US20080060121A1

US20080060121A1 - Low flow hygienic apparatus and methods

Info

Publication number: US20080060121A1
Application number: US11/517,761
Authority: US
Inventors: Dan Marius Andreiu
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-09-08
Filing date: 2006-09-08
Publication date: 2008-03-13

Abstract

A containment chamber and associated methods for use in, e.g., a toilet or other solid or fluid carrying structure. In one embodiment, the containment chamber comprises input and output portions, and is configured to move liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port. The chamber is further configured to fill to a prescribed volume level, and has at least one shaped portion to prevent backflow (e.g., of odor) associated with the liquids and solids. A first nozzle is disposed in the containment chamber and configured to break-up the solids using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from an input portion through the output portion of the containment chamber. A velocity increasing structure is disposed between the output portion and the outlet port and configured to increase an effective velocity of the liquids and solids.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to hygienic systems. More particularly, the present invention relates in one embodiment to an automatic flush apparatus having a portion with containment chamber to lower an amount of wasted water and provide improved hygienic properties. In one alternative embodiment, water pressurization utilized with containment chamber, and optionally a velocity increasing structure, to provide a low flow, automatic flush system.
2. Description of Related Technology
Conventional hygienic systems may be categorized in several varieties. In the United States, a standard toilet (FIG. 1) utilizes approximately three gallons of water per flush. Furthermore, a low flow water toilet utilizes approximately one and half gallons of water for a flush. Both of these toilets utilize a tank of water, e.g., one with a capacity of more than three gallons and the other with a capacity at least one-and-half gallons, to release water from a relatively short vertical distance. During a toilet flush, water from the tank is released from a vertical distance less than one to two feet above a toilet bowl. In contrast to the standard toilet, European toilets utilize a tank mounted approximately six foot above the toilet bowl to increase its static head and resulting “cleaning force” due to gravity (i.e., conversion of the static head or potential energy to moving water with kinetic energy).
In other words, all the above-mentioned systems rely on gravity and a large volume of water to move solid and liquids in the toilet bowl through to an outlet port. As a result, these systems utilize a comparatively low-pressure flow. The low-pressure flow, in many instances, will not provide adequate clearing and/or cleaning of the toilet bowl and/or toilet channel when a large amount of liquid and/or solid mass becomes deposited and/or splashed into the toilet bowl. Furthermore, when flushing these systems, there is a tendency for solid and/or liquids to splash out of the bowl and possibly spray on an individual flushing the toilet. Furthermore, large solid masses may clog the toilet channel causing an overflow of the toilet bowl. Thus, these systems have a tendency to produce an unhygienic environment that may cause the spread of bacteria and even illness for individuals in proximity to or using the device.
Other problems with these systems include a column of water, e.g., from the tank, required to flush the water is held by, until needed, by a plunger, and or valve. The plunger connects or disconnect from a rubber seal. The rubber seal prevents water from leaking from the tank into the toilet bowl until manually, automatically, or semi-automatically opened. If the rubber seal becomes worn or damaged, which occurs during repeated movements of the plunger, the seal will leak. When leaking occurs, water is lost from the tank and replenished to maintain a defined level required for flushing the toilet. Thus, these systems (so-called “running toilets”) waste water unless a perfect seal is maintained, and also can be annoying from the standpoint of creating unnecessary noise while repeatedly replenishing the tank.
The above leaking seal may not be problematic for a single isolated toilet system; however, if several apartment buildings, hotels, manufacturing facilities, hospitals, etc. in the aggregate have hundreds of toilets, which if a number of them are leaking water, would result in significant water waste. In summary, the above-mentioned systems are subject to leakage, resulting in wasted water, which water waste occurs until fixed, which in the aggregate, causes large-scale water loss.
Furthermore, these systems all require manual cleaning, e.g., utilizing a bristle brush and cleaner, because scale and/or waste products after multiple uses become deposited on the toilet bowl. The low flow toilets, such as one and half gallons as compared to three gallons flush standard toilet system, have similar manual cleaning problems.
In addition, there exists a low flow toilet, e.g., 1.6 gallon toilet that directly connects to a standard water line and uses a mechanical system to estimate the required water for a flush. However, this system is very noisy, subject to leakage, and its estimate of water may be inexact which results in water waste.
Finally, other electronically controlled toilet systems evidenced in the prior art have additional features such as heated seats, hot water cleaning, blow drying, reading lamps, etc., but do not address the need for a toilet having a very low flow water capability with a improved toilet bowl clearing and cleaning functionality.
Thus, apparatus and methods are needed for a hygienic system that has advantages over present systems described above. For instance, the proposed system needs, inter alia, increased reliability, e.g., minimize the need for a perfect seal, reduce or improve cleaning ability, reduce the production of odors, reduce or minimize clogging of the toilet and ability for reduced water flush requirements as well as to provide additional advantages over conventional hygienic systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the present invention, a flushing apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a containment chamber. The containment chamber comprises an input portion and an output portion. The containment chamber is configured to move liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port. The containment chamber is configured to fill to a prescribed volume level and having at least one shaped portion to prevent backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids. A first nozzle is disposed in the containment chamber. The first nozzle is configured to break-up the solids using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from the input portion through the output portion of the containment chamber.
In another embodiment, a velocity increasing structure may be included that is disposed between an output portion of the containment chamber and the outlet port. In this embodiment, the velocity increasing structure is configured to increase an effective velocity of the liquids and solids.
In a second aspect of the invention, a method of operating the apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprise: providing a containment chamber having an input portion and an output portion; moving liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port; filling the containment chamber to a prescribed volume level of at least one shaped portion to prevent backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids; and breaking-up the solids using a first nozzle disposed in the containment chamber using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from the input portion through the output portion of the containment chamber. Another step of the method may include increasing an effective velocity of the liquids and the solids utilizing a velocity increasing structure disposed between the output portion of the containment chamber and the outlet port.
In a third aspect of the invention, a method of manufacturing the apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises: configuring a containment chamber comprising an input portion and an output portion to move liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port; and configuring the containment chamber to fill to a prescribed volume level, and forming at least one shaped portion to prevent backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids. The method further comprises providing and disposing a nozzle in the containment chamber, the nozzle configured to break-up the solids using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from the input portion through the output portion of the containment chamber.
In a fourth aspect of the invention, a method of transporting a hygienic apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises using a specially adapted dolly.
In a fifth aspect of the invention, a dolly apparatus useful for transporting hygienic apparatus is disclosed.
In a sixth aspect of the invention, a nozzle assembly for use in a hygienic apparatus is disclosed.
In a seventh aspect, a containment chamber for use in a hygienic apparatus is disclosed.
These and other embodiments, aspects, advantages, and features of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art by reference to the following description of the invention and referenced drawings or by practice of the invention. The aspects, advantages, and features of the invention are realized and attained by means of the instrumentalities, procedures, and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partially exploded perspective view of a typical prior art hygienic apparatus (e.g., toilet).

FIG. 2A is a front view of one exemplary embodiment of the hygienic apparatus of the invention.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional left lateral view of the hygienic apparatus of FIG. 2A, taken along line A-A.

FIG. 2C is a rear view of the hygienic apparatus of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional right lateral view of the apparatus of FIG. 2A showing liquid inlet flow in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is a lateral view of a hygienic apparatus during an automatic flushing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 4B and 4C are front and rear views, respectively, of the hygienic apparatus in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a lateral view of a hygienic apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 5B and 5C respectively illustrate one jet of a first set of jets and a main nozzle for the apparatus of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6 illustrates a system layout of a hygienic apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate respectively a front view and a sectional view respectively of another hygienic apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a dolly utilized to transport a hygienic apparatus of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 9 is a logical flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of the method of operating a hygienic apparatus of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference is now made to the drawings wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout.
As used herein, the terms “hygienic apparatus”, “hygienic unit”, and “hygienic system” refer without limitation to any device that can dispose, process, treat, eliminate, divert, reduce, and/or pulverize liquid, gas, or solid waste including without limitation toilets, urinals and bidets.
The terms “velocity enhancing unit” and “velocity enhancing apparatus” refer to without limitation to any structure, tubing, tubular winding, inclined tubular and/or hollow liquid and/or solid carrying structure, spiral tubing, or the like that can increase velocity, enhance transfer properties, and decrease solid and/or liquid transit time.
Furthermore, the terms “low flow” refer to without limitation to any system that reduces, minimizes, or the like the requirement for inlet liquid, e.g., fresh water, recycled water.
The terms “containment chamber” refers to without limitation any chamber, vessel, container, package, hollow structure, bottle, flask, or the like that collects, stores, and transports solids or liquids into or out of a hygienic apparatus.
Finally, the terms “at least one shaped portion” refers to without limitation a section of a containment chamber that collects liquids or solids for transport or movement to an outlet port of the hygienic apparatus.

Overview

In one salient aspect, the present invention discloses an apparatus and method of producing a hygienic system, inter alia, that economizes water usage compared with previously hygienic systems. In particular, the hygienic system disclosed includes a containment chamber having an input portion and an output portion. The containment chamber configured to move liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port. The containment chamber, in one exemplary embodiment, is configured to fill to a prescribed volume level. At least one shaped portion of the containment chamber prevents backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids.
A first nozzle is disposed in the containment chamber and configured to break-up the solids using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from the first port through the second port of the containment chamber. A velocity-increasing structure is disposed between the outlet port and an exit port of the containment chamber. The velocity-increasing structure provides an effective increase in the velocity of the liquids and solids.
Consequently, the present invention may be used to move or transport liquids and/or solids for a multitude of applications, such as for example for sewage treatment plants, nuclear waste plants, chemical treatment plant and other like liquid and solid treatment applications.
Broadly, the present invention generally provides an apparatus and method for providing improvements in efficiency and water usage for liquid and solid treatment applications. The system of the present invention may find beneficial use for providing an improved system for transporting and moving solid and liquids from a circuit board assembly and/or testing area to realize an increased circuit throughput from assembly to final product stage. In yet another example, this invention would aid in a manufacturing plant that produces, packages, and ships furniture. For instance, during the production of office furniture parts, wastes products including both solids and liquids are produced. While removing these waste products, economization of water would reduce subsequent waste removal products and reduce overall disposal costs.
In yet another exemplary application, the system may prove useful for transporting liquids and solid masses that are deposited in a storm drain or other undesired location. More specifically, the system may be part of a liquid and solid waste recovery system that collects liquids and solids and/or provides these liquids and solids in a more compressed form to reduce packaging required for hauling away.
Furthermore, the same system may prove useful in a hospital and/or nursing home setting whereby liquids or solids, e.g., blood, IV apparatus, urine, solid matter, and the like, are needed to be either distributed and/or collected from each hospital recovery room and either transported or packaged for disposed in a centralized area. Consequently, an operator using this system may have the ability to track movement of liquids and/or solids on an individual basis, collectively, or sort and process separately liquid and/or solids. In addition, the system is adaptable to utilize recycled water and/or liquids so as to conserve water usage either on an individual basis or collectively if more than one of these systems are installed in a multi-room unit, for example, an apartment building, a condo, a home, or the like.
In addition, the invention is described as an automatic flush toilet using a containment chamber having at least one shaped portion that provides a holding chamber to collect the liquids and solids. Furthermore, the principles and methods of this invention may further be applied just as readily to other technologies, products, and devices, such as non-automatic hygienic systems, blood centrifuge or distribution systems, chemical treatment facilities, and water and sewage recovery facilities for dams, lakes, rivers, streams, and the like.

Exemplary Extension Apparatus—

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-7, exemplary embodiments of the hygienic system of the invention are described in detail. It will be appreciated that while described primarily in the context of hygienic system for transport liquid and solid waste products, at least portions of the apparatus and methods described herein may be used in other applications. Some such applications include, e.g., health monitoring and/or warehouse transport systems that transport liquids or solids from one location to another location within a larger assembly line process.
FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a hygienic apparatus 4 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A toilet lid 5 attaches, e.g., using hinges 6 to a toilet base unit 14. The toilet lid 5 may be manufactured from a single layer material, a multilayer material, composite material, and/or combination of these materials. Example materials include plastic, polyurethane, wood, glass, and finished and/or painted to achieve a desired toilet esthetic or physical appearance. A toilet seat or ring 8 attaches, e.g., using hinges 7 to the toilet base unit 14. The toilet ring 8, in many instances, is produced or manufactured from similar materials as that of the toilet lid 5. The toilet ring 8, in this exemplary embodiment, is utilized by an individual while using the hygienic apparatus 4.
Referring to FIGS. 2C and 3, Spray jets 26 a-o align along a toilet rim 9 to clean or clear the toilet bowl 28. In this example, the spray jets 26 a-o are high pressure nozzles that produce a mist of liquid, such as water, along an inner surface 28 a of the toilet bowl 28. A very fine layer that results from the mist of liquid, which takes advantage of molecular properties of water, prevents solids and liquids that are transported along the inner surface 28 a from sticking and/or attaching. In an alternative embodiment, the liquid, which in this example is water, may be replaced by a cleaning fluid, soapy water, enzyme rich liquid, or the like for conditioning, lubricating and/or cleaning the toilet bowl 28. In one embodiment, the spray jet 26 g (see FIG. 5B) has a tapered construction. Referring to FIG. 5B, the spray jet 26 g has a slotted opening 27 to provide a cleaning liquid for the toilet bowl 28. The slotted opening 27, in this example, a smaller cross-sectional area than that for liquid entering at an input of spray jet 26 g. A pump 10 (shown in FIG. 2B) increases pressure of liquid that enters that of the spray jets 26 a-o (shown in FIGS. 2B and 3). The pump 10, in this example, is a standard pump that increases a pressure level of fluid that enters its input port and exits its output port.
FIGS. 2B and 2C illustrate a cross-sectional left lateral view and rear view a hygienic apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 2B (with toilet lid 5 and seat or rim 8 removed), a fine mist of fluid droplets trickles from 26 h-n onto an inner surface 28 a of the toilet bowl 28. In this exemplary example, when an individual (not shown) opens the toilet seat 8 (as shown in FIG. 2A), the fine mist of fluid droplets trickle from jets 26 h-n. The fine mist of fluid droplets adheres to the inner surface 28 a of the toilet bowl 28. The droplets lubricate and prevent solids or liquids sticking to the toilet bowl 28. In other words, these droplets prevent solids or liquids staining the toilet bowl 28. Fluids, including fluid droplets, solids and liquids, collect in the containment chamber 20. Fluids continue to flow into the chamber until the chamber is filled to, in one exemplary embodiment, to a level approximately of one-sixteenth to one-eighth of a gallon. The containment chamber 20 is a reservoir that provides a collection area for containing the fluids entering the toilet bowl 28.
The containment chamber 20 is a shaped portion providing a barrier from odor that may be emitted from the solids and liquids and/or the outlet port 29. In one embodiment, the containment chamber 20 couples to one end of a velocity increasing apparatus 32, e.g., a winding pipe (see FIG. 4A), and the other end of the apparatus 32 connects to the outlet port 29. The containment chamber 20, in this example, has a curved bottom surface 20 a angled, e.g., increased angle as compared with inner toilet bowl surface 28. The curved bottom surface 20 a, in this example, forms a partially mirror image structure, e.g., forms a partially closed vessel, with the adjacent sidewall 20 b. The enclosure produced by the curved bottom surface 20 a and adjacent sidewall 20 b forms a protective barrier that prevents splashing of solids or liquids contained in the containment chamber 20.
Referring to FIGS. 2B and 2C, the toilet base 14 provides housing for the containment chamber 20. As compared to conventional standard toilets, no polymer (e.g. rubber) or other type of seals (e.g., wax) is required because fluid is maintained in the containment chamber 20. Thus, this invention is not subject to failures associated with faulty seals.
FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional right lateral view showing liquid inlet flow in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, nozzle 24 (shown also in FIG. 2B) and jet sprayers 26 a-g spray paths are shown by the directional arrows. Solids and liquids are deposited when the toilet lid 5 (as shown) is in an upward position.
FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C illustrate respectively a lateral, a front, and a rear view of a hygienic apparatus during an automatic flushing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 4A, when the toilet lid 5 and the toilet seat 8 are in a closed position, the pump is activated, e.g., turned-on, and the nozzle 24 creates a pressurized spray. The pressurized spray, in one preferred embodiment, has a pressure between 30 pounds per square inch (p.s.i.) to 2500 p.s.i. In another preferred embodiment, the pressurized spray is selected from a range of 100 p.s.i. to 2500 p.s.i. The pressurized spray breaks up the solids, such as toilet paper, refuse, etc, that enter the containment chamber. In one embodiment, the jets 26 a-0 (shown in FIG. 2B) require a lower pressurized spray than that of the nozzle 24. In one alternative embodiment, the nozzle 24 may be replaced by a main nozzle 24 b and a secondary nozzle 24 b where either one or the other may be used for different purposes, such as one could be for applying soap and the other providing rinse water.
In one alternative embodiment, the nozzle 24 may be replaced by a main nozzle 24 b and a secondary nozzle 24 b where either one or the other may be used for different purposes, such as one could be for applying soap and the other providing rinse water.
In contrast to standard or low flow toilets, the nozzle 24 proximal to the containment chamber 20, which has a shaped portion for the solids and liquids, together provides an improved hygienic system that breaks-up, prevents splashing during breaking-up process, and moves both solid and liquid particles with a minimal of toilet clogging. An advantage of this hygienic apparatus as compared to prior art toilets which utilize one and a half (low-flow) to three gallons (standard flow) of water, is that the nozzle 24 with the aid of the pump 10 dispenses approximately one sixteen to one eighth of a gallon of water, thereby greatly conserving water.
Hence, the exemplary embodiment of the invention utilizes approximately 1/16 to ⅛ of a gallon of water, which is a large water savings as compared to other conventional toilets. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiment of the invention provides better cleaning because the toilet interior, such as inner surface 28 a, being pre-wet prevents build and stains on the toilet sidewalls and to reduce the fluid requirement, when the toilet seat closes, necessary for removing any incidental solid or liquid build-up. Furthermore, in contrast to conventional standard toilets, this hygienic apparatus requires no rubber or other seal. Thus, this system does not depend on the integrity of any seal to prevent fluid leakage.
Afterwards, the high-pressure spray moves both the solids and liquids from the containment chamber 20 to the velocity increasing apparatus 32. The velocity increasing apparatus 32 includes an incline ramp 32 a. The incline ramp 32 a increases a velocity potential of the solids and the liquids entering the apparatus 32. After the incline ramp 32 a, in this example, a winding series of pipes 32 b from a portion of the incline ramp 32 a to an outlet port 29. In one embodiment, the winding pipes 32 b are one-half inch diameter PCV pipe, although it will be apparent that any number of other materials may be used instead or in conjunction with the PVC.
In one preferred embodiment, the winding pipes 32 b are selected from a range of approximately one-quarter to one-half inch diameter pipe. The pipe may be manufactured of a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible single or composite material. The winding pipes 32 b in combination with the flowing liquids and solids form a vacuum that increases a velocity of the solids and liquids. This increase in velocity and selection of pipe diameter takes advantage of the molecular attractive properties of solids and liquids to realize an increase suction device. Thus, this structure reduces the need for additional water, such as those required by gravity-powered toilets to push the solids and liquids toward the outlet port 29. The winding pipes 32 b in combination with the flowing liquids and solids form a vacuum that increases a velocity of the solids and liquids. Thus, this structure reduces the need for additional water, such as that required by gravity-powered toilets to push the solids and liquids toward the outlet port 29.
FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrate respectively a lateral view of the hygienic apparatus, a jet of the jet sprayers, and a nozzle of a hygienic apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 5B, nozzle 24 is shown with an input port 24 a and a reduced cross-section output port 24 b. Referring to FIG. 5C, one jet spray 26 g is shown with an input port and a reduced cross-section 26 g.
FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram for a hygienic system apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Switches 40-44 (S1-S4) are part of a user-sensing unit. The user sensing unit may be stimulated by a variety of activities by a user, e.g., lifting the toilet seat, closing the toilet seat, or sitting on the toilet seat. Electrical or mechanical interlocks may also be provided such that certain operations or actions are allowed or prohibited depending on the state or status of various of the components.
Moreover, other sensing apparatus (such as infra-red or ultrasonic motion or position sensors of the type well known in the electronic arts) may be used to enable, or disable certain components, and/or activate or terminate certain operations.
In the illustrated embodiment, upon opening the toilet lid, e.g., switch 40 (S1) closes, and sends an electrical signal to a module 46. The module 46, in this example, is an electronic switch array, which could be part of a central processing unit (not shown), that activates or deactivates the pump 10. In an alternative embodiment, the module 46 may be a mechanical array that directs which sprayer(s) or nozzle to activate.
For instance, the module 46 may deactivate the pump 10 selected times of a day. For example, the pump 10 may be deactivated in the evening hours, during sleep time, or when no one his home to conserve energy and minimize any noise originating from the pump. Furthermore, the module 46 activates or deactivates valves 50 a-e (V1-V5). The valves 50 a-e may have a valve member, e.g., that opens and closes, for selectively pumping fluid originating from the pump 10 to a location within, on, or outside of the hygienic apparatus.
For example, if switch 40 (S1) closes, control module 46 activates value 50 a (V1) to transport fluid to jets 26 h-k. The jets 26 h-k spray fluid from the toilet rim onto an interior surface of the toilet bowl 28. The spray fluid for the jets 26 h-k may originate from water from the city line 57, recycled water 49, and recycled water from a tank 55. In an alternative embodiment, the recycled water from a tank 55 may come from other water usages, such as shower water, bathroom sink, laundry room basin, storm drain, home gutter, or the like. Thus, water may be utilized from other activities, e.g., recycled, near or from devices connected to the hygienic apparatus 4. As compared to conventional hygienic systems, such as the standard toilet, this system has the advantage of saving water not only by economizing usage by having a “low flow” design, but also by reusing previous used water for the purpose of toilet flushing or rinsing.
In addition, because the hygienic apparatus 4 in this example flushes upon being closed, cleanliness will be improved because during a flush, the toilet lid or cover 5 will prevent backsplash from solids and liquids becoming airborne and landing on individuals or the adjacent environment.
Finally, because nozzle 24 and jets 26 h-26 k may be independently controlled, e.g., activated or deactivated, additional water savings results because the jets 26 h-26 k may be activated only when necessary, e.g., depending on the solid and the liquid deposited, as compared to conventional standard toilet having the same flush independent of the solid and the liquid deposited.
In contrast to conventional toilet systems, the pressure for jets 26 h-26 k, in one embodiment, may be of a medium pressure, e.g., 50 to 400 p.s.i., as compared to nozzle 24 at a high pressure, e.g., 500 to 2500 p.s.i.; thus, a more controllable and less back spraying flush may be realized.
Furthermore, cleaning enzymes or other substances may be added to the recycled water tank so that the hygienic apparatus may be utilized to clean the toilet 28.
In yet another embodiment, valve 50 c (V2) is opened so that handheld nozzle 52 may be utilized. For instance, handheld nozzle 52 may be used to clean other surfaces or structures, such as shower door, shower wall, bathtub, sink, floor, and the like. After the solid and the liquid are deposited in the containment chamber 20 (see FIG. 2B), the toilet seat 5 is closed. The closed toilet set 5 causes switch 43 (S3) to close and nozzle 24 becomes activated. When activated, the nozzle 24 sprays fluid to break-up solids and transport both solids and liquids from the containment chamber (see FIGS. 2B and 4A) toward the velocity enhancing apparatus 32 (see FIG. 4A). Furthermore, if the pump 10 malfunctions, the pump will pass water at approximately the input pressure level, e.g., such as regular pressure from the city line, approximately 50 p.s.i. in this example. Thus, the hygienic system 4 functions even when the pump 10 fails.
FIGS. 7 a and 7B illustrate respectively a front view and a sectional view respectively of a hygienic apparatus 4′ in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
In this embodiment, the velocity enhancing apparatus 32 (shown in FIG. 2B) has been replaced. The replacement structure includes an incline ramp 70 a and one curved section of pipe 70 b to connect the containment chamber 20 to the outlet port 29. In the exemplary embodiment, the pipe 70 c extends into the outlet port 29 between 2 foot and 5 foot. The extended pipe 70 c, in one embodiment, increases the velocity of solids and liquid flow by increasing pressure flow, for example, for masses originating from the pipes 70 b and 70 c. The arrows illustrate a fluid flow from representative jets 26 and representative nozzle 24 for the solids and liquids that pass through the containment chamber 20 to the outlet port 29.
In yet another alternative embodiment, an external pipe, for example a plastic rigid or flexible pipe, may replace the toilet section that includes the pipes 70 a, 70 b, and 70 c. The external pipe has a preferred diameter selected from the range of approximately ¼ to ½ inch. The external pipe, in one preferred embodiment, has one portion that extends into the outlet port 29, similar to the pipe 70 c. The extension of the external pipe is, in one preferred embodiment, between one foot to 5 feet. Furthermore, the external pipe also has a curved portion, e.g., a winding portion, afterwards partially straightens to mate with an output portion 21 of the containment chamber 20. The external pipe may be detachable so that clogs may be easily removed and afterwards the external pipe then reattached. The external pipe diameter of ¼ to ½ of an inch is chosen increase solid and liquid suction so that the broken-up solid masses and liquids may readily transport to the outlet port 29. The suction increase results in part due to the molecular attraction of liquid and solid particles deposited in the containment chamber 20 (see FIG. 4A). In yet another variation of this embodiment, a sink output drain, not shown, may be connected along the sewer line proximal to the outlet port 29. In this alternative embodiment, discharge from the sink may further increase velocity of liquids and solids that enter the outlet port.
FIG. 8 is an illustration of a means and method of transporting the hygienic apparatus 4 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a hygienic apparatus 4 is transported using a dolly 72. FIG. 8 shows that the hygienic apparatus 4 is transportable and has an outlet port 29 that mates with an output port of a standard toilet. Thus, the hygienic apparatus 4 has been adapted to fit within the standard footprint created by a standard or low flow toilet. The dolly 72 may be specially adapted to fit the apparatus 4, or alternatively the apparatus 4 can be designed to have a substantially standardized shape or profile, such that a one-size-fits-all type dolly 72 can be used without special adaptation.
FIG. 9 is a logical flow diagram (200) illustrating a method of using or operating a hygienic system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this method, a containment chamber has an input portion and an output portion is provided (S202). Another step includes moving liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port of the containment chamber (S204). Afterwards, the containment chamber is filled to a prescribed volume level. The containment chamber is of at least one shaped portion to prevent backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids.
In another step, the first nozzle breaks-up the solids (S206). The first nozzle disposed in the containment chamber using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from the input portion through the output portion of the containment chamber. In yet another step, the method involves increasing an effective velocity of the liquids and the solids utilizing a velocity increasing structure disposed between the output portion of the containment chamber and the outlet port (S208).
In one variation of this method, the containment chamber may further comprise a channel that increases in width from an input channel portion to an output channel portion, the output channel portion emptying into the at least one shaped portion.
In another embodiment of the present method, the channel is used to provide beadings of the inlet liquid to moisten the channel and prevent attachment of the liquids and the solids.
In still another embodiment, the velocity increasing structure may comprise an at least partially hollow structure having at one end an incline ramp, such as incline ramp 32 a (shown in FIG. 4 a), and is used to elevate the liquids and solids above the at least one shaped portion of the containment chamber.
It is noted that many variations of the methods described above may be utilized consistent with the present invention. Specifically, certain steps are optional and may be performed or deleted as desired. Similarly, other steps (such as additional water or fluid processing, filtration, chemical treatment, sampling/analysis, etc.) may be added to the foregoing embodiments. Additionally, the order of performance of certain steps may be permuted, or performed in parallel (or series) if desired. Hence, the foregoing embodiments are merely illustrative of the broader methods of the invention disclosed herein.
While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the invention as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. The foregoing description is of the best mode presently contemplated of carrying out the invention. This description is in no way meant to be limiting, but rather should be taken as illustrative of the general principles of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising:

a containment chamber having an input portion and an output portion, the containment chamber configured to move liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port, the containment chamber further configured to fill to a prescribed volume level, and having at least one shaped portion to prevent backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids;

a first nozzle disposed substantially in the containment chamber and configured to break up at least a portion of the solids using a prescribed pressure level to propel the liquids and the solids from the input portion through the output portion; and

a velocity increasing structure disposed substantially between the output portion of the containment chamber and the outlet port configured to increase an effective velocity of the liquids and solids.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the containment chamber further comprises a channel that increases in width from an input channel portion to and an output channel portion, the output channel portion configured to empty into the at least one shaped portion during operation.

3. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the channel is adapted to provide a bead of the inlet liquid to moisten the channel and prevent attachment of the liquids and the solids.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the velocity increasing structure comprises an at least partially hollow structure having at one end an incline ramp to elevate the liquids and solids above the at least one shaped portion.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the velocity increasing structure further comprises a downward winding structure attached to an exit port of the incline ramp that transports the liquids and solids toward the outlet port.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one shaped portion comprises a first cross-sectional area at one end, an second cross-sectional area that is greater than the first cross-sectional area near a mid-section of the at least one shaped portion, and a third cross-sectional area that is less than the second cross-sectional area.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a user sensing unit;

a first set of jets;

a pump to increase pressure of the inlet liquid from the inlet port to the containment chamber; and

a first valve body disposed between the pump and the first set of jets, the first valve body having a first valve member capable of being moved by the user sensing unit between an open and closed position to provide the inlet liquid to the first nozzle.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising:

a second valve body disposed between the pump and the first set of jets, the second valve body having a second valve member capable of being moved by the user sensing unit between an open and closed position to provide the inlet liquid to the first set of jets.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inlet port is coupled to a reservoir tank having at least a portion of its contents comprising recycled water.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inlet port is coupled to a reservoir tank having at least a portion of its contents comprising recycled water and a cleaning enzyme.

11. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising:

a second nozzle; and

a third valve disposed between the pump and the second nozzle, the third valve having a third valve member capable of being moved by a user sensing input between an open and closed position to provide the inlet liquid to the second nozzle.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first nozzle comprises apparatus capable of producing a pressure that is selected within a range of approximately 30 pounds per square inch (PSI) to 2500 pounds per square inch (p.s.i).

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first nozzle comprises apparatus capable of producing a pressure that is selected within a range of approximately 100 pounds per square inch (PSI) to 2500 pounds per square inch (p.s.i.).

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pump is capable of being selectively activated and deactivated at least partially in accordance with user instructions.

15. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the user sensing unit comprises a switch disposed between a toilet ring and an upper portion of a toilet bowl.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein when the switch is open, the at least one shaped portion fills to a prescribed fill level to prevent odors being emitted from the containment chamber.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein when the switch is closed, the first set of jets and the first nozzle spray water to clear the solids and the liquids through the containment chamber to the outlet port.

18. A method comprising:

providing a containment chamber having an input portion and an output portion;

moving liquids and solids between an inlet port and an outlet port of the containment chamber;

filling the containment chamber to a prescribed level associated with at least one shaped portion to at least mitigate backflow of odor associated with the liquids and solids;

breaking up at least a portion of the solids using a first nozzle disposed in the containment chamber and using pressure to propel the liquids and the solids from the input portion through the output portion; and

increasing an effective velocity of the liquids and the solids utilizing a velocity increasing structure disposed substantially between the output portion of the containment chamber and the outlet port.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the containment chamber further comprises a channel that increases in width from an input channel portion to and an output channel portion, and the output channel portion empties into the at least one shaped portion.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising using the channel to provide a bead of the inlet liquid to moisten the channel and prevent attachment of the liquids and the solids.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein the velocity increasing structure comprises an at least partially hollow structure having at one end an incline ramp, said ramp being used to elevate the liquids and solids above the at least one shaped portion.