Gate valve

Abstract

A gate valve for a toilet includes: a channel configured to conduct a flow of fluid; a shutter disposed in the channel and movable between an open position and a closed position, the shutter blocking the channel in the closed position; and a biasing member configured to bias the flap toward the closed position.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 826,069 (file number 10222-23058B), filed September 5, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 539,315 (file number 10222-23058A), filed September 19, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to toilets. More specifically, this disclosure relates to gate valves for improving the performance of toilets. Background Technology

[0003] In general, toilets, including those with direct-flow pressure flushing motors, require high direct-flow pressure to operate. If the direct-flow pressure flushing motor receives insufficient water pressure, it may malfunction and fail to adequately remove waste from the toilet bowl and clean it. Many buildings (such as commercial and residential buildings) may not receive sufficient direct-flow pressure for the reliable operation of a direct-flow pressure flushing motor. Accordingly, a gate valve and a direct-flow flushing motor are needed that include a gate valve capable of reliable flushing at lower direct-flow pressures. Attached Figure Description

[0004] The purpose, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent after reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 The illustration shows a perspective view of a toilet according to an example of this disclosure.

[0005] Figure 2 The illustration shows an example of a gate valve according to this disclosure.

[0006] Figure 3 The illustration shows an example of a gate valve according to this disclosure.

[0007] Figure 4 The illustration shows an example toilet according to this disclosure.

[0008] Figure 5 The illustration shows an example toilet according to this disclosure.

[0009] Figure 6 The illustration shows an example toilet according to this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 7 The illustration shows a flowchart for flushing a toilet, as exemplified by this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 8 The illustration shows a flowchart for charging a battery, as exemplified by this disclosure.

[0012] Figure 9 An example apparatus according to this disclosure is illustrated.

[0013] These figures illustrate in detail certain exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the details and methods set forth in the detailed description, nor to the details and methods illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. Detailed Implementation

[0014] This document describes apparatus, systems, and methods for flushing direct-flush toilets. Specifically, it describes gate valves, flushing motors including gate valves, and methods for flushing toilets including gate valves. The gate valves described herein advantageously allow the toilet bowl to be pre-prepared or filled with water before the toilet is flushed or circulated. Toilets including gate valves according to this disclosure can be advantageously configured to use less water. Additionally, toilets including gate valves as described herein are unaffected by changes in direct-flush pressure, thus allowing them to be reliably flushed at low direct-flush pressures.

[0015] For example, the toilet of this application improves the formation or induction of siphon, for example by pre-preparing the siphon before each flush cycle is activated. Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, a gate valve according to this disclosure may include a channel configured to conduct water flow, a baffle disposed within the channel and movable between an open and closed position, and a biasing member configured to bias the baffle toward a closed position (e.g., apply a force to the baffle toward the closed position). When the baffle is in the closed position, the baffle may block the channel, preventing water flow through the channel and pre-preparing the siphon by allowing the drain channel and toilet bowl to fill with water. Then, for example, when a flush cycle is initiated, the gate valve may move to the open position and may induce a siphon.

[0016] The toilet disclosed in this application includes a passage (e.g., a sewage passage) having a valve (e.g., a gate valve) located near an outlet (e.g., a drain pipe or sewage pipe) of the passage for pre-preparing the system. As used herein, the term "pre-preparation" means introducing water into the passage before (e.g., prior to, before, etc.) the activation of a flushing cycle, as opposed to "preparation" performed after the activation (e.g., startup) of a flushing cycle. Thus, the system disclosed herein maintains pre-prepared water in the passage and the toilet bowl, and therefore remains ready when the system is idle (i.e., between flushing cycles). When the toilet is used (e.g., activated, flushed, etc.) and the system is actuated, a series of functions are initiated. According to an exemplary embodiment, actuating the flushing cycle triggers water to flow from the edge or one or more edge jets for a predetermined amount of time, the valve in the passage opens (e.g., after the predetermined amount of time), the mixture of waste and water is discharged from the system, the valve then closes, and the system refills the toilet bowl and pre-prepares the passage with a volume of water for the next flushing cycle.

[0017] According to some examples of this disclosure, the gate valve includes a biasing member, such as a spring, configured to apply a first force to the baffle toward a closed position, biasing the baffle toward the closed position. Further, the contents of the drain channel and toilet bowl (e.g., the volume of water) can apply a second force to the baffle toward an open position, biasing the baffle toward the open position. Accordingly, when the magnitude of the second force exceeds the magnitude of the first force, the baffle can move to the open position. Furthermore, the biasing member included in the gate valve according to this disclosure can be selected such that when a predetermined volume of water and / or waste exceeds a predetermined threshold, the baffle moves to the open position, thereby preventing toilet overflow.

[0018] Figure 1 The illustration shows an example toilet 10 according to this disclosure. Specifically, Figure 1 The illustration shows a flush toilet 10, which includes a base or seat 20 and a seat assembly 30. The toilet 10 may include an actuator configured to initiate an operating cycle upon activation. The actuator may be a button configured to be activated when pressed (or pulled) to a predetermined distance or touched, or it may be any suitable device configured to be activated based on user input. In some examples, the operating cycle may be initiated using one or more control signals transmitted wirelessly (e.g., via the Internet) from a computer (e.g., a mobile phone) to the toilet 10.

[0019] It should be noted that the shape and configuration of the base 20, seat assembly 30, and internal components (including the drain passage and other features) may differ from the embodiments shown and described herein, and the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be made of vitreous materials (e.g., clay). It should be noted that various components of the toilet may be polymer and / or overmolded, or otherwise fixed to the toilet. The toilets disclosed herein can have a wide variety of configurations with skirts, all of which are intended to be covered herein. Therefore, the following description of various toilet features is intended to illustrate only one possible embodiment, and those reading this specification should understand that similar concepts or features may be included in other various embodiments.

[0020] The base 20 of the toilet 10 may include a wall 23 of any suitable shape, configured to form a bowl 21 having an opening formed by an upper edge at the top of the opening. The base 20 may also be configured to include a plurality of walls of various shapes that together form a bowl having an opening formed by an edge. The wall 23 of the base may extend downward and / or rearward from the bowl 21 to form a lower portion 22 configured to support the base 20 and the toilet 10. The lower portion 22 may be formed from an end (e.g., a lower edge) of the wall 23, or may include members extending substantially horizontally from one or more ends of the wall 23.

[0021] The base 20 may also include a top member extending between the two sides of the wall 23 (or between two opposing walls) and positioned behind (or behind) the toilet bowl 21, wherein the top member forms a plateau for supporting the seat assembly 30. For example, the top member may include one or more openings, each configured to receive fastening devices (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) to engage (e.g., attach) the seat assembly 30 to the top member of the base 20. As another example, the top member may include one or more fastening devices (e.g., bolts, embedded nuts, etc.) integrally formed therein (i.e., already provided for connection or attachment to the base 20), wherein the fastening devices can be used to engage or secure at least a portion of the seat assembly 30 to the base 20. The seat assembly 30 may include a hinge, a hinge shoulder configured to receive fasteners, a seat ring coupled to the hinge, and a cover coupled to the hinge.

[0022] The toilet bowl 21 of the base 20 can be configured to include a container (e.g., a sump) and an outlet opening, in which water and waste are collected in the container until removed through the outlet opening (e.g., when an actuator is activated). The base 20 may also include an internal passageway (e.g., a drain passage) connecting the outlet opening or drain outlet of the toilet bowl 21 to a drain pipe or sewage pipe. The passageway or sewage passage generally includes a first section, a second section, and a weir separating the first and second sections. The first section of the passage may extend from the outlet opening of the toilet bowl 21 at an upward angle relative to the weir. The second section of the passage may extend downward from the weir to a discharge device (e.g., a drain pipe or sewage pipe).

[0023] Between operating cycles (e.g., flushing cycles) of the toilet 10, water (and waste) is collected in a first section of the drain channel (in addition to the container in the toilet bowl), causing a weir to prevent water from passing through the weir and into a second section of the drain channel. The flushing cycle can begin upon activation of the actuator. Activation of the actuator opens a gate valve, allowing additional water (e.g., from a direct-flush water supply unit 40) to be discharged into the toilet bowl 21 of the base 20, thereby generating a flushing action and removing waste through the drain pipe. For example, water can be discharged into the toilet bowl from one or more edge outlets located in or below the rim of the toilet and / or from a sump jetter located in the sump of the toilet (e.g., the first section of the drain channel). The flushing cycle may include generating a siphon to assist the flushing action and waste removal.

[0024] The seat assembly 30 may include a cover member 32 (e.g., a lid), a seat member 31 (e.g., an annular member), and a hinge. The seat member 31 may be configured to include an annular member surrounding an opening, wherein the annular member provides a seat surface for the user of the toilet 10. The seat member 31 may also be pivotally coupled (e.g., attached) to the hinge, wherein the seat member can rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, for example, between a first lowered or seated position and a second raised or upright position. The cover member 32 may be configured as circular, elliptical, or any other suitable shape. Typically, the profile or shape of the outer surface of the cover member will be configured to match (i.e., substantially similar to) the profile of the outer surface of the seat member to improve the aesthetics of the seat assembly and the toilet. The cover member 32 may also be coupled to the hinge, wherein the cover member can rotate (or pivot) about the hinge, for example, between a first lowered or seated position and a second raised or upright position. When in the downward position, the cover member 32 can be positioned above the seat member 31 to cover the opening of the seat member 31 and conceal the interior of the urinal 21 of the base 20. The cover member 32 can also be configured to be in an upright position so that it remains upright for the user to sit on the seat member 31.

[0025] According to some examples, the toilet 10 may be composed of two or more materials. For example, the toilet 10 may include a flushing motor and a cover, the flushing motor including the bowl 21 and / or drain channel of the toilet 10, and the cover being configured to cover (e.g., conceal, hide) the flushing motor. According to some examples, the flushing motor may be composed of a first material or a first category of materials, and the cover may be composed of a different second material or a different second category of materials. According to some examples, the flushing motor (e.g., the bowl and / or drain channel) may be composed of a glassy material, and the cover may be composed of plastic and / or metal materials.

[0026] Overall reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustration shows an example of a gate valve 100 according to this disclosure. The gate valve 100 includes a passage 110, a baffle 120, and a biasing member 130. In some examples, the gate valve 100 may further include a linkage system 140, a solenoid 150, and a drying chamber 160.

[0027] The passage 110 can be configured to conduct or transport fluid flow. Specifically, the passage 110 of the gate valve 100 can be connected to the passage or drain passage of the toilet for direct installation and can be configured to transport water and / or waste from the toilet bowl or sump to the discharge device (e.g., the toilet drain pipe or drain pipe).

[0028] A baffle 120 is disposed within channel 110 and can be configured to move between an open position and a closed position. In some examples, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the baffle 120 can be configured to rotate between an open position and a closed position. In other examples, the baffle 120 can be configured to translate (e.g., linearly) between the open and closed positions. Figure 2 As shown, when the baffle 120 is in the closed position, it can block the passage 110, preventing water and / or waste from flowing through it. In some examples, the baffle 120 may include a seal 170 configured to engage with a surface (e.g., an inner surface) of the passage 110 when the baffle 120 is in the closed position. In the open position, the baffle 120 may not block the passage 110, allowing water and / or waste to flow from the toilet bowl or drain through the passage 110, past the baffle 120, and to the discharge device. In some examples, the gate valve 100 may include one or more recesses 180 configured to receive the baffle 120 when it is in the open position.

[0029] refer to Figure 3The gate valve 100 may further include a biasing member 130 configured to apply force or bias the baffle 120 toward a closed position. In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the biasing member can be a spring (e.g., a metal spring). In other examples, the biasing member can be a rubber spring, a rubber band, a gas spring (e.g., a pneumatic cylinder), a magnet, or the like.

[0030] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the biasing member 130 can be disposed between the linkage system 140 and the solenoid 150. Specifically, as... Figure 3 As shown, in some examples, the biasing member 130 may be disposed between the solenoid 150 and the protrusion or ring 141 disposed along the linkage system 140. The biasing member 130 may apply a force to the linkage system 140 (and via the linkage system 140 to the baffle) toward the closed position of the baffle 120. Specifically, in some examples, the biasing member may be compressed between the solenoid 150 and the linkage system 140 such that the biasing member 130 applies a linear force on the linkage system 140 away from the solenoid 150. The linear force applied to the linkage system 140 away from the solenoid may correspond to the baffle 120 toward the closed position or to moving the baffle 120 toward the closed position.

[0031] The linkage system 140 may extend between the solenoid 150 and the baffle 120. The linkage system 140 may be configured to transmit or apply force from the biasing member 130 and / or the solenoid 150 to the baffle 120. Specifically, when the solenoid 150 is not activated (e.g., inactive), the biasing member 130 may apply a force away from the solenoid 150 to the linkage system 140, and the linkage system 140 may transmit the force to the baffle 120, thereby biasing the baffle 120 toward a closed position. In some cases, the force applied to the baffle 120 by the biasing member 130 (e.g., via the linkage system 140) may move the baffle 120 from an open position to a closed position. In other cases, the force applied to the baffle 120 by the biasing member 130 (e.g., via the linkage system 140) may hold the baffle 120 in a closed position (e.g., when the baffle 120 is already in the closed position).

[0032] Solenoid 150 can be coupled to linkage system 140 and can be configured to actuate, applying force to linkage system 140. Specifically, in some examples, solenoid 150 can be configured to actuate, pulling linkage system 140 towards solenoid 150. When solenoid 150 is actuated, solenoid 150 can apply force to linkage system 140 and baffle 120 (e.g., via linkage system 140). The force applied by solenoid 150 can move linkage system 140 and baffle 120 (e.g., from a closed position to an open position). When linkage system 140 and / or baffle 120 move (e.g., from a closed position to an open position), biasing member 130 can be compressed between linkage system 140 and solenoid 150.

[0033] In some examples, the biasing member 130 can be used as an overflow protection device. Specifically, the magnitude of the first force applied by the biasing member 130 to the baffle 120 toward the closed position (e.g., via the linkage system 140) can be controlled by changing the spring constant and / or the amount of compression of the biasing member 130. Therefore, the biasing member 130 can be selected such that the baffle 120 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position when the volume and / or mass of water and / or waste in the toilet bowl and drain channel exerts a second force (e.g., a normal force) on the baffle 120 toward the open position, exceeding the first force. Thus, the biasing member can be selected such that a predetermined threshold (e.g., volume, weight) of water and waste causes the baffle 120 to move from the closed position to the open position, thereby preventing toilet overflow.

[0034] General Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some examples, the gate valve 100 may include a drying chamber 160. In some examples, a biasing member 130 and / or a solenoid 150 may be disposed within the drying chamber 160. In some examples, a linkage system 140 may extend into the drying chamber 160. The drying chamber 160 may be waterproof and / or impermeable, and may be configured to keep the biasing member 130, solenoid 150, and / or linkage system 140 dry. In some examples, the drying chamber 160 may include a chamber seal 161 extending around the drying chamber 160, the chamber seal 161 being configured to prevent water from entering the drying chamber 160.

[0035] refer to Figure 4 The illustration shows an example toilet 200 according to this disclosure. Figure 4 As shown, the toilet 200 includes a bowl 210, a sump 220, and a drain channel 230. The bowl 210 may communicate with and / or include the sump 220 located at the bottom of the bowl 210. (As mentioned above regarding...) Figure 1The sump 220 or container is described above as being able to hold water and / or waste during the operating cycle of the toilet 200. The sump 220 may communicate with the drain channel 230. (As stated above regarding...) Figure 1 The sewage discharge channel 230 may include a first part 231, a second part 232, and a weir 233 separating the first part 231 and the second part 232. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the first portion 231 extends from the sump 220 at an upward angle to the weir 233. The second portion 232 of the weir 233 extends downward to the discharge device (e.g., a drainage pipe or a sewage pipe).

[0036] like Figure 4 As shown, the toilet 200 includes a gate valve 100, which is disposed in or connected to the drain passage 230 of the toilet 200. In some examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, the gate valve 100 can be installed in the second part 232 of the sewage channel 230. The gate valve 100 can be connected to the sewage channel 230, so that the channel 110 of the gate valve 100 is connected to the sewage channel 230.

[0037] refer to Figure 4 The toilet 200 is illustrated in a ready or pre-ready state, in which the baffle 120 of the gate valve 100 is closed, and the bowl 210 and drain passage 230 of the toilet 200 are filled with a predetermined volume of water. In some examples, when the toilet is in the pre-ready state, the water level 201 of the toilet 200 may be at the same level as the top of the drain passage 230 (e.g., in the vertical direction). The water level 201 of the toilet 200 in the pre-ready state can vary.

[0038] refer to Figure 5 The illustration shows another example of a toilet 300 according to this disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, the toilet 300 may include a bowl 210, a sump 220, a drain channel 230, and a gate valve 100. The bowl 210, sump 220, and drain channel 230 can be connected to the above-mentioned components. Figure 4 The same applies to what is being discussed. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the toilet 300 may further include a sump jet valve 310, a sump jet line 320, a sump jet outlet 330, a side valve 340, a side line 350, a first diverter valve 360, a recharging line 370, a hydraulic turbine 375, a second diverter valve 365, a side passage 380, and a side outlet 385. In some examples, the toilet 300 may further include a controller 390 and a battery 391.

[0039] The sump ejector valve 310 can be configured to control the flow of fluid (e.g., water) from a water supply system (e.g., a building water supply system) to the sump ejector line 320. The sump ejector line 320 can be a conduit (e.g., a pipe, tube, hose) configured to conduct or transport water from the sump ejector valve 310 to the sump ejector outlet 330. The sump ejector outlet 330 can be located in the sump 220 of the toilet 200 and can be configured to supply water to the sump 220 during flushing or operating cycles of the toilet 200.

[0040] Edge valve 340 may be configured to control the flow of fluid (e.g., water) from a water supply system (e.g., a building water supply system) to edge line 350. Edge line 350 may be a conduit (e.g., a pipe, tube, hose) configured to conduct or transport water flow from edge valve 340 to edge passage 380 of toilet 200. Edge passage 380 may be located within or below the edge of toilet 200 and may communicate with one or more edge outlets 385 located between edge passage 380 and toilet bowl 210. During flushing or operating cycles of toilet 300, fluid (e.g., water) may flow through edge valve 340 into edge line 350, through edge line 350 into edge passage 380, through edge passage 380 into edge outlet 385, and through edge outlet 385 into toilet bowl 210. The water supplied to the toilet bowl 210 can be used to flush the walls of the toilet bowl 210 and / or to fill the toilet bowl 210 and the drain channel 230. In some examples, each of the sump jet valve 310 and the edge valve 340 can be a solenoid valve configured to be actuated (e.g., open, close) in response to one or more control signals and / or currents. In some examples, the sump jet valve 310 and the edge valve 340 can be actuated simultaneously within a flushing or operating cycle. In other examples, the sump jet valve 310 and the edge valve 340 can be actuated at different times within the operating cycle of the toilet 300.

[0041] Still referencing Figure 5 In some examples, the toilet 300 may further include a first diverter valve 360, a recharging line 370, a hydraulic turbine 375, and a second diverter valve 365. The first diverter valve 360 ​​and the second diverter valve 365 may be configured to selectively divert fluid (e.g., water) from the edge line 350 to the recharging line 370. Figure 5As shown, the recharge line 370 can communicate with the edge line 350 via a first diverter valve 360 ​​and a second diverter valve 365. Specifically, the first diverter valve 360 ​​can be configured to selectively divert fluid flow from the edge line 350 to the recharge line 370. When the first diverter valve 360 ​​diverts fluid flow to the recharge line 370, the second diverter valve 365 can prevent backflow in the edge line (e.g., flow toward the edge valve 340). When the first diverter valve 360 ​​does not divert fluid flow to the recharge line 370, the second diverter valve 365 can prevent fluid from flowing into the recharge line 370. In some examples, the first diverter valve 360 ​​and the second diverter valve 365 can be solenoid valves configured to be actuated in response to receiving one or more control signals and / or currents, such as opening and closing, to selectively divert water flow.

[0042] The recharging line 370 may include a hydraulic turbine 375 configured to generate electricity (i.e., current) as fluid flows through and passes through the recharging line 370. Specifically, the hydraulic turbine 375 may include an impeller disposed in the path of water flowing through the recharging line 370. As fluid flows through the recharging line 370, it can contact the impeller, causing the impeller to rotate. The hydraulic turbine 375 may further include one or more magnets and one or more coils configured to generate electricity when fluid flows through the impeller, causing the impeller to rotate.

[0043] The hydraulic turbine 375 may (e.g., electrically) be connected to a controller 390 and / or a battery 391 included in the toilet 300. The battery 391 may be configured to store the electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine 375. Additionally, the battery 391 may be configured to supply the stored electricity to one or more components of the toilet 300. For example, the battery 391 may be connected to the solenoid 150 of the gate valve 100 and may be configured to supply power to the solenoid 150. In some examples, the battery may be connected to and configured to supply power to the sump jet valve 310 and the edge valve 340.

[0044] The controller 390 may (e.g., electrically) be connected to or communicate with the hydraulic turbine 375, the solenoid 150 of the gate valve 100, the first diverter valve 360 ​​and / or the second diverter valve 365. In some examples, the controller 390 may be powered by the hydraulic turbine 375. The controller 390 may be configured to selectively supply power (e.g., current) and / or control signals to the solenoid 150 of the gate valve 100, the first diverter valve 360 ​​and / or the second diverter valve 365. For example, the controller 390 may be configured to selectively supply power and / or one or more control signals to the solenoid, causing the solenoid 150 to actuate (e.g., move the baffle 120 to the open position). Additionally, controller 390 can selectively provide electrical and / or control signals to the first diverter valve 360 ​​and the second diverter valve 365, causing the first and second diverter valves to actuate, for example, open and / or close, to divert fluid flow to recharge line 370 or maintain water flow in edge line 350. Additionally, in some examples, controller 390 may be connected to and / or communicate with sump jet valve 310 and edge valve 340. For example, controller 390 can selectively provide electrical and / or control signals to sump jet valve 310 and edge valve 340 to open and / or close sump jet valve 310 and / or edge valve 340 (e.g., controlling flow into sump jet line 320 and / or edge line 350, respectively).

[0045] In some examples, the toilet 300 can be configured to perform a recharging cycle or operation in which the edge valve 340 opens, allowing water to be supplied to the edge line 350. During the recharging cycle, the first diverter valve 360 ​​is configured to divert water flow into the recharging line 370. In some examples, the entire flow of water through the edge line 350 can be diverted to the recharging line 370. In other examples, only a portion of the water flowing through the edge line 350 can be diverted to the recharging line 370. As water flows through the recharging line 370, it can flow over the hydraulic turbine 375, contacting the impeller, causing the impeller to rotate and generate electricity (e.g., current). During the recharging cycle, the electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine 375 can be supplied to the battery 391, thereby charging the battery 391.

[0046] Water diverted (e.g., supplied) to recharge line 370 can flow through second diverter valve 365, back into edge line 350, and through edge channel 380 to one or more edge outlets and into toilet bowl 210. Solenoid 150 can be actuated during a recharge cycle to open baffle 120, allowing water supplied to the toilet bowl via one or more edge outlets to flow through the toilet bowl, to the drain pipe, or sewage pipe. In some examples, sump ejector valve 310 can remain closed during a recharge cycle. In other examples, sump ejector valve 310 can be opened, and water can be supplied to sump 220 via sump ejector outlet 330 during a recharge filling cycle.

[0047] In some examples, controller 390 can be configured to initiate a recharging cycle at a preset time and / or after a predetermined time interval. Specifically, controller 390 can be configured to initiate a recharging cycle once or more during each day, allowing battery 391 to be recharged using electricity generated by hydraulic turbine 375. In some examples, controller 390 can initiate a recharging cycle after 24 hours or longer. Controller 390 can be configured to initiate a recharging cycle during a period of time when the user is unlikely to use toilet 300 (e.g., at night).

[0048] General Reference Figure 5 In some examples, the aforementioned recharging line 370, hydraulic turbine 375, controller 390, and battery 391 may be included in the gate valve 100. For example, the gate valve 100 may include a housing, and the recharging line 370, hydraulic turbine 375, controller 390, and battery 391 may be disposed within the housing of the gate valve 100. In these examples, the recharging line 370 included in the housing of the gate valve 100 may be connected to the toilet rim line 350 via a first diverter valve 360 ​​and a second diverter valve 365.

[0049] In some examples, the toilet 300 may further include a vent passage 395 extending from an inlet located at the top of the drain passage 230 to an outlet located downstream of the gate valve 100. The vent passage 395 may further include a vent passage valve 396 configured to selectively allow fluid (e.g., water and / or air) to flow through it. In some examples, the vent passage valve 396 may be a solenoid valve. The vent passage 395 may be configured to vent air from the drain passage upstream of the gate valve 100 to the downstream of the gate valve 100 when the gate valve 100 is closed, thereby filling a portion of the drain passage 230 upstream of the gate valve with water (e.g., pre-preparation). In addition to venting the drain passage 230, the vent passage 395 may provide overflow protection when the gate valve 100 is closed. Specifically, when the water level in the toilet (e.g., bowl 210) is higher than the inlet of the vent passage 395, water in the sewage passage can flow into the inlet of the vent passage 395, which is located at the top of the sewage passage 230. The water flowing into the vent passage 395 can flow to the downstream outlet of the gate valve 100, preventing the toilet 300 from overflowing. In some examples, when the gate valve 100 is closed, the vent passage valve 396 can be opened, allowing the vent passage 395 to release air downstream of the gate valve 100 and providing overflow protection. In some examples, when the gate valve 100 is open, the vent passage valve 396 can be closed.

[0050] refer to Figure 6 The illustration shows another example of a toilet 400 according to this disclosure. Toilet 400 can be substantially similar to... Figure 5 Toilet 300; however, toilet 400 includes a single flush valve 410, instead of including a sump jet valve 310 and a side valve 340. The flush valve 410 can be configured to selectively supply fluid (e.g., water) flow to both the sump jet line 320 and the side line 350. In some examples, the flush valve 410 may be a solenoid valve. In these examples, the flush valve 410 may be connected to and / or communicate with a controller 390, and may be configured to selectively receive electrical power and / or one or more control signals from the controller to actuate (e.g., open, close) the flush valve 410. In other examples, the flush valve 410 may be a mechanical valve. In these examples, the flush valve 410 may be configured to supply water flow to the sump jet line 320 and the side line 350 for a predetermined period of time after being actuated.

[0051] Reference Figure 7The diagram illustrates a flowchart 500 of an operating cycle or flushing cycle of a toilet according to an example of this disclosure. Flowchart 500 can be used with any of the gate valve 100 or toilets 200, 300, and 400 described herein. For ease of explanation, the following will focus on... Figure 5 The toilet 300 is described in flowchart 500. Additional, different, or fewer actions can be provided. Flowchart 500 can be implemented in the order shown, but can also be implemented in any number of different orders.

[0052] In the first action S101, the edge valve 340 (e.g., the first valve) is opened. As described above, the edge valve 340 can be configured to selectively supply fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to the edge line 350 of the toilet 300. In some examples, the edge valve 340 can be a solenoid valve that opens in response to a control signal and / or current provided via a controller 390 and / or a battery 391.

[0053] In the second action S103, a first water flow is provided through the edge valve 340 (e.g., a first valve), which cleans the toilet bowl 210 of the toilet 300. As described above, water flow can be provided to the edge line 350 through the edge valve 340. The water flow can travel through the edge line 350 to the edge channel 380 and exit the edge channel 380 through one or more edge outlets 385 into the toilet bowl 210. The water flow provided to the toilet bowl 210 can flow through the edge outlets 385 into the toilet bowl 210, cleaning the toilet bowl 210.

[0054] In the third action S105, the biasing member 130 included in the gate valve 100 can be compressed, causing the baffle 120 to move from the closed position to the open position. In some examples, when the solenoid 150 is actuated, the biasing member 130 can be compressed between the solenoid 150 and the linkage system 140 (specifically, the ring 141 of the linkage system 140), thereby pulling the linkage system 140 toward the solenoid 150. When the biasing member 130 is compressed, the force exerted on the linkage system 140 by the biasing member 130 toward the closed position of the baffle 120 can be reduced. Additionally, when the solenoid is actuated, the linkage system 140 can move the baffle 120 from the closed position (in which the passage 110 of the gate valve 100 is blocked) to the open position (in which the passage 110 is not blocked, (e.g., in this state, water and / or waste can flow through the passage 110 and past the baffle 120)).

[0055] In some examples, when the baffle 120 moves from the closed position to the open position, water and / or waste in the drain channel 230 and the toilet 210 can begin to flow through the channel 110 in the gate valve 100 and can induce a siphon.

[0056] In the fourth action S107, the sump ejector valve 310 (e.g., the second valve) is opened. As described above, the sump ejector valve 310 can be configured to selectively supply fluid (e.g., water) from the fluid supply to the sump ejector line 350. In some examples, the sump ejector valve 310 can be a solenoid valve that opens in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 390 and / or the battery 391.

[0057] In the fifth action S109, a second water flow is supplied to the sump ejector line 320 via the sump ejector valve 310. As described above, the second water flow can travel through the sump ejector line 320 to the sump ejector outlet 330, and then through the sump ejector outlet 330 into the sump 220 of the toilet 300.

[0058] In the sixth action S111, the sump ejector valve 310 (e.g., the second valve) can be closed. In some examples, the sump ejector valve can be closed in response to a control signal and / or current provided via the controller 390 and / or the battery 391. In some examples, the controller 390 can be configured to close the sump ejector valve 310 for a predetermined period of time after it has been opened. The predetermined period of time may correspond to a desired or required volume supplied to the sump via the sump ejector outlet 330.

[0059] In the seventh action S113, the biasing member 130 is released, causing the baffle 120 to move from the open position to the closed position. Specifically, in some examples, the solenoid 150 can actuate or de-actuate the linkage system 140. When the solenoid 150 stops actuating the linkage system 140, the biasing member 130 can extend or expand between the solenoid 150 and the linkage system 140 (e.g., specifically, ring 141), thereby moving the linkage system 140 and the baffle 120 to the closed position via the linkage system 140. In some examples, the solenoid 150 can actuate or de-actuate the linkage system in response to one or more control signals from the controller 390 and / or the battery 391 stopping the supply of power to the solenoid 150.

[0060] In the eighth action S115, the toilet bowl 210 and / or the drain channel 230 may be filled with a predetermined volume of water. Specifically, the toilet bowl 210 and the drain channel 230 may be pre-prepared as water accumulates in the toilet bowl 210. Specifically, after the baffle 120 moves to the closed position, water supplied to the toilet bowl 210 through one or more edge outlets 385 may accumulate in the drain channel 230 and the toilet bowl 210 of the toilet 300. In some examples, the drain channel 230 may be completely filled with water, and / or the toilet bowl 210 may be filled with water to a height corresponding to the top of the drain channel 230 (e.g., Figure 4 As shown), the sewage channel 230 and toilet 210 are prepared for subsequent flushing or operation cycles.

[0061] In the ninth action S117, the edge valve 340 (e.g., the first valve) can be closed. In some examples, the edge valve 340 can be closed in response to one or more control signals and / or power supplied to the edge valve 340 via the controller 390 and / or the battery 391. In some examples, the controller 390 can be configured to close the edge valve 340 for a predetermined period of time after the gate valve 100 (e.g., the baffle 120) is closed. The predetermined period of time may correspond to the desired or required volume of water filling the drain passage 230 and the toilet bowl 210, preparing the toilet 300 for subsequent operating cycles (e.g., siphon). According to some examples, the predetermined period of time may be the time required to completely fill the drain passage 230 of the toilet 300 with water.

[0062] According to some examples, the drain passage 230 and bowl 210 of toilet 200 can be filled with a predetermined volume of water to prepare the siphon in the toilet during operation S103. Correspondingly, the siphon in toilet 300 can be prepared at the start of a flushing or operating cycle, such that the drain passage 230 of toilet 300 is not filled with water between operating cycles of toilet 300. According to some examples, during operation S103, water flow can be provided by the edge valve 340 for a predetermined time period before the bias member is compressed in operation S105. The predetermined time period during which the edge valve 340 is open during operation S103 before the bias member is compressed in operation S105 can correspond to the time period required for the bowl 210 and drain passage 230 to be filled with a predetermined volume of water to prepare the siphon in toilet 300. According to some examples, the predetermined volume of water may be the volume of water required to completely fill the drain channel 230 of the toilet 300.

[0063] Reference Figure 8The diagram illustrates a flowchart 600 of a toilet charging cycle according to an example of this disclosure. Flowchart 600 can be used with any of the gate valve 100 and / or toilets 200, 300, 400 described herein. For ease of explanation, the following will focus on... Figure 5 The toilet 300 is described in flowchart 600. Additional, different, or fewer actions can be provided. Flowchart 600 can be implemented in the order shown, but can also be implemented in any number of different orders.

[0064] In the first action S201, the edge valve 340 (e.g., a valve) can be opened. As described above, the edge valve 340 can be configured to selectively supply fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply to the edge line 350 of the toilet 300. In some examples, the edge valve 340 can be a solenoid valve that opens in response to a control signal and / or current provided via a controller 390 and / or a battery 391.

[0065] In the second action S203, water flow is supplied to the edge line 350 via the edge valve 340 (e.g., a valve).

[0066] In the third action S205, the water flow in the edge line 350 is diverted to the recharging line 370. Specifically, as described above, the first diverter valve 360 ​​can divert the water flow through the edge line 350 to the recharging line 370. In some examples, the first diverter valve 360 ​​can be actuated in response to one or more control signals and / or power supplied to the first diverter valve 360 ​​via the controller 390 and / or the battery 391 to divert the water flow to the recharging line.

[0067] In the fourth action S207, the hydraulic turbine 375 generates electricity. Specifically, as described above, when water flows through the recharging line 370, it can contact the impeller of the hydraulic turbine 375, causing the impeller to rotate and the hydraulic turbine 375 to generate electricity.

[0068] In the fifth action S209, the electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine 375 can be supplied to the battery 391. Specifically, the battery 391 can store the electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine to power the solenoid 150 and / or other components of the toilet 300 (e.g., the sump jet valve 310, the rim valve 340, the first diverter valve 360, and the second diverter valve 365). In some examples, the battery 391 can supply power to the flush valve 410 of the toilet 400.

[0069] Reference Figure 9The illustration shows an example of a device 700 for facilitating the operation (e.g., flushing) cycle of a toilet (e.g., toilet 200, 300, 400) according to this disclosure. In some examples, device 700 may be implemented as a controller 390 for toilet 300, 400. Device 700 includes a bus 710 that facilitates communication between controller 750 (which may be implemented by processor 701 and / or application-specific controller 702) and one or more components, including a database 703, a memory 704, a computer-readable medium 705, a display 712, a user input device 713, and a communication interface 714.

[0070] The contents of database 703 may include one or more volumes of water, such as the volume of water supplied to the toilet bowl via sump jet outlet 330, the volume of water supplied to the toilet bowl 210 via one or more edge outlets 385 during a flushing or operating cycle, the volume of water distributed from sump jet outlet 330 during an operating cycle, and / or the volume of water required to fill the toilet bowl 210 and drain passage 230 (e.g., the volume of water supplied to the toilet bowl 210 after gate valve 100 is closed). In some examples, database 703 may store one or more equations for calculating the volume, flow rate, or time period associated with the water distributed and / or transported via sump jet valve 310 and / or edge valve 340.

[0071] Memory 704 can be volatile or non-volatile memory. Memory 704 may include one or more read-only memories (ROM), random access memories (RAM), flash memory, electronically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROM), or other types of memory. Memory 704 can be removed from device 700, such as a secure digital (SD) memory card.

[0072] The memory 704 and / or computer-readable medium 705 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 750 may send one or more controller signals and / or currents to the sump jet valve 310, the edge valve 340, the solenoid 150, to open or close the valves, and / or actuate the solenoid 150 (i.e., cause the gate valve 100 and / or toilets 200, 300, 400 to execute flowchart 500 or 600). In some examples, the controller 750 may send one or more controller signals and / or currents to the first diverter valve 360 ​​and / or the second diverter valve 365 to cause toilets 200, 300, 400 to execute flowchart 600.

[0073] A user can use display 712 and / or user input device 713 to initiate an operation cycle, input one or more volumes, and / or input one or more time periods associated with the operation cycle. Display 712 may include a screen, and user input device 713 may include one or more buttons on device 700. In some embodiments, display 712 and user input device 713 may include a touch-sensitive surface (i.e., a touchscreen). In some examples, the user input device may be as described above. Figure 1 The aforementioned actuator.

[0074] Communication interface 714 can be connected to network 720, which may be the Internet. In some embodiments, network 720 can be connected to one or more mobile devices 722. One or more mobile devices can be configured to send signals to communication interface 714 via network 720. For example, one or more mobile devices can send signals to communication interface to initiate the operating cycle of toilets 200, 300, 400, or to change the volume and / or time period (e.g., a predetermined time period) of one or more water associated with the operating cycle of the toilet.

[0075] Communication interface 714 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 714 provides any form of wireless and / or wired communication, whether known or subsequently developed.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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).

[0079] As used herein, the term "connection" and its variations refer to the direct or indirect joining of two components together. This joining can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). This joining can be achieved by directly connecting two components together, by connecting two components together using a separate intermediate component and any additional interconnecting intermediate components, or by connecting 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 connection can be mechanical, electrical, or fluid.

[0080] 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.

[0081] References to the position 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 gate valve for a toilet, the gate valve comprising: A channel configured to conduct fluid flow; A baffle is disposed within the channel and is movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the closed position the baffle blocks the channel, thereby preventing fluid from flowing through the channel; as well as A biasing member configured to bias the baffle toward the closed position.

2. The gate valve of claim 1, wherein the biasing member is configured to apply a first force to the baffle, biasing the baffle toward the closed position. The contents of the toilet bowl are configured to apply a second force to the baffle, biasing the baffle toward an open position. When the magnitude of the second force exceeds the magnitude of the first force, the baffle is configured to move to the open position.

3. The gate valve of claim 2, further comprising a solenoid configured to compress the biasing member, thereby reducing the magnitude of the first force on the baffle.

4. The gate valve according to claim 3, further comprising a drying chamber, The biasing member and the solenoid are disposed in the drying chamber.

5. The gate valve according to claim 3, further comprising a linkage system extending between the solenoid and the baffle.

6. The gate valve according to claim 3, further comprising: A hydraulic turbine configured to generate electricity; as well as A battery, configured to store electricity generated by the hydraulic turbine, The battery is connected to the solenoid and configured to supply power to the solenoid.

7. The gate valve of claim 1, wherein the baffle is configured to rotate between the open position and the closed position.

8. The gate valve of claim 1, wherein the baffle is configured to translate between the open position and the closed position.

9. A toilet, the toilet comprising: A toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a sump; A sewage discharge channel, which is in fluid communication with a sump pit; as well as A gate valve, the gate valve including a baffle and a biasing member, the baffle being configured to move between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the closed position the baffle blocks a passage to prevent fluid from flowing through the passage, and the biasing member being configured to bias the baffle toward the closed position.

10. The toilet of claim 9, wherein the biasing member is configured to apply a first force to the baffle, biasing the baffle toward a closed position. The contents of the toilet bowl are configured to apply a second force to the baffle, biasing the baffle toward an open position. When the magnitude of the second force exceeds the magnitude of the first force, the baffle is configured to move to the open position.

11. The toilet of claim 10, wherein the gate valve further comprises: A solenoid configured to compress the biasing member, thereby reducing the magnitude of the first force on the baffle.

12. The toilet according to claim 11, further comprising a drying chamber. The biasing member and the solenoid are disposed in the drying chamber.

13. The toilet according to claim 11, further comprising: Flushing valve; An edge line, which is connected to a flushing valve and configured to conduct fluid flow to an edge outlet; A sump jetter line, which is connected to the flushing valve and configured to conduct fluid flow to the sump jetter outlet; as well as A bypass line, including a hydraulic turbine, is connected to the edge line via a first splitter and a second splitter.

14. The toilet according to claim 13, further comprising: A battery, which is connected to the hydraulic turbine and the solenoid; as well as A controller is connected to the battery and the solenoid.

15. The toilet according to claim 9, further comprising: A sump ejector valve, the sump ejector valve being configured to selectively supply a first fluid flow to a sump ejector line, the sump ejector line being configured to conduct the first fluid flow to a sump ejector outlet; An edge valve configured to selectively supply a second fluid flow to an edge line, the edge line being configured to conduct the second fluid flow to an edge outlet; as well as A bypass line, including a hydraulic turbine, is connected to the edge line via a first splitter and a second splitter.

16. A method for flushing a toilet, the method comprising: Open the first valve; A first flow of water is provided through the first valve, the first flow of water cleaning the toilet bowl; The compression of the biasing member set in the gate valve causes the baffle to move from the closed position to the open position; Open the second valve; A second water flow is provided through the second valve, the second water flow flowing into the sump of the toilet; Close the second valve; Release the biasing member so that the baffle moves from the open position to the closed position; The toilet bowl is filled with a predetermined volume of water; as well as Close the first valve.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein compressing the biasing member disposed in the gate valve comprises: The actuating solenoid compresses the biasing member.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein releasing the biasing member comprises: Actuate the solenoid to release the biasing member.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the gate valve is disposed in the drain passage of the toilet.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the first water flow provided through the first valve fills the drain channel with a predetermined volume of water to prepare the siphon in the toilet.

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