System and method for suppressing fluid splashing

Abstract

To provide a suitable system and method for suppressing fluid splashing.SOLUTION: Systems and methods for suppressing fluid splashing include using a fluid spaced from a vessel and / or a fluid surface to effectively trap materials from a fluid stream flowing through a fluid flow. The fluid flow creates a spray envelope in connection with the fluid surface and / or the vessel and substantially prevents droplets of the fluid stream from exiting the vessel. The fluid flow is created by allowing a supply fluid to flow through a nozzle oriented to cast a spray pattern into the vessel and / or into contact with the fluid surface. The fluid flow may be selectively activated and deactivated and / or be automatically (e.g., light or motion) activated and deactivated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 941,504, filed November 27, 2019, entitled "Systems and Methods Related to Fluid Splash Containment," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Containment of fluid splashing within a defined area or volume can be difficult. Such containment may be necessary or desirable in manufacturing operations, cleaning operations, or even in domestic situations, such as wastewater containment. Splashing tends to occur when a fluid flow is directed into a substantially hydrostatic (generally stationary) fluid or onto a solid surface and the flow continues to flow for some time, albeit at various locations, velocities, and / or pressures.

[0003] Splashing in such situations (e.g., urine flow initially entering a substantially hydrostatic toilet water or other receptacle or container) is believed to have multiple causes. A first cause of splashing is believed to be flow reversal or drift away from the hydrostatic or receptacle (e.g., toilet or urinal) surface. A second cause of splashing may involve the receiving fluid (e.g., toilet water) responding to the introduction of flow and splashing outward from the intersection of the flow. A third cause of splashing may be a combination of the first two causes, which may be caused by changes in flow direction, flow rate, and / or pressure.

[0004] Previous methods have been developed to reduce fluid splashing. The first method is to treat the receiving fluid itself with a surfactant or the like to reduce the surface tension of the receiving fluid. In this way, the exposed or stationary surface of the receiving fluid can be made to form a splash-protective surface made of bubbles upon inflow and continued flow into the receiving fluid. While this method has proven partially successful, it requires continuous chemical treatment of the receiving water (e.g., after a toilet is flushed) and may not adequately prevent splashing that occurs during inflow (i.e., reversal or reversal) and before the formation of the bubble layer.

[0005] Another prior method has been to increase the amount of physical structure of the fluid receptacle to create a physical barrier or shield to physically capture the escaping droplets. This attempted solution has several problems. First, the additional structure can be bulky and unattractive, and may even prevent certain users from using the receptacle. Second, the physical structure or shield requires frequent and thorough cleaning to maintain sanitation. Third, the physical structure barrier is not always effective at capturing the escaping droplets, which may move substantially opposite the direction of flow of the stream.

[0006] Therefore, the art of fluid splatter suppression would benefit from improved systems and methods to address at least some of the problems associated with previous methods. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of systems and methods according to the present invention relate generally to fluid splatter control, and more particularly to a spray envelope for receiving a fluid stream.

[0008] According to one aspect of the method of the present invention, the method includes establishing a first fluid flow (e.g., water) away from a container, the fluid flow having an outside air side and an opposing container side. The first fluid flow (e.g., urine) is directed through the fluid flow from the outside air side. Furthermore, the movement of fluid droplets containing fluid from the first fluid flow on the container side is impeded or completely prevented from reaching the outside air side using the first fluid flow. The first fluid flow can be a spray or a laminar flow.

[0009] According to another aspect of the method of the present invention, the first fluid flow can be a fan-shaped (e.g., substantially V-shaped, which can be relatively flat, curved flat, or even conical) spray pattern. The fan-shaped spray pattern can include a spread angle between 45 and 135 degrees, and more preferably about 80 degrees.

[0010] According to yet another aspect of the method of the present invention, a hydrostatic fluid surface (e.g., toilet water) can be placed in a container, and a first fluid flow can be established at a predetermined spray angle relative to the hydrostatic fluid surface, such spray angle being between about 15 degrees and about 90 degrees, more preferably greater than 30 degrees, and even more preferably about 65 degrees.

[0011] According to one aspect of the system of the present invention, the system includes a liquid receptacle, which may hold a liquid (e.g., water) having an exposed surface. A first nozzle is configured to direct a first spray pattern into or into the receptacle, thereby defining a first spray envelope. The first spray pattern is configured to prevent droplets from within the first spray envelope from passing through the first spray pattern.

[0012] According to another aspect of the system according to the invention, the exposed surface of the liquid is at least substantially hydrostatic.

[0013] According to yet another aspect of the system of the present invention, the first spray pattern originates from a supply line and the liquid held in the liquid receiver originates from a temporary collection tank.

[0014] According to yet another aspect of the system of the present invention, the system can include a second nozzle configured to direct a second spray pattern into the receiver to define a second spray envelope, wherein the second spray pattern is configured to prevent droplets from within the second spray envelope from passing through the second spray pattern. In the presence of liquid, the first spray pattern can intersect with the second spray pattern at a location away from the liquid in the receiver. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a fluid splash suppression system according to the present invention.

[0016] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid splash suppression system according to the present invention.

[0017] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the system according to FIG.

[0018] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a partial plan view of a second embodiment of a fluid splash suppression system according to the present invention.

[0019] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG.

[0020] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a partial plan view of a third embodiment of a fluid splash suppression system according to the present invention.

[0021] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a partial plan view of a fourth embodiment of a fluid splash suppression system according to the present invention.

[0022] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front view of a fifth embodiment of a fluid splash suppression system according to the present invention.

[0023] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view taken at line 9-9 of FIG.

[0024] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a laminar dome nozzle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] While the disclosure herein is detailed and accurate to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the physical embodiments disclosed herein are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in other specific structures. While preferred embodiments have been described, details may be changed without departing from the invention as defined by the claims.

[0026] 1-3, a first embodiment 100 of a fluid splash suppression system in accordance with the present invention can be described. System 100 generally includes an electrical circuit 120 that at least partially controls a liquid circuit 140. While variations of system 100 are described throughout, it should be understood that many of the elements of circuits 120, 140 can be interchanged and used in alternative embodiments. Electrical circuit 120 preferably includes a power source 122, such as a 9-volt DC battery or converted DC power received from a converter that can be connected to a mains power source. Power source 122 is used to selectively activate (or deactivate) a solenoid control valve 124 to control the flow of liquid from liquid supply line 142 to feed line 144 and then to nozzle 146 to create a desired fluid flow (e.g., spray pattern 150). Although discussed throughout the following description as a spray pattern 150, the flow may similarly be less turbulent or substantially non-turbulent (lower Reynolds number flow), such as provided by a relatively flat laminar nozzle or a laminar sheet flow established by a full or partial laminar dome. A laminar dome nozzle can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,775,457 to Schnuckle, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and is described more fully below in connection with FIG. 10. While the flow is shown in the figures as a substantially planar flow, it should be understood that it may not be completely planar. That is, the flow may be a predetermined flow that may be planar, substantially planar, or even curved (e.g., influenced by gravity and / or other forces or design considerations).

[0027] Selective activation or deactivation of valve 124 may be achieved using a single-pole, single-throw switch 126, which may be a normally open momentary switch. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical circuit may include a motion sensor (not shown) control or supplement to switch 126. The motion sensor may be touchless (e.g., infrared, light, etc.) or may be activated by the movement of an object, such as the position or movement of a toilet seat (not shown) (e.g., limit switch or capacitive sensing). Additionally or alternatively, the electrical circuit may include a timer in combination with the sensor / switch to allow activation a predetermined time after initial activation (sensing or switching). Alternatively, valve 124 may not be electrical at all and may be a manually operated fluid control valve operated by an instantaneous diaphragm valve or twist valve.

[0028] 1 illustrates a system 100 installed in a conventional porcelain toilet 20, generally establishing a splash control system 10. As is known, the toilet 20 includes a flush supply tank 22 (fed by a tank supply line 22a) for supplying water to the toilet cavity 24. Typically, when the toilet 20 is ready for use, a hydrostatic water surface 26 is positioned approximately horizontal (and at least substantially parallel) to a supporting surface 30, such as a floor, and to an upper edge 28 of a toilet bowl 29 that surrounds the cavity 24.

[0029] Installation of the system 100 in a receptacle (e.g., a toilet 20) can be accomplished in a variety of ways; the system 100, or portions thereof, may even be integrally constructed as part of the toilet 20. Typically, the nozzle 146 is fixed to the toilet bowl 29 (or incorporated into the structure of the toilet 20) and directed toward the opposite side of the bowl 29 at a desired spray angle 152 relative to the hydrostatic surface 26. While shown in separate locations for purposes of disclosure of the exemplary embodiment, it should be understood that the nozzle X46 may be positioned at any one or more locations around the periphery of the receptacle's inner surface. A preferred spray angle 152 is between 15 degrees and approximately 90 degrees, more preferably greater than approximately 30 degrees, and most preferably approximately 65 degrees. A solenoid control valve 124 is positioned in fluid communication with the supply line 142 and is electrically coupled to the power source 122 and the switch 126 (and / or other actuating sensor or switch). If desired, an additional manually or electrically controlled flow valve 124 can be placed in line as part of the supply line 142 to aid in adjusting the nozzle spray pattern 150. The supply line 142 can be an extension of the standard toilet supply line 34, which is connected to a water main, such as a building's water main, or can be coupled to the toilet supply line (such as via a valve 32). Alternatively, the supply line 142 can be gravity fed from a water collection tank or even from a pump to provide the desired pressure.

[0030] Thus, when activated, spray pattern 150 generally creates a spray envelope 154, which may also be defined by or at least partially surrounded by a portion of surface 26 and / or receptacle, such as toilet bowl 29. A preferred spray pattern is a flat, fan-shaped pattern having a preferred spread angle 156. The preferred spread angle 156 is between about 45 degrees and about 135 degrees, with 80 degrees being most preferred. Spray pattern 150 contacts water surface 26 along a confluence line 158, which may be a substantially linear splatter of droplets of spray pattern 150 (e.g., water) or droplets of fluid (e.g., water or a water / urine mixture) that form hydrostatic surface 26. Surface 26 extends along a surface length 162 that extends parallel to support surface 30 and has a length from a first point on hydrostatic surface 26 closest to nozzle 146 to a second point on surface 26 diametrically opposite from the first point across vessel 20. Parameters such as spray angle 152, divergence angle 156, and pressure supplied via supply line 142 can be adjusted to position confluence line 158 along surface length 162 at a predetermined distance 164, such as less than halfway along surface length 162. Adjustments can be made to achieve the desired spray pattern 150 and minimize overspray outside of vessel 20 that may be caused by excessive supply pressure.

[0031] In use, when the desired flow rate and spray pattern 150 are adjusted, a fluid flow (e.g., a urine flow) may be passed from the side of the spray pattern 150 outside the spray envelope 154 (e.g., outside the cavity 24), through the spray pattern 150, into the spray envelope 154, and contact the fluid surface 26 and / or the surface of the toilet bowl 29. To the extent that splashing occurs within the spray envelope 154 due to the fluid flow contacting the fluid surface 26 and / or the container 29, such splashing is substantially contained within the spray envelope 154, or at least substantially prevented from leaving the cavity 24.

[0032] 4-5 illustrate another embodiment 11 of a splash control system according to the present invention, where like numbering indicates the same or substantially similar structure or disclosure as in the first embodiment 10. In this embodiment 11, multiple spray patterns are provided by multiple nozzles. Much like the first embodiment, installation can be accomplished in a variety of ways, and the system may even be incorporated as part of the toilet 20. Generally, nozzles 246, 346 are fixed to the toilet bowl 29, with the nozzles facing opposite sides of the bowl 29 at desired spray angles 252, 352, respectively, relative to the hydrostatic surface 26. Both nozzles 246, 346 may be arranged in a parallel relationship within the fluid circuit, and both are fed by a feed line 144 from a solenoid-controlled valve 124. The solenoid-controlled valve 124 is placed in fluid communication with the supply line 142 and is electrically coupled to a power source 122 and a switch 126. If desired, an additional manually or electrically controlled flow valve 124 can be placed in-line as part of the supply line 142 to aid in adjusting the nozzle spray pattern 250, 350. The supply line 142 can be an extension of or coupled (such as via a valve 32) to a standard toilet supply line 34, which is coupled to a water main, such as a building's water main. Alternatively, the supply line 142 can be gravity fed from a water collection tank or even from a pump to provide the desired pressure.

[0033] Thus, when activated, the spray patterns 250, 350 generally create multiple spray envelopes 254, 354, which may also be defined by or at least partially surrounded by a portion of the surface 26 and / or receptacle, such as the toilet bowl 29. A preferred spray pattern is a flat, fan-shaped pattern having a preferred spread angle 156. The preferred spread angle 256, 356 is between about 45 degrees and about 135 degrees, with 80 degrees being most preferred. The multiple spread angles 256, 356 may be substantially similar or identical, or they may be substantially different but still within the preferred range. The spray patterns 250, 350 contact the water surface 26 along respective converging intersections 258, 358, which may be a substantially linear splatter of droplets of the respective spray patterns 250, 350 (e.g., water) or droplets of the fluid (e.g., water or water / urine mixture) that form the hydrostatic surface 26. The surface 26 extends along a surface length 162 parallel to the support surface 30, from a first point on the hydrostatic surface 26 closest to the first nozzle 246 to a second point on the hydrostatic surface 26 closest to the second nozzle 346. Parameters such as the spray angles 252, 352, the spread angles 256, 356, and the pressure supplied via the supply line 142 can be adjusted to position the converging intersections 258, 358 along the surface length 162 at respective predetermined distances 264, 364, such as less than halfway along the surface length 162. Adjustments can be made to achieve the desired spray patterns 250, 350 and minimize overspray outside the vessel 20, which may be caused by excessive supply pressure. In this embodiment, when the converging intersections 258, 358 are separated, they can be positioned a predetermined distance apart to create a turbulent channel 159 between them. The turbulence channels 159, along with the spray envelopes 254, 354, can help prevent splash-out. Alternatively, parameters such as the spray angle 252, 352, the spread angle 256, 356, and the pressure supplied through the supply line 142 can be adjusted so that the spray patterns 250, 350 overlap, thereby creating overlapping spray envelopes 254, 354.

[0034] In use, when the desired flow rate and spray pattern 250, 350 are adjusted, a fluid flow (e.g., a urine flow) may be directed from the side of the spray pattern 250 or 350 outside the spray envelope 254 or 354 (e.g., outside the cavity 24), through the spray pattern 250 or 350, into the respective spray envelope 254 or 354, and contact the fluid surface 26 and / or the surface of the toilet bowl 29. To the extent that splashing occurs within the spray envelope 254 or 354 due to the fluid flow contacting the fluid surface 26 and / or the container 29, such splashing is substantially contained within the spray envelope 254 or 354, or at least substantially prevented from exiting the cavity 24. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid flow (e.g., a urine flow) may be introduced into the turbulence channels 159 and thereby contained.

[0035] FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment 12 of a splatter control system according to the present invention, where like numbering indicates the same or substantially similar structure or disclosure as in the first embodiment 10. In this embodiment 12, multiple spray patterns are provided by multiple nozzles. For example, two nozzles 246, 346 from the second embodiment 11 may be combined with the nozzle 146 from the first embodiment, resulting in three (or more) overlapping spray patterns forming a splatter-free region 454 that includes multiple spray envelopes 154, 254, 354 and may include turbulence channels 159. The splatter-free region 454 preferably covers a majority of the fluid surface 26. The three nozzles 146, 246, 346 are preferably arranged in a parallel relationship in the fluid circuit, all fed by a feed line 144 from the solenoid-controlled valve 124.

[0036] 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment 13 of a splash control system according to the present invention, where like numbering indicates the same or substantially similar structure or disclosure with respect to the first embodiment 10. In this embodiment, the nozzle is positioned to spray from the front of the toilet 20 toward the tank 22. Such an arrangement may prove beneficial in helping to reduce splashing that may be caused by a user of the toilet 20 sitting on the toilet 20 rather than standing. This arrangement may be used alone or in combination with any of the preceding embodiments.

[0037] 8-9 illustrate a fifth embodiment 14 of a splash control system according to the present invention, where like numbering indicates the same or substantially similar structure or disclosure as in the first embodiment 10. In this embodiment 14, a nozzle 646 is secured to or integrally formed with the wall 49 of the urinal 40 and is directed toward the opposite side of the cavity 44 at a desired spray angle 652 relative to the wall 49. Similar to the fluid circuits of the previous embodiments, a solenoid control valve 124 is placed in fluid communication with a supply line 142 and is electrically coupled to a power source 122 and a switch 126. If desired, an additional manual or electrically controlled flow valve 124 may be placed in line as part of the supply line 142 to aid in adjusting the nozzle spray pattern 650. The supply line 142 may be an extension of a standard urinal supply line, which is coupled to a water main, such as a building's water main, or may be coupled to the urinal supply line (e.g., via a valve 32). Alternatively, the supply line 142 may be gravity fed from a water collection tank or even from a pump to provide the desired pressure.

[0038] Thus, when activated, the spray pattern 650 generally creates a spray envelope 654, which may also be defined or at least partially surrounded by a portion of the receptacle, such as the urinal wall 49. A preferred spray pattern is a flat fan pattern (or a partial conical pattern) with a preferred spread angle 656. The preferred spread angle 656 is between about 45 degrees and about 135 degrees, with 80 degrees being most preferred. The spray pattern 650 preferably contacts the urinal wall 49 inside the cavity 44 and below the front lip or edge 47 of the cavity 44. Parameters such as the spray angle 652, spread angle 656, and the pressure supplied via the supply line 142 can be adjusted to position the pattern 650 in this manner. Adjustments can be made to achieve the desired spray pattern 650 and minimize overspray outside the container 40, which may be caused by excessive supply pressure.

[0039] In use, when the desired flow rate and spray pattern 650 are adjusted, a fluid flow (e.g., a urine flow) may be forced from the side of the spray pattern 650 outside the spray envelope 654 (e.g., outside the cavity 44), through the spray pattern 650, into the spray envelope 654, and contact the wall 49. To the extent that splashing occurs within the spray envelope 654 due to the fluid flow contacting the container 40, such splashing is substantially contained within the spray envelope 654, or at least substantially prevented from leaving the cavity 44.

[0040] FIG. 10 shows a laminar flow dome nozzle 746, similar to that shown and described in Schnuckle (U.S. Pat. No. 7,775,457), FIGS. 3 and 4. As shown, the nozzle 746 receives water from the supply line 144. The body of the nozzle 746 is generally a hollow cylinder that directs the flow of water from the supply line 142 to an opening at the outlet end 770. In use, the nozzle 746 is fixed in place with a portion extending above the water surface 26 or spaced from the vessel wall, and its outlet 770 is at a particular height, e.g., up to about 3 to 6 inches, or more. The height of the nozzle outlet 770 above the surface 26 is selected to correspond (at least typically) to the height of the bell or dome formed by the nozzle 746.

[0041] A diverter or spray head component 772 moves from a closed or retracted position adjacent to or resting on the outlet 770 to a flow position, as shown in FIG. 10. The diverter 772 has a distal end 774 attached to the body of the nozzle 746, this rigidly attached end 774 being connected to the diverter 772 by a spring, coil, or other resilient member 776 that acts to retract the diverter 772 when there is no or little water flow, but allows the diverter to extend or retract to the open or spray position as shown under a certain level of water flow / pressure. The diverter 772 is generally shaped to direct water outward generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the nozzle body 746, such as substantially vertical (or somewhat above or below a plane perpendicular to the nozzle axis). Also, the diverter 772 is configured in some embodiments to direct a substantially equal amount or volume of water flow around the periphery of the nozzle outlet 770 to form a continuous wall of water forming a dome or bell shape (although in some embodiments partial domes are formed by overlapping adjacent domes to provide a sealed chamber for the mist and / or flow path of the flammable / explosive gas).

[0042] Water is discharged from the nozzle between the outlet 770 and the diverter 772 (e.g., directed outward by a spray head or diverter 772). As shown, the discharged water forms a bell shape or dome 750 with a wall of water extending from the nozzle outlet 770 to the water surface 26. The water wall 412 has a thickness that can vary (e.g., from about 0.1 to about 0.5 inches, or more), but the thickness is preferably one with few or no gaps, such as can be achieved when the water flow rate is matched to the nozzle 746 to achieve relatively laminar or non-turbulent flow (e.g., the wall 750 is made of a substantially continuous flow or volume of water in laminar flow). Also, in some embodiments, the wall 750 extends approximately 360 degrees around the nozzle 746 (e.g., at a substantially constant radius from the central axis of the body of the nozzle 746), although it may be desirable to limit the wall 750 to less than 360 degrees around the nozzle 746. A flow interrupter 780 may be inserted into or integrally formed with the nozzle 746 to restrict or control the shape of the wall 750. The interrupter 780 may extend or prevent water flow through a desired portion or angle of the outlet 770. As shown, approximately 180 degrees of flow is interrupted to provide a substantially half dome 750. The interrupter 780 provides a guide surface 782 and a diverter travel limiting surface 784 for cooperation with the diverter 772. The guide surface 782 preferably maintains the rotational alignment of the diverter 772 within the nozzle 746. The diverter travel limiting surface 784 preferably provides a seat into which a portion of the diverter can fit to prevent overextension of the diverter 772 under high water pressure conditions.

[0043] Dome wall 750 (or its interior surface) defines an interior void or hollow chamber 764. The size of dome 750 and its interior chamber 764 has a radius R that varies depending on the height (e.g., the height or amount that nozzle 770 extends above water surface 26) and the height and angle at which nozzle 746 is positioned relative to water surface 26, the design of nozzle / diverter 772, and the water flow rate. D The radius R of the dome 750 isD may be intentionally changed or set during operation of the assembly, such as by changing the water flow rate (e.g., by operating valves 32, 148 in lines 142, 144 to control the flow, etc.). Additionally, the position angle of the nozzle 146 may be selected to achieve a desired laminar flow dome shape / pattern. A relatively perpendicular relationship to the water surface 26 can be selected to provide a dome 750 as shown. When rotated clockwise, gravity acts on the dome 750 throughout the pattern G1 for the nozzle 746 to create a substantially vertical wall of laminar flow when the nozzle 746 is rotated to a position substantially parallel to the water surface 26, creating a radius R D becomes shorter and the dome 750 becomes flatter. As the nozzle 146 rotates clockwise beyond 90 degrees, the wall 750' begins to move away from the body of the nozzle 746 throughout the gravity pattern G2 for the nozzle 746. Regardless of the position of the nozzle 746 relative to the water surface 26 (or relative to the vessel surface), a preferred laminar flow shape can be achieved by varying the nozzle outlet 770, diverter 772, interrupter 780, and water pressure.

[0044] Systems according to the present invention can be assembled from readily available electrical and plumbing components, or custom components can be designed specifically to couple to or be incorporated within the vessel.

[0045] The foregoing is considered merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Moreover, since numerous modifications and changes may readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described. While preferred embodiments have been described, details may be changed without departing from the invention as defined by the claims. The present specification also provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) 1. A method, comprising: establishing a first fluid flow away from the container, the fluid flow having an outside air side and an opposing container side; directing a first fluid flow through the fluid flow from the ambient air side; using the fluid flow to impede the movement of fluid droplets containing fluid from the first fluid stream on the container side to an ambient air side; A method comprising: (Item 2) Item 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow comprises a fan spray pattern. (Item 3) 3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the fan-shaped spray pattern comprises a spread angle between 45 degrees and 135 degrees. (Item 4) 4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the divergence angle is about 80 degrees. (Item 5) Item 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising a hydrostatic fluid surface disposed within the vessel. (Item 6) 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the first fluid flow is established at a predetermined spray angle relative to the hydrostatic fluid surface, the spray angle being between about 15 degrees and about 90 degrees. (Item 7) 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the spray angle is greater than 30 degrees. (Item 8) 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the spray angle is about 65 degrees. (Item 9) Item 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow consists essentially of water and the first fluid flow comprises urine. (Item 10) 1. A system comprising: a liquid receiver for holding a liquid; a first nozzle configured to direct a first spray pattern at an acute angle toward the exposed surface of the liquid to define a first spray envelope; Including, The system, wherein the first spray pattern is configured to prevent droplets from the first spray envelope from passing through the first spray pattern. (Item 11) Item 11. The system of item 10, wherein the exposed surface of the liquid is at least substantially hydrostatic. (Item 12) Item 11. The system according to item 10, wherein the liquid is water. (Item 13) Item 11. The system of item 10, wherein the first spray pattern originates from a supply line and the liquid held by the liquid receiver originates from a temporary collection tank. (Item 14) a second nozzle configured to direct a second spray pattern into the receiver at an acute angle relative to an exposed surface of the liquid to define a second spray envelope; Item 11. The system of item 10, wherein the second spray pattern is configured to prevent droplets from the second spray envelope from passing through the second spray pattern. (Item 15) Item 15. The system of item 14, wherein the first spray pattern intersects with the second spray pattern at a location away from the liquid in the receiver. (Item 16) 1. A system comprising: a liquid waste receptacle having a fluid receiving cavity; a first nozzle configured to direct a first spray pattern into the cavity upon operative connection to a liquid supply; Including, the system. (Item 17) Item 17. The system of item 16, wherein the nozzle is positioned within the cavity. (Item 18) Item 18. The system of item 17, wherein the liquid waste receptacle is a toilet. (Item 19) Item 18. The system of item 17, wherein the liquid waste receptacle is a urinal. (Item 20) Item 17. The system of item 16, further comprising a second nozzle configured to direct a second spray pattern into the cavity upon operative connection to a liquid supply. (Item 21) 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the first spray pattern and the second spray pattern are directed at least substantially simultaneously.

Claims

1. 1. A method, comprising: establishing a spray pattern spaced from the container, the spray pattern being formed by a laminar flow of fluid and being directed by a nozzle having an ambient air side and an opposing container side, the nozzle including a nozzle body, an outlet, and a diverter configured to move from a closed position adjacent the outlet to an open position when a predetermined level of fluid flows through the nozzle, the diverter shaped to direct fluid outwardly across a longitudinal axis of the nozzle body in equal amounts around a periphery of the outlet, such that the laminar flow of fluid forms a continuous wall of water having at least a partial dome shape; directing a fluid flow from the ambient side through the spray pattern; using the spray pattern to disrupt the movement of fluid droplets containing fluid from the fluid stream on the container side to the ambient air side; A method comprising:

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the spray pattern comprises a fan pattern.

3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the fan pattern includes a spread angle between 45 degrees and 135 degrees.

4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the divergence angle is 80 degrees.

5. The method of claim 1 further comprising a hydrostatic fluid surface disposed within the vessel.

6. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the spray pattern is established at a predetermined angle relative to the hydrostatic fluid surface, such angle being between 15 and 90 degrees.

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the angle is greater than 30 degrees.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the angle is 65 degrees.

9. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the spray pattern comprises water and the fluid stream comprises urine.

10. 1. A system comprising: a liquid receiver for holding a liquid; a first nozzle configured to direct a first spray pattern at an acute angle toward the exposed surface of the liquid to define a first spray envelope, the first spray pattern being formed by a laminar flow of fluid; Including, the first nozzle includes a nozzle body, an outlet, and a diverter; the diverter is configured to move from a closed position adjacent the outlet to an open position when a predetermined level of fluid flows through the first nozzle, the diverter being shaped to direct fluid outwardly across the longitudinal axis of the nozzle body in equal amounts around a periphery of the outlet such that the laminar flow of fluid forms a continuous wall of water having at least a partial dome shape; The system, wherein the first spray pattern is configured to prevent droplets from the first spray envelope from passing through the first spray pattern.

11. The system of claim 10 , wherein the exposed surface of the liquid is hydrostatic pressure.

12. The system of claim 10 , wherein the liquid is water.

13. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first spray pattern originates from a supply line and the liquid held by the liquid receiver originates from a temporary collection tank.

14. a second nozzle configured to direct a second spray pattern into the receiver at an acute angle relative to an exposed surface of the liquid to define a second spray envelope; The system of claim 10 , wherein the second spray pattern is configured to prevent droplets from the second spray envelope from passing through the second spray pattern.

15. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the first spray pattern intersects with the second spray pattern at a location away from the liquid in the receiver.

16. 1. A system comprising: a liquid waste receptacle having a fluid receiving cavity; a first nozzle configured to direct a first spray pattern into the cavity upon operative connection to a liquid supply, the first spray pattern being formed by a laminar flow of fluid; Including, the first nozzle includes a nozzle body, an outlet, and a diverter; the diverter is configured to move from a closed position adjacent the outlet to an open position when a predetermined level of fluid flows through the first nozzle, the diverter being shaped to direct fluid outwardly across the longitudinal axis of the nozzle body in equal amounts around a periphery of the outlet such that the laminar flow of fluid forms a continuous wall of water having at least a partial dome shape.

17. The system of claim 16 , wherein the nozzle is positioned within the cavity.

18. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the liquid waste receptacle is a toilet.

19. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the liquid waste receptacle is a urinal.

20. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising a second nozzle configured to direct a second spray pattern into the cavity upon operative connection to a liquid supply.

21. 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the first spray pattern and the second spray pattern are directed at least simultaneously.

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