and moves away from the toilet, the seat 2 returns to the lifted position.

[0080] In public bathrooms, the cover 3 can be omitted. In this case, the mounting of the seat ring 2 and sensor 33 to the hinge 50 is rotated 180 degrees from the orientation shown in Figures 1 to 6. Otherwise, system 1 generally remains as described above. This configuration in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 As shown in the diagram, when the seat ring 2 is moved to the lowered position by the user, the mechanical latch is engaged, and the shaft linkage 21 engages with the latch 23 until it is released by the servo motor 46. This reconfiguration is advantageous because it means that the top and bottom housings, as well as the delay system components, can be identical between different models (self-lowering and self-lifting), and it advantageously allows for the reuse of some of the same molds in production, thereby saving time and costs in production and ultimately reducing costs for consumers.

[0081] In some embodiments, the delay system 11 can be configured to lock and release both the seat ring 2 and the cover 3 independently. For this purpose, some embodiments may include two parallel latches acting on two separate shaft links, or a single latch acting sequentially on two separate shaft links. This advantageously provides better control over the position of both the seat ring 2 and the cover 3, but may undesirably increase power consumption and system complexity. A countershaft may have to be positioned between the seat ring damper 6 and the seat ring damper adapter 8 to transmit the torque of the seat ring to the hinge 50, thereby reducing battery space and generally complicating the system.

[0082] FIG. 9 Figures 1 to 12, according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, are shown schematically. FIG. 8 Details of the configured toilet seat system controller 36. Each of these components is operatively connected via any conventional interconnecting mechanism. FIG. 9 The bus for communication with each of the components is simply illustrated. Those skilled in the art will understand that this general description can be modified to include other conventional direct or indirect connections. Therefore, the discussion of the bus is not intended to limit the various embodiments.

[0083] In fact, it should be noted FIG. 9 Each of these components is shown only schematically. Those skilled in the art will understand that each of these components can be implemented in a variety of conventional ways, such as by using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, spanning one or more other functional components. For example, the timing system 35 (discussed in detail below) can be implemented using multiple microprocessors executing firmware. As another example, the user detector 244 can be implemented using one or more application-specific integrated circuits (i.e., “ASICs”) and associated software, or a combination of ASICs, discrete electronic components (e.g., integrated circuits), and microprocessors.

[0084] Therefore, in FIG. 9 The illustration of the user detector 244 and other components in a single frame is for simplification purposes only. In fact, in some embodiments, FIG. 9 The toilet seat system controller is distributed across multiple different components—not necessarily within the same housing or frame.

[0085] It should be reiterated that FIG. 9 The illustration is a significantly simplified representation of the toilet seat system controller 36. Those skilled in the art will understand that such a device has other physical and / or functional components (e.g., a central processing unit, other packet processing modules, and short-term memory). Therefore, this discussion is not intended to imply... FIG. 10 This represents all the components of controller 36.

[0086] The timing system 35 can be configured to control the operation of the delay system. In particular, the timing system 35 can control the operation of a servo motor that releases the latch and allows mechanical lifting or lowering of the device 40 on the cover 3 and / or the seat ring 2.

[0087] User detector 244 can be configured to communicate with one or more sensors 33 via sensor interface 212 to determine whether a user is near toilet seat system 1. In some embodiments, user detector 244 can be configured to detect whether a user is within a preset distance of toilet seat system (e.g., within 4 feet of a sensor). In some other embodiments, user detector 244 can be configured to determine whether a user is sitting on seat 2.

[0088] The electronic microcontroller 36 of the self-closing seat system can communicate with the flush valve via Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity to add further functionality. Specifically, this connectivity ensures that the toilet bowl is flushed only after the lid 3 is closed by aligning the closure of the seat 2 and lid 3 with the flush valve. This post-close flush function is useful in both commercial and residential environments to ensure that toilet flushing occurs when both the seat 2 and lid 3 are in the closed position, thereby reducing toilet plume and atomization of any particles within the toilet bowl, preventing them from spreading throughout the bathroom and beyond.

[0089] When the cover 3 is closed, a switch, lever, or cable (e.g., switch 48) can be actuated within the housing 102, which can communicate with the IOT flush valve via a direct wire or via Bluetooth or other wireless connectivity through the microcontroller 36. A Bowden cable can mechanically trigger the flush valve. Alternatively, the IOT flush valve can be equipped with a proximity or magnetic (RFID) sensor to detect when the seat moves from a raised position (covering / approaching the sensor) to a lowered position (uncovering / moving away from the sensor). However, this approach may disadvantageously require retrofitting the sensor to the flush valve, whereas receiving signals from the housing 102 can be easily achieved through a separate software update.

[0090] To flush, the user can simply leave the toilet when finished. The toilet delay system then sends a signal (mechanical or electronic, as described above) to the flusher indicating that the flush lid is closed, and the flusher controls the toilet to flush. The microcontroller 36 can determine that the lid is closed. Alternatively, the flush valve can detect that the user has left but delay flushing until it receives a signal from the seat mechanism that the lid is closed. In some examples, the network interface 206 can facilitate information communication between the controller 36 and one or more other devices or entities via a communication network. For example, the network interface 206 can be configured to communicate with a remote computing device (e.g., a remote server or other similar computing device). The network interface 206 may include communication circuitry for transmitting data according to the Bluetooth® wireless standard to exchange this data over short distances with intermediate devices (e.g., base stations, “hotspot” devices, smartphones, tablets, portable computing devices, and / or other devices near the wearable smart clothing 110). The intermediate devices can then transmit the data to the remote server via a broadband cellular network communication link. The communication link can implement broadband cellular technologies (e.g., 2.5G, 2.75G, 3G, 4G, 5G cellular standards) and / or Long Term Evolution (LTE) technologies or GSM / EDGE and UMTS / HSPA technologies for high-speed wireless communication. In some implementations, intermediate devices can communicate via Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 standard. TM The communication link communicates with the remote server.

[0091] In some implementations, user interface 208 may include one or more physical interface devices (e.g., input devices, output devices, and combined input / output devices) and a software stack configured to drive the operation of the devices. These user interface elements may present visual, auditory, and / or tactile content. Thus, user interface 208 may receive input or provide output, enabling a user to interact with controller 36.

[0092] The user interface 208 can output battery level, indicating the remaining battery capacity (e.g., visually or audibly indicating when the battery is low). Additionally or alternatively, alerts can be sent to maintenance personnel to notify them of low battery, leaks detected in housing 102, or other critical issues. In large commercial operations, advantageously, a smartphone-enabled application can provide battery level information and identify the toilet system 1 via identifiers or location. Therefore, maintenance personnel can easily identify and replace the battery when needed.

[0093] The controller 36 may also include at least one battery 31 configured to power one or more components integrated within the controller 36. The battery 31 may include a rechargeable multi-cell battery pack. In one exemplary implementation, the battery 31 may include three or more lithium-ion batteries that provide power to other device components within the controller 36. For example, the battery 31 may provide its current output in the range of 20 mA to 1000 mA (e.g., 40 mA) and may support 300 hours, 600 hours, 1000 hours, or more of operation between battery charging and replacement. In some implementations, the battery capacity, operating time, and type (e.g., lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, or nickel-metal hydride) may be varied to best suit the specific application of the controller 36.

[0094] In various embodiments, battery 31 can be disconnected via the previously described limit switch 25. This switch acts as a power-saving interlock. In this way, power is advantageously saved when the seat ring 2 and / or cover 3 are not lifted, thereby maximizing the lifespan of battery 31.

[0095] Sensor interface 212 can be coupled to and receive data from one or more sensors configured to monitor whether a user is near the toilet seat system 1 and / or whether they are using the toilet seat system 1. Sensor 33 can be coupled to controller 36 via a wired or wireless connection. Sensor 33 may include one or more optical time-of-flight sensors, capacitive sensors, and load sensors. Additionally, in some embodiments, sensor 33 may also indicate whether the lid 3 and / or seat 2 is in a raised position, a lowered position, or any position in between.

[0096] Data storage 204 may include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media (e.g., flash memory, solid-state memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, cache memory, combinations thereof, and others). Data storage 204 may be configured to store executable instructions and data for the operation of controller 36. For example, data storage 204 may include user login credentials for adjusting certain controller functions (e.g., the number of consecutive user detection cycles in step 306 below, prior to the start of the latch release process by timing system 35). In some implementations, the data storage device may include executable instructions that, when executed, are configured to cause processor 218 to perform one or more functions.

[0097] FIG. 10 The process of using a toilet seat system according to an illustrative embodiment is shown. It should be noted that this method essentially simplifies what would typically be a longer process. Therefore, FIG. 10The method illustrated may involve many other steps that those skilled in the art might use. Furthermore, some of these steps may be performed in a different order than illustrated, or simultaneously. Moreover, some of these steps may be optional in some embodiments. Therefore, process 1000 is merely an exemplary process according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Thus, those skilled in the art can appropriately modify this process.

[0098] FIG. 11 The process of using a toilet seat system according to an illustrative embodiment is shown. The process begins at step 302, where the user lifts the lid 3. If both the toilet seat 2 and the toilet lid 3 were in the lowered position before use, the user wishing to use the toilet seat 2 manually raises the lid 3. The user can then use the toilet (e.g., sit on the seat 2), or they can raise the seat 2 in addition to the lid 3. Alternatively, both the lid 3 and the seat 2 can be raised simultaneously.

[0099] In step 304, raising the lid 3 stores energy in the spring of the lowering device 40, engages the latching system 20, and triggers the activation of the timing system 35, which delays the self-lowering of the lid 3. The timing system 35 provides a timing delay before the lid 3 begins to descend. In various embodiments, the timing system 35 is engaged when the lid 3 is raised. The initial delay can be considered dynamic because the length of the delay is a function of the user detection at step 306. Therefore, when the detection interval is pre-programmed, the total delay time caused by the multiple cycles from steps 304 to 306 varies based on the conditions encountered during use.

[0100] The process then proceeds to step 306, which queries whether a user has been detected. The delay system includes a sensing and timing system that determines when a user is sitting on or near the seat ring. If a user is detected, the delay is extended until no user is detected.

[0101] In some embodiments, the system checks whether a user is detected at multiple intervals. In some embodiments, the process may proceed to step 312 only if no user is detected for a preset number of consecutive intervals. For example, user detector 244 may check at three different intervals (e.g., at 5 seconds, 10 seconds, and 15 seconds) to confirm that the user is not present during all sensing cycles. If the user is present during any sensing cycle, the process returns to step 304, which restarts the delay. The process then returns to step 306, where user detector 244 detects the user again. Thus, in some embodiments, the process requires a minimum number of consecutive negative intervals for user detection before proceeding to step 312. For continuous sensors, it may be required that no user is detected for a preset amount of time before the process proceeds to step 312. When no user is detected, the process proceeds to step 308, which begins a static time delay before the latching system 20 disengages. If the delay expires before the user sits on the seat, or if the sensor does not detect the user within the preset time period, the lid 3 is lowered by lowering device 40 to prevent the bedpan from remaining open when the time delay expires. In some embodiments, the preset time delay can be 0 seconds, and the toilet seat 2 can fall instantly after the last check that no user is detected. In various embodiments, the static time delay can be between 0.5 seconds and 4 seconds.

[0102] In step 310, the user can manually lower the cover 3 and / or the seat ring 2. If the user chooses to manually lower the cover 3 and / or the seat ring 2, the seat ring 2 lowers without damaging system 1. This can be achieved, for example, by providing mating surfaces of the shaft link 21 and the latch 23 such that when the user manually pulls down the cover 3, the mating surfaces of the shaft link 21 and the latch 23 push away from each other and slide against each other. Therefore, the latch system 20 is not damaged. Although shown to occur after step 306, it should be understood that the illustrative embodiment advantageously allows the user to manually lower the cover 3 and / or the seat ring 2 at any time during process 1000.

[0103] The process then proceeds to step 314, where the lid 3 and / or seat 2 are lowered. If the user does not manually interrupt the delay, the time delay expires naturally, and the lowering device 40 lowers the toilet seat 2. For this purpose, a sensor can detect the user's absence during a predetermined number of checks, after which the user detector 244 sends a signal to the timing system 35. The timing system 35 then determines when the desired timing delay expires and sends a signal to the electromechanical latch release system 45, which disengages the latch (e.g., by controlling a servo motor). Alternatively, the electromechanical latch release system 45 can rotate a solenoid that releases the latch and allows the lid 3 to be pressed down by the lowering device 40. The process then ends.

[0104] FIG. 11 The process 1100 of using the self-lifting system 1 according to an illustrative embodiment is shown. FIG. 10 The operation is similar to FIGS. 7-8 However, on the contrary, and having, for example ​ The configuration shown is as described. Therefore, a detailed discussion of similar steps will not be repeated here.

[0105] Toileting is a highly personal practice, and therefore, users can interact with the toilet seat and lid in unpredictable sequences based on their preferences and habits. Thus, the illustrative embodiments advantageously anticipate and respond to numerous use cases. In residential settings, the toilet seat typically includes the toilet lid.

[0106] Exemplary embodiments advantageously provide a self-closing or self-lifting system, wherein the initial lifting / lowering step is purely mechanical in order to minimize battery power consumption, replacement costs, and user-related maintenance requirements. Therefore, illustrative embodiments advantageously provide a robust, low-maintenance, low-power, and low-cost electromechanical sensing, timing, and latch release system that allows mechanically lifting and / or lowering devices to reposition the seat ring and / or cover to their resting position.

[0107] Various embodiments of the present invention can be implemented, at least in part, in any conventional computer programming language. For example, some embodiments can be implemented in a procedural programming language (e.g., "C") or an object-oriented programming language (e.g., "C++"). Other embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as pre-programmed hardware elements (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits, FPGAs, programmable analog circuits, and digital signal processors) or other related components.

[0108] In alternative embodiments, the apparatus and methods of this disclosure (e.g., see the various flowcharts above) may be implemented as a computer program product for use with a computer system. Such implementations may include a set of computer instructions fixed on a tangible, non-transitory medium, such as a computer-readable medium (e.g., a disk, CD-ROM, ROM, or fixed disk). This set of computer instructions may embody all or part of the functionality previously described herein with respect to the system.

[0109] Those skilled in the art will understand that such computer instructions can be written in a variety of programming languages ​​for use with many computer architectures or operating systems. Furthermore, such instructions can be stored in any storage device, such as semiconductor, magnetic, optical, or other storage devices, and can be transmitted using any communication technology (e.g., optical, infrared, microwave, or other transmission technologies).

[0110] Among other things, such computer program products can be distributed as portable media with printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink-wrapping software), pre-loaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or a fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board via a network (e.g., the Internet or the World Wide Web). In fact, some embodiments can be implemented in a Software as a Service (“SaaS”) model or a cloud computing model. Of course, some embodiments of the invention can be implemented as a combination of software (e.g., computer program products) and hardware. Other embodiments of the invention are implemented entirely in hardware or entirely in software.

[0111] In some implementations, processor 218 includes one or more processors (or one or more processor cores), each processor configured to execute a series of instructions that cause manipulation of data and / or operation of other components of control controller 36. In some implementations, when performing a specific process (e.g., determining whether a user is near a toilet seat system), processor 218 may be configured to make specific logic-based determinations based on received input data and is also configured to provide one or more outputs that may be used to control or otherwise notify subsequent processing to be performed by processor 218 and / or other processors or circuitry communicatively connected to processor 218. Thus, processor 218 responds in a specific manner to a specific input stimulus and generates a corresponding output based on that input stimulus. In some example cases, processor 218 may perform a sequence of logic transitions, wherein various internal register states and / or other bit cell states, either internal or external to processor 218, may be set to logic high or logic low.

[0112] As described herein, processor 218 can be configured to perform functions in which software is stored in a data store coupled to processor 218, the software being configured to cause processor 218 to make a sequence of various logical decisions that lead to the execution of the function. The various components described herein that can be executed by processor 218 can be implemented in various forms of dedicated hardware, software, or combinations thereof. For example, the processor can be a digital signal processor (DSP) (e.g., a 24-bit DSP processor). The processor can be a multi-core processor (e.g., having two or more processing cores). The processor can be an advanced RISC machine (ARM) processor (e.g., a 32-bit ARM processor). The processor can execute an embedded operating system and include services provided by the operating system for file system operations, display and audio generation, basic networking, firewalls, data encryption, and communication.

[0113] As used in this specification and claims, unless expressly specified otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include a plural of indicators. For example, a singular reference to “housing” includes a plurality of housings, and a singular reference to “delay system” includes one or more delay systems and equivalents known to those skilled in the art. Thus, in various embodiments, any reference to the singular includes the plural, and any reference to more than one component may include the singular.

[0114] While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of various other means and / or structures to perform the functions described herein and / or obtain one or more of the results and / or advantages, and each such variation and / or modification is considered to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily understand that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are exemplary, and the parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations of actual objects will depend on the specific application in which the teachings of this invention are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to determine, many equivalents of the specific inventive embodiments described herein simply through conventional experimentation.

[0115] Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are merely illustrative, and inventive embodiments may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described and claimed within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The illustrative embodiments of this disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. Furthermore, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods, provided that such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not inconsistent with each other, is included within the scope of the invention of this disclosure. The disclosed embodiments or portions thereof may be combined in ways not listed above and / or not expressly claimed. Therefore, one or more features from various disclosed examples and embodiments can be combined in various ways. For example, it should be understood that this disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

[0116] Various inventive concepts can be embodied in one or more methods, examples of which have been provided. Actions performed as part of a method can be ordered in any suitable manner. Therefore, embodiments in which actions are performed in an order different from that shown in the illustrations can be constructed, which may include performing several actions simultaneously, even those shown as sequential in the illustrative embodiments.

[0117] Although the foregoing discussion has disclosed various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can make various modifications to achieve some of the advantages of the present invention without departing from the true scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A self-lifting toilet system, comprising: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured for a user to sit on; A hinge that rotatably connects to the toilet seat, the hinge being configured to allow the toilet seat to switch between a lowered position and a raised position; A mechanical lifting device configured to cause the toilet seat to lift itself toward the lifted position; A mechanical latch, configured to hold the seat ring in the lowered position; An electronic timing system configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of which causes the mechanical lifting device to lift the toilet seat toward the lifted position.

2. A self-lowering toilet seat system, comprising: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured for a user to sit on; A hinge that rotatably connects to the toilet seat, the hinge being configured to allow the toilet seat to switch between a lowered position and a raised position; A mechanical lowering device, the mechanical lowering device being configured to cause the toilet seat to lower itself toward the lowered position; A mechanical latch, configured to hold the seat ring in the raised position; An electronic timing system configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of which causes the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position.

3. A self-lowering toilet seat system, comprising: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured for a user to sit on; Toilet seat; A hinge that rotatably connects the toilet seat and the toilet lid, the hinge being configured to allow the toilet lid and the toilet seat to switch between a lowered position and a raised position; A mechanical lowering device configured to cause the toilet lid to lower itself toward the lowered position; A mechanical latch, configured to hold the toilet lid in the raised position; An electronic timing system is configured to cause a lid time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of which causes the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet lid toward the lowered position.

4. According to any one of the preceding claims, the system includes a toilet bowl, and the toilet seat is rotatably connected to the toilet bowl.

5. According to any one of the preceding claims, the electromechanical latch release system includes a servo motor and / or a solenoid.

6. The toilet seat according to any one of claims 1 to 2.

7. According to any one of the preceding claims, the electronic timing system and / or the sensing system are substantially hermetically sealed.

8. According to any one of the preceding claims, it further includes a hinge housing, wherein the hinge housing is substantially sealed.

9. According to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical latch includes a clutch feature configured to allow the user to manually disengage the latch before the time delay expires.

10. According to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical latch includes an interlock switch configured to disconnect the delay system from the power supply when the interlock switch is disengaged, and more specifically, wherein the interlock switch disengages after the lifting device or the lowering device moves the seat or the cover to its biased position.

11. According to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the seat ring system is integrated with the IOT flush valve.

12. The claim 12, further comprising a sensing system configured to detect the absence or presence of a user, the sensing system including an electronic position sensor, an optical time-of-flight sensor, a load sensor and / or a capacitive sensor to detect when a user is near the toilet bowl, wherein the seat time delay is a function of detecting the absence of the user.

13. According to any one of the preceding claims, the electronic timing system includes a preset fixed delay time independent of the sensing system.

14. According to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The user raises the seat and the cover to the raised position, and lowering the cover biases the seat to the lowered position.

15. According to any one of the preceding claims, it further includes a hard stop configured to prevent excessive rotation of the cover or seat ring when moved to the raised position.

16. A computer program product for controlling a toilet seat system, the computer program product comprising a tangible, non-transitory computer-usable medium having computer-readable program code thereon, the computer-readable program code comprising: Program code used to control the electronic timing system to cause a seat ring time delay; Program code for controlling the electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch after the seat time delay period has elapsed, wherein releasing the mechanical latch allows the mechanical device to rotate the toilet seat or lid toward the raised or lowered position.

17. The computer program product of claim 16, further comprising: Program code used to sense whether a user is not near the toilet seat, wherein the seat time delay is a function of the sensing.

18. A method for self-lifting a toilet seat, the method comprising: A self-lifting toilet system is provided, the self-lifting toilet system comprising: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured for a user to sit on; A hinge rotatably connects the toilet seat, the hinge being configured to allow the toilet seat to switch between a lowered position and a raised position; A mechanical lifting device configured to cause the toilet seat to lift itself toward the lifted position; A mechanical latch, configured to hold the seat ring in the lowered position after the user has lowered it. An electronic timing system is configured to cause a seat time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch, the release of which allows the mechanical lifting device to lift the toilet seat toward the lifted position.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: The delay system is engaged by lowering the toilet seat to the lowered position.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: The delay system is disconnected after the time delay period expires; as well as After the time delay ends, the toilet seat is lifted using a passive lifting system.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the time delay begins after no user is detected.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the time delay is dynamic and is a function of the sensing of the user.

23. A method for self-lowering toilet seats: supply: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured for a user to sit on; A hinge rotatably connects the toilet seat, the hinge being configured to allow the toilet seat to switch between a lowered position and a raised position; A mechanical lowering device configured to cause the toilet seat to lower itself toward the lowered position; A mechanical latch, configured to hold the seat ring in the raised position; An electronic timing system configured to cause a seat ring time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: The delay system is engaged by raising the toilet seat to the raised position.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising: The delay system is disconnected after the time delay period expires; as well as After the time delay ends, the toilet seat is lowered using a passive lowering system.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the time delay begins after no user is detected.

27. According to any of the preceding claims, wherein the time delay is dynamic as a function of the sensing of the user.

28. The method of claim 25, further comprising, after releasing the mechanical latch, using the mechanical lowering device to lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position.

29. A method for self-lowering a toilet seat, the method comprising: supply: Toilet seat, the toilet seat being configured for a user to sit on; Toilet seat; A hinge that rotatably connects the toilet seat and the toilet lid, the hinge being configured to allow the toilet lid and the toilet seat to switch between a lowered position and a raised position; A mechanical lowering device configured to cause the toilet lid to lower itself toward the lowered position; A mechanical latch, configured to hold the lid in the raised position after the lid is rotated to the raised position by the user; An electronic system configured to cause a lid time delay before triggering an electromechanical latch release system to release the mechanical latch.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: The delay system is engaged by raising the toilet seat to the raised position.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising: The delay system is disconnected after the time delay period expires; as well as After the time delay ends, the toilet seat is lowered using a passive lowering system.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the time delay begins after no user is detected.

33. The method of claim 29, further comprising using the lowering device to lower the toilet seat toward the lowered position after releasing the mechanical latch.

34. According to any of the preceding claims, wherein the time delay is dynamic as a function of the sensing of the user.

35. The toilet bowl according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a toilet basin, wherein the hinge rotatably connects the toilet basin and the seat.

36. The toilet base according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising the toilet base, wherein the hinge rotatably connects the toilet base and the seat ring.

37. According to any one of the preceding claims, the delay system includes a latching system, a latch release system, a sensing system, and an electronic timing system, wherein the delay system is hermetically sealed.

38. According to any one of the preceding claims, the lifting device is passive.

39. According to any one of the preceding claims, the lowering device is passive.

40. According to any one of the preceding claims, the method further includes disengaging the mechanical latch.

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