Toilet leak detection

Abstract

The application relates to toilet leak detection, in particular to a system for flushing a toilet, the system comprising: a reservoir configured to store liquid for flushing the toilet; a fill valve assembly disposed in the reservoir and configured to selectively provide liquid to the reservoir; a flush valve assembly disposed in the reservoir and configured to selectively provide the liquid stored in the reservoir to the bowl of the toilet; a sensor disposed in the reservoir comprising a flow switch or microphone configured to collect sensor data indicative of a flow of liquid to or from the reservoir; and a processor configured to identify a leak occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 697,849 (Docket No. 010222-23068A), filed September 23, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of toilets. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to detection of leaks in toilets. BACKGROUND

[0004] Generally, toilet leaks are a problem in multi-unit buildings and single family homes because they are difficult to identify. In multi-unit homes, the unit can not be subdivided and, in turn, can not be able to use a water (e.g., water usage) monitor to help identify leaks. Further, in multi-unit homes, a toilet user can not be concerned about whether a leak is occurring because the user can not directly pay or even directly see the water bill. In single family homes, it can be difficult to identify toilet leak events when monitoring the home’s water supply. Accordingly, there is a need for a toilet leak detection system that alerts an owner or building water manager that a leak is occurring. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides a system for flushing a toilet, the system comprising:

[0006] a reservoir configured to store a liquid for flushing a toilet;

[0007] a fill valve assembly disposed in the reservoir, the fill valve assembly configured to selectively provide the liquid to the reservoir;

[0008] a flush valve assembly disposed in the reservoir, the flush valve assembly configured to selectively provide the liquid stored in the reservoir to a bowl of the toilet;

[0009] a sensor comprising a flow switch or a microphone disposed in the reservoir, the flow switch or the microphone configured to collect sensor data indicative of a flow of the liquid to or from the reservoir; and

[0010] a processor configured to identify a leak occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data.

[0011] The present application also provides a toilet, the toilet comprising:

[0012] a base comprising a bowl;

[0013] a reservoir configured to store liquid for flushing the toilet;

[0014] a fill valve assembly disposed in the reservoir, the fill valve assembly configured to selectively provide liquid to the reservoir;

[0015] a flush valve assembly disposed in the reservoir, the flush valve assembly configured to selectively provide liquid stored in the reservoir to a bowl of the toilet;

[0016] a sensor comprising a flow switch or microphone disposed in the reservoir, the flow switch or microphone configured to collect sensor data indicative of a flow of liquid to or from the reservoir; and

[0017] a processor configured to identify a leak occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data.

[0018] The present application also provides a fill valve assembly for a toilet, the fill valve assembly comprising:

[0019] a conduit configured to be coupled to an inlet opening of a reservoir, the reservoir configured to store liquid for flushing the toilet;

[0020] a fill valve disposed at an end of the conduit, the fill valve configured to selectively provide liquid to the reservoir;

[0021] a float movably coupled to the conduit and configured to control a position of the fill valve;

[0022] a sensor comprising a flow switch or microphone, the flow switch or microphone configured to collect sensor data indicative of a flow of liquid to or from the reservoir; and

[0023] a processor configured to identify a leak occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] The objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a toilet according to one example of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the toilet according to one example of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 3 A toilet tank is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4 A force sensor as a flow switch is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 5 A control system for a leak detection apparatus is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 6 A fill valve assembly is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 7 A flush valve assembly is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 8 A toilet seat assembly is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 9 An apparatus for detecting a leak in a toilet and notifying a user is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 10 A flowchart for detecting a leak is illustrated in accordance with one example of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Described herein are apparatuses, systems, and methods for detecting the presence of a leak in a toilet. In particular, in accordance with some examples of the present disclosure, provided herein are a fill valve, a flush valve, a flush assembly, and a toilet including a sensor configured to collect sensor data indicative of a flow of fluid (e.g., water) to or from a reservoir (e.g., a tank) configured to store a volume of fluid for flushing the toilet. The apparatuses, systems, and methods provided herein can be configured to identify a leak in the toilet based on the sensor data. In particular, a controller can be configured to distinguish between a flow of fluid to or from the reservoir during an operational (e.g., flushing) cycle of the toilet and a leak based on the sensor data. Accordingly, the controller can be configured to detect or identify when a leak occurs, and can be further configured to control an apparatus (e.g., an indicator light, a speaker, or the like) to alert a user that a leak is occurring in the toilet.

[0036] According to the present disclosure, the controller can be configured to identify a leak occurring in the toilet based on a duration of water flow to or from the reservoir, or based on a frequency of water flow to or from the reservoir. For example, the controller can be configured to identify or determine that a leak is occurring if the sensor data indicates that a water flow to or from the reservoir occurs for less than a predetermined threshold of time. According to another example, the controller can determine that a leak is occurring when a threshold number of flows to or from the reservoir are exceeded during a set period of time.

[0037] According to the present disclosure, the sensor, controller, and / or device configured to alert a user when a leak is detected or identified can be integrated into one or more components of the toilet. For example, the sensor, controller, and / or device configured to alert a user when a leak is detected can be integrated into a component disposed in the tank or reservoir of the toilet that is configured to control fluid flow into the reservoir and / or control fluid flow out of the reservoir, such as a fill valve, flush valve, or the like. According to other examples, the sensor, controller, and / or device configured to alert a user when a leak is detected can be integrated into other components of the toilet, such as a tank or bowl assembly of the toilet.

[0038] According to the present disclosure, various types of sensors can be used to detect sensor data indicative of water flow to or from a reservoir of a toilet. According to some examples, the sensor can be a microphone configured to sense acoustic noise of fluid flow to (e.g., provided to) or from a reservoir of a toilet tank. According to some examples, the microphone can be disposed within and / or proximate to a structure configured to enhance the noise of fluid flow, including an orifice, an obstruction, a bend, or the like. According to some examples, the sensor and / or controller in communication with the sensor can include a digital signal processing (DSP) filter to enhance certain frequency ranges and improve the detection capabilities of the microphone.

[0039] According to other examples, the sensor can be a flow switch configured to sense fluid flowing to (e.g., provided to) or from the reservoir of the toilet tank. For example, the flow switch can extend into a conduit, pipe, channel, passageway, or the like through which fluid is provided to or from the reservoir of the toilet tank. The flow switch can be configured to detect fluid flow to or from the reservoir through the conduit, pipe, channel, or passageway by which fluid is provided to or from the reservoir when the flow impacts a portion of the flow switch that extends into the conduit, pipe, channel, or passageway. According to some examples, the flow switch can be binary so as to determine only the presence or absence of water flow to or from the reservoir. According to other examples, the flow switch can gather sensor data indicative of the flow rate to or from the reservoir (e.g., using a reed switch, a Hall sensor, or the like). According to some examples, a device or system according to the present disclosure can advantageously include a binary flow switch to reduce the cost and / or complexity of the device or system for detecting a leak.

[0040] Figure 1 A toilet 100 that can include a system or device for detecting a leak according to the present disclosure is shown. Referring to Figure 1 , a toilet 100 is shown that includes a base 110 (e.g., a pedestal, a bowl) and a tank 120. The base 110 is configured to be attached to other objects (e.g., a drain pipe, a floor, or other suitable objects). The base 110 includes a bowl 111, a sump (e.g., a receptacle) disposed below the bowl 111, and a drain passage fluidly connecting the bowl 111 to a drain pipe or sewer line. The tank 120 can be supported by the base 110 (e.g., an upper surface of a rim 115). The tank 120 can be integrally shaped with the base 110 as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, the tank 120 can be separately shaped from the base 110 and coupled (e.g., attached, fixed, fastened, connected, etc.) to the base 110. The toilet 100 can further include a tank cover 122 covering an opening and an internal cavity in the tank 120. The toilet 100 can include a seat assembly 130 including a seat 131 and a seat cover 132 rotatably coupled to the base 110. The toilet 100 can further include a hinge assembly 135. Figure 1 The toilet 100 of

[0041] Referring to Figure 2 , a cross-sectional view of a toilet 200 is shown according to one example of the present disclosure. The toilet 200 can be similar to the toilet 100 described with respect to Figure 1The toilet 100 is described. As shown, the toilet 200 includes a base or pedestal 210 and a tank 240. The base 210 may include a basin 220 and a drain passage 230. The tank 240 may include a reservoir 250, a fill valve 260, and a flush valve 270.

[0042] The base or pedestal 210 includes an inlet 211, an edge channel 212, and one or more edge outlets 213. The inlet 211 is configured to receive water flow from a water tank 240. The edge channel 212 is in fluid communication with the inlet 211 and is configured to guide water flow from the inlet 211 to one or more edge outlets 213, which are configured to provide the water flow received at the inlet 211 to a basin 220 of the base 210. The size and position of the edge channel 212 can vary. The edge channel 212 may extend horizontally near the upper surface of the base 210.

[0043] According to this disclosure, water flow can be selectively supplied to inlet 211 (e.g., via flush valve 270) during the operating cycle of toilet 200. The water flow received at inlet 211 can flow through inlet 211, through edge channel 212, and through one or more edge outlets 213 to rinse and / or fill basin 220 with water.

[0044] The base 210 may include a wall 214 having any suitable shape configured to form a basin 220 having an opening formed by an edge at the top of the opening (e.g., at the top panel 215 of the base 210). The wall 214 of the base 210 may extend downward and / or rearward from the basin 220 to form a lower portion configured to support the base 210. The base 210 may further include a top member or top panel 215 extending between the two sides of the wall 214 (or between two opposing walls) and also located at the rear of the basin 220, configured to support the tank 240. An inlet 211 of the base 210 may be formed in the top panel 215. The basin 220 may include an inner surface 221 (e.g., basin inner surface 221) defined by the wall 214 of the base 210 and an outlet 222 (e.g., basin outlet 222) disposed at the sump of the toilet 200. As described above, the basin 220 may receive water flow via one or more edge outlets 213 in fluid communication with the edge passage 212 and the inlet 211. One or more edge outlets 213 may extend between the inner surface 221 of the basin 220 and the edge passage 212.

[0045] The basin 220 further includes a basin outlet 222 disposed near the bottom of the basin 220. A drain passage 230 connects the basin outlet 222 to a drain pipe or sewer pipe. The drain passage 230 may include a first portion 231 and a second portion 232. A weir 233 separates the first portion 231 and the second portion 232. The first portion 231 of the drain passage 230 may extend from the basin outlet 222 at an upward angle to the weir 233. The second portion 232 may extend downward from the weir 233 to an outlet device (e.g., a drain pipe or sewer pipe). During a toilet flushing cycle, water and waste can flow out of the basin 220 through the basin outlet 222 and out of the drain or sewer pipe through the drain passage 230.

[0046] A water tank 240 may be mounted on a top panel 215 of a base 210. The water tank 240 includes a cavity or reservoir 250 configured to hold or store a volume of fluid (e.g., water). The water tank 240 may include an inlet opening configured to receive fluid (e.g., water) from a connected water supply device, such as water from a hose (e.g., a line, pipe). The water tank 240 may also include an inlet valve or fill valve 260 configured to control the flow of water from the water supply through the inlet opening into the reservoir 250 of the water tank 240. The fill valve 260 may be located within the reservoir 250. The water tank 240 (e.g., reservoir 250) may include a float device for controlling the fill valve 260, for example, opening the fill valve 260 after an operating cycle to refill the reservoir 250 of the water tank 240, and closing the fill valve 260 when the water in the reservoir 250 reaches a predetermined height or volume. According to some examples, the float device may be coupled to the fill valve 260 and / or included in the flush valve assembly (e.g., including the fill valve 260 and the float device).

[0047] The tank 240 may further include a flush valve 270 disposed within a reservoir 250 of the tank 240. The flush valve 270 may be configured to control the flow of fluid (e.g., water) supplied to an inlet 211 of the base 210. The flush valve 270 may selectively control the flow of fluid supplied to the inlet 211 of the base 210, and consequently control the flow of fluid directed through the edge passage 212 and supplied to the basin 220 through one or more edge outlets 213. During an operating cycle of the toilet 200, the flush valve 270 may be configured to supply a predetermined amount (e.g., volume) of water to the inlet 211, such that only the predetermined volume of water is supplied to the basin 220 of the toilet 200. According to some examples, as described in more detail below, the flush valve 270 may be a canister flush valve, and one or more orifices or openings in the bottom of the canister valve may be used to control the timing of the flushing cycle (and consequently control the predetermined volume of water supplied to the base). According to some examples, the flush valve 270 may be a baffle valve, a float valve, or the like, and a float device coupled to the flush valve 270 may be used to control a predetermined volume of water supplied to the base.

[0048] refer to Figure 3 An example illustration of this disclosure depicts a water tank 300 for a toilet (e.g., toilet 100, 200). The water tank 300 may be as described above regarding... Figure 1 The water tank 120 described and / or the above regarding Figure 2 The water tank 240 is described. The water tank 300 may include an inner cavity or reservoir 301 configured to hold or store a volume of liquid. The water tank 300 may include an inlet opening 302 configured to receive water flow from a connected water supply device, such as water from a hose (e.g., a line, pipe). The inlet opening 302 may extend through a wall of the water tank 300. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the inlet opening 302 can extend through the bottom wall of the water tank 300. The water tank 300 may also include an inlet valve assembly or a filler valve assembly 310, which is configured to control the flow of water from the supply through the inlet opening 302 into the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300. The inlet valve assembly or filler valve assembly 310 can be related to the above description... Figure 2 The described filling valve 260 is the same as or substantially similar. The filling valve assembly 310 can be coupled to the inlet opening 302. In some examples, such as... Figure 3As shown, the filling valve assembly 310 may include a gasket or seal 311 (e.g., a filling valve gasket or seal 311) disposed between the filling valve assembly 310 and the water tank 300 to prevent leakage. For example, the gasket or seal 311 may be disposed between the water tank 300 and the filling valve assembly 310 to prevent leakage between the water tank 300 and the filling valve assembly 310 at the inlet opening 302.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the filling valve assembly 310 may include a filling valve conduit 312 coupled to the inlet opening 302, the filling valve conduit 312 being configured to direct fluid flow into the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300. According to some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the filling valve conduit 312 can extend vertically from the bottom wall of the water tank 300. The filling valve assembly 310 may further include a valve 313 (e.g., a filling valve 313) disposed at the end (e.g., the top) of the filling valve conduit 312. The filling valve 313 can be configured to selectively move between an open position and a closed position, in which fluid (e.g., water) is supplied or delivered from the filling valve conduit 312 into the interior of the reservoir 301, and in the closed position, the filling valve 313 blocks the passage to prevent fluid from flowing into the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300.

[0050] The filling valve assembly 310 may further include a float device for controlling the inlet valve assembly 310, for example by opening the filling valve 313 after an operating cycle to refill the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300, and closing the filling valve 313 when the water in the reservoir 301 reaches a preset volume or height. The filling valve assembly 310 may include one or more connecting means 315 extending between the float device 314 and the filling valve 313. The one or more connecting means 315 may be, for example, a rod or shaft configured to move the filling valve 313 as the float device 314 moves. The one or more connecting means 315 may include an adjusting device (e.g., a threaded connection between two or more connecting means 315) configured to adjust the position of the filling valve 313 relative to the float device 314.

[0051] The float device 314 can be configured to float on the liquid contained in the reservoir 301. The float device 314 (and the connecting device 315) can be configured to change the position of the filling valve 313 according to the volume or height of the fluid contained in the reservoir 301. Specifically, when the liquid is contained in the reservoir 301 at a predetermined volume or height, the float device 314 floating on the liquid can be positioned at a relatively low position within the reservoir 301 (compared to when the liquid is contained in the reservoir 301 at a predetermined volume or height), and one or more connecting devices 315 can control the filling valve 313 to be in the open position, so that liquid is supplied to the reservoir 301. As the volume or height of the liquid in the reservoir 301 increases, the height of the float device 314 floating on the liquid also increases. When a predetermined volume or height of liquid is placed in the reservoir 301, a float device 314 floating on the liquid can be positioned at a height corresponding to the closed position of the fill valve 313, at which height one or more connecting devices 315 hold the fill valve 313 in the closed position, thereby preventing additional liquid from flowing into the reservoir 301.

[0052] Based on some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the flush valve assembly 320 may further include a refill tube 317 extending between the filling valve 313 disposed in the reservoir 301 and the flush valve assembly 320. The refill tube 317 may be configured to direct the liquid flow from the filling valve 313 directly to the flush valve assembly 320.

[0053] The water tank 300 may also include an outlet opening 303 configured to transfer (e.g., guide) fluid stored in the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300 to the base or seat (e.g., seat 110) when the actuator or flushing mechanism is activated. The actuator of the flushing mechanism may be a button configured to be activated when pressed (or pulled) a predetermined distance or touched; it may be a lever configured to be activated when rotated a predetermined angular distance; or it may be any suitable device configured to be activated based on user input. The outlet opening 303 may transfer fluid stored in the reservoir 301 to the inlet 211 of the seat or seat 210 of the toilet 200 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 The outlet opening 303 can extend through the wall of the water tank 300. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the outlet opening 303 can extend through the bottom wall of the water tank 300.

[0054] The water tank 300 may further include an outlet valve assembly or flush valve assembly 320, which is configured to control the flow of fluid from the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300 into the base 210 through the outlet opening 303. The flush valve assembly 320 may be related to the above description... Figure 2 The flushing valve 270 described is the same as or substantially similar to the one described. In some examples, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the flush valve assembly 320 may include a gasket or seal 321 (e.g., a flush valve gasket or seal 321) disposed between the flush valve assembly 320 and the water tank 300 to prevent leakage. For example, the gasket or seal 321 may be disposed between the water tank 300 and the flush valve assembly 320 to prevent leakage between the water tank 300 and the flush valve assembly 320 at the outlet opening 303.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, the flush valve may include a valve body 322 disposed within and / or extending through an outlet opening 303. The valve body 322 may be disposed, for example, in the bottom wall of a tank 300. The valve body 322 includes one or more internal flow channels 323 configured to guide fluid from a reservoir 301 to a base or pedestal (e.g., pedestal 210) of a toilet (e.g., toilet 100, 200). The flush valve assembly 320 further includes a float 324 operably (e.g., movably, slidably) coupled to the valve body 322 via a guide post 325. The float 324 may be configured to selectively engage (e.g., abut) the valve body 322 to prevent fluid disposed in the reservoir from flowing between the valve body 322 and the float 324, out of the reservoir 301, and into the toilet base or pedestal.

[0056] The valve body 324 may further include an internal structure from which a guide post 325 extends. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the guide post 325 may include a hollow internal channel with an inlet 326 configured to receive fluid flow from the refill tube 317 of the fill valve assembly 310. The hollow internal channel in the guide post 325 can be configured to direct liquid supplied to the inlet 326 into an internal flow channel 323 of the valve body 322 and out of the reservoir 301 into the base or pedestal, regardless of the position of the float 324 relative to the valve body 322 (e.g., even when the float 324 is engaged with the valve body 322). After flushing, liquid from the refill tube 317 can be used to fill the basin by passing from the refill tube 317 through the hollow internal channel of the guide post 325 to the toilet base or pedestal.

[0057] like Figure 3As shown, float 324 includes an outer wall 327, a bottom wall 328, and an inner wall 329. The outer wall 327 of float 324 has a longitudinally cylindrical (e.g., truncated conical) shape, open to ambient air within the reservoir 301 of water tank 300. The inner wall 329 mates around guide post 325 to mount float 324 to valve body 322. The bottom wall 328 extends radially between the outer wall 327 and the inner wall 329. According to some examples, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the bottom wall 328 may include an angled portion (e.g., set at an angle relative to a horizontal axis) and a horizontal portion. According to other examples, the bottom wall 328 may be horizontal overall.

[0058] The actuator or flushing mechanism can control the flushing of the toilet by moving the float 324 from the closed position (e.g., in which the float is adjacent to the valve body 322) to the open position, such as... Figure 3 As shown. For example, rotating the lever a predetermined angular distance can pull the chain 330, thereby raising the float 324 from the closed position to the open position. The bottom wall 328 may include one or more holes or openings 331 extending through the bottom wall 328. The one or more openings 331 may be configured to control the rate at which water flows into the float 324, and thus control the timing of the flushing cycle as the float 324 moves down from the open position to the closed position (e.g., after being raised to the open position by an actuator).

[0059] When the volume or height of the liquid exceeds the overflow volume or height of the reservoir 301, the excess liquid can flow through the outer wall 327 of the float 324 to the interior of the float 324, and through one or more openings 331 provided in the bottom wall 328 of the float 324 to the base or seat of the toilet.

[0060] General Reference Figures 1-3 Leaks can occur at various locations within the toilet bowl. As described above, the devices, systems, and methods provided herein may include sensors configured to collect sensor data indicating the flow of liquid to or from the toilet bowl's reservoir. For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, a sensor 350 disposed within the reservoir 301 and coupled to the wall of the tank 300 can be configured to collect sensor data indicating the flow of liquid toward or out of the reservoir 301. According to some examples, as described in more detail below, the sensor 350 can be, for example, a microphone or a force sensor acting as a flow switch, the microphone being configured to collect sensor data indicating acoustic noise, and the force sensor being configured to collect sensor data indicating fluid flow (e.g., its presence or absence).

[0061] In some examples, leakage may occur between the fill valve assembly 310 and the toilet tank 300. For example, leakage may occur between the fill valve assembly 310 (e.g., fill valve conduit 312) at the inlet opening 302 and the tank 300. For example, over time, the gasket or seal 311 disposed between the fill valve assembly 310 and the tank 300 may become displaced or brittle and permeable, allowing liquid (e.g., water) in the reservoir 301 to flow between the fill valve assembly 310 and the tank 300 and out of the reservoir 301. The flow rate of the liquid flowing between the fill valve assembly 310 and the tank 300 may be relatively low and / or the fluid flow out of the reservoir 301 may be concealed (e.g., through the tank 300 and / or the base 210), making it difficult or impossible for a user to identify the leak (e.g., visually).

[0062] According to some examples, sensor 350 may be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating the flow of fluid out of reservoir 301. Additionally, as liquid flows between fill valve assembly 310 and tank 300, the volume or height of liquid in reservoir 301 decreases. Over time, the volume or height of liquid in reservoir 301 may decrease such that the float device 314 controlling fill valve assembly 310 is lowered to a position where fill valve 313 opens and reservoir 301 is refilled. In some examples, sensor 350 may be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating the flow of fluid into reservoir 301, refilling reservoir 301 when not in the process of toilet flushing or operating.

[0063] According to some examples, when fluid leaks between the fill valve assembly 310 and the tank 300, the following cycle is repeated several times: in this cycle, fluid is slowly discharged from the reservoir 301, the fill valve 313 opens, and a (relatively) small volume of liquid is supplied to the reservoir 301. Sensor data collected by sensor 350 can indicate this cycle, and this repetition cycle can be used to identify leaks in the toilet.

[0064] According to some examples, leakage may occur at the fill valve 313. For example, the fill valve 313 may include a seal or gasket disposed between a conduit (e.g., fill valve conduit 312) and a portion thereof, the conduit being disposed along or around a passage through which liquid can be supplied to the reservoir 301, and this portion of the fill valve 313 being configured to selectively block the passage, thereby preventing liquid from flowing into the reservoir 301. According to some examples, leakage may occur when a portion of the fill valve 313 configured to block the passage into the reservoir 301 is misaligned, resulting in the path not being completely blocked, and additional liquid may flow into the reservoir 301 when the fill valve 313 is in the closed position. According to other examples, over time, a gasket or seal positioned between a conduit through which liquid can flow to a reservoir and a portion of a fill valve 313 configured to selectively block the conduit may become displaced or brittle and permeable, such that when the fill valve 313 is in the closed position, liquid (e.g., water) can flow through the fill valve 313 into the reservoir 301.

[0065] Liquid supplied to reservoir 301 exceeding a predetermined height or volume (e.g., fill level) can flow over the outer wall 327 of the float 324 of flush valve assembly 320 and exit reservoir 301 into the toilet seat or base. Therefore, it may be difficult for a user to detect a leak occurring at the toilet fill valve assembly 310. According to this disclosure, sensor 350 can be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating fluid flowing into reservoir 301 when not in a flushing or operating cycle of the toilet, when the fill valve 313 is in the closed position.

[0066] In some examples, leakage may occur between the flush valve assembly 320 and the toilet tank 300. For example, leakage may occur between the flush valve assembly 320 (e.g., valve body 322) at the outlet opening 303 and the tank 300. For example, over time, the gasket or seal 321 disposed between the flush valve assembly 320 and the tank 300 may become displaced or brittle and permeable, causing liquid (e.g., water) in the reservoir 301 to flow between the flush valve assembly 330 (e.g., valve body 322) and the tank 300, and to flow out of the reservoir 301. The flow rate of the liquid flowing between the flush valve assembly 320 and the tank 300 may be relatively low and / or the flow of fluid out of the reservoir 301 may be concealed (e.g., through the tank 300 and / or the base 210), making it difficult or impossible for a user to identify the leak (e.g., visually). For example, liquid leaking between the flush valve assembly 320 and the tank 300 can flow across the base to the basin of the toilet.

[0067] Sensor 350 may be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating the flow of fluid out of reservoir 301. Additionally, as liquid flows between flush valve assembly 320 and tank 300, the volume or height of liquid in reservoir 301 decreases. Over time, the volume or height of liquid in reservoir 301 may decrease, causing the float device 314 controlling fill valve assembly 310 to descend to a position where fill valve 313 opens and reservoir 301 is refilled. In some examples, sensor 350 may be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating the flow of fluid into reservoir 301, refilling reservoir 301 when not in the process of toilet flushing or operating.

[0068] According to some examples, when fluid leaks between the flush valve assembly 320 and the tank 300, the following cycle is repeated several times: in this cycle, fluid is slowly discharged from the reservoir 301, the fill valve 313 opens, and (e.g., a relatively) small volume of liquid is supplied to the reservoir 301. Sensor data collected by sensor 350 can indicate this cycle, and this repeated cycle can be used to identify leaks in the toilet.

[0069] According to some examples, leakage may occur at the flush valve assembly 320 between the valve body 322 and the float 324. For example, over time, when the float 324 is in the closed position, the seals or gaskets coupled to the valve body 322 and / or the float 324 and located at the interface between the valve body 322 and the float 324 may become displaced or brittle and permeable, causing liquid (e.g., water) in the reservoir 301 to flow between the valve body 322 and the float 324 and out of the reservoir 301. The flow rate of the liquid flowing between the valve body 322 and the float 324 may be relatively low, and the fluid flow out of the reservoir 301 may be hidden within the tank 300 and / or the base 210, making it difficult or impossible for a user to identify the leak (e.g., visually).

[0070] According to some examples, sensor 350 may be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating the flow of fluid out of reservoir 301 between valve body 322 and float 324. Additionally, as liquid flows between valve body 322 and float 324, the volume or height of liquid in reservoir 301 decreases. Over time, the volume or height of liquid in reservoir 301 may decrease, causing float device 314 controlling fill valve assembly 310 to descend to a position where fill valve 313 opens and reservoir 301 is refilled. In some examples, sensor 350 may be configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating that fluid flowing into reservoir 301 refills reservoir 301 when not in the process of toilet flushing or operating cycles.

[0071] According to some examples, when fluid leaks between valve body 322 and float 324, the following cycle is repeated several times: in this cycle, fluid is slowly discharged from reservoir 301, fill valve 313 opens, and (e.g., a relatively) small volume of liquid is supplied to reservoir 301. Sensor data collected by sensor 350 can indicate this cycle, and this repeated cycle can be used to identify leaks in the toilet.

[0072] Still referencing Figure 3 As described above, the sensor 350 disposed within the water tank 300 can be a microphone or a force sensor acting as a flow switch. As described above, the sensor 350 can be a microphone configured to sense acoustic noise of fluid flowing toward (e.g., when fluid is supplied to) or from the reservoir of the toilet tank. According to some examples, the sensor 350 and the microphone can be disposed within and / or near a structure (including orifices, obstructions, bends, or the like) configured to amplify noise from fluid flow. According to some examples, the sensor and / or the controller communicating with the sensor can include digital signal processing (DSP) filters to enhance certain frequency ranges and improve the microphone's detection capability.

[0073] According to other examples, the sensor may be a force sensor acting as a flow switch, configured to sense the flow or movement of liquid (e.g., water) occurring when liquid is supplied to or from reservoir 301. Reference Figure 4 The illustration shows a force sensor as a flow switch 400, according to an example of this disclosure. Figure 4As shown, the flow switch 400 includes a shaft or paddle-shaped portion 410 configured to rotate about a pin 420. According to some examples, a first end 411 of the shaft 410 may extend into a conduit 401 configured to guide fluid flow. According to other examples, the first end 411 of the shaft 410 may extend into a volume or body of water (e.g., a volume of liquid disposed in a reservoir 301 of a toilet tank 300). The flow of liquid through the conduit 401 or the movement of liquid in the liquid pool or volume can cause the shaft 410 to rotate or pivot about the pin 420.

[0074] A first magnet 430 may be coupled to a second end 412 of the shaft 410. The magnet 430 may be configured to close a reed switch 440 located adjacent to the first magnet 430 when the flow or movement of a liquid causes the shaft 410 to pivot about the pin 420. According to some examples, the flow switch 400 may further include a second magnet 450 configured to return the shaft to its original (e.g., vertical) position when the shaft 410 is not moved by the flow or movement of the liquid. According to some examples, the reed switch 440 may be configured to be in the closed position for a period of time during which the shaft 410 is moved by the flow of fluid through the conduit 401 or by movement within a volume of water, and when the shaft 410 is no longer moved, the reed switch 440 may return to the open position. According to some examples, the open / closed positions and their durations may be sensor data sensed by a force sensor acting as the flow switch 400. According to some examples, flow switch 400 may (e.g., using a reed switch, Hall sensor, or the like) collect sensor data indicating the rate of flow to or from a reservoir. According to some examples, two or more flow switches 400 may be included to determine the relative flow rate or movement of liquid (e.g., within conduit 401 or reservoir 301). According to other examples, sensor 350 may be a different type of flow switch; for example, sensor 350 may be a piston or shuttle flow switch, or a thermally dispersed flow switch.

[0075] Return to Figure 3In other examples, sensor 350 can be another type of sensor. For example, sensor 350 can be an accelerometer configured to detect when a liquid moves due to vibrations caused by the moving liquid. An orifice, bend, or other obstruction can be used to amplify the vibrations, thereby enhancing the quality of the sensor data collected by the accelerometer. In another example, sensor 350 can be a pressure sensor configured to output a variable voltage based on the weight or pressure of the liquid acting on the pressure sensor. In yet another example, sensor 350 can be a conductivity sensor configured to indicate the presence of liquid at a location (e.g., a location where liquid should not be present if there is no leak). According to yet another example, sensor 350 can be an ultrasonic level sensor configured to collect sensor data indicating changes in the liquid level within reservoir 301 (e.g., the magnitude of said changes). According to yet another example, sensor 350 may be a probe camera configured to indicate whether the volume or height of the liquid in reservoir 301 is changing relative to a stationary background or whether the liquid is moving (e.g., within reservoir 301) by visualizing ripples on a surface as the liquid moves. According to yet another example, sensor 350 may be an RGB light sensor used in conjunction with a light-dependent resistor (LDR), for example, sampling the liquid at a predetermined height or fill level within reservoir 301 to determine whether the volume or height of the liquid in reservoir 301 is changing.

[0076] refer to Figure 5 An example illustration of this disclosure depicts a control system 500 for a leak detection device according to this disclosure. The control system 500 can be configured to collect sensor data, identify or determine that a leak is occurring in the toilet, and notify the user of the leak. Figure 5 As shown, the control system 500 may include a sensor 350 configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, flow data) indicating fluid flow to or from a reservoir 301 in the toilet. As described above, the sensor 350 may be a microphone, a force sensor acting as a flow switch, or other types of sensors.

[0077] like Figure 5As shown, the control system 500 may further include a processor 510, a memory 520, and a notification device 530. According to this disclosure, the memory 520 may store one or more sets of rules or algorithms for identifying the presence of a leak and / or controlling the notification device 530, and the processor 510 may implement or execute one or more sets of rules or algorithms. The sensor 350 may communicate with the processor 510 and / or the memory 520. Specifically, the processor 510 and / or the memory may receive sensor data from the sensor 350. According to some examples, the memory 520 may be configured to store sensor data collected by the sensor within a predetermined window or time period. For example, the memory 520 may store sensor data collected by the sensor 350 within a time period of 12 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, or similar after the sensor data was collected. The processor 510 or a controller including the processor 510 and the memory 520 may be configured to identify or determine that a leak is occurring based on the sensor data collected by the sensor 350.

[0078] According to some examples, processor 510 or a controller including processor 510 and memory 520 may be configured to identify when fluid (e.g., liquid, water) is supplied to or from reservoir 301 based on or using sensor data. Further, processor 510 or controller may be configured to determine the duration of fluid supply to or from reservoir 301 based on sensor data. In some examples, processor 510 or controller may be configured to identify or determine that a leak is occurring based on the duration or several durations of fluid supply to or from reservoir 301.

[0079] For example, if the duration of fluid flow to or from reservoir 301 is less than a threshold of a time period (e.g., the time period required to empty and / or refill reservoir 301 during a toilet flushing or operating cycle), processor 510 may identify the fluid flow to or from reservoir 301 as irregular toilet operation. Specifically, the duration of fluid flow to or from reservoir 301 may be less than a predetermined time period when, for example, water volume is partially drained from reservoir 301 but not completely drained due to a leak, and the refill valve assembly 310 is opened for a relatively short time to only partially refill reservoir 301.

[0080] Processor 510 or controller can be configured to identify or determine the presence of a leak based on the amount of irregular toilet operation. In some examples, processor 510 or controller can identify or determine a leak is occurring based on the identification of a single irregular toilet operation. According to other examples, processor 510 can identify or determine a leak is occurring when the amount of irregular toilet operation identified within a predetermined time period exceeds a threshold number of occurrences. For example, processor 510 can determine a leak is occurring when more than, for example, two, three, or five irregular toilet operations are identified within a window or time period of, for example, ten minutes, thirty minutes, one hour, two hours, or six hours. As described above, when a leak occurs in the toilet, the following cycle can be repeated: in this cycle, fluid is slowly discharged from reservoir 301 until float device 314 reaches the position where fill valve 313 is open, thereby partially filling reservoir 301.

[0081] According to another example, as indicated by sensor data, processor 510 or a controller including processor 510 and memory 520 can be configured to identify or determine that a leak is occurring based on the frequency of fluid flow to or from reservoir 301. For example, processor 510 or the controller can be configured to identify or determine that a leak is occurring solely based on the frequency of fluid flow to or from reservoir 301, as indicated by sensor data, without needing to determine the duration of the flow to or from the reservoir. For example, processor 510 can identify or determine that a leak is occurring when the amount of fluid flow to or from reservoir 301 (e.g., different, separate) indicated by sensor data exceeds a threshold number during a predetermined time period. For example, processor 510 can determine that a leak is occurring when more than, for example, one, two, three, or five fluid flows to or from reservoir 301 (e.g., different, separate) are identified during a predetermined time period (e.g., ten minutes, thirty minutes, one hour, two hours, or six hours).

[0082] According to this disclosure, sensor 250 or processor 510 may apply one or more digital signal processing (DSP) filters to enhance certain frequency ranges and improve the detection capability of the sensor (e.g., a microphone). For example, one or more DSP filters may be used to correlate signals or sensor data from sensor 350; for example, a correlation function may identify sensor data as corresponding to normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet, or to irregular operation that may indicate a leak in the toilet. According to some examples, peak detection, power spectral density functions, wavelet transforms, and the like may be used to correlate sensor data collected at different times to correspond to each other, and for example, to normal operating cycles or irregular operation of the toilet (e.g., operation not initiated by the user).

[0083] For example, various DSP filters can be applied to identify sensor data of interest (e.g., sensor data collected when a leak occurs or when the tank is subsequently refilled after a leak). Additionally, statistical analysis can be performed in combination with DSP filtering or alone to identify or determine sensor data with similar properties occurring at regular or irregular intervals, either of which could indicate a leak in the toilet. Furthermore, in some examples, machine learning or artificial intelligence can be used to analyze sensor data (with or without DSP filtering) to identify individual instances of sensor data or patterns in the sensor data that indicate or correspond to a leak in the toilet.

[0084] According to some examples, when sensor 350 is a microphone, the audio signal or sensor data collected by sensor 350 can be scrambled or filtered (e.g., by sensor 350 or by processor 510) to make the speech or other audio collected by the microphone unrecognizable, while preserving other properties of the sensor data that may indicate leakage or integrity. For example, duration, peak intensity, power spectral density, or the like can be preserved while filtering the collected sensor data or audio to make speech or other audio unrecognizable.

[0085] Processor 510 can be configured to control the operation of notification device 530. For example, processor 510 can be configured to control the notification device to notify a user when processor 510 determines that a leak is occurring. Notification device 530 can be, for example, a speaker configured to generate or produce sound. For example, the speaker can include a transducer configured to convert signals or pulses from processor 510 into sound (e.g., generating an alarm or warning sound to alert (e.g., to a user near the toilet) that a leak has occurred in the toilet).

[0086] According to another example, the notification device 530 may be an indicator light configured to illuminate in response to one or more control signals from the processor 510. The processor 510 may provide one or more control signals to the indicator light, causing it to illuminate when the processor 510 determines that a leak has occurred in the toilet. According to some examples, the indicator light may be positioned in a location visible from the outside of the toilet tank 300 and the base (e.g., base 210). Therefore, the user can see the indicator light when using the toilet. For example, the indicator light may be attached to the outside of the tank 300, the outside of the base (e.g., base 210), the inside of the toilet bowl, the outside of the seat assembly, or the like.

[0087] According to another example, an indicator light may be located within the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300, requiring the user to open the water tank 300 to determine if a leak has occurred. In some examples, the notification device may include both a speaker and an indicator light, the speaker being configured to generate noise in response to a control signal from the processor 510 when the processor 510 determines that a leak exists in the toilet, and the indicator light being configured to illuminate in response to a control signal from the processor 510 when the processor 510 determines that a leak exists in the toilet.

[0088] Based on some examples, such as Figure 5 As shown, the control system 500 may further include a power supply 540. The power supply 540 may be connected to each of the sensor 350, processor 510, memory 520, and notification device 530 to supply power (e.g., current) to the sensor 350, processor 510, memory 520, and notification device 530. According to some examples, the power supply 540 may be one or more batteries configured to store the power to be supplied to the sensor 350, processor 510, memory 520, and notification device 530.

[0089] return Figure 3 According to some examples, the water tank 300 may include a sensor 350, which is coupled to the water tank 300 and disposed within the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, sensor 350 can be attached to the inner surface of the wall of water tank 300.

[0090] According to some examples, sensor 350 may be a microphone configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, noise data) within the reservoir 301 of tank 300. Sensor 350 may also be a microphone configured to sense noise generated when liquid (e.g., water) flows into or out of reservoir 301. For example, the microphone may be configured to capture noise generated during normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet, noise generated when liquid leaks from reservoir 301 (e.g., between tank 300 and fill valve assembly 310, between tank 300 and flush valve assembly 320, between valve body 322 and float 324 of flush valve assembly 320), and / or noise generated during partial refilling of reservoir 301 (e.g., after a leak causes float device 314 to drop and subsequently fills reservoir 301 by opening fill valve 313).

[0091] Based on other examples, sensor 350 could be a flow switch, such as those mentioned above. Figure 4The described flow switch 400 is configured to collect sensor data (e.g., fluid motion data) within the reservoir 301 of the water tank 300. Specifically, the sensor 350 may be a flow switch including a shaft or paddle-shaped portion (e.g., paddle-shaped portion 410) configured to extend into the liquid volume stored within the reservoir 301 and move as the liquid volume within the reservoir 301 moves. A flow switch (e.g., flow switch 400) may be configured to detect movement of liquid within reservoir 301, such as movement of liquid within reservoir during toilet operation or flushing cycles, movement caused when liquid leaks from reservoir 301 (e.g., between reservoir 300 and fill valve assembly 310, between reservoir 300 and flush valve assembly 320, between valve body 322 and float 324 of flush valve assembly 320), and / or movement generated during partial refilling of reservoir 301 (e.g., after the float device 314 is lowered due to leakage and subsequently the fill valve 313 is opened and reservoir 301 is filled).

[0092] refer to Figure 6 The illustration shows that it includes Figure 3 A separate view of the filling valve assembly 310 in the water tank 300. (See attached image.) Figure 6 As shown, the fill valve assembly 310 may include a sensor 350 coupled to or integrally included with the fill valve assembly 310, the sensor 350 being configured to collect sensor data (e.g., noise data, fluid motion data) indicating the provision of liquid flow to or from a reservoir 301 of a toilet tank 300 including the fill valve assembly 310.

[0093] Specifically, Figure 6 The illustration shows two locations where the sensor 350 can be included in the filling valve assembly 310. According to some examples, such as... Figure 6 As shown, sensor 350 can be included at fill valve 313 of fill valve assembly 310. According to other examples, also as... Figure 6 As shown, sensor 350 may be included in refill tube 317 of fill valve assembly 310, which extends between fill valve 313 and flush valve assembly (e.g., flush valve assembly 320).

[0094] According to some examples, sensor 350 may be a microphone configured to collect sensor data (e.g., audio data, noise data) within the reservoir 301 of tank 300. Specifically, according to some examples, sensor 350 may be a microphone included in or coupled to the fill valve 313 of fill valve assembly 310. In these examples, the microphone may be configured to sense noise generated when water flows through fill valve 313 into reservoir 301 of tank 300. For example, the microphone may be configured to capture noise generated when liquid (e.g., water) flows through fill valve 313 during normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet, and / or noise generated when liquid flows through fill valve 313 during partial refilling of reservoir 301 (e.g., after a leak lowers float device 314 and subsequently opens fill valve 313 and fills reservoir 301).

[0095] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be a microphone included as part of or coupled to a refill tube 317 extending between the fill valve 313 and the flush valve assembly 320. In these examples, the microphone may be configured to sense noise generated as water flows through the refill tube 317 to the flush valve assembly 320. For example, the microphone may be configured to capture noise generated during normal operation of the toilet or during a flush cycle when liquid (e.g., water) flows through the refill tube 317, and / or during partial refilling of the reservoir 301 (e.g., after a leak lowers the float device 314 and subsequently opens the fill valve 313 and fills the reservoir 301) when liquid flows through the refill tube 317.

[0096] Based on other examples, sensor 350 could be a flow switch, such as the one mentioned above. Figure 4 The described flow switch 400. Specifically, according to some examples, the sensor 350 may be a flow switch included in or coupled to the fill valve 313 of the fill valve assembly 310. In these examples, the flow switch may be configured to sense or detect the flow of liquid through the fill valve 313 and into the reservoir 301 of the tank 300. For example, the flow switch may sense the flow of liquid supplied through the fill valve 313 during normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet and / or during partial refilling of the reservoir 301 (such as after the float device 314 is lowered due to leakage and subsequently after the fill valve 313 is opened and the reservoir 301 is filled). For example, the flow switch may distinguish between normal operation or flushing cycles and irregular operation of the toilet based on the duration or rate of the detected flow.

[0097] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be a flow switch included in or coupled to the refill tube 317 of the fill valve assembly 310, which extends between the fill valve 313 and the flush valve assembly 320. In these examples, the flow switch may be configured to sense or detect the flow of liquid supplied to the flush valve assembly 320 through the refill tube 317. For example, the flow switch may sense the flow of liquid supplied through the refill tube 317 during normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet and / or during partial refilling of the reservoir 301, such as after a leak lowers the float device 314 and subsequently opens the fill valve 313 and fills the reservoir 301.

[0098] refer to Figure 7 An example illustration of this disclosure shows a separate view of the flushing valve assembly 320. (See example...) Figure 7 As shown, the flush valve assembly 320 may include a sensor 350 integrally included in the flush valve assembly 320, the sensor 350 being configured to collect sensor data indicating the provision of liquid flow to or from a reservoir 301 of the water tank 300, in which the flush valve assembly 320 is disposed.

[0099] Specifically, such as Figure 7 As shown, the flush valve assembly 320 may include a sensor 350, which is included in the inlet 326 or guide post 325 of the flush valve assembly 320. According to some examples, the sensor 350 may be a microphone configured to collect sensor data (e.g., noise data). Specifically, according to some examples, the microphone may be configured to sense noise generated when liquid (e.g., water) flows through the inlet 326 or the hollow internal channel provided within the guide post 325. For example, the microphone may be configured to detect noise generated when liquid (e.g., water) flows through the inlet 326 and / or the hollow internal chamber provided within the guide post 325 during normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet and / or during partial refilling of the reservoir 301 (e.g., after the float device 314 is lowered due to leakage and the fill valve 313 is subsequently opened and the reservoir 301 is filled).

[0100] refer to Figure 8 An example illustration of this disclosure shows a perspective view of a toilet seat assembly 800. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the toilet seat assembly 800 may include a hinge assembly 810 configured to rotatably connect the toilet seat 820 and / or seat cover 830 to the toilet base or pedestal (e.g., base 210). According to some examples, such as... Figure 8As shown, the hinge assembly 810 may include a sensor 350. According to some examples, the sensor 350 may be a microphone configured to collect sensor data (e.g., noise data). For example, the sensor 350 may be configured to sense noise generated when liquid flows into or out of a reservoir 301 disposed in the toilet tank 300.

[0101] For example, the microphone may be configured to sense noise generated during normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet when liquid (e.g., water) flows into and out of the reservoir 301, noise generated when liquid leaks from the reservoir 301 (e.g., between the tank 300 and the fill valve assembly 310, between the tank 300 and the flush valve assembly 320, between the valve body 322 and the float 324 of the fill valve assembly 320), and / or noise generated during partial refilling of the reservoir 301 (e.g., after the float device 314 is lowered due to leakage and the fill valve 313 is subsequently opened and the reservoir 301 is filled). Furthermore, in some examples, the microphone may be configured to sense noise generated when water flows from the reservoir 301 across the base or pedestal (e.g., pedestal 210) and into the basin of the toilet (e.g., basin 220).

[0102] According to other examples, sensor 350, configured to collect sensor data indicating the flow of liquid to or from reservoir 301, may be located in another location. For example, sensor 350 may be included in or coupled to a water supply device (e.g., a hose or line configured to supply water to the inlet opening 303 of a toilet (e.g., toilet 100, 200) and / or the fill valve assembly 320). According to this disclosure, sensor 350 included in or coupled to a water supply device may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibrations occurring when water flows through the water supply device, a flow switch configured to detect the flow of water through the water supply device, a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure of water present in (e.g., traveling through) the water supply device, or a microphone configured to detect noise generated when water flows through the water supply device.

[0103] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be included in or coupled to the filling valve 312 of the filling valve assembly 310. For example, sensor 350 included in or coupled to the filling valve conduit 312 may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibration as liquid (e.g., through the filling valve conduit) flows to or out of reservoir 301, a flow switch configured to detect liquid flow through filling valve conduit 312, a pressure sensor configured to detect pressure of fluid (e.g., in filling valve conduit 312), or a microphone configured to detect noise as liquid (e.g., through filling valve conduit 312) flows to or out of reservoir 301.

[0104] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be included in or coupled to float device 314. For example, the sensor may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibrations as liquid flows into or out of reservoir 301, a flow switch configured to extend into reservoir 301 and configured to detect movement of liquid stored in reservoir 301, a pressure sensor configured to detect pressure or weight of liquid disposed in reservoir 301, a microphone configured to detect noise as liquid flows into or out of reservoir 301, or a conductivity sensor configured to detect the presence of liquid at a location.

[0105] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be included in or coupled to refill tube 317. For example, sensor 350 may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibrations as liquid (e.g., through refill tube 317) flows into or out of reservoir 301, a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure of fluid disposed in (e.g., traveling through) refill tube 317, or a conductivity sensor configured to detect the presence of fluid in refill tube 317.

[0106] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be disposed within the reservoir (e.g., disposed within or attached to the lid or bottom surface of reservoir 301). For example, sensor 350 may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibrations as liquid flows into or out of reservoir 301, a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure or weight of liquid disposed in reservoir 301, a conductivity sensor configured to detect the presence of liquid at a location (e.g., water level), an ultrasonic sensor configured to collect sensor data indicating changes in liquid level or height in reservoir 301, a probe camera configured to detect changes in liquid level or height in reservoir 301, or an RGB sensor and a light-correlated resistor (LDR) configured to detect changes in liquid level or height in reservoir 301.

[0107] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be coupled to flush valve assembly 320, for example, sensor 350 may be coupled to float 324 of flush valve assembly 320. According to some examples, sensor 350 included in or coupled to flush valve assembly 320 may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibrations as fluid flows into or out of reservoir 301.

[0108] According to other examples, sensor 350 may be included in or coupled to toilet seat assembly 800 (e.g., hinge assembly 810, seat 820, or seat cover 830). Sensor 350 included in or coupled to seat assembly 800 may be an accelerometer configured to detect vibrations as fluid flows into or out of reservoir 301.

[0109] refer toFigure 9 The illustration shows an example of a device 900 for detecting a leak in a toilet and notifying a user, according to this disclosure. According to some examples, device 900 can be implemented as described above. Figure 5 The control system 500 is described. The device 900 includes a bus 910 that facilitates communication between a controller 950 and one or more components, the controller 950 being implemented by a processor 901 and / or an application-specific controller 902, the one or more components including a database 903, a memory 904, a computer-readable medium 905, a sensor 350, a notification device 530, and a communication interface 914.

[0110] The content of database 903 may include, for example, one or more time periods and one or more thresholds. For example, database 903 may include the time period required to empty and refill the reservoir 301 of the toilet tank 300 during toilet operation or flushing cycles, predetermined time periods and threshold occurrences for determining irregular operation of the toilet during a leak, predetermined time periods and threshold occurrences for determining flow to or from the reservoir 301 during a leak, or the like. In another example, database 903 may store audio data files corresponding to normal toilet operation, audio data files corresponding to irregular toilet operation, sound data associated with normal toilet operation, sound data associated with irregular toilet operation, vibration data associated with normal toilet operation, vibration data associated with irregular toilet operation, and the like. Memory 904 may be volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Memory 904 may include one or more read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), flash memory, electronically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs), or other types of memory. Memory 904 may be removed from device 900 (such as a Secure Digital (SD) memory card).

[0111] The memory 904 and / or computer-readable medium 905 may include a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the controller to perform any one or more of the methods or computer-based functions disclosed herein. For example, the controller 950 may provide control signals and / or current to the notification device 530, for example, to perform various actions of flowchart 1000.

[0112] Communication interface 914 can be connected to network 920, which can be the Internet. In some examples, network 920 can be connected to one or more mobile devices 922. Communication interface 914 can be configured to send one or more signals to mobile device 922 (e.g., to notify a user of a leak via network 920).

[0113] Communication interface 914 may include any operable connection. An operable connection may be a connection in which signals can be transmitted and / or received, a physical connection, and / or a logical communication. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. Communication interface 914 provides any known or subsequently developed form of wireless and / or wired communication.

[0114] refer to Figure 10 As an example of this disclosure, a flowchart 1000 for detecting leaks is illustrated. For example, flowchart 1000 can be used with control system 500 to detect leaks occurring in any of the water tanks 120, 240, and 300 described herein. Additional, different, or fewer actions may be provided.

[0115] In the first action S101, sensor 350 generates sensor data indicating the flow of liquid to or from a reservoir 301 disposed in the toilet tank 300. According to this disclosure, depending on the type of sensor 350 used, the sensor data can be any of the following: audio data, flow data, vibration data, image, pressure, conductivity, or the like. The sensor can transmit the sensor data to processor 510 after collection.

[0116] In the second action S103, the processor 510 determines whether a leak is occurring based on the duration of the liquid flow to or from the reservoir, as indicated by sensor data, or the frequency of the liquid flow to or from the reservoir. For example, the sensor data can be compared with other sensor data of the same type known to correspond to normal operation or flushing cycles of the toilet. For example, if the collected sensor data indicates that the liquid flow is provided to the basin or tank for less than a predetermined time period (e.g., associated with a normal operating cycle of the toilet). Additionally or alternatively, other properties of the sensor data (e.g., peak intensity, wavelet transform, power spectral density, etc.) can be compared with properties of the same sensor data type (e.g., audio data) known to correspond to normal or irregular operation of the toilet to determine the presence of one or more leaks. According to some examples, the collected sensor data can be identified as corresponding to one of normal and irregular operating cycles and can be identified and stored, for example, in memory 520 or database 903. The stored sensor data can then be accessed for comparison with subsequent sensor data.

[0117] In the third action S105, the processor 510 controls the notification device 530 to notify the user when the processor 510 determines that a leak is occurring. For example, when the notification device 530 is an indicator light, the processor 510 may send one or more control signals and / or currents to the indicator light to control the light to illuminate based on or in response to the processor's determination that a leak is occurring in the toilet. Alternatively, when the notification device 530 is an audio device or speaker, the processor 510 may send one or more control signals and / or currents to the speaker to control the speaker to emit sound (e.g., a text phrase, a beep, or the like) based on or in response to the processor's determination that a leak is occurring in the toilet.

[0118] When a component, device, element, or similar object of this disclosure is described as having a certain purpose or performing a certain operation or function, such component, device, or element shall be regarded herein as "configured to" satisfy that purpose or perform that operation or function.

[0119] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and generally accepted usage by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to allow for the description of some of the described and claimed features, without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical range provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or insignificant modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure recited in the appended claims.

[0120] It should be noted that the term "exemplary" and variations thereof used herein to describe various embodiments are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or exceptional examples).

[0121] As used herein, the term "connection" and its variations refer to the direct or indirect joining of two components together. This connection can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). This connection can be achieved by directly joining two components together, by joining two components together using a separate intermediate component and any additional interconnecting intermediate components, or by joining two components together using an intermediate component integrally formed as a single unit with one of the two components. If "connection" or its variations are modified by additional terms (e.g., direct connection), the general definition of "connection" provided above is modified by the common linguistic meaning of the additional terms (e.g., "direct connection" means the joining of two components without any separate intermediate component), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "connection" provided above. Such connections can be mechanical, electrical, or fluid.

[0122] The term "or" as used herein is inclusive (not exclusive), and therefore, when used to connect a series of elements, the term "or" refers to one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Connectives such as "at least one of X, Y, and Z" should be understood, unless otherwise specified, to mean that an element can be any one of X, Y, and Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Therefore, unless otherwise stated, such connectives generally do not imply that some embodiments require at least one of X, Y, and Z to be present.

[0123] References to the location of elements herein (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are used only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

[0124] Although diagrams and descriptions can illustrate the specific order of method steps, this order may differ from what is depicted and described unless otherwise specified above. Furthermore, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously unless otherwise specified above. For example, such variations may depend on the chosen software and hardware system and the designer's choices. All these variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, the software implementation of the method can also accomplish various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps through standard programming techniques, rule-based logic, and other logic.

[0125] It should be noted that the construction and arrangement of the systems shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Furthermore, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be combined with or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein. Although only one example of an element in one embodiment has been illustrated above, it should be understood that other elements in the various embodiments may be incorporated into or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A system for flushing a toilet, the system comprising: A reservoir configured to store liquid for flushing the toilet; A filling valve assembly disposed in the reservoir and configured to selectively supply liquid to the reservoir; A flush valve assembly disposed in the reservoir, the flush valve assembly being configured to selectively supply liquid stored in the reservoir to the basin of the toilet. The sensor includes a flow switch or microphone disposed in the reservoir, the flow switch or microphone being configured to collect sensor data indicating liquid flow to or from the reservoir; as well as A processor configured to identify leaks occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor is included within the wall of the reservoir or coupled to the wall of the reservoir.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the filling valve assembly includes the sensor.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the flushing valve assembly includes the sensor.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor data indicates the duration of liquid flow to or from the reservoir, and the processor is configured to identify a leak based on the duration of liquid flow to or from the reservoir.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor data indicates the frequency used when providing liquid to or from the reservoir, and the processor is configured to identify a leak based on the frequency used when providing liquid to or from the reservoir.

7. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: A speaker configured to generate sound when the processor detects a leak.

8. A toilet, the toilet comprising: The base includes a basin. A reservoir configured to store liquid for flushing the toilet; A filling valve assembly disposed in the reservoir and configured to selectively supply liquid to the reservoir; A flush valve assembly disposed in the reservoir, the flush valve assembly being configured to selectively supply liquid stored in the reservoir to the basin of the toilet. The sensor includes a flow switch or microphone disposed in the reservoir, the flow switch or microphone being configured to collect sensor data indicating liquid flow to or from the reservoir; as well as A processor configured to identify leaks occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data.

9. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the filling valve assembly includes the sensor.

10. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the flush valve assembly includes the sensor.

11. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the sensor data indicates the duration of liquid flow to or from the reservoir, and the processor is configured to identify the leak based on the duration of liquid flow to or from the reservoir.

12. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the sensor data indicates the frequency used when liquid is supplied to or from the reservoir, and the processor is configured to identify leaks based on the frequency used when liquid is supplied to or from the reservoir.

13. A filling valve assembly for a toilet, the filling valve assembly comprising: A conduit configured to connect to an inlet opening of a reservoir configured to store liquid for flushing the toilet; A filling valve is disposed at the end of the conduit and configured to selectively supply liquid to the reservoir; A float, movably coupled to the conduit and configured to control the position of the filling valve; The sensor includes a flow switch or microphone configured to collect sensor data indicating liquid flow to or from the reservoir; as well as A processor configured to identify leaks occurring in the toilet based on the sensor data.

14. The filling valve assembly of claim 13, wherein the filling valve assembly includes the sensor.

15. The filling valve assembly of claim 13, further comprising: A refill tube, in fluid communication with the fill valve, is configured to direct a portion of the liquid supplied to the reservoir by the fill valve to the flush valve assembly. The refill tube includes the sensor.

16. The fill valve assembly of claim 13, wherein the sensor data indicates the duration of liquid being supplied to or from the reservoir, and the processor is configured to identify a leak based on the duration of liquid being supplied to or from the reservoir.

17. The fill valve assembly of claim 16, wherein the processor is configured to compare the duration of liquid supply to or from the reservoir with a predetermined time period, identify irregular operation of the toilet when the duration of liquid supply to or from the reservoir is less than the predetermined time period, and identify a leak based on the irregular operation of the toilet.

18. The filling valve assembly of claim 13, wherein the sensor data indicates the frequency used when providing liquid to or from the reservoir, and the processor is configured to identify a leak based on the frequency used when providing liquid to or from the reservoir.

19. The filling valve assembly of claim 18, wherein the processor is configured to detect a leak when the frequency used to supply liquid to or from the reservoir exceeds a predetermined threshold.

20. The filling valve assembly of claim 13, further comprising a speaker configured to generate sound when the processor detects a leak.

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