Toilet Seat Hinge Closure Using Flush-Actuated Cable Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for automatically closing toilet seats and lids are often complex, bulky, and difficult to install, leading to issues with hygiene and market acceptance, as they require professional plumbing and are perceived as unclean.
Innovation Solution
A toilet closure apparatus that uses a tank mounting bolt with a sealed cable housing to allow axial movement of a cable, which is connected to a hinge assembly with pawls and a bellcrank mechanism, enabling the seat and lid to close automatically through the flush lever or float mechanism without requiring extensive modifications or additional plumbing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If large cylindrical dampers or complex clockworks are used to close the toilet lid automatically, then the automatic closure function is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and visually unacceptable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the closure mechanism from a bulky standalone device and integrates it into the existing toilet hinge assembly. The hinge assembly serves dual purposes: supporting the seat/lid and providing the automatic closure function, thereby eliminating the need for large separate dampers or clockworks.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it supports the toilet seat and lid, enables manual opening and closing, and automatically closes the lid after flushing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated closure devices, reducing overall device volume.
2Extent of automation
If sensors and electric switches are used to close the lid and seat automatically, then the automatic closure function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic sensors and switches with a purely mechanical solution. The flush lever mechanically actuates the hinge assembly through a latch mechanism, eliminating the need for electronics, wires, and complex control systems while achieving the same automatic closure result.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly automatically detects when flushing occurs and initiates closure without requiring external sensors or control systems. The mechanical latch releases automatically based on the flush lever's movement, making the system self-regulating and eliminating complex control electronics.
3Extent of automation
If complex devices with many components are installed, then the automatic closure function is achieved, but the opportunities for bacteria and mold growth increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the closure function into simple, discrete mechanical components within the hinge assembly rather than using a complex integrated system. This segmentation into simple, cleanable parts reduces hidden crevices where bacteria and mold could grow, while still achieving automatic closure.
4Reliability
If professional plumbing work is required for installation, then reliable installation is achieved, but the ease of installation decreases and DIY market acceptance is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the closure mechanism with the existing hinge assembly that is already part of the toilet seat installation. Since the hinge is standard equipment on all toilets, the automatic closure function is added without requiring separate plumbing work, making it accessible to DIY installers while maintaining reliable installation through proven hinge mounting methods.
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 solution provides a simple, effective, and hygienic automatic closure system that can be installed by DIYers, reducing the risk of accidents and germ spread while maintaining the aesthetic and functional simplicity of a conventional toilet.
Implementation Method 1
cable housing sealedly affixed within the tank mounting bolt bore and disposed to allow axial movement of a cable
Implementation Method 2
hinge member supported by the bearing surface for rotation about the axis
Implementation Method 3
pawl configured to engage the camming surface, such that when in a first pawl position, the pawl will detain the hinge member in the open position
Implementation Method 4
bellcrank mechanically connected to the pawl such that movement of the bellcrank draws the pawl from the first position to the second position
Implementation Method 5
A spring biases the rod and a lever movable with respect to the mounting bolt. A latch release mechanism causes the latch point of the lever to move with respect to the mounting bolt to close the lid.
Data Source
AI summary
A toilet closure apparatus mounts on a toilet having a base assembly defining a bowl and a bowl ledge, a tank assembly, a toilet lid and a toilet seat. A tank mounting bolt has a tank mounting bolt bore extending axially therethrough. A cable housing is sealedly affixed within the tank mounting bore and disposed to allow a cable to move axially through the tank mounting bore. A hinge assembly includes a frame defining a downwardly extending cable run and an internal cavity including a cylindrical bearing surface having a horizontally extending axis. A hinge member is supported by the bearing surface for rotation about the axis. A hinge pin extends outwardly of the frame, and is fixedly engaged with the toilet seat to effect toilet seat rotation in common with rotation of the hinge member about the axis, the hinge member having at least one camming surface.