Toilet brush washing apparatus & kit

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a toilet brush washing apparatus. The toilet brush washing apparatus comprises a receptacle for receiving a toilet brush, a valve comprising an actuator for configuring the valve from a closed position to an open position, one or more water delivery pathways in fluid communication with the valve, and a manifold located within the receptacle comprising a plurality of water delivery outlets in fluid communication with one or more delivery pathways.

Description

[0001] TOILET BRUSH WASHING APPARATUS & KIT

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] [1] The present invention relates to a toilet brush washing apparatus, and in particular, in one embodiment, to an apparatus forwashing and sanitizing a toilet brush when located within the apparatus.

[0004] [2] The invention has been developed primarily for use in cleaning toilet brushes and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. It will, however, be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use. The invention could be used for cleaning any type of brush that comprises a handle and a brush head.

[0005] Background of the Invention

[0006] [3] A toilet brush is one of the essential tools used for cleaning and maintaining sanitary conditions of lavatories and toilets. Depending on the frequency of use of such lavatories and toilets, there is a need to repeatedly clean the toilet brush to ensure that no excrement or residue from a previous use is retained on the brush prior to subsequent use. Thus, the burden falls on the person or maintenance crew to manually repeatedly clean the toilet brush. Therefore, apparatus were developed to facilitate cleaning of such brushes.

[0007] [4] Some common toilet brush cleaning apparatus provide a receptacle for storing and / or receiving a wet toilet brush to dry the moisture and allow the settling of excrement and residue from the brush in the receptacle. However, this presents a problem since the receptacle itself then needs to be repeatedly cleaned.

[0008] [5] Other toilet brush cleaning apparatus provide a basin or cradle for accommodating a toilet brush for when the toilet brush would be washed. While these apparatus provide a place for the dirty water to be collected, these apparatus still impose the burden on the person to manually wash the toilet brush and dispose of the dirty water from the basin after use.

[0009] [6] There are some toilet brush cleaning apparatus that provide a receptacle for accommodating a toilet brush and a washing nozzle within the receptacle wherein the washing nozzle is activated by a button to be pressed by a user. For these types of cleaning apparatus, there is a need for the user to simultaneously hold the toilet brush by the handle and press the button until the toiler bush is cleaned. These types of apparatus also have an open configuration receptacle where some of the water from the nozzle or water applied to the toilet brush sprays or leaks out of the receptacle. [7] Furthermore, some prior art toilet brush cleaning apparatuses are only able to wash a portion of the toilet brush and are unable to coverthe whole length and width of the toilet brush head portion.

[0010] [8] Therefore, there is a need for a toilet brush washing apparatus, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0011] [9] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

[0012] Summary of the Invention

[0013]

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a toilet brush washing apparatus is provided comprising a receptacle for receiving a toilet brush, the receptacle providing a wet area washing volume in which the toilet brush can be washed; a valve comprising an actuator for configuring the valve from a closed position to an open position, the valve being in fluid communication with a water source and the actuator is adapted to be activated when the toilet brush is in the wet area washing volume; one or more water delivery pathways being in fluid communication with the valve; and a manifold located within the receptacle comprising a plurality of water delivery outlets in fluid communication with the one or more water delivery pathways, the plurality of water delivery outlets being adapted to deliver water towards the toilet brush to wash it in use.

[0014]

[0011] Advantageously, the activation of the actuator is dependent on the insertion of the toilet brush within the receptacle which demands less involvement from the user as no secondary action is required. The user merely needs to place a relevant portion of the toilet brush within the receptacle for the actuator to activate. The configuration of the first actuator therefore provides a quick and self-activating means of introducing water to the toilet brush to clean it. Furthermore, the plurality of water delivery outlets of the manifold allow water from the one or more water delivery pathways to be delivered towards the toilet brush at various locations, optimising the cleaning efficiency of the present invention.

[0015]

[0012] In another embodiment, the manifold defines an inner lateral surface that provides the plurality of water delivery outlets.

[0016]

[0013] In another embodiment, each water delivery outlet of the plurality of water delivery outlets are configured at the inner lateral surface such that water is delivered from at least a number of the plurality of water delivery outlets at a longitudinal offset angle which is an acute angle formed downwardly with respect to the inner lateral surface.

[0017]

[0014] Advantageously, the longitudinal offset angle ensures that the plurality of water delivery outlets are directed to the toilet brush, ensuring that every spot of the toilet brush is washed by the toilet brush washing apparatus.

[0018]

[0015] In another embodiment, the longitudinal offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

[0019]

[0016] In another embodiment, the longitudinal offset angle is about 40°.

[0020]

[0017] In another embodiment, the manifold is cylindrical in shape and the longitudinal offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

[0021]

[0018] In another embodiment, at least a number of the plurality of water delivery outlets are configured at the inner lateral surface such that water is delivered from each of the plurality of water delivery outlets at a lateral offset angle which is an acute angle formed laterally relative to a tangent at the inner lateral surface at the location of the respective water delivery outlet.

[0022]

[0019] In another embodiment, the lateral offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

[0023]

[0020] In another embodiment, the lateral offset angle is about 40°.

[0024]

[0021] In another embodiment, the manifold is cylindrical in shape and the lateral offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

[0025]

[0022] Advantageously, the lateral offset angle of the plurality ofwater delivery outlets enables water to be discharged at an angle that accurately washes the bristles, directing residual matter away from the brush rather than into it, and guiding the removed matter down toward the toilet sump. Additionally, this angled flow can produce a reactionary force on the manifold, causing it to rotate around the toilet brush.

[0026]

[0023] In another embodiment, the manifold is configured to freely rotate around a longitudinal axis such that the plurality ofwater delivery outlets cause the manifold to spin around the toilet brush when the brush is located in the wet area washing volume and water is delivered through the plurality of water deliver outlets in use.

[0027]

[0024] Advantageously, the rotation of the plurality of water delivery outlets around the toilet brush when in use increases the likelihood that every spot of the toilet brush makes contact with the sprayed water.

[0028]

[0025] In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a valve in fluid communication with the manifold, the valve comprising an actuator for configuring the valve from a closed position to an open position such that when the actuator is activated, the valve is configured to an open position to deliver water from a water source to the toilet brush via the plurality of water delivery outlets.

[0029]

[0026] In another embodiment, the actuator is located within the wet washing area volume such that in use, the actuator is adapted to be activated when the toilet brush is inserted within the receptacle and a portion of the toilet brush makes contact with the actuator in the wet area washing volume.

[0030]

[0027] In another embodiment, the receptacle comprises an aperture defined by an aperture rim, the aperture being adapted to receive a toilet brush.

[0031]

[0028] In another embodiment, the actuator is located at or proximate the aperture rim such that in use, the actuator is adapted to be activated when a flange of a toilet brush makes contact with the actuator.

[0032]

[0029] Advantageously, the activation of the actuator is dependent on the insertion of the toilet brush within the receptacle which demands less involvement from the user as no secondary action is required. The user merely needs to place toilet brush within the receptacle and engage the flange with the aperture rim for the actuator to activate. The configuration of the actuator therefore provides an instantaneous and self-activating means of introducing water to the toilet brush to clean it.

[0033]

[0030] Advantageously, the sealing engagement of the flange and the aperture rim ensures that substantially no dirty water, dirt, excrement or residue spills out of the receptacle when in use.

[0034]

[0031] In another embodiment, the actuator is configured to be actuated indirectly by a collar or cap located on an upper portion of the toilet brush handle. In this embodiment, the collar or cap is slidably or pivotally connected to the handle and is configured, upon downward or twisting movement, to engage a secondary part which in turn mechanically actuates the valve actuator. The actuator in this embodiment may be positioned outside of the wet area washing volume and may be separated therefrom by a mechanical linkage or plunger mechanism.

[0035]

[0032] Advantageously, this configuration allows activation of the water flow without requiring contact between the actuator and the wet portion of the toilet brush or receptacle, improving hygiene and reducing risk of water ingress into the actuator assembly.

[0036]

[0033] In another embodiment, the actuator is a mechanical button.

[0037]

[0034] Advantageously, since the actuator is mechanical, it is not functionally affected by splashing water.

[0035] In another embodiment, the valve is a mechanical spring-loaded valve, and the actuator actuates it mechanically.

[0038]

[0036] In another embodiment, the valve is a timing valve such that when the actuator is activated, the timing valve is opened from a closed position to an open position to enable the flow of water from the water source to the manifold for a predetermined period of time.

[0039]

[0037] In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a sanitizer reservoir adapted for storing a sanitizing agent, a sanitizer dosing device in fluid communication with the sanitizer reservoir; and one or more sanitizer delivery pathways adapted to deliver the sanitizing agent towards the toilet brush in use, each sanitizing delivery pathway being in fluid communication with the sanitizer dosing device. Further, the apparatus being such that the toilet brush can be located inside the receptacle in a first position where the sanitizer dosing device can be activated to deliver sanitizing agent onto a brush head portion of the toilet brush and the toilet brush can be located inside the receptacle at a second position where when the valve is configured in the open position, water is delivered from the water source, through the open valve, through the one or more water delivery pathways onto the brush head portion.

[0040]

[0038] In another embodiment, the sanitizer dosing device is actuated by a control device located at an outer surface of the receptacle.

[0041]

[0039] In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a sanitizer reservoir port adapted for fluidic connection with a sanitizer reservoir; and a sanitizer delivery device in fluid communication with the sanitizer port and adapted to deliver sanitizing agent to the water such that when the actuator is activated, the valve is configured in the open position, water is delivered from the water source, mixed with sanitizing agent and passes through the open valve, through the plurality ofwater delivery outlets and onto at least a portion of the toilet brush.

[0042]

[0040] Advantageously, the sanitizing agent is already mixed with the water prior to the delivery of water to the toilet brush while it is in the receptacle. There is no need for the user to apply the sanitizing agent manually to the toilet brush prior to it being placed within the receptacle.

[0043]

[0041] In another embodiment, the sanitizer delivery device is a sanitizer dosing device actuated by a control device located at an outer surface of the receptacle.

[0044]

[0042] In another embodiment, the sanitizer delivery device comprises a venturi valve that operates to draw sanitizing agent from the sanitizer port when a flow of water passes from the water source to the manifold, thereby mixing sanitizing agent into the flow of water.

[0043] In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a drain to allow waste water to be drained away from the wet area washing volume.

[0045]

[0044] In another embodiment, the drain is located at least partially below the manifold, such that in use, waste water from the toilet brush drains into the drain.

[0046]

[0045] In another embodiment, the drain comprises a trap and a waste outlet, the trap being located between the wet area washing volume and the waste outlet.

[0047]

[0046] In another embodiment, the plurality of water delivery outlets are arranged on the manifold in such a way that when in use, the plurality of water delivery outlets deliver water towards the whole length and the whole width of the toilet brush.

[0048]

[0047] In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a replaceable waterproof liner for lining the receptacle.

[0049]

[0048] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a toilet brush washing kit is provided comprising the toilet brush washing apparatus of the foregoing, and a toilet brush adapted to be inserted through the aperture, the toilet brush comprising a flange adapted for sealing engagement with the aperture rim, such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the brush.

[0050]

[0049] In another embodiment, the flange is flexible and when the toilet brush is in the first position the flange rests on the aperture rim and when the toilet brush is in the second position the flange is flexed by the aperture rim.

[0051]

[0050] In another embodiment, the toilet brush comprises a shaft and a brush portion, the brush portion being located at or near one end of the shaft and the flange comprising an aperture that the shaft can slide through, the arrangement being such that when the toilet brush is located at the first position the flange is at a first location along the shaft and when the toilet brush is located at the second position the flange is moved by the aperture rim along the shaft to a second location along the shaft.

[0052]

[0051] In another embodiment, the flange is biased towards the first location.

[0053]

[0052] In another embodiment, the flange of the toilet brush comprises an engagement portion adapted for activating the actuator, causing the valve to move between the closed position and open position when in use.

[0054]

[0053] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a toilet brush washing kit is provided comprising the toilet brush washing apparatus of the foregoing; a toilet brush adapted to be inserted through the aperture, the toilet brush comprising a flange adapted for sealing engagement with the aperture rim, such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the brush; and a sanitizer reservoir for storing a sanitizing agent.

[0055]

[0054] Advantageously, the sealing engagement of the flange and the aperture rim ensures that substantially no dirty water, dirt, excrement or residue spills out of the receptacle when in use.

[0056]

[0055] In another embodiment, the flange of the toilet brush comprises an engagement portion adapted for activating the actuator, causing the valve to move between the closed position and open position when in use.

[0057]

[0056] In another embodiment, the sanitizer agent reservoir is configured to releasably engage with the sanitizer port such that the sanitizer agent reservoir can be replaced.

[0058]

[0057] In another embodiment, the sanitizer agent reservoir comprises a level indicator to visually indicate the level of sanitizing agent present in the reservoir.

[0059]

[0058] In another embodiment, the level indicator is a dip tube.

[0060]

[0059] In another embodiment, the valve is a mechanical spring-loaded valve, and the actuator actuates it mechanically.

[0061]

[0060] In another embodiment, the receptacle comprises an aperture defined by an aperture rim, the toilet brush being adapted to be inserted through the aperture.

[0062]

[0061] In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a drain port adapted for connection with a drain line to allow waste water to be drained away.

[0063]

[0062] In another embodiment, the receptacle is mountable to a wall.

[0064]

[0063] This invention may also be said broadly to comprise in the parts, elements, and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements, or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0065]

[0064] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

[0066]

[0065] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0067]

[0066] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0068]

[0067] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a toilet brush washing apparatus and a toilet brush located in a washing location of the toilet brush washing apparatus.

[0069]

[0068] Figure 2 shows a left side view of the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 1 .;

[0070]

[0069] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the toilet brush washing apparatus taken along line A-A of Fig. 2;

[0071]

[0070] Figure 4 shows a front view of the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0072]

[0071] Figure 5 shows cross-sectional view of the toilet brush washing apparatus taken along line B-B of Fig. 4;

[0073]

[0072] Figure 6 shows an internal membrane of the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0074]

[0073] Figure 7 shows a top view of the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0075]

[0074] Figure 8 shows a schematic view of the toilet brush inserted within the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0076]

[0075] Figure 9 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the toilet brush of Fig. 8 with a sliding flange;

[0077]

[0076] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of a second embodiment of a toilet brush washing apparatus, including a toilet brush located in a washing location;

[0078]

[0077] Figure 11 shows another aspect of the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 10 showing a second actuator located outside the receptacle;

[0079]

[0078] Figure 12 shows a schematic view of a toilet brush that is a component of a toilet brush washing kit;

[0080]

[0079] Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of a third embodiment of a toilet brush washing apparatus, including a toilet brush located in a washing location;

[0081]

[0080] Figure 14 shows another aspect of the toilet brush washing apparatus of Fig. 13 showing a second actuator located outside the receptacle;

[0082]

[0081] Figure 15 shows a schematic view of a toilet brush that is a component of a toilet brush washing kit; and

[0082] Figure 16 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the toilet brush of Figure 14.

[0083] Description of Embodiments

[0084]

[0083] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0085]

[0084] Figs. 1-8 show a first embodiment of a toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 and toilet brush 1900. Fig. 1 shows a toilet brush washing apparatus 1000. The toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 comprises a receptacle 1001 that is substantially cylindrical in shape and is adapted for housing at least a portion of a toilet brush 1900 (as shown in Fig. 8) in use. The receptacle also defines a wet area washing volume in which the toilet brush can be washed. While in this embodiment, the receptacle 1001 is shown as having a substantially cylindrical shape, the receptacle 1001 can take any suitable shape for receiving a toilet brush. The toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 further comprises an enclosure 1100 connected to at least a side of the receptacle 1001 as shown in Figs. 1 , 2 and 4. In another embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a replaceable waterproof liner for lining the receptacle 1001 .

[0086]

[0085] As shown in Figs. 3 and 8, the toilet brush 1900 comprises a handle 1901 , a toilet brush head 1902 connected to an end region of the handle 1901 , and a flange 1903. The flange 3003 is substantially circular in shape having a central portion through which a portion of the handle 3001 is connected to and extends.

[0087]

[0086] As shown in Figs.1 , 3, 5 and 6, the receptacle 1001 comprises a top end 1002 having an aperture 1003 configured for receiving therethrough a portion of the toilet brush 3000. The aperture 1003 defines an aperture rim 1004 such that when the toilet brush 3000 is inserted through the aperture 1003 in use, the flange 3003 is configured to mate with the aperture rim 1004 to provide a sealing engagement such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the toilet brush 3000.

[0088]

[0087] In an embodiment as shown in Fig. 9, the position of the flange 1903 is movable along the length of the handle 1901 and can be secured at any point thereon such that the portion of the toilet brush 1900 that would be accommodated within the receptacle 1001 is adjustable. More specifically, the flange 1903 is movable along a sliding portion 1904 of the handle 1901. The sliding portion 1904 is provided with a first lip 1905 and a second lip 1906. The first lip 1905 is configured to limit the movement of the flange 1903 such that it cannot traverse a handling portion of the handle 1901 and the second lip 1906 is configured to limit the movement of the flange 3003 such that it cannot traverse the toilet brush head 1902.

[0088] In alternative embodiments (not shown), the aperture rim 1004 can take on any suitable shape for receiving the toilet brush 3000. Consequently, the flange 3003 can likewise take any other suitable shape that complements the shape of the aperture rim 1004 such that the flange 3003 mates with the aperture rim 1004 and still provides a sealing engagement.

[0089]

[0089] The toilet brush washing apparatus further comprises a manifold 1200 (Figs. 3 and 5). The manifold 1200 is located within the receptacle and is cylindrical in shape defining an inner later surface 1202, the inner lateral surface 1202 providing a plurality of water delivery outlets 1011. Each water delivery outlet of the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011 is adapted to deliver water towards the wet area washing volume, thereby washing the toilet brush when in use. As shown in Figs. 3 and 5, each water delivery outlet of the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011 is configured to be set at a longitudinal offset angle - an angle which is formed downwardly with respect to the inner lateral surface 1202. In an embodiment, the longitudinal offset angle is between about 30° and 50°. In a preferred embodiment, the longitudinal offset angle is about 40°. Furthermore, each water delivery outlet of the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011 is configured to be set at a lateral offset angle - an angle which is an acute angle formed laterally relative to a tangent at the inner lateral surface at the location of the water delivery outlet. In an embodiment, the lateral offset angle is between about 30° and 50°. In a preferred embodiment, the lateral offset angle is about 40°. The plurality of water delivery outlets are arranged on the manifold in such a way that the plurality of water delivery outlets are able to deliver water towards the whole length and whole width of at least the brush head 3002 of the toilet brush 3000.

[0090]

[0090] One or more of the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011 may be configured to produce a fan-shaped or planar spray pattern, thereby providing an even sheet of water across the brush head surface. The plurality of outlets may comprise interchangeable jet nozzles, fan jet inserts, or multi-orifice heads adapted to generate different spray geometries such as conical, fan, or misting flows.

[0091]

[0091] The manifold 1200 is configured to freely rotate around a longitudinal axis Y passing through the wet area washing volume of the receptacle 1001 (as shown in Fig. 3) when in use. The rotation of the manifold 1200 around the axis Y is caused by the lateral offset angle of each water delivery outlet of the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011. Since each water delivery outlet is configured at a lateral offset angle, the water exiting each water delivery outlet exerts a reactionary force against the respective water delivery outlet, cause the rotational motion of the manifold 1200.

[0092]

[0092] The manifold 1200 further comprises a plurality of manifold water pathways 1201 . Each manifold water pathway of the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201 is in fluid communication with a respective water delivery outlet of the plurality of water deliver outlets 1011.

[0093]

[0093] In another embodiment, the manifold or a portion thereof defines a circumferential pressurised reservoir arranged around the inner lateral surface. The pressurised reservoir is in fluid communication with the plurality of manifold water pathways and serves to equalise pressure around the circumference of the receptacle to ensure uniform water delivery through each outlet.

[0094]

[0094] The circumferential pressurised reservoir may be formed as an annular chamber integrated with the manifold body, or as a separate ring conduit surrounding the manifold and connected via multiple inlets.

[0095]

[0095] The toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 further comprises a water flow path 1006. As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the water flow path 1006 is housed within the enclosure 1100 and is adapted to be connected to a water source (not shown). The water flow path 1006 further includes a water valve 1008 that is in fluid communication with the water source and is located at the second end of the water flow path 1006, the water valve 1008 being in fluid communication with the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201. The water valve 1008 further comprises an actuator 1010. The actuator 1010 is adapted for configuring the valve from a closed position to an open position such that when the actuator is activated, the valve is configured to an open position to deliver water from a water source to the toilet brush via the plurality of water delivery outlets.

[0096]

[0096] In the embodiment as shown in Figs. 1-7, the actuator 1010 is located within an actuator slot located in the aperture rim 1004. In use, the actuator is adapted to be activated when the toilet brush 3000 is inserted within the receptacle and the flange 3003 of the toilet brush 3000 makes contact with the actuator 1010. The activation of the actuator configures the water valve from an inherently closed position to an open position, thereby causing water to be delivered from the water flow path 1006 to the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201 .

[0097]

[0097] In another embodiment not shown, the actuator 1010 is located within the receptacle 1001. In this embodiment, the actuator 1010 is adapted for configuring the valve from an inherently closed position to an open position when at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3002 makes contact with the actuator 1010. In this embodiment, the actuator 1010 is a mechanical press-button. In an alternative embodiment, the actuator 1010 is a pressure plate. In another alternative embodiment, the actuator 1010 is a mechanical spring-loaded valve. However, the actuator 1010 can be any suitable actuator that is configured to be activated mechanically by the toilet brush 3000.

[0098] In other embodiments, the water flow path 1006 is any type of path that allows flow of water such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0098]

[0099] As shown in Figs. 3 and 6, the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 further comprises a sanitizing source 1019 configured for storing a sanitizing agent, the sanitizing source 1019 being located within the enclosure 1100. The sanitizing source 1019 comprises a sanitizing source port 1019’ that is in fluid communication with a sanitizer delivery device 1300. The sanitizer delivery device 1300 is adapted to deliver the sanitizing agent from the sanitizing source 1019 to the water to be delivered. The sanitizer delivery device 1300 comprises a venturi valve 1301. When the actuator 1010 is activated and as the flow of water passes from the water source towards the manifold water pathways 1201 , the venturi valve 1301 is adapted to draw sanitizing agent from the sanitizing source port 1019’ to the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201 , mixing the sanitizing agent into the flow of water prior to the delivery thereof to the toilet brush 3000.

[0099]

[0100] In another embodiment not shown, the sanitizer delivery device comprises an integrated dispenser module positioned circumferentially around the manifold or within the enclosure, configured to inject sanitizing agent under controlled pressure directly into the circumferential pressurised reservoir. The dispenser module may include a positive displacement pump, check valves, and one or more dosing chambers arranged to meter a predetermined quantity of sanitizing agent per washing cycle.

[0100]

[0101] In another embodiment not shown, the sanitizing delivery device 1300 is a sanitizer dosing device that is independent from the actuator 1010, and is instead coupled to a second actuator (not shown). The second actuator is located at an outer surface of the receptacle 1001 . The second actuator is readily accessible by a user. In a more specific embodiment, the second actuator 1016 is a mechanical button. However, the second actuator 1016 can be any suitable actuator that is configured to be activated mechanically by a user, for example, a lever.

[0101]

[0102] In another embodiment not shown, the sanitizing source 1019 is releasable from the enclosure 1 100, and the sanitizing source 1019 is configured to releasably engage with the sanitizer port 1019’.

[0102]

[0103] In another embodiment, the sanitizing source 1019 comprises a level indicator to visually indicate the level of sanitizing agent present. In a preferred embodiment, the level indicator is a dip tube.

[0103]

[0104] The toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 further comprises a drain system 1017, the drain system 1017 comprising a drain port 1018, a drain outlet 1027 and a drain trap 1028. The drain port 1018 is a bore through a bottom portion of the receptacle located proximately below the manifold, such that water, sanitizing agent, or dirt that accumulated within the receptacle is drained towards the drain port 1018. The waste then goes to the drain outlet 1027 which is connected to an external drainage system. The trap that is substantially s- shaped. The drain trap 1028 is adapted to trap sewer liquid or gases from flowing towards the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000.

[0104]

[0105] In an embodiment, the drain outlet 1027 is any type of path that allows flow of fluid such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0105]

[0106] In a more specific embodiment, the drain outlet 1027 is an anti-clogging pipeline. In this embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 may be provided with a flushing system that depressurizes the drain line 1027 to facilitate the draining of the fluid and debris from the toilet brush washing apparatus towards the drain line 1027 .

[0106]

[0107] The toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 is adapted to be mounted to a wall. In a specific embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 comprises a bracket (not shown) having a plurality of apertures adapted to receive therethrough fasteners to mount the bracket of the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 to a wall. In other embodiments, the toilet brush washing apparatus may be mounted to a wall by means of strong adhesives.

[0107]

[0108] In an alternative embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 may be mounted on a flooring while being adjacent to a wall. In this embodiment, the drain line 1017 passes through the flooring and the water path is configured to pass through the wall and is connected to the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000.

[0108]

[0109] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 comprises a first check valve coupled to the water delivery lines 1009. The first check valve is adapted to open under pressure when water flows in the intended direction through the water delivery lines, and is adapted to close when reverse flow occurs in the water delivery lines 1009 to prevent backflow.

[0109]

[0110] In another alternative embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 1000 further comprises a second check valve that works as a substitute if the first check valve fails due to debris, wear or damage. The second check valve is likewise adapted to open under pressure when water flows in the intended direction through the water delivery lines, and is adapted to close when reverse flow occurs to prevent backflow.

[0110]

[0111] When the first embodiment of the toilet brush washing apparatus as shown in figs. 1- 7 is in use, the toilet brush 3000 is inserted through the aperture 1003. In doing so, the flange 3003 of the toilet brush engages with the aperture rim, providing a sealing engagement so that water does not leak out of the receptacle during washing. The engagement also causes the flange 3003 to make contact or press the actuator 1010. When the actuator is activated, the actuator configures the water valve 1008 from a closed position to an open position, allowing waterto be delivered from the water flow path 1006, to the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201. Simultaneously as the actuator 1010 is activated, the venturi valve 1301 draws sanitizing agent from the sanitizing source port 1019’ to the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201 , mixing the sanitizing agent with the water to create a sanitizing solution. The sanitizing solution from each manifold water pathway 1201 is then delivered to a respective waterdelivery outlet ofthe plurality of water delivery outlets 1011. Lastly, the sanitizing solution is delivered from each water delivery outlet 1011 towards the whole length and whole width of at least the brush head 3002 of the toilet brush 3000. Since the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011 are offset at a lateral offset angle, the solution exiting each water delivery outlet exerts a reactionary force against the respective water delivery outlet, causing the manifold to rotate around the toilet brush 3000.

[0111]

[0112] In another embodiment not shown, a portion ofthe toilet brush 3000 is inserted through the aperture 1003 such that at least a portion ofthe toilet brush head 3002 touches the actuator 1010. The actuator 1010 is activated due to having contact with the toilet brush head 3002, thereby configuring the valve 1008 to an open configuration. When the actuator is activated, the actuator configures the water valve 1008 from a closed position to an open position, allowing water to be delivered from the water flow path 1006, to the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201. Simultaneously as the actuator 1010 is activated, the venturi valve 1301 draws sanitizing agent from the sanitizing source port 1019’ to the plurality of manifold water pathways 1201 , mixing the sanitizing agent with the water to create a sanitizing solution. The sanitizing solution from each manifold water pathway 1201 is then delivered to a respective waterdelivery outlet ofthe plurality of water delivery outlets 1011. Lastly, the sanitizing solution is delivered from each water delivery outlet 1011 towards the whole length and whole width of at least the brush head 3002 of the toilet brush 3000. Since the plurality of water delivery outlets 1011 are offset at a lateral offset angle, the solution exiting each water delivery outlet exerts a reactionary force against the respective water delivery outlet, causing the manifold to rotate around the toilet brush 3000.

[0112]

[0113] While the toilet brush 3000 is being washed, the drain line 1017 allows the flow of dirty water, dirt, residue, or other particles that were removed from the toilet brush 3000 towards a drainage system.

[0113]

[0114] Once done, the toilet brush is pulled out of the receptacle, which causes the actuator 1010 to deactivate, thereby configuring the water valve 1008 and sanitizing valve 1013 to a closed configuration.

[0115] Figs. 10-13 show a second embodiment of the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 and the toilet brush. The toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 comprises a receptacle 2001 that is substantially cylindrical in shape and is adapted for housing at least a portion of a toilet brush 2900 (as shown in Fig. 12) in use. While in this embodiment, the receptacle 2001 is shown as having a substantially cylindrical shape, the receptacle 2001 can take any suitable shape for receiving a toilet brush.

[0114]

[0116] The toilet brush 2900 comprises a handle 2901 , a toilet brush head 2902 connected to an end region of the handle 2901 , and a flange 2903. The flange 2903 is substantially circular in shape having a central portion through which a portion of the handle 2901 is connected to and extends.

[0115]

[0117] The receptacle 2001 comprises a top end 2002 having an aperture 2003 configured for receiving therethrough a portion of the toilet brush 2900. The aperture 2003 defines an aperture rim 2004 such that when the toilet brush 2900 is inserted through the aperture 2003 in use, the flange 2903 is configured to mate with the aperture rim 2004 to provide a sealing engagement such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the toilet brush 2900.

[0116]

[0118] In alternative embodiments not shown, the aperture rim 2004 can take on any suitable shape for receiving the toilet brush 2900. Consequently, the flange 2903 can likewise take any other suitable shape that complements the shape of the aperture rim 2004 such that the flange 2903 mates with the aperture rim 2004 and still provides a sealing engagement.

[0117]

[0119] In other embodiments, the position of the flange 2903 is movable along the length of the handle 2901 and can be secured at any point thereon such that the portion of the toilet brush 2900 that would be accommodated within the receptacle 2001 is adjustable.

[0118]

[0120] The toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 further comprises a water source 2005 and a water flow path 2006 connected to the water source 2005 at a first end and extends through a water flow path port 2007 of the receptacle 2001 such that at least a portion or a second end of the water flow path 2006 is within the receptacle 2001 . The water flow path 2006 includes a water valve 2008 that is in fluid communication with the water source 2005 and is located at the second end of the water flow path 2006, the water valve 2008 having three water delivery lines 2009 (the rear water delivery line is not shown as it is located behind the brush). Each water delivery line 2009 is substantially L-shaped and comprises a plurality of water nozzles 2011 facing the toilet brush 2900 when the toilet brush is located within the receptacle 2001 . The plurality of water nozzles 2011 are adapted to direct water towards the toilet brush 2900 in use when the water valve 2008 is open. The water valve 2008 further comprises an actuator 2010 that is configured to make contact with at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3002 in use. The actuator 2010 is adapted for configuring the valve from an inherently closed position to an open position when at least a portion of the toilet brush head 2902 makes contact with the actuator 2010. In this embodiment, the actuator 2010 is a mechanical press-button. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the actuator 2010 is a pressure plate. However, the actuator 2010 can be any suitable actuator that is configured to be activated mechanically by the toilet brush 2900.

[0119]

[0121] In other embodiments, the water source 2005 can be a mains water providing facility in a specific location, a clean water storage tank, a storage for recycled or treated water, or other suitable sources of water.

[0120]

[0122] In other embodiments, the water flow path 2006 is any type of path that allows flow of water such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0121]

[0123] The toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 further comprises a sanitizing source 2019 and a sanitizing path 2012 connected to the sanitizing source at a first end and extends through a sanitizing path port 2013 of the receptacle 2001 such that at least a portion or a second end of the sanitizing path 2012 is within the receptacle 2001 . The sanitizing path 2012 includes a sanitizing valve 2013 that is in fluid communication with the sanitizing source 2019. The sanitizing valve 2013 includes two sanitizing agent delivery lines 2014. Each sanitizing agent delivery line 2014 is substantially L-shaped and a sanitizing agent nozzle 2015 facing the toilet brush 2900 when the toilet brush 2000 is located within the receptacle 2001 . The sanitizing agent nozzle 2015 is adapted to direct sanitizing agent towards the toilet brush 2900 in use when the sanitizing valve 2013 is open.

[0122]

[0124] In other embodiments, the sanitizing path 2012 is any type of path that allows flow of fluid such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0123]

[0125] In the embodiment as shown in Fig. 10 the sanitizing valve 2013 is coupled to the actuator 2010. In this embodiment, the actuator 2010 is adapted for configuring the sanitizing valve 2013 from a normally closed position to an open position when at least a portion of the toilet brush head 2902 makes contact with the actuator 2010, thereby simultaneously directing water and spraying the sanitizing agent towards the toilet brush 2900.

[0124]

[0126] In an embodiment as shown in Fig. 11 , the sanitizing valve 2013 is independent from the actuator 2010 and is instead coupled to a second actuator 2016. The second actuator 2016 is located at an outer surface of the receptacle 2001 . The second actuator 2016 is readily accessible by a user. In a more specific embodiment, the second actuator 2016 is a mechanical button. However, the second actuator 2010 can be any suitable actuator that is configured to be activated mechanically by a user, for example, a lever.

[0127] The toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 further comprises a drain line 2017 that is connected to a drain port 2018 of the receptacle. The drain port 2018 is a bore through a bottom portion of the receptacle such that water, sanitizing agent, or dirt that accumulated within the receptacle is drained from the drain port into the drain line 2017.

[0125]

[0128] In this embodiment, the drain line is connected to a sewage system.

[0126]

[0129] In an embodiment, the drain line 2017 is any type of path that allows flow of fluid such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0127]

[0130] In a more specific embodiment, the drain line is an anti-clogging pipeline. In this embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 may be provided with a flushing system that depressurizes the drain line to facilitate the draining of the fluid and debris from the toilet brush washing apparatus towards the drain line.

[0128]

[0131] The toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 is adapted to be mounted to a wall. In a specific embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 comprises a bracket (not shown) having a plurality of apertures adapted to receive therethrough fasteners to mount the bracket of the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 to a wall. In other embodiments, the toilet brush washing apparatus may be mounted to a wall by means of strong adhesives.

[0129]

[0132] In an alternative embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 may be mounted on a flooring while being adjacent to a wall. In this embodiment, the drain line passes through the flooring and the water path is configured to pass through the wall and is connected to the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000.

[0130]

[0133] As shown in Figs. 10-1 1 , a toilet brush washing kit is provided. The toilet brush washing kit comprises the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 in any of the foregoing embodiments wherein the toilet brush washing apparatus 2000 comprises the aperture 2003 defined by the aperture rim 1004. The toilet brush washing kit 2000 further comprises the toilet brush 2900 as shown in Fig. 12, the toilet brush being adapted to be inserted through the aperture 2003 such that the flange 2903 is in sealing engagement with the aperture rim to substantially prevent leakage of water or particles out of the receptacle 2001 .

[0131]

[0134] In use, the receptacle 2000 is mounted to a wall being connected to a water source 1005 via water flow path 2006. A portion of the toilet brush 2900 is inserted through the aperture 2003 such that at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3002 touches the actuator 1010.

[0132]

[0135] The actuator 2010 is activated due to having contact with the toilet brush head 3002, thereby configuring the valve 2008 to an open configuration. Water is then introduced from to the water delivery lines 2009 and is sprayed or directed through the plurality of water nozzles 1011 to the portion of the toilet brush 2900 that is inserted within the receptacle.

[0133]

[0136] The activation of the valve 2008 also causes the sanitizing valve 2013 to open, introducing the sanitizing agent to the sanitizing agent delivery line 2014. The sanitizing agent is then sprayed or directed to the portion of the toilet brush 2900 that is within the receptacle via the sanitizing agent nozzles 2015. In an alternative embodiment, the sanitizing valve 2013 is coupled to a second actuator 2016 located on the outside surface of the receptacle 2001 that is readily accessible to a user. Once pressed, the second actuator 2016 causes the opening of the sanitizing valve 2013.

[0134]

[0137] While the toilet brush 2900 is being washed, the drain line 2017 allows the flow of dirty water, dirt, residue, or other particles that were removed from the toilet brush 2900 towards a drainage system.

[0135]

[0138] Once done, the toilet brush is pulled out of the receptacle, which causes the actuator 1010 to deactivate, thereby configuring the water valve 2008 and sanitizing valve 2013 to a closed configuration.

[0136]

[0139] Figs. 13-16 show a third embodiment of a toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 and toilet brush 3900. The toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 comprises a receptacle 1001 that is substantially cylindrical in shape and is adapted for housing at least a portion of a toilet brush 3900 (as shown in Figs. 15-16) in use. The receptacle 3001 also defines a wet area washing volume in which the toilet brush can be washed. While in this embodiment, the receptacle 1001 is shown as having a substantially cylindrical shape, the receptacle 1001 can take any suitable shape for receiving a toilet brush.

[0137]

[0140] As shown in Fig. 15, the toilet brush 3900 comprises a handle 3901 , a toilet brush head 3002 connected to an end region of the handle 3901 , and a flange 3903. The flange 3903 is substantially circular in shape having a central portion through which a portion of the handle 3901 is connected to and extends.

[0138]

[0141] In another embodiment as shown in Fig. 16, the flange 3903 is movable along a sliding portion 3904 of the handle 3901 . The sliding portion 3904 is provided with a first lip 3905 and a second lip 3906. The first lip 3905 is configured to limit the movement of the flange 3903 such that it cannot traverse a handling portion of the handle 3901 and the second lip 3906 is configured to limit the movement of the flange 3903 such that it cannot traverse the toilet brush head 3902.

[0139]

[0142] The receptacle 3001 comprises a top end 3002 having an aperture 3003 configured for receiving therethrough a portion of the toilet brush 3900. The aperture 3003 defines an aperture rim 1004 such that when the toilet brush 3900 is inserted through the aperture 3003 in use, the flange 3003 is configured to mate with the aperture rim 3004 to provide a sealing engagement such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the toilet brush 3900.

[0140]

[0143] In alternative embodiments, the aperture rim 3004 can take on any suitable shape for receiving the toilet brush 3900. Consequently, the flange 3903 can likewise take any other suitable shape that complements the shape of the aperture rim 3004 such that the flange 3903 mates with the aperture rim 3004 and still provides a sealing engagement.

[0141]

[0144] In other embodiments, the position of the flange 3903 is movable along the length of the handle 3901 and can be secured at any point thereon such that the portion of the toilet brush 3900 that would be accommodated within the receptacle 3001 is adjustable.

[0142]

[0145] The toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 further comprises a water source 3005 and a water flow path 3006 connected to the water source 3005 at a first end and extends through a water flow path port 3007 of the receptacle 3001 such that at least a portion or a second end of the water flow path 3006 is within the receptacle 3001 . The water flow path 3006 includes a water valve 3008 that is in fluid communication with the water source 3005 and is located at the second end of the water flow path 3006, the water valve 3008 having three water delivery lines 3009 (the rear water delivery line is not shown as it is located behind the brush). Each water delivery line 3009 is substantially L-shaped and comprises a plurality of water nozzles 1011 facing the toilet brush 3900 when the toilet brush is located within the receptacle 3001. The plurality of water nozzles 3011 are adapted to direct water towards the toilet brush 3900 in use when the water valve 3008 is open. The water valve 3008 further comprises an actuator 3010 that is configured to make contact with at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3902 in use. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the actuator 3010 is located within the receptacle 3001 . The actuator 3010 is adapted for configuring the valve from an inherently closed position to an open position when at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3902 makes contact with the actuator 3010. In this embodiment, the actuator 3010 is a mechanical press-button. In an alternative embodiment, the actuator 3010 is a pressure plate. In another alternative embodiment, the actuator 3010 is a mechanical spring-loaded valve. However, the actuator 3010 can be any suitable actuator that is configured to be activated mechanically by the toilet brush 3900.

[0143]

[0146] In other embodiments, the water source 3005 can be a mains water providing facility such as a pipe or a valve, a clean water storage tank, a storage for recycled or treated water, or other suitable sources of water.

[0147] In other embodiments, the water flow path 3006 is any type of path that allows flow of water such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0144]

[0148] The toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 further comprises a sanitizing source 3019 and a sanitizing path 3012 connected to the sanitizing source at a first end and extends through a sanitizing path port 3013 of the receptacle 3001 such that at least a portion or a second end of the sanitizing path 3012 is within the receptacle 3001 . The sanitizing path 3012 includes a sanitizing valve 3013 that is in fluid communication with the sanitizing source 3019. The sanitizing valve 3013 includes two sanitizing agent delivery lines 3014. Each sanitizing agent delivery line 3014 is substantially L-shaped and a sanitizing agent nozzle 3015 facing the toilet brush 3900 when the toilet brush 3900 is located within the receptacle 3001 . The sanitizing agent nozzle 3015 is adapted to direct sanitizing agent towards the toilet brush 3900 in use when the sanitizing valve 3013 is open.

[0145]

[0149] In other embodiments, the sanitizing path 3012 is any type of path that allows flow of fluid such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0146]

[0150] In the embodiment as shown in Fig. 13 the sanitizing valve 3013 is coupled to the actuator 3010. In this embodiment, the actuator 3010 is adapted for configuring the sanitizing valve 3013 from a normally closed position to an open position when at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3902 makes contact with the actuator 3010, thereby simultaneously directing water and spraying the sanitizing agent towards the toilet brush 3900.

[0147]

[0151] In an embodiment as shown in Fig. 14, the sanitizing valve 3013 is independent from the actuator 3010 and is instead coupled to a second actuator 3016. The second actuator 1016 is located at an outer surface of the receptacle 3001 . The second actuator 3016 is readily accessible by a user. In a more specific embodiment, the second actuator 3016 is a mechanical button. However, the second actuator 3016 can be any suitable actuator that is configured to be activated mechanically by a user, for example, a lever.

[0148]

[0152] In an embodiment not shown, the sanitising source 3019 is provided with a push button dosing piston pump to control sanitiser volume. In use, when the push button is pressed, the push button dosing piston pump pushes a piston inside a cylinder. This creates pressure, thereby forcing the sanitizing agent through a one-way valve. This causes the sanitizing agent to move up through a tube that reaches the bottom of a bottle. The sanitizing agent then travels up the tube towards the sanitizing path 3012 and is delivered to the toilet brush through the plurality of nozzles, in use. When the push button has been released, a spring inside pushes the push button and the piston is pushed back up to its initial configuration. This creates a vacuum inside the chamber, which opens another one-way valve at the bottom, causing sanitizing agent to be pulled from the bottle into a chamber of the sanitising source, thereby refilling it for the next press. In other embodiments, other suitable dosing devices are used to deliver the sanitizer from the sanitizer source in to the wet area washing volume and / or on to the brush 3900.

[0149]

[0153] The toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 further comprises a drain line 3017 that is connected to a drain port 3018 of the receptacle. The drain port 3018 is a bore through a bottom portion of the receptacle such that water, sanitizing agent, or dirt that accumulated within the receptacle is drained from the drain port into the drain line 3017.

[0150]

[0154] In this embodiment, the drain line is connected to a sewage system.

[0151]

[0155] In an embodiment, the drain line 3017 is any type of path that allows flow of fluid such as pipelines, conduits, hoses or tubes.

[0152]

[0156] The drain line 3017 may further comprise an inbuilt trap that is substantially s-shaped. The inbuilt trap is adapted to trap sewer liquid or gases from flowing towards the direction of the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000.

[0153]

[0157] In a more specific embodiment, the drain line 3017 is an anti-clogging pipeline. In this embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 may be provided with a flushing system that depressurizes the drain line 3017 to facilitate the draining of the fluid and debris from the toilet brush washing apparatus towards the drain line 3017 .

[0154]

[0158] The toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 is adapted to be mounted to a wall. In a specific embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 comprises a bracket (not shown) having a plurality of apertures adapted to receive therethrough fasteners to mount the bracket of the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 to a wall. In other embodiments, the toilet brush washing apparatus may be mounted to a wall by means of strong adhesives.

[0155]

[0159] In an alternative embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 may be mounted on a flooring while being adjacent to a wall. In this embodiment, the drain line 3017 passes through the flooring and the water path is configured to pass through the wall and is connected to the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000.

[0156]

[0160] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 comprises a first check valve coupled to the water delivery lines 3009. The first check valve is adapted to open under pressure when water flows in the intended direction through the water delivery lines, and is adapted to close when reverse flow occurs in the water delivery lines 1009 to prevent backflow.

[0157]

[0161] In another alternative embodiment, the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 further comprises a second check valve that works as a substitute if the first check valve fails due to debris, wear or damage. The second check valve is likewise adapted to open under pressure when water flows in the intended direction through the water delivery lines, and is adapted to close when reverse flow occurs in the water delivery lines 3009 to prevent backflow.

[0158]

[0162] As shown in Figs. 13-14, a toilet brush washing kit 3000 is provided. The toilet brush washing kit 3000 comprises the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 in any of the foregoing embodiments wherein the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 comprises the aperture 1003 defined by the aperture rim 3004. The toilet brush washing kit 2000 further comprises the toilet brush 3900 as shown in Fig. 15 or Fig. 16, the toilet brush being adapted to be inserted through the aperture 3003 such that the flange 3903 is in sealing engagement with the aperture rim to substantially prevent leakage of water or particles out of the receptacle 3001 .

[0159]

[0163] The flange 3003 of the toilet brush 3900 as shown in Fig. 16 is biased to a first position wherein the flange 3903 is adjacent or proximate to the second lip 3906. In use, when the brush head is inserted inside the aperture 3003, the flange 3903 moves to a second position wherein it is flexed by the aperture rim 3004 to move towards the first lip 3905. It is in this position that the toilet brush head 3002 makes contact with the first actuator to trigger the delivery of water.

[0160]

[0164] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the receptacle 3001 of the toilet brush washing apparatus 3000 and the toilet brush 3900 is coated with an antimicrobial additive.

[0161]

[0165] In use, the receptacle 3000 is mounted to a wall being connected to a water source 3005 via water flow path 3006. A portion of the toilet brush 3900 is inserted through the aperture 3003 such that at least a portion of the toilet brush head 3902 touches the actuator 3010.

[0162]

[0166] The actuator 3010 is activated due to having contact with the toilet brush head 3902, thereby configuring the valve 3008 to an open configuration. Water is then introduced from to the water delivery lines 3009 and is sprayed or directed through the plurality of water nozzles 3011 to the portion of the toilet brush 3900 that is inserted within the receptacle.

[0163]

[0167] The activation of the valve 3008 also causes the sanitizing valve 3013 to open, introducing the sanitizing agent to the sanitizing agent delivery line 3014. The sanitizing agent is then sprayed or directed to the portion of the toilet brush 3900 that is within the receptacle via the sanitizing agent nozzles 3015. In an alternative embodiment, the sanitizing valve 3013 is coupled to a second actuator 3016 located on the outside surface of the receptacle 3001 that is readily accessible to a user. Once pressed, the second actuator 3016 causes the opening of the sanitizing valve 3013.

[0168] While the toilet brush 3900 is being washed, the drain line 3017 allows the flow of dirty water, dirt, residue, or other particles that were removed from the toilet brush 3900 towards a drainage system.

[0164]

[0169] Once done, the toilet brush is pulled out of the receptacle, which causes the actuator 3010 to deactivate, thereby configuring the water valve 3008 and sanitizing valve 3013 to a closed configuration.

[0165]

[0170] In Figs. 13 and 14, the toilet brush 3900 is inserted through the aperture 3003 such that the toilet brush head 3902 is within the wet area washing volume of the receptacle 3001 in a first position. In this position, at least a portion of the edge of the flange 3903 rests on the aperture rim 3004 forming a sealed engagement. In other embodiments, the flange 3903 might seal with the aperture rim 3004 in another way, for example, an undersurface of a peripheral region of the flange 3903 might rest on the aperture rim 3004.

[0166]

[0171] The toilet brush 3900 of Fig. 15 is further adapted to be moved to a second position by pushing or further inserting the toilet brush head 3902 towards the bottom of the receptacle 3001 and causing at least a portion of the edge of the flange 3903 to be flexed by the aperture rim 3004. When in the second position, the toilet brush head 3902 presses and activates the actuator 3010. Once activated, the actuator 3010 configures the valve 3008 to an open configuration. Water is then introduced from the water source to the water delivery lines 3009 and is sprayed or directed through the plurality of water nozzles 301 1 to the toilet brush head 3902 inside the receptacle.

[0167]

[0172] Once the toilet brush head 3902 has been sufficiently washed, the user can press the push button 3016 of the dosing piston pump 3020 which is located outside the receptacle 3002. The activation of the push button 3016 causes sanitizing agent from the sanitizing source 3019 to be delivered through the one or more sanitizing paths 3012 and to the sanitizing agent nozzles 3015. The sanitizing agent 3015 is then dispensed from the nozzles 3015 towards the toilet brush head 3902 to sanitize the toilet brush head 3902.

[0168]

[0173] In another embodiment as shown in Fig. 13, the push button dosing piston pump is located inside the wet area washing volume of the receptacle. The push button dosing piston pump is adapted to be pressed by the toilet brush head 3902 when the toilet brush 3900 is in the first position. This provides an advantage of single actuation of cleaning and sanitizing the toilet brush head 3902.

[0169]

[0174] In other embodiments, the sanitizing agent may be a washing fluid to help wash matter stuck in the toilet brush head 3902.

[0175] In both the first and second positions, the flange 3903 is in sealed engagement with the aperture rim 3004 so that water or sanitizing agent don’t leak out.

[0170]

[0176] In Figs. 14 and 16, the toilet brush 3900 is inserted through the aperture 3003 such that the toilet brush head 3902 is within the wet area washing volume of the receptacle 3001 in a first position, and the toilet brush head 3902 is biased to the first position. In this position, the flange 3903 is at a first location along the slidable portion 3904 and the edge of the flange 3903 rests on the aperture rim 3004, creating a sealed engagement with the aperture rim 3004. The first location can be anywhere between the centre of the sliding portion 3904 and substantially adjacent or proximate the second lip 3906. In other embodiments, the flange 3903 might seal with the aperture rim 3004 in another way, for example, an undersurface of a peripheral region of the flange 3903 might rest on the aperture rim 3004.

[0171]

[0177] The toilet brush 3900 of Fig. 16 is further adapted to be moved to a second position by pushing or further inserting the toilet brush head 3902 towards the bottom of the receptacle 3001 and causing the flange 3903 to slide to a second location along the sliding portion 3904 towards the first lip 3905. When in the second position, the toilet brush head 3902 presses and activates the actuator 3010. Once activated, the actuator 3010 configures the valve 3008 to an open configuration. Water is then introduced from the water source to the water delivery lines 3009 and is sprayed or directed through the plurality of water nozzles 3011 to the toilet brush head 3902 inside the receptacle.

[0172]

[0178] Once the toilet brush head 3902 has been sufficiently washed, the user can press the push button 3016 of the dosing piston pump 3020 which is located outside the receptacle 3002. The activation of the push button 3016 causes sanitizing agent from the sanitizing source 3019 to be delivered through the one or more sanitizing paths 3012 and to the sanitizing agent nozzles 3015. The sanitizing agent 3015 is then dispensed from the nozzles 3015 towards the toilet brush head 3902 to sanitize the toilet brush head 3902.

[0173]

[0179] In another embodiment as shown in Fig. 13, the push button 3016 of the dosing piston pump 3020 is located inside the wet area washing volume of the receptacle. The push button dosing piston pump is adapted to be pressed by the toilet brush head 3902 when the toilet brush 3900 is in the first position. This provides an advantage of single actuation of cleaning and sanitizing the toilet brush head 3902.

[0174]

[0180] In other embodiments, the sanitizing agent may be a washing fluid to help wash matter stuck in the toilet brush head 3902.

[0175]

[0181] In both the first and second positions, the flange 3903 is in sealed engagement with the aperture rim 3004 so that water or sanitizing agent don’t leak out. Interpretation

[0176] Markush Groups

[0177]

[0182] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

[0178] Chronological sequence

[0179]

[0183] For this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

[0180] Embodiments:

[0181]

[0184] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0182]

[0185] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Description of Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Description of Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0183]

[0186] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination. Different Instances of Objects

[0184]

[0187] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

[0185] Specific Details

[0186]

[0188] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth.lt is understood, however, that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0187] Terminology

[0188]

[0189] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. The invention is, however, not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0189]

[0190] As used herein the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or both.

[0190]

[0191] As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0191]

[0192] As used herein the term “a plurality of’ means “one or more”.

[0192] Comprising and Including

[0193]

[0193] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e., to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0194]

[0194] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising. Scope of Invention

[0195]

[0195] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0196]

[0196] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

[0197] Industrial Applicability

[0198]

[0197] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the sanitary and hygiene product and bathroom industries.

Claims

ClaimsThe claims defining the invention are as follows:1 . A toilet brush washing apparatus comprising: a. a receptacle for receiving a toilet brush, the receptacle providing a wet area washing volume in which the toilet brush can be washed; b. a valve comprising an actuator for configuring the valve from a closed position to an open position, the valve being in fluid communication with a water source and the actuator is adapted to be activated when the toilet brush is in the wet area washing volume; c. one or more water delivery pathways being in fluid communication with the valve; and d. a manifold located within the receptacle comprising a plurality of water delivery outlets in fluid communication with the one or more water delivery pathways, the plurality of water delivery outlets being adapted to deliver water towards the toilet brush to wash it in use.

2. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the manifold defines an inner lateral surface that provides the plurality of water delivery outlets.

3. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the manifold is cylindrical in shape and the longitudinal offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

4. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the manifold is cylindrical in shape and the lateral offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

5. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the manifold is configured to freely rotate around a longitudinal axis such that the plurality of water delivery outlets cause the manifold to spin around the toilet brush when the brush is located in the wet area washing volume and water is delivered through the plurality of water deliver outlets in use.

6. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 2, wherein each water delivery outlet of the plurality of water delivery outlets are configured at the inner lateral surface such that water is delivered from at least a number of the plurality of water delivery outlets at a longitudinal offset angle which is an acute angle formed downwardly with respect to the inner lateral surface.

7. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the longitudinal offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.

8. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 7, wherein the longitudinal offset angle is about 40°.

9. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 2, wherein at least a number of the plurality of water delivery outlets are configured at the inner lateral surface such that water is delivered from each of the plurality of water delivery outlets at a lateral offset angle which is an acute angle formed laterally relative to a tangent at the inner lateral surface at the location of the respective water delivery outlet.

10. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 9, wherein the lateral offset angle is between about 30° and 50°.1 1. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 10, wherein the lateral offset angle is about 40°.

12. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is located within the wet washing area volume such that in use, the actuator is adapted to be activated when the toilet brush is inserted within the receptacle and a portion of the toilet brush makes contact with the actuator in the wet area washing volume.

13. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the receptacle comprises an aperture defined by an aperture rim, the aperture being adapted to receive a toilet brush.

14. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the actuator is located at or proximate the aperture rim such that in use, the actuator is adapted to be activated when a flange of a toilet brush makes contact with the actuator.

15. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is a mechanical button.

16. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the valve is a mechanical spring- loaded valve, and the actuator actuates it mechanically.

17. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the valve is a timing valve such that when the actuator is activated, the timing valve is opened from a closed position to an open position to enable the flow of water from the water source to the manifold for a predetermined period of time.

18. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a. a sanitizer reservoir adapted for storing a sanitizing agent; b. one or more sanitizing delivery lines in fluid communication with the sanitizer reservoir, wherein the one or more sanitizing delivery lines are adapted to deliver sanitizing agent to the toilet brush in use, and c. a sanitizer valve in fluid communication with the one or more sanitizing deliver lines wherein the sanitizer valve is adapted to be configured from a closedposition to an open position in which sanitizing agent is allowed to flow through the one or more sanitizing delivery lines towards the brush.

19. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 18, wherein the sanitizer valve is coupled to the actuator such that the activation of the first actuator causes the second valve to open.

20. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 18, wherein the sanitizer valve further comprises a sanitizer actuator, the sanitizer actuator being adapted to open the second valve when actuated.

21. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 20, wherein the sanitizer actuator is located within the receptacle and is adapted to be activated when the toilet brush is located within the receptacle.

22. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the sanitizer actuator is activated when a portion of the toilet brush makes contact with the sanitizer actuator.

23. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 20, wherein the sanitizer actuator is located at an outer surface of the receptacle.

24. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a. a sanitizer reservoir adapted for storing a sanitizing agent; b. a sanitizer dosing device in fluid communication with the sanitizer reservoir; and c. one or more sanitizer delivery pathways adapted to deliver the sanitizing agent towards the toilet brush in use, each sanitizing delivery pathway being in fluid communication with the sanitizer dosing device, the apparatus being such that:(i) the toilet brush can be located inside the receptacle in a first position where the sanitizer dosing device can be activated to deliver sanitizing agent onto a brush head portion of the toilet brush; and(ii) the toilet brush can be located inside the receptacle at a second position where when the valve is configured in the open position, water is delivered from the water source, through the open valve, through the one or more water delivery pathways onto the brush head portion.

25. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 26, wherein the sanitizer dosing device is actuated by a control device located at an outer surface of the receptacle.

26. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a. a sanitizer reservoir port adapted for fluidic connection with a sanitizer reservoir; and b. a sanitizer delivery device in fluid communication with the sanitizer reservoir port and adapted to deliver sanitizing agent to the water such that when the actuator is activated, the valve is configured in the open position, water is delivered from the water source, mixed with sanitizing agent and passes through the open valve, through the plurality of water delivery outlets and onto at least a portion of the toilet brush.

27. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 26, wherein the sanitizer delivery device is a sanitizer dosing device actuated by a control device located at an outer surface of the receptacle.

28. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 26, wherein the sanitizer delivery device comprises a venturi valve that operates to draw sanitizing agent from the sanitizer reservoir port when a flow of water passes from the water source to the manifold, thereby mixing sanitizing agent into the flow of water.

29. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a drain adapted to allow waste to be drained away from the wet area washing volume.

30. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 29, wherein the drain is located at least partially below the manifold, such that in use, waste water from the toilet brush drains into the drain.31 . The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 30, wherein the drain comprises a trap and a waste outlet, the trap being located between the wet area washing volume and the waste outlet.

32. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of water delivery outlets are arranged on the manifold in such a way that when in use, the plurality of water delivery outlets deliver water towards the whole length and the whole width of the toilet brush.

33. The toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a replaceable waterproof liner for lining the receptacle.

34. A toilet brush washing kit comprising: a. the toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 13, and b. a toilet brush adapted to be inserted through the aperture and comprising a flange adapted for sealing engagement with the aperture rim, such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the brush.

35. The toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 34, wherein the flange is flexible and when the toilet brush is in the first position the flange rests on the aperture rim and when the toilet brush is in the second position the flange is flexed by the aperture rim.

36. The toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 34, wherein the toilet brush comprises a shaft and a brush portion, the brush portion being located at or near one end of the shaft and the flange comprising an aperture that the shaft can slide through, the arrangement being such that when the toilet brush is located at the first position the flange is at a first location along the shaft and when the toilet brush is located at the second position the flange is moved by the aperture rim along the shaft to a second location along the shaft.

37. The toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 36, wherein the flange is biased towards the first location.

38. The toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 34, wherein the flange of the toilet brush comprises an engagement portion adapted for activating the actuator, causing the valve to move between the closed position and open position when in use.

39. A toilet brush washing kit comprising: a. the toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 24, and b. a toilet brush adapted to be inserted through the aperture and comprising a flange adapted for sealing engagement with the aperture rim, such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the brush.

40. A toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 39, wherein the flange is flexible and when the toilet brush is in the first position the flange rests on the aperture rim and when the toilet brush is in the second position the flange is flexed by the aperture rim.41 . A toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 39, wherein the toilet brush comprises a shaft and a brush portion, the brush portion being located at or near one end of the shaft and the flange comprising an aperture that the shaft can slide through, the arrangement being such that when the toilet brush is located at the first position the flange is at a first location along the shaft and when the toilet brush is located at the second position the flange is moved by the aperture rim along the shaft to a second location along the shaft.

42. A toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 41 , wherein the flange is biased towards the first location.

43. A toilet brush washing kit comprising: a. the toilet brush washing apparatus of claim 26; b. a toilet brush adapted to be inserted through the aperture, the toilet brush comprising a flange adapted for sealing engagement with the aperture rim,such that water substantially does not leak out of the receptacle during washing of the brush; and c. a sanitizer reservoir for storing a sanitizing agent.

44. A toilet brush washing kit as claimed in claim 43, wherein the flange of the toilet brush comprises an engagement portion adapted for activating the actuator, causing the valve to move between the closed position and open position when in use.

45. The toilet brush washing apparatus as claimed in claim 43, wherein the sanitizer agent reservoir is configured to releasably engage with the sanitizer reservoir port such that the sanitizer agent reservoir can be replaced.

46. The toilet brush washing apparatus as claimed in claim 43, wherein the sanitizer agent reservoir comprises a level indicator to visually indicate the level of sanitizing agent present in the reservoir.

47. The toilet brush washing apparatus as claimed in claim 46, wherein the level indicator is a dip tube.

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