Timed Pressure Equalization for Siphonic Toilet Water Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing siphonic toilets face challenges in reducing water consumption and minimizing water loss at the end of the flush cycle without compromising flush performance.
Innovation Solution
A pressurized siphonic trapway toilet with a timed pressure equalization system, which includes an equalization member that allows atmospheric air to enter the pressure chamber at the end of the flush cycle, breaking the siphon and reducing water loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a siphonic flush system is used to improve flushing performance, then waste removal capability is enhanced, but water loss at the end of the flush cycle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a timed equalization system that pre-establishes a communication pathway between the pressure chamber and atmospheric pressure source. This pathway remains closed during the flush cycle to maintain siphonic action, then opens at a predetermined time (via timer or water level trigger) to equalize pressure and stop water flow. This preliminary preparation of the equalization mechanism allows the system to switch from high-performance flushing mode to water-saving mode without sacrificing either function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic pressure equalization system where the connection between the pressure chamber and atmospheric pressure source is dynamically controlled. The equalization member (valve or opening) transitions from a closed state during flushing to an open state after flushing, allowing the system to adapt its pressure characteristics based on operational phase. This dynamic control enables the system to maintain negative pressure for effective flushing while preventing excessive water loss during the refill phase.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If water is retained in the trapway to maintain water seal, then sewer gas prevention is improved, but water consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pressure equalization cycles that coincide with the flush cycle. During the flush, the system maintains sealed pressure conditions to maximize flushing performance. After the flush completes, the equalization system activates to restore atmospheric pressure, which stops the siphonic action and prevents continuous water drainage. This periodic operation allows the trapway to maintain adequate water seal for sewer gas prevention while minimizing water loss during the refill period between flushes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively reduces water loss during the refill cycle by breaking the siphon at the end of the flush, allowing for efficient water reuse and maintaining flush performance.
Implementation Method 1
the equalization member empties during the flush cycle and allows atmospheric air to enter a pressure chamber (in fluid communication with the toilet tank) at or near the end of the flush cycle
Implementation Method 2
When the toilet is flushed, a siphon is formed in the trapway that actively pulls/vacuums waste from the bowl
Data Source
AI summary
A timed pressure equalization member for use in a siphonic toilet to reduce water loss at the end of a flush cycle is disclosed. The equalization member functions to equalize the pressure in a pressurized chamber after a set period of time and consequently alleviates negative pressure within a pressurized trapway system at or near the end of a flushing cycle via a conduit, to help break the siphon at the end of the flush cycle, thereby reducing the amount of water drained from the water bowl/spot while the bowl is being refilled. At a resting state, the equalization member in the pressurized chamber is partially filled with water. The equalization member empties of water after a set period of time during a flush cycle and allows atmospheric air to enter the pressurized chamber (in fluid communication with the pressurized trapway) at or near the end of the flush cycle.