Device for cleaning toilet bowls

Abstract

A device for cleaning a toilet bowl configured to be placed on the rim of a toilet bowl, the device comprising: a container configured to be placed within the bowl and filled with cleaning water that flows from the rim of the bowl into the bowl; a sprinkler positioned on the side of the container facing the bowl and configured to spray jets of water into the bowl; a control unit attached to the container via a bridge, located outside the rim of the bowl, and configured to control the operation of the device; and a pump positioned within the control unit, fluidly connected to the interior of the container and the sprinkler, and configured to pump water from the container and push a flow of water towards the sprinkler to form jets of water that are sprayed from the sprinkler.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 483,286, filed February 5, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The present subject matter relates to toilet bowls. More particularly, the present subject matter relates to devices for cleaning toilet bowls. [Background technology]

[0002] The procedure for cleaning a toilet bowl is usually time-consuming and tedious. This is a result of the unique structure of the toilet bowl, which requires meticulous movements and gestures by the person cleaning the bowl to thoroughly clean all parts of the bowl. Typically, such cleaning is performed using a toilet brush, which may expose the person cleaning the bowl to detergents and dirt that may be sprayed during cleaning. Another disadvantage of using a brush to clean a toilet bowl is the accumulation of dirt and microorganisms on the brush, particularly between the bristles and on the surface of the bristles, some of which may be pathogenic.

[0003] There are several commercially available solutions for cleaning toilet bowls that do not require human contact. These solutions typically contain some type of detergent (usually in capsule form) that is embedded in the toilet bowl, e.g., attached to the inside of the bowl, and releases a small amount of detergent each time the toilet bowl is flushed. In addition, some solutions are embedded in the toilet tank and connected directly to a water source so as to release a small amount of detergent from the toilet tank each time it is flushed.

[0004] However, such commercial solutions cannot provide comprehensive cleaning of the toilet bowl because some toilet bowl soils require physical contact, e.g., contact with a toilet brush, to be removed. This is because some soils are in dry surface contact with the inside of the toilet bowl, while the detergent material dispensed into the toilet bowl for cleaning only contacts the outer surfaces of these soils and does not remove them. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this subject belongs.Although the present subject can be implemented or tested using methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein, suitable methods and materials are described below.In case of discrepancy, the patent specification, including definitions, shall prevail.In addition, materials, methods, and examples are only illustrative and are not intended to be limiting.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present inventive subject matter, there is provided a device for cleaning a toilet bowl, the device comprising: a bridge configured to be disposed on the rim of the toilet bowl, the bridge including a first edge and a second edge; a container extending downward from the first edge of the bridge and configured to be positioned within the toilet bowl below a portion of the rim of the toilet bowl through which water flows for flushing into the toilet bowl, the interior of the container being configured to be filled with flushing water flowing from the rim of the toilet bowl into the toilet bowl; a sprinkler positioned on a side of the receptacle facing the toilet bowl and configured to sprinkle a jet of water into the toilet bowl, the sprinkler comprising at least one sprinkler motor configured to move the sprinkler and direct the jet of water at any point in the toilet bowl; a control unit attached to a second edge of the bridge and external to the toilet bowl rim, the control unit configured to control operation of the device; a pump positioned within the control unit and fluidly connected to the interior of the container and to the sprinkler, the pump configured to pump water from the container and force a flow of water toward the sprinkler in a manner that causes the formation of jets that are sprayed from the sprinkler; at least one power source positioned within the control unit and electrically connected to the pump via a pump switch; and control electronics positioned within the control unit so as to be signally connected to the components of the device and configured to control operation of the device.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the bridge is flexible.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the bridge is configured to adjust its length.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the at least one power source is a battery.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the battery is a disposable battery.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the battery is a rechargeable battery.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the control electronics is a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0013] According to one embodiment, the control electronics is a chip.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to accumulate water that flows into the toilet bowl for flushing.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to store a quantity of water that is sufficient to be sprayed over the entire area of ​​the toilet bowl.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to store a volume of water substantially in the range of 100-200 ml.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the container is configured to store a volume of water of substantially 150 ml.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the sprinkler is configured to sprinkle jets of water in a manner that causes the jets of water to systematically scan the boiling surface of the toilet, thus cleaning the entire surface of the toilet bowl.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the sprinkler is configured to spray a jet of water to clean surfaces at the bottom of the toilet bowl that are covered with standing water.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the pump is fluidly connected to the interior of the container using a first pipe and to the water sprayer using a second pipe.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the pump is configured to generate a jet of water that is sprayed from the sprayer and has an intensity that removes any type of dirt or soil from the surface of the toilet bowl.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the pump is configured to generate a jet of water having an intensity that removes dirt or waste from surfaces at the bottom of the toilet bowl that are covered with standing water.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the bridge is configured to change its length to adjust to any width of the toilet rim.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the bridge is configured to flex and to allow the container to be positioned below a portion of the rim of the toilet bowl where water flows into the bowl for flushing, and the control unit to be positioned outside the toilet rim.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the bridge is configured to flex and allow for secure positioning of the device on the rim of the toilet bowl.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the top surface of the container is at least partially open to allow flushing water to enter the container from the rim of the toilet bowl.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the top of the container is open.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the top surface of the container is covered with a container cover that has at least one opening that allows flushing water to enter the container from the rim of the toilet bowl.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the reservoir extends beyond the width of the bridge.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises at least one wing on at least one surface of the top of the container, the at least one wing configured to direct the rinsing water into the container.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises a pump switch configured to switch the pump on, or off, or on and off.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises a holder configured to hold an additive to the water in the container.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the holder is positioned above the container in the bridge.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the additive is either a detergent, or a disinfectant, or a fragrance, or a colorant, or any combination thereof.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the additive is a liquid.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the additive is a solid.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the additive is a solid tablet adapted to be slowly dissolved in water.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the holder is configured to hold the tablet in a manner that allows rinsing water entering the container to pass over the tablet and dissolve some of the tablet material.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the holder is configured to hold the tablet in a manner that allows the tablet to be at least partially immersed in water that is present in the container.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises a lamp electrically connected to at least one power source.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the lamp is positioned to the side of the sprinkler.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises a lamp switch configured to switch the lamp on, or off, or on and off.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the lamp switch is positioned on the surface of the control unit.

[0044] Embodiments are described herein, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Referring now in detail to the drawings, it is emphasized that the details shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of preferred embodiments, and are presented to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood explanation of the principles and conceptual aspects of the embodiments. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details in more detail than necessary for a fundamental understanding, and the description taken together with the drawings will make clear to those skilled in the art how some embodiments may be embodied in practice. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0045] In the drawings

[0046] [Figure 1A] 1 schematically illustrates a front perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 1B] 1 schematically illustrates a rear perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0047] [Figure 2] 1A and 1B schematically illustrate a front perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl with a bridge folded, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0048] [Figure 3] 10A and 10B are schematic illustrations of front views of the interior of a control unit according to exemplary embodiments;

[0049] [Figure 4] 10A and 10B schematically illustrate a rear view of the interior of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0050] [Figure 5A] 1 schematically illustrates a front perspective view of a container according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 5B] 1A and 1B are schematic illustrations of a top view of a container according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0051] [Figure 6] 1A and 1B schematically illustrate a rear view of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl, together with a cross-sectional view of a bridge, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0052] [Figure 7] 1A and 1B schematically illustrate a top view of a container with a cover according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0053] [Figure 8] 10A and 10B schematically illustrate a top view of a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] Before describing at least one embodiment in detail, it is to be understood that the present subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following specification or illustrated in the drawings. The present subject matter is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. In discussion of the various drawings described herein below, like numerals refer to like parts. The drawings generally are not to scale.

[0055] One object of the present subject matter is to provide a device for automatic cleaning of a toilet bowl, replacing manual cleaning of the toilet bowl. Another object is to provide a device that automatically cleans stubborn stains on a toilet bowl, i.e., stains that require physical contact to remove. A further object of the present subject matter is to provide a device that can be installed and adjusted for any type of toilet bowl. A further object is to provide a device for cleaning a toilet bowl that does not require the device to be connected to a mains water source, but rather uses water that flows into the toilet bowl periodically after use for flushing. A further object is to provide a device for cleaning a toilet bowl that does not require the device to be connected to a mains power source, but rather uses an internal power source. A further object is to provide a device for cleaning a toilet bowl that illuminates the toilet bowl and its surroundings regardless of the cleaning of the toilet bowl. An additional object is to provide a device for cleaning a toilet bowl that can be easily installed on an existing toilet bowl. A still further object is to provide a device for cleaning a toilet bowl that can be easily removed from the toilet bowl. The subject matter's device for cleaning a toilet bowl addresses all of these objects.

[0056] Reference is now made to Figures 1A and 1B, which schematically illustrate front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl, according to an exemplary embodiment. For simplicity, the device for cleaning a toilet bowl may hereinafter be referred to as "device 1." According to one embodiment, device 1 comprises: a bridge 12 configured to be disposed on the rim of a toilet bowl and including a first edge 122 and a second edge 124; a container 14 extending downward from the first edge 122 of the bridge 12 and configured to be positioned within the toilet bowl below a portion of the rim of the toilet bowl through which water flows for flushing into the toilet bowl, the interior of the container 14 being configured to be filled with flushing water flowing from the rim of the toilet bowl into the toilet bowl; a sprinkler 16 positioned on the side of the container 14 facing the toilet bowl and configured to sprinkle a jet of water into the toilet bowl, the sprinkler 16 including at least one sprinkler motor configured to move the sprinkler 16 and direct the jet of water at any point in the toilet bowl; a control unit 18 attached to the second edge 124 of the bridge 12 and located outside the toilet rim, the control unit 18 being configured to control the operation of the device 1; a pump positioned within the control unit 18 and fluidly connected to the interior of the container 14 and to the sprinkler 16, the pump configured to pump water from the container 14 and to force a stream of water toward the sprinkler 16 in a manner that causes the formation of jets of water that are sprayed from the sprinkler 16; at least one power source positioned within the control unit 18 and electrically connected to the pump 20 via a pump switch; and control electronics positioned within the control unit 18 so as to be signally connected to the components of the device and configured to control the operation of the components of the device.

[0057] An advantage of the present subject matter is that the water supply for operation of device 1 is flush water that falls freely and accumulates in container 14 during regular toilet bowl flushing, thus eliminating the need to connect device 1 to an external water source, such as a toilet water tank or mains water supply.

[0058] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which schematically illustrates a front perspective view of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl with the bridge in a folded position, according to an exemplary embodiment. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the bridge 12 is straight, while in FIG. 2, the bridge 12 is folded. Thus, according to one embodiment, the bridge 12 is configured to be in a straight position as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, or in a folded position as shown in FIG. 2. For example, on the one hand, when the device 1 is presented, for example, in an exhibition or when the device 1 is packaged, the bridge 12 can be in a straight position. On the other hand, when the device 1 is installed on the rim of the toilet bowl, the bridge 12 is in a folded position, allowing the container 14 to be inside the rim of the toilet bowl and the control unit 18 to be outside the rim of the toilet bowl.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the bridge 12 is flexible. This embodiment allows the bridge 12 to shift between a straight state and a bent state. This flexibility allows the bridge 12 to bend over the rim of the toilet bowl to position the container 14 below the rim of the toilet bowl where flushing water enters the bowl, and to position the control unit 18 on the outer surface of the rim of the toilet bowl. This flexibility also allows the bridge 12 to be adjusted to any available size and shape of toilet bowl rim. According to this embodiment, the bridge 12 is made of a flexible material. Any type of flexible material from which the bridge 12 is made is within the scope of the present subject matter, such as, but not limited to, silicone, flexible plastic, fabric, etc.

[0060] According to another embodiment, the bridge 12 is configured to adjust its length, for example, to lengthen or shorten it. This embodiment allows the bridge 12 to adjust to different sizes and shapes of toilet bowls in order to properly position the receptacle 14 under the rim of the toilet. Thus, according to this embodiment, the bridge 12 is made of an elastic material that allows the length of the bridge 12 to be changed, or, for example, the bridge 12 has a harmonica-like structure that allows the bridge 12 to be lengthened or shortened.

[0061] According to one embodiment, bridge 12 has exposed surface 12E, seen in Figures 1A and 2, and contact surface 12C, seen in Figures 1B and 2. When device 1 is placed on the rim of a toilet bowl with bridge 12 folded, as shown in Figure 2, exposed surface 12E of bridge 12 is exposed to, for example, the ambient air, while contact surface 12C of bridge 12 contacts the surface of the toilet bowl and the rim of the toilet bowl.

[0062] As can be seen in FIGS. 1A and 2, the exposed surface 12E of the bridge 12 is smooth. However, this is merely an exemplary representation of the exposed surface 12E and should not be considered limiting of the scope of the present subject matter. The exposed surface 12E can have any structure. However, according to one embodiment, the contact surface 12C of the bridge is rough. This embodiment allows the bridge 12 to be firmly secured to the surface of the toilet bowl and the surface of the toilet rim, for example, to prevent the device from slipping on the toilet rim during cleaning with the device 1. Any type of mechanism for roughening the contact surface 12C of the bridge 12 is within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, the contact surface 12C can have a high coefficient of friction, for example, by using a material with a high coefficient of friction from which the contact surface 12C is made. Another example shown in FIGS. 1B and 2 is a contact surface 12C with a high coefficient of friction that includes multiple protrusions 126 extending from the contact surface 12C, allowing the bridge 12 to be firmly secured on the toilet rim.

[0063] Returning now to Figure 1A, according to one embodiment, the control unit 18 includes a door 182. An opening in this door 182 provides access to a power supply compartment, described below.

[0064] Reference is now made to FIG. 3 , which schematically illustrates a front view of the interior of the control unit, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3 shows the control unit 18 and the second edge 124 of the bridge 12 attached to the control unit 18. More specifically, FIG. 3 is a front view of the interior of the control unit 18, as may be seen when the door 182 of the control unit 18, as shown in FIG. 1A , is open. Thus, according to one embodiment, the control unit 18 further includes a power supply compartment 184 configured to house at least one power source 22. According to one embodiment, the at least one power source 22 is a battery. Any type of battery is within the scope of the present subject matter, such as, for example, a disposable battery, a rechargeable battery, etc. FIG. 3 shows two power sources 22 in the form of two batteries 122. Note that this number of power sources 22 is merely exemplary and should not be considered limiting of the scope of the present subject matter. Any number of power sources 22 may be housed within the power source compartment 184.

[0065] Reference is now made to Figure 4, which schematically illustrates a rear view of the interior of the control unit, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 shows additional components present within the control unit 18, namely, pump 20 and control electronics 242, a detailed description of which is provided below.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the control electronics 242 is a printed circuit board (PCB). According to another embodiment, the control electronics 242 is a chip.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the control electronics 242 are signal-coupled and configured to control the operation of the pump 20, control the distribution of voltage from at least one power source 22 to the components of the device 1, and control the operation of the sprinklers 16, including the water pressure and movement of the sprinklers 16.

[0068] Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A and 5B, which schematically illustrate a front perspective view and a top view, respectively, of a receptacle according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one embodiment, the receptacle 14 is configured to accumulate flushing water flowing into the toilet bowl. Thus, according to this embodiment, the receptacle 14 is at least partially open at its top and configured to be positioned below the toilet rim such that flushing water leaving the rim enters the receptacle 14 and accumulates within the receptacle 14. According to another embodiment, the receptacle 14 is configured to accumulate a volume of water sufficient to spray over the entire area of ​​the toilet bowl. According to yet another embodiment, the receptacle 14 is configured to accumulate a volume of water substantially in the range of 100-200 ml. According to yet another embodiment, the receptacle 14 is configured to accumulate a volume of water substantially in the range of 150 ml.

[0069] According to one embodiment, an additive can be inserted into the water in container 14 through the at least partially open top of container 14. Any type of additive, such as a detergent, disinfectant, fragrance, colorant, etc., or any combination thereof, is within the scope of the present subject matter. Additionally, the additive can be in any physical state, such as a liquid, a solid in the form of a tablet, or a powder. Furthermore, the additive can be in the form of a capsule containing the above-mentioned material, including all embodiments thereof, allowing the material to be released into the water in container 14. Additionally, the additive can be a solid tablet configured to be gradually dissolved in the water in container 14.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the container 14 includes a holder 30, visible in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The holder 30 is configured to hold a solid tablet 35 according to the embodiment described above. According to another embodiment, the holder 30 is configured to hold the tablet 35 above the level of the water in the container 14 in a manner that allows flushing water entering the container 14 to pass over the tablet 35 and dissolve a portion of the tablet's material. According to this embodiment, the holder 30 is perforated. As a result, a small amount of the tablet's material dissolves in the flushing water that passes through the holder 30 and into the toilet bowl. Thus, a portion of the tablet's material enters the water accumulated in the container 14 after each flush. According to yet another embodiment, the holder 30 is configured to hold the tablet 35 in a manner that allows the tablet 35 to be at least partially immersed in the water in the container 14. This embodiment allows the tablet's material to be slowly released into the water accumulated in the container 14. According to yet another embodiment, holder 30 is configured to hold tablet 35 in a manner that allows irrigation water entering container 14 to pass over tablet 35 and dissolve some of the material in tablet 35, and to hold tablet 35 in a manner that allows tablet 35 to be at least partially submerged in the water in container 14. Embodiments of holder 30 that are configured to hold tablet 35 partially submerged in water in container 14 allow the material in tablet 35 to be slowly released into the water in container 14 even when pump 20 of device 1 is not switched on.

[0071] According to one embodiment, seen in FIG. 5A , the container 14 includes a water sensor configured to sense the presence or absence of water within the container 14. According to another embodiment, the water sensor includes a first cable 52 and a second cable 54 configured to be immersed in water accumulated in the container 14 and exposed to air when the container 14 is emptying the water. The first cable 52 and the second cable 54 are electrically connected to at least one power source 22 and signally connected to the control electronics 242. When the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 are immersed in water, an electrical circuit is closed, sending a signal to the control electronics 242 that the container 14 is filling with water. When the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 are exposed to air, an electrical circuit is opened, sending a signal to the control electronics 242 that the container 14 is emptying the water.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the container 14 includes a bulkhead 144 configured to physically separate the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 from one another. Thus, the first cable 52 is positioned on one side of the bulkhead 144, and the second cable 54 is positioned on another side of the bulkhead 144. This embodiment prevents accidental contact between the first cable 52 and the second cable 54, for example, when the container 14 is being emptied of water, thereby preventing an electrical circuit from being closed and sending a false signal that the container 14 is full of water when in fact the container 14 is empty.

[0073] 1A and 2. According to one embodiment, the sprinkler 16 is configured to sprinkle jets of water in a manner that causes the jets of water to systematically scan the surface of the toilet bowl, thus cleaning the entire surface of the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, the sprinkler 16 is configured to sprinkle jets of water to clean the surface of the bottom of the toilet bowl that is covered with standing water.

[0074] Returning now to Figure 5A, according to one embodiment, device 1 further comprises a housing 146 positioned over container 14 and configured to house components of device 1 associated with various functions of device 1. Figures 1A and 2 show an exterior view of housing 146, while Figure 5A shows an interior view of housing 146.

[0075] As mentioned above, according to one embodiment shown in FIG. 5A , the device 1 includes at least one sprinkler motor 70 configured to move the sprinkler 16 and direct a jet of water toward any point on the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, the at least one sprinkler motor 70 is positioned within the housing 146. According to yet another embodiment, the at least one sprinkler motor 70 is configured to move the sprinkler 16 horizontally, for example, during the spraying of a jet of water. In other words, the at least one sprinkler motor 70 is configured to move the sprinkler 16 from right to left and vice versa. According to yet another embodiment, the at least one sprinkler motor 70 is configured to move the sprinkler 16 vertically, for example, during the spraying of a jet of water. In other words, the at least one sprinkler motor 70 is configured to move the sprinkler 16 up and down and vice versa.

[0076] According to one embodiment, both the horizontal and vertical movement of the sprinklers 16 is performed by a single sprinkler motor 70. According to another embodiment, the horizontal and vertical movement of the sprinklers are each performed by separate sprinkler motors 70. In other words, the device 1 includes a sprinkler motor 70 configured to move the sprinklers 16 horizontally and another sprinkler motor 70 configured to move the sprinklers 16 vertically.

[0077] Still referring to Figure 5A, according to one embodiment, the device 1 further comprises, in addition to the control electronics 242 described above, a receptacle electronics 244. According to another embodiment, the receptacle electronics 244 is a printed circuit board (PCB). According to yet another embodiment, the receptacle electronics 244 is a chip. According to a further embodiment, the receptacle electronics 244 is positioned within a housing 146, as can be seen in Figure 5A.

[0078] According to one embodiment, reservoir electronics 244 is configured to control the operation of some of the functions of device 1 in place of control electronics 242. According to another embodiment, reservoir electronics 244 is configured to control the operation of at least one sprinkler motor 70 and is wirelessly connected to at least one sprinkler motor 70 for transmitting current for controlling the operation of at least one sprinkler motor 70. According to yet another embodiment, reservoir electronics 244 is configured to communicate with a water sensor comprising first cable 52 and second cable 54 and is wirelessly connected to the water sensor for receiving signals therefrom. According to yet another embodiment, reservoir electronics 244 is configured to control the operation of lamp 40 and is wirelessly connected to lamp 40 for transmitting current to lamp 40 for controlling the operation of lamp 40.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the vessel electronics 244 are wirelessly connected to the control electronics 242, as shown in FIG. 4 above and FIG. 6 below.

[0080] Reference is now made to Figure 6, which schematically illustrates a rear view of a device for cleaning a toilet bowl, along with a cross-sectional view of the bridge, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Reference is now made to Figures 4 and 6. As noted above, the reservoir electronics 244 are wirelessly connected to the control electronics 242. This connection is made possible by the communication cable 80, which connects the control electronics 242 with the reservoir electronics 244 and passes through the bridge 12.

[0081] Continuing with reference to Figure 6, according to one embodiment, the pump 20 is fluidly connected to the interior of the vessel 14 using a first pipe 62. According to another embodiment, the pump 20 is fluidly connected to the water sprayer 16 using a second pipe 64. According to yet another embodiment, the first pipe 62 and the second pipe 64 pass through the bridge 12. According to a further embodiment, the first pipe 62 and the second pipe 64 are narrow.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the pump 20 is configured to pump water from the interior of the container 14 through a first pipe 62 towards the pump 20. The pump 20 is then configured to generate a high-pressure jet of water that enters the pump 20 and directs the jet of water down a second pipe 64 towards the sprinkler 16, which sprays the jet of water onto the interior surface of the toilet bowl.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the jets of water sprayed from the sprinklers 16 have an intensity that removes any type of dirt or soil from the surface of the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, the pump 20 is configured to generate jets of water sprayed from the sprinklers 16 that have an intensity that removes any type of dirt or soil from the surface of the bottom of the toilet bowl that is covered with standing water.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the additive released from the tablet 35 is configured to enhance the cleaning efficiency of the toilet bowl provided by the jets of water sprayed by the sprinkler 16 .

[0085] Returning now to Figure 5B, according to one embodiment, the top of the receptacle 14 is open. According to another embodiment, the top of the receptacle 14 is at least partially open. Both embodiments allow flushing water to enter the receptacle 14 from the rim of the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 and 5B, the top of the receptacle 14 is open, i.e., there is no cover on the top of the receptacle.

[0086] Reference is now made to Figure 7, which schematically illustrates a top view of a receptacle with a cover, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one embodiment, the top surface of the receptacle 14 is covered with a receptacle cover 142 that includes at least one opening 1425 that allows flushing water to enter the receptacle 14 from the rim of the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, the receptacle cover 142 includes multiple openings 1425. The purpose of the cover 142 with the at least one opening 1425 is to prevent water from splashing out of the receptacle 14, while allowing water to enter the receptacle 14 through the at least one opening 1425, for example, when the receptacle 14 is filled with a strong stream of flushing water from the rim of the toilet bowl.

[0087] One mechanism for increasing the efficiency of collection of flushing water within the container 14 is by providing at least one wing on at least one side of the top surface of the container 14. Thus, according to one embodiment, the device 1 further comprises at least one wing on at least one surface of the top of the container 14. The at least one wing is positioned below an opening in the rim of the toilet bowl through which the flushing water enters the bowl and is configured to direct the flushing water into the container 14.

[0088] Another mechanism for increasing the efficiency of collecting cleaning water within the vessel 14 is by installing at least one one-way valve on the top surface of the vessel 14, for example, on the vessel cover 142. Any type of one-way valve is within the scope of the present subject matter, for example, a membrane that allows the flow of cleaning water into the vessel 14 and prevents the water from exiting the vessel 14.

[0089] Reference is now made to FIG. 8 , which schematically illustrates a top view of the control unit, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one embodiment, device 1 further comprises a pump switch 26 configured to allow a user to control the operation of pump 20. Pump switch 26 can be positioned anywhere on device 1 to allow a user access to press pump switch 26, for example, with a finger. An exemplary location for pump switch 26 is on the top of control unit 18, as shown in FIG. 8 . According to one embodiment, pump switch 26 is configured to switch pump 20 on, or off, or on and off. In other words, according to one embodiment, pump switch 26 is configured to connect pump 20 to at least one power source 22 by pressing pump switch 26, and to disconnect pump 20 from at least one power source 22 by pressing power switch 26 again. According to another embodiment, the pump switch 26 is configured to only connect the pump 20 to the at least one power source 22 when the pump switch 26 is pressed, and the pump 20 is then automatically disconnected from the at least one power source 22. According to another embodiment, the automatic disconnection of the pump 26 from the at least one power source 22 is controlled by the control electronics 242. For example, the automatic disconnection of the pump 20 from the at least one power source 22 occurs when the container 14 is empty of water, which can be sensed by the water sensor comprising the first cable 52 and the second cable 54 described above. In another example, the pump 20 is disconnected from the at least one power source 22 after a predetermined duration of operation, for example, after substantially 30 seconds.

[0090] Returning now to Figure 2, according to one embodiment, device 1 further comprises lamp 40. Lamp 40 may be positioned anywhere on device 1. An exemplary location for lamp 40 is on vessel 14, for example, next to water sprinkler 16. According to another embodiment, lamp 40 is electrically connected to at least one power source 22.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the lamp 40 is configured to switch on when the pump 20 is switched on and operating, and to switch off when the pump 20 is switched off. This can be achieved, for example, by electrically connecting the lamp 40 to at least one power source 22 via the pump switch 26, or by controlling the operation of the lamp 40 by the control electronics 242 in parallel with the operation of the pump 20. According to another embodiment, the lamp 40 is configured to switch on and off independently of the operation of the pump 20. This can be achieved, for example, by electrically connecting the lamp 40 to at least one power source 22 via a lamp switch 45. Thus, according to one embodiment, the device 1 further comprises a lamp switch 45 configured to switch the lamp 40 on, or off, or on and off. The lamp switch 45 can be positioned anywhere on the device 1, allowing a user access to press the lamp switch 45, for example, with a finger. An exemplary location of the lamp switch 45 is on the surface of the control unit 18, as shown in FIG. 8 . Thus, according to this embodiment, the lamp 40 is electrically connected to at least one power source 22 via a lamp switch 45 .

[0092] Still referring to Figure 8, according to one embodiment, the lamp switch 45 comprises a light source, for example a light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light. An advantage of the lamp switch light source is that it allows the lamp switch 45 to be easily detected, for example, under dark conditions, so that the lamp 40 can be switched on when the toilet is positioned in a dark room.

[0093] Still referring to FIG. 8 , according to one embodiment, the pump switch 26 is configured to enable the pump 20 to be switched on and off, for example, to clean the toilet bowl by spraying a jet of water through the sprinklers 16. When the pump 20 is switched on, water from the container 14 is pumped through the first pipe 62 and a high-pressure stream of water is forced towards the sprinklers 16 through the second pipe 64. Additionally, pressing the pump switch 26 switches on at least one sprinkler motor 70, thus enabling movement of the sprinklers 16 as described above, to achieve a complete and thorough cleaning of the toilet bowl. According to another embodiment, when the pump 20 and at least one sprinkler motor 70 are operating, pressing the pump switch 26 switches off the pump 20 and at least one sprinkler motor 70.

[0094] According to one embodiment, device 1 includes software that enables automatic operation of pump 20 and at least one sprinkler motor 70 in an automatic operating mode. According to another embodiment, the software is stored and operated by control electronics 242. According to yet another embodiment, the software is stored and operated by reservoir electronics 244. According to yet another embodiment, the software is stored and operated by both control electronics 242 and reservoir electronics 244. According to a further embodiment, shifting to automatic mode is accomplished by pressing either pump switch 26 or light switch 45, or the combination of pump switch 26 and light switch 45, for any duration. For example, switching to automatic mode can be accomplished by pressing pump switch 26 for substantially three seconds, and shifting from automatic mode to manual mode can be accomplished by simply turning pump 20 on by pressing pump switch 26 and then pressing pump switch 26 again for substantially three seconds. Note that this mode of switching between manual mode and automatic mode is merely exemplary and should not be considered limiting of the scope of the present subject matter.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the sprinkler 16 is configured to spray water straight ahead. According to another embodiment, the sprinkler 16 is configured to spray water to the side. According to a further embodiment, the device 1 allows for changing the direction of water spray by pressing either the pump switch 26 or the light switch 45, or a combination of the pump switch 26 and the light switch 45, for any period of time. For example, pressing the pump switch 26 and the light switch 45 simultaneously toggles between spraying water straight ahead and spraying water to the side, or vice versa. This embodiment may also be achieved through the use of the software described above.

[0096] For clarity, non-essential elements have been omitted from some of the drawings.

[0097] It will be appreciated that certain features of the present subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the present subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0098] While the subject matter has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A device for cleaning a toilet bowl, comprising: a bridge configured to be disposed on the rim of the toilet bowl, the bridge including a first edge and a second edge; a container extending downward from the first edge of the bridge and configured to be positioned within the toilet bowl below a portion of the rim of the toilet bowl through which water flows for flushing into the toilet bowl, the interior of the container being configured to be filled with flushing water flowing from the rim of the toilet bowl into the toilet bowl; a sprinkler positioned on a side of the container facing the toilet bowl and configured to sprinkle a jet of water into the toilet bowl, the sprinkler comprising at least one sprinkler motor configured to move the sprinkler and direct the jet of water at any point in the toilet bowl; a control unit attached to the second edge of the bridge and external to the toilet rim, the control unit configured to control operation of the device; a pump positioned within the control unit and fluidly connected to the interior of the container and to the sprinkler, the pump configured to pump water from the container and force a flow of water toward the sprinkler in a manner that causes the formation of the jet streams that are sprayed from the sprinkler; at least one power source positioned within the control unit and electrically connected to the pump via a pump switch; control electronics positioned within the control unit so as to be signally connected to components of the device and configured to control operation of the device.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the bridge is flexible.

3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the bridge is configured to adjust its length.

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

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

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

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

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control electronics is a chip.

9. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container is configured to accumulate water that flows into the toilet bowl for flushing.

10. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container is configured to store a quantity of water sufficient to be sprayed over the entire area of ​​the toilet bowl.

11. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the container is configured to store a volume of water substantially in the range of 100-200 ml.

12. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the container is adapted to store a volume of water of substantially 150 ml.

13. 13. The device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sprinkler is configured to sprinkle the jet of water in a manner that causes the jet of water to systematically scan the boiling surface of the toilet bowl, thus cleaning the entire surface of the toilet bowl.

14. 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the sprinkler is configured to sprinkle the jet of water to clean a surface at the bottom of the toilet bowl that is covered with standing water.

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

16. 16. The device of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the pump is configured to generate a jet of water sprayed from the sprayer having an intensity to remove any type of dirt or soil from the surface of the toilet bowl.

17. 17. The device of claim 16, wherein the pump is configured to produce a jet of water having an intensity to remove the dirt or soil from a surface of the bottom of the toilet bowl that is covered with standing water.

18. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the bridge is configured to vary its length to adjust to any width of toilet rim.

19. 19. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the bridge is configured to flex and to allow the container to be positioned below the part of the rim of the toilet bowl where water flows into the toilet bowl for flushing, and the control unit to be positioned outside the toilet rim.

20. 20. The device of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the bridge is configured to flex and to allow the device to be securely positioned on the rim of the toilet bowl.

21. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the top surface of the reservoir is at least partially open to allow flushing water to enter the reservoir from the rim of the toilet bowl.

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

23. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the top surface of the container is covered with a container cover that includes at least one opening that allows flushing water to enter the container from the rim of the toilet bowl.

24. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the reservoir extends beyond the width of the bridge.

25. 25. The device of any one of claims 1 to 24, further comprising at least one wing on at least one surface of an upper portion of the container, the at least one wing being configured to direct cleaning water into the container.

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

27. 27. The device of any one of claims 1 to 26, further comprising a holder configured to hold an additive to the water in the container.

28. 28. The device of claim 27, wherein the holder is positioned above the container within the bridge.

29. 29. The device of claim 27 or 28, wherein the additive is either a detergent, or a disinfectant, or a fragrance, or a colorant, or any combination thereof.

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

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

32. 30. The device of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the additive is a solid tablet adapted to be slowly dissolved in water.

33. 33. The device of claim 32, wherein the holder is configured to hold the tablet in a manner that allows irrigation water entering the container to pass over the tablet and dissolve a portion of the tablet material.

34. 34. The device of claim 32 or 33, wherein the holder is configured to hold the tablet in a manner that allows the tablet to be at least partially immersed in the water present in the container.

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

36. 35. The device of claim 34, wherein the lamp is positioned to the side of the sprinkler.

37. 37. The device of claim 35 or 36, further comprising a lamp switch configured to switch the lamp on, or off, or on and off.

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

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