Water distributor for toilet

Abstract

Described herein is a flush water distributor for a toilet. The distributor is configured to be positioned with an inlet passage of the toilet to enable transfer of flush water from an inlet source into a toilet bowl. The flush water distributor comprises of an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end includes of a fastening section and the outlet end comprises of a distributor section. An intermediate section is positioned within the distributor section and the fastening section which supports a water channel. A plurality of openings are located on the distributor section to direct flush water into a toilet bowl at an angular orientation. The distributor section, the intermediate section and the fastening section are fluidly connected by means of an inlet pipe and channel. Preferably, the flush water distributor is made of a flexible plastic material.

Description

WATER DISTRIBUTOR FOR TOILET

[0001] This application claims priority to India Application No.: 202411052559, filed July 9, 2024.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to sanitaryware, particularly to toilets. More particularly, it relates to a flush water distributor for a toilet.BACKGROUND

[0003] This section is intended to provide information relating to the field of the invention and thus any approach or functionality described below should not be assumed to be qualified as prior art merely by its inclusion in this section.

[0004] Toilet systems are known in the sanitation industry to enable persons to defecate in good sanitary conditions. Typically, toilet bowls are made of ceramic. The bowl itself, as well as the water inlet and flushing distributor for flushing water are cast from ceramic. In existing toilet systems, both the toilet bowl and the water channel are made in vitreous; however, it is observed that there is high manufacturing variation and this causes inconsistent flushing performance from toilet to toilet.

[0005] Accordingly, in light of the aforementioned drawbacks and several other inherent disadvantages in the existing arts, there is a well felt need to provide a toilet flush water distributor, which is made of a flexible material and which provides efficient flush water distribution without any water loss and at a lower flush volume.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0006] This section is intended to introduce certain objects of the disclosed method and system in a simplified form, and is not intended to identify the key advantages or features of the present disclosure.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a toilet system with a flush water distributor.

[0008] It is another object of the present invention to provide a flush water distributor, made of a flexible material such as plastic.

[0009] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a flush water distributor, with an inherently placed water channel.

[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a flush water distributor with higher performance, especially in terms of a lower flush volume of water.

[0011] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a flush water distributor with a plurality of jets or openings to distribute flush water.SUMMARY:

[0012] The present invention discloses an installation arrangement for a toilet system, wherein the toilet system comprises a toilet bowl defining first and second mounting cavities on its rear side. The installation arrangement comprises first and second toilet installation units, wherein each of the first and second toilet installation units are adapted to enable mounting of the toilet bowl on a wall of a toilet cabinet.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a flush water distributor for a toilet. The distributor 100 is configured to be positioned with an inlet passage 202 of the toilet 200 to enable transfer of flush water from an inlet source into a toilet bowl 201. The flush water distributor 100 comprises of an inlet end 11 and an outlet end 12. The inlet end 11 comprises of a fastening section 103 and the outlet end comprises of a distributor section 101. An intermediate section 102 is positioned within the distributor section101 and the fastening section 103 which supports a water channel 1022. A plurality of openings 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014 are located on the distributor section 101 to direct flush water into a toilet bowl 201 at an angular orientation. The distributor section, 101, the intermediate section102 and the fastening section 103 are fluidly connected by means of an inlet pipe 1021 and channel 1022. Preferably, the flush water distributor 100 is made of a flexible plastic material.

[0014] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention,are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] The present invention, both as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further objects and advantages, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings. These and other details of the present invention will be described in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are furnished only by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention, and in which drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 is a depiction of cross section of a toilet bowl.

[0017] Figure 2 is a depiction of cross section of a toilet bowl according to the disclosure of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 is a depiction of a flush water distributor, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 is a depiction of the sump jets within a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0020] Figure 5 is a depiction of the right side and the left jets within a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0021] Figure 6 is a depiction of a diverter gasket within a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0022] Figure 7 is a depiction of a diverter bowl mounting surface of a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0023] Figure 8 is a depiction of a diverter mounting surface within a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0024] Figure 9 is a depiction of a water inlet within a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0025] Figure 10 is a depiction of a water channel within a flush water distributor as depicted in Figure 3.

[0026] Figure 11 is a back view of the flush water distributor identifying dimensional characteristics.

[0027] Figure 12 is a back view of the flush water distributor identifying dimensional characteristics.

[0028] Figure 13 is an enlarged top view of the distributor section of the flush water distributor identifying angular orientation and dimensional characteristics of the two side jets.

[0029] Figure 14 is an enlarged front view of the distributor section of the flush water distributor identifying angular orientation and dimensional characteristics of the two front jets.

[0030] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of the distributor section of the flush water distributor identifying angular orientation of both the two side jets and sump jets.

[0031] Figure 16 is a side view of the flush water distributor identifying dimensional characteristics.

[0032] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate an example of a toilet according to a second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 18 illustrates a detailed view of the water diverter of the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 19 illustrates an example water diverter.

[0035] Figure 20 illustrates another example water diverter.

[0036] Figure 21 highlights an inlet port for the water diverter.

[0037] Figure 22 highlights a water channel of for the water diverter.

[0038] Figure 23 illustrates an example water diverter according to a third embodiment.

[0039] Figures 24A and 24B illustrate flush / rinse patterns by velocity.

[0040] Figures 25A and 25B illustrate an example water diverter according to a fourth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 26A illustrates an example toilet with the diverter of the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 26B illustrates a cross section of the toilet of Figure 26A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only one of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein. Example embodiments of the present invention are described below, as illustrated in various drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings.

[0044] The embodiments of the present invention relate to a flush water distributor configured to be positioned within a toilet. The flush water distributor is a tubular structure, preferably made of a flexible material such as plastic. It is comprised of an inlet and an outlet, which are arranged to transmit flush water from an existing plumbing into a toilet bowl. The present invention discloses a water channel and plurality of openings, specifically designed to direct flush water efficiently within a toilet bowl.

[0045] Referring to Figure 1, it discloses a cross section of a toilet, preferably made of vitreous material and wherein the inlet, water channels are integrally cast within the bowl. In terms of constructions, it is difficult to achieve precise water openings. Further, manufacturing a vitreous toilet with an in-built water channel has led to various flushing performance inconsistencies.

[0046] Referring to Figure 2, it discloses a cross section of a toilet 200, according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the toilet is modified with the flush distributor.

[0047] Generally referring to the figures 3-16, there is disclosed a flushing system comprising a flush water distributor 100. The flush water distributor is suitable to replace a ceramic flush distributor construction in a conventional toilet.

[0048] Referring to Figure 3, the flush water distributor 100 is an integral structure, of tubular structure or pipe shaped, with an inlet end 11 and an outlet end 12. The inlet end 11 is configured to be connected to a flush water source for the purposes of delivering flush water to the toilet bowl for removing the contents thereof. The flush water distributor 100, in a preferred embodiment, comprises of a distributor section 101, a fastening section 103 and a mid-section 102.

[0049] The fastening section 103 is preferably configured at the inlet end 11 and is designated to be mounted on the toilet bowl. The fastening section assumes the shape of a tubular structure, and which is congruent with the inlet water source piping structure.

[0050] The mid-section 102 extends from the fastening section 103 and is configured to be a support between the fastening section 103 and the distributor section 101 and a support for a water channel contained inside it. In contrast to the existing prior arts, wherein the water channel is vitreous and positioned separately, in the present invention, the water channel is an integral structure within the flush water distributor. The mid-section also comprises of a gasket on the outer side, in a surrounding manner, in order to be connected in a tight seat with the toilet bowl. The mid-section supports the water channel provided inside the flush distributor.

[0051] The distributor section 101 emanates from the mid-section 102 and ends in a tapered surface, which enables a tapered flow of flush water from a water channel within the fastening section 103 and the mid-section 102 into a plurality of jet openings. In a preferred embodiment, the cross section of the fastening section 103 is dimensionally greater than that of the distributor section 101.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the flush water distributor 100 is fully made of plastic. The flush water distributor 100 may be made of materials selected from Polypropylene, ABS, Polyethylene, Polystyrene, EPDM etc.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the distributor 100 is made of a single material.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the distributor 100 is made of PP+10%GF.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the distributor 100 is manufactured as a single unit and fitted with a gasket in assembly.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the gasket is made of EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer). In a preferred embodiment, the gasket is made of rubber.

[0057] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, a front view of the flush water distributor 100 is depicted, identifying the flush water distributor to be predominantly of a circular form with protrusions 1015 extending horizontally at its two sides. The protrusions 1015 are curved at the edges 1016 and are of considerable length at the curved side 1017.

[0058] The distributor section 101 is provided with two front openings or sump jets 1011, 1012 and two side openings or side jets 1013, 1014. The two side openings 1013, 1014 are arranged on the sides, facing away from the two front openings 1011, 1012.

[0059] The front opening 1011, 1012 are arranged to face forwards and slightly tilted downwards angularly. The angular orientation is vertical in relation to a central axis of the fastening section 103 and the inlet end 11. The two side jets 1013, 1014 point radially outwards in opposite directions and have similar angular orientation with respect to a central axis.

[0060] Referring to figure 6, it is a perspective view of the distributor 100, highlighting a sealing member, i.e., gasket 1018 positioned upon the mid-section 102. The gasket 1018 rests around the water channel and is configured to rest within the walls of the toilet bowl. The sealing member is provided to prevent leakage or backflow of water between the distributor 100 and the toilet bowl.

[0061] In an alternate embodiment, the distributor 100 may include any other sealing means on the mid-section 102 on its outer surface for creating a tight seal between the distributor and the toilet bowl, making a water-tight seal against the inside of the inlet passage of the bowl.

[0062] Referring to Figure 7, it is a perspective view of the distributor 100, highlighting a distributor wall mounting surface 1019 positioned upon the mid-section 102. The mounting surface 109 enables the distributor 100 to be inserted and fastened into the inlet passage in the bowl and ensures that both the distributor and the bowl and aligned coaxially about a common axis. In an alternate embodiment, the distributor 100 may include additional elements for enabling alignment of the distributor with the toilet bowl.

[0063] Referring to Figure 8, it is a perspective view of the distributor 100, highlighting a distributor mounting surface 1020 on the fastening section 103. In a preferred embodiment, the entire distributor 100 is positioned inside an inlet of a standard toilet bowl, as visualized in Figure 2. The distributor 100 is fastened to the bowl by a fastening means. In a preferred embodiment, the distributor 100 is fastened to the bowl by means of screws or other anchors.

[0064] In an alternate embodiment, the distributor 100 may be fastened by other means such as snap fit mechanism or any other known means of fastening.

[0065] Referring to Figure 9, it discloses a distributor inlet 1021, which is an integral structure and is fluidly connected to an inlet source of flush water through an existing plumbing system . The inlet 1021 extends to a water channel 1022, as visualized in Figure 10, through the mid-section 102 and ends at the distributor section 101. In a preferred embodiment, the water inlet 1021 and the channel 1022 are specifically designed and manufactured of a flexible material, such as a plastic, and is intended to be placed within the distributor 100. Similar to the configuration of the distributor section 101, the channel 1022 also ends with a tapered surface.

[0066] In accordance with the principles elaborated in the foregoing paragraphs, a preferred embodiment of the present invention and its dimensional configuration is described herein with reference to Figures 11 to 16.

[0067] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, they are back view depictions of the dimensional configuration of the distributor 100. The vertical distance of the distributor 100 between its highest length spans a distance DI, which may range from 80.5 mm to 91 mm. Similarly, the horizontal distance of the distributor 100 between the curved sides 1017 spans a distance D2, which may be approximately between 159 to 160 mm and the length of the curved side 1017 at each projection is 20 mm. The distributor 100 is aligned and positioned at an angle of 180 degrees. A common axis runs through this orientation, i.e., axis B. Axis B may be a vertical axis. Axis B may be substantially perpendicular to the flow water through the flow of water (e.g., water channel 1022)

[0068] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, they are enlarged views of the distributor section 100 identifying the jets 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014. As highlighted previously, the distributor 100, in its entirety, is uniform about a common axis, i.e., central axis A. The axis A runs throughoutfrom the inlet end 11 to the outlet end 12, which is substantially parallel to the flow of water through the water channel 1022. The axis A may be a horizontal axis.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, with reference to the central axis A, the side jets 1013, 1014 are aligned at an angle of 2X50° ± 1° (e.g., two instances of 50 degrees with a predetermined amount of tolerance). The side jet 1014 is of dimensions 0 14±0.2 mm and the side jet 1013 is of dimensions 0 10.5±0.1 mm.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, one of the side jets 1014 is configured to be dimensionally bigger than the other side jet 1013. The dimensional asymmetry of the side jet holes 1013, 1014 ensures that one side has more water energy in order to reduce any water turbulence and thereby promoting smoother flushing.

[0071] Similarly, in a preferred embodiment, the front jets 1011, 1012 are aligned at an angle 2X15° ± 1° (e.g., two instances of 15 degrees with a predetermined amount of tolerance), and are configured to be of dimensions 0 16±0.2 mm.

[0072] Referring to Figure 15, it is an enlarged view of both the side jet & front jet opening.As highlighted previously, the side jets 1013, 1014 and the front Jets 1011, 1012 are oriented angularly at an angle of 49° ± 1° and 20° ± 1° respectively with respect to the axis B.

[0073] Referring to Figure 16, it is a side view of the distributor 100 identifying the total dimensional construction of the flow water distributor 100. The total length of the distributor as shown as D3, in a preferred embodiment, may be about 120mm.

[0074] A toilet with a flush water distributor 100 of the present invention was tested for performance by comparing it with an existing conventional toilet without the distributor. For the purposes of testing, the prescribed standard for ceramic plumbing fixtures, i.e., ASME Al 12. 19.2-2018 / CSA B45.1-18 was followed. The parameters tested for establishing efficiency are volume, surface wash, balls / granules, drain line and miso.

[0075] The following Table 1 highlights the performance statistics of both the toilets.Table 1

[0076] During flushing operation, two flush options available to a user, i.e., a full flush and half flush. The indications of 4|2 or 3.6|2 means full flush | half flush refers to the volume of water used for a full flush or a half flush cycle respectively. It is evident from the data at Table 1 that the toilet with the flush water distributor has achieved a full flush at a reduced flush volume of 3.6L, in comparison with the conventional toilet which achieves a full flush at a volume of 4L. The volume test data exhibits remarkable improvement in comparison with the existing designs.

[0077] Surface Wash refers to a test wherein using a specific marker a continuous line is drawn on toilet surface at a particular position. After flushing the unwashed ink line length is reported in inches. From the test data, it is established that the toilet bowl with water diverter was able to achieve a comparable effect, even at lower flush volume of 3.6L.

[0078] Balls & Granules refers to a test wherein certain numbers of HDPE (high density polyethylene) granule & nylon balls with specific dimensions are introduced into toilet bowl & flushed. The number of balls & granules remaining post the flushing cycle are noted. It is established through the test data that even at a lower flush volume of 3.6L, the toilet with diverter was able to achieve desired effect in terms of flushing the HDPE granules and nylon balls.

[0079] Drain Line refers to a test wherein certain number of PP (polypropylene) balls with specific dimensions are introduced into toilet bowl which has the outlet connected to a 60' long horizontal tube. Post the flushing cycle, the average distance travelled by the PP balls is noted. Similar to the previous tests, the toilet with the diverter has achieved desired effect in terms of flushing the PP balls at a lower flush volume of 3.6L.

[0080] Miso test refers to a test wherein soybean paste cylinders with specific property along with certain number of toilet paper balls are put into toilet with incremental numbers of soybean paste cylinders & flushed. The maximum total weight of the flushed soybean paste cylinder is then noted. It is established through the test data that even at a lower flush volume of 3.6L, the toilet with diverter was able to achieve desired effect in terms of flushing out the soybean paste cylinder.

[0081] The above test data conclusively establishes that with the introduction of a water diverter, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is a considerable reduction in in the volume of flush water and which achieves same / similar flushing efficiency as that of a conventional toilet without a diverter.

[0082] Figures 17A and 17B illustrates an example of a one-piece toilet according to a second embodiment. The toilet may include a base 31 (e.g., a pedestal, bowl, etc.) and a tank 32. The base 31 is configured to be attached to another object such as a drainpipe, floor, or another suitable object. The base 31 includes a bowl 35, a sump 36 (e.g., a receptacle) disposed below the bowl 35, and a trapway 37 fluidly connecting the bowl 35 to a drainpipe 38 or sewage line. The tank 32 may be supported by the base 31, such as an upper surface of a rim 34. The rim 34 may be integrated with a rim table 39 that defines the rim 34 and extends behind the rim 34. The toilet may include a seat assembly including a seat and a seat cover rotatably coupled to the base 31 (e.g., using one or more fasteners configured to mate with one or more openings 29). The toilet may further include a hinge assembly. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0083] In addition but not shown, the second embodiment may be applied to a variety of other types of toilets besides the one-piece toilet illustrated in Figures 17A and 17B. Examples included two-piece toilets and wall -hung toilets. Other examples may include smart toilets (e.g., having a controller and at least one automatic process) and portable toilets (e.g., having a water source not connected to a utility water supply). In the example of a two-piece toilet, the tank 32may connect to the base 31 by way of the rim table 39. The tank 32 is formed separately from the base 31 and coupled (e.g., attached, secured, fastened, connected, etc.) to the base 31. The toilet may further include a tank lid covering an opening and inner cavity in the tank 32. Between the base 31 and the tank 32, is a water passage. The connection between the base 31 and the tank 32 may include a seal that maintains a water tight connection between the tank 32 and the vertical water passage. A threaded collar may be integrated with or otherwise coupled to a gasket. As the tank 32 is installed into the toilet base 31, the gasket presses against the water passage in the toilet base 31. The weight of the tank 32 presses and compresses the gasket. Thus, a water passage 28 is established from the water tank 32 to the toilet base 31. In addition, one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.) may be passed through an opening (e.g., opening in rim table 121) to hold the tank 32 against the base 31.

[0084] Figure 18 illustrates a detailed view of the water diverter 30 (flush water distributor) of the second embodiment as installed in the one-piece example toilet of Figures 17A and 17B and placed under the rim 34. As described in the first embodiment, the water diverter 30 may include a distributor section 101 (e.g., including the outlet 43), an intermediate section 102 configured to support the water passage 33 (water channel) and a fastening section 103. The distributor section 101, the intermediate section 102 and the fastening section 103 are fluidly connected. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0085] The water diverter 30 may be install in a water passage 33 between the tank 32 and the toilet bowl 35. The water diverter 30 is installed from the front or anterior side of the toilet. The water diverter 30 is installed by way of the toilet bowl 35. In other words, a user or other installer (e.g., plumber or technician) that installs the water diverter 30 into the water passage 33 reaches into the toilet bowl 35 and pushes the water diverter from the toilet bowl 35 up into the water passage 33.

[0086] The water diverter 30 includes at least one outlet 43 and a water inlet 44. The water inlet 44 is highlighted in Figure 21. Inside the water diverter 30 is a single open cavity 45, which is highlighted in Figure 22. There are no dividers defining multiple cavities with the water diverter 30.

[0087] The water diverter 30 includes an arm 41. The arm 41 may serve as a handle such that the user grips the arm 41 when aligning the water divider 30 through the bowl 35 and intothe water passage 33. Before final placement, the user grips another portion (e.g., bottom portion) to push the water diverter 30 into its final resting spot.

[0088] The water passage 33 is an inlet passage that may be defined into multiple regions or portions. An elbow portion 51 connects the tank 32. The elbow portion 51 steers the water from a vertical direction to a horizontal direction. The horizontal extension portion 52 extends from the elbow 51 and is open to the toilet bowl 35 under the rim 34. The installed resting location of the water diverter 30 is substantially within the horizontal extension portion 52. The term “substantially within the horizontal extension portion 52” in some examples may be defined as at least ! of the horizontal length of the water diverter 30 is within the horizontal extension portion 52. In other examples, the water diverter 30 and the extension portion 52 may overlap in any amount.

[0089] The water passage 33 is also connected to a superior cavity 53. The superior cavity 53 may be adjacent to the water passage 33 and above the water passage 33. While the superior cavity 53 may be splashed with water or otherwise included some amounts of water, the superior cavity 53 is generally filled with air.

[0090] In addition, the superior cavity 53 may help to hold the water diverter 30 in place. The arm 41 also serves as a lock or brace for the water diverter 30. In this respect, the arm 41 may revered to a as a safety tab that extends from the water diverter 30 (e.g., from the distributor section). The safety tab prevents removal of the flush water distributor and abuts an inner surface of the rim if the flush distributor moves out of connection with the inlet passage.

[0091] More specifically, when the water diverter 30 is positioned into the rim 34, the arm 41 extends into the superior cavity 53. If the water diverter 30 were to move laterally or horizontally (e.g., in the opposite direction of installation), the arm 41 would contact the wall (e.g., front surface) of the superior cavity 53. Thus, the super cavity 53 prevents the water diverter 30 from inadvertently being removed. One example cause that could potentially result in the water diverter 30 being inadvertently removed is the force of the flow of water through the water diverter 30. The force from the flow of water using the directions of Figure 18 is from right to left or from the rear to the front of the toilet. Thus, the superior cavity 53 may place a static force against the water diverter 30 to prevent the water diverter 30 from falling out of the water passage 33. In this respect the superior cavity 53 may referred to as a locking cavity. Thespace between the arm 41 and the forward surface (toward the bowl) of the superior cavity 53 may be 5-10 millimeters. Other dimensions may be used.

[0092] The water diverter 30 may also include a fastening device 42 in the fastening section103. The fastening device 42 is configured to come in contact with the water passage 33 (e.g., at the extension portion 52) to hold the water distributor 30 in place after installation. The fastening device 42 may form a friction fit with the water passage 33. The fastening device 42 may include multiple ribs that contact the water passage 33. The ribs may be formed of a different material that the rest of the water diverter 30. The body of the water distributor 30 may be formed of hard plastic and the ribs may be formed of a flexible plastic. The fastening device 42 may also operate as a seal or a gasket.

[0093] If the water diverter 30 were to move laterally or horizontally (e.g., in the opposite direction of installation), the fastening device 42 would grip to the horizontal portion 52 of the water passage 33. Thus, the fastening device 42 prevents the water diverter 30 from inadvertently being removed for example, by the force of the flow of water through the water diverter 30. The fastening device 42 may place a static force against the water diverter 30 to prevent the water diverter 30 from falling out of the water passage 33. Figure 19 illustrates another view of a water diverter 30 having a fastening device 42 formed with ribs 42. Specifically, four ribs are illustrated but any number of ribs may be used in various embodiments.

[0094] One example width of the water diverter 30 is 146 millimeters (e.g., 145.87 mm). One example range for the width of the diverter 30 is 100-200 mm. The width is from left to right as facing the installed water diverter 30). Other dimensions may be used.

[0095] One example length of the water diverter 30 is 89 millimeters (e.g., 88.7 mm). One example range for the length of the diverter 30 is 70-140 mm. The length is from front to back as facing the installed water diverter 30). Other dimensions may be used.

[0096] One example height of the water diverter 30 is 46 millimeters (e.g., 46.17 mm). One example range for the length of the diverter 30 is 30-60 mm. The height is in the vertical direction (direction of gravity). Other dimensions may be used.

[0097] Figure 21 further illustrates inlet 44 may have a D shape. The D shape may comprise a perimeter with a semicircular portion and a straight edge connecting the opposing sides of theopen end of the semicircular portion. The D shape prevents the water diverter 30 from being installed upside down or in another unintended orientation or direction. The horizontal section 52 may have a shape that matches the shape of inlet 44 so that the horizontal section 52 fits tightly with the water diverter 30 and so that the water diverter 30 cannot be placed into the horizontal section 52 in the incorrect orientation. Other shapes are possible. Shapes that are not symmetrical about a bisecting line are configured to prevent the water diverter 30 from being placed into the horizontal section 52 in the incorrect position.

[0098] Figure 20, as well as Figures 21 and 22, illustrate an example water diverter 30. In this example, four outlets (jets) are included: a lateral pair of outlets including left lateral outlet 413 and right lateral outlet 414, and a medial pair of outlets including left medial outlet 411 and right medial outlet 412. The span or distance between the lateral outlets may be 114 mm, or in the range of 70-140 mm. The diameter of the lateral outlets may be 14 mm, or in the range of 5-30 mm. The angle of the medial outlets from the horizontal may be about 49 degrees or in the range of 40 to 70 degrees. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0099] The shape, angle and location of the outlets are a determining factor in the speed (and force) that the water from the water supply impacts and contacts the toilet bowl 35. The lower outlets that are shorter deliver water at a greater speed than the higher outlets. Water fills the lower portions of the water diverter 30 earlier and at a higher pressure than the upper portions of the water diverter 30. Water delivered at a more tangential angle impacts the toilet bowl 35 at a lower force. Water delivered from shorter outlets or jet arms are at a higher speed than water delivered from long outlets or jet arms.

[0100] Figure 23 illustrates another example water diverter 30. In this example, six outlets (jets) are included: a lateral pair of outlets including left lateral outlet 413 and right lateral outlet 414, a medial pair of outlets including left medial outlet 411 and right medial outlet 412, and a lower pair of outlets including left lower outlet 415 and right lower outlet 416. An angle from the center outlets to the vertical line may be 15 degrees or in the range of 10 to 30 degrees. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0101] In some examples, the six outlet water diverter 30 as shown in Figure 23 may achieve full coverage of rinsing and flushing the toilet bowl 35 without a rim shelf or ledge around the inner perimeter of the rim 34. In addition, the four outlet and other examples of thewater diverter may be used in toilets without a rim shelf. Figure 17A illustrates an absence of a ledge or shelf on the rim 34.

[0102] Figures 24A and 24B illustrate example water coverage for washing down the toilet bowl. Figure 24A illustrates water coverage for four outlets (e.g., the water diverter 30 of Figure 21). The rinsing pattern includes a first swirl of water 511 from the lateral pair of outlets 413 and 414 and a second swirl of water 513 from the medial pair of outlets 411 and 412. The speed of the second swirl of water 513 is greater than the speed of the first swirl of water 511 when the water contacts the toilet bowl 35.

[0103] Figure 24B illustrates water coverage for six outlets (e.g., the water diverter 30 of Figure 23). The rinsing pattern includes the first swirl of water 511 from the lateral pair of outlets 413 and 414 and the second swirl of water 513 from the medial pair of outlets 411 and 412, and additionally, a third swirl of water 515 corresponding to the lower pair of outlets 415 and 416. While the water outlets in both examples provide adequate and exemplary coverage for washing urine and feces from the sides of the bowl 35 when flushing the toilet, it can be seen that the rinsing coverage is greater in Figure 24B than in Figure 24A. The speed of the third swirl of water 515 is greater than the speed of the second swirl of water 513, which is greater than the speed of the first swirl of water 511 when the water contacts the toilet bowl 35.

[0104] Figures 25 A and 25B illustrate an example water diverter 630 according to a fourth embodiment. The water diverter 630 may include a fastening section 603 having one or more openings 631 for fasteners (e.g., screw, bolt, snap-fit prong). In other examples, the water diverter 630 may be configured for a friction fit as described herein with respect to the second and third embodiments. The water diverter 630 may include a distributor section 101 having one or more outlet jets. The outlet jets may be provided by openings 613, 612, and 613, which eject water streams 621, 622, 623, respectively. It should be noted that a blank 614 may be included in place of a hypothetical fourth jet. The blank 614 may be filled in plastic or a wall (e.g., blocking device) that prevents the flow of water from the correspond side of the water diverter indicated at blank 614. In other examples, four jets are used. An intermediate section 602 is positioned within the distributor section 601 and the fastening section 603 which supports a water channel. Preferably, the flush water diverter 630 is made of a flexible plastic material. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0105] Figure 26A illustrates an example toilet with the water diverter 630 of the fourth embodiment. With three water jets, it is shown that water jet 622 and water jet 623 propel directly into the toilet bowl in order to push waste out of the toilet bowl. Waterjet 622 and water jet 623 are angled down toward the bowl and an acute angle (e.g., 30 degrees) below the horizontal. The waterjet 622 and waterjet 623 provide the water to flush the toilet bowl.

[0106] Waterjet 621 is propelled circumferentially around the toilet bowl. Thus, opening 611 provides a side jet giving 360 degree of coverage for surface wash or rinsing of the toilet bowl. The stream of water 621 provides 360 degree complete rotation of coverage through the aid of a step 640. The step is provided in the toilet bowl as a shelf formed from the contour of the toilet bowl. Figure 26B illustrates a cross section of the toilet of Figure of 26A illustrating a side view of the step 640. The contour of the toilet bowl may be discontinuous such that it is not downward sloping along the entire side surface. The discontinuity forms the step 640. As shown in Figure 26B, the side surface of the toilet bowl may include a top slope section 641 and a bottom slope section 642 such that the step 640 is formed between the top slope section 641 and the bottom slope section 642. In one example, the top slope section 641 has a steep slope and the bottom slope section 642 has a gentle slope. In this example, an angle of the steep slope is greater (e.g., more vertical) than the angle of the gentle slope (e.g., more horizontal) and the step 640 is substantially horizontal. The step 640 may be included in any of the embodiments described herein.

[0107] It is an advantage that the design of the flush water distributor has better manufacturability and is suitable for rimless toilet bowl.

[0108] It is another advantage that installation time and cost will be reduced owing to the ease of installation of the distributor of the present invention.

[0109] It is yet another advantage that since the water channel is made from plastic it has superior accuracy of water channel profde, and it ensures consistent flushing performance in each toilet.

[0110] It is yet another advantage that the construction of the water channel in plastic enables designing of complex water profiles which offers superior flushing performance.

[0111] It is yet another advantage that by elimination vitreous construction of the water channel from the vitreous body of toilet, the entire construction was simplified, in terms of manufacture and assembly.

[0112] Although, particular embodiments have been disclosed herein in detail, this is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended in any way to limit the intended scope of the invention. Variations and adaptions of the system as described herein do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention and is within the expertise of a person skilled in the art.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A flush water distributor, comprising: an inlet end comprising a fastening section; an outlet end comprising a distributor section; and an intermediate section configured to support a water channel; wherein a plurality of openings are located on the distributor section; wherein the distributor section, the intermediate section and the fastening section are fluidly connected; and wherein each of the plurality of the openings are configured to direct flush water into a toilet bowl at an angular orientation.

2. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flush water distributor is made of a flexible plastic material.

3. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 2, wherein the distributor section comprises: at least two openings in a forward direction; and at least one side opening, positioned on one or more sides of the distributor.

4. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 1, wherein the channel is made of a flexible plastic material.

5. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 2, wherein the plastic material is selected from Polypropylene, ABS, Polyethylene, Polystyrene, EPDM etc.

6. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 1, wherein an inlet pipe is provided at the fastening section to receive flush water from an existing plumbing.

7. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 6, wherein the inlet pipe and the channel are fluidly connected.

8. The flush water distributor 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein the distributor section is tapered at the outlet end.

9. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 1, wherein a gasket is provided on the intermediate section to act as a seal between the distributor and the toilet.

10. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 1, wherein the intermediate section is provided with a mounting surface for mounting the distributor on the toilet.

11. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least two openings in the forward direction are inclined at an angle of 15° ± 1° with respect to an axis A.

12. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one side opening is inclined at an angle of 50° ± 1°, with reference to an axis A.

13. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one side opening includes a first side opening and a second side opening, wherein the first side opening is dimensionally bigger than the second side opening.

14. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one side opening is inclined at an angle of 20° ± 1°, with reference to an axis B.

15. The flush water distributor as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one side opening is inclined angularly at an angle of 49° ± 1° with respect to an axis B.

16. A toilet, comprising: a toilet bowl comprising an inlet passage; a flush water distributor, comprising: an inlet end comprising a fastening section; an outlet end comprising a distributor section; an intermediate section configured to support a water channel; wherein a plurality of openings are located on the distributor section;wherein the distributor section, the intermediate section and the fastening section are fluidly connected; wherein each of the plurality of the openings are configured to direct flush water into a toilet bowl at an angular orientation; wherein the flush water distributor made of a flexible plastic material; and wherein the distributor is positioned within the inlet passage of the toilet to transfer flush water to the bowl.

17. A toilet, comprising: a toilet bowl comprising a rim and an inlet passage; and a flush water distributor configured to be placed under the rim and in connection with the inlet passage, the flush water distributor comprising: an inlet end comprising a fastening section configured to form a friction fit with the inlet passage; an outlet end comprising a distributor section; and an intermediate section configured to support a water channel; wherein the distributor section, the intermediate section and the fastening section are fluidly connected.

18. The toilet of claim 17, further comprising: a plurality of openings on the distributor section, wherein each of the plurality of the openings are configured to direct flush water into the toilet bowl at an angular orientation.

19. The toilet of claim 17, further comprising: a safety tab extending from the distributor section, wherein the safety tab prevents removal of the flush water distributor abuts an inner surface of the rim if the flush distributor moves out of connection with the inlet passage.

20. The toilet of claim 17, wherein the fastening section includes a plurality of ribs that contact the inlet passage.

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