Hands-free toilet lid operation system and methods

Abstract

A toilet seat attachment (100), comprising a base plate (102) and a handle (104). The base plate (102) has a flat surface configured to attach securely to an underside or an upper side of the toilet seat (302) by means of an adhesive. The elongated handle (104) is configured for assembly with the base plate (102) at a first end of the handle (104). A second end of the handle (104) extends beyond a perimeter of the toilet seat (302) to allow operation of the toilet seat (302) or lid by a user in a hands-free manner. A method for attaching a toilet seat attachment (100) to a toilet seat (302) is also described.

Description

HANDS-FREE TOILET LID OPERATION SYSTEM AND METHODSBACKGROUND

[0001] The invention pertains to the field of sanitary equipment, specifically to toilet seat attachments for facilitating hands-free operation of a toilet seat.

[0002] Throughout history, advancements in sanitation and hygiene have been intrinsically linked to the development of human societies. A critical element within this framework has been the design and functionality of toilet seats, which represent a universal need across cultures and regions. While the basic form and function of toilet seats have seen incremental changes over time, the aspect of user interaction with these devices has remained largely unchanged.

[0003] Toilet seats inherently foster a high degree of contact with users. This contact, while necessary for the functioning of the device, often raises issues related to hygiene and cleanliness. The process of raising or lowering a toilet seat or lid typically requires direct hand contact. However, this hand-to-seat interaction can potentially function as a pathway for germ transmission, contributing to the spread of diseases.

[0004] Moreover, in certain situations where individuals may be reluctant or unable to use their hands - perhaps due to physical disabilities or conditions that limit dexterity - there is currently no efficient solution in place that allows such individuals to operate toilet seats independently and conveniently.

[0005] In recent times, there have been efforts towards directing innovation in sanitary ware towards creating safer and more hygienic environments. These have included attempts at automating different aspects of bathroom facilities to reduce contact points. Yet, these tend to be complex systems involving intricate electronic components or sensor-based mechanisms that increase cost and require professional installation services.

[0006] Another popular solution has involved materials science advancements aimed at creating antibacterial surfaces for frequently touched areas like doorknobs or other hardware items. While effective at reducing microbial load on surfaces, they do not eliminate the necessity for hand-to-surface touchpoints altogether.

[0007] A significant drawback with existing solutions is their inability to retrofit into existing bathroom setups easily without requiring considerable alterations or upgrades. Thus, there is aclear need for an easy-to-install device that can enable hands-free operation of toilet seats while being universally adaptable across different types and makes.

[0008] Within this context, there are designs available revolving around handles or levers attached directly onto the surface area of toilet lids or seats. However, these are usually not designed with full consideration towards aesthetic integration into bathroom spaces or user- friendly operation. Installation procedures may also vary greatly depending on individual product specifications thereby limiting universal adaptability across various models of toilets.

[0009] Furthermore, since toilet seats are intentionally made to prevent things from sticking to them, retrofitting can often be problematic. Often adhesive tape and / or glues which may be used to attach a handle would need to cure / set for up to 72 hours before the handle is securely attached to the toilet seat, and the toilet would need to be taken out of service during that time to avoid that the handle gets detached through premature use. Such a disruption is typically not acceptable, in particular in a public restroom setting where there is usually a high demand of availability of toilets, and where the need of sanitary solutions is also extra pressing due to the large number of users and increased risks of bacterial or pathological contamination.

[0010] In summary, despite progressive strides made over time concerning hygiene-focused improvements within public health infrastructure systems such as sanitation facilities; when it comes down specifically towards enhancing user experience relating to manually operated toilet seat-lids through hands-free control features - current solutions leave much room for improvement.

[0011] The ideal solution would have broad compatibility across different types and brands of toilets while enabling effortless installation procedures alongside maintaining high levels of durability & rigidity during prolonged usage periods. Furthermore, considering diverse user groups including those with physical limitations; sensitive touch points must be minimized significantly without compromising on overall operational functionality.SUMMARY

[0012] As was noted above, one object of the various embodiments of the present invention is to provide a toilet seat attachment that allows for hands-free operation of a toilet seat or lid, promoting hygiene and reducing the spread of bacteria.

[0013] In one aspect, a toilet seat attachment is provided, which comprises a base plate and a handle. The base plate has a flat surface configured to attach securely to an underside or anupper side of a toilet seat by means of an adhesive. This feature allows the base plate to be firmly affixed to the toilet seat, providing a stable foundation for the attachment.

[0014] The adhesive used to secure the base plate to the toilet seat may comprise adhesive tape or glue. These adhesive options ensure a strong bond between the base plate and the toilet seat, preventing the attachment from becoming dislodged during use.

[0015] In an embodiment of the invention, the base plate is shaped to fit the contours of the toilet seat. This aspect allows for a more secure and aesthetically pleasing attachment, as the base plate conforms to the specific shape of the toilet seat.

[0016] The handle of the toilet seat attachment is elongated and configured for assembly with the base plate at a first end of the handle. This feature allows for the handle to be securely connected to the base plate, after the adhesive has cured, creating a sturdy and functional attachment.

[0017] A second end of the handle extends beyond a perimeter of the toilet seat to allow operation of the toilet seat or lid by a user in a hands-free manner. This aspect is central to the invention's purpose, as it enables users to raise and lower the toilet seat or lid without making direct contact with the surfaces, thereby promoting hygiene and reducing the spread of bacteria.

[0018] In another embodiment, the handle is configured for assembly with several base plates having different shapes. This feature enhances the versatility of the invention, allowing it to be adapted to various toilet seat designs and models. It also makes it possible to use the same model of handle, irrespective of the shape of the base plate (which may have a variety of different shapes to fit different types of toilet seats), thereby facilitating both manufacturing and possible replacement of the handle if it were to break some time after installation.

[0019] The handle may have a length in the range of approximately 7-10 cm. This range ensures that the handle is long enough to be easily operated by a user's foot, while not being so long as to cause obstruction or inconvenience. However, this length is highly variable depending on the circumstances at hand. In one embodiment, the length of the handle is 8,5 cm and the base plate has a diameter of 3,5 cm, causing the toilet seat attachment to have a total length of 12 cm from end to end.

[0020] The toilet seat attachment can be made from one or more materials, including metal, plastic, wood, and ceramic. These materials offer durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal, making them suitable for use in a bathroom environment.

[0021] In one embodiment, the base plate and handle are made from the same material. This feature provides a cohesive and uniform appearance to the attachment, enhancing its visual appeal.

[0022] The handle has a length and width that allows it to be operated by a user's foot. This aspect is essential to the hands-free operation of the toilet seat or lid, as it enables users to control the attachment without bending down or using their hands.

[0023] The base plate and the handle are configured to be attached to each other by a screw assembly, a nuts-and-bolts assembly, or a snap fit. These attachment methods provide a secure and reliable connection between the two components, ensuring the stability and durability of the toilet seat attachment.

[0024] In another aspect, the invention encompasses a method for attaching the toilet seat attachment to a toilet seat. The method involves attaching the base plate to an underside of a toilet seat by means of an adhesive, then curing the adhesive for an extended period of time. This step ensures that the adhesive has sufficient time to set and form a strong bond between the base plate and the toilet seat. After the adhesive has cured, the handle is attached to the base plate. This step completes the assembly of the toilet seat attachment, allowing for the operation of the toilet seat or lid by a user in a hands-free manner.

[0025] The two-part design of the invention, consisting of a base plate and a handle, offers several advantages. It allows the base plate to be attached first and given sufficient time for the adhesive to cure without being subject to various stresses. Once the adhesive has set, the handle can then be attached to the base plate. This approach ensures a secure attachment and allows for the replacement of the handle in case of wear and tear without having to remove the entire product.

[0026] Furthermore, the two-part design enables the creation of different base plate designs to fit various models of toilet seats while the handle can always be the same, thus reducing waste material and using fewer resources. By manufacturing only the base plates instead of a combined handle and base plate, the invention promotes resource efficiency and adaptability to different toilet seat designs.

[0027] In summary, the various embodiments of the invention provide a practical and innovative solution for hands-free operation of a toilet seat or lid, promoting hygiene and user convenience. The two-part design, comprising a base plate and a handle, ensures a secure attachment, adaptability to various toilet seat models, and ease of replacement. The invention'spotential for broader application, such as in public restrooms or other areas where hands-free operation is desirable, makes it a valuable contribution to the field of sanitation and hygiene.

[0028] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of toilet seat attachment, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the toilet seat attachment of FIG. 1 in an assembled state, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the toilet seat attachment of FIG. 1 during the installation process on the toilet lid, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of the toilet seat attachment of FIG. 1 when assembled and attached to the toilet lid, in accordance with some embodiments

[0034] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a toilet illustrating how the toilet seat attachment is attached to the toilet lid, in accordance with some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] As was noted above, the various embodiments that are described herein address the problem of maintaining hygiene and reducing the spread of bacteria in restrooms, and in particular in public restrooms that are frequented by a large and diverse group of people every day. Traditional methods of opening and closing toilet lids or seats require hand contact, which can lead to the spread of bacteria and germs. Additionally, attaching objects to toilet seats is challenging due to the material they are made of, which often does not allow adhesive tapes or glues to work effectively. The various embodiments of the invention described herein solve these problems by providing an extended two-part toilet seat attachment that can be attached to the side of the toilet seat, enabling users to operate the toilet seat or lid without using their hands, for example, by using their foot or another object (e.g., a cane, or umbrella) to operatethe toilet seat. It should be noted that throughout this description, reference will be made to a toilet seat. However, the toilet seat attachment can also be applied to a toilet lid / seat cover, and would operate in the same manner.

[0036] As will be described in further detail below, a key feature of the toilet seat attachment is its two-part design, which allows a first part (also referred to as a “base plate”) to be attached first to the toilet seat using adhesive tape or glue, and can cure / set for an extended period of time without being disturbed, and while the toilet is being used without disruption, before the second part (also referred to as a “handle”) is attached, thereby preventing or at least significantly reducing the risk of the system detaching prematurely from the toilet seat or lid. This approach not only ensures a secure attachment but also allows for the replacement of the handle in case of wear and tear without having to remove the entire toilet seat attachment.Furthermore, the two-part design allows for the creation of different base plate / handle designs to fit various models of toilet seats, reducing waste material and using fewer resources. It should be noted that the base plate can be attached to either the underside or the upper side of the toilet seat. Either alternative is able to achieve the same functionality. However, for aesthetic and comfort reasons for the user, it is often desirable to attach the base plate on the underside of the toilet seat.

[0037] The toilet seat attachment can be used in a wide range of public and private restrooms to promote hygiene by reducing the need for hand contact with toilet seats and lids. Some examples include: hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities; hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in the hospitality industry; construction sites; and public facilities such as schools, offices, shopping malls, airports. For individuals with disabilities or mobility issues, various embodiments of the invention can provide an easier and more hygienic way to use the toilet. In new building projects or renovations, the invention can be integrated into the design of restrooms for improved hygiene and user experience, just to mention a few examples.

[0038] As was mentioned above, one significant advantage of the various embodiments of the invention described herein lies in its unique two-part design. By separating the "base plate" that attaches to the toilet seat and the "handle", the adhesive tape or glue to cure / set without being disturbed, ensuring a secure attachment, and without any significant disruptions of the use of the toilet. This is a significant improvement over existing one-part products that often fail due to premature use before the adhesive has fully set. The two-part design also allows for the creation of different head / platform designs to fit various models of toilet seats, increasing thetoilet seat attachment's versatility and market reach. If wear and tear occur, only the handle needs to be replaced instead of the entire toilet seat attachment. This feature enhances the toilet seat attachment's longevity and user convenience.

[0039] Various embodiments of the invention will be described below by way of example and with reference to the figures. However, it should be noted that these examples are merely illustrative and that many other embodiments are encompassed within the scope of the claimed invention.

[0040] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of the two-part toilet seat attachment 100, including the base plate 102 and the handle 104. Typically, the toilet seat attachment 100 is made of stainless steel, which is advantageous for durability and ease of cleaning, but other materials are also possible, as described above. The base plate 102 is designed with a flat surface that can be securely attached to the underside of a toilet seat, as will be shown and described with respect to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. The attachment to the toilet seat is facilitated by an adhesive, which could be adhesive tape or glue, as is well known to those having ordinary skill in the art. The base plate 102 can be shaped to fit the contours of the toilet seat, allowing for a secure and snug fit. The base plate 102 serves as the foundation for the assembly of the toilet seat attachment 100, providing a stable platform for the attachment of the handle 104.

[0041] The handle 104 is another key component of the toilet seat attachment 100. As described above, the handle 104 is elongated and is assembled with the base plate 102 at one end, for example by a screw assembly, a nuts-and-bolts assembly or a snap fit. The other end of the handle 104 extends beyond the perimeter of the toilet seat. This design allows the user to operate the toilet seat in a hands-free manner, typically using their foot. The handle 104 can be configured for assembly with several base plates 102 of different shapes, providing flexibility in the design and application of the toilet seat attachment 100. The handle's length and width are designed to be operable by a user's foot, and is typically smoothed and / or polished so as to not have any sharp edges that could cause damage to the user's shoes and / or any body parts of the user. In some embodiments, the handle 104 may also include instructions (e.g., laser engravings or cutouts) suggesting to the user how to use the handle 104. For example, it may include graphics depicting a picture of a foot and an upwards pointing arrow, or something similar.

[0042] The adhesive that is used to secure the base plate 102 to the underside of the toilet seat could be adhesive tape or glue that can properly bond to the types of materials that are used inthis particular context. The adhesive ensures a strong and durable bond between the toilet seat and the base plate 102 of the attachment. After the base plate 102 is attached to the toilet seat, the adhesive is allowed to cure for an extended period of time, typically about 72 hours. This curing process strengthens the bond and ensures the stability of the toilet seat attachment 100. During this period, the toilet can be used as usual, while the base plate 102 is in place and is undisturbed while curing.

[0043] The screw assembly or nuts-and-bolts assembly refers to the method used to attach the handle 104 to the base plate 102. This assembly method ensures a secure connection between the handle and the base plate, allowing the handle to withstand the forces applied when a user operates the toilet seat or lid in a hands-free manner. Typically, both the handle 104 and the base plate 102 have pre-drilled, matching holes such that the handle 104 can be quickly attached to the base plate 102. In other embodiments, there may be a snap fit between the base plate 102 and the handle 104. Other mechanisms for easily attaching the base plate 102 and the handle 104 to one another can also be envisioned by those having ordinary skill in the art.

[0044] FIG. 2 shows the toilet seat attachment 100 in an assembled state, where the two vertical parts of the handle 104 and the base plate 102, respectively, have been secured together with a screw assembly or a nuts-and-bolts assembly (not shown).

[0045] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view from below, showing how the base plate 102 is mounted and cured to underside of a toilet seat 302, and how the handle 104 is about to be attached to the 102.

[0046] FIG. 4 is a plan view from below, showing how the toilet seat attachment 100 is mounted to the toilet seat 302, with the base plate 102 being attached to the underside of the toilet seat 302 and the handle 104 sticking out to the side such that it can be maneuvered by a user's foot. It should be noted that the toilet seat attachment 100 can be placed anywhere along the toilet seat 302, but in most situations it makes sense to place it close to the back of the toilet seat 302, where the hinges are located, to minimize the risk of the handle 104 interacting with any body parts of the user when the user is seated on the toilet, and to also reduce the range of movement needed by the user when operating the handle 104 with her foot.

[0047] Finally, FIG. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a western-style toilet 500, to which the toilet seat attachment 100 is attached. Again, to emphasize the two-part character of the invention, the base plate 102 and the handle 104 are illustrated as separate items, just prior to assembly.

[0048] Thus, embodiments of the invention have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. For example, while the various embodiments have been described above as being applicable in the context of toilets, it should be noted that the assembly can be applied in any context where it is conceivable to open / close an item by using ones foot rather than hands (e.g., cabinets, trash can lids, etc.) to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. In some embodiments, the handle component can be partly or fully coated with a fluorescent material to make the handle visible in the dark. Thus, many variations to the above examples lie well within the scope of the attached claims and within the capabilities of a person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A toilet seat attachment (100), comprising: a base plate (102) having a flat surface configured to attach securely to an underside or an upper side of a toilet seat (302) by means of an adhesive; and a handle (104) comprising an elongated arm configured for assembly with the base plate (102) at a first end of the arm, wherein a second end of the arm extends beyond a perimeter of the toilet seat (302) to allow operation of the toilet seat (302) by a user in a hands-free manner, specifically via foot operation.

2. The toilet seat attachment (100) of claim 1, wherein the adhesive comprises adhesive tape or glue.

3. The toilet seat attachment (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the flat surface of the base plate (102) does not extend outside beyond an outside edge of the toilet seat (302) when attached to the toilet seat (302).

4. The toilet seat attachment (100) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the handle (104) includes a universal connection mechanism such as a screw assembly, a nuts-and-bolts assembly, or a snap fit that enables assembly with several base plates (102) having different shapes.

5. The toilet seat attachment (100) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the arm has a length in the range of 7-10 cm.

6. The toilet seat attachment (100) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the toilet seat attachment (100) is made from one or more of: metal, plastic, wood, and ceramic.

7. The toilet seat attachment (100) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base plate (102) and handle (104) are made from the same material.

8. The toilet seat attachment (100) of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the handle (104) has a length and width that allows the handle (104) to be operated by a user's foot.

9. The toilet seat attachment (100) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the base plate (102) and the handle (104) are configured to be attached to each other by a screw assembly, a nuts-and- bolts assembly, or a snap fit.

10. A method for attaching a toilet seat attachment (100) of claim 1 to a toilet seat (302), comprising: attaching the base plate (102) to an underside or an upper side of a toilet seat (302) by means of an adhesive; curing the adhesive for an extended period of time; and attaching the handle (104) to the base plate (102) after the adhesive has cured to allow operation of the toilet seat (302) by a user in a hands-free manner, specifically via foot operation.

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