TOUCHLESS TOILET ASSEMBLY
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- MX · MX
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- AS AMERICA INC
- Filing Date
- 2023-01-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-12
Smart Images
Figure MX435117B0
Abstract
Description
TOUCHLESS TOILET ASSEMBLY The disclosure relates to a touchless toilet assembly, in particular a touchless toilet assembly comprising a tank and a siphon valve. Background to the Disclosure With the aim of improving hygiene, toilets for residential use are desired that can be flushed at will without needing to touch a handle, lever, or button to initiate the flush. A toilet tank without a handle, lever, or button also provides greater freedom in toilet tank design. For a touchless toilet system, it is also desirable that an electrically powered flushing system have few or no moving parts to reduce stress on the system. Brief Description of the Invention Accordingly, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed comprising a toilet tank, wherein the toilet tank comprises a control assembly; and a siphon valve assembly, wherein the control assembly comprises a capacitive sensor, a controller, and a power supply, and the siphon valve assembly comprises a tubular core, a head coupled to and surrounding an upper end of the tubular core, a spray initiator positioned in the head and extending into the tubular core, and a solenoid valve fluidly coupled to the spray initiator, and wherein the power supply is electrically connected to the capacitive sensor, the controller, and the solenoid valve, the capacitive sensor being configured to detect a first gesture and to signal the detection of the first gesture to the controller to initiate a flush cycle, the controller,After receiving the first gesture indication from the capacitive sensor, it is configured to command the opening of the solenoid valve, the spray initiator. After the solenoid valve opens, it is configured to spray pressurized water over a complete perimeter of the inner surface of the tubular core to form a water seal, which, in this way, creates negative pressure in the tubular core and initiates a siphon flow of surrounding water into the toilet tank. Furthermore, a touchless siphon valve assembly for a toilet assembly having a toilet tank is disclosed, wherein the touchless siphon valve assembly comprises a control assembly; and a siphon valve assembly, wherein the control assembly comprises a capacitive sensor, a controller, and a power supply, and the siphon valve assembly comprises a tubular core, a head coupled to and surrounding an upper end of the tubular core, a spray initiator positioned in the head and extending into the tubular core, and a solenoid valve fluidly coupled to the spray initiator, and wherein the power supply is electrically connected to the capacitive sensor, the controller, and the solenoid valve, the capacitive sensor being configured to detect a first gesture and to signal the detection of the first gesture to the controller to initiate a flush cycle, the controller,After receiving the first gesture indication from the capacitive sensor, it is configured to command the opening of the solenoid valve, the spray initiator. After the solenoid valve opens, it is configured to spray pressurized water over a complete perimeter of the inner surface of the tubular core to form a water seal, thereby creating negative pressure in the tubular core and initiating a siphon flow of surrounding water into a toilet tank. Brief Description of the Drawings The disclosure described herein is illustrated by way of example, and not as a limitation, in the accompanying figures. For the sake of simplicity and clarity, the features illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some features may be exaggerated relative to other features for clarity. In addition, where appropriate, reference labels are repeated between figures to indicate corresponding and analogous elements. Figures 1A and 1B show a toilet tank assembly comprising a siphon valve assembly, according to one embodiment. Figure 2 provides a transparent view of a toilet assembly, according to one embodiment. Figure 3 shows a siphon discharge valve in cross section, according to one embodiment, which includes showing the spray from a fluid supply line and a spray initiator. Figure 4 shows a lower part of a siphon valve head, according to one embodiment. Figures 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D show a spray initiator of a siphon discharge valve, according to certain embodiments. Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C show spray patterns of spray initiators, according to some embodiments. Figures 7A and 7B show views of a siphon valve assembly having a mechanism for opening and closing a gate to provide multiple discharge volumes, according to some embodiments. Figures 8A and 8B provide views of a siphon valve assembly with a mechanism for opening and closing a gate to provide multiple discharge volumes, according to some embodiments. Detailed Description of the Invention A siphon flush valve may include a tubular core, a head, and a spray initiator. The head and core may be concentric, and a spray initiator may be positioned on top of the siphon flush valve. In use, a flush valve is placed in a tank with a sufficient initial water level to extend to the top of the head. To initiate operation, pressurized water sprays into the core, creating a pressure differential that causes the tank water to rise into the head and spill over a valve gate within the core. This establishes a siphon flow of water for discharge into the toilet bowl, flushing it and removing waste.Once the full siphon flow is established through the valve, the pressurized water can be shut off. As the tank is emptied, the water level drops to a final level, typically at the bottom of the flush head, allowing air to enter the head and break the siphon. A fill valve can be provided and configured to refill the toilet tank, enabling subsequent repeated flush cycles. Details of various example implementations of a siphon flush valve are discussed below with reference to the figures. Figure 1A and Figure 1B show the toilet tank assembly 100 in top and front views, respectively, according to one embodiment. The siphon valve assembly 101, positioned in the tank 113, comprises the tubular core 102, the dome-shaped head 103, and the solenoid valve 105. The solenoid valve 105 is fluidly coupled to the spray initiator 109 positioned in the head 103 by means of the second water supply line 108. The solenoid valve 105 is further fluidly coupled to the fill valve 107 by means of the first water supply line 106. The first water supply line 106 is coupled to the fill valve 107 by means of the port 114 below (upstream of) the fill valve outlet 115, such that the supply line 106 is under water pressure.The capacitive sensor 104 is positioned on an outer portion of the housing 110 and is in contact with an inner wall of the tank 113 and an outer wall of the housing 110. The housing 110 and / or the capacitive sensor 104 can be fixed to the inner wall of the tank 113 by adhesive or other means. The housing 110 comprises a battery and a controller (not visible). The sensor 104 is in wired electrical communication with the battery and the controller in the housing 110. The controller is electrically connected to the solenoid 105 by cable 111. The housing 110 is positioned above a stagnant tank water level, which is generally between the upper and lower portions 117 of the head 103 between discharge cycles. After a person makes a gesture near sensor 104, the controller is configured to receive the gesture indication and to send an instruction to solenoid 105 to open and supply pressurized water to spray initiator 109 to begin a flush cycle. Spray initiator 109 sends pressurized water to the tubular core 102 and around its entire perimeter, creating a reduced pressure (negative pressure / vacuum) within the tubular core 102. This negative pressure initiates siphon flow through inlet 117, through the tubular core 102, and out outlet 112 into a toilet bowl to perform a flush. The plug 103 comprises the opening 118, which includes the gate or hatch 119 slidably positioned within it. The hatch 119 is configured to move or slide vertically relative to the opening 118. The hatch 119 is shown in an open position, where a lower portion of the opening 118 is open to the interior of the tank 113. During a flush cycle, water from the tank flows through the inlet 117 and outlet 112 into a toilet bowl. Upon closing the opening 118, when the water level in the tank drops to the bottom of the header 103, air enters the inlet 117, thereby interrupting the siphon and ending the flush. With the opening of opening 118, as shown, air will enter the head 103 when the water level in the tank drops to the bottom point of the gate 119, thereby interrupting the siphon and ending the discharge. Accordingly, with one or more gates or doors, such as gate 119, positioned on a flush valve head, an assembly can be configured to perform flushing cycles with varying water volumes. For example, a flush valve assembly can be configured to perform a high-volume or full flush to clean solid matter from a toilet bowl, and a low-volume or short flush to clean non-solid (liquid) matter from a toilet bowl. In some embodiments, a full flush can provide a flush volume of approximately 3.0 liters to approximately 9.0 liters, and a low-volume flush can provide a flush volume of approximately 2.0 liters to approximately 4.5 liters. In one embodiment, the gate 119 is coupled to a mechanism configured to open and close it. A gate mechanism, for example, an electric motor or solenoid, configured to open and close the gate 119 can be electrically connected to a battery and controller in the housing 110 via cable 116. In some embodiments, a person can perform a first gesture to indicate a low discharge if desired. In some embodiments, a person can perform a second gesture to indicate a full discharge if desired. Figure 2 provides a clear view of the toilet assembly 225, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the tank assembly 100 can be attached to the cover 226. The ultrasonic sensor 228 is attached to an outer bottom portion of the bowl 227. The ultrasonic sensor 228 can be electrically coupled to a controller positioned in a tank via cable 229. The ultrasonic sensor 228 can be adhered to the bottom of the bowl 227 with an adhesive. The sensor 228 can be positioned directly beneath a bowl water seal. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the discharge valve assembly 301 according to one embodiment. The assembly 301 comprises the tubular core 302 and the dome-shaped head 303. The spray initiator 309 is disposed in the head 303. The initiator 309 substantially comprises the constant-diameter portion 335 and the outward-tapered portion 336. The outward-tapered portion 336 may be substantially conical and may be configured so that water is discharged from an initiator 309 in a substantially conical shape 337 within the core 302 and against the inner wall 338 of the core 302. The outward-tapered portion may provide a spray angle between approximately 50 degrees and approximately 120 degrees. A fluid surrounding a toilet tank may have a level between the gate 339 and the flush valve inlet 317 between flush cycles.After the initiation of a siphon, the surrounding fluid will enter inlet 317, pass over gate 339, through core 302, and into the cup (not shown) through outlet 312 to initiate a discharge. As the surrounding water level in the tank drops, the siphon will be interrupted when air enters inlet 317, and the discharge will cease. Core 302 curves outward at gate 339 and extends downward from the gate. Header 303 and an upper portion of core 302 are substantially concentric. The head 303 may comprise a concave section 341 surrounding the initiator 309 and the fluid supply line 308. The cutaway view of the o / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi assembly 301 shows the tabs 342 arranged in the head 303. The tabs are described in further detail in Figure 4. Figure 4 shows the siphon valve head 403 from below, according to one embodiment. The head 403 comprises a dome or cap shape. The spray initiator 409 is fitted with an opening in the head 403. The head 403 has a plurality of tabs 442 extending from an inner surface thereof. Although four tabs 442 are shown, more or fewer tabs 442 may be provided. The tabs 442 may be positioned to retain the head 403 in place on an upper portion of a tubular core. Alternatively, the tabs 442 may provide a friction fit with an upper portion of a tubular core. Alternatively, the tabs 442 may be secured to a tubular core by other types of connection (e.g., adhesion or fitting). The 442 tabs can generally be L-shaped.The tabs 442 can extend from an upper internal surface and / or an internal wall surface. The tabs 442 can be attached to an upper internal surface and / or the internal wall surface of the head 403. The tabs 442 can be molded or formed with the head 403. Alternatively, the tabs 442 can be formed separately and attached to the head 403, for example, by gluing or fitting. The tabs 442 can be full-length, extending the full length of the head 403, or they can be part-length, extending a portion of the length of the head 403. The tabs 442 can be configured to centrally position the head 403 on a tubular core. The tabs 442 can extend to the top of the head 403 and can assist in determining a vertical position of the head.The 442 tabs can create a radially and vertically extending space (a flow path) between the upper portion of a core and an internal surface of the 403 header. This radially and vertically extending space can be an annular space. An annular space between the upper portion of a core and an internal surface of the 403 header can be configured to allow water to flow into a siphon discharge valve, through an inlet, over a gate, and into a tubular core. A configuration of the 442 tabs can vary depending on the desired annular space and flow path. Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D show spray initiators 509a, 509b, 509c, and 509d, according to certain embodiments. Spray initiators 509a, 509b, 509c, and 509d comprise a central orifice. Spray initiator 509d is a pigtail initiator. An orifice may comprise a shape that provides a fluid spray with a certain shape, for example, a substantially square or pyramidal spray, as depicted in Figure 6A and which can be provided by spray initiator 509a. Initiator 509b may have an orifice shape that can provide a substantially conical spray, such as a solid cone-shaped spray as depicted in Figure 6B. The 509c initiator may also have an orifice shape that can provide a cone-shaped solid spray as depicted in Figure 6B.The initiator 509d may have an orifice shape that can provide a cone-shaped, hollow spray as depicted in Figure 6C. A spray pattern from initiators 509a, 509b, 509c, and 509d can make full perimeter contact with an internal surface of a tubular core. This full perimeter contact can provide a water seal within a siphon discharge valve and assist in initiating a siphoning effect and discharge. Figures 7A and 7B provide front and side views of the siphon valve assembly 701, respectively, according to certain embodiments. The head 703 is positioned around the tubular core 702 and comprises the opening 718. The gate 719 is configured to slide vertically relative to the opening 718. In Figure 7A, the gate 719 is shown in a raised and open position, allowing access to the opening 718. In Figure 7B, the gate 719 is shown in a lowered and closed position, denying access to the opening 718. The assembly 701 comprises the lifting mechanism 750, configured to move the gate 719 relative to the opening 718 to open or close it. The lifting mechanism 750 comprises a multi-arm link comprising arms 751a, 751b and 751c, coupled by means of pin / hole connections 753. The multi-arm link is also supported by brackets 752 and 754.Arm 751a can be connected to an electric motor or a solenoid, which in turn is electrically connected to a controller. Arm 751b is supported by bracket 752, and arm 751c is configured to raise and lower gate 719 upon instruction from the controller. Upon receiving a low-volume discharge instruction, the controller is configured to command an electric motor or solenoid to push arm 751a down to raise arm 751c, which in turn raises gate 719 (or holds gate 719 in a raised and open position). Upon receiving a high-volume discharge instruction, the controller is configured to command an electric motor or solenoid to raise arm 751a up to push arm 751c down to close gate 719 (or hold gate 719 in a lowered and closed position). When gate 719 is in a lowered and closed position over opening 718, air will enter a siphon flow to interrupt the siphon as the tank water drops to the lower end of header 717, providing a high-volume discharge.When gate 719 is in a raised and open position over opening 718, air will enter a siphon flow to interrupt the siphon when the tank water drops to the lower end of gate 7191, providing a low-volume discharge. Figures 8A and 8B show side and front views of the siphon valve assembly 801, respectively, according to some embodiments. The siphon valve head 803 is positioned around the tubular core 802 and comprises the circular opening 818. The gate 819 is plug-like and is configured to move laterally toward and away from the opening 818. In Figure 8A, the gate 819 is shown in an outward-moving, open position, allowing access to the opening 818. In Figure 8B, the gate 819 is shown in an inward-moving, closed position, denying access to the opening 818. The assembly 801 comprises the lifting mechanism 850, configured to move the gate 819 relative to the opening 818 to open or close it.The lifting mechanism 850 comprises a multi-arm linkage consisting of arms 851a, 851b, and 851c, coupled by pin / hole connections 853. The multi-arm linkage is also supported by brackets 852 and 854. Arm 851a can be connected to an electric motor or a solenoid, which is in turn electrically connected to a controller. Arm 851b is supported by bracket 852, and arm 851c is configured to move the gate 819 laterally upon instruction from the controller. Upon receiving a low-volume discharge instruction, the controller is configured to command an electric motor or solenoid to push arm 851a downward to move arm 851c, which in turn moves gate 819 outward (or to hold gate 819 in an outward-moved and open position). Upon receiving a high-volume discharge instruction, the controller is configured to command an electric motor or solenoid to raise arm 851a upward to push arm 851c inward to close gate 819 (or to hold gate 819 in an inward-moved and closed position). When gate 819 is in an inward-moved and closed position over opening 818, air will enter a siphon flow to interrupt the siphon as the tank water drops to the lower end of header 817, thus providing a high-volume discharge.When gate 819 is in an outward position and open over opening 818, air will enter a siphon flow to interrupt the siphon when the water from the tank drops to opening 818, providing a low-volume discharge. The siphon discharge valves of the disclosure are described in U.S. Application No. PCT / US19 / 37884, filed June 19, 2019 (W02020005660), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, a capacitive sensor is configured to detect the user's gesture and to signal the detection of a gesture to a controller, whereupon the controller is configured to send instructions to open a solenoid valve to initiate a discharge cycle. In some embodiments, a gesture may comprise an up-or-down movement of the hand or arm, or a forward-or-backward movement of the hand or arm. In some embodiments, a capacitive sensor is configured to detect an initial user gesture, where the initial gesture indicates a desired low discharge. In one embodiment, this initial user gesture will cause a configured controller to send instructions to open a discharge valve head gate and to open a solenoid to initiate a discharge cycle. In some embodiments, a capacitive sensor is configured to detect a second user gesture, where the second gesture indicates a desired full discharge. In one embodiment, a second user gesture will cause a configured controller to send instructions to close a discharge valve head gate and open a solenoid to initiate a discharge cycle. In some embodiments, a capacitive sensor can be configured to detect the user's third gesture and to signal this detection to a controller. The controller is then configured not to send opening commands to a solenoid valve for a defined and programmable period, so that the solenoid remains closed during that time. The third gesture might last for a period of time to clean an external surface of the tank. In other words, a third gesture might command the system to enter a cleaning cycle during which the solenoid will not open. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third gestures may be different gestures, for example, sliding the hand up and down, a hand movement toward and away from something, and sliding the hand horizontally. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third gestures may comprise a single gesture, but repeated one or more times. In other embodiments, the detection of a third gesture may result in an indefinite period of time during which a solenoid is commanded to remain closed. In some embodiments, once the cleaning cycle is entered, the user may perform a first or second gesture to initiate a discharge and exit the cleaning cycle. In one embodiment, an ultrasonic sensor can be a piezoelectric ultrasonic transducer, for example, a piezoelectric-ceramic transducer. In some embodiments, an ultrasonic sensor can be attached to an interior or exterior part of a cup to receive solid or liquid debris. An ultrasonic sensor can be configured to emit ultrasonic signals through water contained in a cup and to receive reflected ultrasonic signals. In some instances, the ultrasonic signals are reflected back to a sensor from an unobstructed water surface (water seal surface). A water surface obstructed with solids can scatter or absorb signals, preventing them from being reflected back to a sensor. A controller, after collecting the information from an ultrasonic sensor, can determine a time-of-flight (ToF) of the signal or signals.A controller can compare a measured Time of Flow (ToF) to a standard ToF to determine the cup's contents (cup state), liquid or solid. Based on this, the controller can command a siphon valve to initiate a low-volume or high-volume flush. In some embodiments, an ultrasonic sensor may be in sleep mode, meaning it neither emits nor receives signals and / or does not communicate signals to a controller. In some embodiments, a sleep mode may include periodic awakening (at regular or irregular intervals), where the sensor will emit and receive signals to check the water seal level and / or the presence of objects / solids. For example, in an infrequent use case, if it is determined that a water seal has partially or completely evaporated, a controller may command the initiation of one or more flush cycles to refill the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, an ultrasonic sensor may be placed on an outer underside of the toilet bowl, in some embodiments directly below and substantially centered with respect to a water seal. In some embodiments, with a toilet bowl having a trap inlet and a flush outlet in a sump area, an ultrasonic sensor may be positioned on an inner portion of the bowl and substantially centered between the trap inlet and the flush outlet in the x and y directions. o / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi In some embodiments, a method for attaching an ultrasonic sensor to a toilet bowl may include machining a bowl surface to remove a coating. In some embodiments, an adhesive, comprising one or more different adhesives, may be used to attach an ultrasonic sensor to a sanitary fixture. In some embodiments, a sanitary fixture attachment may include a pocket or recess configured to receive an ultrasonic sensor. The thickness of a sanitary fixture may be moderately less in a recessed area to facilitate ultrasonic signal transmission. In some embodiments, an adhesive includes a two-part methyl methacrylate adhesive. In other embodiments, an adhesive includes an alkyl cyanoacrylate ester adhesive.In certain embodiments, certain parts of an ultrasonic sensor are fixed with a two-part methyl methacrylate adhesive, and other parts are fixed with an alkyl cyanoacrylate ester adhesive. In some embodiments, an ultrasonic sensor is electrically coupled to a controller by means of a cable, wherein the cable extends from beneath a cup and behind a tank assembly to a controller in a housing positioned on the tank. In some embodiments, a capacitive sensor and / or housing can be attached to an inner wall of the tank with one or more adhesives as discussed above. In some embodiments, a capacitive sensor can be configured to receive a user gesture to indicate whether a cup flush is desired. An ultrasonic sensor can be configured to determine whether the cup contents are solid or liquid, and to indicate to the controller whether a high-volume or low-volume flush is appropriate, respectively. According to one embodiment, a siphon flush valve for a toilet may include a tubular core configured to couple to a toilet tank opening; a head coupled to the top of the core, wherein the head has a head opening; a spray initiator coupled to the head opening; a siphon flush valve inlet; and a siphon flush valve outlet. A spray initiator may be configured to induce a siphon flow of a surrounding fluid through the siphon flush valve inlet and out through the siphon flush valve outlet. In some embodiments, a surrounding fluid may be in a toilet tank, wherein an initial (stagnant) water level between flush cycles is above a siphon valve inlet defined by a lower end of the head. A head can be a substantially cylindrical cap located around the core. In some embodiments, the head can be a substantially cylindrical cap located substantially and concentrically around the core. An opening in the head can be located at the center of a substantially cylindrical cap, and the initiator extends downward from the opening into the core. In some embodiments, the core may include the gate located on an upper surface or edge of the core. In some embodiments, a core may be substantially tubular. A core may comprise a tube similar to a substantially hollow cylinder with open upper and lower ends. Tubular may mean tube-like (tube-shaped). In some embodiments, a core may include a first substantially tubular section, a tapered section, and a second substantially tubular section. In some embodiments, an upper portion of a tubular core curves outward at the gate and optionally extends longitudinally downward from the gate. In some embodiments, an upper section curves outward at the gate and extends longitudinally downward parallel to an external surface of the tubular core.In other embodiments, a tubular core curves inwards into the gate; and optionally extends longitudinally downwards from the gate. In some embodiments, a tubular core comprises an inner wall surface and an outer wall surface, wherein a fluid spray initiator is configured to spray pressurized fluid over a full perimeter of the inner wall surface to form a fluid seal, thereby creating negative pressure in the tubular core and initiating a siphon flow to start a discharge. A siphon discharge valve may include a defined flow path between an internal surface of the header and an external surface of the core. In some embodiments, the initiator may include a well with a substantially constant diameter. In some embodiments, the initiator may comprise a tapered orifice. In some embodiments, a spray initiator may have a constant-diameter orifice section and a tapered section. In some embodiments, the initiator may have an outwardly (downward) tapered, cone-shaped orifice. A tapered orifice may be configured to provide a shaped fluid spray. A siphon discharge valve inlet may be located at a lower end of the header, and the siphon discharge valve outlet is located at a lower end of the core.A siphon discharge valve may include an internal cavity, wherein the siphon discharge valve inlet is configured such that the internal cavity has a first pressure when at an initial tank water level and a second pressure when at a final tank water level. In some embodiments, a surrounding fluid may have an initial level at a point above the siphon discharge valve inlet and a final level at or below the siphon discharge valve inlet. The terms initial and final mean before and at the end of the siphon discharge (flush cycle). A siphon discharge may end when a fluid level reaches a discharge valve inlet and air enters the valve, interrupting the siphon. A surrounding fluid surrounds the siphon discharge valve, for example, as in a toilet tank. A starter can be a spray starter. A spray starter can be a pressurized spray starter. A siphon discharge valve inlet can be positioned with a first configuration below an initial tank water level and a second configuration above a final tank water level. A head and core can be aligned longitudinally and axially. A siphon discharge valve may be finless. A siphon discharge valve may be circumferentially located around the core. A head may be dome-shaped, with the dome being wider than the core to define the siphon discharge valve inlet. An initiator may be configured to discharge pressurized fluid into the core in a cone-shaped spray. In other embodiments, an initiator may be configured to discharge pressurized fluid into the tubular core in a square or pyramidal spray. An initiator can be configured to create a pressure differential between an orifice in the tubular core (the core orifice) and a toilet tank. A header can be positioned around the tubular core such that the siphon flush valve inlet and a flow path are formed between the header and the core. In some embodiments, the header can be positioned substantially and concentrically around the core. A siphon flush valve can be configured without moving parts. According to one embodiment, a siphon flush valve system for a toilet may include a siphon flush valve, wherein the siphon flush valve has a core coupled to a toilet tank opening, a head having a head opening and attached to a top portion of the core, and an initiator coupled to the head opening, a siphon flush valve fluid supply line coupled to the initiator; a solenoid valve coupled to the siphon flush valve fluid supply line; and a controller configured to open the solenoid valve to initiate a flow of pressurized fluid in the siphon flush valve fluid supply line.An initiator can be configured to supply a pressurized fluid flow to a core to initiate a siphon flow of a surrounding fluid in a toilet tank, through the siphon discharge valve and into the toilet bowl. An initiator can be configured to discharge a pressurized fluid flow onto the core in a cone-shaped spray. An initiator can also be configured to create a pressure differential between the tubular core and the toilet tank. A siphon flush valve system may include a flow path from a siphon flush valve inlet and a siphon flush valve outlet, where the siphon flow passes through the flow path. A flow path may extend from the siphon flush valve inlet, through a gap between the core and the head, over a gate in the core, through the core orifice, and to the siphon flush valve outlet. A header can be positioned around the core such that a siphon flush valve inlet and flow path are formed between the header and the core. A tubular core can include a gate and a lower leg portion, with the initiator extending into the lower leg portion. A siphon flush valve can be configured to empty the fluid in the toilet tank from an initial water level adjacent to the gate to a final water level adjacent to a siphon flush valve inlet. In some embodiments, a controller is in electronic communication with a solenoid valve and is configured to open and close the solenoid valve. The electronic communication may be wired or wireless. In some embodiments, a controller and a solenoid may be connected to a battery and / or other power source. In some embodiments, a control assembly comprises a capacitive sensor, a controller, and a power supply. A power supply may include one or more batteries. In some embodiments, a solenoid valve may be in electrical communication with a controller (microcontroller oo / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi printed circuit board) and in electrical communication with a capacitive sensor. A control assembly may be configured to actuate a solenoid valve after detecting a user gesture, for example, after detecting a first or second gesture. In some embodiments, a control assembly may comprise an ultrasonic sensor configured to determine the contents of the cup. An ultrasonic sensor may also be in electrical communication with the controller. In certain embodiments, a solenoid valve can be configured to close after a certain period of time has elapsed since it opened. In some embodiments, this period of time can extend beyond a siphon interruption to provide fluid to refill the toilet bowl and provide a bowl seal. In some embodiments, a solenoid valve can be associated with a timer or clock. In some embodiments, a controller associated with a solenoid valve can include a timer function and can be configured to open the solenoid valve and to close it after a certain period of time has elapsed. A siphon discharge valve may be finless. A siphon discharge valve may have no moving parts. A controller may be configured to close a solenoid valve to terminate the flow of pressurized fluid in the siphon discharge valve's fluid supply line. According to one embodiment, a siphon discharge valve may include a discharge valve body; a discharge valve orifice within the discharge valve body; and a spray initiator in fluid communication with the discharge valve orifice. A spray initiator may be configured to discharge a pressurized fluid in contact with a full perimeter of the discharge valve orifice to create a fluid seal within the discharge valve orifice and thereby initiate a siphon flow within the discharge valve. A spray initiator can be configured to create a negative pressure differential at the discharge valve orifice to initiate siphon flow. A spray initiator can be configured to discharge the pressurized fluid in a cone-shaped spray, a hollow cone-shaped spray, or a square cone-shaped spray, among other shapes. According to one embodiment, a method for initiating fluid flow in a flush valve of a toilet assembly may include discharging a pressurized fluid from a spray initiator into a flush valve; contacting a full perimeter of a flush valve orifice with the pressurized fluid; creating a fluid seal within the orifice; creating a negative pressure differential at the orifice; initiating a siphon flow in the flush valve; and discharging fluid from a toilet tank into a toilet bowl with the siphon flow. A spray initiator can be a sprayer, spray starter, and / or a nozzle. A spray initiator can be secured within a head opening by adhesion, friction fit, press fit, threads, glue, overmolding, screw threads, bayonet threads, or other means. A spray initiator can be formed as a single unitary body or from a plurality of mating parts. An initiator can have a substantially cylindrical external surface with an orifice through it. An initiator can be tubular in shape. An initiator can have a flange configured to secure it to a lower surface of a head. A toilet can be a gravity-fed toilet, a wall-mounted toilet, a one-piece toilet, a two-piece toilet, etc. A tubular core may have a constriction point at a transition from a substantially tubular first section to a tapered section. A constriction point can be configured to improve flow dynamics and efficiency. A constriction point can improve flow dynamics and efficiency, for example, due to a divergence of a tubular core orifice. The orifice diameter, which tapers inward and then tapers outward, can cause a core orifice divergence. An orifice divergence can occur where an orifice extends (or alternatively tapers inward) from a first diameter at the top of the substantially tubular first section to a constriction point and then tapers outward during a tapered section to an internal diameter of a substantially tubular second section.A diverging orifice can increase the velocity or speed of a fluid flowing through a siphon flush valve compared to a straight orifice. This increased fluid flow velocity can increase the discharge rate from a toilet tank to a toilet bowl, thereby improving the toilet's efficiency and performance. A core may be substantially tubular. A first substantially tubular section, a tapered section, and a second substantially tubular section may be coupled or integrally formed. A tapered section may narrow outward from a first diameter D1 of a substantially tubular first section to a second diameter D2 of a substantially tubular second section. A second diameter D2 may be larger than the first diameter D1. A tapered section may narrow both internally (e.g., the orifice of a tapered section may narrow outward) and externally (e.g., the external surface of a tapered section may narrow outward). A core may include a flange extending outward from an external surface of a tubular core. A flange may be located at a lower end of a tapered section and / or at an upper end of a substantially tubular second section. A flange may align a siphon discharge valve with a tank opening and retain a siphon discharge valve therein.The improved flow, as described above, can be achieved by starting with a substantially tubular initial section and a tapered section due to the expanding orifice diameter. Improved flow can be divergent flow, in which, under full flow conditions, the flow transitions from a constriction point gradually diverge outward. This can create flow separation, increasing the flow velocity through the constriction point. A change in diameter can benefit or assist in establishing siphon flow during an initial or transient phase (e.g., during the initiation of siphon flow in a siphon discharge valve). Various configurations according to the invention can be considered to increase flow velocity and volume. Furthermore, this can reduce the amount of time and / or flow required to establish siphon flow. o / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi A siphon discharge valve inlet and fluid flow path may be substantially annular. A flow path may be defined between an internal surface of a header and an external surface of a tubular core. A flow path may be defined from a structure of a header and a tubular core, embodiments of which are described herein. A siphon discharge valve may have an internal cavity defined by a tubular orifice and a flow path. A siphon discharge valve may have a longitudinal axis L. A header, initiator, and / or core may be aligned along the longitudinal axis L. A header and core may be concentric around the longitudinal axis L. If the header and core are not circular in cross-section, the header and core may still be aligned with center points along the longitudinal axis.A header may be wider and / or have a larger diameter than a tubular core, such that a siphon discharge valve inlet and / or a flow path between them are defined. The area defined by the space between a siphon discharge valve inlet and the upper portion of a core may be greater than or equal to the area defined by the space between a header vertex and a gate. The space between a header vertex and a gate may be greater than or equal to the area defined by the upper portion of the orifice. An initiator may be positioned so that a spray pattern emitted by the initiator makes contact with the orifice at or below a gate. The initial water level in the surrounding area may be vertically higher than a siphon flush valve inlet. This higher initial water level ensures that no air is present in the inlet (for example, a water seal is in place) and that a siphon can be initiated when a flush cycle begins. The initial water level may also be at or near the top of a gate. A water level lower than the top of a gate may require a greater pressure differential to initiate siphon flow. A water level higher than the top of a gate may cause water to overflow, creating a continuation condition. The surrounding water in a toilet tank, at the initial water level, may be at atmospheric pressure.In an initial condition, pressurized water can be supplied through a siphon discharge valve fluid supply line. The water can be pressurized and admitted through a solenoid valve that opens upon command from a controller. The water can exit the siphon discharge valve fluid supply line and discharge through an orifice via a spray initiator. The water can exit the spray initiator in a cone pattern. The cone pattern can be substantially cone-shaped, such as a solid cone, a hollow cone, or a square cone. A tapered portion of an initiator orifice can be configured so that the water exiting the initiator in a cone pattern. That is, since a tapered portion of an orifice can be conical in shape, the water exiting this portion can also be conical.Discharging water in a cone pattern into a tubular orifice can create a negative pressure differential. This pressure differential can be such that the pressure inside a siphon flush valve is lower than the pressure in a toilet tank. The initial surrounding water level in a toilet tank may be at atmospheric pressure. The water flowing out of an initiator may be at a higher pressure than the initial atmospheric pressure of the surrounding water level. This can create a reduced pressure at a gate and a flush valve inlet. This reduced pressure inside the siphon flush valve induces a siphoning effect, which draws water from the initial surrounding water into a siphon flush valve inlet, through a flow path, over a gate, into a tubular orifice, and out of a siphon flush valve outlet. Once a siphoning effect has begun, the pressurized water from a siphoning valve's fluid supply line can be stopped. Pressurized water can be stopped by closing a solenoid valve. As long as no air is supplied to the inside of a siphoning valve, water can continue to drain from a toilet tank into a toilet bowl to flush the toilet. As the water approaches a final water level, it may no longer completely cover the siphoning valve's inlet. Consequently, air may be allowed to enter the siphoning valve inlet and be drawn in with the water flow through the valve. When air enters the siphoning valve inlet, the siphoning effect is interrupted, and the flush stops. An initial and a final surrounding water level can be selected so that the volume between them effectively flushes a toilet. The height between the initial and final surrounding water levels can be optimized for a predetermined flush volume. A fill valve can be controlled to refill the toilet tank to the initial water level. A siphon flush valve inlet can be positioned at a height corresponding to a desired final water level. Therefore, a system can be configured for a fixed flush volume. Various parameters in the operation of a toilet flush valve and / or siphon can be customized or modified. These parameters include the dimensions and parameters (e.g., diameters, lengths, shape, orientation, etc.) of a siphon flush valve, the gate height, the fluid pressure from the main plumbing supply, the fluid pressure in a siphon flush valve fluid supply line, the dimensions and parameters (e.g., diameters, lengths, shape, orientation, etc.) of the initiator, the size and orientation of a siphon flush valve inlet, the duration of the initiator's flush fluid, the activation time of a solenoid and / or initiator, and so on.In one example embodiment, a siphon flush valve with the parameters described above may have the following parameters to achieve a siphoning effect for discharging fluid from a toilet tank into a toilet bowl. A solenoid may open for approximately 2.5 seconds at around 40 psi or higher to initiate the siphoning flow. The toilet bowl may be refilled or resealed by increasing the duration (ON time) to dispense additional water for this purpose. The refilling or resealing may be the amount of water required to refill the toilet bowl to a level sufficient to prevent sewer gases from traveling through a trap and rising into the bowl.A controller, solenoid, and initiator can serve a dual purpose: first, to initiate the siphoning action, and second, to refill a water seal in a toilet bowl after a flush cycle, if the timing is set to allow this additional function. A diverging flow pattern can be used to form a seal between a nozzle and the inner diameter perimeter of the valve core. Another seal can be created by an initial water level at or near the height of a gate. As water flows through a spray nozzle that contacts an inner perimeter wall of the core and flows downward, it creates a negative pressure or vacuum. This allows atmospheric pressure to act on a free surface, pushing water from the cistern upward and over the gate, thus establishing a gravity siphon flow. Other flow patterns are also considered.For example, if a straight flow column were large enough to make contact with an inner perimeter core wall, it could generate a siphon flow. A header may have an external surface that is substantially cylindrical or tubular in shape. An external surface may curve radially outward at a lower end. A lower end may create a concave surface on an external surface. A lower end may be rounded or profiled to improve flow dynamics and efficiency. A rounded or profiled lower end can improve flow dynamics by reducing energy losses. An external surface may extend longitudinally upward from a lower end to an upper end. At an upper end, an external surface may curve upward from an external end to a vertex and then downward to a header opening. A header opening may be substantially cylindrical in shape. In a side view, a header may be doughnut-shaped. A siphon discharge valve can narrow outwards at the top. A fully rounded feature can only form an effective siphon using spray technology. Under dynamic flow conditions, such as an initial or transient flow stage (air and water), a narrow outwards profile can follow the profile shape, first by overflowing at the gate, second by following the downward cone, and third by following the vertical downward flow. As the flow increases, for example, the flow velocity, the flow will separate from the boundary wall at the narrowing towards the downward vertical transition, resulting in a converging flow stream towards the center of the valve.Because the valve has a substantially circular cross-section, the resulting annular flow will collect at the orifice of a siphon discharge valve and create a seal. This allows a pressure differential to form as water flows downward through the orifice (e.g., through the lower leg portion), thus facilitating the development of a siphoning effect within the siphon discharge valve. This action, combined with the aforementioned initiator, can be configured to form a siphon and transition to a full (air-free) siphon more quickly than a fully round gate feature. Additional profile shapes are available to further improve efficiency. A top portion of a tubular core may have a shape that extends outward and downward. A top portion may include a wall that extends and / or curves outward and downward from the gate to a lower surface. A lower surface may be curved or turned toward the base of the wall. A gate may be a profiled or rounded throat to provide a flow path with improved flow dynamics and efficiencies. A top portion may form a space between an outer surface of a base and a wall of a top portion. A space may be substantially annular. A gate may align with the center of a curved portion of a header. In this way, when assembled, a header and a top portion of a core may be substantially concentric.A relationship between a header and an upper portion can provide a siphon discharge valve inlet and flow path for water to flow from the outside of a siphon discharge valve through a tubular orifice. A siphon discharge valve inlet and flow path can be annular. An outward bend from the lower surface of a core and an outward bend from the lower end of a header can provide an enlarged siphon discharge valve inlet. This can improve flow dynamics and efficiency. In some embodiments, a tubular head and core may have shapes other than cylindrical, for example, oval. The width of a head and core may be less than the length of the head and core. An oval or elliptical shape of a siphon flush valve may allow it to fit in more toilet tanks, as toilet tanks are generally wider than they are deep. Although a circular and elliptical siphon flush valve are described, a siphon flush valve can have other shapes. Although the siphon discharge valves in this disclosure are represented and described as substantially concentrically arranged siphon discharge valves, other shapes and arrangements are possible. A substantially concentric siphon discharge valve can allow uniform flow from the tank to the siphon discharge valve. Uniform flow can improve efficiency and flow rate in a siphon discharge valve. Other shapes and arrangements contemplated (e.g., non-concentric arrangements) can also exhibit uniform flow from the tank to the siphon discharge valve. A toilet system may include a control assembly. A control assembly may be attached to a toilet tank. It may also be attached to an internal part of the toilet tank within a watertight compartment or housing. In some embodiments, a control assembly may be attached to an external bowl or tank. A control assembly may include one or more capacitive sensors, a battery, wiring, or a printed circuit board controller. A control assembly may be associated with a solenoid valve. A solenoid valve may be controlled between an open and a closed position. In an open position, a solenoid valve may admit fluid from a first siphon discharge valve supply line to a second siphon discharge valve supply line. A second siphon discharge valve supply line may be the same as a siphon discharge valve fluid supply line described above. A second siphon discharge valve supply line may supply water to an initiator.In the closed position, a valve can prevent flow between a second siphon drain valve supply line and a first siphon drain valve supply line. A printed circuit board can send and receive signals from a capacitive sensor to and from a solenoid. A battery, which may be a battery pack, can supply power to various electrical components. In some embodiments, a control assembly may include an ultrasonic sensor. An ultrasonic sensor may be positioned at the bottom of the toilet bowl and configured to determine the bowl's contents. In some embodiments, a control assembly may also include a mechanism configured to open and close a gate positioned in an opening in a siphon valve head. In some embodiments, a mechanism configured to open and close a gate positioned in an opening in a siphon valve head may comprise an electric motor, a hydraulic piston assembly, a solenoid, etc. A mechanism may be positioned at or near a gate, or it may be positioned away from a gate, and may include a cable or hydraulic feature configured to open and close the gate. A mechanism may include a gear assembly and a multi-arm linkage assembly. In some embodiments, an ultrasonic sensor can communicate with a controller whether the toilet bowl contains solid or liquid waste. When a user gestures near a capacitive sensor to initiate a flush, the capacitive sensor communicates this to a controller. The controller may have already received a communication from an ultrasonic sensor regarding the bowl's contents. The controller can then instruct a gate positioned in an opening on a siphon valve head to open or close (or remain open or remain closed) and subsequently instruct the solenoid to open and initiate a flush. If the bowl is determined to contain liquid, the gate will be instructed to remain open, and a low-volume flush will occur.If it is determined that the bowl contains solid contents, the gate will be instructed to be in a closed position and a high-volume flush will be performed. A T-shaped inlet allows a water source to be drawn for an initiator before a fill valve. The pressure for an initiator can be determined by the building's infrastructure, typically between approximately 20 psi and approximately 120 psi. Lower pressure can result in a lower spray volume and lower pressure generation at a siphon discharge valve, thus leading to a less efficient siphon discharge valve. The initiators of this disclosure can form an annular pattern extending from the center of an initiator head, diverging toward and contacting the core orifice. In some embodiments, the present system may include a pressure equalizer, which may be necessary to allow a discharge valve to comply with regulations. A pressure equalizer may be positioned upstream (before) a spray initiator. o / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi Divergent spray angles ranging from approximately 50 degrees to approximately 120 degrees can be provided. A spray pattern can be solid or hollow and can be conical, square, pyramidal, oval, etc. Initiators can be single- or multi-part constructions. An initiator can be permanently fixed or manufactured for easy removal for maintenance. An initiator can be fixed by overmolding, glue, interference fit, screw, or bayonet thread. In some embodiments, a connection between an initiator and a siphon discharge valve head can be sealed, for example, leak-proof. The siphon discharge valves described herein provide a finless discharge system. These valves are designed to eliminate leaks caused by worn, chemically degraded, damaged, or otherwise compromised fin seals. Furthermore, the valves themselves have no moving parts, reducing the likelihood of damage, failure, and / or the need for repair. A concentric head design relative to the core allows for increased performance within a compact structure. The siphon flush valves described in this disclosure can be combined with a bidet. These valves can be used with both one-piece and two-piece toilets that have a water tank. For a one-piece toilet, the siphon flush valve may have a different type of base fixing than that of a two-piece toilet (for example, a threaded ring with a nut). The siphon flush valves described in this disclosure can also be provided for a toilet that has a remote tank or cistern, such as one concealed within a wall. In this case, additional water lines may be required. A toilet bowl comprises a rim extending at least partially around an upper perimeter of the bowl, an interior surface, and a sump area. In some embodiments, a rim may define a rim channel extending from a rim inlet port around an upper perimeter of the bowl and having at least one rim outlet port in fluid communication with an interior surface of the bowl. Fluid flow through a rim channel may serve to clean the bowl. In one embodiment, a bowl may have a rim shelf extending transversely along an interior surface of the bowl from a rim inlet port at least partially around the bowl such that fluid is configured to travel along the rim shelf and enter the interior of the bowl at at least one location offset from the rim inlet port. A bowl sump area is in fluid communication with a trap inlet. A bowl sump area can define a sump trap. In some embodiments, a portion of an interior bowl wall in the sump area can be configured to slope upward from a jet outlet port toward the trap inlet. The sump area of the bowl in one embodiment has a sump trap defined by the inner surface of the bowl and having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein the inlet end of the sump trap receives fluid from the jet outlet port and / or the inner area of the bowl, and the outlet end of the sump trap is in fluid communication with the trap inlet; and wherein the sump trap has a sealing depth. A top surface or the highest point of the jet outlet port may be inside the sump trap and positioned at a sealing depth below a top surface of the inlet to the trap as measured longitudinally through the sump area.In some embodiments, a sump trap sealing depth can be any from about 1 cm, about 2 cm, about 3 cm, about 4 cm or about 5 cm to any from about 6 cm, about 7 cm, about 8 cm, about 9 cm, about 10 cm, about 11 cm, about 12 cm, about 13 cm, about 14 cm or about 15 cm or more. In some embodiments, a toilet assembly may comprise a jet defining at least one jet channel, wherein the jet channel extends from a jet inlet port in fluid communication with a flush valve to a jet outlet port positioned in a bowl sump area and configured to discharge fluid through the sump area into a trap. In some embodiments, a jet channel, once primed with fluid, may remain primed before actuation and after completing a flush cycle. A trap is in fluid communication with a toilet bowl sump area and with a waste outlet line. The following are some non-exhaustive ways in which disclosure can be carried out. In a first embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed comprising a toilet tank, wherein the toilet tank comprises a control assembly; and a siphon valve assembly, wherein the control assembly comprises a capacitive sensor, a controller, and a power supply, and the siphon valve assembly comprises a tubular core, a coupled head surrounding an upper end of the tubular core, a spray initiator positioned in the head and extending into the tubular core, and a solenoid valve fluidly coupled to the spray initiator, and wherein the power supply is electrically connected to the capacitive sensor, the controller, and the solenoid valve, the capacitive sensor being configured to detect a first gesture and to signal the detection of the first gesture to the controller to initiate a flush cycle, the controller,After receiving the first gesture indication from the capacitive sensor, it is configured to command the opening of the solenoid valve, the spray initiator. After the solenoid valve opens, it is configured to spray pressurized water over a complete perimeter of an internal surface of the tubular core to form a water seal, thereby creating negative pressure in the tubular core and initiating a siphon flow of surrounding water into the toilet tank. In a second embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to embodiment 1 is disclosed, wherein a lower end of the head defines a siphon valve inlet, a lower end of the tubular core defines a siphon valve outlet, the upper end of the tubular core defines a gate, and the negative pressure created in the tubular core initiates the siphon flow of water from the toilet tank through the siphon valve inlet, over the gate, through the tubular core, and out of the siphon valve outlet into a toilet bowl to effect a flush. In a third embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to embodiments 1 or 2, configured so that the siphon flow of water from the toilet tank continues until a surrounding water level drops to a lower end of the head and air enters the siphon valve inlet, thereby interrupting the siphon flow. In a fourth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the solenoid valve is configured to close after a predetermined time interval. In a fifth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the solenoid valve is configured to close after a predetermined time interval, wherein the predetermined time interval extends beyond the interruption of the siphon flow to provide water to refill a toilet bowl to form a sanitary water seal. In a sixth embodiment, a contactless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the upper end of the tubular core defines a gate, and wherein the gate comprises an outward and downward extension of the tubular core. In a seventh embodiment, a contactless toilet assembly according to any of embodiments 1 to 5 is disclosed, wherein the upper end of the tubular core defines a gate, and wherein the gate comprises an inward and downward extension of the tubular core. In an eighth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the above embodiments, wherein the head and tubular core are aligned symmetrically and the siphon valve inlet is located circumferentially around the tubular core. In a ninth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, comprising a fill valve positioned in the toilet tank, wherein the fill valve is fluidly coupled to the solenoid valve via a first water supply line, and the solenoid valve is fluidly coupled to the spray initiator via a second water supply line. In a tenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to embodiment 9 is disclosed, wherein the first water supply line is coupled to the fill valve via a port positioned below (upstream of) a fill valve outlet configured to refill the toilet tank during a flush cycle. In an eleventh embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the detection of the first gesture results in the controller initiating a low-volume flush cycle. In a twelfth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the capacitive sensor is configured to detect a second gesture, wherein the detection of the second gesture results in the controller initiating a high-volume flush cycle. o / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi In a thirteenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the siphon valve head comprises one or more gates, wherein the one or more gates in an open position provide a low-volume flush cycle, and wherein the one or more gates in a closed position provide a high-volume flush cycle. In a fourteenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to embodiment 13 is disclosed, wherein the controller is electrically coupled to a mechanism configured to open and close the one or more gates. In a fifteenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the control assembly comprises an ultrasonic sensor configured to be positioned in a toilet bowl, and wherein the controller is configured to receive information from the ultrasonic sensor and to determine the contents of the bowl based on that information. In a sixteenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to embodiment 15 is disclosed, wherein, upon determination of liquid contents, the controller is configured to command a low-volume flush cycle. In a seventeenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to embodiment 15 is disclosed, wherein, upon determination of solid contents, the controller is configured to command a high-volume flush cycle. In an eighteenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the capacitive sensor is configured to detect a third gesture, and to indicate the detection of the third gesture to the controller to initiate a cleaning cycle, and the controller, upon receiving the indication of the third gesture from the capacitive sensor, is configured to instruct the solenoid valve to remain closed for a predetermined period of time. In a nineteenth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the capacitive sensor is fixed to an inner wall of the toilet tank. In a twentieth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the capacitive sensor is fixed to an inner wall of the toilet tank with an adhesive. In a twenty-first embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the capacitive sensor is fixed to an inner wall of the toilet tank with a two-part methyl methacrylate adhesive and / or an alkyl cyanoacrylate ester adhesive.In a twenty-second embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein an inner wall of the toilet tank comprises a recess for receiving the capacitive sensor. In a twenty-third embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the capacitive sensor is in wired electrical communication with the controller and the power supply. In a twenty-fourth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the controller is in wired electrical communication with the solenoid valve. In a twenty-fifth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of embodiments 1 to 23 is disclosed, wherein the controller is in wireless electrical communication with the solenoid valve. In a twenty-sixth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the power source comprises a battery. In a twenty-seventh embodiment, a contactless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the head comprises a dome-shaped cap or a cylindrical cap. In a twenty-eighth embodiment, a contactless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the head comprises a plurality of tabs extending from an inner surface thereof, wherein the tabs are configured to position and retain the head at the upper end of the tubular core. In a twenty-ninth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water into the tubular core in the form of a spray to form a water seal with the inner surface of the tubular core. In a thirtieth embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the spray initiator comprises an outwardly and downwardly tapered orifice portion. In a thirty-first embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water in a full cone-shaped spray, a hollow cone-shaped spray, a square cone-shaped spray, or a pyramid-shaped spray. In a thirty-second embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water in a square cone-shaped spray or a pyramid-shaped spray.In a thirty-third embodiment, a touchless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the above embodiments, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water into the tubular core at a spray angle of about 45 degrees to about 130 degrees. In a thirty-fourth embodiment, a contactless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, comprising no moving parts. In a thirty-fifth embodiment, a contactless toilet assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, comprising a toilet bowl coupled to the toilet tank. In a thirty-sixth embodiment, a contactless siphon valve assembly for a toilet assembly having a toilet tank is disclosed, wherein the contactless siphon valve assembly comprises a control assembly and a siphon valve assembly according to any of the above embodiments o / Q7i n / cznz / u / vi. In a thirty-seventh embodiment, a toilet tank comprising a contactless siphon valve assembly is disclosed in accordance with any of the above embodiments. The terms coupled or connected can mean that an element is attached to or associated with another element. Coupled or connected can mean directly coupled or coupled through one or more elements. An element can be coupled to another element through two or more elements sequentially or non-sequentially. The term through an element can mean via or by means of an element. Coupled, connected, or associated with can also mean elements that are not directly or indirectly attached, but that work together in the sense that one can function in conjunction with the other. The terms upstream and downstream indicate a direction of gas or fluid flow, that is, the gas or fluid will flow from upstream to downstream. The term towards, in reference to a point of union, can mean exactly at that location or point, or alternatively, it can mean closer to that point than to some other point; for example, towards a center means closer to a center than to an edge. The term "similar" means like, but not necessarily exactly the same. For example, "ring-like" generally means ring-shaped, but not necessarily perfectly circular. The articles "a" and "an" herein refer to one or more (e.g., at least one) of the grammatical object. Any range cited herein is inclusive. The expression "around" used throughout herein is used to describe and represent small fluctuations. For example, "around" might mean that the numerical value may be modified by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, or around ±5%. All numerical values are modified by the expression "around," whether explicitly stated or not. Numerical values modified by the expression "around" include the specific value identified. For example, "around 5.0" includes 5.0. The term substantially is similar to approximately in that the defined term can vary, for example, by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, or ±5% of the definition; for example, the term substantially perpendicular can mean that a perpendicular angle of 90° can mean approximately 90°. The term generally can be equivalent to substantially. The features described in relation to one form of embodiment of the disclosure may be used in conjunction with other forms of embodiment, even if not explicitly stated. The embodiments of the disclosure include each and every part and / or portion of the embodiments, claims, description, and figures. The embodiments of the disclosure also include any and all combinations and / or subcombinations of embodiments.
Claims
1. A touchless toilet assembly comprising a toilet tank, wherein the toilet tank comprises a control assembly; and a siphon valve assembly, wherein the control assembly comprises a capacitive sensor, a controller, and a power supply, and the siphon valve assembly comprises a tubular core, a coupled head surrounding an upper end of the tubular core, a spray initiator positioned in the head and extending into the tubular core, and a solenoid valve fluidly coupled to the spray initiator, and wherein the power supply is electrically connected to the capacitive sensor, the controller, and the solenoid valve, the capacitive sensor being configured to detect a first gesture and to indicate the detection of the first gesture to the controller, the controller, upon receiving the indication of the first gesture from the capacitive sensor,It is configured to command the opening of the solenoid valve to initiate a flush cycle. The spray initiator, after the opening of the solenoid valve, is configured to spray pressurized water over a full perimeter of an internal surface of the tubular core to form a water seal, thereby creating negative pressure in the tubular core and initiating a siphon flow of surrounding water into the toilet tank.
2. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein a lower end of the head defines a siphon valve inlet, a lower end of the tubular core defines a siphon valve outlet, the upper end of the tubular core defines a gate, and the negative pressure created in the tubular core initiates the siphon flow of water from the toilet tank through the siphon valve inlet, over the gate, through the tubular core, and out of the siphon valve outlet to a toilet bowl to effect a flush.
3. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, configured so that the siphon flow of water from the toilet tank continues until a surrounding water level drops to a lower end of the head and air enters the siphon valve inlet, thereby interrupting the siphon flow.
4. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the solenoid valve is configured to close after a predetermined time interval. O / Q7I n / C7n7 / 3 / VIAI 5. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, comprising a fill valve positioned in the toilet tank, wherein the fill valve is fluidly coupled to the solenoid valve via a first water supply line, and the solenoid valve is fluidly coupled to the spray initiator via a second water supply line.
6. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the capacitive sensor is configured to detect a first gesture and a second gesture, the controller is configured to initiate a low-volume flush cycle after the detection of the first gesture, and the controller is configured to initiate a high-volume flush cycle after the detection of the second gesture.
7. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the siphon valve head comprises one or more gates configured to be placed in an open or closed position, the open gate position being configured to provide a low-volume flush cycle, and the closed gate position being configured to provide a high-volume flush cycle.
8. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 7, wherein the controller is electrically coupled to a mechanism configured to open and close one or more gates.
9. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the control assembly comprises an ultrasonic sensor configured to be positioned in a toilet bowl, the controller is configured to determine the contents of the bowl based on information received from the ultrasonic sensor, after determining the contents of the bowl as liquid, the controller is configured to command a low-volume flush cycle, and after determining the contents of the bowl as solids, the controller is configured to command a high-volume flush cycle.
10. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the capacitive sensor is configured to detect a third gesture, and to indicate the detection of the third gesture to the controller to initiate a cleaning cycle, and the controller, after receiving the indication of the third gesture from the capacitive sensor, is configured to instruct the solenoid valve to remain closed for a predetermined period of time.
11. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the capacitive sensor is fixed to an inner wall of the toilet tank.
12. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the capacitive sensor is in wired electrical communication with the controller and the power supply, and the controller is in wired electrical communication with the solenoid valve.
13. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the head comprises a dome-shaped cap or a cylinder-shaped cap.
14. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the head comprises a plurality of tabs extending from an internal surface thereof, wherein the tabs are configured to locate and hold the head in place at the upper end of the tubular core.
15. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water into the tubular core in the form of a spray to form the water seal with the inner surface of the tubular core.
16. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water in a full cone-shaped spray, hollow cone-shaped spray, square cone-shaped spray, or pyramid-shaped spray.
17. The touchless toilet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the spray initiator is configured to discharge pressurized water into the tubular core at a spray angle of about 45 degrees to about 130 degrees.
18. The contactless toilet assembly according to claim 1, comprising a toilet bowl coupled to the toilet tank.
19. A touchless siphon valve assembly for a toilet assembly having a toilet tank, wherein the touchless siphon valve assembly comprises a control assembly; and a siphon valve assembly, wherein the control assembly comprises a capacitive sensor, a controller, and a power supply, and the siphon valve assembly comprises a tubular core, a coupled head surrounding an upper end of the tubular core, a spray initiator positioned in the head and extending into the tubular core, and a solenoid valve fluidly coupled to the spray initiator, and wherein the power supply is electrically connected to the capacitive sensor, the controller, and the solenoid valve, the capacitive sensor being configured to detect a first gesture and to signal the detection of the first gesture to the controller to initiate a flush cycle, the controller,After receiving the first gesture indication from the capacitive sensor, it is configured to command the opening of the solenoid valve, the spray initiator. After the solenoid valve opens, it is configured to spray pressurized water over a complete perimeter of an internal surface of the tubular core to form a water seal, thereby creating negative pressure in the tubular core and initiating a siphon flow of surrounding water into a toilet tank.
20. A toilet tank comprising the contactless siphon valve assembly according to claim 19.