Folding urinal and methods relating thereto

Abstract

A folding urinal is disclosed, comprising a main body with a receptacle and a tray moveable by an actuating mechanism between a closed and an open position. In some embodiments, the tray may be removably coupled to the main body to permit disengagement in one or more rotational positions for servicing. The urinal is configured to be mounted to a wall structure within a bathroom for instance, and may be configured as a two-part modular assembly, where the main body is removably coupled to a permanent in-wall mounting frame, allowing for servicing of the main components from a rear access hatch. In some embodiments, the tray may comprise a recess configured to receive a wall finishing material, to create a flush-mounted appearance with the wall structure post installation. The urinal may further comprise an intelligent control system that detects user-position, tray position, and optionally motor stalls.

Description

[0001] FOLDING URINAL AND METHODS RELATING THERETO

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a folding urinal, and to systems and methods relating thereto.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] Urinals, for use by male persons, are well known. Normally used in public toilets, and less frequently in homes, they take several different forms. Some urinals of ceramic, or more likely, metal material, can accommodate several persons standing side-by- side. Other, usually older-style, urinals are similar but have divisions to provide some privacy. Many modem public toilets have individual wall-mounted urinals. Some of these wall-mounted urinals have privacy screens between adjacent units, and some installations have one or more urinals located in a lower position on a wall, to cater for male children.

[0006] Some folding urinals have been described in the prior art such as in PCT patent publication WO2014179827A1, which discloses a folding urinal including a base and a tray connected to said base. The tray is adapted to move between a first standby position in which it abuts the base, and a second, in use, position in which it is at an angle to said base portion and adapted to receive urine from a user. An actuating means mounted on the body and connected to the tray is adapted to move the tray between the first position and the second position. A proximity sensing system can be used to detect the presence or absence of a user and activate the actuating mechanism to open or close the tray accordingly.

[0007] Optimisations to this folding urinal design would be advantageous to improve the methods of assembly or installation, usability and / or regulatory adherence of the technology.

[0008] In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be constmed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In one aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0010] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0011] a tray connected to said main body;

[0012] an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, fully closed position in which it closes the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use.

[0013] The folding urinal of the above aspect of the invention can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described below.

[0014] In an embodiment, a front face of the tray comprises a finishing material of a wall structure to which the folding urinal is to be mounted, or the tray comprises a recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0015] In an embodiment, the finishing material of the wall structure differs to a material composition of an inner tray surface or a main body of the tray.

[0016] In an embodiment, the finishing material is selected from the group consisting of ceramic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone, engineered stone, glass, mirror, mosaic tile, acrylic or PVC panel, laminated panel, composite panel, fibreglass reinforced panel, stainless steel cladding, and / or metal cladding.

[0017] In an embodiment, the front face comprises the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0018] In an embodiment, substantially an entire area of the front face comprises the finishing material.

[0019] In an embodiment, the tray comprises the recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0020] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a rim or frame surrounding the recess.

[0021] In an embodiment, a terminal edge of the rim or frame defines a tray outer plane.In an embodiment, the tray outer plane is configured to locate less distal to the main body relative to an exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure when received within the recess, or is substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0022] In an embodiment, the tray comprises the recess for receiving the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure, and wherein the recess comprises a depth corresponding substantially to: a thickness of the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure, or combined thickness of the portion of the finishing material and a layer of adhesive for securing the portion of the finishing material to the wall structure.

[0023] In an embodiment, the tray comprises the recess for receiving the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure, and wherein the recess comprises a depth that is smaller than a thickness of the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0024] In an embodiment, the recess comprises a depth of between approximately 3mm and 40mm.

[0025] In an embodiment, the recess comprises a substantially rectangular perimeter.

[0026] In an embodiment, the recess extends to a rim or frame of the tray extending about a periphery or perimeter of the tray to cover substantially an entire area of a front face of the tray.

[0027] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a mounting frame coupled to, or configured to couple, the main body, the tray being received within the mounting frame in a fully closed position.

[0028] In an embodiment, the main body is configured to be removably coupled to the mounting frame such that, in an installed state, the main body can be removed from the mounting frame while the mounting frame remains secured within a wall structure.

[0029] In an embodiment, the main body comprises the actuating mechanism or is coupled to the actuating mechanism, such that the actuating mechanism is removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.In an embodiment, the main body further comprises a control system for controlling the actuating mechanism, such that the control system is removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

[0030] In an embodiment, the main body further comprises or is coupled to a cleaning mechanism, such that the cleaning mechanism is removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

[0031] In an embodiment, wherein the mounting frame comprises a central opening.

[0032] In an embodiment, the mounting frame comprises an inner rim surrounding the central opening.

[0033] In an embodiment, the inner rim extends laterally from a mounting face of the mounting frame, configured to mount against or adjacent a support surface of a wall structure, in situ.

[0034] In an embodiment, a terminal edge of the inner rim defines a frame outer plane.

[0035] In an embodiment, the frame outer plane is configured to locate less distal to the main body relative to an exposed, outermost surface of a finishing material of a wall structure to which the frame is to be mounted, or is substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0036] In an embodiment, a depth of the inner rim of the frame is between approximately 3mm and 40mm.

[0037] In an embodiment, the tray comprises an outer peripheral rim, and in an assembled state of the urinal, and in a fully closed position of the tray, the outer rim of the tray and the inner rim of the mounting frame are configured to locate directly adjacent one another.

[0038] In an embodiment, the outer rim of the tray and the inner rim of the mounting frame are closely spaced in the fully closed position of the tray, along substantially an entire perimeter of the tray.

[0039] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a receptacle bounded by side walls, and wherein the side walls extend in an opposing direction from the tray body to an outer rim surrounding the tray.In an embodiment, the mounting frame is configured to be secured to at least one wall stud of the wall structure.

[0040] In an embodiment, the mounting frame is configured to be secured to the at least one wall stud via at least one intermediary mounting bracket or mount.

[0041] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a hinge pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, and wherein the hinge is coupled to the main body or the mounting frame.

[0042] In an embodiment, the hinge removably coupled to the main body or mounting frame, and the hinge is accessible and removable from a rear side of the main body or mounting frame, facing away from an exposed finishing material of a wall structure, when the urinal is installed in the wall structure.

[0043] In an embodiment, the tray is removably connected to the main body.

[0044] In an embodiment, the tray further comprises at least one tray catch, each tray catch being configured to engage the main body.

[0045] In an embodiment, the at least one tray catch is configured to permit disengagement of the tray from the main body in a first rotational position and to inhibit disengagement of the tray from the main body in a second, different rotational position.

[0046] In an embodiment, the main body further comprises at least one stopper, and wherein in the fully open position, the at least one tray catch is configured to abut the at least one stopper to define a rotational limit for the tray and to mechanically obstruct slidable disengagement of the tray from the main body.

[0047] In an embodiment, the tray is further movable to an intermediate position, different from the fully open position, wherein in the intermediate position the at least one tray catch is rotationally aligned to clear the at least one stopper, thereby permitting slidable disengagement of the tray.In an embodiment, the folding urinal comprises a hinge for pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, and wherein the hinge comprises one or more engagement members extending laterally from a main axle of the hinge, for connecting the main axle to the tray body.

[0048] In an embodiment, the tray body comprises one or more recesses corresponding to the one or more intermediate engagement members for accommodating the engagement member(s) therein.

[0049] In an embodiment, the tray body comprises a recess for accommodating the main axle.

[0050] In an embodiment, the tray body is removably coupled to the one or more engagement member(s).

[0051] In an embodiment, the tray body slidably couples the one or more engagement member(s).

[0052] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a pair of side walls, and a gutter channel extending on an external side of each of the side walls and wherein each gutter channel is discontinuous at an end of the respective side wall proximal to a pivoting axis of the tray.

[0053] In an embodiment the tray abuts the main body in the closed position.

[0054] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a hinge, pivotally coupling the tray to the main body for moving the tray between the first, closed position and the second, fully open position.

[0055] In an embodiment, the actuating mechanism comprises an actuator connected between the tray and the main body.

[0056] In an embodiment, the actuator may comprise an electromechanical mechanism. Alternatively, the actuator may comprise a hydraulic or pneumatic mechanism for instance.

[0057] In an embodiment, the actuator may be a linear actuator having a piston that is axially moveable between an advanced position and a retracted position corresponding to the first, fully closed position and second, fully open position of the tray in use, or vice versa.In an embodiment, the piston may be operatively coupled with the hinge axle via a linkage mechanism configured to convert the linear motion of the piston into rotational motion of the hinge axle.

[0058] In an embodiment, the actuator is connected at one end to the hinge and at an opposing end to the main body.

[0059] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a biasing mechanism for biasing the tray toward the first, closed position. The biasing mechanism may comprise a spring operatively coupled between the hinge and the main body. The spring may be a tension spring. The spring may be pre-tensioned in the first, closed position of the tray to bias the tray toward the first, closed position. The spring may be further tensioned when the tray moves from the first, closed position toward the second, open position.

[0060] In an embodiment, the actuating mechanism comprises a moveable piston actuator and a terminal end of the moveable piston actuator is operatively coupled to the spring.

[0061] In an embodiment, a terminal end of the movable piston of the actuator is operatively coupled to the spring.

[0062] In an embodiment, the biasing mechanism couples the main body at an opposing side to a side that the actuator is operatively coupled to.

[0063] In an embodiment, the hinge comprises at least one pivot pin extending laterally and externally of one of the tray or the main body for pivotally coupling a corresponding pivot surface on the other of the base or the tray.

[0064] In an embodiment, one or more pivot pin(s) is(are) coupled to or formed on the tray and the corresponding pivot surface(s) is(are) coupled to or formed on the main body.

[0065] In an embodiment, a pair of pivot pins extend from either side of the tray.In an embodiment, the hinge comprises a hinge member having a main axle configured to extend along an edge of the tray. The opposing ends of the main axle may correspond to a pair of first and second pivot pins extending from either side of the tray.

[0066] In an embodiment, the hinge further comprises a first connector arm projecting transversely from an end of the main axle for connecting the hinge to the actuator. The first connector arm may extend substantially orthogonally from the main axle.

[0067] In an embodiment, a corresponding terminal end of the main axle extends outwardly beyond the first connector arm.

[0068] In an embodiment, the hinge further comprises a second connector arm projecting transversely from the other end of the main axle for connecting the hinge to the biasing mechanism. The second connector arm may extend substantially orthogonally from the main axle.

[0069] In an embodiment, a corresponding terminal end of the main axle extends outwardly beyond the second connector arm.

[0070] In an embodiment, the first and second connector arms extend at different angles to one another relative to the main axle.

[0071] In an embodiment, the hinge member further comprises one or more intermediate engagement members (e.g., prongs), extending transversely from the main axle for connecting the main axle to the tray body. There may be a pair of spaced engagement members. The intermediate engagement members may be located between the first and second connector arms. The tray body may comprise one or more cavities, channels or grooves, corresponding to the one or more intermediate engagement members for accommodating the engagement member(s) therein. The tray body may comprise a cavity, channel or groove(s) for accommodating the main axle.

[0072] In an embodiment, the tray body is removably coupled to the one or more intermediate engagement member(s). The tray body may slidably couple the one or more intermediate prongs.

[0073] In an embodiment, the urinal comprises a first hinge retention mechanism configured to locate and retain the first pivot pin onto the main body.In an embodiment, the first hinge retention mechanism comprises a first hinge retention cavity formed in or coupled on one side of the main body for accommodating the first pivot pin of the hinge.

[0074] In an embodiment, the first pivot pin and the first hinge retention mechanism comprise complementary formations for rotatably coupling the first pivot pin to the first retention cavity.

[0075] In an embodiment, the first hinge retention cavity comprises at least one curved pivot surface for the first pivot pin to rotate against during movement of the hinge.

[0076] In an embodiment, the first hinge retention mechanism and the first pivot pin further comprise one or more complementary and cooperating surfaces or formations for limiting the axial range of movement of the first pivot pin along the main axis of rotation of the hinge.

[0077] In an embodiment, the first hinge retention mechanism further comprises a first hinge retention bracket configured to couple over the first hinge retention cavity to retain the first pivot pin within the first hinge retention cavity.

[0078] In an embodiment, the first hinge retention mechanism further comprises a seal coupled about the first pivot pin and located within the first hinge retention cavity for fluidly isolating the first pivot pin from an internal region of the tray and / or a remainder of the main axle of the hinge member.

[0079] In an embodiment, the main body comprises a second hinge retention mechanism configured to locate and retain the second pivot pin of the hinge on an opposing side of the main body to the first pivot pin.

[0080] In an embodiment, the second pivot pin of the hinge and second hinge retention mechanism comprise complementary formations for rotatably coupling the second pivot pin to the second retention cavity.

[0081] In an embodiment, the second hinge retention mechanism comprises a second hinge retention cavity formed in or coupled on the corresponding side of the main body for accommodating the second pivot pin of the hinge.In an embodiment, the second hinge retention cavity comprises at least one curved pivot surface for the second pivot pin the hinge to rotate against during movement of the hinge.

[0082] In an embodiment, the second hinge retention mechanism and the second pivot pin comprise one or more complementary and cooperating surfaces for limiting the axial range of movement of the second pivot pin.

[0083] In an embodiment, the second hinge retention mechanism further comprises a second hinge retention bracket configured to couple over the second hinge retention cavity to retain the hinge member within the second hinge retention cavity.

[0084] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises an axial adjustment mechanism for axially adjusting the tray and hinge relative to the main body along the axis of rotation. This may assist an installer in centralizing the tray within the main body before coupling the tray and hinge to the main body.

[0085] In an embodiment, the first hinge retention mechanism may comprise the axial adjustment mechanism.

[0086] In an embodiment, the axial adjustment mechanism comprises:

[0087] at least one elongate alignment aperture formed the first hinge retention bracket or in first hinge retention cavity, the elongate aperture extending along a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, and

[0088] at least one corresponding fixing aperture formed in the other of the first hinge retention cavity or the first hinge retention bracket, wherein

[0089] a fastener can extend through the alignment aperture and into the fixing aperture to fixedly couple the first hinge retention bracket to the first hinge retention cavity, and wherein a position of the fastener within the elongate alignment aperture corresponds to an axial position of the hinge and tray relative to the base.

[0090] In an embodiment, the first or second hinge retention bracket, or both, comprise complementary formations to an outer surface of a corresponding end of a pivot pin of the hinge to form an interlocking keyed connection with the end of the pivot pin.In an embodiment, the hinge further comprises a seal coupled about the second pivot pin and located within the second hinge retention cavity for fluidly isolating the second end of the pivot from an internal region of the tray and / or the remainder of the main axle of the hinge member.

[0091] In an embodiment, the first hinge retention cavity further comprises an aperture for the transversely extending first connector arm to extend therethrough and connect to the actuator.

[0092] In an embodiment, the second hinge retention cavity further comprises an aperture for the transversely extending second connector arm to extend therethrough and connect to the biasing mechanism.

[0093] In an embodiment, where a hinge member with a main axle is implemented, the main axle bears against one or more curved pivot surfaces coupled on or formed on the base between the first hinge retention cavity and the second hinge retention cavity.

[0094] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a tray position sensor configured to detect a rotational position of the tray.

[0095] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is operatively connected to the hinge to detect the rotational position of the tray.

[0096] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is rotatable with the hinge.

[0097] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is coupled to an end of the first or second pivot pin of the hinge.

[0098] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor and corresponding end of the pivot pin comprise an interlocking keyed connection to couple the tray position sensor to the pivot pin. The tray position sensor may locate within a corresponding cavity of the main body. The interlocking keyway is extended further axially along said pivot pin to enable the pivot pin to slidably engage the position sensor. This enables the assembler to appropriately axially align the tray in the main body during assemblyIn an embodiment, the main body comprises an internal cavity or slot for accommodating and closely surrounding the tray position sensor.

[0099] In an embodiment, a seal is coupled about the pivot pin to fluidly isolate the end of the pivot pin comprising the tray position sensor from the remainder of the hinge and tray. The seal may comprise an O-ring sealing element, for instance.

[0100] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a self-cleaning mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use.

[0101] In an embodiment, the self-cleaning mechanism comprises at least one spray nozzle head for ejecting the cleaning liquid onto the receptacle during a cleaning phase.

[0102] In an embodiment, the at least one spray nozzle comprises at least one lower spray nozzle head, configured to eject cleaning fluid from a lower region of the receptacle, in situ.

[0103] In an embodiment, the at least one lower spray nozzle head is positioned to direct the cleaning fluid towards a lower lip of the tray in the fully closed position and / or the pivotal coupling with the main body.

[0104] In an embodiment, the at least one spray nozzle head comprises at least one upper spray nozzle head, configured to eject cleaning fluid from an upper region of the receptacle, in situ.

[0105] In an embodiment, the main body comprises a housing and a lid coupled to the housing; and the lid comprises a contoured portion that extends upwardly relative to an adjacent portion of the lid, in situ,

[0106] and wherein the at least one upper spray nozzle head is positioned within or adjacent to the contoured portion to achieve a predetermined spray height, in use.

[0107] In an embodiment, at least one spray nozzle head extends from an inner wall of the main body adjacent the receptacle and an inner wall of the tray.

[0108] In an embodiment, at least one spray nozzle head is configured to disperse a cleaning liquid outwardly in a substantially planar, fan-like distribution.In an embodiment, at least one spray nozzle head is configured to disperse the cleaning liquid with a uniform thickness about the nozzle head.

[0109] In an embodiment, at least one spray nozzle head is configured to disperse the cleaning liquid outwardly at an angle of between approximately 90 degrees and 160 degrees, more preferably between approximately 90 degrees and 140 degrees, and most preferably between approximately 90 degrees and 120 degrees, relative to an imaginary axis extending centrally through the spray nozzle head.

[0110] In embodiment, at least one spray nozzle head comprises a deflecting surface that is substantially annular in shape to facilitate uniform cleaning liquid dispersion around the nozzle head.

[0111] In an embodiment, the deflecting surface is substantially planar or concave to facilitate the planar, fan-like distribution of cleaning liquid.

[0112] In an embodiment, at least one spray nozzle head comprises multiple, substantially small, nozzles distributed about the nozzle head and configured to spray the cleaning liquid in varying directions.

[0113] In an embodiment, the deflecting surface is configured to provide a full 360-degree spray pattern, such that cleaning liquid is dispensed in a uniform radial manner from the nozzle head to cover an entire spherical or hemispherical area surrounding the nozzle head.

[0114] In an embodiment, the main body comprises a drain connected to the receptacle for flushing liquid within the receptacle.

[0115] In an embodiment, the drain is connected to a drain pipe.

[0116] In an embodiment, the drain pipe comprises an inlet connected to the main body drain, an outlet for liquid to flow through from the inlet, and a water seal trap between the inlet and the outlet.

[0117] In an embodiment, the water seal trap comprises at least one U-bend.In an embodiment, the drain pipe where said pipe has a first U bend and a second U bend fluidly connected to the first U bend, and wherein in use water flows through the first U bend to form a first water seal trap then flows through the second U bend to form a second water seal trap.

[0118] In an embodiment, the first water seal trap is shallower than said second water seal trap. For example, the second water seal trap may have a seal depth of at least 70mm and the first water seal trap may have a seal depth of less than 40mm, more preferably less than 20mm and most preferably less than 10mm.

[0119] In an embodiment, the first water seal trap is located adjacent to the second water seal trap.

[0120] In an embodiment, a lowest point of the first U-bend corresponding to the first water seal trap is substantially aligned with a lowest point of the second U-bend corresponding to the second water seal trap, along a substantially vertical axis.

[0121] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises an air remittance valve fluidly coupled to the drain pipe.

[0122] In an embodiment, the air remittance valve is fluidly coupled to the drain pipe between the first U bend and the second U bend. The air admittance valve may be coupled to the drain pipe such that it locates vertically at a same level as an inlet of the drain pipe or above.

[0123] In an embodiment, the tray is removably connected to the base.

[0124] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a pair of side walls, and a gutter channel extending on an external side of each of the side walls.

[0125] In an embodiment, each gutter channel extends between a hinged end of the tray and a terminal and free second end of the tray opposing the base end.

[0126] In an embodiment, a width of each gutter channel reduces towards the terminal and free second end. The width may taper substantially gradually towards the second end.In an embodiment, a height of each side wall reduces towards the second end. The height may taper substantially gradually towards the second end.

[0127] In an embodiment, the urinal may further comprise one or more stoppers projecting internally from the main body for preventing the tray from rotating beyond the second position. The stoppers may cooperate with a surface of the gutter channel(s) to limit rotation of the tray beyond the second position. For example, a face of each gutter channel at the hinge end of the tray may cooperate with a corresponding stopper.

[0128] In an embodiment, each gutter channel is configured to promote the flow of liquid within the gutter channel into the receptacle of the base when the tray is moved from the second position back toward the first position.

[0129] In an embodiment, each gutter channel comprises a curved channel extending along a corresponding side of the tray from an upper region of the side of the tray at the first end of the tray, toward a lower region of the side of the tray at the second end of the tray.

[0130] In an embodiment, the first end comprises a lipped edge extending between the pair of side walls for promoting liquid near the first end to flow into the receptacle of the base instead of flowing under the tray, when the tray is in the second position. The lipped edge may extend minimally and have a convex curvature to facilitate the flow of liquid into the receptacle. The lipped edge may extend along a substantial or entire length between the side walls.

[0131] In an embodiment, the tray further comprises one or more additional lips extending along one or both of the side walls of the tray at the first end, to further facilitate liquid near the base end to flow into the receptacle of the main body instead of flowing round to an outer face of the corresponding side wall. The one or more lips may extend transversely from a face of each side wall. The one or more lips preferably extend along a substantial or entire length of each side wall. The one or more lips are preferably substantially concave.

[0132] In an embodiment, the main body comprises a base with a receptacle.In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a front cover plate fixedly coupled to the main body and having a central opening aligned with the opening of the receptacle, in an assembled state of the urinal.

[0133] In an embodiment, the main body further comprises a flange extending about the periphery of the main body. The flange is configured to couple the front cover in an assembled state of the urinal.

[0134] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a central, flange plate fixedly coupled to the main body base in an assembled state of the urinal.

[0135] In an embodiment, the flange plate is configured to couple between the front cover plate and the main body base.

[0136] In an embodiment, the flange plate comprises a central opening configured to align with the central opening of the front cover plate and with the opening of the receptacle, in an assembled state of the urinal.

[0137] In an embodiment, the flange plate is fixedly coupled to the main body base via a fastening mechanism. The mechanism may comprise an adhesive. The flange plate may comprise one or more bosses or projections with through-holes about the central opening and extending from a surface of the flange plate, for receiving an adhesive via the through-holes during assembly to fixedly couple the flange plate to the main body base.

[0138] In an embodiment, the cover plate and the flange plate comprise complementary formations for fitting the plates to one another and aligning the central opening of the cover plate with the central opening of the flange plate.

[0139] In an embodiment, the complementary formations are distributed about a periphery of the central openings. The complementary formations may be distributed substantially about the entire periphery of the central openings.

[0140] In an embodiment, the complementary formations comprise hollow bosses on one of the front cover plate or flange plate, and complementary apertures in the other of the flange plate or front cover plate. For example, the front cover plate may comprise the projections and the flange platemay comprise the apertures, or vice versa, or each plate may comprise some projections and some apertures with the other plate having the opposite configuration.

[0141] In an embodiment, the front cover plate and the flange plate may be fixedly coupled to one another via one or more fasteners. Each projection may be a hollow boss configured to receive a fastener therethrough.

[0142] In an embodiment, the urinal comprises a magnetic clamping mechanism for aligning the front cover plate with the flange plate and holding the front cover plate against the flange plate, during installation.

[0143] In an embodiment, the magnetic clamping mechanism comprises at least one magnetic pair, each magnetic pair having: a first magnet positioned at a predetermined location on the flange plate, and a corresponding second magnet positioned at a complementary location on the cover plate, wherein the magnetic forces between the magnets are configured to assist in automatically aligning the two plates in a predetermined orientation when the plates are brought into proximity.

[0144] In an embodiment, the magnetic clamping mechanism comprises multiple pairs of magnets distributed about the periphery of the central openings of the cover plate and flange plate, that collectively assist in automatic alignment of the two plates during installation.

[0145] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a seal extending about the periphery between the front cover plate and the main body. The cover plate may comprise a groove extending about the periphery for accommodating a sealing element therewithin. A peripheral edge of the main body may be accommodated with the groove extending about the periphery of the cover plate in an assembled state of the base.

[0146] In an embodiment, the main body comprises mounting recesses formed on a rear face of the main body opposite the tray side, to mount the main body onto a mounting bracket coupled to a wall or other support structure.

[0147] In an embodiment, the urinal comprises mounting recesses on either side of the main body.In an embodiment, each mounting recess is configured to connect to a corresponding hook projecting from a mounting bracket.

[0148] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises one or more operational status indicators configured to provide output(s) that are observable by a human user. The operational status indicator(s) may comprise one or more illumination devices, such as one or more light emitting diodes, one or more display device(s), one or more audio device(s) and / or one or more other audiovisual device(s), for instance.

[0149] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a control system configured to:

[0150] receive an input signal indicative of a position of the tray relative to the base; and control the operational status indicator(s) based on the input signal indicative of position of the tray.

[0151] The input signal indicative of the position of the tray may be a signal output by the tray position sensor, for instance.

[0152] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a user proximity sensing device configured to sense a proximity of a user to the urinal. The user proximity sensing device may be configured to output a signal indicative of a user’s proximity to the urinal.

[0153] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to drive the actuating mechanism to adjust the rotational position of the tray based on the user’s proximity to the urinal.

[0154] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to drive the actuating mechanism to open the tray when the output signal of the user proximity sensing device indicates a user proximity within a predetermined distance.

[0155] In an embodiment, the predetermined distance is configurable.

[0156] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a user input device configured to receive a user input for adjusting the configurable predetermined distance. The user input may be located on a rear face of the main body configured to be concealed upon installation of the urinal on a wall or supporting structure.In an embodiment, a control system may be configured to receive an input indicative of the output of the user proximity sensing device, and control one or more operational status indicator(s) based on the output of the user proximity sensing device.

[0157] In an embodiment, the operational status indicator(s) may be operable to indicate an input power status, including whether the urinal is connected to an input power source. For example, an illumination device may be driven to illuminate when the urinal is connected to an input power source.

[0158] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises one or more ambient light brightness sensing devices, configured to output a signal indicative of ambient light brightness of a surrounding environment or space.

[0159] In an embodiment, a control system is configured to receive an input signal indicative of ambient light brightness, and accordingly control the operational status indicator(s) based on the ambient light brightness input signal. The ambient light brightness input signal may be a signal output by the ambient light brightness sensing device.

[0160] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to adjust a brightness of the illumination device(s) based on the received ambient light brightness signal. For example, the control system may reduce a brightness of the illumination device(s) when the received ambient light brightness signal indicates an ambient brightness that is below a predetermined brightness threshold. The control system may be configured to gradually reduce a brightness based on a gradual reduction of ambient light brightness.

[0161] In an embodiment, the control system may be configured to turn off the illumination device(s) after a predetermined period when the ambient light brightness is below a predetermined brightness threshold. The control system may be further configured to turn on the illumination device(s) when a received user proximity signal indicates a user within a predetermined distance of the urinal, and / or when a received ambient light brightness signal indicates an ambient light brightness above a predetermined threshold and / or when a received ambient light brightness signal indicates a change in ambient light brightness above a predetermined threshold.In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises an audible alarm device and a moisture detection device configured to detect a water leak associated with the urinal.

[0162] In an embodiment, a control system is configured to receive a signal indicative of a water leak and activate the audible alarm based on the received signal. The received signal may be a signal output from the moisture detection device.

[0163] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a flush control system configured to activate a flushing mechanism when one or more flush conditions is(are) determined.

[0164] In an embodiment, activating the flushing mechanism comprises activating ejection of a liquid from a flush / spray nozzle.

[0165] In an embodiment, the one or more flush conditions comprises a time-related condition. For example, this could be only when a predetermined time has elapsed since a user came within the predetermined distance from the urinal or since the tray moved into the second, open position.

[0166] In an embodiment, the one or more flush conditions comprises a user-related condition. For example, this could be when a user is no longer within the predetermined close proximity to the urinal (as detected by the control system based on the output signal of the proximity sensing device).

[0167] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a tray position sensor configured to detect a rotational position of the tray.

[0168] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is operatively connected to the hinge to detect the rotational position of the tray.

[0169] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is integrated with a motor of the actuating mechanism.

[0170] In an embodiment, the tray position comprises a magnet on one of the tray or main body and a corresponding magnetic field sensing device on the other of the main body or tray.

[0171] In a second aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a method of assembly a folding urinal comprising the steps ofaligning a flange plate with a base having an open receptacle by:

[0172] placing an alignment jig onto an open face of the base such that it locates within the open receptacle;

[0173] placing the flange plate onto the base such that the alignment jig locates within an opening of the flange plate; and

[0174] finely adjusting the relative positions of the flange plate and the base while the alignment jig remains within the open receptacle, until a desired alignment between the flange plate and the base is achieved; and

[0175] rigidly coupling the flange plate to the base.

[0176] In an embodiment, aligning the flange plate with the base comprises aligning the opening of the receptacle with an opening of the flange plate.

[0177] In an embodiment, the alignment jig comprises an outer rim having a geometry that matches an exact desired geometry of an inner peripheral wall of the flange plate opening.

[0178] In an embodiment, the alignment jig comprises an inner rim having a geometry that matches an exact desired geometry of an inner peripheral wall of the receptacle opening of the base.

[0179] In an embodiment, the method further comprises hingedly coupling a tray to the flange plate.

[0180] In an embodiment, the flange plate comprises one or more through-holes formed in the flange plate and the step of rigidly coupling the flange plate to the base comprises applying adhesive in the through-hole(s) to adhere the flange plate to the base. There may be multiple through-holes spaced about or along the flange plate.

[0181] In an embodiment, the method further comprises coupling a front cover plate to the flange plate.

[0182] In an embodiment, the step of coupling the front cover plate to the flange plate comprises:

[0183] aligning the front cover plate with the flange plate; and

[0184] rigidly coupling the front cover plate to the flange plate.

[0185] In an embodiment, the step of aligning the front cover plate with the flange plate comprises aligning clamping the front cover plate with the flange plate via a magnetic clamping mechanism.In an embodiment, the magnetic clamping mechanism comprises at least one magnetic pair, each magnetic pair having: a first magnet positioned at a predetermined location on the flange plate, and a corresponding second magnet positioned at a complementary location on the cover plate, wherein the magnetic forces between the magnets are configured to assist in automatically aligning the two plates in a predetermined orientation when the plates are brought into proximity.

[0186] In an embodiment, the magnetic clamping mechanism comprises multiple pairs of magnets distributed about the periphery of the central openings of the cover plate and flange plate, that collectively assist in aligning and clamping the two plates during installation.

[0187] In an embodiment, the step of rigidly coupling the front cover plate to the flange plate comprises connecting one or more hollow bosses integrally formed on the flange plate, with one or more corresponding apertures formed in the front cover plate.

[0188] In an embodiment, the step of aligning the front cover plate with the flange plate comprises bringing the front cover plate into contact with the flange plate such that the hollow bosses of the flange plate are aligned with the corresponding apertures formed in the cover plate.

[0189] In an embodiment multiple hollow bosses are distributed across a face of the flange plate and multiple apertures are distributed across a face of the front cover.

[0190] In an embodiment, the multiple hollow bosses are distributed about a central opening of flange plate, and the multiple apertures are distributed about a central opening of the front cover.

[0191] In an embodiment, the step of rigidly coupling the front cover to the flange plate further comprises fastening one or more fasteners through the one or more hollow bosses and into the corresponding apertures, from a side of the flange plate that faces away from the front cover in situ. Each aperture may comprise a threaded inner wall for receiving a threaded fastener for example.

[0192] In an embodiment, the step of hingedly coupling the tray to the flange plate comprises:

[0193] rigidly coupling a hinge axle to the tray; and

[0194] rotatably coupling the hinge axle to the flange plate.In an embodiment, the step of rotatably coupling the hinge axle to the flange plate comprises locating either end of the hinge axle in a corresponding hinge retention cavity of the flange plate, and coupling a hinge retention bracket over each cavity.

[0195] In an embodiment, the step of hingedly coupling the tray to the flange plate comprises aligning the axial position of the tray relative to the flange plate.

[0196] In an embodiment, the step of hingedly coupling the tray to the flange plate further comprises locking the tray and the flange plate in the aligned axial position.

[0197] In an embodiment, the step of axially aligning and locking the tray and flange plate in the aligned axial position comprises adjusting a fixing position of a hinge retention mechanism configured to retain the hinge against the flange plate.

[0198] In an embodiment, the method further comprises coupling the hinge axle to an actuation mechanism configured to actuate rotation of the hinge in response to an input signal.

[0199] In an embodiment, coupling the hinge axle to an actuation mechanism comprises coupling an actuator to a first connecting arm extending transversely from the hinge axle at an end of the hinge axle.

[0200] In an embodiment, coupling the hinge axle to an actuation mechanism further comprises coupling a biasing mechanism to a second connecting arm extending transversely from the hinge axle at an end of the hinge axle.

[0201] In an embodiment, the method further comprises coupling a hinge position sensor to an end of the hinge axle via an interlocking keyed connection.

[0202] In an embodiment, the method comprises removably coupling the tray to the hinge axle.

[0203] The folding urinal of the second aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0204] In a third aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0205] a tray connected to said main body;

[0206] an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use,

[0207] a hinge, pivotally coupling the tray to the main body for moving the tray between the first, closed position and the second, fully open position;

[0208] a tray position sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a rotational position of the tray; and

[0209] wherein:

[0210] the actuating mechanism comprises an actuator connected between the tray and the main body, and a biasing mechanism for biasing the tray toward the first, closed position;

[0211] the hinge comprises a main axle extending along an edge of the tray; the main body comprises a first hinge retention mechanism for retaining a first end of the main axle of the hinge;

[0212] the first hinge retention mechanism being configured to enable adjustment of an axial position of the main axle along the axis of rotation prior to retention of the first end;

[0213] the tray position sensor is operatively connected to the main axle to detect the rotational position of the tray; and

[0214] the tray position sensor is coupled to an end of the main axle and located within a corresponding sensor cavity formed in or coupled onto the main body.

[0215] The folding urinal of the third aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0216] In a fourth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising: a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0217] a tray connected to said main body;

[0218] an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use;a self-cleaning mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use, the self-cleaning mechanism comprises a spray nozzle head for ejecting the cleaning liquid onto the receptacle during a cleaning phase; and wherein:

[0219] the main body comprises a drain connected to the receptacle for flushing liquid within the receptacle, the drain is connected to a drain pipe having an inlet connected to the main body drain, an outlet for liquid to flow through from the inlet,

[0220] the drain pipe having a first U bend and a second U bend fluidly connected to the first U bend, and wherein in use water flows through the first U bend to form a first water seal trap then flows through the second U bend to form a second water seal trap.

[0221] The folding urinal of the fourth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0222] In a fifth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising: a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0223] a tray connected to said main body;

[0224] an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0225] one or more stoppers for preventing the tray from moving beyond the second position and wherein:

[0226] the tray comprises a pair of side walls, and a gutter channel extending on an external side of each of the side walls, the stoppers cooperating with a surface of the gutter channel(s) to limit rotation of the tray beyond the second position.

[0227] In an embodiment, the one or more stoppers project internally from the main body.

[0228] The folding urinal of the fifth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.In a sixth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising: a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0229] a tray connected to said main body;

[0230] an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0231] a user proximity sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a user’s proximity to the urinal; and

[0232] a control system configured to drive the actuating mechanism to move the tray toward the fully open position the signal output from the user proximity sensor indicates the user’s proximity within a predetermined distance from the urinal.

[0233] In an embodiment, the predetermined distance is user configurable.

[0234] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a user input device and wherein the control system is configured to configure the predetermined distance based on an input received from a user via the user input device.

[0235] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a flushing mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use.

[0236] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to activate the flushing mechanism to clean the receptacle only after a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving or detecting a user’s proximity within the predetermined distance from the urinal based on the output signal of the user proximity sensor.

[0237] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises an illumination device and the control system is configured to activate the illumination device to indicate a flush cycle, at, or immediately prior to, an instance of activating the flushing mechanism.

[0238] The folding urinal of the sixth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.In a seventh aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal system comprising:

[0239] a folding urinal having:

[0240] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use and a drain for flushing liquid within the receptacle;

[0241] a tray connected to said main body;

[0242] an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use; and

[0243] a flushing mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use; and

[0244] a drain pipe having an inlet configured to fluidly couple the main body drain, and an outlet; and

[0245] a substantially flexible conduit configured to fluidly couple the outlet of the drain pipe.

[0246] In an embodiment, the folding urinal system further comprises an adaptor with an internally threaded nut, configured to facilitate in fluidly coupling a conduit of the flushing mechanism to a threaded end of a liquid / water line or tap of a plumping system.

[0247] In an embodiment, the system further comprises at least one mounting bracket configured to couple to a wall or other support structure, and the main body comprises mounting recesses formed on a rear face of the main body for coupling the at least one mounting bracket.

[0248] The folding urinal of the seventh aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0249] In an eighth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0250] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;

[0251] a tray;

[0252] a hinge for rotatably coupling the tray to the main body; andan actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, fully closed position in which it abuts said base to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use,

[0253] wherein, the tray is configured to removably couple the hinge, in situ.

[0254] In an embodiment, the tray slidably couples the hinge.

[0255] The folding urinal of the eighth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0256] In a ninth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a drain pipe having an inlet and an outlet for water to flow through said pipe, where said pipe has a first U bend and a second U bend where the water would flow through the first U bend to form a first water seal trap then flow through the second U bend to form a second water seal trap, characterised in where said first water seal trap is more shallow than said second water seal trap.

[0257] In an embodiment, the drain pipe having the first and second water seal traps is for use and connectable to a urinal.

[0258] In an embodiment, the second water seal trap complies with urinal water seal traps regulations in the country of installation.

[0259] In an embodiment the first and second water seal traps are adjacent.

[0260] In an embodiment the second water seal trap has a seal depth of at least 70mm.

[0261] In an embodiment the first water seal trap has a seal depth of less than 40mm, more preferably less than 10mm.

[0262] In a tenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a method of connecting a drain pipe to a urinal where said method includes using a drain pipe having an inlet and an outlet for water to flow through said pipe, where said pipe has a first U bend and a second U bend where thewater would flow through the first U bend to form a first water seal trap then flow through the second U bend to form a second water seal trap, characterised in where said first water seal trap is more shallow than said second water seal trap.

[0263] Any one or more of the embodiments or features listed under the first to ninth aspects may be combined with any one or more of the above aspects.

[0264] In an eleventh aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a tray for a folding urinal, the folding urinal comprising a main body to which the tray is pivotally coupled, the tray comprising a front face and a rear face; wherein the front face comprises a finishing material of a wall structure or a recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0265] The tray of the eleventh aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the tray embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0266] In a twelfth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal for installation within a wall structure, the urinal comprising:

[0267] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine; and

[0268] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, and wherein a front face of the tray comprises a finishing material of a wall structure or the tray comprises a recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0269] The folding urinal of the twelfth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or of the embodiments described below.

[0270] In an embodiment, the finishing material of the wall structure differs to a material composition of an inner tray surface or a main body of the tray.

[0271] In an embodiment, the finishing material is selected from the group consisting of ceramic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone, engineered stone, glass, mirror, mosaic tile, acrylic or PVC panel,laminated panel, composite panel, fibreglass reinforced panel, stainless steel cladding, and / or metal cladding.

[0272] In an embodiment, the front face comprises the finishing material of the wall structure. In an embodiment, substantially an entire area of the front face comprises the finishing material.

[0273] In an embodiment, the tray comprises the recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0274] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a rim or frame surrounding the recess.

[0275] In an embodiment, a terminal edge of the rim or frame defines a tray outer plane.

[0276] In an embodiment, the tray outer plane is configured to locate less distal to the main body relative to an exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure when received within the recess, or is substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0277] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a recess for receiving a portion of a finishing material of the wall structure, and wherein the recess comprises a depth corresponding to a thickness of the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0278] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a recess for receiving a portion of a finishing material of the wall structure, and wherein the recess comprises a depth that is smaller than a thickness of the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0279] In an embodiment, the recess comprises a depth of between approximately 3mm and 40mm, or between approximately 5mm and 30mm.

[0280] In an embodiment, the recess comprises a substantially rectangular perimeter.

[0281] In an embodiment, the rim or frame of the tray is configured to extend about a periphery or perimeter of the tray.In an embodiment, the recess extends to the rim or frame so to cover substantially an entire area of a front face of the tray.

[0282] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a mounting frame coupled to, or configured to couple, the main body, the tray being received within the mounting frame in a fully closed position.

[0283] In an embodiment, the mounting frame comprises a central opening.

[0284] In an embodiment, the mounting frame comprises an inner rim surrounding the central opening.

[0285] In an embodiment, the inner rim extends laterally from a mounting face of the mounting frame, configured to mount against or adjacent a support surface, in situ.

[0286] In an embodiment, a terminal edge of the inner rim defines a frame outer plane.

[0287] In an embodiment, the frame outer plane is configured to locate less distal to the main body relative to an exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure, or is substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure.

[0288] In an embodiment, a depth of the inner rim of the frame is between approximately 3mm and 40mm, or between approximately 5mm and 30mm.

[0289] In an embodiment, in an assembled state of the urinal, and in a fully closed position of the tray, the rim of the tray and the rim of the mounting frame are configured to locate directly adjacent one another.

[0290] In an embodiment, the rim of the tray and the rim of the mounting frame are closely spaced in the fully closed position of the tray, along substantially an entire perimeter of the tray.

[0291] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a receptacle bounded by side walls, and wherein the side walls extend in an opposing direction from the tray body to the tray rim.

[0292] In an embodiment, the main body comprises the actuating mechanism, and the actuating mechanism is configured to be removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.In an embodiment, the main body further comprises a control system for controlling the actuating mechanism, and the control system is configured to be removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

[0293] In an embodiment, the main body further comprises a cleaning mechanism, and the cleaning mechanism is configured to be removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

[0294] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises at least one mounting bracket having a mounting surface configured to extend laterally from at or adjacent an outer peripheral edge of the mounting frame, in an assembled or installed state of the urinal.

[0295] In an embodiment, the mounting face of each mounting bracket extends substantially orthogonally from at or adjacent the outer peripheral edge of the mounting frame.

[0296] In an embodiment, the mounting face of each mounting bracket extends from the outer peripheral edge in an opposing direction to the inner peripheral rim surrounding the central opening.

[0297] In an embodiment, the urinal comprises a pair of mounting brackets.

[0298] In an embodiment, each mounting bracket is configured to removably couple the mounting frame.

[0299] In an embodiment, the mounting frame is configured to be secured to at least one wall stud of the wall structure.

[0300] In an embodiment, the mounting frame is configured to be secured to the at least one wall stud via at least one intermediary mounting bracket or mount.

[0301] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a hinge for pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, and wherein the hinge is coupled to the main body or to the mounting frame.

[0302] In an embodiment, the hinge is removably coupled to the main body or mounting frame, and the hinge is accessible and removable from a rear side of the main body or mounting frame, facingaway from an exposed finishing material of a wall structure, when the urinal is installed in the wall structure.

[0303] In an embodiment, the main body is configured to removably couple the mounting frame.

[0304] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises an actuating mechanism for moving the tray between the fully closed and open positions.

[0305] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a self-cleaning mechanism having at least one spray nozzles configured to eject a cleaning fluid onto the receptacle, in situ.

[0306] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a self-cleaning mechanism having at a plurality of spray nozzles configured to eject a cleaning fluid onto the receptacle, in situ.

[0307] In an embodiment, the folding urinal comprises at least one lower spray nozzle, configured to eject cleaning fluid from a lower region of the receptacle, in situ. The lower spray nozzle(s) may be positioned to direct a cleaning fluid towards a lower lip of the tray in the fully closed position and the pivotal coupling with the main body. There may be a pair of lower spray nozzles.

[0308] In an embodiment, the folding urinal comprises at least one upper spray nozzle, configured to eject cleaning fluid from an upper region of the receptacle, in situ. There may be a pair of upper spray nozzles. The upper spray nozzles may be positioned to direct a cleaning fluid into the receptacle and onto an inner surface of the tray.

[0309] In an embodiment, the main body comprises a housing and a lid coupled to the housing; and the lid comprises a contoured portion that extends upwardly relative to an adjacent portion of the lid, in situ,

[0310] and wherein the at least one upper spray nozzle is positioned within or adjacent to the contoured portion to achieve a predetermined spray height, in use.

[0311] In an embodiment, the tray is removably coupled to the main body.

[0312] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a hinge member, pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, and wherein the tray is removably coupled to the hinge member.In an embodiment, the tray is slidably coupled to the hinge member.

[0313] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a hinge pivotally coupling the tray to the main body and comprising a main axle and one or more engagement members extending laterally from the main axle and coupled to the tray. The one or more engagement members may extend into the tray. The one or more engagement members may extend into corresponding recesses formed in the tray. The tray may be removably coupled to the one or more engagement members. There may be a plurality of engagement members. In an embodiment, there are three or more engagement members to strengthen the coupling.

[0314] In an embodiment, the hinge is removably coupled to the main body.

[0315] In an embodiment, the hinge is removably coupled to the mounting frame.

[0316] In an embodiment, the tray further comprises a pair of side walls and a gutter channel extending along an external side of each side wall.

[0317] In an embodiment, each gutter channel is discontinuous at an end of the respective side wall proximal to a pivoting axis of the tray.

[0318] In an embodiment, the tray further comprises at least one tray catch, each tray catch being configured to engage the main body.

[0319] In an embodiment, wherein the at least one tray catch is configured to permit slidable disengagement of the tray from the hinge in a first rotational position and to inhibit slidable disengagement of the tray from the hinge in a second, different rotational position.

[0320] In an embodiment, the main body further comprises at least one stopper, and the tray comprises at least one tray catch.

[0321] In an embodiment, in the fully open position, the at least one tray catch is configured to abut the at least one stopper to define a rotational limit for the tray and to mechanically obstruct slidable disengagement of the tray from the main body.In an embodiment, the tray is further movable to an intermediate position, different from the fully open position, wherein in the intermediate position the at least one tray catch is rotationally aligned to clear the at least one stopper, thereby permitting slidable disengagement of the tray.

[0322] In an embodiment, each tray catch is located in a corresponding recess or cavity of the corresponding tray wall.

[0323] In an embodiment, each tray catch is located and protrudes from an outer side of the corresponding side wall.

[0324] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises at least one hinge retainer configured to secure the hinge to the main body.

[0325] In an embodiment, each hinge retainer is accessible from a rear side of the main body configured to face away from the finishing material of the wall structure in situ.

[0326] In an embodiment, axial adjustment is enabled by at least one elongate alignment aperture formed in the hinge retainer.

[0327] In an embodiment, the hinge retainer is configured to retain a pivot pin of the hinge, and comprises a hinge retention cavity formed on the main body.

[0328] In an embodiment, the hinge retainer is configured to permit axial adjustment of the pivot pin relative to the main body during assembly.

[0329] In an embodiment, a fastener is configured to extend through the elongate alignment aperture and engage a fixing aperture, wherein a final position of the fastener within the elongate alignment aperture fixedly determines the axial position of the pivot pin.

[0330] In an embodiment, the hinge retainer and the pivot pin comprise complementary formations for facilitating in the axial positioning of the pivot pin. For example, the pivot pin may comprise a recess and the hinge retainer may comprise a complementary ridge or protrusion configured to fit within the recess. The ridge or protrusion may be formed in a hinge retainer cap configured to couple over the hinge retention cavity of the retainer.In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a user proximity sensor configured to provide a signal indicative of a presence or proximity of a user in the vicinity of the urinal.

[0331] In an embodiment, the folding urinal is configured to activate an actuating mechanism to move the tray to the open position or to the closed position, based on the proximity sensor signal.

[0332] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises a tray position sensor and a magnet, wherein the magnet is located on one of the tray or the main body, and the tray position sensor is located on the other of the main body or the tray, and wherein the tray position sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field parameter of the magnet to determine a position of the tray.

[0333] In an embodiment, the magnet is located on the tray, and the tray position sensor is located on the main body.

[0334] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray between the closed position and open position.

[0335] In an embodiment, the actuating mechanism comprising a movable actuator.

[0336] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a biasing mechanism configured to bias the tray towards the closed position.

[0337] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a stopper positioned in a movement path of the biasing mechanism to define a movement limit for the biasing mechanism beyond a normal operating range of the biasing mechanism, to prevent the actuating mechanism from moving beyond a predetermined movement limit when the tray is removed from the hinge.

[0338] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism, the control system having a stall detection module configured to:

[0339] monitor at least one operational parameter of the motor; and

[0340] detect a stall condition of the motor based on the at least one monitored operational parameter.In an embodiment, the control system is further configured to determine a position of the tray based on the detected stall condition.

[0341] In an embodiment, the folding urinal further comprises:

[0342] a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism;

[0343] a first sensor configured to generate a user presence signal for the control system;

[0344] a second sensor configured to generate a closed position signal when the tray is in a closed position;

[0345] and wherein the control system is further configured to:

[0346] monitor at least one operational parameter of the actuating mechanism; and determine an operational state of the urinal based on a combination of the user presence signal, the closed position signal, and the monitored operational parameter.

[0347] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises:

[0348] a user proximity sensor configured to generate user presence signals; and

[0349] a control system configured to command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the open position upon detection of a user by the sensor;

[0350] wherein the control system is further configured to:

[0351] detect a sequence comprising a predetermined number of user presence signals from the sensor within a defined time interval; and

[0352] in response to detecting the sequence, maintain the tray in the open position.

[0353] In an embodiment, the urinal further comprises:

[0354] a user input device; and

[0355] a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism;

[0356] wherein:

[0357] the tray is further movable to a third, intermediate position located between the fully closed and fully open positions; and

[0358] the control system is configured to, upon receiving a predetermined input signal from the user input device, command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the third, intermediate position;

[0359] and wherein in the third, intermediate position, the tray is aligned to permit its disengagement from the main body.In an embodiment, a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism and being configured to:

[0360] detect a stall condition of the motor during movement; and

[0361] in response to detecting the stall condition, execute a position-recovery routine.

[0362] In an embodiment, the position-recovery routine comprises:

[0363] commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position; monitoring the tray position sensor for the signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position.

[0364] In an embodiment, the position-recovery routine further comprises:

[0365] based on the signal from the tray position sensor, updating positional data to define the closed position as a known reference point for calculating subsequent tray movements.

[0366] In an embodiment, the urinal comprises a control system configured to detect the stall condition by monitoring an operational parameter of the motor and identifying a deviation corresponding to a skipped motor step.

[0367] In an embodiment, the control system is further configured to de-energise the motor immediately upon detecting the stall condition.

[0368] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to initiate the command to move the tray towards the closed position after a predetermined time delay has elapsed following the detection of the stall condition.

[0369] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is a magnetic sensor, and wherein the urinal further comprises a magnet located within the tray, the magnetic sensor being configured to detect the magnet to generate the signal indicating the tray is in the closed position.

[0370] In an embodiment, the control system is further configured to stop commanding the motor to move if a second stall condition is detected during the movement towards the closed position, the second stall condition indicating a physical obstruction preventing the tray from reaching the closed position.In a thirteenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising: a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine;

[0371] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body via a hinge, the tray being movable between a closed position and an open position; and

[0372] a self-cleaning mechanism comprising at least one spray nozzle positioned at a lower end of the main body proximal to the hinge, in situ, and configured to direct a cleaning fluid towards the hinge in use.

[0373] The folding urinal of the thirteenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0374] In a fourteenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0375] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine;

[0376] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body; and

[0377] a hinge for pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, the hinge comprising a main axle and at least three engagement members extending laterally from the main axle, the tray being coupled to the at least three engagement members.

[0378] The folding urinal of the fourteenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0379] In a fifteenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a method of installing a folding urinal in a wall structure, the folding urinal comprising a main body and a mounting frame, the method comprising the steps of:

[0380] positioning the mounting frame within an opening of a wall structure such that the mounting frame is adjacent to at least one wall stud;

[0381] placing at least one angle mount into contact with the mounting frame and the at least one wall stud;

[0382] clamping the at least one angle mount to the wall stud;

[0383] drilling at least one hole through the clamped angle mount and the adjacent wall stud; securing the angle mount to the wall stud by inserting a fastener through the at least one hole; andsecuring the angle mount to the mounting frame.

[0384] The folding urinal of the fifteenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0385] In a sixteenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0386] a main body;

[0387] a tray removably and pivotally coupled to the main body via a hinge, when coupled to the hinge the tray being moveable between a closed position and an open position;

[0388] an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray between the closed position and open position, the actuating mechanism comprising a movable actuator; and

[0389] a biasing mechanism configured to bias the tray towards the closed position;

[0390] a stopper positioned in a movement path of the biasing mechanism to define a movement limit for the biasing mechanism beyond a normal operating range of the biasing mechanism, to prevent the actuating mechanism from moving beyond a predetermined movement limit when the tray is removed from the hinge.

[0391] The folding urinal of the sixteenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0392] In a seventeenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0393] a main body;

[0394] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body;

[0395] an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray, the actuating mechanism comprising a motor; and

[0396] a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism, the control system having a stall detection module configured to:

[0397] monitor at least one operational parameter of the motor; and

[0398] detect a stall condition of the motor based on the at least one monitored operational parameter;

[0399] and wherein the control system is further configured to determine a position of the tray based on the detected stall condition.The folding urinal of the seventeenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0400] In an eighteenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a method of controlling a folding urinal, the urinal comprising a main body, a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, and an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray, the method comprising the steps of:

[0401] transmitting, via a control system, a command signal to the motor to move the tray; monitoring, via the control system, at least one operational parameter of the motor while the motor is commanded to move;

[0402] detecting a stall condition of the motor based on the monitored operational parameter; and determining a position of the tray based on the detected stall condition.

[0403] The folding urinal of the eighteenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0404] In a nineteenth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0405] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine; and

[0406] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, the tray comprising a pair of side walls;

[0407] a tray catch on at least one of the side walls.

[0408] In an embodiment, the folding urinal comprises a tray catch on each of the side walls.

[0409] In an embodiment, each side wall defines a recess, wherein each tray catch is located within the recess of its respective side wall.

[0410] The folding urinal of the nineteenth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0411] In a twentieth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal assembly comprising:a folding urinal installed within a wall structure, the wall structure separating a first space from a second space and having a front surface facing the first space and a rear surface facing the second space, and wherein:

[0412] the folding urinal comprises a main body located within a cavity of the wall structure, and a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, the tray being accessible from the first space;

[0413] the wall structure comprises an access hatch on the rear surface, the access hatch providing user access to the main body from the second space.

[0414] The folding urinal of the twentieth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0415] In a twenty-first aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0416] a main body;

[0417] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body;

[0418] an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray;

[0419] a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism; and

[0420] a first sensor configured to generate a user presence signal for the control system;

[0421] a second sensor configured to generate a closed position signal when the tray is in a closed position;

[0422] and wherein the control system is further configured to:

[0423] monitor at least one operational parameter of the actuating mechanism; and determine an operational state of the urinal based on a combination of the user presence signal, the closed position signal, and the monitored operational parameter.

[0424] The folding urinal of the twenty-first aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0425] In a twenty-second aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0426] a main body;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body and movable by an actuating mechanism to an open position;

[0427] a user proximity sensor configured to generate user presence signals; and

[0428] a control system configured to command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the open position upon detection of a user by the sensor;

[0429] wherein the control system is further configured to:

[0430] detect a sequence comprising a predetermined number of user presence signals from the sensor within a defined time interval; and

[0431] in response to detecting the sequence, maintain the tray in the open position for a predetermined period of time.

[0432] The folding urinal of the twenty-second aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0433] In a twenty-third aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0434] a main body;

[0435] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, the tray being movable by an actuating mechanism between a first, closed position and a second, open position;

[0436] wherein the tray is disengageable from the main body;

[0437] a user input device; and

[0438] a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism;

[0439] wherein:

[0440] the tray is further movable to a third, intermediate position located between the first and second positions; and

[0441] the control system is configured to, upon receiving a predetermined input signal from the user input device, command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the third, intermediate position;

[0442] and wherein in the third, intermediate position, the tray is aligned to permit its disengagement from the main body.

[0443] In an embodiment, the predetermined input signal comprises a sequence of predetermined inputs received from the user input device within a defined time interval.In an embodiment, the user input device is a non-contact proximity sensor, and wherein the sequence of inputs corresponds to a repeated detection of an object moving into and out of the sensor's detection range.

[0444] In an embodiment, the main body further comprises at least one stopper, and wherein the third, intermediate position is located such that at least one tray catch on the tray is not rotationally aligned with the at least one stopper on the main body to permit the slidable disengagement.

[0445] In an embodiment, in at least the second, open position, the at least one tray catch is rotationally aligned with the at least one stopper in a manner that mechanically obstructs the slidable disengagement of the tray from the main body.

[0446] The folding urinal of the twenty-third aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0447] In a twenty -fifth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0448] a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine;

[0449] a tray pivotally coupled to the main body; and

[0450] a self-cleaning mechanism comprising at least one upper spray nozzle located within the main body and above the receptacle;

[0451] wherein:

[0452] the main body comprises a housing and a lid coupled to the housing; and the lid comprises a contoured portion that extends upwardly relative to an adjacent portion of the lid, in situ,

[0453] and wherein the at least one upper spray nozzle is positioned within or adjacent to the contoured portion to achieve a predetermined spray height, in use.

[0454] The folding urinal of the twenty-fifth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.In a twenty-sixth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a method of controlling a folding urinal, the urinal comprising a tray, an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray between an open and a closed position, a control system, and a tray position sensor configured to detect when the tray is in the closed position, the method comprising the steps of:

[0455] commanding, via the control system, the motor to move the tray;

[0456] detecting a stall condition of the motor during movement; and

[0457] in response to detecting the stall condition, entering a position-recovery mode, the positionrecovery mode comprising:

[0458] commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position; monitoring the tray position sensor for a signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; and

[0459] upon receiving the signal from the tray position sensor, re-establishing the closed position as a known reference position in the control system.

[0460] The folding urinal of the twenty-sixth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0461] In a twenty-seventh aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a method of controlling a folding urinal, the urinal comprising a tray, an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray between an open and a closed position, a control system, and a tray position sensor configured to detect when the tray is in the closed position, the method comprising the steps of:

[0462] commanding, via the control system, the motor to move the tray;

[0463] detecting a stall condition of the motor during movement; and

[0464] in response to detecting the stall condition, entering a position-recovery mode, the positionrecovery mode comprising:

[0465] commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position;

[0466] monitoring the tray position sensor for a signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; and

[0467] based on the signal from the tray position sensor, updating positional data to define the closed position as a known reference point for calculating subsequent tray movements.

[0468] In an embodiment, the step of detecting the stall condition comprises monitoring an operational parameter of the motor and identifying a deviation corresponding to a skipped motor step.In an embodiment, the method further comprises, immediately upon detecting the stall condition, de-energising the motor.

[0469] In an embodiment, the step of commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position is initiated after a predetermined time delay following the detection of the stall condition.

[0470] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is a magnetic sensor, and wherein the method further comprises detecting, via the magnetic sensor, a magnet located within the tray to confirm the tray has reached the closed position.

[0471] In an embodiment, the control system is further configured to stop commanding the motor to move the tray if a second stall condition is detected during the movement towards the closed position, the second stall condition indicating a physical obstruction preventing the tray from reaching the closed position.

[0472] The folding urinal of the twenty-seventh aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0473] In a twenty-eighth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a folding urinal comprising:

[0474] a tray;

[0475] an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray between an open and a closed position;

[0476] a tray position sensor configured to generate a signal when the tray is in the closed position; and

[0477] a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism and being configured to:

[0478] detect a stall condition of the motor during movement; and

[0479] in response to detecting the stall condition, execute a position-recovery routine, wherein the position-recovery routine comprises:

[0480] commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position;monitoring the tray position sensor for the signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; and

[0481] based on the signal from the tray position sensor, updating positional data to define the closed position as a known reference point for calculating subsequent tray movements.

[0482] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to detect the stall condition by monitoring an operational parameter of the motor and identifying a deviation corresponding to a skipped motor step.

[0483] In an embodiment, the control system is further configured to de-energise the motor immediately upon detecting the stall condition.

[0484] In an embodiment, the control system is configured to initiate the command to move the tray towards the closed position after a predetermined time delay has elapsed following the detection of the stall condition.

[0485] In an embodiment, the tray position sensor is a magnetic sensor, and wherein the urinal further comprises a magnet located within the tray, the magnetic sensor being configured to detect the magnet to generate the signal indicating the tray is in the closed position.

[0486] In an embodiment, the control system is further configured to stop commanding the motor to move if a second stall condition is detected during the movement towards the closed position, the second stall condition indicating a physical obstruction preventing the tray from reaching the closed position.

[0487] The folding urinal of the twenty-eighth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0488] In a twenty ninth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist of a kit of parts for a folding urinal, the kit comprising: a main body comprising a receptacle for receiving urine in use, a tray pivotally coupled to, or configured to pivotally couple to, the main body.In an embodiment, the kit further comprises a mounting frame to which the main body is configure to removably couple.

[0489] In an embodiment, the kit further comprises a hinge member for pivotally coupling the tray to the main body.

[0490] In an embodiment, the kit further comprises at least one hinge retainer configured to secure hinge member of the main body or to the mounting frame.

[0491] 6. In an embodiment, the kit further comprises at least one mount configured to secure the mounting frame to a wall structure.

[0492] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a recess on a front face, the recess being configured to receive a portion of a wall finishing material.

[0493] In an embodiment, the tray comprises a peripheral rim configured to be substantially co-planar with, or set back from, an outermost surface of the wall finishing material when the finishing material is received within the recess, thereby creating a flush-mounted appearance of the urinal with finishing material of the wall structure adjacent the urinal.

[0494] In an embodiment, the kit further comprises a plurality of peripheral rims or peripheral rim finishing options to be coupled to the tray.

[0495] In an embodiment, the plurality of peripheral rims or peripheral rim finishing options comprises a plurality of discrete depth options for the peripheral rim of the tray, each depth option corresponding to a predetermined range of wall finishing material thicknesses.

[0496] In an embodiment, the mounting frame comprises an inner rim and wherein the inner rim of the mounting frame is configured to be substantially co-planar with, or set back from, an outermost surface of the wall finishing material when the finishing material is received within the recess, thereby creating a flush-mounted appearance of the urinal with finishing material of the wall structure adjacent the urinal.In an embodiment, the kit further comprises a plurality of inner rims or inner rim finishing options to be coupled to the mounting frame.

[0497] In an embodiment, the plurality of inner rims or inner rim finishing options comprises a plurality of discrete depth options for the mounting frame rim, each depth option corresponding to a predetermined range of wall finishing material thicknesses.

[0498] The folding urinal of the twenty-ninth aspect can be implemented to incorporate the features of any one, or any combination of one or more, of the embodiments described with reference to the folding urinal of the first aspect or the folding urinal of the twelfth aspect.

[0499] The term “comprising” as used in this specification and claims means “consisting at least in part of’. When interpreting each statement in this specification and claims that includes the term “comprising”, features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0500] Number Ranges

[0501] It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, all sub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[0502] As used herein the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or both.

[0503] As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0504] This invention may also be said broadly to consist 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 said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers arementioned 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.

[0505] The invention consists in the foregoing and envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

[0506] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0507] Embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0508] Fig. l is a perspective view of an exemplary folding urinal of the invention installed in a wall and in the fully-closed position;

[0509] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the exemplary folding urinal of Fig. 1 in the fully-open position; Fig. 3 is a perspective, exploded view of the exemplary folding urinal of Fig. 1;

[0510] Fig. 4 is a perspective, partially exploded view of the exemplary folding urinal of Fig. 1;

[0511] Fig. 5 is a detail view of a first hinge retention assembly of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 in a fully installed state;

[0512] Fig. 6 is a detail view of the first hinge retention assembly of Fig. 5 in a partially installed state; Fig. 7 is a detail view of a second hinge retention assembly of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 in a partially installed state;

[0513] Fig. 8 is a detail view of the second hinge retention assembly of Fig. 7 in a fully installed state; Fig. 9 is a perspective, rear view shown from one side of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 connected to an exemplary drain pipe;

[0514] Fig. 10 is a perspective, rearview shown from another side of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 connected to an exemplary drain pipe and with the tray in a fully-closed position;

[0515] Fig. 11 is a perspective, rear view as per Fig. 10 but with the tray in the full-open position;

[0516] Fig. 12 is a front perspective view of an exemplary folding urinal with a removable tray shown in the removed position;

[0517] Fig. 13 is a front view of the tray of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 showing the details of a gutter channel and corresponding stopper on the base of the folding urinal;

[0518] Fig. 14 is a front, perspective view of an exemplary tray of the folding urinal of Fig. 1;

[0519] Fig. 15 is a rear, perspective view of the exemplary tray of Fig. 14;Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary drain pipe which may be connected to a folding urinal, in an unassembled state;

[0520] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary drain pipe of Fig. 16;

[0521] Fig. 18 is a perspective, exploded view of components of an exemplary main body of the folding urinal of Fig. 1;

[0522] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of an alignment plate for use in aligning components of the main body of Fig. 18;

[0523] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of an alignment step in the process of assembling the main body of Fig. 18;

[0524] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of an assembled state of the main body of Fig. 18;

[0525] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the tray and main body of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 in an unassembled state;

[0526] Fig. 23 is perspective view of a front cover and main body of the folding urinal of Fig. 1 in an unassembled state;

[0527] Fig. 24 is a perspective detail view of the front cover and main body showing coupling features of the front cover and flange;

[0528] Fig. 24B is a perspective detail view of a rear of the front cover of Fig. 24;

[0529] Fig. 25 is a perspective view of an exemplary mounting bracket for mounting the urinal on a support surface;

[0530] Fig. 26 is a close-up view of a housing of an exemplary control unit of the folding urinal of Fig. 1; Fig. 27 is a sketch of an exemplary implementation of a folding urinal installed in a wall;

[0531] Fig. 28 is a front view of the exemplary folding urinal of Fig. 27;

[0532] Fig. 29 is a perspective view of an exemplary adaptor for use in the process of installation of a folding urinal, such as that of Fig. 1;

[0533] Fig. 30 is a close-up perspective view of an exemplary hinge member of the urinal of Fig. 1; Fig. 31 is another perspective view of the main body of the urinal of Fig. 1;

[0534] Fig. 32 is a photograph of an exemplary nozzle of a flushing mechanism of the urinal of Fig. 1; Fig. 33 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a folding urinal, in an assembled state;

[0535] Fig. 34 is a perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 with the tray removed;

[0536] Fig. 35 is a perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 with the tray closed and without finishing material applied;

[0537] Fig. 36 is a perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 flush-mounted in a wall structure with finishing material applied and the tray in the closed position;Fig. 37 is a perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 flush-mounted in a wall structure with finishing material applied and the tray in the open position;

[0538] Fig. 38 is a close-up view of a section of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing the tray outer rim and adjacent outer frame rim;

[0539] Fig. 39 is a close-up view of a variation of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 flush-mounted in a wall structure, with finishing material applied and the tray in the closed position;

[0540] Fig. 40 is a perspective view of an exemplary tray of the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0541] Fig. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing an upper portion of an exemplary cleaning system;

[0542] Fig. 42 is a cross-sectional view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing a lower portion of an exemplary cleaning system;

[0543] Fig. 43 is a close-up view of a top portion of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing an exemplary housing unit for a control system;

[0544] Fig. 44 is another cross-sectional view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing a lower portion of an exemplary cleaning system;

[0545] Fig. 45 is a close-up view of an exemplary hinge system of the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0546] Fig. 46 is a rear view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 in an installed and mounted state from behind a wall structure;

[0547] Fig. 47 is a perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing an exemplary actuating mechanism;

[0548] Fig. 48 is a close-up perspective view of an exemplary linkage and stopper mechanism of the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0549] Fig. 49 is a block diagram of an exemplary control system and associated devices for a folding urinal system;

[0550] Fig. 50 is a block diagram of an exemplary control system and associated power management unit for a folding urinal system;

[0551] Fig. 51 is a perspective view of a section of a wall structure with the exemplary folding urinal of Fig. 33 flush-mounted within the wall structure and in the open position;

[0552] Fig. 52A is a close-up perspective view of an exemplary hinge retention mechanism of the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0553] Fig. 52B is a close-up perspective view of an exemplary hinge retention mechanism of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 with the hinge retention cover removed;

[0554] Fig. 52c is a close-up perspective view of a hinge retention cavity component;

[0555] Fig. 53 is another perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33;Fig. 54 is a close-up perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing upper cleaning nozzles of an exemplary cleaning system;

[0556] Fig. 55 is an exemplary tile cut-out template for installing the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0557] Fig. 56 shows the folding urinal of Fig. 33 flush-mounted in a wall structure before the application of finishing material to the wall lining of the wall structure;

[0558] Fig. 57 is an exemplary wall cut-out template for installing the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0559] Fig. 58 is an exploded perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33;

[0560] Fig. 59 is a close-up cross-sectional view of an exemplary motor system for a folding urinal; Fig. 60 is a perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 installed in a wall structure, with the main body removed from the mounting frame; and

[0561] Fig. 61 is another perspective view of the folding urinal of Fig. 33 showing the main body removed from the mounting frame.

[0562] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0563] In the following detailed description, reference is made to specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It is to be understood that the various embodiments of the invention, although different, are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Furthermore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described herein in connection with one embodiment may be implemented within other embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the location or arrangement of individual elements within each disclosed embodiment may be modified without departing from the scope of the invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0564] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Likewise, the terms “embodiment s) of the invention”, “alternative embodiment(s)”, and “exemplary embodiment s)” do not require that all embodiments of the method(s) or apparatus include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation. The following description of the preferred embodiment is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or use.

[0565] First Illustrative Folding UrinalReferring now to Figs. 1-4, there is shown a folding urinal 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The urinal 100 includes a main body 120 and a tray 140 which is pivotally attached to the main body 120. The urinal 100 is adapted to be mounted on or in a wall 260, which is preferably an internal wall of a building such as a dwelling, in a bathroom or toilet. The urinal 100 may preferably be fully or partially recessed into a cavity (not shown) of the wall such that it is substantially concealed or sits substantially flush with the wall such that it maintains a low-profile in an installed and closed position. If installed in a wall cavity, a depth of the cavity may be between approximately 120mm and 70mm, more preferably between approximately 100mm and 70mm and most preferably between approximately 90mm and 70mm, for instance. A preferred mounting of the folding urinal 100 to a wall (or other supporting structure) is such that it may easily be removed from the wall for servicing. However, it may alternatively be non-removably mounted on the wall or other supporting structure.

[0566] The main body 120 comprises a base 121 (Figs. 3 and 4), having a receptacle 122 (which may also be referred to as a bowl or basin 122) for receiving liquids and an outlet 123 formed through the receptacle 122 for urine and other liquid(s) to be flushed. The receptacle 122 comprises a rear wall 122a and a plurality of surrounding walls 122b extending outwardly from the rear wall. The surrounding walls 122b include a top wall, a bottom wall, and two opposing side walls, collectively defining an enclosed volume of the receptacle 122.

[0567] Referring to Fig. 14, the tray 140 has a primary, concavely curved surface 141 which has a generally U-shaped cross-section. The curved surface 141 is formed from two opposing side walls 142, 143 curving from a central region 144 of the surface 141. A height of each of the walls 142, 143 is greater at a hinged-end 145 of the tray 140 relative to a terminal, front end of tray 146 of the tray. The increase in height is preferably gradual and comprising a convex curvature, at least in a region at or adjacent the hinged-end 145 of the tray. In other embodiments, the tapering in height may be more linear. In other alternative configurations, the height of each of the walls 142, 143 may be substantially uniform along a longitudinal dimension of the tray 141.

[0568] The tray 141 is pivotally coupled to the main body 120 by a hinge for enabling rotation of the tray 140 relative to the main body 120 between a fully-closed, “standby” position shown in Fig. 1 and a fully-opened, “in use” position shown in Fig. 2. An exemplary hinge comprises one or more pivot pins formed on or coupled to one of the tray 140 or the main body 120, and one or more pivot surfaces formed on or coupled to the other of the main body 120 or the tray 140 against which the pivot pin(s) rotate, in use. The urinal 100 comprises a hinge retention mechanism forlocking the hinge in position along a pivot axis of the hinge, post assembly / installation. The hinge retention mechanism preferably also comprises an alignment mechanism for allowing minor adjustments of an axial position of the hinge and tray along the pivot axis relative to the main body, during assembly / installation. In some configurations, the hinge alignment mechanism may be omitted.

[0569] As shown in Figs. 3 and 9, an actuating mechanism 150 is operatively coupled to the tray 140 to actuate movement of the tray between the fully-opened and fully-closed positions. An exemplary actuation mechanism comprises an electromagnetic actuator. However, other actuation mechanisms may be implemented in alternative configurations including hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical, user-controlled actuators.

[0570] As shown in Figs. 3 and 10, a biasing mechanism 160 is preferably operatively coupled to the hinge and / or the tray to bias the hinge and / or tray towards the fully-closed position. An exemplary biasing mechanism comprises a compression spring operatively coupled between the tray 140 and the main body 120. However, other biasing mechanisms may be implemented in alternative configurations including torsional springs, leaf springs and magnetic biasing mechanisms, for instance.

[0571] Hinge and Actuation

[0572] The tray 140 may be constituted as shown in Fig. 3, with a front cover-plate 149 formed separately to a main body portion 148 of the tray 140. An exemplary hinge comprises an elongate hinge member 130 accommodated and rigidly retained between the front cover-plate 149 and the main body portion 148. In an alternative configuration, the tray 140 may be formed as a single component / body. The hinge member 130 could be integrally moulded or fabricated with the tray 140 during the moulding process. The hinge member 130 comprises pivot pins configured to extend external to the tray 140 for coupling a corresponding pivot surface of the hinge mechanism. In this configuration, the hinge member 130 comprises a main axle 131 with a first end of the main axle 131 forming a first pivot pin 132 and a second end of the main axle 131 forming a second pivot pin 133. The first and second pivot pins 132, 133 are axially aligned and extend externally and laterally from either side of the tray 140 in situ, as shown in Figs. 4-8. A corresponding pivot surface is formed or coupled on the main body 120 of the urinal 100 for each pivot pin 132, 133, to cooperate with the pivot pin and hingedly couple the tray 140 to the main body 120. In some configurations, the main axle 131 may be omitted or may not connect two pivot pins at either endof the tray 140. In some configurations, there may be a single pivot pin extending from one side of the tray 140 only and a corresponding pivot surface formed or coupled on the main body 120.

[0573] In some configurations, one or more pivot pins 132, 133 may be rigidly coupled to the main body 120 and one or more corresponding pivot surfaces may be formed on or coupled to the tray 140.

[0574] In the exemplary embodiments shown, a central section of the main axle 131 between the opposing pivot pins 132, 133 is accommodated within the tray 140, between the main body portion 148 and the front cover-plate 149. Accordingly, inner walls of the main body portion 148 and / or the front cover-plate 149 may comprise formations that are complementary to an outer surface of the main axle 131. For example, when connected the inner walls of the main body portion 148 and the front cover-plate 140 may form a channel that closely surrounds and accommodates the longitudinal main axle 131, along a “hinged-end” 145 of the tray 140.

[0575] A pair of longitudinal and spaced prongs 135, 136 extend transversely from a central region of the main axle 131 for coupling the hinge member 130 to the tray 140. There may be any number of one or more prongs extending from the main axle 131 in other configurations. Each prong 135, 136 extends substantially orthogonally relative to the main axle 131 and is configured to rigidly couple to the tray 140. The longitudinal prongs 134, 135 help to reduce the load on the hinge to pivot the tray 140. They may take on other shapes such as a planar shape, which may be a plate or a substantially flattened arm, for instance. The main body 148 of the tray and / or the front cover 149 may comprise one or more cavities, channels or grooves, corresponding and complementary in form to the one or more intermediate prongs 135, 136 for accommodating the prong(s) therein. In alternative configurations, there may be no prongs extending and / or the main axle 131 may be coupled to the tray 140 via any other suitable method. For example, the hinge member 130 and corresponding pivot pins may be integrally formed or encased withing the tray body during the moulding process.

[0576] The hinge member 130 may be removably coupled to the tray 140. In this configuration each prong 135, 136 couples the main body 148 of the tray via a fixing mechanism. This mechanism may comprise a bracket and fasteners for instance, such that the hinge 130 is removable. Alternatively, the fixing mechanism may include the use of a strong adhesive, or a weld, to rigidly and non-removably couple the hinge member 130 to the main body 148 of the tray 140.As shown in Figs. 12A and 12B, in one configuration the tray 140 may be removably coupled to the hinge member 130, such that it can be removed in situ post installation for cleaning and / or servicing. The tray 140 may be configured to slidably engage and disengage the hinge member 130 for instance. The tray may be configured slidably engage and disengage the prongs 135, 136 of the hinge member 130. The tray may lock to the hinge member 130 and unlock for removal using any suitable mechanism. There may be one or more female slots 140a, 140b coupled to or formed inside the tray 140 at a base / hinged end of the tray 140. The slots 140a, 140b being configured to slidably receive the corresponding prongs 135, 136. The female slots may have one or more retention and / or sealing elements (not shown), such as rubber rings, configured to firmly hold the corresponding prongs 135, 136 within the female slots 140a, 140b. The female slots might be made from steel or a plastics material. A longitudinal channel or slot 140c may be formed along the end of the tray 140 for receiving the main axle 131 of the hinge. The main axle channel 140c may be open to allow for the tray 140 to disengage and engage the hinge 130 in use.

[0577] The main body and / or tray may be further configured to allow for removal in a predetermined rotational position. For instance, the predetermined position may be between the fully closed and fully open positions. It may be slightly before the fully open position. The tray may be configured to stop or “park” in this rotational position. To enable easy removal for cleaning, in the designated "tray removal park position", the tray may be allowed to clear the stoppers 126 and easily disengage from the main body 120. In some implementations, the stoppers 126 may be removable to allow for the removable coupling of the tray. In yet another implementation, the tray may comprise a tray catch configured to engage a corresponding stopper 126 in the fully open position, and each tray catch may be removably coupled to the tray such that it can be removed to allow the tray to be decoupled from the main body.

[0578] Referring back to Figs. 3 and 4, the main body 120 comprises pivot surfaces that cooperate with the pivot pins 132, 133 to form the hinge. In this exemplary embodiment, the pivot surfaces are formed on or coupled to either side of the main body 120 and in particular either side of a flange component 124 of the main body 120. The flange 124 is configured to couple the base 121 of the main body 120. In some configurations, the pivot surfaces may be formed directly on the base 121 or coupled directly to the base 121.

[0579] As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the urinal 100 comprises a first hinge retention assembly configured to position and lock the first pivot pin in an axial position relative to the main body 120 (or to thetray 140 if the first pivot pin extends from the main body 120). This also locks the axial position of the tray 140 (or main body 120) relative to the main body 120 (or relative to the tray 140). The first hinge retention assembly preferably also comprises a mechanism for making minor adjustments to the axial position of the pin relative to the main body 120 (or tray 140 if the pin extends from the main body) before locking the first pivot pin 132 in an axial position. This allows for alignment of the hinge member 130 and tray 140 with the main body 120 during assembly, to account for manufacturing imperfections for instance.

[0580] An exemplary embodiment of a first hinge retention assembly is shown in Figs. 4 to 6. In this exemplary embodiment, the first hinge retention assembly comprises a first hinge retention cavity 170 formed or coupled to the main body 120. In this embodiment, the first hinge retention cavity is formed on or coupled to the flange 124 of the main body 120. The first hinge retention cavity 170 is formed integral with, or otherwise separately formed and rigidly coupled to, one side of a face 125 of the main body 120 configured to oppose the tray 140 in an assembled state of the urinal 100. The first hinge retention cavity 170 is positioned on the face 125 to receive a corresponding first pivot pin 132 extending from the tray 140, when the tray 140 is brought into functional alignment with the main body 120. The first hinge retention cavity 170 may comprise an internal pivot surface 171 that complements the outer surface of the corresponding pivot pin 132 and which the pivot pin 132 can rotatably bear against, in use. The pivot surface 171 may be concavely curved for instance to complement a convexly curved pivot pin 132. This is optional, but advantageous for reducing friction and improving longevity of the hinge.

[0581] The first hinge retention cavity 170 may be configured to position around and cover a portion of the periphery of the pivot about the hinging axis, such approximately half. A corresponding first hinge retention bracket 175 of the first hinge assembly couples over the remaining portion and to the hinge retention cavity 170 as shown in Fig. 5 to substantially enclose the first pivot pin in an assembled and coupled state. The first hinge retention bracket 175 may comprise an internal pivot surface that complements the outer surface of the corresponding pivot pin 132 and which the pivot pin 132 can rotatably bear against, in use. The pivot surface may be concavely curved for instance to complement a convexly curved pivot pin 132. This is optional, but advantageous for reducing friction and improving longevity of the hinge.

[0582] The first pivot pin 132 may comprise an irregular outer surface or periphery and the first hinge retention cavity 170, or the first hinge retention bracket 175, or both, may comprise an innersurface that complements the pivot pin’s irregular outer surface, such that an interlocking connection is made between the said inner and outer surfaces. For example, as shown in Fig. 6, the first hinge retention bracket 175 comprises an inner recess or cavity having a surface profile that complements the irregular outer surface profile of the first pivot pin 132, to form an interlocking connection with the first pivot pin 132. The first pivot pin 132 may comprise, for instance, a series of protrusions, recesses, ridges, grooves, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the first hinge retention bracket 175 (and / or the cavity 170) may comprise a surface configured with a complementary irregular profile, designed to mate with the series of protrusions, recesses, ridges, grooves, or a combination thereof. The engagement between the first pivot pin 132 and the bracket 175 (and / or cavity 170) may occur through a friction fit or a snap fit engagement, for instance. This arrangement fixes the pivot pin in an axial position with respect to the main body 120, to inhibit side to side movement of the tray 140 relative to the main body 120, in an assembled state of the hinge retention assembly.

[0583] The axial adjustment mechanism of the first hinge retention assembly may comprise at least one elongate alignment aperture 177 formed in at least one of the first hinge retention cavity 170 or the first hinge retention bracket 175. The elongated aperture preferably extends along a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the hinge. The mechanism may further comprise at least one corresponding fixing aperture formed in the corresponding first hinge retention bracket 175 or first hinge retention cavity 170. A fastener 176 can extend through the alignment aperture and into the fixing aperture to fixedly couple the first hinge retention cavity 170 to the first or second hinge retention bracket 175. A position of the fastener within the elongate alignment aperture 177 corresponds to an axial position of the hinge and tray relative to the main body 120.

[0584] In one exemplary implementation, the first hinge retention bracket 175 may comprise one or more elongate alignment apertures 177 and the first hinge retention cavity 170 may comprise one or more corresponding fixing apertures 172 for receiving a fastener 176 therethrough. The one or more fixing apertures on the cavity could be threaded for receiving a threaded fastener, for instance. The one or more alignment apertures 177 of the bracket 175 are preferably substantially elongate along an axis that is substantially parallel to the first pivot pin axis.

[0585] The hinge assembly may further comprise one or more sealing elements coupled about the pivot pin 132 to substantially isolate a potential fluids path between the tray 140 and the main body 120 via the hinge. A sealing element (not shown), such as an O-ring seal, may be located within thefirst hinge retention assembly and about a groove formed at an end of the first pivot pin 132, for instance, for fluidly isolating one side of the pivot pin from another side to achieve the effect of fluidly isolating a potential fluids path between the tray 140 and main body 120 via the hinge. A seal recess or groove may be in the base 121 of the main body 120 at or adjacent the first hinge retention cavity 170 for receiving and retaining the sealing element 174.

[0586] In this exemplary embodiment where two pivot pins 132, 133 are incorporated, the urinal 100 further comprises a second hinge retention assembly configured to lock the second pivot pin 133 in an axial position relative to the main body 120 (or to the tray 140 if the second pivot pin 133 extends from the main body 120). The second hinge retention assembly optionally comprises a mechanism for making minor adjustments to the axial position of the pin relative to the main body 120 (or tray 140 if the pin extends from the main body) before locking the second pivot pin 133 in an axial position. As for the first hinge retention mechanism, this allows for alignment of the hinge member 130 and tray 140 with the main body 120 during assembly, to account for manufacturing imperfections for instance. In a preferred implementation, only one of the first and second hinge retention assemblies comprise a mechanism for adjusting the axial position of the hinge.

[0587] An exemplary embodiment of a second hinge retention assembly is shown in Figs. 4, 7 and 8. In this exemplary embodiment, the second hinge retention assembly comprises a second hinge retention cavity 180 formed or coupled to the main body 120. In this embodiment, the second hinge retention cavity is formed on or coupled to the flange 124 of the main body 120. As shown in Fig. 7, the second hinge retention cavity 180 is formed on or coupled to one side of a face 125 of the main body 120 configured to oppose the tray 140 in an assembled state of the urinal 100. The second hinge retention cavity 180 is positioned on the face 125 to receive the corresponding second pivot pin 133 extending from the tray 140 (if implemented), when the tray 140 is brought into functional alignment with the main body 120. The second hinge retention cavity 180 may comprise an internal pivot surface 181 that complements the outer surface of the corresponding pivot pin 133 and which the pivot pin 133 can rotatably bear against, in use. The pivot surface 181 may be concavely curved for instance to complement a convexly curved pivot pin 133. This is optional, but advantageous for reducing friction and improving longevity of the hinge.

[0588] The second hinge retention cavity 180 may be configured to position around and cover a portion of the periphery of the pivot pin 133 about the hinging axis 134, such as approximately half of the length of the pivot pin, or at least three quarters of the length of the pivot pin 133. A correspondingsecond hinge retention cap 185 of the second hinge assembly couples over the hinge retention cavity 180 as shown in Fig. 8 to substantially enclose the retained portion of the second pivot pin 133 in an assembled and coupled state. The second hinge retention bracket 185 may comprise an internal pivot surface that complements the outer surface of the corresponding pivot pin 133 and which the pivot pin 133 can rotatably bear against, in use. The pivot surface may be concavely curved for instance to complement a convexly curved pivot pin 133. This is optional, but advantageous for reducing friction and improving longevity of the hinge.

[0589] The second pivot pin 133 may comprise an irregular outer surface or periphery and the second hinge retention cavity 180, or the second hinge retention bracket 185, or both, may comprise an inner surface that complements the pivot pin’s irregular outer surface, such that an interlocking connection is made between the said inner and outer surfaces. For example, the second hinge retention bracket 185 comprises an inner recess or cavity having a surface profile that complements the irregular outer surface profile of the second pivot pin 133, to form an interlocking connection with the second pivot pin 132. The second pivot pin 132 may comprise, for instance, a series of protrusions, recesses, ridges, grooves, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the second hinge retention bracket 185 (and / or the cavity 180) may comprise a surface configured with a complementary irregular profile, designed to mate with the series of protrusions, recesses, ridges, grooves, or a combination thereof. The engagement between the second pivot pin 133 and the bracket 185 (and / or cavity 180) may occur through a friction fit or a snap fit engagement, for instance. This arrangement fixes the pivot pin in an axial position with respect to the main body 120, in an assembled state of the second hinge retention assembly.

[0590] The second hinge retention assembly may comprise an axial adjustment mechanism, as per the first hinge retention assembly or instead of the first hinge retention assembly, as described for the first hinge retention assembly. In this exemplary embodiment, the second hinge retention assembly does not comprise an axial adjustment mechanism. Fixing apertures formed in the second hinge retention cavity 180 and bracket 185 allow the bracket and cavity to be aligned and fixed to one another using suitable fasteners. However, other mechanisms for rigidly coupling the bracket and cavity may be implemented in this case, such as via an adhesive.

[0591] The hinge assembly may further comprise one or more sealing elements coupled about the pivot pin 133 to substantially isolate a potential fluids path between the tray 140 and the main body 120 via the hinge. A second sealing element 184, such as an O-ring seal, may be located within thesecond hinge retention assembly and about the second pivot pin 133, for instance, for fluidly isolating one side of the pivot pin from another side to achieve the effect of fluidly isolating a potential fluids path between the tray 140 and main body 120 via the hinge. A seal recess or groove may be formed on the pivot pin 133 for receiving and retaining the sealing element 184. Alternatively, or in addition, a sealing element (not shown), such as another an O-ring seal, may be positioned within a groove formed in the main body, such as within a rim surrounding the receptacle to fluidly isolate the receptacle 122 from the second hinge retention assembly and corresponding pivot pin. This may prevent liquid from leaking out from within the receptacle and into the second hinge retention assembly and corresponding pivot pin 133. The second hinge retention bracket 185 may comprise a corresponding groove at a corresponding end of the bracket 185, for coupling over the sealing element.

[0592] The actuating mechanism comprises an actuator 150 connected between the tray and the main body 120 for actuating movement of the tray 140 between the closed position and the open position. The actuator 150 may comprise an electromechanical actuating mechanism, for instance that is configured to move between two positions corresponding to the fully closed, standby position of the tray 140 and the fully opened, in-use or ready for use position. Alternatively, the actuator may comprise an electrically controlled, hydraulic or pneumatic mechanism. In yet another alternative, the actuator may be manually and mechanically operated and comprise a lever that a user may pull or push to move the tray between the closed position and the open position.

[0593] In an exemplary embodiment, best shown in Figs. 3 and 9, the actuator 150 may be an electrically controlled, linear actuator having a piston that is axially moveable between an advanced position and a retracted position corresponding to the first, closed position and second, open position of the tray 140 in use, or vice versa. The piston may be operatively coupled with the pivot pin(s) 132, 133 and / or main axle 131 of the hinge member 130 via a linkage mechanism configured to convert the linear motion of the piston into rotational motion of the hinge.

[0594] As shown in more detail in Fig. 30, the hinge member 130 may comprise an actuator connector arm 137 that extends substantially orthogonally from the main axle 131 or one of the pivot pins 132, 133. The connector arm 137 may extend at or adjacent an end of the hinge member 130. The connector arm 137 may form part of the linkage mechanism and may be rigidly coupled to the pivot pin(s) 132, 133 at one end and rotatably coupled to the linear actuator 150 or piston of the actuator 150 at the opposing end. In this exemplary embodiment, the actuator connector arm 137extends from first pivot pin 132, or from the main axle 131 at or adjacent the first pivot pin 132. The actuator connector arm 137 extends through an aperture 170a (shown in Fig. 6) formed in the first hinge retention cavity 170 towards the main body 120. The aperture 170a may locate on an outer side of the receptacle surrounding wall 122b so that the actuator extends adjacent to, but on an outer side of / external to the receptacle 122 in an assembled state of the urinal 100. The actuator 150 may couple the outer side of the surrounding wall 122b of the receptacle 122 at the end of the actuator 150 opposing the connector arm 137. In this manner, the connected actuator 150 locates behind the tray 140 and can be concealed when the urinal is installed in a wall or on another supporting structure. In alternative configurations, the actuator connector arm 137 could extend from the second pivot pin 133 or at or adjacent the second pivot pin 133 and via a corresponding aperture formed in the second hinge retention cavity 180, for instance. In yet another configuration, there may be an actuator 150 on either side of the urinal, each one coupled to a corresponding connector arm extending at or adjacent one of the first or second pivot pins 132, 133.

[0595] At one end the actuator may rigidly and non-rotatably couple the receptacle 122, and at an opposing end the actuator 150 effectively, rotatably couples the associate pivot pin 132. This is achieved via the connector arm 137 and linkage mechanism in the embodiment shown, but could also be a direct rotational coupling in other embodiments. In yet another alternative, the actuator 150 may rotatably couple the receptacle at one end and rigidly couple the associated pivot pin 132 at an opposing end.

[0596] The actuator 150 may be a non-linear actuator, such as a rotary actuator in some other implementations. The actuator 150 is preferably an electromagnetic actuator. However, other actuation mechanisms may be implemented in alternative configurations including electrically controlled hydraulic, or pneumatic actuators, or mechanical / user controlled manual actuators. For instance, there may be a user operable lever connected to the hinge member 130 for rotating the tray between the full open and fully closed position.

[0597] In this exemplary embodiment, best shown in Figs. 3, 10 and 11, the urinal 100 further comprises a biasing mechanism 160 for biasing the tray toward the first, closed position. The biasing mechanism 160 is preferably pre-loaded in the fully-closed position shown in Fig. 10 to ensure the tray 140 closes, even if the actuator 150 does not achieve full closer. The biasing mechanism 160 also supports the actuator’s function such that less torque and energy is required by the actuator to move the tray into the fully closed position to increase the longevity of the actuator 150.The biasing mechanism 160 may comprise a spring operatively coupled between the hinge and the base. The spring may be a helical tension spring. The spring may be pre-tensioned in the first, closed position of the tray to bias the tray 140 toward the first, closed position as shown in Fig.

[0598] 10. The spring may be further tensioned when the tray moves from the first, closed position toward the second, opened position shown in Fig. 11. Other biasing mechanisms are envisaged and could alternatively or additionally be used in place of or with the helical tension spring 160. For example, a torsional spring or magnetic biasing mechanism could be implemented.

[0599] The biasing mechanism 160 may be coupled directly to the actuator 150 or at or adjacent to the pivot pin 132, 133 where the actuator 150 is located. In this exemplary embodiment, the biasing mechanism 160 couples the hinge at or adjacent to the second pivot pin 133. A second connector arm 138 projects transversely from the hinge member 130 at or adjacent the second pivot pin 133, or from the pivot pin 133, for operatively connecting the hinge to the extension spring 150. The second connector arm 138 preferably extends substantially orthogonally relative to the hinging axis 134.

[0600] At one end the biasing mechanism 160 rigidly and non-rotatably couples the receptacle 122, and at an opposing end the biasing mechanism 160 150 rigidly couples the associated pivot pin 133, via the associated connector arm 138. The second connector arm 138 extends through an aperture 180a (shown in Fig. 7) formed in the second hinge retention cavity 180 towards the main body 120 in an assembled state of the urinal 100. The aperture 180a may locate on an outer side of the receptacle surrounding wall 122b so that the biasing mechanism 160 extends adjacent to, but on an outer side of / external to the receptacle 122 in an assembled state of the urinal 100. The biasing mechanism 160 may couple the outer side of the surrounding wall 122b of the receptacle 122 at the end of the mechanism opposing the connector arm 130. In this manner, the biasing mechanism 160 can be concealed when the urinal is installed in a wall or on another supporting structure. In alternative configurations, the second connector arm 138 could extend from the first pivot pin 132 or at or adjacent the first pivot pin 132 and via a corresponding aperture formed in the first hinge retention cavity 170, for instance. In yet another configuration, there may be a biasing mechanism 160 on either side of the urinal, each one coupled to a corresponding connector arm extending at or adjacent one of the first or second pivot pins 132, 133.The first and second connector arms 137, 138 may extend at different angles to one another relative to the hinging axis 134. The angle of the connector arm 138 may be selected to allowing full rotation of the tray 140 between the fully opened and fully closed positions and to ensure the tension spring is adequately extended during rotation - as shown in Fig. 11. The angle of the connector arm 137 may be selected so that in the fully open tray position (which may be the position requiring the most force to close / move the tray due to the weight of the tray) the torque required for the actuator to move the tray is reduced or minimised.

[0601] In this exemplary embodiment, the actuator 150 is electrically controlled and controllable based on a rotational position of the tray 140 in use. Accordingly, and as shown in Figs. 3, 7 and 8 the urinal further comprises a tray position sensor 190 configured to detect a rotational or angular position of the tray 140 or hinge shaft 131 in use. The tray position sensor comprises a rotary sensing device. The tray position sensor is operatively connected to the hinge to detect the rotational position of the tray. The tray position sensor 190 may be directly coupled to one of the pivot pins 132, 133 of the hinge for instance, or to the main axle 131, to output a signal indicative of the rotational position of the tray 140. Any suitable type of sensing device may be implemented for the tray position sensor 190 including gyroscopes, hall effect sensors, potentiometers, optical sensors, magnetoresistive sensors and the like.

[0602] The tray position sensor 190 may comprise a circuit board with sensor electronics coupled to the board. The circuit board may be coupled to one of the pivot pins 132, 133. In this exemplary embodiment, the tray position sensor board 191 is coupled to second pivot pin 133. The coupling may comprise an interlocking keyed connection for locking the sensor in a rotational position with respect to the hinge.

[0603] The main body 120 may comprise an internal cavity for accommodating and closely surrounding the tray position sensor 190. The circuit board 191 may be slidably received within the corresponding main body cavity. The cavity preferably allows the sensor to rotate within the main body 120 in an assembled state of the urinal 100.

[0604] A sealing element 184 is coupled about the main axle 131 and / or about the second pivot pin 133 to fluidly isolate the interior of the tray 140 from the tray position sensor 190. The seal may comprise an O-ring sealing element, for instance and may be the same sealing element as thesecond sealing element 184 associated with the second hinge retention assembly 180. Alternatively, it may be a different sealing element.

[0605] It will be appreciated that the tray position sensor 190 may be replaced with other suitable tray position sensing techniques. For example, a non-contact magnetic system, similar to that described in relation to folding urinal 300 may be utilised for urinal 100. In another implementation, a magnetic rotary position sensor may be mounted directly on the shaft of the actuating mechanism's motor. In this configuration, the system measures the motor's rotational position and a control system then calculates the tray's angular position based on the motor’s rotational position. Other non-magnetic sensor types, including optical sensors that detect the interruption of a light beam, potentiometers mechanically coupled to the hinge axis, and gyroscopic sensors capable of measuring the tray's absolute angle, could similarly be implemented to achieve the same goal of providing positional feedback of the tray to a control system.

[0606] Self-cleaning features

[0607] Referring to Figs. 31 and 32, the folding urinal 100 has a flushing mechanism comprising a nozzle 110 or the like for ejecting a cleaning liquid such as water after use. The nozzle 110 may be located on the main body 120 above the receptacle 122. The nozzle 110 may be connected to an adapter or connector to a supply of flushing liquid such as water. The nozzle 110 extends internally within or above the receptacle 122 from an upper side of the wall 122a to flush the entire receptacle and the tray when it is in the fully-closed position.

[0608] The flow of liquid to the nozzle 110 may be controlled by a valve (not shown) which is preferably a solenoid operated valve operated as part of the automated system of the folding urinal 100.

[0609] An exemplary embodiment of a nozzle head 111 which may be used for the nozzle 110 is shown in Fig. 32. The head 111 of the spray nozzle 110 is configured to disperse a cleaning liquid outwardly in a substantially planar, fan-like distribution. The spray nozzle head 111 may be configured to disperse the cleaning liquid with a uniform thickness about the nozzle head. The angle of dispersion of the cleaning liquid may be generally horizontal or downward when the urinal is oriented upright with the nozzle above the receptacle 122. For example, the angle of dispersion of the cleaning liquid as it deflects out from the nozzle head 111 towards the walls of the receptacle, may be between approximately 90 degrees to 160 degrees, more preferably between 90 degrees and 140 degrees and most preferably between 90 degrees and 120 degrees, relative to an imaginary axis 113 extending centrally through the spray nozzle head 111. The spray nozzle head 111 alsodisperses the cleaning liquid radially about the central axis 113 of the spray nozzle head 111. In one implementation, the dispersion may comprise a full, approximately 360-degree spray pattern about the central axis 113. However, the radial spray pattern may be only about part of the central axis. For example, the liquid may be dispersed between approximately 180 to 300 degrees about the central axis 113.

[0610] The spray nozzle head 111 may comprise a deflecting surface 114 that is substantially annular in shape to facilitate uniform cleaning liquid dispersion around the nozzle head as described above. The deflecting surface may be substantially planar or concave to facilitate the planar, fan-like distribution of cleaning liquid. The angle of the deflecting surface 114 relative to the central axis 113 may determine the angle of dispersion of the cleaning liquid.

[0611] This configuration of a nozzle 110 allows for effective coverage and cleaning of internal surfaces of the receptacle 122 and tray 140, while minimising water usage.

[0612] In alternative configurations, the spray nozzle head may function to dispense and disperse liquid in other fashions. For instance, the head 111 may comprise multiple, substantially small, nozzles distributed about the nozzle head and configured to spray the cleaning liquid in varying directions. The nozzles may be oriented to provide a full, approximately 360-degree spray pattern, such that cleaning liquid is dispensed in a uniform radial manner from the nozzle head to cover an entire spherical or hemispherical area surrounding the nozzle head.

[0613] The outlet 123 in base 121, receives urine and / or cleaning liquid and is adapted to discharge liquids received in receptacle 122 into a sewage or equivalent system (not shown) for, eventually, treatment. Outlet 123 may be plumbed into such a system in a conventional manner known to someone skilled in the art.

[0614] Referring to Figs. 12 to 15, the tray 140 may comprise gutter channels 142a, 143a extending along the pair of side walls 142, 143 of the tray 140. In some embodiments, a gutter channel may extend along only one of the side walls 142, 143. Each gutter channel 142a, 143a extends along an external side of the respective side wall 142, 143 and are configured to catch and hold any liquid or urine that may spill over the side of the tray 140 in use. The channels 142a, 143a may have a slightly concave profile to maximise liquid retention.Each gutter channel extends between the hinged-end 145 of the tray 140 and the front end 146 of the tray 140 opposing the hinged end 145, such that it extends along the entirety or majority of its respective side 142, 143, thereby minimising chances of spillage or overflow of liquids or urine onto surrounding surfaces, in use. In this embodiment, a width of each gutter channel 142a, 143a reduces towards the front end 146. The width may taper substantially gradually towards the second end. In other embodiments, the width may be substantially uniform along the length of each channel 142a, 143a. In yet another alternative, the width may be reduced towards the hinged-end.

[0615] In this embodiment, the profile of each gutter channel 142a, 143a may be optimised for liquid collection and flow management along the tray’s outer sides 142, 143. For instance, each gutter channel 142a, 143a may extend from at or near a top edge 142b, 143b of the side wall 142, 143, at or near the hinged-end 145, slope downward along the side wall toward an opposing bottom edge 142c, 143c of the side wall 142, 143, and then extend along or near the bottom edge 142c, 143 c, terminating at or near the front end 146 of the tray 140. As previously mentioned, the channel 142a, 143a may taper into a narrower profile toward the front end 146 of the tray. In use, any urine or liquid caught by the tray in the opened position would initially be caught and retained by the gutter channel(s) 142a, 143a and as the tray 140 is operated to move back towards the closed position, the retained liquid or urine flows towards the hinged-end of each channel to be drained into the receptacle 122. During and post flushing, any water / cleaning liquid droplets that remain on the outer sides of the walls 142, 143 will flow down into the gutter channel(s) 142a, 143a, when the tray opens. The outlet of each channel 142a, 143a at the hinged end is preferably shaped to promote the flow of liquid out of the gutter channel and into the receptacle. For example, it may be convexly curved at the end of the channel near top edge 142b 143b so that liquid flows over this convex surface and into the receptacle, when the tray moves back toward the closed position.

[0616] Each gutter channels 142a, 143a may be moulded integrally with the tray 140. But they could be rigidly fixed in some embodiments.

[0617] As shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the urinal 100 further comprises a pair of stoppers 126 projecting internally from an internal surface of the main body base 121 at either side of the main base 121 (only one is shown in Figs. 12 and 13). Each internal face may be an internal face of the surrounding walls 122b of the receptacle 122. Alternatively, there may be a single stopper extending from one side of the main body base 121. Each stopper 126 co-operates with the outer surface of the section of a respective gutter channel(s) 142a, 143a that extends between the topand bottom edges of the tray 140, to limit the pivoting of the tray 140 relative to main body 120 beyond the full opened position. In this manner, the gutter channels provide the dual-purpose of catching spills or overflow and limiting pivoting of the tray 140. The stoppers may be made from a material that improves the longevity of the device and reduces wearing of the gutter surfaces. For example, they may be made from a substantially rigid base material, such as a metal, steel or rigid plastics material. To reduce wear and improve durability, the stoppers may be coated or layered with a softer material such as a rubber or other soft plastics material, or a similar pliable material. The stoppers may be separately formed and rigidly coupled to the base 121. Alternatively, they may be integrally formed with the base.

[0618] The width, e.g., 142w (shown in Fig. 13), of the gutter channels 142a, 143a enables spacing between an interior of the tray 140 and the main body 120, even when the tray 140 is rotated into the fully closed position. This enables the outer ridge walls 142, 143 of the tray 140 and the side walls 122b of the main body 120 to be rinsed during flushing. The combination of, the location and spray design of the cleaning nozzle 110, the shape and location of the tray walls 142 and 143, creates a type of shelter that dictates the correct volume and flow direction of the cleaning liquid entering said spacing. The design of the bodied area 142d, 143d below the gutter channels 142a, 143a and extending laterally from the tray walls 142, 143 minimizes the spacing between the main body 120 and tray 140, in a curved shape such that the lower the cleaning liquid falls the more the cleaning liquid is directed away from the front opening, preventing water escaping out the front between the tray 140 and the main body 120 simultaneously the gutter channels 142a, 143a direct the cleaning liquid within said spacing back into the basin area 122.

[0619] As shown in Fig. 15, the hinged end 145 of the tray may further comprise a lipped edge 147 extending between the pair of side walls 142, 143 for promoting liquid near the first end to flow into the receptacle 122 of the base 121 instead of flowing under the tray, when the tray is moved into the fully opened, in use or ready for use position. The lipped edge 147 may extend minimally from the edge of the tray and have a convex curvature to facilitate the flow of liquid into the receptacle 122. The lipped edge 147 preferably extends along a substantial, and more preferably an entire, length between the side walls 142, 143.

[0620] The tray may further comprise additional lips 147a, 147b extending along the side walls 142, 143 of the tray 140 at the hinged end 145, to further facilitate liquid near the hinged end 145 to flow into the receptacle 122 of the base 121 instead of flowing round to an outer face of thecorresponding side wall 142, 143. The lips 147a, 147b may extend transversely from a face of each side wall 142, 143 that opposes the receptacle in the fully open position of the tray 140. The lips 147a, 147b preferably extends along a substantial, and more preferably an entire, length of a main dimension of the face or edge of the side wall 142, 143 directly opposing the receptacle in the open position. The lips 147a, 147b may be each concavely curved with respect to on a side facing internal to the tray 140 to help retain liquids within this boundary and promote their flow towards the receptacle. The lips 147, 147a, 147b are preferably continuous with one another and connect at a common edge at hinged end 145. There may be a single one of the side lips 147a, 147b in some embodiments. In yet another alternative, the urinal 100 may comprise any combination of one or more of lips 147, 147a, 147b or none of these lips.

[0621] Illustrative Drain Pipe

[0622] The outlet 123 is fluidly connected to a drain pipe 200 in an assembled and in use state of the urinal 100. The drain pipe comprises an inlet connected to the base outlet 123, an outlet for liquid to flow through from the inlet, and a water seal trap between the inlet and the outlet. This may be a single standard U-shaped water seal trap as known in the art.

[0623] Figs. 16 and 17 illustrates an exemplary drain pipe 200 with a dual water seal trap that may be connected to the outlet 123 of the urinal 100. The drain pipe 200 comprises an inlet 201 that may be connected to the urinal outlet 123, and an outlet 202 that may be connected to a sewage line (not shown) by means known in the plumbing industry. The drain pipe has a first water seal trap 203 formed by a U-bend with a valley 204. The first water seal trap 203 terminates in overflow bend 205 and comprises a first water seal depth 206. The seal depth 206 being defined by the difference in height between the upper wall 204a of the valley and the lower wall 205a of the overflow bend 205. The drain pipe 200 has a second water seal trap 207. The first and second water seal traps are adjacent. The second water seal trap 207 is formed by a U-bend with a valley 208. The second water seal trap 207 terminates in overflow bend 209 and comprises a second water a seal depth 210. The seal depth 210 being defined by the difference in height between the upper wall 208a of the valley 208 and the lower wall 209a of the overflow bend 209. It can be seen in the figure that the first seal depth 206 of the first water seal trap 203 is shallower than the second seal depth 210 of the second water seal trap 207. Thus, there is less water held in the first water seal trap 203 than the second water seal trap 207, which means that less water or cleaning liquid would be required to flush clean the first water seal trap 203 than the second water seal trap 207.The first water seal trap 203 locates above the second water seal trap 207 in situ, with their respective valleys 204, 208 aligned along a common vertical axis. This configuration promotes a compact design. However, in other configurations the valleys 204, 208 may be misaligned with respect to their substantially vertical axes extending through the respective valleys.

[0624] The first water seal trap 203 is shallower than said second water seal trap 207. For example, the second water seal trap may have a seal depth of at least approximately 70mm and the first water seal trap may have a seal depth of less than approximately 60mm, more preferably less than approximately 40mm and most preferably less than approximately 10mm. In another exemplary implementation, the first water seal trap 203 is configured to retain approximately 50% the volume of the second water seal trap 207, or less. More preferably the volume of the first water seal trap is less than approximately 25% of the second water seal trap, and most preferably less than approximately 15%.

[0625] This configuration means that the volume required to flush the urinal 100 can be minimised without compromising on the water sealing qualities of the drain pipe 200. Furthermore, by having a first and second water seal trap, a better overall seal is created further reducing the risk of unpleasant odours flowing from the sewage line and through the drain pipe. In addition, if all the water evaporates from a water seal trap, the seal no longer functions. If a urinal has not been used for a long period, this dual trap seal lengthens the period that it takes for the trap water to evaporate compared to a conventional, single water seal trap.

[0626] In this exemplary embodiment, the urinal system may further comprise an air admittance valve 220 fluidly connected to the drain pipe 200 (shown in Fig. 16, but not Fig. 17). The valve 220 is coupled between the first and second water seal traps 203, 208 adjacent the first overflow bend 205. The valve 220 is configured to admit air into the traps 203, 204 that may otherwise form a vacuum that may disrupt the water flow through the trap causing a faulty water seal.

[0627] The valve 220 includes a housing 221 that encloses the internal components. The housing 221 is equipped with an inlet port that connects to the pipe 200 and an air intake port that allows atmospheric air to enter. Within the housing is a valve mechanism that regulates airflow. This mechanism comprises a movable diaphragm or disk, which is biased into a closed position, by gravity. The closed position prevents the escape of sewer gases through the air intake port. The valve 220 remains closed under equilibrium conditions, preventing the backflow of sewer gases.When a negative pressure (e.g., caused by the discharge of wastewater) develops in the drain 200, the reduced pressure creates a differential force across the diaphragm or disk. This force overcomes the force of gravity, causing the valve to open. Atmospheric air is then admitted through the air intake port to equalise the pressure within the system. Once the pressure is balanced, the biasing element returns the diaphragm or disk to its closed position, re-establishing the seal and preventing the escape of sewer gases.

[0628] In some configurations, the air admittance valve 220 may be omitted as shown in Fig. 17.

[0629] The dual drain trap pipe 200, optionally connected to the air admittance valve 220 may be implemented in other applications including industrial applications in the flushing of contaminated water, where a water seal trap having a deep seal is required, but the amount of flushing water required to flush clean the water seal trap is preferably kept to a minimum.

[0630] Assembly and mounting of urinal

[0631] Referring to Figs. 3 and 23, the urinal 100 further comprises a front cover 127 configured to rigidly couple the main body 120 to provide an aesthetic finish to the urinal 100, in situ, and to cover any elements of the main body 120 which serve a more functional purpose, such as the main body flange 124. The cover 127 has a central opening 127a with a periphery that is configured to closely surround the tray 140, in an assembled state of the urinal 100. The central opening 122c of the receptacle aligns with the opening 127a of the front cover 127, in an assembled state of the urinal 100.

[0632] The flange plate 124 rigidly couples between the front cover plate 127 and the main body base 121, and also has a central opening 124d that aligns with the central opening 127a of the front cover plate 127 and with the opening 122a of the receptacle 122, in an assembled state of the main body 120. The hinge retention assemblies including the hinge retention cavities 170, 180 are coupled or formed on the flange plate 124 of the main body 120 so that the flange plate 124 couples the hinge, in situ. Accordingly, the front cover plate 127 conceals the hinge mechanism by rigidly coupling over the flange plate 124, in an assembled state of the urinal 100.

[0633] The flange plate 124 is rigidly coupled to the main body base 121 using a suitable coupling mechanism, such as an adhesive. Referring to Fig. 24, in this embodiment, the flange plate 124includes one or more bosses or projections 124a with through-holes positioned around the central opening of the flange 124. These projections extend from a rear face 125 of the flange plate 124 and extend toward the main body base 121 in situ. The projections are configured to facilitate adhesive application when the flange plate 124 is aligned with and placed over the main body base 121. During assembly, the adhesive is introduced through the through-holes from a front face of the flange plate 124, causing the adhesive to flow down toward the rear surface and couple the flange plate 124 to an adjacent rim or surface of the main body base 121. The flange plate may additionally or alternatively couple the main body base 121 via other suitable mechanisms such as via fasteners. In an alternative embodiment, the flange is integrally formed with the base 121, and / or the hinge mechanism couples directly to the base 121, and the front cover couples directly to the base 121.

[0634] The front cover plate 127 and the flange plate 124 comprise complementary formations for facilitating fixing the plates to one another and aligning the central opening 127a of the cover plate 127 with the central opening 124d of the flange plate 124. The complementary formations are distributed about the central openings 127a, 124d. The complementary formations may be distributed substantially about the entire periphery of the central openings or just in one or more sections.

[0635] The complementary formations may comprise hollow bosses on one of the front cover plate 127 or flange plate 124, and complementary apertures in the other of the flange plate 124 or front cover plate 127. For example, the front cover plate 127 may comprise the projections and the flange plate 124 may comprise the apertures, or vice versa, or each plate may comprise some projections and some apertures with the other plate having the opposite configuration. In this embodiment, the flange plate 124 comprises hollow bosses 124b projecting from the flange plate 124 to connect to corresponding apertures 127b formed on a face of the cover plate 127 configured to couple over the flange plate in situ.

[0636] The front cover plate 127 and the flange plate 124 may be fixedly coupled to one another via one or more fasteners. For instance, each hollow boss 124b and corresponding aperture 127b may be configured to receive a fastener therethrough to connect the boss 124b and aperture 127b. The fastener may be a threaded fastener, and the hollow boss and / or aperture may comprise internal thread(s) for coupling to the fastener. A threaded insert may be separately formed and rigidly coupled to the aperture and / or hollow boss to modify the component such that it can receive athreaded fastener. This may be required in the case where the cover plate 127 is formed from a material, such as Duroplast, which is less compatible for direct attachment with a threaded fastener. The insert(s) may be adhered within the respective aperture(s) of the front cover plate 127 for instance. Alternatively, an adhesive may be applied through the hollow bosses to couple the front cover plate 127 and the flange plate 124. Other suitable fixing mechanisms may be used to connect the front cover plate 127 with the flange plate 124, in alternative embodiments.

[0637] The urinal 100 further comprises a magnetic clamping mechanism for aligning the front cover plate 127 with the flange plate 124 and holding the front cover plate 127 against the flange plate 124, during installation. The magnetic clamping mechanism comprise at least one magnetic pair, each magnetic pair having: a first magnet 128a positioned at a predetermined location on the flange plate 124, and a corresponding second magnet 128b positioned at a complementary location on the cover plate 127. The magnetic forces between the magnets are configured to assist in automatically aligning the two plates in a predetermined orientation when the plates are brought into proximity during installation.

[0638] The magnetic clamping mechanism preferably comprises multiple pairs of magnets distributed about the periphery of the central openings of the cover plate and flange plate, or at least along one or more sections of the cover plate and the flange plate. Collectively, the multiple pairs of magnets assist in automatic alignment of the two plates during installation. They also assist in clamping the cover plate and flange plate against one another.

[0639] Referring to Fig. 24B, the urinal 100 further comprises a seal 144c extending about the periphery between the front cover plate 127 and the main body base 121. The cover plate 127 may comprise a groove extending about the periphery for accommodating a sealing element 144c therewithin. The sealing element may be an O-ring. A peripheral edge of the main body 120 which may be formed in the base 121 may be accommodated with the groove extending about the periphery of the cover plate in an assembled state of the urinal 100.

[0640] Illustrative Methods of assembly

[0641] Referring to Figs. 18-21, in an exemplary embodiment, an alignment jig 139 may be used in the process of assembling the urinal 100, and in particular to align and couple the cover plate 127 to the base 121, and also to align and couple the flange plate 124 to the base 121 when the flange is manufactured separately to the base 121. This could be beneficial when the method of manufacturefor one of the components, such as the base 121, the flange 124 and / or the cover plate 127 may result in some tolerance discrepancies that could cause potential misalignment with other components during assembly.

[0642] The alignment jig 139 is thus an intermediate tool that facilitates the accurate positioning and alignment of the base 121 and the cover plate 127 during assembly, which may also involve accurate positioning and alignment of the base 121 and the flange 124. The alignment jig may be in the form of an alignment plate 139. It may also be formed from a material that can be formed with higher preci si on / lower tolerance, compared to the materials of the urinal components 121, 124, 127, such as from steel or alloy.

[0643] The following is a description of how the jig may be used to align the flange plate opening with the base opening, in turn allowing for the alignment of the base opening and the cover plate opening.

[0644] The alignment jig 139 is formed with an outer rim 139a configured to fit tightly within the exact desired geometry of the inner peripheral edge 124c of the flange 124. An inner rim 139b of the alignment jig 139 is formed to fit tightly within the exact desired geometry of the inner peripheral edge or wall 121c surrounding the base opening 122c. This allows for the parts to be aligned based on jig’s geometries, ensuring uniform positioning and proper alignment during assembly.

[0645] The method of assembling the folding urinal 100 may comprise aligning the flange plate 124 (or cover plate 127) with the base 121 by first placing the alignment jig 139 onto the upper face 121a of the base 121 surrounding the opening of the receptacle, such that an outer rim 139a of the alignment jig 139 rests upon the peripheral edge or face 121a. Accordingly, when the alignment jig 139 is placed onto the base 121, the inner rim 139b locates within the opening 122c retaining the jig 139 within the bounds of the opening 122c.. The flange plate 124 (or the cover plate 127) can then be located over the top of the alignment jig 139 so that the outer rim 139a may locate tightly within the inner periphery 124c of the flange plate 124 (or the inner periphery 127c of the cover plate 127). In this state, the position of the flange plate 124 (or the cover plate 127) can be finely adjusted relative to the opening 122c. Any movement of the flange plate 124 (or the cover plate 127) is constrained by the limited range of movement of the coupled jig 139 within the opening 122c, ensuring precise alignment can be achieved.Once the desired position for the flange plate 124 is achieved, the flange plate 124 can then be rigidly coupled to the base 121. This may involve the application of an adhesive through the hollow bosses 124a of the flange plate 124, or any other suitable method as described above. A clamp could be used in the process and coupled over the flange and base via the central opening in the alignment jig. Recesses 139c may be formed about the periphery of the jig 139 to minimise the potential for excess adhesive to flow onto the jig.

[0646] After rigidly coupling the flange plate 124 with the base 121, the alignment jig 139 can be removed from the base. Apertures or other handles may be formed in the jig 139 for facilitating in the removal of the jig ' 139.

[0647] The cover plate 127 can be coupled to the flange plate 124 after aligning the flange plate with the base 121 using the jig 139. In such an embodiment, the tray may be hingedly coupled to the flange plate 124 prior to coupling the cover plate 127 over the flange plate 124. In an alternative embodiment, where the flange is integrally formed with the base, the tray may be hingedly coupled to the flange, followed by coupling of the cover plate to the flange using the alignment jig as described above.

[0648] In yet another alternative, the tray 140 may be hingedly coupled to the flange plate 124 prior to coupling the flange plate 124 to the base 121 using the alignment jig as described above, followed by coupling the cover plate 127 over the flange plate 124.

[0649] As mentioned, assembly of the urinal 100 may further comprise hingedly coupling the tray 140 to the main body 120. This step may occur before coupling the front cover plate 127 to the flange plate 124. Coupling the tray 140 to the main body 120 may comprise rigidly coupling the pivot pins 132, 133 to the tray 140, and rotatably coupling the pivot pins 132, 133 to the main body 120. Simultaneously, the prongs 135, 136 may be located in the respective cavities of the tray body. In an alternative configuration where the tray is removable from the hinge, the pivot pins 132, 133 may be rigidly coupled to the main body 120 first followed by coupling the tray 140 to the hinge, such as by slidably engaging the prongs 135, 136 into corresponding female slots formed in or coupled to the tray 140.

[0650] The step of rotatably coupling the pivot pins 132, 133 to the main body 120 comprises locating each pivot pin 132, 133 in the corresponding hinge retention cavity 170, 180 of the flange plate124. The tray position sensor 190 may also be coupled to the respective pivot pin 133 and cavity during this stage of the process. The step of hingedly coupling the tray 140 to the main body 120 may comprise adjusting an axial aligning of the tray 140 or hinge relative to the main body 120 to achieve a predetermined axial alignment, as described above in relation to the first and second hinge retention assemblies. After this, corresponding hinge retention brackets 175, 185 are coupled over each cavity 170, 180 to rotatably secure the pivot pins to either side of the main body 120. For example, the step of axially aligning and locking the tray 140 and main body 120 in the aligned axial position comprises aligning at least one elongate alignment aperture formed in one of the hinge retention bracket or hinge retention cavity with at least one corresponding fixing aperture formed in the other one of the hinge retention cavity or hinge retention bracket, and fastening the hinge retention bracket over the hinge retention cavity via each pair of aligned alignment aperture and fixing aperture, wherein a position of the fastener within the elongate alignment aperture corresponds to an axial position of the tray relative to the base.

[0651] Assembling the urinal 100 may further comprise coupling the tray position sensor 190 to the hinge member 130 at or adjacent on of the pivot pins 132, 133 via an interlocking keyed connection as described above. This would occur before coupling the cover plate to the flanged plate

[0652] Assembling the urinal 100 may further comprise coupling the hinge to the actuation mechanism 150. This may comprise coupling the actuator 150 to the actuator connecting arm 137. The connection could be via a linkage mechanism as described above. The actuator may be coupled to the main body 120 at this stage as well. Assembling the urinal 100 may further comprise coupling the hinge to the biasing mechanism 160. This may comprise coupling the biasing mechanism 160 to the connecting arm 138. The biasing mechanism 160 may be coupled to the main body 120 at this stage as well. Coupling the actuator 150 and / or biasing mechanism 160 between the tray 140 and the main body 120 may occur after rotatably coupling the tray to the main body. Coupling the actuator 150 and / or biasing mechanism 160 between the tray 140 and the main body 120 may occur before or after coupling the cover plate to the flanged plate.

[0653] Assembling the urinal 100 may further comprise coupling a front cover plate 127 to the flange plate 124. This may occur after coupling the flange plate 124 to the base 121. This may also occur after hingedly coupling the tray to the base. Coupling the front cover plate 127 to the flange plate 124 comprises aligning the front cover plate 127 with the flange plate 124. For example, the magnetic clamping mechanism described above may be utilised to assist in aligning and clampingthe two plates in a predetermined orientation when the plates are brought into proximity. Other alignment mechanisms could be used or alternatively the plates may be user aligned without any additional assistance. After alignment, the front cover plate 127 and the flange plate 124 may be rigidly coupled to one another. For example, a fixing mechanism as described above comprising hollow bosses for the application of adhesive application and / or fasteners may be utilised. Alternative fixing mechanisms could be used in other configurations.

[0654] To install the assembled urinal 100 in a wall cavity, the following steps may be followed for setup. The drain pipe 200 (preferably including the trap) is connected to the outlet 123 of the urinal. The flushing mechanism may be connected to a cleaning liquid source (e.g., a tap) via a flexible conduit. Once connected, the urinal 100 and attached drain pipe 200 can be positioned inside a cavity prepared in the wall. In one configuration, the cavity depth is prepared such that urinal 100 and in particular, the front cover 127 and front face of the tray 140 sit substantially flush with the outer wall surface. In other configurations, the front surfaces of the urinal, including for instance the front cover 127 and / or front face of the tray 140 may project outwards from the outer wall surface. Although it is preferred that this projection is minimised for aesthetic appeal.

[0655] In the assembled state, the urinal 100 comprises a substantially shallow depth, such as between approximately 70mm and 150mm, more preferably between 90mm and 140mm and most preferably approximately 90mm to 130mm. This is to accommodate standard wall cavity dimensions and facilitate installation in a variety of building structures, while still achieving a substantially flush finish.

[0656] The tray 140 may be finished with an aesthetically appealing design and / or material on the exposed front surface of the tray 140, in an installed state of the device. For instance, the exposed front surface of the tray may be finished with a same or similar material or colour as the tiling on the bathroom wall, within which the urinal 100 is being installed. The tray may further comprise other finishes such as a stainless-steel rim about the exposed front surface of the tray 140.

[0657] The font cover 127 may be finished with similar design features as the tray, such as a tiled finish or other material to match the wall within which the urinal 100 is being installed. In alternative configurations, the front cover 127 may be mitigated and the flange 124 may be concealed by the wall within which the urinal 100 is being installed.The opposite end of the drain pipe can be connected to the building’s plumbing system. The drain pipe 200 may be connected to a pre-installed conduit using a nut or other similar fixing of the plumbing system for instance. The flushing mechanism may also be fluidly connected to a liquid / water source of the plumping system via a suitable fixing mechanism such as a threaded nut. A custom adaptor having an internal periphery matching the outer periphery of the nut may be used to tighten or adjust the nut in situ. The adapter may comprise a hexagonal periphery for instance, sized and shaped to match the outer periphery of the nut to be tightened or adjusted. An exemplary adaptor 230 is shown in Fig. 29. This adaptor can be located on the nut to be adjusted and then rotated by a user by gripping outer projections of the adaptor. The adaptor facilitates the installer in working within the tight space of the wall cavity, which may not allow for other standard tools, such as long spanners, to be used to adjust the tightening of the nut.

[0658] The urinal 100 may also be connected to a source of electrical power.

[0659] After inserting the urinal 100 and drain pipe 200 into the wall cavity, the assembly can be secured using an appropriate mounting mechanism, which ensures the urinal remains firmly fixed within the cavity.

[0660] Referring to Fig. 25, the mounting mechanism may comprise mounting brackets 195 having multiple hooks 196 projecting from the bracket. The bracket 195 may be formed by stamping a piece of metal, for instance. The base 121 of the urinal may comprise corresponding recesses, cavities, loops or other formations formed on or coupled to a rear or side face, to mount the base onto the mounting bracket coupled to the wall or other support structure. A pair of brackets 195 may be coupled to the wall or other support structure to connect to corresponding hooks on either side of the base 121.

[0661] Referring to Figs. 27 and 28, in one exemplary implementation, the urinal 100 may be modified and configured to be entirely mounted within a wall cavity 261, which is preferably formed in an internal wall 260 of a building such as a dwelling, in a bathroom or toilet room. The concealed urinal 100 is entirely recessed into the wall cavity of the wall 260 such that it is fully flush with the wall finish including the main body front cover outer frame 127c and tray front cover inner frame 149a when the tray is in the fully closed position. Depth of the wall cavity may be 90mm or greater.A service hatch could be formed on the opposite side of the wall from where the urinal is installed so that the urinal 100 may be accessed and serviced.

[0662] From the front wall elevation, the urinal 100 may comprise two frames 127c, 149a within a buildings’ wall, an ‘outer frame’ 127c and an ‘inner frame’ 149a, corresponding to the inner edge / rim 127c of the main body 120 and the outer edge / rim 149a of the tray or tray cover 149. The ‘inner frame’ may be located within the perimeter of the ‘outer frame’. The urinal's ‘outer frame’ and ‘inner frame’ edges may be substantially thin. Spacing between the frames may be substantially close, preferably between 1mm and 10mm, more preferably between 1mm and 5mm. The frames may comprise stainless steel, plastic or the like. Both the outer frames’ front face and the inner frames’ front face may be aligned flush with the wall’s outer surface material. The ‘outer frame’ inside surface edge is connected or makes part of the main body 120 and the outer part of the ‘’outer frame’ is shaped to enable the surrounding wall lining material to abut up against the frame and concurrently aligning the outer frames front face with the outer wall lining surface.

[0663] The inner frame is hinged at the lower end enabling the inner frame to open from the top, therefore hinging from the lower end. The ‘inner frame’ forms the front of the urinal tray that opens and closes. A recess / void is within the perimeter of the ‘inner frame’ enabling the wall lining material to be inserted into the tray frame enabling the wall lining material to abut up against the inner frame 149a edge. Simultaneously, this aligns the wall’s front surface with the inner frame’s front edge. When the tray is closed, the inner frame, outer frame and outer wall lining surface will all be vertically aligned resulting in a uniform wall material, enabling the entire urinal to be hidden / concealed within the wall cavity.

[0664] As installed, the main body 120 and the urinal 100 will desirably have a generally vertical orientation.

[0665] Materials

[0666] The main body 120 and the tray 140 may be formed from plastics material. The plastics material is preferably a thermosetting plastics material, such as Duroplast. The front cover 127 and the tray cover or front surface may be formed from a similar plastics material or a different material such as chrome, stainless steel, ceramic and the like. The material may comprise an attractive finish, such as a glossy, polished or patterned finish. As mentioned, in some embodiments, the exposedsurfaces of the urinal 100 (in an installed state) may be finished with tiles or other material(s) matching the bathroom wall surface, such as ceramic, natural stone, porcelain and the like.

[0667] Illustrative Electronics / Control for a folding urinal

[0668] The urinal 100 further comprises a control system configured to control the opening and closing of the tray 140, when an electrically controlled actuator 150 is implemented for instance. The control system can be configured to manage hygiene functions such as flushing and cleaning of the urinal 100, if connected to an electrically controlled flushing mechanism. The electrically controlled flushing mechanism may comprise an electrically controlled valve connecting the cleaning nozzle 110 with the cleaning liquid / water supply of a plumbing system.

[0669] The control system may be further configured to control other devices, such as output devices configured to provide operational information to a user. In an embodiment, the urinal 100 further comprises one or more operational status indicators configured to provide output(s) that are observable by a human user. The operational status indicator(s) may comprise one or more illumination devices, such as one or more light emitting diodes, one or more display device(s), one or more audio device(s) and / or one or more other audiovisual device(s), for instance. The operational status indicators may comprise one or more illumination devices configured to illuminate within the receptacle 122. Alternatively, or in addition, the operational status indicators may comprise one or more illumination devices configured to illuminate a front panel of the urinal located above the receptacle and tray 140, for instance.

[0670] The control system may comprise, or be operatively and communicatively coupled to, one or more sensing devices. A sensing device may comprise the tray position sensor 190, for instance. The control system may be configured to receive or detect tray position based on an output of the tray position sensor, and perform one or more functions based on the tray position. For instance, the control system may be configured to control one or more of the operational status indicators to output an indication of the tray position to a user. The control system may also be configured to control the flushing mechanism based on the tray position. For instance, the flushing mechanism may be activated to flush the urinal 100 when the detected tray position is a fully-closed state, after being in the open state for a predetermined period indicative of prior use of the urinal 100. The predetermined period could be at least 5 seconds, or at least 10 seconds for instance.

[0671] One or more sensing devices may comprise a proximity sensor configured to output a signal indicative of an object’s proximity to the sensor, such as a user. The proximity sensor may providean indication of when a user is within a preconfigured distance from the sensor, and hence a preconfigured distance from the urinal 100. The preconfigured distance could be within approximately Im, within approximately 60cm and most preferably within approximately 50cm. The control system 100 may be configured to perform one or more functions based on the output of the proximity sensor. For example, the control system may be configured to detect a user’s presence adjacent the urinal based on the output of the proximity sensor and accordingly control the actuator 150 to pivot the tray 140 into the fully-open position to allow the user to use the urinal 100.

[0672] The control system may be further configured to detect a user’s absence from the urinal based on an output of the proximity sensor and accordingly control the actuator 150 to pivot the tray 140 into the fully-closed position. The control system may only operate the actuator to close the tray 140 when the user’s absence is detected for a consecutive predetermined period, e.g., at least 2 seconds. The control system may be configured to activate or drive the flushing mechanism based on the user’s proximity to the urinal. For instance, it may be configured to activate or drive the flushing mechanism when the user’s presence is detected for a minimum period, e.g., at least 10 consecutive seconds.

[0673] The control system comprises a control unit, which may be microcontroller-based system having one or more processor(s) and an electronic memory accessible by the processor(s) and having stored therein instructions for operating the processor(s). The instruction(s) may correspond to one or more of the functions mentioned herein in relation to the control system, including operating the actuator, the operational status indicators and the flushing mechanism.

[0674] Referring to Figs. 3 and 26, the control unit may be housed within a housing 220 coupled to the main body 120 of the urinal 100. The housing 220 can be located on the rear face of main body 120 of urinal 100, near the nozzle 110. The housing 220 may comprises a removable rear cover plate 222 coupled by clips or screws or the like, to allow access to the internal components of the control system for servicing. A front panel may locate over the housing to cover the housing from the front. The front panel may be substantially transparent or translucent if one or more of the operational status indicator(s) are accommodated in the housing 220. For example, illumination device(s) or an electronic display may be housed in the housing 220 and visible to a user via the front panel, in situ.

[0675] A user proximity sensing device may be positioned above the receptacle and tray, and preferably may be located within the housing 220. As mentioned, the user proximity sensing device mayoutput a signal indicative of a user’s proximity to the sensing device / urinal when an object, such as a user, is detected to be within a preconfigured distance from the sensor. The distance range of the proximity sensor may be configurable. In some implementations, the distance range may be installer-configurable via a user input device 223, such as a potentiometer. The potentiometer may be positioned on a rear side of the main body 120 to conceal it from users and prevent inadvertent changes to the proximity sensor functionality. For example, the user input 223 may be located within the housing 220 and only accessible after removal of the rear cover 222. An installer may access the user input to manually adjust the range of the proximity sensor to suit a room layout for instance. This input may be for adjusting the sensing distance for opening the tray only, so that an installer may configure this distance based on the installation position. For instance, if the urinal is installed behind a door the installer may adjust the sensing distance to be close to account for door movements that could otherwise trigger the urinal to open the tray (e.g., sensing distance of 70mm or less). However, if it is installed in the comer of a room, where less movement is expected, the sensing distance may be configured to be higher, e.g., 500mm or more.

[0676] The control system may be configured to control one or more operational status indicator(s) 112b (shown in Fig. 31) based on the output of the user proximity sensor. For instance, the control system may illuminate one or more illumination devices 112b to indicate an in-use or ready-to-use status when the proximity sensor output indicates a user is in close proximity to the urinal.

[0677] The control system may be configured to operate one or more of the operational status indicator(s) to indicate an input power status, including whether the urinal is connected to an input power source. For example, an illumination device 112b may be driven to illuminate when the urinal is connected to an input power source. One or more illumination device(s) may be implemented and controlled to communicate status information to a user. For example, manufacturers may have the option to calibrate one or more sensors, such as the proximity sensor and / or the ambient light brightness sensor (described in more detail below) during manufacture. The illumination device(s) 112b may be controllable in a manner that would indicate to an installer if such calibration(s) have been carried out by the manufacturer. For example, if in a normal operating standby mode, the illumination device may periodically strobe in a predetermined colour or hue, e.g., blue. If neither of the calibrations have been done, the illumination device may periodically strobe in another pattern or colour, e.g., in red in normal operating standby mode (instead of blue). If only the calibration of the proximity sensor has been carried out, then there may be another standby mode illumination colour or pattern. If only the calibration of the ambient light brightness sensor hasbeen carried out, then there may be yet another standby mode illumination colour or pattern. There may be light sequences that confirm when conducting the calibrations that they have been successful or not successful during input.

[0678] The control system may comprise, or be operatively and communicatively coupled to, one or more ambient light brightness sensing devices, configured to output a signal indicative of ambient light brightness of a surrounding environment or space. The control system may be configured to receive an input signal indicative of ambient light brightness, and accordingly further control the one or more of operational status indicator(s) 112b and / or one or more other illumination device(s) 112a (such as those within the receptacle 122) based on the ambient light brightness input signal. The ambient light brightness input signal may be a signal output by the ambient light brightness sensing device.

[0679] For instance, the control system may be configured to adjust a brightness of illumination device(s) based on the received ambient light brightness signal. The control system may reduce a brightness of the illumination device(s) 112a, 112b when the received ambient light brightness signal indicates an ambient brightness that is below a predetermined brightness threshold so to make the illumination less harsh for a user in darker environments. The control system may be configured to gradually reduce a brightness based on a gradual reduction of ambient light brightness. The control system may be configured to turn off the illumination device(s) 112a, 112b after a predetermined period when the ambient light brightness is below a predetermined brightness threshold so that the urinal does not remain illuminated when it is dark.

[0680] The control system may be further configured to turn on the illumination device(s) 112a, 112b when a received user proximity signal indicates a user is within a predetermined distance of the urinal (e.g., within 2.5 metres of the urinal 100), and / or when a received ambient light brightness signal indicates an ambient light brightness above a predetermined threshold and / or when a received ambient light brightness signal indicates a change in ambient light brightness above a predetermined threshold (such as a shadow or a room light being turned on). The control system may be further configured to automatically turn off the illumination device(s) 112a, 112b when a predetermined period has elapsed since being turned on (e.g., 5 minutes).

[0681] The urinal may further comprise an audible alarm device and a moisture detection device configured to detect a water leak from the urinal. The control system may be configured to detecta water leak inside the wall cavity based on the moisture detection device output and activate the audible alarm device based on the detected water leak.

[0682] As mentioned, the control system is configured to control the flushing mechanism based on receipt or detection of one on or more flush conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more flush conditions may comprise a time-related condition. The time-related condition may be related to the user’s presence / absence from the urinal 100. For example, a flush condition may comprise a user being present for a consecutive predetermined period (e.g., at least 10 seconds) followed by a user being absent for a consecutive predetermined period (e.g., at least 2 seconds and after the tray closes). A user’s presence or absence may be indicated by an output of the user proximity sensor (e.g., the output has changed to indicate a user is within the preconfigured distance range of the sensor or a user is no longer within the preconfigured distance range) and / or based on an output of the tray position sensor (e.g., the tray has moved to the fully-closed position after being open). One or more operational status indicators may be operated to indicate when the urinal is being operated or is about to be operated to perform a flush cycle by the control system.

[0683] Second Illustrative folding urinal

[0684] A further embodiment of a folding urinal 300 will now be described with reference to Figs. 33 to 53. In this embodiment, the folding urinal 300 is configured for a more seamless integration within a wall structure by providing a concealed, flush-mounted installation that becomes visually indistinguishable from the surrounding wall surface when in its closed position.

[0685] A differentiating technical aspect of this embodiment is a structural configuration that enables a true flush-mount finish. This may be achieved in a number of ways as described herein. The technical purpose of such a configuration is to solve the problem of visual and physical intrusion into a space, which is an inherent limitation of conventional wall-mounted or semi-recessed sanitary fixtures. By providing a structure that integrates with the final wall finish, the urinal can be completely concealed, preserving the architectural and aesthetic integrity of the room.

[0686] The resulting advantages include:

[0687] Aesthetically, the urinal 300 offers a visually seamless appearance, eliminating the visual clutter of a permanent fixture.

[0688] Functionally, the flush surface is easier to clean and maintain, improving hygiene by removing external ledges and crevices.Commercially, this configuration enables the use of folding urinals in high-end residential, hospitality, and commercial environments where design integration is a primary consideration.

[0689] As shown in Figs. 33-37, to achieve seamless integration within a wall structure, the folding urinal 300 comprises a tray 302 having a tray outer frame 304. In one embodiment, the tray outer frame 304 forms the forward-most structure of the tray 302 in an installed state, and is configured to define a recess 306. This recess 306 is configured and dimensioned to receive and accommodate a portion of a wall finishing material 308, thereby allowing the visible surface of the tray 302 to be finished with the same material as the surrounding wall. The wall finishing material 308 may be of a type commonly used in bathroom or toilet environments, for instance, and without limitation, a material selected from the group comprising: ceramic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone, engineered stone, glass, mosaic tile, acryilic panel, PVC panel, laminated panel, fiberglass reinforced panel, stainless steel, metal cladding, and / or plastered / screeded material. In an alternative embodiment, the tray 302 may comprise the wall finishing material 308 with an outer face comprising the wall finishing material 308 (with or without an outer frame 304). In either configuration, the structure enables the tray 302, when in its closed position, to present an outer surface that matches the surrounding wall, thereby concealing the presence of the urinal 300, in situ.

[0690] A major surface of the recess 306 is preferably substantially flat or planar to allow a finishing material with a corresponding flat surface to be coupled or adhered thereto. Alternatively, the major surface is complementary to the surface of the finishing material it is configured to couple or adhere to.

[0691] The tray outer frame comprises a rim 310 that extends laterally from the main body of the tray and surrounds the recess 306. The rim 310 defines an outer plane 311 of the tray itself (shown in Fig.

[0692] 53) that is substantially coplanar with the rim 310. To enhance the concealed appearance, the tray 302 is configured such that this tray outer plane 311, defined by the rim 310, is either substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface 308a of the wall finishing material 308 (as shown in Fig. 38 for instance) or is positioned inward relative to said surface 308a (as shown in Fig. 39). By positioning the tray rim 310 flush with or slightly recessed behind the outer surface 308a of the finishing material 308, the edge of the finishing material 308 itself helps to conceal the rim 310 of the tray 302, further contributing to the seamless visual integration.

[0693] As shown in Fig. 38, in one exemplary implementation, the recess 306 comprises a depth, 306d, that is selected to correspond to a thickness of the portion of wall finishing material 308 intendedto be received therein. This structural relationship facilitates an installation where an exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material 308, when installed in the recess 306, is substantially flush with the surrounding wall finishing material, creating a smooth and continuous plane. In another configuration, to achieve a substantially flush and continuous plane across the urinal 300 in the closed position, the depth 306d of the recess may be configured to accommodate the thickness of the finishing material 308 and the layer of adhesive used for its installation. Therefore, the depth corresponds to the combined thickness of the finishing material and its securing adhesive, allowing the final exposed surface to be substantially co-planar with the surrounding wall.

[0694] In another exemplary implementation shown in Fig. 39, the recess 306 may comprise a depth, that is smaller than a thickness of the portion of wall finishing material 308. Accordingly, in this implementation, when the finishing material 308 is installed in the recess 306, its exposed, outermost surface, 308a, will protrude outwards from the recess 306 of the tray 302.

[0695] In this exemplary configuration, the recess 306 is substantially rectangular in shape. This shape is advantageous as it is configured to readily accommodate standard wall finishing materials, such as rectangular, square tiles or other mosaic tiles, simplifying installation and enhancing the integrated appearance. The term "substantially rectangular" is intended to encompass variations from a perfect geometric rectangle, including embodiments where the corners of the recess 306 are rounded or chamfered for aesthetic or manufacturing purposes. In other possible variations, the recess could be formed in other geometric shapes, such as circular or oval, to match nonstandard finishing materials or to create a specific design aesthetic.

[0696] The peripheral rim 310 may be located at or directly adjacent the top, bottom and side edges of the tray 302. In this exemplary implementation, the recess 306 extends substantially to this peripheral rim 310, such that the recess 306 covers substantially the entire area of the front face 304 of the tray 302. This configuration ensures that the peripheral rim 310 is the only portion of the tray's underlying structure visible around the edge of the installed wall finishing material 308, thereby maximising the concealed effect.

[0697] In this exemplary embodiment, an inner wall 343 of the recess 306 (shown in Fig. 38), which is defined by the peripheral rim 310, is preferably formed with a bevelled or chamfered surface. This bevelled surface may be configured to mate with a correspondingly bevelled edge of the portion of wall finishing material 308 that is installed within the recess. The technical purpose of this bevelled interface is to allow the front, visible surface of the finishing material 308 to conceal themajority of the thickness of the peripheral rim 310. When the urinal is viewed from the front, this arrangement minimises the apparent width of the rim, creating a sharp, clean transition that contributes to the desired minimalist aesthetic.

[0698] While a flat bevel, for example at an angle of between approximately 30 and 60 degrees relative to the front face of the tray, may be implemented, other angles or profiles are also envisaged. For instance, the interface could be a corresponding curved or radiused profile. In a simpler, alternative embodiment, the inner wall 343 of the recess could be substantially perpendicular to the front face of the tray, which would require a straight-cut edge on the finishing material.

[0699] Unlike a conventional urinal tray which may be a simple, thin basin, the tray 302 is formed with a greater structural depth and is preferably substantially rectangular in shape. This configuration effectively turns the front portion of the tray 302 into a frame-like structure. The increased structural depth provides volume to form the recess 306 with a depth sufficient to accommodate the full thickness of the wall finishing material 308. By thickening the tray in this manner, it becomes possible to house a standard piece of tile or other wall finish entirely within its frontal boundary, allowing the outer face of the finishing material to sit flush with the surrounding wall.

[0700] Referring back to Fig. 33, the folding urinal 300 further comprises a main body 324, which provides the primary structural housing for the urinal's operational components and serves as the mounting point within the wall structure. Formed within the main body 324 is a receptacle 326, which is configured for receiving and collecting urine or other liquids when the urinal is in use. The receptacle 326 is shaped to channel received liquids towards an outlet for drainage into a connected plumbing system. The drain outlet 332 of the main body 324 is fluidly connected to a drain pipe 452 (shown in Fig. 45). The drain pipe 452 may be configured as a dual waste trap, similar to the drain pipe 200. The main body 324 is preferably dimensioned to be accommodated within a standard wall cavity, for example, a cavity having a depth of approximately 90mm, although it will be appreciated that it may be adapted for cavities of other depths.

[0701] The tray 302 is pivotally coupled to the main body 324, allowing for its rotational movement between a fully closed position (shown in Fig. 36) and a fully open position (shown in Fig. 37). The tray 302 comprises the front face 304 and an opposing rear face 330. In the closed position, the rear face 330 is positioned adjacent to the receptacle 326, and the front face 304 on an exposed side outer side.To facilitate installation and define the interface with the wall structure, the folding urinal 300 further comprises a mounting frame 334. This mounting frame 334 is coupled to, or configured to couple, the main body 324 and provides the primary structural interface for mounting the urinal 300 to a supporting wall structure. In the fully closed position, the tray 302 is received within the mounting frame 334. The coupling of the mounting frame 334 to the main body 324 may be achieved in several ways. In one variation, the mounting frame 334 is a separate component that is fastened or adhered to the main body 324 during assembly. In an alternative variation, the mounting frame 334 may be integrally formed with the main body 324 as a single, integral unit.

[0702] In one exemplary implementation, the main body 324 is removably coupled to the mounting frame 334. The coupling may be via one or more lower clips. These clips may provide a secure mechanical connection between the main housing and the flange of the mounting frame in a lower region of the assembly. The clips are designed to be releasable from the rear of the unit, for instance through an access hatch.

[0703] Structurally, the mounting frame 334 is positioned forward of the receptacle 326 and surrounds the opening thereof, acting as a forwardly-extending border for the receptacle. More specifically, the mounting frame 334 comprises an inner rim 336 that defines a central aperture, providing access to the receptacle 326.

[0704] The rim 336 extends from a face of the mounting frame 334 that is configured to oppose the tray 302 in an assembled state. This rim 336 defines a frame outer plane 337 (shown in Fig. 53). In one embodiment, the orientation of this plane may be configured to be positioned less distal to the main body 324 relative to an exposed, outermost surface of the wall finishing material 308 (as shown in Fig. 39). This arrangement ensures that the edge of the finishing material 308 slightly overhangs the peripheral rim 336 of the frame, thereby concealing the edge of the frame from a user's view and enhancing the seamless appearance. In an alternative embodiment (shown in Figs.

[0705] 38) the frame outer plane 337 may be configured to be substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the wall finishing material 308, creating a flush junction between the frame and the finishing material.

[0706] In the fully closed position, the peripheral rim 310 of the tray 302 is received within the boundary defined by the frame's rim 336. This creates a nested arrangement wherein the tray's peripheral rim 310 is positioned in close proximity to, and internally of, the frame's rim 336 as shown in Figs.

[0707] 38 and 39. Preferably there is no overlap between the rims. This configuration ensures that a small and substantially uniform gap is maintained between the two rims along their respective lengths,providing alignment for the tray 302 within the frame 334 and contributing to the overall concealed and integrated appearance of the urinal assembly. The gap between the rims 310 and 336 is preferably minimised. For example, the gap may be between approximately 1mm and 10mm, or between approximately 1mm and 5mm, or between approximately 1mm and 3mm. This minimal gap contributes to the seamless visual appearance of the urinal in its closed state when installed on a wall structure.

[0708] To provide a snug fit and to prevent impact noise or vibration when the tray 302 reaches its fully closed position, a damping seal may be provided in the interface between the peripheral rim 310 of the tray and the rim 336 of the mounting frame. The damping seal is preferably an O-ring formed from a resilient material such as rubber or silicone.

[0709] In an implementation, one of the rims, for instance the rim 336 of the mounting frame, may be formed with a groove configured to retain the damping seal. As the tray 302 moves into its fully closed position, the peripheral rim 310 of the tray makes contact with and slightly compresses the damping seal. This action provides a tight, secure fit, eliminating any potential for rattling in the closed position. Furthermore, it serves to dampen the impact of closure, preventing a harsh sound and reducing mechanical "shuddering," thereby contributing to the high-quality feel of the unit's operation.

[0710] To further enhance the concealed, integrated appearance, the visible width of the frame components in the finished installation is designed to be minimal, such as less than approximately 3mm wide, or less than approximately 2mm wide or less than approximately 1mm wide.

[0711] In the fully closed position, the front-facing surface of the peripheral rim 310 of the tray and the front-facing surface of the rim 336 of the mounting frame may be configured to be substantially co-planar, creating a single, flat plane when the urinal is closed. In an alternative configuration, the front-facing surface of the tray's rim 310 may extend slightly proud of, or distal to, the frontfacing surface of the frame's rim 336, or vice versa. This protrusion is preferably minimal to maintain the overall flush appearance. For example, the front surface of the tray's rim 310 may protrude beyond the front surface of the frame's rim 336 by a distance of between approximately 0.1mm and 1mm, or vice versa.

[0712] In one exemplary embodiment, the mounting frame 334 rim and / or the tray recess may be provided in a plurality of discrete depth options so that a flush finish may be achieved across a variety of installations with different wall finishing material thicknesses. For instance, the urinal system maybe offered with two or three different mounting frames 334, each having a different depth. Each depth option is pre-configured to correspond to a standard range of tile or stone thicknesses (e.g., 5-12mm, 13-20mm, 14-30mm). This allows an installer to select the appropriate mounting frame 334 and / or tray (or select the appropriate rim size for one or both of these) for the specific wall finishing material 308 being used, thereby ensuring that the frame's outer plane 337 can be precisely aligned, using the glue to adjust and precisely calibrate the depth of the final finished wall surface, for example, as previously described.

[0713] In one exemplary embodiment, to enhance the aesthetic integration of the urinal 300 within a variety of design environments, the externally visible components may be provided in a plurality of different colour sets. Specifically, the peripheral rim 310 of the tray 302 and the corresponding rim 336 of the mounting frame 334 may be manufactured in a palette of colours selected to match or complement common grout, sealant, or tile colours, or other wall finishing materials. Furthermore, the urinal may comprise a front panel or display lens 462 located in front of an electronic control system 402, and the colour of this panel 462 may also be matched to the selected frame colour. This allows for a high degree of customisation to suit a particular bathroom's design scheme. In an embodiment, while these external "frame" components are offered in various colours, the primary functional surfaces, such as the main inner receptacle 326 and the concavely curved surface 312 of the tray (shown in Fig. 40), remain a standard neutral colour, such as white, for hygiene and manufacturing consistency.

[0714] In a further alternative embodiment, to provide a metallic appearance when the urinal is in its closed state, the peripheral rim 310 of the tray and the rim 336 of the mounting frame may comprise a metallic finish. This finish can be achieved through various manufacturing methods, including but not limited to, cladding, physical vapour deposition (PVD), or electroplating.

[0715] In an embodiment, where the underlying structure of the rims is formed from a suitable platable, polymer, such as an Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) or a Polycarbonate / ABS blend, electroplating may provide a particularly high-quality and durable finish. For instance, a chrome-like appearance may be achieved by electroplating with layers of nickel and chrome. A finish mimicking brushed or polished stainless steel may be achieved by electroplating with a layer of nickel, which may then be subjected to a mechanical finishing process. An aluminium -like appearance may be achieved using bright nickel or tin-nickel alloy plating. Similarly, a copper look can be achieved through the direct plating of copper after an initial electroless copper layer.Alternatively, the metallic finish may be achieved by cladding or overlaying the underlying polymer structure with a decorative layer of a metallic material, such as a thin sheet of stainless steel. This metallic layer is preferably thin to maintain the overall slender profile of the frame components. Regardless of the method used, this configuration may result in the appearance of two concentric metallic frames when the urinal is in the closed position, offering a distinct design option that complements modern bathroom hardware, as an alternative to the fully tile-integrated look.

[0716] The tray 302 may be constructed as a single integral unit, or it may be constructed as a multi-part assembly to facilitate manufacturing. For instance, the tray 302 may comprise a front panel, which comprises the outer frame 304 and rim 310, and a rear body, which forms the concavely curved surface 312. These two parts are configured to be joined together along their corresponding edges. In one implementation, to enable a thin top edge for the tray 302, the front panel and rear body are coupled along their respective top edges using one or more interlocking clip mechanisms. This snap-fit or clip-based assembly method is advantageous as it eliminates the need for conventional fasteners, such as screws, which would require additional material thickness for bosses and threads, thereby preventing the achievement of the desired slender and aesthetically clean top edge.

[0717] Referring now to the internal geometry of tray 302, in this exemplary embodiment and as shown in Fig. 40, the tray 302 has a primary, concavely curved surface 312 which has a generally U-shaped cross-section, similar to the tray 140 of the urinal 100. The curved surface 312 is formed from two opposing side walls 314, 316 curving from a central region 318 of the surface 312. A height of each of the walls 314, 316 may be substantially uniform along a majority of the length of the wall. Alternatively, the height of each wall may be greater at a hinged-end 320 of the tray 302 relative to a terminal, front end 322 of the tray as per the tray of urinal 100, for instance. In this alternative configuration, the increase in height may be gradual and comprise a convex curvature, at least in a region at or adjacent the hinged-end 320. In other embodiments, the tapering in height may be more linear. In any of these implementations, adjacent the terminal, front end 322 of the tray, each wall 314, 316 may slope down toward the front end 322 as shown in Fig. 40.

[0718] Referring to Figs. 41 and 42, the folding urinal 300 further comprises a self-cleaning mechanism configured to clean the receptacle 326 and other internal surfaces after use. In its broadest form, the self-cleaning mechanism comprises at least one spray nozzle configured to eject a cleaning fluid, such as water, onto the receptacle 326 when the urinal is in situ.In this exemplary implementation, the self-cleaning mechanism comprises a plurality of spray nozzles positioned within the main body 324 to provide a comprehensive cleaning of the entire unit. This multi-zone cleaning approach allows for critical areas, including those difficult to reach, to be effectively sanitised after use. The plurality of nozzles may comprise at least one upper spray nozzle 340 and at least one lower spray nozzle 346.

[0719] The flow of cleaning fluid to the self-cleaning spray nozzles 340, 346 may be controlled by an electric water solenoid. This solenoid is an electrically actuated valve that is fluidly connected between a water supply line and the nozzles. In its default state, the solenoid is closed, preventing water flow. Upon receiving an activation signal from a control system 402 during a flush cycle, the solenoid opens, allowing a measured amount of cleaning fluid to be ejected from the nozzles.

[0720] The at least one upper spray nozzle 340 is configured to eject cleaning fluid from an upper region of the receptacle 326. In this exemplary implementation, a pair of upper spray nozzles 340 are provided and located on an upper wall of the receptacle (shown more clearly in Fig. 54). However, there may be any number of one or more upper spray nozzles 340. The at least one upper nozzle 340 is positioned and oriented to direct a cleaning fluid into the main basin of the receptacle 326 and onto the inner, concavely curved surface 312 of the tray 302, particularly when the tray is in the closed position.

[0721] As shown in Fig. 41, an aspect of this exemplary implementation, is the relationship between at least one upper spray nozzle 340 and the interface between the tray 302 and the mounting frame 334 in the fully closed position. At least one of the upper spray nozzles 340 is positioned at a predetermined height and oriented to direct a spray of cleaning fluid 341 into the gap defined between the peripheral rim 310 of the tray and the rim 336 of the mounting frame. This targeted cleaning ensures that any residue or contaminants within this gap are effectively flushed away.

[0722] To facilitate the drainage of this cleaning fluid back into the receptacle 326 and prevent egress from the unit, one or more geometries may be applied to the tray and / or frame rims 310, 336. For instance, a sloped geometry may be applied to at least the top portions of opposing faces of the tray rim 310 and the frame rim 336. This ensures that any cleaning fluid sprayed into the upper gap between the rims is directed by gravity back into the receptacle 326.

[0723] For manufacturing symmetry and to handle any minor condensation, the bottom portions of the rims may have a similar downward and inward slope. In contrast, the side portions of the rims maybe substantially vertical to maintain a consistent parallel gap along the vertical edges of the assembly.

[0724] In the installed orientation of the urinal, these sloped top and / or bottom surfaces are preferably angled downwards and inwards towards the receptacle 326. These surfaces may be sloped at an angle of between approximately 5 and 30 degrees relative to a horizontal plane. More preferably, the angle may be between 10 and 20 degrees.

[0725] One or more upper wall surfaces 342 of the receptacle 326 may be angled downward, in the installed orientation of the urinal to further direct the cleaning liquid toward other regions of the receptacle such as the side walls or towards the gap between the tray rim and frame rim. For instance, as shown in Fig. 41, the upper wall surface 342 may be angled downwards from the at least one upper spray nozzle 340 toward the interface between the tray rim 310 and frame rim 336. This arrangement can further promote the flow of liquid into the gap between these rims as described above.

[0726] Each upper spray nozzle 340 may comprise a nozzle head configured to disperse the cleaning liquid outwardly in a substantially planar, fan-like distribution. The angle of dispersion of the cleaning liquid as it deflects from the nozzle head 350 may be between approximately 90 degrees and 160 degrees, and more preferably between 90 degrees and 120 degrees, relative to an imaginary axis extending centrally through the nozzle head. The nozzle head 350 may further comprise a deflecting surface that is substantially annular in shape to facilitate uniform cleaning liquid dispersion. In alternative configurations, the nozzle head may comprise multiple, substantially small, nozzles distributed about the nozzle head to provide a full, approximately 360-degree spray pattern. This configuration of nozzle 340 allows for effective coverage and cleaning of the gap between the rims 310 and 336, while minimising water usage and preventing splashing.

[0727] As shown in Fig. 43, this exemplary implementation, the top wall of the main body 324 may be provided with a specific contour. This contour comprises a recessed portion or detent 333 that extends downwardly into the receptacle 326 relative to adjacent sections of the top wall. The downwardly extending detent 333 is configured to create an external mounting space on the top of the main body 324, which accommodates the housing for the electronic control system 402. Simultaneously, this configuration ensures that the adjacent, non-recessed sections of the top wall maintain their original, greater height on the interior of the receptacle. The at least one upper spray nozzle 340 is positioned within the main body 324 adjacent to this detent 333, on one of the higher, non-recessed sections.This arrangement allows the nozzle 340 to be mounted at the appropriate height to ensure an optimal spray trajectory for cleaning the upper portions of the tray 302, while the electronics housing is compactly and securely accommodated in the space created by the detent 333 without increasing the overall external dimensions of the unit.

[0728] Furthermore, this configuration enables the front sensor glass area to be positioned directly adjacent to, or touching, the top of the mounting frame 334. This eliminates any unsightly gaps and contributes to the overall compact and seamless aesthetic of the urinal's front profile. An additional advantage of this co-located arrangement is that it allows both the main PCB and the front PCB, which may house the user-facing sensors, to be joined together within this single, shared housing space, simplifying the electronic assembly and wiring.

[0729] Referring to Figs. 42 and 44, the at least one lower spray nozzle 346 is configured to eject cleaning fluid from a lower region of the receptacle 326. The at least one spray nozzle 346 extends from a lower wall of the receptacle opposing the upper wall from which the upper nozzle(s) 340 extend. In this exemplary implementation, a pair of lower spray nozzles 346 are provided. The pair of nozzles may be evenly spaced or distributed across the width of the lower wall of the receptacle and centrally located across the depth. Although other positioning may be implemented. However, any number of one or more nozzles 346 could be used. The lower spray nozzle(s) 346 are positioned and oriented to direct cleaning fluid towards a lower region of the tray 302 and receptacle 326. Alternatively, or in addition, the lower spray nozzle(s) 346 are positioned and oriented to direct cleaning fluid toward the hinged end 320 of the tray 302 and preferably onto a lower lip 348 of the tray at the hinged end 320. In this exemplary implementation, the lower spray nozzle(s) 346 are positioned and oriented to direct cleaning fluid towards the pivotal coupling area on either side of the tray 302 where the tray pivotally connects to the main body 324. This targeted cleaning prevents the build-up of residue in the hinge mechanism and other lower crevices, which are areas that are typically difficult to clean.

[0730] Similar to the at least one upper spray nozzle 340, the at least one lower spray nozzle 346 may comprise a nozzle head configured to disperse the cleaning liquid outwardly in a substantially planar, fan-like distribution. The angle of dispersion of the cleaning liquid as it deflects from the nozzle head may be between approximately 10 degrees and 170 degrees, and more preferably between 30 degrees and 120 degrees, relative to an imaginary axis extending centrally through the nozzle head. The nozzle head may further comprise a deflecting surface that is substantially annular in shape to facilitate uniform cleaning liquid dispersion. In alternative configurations, thenozzle head may comprise multiple, substantially small, nozzles distributed about the nozzle head to provide a full, approximately 360-degree spray pattern. This configuration of nozzle 346 allows for effective coverage and cleaning of the hinged end 320 of the tray and regions of the tray and receptacle adjacent this region, while minimising water usage.

[0731] It will be appreciated that this multi-zone self-cleaning configuration is not limited to the flushmounted urinal embodiment 300. This system can be applied to other embodiments, such as the folding urinal 100 previously described. For instance, the main body 120 of the urinal 100 could be modified to incorporate more than one upper spray nozzle positioned in an upper region of the receptacle 122, and / or one or more lower spray nozzles positioned in a lower region of the receptacle 122. In such a modification, the lower nozzles would be arranged to direct cleaning fluid towards the hinge member 130 and pivot pins 132, 133, thereby providing the same benefit of enhanced hygiene and reliability to the embodiment 100.

[0732] Referring now to Figs. 34, 35, 40, and 45, in this exemplary implementation of folding urinal 300 the tray 302 is pivotally coupled to the main body 324 via a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism comprises a hinge member 352, which pivotally couples the tray 302 to the main body 324. The hinge member 352 comprises a main axle 354 which is configured to rigidly couple the tray 302. In this embodiment, the tray comprises a corresponding recess or groove 353 formed along the edge at end 320 of the tray 302 for receiving and accommodating the main axle 354. The groove comprises a concavely curved inner surface to complement the outer profile of the main axle 354.

[0733] The hinge member 352 further comprises one or more engagement members 356 extending laterally from the main axle 354. These engagement members 356 are configured to couple to the tray 302. To facilitate a secure connection, the engagement members 356 may extend into corresponding recesses 358 formed in the tray 302. The recesses 358 may be substantially longitudinal and extend laterally from the groove 353. While a single engagement member may be used, a plurality of engagement members 356 may facilitate in distributing the load of the tray 302. The plurality of engagement members 356 and corresponding recesses 358 are preferably distributed substantially evenly across a width of the tray. In this exemplary implementation, there are three engagement members 356, providing enhanced strength and stability to the coupling, which may be beneficial when the tray 302 is fitted with a heavy wall finishing material 308. There may be more than three engagement members in other alternative embodiments.Referring to Figs. 52A-52C, the pivotal coupling of the hinge member 352 to the main body 324 may be achieved via a hinge retention mechanism. This mechanism is configured to securely retain the ends of the hinge member 352, such as the pivot pins extending from the main axle 354, while also allowing for fine axial adjustment during installation. This ensures that the tray 302 can be perfectly centred within the mounting frame 334, accounting for any minor manufacturing tolerances or installation misalignments.

[0734] In this exemplary implementation, the main body 324 comprises a first hinge retention mechanism configured to retain a first pivot pin 374 of the hinge. This mechanism comprises a hinge retention cavity 370, which is formed in or coupled to the main body 324, and a corresponding hinge retention bracket 372. The hinge retention cavity 370 is shaped to receive the pivot pin 374, and the hinge retention bracket 372 is configured to couple over the hinge retention cavity 370 to enclose and retain the pivot pin 374 therein. A similar second hinge retention mechanism may be provided on the opposing side of the main body 324 to retain a second pivot pin (not shown in detail in the figures). Although, the invention could be implemented using a single pivot pin and retention mechanism on one side of the main body for instance.

[0735] In this exemplary implementation, at least one hinge retention mechanism is configured to permit axial adjustment of the pivot pin 374 relative to the main body 324 prior to the hinge retention bracket 372 being fully secured. This adjustability is enabled by a structural arrangement comprising at least one elongate alignment aperture 376, which may be formed in the hinge retention bracket 372, and at least one corresponding fixing aperture 375, which may be formed in the main body 324 within the area of the hinge retention cavity 370.

[0736] During installation, a fastener 377 can be passed through the elongate alignment aperture and engaged with the fixing aperture. The elongate, or slotted, shape of the aperture allows the installer to slide the hinge retention bracket 372, and by extension the entire hinge member 352, along the axis of rotation. Once the desired axial position of the tray 302 is achieved, the fastener is tightened, locking the bracket in place. The final position of the fastener within the elongate alignment aperture thereby fixedly determines the final axial position of the hinge.

[0737] To further facilitate axial positioning of the pivot pin 374 after adjustment, the hinge retention mechanism, in this exemplary implementation, comprises complementary interlocking formations on the pivot pin and the hinge retainer bracket 372. As best shown in Fig. 52B, the pivot pin 374 may be formed with a circumferential recess or groove 379. Correspondingly, as shown in Fig.

[0738] 52C, the hinge retainer bracket 372, which acts as a cap over the hinge retention cavity 370, isformed with a complementary, inwardly-projecting ridge or protrusion 371 on its inner surface. The placement of these formations could be reversed in alternative configurations or there may be two or more sets of interlocking formations.

[0739] During assembly, when the hinge retainer bracket 372 is placed over the pivot pin 374, the ridge 371 is configured to seat within the recess 379, as illustrated in the assembled view of Fig. 52A. This engagement creates a positive interlock between the bracket and the pivot pin, which securely fixes the axial position of the pivot pin 374 relative to the main body and prevents any subsequent side-to-side movement once the fasteners 377 are tightened into the fixing apertures 375.

[0740] In this exemplary, embodiment, the hinge retention bracket 372 and its associated fastener are located on a rear-facing surface of the main body 324 or mounting frame 334 (i.e., a surface facing away from the tray 302). This positioning allows the entire hinge retention mechanism to be directly accessible from the rear of the wall structure, for instance through an access hatch (after removing the main body from mounting frame 334 as shown in Figs. 60 and 61). A service technician can thereby reach through the hatch to unfasten the hinge retention brackets 372, allowing for the repair or complete replacement of the hinge member 352 without disturbing the front, finished wall surface 308.

[0741] The fixing apertures within the main body 324 may be implemented as threaded inserts 325 (one of which is shown in Fig. 45). These inserts 325 are embedded or co-moulded into the structure of the main body or mounting frame during manufacture. The threaded inserts 325 may be formed from a robust, metallic material, such as brass, which provides a durable, corrosion-resistant thread that can withstand repeated fastening and unfastening without risk of stripping, which might otherwise occur in a non-metallic frame material.

[0742] The forward-facing opening of each threaded insert 325, which may be exposed to the front of the unit before the wall finishing material is applied (as shown in Fig. 45), may be provided with a removable seal or blanking plug. The purpose of this blanking plug is to prevent the ingress of installation materials, such as tile adhesive or grout, into the threads. This ensures that the threads remain clean and fully functional for the secure attachment of the hinge retention bracket 372. The blanking plug may be designed to be left in place permanently.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the hinge retention and axial adjustment mechanism described for the urinal 300 may be substantially the same as or similar to the first hinge retention assembly described for the urinal 100, which comprises the hinge retention cavity 170, the hinge retention bracket 175, the elongate alignment aperture 177, the fixing aperture 172, and the fastener 176. Accordingly, features and variations described in relation to the hinge retention assembly of urinal 100 may equally be implemented in the hinge retention assembly of urinal 300.

[0743] In one implementation, the tray 302 may be slidably coupled to the hinge member 352. For this slidable engagement to be functional, the recess(es) 358 are formed as channels or bores which are open at one end to receive the corresponding engagement member(s) 356. The geometry of the recesses 358 and the engagement members 356 are complementary to ensure a smooth, guided linear motion along a single axis. For example, if the engagement members 356 are cylindrical, the recesses 358 are corresponding cylindrical bores. Other cross-sectional profiles are possible, such as rectangular. To ensure the tray 302 remains securely in place once fully engaged, a retention mechanism may be provided. This could, for instance, be a friction fit between the components, or more preferably, a positive locking feature such as a spring-loaded detent or a flexible clip that engages once the tray is in its fully installed position. Furthermore, a sealing element, such as an O-ring, may be located on the engagement members 356 or within the recesses 358 to create a fluid-tight seal between the tray and the hinge.

[0744] While a slidable coupling is utilised in this implementation, it will be appreciated that other removable coupling mechanisms may be employed. In an alternative slidable implementation, the configuration could be reversed, with the hinge member 352 defining female slots and the tray 302 comprising corresponding male rails or tongues configured to slide therein, or each member having a combination of slots and rails / tongues and the other member having the complementary formation. In another variation, the coupling could be another form of mechanical j oint, configured to provide a self-aligning slidable connection.

[0745] Non-slidable removable couplings are also envisaged. For instance, the tray 302 could be coupled to the engagement members 356 via a snap-fit mechanism, where flexible tabs on the tray engage with corresponding features on the hinge member, allowing the tray to be pushed on and pulled off. Alternatively, a more traditional mechanical fastening system could be used, where the tray is secured to the engagement members 356 with removable fasteners such as screws, bolts, or quarter-turn latches. In a further alternative, the coupling could be magnetic, using high-strengthpermanent magnets on both the tray and the hinge member to securely hold the tray in place while still allowing for tool-free removal.

[0746] As shown in Fig. 40, the tray 302 further comprises a pair of side walls 314, 316. In this exemplary implementation, to control the removable connection between the tray 302 and the main body 326, the urinal 300 is further provided with an interlocking mechanism comprising at least one tray catch 364 and at least one corresponding stopper 366 on the main body 324. A tray catch 364 protrudes laterally from at least one side wall of the tray (but preferably both), and is configured to engage and interact with the stopper 366 to inhibit slidable disengagement of the tray 302 from the hinge member 352 in one or more predefined, rotational position(s). This selective disengagement is achieved by the mechanical relationship between the tray catch 364 and the stopper 366. In one or more first rotational position, which may be intermediate position between the fully closed and fully open positions for instance, the tray catch 364 is and stopper 366 are decoupled which enables the tray to be slidably disengaged from the main body. Conversely, in other rotational position of the tray, such as the fully opened position, the tray catch 364 aligns with the stopper 366, which creates a mechanical obstruction preventing the tray from being slidably disengaged from the main body. This ensures that the tray 302 cannot be accidentally removed during use, including at least the fully closed and fully open positions, thereby providing a safe and secure coupling during use

[0747] n this exemplary implementation, a tray catch 364 protrudes laterally from an outer face of each of the side walls 314, 316, proximate to the hinged end 320 of the tray. A corresponding stopper 366 is cooperatively positioned on either side of the main body 324, protruding inwardly from inner side walls of the body. Each stopper 366 may be configured as a substantially cylindrical lug or projection. To interact with this stopper 366, each tray catch 364 is formed with a substantially arcuate profile complementing the adjacent the outer wall of the stopper 366 (in the fully open position of the tray). The inner curvature of this arcuate profile corresponds to the outer curvature of the cylindrical stopper 366. During normal operation, this arrangement allows the tray catch 364 to rotate into the fully open position adjacent to the stopper 366, with the respective curved surfaces acting as bearing surfaces to inhibit removal of the tray 302 relative to the main body 324.

[0748] The stopper 366 is also configured to act as a physical end stop or abutment that interacts with the tray catch 364 to prevent the tray from rotating beyond the fully open position.

[0749] To enhance the strength, manufacturability, and to provide a flush outer profile, each tray catch 364 is preferably located within a corresponding recess or cavity 368 formed in the outer face ofthe respective tray wall 314, 316. This design also allows for a more robust distribution of forces compared to a surface-mounted catch.

[0750] While the described C-shaped tray catch 364 and cylindrical stopper 366 represent one implementation, it will be understood that other configurations may be implemented to achieve the same selective engagement function. The core principle involves a projection on one component and a corresponding discontinuous profile on the other.

[0751] For instance, a cam mechanism could be used. The main body 324 could feature a cam profile, and the tray 302 could have a corresponding cam follower. The cam profile would define a channel that traps the follower during normal operation but provides a removal path at the designated "park mode" position. Alternatively, a more conventional latch-and-striker system could be implemented, where a manually actuated latch on the tray must be released before it can be disengaged from a striker pin on the main body. Finally, it is also envisaged that the roles of the components could be reversed, with the stopper projection being located on the tray and the discontinuous catch profile being formed on the main body, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0752] In this exemplary implementation, the urinal 300 comprises a gutter channel 360 extending along an external side of each side wall 314, 316 of the tray 302. In a manner similar to the gutter channels 142a, 143a of the urinal 100, these gutter channels 360 are configured to catch any liquid that may spill over the side walls during use. The profile of each gutter channel 360 may be optimised for liquid collection and flow management, for instance by having a slightly concave profile. The gutter channel 360 may also slope downward from the front end 322 of the tray towards the hinged end 320. An outlet at the hinged end 320 is shaped to promote the flow of any collected liquid out of the gutter channel 360 and back into the receptacle 326 when the tray is moved towards its closed position.

[0753] A difference in the urinal 300, however, is that to facilitate the slidable removal of the tray 302 from the hinge member 352, each gutter channel 360 is discontinuous at an end 362 of the respective side wall that is proximal to the hinged end 320 of the tray. This structural modification means the gutter channel 360 does not wrap around to the top edge of each side wall as per channel 142a extending to top edge 142b. This discontinuity creates a clear physical path that prevents the gutter channel 360 from mechanically interfering with or colliding with the stopper 366 during the sliding removal or installation of the tray.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the mechanical features described in relation to the hinge system or the removable tray of urinal 300 are not limited to a flush -mounted configuration and may be advantageously applied to other folding urinal embodiments. For instance, these features could be incorporated into the previously described folding urinal 100 or other similar folding urinals to enhance their functionality and reliability.

[0754] For instance, the hinge member 352 with its main axle 354 and three or more engagement members 356 could be used in place of the hinge member 130 in the urinal 100. Furthermore, the removable tray system of urinal 300 could be adapted for urinal 100. This may involve modifying the gutter channels 142a, 143a on the tray 140 to be discontinuous at the hinged end 145. An interlocking tray catch and stopper mechanism could also be integrated into urinal 100. A stopper, the same or similar to stopper 366, could be added to the main body 120. A corresponding tray catch, like tray catch 364, could be added to the side walls 142, 143 of the tray 140. The application of these interlocking and removable features is therefore a general improvement applicable to any folding urinal where enhanced serviceability, cleaning and safety are desired.

[0755] Conversely, the folding urinal 300, while benefiting from the aforementioned mechanical features, does not necessarily require all of them to achieve a flush-mounted configuration.

[0756] For instance, in a simpler embodiment of the flush-mounted urinal 300, the tray 302 may be permanently coupled to the hinge member 352, similar to the arrangement of tray 140 in the urinal 100. In such a configuration, the interlocking tray catch 364 and stopper 366 mechanism may not be required, as the tray is not intended for user removal. Consequently, the gutter channels 360 could be formed continuously along the entire length of the side walls 314, 316, without the need for the discontinuity at the hinged end 320.

[0757] Similarly, the structure of the hinge member 352 could be varied. While a configuration with three or more engagement members 356 provides enhanced strength, a flush-mounted urinal could also be implemented with a hinge member comprising a pair of engagement members, a single plate of greater width than the engagement members, or any other suitable hinge structure capable of supporting the tray.

[0758] In this exemplary embodiment, urinal 300 further comprises an actuating mechanism 382, configured to move the tray 302 between its closed and open positions. In a preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism 382 comprises an electromechanical system, including a movable actuator 384. This movable actuator may be a linear actuator having a piston that is axially movablebetween an advanced position and a retracted position, corresponding to the open and closed positions of the tray 302, respectively. The movable actuator is operatively coupled to the hinge member 352, for instance via a linkage mechanism, to convert the linear motion of the piston into the required rotational motion of the hinge. While an electromechanical linear actuator is implemented in this embodiment, alternative variations are also envisaged. For example, the actuating mechanism 382 could comprise a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, or it could be a rotary actuator directly coupled to the hinge member 352. In a simpler implementation, the mechanism could be a manually operated lever with a handle.

[0759] To assist the actuating mechanism 382 and to ensure the tray 302 returns reliably to its fully closed position, the urinal 300 further comprises a biasing mechanism 386. The biasing mechanism 386 is configured to apply a force that biases the tray 302 towards the closed position. This reduces the energy required by the actuating mechanism 382 to close the tray and can hold the tray securely closed even without power. In a preferred implementation, similar to that of urinal 100, the biasing mechanism 386 comprises a helical tension spring operatively coupled between the main body 324 and the hinge member 352. The spring may be pre-tensioned when the tray 302 is in the closed position, and is further tensioned as the tray moves towards the open position, thereby storing energy that assists in its closure. The biasing mechanism 386 may be coupled to hinge member via a connector arm 386. Alternative biasing mechanisms are also possible, including but not limited to torsional springs acting on the hinge axis, leaf springs, or magnetic biasing mechanisms that use repelling magnets to push the tray closed.

[0760] The relative positioning of the actuating mechanism 382 and the biasing mechanism 386 within the main body 324 is configured to be compact and concealed, in a manner similar to that of urinal 100. In a preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism 382 and the biasing mechanism 386 are located on opposing sides of the main body 324.

[0761] As shown more clearly in Fig. 47, to protect the actuating mechanism 382 from debris and accidental contact while still allowing for convenient service access, a removable actuator cover 383 may be provided. The actuator cover 383 may be configured to be removably coupled to the main body 324. In a preferred implementation, the cover 383 is designed to "slot into place," meaning it may comprise one or more alignment features, such as tabs or guides, that engage with corresponding slots or recesses on the main body. This allows the cover to be precisely located and held in position before being fully secured. The actuator cover 383 may be secured to the main body via one or more fasteners, such as screws.The hinge member 352 is coupled to an actuator connector arm 385 extending transversely from one side of its main axle 354. This actuator connector arm 385 passes through an aperture formed in a hinge retention cavity. This allows the arm 385 to be operatively coupled to the movable actuator 384, which is positioned adjacent to but external of the main receptacle 326.

[0762] Similarly, on the opposing side, the hinge member 352 is provided with a biasing mechanism connector arm 388. This arm 388 extends through a corresponding aperture formed in a second hinge retention cavity. The arm 388 is operatively coupled to the biasing mechanism 386 which is also located adjacent to but external of the main receptacle 326.

[0763] The actuator 382 and biasing mechanism 386 are preferably positioned on the outer sides of the receptacle 326 but concealed behind the mounting frame 334. This arrangement of containing the actuator and biasing mechanism within the overall structure of the main body 324, allows both mechanisms to be completely concealed behind the tray 302 when the urinal is installed, maintaining a clean and unobtrusive internal appearance.

[0764] In an implementation where the tray 302 is removable from the hinge member 352, the force of the biasing mechanism 386 may no longer be counteracted by the weight of the tray, creating a risk of the unopposed spring force causing the movable actuator 382 to over-travel and reach its physical travel limit, potentially causing damage to the actuator 382. To prevent this, in this exemplary implementation, the urinal 300 comprises a hinge stopper 390. This stopper may have a protective sleeve, formed from a soft plastics material for instance. The stopper 390 is fixedly positioned on the main body 324 and is located in the movement path of the biasing mechanism 386 or of a component associated with the biasing mechanism 386, such as the connector arm 388 coupled to the hinge member 352. The stopper 390 is positioned to define a movement limit for the biasing mechanism that is located beyond its normal operating range. During normal use with the tray attached, the moving component never reaches the stopper 390. However, when the tray 302 is removed, the unopposed biasing mechanism 386 is allowed to travel further until it is safely prevented from further movement by the stopper 390, thereby preventing the movable actuator 382 from moving beyond its intended operational range. The stopper 390 may similarly be implemented in urinal 100.

[0765] Further illustrative electronic control system for a folding urinal

[0766] Referring to Fig. 49, the folding urinal 300 further comprises an electronic control system 402 configured to automate operation and provide additional functionality to the urinal 300. The urinal300 comprises a user proximity sensor 400 and the control system 402 is operatively coupled to the user proximity sensor 400. This sensor is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence or proximity of a user in the vicinity of the urinal 300. The control system 402 is configured activate the actuating mechanism 382 to move the tray 302 based on the signal(s) received from the proximity sensor 400. For instance, upon receiving a signal indicating a user is within a predetermined distance, the control system 402 may be configured to drive the actuating mechanism 382 to move the tray 302 to the open position. Conversely, upon receiving a signal indicating the user is no longer present or has moved away beyond the predetermined distance from the urinal 300, the control system 402 may be configured to drive the actuating mechanism 382 to return the tray 302 to the fully closed position. Any suitable type of sensing device may be implemented for the user proximity sensor 400, including but not limited to infrared sensors, Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors, capacitive sensors, or ultrasonic sensors.

[0767] The control system 402 is configured with position sensing to determine an indication of the rotational position of the tray 302 during operation.

[0768] In an embodiment, the method for tracking the tray's position during movement is a relative positioning system. Where the actuating mechanism 382 employs a stepper motor or a brushless motor, the control system 402 is configured to count the rotational steps of the motor. By knowing the initial position of the tray and counting the motor steps, the control system 402 can calculate and track the exact angular position of the tray throughout its range of motion.

[0769] This relative positioning method may be susceptible to errors if the tray's movement is physically obstructed, causing the motor's commanded steps to become desynchronized from the tray's actual position. To address this, the system incorporates a stall detection module 408. This module detects when the motor has stalled or skipped steps. While the stall detection confirms that a positional error has occurred and the system's knowledge of the tray's position is lost, it does not provide information about the tray's new, unknown position

[0770] In one implementation, the control system 402 therefore comprises an absolute positioning system. This system may comprise a tray position sensor 404 and a corresponding magnet 406. In a general configuration, the magnet 406 is located on one of the tray 302 or the main body 324, (preferably the tray) and the tray position sensor 404 is located on the other of the main body 324 or the tray 302 (preferably the main body). The tray position sensor 404 is configured to detect a magnetic field parameter of the magnet 406, such as its presence or strength, to determine a position of the tray 302. In one implementation, the magnet 406 is located within the structure of the tray 302,and the tray position sensor 404 is located on a stationary part of the main body 324. Fig. 58 for instance shows the magnet 406 which may be configured to locate within a corresponding cavity 303 at an end of the tray 302 opposing the hinged end. This arrangement is particularly effective for providing a definitive signal to the control system 402 when the tray 302 reaches its fully closed position. This information can be used by the control system 402 to initiate a flush cycle or for reestablishing a known reference position after a potential stall event. While a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor or a Reed switch, may be preferred for reliability and lack of moving parts.

[0771] In a more advanced magnetic implementation, the tray position sensor 404 may be a magnetic angle sensor, functioning as an absolute encoder. Such a sensor may be located at the hinge axis and configured to directly monitor the rotational movement of the hinge member 352, thereby providing a continuous and absolute measurement of the tray's angle at all times.

[0772] In another alternative magnetic embodiment, a magnetic rotary position sensor could be located on the shaft of the actuating mechanism's motor 384. This sensor would be configured to measure and count the rotational movements of the actuator shaft itself. The control system 402 would then be configured to calculate the exact linear position of the actuator and, by extension, the angular position of the tray based on this rotational data.

[0773] Fig. 59 illustrates a detailed cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a position sensing system integrated directly into the actuating mechanism 382. In this embodiment, the actuating mechanism comprises a motor 384, such as a stepper or brushless motor, having a rotating motor shaft 468. A magnet 470 is affixed to an end of the motor shaft 468, for instance by gluing or other suitable attachment means, such that the magnet 470 rotates concurrently with the shaft.

[0774] An actuator PCB 472 is mounted in a stationary position within the actuator housing, proximate to the end of the motor shaft 468. A magnetic rotary position sensor 474 is mounted on this actuator PCB 472, positioned to be directly opposite the magnet 470.

[0775] As the motor 384 operates, the motor shaft 468 and the attached magnet 470 rotate. The stationary magnetic rotary position sensor 474 detects the changes in the magnetic field caused by the rotation of the magnet 470. The sensor 474 is configured to output a signal indicative of the absolute rotational angle of the motor shaft 468. The control system 402 receives this signal via a communication means, which may be wired (e.g., via cable connector plug 476 on the PCB 472) or wireless. The control system 402 can then track the number of rotations of the motor shaft. Thisdata is then used to calculate the linear extension of the actuator and, consequently, the exact angular position of the tray 302.

[0776] It will be appreciated that other, non-magnetic types of tray position sensors could also be used in alternative embodiments. These include, for example, optical sensors that detect an interruption of a light beam, a potentiometer mechanically coupled to the hinge axis to provide a variable resistance based on angle, or gyroscopic sensors that can measure the absolute angle of the tray.

[0777] In an exemplary implementation of the magnetic sensing system, the tray position sensor 404 may be a multi-axis magnetic sensor, such as a 3-axis magnetometer. Such a sensor is configured to measure not just the presence, but the strength and vector of the magnetic field produced by the magnet 406. By analysing the changes in the magnetic field across one or more axes as the tray 302 moves, the control system 402 can obtain a more precise and continuous reading of the tray's angular position, not just a binary indication of the closed state. This allows for more sophisticated control logic and more precise confirmation of tray positions, such as the "park mode" position. While a 3-axis sensor may be used for maximum precision, a single-axis reading may be sufficient for many applications.

[0778] The control system 402 may further comprise a range of other features to enhance user interaction, safety, and / or efficiency, including any one of these described in relation to the electronics and control system of urinal 100. Only some of these features similar to those of the urinal 100 control system are described below for the sake of brevity.

[0779] The control system 402 may be configured to manage one or more operational status indicators, such as illumination devices located within the receptacle 326 or on a front panel of the urinal. These indicators can provide visual feedback to the user regarding the urinal's status, such as power-on, in-use, or an active flush cycle.

[0780] The system may also incorporate additional sensors. For instance, an ambient light brightness sensor may be included, allowing the control system 402 to adjust the brightness of any illumination devices in response to the surrounding light level, thereby improving user comfort and energy efficiency. Furthermore, a moisture detection device may be located within the main body 324 (e.g., on the wall frame base plate) and communicatively coupled to the control system402. In the event of a water leak, the control system 402 could be configured to activate an audible alarm to alert a user or maintenance personnel.

[0781] The control system 402 may also manage a flush control system with greater sophistication. It can be configured to activate a flushing mechanism 407 only when one or more predetermined flush conditions are met. These conditions may be time-related, such as flushing only after a set period has elapsed since the tray closed, or they may be based on a combination of signals from the user proximity sensor 400 and the tray position sensor 404. It is also envisaged that certain parameters, such as the initial detection distance of the user proximity sensor 400, may be configurable by an installer via a dedicated user input device, allowing the urinal's sensitivity to be optimised for its specific installation environment.

[0782] In this exemplary implementation, the control system 402 may be configured with a multi-sensor architecture to determine the operational state of the urinal. The system may use a combination of multiple distinct data sources for instance, including: a first sensor, being the user proximity sensor 400 configured to generate a signal indicative of user presence; a second sensor being the tray position sensor 404 configured to generate a signal indicative of a fully closed position of the tray 302; and a third data source derived from the control system’s own monitoring of at least one operational parameter of the actuating mechanism 382. The control system 402 may be configured to determine the overall operational state of the urinal by processing and combining the signals from the user proximity sensor 400, the closed position signal from the tray position sensor 404, and the monitored operational parameter of the actuating mechanism. The system may also combine information from the stall detection module.

[0783] The combination of these data sources allows the control system 402 to identify and act upon several distinct operational states. For example:

[0784] • Idle State: This state is determined when the control system 402 receives a signal from the tray position sensor 404 indicating the tray is fully closed, and concurrently receives a signal from the user proximity sensor 400 indicating no user is present. In this state, the system remains in a low-power standby mode, awaiting user interaction.

[0785] • User- Activated Opening State: This state is triggered when, starting from the Idle State, the user proximity sensor 400 generates a signal indicating user presence. The control system 402 verifies the tray is closed via the tray position sensor 404, and then drives the actuating mechanism 382 to move the tray to the open position.• Flush Cycle Ready State: This state is determined by a specific sequence of events. The control system 402 identifies that the tray has been open, the user proximity sensor 400 subsequently indicates the user is no longer present, and finally, the tray position sensor 404 confirms that the tray has successfully returned to the fully closed position. The combination of both user absence and a confirmed closed signal provide a reliable trigger for the control system 402 to activate the self-cleaning mechanism 405.

[0786] • Error or Stalled State: This state is determined primarily by the monitoring of the actuating mechanism 382. If, during a commanded movement, the control system 402 detects a stall (e.g., via a skipped motor step or a current spike), it determines that the tray is obstructed. This state is triggered irrespective of the signals from the other sensors and allows the system to enter a safe mode, for instance by de-energising the motor.

[0787] • Position Recovery State: Following a detected stall, the control system 402 enters this state, knowing its internal positional data is unreliable. In this state, it ignores the user proximity sensor 400 and commands the actuating mechanism 382 to move the tray towards the closed position. It relies solely on the absolute signal from the tray position sensor 404 to confirm when the "home" position is reached, at which point it recalibrates its internal position data.

[0788] In this exemplary implementation, the control system 402 may comprise a stall detection module 408, configured to monitor the actuating mechanism's motor 384 to detect a stall condition. This is particularly useful for determining the tray's position when it has been physically obstructed. The stall detection module 408 monitors at least one operational parameter of the motor, such as motor current, back-EMF, or, in the case of a stepper motor, the step count. A stall condition is detected when a deviation corresponding to a skipped motor step is identified, or when a sudden spike in motor current indicates that the motor is unable to move against a load, for instance. In one implementation where the motor is a brushless or stepper motor, the control system 402 is configured to track the motor's step count to determine the relative position of the tray 302 at any given time. A stall condition is then detected when the system identifies a deviation between the commanded steps and the actual movement, for example by monitoring the motor's back-EMF or current draw. Upon detecting such a stall condition, the control system 402 may be configured to de-energise the motor 384. This action serves two purposes: it prevents potential damage to the motor or its gearbox, and it releases the drive force, allowing a user to safely remove the obstruction.In response to detecting a stall, which indicates that the control system's internal knowledge of the tray's position may be lost, the control system 402 is configured to execute a position-recovery or "homing" routine. This routine may be initiated after a predetermined time delay has elapsed following the stall detection, for instance, a delay of 5 to 10 seconds, to allow a user time to move away from the urinal. The recovery routine comprises the control system 402 driving the motor 384 to move the tray 302 towards the closed position. During this movement, the system monitors the tray position sensor 404 for the signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position. Upon receiving this definitive signal, the control system 402 updates its internal positional data, thereby defining the closed position as a known, absolute reference point from which all subsequent tray movements can be accurately calculated. As a failsafe, the control system 402 may also be configured to stop commanding the motor if a second stall condition is detected during this closing movement. This second stall would indicate a physical obstruction, such as the tray pressing firmly against the main body, which can also be interpreted by the control system as having reached the closed position, providing a redundant method for recalibration.

[0789] The intelligent control system 402 is also configured to interpret specific user inputs to activate special operational modes. In one embodiment, the system can enter a "Hand Cleaning Mode." The control system is configured to detect a sequence comprising a predetermined number of user presence signals from the user proximity sensor 400 within a defined time interval, for example, three or four distinct hand waves. In response to detecting this specific sequence, the control system may drive the actuating mechanism 382 to maintain the tray 302 in the open position for a predetermined period of time, such as five minutes, irrespective of subsequent signals from the sensor, allowing for convenient manual cleaning.

[0790] More generally, the control system may be configured to enter a "Tray Removal Park Mode" where the tray 302 is moved to an intermediate position located between the fully closed and fully open positions. The control system 402 is configured to, upon receiving a predetermined input signal from a user input device, command the actuating mechanism 382 to move the tray to this intermediate position. In this specific position, the tray 302 is mechanically aligned to permit its disengagement from the main body 324 for servicing. The user input device for activating these modes may be the user proximity sensor 400, and the input signal may be a predetermined series of hand waves received within a predetermined period of time, as described above. But in alternative variations, it could be a dedicated, concealed push-button, a touch-sensitive area on the urinal's frame, or a signal from a wireless remote control.In an alternative method for preparing the urinal for tray removal for instance, the tray 302 may be disengaged by de-energising the unit. This method may comprise first moving the tray 302 to an open position under normal power (or manually). Subsequently, the power supply to the control system 402 and actuating mechanism 382 may be interrupted (if powered). With the actuating mechanism de-energised, a user may then manually move the tray 302 from the open position to the same intermediate "park mode" position where the tray catch 364 clears the stopper 366. This manual movement may require the user to apply a force to counteract the biasing mechanism 386. Once in the correct intermediate position, the tray 302 can be slidably disengaged from the hinge member 352 as previously described.

[0791] It will be appreciated that the above features of the control system 402 are not limited to implementation within the flush -mounted urinal 300, but rather represent a general improvement applicable to other folding urinal designs, such as the previously described urinal 100. The control system for urinal 100, for example, could be readily replaced or augmented with the architecture and logic of control system 402.

[0792] In such a modification, the control system for urinal 100 would be configured to monitor the operational parameters of its actuating mechanism 150 to detect stall conditions. The positionrecovery routine could then be implemented, using the existing tray position sensor 190 as the absolute reference point for recalibration after a stall. Furthermore, the logic for activating the "Hand Cleaning Mode" or a "Tray Removal Park Mode" based on specific sequences of inputs from its user proximity sensor could be programmed into the control system.

[0793] Referring to Fig. 50, the control system 402 may be implemented on a dedicated hardware platform, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), which houses the necessary electronic components. At the core of the control system 402 is at least one processor 410, which may be a microcontroller (MCU) or a more capable microprocessor (MPU). The processor 410 is operatively coupled to a memory module 412. The memory module 412 typically comprises nonvolatile memory, such as Flash memory or EEPROM, for storing a set of machine-readable instructions, and volatile memory, such as Random Access Memory (RAM), for use by the processor 410 during runtime for temporary data storage and calculations.

[0794] The set of machine-readable instructions, also referred to as firmware 414, is stored in the nonvolatile memory and is executed by the processor 410. The firmware 414 embodies the logic required to perform all the control functions of the urinal. This includes algorithms for receiving and interpreting signals from all connected sensors, executing the primary control loop for normalopening and closing operations, implementing the stall detection and position-recovery routines, and managing the special user-activated modes such as the "Hand Cleaning Mode" and the "Tray Removal Park Mode."

[0795] To interface with the physical components of the urinal, the control system 402 comprises a plurality of input / output (I / O) interfaces. This includes input interfaces, such as digital or analogue input ports, for receiving signals from the user proximity sensor 400 and the tray position sensor 404. The control system 402 also comprises an output interface, specifically a motor driver circuit 416, which is configured to receive low-power control signals from the processor 410 and convert them into the higher-power electrical current required to drive the motor of the actuating mechanism 382. The motor driver circuit 416 may also comprise the stall detection module 408 as a hardware and / or software component, configured to monitor the motor's current draw or back-EMF to detect a stall condition and report it to the processor 410. Alternatively, the stall detection module 408 may be implemented entirely in the firmware 414, where the processor 410 analyses data from the motor to infer a stall.

[0796] The entire electronic system is powered by a power management unit 418, which is configured to receive power from an external source, such as a mains adapter, and convert it into the stable, low-voltage DC power required by the processor 410, sensors, and other onboard components.

[0797] In some embodiments, the control system 402 may further comprise a communication module 420. This module could be a wireless communication module, such as a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Zigbee transceiver, configured to enable communication with external devices. Such a communication module 420 could be used for various purposes, including receiving over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates to improve functionality over time, transmitting diagnostic data to a service technician's device, or integrating the urinal into a larger building management or smart home system for centralized monitoring and control.

[0798] The electronic components of the control system 402 may be distributed across more than one printed circuit board (PCB). For instance, a main PCB may house the processor 410 and power management unit 418, while a separate front PCB may house user-facing sensors, such as the user proximity sensor 400. In one exemplary implementation physical layout, the front PCB may be connected to the main PCB in a configuration that forms a "T" shape, allowing for a compact arrangement of components.

[0799] Illustrative Methods of installing a folding urinalReferring to Figs. 55 and 57, to facilitate a precise and repeatable installation, the folding urinal 300 may be supplied with a kit of templates. This kit may include a wall cut-out template, (an example of which is shown in Fig. 57) which provides the exact dimensions and positioning for the aperture to be cut into the wall lining, including the locations for any required screw holes for the mounting frame 334. The kit may also include a drilling template (as shown in Fig. 57) comprising indicia 501 for locating the precise screw hole positions for fastening the angle mounts 424 (shown in Fig. 46) to the wall studs 422, for instance. Furthermore, to facilitate with an aesthetic finish, the kit may include one or more wall finishing cutting templates. Fig. 55 shows one exemplary tile cutting template for instance. These templates can guide the installer in accurately cutting the wall finishing material 308 to fit around the mounting frame 334 and be installed within the recess 306 of the tray 302, by providing indicia 503 for a wall cutting area. Further instructional indica 502 may be provided as part of this template. It will be appreciated these templates are exemplary and optional.

[0800] A method for installing the folding urinal 300 within a wall structure 425 will now be described with reference to Figs. 46, 51, 55, 56, 57, 60 and 61. This method achieves a secure, strong, and precisely aligned installation within a conventional wall cavity that comprises wall studs 422 and a wall lining 423, such as sheeting. The wall lining 423 itself may be of any suitable type for a wet area, such as cement sheeting, for instance having a thickness of approximately 6mm, or alternatively other water-resistant building boards. The method ensures that the mounting frame 334 is robustly anchored to the support structure of the wall and that the urinal 300 is flush mounted with the exposed finishing material of the wall structure.

[0801] The installation process begins with the preparation of an opening or aperture 426 in the wall lining 423 (shown in Fig. 60). This may be facilitated by the use of a provided wall cut-out template to ensure the dimensions and location of the aperture are accurate. This initial stage further comprises the step of pre-drilling all required fastener holes into the wall lining 423 using, preferably using the locations provided on the wall cut-out template. Subsequently, these holes are countersunk. This countersinking step is performed on the front, or bathroom-facing, side of the wall lining. The predrilling may be performed prior to creating the opening or aperture in the wall lining.

[0802] Following the preparation of the aperture and the countersunk fastener holes in the wall lining 423, the main body 324 and attached mounting frame 334 assembly is inserted into the wall cavity, preferably from the rear side of the wall, such as through an access hatch. In this stage, only the frame may be attached or the frame and main body or the entire assembly including the tray.During this stage, the assembly is moved forward until the mounting frame 334 abuts the rear face of the wall lining, with the frame's fastener holes aligned with the pre-drilled holes in the lining.

[0803] An initial securing step is then performed to hang the unit in place. Countersunk fasteners are inserted through the pre-drilled holes from the front, or bathroom-facing, side only. At this stage, only the uppermost fasteners may be secured. In one example, these top fasteners are passed through the wall lining 423 and corresponding holes in a top flange of the mounting frame 334, and are then secured from the rear with corresponding nuts. This action serves to hang the entire urinal assembly from the top edge of the aperture, bearing its weight while allowing the unit to pivot slightly for fine positional adjustments, such as leveling, before the final structural mounting with the angle mounts is completed.

[0804] The overall width of the urinal assembly is preferably configured to fit between standard wall studs 422, which may, for example, be spaced at between 450mm and 600mm centre-to-centre (e.g., 500mm), thereby simplifying the framing requirements for installation.

[0805] Once the main body and frame is in place from the top fasteners and has been adjusted to be straight and level, the primary structural mounting is performed using angle mounts installed on one or preferably both sides of the frame.

[0806] These angle mounts 424 are preferably formed from a rigid and lightweight material such as aluminium, providing high strength without adding significant weight to the assembly. The angle mount 424 acts as an intermediary bracket, connecting the mounting frame 334 of the urinal to the structural wall studs 422. This method of using an intermediate angle mount 424 provides a more robust and rigid connection than directly fastening the main body to the studs, as it allows for a larger contact area and distributes the load more effectively along the stud. The angle mounts 424 preferably extend along each vertical side of the frame 334 (in situ) and may comprise a length that is substantially the same or similar to the length of the corresponding side of the frame.

[0807] During this stage of installation, the angle mounts 424 are held firmly in position, hard up against the rear face of the wall lining, ensuring that the slots on the angle mounts are aligned with the corresponding holes in the flange of the mounting frame 334. Both angle mounts 424 are then securely clamped to their respective wall studs 422.

[0808] With the angle mounts temporarily clamped, they are then permanently secured to the mounting frame 334. This is achieved by inserting countersunk fasteners from the front (bathroom side),passing them through the wall lining, through the holes in the mounting frame flange, and through the aligned slots in the angle mounts 424. These fasteners are then secured from the rear (hatch side) with corresponding nuts.

[0809] Finally, with the clamps still holding the angle mounts firmly against the studs, the permanent structural anchoring is completed. Optionally using a specific drilling template, a plurality of holes, for instance three holes, are drilled through each angle mount 424 and its corresponding wall stud 422. This drilling is preferably performed from the far side of the stud, drilling towards the unit. A fastener, such as a nut and bolt combination, is then inserted through each of these newly drilled holes to bolt the angle mount 424 securely to the wall stud 422, completing the rigid mounting of the assembly.

[0810] This two-stage fastening process; first securing the mount to the stud, then securing the frame to the mount, ensures a rigid and stable installation that can easily support the weight and operational forces of the urinal.

[0811] While the use of angle mounts is preferred for installation in stud walls, it is envisaged that in alternative installations, such as in a solid masonry or concrete wall, other mounting techniques would be employed. For instance, the main body 324 or mounting frame 334 could be secured directly to the wall structure using appropriate masonry anchors or chemical fasteners.

[0812] Fig. 56 shows the front side of the urinal assembly after this installation stage, before the wall finishing material has been installed.

[0813] With the main body 324 and mounting frame 334 now rigidly secured within the wall structure, the final connections and finishing steps are performed. The plumbing connections are made, which includes fluidly connecting the drain pipe 456 to the waste outlet 332 and connecting a water supply line to the inlet of the electric water solenoid 452. Concurrently, the electrical connections are completed by connecting the main power adaptor 454 to the power management unit 418 and connecting the control cables for the water solenoid 452 to the control system 402.

[0814] The aesthetic finishing is then carried out. Using the provided wall finishing cutting template, the wall finishing material 308 is precisely cut to fit around the mounting frame 334 and is applied to the wall lining. A corresponding portion of the same finishing material is then fitted into the recess 306 of the tray 302. Thee amount of adhesive used to adhere the finishing material to the recess may be selected to ensure that when this portion is installed, its outer face aligns to be co-planarwith the outer face of the surrounding wall finishing material, thereby achieving the intended seamless, flush finish.

[0815] Once all adhesives and grouts have set, a final calibration of the unit is performed. The urinal is powered on and the control system 402 initiates a calibration routine, which may involve commanding the tray 302 to open and close fully one or more times. This allows the control system to confirm unobstructed movement and to learn and store the end-of-travel positions.

[0816] The folding urinal 300 is intended to be installed as part of a folding urinal assembly within a wall structure 425 that separates a first space, such as a bathroom, from a second space, such as an adjacent wardrobe or utility closet. Accordingly, the installation method further includes the step of providing an access hatch on the rear surface of the wall structure, within the second space. This access hatch is positioned to align with the location of the main body 324 within the wall cavity. The installation may be completed by constructing or installing the cover for the access hatch on the rear side of the wall, fully enclosing the assembly.

[0817] The purpose of this access hatch is to provide direct access to the main body 324 of the urinal from the rear, after the front wall in the first space has been completely finished. This configuration improves serviceability of the assembly, as it allows a technician to access, repair, or even completely replace the main body 324 — including all its internal components such as the actuating mechanism 382, the control system 402, the hinge 352, and the hinge retainers 372 — without requiring any deconstruction or alteration of the finished front wall surface. This method of rear access thereby prevents any damage to the wall finishing material 308, offering an advantage in terms of long-term maintainability and cost of ownership.

[0818] An advantage of the folding urinal assembly is the ability to service or replace the main body 324 from the rear of the wall structure, for instance, in the event of damage or for maintenance (as shown in Figs. 60 and 61). This procedure can be performed at any time after the initial installation is complete and is designed to be executed through the rear access hatch, thereby leaving the finished front wall surface in the bathroom entirely undisturbed.

[0819] The procedure for removing the main body 324 is initiated by removing the tray 302. This is preferably achieved by activating the "Tray Removal Park Mode" or similarly moving the tray to its intermediate, removable position, and then slidably disengaging the tray 302 from the hinge member 352.Next, working through the rear access hatch 428, the actuator cover 438 may be removed by unfastening its corresponding fastener(s). This provides access to the linkage connecting the actuating mechanism 382 to the hinge. The fastener, such as a clevis pin or Allen key screw, that connects the actuator's linkage to the hinge's connector arm may then be removed.

[0820] The biasing mechanism 386 may be disconnected, for instance by unhooking the tension spring from its attachment point 388.

[0821] To disconnect the electronics, the cover for the electronic control system 402 may be unfastened and removed. Electrical connectors may need to be unplugged from the main PCB. This includes the cables for the actuating mechanism 382, the electric water solenoid 407, the main power supply, and any connected illumination devices, for instance.

[0822] The plumbing connections are also released. The push-fit water inlet connection for the selfcleaning mechanism may be disconnected during this stage. Following this, the outlet collar connecting the main body's waste outlet 332 to the drain pipe 452 may be unscrewed and removed.

[0823] Finally, the main body 324 may be mechanically detached from the mounting frame 334. Any remaining fasteners connecting the main body to the frame are unfastened, and any other attachments, such as the lower clips 442 securing the bottom of the main body, are released. With all connections severed, the main body 324 can be removed from the wall cavity, typically by lifting or tilting it upwards to fully disengage it from the lower clips, and then withdrawing the entire unit rearwardly through the access hatch. A replacement housing can then be installed by performing these steps in the reverse order.

[0824] In the event that the hinge is damaged and needs replacement, the following procedure may be followed. This procedure is performed from the rear of the unit through the access hatch 428, and it is carried out only after the main body 324 has been removed from the wall cavity as described in the preceding section.

[0825] With the main body 324 removed, the hinge member 352 remains attached to the mounting frame 334. To remove the hinge, a technician simply unfastens the fasteners that secure the two hinge retention brackets 372 (one on each side of the hinge). Once the fasteners are removed, the hinge retention brackets 372 can be lifted away, which releases the hinge member 352, allowing it to be easily removed for exchange or servicing.The installation of a new or serviced hinge member 352 is performed by reversing these steps, with an additional for ensuring alignment as previously described. The new hinge member is placed into position, and the hinge retention brackets 372 are loosely re-attached with their fasteners 377. Before the fasteners 377 are fully tightened, particularly the fastener associated with the elongate alignment aperture 376, the tray 302 is temporarily slid back onto the engagement members 356 of the hinge. With the tray in place, its axial position can be manually adjusted by sliding the hinge member 352 side-to-side until the tray is visually observed to be centred within the mounting frame 334.

[0826] Once this central alignment is achieved, the fasteners 380 on both hinge retention brackets 372 are fully tightened. This action locks the hinge member 352 in its final, correct axial position.

[0827] Although the aforementioned embodiments of the invention has been described with an automated operation, it would be entirely possible for the folding urinal 100 or the folding urinal 300 to be operated manually or partially manually and partially automatically. The tray 140 or 302 may be able to be opened and closed manually via a user input which could be a manual lever with a handle, or an electronic input operatively coupled to the control system. The flushing mechanism may be operable via a user input such as a mechanical input or an electronic input operatively coupled to the control system. One or more indicators or illumination devices may be operated via an electronic button or switch operatively coupled to the illumination means.

[0828] The urinal 100 or 300 may be configured for domestic bathrooms, bathrooms in hotel / motel rooms, cabins, aged-care and healthcare facilities, aircraft, ships, boats and any other situation where it is desired to have a urinal.

[0829] Further embodiments of the invention

[0830] The summary of invention section describes additional aspects and embodiments of a folding urinal and associates systems and methods, presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs, and / or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application, in any suitable manner. Some of the paragraphs expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing without limitation examples of some of the suitable combinations.

[0831] Advantages and benefitsEmbodiments described herein can enable the construction of a folding urinal that achieves an architecturally integrated substantially flush-mount installation. This is achieved through a structural configuration that allows the front face of the urinal's tray to be finished with the same material as the surrounding wall, such as a tile or stone panel. This allows the urinal to become visually seamless and indistinguishable from the wall when in its closed position, solving the problem of visual and physical intrusion inherent in other wall-mounted sanitary fixtures.

[0832] Furthermore, the systems and methods described herein may offer an inherently robust and serviceable architecture. The urinal may be provided as a two-part modular assembly, comprising a substantially more permanent in-wall mounting frame and a removable main body module that contains all operational components. This allows the entire functional core of the urinal, including the actuator, control system, and plumbing connections, to be easily removed and replaced from a rear access hatch without disturbing the finished front wall surface. This improves long-term maintainability and reduces the total cost of ownership.

[0833] The embodiments described herein may also provide for enhanced safety and user-friendliness in relation to servicing and cleaning. The tray can be configured to be removably coupled to the main body or hinge. This system may further comprise a mechanical interlock, comprising a tray catch and a corresponding stopper. This interlock allows the tray to be securely retained during all normal operating positions, but permits disengagement only when the tray is moved to a specific "park" position. This prevents accidental removal during use while providing a simple and intuitive method for detaching the tray for cleaning. Additionally, a closed-loop control system incorporating a tray position sensor and a stall detection module allows the urinal to automatically detect obstructions and execute a position-recovery routine, ensuring fault-tolerant and autonomous operation over the product's lifetime.

[0834] The self-cleaning mechanism described in certain embodiments is further configured to provide comprehensive and efficient cleaning of internal surfaces while preventing spillage. The system may comprise a multi-zone cleaning approach with both upper and lower spray nozzles. The lower nozzles can be configured to clean the hinge mechanism and other lower crevices, which are typically difficult to reach. Furthermore, the cleaning fluid can be directed into the gap between the tray and the frame in the closed position, with the geometry of the surrounding rims can be sloped to ensure all fluid is directed back into the receptacle. This allows residue and contaminants to be effectively flushed from the entire unit, including the seams, without water egressing from the front of the urinal.Some disclosed embodiments further or alternatively provide for a highly reliable and hygienic drainage system that is optimised for shallow in-wall installations. This is accomplished through a dual water seal trap system, comprising a first shallow U-bend trap and a second, deeper U-bend trap. This unique configuration minimises the flush water volume required to clear the trap, while the deeper second trap provides a long-lasting seal against evaporation and the ingress of odours, ensuring compliance with plumbing regulations even within the depth constraints of a standard wall cavity.

[0835] It will be appreciated that other advantages, features, and benefits are described throughout the specification or may be apparent to a person skilled in the art from the disclosure provided herein. The preceding paragraphs are intended to highlight certain advantages and are not to be construed as an exhaustive or limiting list.

[0836] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may be readily utilised as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the purposes of the invention. It is important, therefore, that any embodiments of the invention be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention defined by the accompanying claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;a tray connected to said main body;an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, fully closed position in which it closes the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use.

2. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 1 wherein a front face of the tray comprises a finishing material of a wall structure to which the folding urinal is to be mounted, or the tray comprises a recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

3. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 2 wherein the finishing material of the wall structure differs to a material composition of an inner tray surface or a main body of the tray.

4. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the finishing material is selected from the group consisting of ceramic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone, engineered stone, glass, mirror, mosaic tile, acrylic or PVC panel, laminated panel, composite panel, fibreglass reinforced panel, stainless steel cladding, and / or metal cladding.

5. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 2 to claim 4 wherein the front face comprises the finishing material of the wall structure.

6. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 5 wherein substantially an entire area of the front face comprises the finishing material.

7. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 2 to claim 6 wherein the tray comprises the recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

8. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 7 wherein the tray comprises a rim or frame surrounding the recess.

9. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 8 wherein a terminal edge of the rim or frame defines a tray outer plane.

10. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 9 wherein the tray outer plane is configured to locate less distal to the main body relative to an exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure when received within the recess, or is substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure.

11. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 2 to claim 10 wherein the tray comprises the recess for receiving the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure, and wherein the recess comprises a depth corresponding substantially to: a thickness of the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure, or combined thickness of the portion of the finishingmaterial and a layer of adhesive for securing the portion of the finishing material to the wall structure.

12. A folding urinal as claimed in any one or claim 2 to claim 10 wherein the tray comprises the recess for receiving the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure, and wherein the recess comprises a depth that is smaller than a thickness of the portion of the finishing material of the wall structure.

13. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 11 or claim 12 wherein the recess comprises a depth of between approximately 3mm and 40mm.

14. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 2 to claim 13 wherein the recess comprises a substantially rectangular perimeter.

15. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 2 to claim 14 wherein the recess extends to a rim or frame of the tray extending about a periphery or perimeter of the tray to cover substantially an entire area of a front face of the tray.

16. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the folding urinal further comprises a mounting frame coupled to, or configured to couple, the main body, the tray being received within the mounting frame in a fully closed position.

17. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 16 wherein the main body is configured to be removably coupled to the mounting frame such that, in an installed state, the main body can be removed from the mounting frame while the mounting frame remains secured within a wall structure.

18. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 17 wherein the main body comprises the actuating mechanism or is coupled to the actuating mechanism, such that the actuating mechanism is removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

19. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 18 wherein the main body further comprises a control system for controlling the actuating mechanism, such that the control system is removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

20. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 17 to claim 19 wherein the main body further comprises or is coupled to a cleaning mechanism, such that the cleaning mechanism is removably coupled to the mounting frame with the main body.

21. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 16 to claim 20 wherein the mounting frame comprises a central opening.

22. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 21 wherein the mounting frame comprises an inner rim surrounding the central opening.

23. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 22 wherein the inner rim extends laterally from a mounting face of the mounting frame, configured to mount against or adjacent a support surface of a wall structure, in situ.

24. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 22 or claim 23 wherein a terminal edge of the inner rim defines a frame outer plane.

25. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 24 wherein the frame outer plane is configured to locate less distal to the main body relative to an exposed, outermost surface of a finishing material of a wall structure to which the frame is to be mounted, or is substantially coplanar with the exposed, outermost surface of the finishing material of the wall structure.

26. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 22 to claim 25 wherein a depth of the inner rim of the frame is between approximately 3mm and 40mm.

27. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 22 to claim 26 wherein the tray comprises an outer peripheral rim, and in an assembled state of the urinal, and in a fully closed position of the tray, the outer rim of the tray and the inner rim of the mounting frame are configured to locate directly adjacent one another.

28. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 27 wherein the outer rim of the tray and the inner rim of the mounting frame are closely spaced in the fully closed position of the tray, along substantially an entire perimeter of the tray.

29. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 16 to claim 28 wherein the tray comprises a receptacle bounded by side walls, and wherein the side walls extend in an opposing direction from the tray body to an outer rim surrounding the tray.

30. The folding urinal assembly as claimed in any one of claim 16 to claim 29 wherein, the mounting frame is configured to be secured to at least one wall stud of the wall structure.

31. The folding urinal of claim 30 wherein the mounting frame is configured to be secured to the at least one wall stud via at least one intermediary mounting bracket or mount.

32. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 1 to claim 31 further comprising a hinge pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, and wherein the hinge is coupled to the main body or the mounting frame.

33. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 32 wherein the hinge removably coupled to the main body or mounting frame, and the hinge is accessible and removable from a rear side of the main body or mounting frame, facing away from an exposed finishing material of a wall structure, when the urinal is installed in the wall structure. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of preceding claims wherein the tray is removably connected to the main body.

34. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 34 wherein the tray further comprises at least one tray catch, each tray catch being configured to engage the main body.

35. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 35 wherein the at least one tray catch is configured to permit disengagement of the tray from the main body in a first rotational position and to inhibit disengagement of the tray from the main body in a second, different rotational position.

36. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 36 wherein the main body further comprises at least one stopper, and wherein in the fully open position, the at least one tray catch is configured to abut the at least one stopper to define a rotational limit for the tray and to mechanically obstruct slidable disengagement of the tray from the main body.

37. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 36 or claim 37 wherein the tray is further movable to an intermediate position, different from the fully open position, wherein in the intermediate position the at least one tray catch is rotationally aligned to clear the at least one stopper, thereby permitting slidable disengagement of the tray.

38. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the folding urinal comprises a hinge for pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, and wherein the hinge comprises one or more engagement members extending laterally from a main axle of the hinge, for connecting the main axle to the tray body.

39. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 39, wherein the tray body comprises one or more recesses corresponding to the one or more intermediate engagement members for accommodating the engagement member(s) therein.

40. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 39 or claim 40 wherein the tray body comprises a recess for accommodating the main axle.

41. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 39 to claim 40 wherein the tray body is removably coupled to the one or more engagement member(s).

42. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 42 wherein the tray body slidably couples the one or more engagement member(s).

43. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the tray comprises a pair of side walls, and a gutter channel extending on an external side of each of the side walls and wherein each gutter channel is discontinuous at an end of the respective side wall proximal to a pivoting axis of the tray.

44. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the actuating mechanism comprises an actuator connected between the tray and the main body.

45. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a biasing mechanism for biasing the tray toward the first, closed position.

46. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 46 wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a tension spring operatively coupled between the hinge and the main body.

47. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 47 wherein the actuating mechanism comprises a moveable piston actuator and a terminal end of the moveable piston actuator is operatively coupled to the spring.

48. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a hinge, pivotally coupling the tray to the main body for moving the tray between the first, closed position and the second, fully open position.

49. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 49 wherein the hinge comprises at least one pivot pin extending laterally and externally of one of the tray or the main body for pivotally coupling a corresponding pivot surface on the other of the base or the tray.

50. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 49 or claim 5044 wherein the hinge further comprises a first connector arm projecting from one end of a main hinge axle for connecting to the actuating mechanism and a second connector arm projecting transversely from the other end of a main hinge axle for connecting the hinge to a biasing mechanism.

51. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 51 wherein the first and second connector arms extend at different angles to one another relative to the main axle.

52. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 49 to claim 52 wherein the tray is removably coupled to the hinge and main body.

53. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 49 to claim 53 wherein the urinal comprises a first hinge retention mechanism configured to locate and retain a first pivot pin of the hinge onto the main body.

54. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 54 wherein the first hinge retention mechanism comprises a first hinge retention cavity formed in or coupled on one side of the main body for accommodating the first pivot pin of the hinge.

55. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 55 wherein the first hinge retention mechanism and the first pivot pin further comprise one or more complementary and cooperating surfaces or formations for limiting the axial range of movement of the first pivot pin along the main axis of rotation of the hinge.

56. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 56 wherein the first hinge retention mechanism further comprises a first hinge retention bracket configured to couple over the first hinge retention cavity to retain the first pivot pin within the first hinge retention cavity.

57. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 57 wherein the first hinge retention mechanism further comprises a seal coupled about the first pivot pin and located within thefirst hinge retention cavity for fluidly isolating the first pivot pin from an internal region of the tray and / or a remainder of the main axle of the hinge member.

58. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 58 further comprising a second hinge retention mechanism configured to locate and retain a second pivot pin of the hinge on an opposing side of the main body to the first pivot pin.

59. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 59 wherein the second hinge retention mechanism comprises a second hinge retention cavity formed in or coupled on the corresponding side of the main body for accommodating the second pivot pin of the hinge.

60. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 60 wherein the second hinge retention mechanism further comprises a second hinge retention bracket configured to couple over the second hinge retention cavity to retain the hinge member within the second hinge retention cavity.

61. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 49 to claim 61 further comprising an axial adjustment mechanism for axially adjusting the tray and hinge relative to the main body along the axis of rotation.

62. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 62, when dependent on any one of claim 54 to 61, wherein the first hinge retention mechanism may comprise the axial adjustment mechanism.

63. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 63 wherein the axial adjustment mechanism comprises:at least one elongate alignment aperture formed in the first hinge retention bracket or in first hinge retention cavity, the elongate aperture extending along a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, andat least one corresponding fixing aperture formed in the other of the first hinge retention cavity or the first hinge retention bracket, and whereina fastener can extend through the alignment aperture and into the fixing aperture to fixedly couple the first hinge retention bracket to the first hinge retention cavity, and wherein a position of the fastener within the elongate alignment aperture corresponds to an axial position of the hinge and tray relative to the base.

64. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 64 wherein the first or second hinge retention bracket, or both, comprise complementary formations to an outer surface of a corresponding end of a pivot pin of the hinge to form an interlocking keyed connection with the end of the pivot pin.

65. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 65 wherein the hinge further comprises a seal coupled about the second pivot pin and located within the second hinge retention cavity for fluidly isolating the second end of the pivot from an internal region of the tray and / or the remainder of the main axle of the hinge member.

66. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 66 wherein the first hinge retention cavity further comprises an aperture for the transversely extending first connector arm to extend therethrough and connect to the actuator.

67. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 54 to claim 67 wherein the second hinge retention cavity further comprises an aperture for the transversely extending second connector arm to extend therethrough and connect to the biasing mechanism.

68. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 1 to claim 68 wherein the urinal further comprises a tray position sensor configured to detect a rotational position of the tray.

69. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 69 wherein the tray position sensor is operatively connected to the hinge to detect the rotational position of the tray.

70. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 69 to claim 70 wherein the tray position sensor is integrated with a motor of the actuating mechanism.

71. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 71 wherein the tray position comprises a magnet on one of the tray or main body and a corresponding magnetic field sensing device on the other of the main body or tray.

72. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use, the cleaning mechanism having at least one spray nozzle for ejecting the cleaning liquid onto the receptacle during a cleaning phase.

73. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 73 comprising at least one lower spray nozzle, configured to eject cleaning fluid from a lower region of the receptacle, in situ.

74. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 74 wherein the at least one lower spray nozzle(s) is positioned to direct the cleaning fluid towards a lower lip of the tray in the fully closed position and / or the pivotal coupling with the main body.

75. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 73 to claim 75 further comprising at least one upper spray nozzle, configured to eject cleaning fluid from an upper region of the receptacle, in situ.

76. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 76 wherein the main body comprises a housing and a lid coupled to the housing; andthe lid comprises a contoured portion that extends upwardly relative to an adjacent portion of the lid, in situ,and wherein the at least one upper spray nozzle is positioned within or adjacent to the contoured portion to achieve a predetermined spray height, in use.

77. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 73 to claim 77 wherein the at least one spray nozzle is configured to disperse a cleaning liquid outwardly in a substantially planar, fan-like distribution.

78. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 78 wherein the spray nozzle is configured to disperse the cleaning liquid with a uniform thickness about the nozzle head.

79. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 79 wherein the spray nozzle comprises a deflecting surface that is substantially annular in shape to facilitate uniform cleaning liquid dispersion around the nozzle.

80. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 80, wherein the deflecting surface is configured to provide a full 360-degree spray pattern, such that cleaning liquid is dispensed in a uniform radial manner from the nozzle to cover an entire spherical or hemispherical area surrounding the nozzle.

81. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a drain connected to the receptacle for flushing liquid within the receptacle.

82. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 82 wherein the drain is connected to a drain pipe, and the drain pipe comprises an inlet connected to the main body drain, an outlet for liquid to flow through from the inlet, and a water seal trap between the inlet and the outlet.

83. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 83 wherein the drain pipe has a first U bend and a second U bend fluidly connected to the first U bend, and wherein in use water flows through the first U bend to form a first water seal trap then flows through the second U bend to form a second water seal trap.

84. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 84 wherein the first water seal trap is shallower than said second water seal trap.

85. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 84 or claim 85 wherein the first water seal trap locates adjacent the second water seal trap.

86. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 84 to claim 86 wherein a lowest point of the first U-bend corresponding to the first water seal trap is substantially aligned with a lowest point of the second U-bend corresponding to the second water seal trap, along a substantially vertical axis.

87. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 83 to claim 87 wherein the urinal further comprises an air remittance valve fluidly coupled to the drain pipe.

88. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 88 wherein the air remittance valve is fluidly coupled to the drain pipe between the first U bend and the second U bend.

89. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the tray comprises a pair of side walls, and a gutter channel extending on an external side of each of the side walls.

90. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 90 each gutter channel extends between a hinged end of the tray and a terminal and free second end of the tray opposing the base end.

91. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 91 wherein a width of each gutter channel reduces towards the terminal and free second end.

92. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 90 or claim 91 wherein a height of each side wall reduces towards the second end.

93. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 90 to claim 93 wherein the urinal further comprises one or more stoppers projecting internally from the main body for preventing the tray from rotating beyond the second position, the stoppers cooperating with a surface of the gutter channel(s) to limit rotation of the tray beyond the second position.

94. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 90 to claim 94 wherein each gutter channel is configured to promote the flow of liquid within the gutter channel into the receptacle of the base when the tray is moved from the second position back toward the first position.

95. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 90 to claim 95 wherein each gutter channel comprises a curved channel extending along a corresponding side of the tray from an upper region of the side of the tray at the first end of the tray, toward a lower region of the side of the tray at the second end of the tray.

96. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 90 to claim 96 wherein the first end comprises a lipped edge extending between the pair of side walls for promoting liquid near the first end to flow into the receptacle of the base instead of flowing under the tray, when the tray is in the second position.

97. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 97 wherein the tray further comprises one or more additional lips extend along one or both of the side walls of the tray at the first end, to further facilitate liquid near the base end to flow into the receptacle of the main body instead of flowing round to an outer face of the corresponding side wall.

98. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the main body comprises a base with a receptacle.

99. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 98 wherein the urinal further comprises a front cover plate fixedly coupled to the main body and having a central opening aligned with the opening of the receptacle, in an assembled state of the urinal.

100. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 99 wherein the main body further comprises a flange extending about the periphery of the main body, the flange being configured to couple the front cover in an assembled state of the urinal.

101. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 100 wherein the urinal further comprises a central, flange plate fixedly coupled to the main body base in an assembled state of the urinal.

102. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 101 wherein the flange plate is configured to couple between the front cover plate and the main body base.

103. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 102 wherein the flange plate comprises a central opening configured to align with the central opening of the front cover plate and with the opening of the receptacle, in an assembled state of the urinal.

104. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 102 or claim 103 wherein the flange plate is fixedly coupled to the main body base via a fastening mechanism, the flange plate having one or more bosses or projections with through -holes about the central opening and extending from a surface of the flange plate, for receiving an adhesive via the through-holes during assembly to fixedly couple the flange plate to the main body base.

105. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 102 to claim 104 wherein the cover plate and the flange plate comprise complementary formations for fitting the plates to one another and aligning the central opening of the cover plate with the central opening of the flange plate.

106. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 105 wherein the complementary formations comprise hollow bosses on one of the front cover plate or flange plate, and complementary apertures in the other of the flange plate or front cover plate.

107. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 106 wherein the front cover plate and the flange plate may be fixedly coupled to one another via one or more fasteners.

108. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 102 to claim 107 wherein the urinal comprises a magnetic clamping mechanism for aligning the front cover plate with the flange plate and holding the front cover plate against the flange plate, during installation.

109. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 108 wherein the magnetic mechanism comprises a magnetic pair, each magnetic pair having: a first magnet positioned at a predetermined location on the flange plate, and a corresponding second magnet positioned at a complementary location on the cover plate, wherein the magnetic forces between the magnets are configured to assist in automatically aligning the two plates in a predetermined orientation when the plates are brought into proximity.

110. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the main body comprises mounting recesses formed on a rear face of the main body opposite the tray side, to mount the main body onto a mounting bracket coupled to a wall or other support structure.

111. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the urinal further comprises one or more operational status indicators configured to provide output(s) that are observable by a human user.

112. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 111 wherein the operational status indicator(s) comprise one or more illumination devices.

113. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 111 or claim 112 wherein the urinal further comprises a control system configured to:receive an input signal indicative of a position of the tray relative to the base; and control the operational status indicator(s) based on the input signal indicative of position of the tray.

114. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 113 further comprising a user proximity sensing device configured to sense a proximity of a user to the urinal, the user proximity sensing device being configured to output a signal indicative of a user’s proximity to the urinal, and wherein, the control system is configured to drive the actuating mechanism to adjust the rotational position of the tray based on the user’s proximity to the urinal.

115. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 114 wherein the control system is configured to drive the actuating mechanism to open the tray when the output signal of the user proximity sensing device indicates a user proximity within a predetermined distance.

116. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 115 wherein the predetermined distance is user configurable.

117. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 111 to claim 116 wherein the urinal further comprises one or more ambient light brightness sensing devices, configured to output a signal indicative of ambient light brightness of a surrounding environment or space, and a control system configured to receive an input signal indicative of ambient light brightness, and accordingly control the operational status indicator(s) based on the ambient light brightness input signal.

118. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 117 wherein the control system is configured to adjust a brightness of the illumination device(s) based on the received ambient light brightness signal, by reducing a brightness of the illumination device(s) when the received ambient lightbrightness signal indicates an ambient brightness that is below a predetermined brightness threshold.

119. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein, the urinal further comprises an audible alarm device and a moisture detection device configured to detect a water leak associated with the urinal.

120. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the urinal further comprises a flush control system configured to activate a flushing mechanism when one or more flush conditions is(are) determined.

121. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 120 wherein activating the flushing mechanism comprises activating ejection of a liquid from at least one spray nozzle.

122. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 120 or claim 121 wherein the one or more flush conditions comprises a time-related condition.

123. A folding urinal as claimed in claim 120 to claim 122 wherein the one or more flush conditions comprises a user-proximity-related condition.

124. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism, the control system having a stall detection module configured to:monitor at least one operational parameter of the motor; anddetect a stall condition of the motor based on the at least one monitored operational parameter;and wherein the control system is further configured to determine a position of the tray based on the detected stall condition.

125. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising:a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism;a first sensor configured to generate a user presence signal for the control system; a second sensor configured to generate a closed position signal when the tray is in a closed position;and wherein the control system is further configured to:monitor at least one operational parameter of the actuating mechanism; and determine an operational state of the urinal based on a combination of the user presence signal, the closed position signal, and the monitored operational parameter.

126. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising:a user proximity sensor configured to generate user presence signals; anda control system configured to command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the open position upon detection of a user by the sensor;wherein the control system is further configured to:detect a sequence comprising a predetermined number of user presence signals from the sensor within a defined time interval; andin response to detecting the sequence, maintain the tray in the open position.

127. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising:a user input device; anda control system configured to control the actuating mechanism;wherein:the tray is further movable to a third, intermediate position located between the fully closed and fully open positions; andthe control system is configured to, upon receiving a predetermined input signal from the user input device, command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the third, intermediate position;and wherein in the third, intermediate position, the tray is aligned to permit its disengagement from the main body.

128. A folding urinal as claimed in any one of claim 124 to claim 127 wherein the control system is configured to control the actuating mechanism and is configured to:detect a stall condition of the motor during movement; andin response to detecting the stall condition, execute a position-recovery routine, wherein the position-recovery routine comprises:commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position; monitoring the tray position sensor for the signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; andbased on the signal from the tray position sensor, updating positional data to define the closed position as a known reference point for calculating subsequent tray movements.

129. A method of servicing a folding urinal as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 33, or claims 17 to 128 when dependent on any one of claims 16 to 33, the method comprising the steps of: accessing the main body from a rear side of the wall structure; decoupling the main body from the mounting frame; and removing the main body from the wall structure while the mounting frame remains secured within the wall structure.

130. A method of installing a folding urinal as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 33, or claims 17 to 128 when dependent on any one of claims 16 to 33, comprising first securing the mounting frame to the wall structure, and subsequently coupling the main body to the frame.

131. A kit of parts for a folding urinal, the kit comprising: a main body comprising a receptacle for receiving urine in use, a tray configured to pivotally couple to the main body.

132. A method of assembly a folding urinal comprising the steps of:aligning a flange plate with a base having an open receptacle by:placing an alignment jig onto an open face of the base such that it locates within the open receptacle;placing the flange plate onto the base such that the alignment jig locates within an opening of the flange plate; andfinely adjusting the relative positions of the flange plate and the base while the alignment jig remains within the open receptacle, until a desired alignment between the flange plate and the base is achieved; andrigidly coupling the flange plate to the base.

133. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;a tray connected to said main body;an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use,a hinge, pivotally coupling the tray to the main body for moving the tray between the first, closed position and the second, fully open position;a tray position sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a rotational position of the tray; andwherein:the actuating mechanism comprises an actuator connected between the tray and the main body, and a biasing mechanism for biasing the tray toward the first, closed position;the hinge comprises a main axle extending along an edge of the tray; the main body comprises a first hinge retention mechanism for retaining a first end of the main axle of the hinge;the first hinge retention mechanism being configured to enable adjustment of an axial position of the main axle along the axis of rotation prior to retention of the first end;the tray position sensor is operatively connected to the main axle to detect the rotational position of the tray; andthe tray position sensor is coupled to an end of the main axle and located within a corresponding sensor cavity formed in or coupled onto the main body.

134. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;a tray connected to said main body;an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use;a self-cleaning mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use, the self-cleaning mechanism comprises a spray nozzle head for ejecting the cleaning liquid onto the receptacle during a cleaning phase; and wherein:the main body comprises a drain connected to the receptacle for flushing liquid within the receptacle, the drain is connected to a drain pipe having an inlet connected to the main body drain, an outlet for liquid to flow through from the inlet,the drain pipe having a first U bend and a second U bend fluidly connected to the first U bend, and wherein in use water flows through the first U bend to form a first water seal trap then flows through the second U bend to form a second water seal trap.

135. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;a tray connected to said main body;an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use;one or more stoppers projecting internally from the main body for preventing the tray from moving beyond the second position, and wherein:the tray comprises a pair of side walls, and a gutter channel extending on an external side of each of the side walls, the stoppers cooperating with a surface of the gutter channel(s) to limit rotation of the tray beyond the second position.

136. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;a tray connected to said main body;an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use;a user proximity sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a user’s proximity to the urinal; anda control system configured to drive the actuating mechanism to move the tray toward the fully open position the signal output from the user proximity sensor indicates the user’s proximity within a predetermined distance from the urinal.

137. A folding urinal system comprising:a folding urinal having:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use and a drain for flushing liquid within the receptacle;a tray connected to said main body;an actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, closed position in which it abuts said main body to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use; anda flushing mechanism for cleaning the receptable with a cleaning liquid after use; anda drain pipe having an inlet configured to fluidly couple the main body drain, and an outlet; anda substantially flexible conduit configured to fluidly couple the outlet of the drain pipe.

138. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine in use;a tray;a hinge for rotatably coupling the tray to the main body; andan actuating mechanism operatively coupled to the tray for moving the tray between a first, fully closed position in which it abuts said base to close the receptacle, and a second, fully open position in which it is at an angle to said main body to open the receptacle for receiving urine in use,wherein, the tray is configured to removably couple the hinge, in situ.

139. A tray for a folding urinal, the folding urinal comprising a main body to which the tray is pivotally coupled, the tray comprising a front face and a rear face; wherein the front face comprises a finishing material of a wall structure or a recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

140. A folding urinal for installation within a wall structure, the urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine; anda tray pivotally coupled to the main body, and wherein a front face of the tray comprises a finishing material of a wall structure or the tray comprises a recess configured to receive the finishing material of the wall structure.

141. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body via a hinge, the tray being movable between a closed position and an open position; anda self-cleaning mechanism comprising at least one spray nozzle positioned at a lower end of the main body proximal to the hinge, in situ, and configured to direct a cleaning fluid towards the hinge in use.

142. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body; anda hinge for pivotally coupling the tray to the main body, the hinge comprising a main axle and at least three engagement members extending laterally from the main axle, the tray being coupled to the at least three engagement members.

143. A method of installing a folding urinal in a wall structure, the folding urinal comprising a main body and a mounting frame, the method comprising the steps of:positioning the mounting frame within an opening of a wall structure such that the mounting frame is adjacent to at least one wall stud;placing at least one angle mount into contact with the mounting frame and the at least one wall stud;clamping the at least one angle mount to the wall stud;drilling at least one hole through the clamped angle mount and the adjacent wall stud; securing the angle mount to the wall stud by inserting a fastener through the at least one hole; andsecuring the angle mount to the mounting frame.

144. A folding urinal comprising:a main body;a tray removably and pivotally coupled to the main body via a hinge, when coupled to the hinge the tray being moveable between a closed position and an open position;an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray between the closed position and open position, the actuating mechanism comprising a movable actuator; anda biasing mechanism configured to bias the tray towards the closed position;a stopper positioned in a movement path of the biasing mechanism to define a movement limit for the biasing mechanism beyond a normal operating range of the biasing mechanism, to prevent the actuating mechanism from moving beyond a predetermined movement limit when the tray is removed from the hinge.

145. A folding urinal comprising:a main body;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body;an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray, the actuating mechanism comprising a motor; anda control system configured to control the actuating mechanism, the control system having a stall detection module configured to:monitor at least one operational parameter of the motor; anddetect a stall condition of the motor based on the at least one monitored operational parameter;and wherein the control system is further configured to determine a position of the tray based on the detected stall condition.

146. A method of controlling a folding urinal, the urinal comprising a main body, a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, and an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray, the method comprising the steps of:transmitting, via a control system, a command signal to the motor to move the tray; monitoring, via the control system, at least one operational parameter of the motor while the motor is commanded to move;detecting a stall condition of the motor based on the monitored operational parameter; and determining a position of the tray based on the detected stall condition.

147. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine; anda tray pivotally coupled to the main body, the tray comprising a pair of side walls;a tray catch on at least one of the side walls.

148. A folding urinal assembly comprising:a folding urinal installed within a wall structure, the wall structure separating a first space from a second space and having a front surface facing the first space and a rear surface facing the second space, and wherein:the folding urinal comprises a main body located within a cavity of the wall structure, and a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, the tray being accessible from the first space;the wall structure comprises an access hatch on the rear surface, the access hatch providing user access to the main body from the second space.

149. A folding urinal comprising:a main body;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body;an actuating mechanism configured to move the tray;a control system configured to control the actuating mechanism; anda first sensor configured to generate a user presence signal for the control system;a second sensor configured to generate a closed position signal when the tray is in a closed position;and wherein the control system is further configured to:monitor at least one operational parameter of the actuating mechanism; and determine an operational state of the urinal based on a combination of the user presence signal, the closed position signal, and the monitored operational parameter.

150. A folding urinal comprising:a main body;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body and movable by an actuating mechanism to an open position;a user proximity sensor configured to generate user presence signals; anda control system configured to command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the open position upon detection of a user by the sensor;wherein the control system is further configured to:detect a sequence comprising a predetermined number of user presence signals from the sensor within a defined time interval; andin response to detecting the sequence, maintain the tray in the open position for a predetermined period of time.

151. A folding urinal comprising:a main body;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body, the tray being movable by an actuating mechanism between a first, closed position and a second, open position;wherein the tray is disengageable from the main body;a user input device; anda control system configured to control the actuating mechanism;wherein:the tray is further movable to a third, intermediate position located between the first and second positions; andthe control system is configured to, upon receiving a predetermined input signal from the user input device, command the actuating mechanism to move the tray to the third, intermediate position;and wherein in the third, intermediate position, the tray is aligned to permit its disengagement from the main body.

152. A folding urinal comprising:a main body having a receptacle for receiving urine;a tray pivotally coupled to the main body; anda self-cleaning mechanism comprising at least one upper spray nozzle located within the main body and above the receptacle;wherein:the main body comprises a housing and a lid coupled to the housing; and the lid comprises a contoured portion that extends upwardly relative to an adjacent portion of the lid, in situ,and wherein the at least one upper spray nozzle is positioned within or adjacent to the contoured portion to achieve a predetermined spray height, in use.

153. A method of controlling a folding urinal, the urinal comprising a tray, an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray between an open and a closed position, a control system, and a tray position sensor configured to detect when the tray is in the closed position, the method comprising the steps of:commanding, via the control system, the motor to move the tray;detecting a stall condition of the motor during movement; andin response to detecting the stall condition, entering a position-recovery mode, the positionrecovery mode comprising:commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position;monitoring the tray position sensor for a signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; andupon receiving the signal from the tray position sensor, re-establishing the closed position as a known reference position in the control system.

154. A method of controlling a folding urinal, the urinal comprising a tray, an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray between an open and a closed position, a control system, and a tray position sensor configured to detect when the tray is in the closed position, the method comprising the steps of:commanding, via the control system, the motor to move the tray;detecting a stall condition of the motor during movement; andin response to detecting the stall condition, entering a position-recovery mode, the positionrecovery mode comprising:commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position;monitoring the tray position sensor for a signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; andbased on the signal from the tray position sensor, updating positional data to define the closed position as a known reference point for calculating subsequent tray movements.

155. A folding urinal comprising:a tray;an actuating mechanism having a motor for moving the tray between an open and a closed position;a tray position sensor configured to generate a signal when the tray is in the closed position; anda control system configured to control the actuating mechanism and being configured to:detect a stall condition of the motor during movement; andin response to detecting the stall condition, execute a position-recovery routine, wherein the position-recovery routine comprises:commanding the motor to move the tray towards the closed position; monitoring the tray position sensor for the signal indicating the tray has reached the closed position; andbased on the signal from the tray position sensor, updating positional data to define the closed position as a known reference point for calculating subsequent tray movements.

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