Motorized toilet seat

Abstract

A toilet includes a base, at least one arm, a cover, a bridge and a seat. The cover is rotatably coupled to the base via the at least one arm and spaced apart from the base via the at least one arm. The seat is rotatably coupled to the cover via the bridge and spaced apart from the cover via the bridge.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority benefit of Provisional Application No. 63 / 634,196 (Docket No. 10222-24020A) filed Apr. 15, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to toilet seats. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to toilets having motorized toilet seats.BACKGROUND

[0003] In some conventional toilets, the toilet covers and seats are typically hingably attached to a portion of a toilet base, such that a user can raise the front of each of the cover and the seat from a closed or lowered position to an open or stowed position. The cover and the seat each pivot about a horizontal axis between the lowered position and the stowed position. However, it is often difficult to maintain both the cleanliness of the toilet, particularly at the hinge location, and the overall look and aesthetics of the toilet with this traditional configuration and movement.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to the following drawings, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0006] FIG. 2 is another view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the cover and seat in a raised position.

[0007] FIG. 3 is another view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the cover in a raised position and the seat in a lowered position.

[0008] FIG. 4 illustrates an example controller for the toilet.

[0009] FIGS. 5A-H illustrate a sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat.

[0010] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate another sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat.

[0011] FIG. 7 illustrates the motors for the toilet.

[0012] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate a timing chart for the motors of FIG. 7.

[0013] FIG. 9 illustrates an example controller for the examples of FIGS. 1-8.

[0014] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart for the apparatus of FIG. 1-8.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the toilet 10 includes a cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both a cover 70 and a seat 50 to be easily moved relative to the toilet 10 and to maintain the cleanliness (in particular during use) of the toilet 10. Generally, tankless toilets are illustrated. However, the cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both the cover 70 and the seat 50 to be efficiently opened and closed may be applied to any type of toilet, including those with a tank. Cleanliness is maintained because the hinge location and other opening and closing mechanism are located spaced apart from the opening of the bowl. The seat 50, the cover 70, and the opening (and closing) mechanism may be referred to collectively as the seat assembly.

[0016] An example seat opening (and closing) mechanism is described in detail below. The opening mechanism allows the cover 70 and the seat 50 to each be pivoted independently. The body or base 30 of the toilet 10 may rest on a support 31 such as the width of a base body 30 (or skirt) or bottom surface of the base body 30 that abuts the floor. The cover 70 is rotatably coupled to the base 30. The seat 50 is rotatably coupled to the cover 70. In other words, the seat 50 is not directly coupled to the base 30. Instead, as shown by the following embodiments, the cover 70 rotates independently of the seat 50, and the seat 50 rotates with respect to the cover 70. The seat 50 may rotate to be positioned inside a cavity of the cover 70 in the stowed position and rotate down and away from the cover 70 against the base 30 in the opened position.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the toilet 10 with the cover 70 open and the seat 50 lowered. FIG. 2 is another view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the cover 70 and seat 50 in a raised position. In this view, all four motors in the seat opening and closing mechanism are visible. FIG. 3 illustrates the opening and closing mechanism in detail.

[0018] The first motor M1 is configured to rotate the cover 70 and the seat 50 with respect to the base 30. The first motor M1 may be connection to one or more levers 41 (e.g., arms) coupled with the cover. The levers 41 include a first pivot point on the base 30 and a second pivot point on the cover 70. In response to movement of motor M1, the cover 70 is rotated with respect to a first axis X1 (e.g., pivot axis). The cover 70 is rotatably coupled to the base 30 via the at least one arm and spaced apart from the base 30 via the at least one arm. The levers 41 are coupled to the cover 70 near the center of gravity of the cover 70. The levers 41 may be spaced from the center of gravity of the cover 70 so that the weight of the cover 70 cause the cover 70 to rotate to an upright position as the arms lift the cover 70 with respect to the base 30. The seat 50 is stowed underneath the cover 70 such that the arms 41 also life the seat 50 with respect to the base 30. Neither the cover 70 nor the seat 50 are pivotably or rotatably coupled to the base 30 via a hinge that is attached to the base 30. Thus, the cover 70 is not lifted up in a conventional sense. Instead, the first motor M1 lifts an entirety of the cover 70 up and away from the base 30.

[0019] The second motor M2 is configured to rotate the cover 70 independently about an axle (e.g., rod 42) along a second axis X2. The motor M2 may rotate the cover 70 with respect to the seat 50 and / or the base 30. The second motor M2 is configured to rotate a front of the cover 70 down and toward the base 30.

[0020] The motor M3 may be a bridge motor configured to rotate a bridge 43 (e.g., lever) with respect to the cover 70. For example, the motor M3 may position the bridge 43 in order to bring the seat 50 into position with respect to the base 30. The bridge 43 is coupled to the seat 50 and the cover 70 and configured to rotate with respect to the seat 50 and rotate with respect to the cover 70. The seat 50 is rotatably coupled to the cover 70 via the bridge 43 and spaced apart from the cover 70 via the bridge 43. The bridge 43 may be referred to as a “second lever,” and the arm 41 may be referred to as a “first lever.”

[0021] The motor M4 may be a seat motor configured to move the seat 50 with respect to the bridge 43. As motor M3 rotates the bridge 43 to being the seat 50 into position, the motor M4 rotates the seat 50 to bring the seat 50 in contact with the bowl. The bridge 43 may position the seat 50 near the bowl with the cooperation of motors M3 and M4.

[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates another example toilet 10 including a cross section illustrating internal working parts of the toilet 10 and a control system. The toilet 10 may include a toilet bowl 120, a sump 121, a trapway 122, and a sanitary path and opening 123. Through the sanitary path and opening 123, the toilet 10 is configured to be attached to another object such as a drainpipe, floor, or another suitable object. The base of the toilet 10 supports the bowl 120, the sump 121 (e.g., a receptacle) disposed below the bowl 120, and the trapway 122 fluidly connecting the bowl to a drainpipe or sewage line through the sanitary path and opening 123.

[0023] While not shown, the toilet 10 in may include a tank. The tank may be supported by the base, such as an upper surface of a rim. The tank may be integrally formed with the base as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, the tank may be formed separately from the base and coupled (e.g., attached, secured, fastened, connected, etc.) to the base. The toilet may further include a tank lid covering an opening and inner cavity in the tank.

[0024] The toilet 10 may include a waterline that supplies the toilet 10 with water through one or more valves. For example, the toilet 10 may include a sump jet 106 and / or a rim jet 107. The sump jet 106 and / or the rim jet 107 may be connected to the water supply using a hose or another type of pipe. In some examples, when the toilet base is formed from vitreous, the pipe may be integrally formed in the vitreous from a water supply inlet to the sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107. The sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107 may include a nozzle. The sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107 may include multiple nozzles. For example, a perimeter of several rim nozzles may be arranged around the rim of the toilet 10.

[0025] A bidet may also be connected to the water supply. In some examples, a bidet may be included in a seat or pedestal of a toilet. In other examples, the bidet may be manufactured separately from and attached or coupled to a seat or pedestal of a toilet. The bidet includes a housing. The housing is configured to receive a flow of water through a housing inlet and dispense the flow of water from a housing outlet. The housing inlet and housing outlet may be located on opposite ends of the housing from one another, such that water may flow through the housing from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. In some examples, the housing further includes a chamber. As the housing receives the flow of water, the chamber may fill with water and provide a flow of water between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The chamber may be configured to contain the flow of water and direct the flow of water from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. After the chamber has filled with water, the flow of water may travel along a substantially linear path between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. In some examples, one or more walls within the housing may be included to help direct a flow of water between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The bidet may further include a housing inlet conduit configured to direct a flow of water to the housing inlet. The housing inlet conduit may be coupled to a water supply such as tank or waterline. The housing may further include a gear assembly or a portion of the gear assembly. The bidet may be a front wash bidet for female users and may use, generate, and / perform the functions related to nanobubbles, ozonated water, e Water, hydrogen peroxide generation, pH Control, template assisted crystallization, application of polyphosphates, filtration (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, microfiltration, carbon / GAC), fluidic oscillating sprays, and adding other consumables in the water stream. For nanobubbles, air, ozone, oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide may be used.

[0026] An embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a system of the toilet. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a system of the toilet according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The toilet herein may be the toilet according to any of the embodiments, and the descriptions regarding the toilet are incorporated herein. The toilet is configured to perform an operation, function, or the like as described in the present disclosure.

[0027] The control system for the toilet 10 may include a sensor 101 an indicator interface 103, a sensor array interface 104, a motor driver 105, a valve driver 108 and a user input 109. The control system may include one or more sensors 101 coupled to the toilet 10 or otherwise configured to collect sensor data from the toilet 10 or from users in the proximity of the toilet 10. The sensor array interface 104 includes a circuit or other device to communicate with the various sensors 101. The sensor array interface 104 may average measurements from the sensors 101, sample the sensor data at a predetermined interval, or otherwise manipulate or process the sensor data into a format compatible with the controller 100. The motor driver 105 may provide motor commands to the various motors M1-M4. The motor driver 105 may convert instructions from the controller 100 that include a state of the seat assembly (e.g., open, closed, seat down, etc.) that are converted to individual motor positions or angles that can be commanded to the motors M1-M4. The motor driver 105 may also receive feedback from the motors M1-M4. The motor feedback may be a detected position or operation of the motors M1-M4. The motor feedback may be measured by a position sensor, a torque sensor, or other measurement device coupled to each motor. The motor driver 105 may adjust motor commands based on the motor feedback. The valve driver 108 may provide commands to one or more toilets in the toilet 10. The valve driver 108 may open a water supply in response to a flush instructions. The valve driver 108 may enable or disable certain valve commands according to a state of the seat assembly. For example, the valve driver 108 may not open the water supply unless the seat assembly is closed. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0028] The indicator interface 103 may receive status or error information from the controller 100. The indicator 102 may provide a color of light, a light pattern, textual information, or an audio information to describe the status and / or operation of the seat assembly. The indicator 102 may be lit “red” duration the operation of the seat assembly such as when the seat assembly is in the process of opening or closing. The indicator 102 may be “green” when the seat assembly is fully at rest, wither closed or opened. In other examples, the indicator 102 may indicate whether the seat assembly is opened or closed. The indicator may indicate an error with the seat assembly. Example errors include a power outage, a nonresponsive motor, or a jam in the drive mechanism. The indicator 102 may instruct the user to manually move or otherwise actuate the seat assembly.

[0029] A user input 109 or sensor 101 may include one or more sensors to detect sensor data related to the toilet 10. The sensor array 101 may include a flush trigger. An example flush trigger may be a pressure sensor, a button, a proximity sensor, or other type of sensor that detects when the lid is in an opened position. The flush trigger may be a gesture sensor, a position sensor, or another sensor that detects the presence of a user or a gesture made by a user. The controller 100 may send commands to the sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107 in response to user input or sensor data from the flush trigger.

[0030] The controller 100 may also include a user input 109 that receives an input for the operation of the seat assembly. In some examples, the user may select a mode of operation such as automatic or manual. During automatic operation, the controller 100 activates the seat assembly to open or close in response to sensor data. In manual operation, the controller 100 only activates the assembly when the user sends such a command through the user input 109 (e.g., presses a button).

[0031] The controller 100 may be in communication with multiple toilet sensors I the sensor array 101 (e.g., a plurality of sensors) from a group including a first sensor, a second sensor, a third sensor, and a fourth sensor. Various combinations of sensors as well as an individual sensor may be used in the disclosed embodiments.

[0032] The first sensor may correspond to an image sensor. The first sensor may be an image collection device with a lens such as a digital aperture collection device (e.g., camera) or an image collection device with a charge coupled device (CCD) such as an integrated circuit formed on a silicon surface forming light sensitive elements. The first sensor may be a retina scanner configured to scan the eyes of the user. The retina scan may detect the position of the eyes, which is indicative of the orientation or facing direction of the user. The retina scan may indicate an eye signature for identification of the user. The first sensor may be a low resolution image sensor. A low resolution image sensor may be defined as having less that a predetermined number of pixels in the viewing range proximate to the toilet 10. The low resolution image sensor may be defined as having less than a predetermined frame rate. Example low resolution predetermined frame rates may be 10 frames per second, 5 frames per second or another value.

[0033] The second sensor may correspond to a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be employed to detect the presence of a user within a zone of detection near the toilet 10. Electric potential sensors, projected capacitance sensors, light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and infrared sensors (e.g., projected infrared sensors, passive infrared sensors) are non-limiting examples of proximity sensors that may be employed with the systems of this disclosure. Motion sensors may be employed to detect motion (e.g., a change in position of an object relative to the object's surroundings). Electric potential sensors, optic sensors, radio-frequency (RF) sensors, sound sensors, magnetic sensors (e.g., magnetometers), vibration sensors, and infrared sensors (e.g., projected infrared sensors, passive infrared sensors) are non-limiting examples of motion sensors that may be employed with the systems of this application. In another example, the sensor may include a time of flight (ToF) or a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) that serves as a proximity sensor.

[0034] In one embodiment, a single sensor such as the LiDAR sensor or a millimeter wave sensor may perform the functions of both the first sensor and the second sensor. The LIDAR sensor may generate a series of laser pulses that are emitted toward the user and reflect from the user (e.g., the user's face or the user's body). As the return pulses are detected by the LiDAR sensor, a point cloud or three-dimensional map is generated based on the amount of time for the pulses to reach the user and return to the LiDAR sensor. The process is repeated many times and the point cloud or three-dimensional map may include thousands, millions, or more data points.

[0035] The third sensor may correspond to a sensor configured to detect the user at the seat. The third sensor may be a capacitance sensor associated with the seat 50. The third sensor may be responsive to touch on the seat 50. The third sensor S4 may correspond to a pressure or weight sensor. The third sensor S4 may be responsive to the weight from the user sitting on the seat 50.

[0036] The fourth sensor may include a millimeter wave sensor, referred to as a mmwave sensor. Various locations are possible for the mmwave sensor. The mmwave may be attached or otherwise supported by the bowl. The mmwave sensor may be attached or otherwise supported by the tank. The mmwave sensor may be attached or otherwise supported to the housing, such as on the front of the vacuum toilet. In some examples, multiple mmwave sensors may be used such that one of the mmwave sensors is behind the bowl 601 and one of the mmwave sensors is in front of the bowl and close to the expected position of the user standing near or sitting at the toilet.

[0037] The fourth sensor may emit waves (e.g., pulses) include millimeter electromagnetic wave energy that reflects of an object such as a user or contents of the bowl. The return waves (e.g., pulses) includes a smaller amount of electromagnetic wave energy than the emitted waves. The return waves are received at the at least one receiver after a propagation delay and at a reflection angle. The controller 100 may be configured to calculate one or more kinematic properties of the object based on the energy, time, and / or angle of the return pulse. The controller 100 or an integrated control unit of the millimeter wave sensor performs fast Fourier transform (FFT) operation on the intermediate frequency signal to obtain the distance, intensity, and velocity information of the objects. Based on the characteristics of radar signals, when a person approaches or leaves may be identified. The emitted wave and reflected wave are mixed in the mixer to generate an intermediate frequency signal in the millimeter wave sensor.

[0038] Specifically, the intermediate frequency signal is an electrical signal having a frequency and an intensity (e.g., an amplitude). The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal ranges from several-hundred Hz to about a few KHz. The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal has a mathematical relationship with a distance between the sensor and the object (e.g., users or urine steams). The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal also has a mathematical relationship with a velocity of the motion of the object based on the Principle of Doppler (e.g., the Doppler shift). The object in motion with respect to the sensor 101 results in a change in the frequency of the waves generated by the sensor 101.

[0039] The sensor data may be descriptive of a user in proximity to the toilet. The sensor 101 may detect when a user is in a distance range. As described above, the distance range may depend on the state of the sensor 101 and the motion of the user. The sensor 101 may detect gestures of the user. The sensor 101 may detect the position of the user such as standing versus sitting. The controller 100 is configured to receive sensor data from the microwave sensors and generate a control signal response for the toilet in response to the sensor data from the microwave sensors.

[0040] In response to the sensor data, the controller 100 may send command signals to the seat assembly. The controller 100 is configured to generate and send commands to the motors or other drive mechanism to open and close the seat 50 and cover 70 according to the data collected by the sensors. The controller 100 is configured to determine an orientation of the user based on the sensor data and generate a command for the drive mechanism in response to the orientation of the user. Example orientations of the user include facing the toilet 10 or facing away from the toilet 10. Example orientation of the user include approaching the toilet 10 or stepping away from the toilet 10.

[0041] In some examples, the controller 100 utilizes the image data from the first sensor to determine whether a user is facing the toilet 10 or facing away from the toilet 10. For example, the controller 100 analyzes the image data to determine whether human facial features (e.g., facial recognition) can be identified from the image data. When facial features are identified, the controller 100 determines that the user is facing the toilet 10. Otherwise, the controller 100 determines that the user is facing away from the toilet 10. When the user is facing the toilet 10, the seat 50 and cover 70 are opened. When the user is facing away from the toilet 10, the seat 50 and cover 70 are closed. In the LiDAR example, the controller 100 may compare the point cloud or three-dimensional map to a template or other thresholds to identify the direction that the user is facing.

[0042] In addition, the controller 100 may determine whether the user has turned around. For example, after the controller 100 determines that the user is facing the toilet 10, the controller 100 may further analyze the image data to determine that the image data still includes the user but no longer includes facial features. This indicates that the user has turned around. When the user has turned around, the controller 100 may generate a command for the seat 50 to close (e.g., lowered position) and / or the cover 70 to remain open (e.g., stowed position).

[0043] In addition, the controller 100 may determine whether the user walked away from the toilet 10. For example, after the controller 100 determines that the user is facing the toilet 10, the controller 100 may further analyze the image data to determine that the image data no longer includes the user and / or no longer includes facial features. This indicates that the user is no longer present at the toilet 10. When the user is no longer present, the controller 100 may generate a command for the seat 50 to close (e.g., lowered position) and / or the cover 70 to close (e.g., lowered position).

[0044] The controller 100 may determine the orientation of the user based on a template. A memory may be configured to store a plurality of templates for possible orientations of the user. The controller 100 is configured to access the templates from the memory and compare the image data from at least one of the sensors to the plurality of templates. In one example, the templates are based on image data at the sensor data compared to the template is from the first sensor. At least one of the templates includes a pixel arrangement indicative of a face of a user (e.g., facial feature). The controller 100 compares the collected image data to determine if there is a match with the facial feature. If there is a match, the controller 100 determines that the user in facing the toilet 10. Other templates may include pixel arrangements indicative of the back of a user (e.g., hair).

[0045] The controller 100 may be in communication with a feedback sensor for the motors M1-M4. The feedback sensor may be a torque sensor or a position sensor.

[0046] FIGS. 5A-H illustrate a sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat. The sequence in FIGS. 5A-H may be performed by the controller 100 as it serves commands through the motor driver 105 to the array of motors. At least one motor is operated by the controller 100 to place the seat assembly into the state as shown in each of FIGS. 5A-H. That is, at least one motor is actuated to move from FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B, from FIG. 5B to FIG. 5C, and so on.

[0047] Operative states of the seat assembly include a standing user raised position, a seated user position, and a closed position. As shown in FIG. 5C, the standing user raised position, the seat 50 is behind the cover. 70 and a front of the cover 70 is closer to the base 30 than a rear of the cover 70 is to the base 30. As shown in FIG. 5A, in the closed position, the seat 50 is at a first height with respect to the base 30. As shown in FIG. 5F, in the seated user position, the seat 50 is a second height with respect to the base 30 such that the first height is above the second height. When moving from the seated user position in FIG. 5F to the closed position, the seat 50 is move upward to meet the cover 70, as shown by FIG. 5H.

[0048] In FIG. 5A the cover 70 and seat 50 of the toilet 10 are in the lowered or stowed position. The seat 50 is positioned within a cavity of the cover 70.

[0049] In FIG. 5B, the cover 70 and seat 50 move together to move away from the base 30 through motion of motor M1. The cover 70 and seat 50 are lifted up and away from the base of the toilet 10. In some examples the cover 70 rotates (e.g., as shown, counter-clockwise) either by motor M2 or under the force of gravity. Similarly, as the seat 50 is stowed within the cavity of the cover 70, the seat 50 also rotates (e.g., as shown, counter-clockwise) either by motor M2 or under the force of gravity.

[0050] In FIG. 5C, the cover 70 and seat 50 are completely open. In some examples, the cover 70 may rest against the base. In other examples, the arms 41 support the cover 70 and seat 50 at a predetermined distance of the base of the toilet 10.

[0051] In FIG. 5D, the seat 50 separates from the cover 70 through via bridge 43 through motion of motor M3. In one example, the cover 70 may pivot up through motor M2 in order to provide space for the seat 50 to make clearance when it separates from the cover. The seat 50 is moved with respect to the cover 70 and with respect to the base of the toilet 10. The seat may be translated and rotated according to the dimensions of the bridge 43.

[0052] In FIG. 5E, the seat 50 moves to the bowl through further rotation of bridge 43 through the motion of motor M3. In FIG. 5F, the seat 50 is in the lowered position in contact with the base 30. In other examples the cover 70 may be held a predetermined distance above the base 30.

[0053] In FIG. 5G, the seat 50 folds back into the cavity of the cover 70 through opposite rotation of bridge 43 and reverse direction of motor M3.

[0054] In FIG. 5H, the seat 50 is returns to the cavity of the cover 70, which returns to the stowed position against the base 30.

[0055] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate another sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat with the cover 70 removed and a transparent seat 50 for illustrative purposes.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 6A, the first motor M1 rotates in a first direction as the third motor M3 brings the seat 50 toward the base 30. As shown in FIG. 6B, the first motor M1 rotates in a second direction after the third motor M3 brings the seat toward the base 30.

[0057] FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate the seat 50 being deployed and lowered back to the base 30.

[0058] FIGS. 7 illustrates the motors M1-M4 for the toilet 10. FIGS. 8A-C illustrate a timing chart for the motors of FIG. 7. Time is on the horizontal axis. Hatching 71 (slanted to the right) indicates that the respective motor is rotating in a first direction such as clockwise. Hatching 72 (slanted to the left) indicates that the respective motor is rotating in a second direction such as counterclockwise. The empty boxes 73 (or empty space) indicates no movement. The motors M1-M4 may operate at different speeds. Thus, a particular length of the bar charts in FIGS. 8A-8C relate to lengths of time but do not necessary relate to particular motor positions on angular distances for the motors M1-M4.

[0059] FIG. 8A illustrates the timing for opening the cover 70 and seat 50. When opening the seat 50 and cover 70, the motor M1 is operated in rotated in a first direction, bringing the seat 50 and cover 70 up and away from the base 30, and the motor M2 is operated in a second direction bringing seat 50 and cover 70 towards a substantially vertical position with respect to the toilet 10. There may be a time delay D1 between the operation of motor M1 and the operation of motor M2. The motors M1 and M2 may stop at the same time. In this opening sequence motors M3 and M4 are not used.

[0060] FIG. 8B illlustrates the timing for deployment of the seat 50. Four motors M1-M4 may be used for the seat deployment. As shown in the timing chart, all four motors M1-M4 are operated initially, with three of the motors M1-M3 rotating in the first direction and one of the motors M4 rotating in the second direction. Motor M3 is operated throughout the deployment sequence and motors M1, M2 and M4 are stopped for a delay period. Motor M2 is delayed for time period D2 in one occurrence. Motor M4 is delayed for time period D3 in four occurrences. Motor M1 is delayed for time period D3 in one occurrence. As noted above, the duration of the operation of the motor is not necessarily proportionally to the angular distanced traveled by the motor. Specifically, in the instance of motor M1 during seat deployment, only a few angular degrees may be traveled by the motor M1 from the beginning to the end of seat deployment.

[0061] FIG. 8C illustrates the timing for closing the cover 70 and seat 50. In the closing sequence, the motor M1 operates for a short time in the first direction, pauses for a time period D4, and then is reversed to the second direction. Similarly, the motor M3 is reversed to the second direction. Motor M2 rotates in the first direction with an interruption having time period D4. Motor M3 rotates in the second direction having multiple pauses for a duration of time period D4. Motor M4 rotates in the first direction having multiple pauses for a duration of time period D4.

[0062] The controller 100 may be in communication with a feedback sensor for the motors M1-M4. The feedback sensor may be a torque sensor or a position sensor. The feedback sensor may detect when a user interrupts the sequence of the seat assembly. For example, as the seat 50 and cover 70 or raising, the user may reach to interrupt and apply a force to the cover 70. This user intervention is detected by the feedback sensor. In one example, the controller 100 resets the seat assembly according to a user interruption. For example, the sequence in FIG. 8A may return to the initial state (e.g., seat and cover closed) if there is a user interruption during the timing sequence of FIG. 8A or as the cover 70 is opening. Similarly, the sequence in FIG. 8B may return to the initial state (e.g., cover opened, seat stowed) if there is a user interruption during the timing sequence of FIG. 8B or as the seat 50 is being deployed. Similarly, the sequence in FIG. 8C may return to the initial state (e.g., seat deployed) if there is a user interruption during the timing sequence of FIG. 8C or as the seat 50 is being returned and the cover 70 closed. Rather than the breakdown in FIGS. 8A-8C, any particular position of the seat assembly may be used as a set point that is returned to in the event of a user interruption.

[0063] FIG. 9 illustrates an example controller 301 for operation of the drive mechanism for seat 50 and cover 70. The controller 301 may include a processor 300, a memory 352, and a communication interface 353 for interfacing with devices or to the internet and / or other networks 346. In addition to the communication interface 353, a sensor interface may be configured to receive data from sensors (e.g., proximity sensors to trigger the operation of the seat 50 and / or cover 70; position sensors to detect the position of the seat 50 and / or cover).

[0064] The components of the control system may communicate using bus 348. The control system may be connected to a workstation or another external device (e.g., control panel) and / or a database for receiving user inputs, system characteristics, and any of the values described herein.

[0065] Optionally, the control system may include an input device 355 and / or a sensing circuit 356 in communication with any of the sensors. The sensing circuit receives sensor measurements from one or more sensors. The input device may include any of the user inputs such as buttons, touchscreen, a keyboard, a microphone for voice inputs, a camera for gesture inputs, and / or another mechanism.

[0066] Optionally, the control system may include a drive unit 340 for receiving and reading non-transitory computer media 341 having instructions 342. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included. The processor 300 is configured to perform instructions 342 stored in memory 352 for executing the algorithms described herein. A display 350 may be an indicator or other screen output device. The display 350 may be combined with the user input device 355.

[0067] FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart for the apparatus of FIG. 15. The acts of the flow chart may be performed by the controller 301. Additional, different of fewer acts may be included.

[0068] At act S101, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) receives input data to trigger the operation of the toilet seat assembly. The data input may include data from a sensor such as a proximity sensor that detects a user approaching the toilet or providing a gesture to the toilet. The input data may be received from a remote control or mobile device operated by the user. The input data may specify seat opened or seat closed and / or cover opened or cover closed.

[0069] At act S103, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) generates a first signal to rotate a seat and a cover together (e.g., because the seat is supported by and rests within the cover 70). The first signal may be applied to a first motor or motors. The first signal may specify a predetermined angle.

[0070] At act S105, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) generates a second signal to separate the seat 50 from the cover 70 using a pivoting bridge. The second signal may turn on a second motor or motors. The second signal may specify a predetermined angle of rotation for the bridge.

[0071] At act S107, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) generates a third signal for a third motor or motors to rotate the seat 50 with respect to the bridge for bringing the seat 50 in proximity to an opening of the toilet bowl.

[0072] Processor 300 may be a general purpose or specific purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable processing components. Processor 300 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in memory 352 or received from other computer readable media (e.g., embedded flash memory, local hard disk storage, local ROM, network storage, a remote server, etc.). The processor 300 may be a single device or combinations of devices, such as associated with a network, distributed processing, or cloud computing.

[0073] Memory 352 may include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for completing and / or facilitating the various processes described in the present disclosure. Memory 352 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. Memory 352 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. Memory 352 may be communicably connected to processor 300 via a processing circuit and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by processor 300) one or more processes described herein. For example, memory 298 may include graphics, web pages, HTML files, XML files, script code, shower configuration files, or other resources for use in generating graphical user interfaces for display and / or for use in interpreting user interface inputs to make command, control, or communication decisions.

[0074] In addition to ingress ports and egress ports, the communication interface 353 may include any operable connection. An operable connection may be one in which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications may be sent and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. The communication interface 353 may be connected to a network. The network may include wired networks (e.g., Ethernet), wireless networks, or combinations thereof. The wireless network may be a cellular telephone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, a Bluetooth pairing of devices, or a Bluetooth mesh network. Further, the network may be a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed including, but not limited to TCP / IP based networking protocols.

[0075] While the computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 352) is shown to be a single medium, the term “computer-readable medium” includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” shall also include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0076] In a particular non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable medium can include a solid-state memory such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. Further, the computer-readable medium can be a random access memory or other volatile re-writable memory. Additionally, the computer-readable medium can include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk or tapes or other storage device to capture carrier wave signals such as a signal communicated over a transmission medium. A digital file attachment to an e-mail or other self-contained information archive or set of archives may be considered a distribution medium that is a tangible storage medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include any one or more of a computer-readable medium or a distribution medium and other equivalents and successor media, in which data or instructions may be stored. The computer-readable medium may be non-transitory, which includes all tangible computer-readable media.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment, dedicated hardware implementations, such as application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices, can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that may include the apparatus and systems of various embodiments can broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein may implement functions using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals that can be communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Accordingly, the present system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0078] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0079] While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

[0080] One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

[0081] It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting and that it is understood that the following claims including all equivalents are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be read as limited to the described order or elements unless stated to that effect. Therefore, all embodiments that come within the scope and spirit of the following claims and equivalents thereto are claimed as the invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0015]As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the toilet 10 includes a cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both a cover 70 and a seat 50 to be easily moved relative to the toilet 10 and to maintain the cleanliness (in particular during use) of the toilet 10. Generally, tankless toilets are illustrated. However, the cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both the cover 70 and the seat 50 to be efficiently opened and closed may be applied to any type of toilet, including those with a tank. Cleanliness is maintained because the hinge location and other opening and closing mechanism are located spaced apart from the opening of the bowl. The seat 50, the cover 70, and the opening (and closing) mechanism may be referred to collectively as the seat assembly.

[0016]An example seat opening (and closing) mechanism is described in detail below. The opening mechanism allows the cover 70 and the seat 50 to each be pivoted independently. The body or base 30 of the toilet ...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority benefit of Provisional Application No. 63 / 634,196 (Docket No. 10222-24020A) filed Apr. 15, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to toilet seats. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to toilets having motorized toilet seats.BACKGROUND

[0003] In some conventional toilets, the toilet covers and seats are typically hingably attached to a portion of a toilet base, such that a user can raise the front of each of the cover and the seat from a closed or lowered position to an open or stowed position. The cover and the seat each pivot about a horizontal axis between the lowered position and the stowed position. However, it is often difficult to maintain both the cleanliness of the toilet, particularly at the hinge location, and the overall look and aesthetics of the toilet with this traditional configuration and movement.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to the following drawings, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0006] FIG. 2 is another view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the cover and seat in a raised position.

[0007] FIG. 3 is another view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the cover in a raised position and the seat in a lowered position.

[0008] FIG. 4 illustrates an example controller for the toilet.

[0009] FIGS. 5A-H illustrate a sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat.

[0010] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate another sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat.

[0011] FIG. 7 illustrates the motors for the toilet.

[0012] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate a timing chart for the motors of FIG. 7.

[0013] FIG. 9 illustrates an example controller for the examples of FIGS. 1-8.

[0014] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart for the apparatus of FIG. 1-8.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the toilet 10 includes a cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both a cover 70 and a seat 50 to be easily moved relative to the toilet 10 and to maintain the cleanliness (in particular during use) of the toilet 10. Generally, tankless toilets are illustrated. However, the cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both the cover 70 and the seat 50 to be efficiently opened and closed may be applied to any type of toilet, including those with a tank. Cleanliness is maintained because the hinge location and other opening and closing mechanism are located spaced apart from the opening of the bowl. The seat 50, the cover 70, and the opening (and closing) mechanism may be referred to collectively as the seat assembly.

[0016] An example seat opening (and closing) mechanism is described in detail below. The opening mechanism allows the cover 70 and the seat 50 to each be pivoted independently. The body or base 30 of the toilet 10 may rest on a support 31 such as the width of a base body 30 (or skirt) or bottom surface of the base body 30 that abuts the floor. The cover 70 is rotatably coupled to the base 30. The seat 50 is rotatably coupled to the cover 70. In other words, the seat 50 is not directly coupled to the base 30. Instead, as shown by the following embodiments, the cover 70 rotates independently of the seat 50, and the seat 50 rotates with respect to the cover 70. The seat 50 may rotate to be positioned inside a cavity of the cover 70 in the stowed position and rotate down and away from the cover 70 against the base 30 in the opened position.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the toilet 10 with the cover 70 open and the seat 50 lowered. FIG. 2 is another view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the cover 70 and seat 50 in a raised position. In this view, all four motors in the seat opening and closing mechanism are visible. FIG. 3 illustrates the opening and closing mechanism in detail.

[0018] The first motor M1 is configured to rotate the cover 70 and the seat 50 with respect to the base 30. The first motor M1 may be connection to one or more levers 41 (e.g., arms) coupled with the cover. The levers 41 include a first pivot point on the base 30 and a second pivot point on the cover 70. In response to movement of motor M1, the cover 70 is rotated with respect to a first axis X1 (e.g., pivot axis). The cover 70 is rotatably coupled to the base 30 via the at least one arm and spaced apart from the base 30 via the at least one arm. The levers 41 are coupled to the cover 70 near the center of gravity of the cover 70. The levers 41 may be spaced from the center of gravity of the cover 70 so that the weight of the cover 70 cause the cover 70 to rotate to an upright position as the arms lift the cover 70 with respect to the base 30. The seat 50 is stowed underneath the cover 70 such that the arms 41 also life the seat 50 with respect to the base 30. Neither the cover 70 nor the seat 50 are pivotably or rotatably coupled to the base 30 via a hinge that is attached to the base 30. Thus, the cover 70 is not lifted up in a conventional sense. Instead, the first motor M1 lifts an entirety of the cover 70 up and away from the base 30.

[0019] The second motor M2 is configured to rotate the cover 70 independently about an axle (e.g., rod 42) along a second axis X2. The motor M2 may rotate the cover 70 with respect to the seat 50 and / or the base 30. The second motor M2 is configured to rotate a front of the cover 70 down and toward the base 30.

[0020] The motor M3 may be a bridge motor configured to rotate a bridge 43 (e.g., lever) with respect to the cover 70. For example, the motor M3 may position the bridge 43 in order to bring the seat 50 into position with respect to the base 30. The bridge 43 is coupled to the seat 50 and the cover 70 and configured to rotate with respect to the seat 50 and rotate with respect to the cover 70. The seat 50 is rotatably coupled to the cover 70 via the bridge 43 and spaced apart from the cover 70 via the bridge 43. The bridge 43 may be referred to as a “second lever,” and the arm 41 may be referred to as a “first lever.”

[0021] The motor M4 may be a seat motor configured to move the seat 50 with respect to the bridge 43. As motor M3 rotates the bridge 43 to being the seat 50 into position, the motor M4 rotates the seat 50 to bring the seat 50 in contact with the bowl. The bridge 43 may position the seat 50 near the bowl with the cooperation of motors M3 and M4.

[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates another example toilet 10 including a cross section illustrating internal working parts of the toilet 10 and a control system. The toilet 10 may include a toilet bowl 120, a sump 121, a trapway 122, and a sanitary path and opening 123. Through the sanitary path and opening 123, the toilet 10 is configured to be attached to another object such as a drainpipe, floor, or another suitable object. The base of the toilet 10 supports the bowl 120, the sump 121 (e.g., a receptacle) disposed below the bowl 120, and the trapway 122 fluidly connecting the bowl to a drainpipe or sewage line through the sanitary path and opening 123.

[0023] While not shown, the toilet 10 in may include a tank. The tank may be supported by the base, such as an upper surface of a rim. The tank may be integrally formed with the base as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, the tank may be formed separately from the base and coupled (e.g., attached, secured, fastened, connected, etc.) to the base. The toilet may further include a tank lid covering an opening and inner cavity in the tank.

[0024] The toilet 10 may include a waterline that supplies the toilet 10 with water through one or more valves. For example, the toilet 10 may include a sump jet 106 and / or a rim jet 107. The sump jet 106 and / or the rim jet 107 may be connected to the water supply using a hose or another type of pipe. In some examples, when the toilet base is formed from vitreous, the pipe may be integrally formed in the vitreous from a water supply inlet to the sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107. The sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107 may include a nozzle. The sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107 may include multiple nozzles. For example, a perimeter of several rim nozzles may be arranged around the rim of the toilet 10.

[0025] A bidet may also be connected to the water supply. In some examples, a bidet may be included in a seat or pedestal of a toilet. In other examples, the bidet may be manufactured separately from and attached or coupled to a seat or pedestal of a toilet. The bidet includes a housing. The housing is configured to receive a flow of water through a housing inlet and dispense the flow of water from a housing outlet. The housing inlet and housing outlet may be located on opposite ends of the housing from one another, such that water may flow through the housing from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. In some examples, the housing further includes a chamber. As the housing receives the flow of water, the chamber may fill with water and provide a flow of water between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The chamber may be configured to contain the flow of water and direct the flow of water from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. After the chamber has filled with water, the flow of water may travel along a substantially linear path between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. In some examples, one or more walls within the housing may be included to help direct a flow of water between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The bidet may further include a housing inlet conduit configured to direct a flow of water to the housing inlet. The housing inlet conduit may be coupled to a water supply such as tank or waterline. The housing may further include a gear assembly or a portion of the gear assembly. The bidet may be a front wash bidet for female users and may use, generate, and / perform the functions related to nanobubbles, ozonated water, e Water, hydrogen peroxide generation, pH Control, template assisted crystallization, application of polyphosphates, filtration (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, microfiltration, carbon / GAC), fluidic oscillating sprays, and adding other consumables in the water stream. For nanobubbles, air, ozone, oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide may be used.

[0026] An embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a system of the toilet. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a system of the toilet according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The toilet herein may be the toilet according to any of the embodiments, and the descriptions regarding the toilet are incorporated herein. The toilet is configured to perform an operation, function, or the like as described in the present disclosure.

[0027] The control system for the toilet 10 may include a sensor 101 an indicator interface 103, a sensor array interface 104, a motor driver 105, a valve driver 108 and a user input 109. The control system may include one or more sensors 101 coupled to the toilet 10 or otherwise configured to collect sensor data from the toilet 10 or from users in the proximity of the toilet 10. The sensor array interface 104 includes a circuit or other device to communicate with the various sensors 101. The sensor array interface 104 may average measurements from the sensors 101, sample the sensor data at a predetermined interval, or otherwise manipulate or process the sensor data into a format compatible with the controller 100. The motor driver 105 may provide motor commands to the various motors M1-M4. The motor driver 105 may convert instructions from the controller 100 that include a state of the seat assembly (e.g., open, closed, seat down, etc.) that are converted to individual motor positions or angles that can be commanded to the motors M1-M4. The motor driver 105 may also receive feedback from the motors M1-M4. The motor feedback may be a detected position or operation of the motors M1-M4. The motor feedback may be measured by a position sensor, a torque sensor, or other measurement device coupled to each motor. The motor driver 105 may adjust motor commands based on the motor feedback. The valve driver 108 may provide commands to one or more toilets in the toilet 10. The valve driver 108 may open a water supply in response to a flush instructions. The valve driver 108 may enable or disable certain valve commands according to a state of the seat assembly. For example, the valve driver 108 may not open the water supply unless the seat assembly is closed. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0028] The indicator interface 103 may receive status or error information from the controller 100. The indicator 102 may provide a color of light, a light pattern, textual information, or an audio information to describe the status and / or operation of the seat assembly. The indicator 102 may be lit “red” duration the operation of the seat assembly such as when the seat assembly is in the process of opening or closing. The indicator 102 may be “green” when the seat assembly is fully at rest, wither closed or opened. In other examples, the indicator 102 may indicate whether the seat assembly is opened or closed. The indicator may indicate an error with the seat assembly. Example errors include a power outage, a nonresponsive motor, or a jam in the drive mechanism. The indicator 102 may instruct the user to manually move or otherwise actuate the seat assembly.

[0029] A user input 109 or sensor 101 may include one or more sensors to detect sensor data related to the toilet 10. The sensor array 101 may include a flush trigger. An example flush trigger may be a pressure sensor, a button, a proximity sensor, or other type of sensor that detects when the lid is in an opened position. The flush trigger may be a gesture sensor, a position sensor, or another sensor that detects the presence of a user or a gesture made by a user. The controller 100 may send commands to the sump jet 106 and / or rim jet 107 in response to user input or sensor data from the flush trigger.

[0030] The controller 100 may also include a user input 109 that receives an input for the operation of the seat assembly. In some examples, the user may select a mode of operation such as automatic or manual. During automatic operation, the controller 100 activates the seat assembly to open or close in response to sensor data. In manual operation, the controller 100 only activates the assembly when the user sends such a command through the user input 109 (e.g., presses a button).

[0031] The controller 100 may be in communication with multiple toilet sensors I the sensor array 101 (e.g., a plurality of sensors) from a group including a first sensor, a second sensor, a third sensor, and a fourth sensor. Various combinations of sensors as well as an individual sensor may be used in the disclosed embodiments.

[0032] The first sensor may correspond to an image sensor. The first sensor may be an image collection device with a lens such as a digital aperture collection device (e.g., camera) or an image collection device with a charge coupled device (CCD) such as an integrated circuit formed on a silicon surface forming light sensitive elements. The first sensor may be a retina scanner configured to scan the eyes of the user. The retina scan may detect the position of the eyes, which is indicative of the orientation or facing direction of the user. The retina scan may indicate an eye signature for identification of the user. The first sensor may be a low resolution image sensor. A low resolution image sensor may be defined as having less that a predetermined number of pixels in the viewing range proximate to the toilet 10. The low resolution image sensor may be defined as having less than a predetermined frame rate. Example low resolution predetermined frame rates may be 10 frames per second, 5 frames per second or another value.

[0033] The second sensor may correspond to a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be employed to detect the presence of a user within a zone of detection near the toilet 10. Electric potential sensors, projected capacitance sensors, light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and infrared sensors (e.g., projected infrared sensors, passive infrared sensors) are non-limiting examples of proximity sensors that may be employed with the systems of this disclosure. Motion sensors may be employed to detect motion (e.g., a change in position of an object relative to the object's surroundings). Electric potential sensors, optic sensors, radio-frequency (RF) sensors, sound sensors, magnetic sensors (e.g., magnetometers), vibration sensors, and infrared sensors (e.g., projected infrared sensors, passive infrared sensors) are non-limiting examples of motion sensors that may be employed with the systems of this application. In another example, the sensor may include a time of flight (ToF) or a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) that serves as a proximity sensor.

[0034] In one embodiment, a single sensor such as the LiDAR sensor or a millimeter wave sensor may perform the functions of both the first sensor and the second sensor. The LIDAR sensor may generate a series of laser pulses that are emitted toward the user and reflect from the user (e.g., the user's face or the user's body). As the return pulses are detected by the LiDAR sensor, a point cloud or three-dimensional map is generated based on the amount of time for the pulses to reach the user and return to the LiDAR sensor. The process is repeated many times and the point cloud or three-dimensional map may include thousands, millions, or more data points.

[0035] The third sensor may correspond to a sensor configured to detect the user at the seat. The third sensor may be a capacitance sensor associated with the seat 50. The third sensor may be responsive to touch on the seat 50. The third sensor S4 may correspond to a pressure or weight sensor. The third sensor S4 may be responsive to the weight from the user sitting on the seat 50.

[0036] The fourth sensor may include a millimeter wave sensor, referred to as a mmwave sensor. Various locations are possible for the mmwave sensor. The mmwave may be attached or otherwise supported by the bowl. The mmwave sensor may be attached or otherwise supported by the tank. The mmwave sensor may be attached or otherwise supported to the housing, such as on the front of the vacuum toilet. In some examples, multiple mmwave sensors may be used such that one of the mmwave sensors is behind the bowl 601 and one of the mmwave sensors is in front of the bowl and close to the expected position of the user standing near or sitting at the toilet.

[0037] The fourth sensor may emit waves (e.g., pulses) include millimeter electromagnetic wave energy that reflects of an object such as a user or contents of the bowl. The return waves (e.g., pulses) includes a smaller amount of electromagnetic wave energy than the emitted waves. The return waves are received at the at least one receiver after a propagation delay and at a reflection angle. The controller 100 may be configured to calculate one or more kinematic properties of the object based on the energy, time, and / or angle of the return pulse. The controller 100 or an integrated control unit of the millimeter wave sensor performs fast Fourier transform (FFT) operation on the intermediate frequency signal to obtain the distance, intensity, and velocity information of the objects. Based on the characteristics of radar signals, when a person approaches or leaves may be identified. The emitted wave and reflected wave are mixed in the mixer to generate an intermediate frequency signal in the millimeter wave sensor.

[0038] Specifically, the intermediate frequency signal is an electrical signal having a frequency and an intensity (e.g., an amplitude). The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal ranges from several-hundred Hz to about a few KHz. The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal has a mathematical relationship with a distance between the sensor and the object (e.g., users or urine steams). The frequency of the intermediate frequency signal also has a mathematical relationship with a velocity of the motion of the object based on the Principle of Doppler (e.g., the Doppler shift). The object in motion with respect to the sensor 101 results in a change in the frequency of the waves generated by the sensor 101.

[0039] The sensor data may be descriptive of a user in proximity to the toilet. The sensor 101 may detect when a user is in a distance range. As described above, the distance range may depend on the state of the sensor 101 and the motion of the user. The sensor 101 may detect gestures of the user. The sensor 101 may detect the position of the user such as standing versus sitting. The controller 100 is configured to receive sensor data from the microwave sensors and generate a control signal response for the toilet in response to the sensor data from the microwave sensors.

[0040] In response to the sensor data, the controller 100 may send command signals to the seat assembly. The controller 100 is configured to generate and send commands to the motors or other drive mechanism to open and close the seat 50 and cover 70 according to the data collected by the sensors. The controller 100 is configured to determine an orientation of the user based on the sensor data and generate a command for the drive mechanism in response to the orientation of the user. Example orientations of the user include facing the toilet 10 or facing away from the toilet 10. Example orientation of the user include approaching the toilet 10 or stepping away from the toilet 10.

[0041] In some examples, the controller 100 utilizes the image data from the first sensor to determine whether a user is facing the toilet 10 or facing away from the toilet 10. For example, the controller 100 analyzes the image data to determine whether human facial features (e.g., facial recognition) can be identified from the image data. When facial features are identified, the controller 100 determines that the user is facing the toilet 10. Otherwise, the controller 100 determines that the user is facing away from the toilet 10. When the user is facing the toilet 10, the seat 50 and cover 70 are opened. When the user is facing away from the toilet 10, the seat 50 and cover 70 are closed. In the LiDAR example, the controller 100 may compare the point cloud or three-dimensional map to a template or other thresholds to identify the direction that the user is facing.

[0042] In addition, the controller 100 may determine whether the user has turned around. For example, after the controller 100 determines that the user is facing the toilet 10, the controller 100 may further analyze the image data to determine that the image data still includes the user but no longer includes facial features. This indicates that the user has turned around. When the user has turned around, the controller 100 may generate a command for the seat 50 to close (e.g., lowered position) and / or the cover 70 to remain open (e.g., stowed position).

[0043] In addition, the controller 100 may determine whether the user walked away from the toilet 10. For example, after the controller 100 determines that the user is facing the toilet 10, the controller 100 may further analyze the image data to determine that the image data no longer includes the user and / or no longer includes facial features. This indicates that the user is no longer present at the toilet 10. When the user is no longer present, the controller 100 may generate a command for the seat 50 to close (e.g., lowered position) and / or the cover 70 to close (e.g., lowered position).

[0044] The controller 100 may determine the orientation of the user based on a template. A memory may be configured to store a plurality of templates for possible orientations of the user. The controller 100 is configured to access the templates from the memory and compare the image data from at least one of the sensors to the plurality of templates. In one example, the templates are based on image data at the sensor data compared to the template is from the first sensor. At least one of the templates includes a pixel arrangement indicative of a face of a user (e.g., facial feature). The controller 100 compares the collected image data to determine if there is a match with the facial feature. If there is a match, the controller 100 determines that the user in facing the toilet 10. Other templates may include pixel arrangements indicative of the back of a user (e.g., hair).

[0045] The controller 100 may be in communication with a feedback sensor for the motors M1-M4. The feedback sensor may be a torque sensor or a position sensor.

[0046] FIGS. 5A-H illustrate a sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat. The sequence in FIGS. 5A-H may be performed by the controller 100 as it serves commands through the motor driver 105 to the array of motors. At least one motor is operated by the controller 100 to place the seat assembly into the state as shown in each of FIGS. 5A-H. That is, at least one motor is actuated to move from FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B, from FIG. 5B to FIG. 5C, and so on.

[0047] Operative states of the seat assembly include a standing user raised position, a seated user position, and a closed position. As shown in FIG. 5C, the standing user raised position, the seat 50 is behind the cover. 70 and a front of the cover 70 is closer to the base 30 than a rear of the cover 70 is to the base 30. As shown in FIG. 5A, in the closed position, the seat 50 is at a first height with respect to the base 30. As shown in FIG. 5F, in the seated user position, the seat 50 is a second height with respect to the base 30 such that the first height is above the second height. When moving from the seated user position in FIG. 5F to the closed position, the seat 50 is move upward to meet the cover 70, as shown by FIG. 5H.

[0048] In FIG. 5A the cover 70 and seat 50 of the toilet 10 are in the lowered or stowed position. The seat 50 is positioned within a cavity of the cover 70.

[0049] In FIG. 5B, the cover 70 and seat 50 move together to move away from the base 30 through motion of motor M1. The cover 70 and seat 50 are lifted up and away from the base of the toilet 10. In some examples the cover 70 rotates (e.g., as shown, counter-clockwise) either by motor M2 or under the force of gravity. Similarly, as the seat 50 is stowed within the cavity of the cover 70, the seat 50 also rotates (e.g., as shown, counter-clockwise) either by motor M2 or under the force of gravity.

[0050] In FIG. 5C, the cover 70 and seat 50 are completely open. In some examples, the cover 70 may rest against the base. In other examples, the arms 41 support the cover 70 and seat 50 at a predetermined distance of the base of the toilet 10.

[0051] In FIG. 5D, the seat 50 separates from the cover 70 through via bridge 43 through motion of motor M3. In one example, the cover 70 may pivot up through motor M2 in order to provide space for the seat 50 to make clearance when it separates from the cover. The seat 50 is moved with respect to the cover 70 and with respect to the base of the toilet 10. The seat may be translated and rotated according to the dimensions of the bridge 43.

[0052] In FIG. 5E, the seat 50 moves to the bowl through further rotation of bridge 43 through the motion of motor M3. In FIG. 5F, the seat 50 is in the lowered position in contact with the base 30. In other examples the cover 70 may be held a predetermined distance above the base 30.

[0053] In FIG. 5G, the seat 50 folds back into the cavity of the cover 70 through opposite rotation of bridge 43 and reverse direction of motor M3.

[0054] In FIG. 5H, the seat 50 is returns to the cavity of the cover 70, which returns to the stowed position against the base 30.

[0055] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate another sequence for raising the lid and lowering the seat with the cover 70 removed and a transparent seat 50 for illustrative purposes.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 6A, the first motor M1 rotates in a first direction as the third motor M3 brings the seat 50 toward the base 30. As shown in FIG. 6B, the first motor M1 rotates in a second direction after the third motor M3 brings the seat toward the base 30.

[0057] FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate the seat 50 being deployed and lowered back to the base 30.

[0058] FIGS. 7 illustrates the motors M1-M4 for the toilet 10. FIGS. 8A-C illustrate a timing chart for the motors of FIG. 7. Time is on the horizontal axis. Hatching 71 (slanted to the right) indicates that the respective motor is rotating in a first direction such as clockwise. Hatching 72 (slanted to the left) indicates that the respective motor is rotating in a second direction such as counterclockwise. The empty boxes 73 (or empty space) indicates no movement. The motors M1-M4 may operate at different speeds. Thus, a particular length of the bar charts in FIGS. 8A-8C relate to lengths of time but do not necessary relate to particular motor positions on angular distances for the motors M1-M4.

[0059] FIG. 8A illustrates the timing for opening the cover 70 and seat 50. When opening the seat 50 and cover 70, the motor M1 is operated in rotated in a first direction, bringing the seat 50 and cover 70 up and away from the base 30, and the motor M2 is operated in a second direction bringing seat 50 and cover 70 towards a substantially vertical position with respect to the toilet 10. There may be a time delay D1 between the operation of motor M1 and the operation of motor M2. The motors M1 and M2 may stop at the same time. In this opening sequence motors M3 and M4 are not used.

[0060] FIG. 8B illlustrates the timing for deployment of the seat 50. Four motors M1-M4 may be used for the seat deployment. As shown in the timing chart, all four motors M1-M4 are operated initially, with three of the motors M1-M3 rotating in the first direction and one of the motors M4 rotating in the second direction. Motor M3 is operated throughout the deployment sequence and motors M1, M2 and M4 are stopped for a delay period. Motor M2 is delayed for time period D2 in one occurrence. Motor M4 is delayed for time period D3 in four occurrences. Motor M1 is delayed for time period D3 in one occurrence. As noted above, the duration of the operation of the motor is not necessarily proportionally to the angular distanced traveled by the motor. Specifically, in the instance of motor M1 during seat deployment, only a few angular degrees may be traveled by the motor M1 from the beginning to the end of seat deployment.

[0061] FIG. 8C illustrates the timing for closing the cover 70 and seat 50. In the closing sequence, the motor M1 operates for a short time in the first direction, pauses for a time period D4, and then is reversed to the second direction. Similarly, the motor M3 is reversed to the second direction. Motor M2 rotates in the first direction with an interruption having time period D4. Motor M3 rotates in the second direction having multiple pauses for a duration of time period D4. Motor M4 rotates in the first direction having multiple pauses for a duration of time period D4.

[0062] The controller 100 may be in communication with a feedback sensor for the motors M1-M4. The feedback sensor may be a torque sensor or a position sensor. The feedback sensor may detect when a user interrupts the sequence of the seat assembly. For example, as the seat 50 and cover 70 or raising, the user may reach to interrupt and apply a force to the cover 70. This user intervention is detected by the feedback sensor. In one example, the controller 100 resets the seat assembly according to a user interruption. For example, the sequence in FIG. 8A may return to the initial state (e.g., seat and cover closed) if there is a user interruption during the timing sequence of FIG. 8A or as the cover 70 is opening. Similarly, the sequence in FIG. 8B may return to the initial state (e.g., cover opened, seat stowed) if there is a user interruption during the timing sequence of FIG. 8B or as the seat 50 is being deployed. Similarly, the sequence in FIG. 8C may return to the initial state (e.g., seat deployed) if there is a user interruption during the timing sequence of FIG. 8C or as the seat 50 is being returned and the cover 70 closed. Rather than the breakdown in FIGS. 8A-8C, any particular position of the seat assembly may be used as a set point that is returned to in the event of a user interruption.

[0063] FIG. 9 illustrates an example controller 301 for operation of the drive mechanism for seat 50 and cover 70. The controller 301 may include a processor 300, a memory 352, and a communication interface 353 for interfacing with devices or to the internet and / or other networks 346. In addition to the communication interface 353, a sensor interface may be configured to receive data from sensors (e.g., proximity sensors to trigger the operation of the seat 50 and / or cover 70; position sensors to detect the position of the seat 50 and / or cover).

[0064] The components of the control system may communicate using bus 348. The control system may be connected to a workstation or another external device (e.g., control panel) and / or a database for receiving user inputs, system characteristics, and any of the values described herein.

[0065] Optionally, the control system may include an input device 355 and / or a sensing circuit 356 in communication with any of the sensors. The sensing circuit receives sensor measurements from one or more sensors. The input device may include any of the user inputs such as buttons, touchscreen, a keyboard, a microphone for voice inputs, a camera for gesture inputs, and / or another mechanism.

[0066] Optionally, the control system may include a drive unit 340 for receiving and reading non-transitory computer media 341 having instructions 342. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included. The processor 300 is configured to perform instructions 342 stored in memory 352 for executing the algorithms described herein. A display 350 may be an indicator or other screen output device. The display 350 may be combined with the user input device 355.

[0067] FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart for the apparatus of FIG. 15. The acts of the flow chart may be performed by the controller 301. Additional, different of fewer acts may be included.

[0068] At act S101, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) receives input data to trigger the operation of the toilet seat assembly. The data input may include data from a sensor such as a proximity sensor that detects a user approaching the toilet or providing a gesture to the toilet. The input data may be received from a remote control or mobile device operated by the user. The input data may specify seat opened or seat closed and / or cover opened or cover closed.

[0069] At act S103, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) generates a first signal to rotate a seat and a cover together (e.g., because the seat is supported by and rests within the cover 70). The first signal may be applied to a first motor or motors. The first signal may specify a predetermined angle.

[0070] At act S105, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) generates a second signal to separate the seat 50 from the cover 70 using a pivoting bridge. The second signal may turn on a second motor or motors. The second signal may specify a predetermined angle of rotation for the bridge.

[0071] At act S107, the controller 301 (e.g., processor 300) generates a third signal for a third motor or motors to rotate the seat 50 with respect to the bridge for bringing the seat 50 in proximity to an opening of the toilet bowl.

[0072] Processor 300 may be a general purpose or specific purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable processing components. Processor 300 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in memory 352 or received from other computer readable media (e.g., embedded flash memory, local hard disk storage, local ROM, network storage, a remote server, etc.). The processor 300 may be a single device or combinations of devices, such as associated with a network, distributed processing, or cloud computing.

[0073] Memory 352 may include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for completing and / or facilitating the various processes described in the present disclosure. Memory 352 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. Memory 352 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. Memory 352 may be communicably connected to processor 300 via a processing circuit and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by processor 300) one or more processes described herein. For example, memory 298 may include graphics, web pages, HTML files, XML files, script code, shower configuration files, or other resources for use in generating graphical user interfaces for display and / or for use in interpreting user interface inputs to make command, control, or communication decisions.

[0074] In addition to ingress ports and egress ports, the communication interface 353 may include any operable connection. An operable connection may be one in which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications may be sent and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. The communication interface 353 may be connected to a network. The network may include wired networks (e.g., Ethernet), wireless networks, or combinations thereof. The wireless network may be a cellular telephone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, a Bluetooth pairing of devices, or a Bluetooth mesh network. Further, the network may be a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed including, but not limited to TCP / IP based networking protocols.

[0075] While the computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 352) is shown to be a single medium, the term “computer-readable medium” includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” shall also include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0076] In a particular non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable medium can include a solid-state memory such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. Further, the computer-readable medium can be a random access memory or other volatile re-writable memory. Additionally, the computer-readable medium can include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk or tapes or other storage device to capture carrier wave signals such as a signal communicated over a transmission medium. A digital file attachment to an e-mail or other self-contained information archive or set of archives may be considered a distribution medium that is a tangible storage medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include any one or more of a computer-readable medium or a distribution medium and other equivalents and successor media, in which data or instructions may be stored. The computer-readable medium may be non-transitory, which includes all tangible computer-readable media.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment, dedicated hardware implementations, such as application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices, can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that may include the apparatus and systems of various embodiments can broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein may implement functions using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals that can be communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Accordingly, the present system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0078] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0079] While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

[0080] One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

[0081] It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting and that it is understood that the following claims including all equivalents are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be read as limited to the described order or elements unless stated to that effect. Therefore, all embodiments that come within the scope and spirit of the following claims and equivalents thereto are claimed as the invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0015]As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the toilet 10 includes a cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both a cover 70 and a seat 50 to be easily moved relative to the toilet 10 and to maintain the cleanliness (in particular during use) of the toilet 10. Generally, tankless toilets are illustrated. However, the cover and seat opening mechanism that allows both the cover 70 and the seat 50 to be efficiently opened and closed may be applied to any type of toilet, including those with a tank. Cleanliness is maintained because the hinge location and other opening and closing mechanism are located spaced apart from the opening of the bowl. The seat 50, the cover 70, and the opening (and closing) mechanism may be referred to collectively as the seat assembly.

[0016]An example seat opening (and closing) mechanism is described in detail below. The opening mechanism allows the cover 70 and the seat 50 to each be pivoted independently. The body or base 30 of the toilet ...

Claims

1. A toilet comprising:a base;at least one arm;a cover rotatably coupled to the base via the at least one arm and spaced apart from the base via the at least one arm;a bridge; anda seat rotatably coupled to the cover via the bridge and spaced apart from the cover via the bridge.

2. The toilet of claim 1, further comprising:a first motor configured to lift the cover and the seat with respect to the base.

3. The toilet of claim 2, wherein a pivot axis between the at least one arm and the cover moved above the base by the first motor.

4. The toilet of claim 2, wherein the first motor lifts an entirety of the cover above the base.

5. The toilet of claim 2, further comprising:a second motor configured to rotate the cover independently.

6. The toilet of claim 5, wherein the second motor rotates a front of the cover down and toward the base.

7. The toilet of claim 1, wherein the bridge is coupled to the seat and the cover and configured to rotate with respect to the seat and rotate with respect to the cover.

8. The toilet of claim 5, further comprising:at least one third motor configured to rotate the seat with respect to the cover.

9. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the at least one third motor comprises:a bridge motor configured to rotate the bridge with respect to the cover.

10. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the at least one third motor comprises:a seat motor configured to rotate the seat with respect to the bridge.

11. The toilet of claim 8, wherein the first motor rotates in a first direction as the at least one third motor brings the seat toward the base and the first motor rotates in a second direction after the at least one third motor brings the seat toward the base.

12. The toilet of claim 1, wherein the seat and the cover are configured to be placed in a standing user raised position, a seated user position, and a closed position.

13. The toilet of claim 12, wherein in the standing user raised position, the seat is behind the cover.

14. The toilet of claim 12, wherein in the standing user raised position, a front of the cover is closer to the base than a rear of the cover.

15. The toilet of claim 12, wherein in the closed position, the seat is at a first height with respect to the base, and in the seated user position, the seat is a second height with respect to the base, wherein the first height is above the second height.

16. The toilet of claim 12, wherein when moving from the seated user position to the closed position, the seat is move upward to meet the cover.

17. A drive system for a toilet, the drive system comprising:a first motor configured to lift a cover and a seat of the toilet;a second motor configured to rotate the cover independent from the seat; andat least one third motor configured to rotate the seat with respect to the cover.

18. The drive system of claim 17, further comprising:at least one arm, wherein the cover is rotatably coupled to the toilet via the at least one arm and spaced apart from the toilet via the at least one arm; anda bridge, wherein the seat is rotatably coupled to the cover via the bridge and spaced apart from the cover via the bridge.

19. A method for positioning a toilet seat on a toilet bowl, the method comprising:receiving input to data to trigger positioning the toilet seat;rotating the toilet seat and a cover;positioning the seat away from the cover with a pivoting bridge; androtating the seat to the toilet bowl.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:positioning the seat within a cavity of the cover; androtating the cover and the seat to a closed position.

Images