Vacuum Toilet Seat Device

Abstract

A vacuum toilet seat device is provided. The device is comprised of a toilet seat assembly with an integrated odor removal system designed to capture and neutralize odors directly at their source, enhancing bathroom hygiene and user comfort. The device comprises a toilet seat, a lid attached via a hinge mechanism, and adjustable fasteners for compatibility with various toilet bowls. A sensor activates the system upon user presence, initiating multi-directional airflow through strategically positioned intake vents. The air is then directed to an internal filtration compartment with a removable activated carbon filter that neutralizes odor molecules effectively. A vacuum pump sustains airflow while an insulated casing minimizes noise. The filtered air is then expelled through rear exhaust vents equipped with diffusion fins, ensuring even dispersion and preventing drafts. Optional additional filters enhance air purity.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 742,660, which was filed on Jan. 7, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of toilet odor-neutralization devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a toilet seat assembly with an integrated odor-removal system that activates via a user-detection sensor, drawing air through intake vents into a filtration compartment with an activated carbon filter to neutralize odors. A vacuum pump maintains airflow while filtered air is quietly expelled through rear vents with diffusion fins, ensuring even dispersion and enhanced bathroom hygiene. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] Bathroom odors have long been a source of discomfort and inconvenience for individuals, particularly in shared or public restrooms. Despite the availability of ventilation fans and air fresheners, these solutions often fail to address the issue effectively. Bathroom fans are typically slow to eliminate odors and are designed to ventilate an entire room rather than target the source. Air fresheners, on the other hand, merely mask odors with fragrances, leaving particles in the air and potentially causing irritation or allergic reactions for some users. Furthermore, traditional solutions may inadvertently spread contaminants, as airborne particles disperse before being neutralized. The inability to adequately address odors at their source often results in lingering smells and an unpleasant environment. Additionally, existing methods lack automation and convenience, requiring manual operation or frequent maintenance. A more effective, hygienic, and user-friendly solution is needed to address this persistent problem in bathrooms.

[0004] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a bathroom odor-eliminating device that captures and neutralizes odors directly at their source. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a vacuum toilet seat device that enhances hygiene by minimizing odor dispersal and reducing contact with contaminated surfaces. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a vacuum toilet seat device that operates efficiently, integrates seamlessly with various toilet designs, and reduces environmental waste.

[0005] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a vacuum toilet seat device. The device is comprised of a toilet seat assembly with an integrated odor removal system designed to capture and neutralize odors directly at their source, enhancing bathroom hygiene and user comfort. The device comprises a toilet seat, a lid attached via a hinge mechanism, and adjustable fasteners for compatibility with various toilet bowls. A sensor activates the system upon user presence, initiating multi-directional airflow through strategically positioned intake vents. The air is then directed to an internal filtration compartment with a removable activated carbon filter that neutralizes odor molecules effectively. A vacuum pump sustains airflow while an insulated casing minimizes noise. The filtered air is then expelled through rear exhaust vents equipped with diffusion fins, ensuring even dispersion and preventing drafts. Optional additional filters enhance air purity.

[0006] In this manner, the vacuum toilet seat device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides a toilet seat assembly with an odor-removal system. More specifically, the device utilizes intake vents strategically positioned on the seat to draw air directly from the toilet bowl, ensuring odors are captured before dispersing into the environment. An activated carbon filter within the filtration compartment effectively neutralizes odor-causing particles, eliminating odors rather than masking them. The automatic sensor activation minimizes user contact, enhancing hygiene, and its compatibility with various toilet designs ensures widespread usability. By reducing reliance on chemical sprays and disposable fresheners, the device also supports environmental sustainability, offering a comprehensive and innovative solution to bathroom odor problems.SUMMARY

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a vacuum toilet seat device. The device is comprised of a toilet seat assembly with an integrated odor removal system that captures and neutralizes odors directly at their source, providing an efficient and hygienic solution for odor management during toilet use. The assembly includes a toilet seat, a lid attached via a hinge mechanism, and adjustable attachment fasteners that secure the device to a toilet bowl.

[0009] The odor removal system activates automatically when the user approaches or begins using the toilet. Activation of the system is triggered by a motion or proximity sensor that detects user presence, enabling hands-free operation and reducing contact with surfaces to minimize germ transfer. Intake vents are strategically positioned along the seat's front and rear sections that create a multi-directional airflow that effectively captures odors before they escape into the surrounding environment. Internal baffles within the vents further guide airflow to areas of concentrated odors.

[0010] Air drawn through the vents is then directed into an internal filtration compartment, which houses a removable activated carbon filter. The filter utilizes fine carbon granules with a porous structure that traps and neutralizes odor molecules, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and sulfur-based compounds. Unlike air fresheners that mask odors, the activated carbon filter chemically binds with odor particles, completely removing them from the airflow.

[0011] The filtered air is subsequently routed to an exhaust system powered by an electric vacuum pump. The pump generates continuous airflow and is housed within an insulated casing to reduce operational noise and vibration. The air then exits the system through rear exhaust vents, which are designed to direct the airflow outward or upward, preventing drafts from reaching the user. The exhaust vents may include diffusion fins that disperse the expelled air evenly, improving air distribution and preventing residual odors.

[0012] The device remains active during use and automatically deactivates after a predefined period of inactivity. The inactivity period can be adjusted to suit user preferences, and a manual override button is included to allow independent control of the system. Power is supplied either through an external power cord connected to an outlet or via an internal battery that is rechargeable or replaceable. The device may also feature a cable management system with recessed channels or integrated clips to guide and conceal the power cord, ensuring a neat appearance and eliminating potential tripping hazards.

[0013] Accordingly, the vacuum toilet seat device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a toilet seat assembly with an odor-removal system. More specifically, the device utilizes intake vents strategically positioned on the seat to draw air directly from the toilet bowl, ensuring odors are captured before dispersing into the environment. An activated carbon filter within the filtration compartment effectively neutralizes odor-causing particles, eliminating odors rather than masking them. The automatic sensor activation minimizes user contact, enhancing hygiene, and its compatibility with various toilet designs ensures widespread usability. By reducing reliance on chemical sprays and disposable fresheners, the device also supports environmental sustainability, offering a comprehensive and innovative solution to bathroom odor problems. In this manner, the vacuum toilet seat device overcomes the limitations of existing bathroom odor-fighting methods and devices known in the art.

[0014] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a vacuum toilet seat device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a vacuum toilet seat device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0019] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a bathroom odor-eliminating device that captures and neutralizes odors directly at their source. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a vacuum toilet seat device that enhances hygiene by minimizing odor dispersal and reducing contact with contaminated surfaces. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a vacuum toilet seat device that operates efficiently, integrates seamlessly with various toilet designs, and reduces environmental waste.

[0020] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a vacuum toilet seat device that captures and neutralizes odors at their source, offering an efficient and hygienic odor management solution during toilet use. The assembly includes a toilet seat, a hinged lid, and adjustable attachment fasteners for secure installation on a toilet bowl.

[0021] The odor removal system is automatically activated by a motion or proximity sensor that detects user presence, enabling hands-free operation and reducing germ transfer. Strategically positioned intake vents along the front and rear sections of the seat create a multi-directional airflow to capture odors before they disperse. Internal baffles within the vents direct airflow to areas where odors are concentrated.

[0022] Air drawn through the vents is directed into an internal filtration compartment containing a removable activated carbon filter. The filter's porous structure traps and neutralizes odor molecules, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and sulfur-based compounds. Unlike air fresheners, the activated carbon filter chemically binds with odor particles, removing them entirely from the airflow.

[0023] The filtered air is routed through an exhaust system powered by an electric vacuum pump housed in an insulated casing to reduce noise and vibration. The exhaust system expels air through rear vents designed to prevent drafts from reaching the user. Optional diffusion fins evenly disperse the expelled air, ensuring improved air distribution and minimizing residual odors.

[0024] The device remains active during use and automatically deactivates after a predefined period of inactivity, adjustable to user preferences. A manual override button allows independent control of the system. Power is supplied by an external power cord or an internal rechargeable or replaceable battery. A cable management system with recessed channels or integrated clips secures the power cord, maintaining a tidy appearance and reducing tripping hazards.

[0025] The vacuum toilet seat device offers a toilet seat assembly with an odor removal system that effectively draws air directly from the toilet bowl through strategically positioned intake vents. The activated carbon filter neutralizes odor particles, eliminating odors rather than masking them. Automatic sensor activation enhances hygiene, while compatibility with various toilet designs ensures versatility. By reducing reliance on chemical sprays and disposable fresheners, the device supports environmental sustainability, addressing the limitations of traditional bathroom odor management solutions.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a vacuum toilet seat device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of a toilet seat assembly with an integrated odor removal system that captures and neutralizes odors directly at their source while using the toilet. More specifically, the device 100 is comprised of a toilet seat 102, a lid 104 attached to the toilet seat 102 via a hinge mechanism 106, and attachment fasteners 108 for securing the device 100 to a toilet bowl. The hinge mechanism 106 allows the lid 104 to pivot relative to the toilet seat 102, while the attachment fasteners 108 (as seen in FIG. 2) provide a secure and stable connection to the toilet bowl, preventing the seat assembly from shifting during use. The attachment fasteners 108 may be comprised of mounting bolts, washers, and adjustable locking brackets designed to fit securely through the mounting holes of a toilet bowl. The fasteners 108 can be adjusted to fit both round and elongated toilet bowls, enhancing compatibility with various toilet designs.

[0027] When a user approaches or begins using the toilet the device 100 is attached to, the odor removal system automatically activates via a sensor 110 that detects the user's presence. The sensor 110 may be comprised of a motion and / or proximity sensor configured to detect movement near the seat 102 and trigger the odor intake process without requiring physical user interaction with the device 100. This hands-free activation minimizes contact with surfaces and reduces the risk of germ transfer. Upon activation, intake vents 112 located along the front and rear portions of the seat 102 (although the vents 112 may be located anywhere on the device 100 in different embodiments) begin drawing in air from both the front and rear sections of the toilet bowl. In one embodiment, the entire seat 102 is hollow to allow for air to travel throughout the entire seat 102 and into a filtration compartment 116 (as will be described more fully below). This multi-directional airflow ensures comprehensive odor capture, preventing odors from escaping and dispersing into the surrounding environment. The intake vents 112 may include internal baffles 114 that direct the airflow toward areas where odors are most concentrated, increasing the device's 100 ability to remove odors efficiently. The baffles 114 may be positioned at specific angles in one embodiment to optimize airflow direction based on toilet bowl configuration.

[0028] As the air is drawn into the intake vents 112, it is passed into an internal filtration compartment 116 that houses a removable activated carbon filter 118. Further, the entire compartment 116 may be removable, as seen in FIG. 1. The activated carbon filter 118 traps and neutralizes odor molecules and is comprised of fine carbon granules 120 that form a porous structure with a high surface area. This allows the carbon granules 120 to absorb a wide range of odor-causing compounds, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), sulfur-based molecules, and other malodorous particles. Unlike conventional air fresheners that mask odors with fragrances, the activated carbon filter 118 chemically binds with odor particles, removing them from the airflow entirely. The filtration compartment 116 is designed to provide an unobstructed airflow path to the filter 118 while maintaining an airtight seal to prevent leakage of untreated air.

[0029] Once the air passes through the carbon filter 118, it is directed toward the exhaust system where an electric vacuum pump 122 creates a low-pressure zone to sustain continuous airflow through the intake vents 112 and filtration compartment 116. The vacuum pump 122 is housed within an insulated casing 124 that reduces operational noise and vibration. The casing 124 may be comprised of sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic foam or rubberized elements that dampen mechanical vibrations.

[0030] The filtered air is then expelled through rear exhaust vents 126 integrated into the rear section of the seat 102, as seen in FIG. 2. The exhaust vents 126 are designed to direct the filtered air either upward or outward, preventing drafts from being directed toward the user or nearby walls. This configuration maintains user comfort and ensures that no residual odors are released near the toilet area. To evenly distribute the expelled air, the exhaust vents 126 may include diffusion fins 128 that break up the airflow and disperse it across a wider area. In some embodiments, an additional filtration stage 130, such as but not limited to a HEPA or microfilter, may be included to capture fine particles and allergens to enhance the purity of the expelled air.

[0031] The device 100 remains active for the duration of use and is automatically deactivated after a predefined period of inactivity. In one embodiment, the inactivity period is adjustable to accommodate user preferences. A manual override button 132 may be provided to allow the user to activate or deactivate the device 100 independently of the automatic sensor 110.

[0032] The device 100 receives power via at least one power cord 134 that connects the device 100 to an external power outlet. In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a cable management system 136, such as recessed channels or integrated clips, that guides and conceals the power cord 134 for a neater appearance. The cable management system 136 ensures that the cord 134 remains securely in place and does not interfere with surrounding objects or create a tripping hazard. In a different embodiment, the device 100 is powered by an internal battery 138 that may be replaceable or rechargeable via at least one charging port 140.

[0033] By activating the odor removal system as soon as the user engages with the toilet and maintaining continuous airflow during use, the device 100 captures odors before they can escape into the bathroom environment. This immediate and consistent odor capture reduces the presence of airborne particles that may spread bacteria and other contaminants, enhancing overall bathroom hygiene. By neutralizing odors within the toilet bowl, the device 100 reduces the need for chemical sprays and disposable air fresheners, which can contain allergens and contribute to environmental waste.

[0034] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “vacuum toilet seat device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the vacuum toilet seat device 100 of the present invention.

[0035] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the vacuum toilet seat device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the vacuum toilet seat device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the vacuum toilet seat device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the vacuum toilet seat device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the vacuum toilet seat device 100 may be of any size, shape, and / or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user's needs and / or preferences.

[0036] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0037] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A vacuum toilet seat device comprising:a lid pivotally connected to the toilet seat via a hinge;a sensor;an intake vent positioned on the toilet seat and configured to draw air from a toilet bowl;a filtration compartment housing an activated carbon filter;an electric vacuum pump configured to maintain an airflow through the intake vents and the filtration compartment; andan exhaust vent positioned on the toilet seat and configured to expel a filtered air.

2. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 1, wherein the sensor is comprised of a motion sensor.

3. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 1, wherein the activated carbon filter is comprised of a fine carbon granule.

4. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 1, wherein the exhaust vent is comprised of a diffusion fin.

5. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 1 further comprised of a manual override button.

6. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 1 further comprised of a power cord.

7. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 1 further comprised of a cable management system.

8. A vacuum toilet seat device comprising:a lid pivotally connected to the toilet seat via a hinge;a sensor;an intake vent positioned on the toilet seat and configured to draw air from a toilet bowl, the intake vent comprised of an internal baffle;a filtration compartment housing an activated carbon filter;an electric vacuum pump configured to maintain an airflow through the intake vents and the filtration compartment; andan exhaust vent positioned on the toilet seat and configured to expel a filtered air.

9. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 8, wherein the sensor is comprised of a proximity sensor.

10. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 8 further comprised of a battery.

11. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 10, wherein the battery is comprised of a charging port.

12. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 8 further comprised of an attachment fastener.

13. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 10, wherein the electric vacuum pump creates a lower pressure zone.

14. A vacuum toilet seat device comprising:a lid pivotally connected to the toilet seat via a hinge;a sensor;an intake vent positioned on the toilet seat and configured to draw air from a toilet bowl, the intake vent comprised of an internal baffle;a filtration compartment housing an activated carbon filter;an electric vacuum pump configured to maintain an airflow through the intake vents and the filtration compartment, the electric vacuum pump housed without an insulated casing housing; andan exhaust vent positioned on the toilet seat and configured to expel a filtered air.

15. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 14 further comprised of a battery.

16. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 15, wherein the battery is comprised of a replaceable battery.

17. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 14, wherein the internal baffle is comprised of an angled baffle.

18. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 14, wherein the toilet seat is hollow.

19. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 14 further comprised of an attachment fastener.

20. The vacuum toilet seat device of claim 19, wherein the attachment fastener is comprised of a mounting bolt, a washer, or an adjustable locking bracket.

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