Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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A Toilet Seat Cover
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates broadly to a toilet seat cover and a method of
manufacturing a toilet seat cover.
BACKGROUND
Flush toilets typically comprise a bowl portion (or toilet bowl) which
receives e.g.
waste. The bowl portion has an opening which is defined by the rim of the bowl
portion.
In order to allow a user to more comfortably sit on the bowl portion, the rim
can be
overlaid with a sanitary/toilet seat. The toilet seat is typically hinged to
an end of the rim,
to allow the seat to be laid over the rim when sitting is desired.
Alternatively, when the
seat is not desired, the seat can be lifted or rotated off the rim into an
erect position
substantially perpendicular to the opening of the bowl, and may be rested
against a wall
surface or water tank of the flush toilet.
However, toilet seats may be soiled or dirty which discourage users from
sitting
on or to even come into contact with the seats. For example, a seat laid over
the rim may
be soiled by a standing male user. Moreover, as the seat is typically
connected to one
end of the rim via a hinge, the area about the hinge is often soiled by waste
e.g. urine'
left behind by standing male users, and which is typically difficult to
remove.
Other than the visible stains and dirt which may be caused by e.g. waste from
a
,
previous user, users may also be concerned with the risk of contracting
infectious or
3_0 contagious diseases which may arise from coming into contact with
invisible _
contaminants such as e.g. bacteria and/or germs. The risks are even higher in
public
common toilets.
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Some companies have employed cleaners to attempt to clean each toilet seat as
soon as it is used. However, this may be a costly and non-practical way of
matching
number of cleaners to peak period usage of toilets. Moreover, cleaners may not
have
applied any antiseptic agents or sterilizing chemicals to clean the surface of
the seat.
When confronted with a dirty toilet seat, some users may choose to clean the
seat using e.g. dispensed sterilizing chemicals and toilet paper or hose the
bowl down
with a water hose. However, this can result in time used in the cleaning. In
addition,
extra effort and costs are incurred on the part of the user. As such, very
few, if any,
users attempt to clean the seat. Even if the users do attempt to clean the
seats, users
are typically not experts in cleaning seats, which may result in seats that
are not properly
cleaned and/or excess paper, cleaning materials etc. being used in the
cleaning.
Bacteria and germs which are invisible to the naked eyes may also be missed in
the
'cleaning by users, and therefore still render the user exposed to such
contaminants. .
Some users may use disposable covers which may be placed on the seats
directly. Such seat covers typically comprise a sheet of paper shaped like
toilet seats.
Such sheets are typically of inadequate thickness for manufacturing cost
effectiveness
and may break easily when not handled properly, particularly when the
disposable
covers are wet, as a result of e.g. a wet toilet seat or urine from a previous
user. Also,
the paper disposable covers generally do not fit well on toilet seats as they
are smaller in
size compared to the toilet seats. As such, users have to lay a few pieces of
such paper
disposable cover, on top of each other in order to cover the seats completely,
and also
to provide sufficient thickness. This inefficient coverage results in
additional cost incurred.
Further, such sheets do not rest properly on toilet seats and tend to slip
when the user
sits on it.
Thus, there exists a need for a toilet seat cover, and a method of
manufacturing a
toilet seat cover, which seeks to address or at least ameliorate one or more
of the above
problems.
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SUMMARY
In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided
a
toilet seat cover comprising a top sheet of material; a bottom sheet of
material, the
bottom sheet coupled to the top sheet on two coupling edges of the bottom
sheet, said
two coupling edges are opposing outer edges; said cover capable of receiving a
toilet
seat between the top and bottom sheets and between the opposing outer edges;
and the
. top and bottom sheets comprise respective hole portions, said respective
hole portions
aligned to form a central opening of the cover; said central opening capable
of being
aligned substantially with a hollow portion of the toilet seat when the toilet
seat is
received between the top and bottom sheets.
The toilet seat cover may further comprise a flap hinged from a side of the
central
opening; said flap being capable of extending through the hollow portion of
the toilet seat
when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise one or more
perforations
for forming the respective hole portion when the perforations are torn.
The perforations may allow the flap to be formed when the perforations are
torn.
At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise one or more additional
perforations for reducing a size of the flap, when the one or more additional
perforations
are torn.
The flap may be hinged proximate a front edge of the cover.
The top and bottom sheets may each comprise a fluid permeable material,
At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise a fluid impermeable
material.
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At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise an internal layer of
material and an external layer of material, the external layer being exterior
of the cover.
The internal layer may comprise a fluid impermeable material.
The external layer may cOmprise an absorbent material.
The top and bottom sheets may be rectangular in shape.
The bottom sheet may be further coupled at one or more other edges of the
bottom sheet to the top sheet, each said other edges corresponding to a
coupling edge;
each said other edge disposed from the corresponding coupling edge such that
each
other edge and respective coupling edge forms a sleeve for receiving one fork
of a
horseshoe shaped-toilet seat. =
The other edges may be joined together substantially along respective
perimeters to form a ring.
The bottom sheet may be further coupled to the top sheet on a front edge of
the
bottom sheet; and the cover further comprises a mouth for allowing the seat to
be
inserted through.
=
The bottom sheet may further comprise an additional opening positioned
between the central opening and a mouth edge, said additional opening
extending
across substantially the opposing outer edges.
The top and bottom sheets may each further comprise peripheral areas
extending beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat, capable of being
folded and
disposed under the toilet seat.
The bottom sheet may further comprise one or more apertures _for cooperating
with one or more engaging members provided on the toilet seat when the toilet
seat is
received between the top and bottom sheets.
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The peripheral areas may comprise one or more receiving apertures for engaging
with one or more engaging members provided on a received toilet seat, when the
peripheral areas are folded.
5
The top sheet may further comprise an extension, such that the top sheet is
substantially longer than the bottom sheet.
The top sheet may be 450mm longer than the bottom sheet.
The extension may comprise one or more further apertures for cooperating with
one or more further engaging members provided on a water tank or supporting
wall to
retain the extension against the water tank or supporting wall.
The extension may comprise one or more further perforations for forming the
one
or more further apertures when torn.
The extension may comprise a pocket for receiving an unhinged end of a toilet
seat lid within the pocket.
The top or bottom sheet may further comprise one or more fastening strips.
The one or more fastening strips may respectively comprise a coupled end
coupled to the top or bottom sheet; and a free end capable of extending
through the
hollow portion of the toilet seat and over the top sheet or under the bottom
sheet such
that a loop is substantially formed around a portion of the toilet seat.
The coupled end may be coupled at a position along a perimeter of the central
opening, proximate one of the outer edges.
The free end may be cut from an other position along the perimeter of the
central
opening, proximate an opposing outer edge.
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=
The the top or bottom sheet may further comprise fastening strip perforations
for
forming the one or more fastening strips when torn.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is
provided a
method of manufacturing a toilet seat cover, the method comprising providing a
top
sheet of material and a bottom sheet of material; coupling the bottom sheet to
the top
sheet on two coupling edges of the bottom sheet, said two coupling edges
comprising
- opposing outer edges; forming respective hole portions on the top and bottom
sheets;
and aligning the respective hole portions to form a central opening of the
cover; said
central opening capable of being aligned substantially with a hollow portion
of a toilet
seat when the toilet seat is received by the cover.
The method may further comprise forming a flap hinged from aside of the
central
opening; said flap being capable of extending through the hollow portion of
the toilet seat
when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
The method may further comprise forming one or more perforations on at least
one of the top and bottom sheets; said one or more perforations for forming
the
respective hole portion when the perforations are torn.
The perforations may allow, the flap to be formed when the perforations are
torn.
The method may further comprise forming one or more additional perforations on
at least one of the top and bottom sheets; said one or more additional
perforations allow
a size of the flap to be reduced when the one or more additional perforations
are torn.
Forming the flap may comprise forming the flap hinged proximate a front edge
of
the cover.
The method may further comprise providing a fluid permeable material for each
of the top and bottom sheets.
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The method may further comprise providing a fluid impermeable material for at
least one of the top and bottom sheets.
The method May further comprise providing for at least one of the top or
bottom
sheets, an internal layer of material and an external layer of material, the
external layer
being exterior of the cover.
The method may further comprise providing a fluid impermeable material for the
internal layer.
The method may further comprise providing an absorbent material for the
external layer.
The method may further comprise providing rectangular-shaped top and bottom
sheets.
The method may further comprise coupling one or more other edges of the
bottom sheet to the top sheet, each said other edges corresponding to a
coupling edge;
each said other edge disposed from the corresponding coupling edge such that
each
other edge and respective coupling edge forms a sleeve for receiving one fork
of a
horseshoe shaped-toilet seat.
The method may further comprise joining the other edges together substantially
along respective perimeters to form a ring.
The method may further comprise coupling a front edge of the bottom sheet to
the top sheet; and forming a mouth on an uncoupled edge for allowing the seat
to be
inserted through.
The method may further comprise forming an additional opening between the
central opening and a mouth edge on the bottom sheet, said additional opening
extending across substantially the opposing outer edges.
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The method may further comprise providing peripheral areas on the top and
bottom sheets, said peripheral areas extending beyond a surface area of a
received
toilet seat; and forming the peripheral areas for being folded and disposed
under the
toilet seat.
The method may further comprise providing apertures on the bottom sheet, said
, apertures for aligning with engaging members provided on the toilet
seat when the toilet
seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
The method may further comprise providing receiving apertures on at least the
bottom sheet for engaging with engaging members provided on a received toilet
seat.
Providing a top sheet of material may comprise providing a top sheet with an
extension such that the top sheet is substantially longer than the bottom
sheet.
Providing a top sheet of material may comprise providing a top sheet that is
450mm longer than the bottom sheet.
The method may further comprise providing one or more further apertures on the
extension for cooperating with one or more further engaging members provided
on a
water tank or supporting wall to retain the extension against the water tank
or supporting
wall.
The method may further comprise providing one or more further perforations on
the extension for forming the one or more further apertures when the further
perforations
are torn.
The method may further comprise providing a pocket on the extension for
engaging or receiving an unhinged end of a toilet seat lid within the pocket.
The method may further comprise providing one -or more fastening strips on the
top or bottom sheet.
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Providing the one or more fastening strips on the top or bottom sheets may
comprise coupling a coupled end of one of the fastening strips to the top or
bottom sheet;
and providing a free end of one of the fastening strips capable of extending
through the
hollow portion of the toilet seat and over the top sheet or under the bottom
sheet such
that a loop is substantially formed around a portion of the toilet seat.
Coupling the coupled end may comprise coupling the coupled end of one of the
fastening at a position along a_ perimeter of the central opening, proximate
one of the
outer edges. ,
Providing a free end, may comprise providing the free end cut from an other
position along, the perimeter of the central opening, proximate an opposing
one of the
outer edge.
The method may further comprise providing one or more fastening strip
perforations for forming the one or more fastening strips when torn.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Example embodiments of the invention will be better understood and readily
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the following written
description, by way
of example only, and in conjunction with the drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a flush toilet in an example embodiment.
Figure 2a is an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
Figure 2b is a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example
embodiment.
Figure 2c is a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example "
embodiment.
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Figure 3 is a schematic side view of a flush toilet in an example embodiment,
Figure 4a is an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
5
Figure 4b is a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example
embodiment.
Figure 4c is a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example
10 embodiment.
, Figure 5 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example
embodiment.
Figure 6 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example
embodiment.
Figure 7a is an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
Figure 7b is an exploded view of an example embodiment of a toilet seat cover
in
use..
Figure 8 is a top view of the top and bottom sheets of an unassembled toilet
seat
cover showing the exemplary approximate dimensions of the top and bottom
sheets in
an example embodiment.
Figure 9a is an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
Figure 9b is a perspective view of an example embodiment of an assembled
toilet seat cover.
Figure 9c is an alternative perspective view of an example embodiment of an
assembled toilet cover, in use.
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= 11
Figure 10 is an underside view of the top and bottom sheets of an unassembled
toilet seat cover showing the exemplary approximate dimensions of the top and
bottom
sheets in an example embodiment.
Figure 11 is flow chart illustrating a method for manufacturing a toilet seat
cover
in an example embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The terms "coupled" or "connected" as used in this description are intended to
cover both directly connected or connected through one or more intermediate
means,
unless otherwise stated.
In the description, sheets refer to sheets of material suitable for use as
herein
described.
Further, in the description herein, the word "substantially" whenever used is
understood to include, but not restricted to, "entirely" or "completely" and
the like. In
addition, terms such as "comprising", "comprise", and the like whenever used,
are
intended to be non-restricting descriptive language in that they broadly
include
elements/components recited after such terms, in addition to other components
not
explicitly recited. Further, terms such as "about", "approximately" and the
like whenever
used, typically means a reasonable variation, for example a variation of +/-
20% of the
disclosed value, a variation of +/- 10% of the disclosed value, a variation of
+/- 5% of the
disclosed value, or a variance of 4% of the disclosed value, or a variance of
3% of the
disclosed value, or a variance of 2% of the disclosed value or a variance of
1% of the
disclosed value.
Furthermore, in the description herein, certain values may be disclosed in a
range. The values showing the end points of a range are intended to illustrate
a
preferred range. Whenever a range has been described, it is intended that the
range
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covers and teaches all possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical
values within
that range. That is, the end points of a range should not be interpreted as
inflexible
limitations. For example, a description of a range of 1% to 5% is intended to
have ,
specifically disclosed sub-ranges 1% to 2%, 1% to 3%,1% to 4%, 2% to 3% etc.,
as well
as individually, values within that range such as 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5%. The
intention
of the above specific disclosure is applicable to any depth/breadth of a
range.
Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a flush toilet 100 in an example
embodiment. The flush toilet 100 comprises a bowl portion (or toilet bowl) 102
which
receives e.g. waste. The bowl portion 102 comprises an opening 104 defined by
a
periphery or rim 106 of the bowl portion 102.
A toilet seat 110 is hinged at a rear or hinged end 108 to the rim 106. The
toilet
seat 110 may be deployed to be laid over the rim 106 when sitting is desired.
This may
be termed the deployed position. The toilet seat 110 is annular or ring-shaped
with a
hollow portion 112 and covers the rim 106 substantially completely when
deployed to be
laid over the rim 106. When sitting is not desired, an opposing or front end
114,
substantially diametrically opposite the hinged end 108, of the seat 110 may
be lifted off
the rim 106 to move the seat 110 into an erect/vertical position, such that
the seat 110 is
substantially perpendicular to the opening of the bowl 102 (as shown in Figure
1). This
may be termed the undeployed position. In some embodiments, the seat 110 may
be
rested against a wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 100 when in
the erect
position.
.?
When sitting is desired, a user sits on the toilet seat 110 facing away from
the
wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 100, such that the user's back
faces the wall
surface or water tank. In that respect, the rear or hinged end 108 of the
toilet seat 110 is
proximate the wall surface or water tank, while the front end 114 is the
distal end of the
toilet seat 110 from the wall surface or water tank.
In the example embodiment, the seat 110 is hinged to the bowl 102. In
alternative
embodiments, the seat may be coupled to the bowl via alternative means. For
example,
the seat may be swivelled or rotated in a planar direction substantially
perpendicular to
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the plane of the rim surface of the bowl between the deployed position - where
the seat
substantially covers the rim of the bowl, and an undeployed position.- where
the seat is
not covering the bowl.
=
Figure 2a shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example
embodiment. The seat cover 200 comprises a first or top sheet 202 and a second
or
bottom sheet 204. The top and bottom sheets 202, 204 are substantially
rectangular in
shape and are coupled together or sealed at two side edges, for example outer
side
edges 206a, 206b such that the two side edges 206a, 206b are diametrically
opposite
each other. The edges of the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 that are coupled
together
are termed coupling edges.
Figure 2b shows a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover 200 in an
example
embodiment. In Figure 2b, view of the bottom sheet 204 is partially obscured.
At an
unsealed edge 208, where the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 are not coupled
together,
a mouth 210 of the cover 200 is formed. As shown in Figure 2b, a seat (compare
110 of
Figure 1) can be inserted through the mouth 210 such that the toilet seat 110
is received
within the cover 200 between the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 and between
the
opposing side edges 206a, 206b. Thus, the cover 200 functions as an envelope
for
receiving the seat 110 as an insert.
In the example embodiment, the toilet seat 110 is hinged to the toilet bowl
(not
shown in Figures 2a and 2b) af the hinged end 108. Thus, the toilet seat 110
is inserted
into the cover 200 at the front end 114 first.
The toilet seat 110 is shown in Figure 2b to more clearly illustrate the
position of
the toilet seat 110 within the seat cover 200, when the toilet seat 110 is
held within the
seat cover 200. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 200 is in use
and covers
the toilet seat 110, the toilet seat 110 may not be visible from the top view.
In the example embodiment as shown in Figure 2b, a front edge 212 of the cover
200 opposite the mouth 210 is preferably sealed (i.e. the top and bottom
sheets 202 and
204 are coupled together), such that the toilet seat 110 is inserted or
removed from the
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cover 200 via the unsealed mouth edge 208. This may advantageously allow the
cover
200 to be easily pulled over the seat 110 as the sealed edge 212 prevents the
front end
114 of the toilet seat 110 from extending past the edge 212 when the seat 110
is
inserted into the cover 200.
.5
The top and bottom sheets 202, 204 respectively comprise hole portions 214a,
214b (Figure 2a) such that the cover 200 comprises a central opening 216
(Figure 2b)
formed by the hole portions 214a, 214b (Figure 2a). The central opening 216 is
positioned such that it is substantially aligned over or within the hollow
portion 112 of the
toilet seat 110, when the cover 200 is in use (i.e. the seat 110 is inserted
into the cover
200). The central opening 216 is smaller than the hollow portion 112 of the
toilet seat
110.
As the seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200, the example embodiment
advantageously provides amore secure fit over the toilet seat, when compared
with the
single sheeted covers of the prior art. The single sheeted covers of the prior
art are
merely placed on top of a surface of the toilet seat and will not be firmly
secured onto the
surface of the seat. The single sheeted covers of the prior art are often
shifted or
displaced by air movement when users come near to try and sit on a single
sheeted
cover lying on top surface of the toilet seat. In contrast, the example
embodiment allows
the seat to be inserted into and sandwiched by the cover, thus allowing the
cover to
provide a more secure fit over the seat.
In the example embodiment shown in Figure 2a and 2b, the central opening 216
is not formed prior to use. Instead, the top and bottom sheets 202, 204
respectively
comprise perforations 218a, 218b which outline or define cut out portions.
When the
perforations 218a, 218b are broken by a user, the cut out portions may be
moved to
form the respective hole portions 214a, 214b, which form the central opening
216 of the
cover 200. In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 2a and 2b, the
central
3.0 opening 216 is not formed prior to use. It will be appreciated that in
alternative example
embodiments, the central opening 216 may be formed at the time of production,
and
prior to use. This may provide convenience to the user in that the user can
sit on the
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seat cover e.g. 200 immediately after inserting the toilet seat, without
having to e.g. tear
the perforations 218a, 218b. ,
In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 2a and 2b, the perforations
218a,
5 218b are not formed completely around the perimeter of the hole portions
214a, 214b.
Instead, respective sections 220a, 220b of the perimeter of the hole portions
214a, 214b
are not perforated. Thus, when the perforations 218a, 218b are torn or broken
by a user,
the cut out portions form flaps 222a, 222b hinged at the sections 220a, 220b
of the
perimeter of the hole portions 214a, 214b which are not perforated.
In the example embodiment, the flaps 222a, 222b (Figure 2b) are hinged
proximate the edge 212. That is, the sections 220a, 220b that are not
perforated are
proximate the edge 212. The edge 212 is termed a front edge of the cover 200
for being
proximate the front end of the seat 110. When the cover 200 is used with the
toilet seat
110 and when the toilet seat 110 is deployed over a toilet bowl (e.g. 102 of
Figure 1), the
flaps 222a, 222b may extend through the central opening 216 and the hollow
portion 112
of the toilet seat 110, into the bowl portion (e.g. 102 of Figure 1) of the
flush toilet (e.g.
100 of Figure 1). The flaps 222a, 222b thus line or cover a section of the
interior wall of
the toilet bowl (e.g. 102 of Figure 1). In particular, because the flaps 222a,
222b are
positioned proximate the front edge 212, the front interior wall of the toilet
bowl 102
(Figure 1) may be lined with the flaps 222a, 222b. Advantageously, the flaps
222a, 222b
provides a barrier to prevent a male user's body part from coming into contact
with the
front interior wall of the toilet bowl 102 (Figure 1) when the user is seated,
thus
protecting the user from contamination caused by germs and/or dirt on the
interior walls
of the toilet bowl.
It will be appreciated that while the example embodiment illustrated in
Figures 2a
and 2b shows two. flaps 222a and 222b formed on both the top and bottom sheets
202,
204, the flap may be formed on only the bottom sheet 204. The perforations on
the top
sheet 202 may form completely around the perimeter of the hole portion 214a
such that
the cut out portion of the top sheet 202 is detached completely from the top
sheet 202.
Alternatively, a flap may be formed only on the top sheet 202, while the cut
out portion of
the bottom sheet 204 may be detached completely.
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Figure 2c shows a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover 200 in an
example embodiment. In the example embodiment, the seat 110 is provided with
hooks
116 (not visible in Figure 1) on an underside of the seat 110, The top and
bottom sheets
5. 202, 204, unsealed edge 208, mouth 210, opposing side edges 206a, 206b,
front edge
212, and central opening 216 of the -cover 200 as described in the
accompanying
description for Figure 2b are also shown. The flaps 222a, 222b as shown in
Figure 2b
õ have been omitted in Figure 2c for ease of illustration, but will be
understood to be
present.
Figure 2c also shows the underside of the toilet seat 110. The toilet seat 110
is
,received within the cover 200, between the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 and
between the opposing side edges 206a, 206b. The hinged end 108, front end 114,
and
hollow portion 112 of the toilet seat 110 as described in the accompanying
description
for Figure 2b are also shown. Like Figure 2b, the toilet seat 110 is shown in
Figure 2c to
more clearly illustrate the position of the toilet seat 110 within the seat
cover 200 when in
use. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 200 is in use and covers
the toilet
seat 110, the toilet seat 110 may not be visible from the bottom view.
The underside of the toilet seat 110 comprises hooks 116 protruding from the
underside of the toilet seat 110. It will be appreciated that the underside of
a toilet. seat is
the side of the toilet seat which is in contact with or facing the toilet bowl
when the seat is
deployed. The cover 200 further comprises apertures 224 positioned on the
underside of
the cover 200 and aligned with the hooks 116 when the cover 200 is fitted over
the 'seat
110 (i.e. the seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200).
The cover 200 further comprises receiving apertures 226 on peripheral areas of
the cover 200. A peripheral area of the cover 200 is an area where the top and
bottom
sheets 202, 204 extend beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat such
that the
sheets do not sandwich the received seat. When a seat is received in the
cover, the
- peripheral areas of the cover 200 may be folded along folding lines 230
towards the
hooks 116. When the peripheral areas of the cover 200 are folded, the hooks
116 may
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further engage the receiving apertures 226 to additionally secure the cover
200 onto the
seat 110.
Providing the hooks 116 on the underside of the toilet seat 110 may allow the
cover 200 to be more secured to the toilet seat 110 via the apertures 224 when
the toilet
seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200. Advantageously, this may further
prevent the
cover 200 from easily shifting about the seat 110 when a user is seated on the
toilet seat,
as the hooks 116 on the underside of the toilet seat 110 cooperates with the
apertures
224 to prevent the cover 200 from moving relative to the seat 110. Thus, the
hooks 116
function as engaging members.
Additionally, when the peripheral areas of the cover 200 are folded and
disposed
under the seat 110, for example, such that the receiving apertures 226 are
also engaged
with the hooks 116, the securing of the cover 200 to the seat 110 is yet
further enhanced.
In the example embodiment shown in Figure 2a, 2b and 2c, the receiving
apertures 226 are formed on both the top and bottom sheets 202, 204, such that
they _
are substantially aligned when the cover 200 is assembled i.e. the top and
bottom
sheets 202, 204 are aligned. In alternative example embodiments, the receiving
apertures 226 may be provided only on the bottom sheet 204.
In alternative example embodiments, the apertures 224 and/or receiving
apertures 226 formed on one or both the top and/or bottom sheets may be cut
out
portions which are cut out from perforations similar to those as described for
the hole
portions 214a, 214b. The apertures 224 and/or receiving apertures 226 may also
be
formed as aperture flaps, such that they are hinged to the top and/or bottom
sheets, and
are not completely detached from the top and/or bottom sheets 202, 204.
The use of flaps in some example embodiments may advantageously save
manufacturing and material costs of the cover as the cut out portions need not
be
disposed off if they are not fully detached from the top and bottom sheets. In
addition,
the toilet may require less cleaning as the occurrence of littering of the cut
out portions
may be reduced through the use of flaps.
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It will be appreciated that in alternative example embodiments, the apertures
and/or receiving apertures may already be formed during manufacturing, and
prior to use,
such that a user. does need to tear any perforations in order to form the
apertures and/or
receiving apertures.
It will be appreciated that the size of the toilet seat cover is based on the
size of
the toilet seat it is intended for. For a toilet seat size measuring about
365mm by 420mm
= 'in size, the
toilet seat cover may measure about 395mm by 450mm. .
It will also be appreciated that the size of the central opening of the toilet
seat
cover is also based on the hollow portion of the toilet seat. A central
opening that is too
large may not serve the function of preventing soiled water in the toilet bowl
from
splashing out and coming into contact with .a user when in use. A central
opening that is
too small may require a user to sit in a precise position to utilise, such
that the toilet seat
cover is not soiled. Typically, the central opening of the toilet seat cover
measures about
180mm by 220mm across its diameters for a toilet seat having a hollow portion
measuring about 220mm by 260mm across its diameters.
Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of a flush toilet 300 in an example
embodiment. The flush toilet 300 comprises a bowl portion (or toilet bowl) 302
which
receives e.g. waste. The bowl portion 302 comprises an opening 304 defined by
a
periphery or rim 306 of the bowl portion 302.
A toilet seat 310 is hinged at a rear or hinged end 308 to the rim 306. The
toilet
seat 310 may be deployed to be laid over the rim 306 when sitting is desired.
This may
be termed the deployed position. The toilet seat 310 is horseshoe-shaped such
that it
comprises two forks or arms 316 extending from the hinged end 308 to form a U-
shape
around a hollow portion 312. The toilet seat 310 covers the rim 306
substantially
completely when deployed to be laid over the rim 306 except for the space
break
between the arms 316. When sitting is not desired, an opposing or front end
314,
substantially diametrically opposite the hinged end 308, of the seat 310 may
be lifted off
the rim 306 to move the seat 310 into an erect/vertical position such that the
seat 310 is
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substantially perpendicular to the opening of the bowl 302. This .may be
termed the
undeployed position. In some embodiments, the seat 310 may be rested against a
wall
surface or water tank of the flush toilet 300 when in the erect position.
Figure 3 shows
the toilet seat 310 in between the deployed and the erect positions.
When sitting is desired, a user typically sits on the toilet seat 310 facing
away
from the wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 300, such that the
user's back faces
the wall surface or water tank. In that respect, the" rearor hinged end 308 of
the toilet -
seat 310 is proximate the wall surface or water tank, while the front end 314
is the distal
end of the toilet seat 310 from the wall surface or water tank.
In the example embodiment, the seat 310 is hinged to the bowl 302. In
alternative
embodiments, the seat may be coupled to the bowl via alternative meant. For
example,
the seat may be swivelled or rotated in a planar direction substantially
perpendicular to
the plane of the rim surface of the bowl between the deployed position - where
the seat
substantially covers the rim of the bowl, and an undeployed position - where
the seat is
not covering the bowl.
Figure 4a shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example
embodiment. The seat cover 400 comprises a first or top sheet 402 and a second
or
bottom sheet 404. The top and bottom sheets 402, 404 are substantially
rectangular in
shape and are coupled together or sealed at two side or outer edges 406a, 406b
such
that the two side edges 406a, 406b are diametrically opposite each other. The
edges of
the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 that are coupled together are termed
coupling edges.
Figure 4b shows a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover 400 in an
example
embodiment. In Figure 4b, view of the bottom sheet 404 is partially obscured.
At an
unsealed edge 408, where the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 are not coupled
together,
a mouth 410 of the cover 400 is formed. As shown in Figure 4b, a seat (compare
310 of
Figure 3) may be inserted through the mouth 410, such that the toilet seat 310
is
received within the cover 400, between the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 and
between the opposing side edges 406a, 406b. Thus, the cover 400 functions as
an
envelope for receiving the seat 310 as an insert.
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In the example embodiment, the toilet seat 310 is hinged to the toilet bowl
(not
shown in Figures 4a and 4b) at the hinged end 308. Thus, the toilet seat 310
is inserted
into the cover 400 at the front end 314 first. The front end 314 is
substantially
5 diametrically opposite the hinged end 308.
The toilet seat 310 is shown in Figure 4b to more clearly illustrate the
position of
the toilet seat 310 within the seat cover 400, when the toilet seat 310 is
held within the
seat cover 400. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 400 is in use
and covers
10 the toilet seat 310, the toilet seat 310 is may not be visible from the
top view.
In the example embodiment as shown in Figure 4b, a front edge 412 of the cover
400 opposite the mouth 410 is sealed (i.e. the top and bottom sheets 402 and
404 are
coupled together), such that the toilet seat 310 is inserted or removed from
the cover
15 400 via the unsealed mouth edge 408. This may advantageously allow the
cover 400 to
be easily pulled over the seat 310, as the sealed edge 412 may prevent the
front end
314 of the toilet seat 310 from extending past the edge 412 when the seat 310
is
inserted into the cover 400.
20 The top and bottom sheets 402, 404 respectively comprise hole portions
414a,
414b (Figure 4a) such that the cover 400 comprises a central opening 416
(Figure 4b)
formed by the hole portions 414a, 414b (Figure 4a). The central opening 416 is
positioned such that it is substantially aligned over or within the hollow
portion 312 of the
toilet seat 310, when the cover 400 is in use (i.e. the seat 310 is inserted
into the cover
400).
In the example embodiment shown in Figures 4a and 4b, the central opening 416
is not formed prior to use. Instead, the top and bottom sheets 402, 404
respectively
comprise perforations 418a, 418b which outline or define cut out portions.
When the
perforations 418a, 418b are torn or broken by a user, the cut out portions may
be moved
to form the respective hole portions 414a, 414b, which form the central
opening 416 of
the cover 400.
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In the example embodiment illustrated in Figures 4a and 4b, the perforations
418a, 418b are not formed completely around the perimeter of the hole portions
414a,
414b. Instead, respective sections 420a, 420b of the perimeter of the hole
portions 414a,
414b are not perforated and cannot be easily torn or broken by a e.g. user.
Thus, when
the perforations 418a, 418b are torn or broken by a user, the cut out portions
form flaps
422a, 422b hinged at the sections 420a, 420b of the perimeter of the hole
portions 41-4a,
414b which are not perforated.
In the example embodiment, the flaps 422a, 422b (Figure 4b) are hinged
proximate the edge 412. That is, the sections 420a, 420b which are not
perforated are
proximate the edge 412. The edge 412 is termed a front edge of the cover 400
for being
proximate the front end of the seat 310. When the cover 400 is used with the
toilet seat
310 and when the toilet seat 310 is deployed over a toilet bowl (e.g. 302 of
Figure 3), the
flaps 422a, 422b may extend through the central opening 416 and the hollow
portion 312
of the toilet seat 310, into the bowl portion (e.g. 302 of Figure 3) of the
flush toilet (e.g.
300 of Figure 3). The flaps 422a, 422b thus line or cover a section of the
interior wall of
the toilet bowl (e.g. 302 of Figure 3). In particular, because the flaps 422a,
422b are
positioned proximate the front edge 412, the front interior wall of the toilet
bowl 302
(Figure 3) may be lined with the flaps 422a, 422P. Advantageously, the flaps
422a, 422b
provides a barrier to prevent a male user's body part from coming into contact
with the
front interior wall of the toilet bowl 302 (Figure 3) when the user is seated,
thus
protecting the user from contamination caused by germs and/or dirt on the
interior walls
of the toilet bowl.
It will be appreciated that while the example embodiment illustrated in
Figures 4a
and 4b shows two flaps 422a and 422b, the flap may be formed on only the
bottom
sheet 404. The perforations on the top sheet 402 may form completely around
the
perimeter of the hole portions such that the cut out portion of the top sheet
402 is
detached completely from the top sheet 402. Alternatively, a flap may be
formed only-on
the top sheet 402, while the cut out portion of the bottom sheet 404 may be
detached
completely.
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In the example embodiment, in addition to the being coupled together at the
side
or outer edges 406a, 406b, the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 are also coupled
or
sealed together at inner edges 424a, 424b. Each inner edge 424a, 424b is
located
between a respective outer edge 406a, =406b and the central opening 416, and
is
preferably substantially alongside the respective outer edge 406a, 406b. When
the top
and bottom sheets 402, 404 of the cover 400 are coupled together at the inner
edges
424a, 424b and outer edges 406a, 406b, respective sleeves (portions between
each
." inner edge
and outer edge) are defined for receiving a respective arm or fork 316 of the
horseshoe shaped toilet seat 310. That is, each sleeve may receive one arm or
fork. 316
of the horseshoe shaped toilet Seat 310. Each sleeve may be substantially
tubular in
shape. Thus, the inner edge 424a, 424b is located a distance away from the
respective
outer edge 406a, 406b, to form respective sleeves that are of sufficient width
to receive
an arm or fork 316 of the horseshoe shaped toilet seat 310.
It will be appreciated that the size of the toilet seat cover is based on the
size of
the toilet seat it is intended for. For a toilet seat size measuring about
365mm by 420mm
in size, the toilet seat cover may measure about 395mm by 450mm.
It will also be appreciated that the size of the central opening of the toilet
seat
cover is also based on the hollow portion of the toilet seat. A central
opening that is too
large may not serve the function of preventing soiled water in the toilet bowl
from
=splashing out and coming into contact with a user when in use. A central
opening that is
too small may require a user to sit in a precise position to utilise, such
that the toilet seat
cover is not soiled. Typically, the central opening of the toilet seat cover
measures about
180mm by 220mm across its diameters for a toilet seat having a hollow portion
measuring about 220mm by 260mm across its diameters.
In addition, for a horseshoe shaped toilet seat, the width of the sleeves of
the
toilet seat cover are based on the size of the arms or forks of the horseshoe
shaped
toilet seat. Typically, for a horse shoe shaped toilet seat having arms or
forks each with a
width of about 70mm, the sleeves of the toilet seat cover may each have a
width of
about 100mm.
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In the example embodiment, the coupled inner edges 424a, 424b are shorter in
length than the outer edges 406a, 406b such that when the seat 310 is received
in the
cover 400, the inner edges 424a, 424b are substantially within the opening
hollow
portion 312 of the seat 310.
In an alternative example embodiment, the inner edges may be joined to form a
complete circle or oval ring surrounding the central opening 416. That is, the
inner edges
may be coupled for the top and bottom sheets substantially around the
perimeter of the
edges and about the central opening 416.
The provision of sleeves for receiving a respective arm or fork 316 of the
toilet
seat 310 may advantageously allow the cover 400 to be fitted more securely to
the toilet
seat 310. Additionally, the sleeves may reduce the possibility of the cover
400 slipping
on its side when fitted over the toilet seat 310 such that part of the seat
300 is exposed
via the central opening 416.
That is, the coupled inner edges 424a, 424b further advantageously seals the
arms or forks 316 of the toilet seat such that dirt or stains on the arms or
forks 316 is
prevented from seeping past the inner edges 424a, 424b, and coming into
contact with a
user using the seat.
In addition, in the example embodiment where the inner edges are joined to
form
- a complete circle or oval ring surrounding the central opening 416, the
sealing in the
inner edges may additionally advantageously prevent droppings of a user from
being
caught between the sheets 402, 404 of the cover 400, when the toilet seat
cover 400 is
in use. In particular, when the toilet seat cover 400 is in use, there is no
gap between the
toilet seat and the bottom sheet 404. Droppings from a user may thus be
prevented from
being unintentionally deposited onto the underhanging portion of the bottom
sheet 404.
Figure 4c shows a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover 400 in an
example embodiment. In the example embodiment, the seat 310 is provided with
hooks
318 on an underside of the seat. The top and bottom sheets 402, 404, unsealed
edge
408, mouth 410, opposing side or outer edges 406a, 406b, front edge 412, and
central
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opening 416 of the cover 400 as described in the accompanying description for
Figure
4b are also shown. The flaps 414a, 414b as shown in Figure 4b has been omitted
in
Figure 4c for ease of illustration.
Figure 4c also shows the underside of the toilet seat 310. The toilet seat 310
is
received within the cover 400, between the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 and
between the opposing side edges 406a, 406b. The arms or forks 316 of the
horseshoe-
shaped toilet seat 310 are held within sleeves defined by the inner edges
424a, 424b
and outer edges 406a, 406b. The hinged end 308, front end 314, and hollow
portion 312
of the toilet seat 310 as described in the accompanying description for Figure
4b are
also shown. Like Figure 4b, the toilet seat 310 is shown in Figure 4c to more
clearly
illustrate the position of the toilet seat 310 within the seat cover 400 when
in use. It will
be appreciated that when the seat cover 400 is in use and covers the toilet
seat 310, the
toilet seat 310 may not be visible from the bottom view.
The underside of the toilet seat 310 comprises hooks 318 protruding from the
underside of the toilet seat 310. It will be appreciated that the underside of
a toilet seat is
the side of the toilet seat which is in contact with or facing the toilet bowl
when the seat is
deployed. The cover 400 further comprises apertures 428 positioned on the
underside of
the cover 400 and aligned with the hooks 318 when the cover 400 is fitted over
the seat
310 (i.e. the seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400).
The cover 400 further comprises receiving apertures 426 on peripheral areas of
the cover 400. A peripheral area of the cover 400 is an area where the top and
bottom
sheets 402, 404 extend beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat such
that the
sheets do not sandwich the received seat. When a seat is received in the
cover, the
peripheral area of the cover 400 may be folded along folding lines 430 towards
the
hooks 318 on the underside of the toilet seat 310. When the peripheral areas
of the
cover 400 are folded, the hooks 318 further engage the receiving apertures 426
to
additionally secure the cover 400 onto the seat 310.
Providing the hooks 318 on the underside of the toilet seat 310 may allow the
cover 400 to be more secured to the toilet seat 310 via the apertures 428 when
the toilet
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seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400. Advantageously, this may further
prevent the
cover 400 from easily shifting about the seat 310 when a user is seated on the
toilet seat,
as the hooks 318 on the underside of the toilet seat 310 cooperates with the
apertures
428 to prevent the cover 400 from moving relative to the seat 310. The hooks
318
5 function as engaging members.
Additionally, when the peripheral areas of the cover 400 are folded such that
the
receiving apertures 426 are also engaged with the hooks 318, the securing of
the cover
400 to the seat 310 is yet further enhanced.
In the example embodiment shown in Figure 4a, 4b and 4c, the receiving
apertures 426 are formed on both the top and bottom sheets 402, 404, such that
they
are substantially aligned when the cover 400 is assembled i.e. the top and
bottom
sheets 402, 404 are aligned. In alternative example embodiments, the receiving
apertures 426 may be provided only on the bottom sheet 404.
In alternative example embodiments, the apertures 428 and/or receiving
apertures 426 formed on one or both the top and/or bottom sheets may be cut
out
portions which are cut out from perforations similar to those as described for
the hole
portions 414a, 414b. The apertures 428 and/or receiving apertures 426 may also
be
formed as aperture flaps, such that they are hinged to the top and/or bottom
sheets, and
are not completely detached from the top and/or bottom sheets 402, 404.
The use of flaps in some example embodiments may advantageously save
manufacturing and material costs of the cover as the cut out portions need not
be
disposed off if they are not fully detached from the top and bottom sheets. In
addition,
the toilet may require less cleaning as the occurrence of littering of the cut
out portions
may be reduced through the use of flaps.
Figure 5 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover 500 in an example
embodiment. The toilet seat cover 500 is similar to the toilet seat cover 200
described in
Figure 2a, 2b and 2c, but with hole portions which are different in design.
The hole
portions 502a and 502b are of a different shape, and are substantially
comprising of two
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portions. The hole portions 502a and 502b comprise additional perforations
504a, 504b
which allow the size of the flap (when formed) to be modifiable. Other
components such
as the top and bottom sheets, apertures, edges, etc., of the toilet seat cover
500 are not
described or shown for ease of illustrati,on.
In the example embodiments described in e.g. Figures 2b and 4b, the flaps
(e.g.
numerals 222a, 222b and 422a, 422b in Figures 2b and 4b respectively) have
been
shown to be formed when the perforations (e.g. numerals 218a, 218b and 418a,
418b of
Figures 2a and 4a respectively) are torn. The size of the flaps (e.g. numerals
222a, 222b
and 422a, 422b in Figures 2b and 4b respectively) are therefore defined by the
perforations (e.g. numerals 218a, 218b and 418a, 418b of Figures 2a and 4a
respectively) formed substantially around the perimeter of the hole portions.
Returning to Figure 5, the additional perforations 504a, 504b, may allow
respective portions 506a, 506b (shaded in Figure 5) opposite the respective
hinged ends
508a, 508b to be completely detached and removed from the toilet seat cover
500. This
effectively allows the size of the flaps (e.g. portion 510a, 510b) to be
modified when
formed. In particular, the flaps (e.g. portion 510a, 510b) formed in the
toilet seat cover
500 are comparatively smaller than the flaps formed in the toilet seat cover
200 shown in
Figure 2a. This may advantageously allow the size of the flap to be reduced,
as a flap
that is the size of the entire hole portion (as in Figure 2a) may result in
the flap coming in
to contact with the water within a toilet bowl when the cover is placed over a
deployed
toilet seat.
It will be appreciated that the water in the toilet bowl may be contaminated
with
e.g. germs and bacteria and should the water come into contact with the flap,
the flap
may be contaminated. The contaminated water may seep towards a seated user via
the
flap. Further, when removing the toilet seat cover after use, a contaminated
flap of a
relatively larger size may be more difficult to handle.
Figure 6 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover 600 in an example
. embodiment. The toilet seat cover 600 is similar to the toilet seat
cover 200 described in
Figure 2a, 2b and 2c, and further comprises an additional opening 606 in the
bottom
=
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sheet 604. The additional opening is not present on the top sheet 602. The
additional
opening 606 is positioned on the bottom sheet 604, between the unsealed/ mouth
edge
608 and extending across substantially the opposing outer side edges. Other
components of the toilet seat cover such as the apertures, edges, etc., of the
toilet seat
cover 600 are not described or shown for ease of illustration.
The additional opening 606 on the bottom sheet 604 of the toilet seat cover
600
may advantageously prevent droppings of a user from being caught between the
sheets
602, 604 of the cover 600, when the toilet seat cover 600 is in use. In
particular, when
the toilet seat cover 600 is in use, underhang for the bottom sheet 604 may be
minimised, or a gap between the toilet seat and the bottom sheet 604 may be
minimised.
Droppings from"a user may thus be prevented from being unintentionally
deposited onto
the underhanging portion of the bottom sheet 604.
Figure 7a shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover 700 in an example
embodiment. The toilet seat cover 700 is similar to the toilet seat covers 200
and 500
described in Figures 2a-c and 5 respectively. The toilet seat cover 700
comprises a top
sheet 702a, and a bottom sheet 702b, respectively comprising perforations 706a
and
706b for allowing the central opening and flap to be formed. In the example
embodiment,
the opposing outer side edges and the front end of the top and bottom sheets
702a,
702b are sealed or coupled together to form the assembled toilet seat cover
700,
although they are shown to be separated in Figure 7a for ease of illustration.
In addition to the toilet seat cover 500 described in Figure 5, the top sheet
702a
further comprises an extension 708 extending from the rear or mouth edge 710
of the
top sheet 702a, such that the top sheet 702a is longer than the bottom sheet
702b
Other components of the toilet seat cover 700 such as those as described in
other(
example embodiments of the toilet seat cover (e.g. numerals 200, 400 in
Figures 2b, 2c
and 4b, 4c) are not described or shown for ease of illustration.
In an example- embodiment, top sheet 702a is about 450mm longer than the
bottom sheet 702b. The extension 708 of the top sheet 702a can be draped over
an e.g.
water tank of the toilet or supporting wall surface.
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Figure 7b shows a perspective view of the toilet seat cover 700 in an example
embodiment. As shown in Figure 7b, the extension 708 of the top sheet 702a is
draped
over an e.g. water tank of the toilet or supporting wall surface 716. The
extension 708
.5 may comprise of one or more apertures 712 which may be formed by tearing
perforations 704 (see Figure 7a), similar to the e.g. apertures 426/428
described in
Figure 4c above. In the example embodiment, the water tank or supporting wall
surface
716 comprises engaging means 714 (e.g. hooks) which coopeTate with the
apertures
712 to secure or retain the extension 708 of the top sheet 702a against the
e.g. water
tank or supporting wall surface.
The extension 708 can advantageously allow a larger area of the toilet to be
covered. It will be appreciated that the area about the hinged end 718 of the
toilet seat
720 may be soiled by urine left behind by standing male users, and which is
difficult to
remove. The extension 708 can advantageously more adequately cover the rear
portion
of a toilet seat, particularly at the hinged end (e.g. numeral 718 in Figure
7b) of the toilet
seat 720, where the seat 720 is connected to the rim of the bowl.
With reference to Figures 7a and 7b, the bottom sheet 702b further comprises
fastening strips 722a, 722b. The fastening strips 722a, 722b are formed from
further
additional perforations (9r fastening strip perforations) 732 in the bottom
sheet 702b and
are such that when formed (i.e. when the further additional perforations are
torn), the
fastening strips 722a, 722b comprise respective coupled ends 724a, 724b
coupled to the
bottom sheet 702b and free ends 726a, 726b.
In the example embodiment shown in Figure 7a and 7b, the coupled ends 724a,
724b of the fastening strips 722a, 722b are coupled to the bottom sheet 702b
at a
position offset from the side edge of the bottom sheet 702b for forming the
side coupling
edges of the cover 700, while the free ends 726a, 726b are cut from the bottom
sheet
702b and extends to an opposite side coupling edge of the cover 700.
With particular reference to Figure 7b, when the toilet seat cover 700 is in
use
. with the toilet seat 720 between the top and bottom sheets 702a, 702b,
the free ends
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726a, 726b of the fastening strips 722a, 722b extends through the hollow
portion 730 of
the toilet seat 720 and the central opening 728 formed in the toilet seat
cover 700
(specifically the top sheet 702a), and is pulled or extended radially away
from the center
of the hollow portion 726 and central opening 728 (see arrows referenced by
numerals
734a, 734b), substantially in the direction of the respective coupled ends
724a, 724b,
such that the fastening strips 722a, 722b, when deployed, form substantially a
loop
around a portion of the toilet seat 720 and do not impede or block the hollow
portion 728
and central opening 730. The fastening strips 722a, 722b can thus
advantageously allow
the toilet seat cover 700 to be secured or fastened to the toilet seat 720.
Moreover, the fastening strips 722a, 722b can further advantageously allow the
top and bottom sheets 702a, 702b to be bound together, with the toilet seat
720
therebetween, such that waste e.g. urine or other undesirable matter cannot
seep
between the sheets from the toilet seat 720 to the user.
In addition, the fastening strips 722a, 722b may be also used in a toilet seat
cover for a horseshoe-shaped toilet seat. In such an embodiment, an additional
step of
sealing the inner edges (e.g. 424a, 424b of Figure 4b) is not required as the
fastening
strips 722a, 722b provide sealing of the inner edges, when they are looped
around the
. 20 toilet seat. This can advantageously lower cost and complexity in
the manufacturing
process of the toilet seat cover.
Figure 8 shows the approximate exemplary dimensions of the top and bottom
sheets 702a 702b of the toilet seat cover 700 of Figures 7a and 7b. As shOwn
in Figure
8, the bottom sheet 702b measures about 450mm by 395mm. The top sheet further
comprises the extension such that it is longer than the bottom sheet and
measures
900mm by 365mm. The central opening 728 (when formed) in both the top and
bottom
sheets is an oval that measures 260mm by 215mm. The fastening strips 722a,
722b
(when formed) each measures about 340mm by 60mm, such that they respectively
extend across substantially the width of the toilet seat cover 700. It will be
appreciated
that the dimensions provided in Figure 8 are for illustrative purposes only.
_
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In the example embodiments shown in Figures 7a and 7b, the fastening strips
722a, 722b are formed on the bottom sheet 702b. It will be appreciated that in
alternative example embodiments the fastening strips may be formed in one or
both of
the top and bottom sheets 702a, 702b, without departing from the scope of the
invention
5 as broadly
and exemplarily described. The scope of the invention are not limited or
restricted by the specific dimensions mentioned.
=
It will be appreciated that the one or more apertures 712 as illustrated in
Figures
7a and 7b are optional and that the extension 708 may be draped over the water
tank or
,
10 supporting
wall surface or element for frictional engagement, without any engaging
means for cooperating with the apertures 712 to provide additional securing
means.
It will further be appreciated that in addition to being draped over an e.g.
water
tank or supporting wall surface or element, the extension 708 may also be
draped over a
15 lid of a toilet seat.
Figure 9a shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover 900 in an example
embodiment. The toilet seat cover 900 comprises a top sheet 902a and a bottom
sheet
902b. In an assembled toilet seat cover 900, the top and bottom sheets 902a,
902b are
20 sealed or
coupled together at respective outer side edges 904, 906 and the front end
908 of the top and bottom sheets 902a, 902b. The opposing outer side edges
904, 906
and the front end 908 of the top and bottom sheets are shown to be separated
in Figure
9a for ease of illustration.
25 Figure 9b
shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of the
assembled toilet seat cover 900. As shown in Figure 9b, the outer side edges
904, 906
and the front end 908 of the top and bottom sheets 902a, 902b are sealed
together
when the toilet seat cover 900 is assembled.
30 With
reference to Figures 9a and 9b, an unsealed edge or end 910 allows a
mouth (not shown in Figures 9a and 9b) to be formed such that a toilet seat
can be
inserted through the mouth of the seat cover 900, and received within the
cover 900,
between the top and bottom sheets 902a, 902b, and between the opposing side
edges
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904 and 906. Thus, The cover 900 functions as an envelope for receiving the
seat as an
insert. The toilet seat is not shown in Figures 9a and 9b for ease of
illustration.
Figure 9c shows an alternative perspective view of an example embodiment of
the toilet seat cover 900 when used with a toilet seat 940. In Figure 9c, the
toilet seat
' 940 has been inserted through the mouth 918 of the toilet seat cover 900
such that the
toilet seat 940 is received within the cover 900. The toilet seat 940 is
partially shown
(with broken lines) to illustrate the position of the toilet seat 940 within
the toilet seat ,
cover 900 and it will be appreciated that the toilet seat 940 may not be
visible when it is
received in the toilet seat cover 900.
Similar to the cover 200 described in e.g. Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, the top and
bottom
sheets 902a and 90b of the cover 900 comprise perforations 912 (see Figure
9a), which
outline or define cut out portions such that when the perforations 912 (see
Figure 9a) are
broken by e.g. the user, hole portions are made in the top and bottom sheets
902a, 902b
to form a central opening 916 (see Figures 9b and 9c) in the cover 900. In the
example
embodiment, the central opening 916 is not formed during manufacturing and the
user
tears the perforation to form the central opening 916 prior to use. It will be
appreciated
that in alternative example embodiments, the central opening 916 may be formed
at the
time of production, and prior to use.
In the example embodiments, the perforations 912 are not formed completely
around the perimeter of the central opening 916 (see figure 9a and 9b).
Instead, sections
922 (Figure 9a) of the perimeter of the central opening are not perforated
such that a
flap e.g. 924 (Figure 9c), which hinges proximate the front end 908, is formed
when the
perforations are torn. The flap 924 extends through the central opening 916
and the
hollow portion of the toilet seat 940, into the bowl portion of the flush
toilet (e.g. 100 of
Figure 1). The flap can thus line or cover a section of the interior wall of
the toilet bowl.
In the example embodiment, additional perforations 926 (similar to the
additional
perforations 504a, 504b as described in Figure 5) are provided in the top and
bottom
sheets 902a, 902b of the cover 900, to allow the size of the flap 924 (Figure
9c) to be
modified (or reduced) when formed, such that the flap 924 (Figure 9c) is not
the size of
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the entire hole portion or central opening. This may advantageously prevent
the flap,
which may be over-sized, from coming into contact with the water within a
toilet bowl
when the cover is in use.
With reference to Figure 9b and 9c, the cover 900 further comprises fastening
strips 928a and 928b. The fastening strips 928a, 928b are formed from further
additional
perforations (or fastening strip perforations) 930 (see Figure 9a) on both the
top and
bottom ,sheets. When formed (i.e. when the fastening strip perforations 930
are torn), the
fastening strips 928a, 928b comprise respective coupled ends 932a, 932b
coupled to the
cover and free ends 934a, 934b.
In the example embodiments shown in Figure 9a, 9b and 9c, fastening strips
928a, 928b extend across, substantially, a diameter of the central opening.
The
fastening strips 928a, 928b are formed substantially from portions of the top
and bottom
sheets 902a and 902b which have been cut out to form the central opening 916.
The
fastening strips 928a, 928b are coupled to the top and bottom sheets 902a,
902b at
respective coupled ends, 932a, 932b at a position along the perimeter of the
central
opening 916, proximate one of the outer side edges 904, 906. The fastening
strips 928a,
928b extend across, substantially, the central opening such that the free ends
934a,
934b are cut from an other position along the perimeter of the central opening
916 which
is substantially opposite the coupled end, proximate an opposing outer side
edge 906,
904.
In the example embodiment, the fastening strip 928a is coupled to the cover
900
at a coupling end 932a, at a position along the perimeter of the central
opening 916 and
proximate the outer side edge 906 of the cover 900. The fastening strip 928a
is formed
from a stripped portion cut to form the central opening 916 and thus has a
length of
substantially the diameter of the central opening 916. The fastening strip
928a has a free
end 934a which is cut from an other position along the perimeter of the
central opening
which is substantially opposite the coupled end 932a, proximate an opposing
side edge
904.
=
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With particular reference to Figures 9b and 9c, when the toilet seat cover 900
is
in use with the toilet seat 940 (Figure 9c) between the top and bottom sheets
902a, 902b,
the free ends 934a, 934b of the fastening strips 928a, 928b extends through
the hollow
portion of the toilet seat and the central opening 916 formed in the toilet
seat cover 900
= (specifically the top sheet 902a), and is pulled or extended radially away
from the center
= of the hollow portion and central opening 916 (see arrows referenced by
numerals 936a,
936b), substantially in the direction of the outer side edge 904, 906
proximate the
respective coupled end 932a, 934b, such that the fastening strips 928 when
deployed, -
form substantially a loop around a portion of the toilet seat 940 and do not
impede or
block the hollow portion and central opening 916. The fastening strips 928a,
928b can
= thus advantageously allow the toilet seat cover 900 to be secured or
fastened to the
toilet seat 940, such that the toilet seat 940 does not move about
substantially within the
toilet seat cover 900.
Similar to the fastening strips 722a, 722b (described above in Figures 7a,
7b),
the fastening strips 928a, 928b can further advantageously allow the top and
bottom
sheets 902a, 902b to be bound together, with the toilet seat 940 therebetween,
such that
waste e.g. urine or other undesirable matter cannot seep between the sheets
from the
toilet seat 940 to the user.
In the example embodiment illustrated in Figures 9a, 9b, 9c, each one of the
fastening strips 928a, 928b comprise of a top fastening strip and a bottom
fastening strip,
formed from the top and bottom sheets 902a, 902b respectively. It will be
appreciated
that in Figures 9b and 9c as the fastening strips 928a, 928b are looped or
folded over
the toilet seat 940 and cover 900, only the bottom fastening strip is visible.
In such an
arrangement, a user may sit on the cover 900, with the fastening strips 928a,
928b
therebetween. Alternatively, the fastening strips 928a, 928b, may be looped or
folded
under the toilet seat 940 and cover, such that the user may sit on the cover
900 with the
fastening strips 928a, 928b tucked or looped under the cover 900 such that the
fastening
strips 928a, 928b are between the cover 900 and the rim of the toilet (e.g.
106 of Figure
1).
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It will be appreciated that regardless of whether the fastening strips 928a,
928b
are looped over or under the cover 900, a user will still be applying pressure
on the strips
when sitting on the cover 900. As such, the seat 940 can be secured within the
cover
900.
In the example embodiment shown in Figures 9a, 9b and 9c, the top sheet 902a
further comprises an extension 914 extending from the rear or mouth edge 938
of the
top sheet 902a, such that the top sheet 902a is longer than, the bottom sheet
902b. In
the example embodiment, top sheet 902a is about 450mm longer than the bottom
sheet
902b. Similar to the extension 708 (Figure 7b) described above, the extension
914 can
advantageously allow a larger area of the toilet to be covered. It will be
appreciated that
the area about the hinged end of the toilet seat may be soiled by urine left
behind by
standing male users, and which is difficult to remove. The extension 914 can
advantageously more adequately cover the rear portion of a toilet seat and
shield the
user, particularly at the hinged end of the toilet seat, where the seat is
connected to the
rim of the bowl.
In the example embodiments shown in Figure 9a, 9b and 9c the extension 914
comprises a pocket 942, located at an extended or far end of the cover 900.
With
reference to Figure 9c, the pocket 942 is capable of engaging or receiving a
free or
unhinged end of a lid 944 of a toilet seat 940 within, such that the extension
914 can be
secured to the lid 944. It will be appreciated that the position of the pocket
942 is based
on a typical height of a toilet seat cover. In the example embodiments, the
pocket 942 is
about 100-120mm deep (see reference numeral 948 in Figure 9c).
In the example embodiment, the extension 914 may further comprise one or
more apertures 946 similar to the apertures 712, described in Figure 7b above.
The
apertures 946 are capable of cooperating with engaging means (e.g. hooks)
comprised
on e.g. the supporting wall surface or water tank, to secure the extension 914
against
the water tank of the toilet or supporting wall surface accordingly.
=
In the example embodiment, the apertures 946 is formed by tearing perforations
or the apertures 946- may be pre-cut during manufacturing. Further, in the
example
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embodiments, the apertures 946 are positioned on the pocket 942. It will be
appreciated
that the position of the apertures 946 are not limited to the specific
location shown.
Figure 10 shows the underside view of the top and bottom sheets 902a, 902b.
5 Approximate exemplary dimensions of the top and bottom sheets 902a 902b
of the toilet
seat cover 900 of Figures 9a, 9b -and 9c are also shown. As shown in Figure
10, the
bottom sheet 902b measures about 450mm by 395mm. The top sheet further
comprises
the extension 914 such: that it is longer than the bottom sheet and measures
900mm by
395mm. The central opening 916 (when formed) in both the top and bottom sheets
is an
10 oval that measures 260mm by 215mm. The fastening strips 928a, 928b (when
formed)
each measures about 215mm by 60mm, such that they respectively extend across
substantially the width of the central opening 916. The extension 914
comprises the
pocket 942 at the extended or far end of the top sheet 902a. The pocket 942
measures
about 100mm in depth. Perforations for forming apertures 946 are positioned on
the
15 pocket 942 and measure about 10mm in diameter.
It will be appreciated that the dimensions provided in Figure 10 are for
illustrative
purposes only.
20 It will be appreciated that the pocket 942 and one or more apertures
946 as
illustrated in Figure 9c are optional and that the extension 914 may be draped
over the
water tank or supporting wall surface or element for frictional engagement,
without any
engaging means for cooperating with the apertures 946 to provide additional
securing
means.
- 25
It will further be appreciated that in addition to being draped over an e.g.
water
tank or supporting wall surface or element, the extension 914 may also be
draped over
the lid of a toilet seat.
30 In the example embodiments, the covers (e.g. numerals 200, 400, 700 and
900 in
Figures 2b, 2c, 4b, 4c , 7a, 7b and 9a, 9b, 9c respectively) have been shown
to be
substantially rectangular in shape, with substantially straight edges. In
particular, the
outer side edges (e.g. 206a, 206b, 406a, 406b and 904, 906) extend across a
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longitudinal perimeter of the cover. (e.g. 200, 400, 700, 900), while the
mouth (210, 410,
918) and front edges (212, 214, 908) extend across a transversal/or
latitudinal perimeter
of the covers. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the
cover may be of
alternative shapes including, but not limited to, round or oval shapes. As
such, the edges
as mentioned above may be curved without departing from the scope of the
invention as
broadly and exemplarily described.
It will further be appreciated that while the example embodiments appear to
refer
to the side and front edges as being on the ends of the cover or sheets, the
edges may
be interior to the main body of the cover or each sheet. That is, the edges
coupled
together are described as being outer edges (e.g. 406a, 406b of -Figure 4b).
However it
will be appreciated that the coupling may alternatively be performed on other
edges,
such as at at least a portion of the edges of the opening (e.g. 216, 416 of
Figures 2b, 4b
respectively).
In some example embodiments, the cover (e.g. numerals 200 and 400 in Figure
2c and 4c respectively) further comprises peripheral areas which can be folded
and
disposed under the toilet seat (e.g. numerals 110 and 310 in Figure 2c and 4c
respectively). When the peripheral areas are folded, hooks (e.g. numerals 116
and 318
in Figure 2c and 4c respectively) provided on the toilet seat further engage
the receiving
apertures (e.g. numerals 226 and 426 in Figure 2c and 4c respectively). In
alternative
embodiments, the toilet seat may not comprise the hooks and the receiving
apertures
may be absent. In such embodiments, the peripheral areas of the cover may
still be
folded and disposed (or tucked) under the seat when the seat is deployed, to
additionally
secure the cover onto the seat, and to add stability to the cover.
Example embodiments of the present application may therefore provide a cover
for covering a toilet seat. The cover may more effectively shield a user from
the toilet
seat, as it may be securely fitted (or pulled) enveloping the toilet seat. In
addition, with
the provision of preferable apertures (e.g. numerals 224, 428 of Figures 2c
and 4c
respectively), the securing may be enhanced. Furthermore, with the additional
provision
of preferable receiving apertures (e.g. 226, 426 of Figures 2c and 4c
respectively), the
securing may be yet further enhanced.
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In addition, the cover in the example embodiments of the present application
may
be disposable, such that a fresh toilet seat cover may be fitted over the seat
as and
when it is desired. This advantageously provides a clean, fresh surface for a
user to sit
on each time the use of the toilet is desired. The seat cover may be easily
removed for
disposal, when use of the toilet is completed.
In some example embodiments, the top and bottom sheets (e.g. numerals 202,
204, 402, 404, 702a, 702b and 902a, 902b in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4c,
7a, 7b and
9a, 9b, 9c respectively) of the covers (e.g. numerals 200, 400, 700 and 900 in
Figures
2b, 2c, 4b, 4c, 7a, 7b and 9a, 9b, 9c respectively) are made of impermeable
materials
such that fluids are prevented from permeating or seeping through the seat
covers when
placed over toilet seats. For example, the impermeable materials may be
polymer-based
films, oil-coated paper, etc.
In some example embodiments, the top and bottom sheets (e.g. numerals 202,
204, 402, 404, 702a, 702b and 902a, 902b in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4c,
7a, 7b and
9a, 9b, 9c respectively) of the covers (e.g. numerals 200, 400, 700 and 900 in
Figures
2b, 2c, 4b, 4c, 7a, 7b and 9a, 9b, 9c respectively) are made of permeable
materials. This
may be advantageous in situations of disposal in wet bins, flush toilets etc.
In some example embodiments, the top and bottom sheets (e.g. numerals 202,
. 204, 402, 404, 702a, 702b-and 902a, 902b in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, 4a, 4b,
4c, 7a, 7b and
9a, 9b, 9c respectively)may be a multiple-layer sheet. That is each sheet
comprises an
internal layer and an external layer, wherein the internal layer is in contact
with the toilet
seat when it is placed over or envelopes the toilet seat, while the external
layer is on the
exterior of the cover. For example, an external layer of a top sheet contacts
a user when
in use. In one such embodiment, the interior or internal layer comprises an
impermeable
or water proof material which prevents the fluids from seeping or permeating
through the
seat covers and the exterior layer is made of a permeable or an absorbent
layer which
can be more comfortable for a user to sit on, as the absorbent layer is
generally of a
softer material. In addition, the absorbent layer can absorb perspiration from
the user,
which can allow a more comfortable sitting experience for the user. As an
example, the
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absorbent material may be non-woven material and may be material such as
polyethylene-based material, polypropylene, non-woven, paper, cotton, etc, and
the
impermeable materials may be polymer-based film, oil-coated paper, etc.
In some example embodiments, the top and bottom sheets (e.g. numerals 202,
204, 402, 404, 702a, 702b and 902a, 902b in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4c,
7a, 7b and
9a, 9b, 9c respectively)may be formed from a single sheet of material that is
folded over
such that the fold forms one of the coupled edges (e.g. numerals 206a, 206b,
212 and
406a, 406b, 412 in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c and 4a, 4b, 4c respectively, or numeral
802 in
Figure 8).
In example embodiments, the hooks (e.g. numerals 116, 318, 714 in Figures 2c,
4c and 7b) may be replaced with any other suitable engaging members or means
e.g. a
retaining clip, post or stub, etc, without departing from the scope of the
invention. In
addition, even though two engaging members, two apertures and two receiving
apertures have been described, it will be appreciated that any number of such
components may be provided to provide securing of the cover. The hooks or
suitable
engaging member may also be detachable such that they may be easily attached
to and
removed from the toilet seat (such as a conventional toilet seat) or from the
water tank or
wall surface accordingly.
An exemplary method for forming a toilet seat cover is as follows. As a first
step,
permeable and impermeable layers of material are bonded together to form a
single ,
sheet by means of glue or any adhesive materials. Next, the bonded single
sheet
material is folded into an envelope shape, and sealed at the side edge (and
front edge, if
desired) using a hot sealing machine, ultrasonic machine or sewing means etc.
The
mouth (e.g. 210, 410 or 918 of Figure 2b, 4b and 9c respectively) is not
sealed and kept
open. Optionally, the e.g. pocket 942 (Figure 9c) may be formed using hot
sealing
machine, ultrasonic machine or sewing means etc. Next, the toilet seat cover
is sent for
the punching of perforations (e.g. 218a, 418a, 912 of Figure 2a, 4a and 9a
respectively)
for the centre hole portion (e.g. 214a, 414a of Figure 2a and 4a respectively)
as well as
the perforations, for the apertures (e.g. 224, 428 of Figure 2c and 4c
respectively) and
receiving apertures (e.g. 226, 426 of Figure 2c and 4c respectively). Other
perforations,
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such as for modifying or reducing the size of the flap (e.g. 926 of Figure 9a)
or for
providing the fastening strips (e.g. 930) are also formed.
For a horseshoe¨shaped cover (e.g. 400 of Figure 4a, 4b and 4c), an additional
step of sealing the inner edges (e.g. 424a, 424b of Figure 4b) via e.g. heat
sealing,
ultrasonic sealing, or thread sealing etc. is performed.
It will be appreciated that the openings or portions formed as a result of
torn
perforations in the example embodiments described herein may be formed during
the
production of the toilet seat cover. That is, instead of forming perforations
(on the top
and/or bottom sheets) which is to be torn by a user, cuts may already be made
during
the manufacturing. For example, the hole portions 214a, 214b of Figure 2a and
2b may
be cut during manufacturing of the toilet seat cover such that the flaps 222a,
222b are
formed, without the need to form any perforations which have to be later torn
by the user,
However, it will be appreciated that cutting the different hole portions etc.,
may
result in a structurally flimsy cover, which may be difficult for a user to
pull over a toilet
seat for use. Thus, providing perforations which can be torn later, can allow
a user to
more easily deploy a toilet seat cover over the toilet seat before
subsequently tearing the
necessary perforations, after the seat has been inserted into the cover.
Figure 11 shows a flow chart illustrating a method 1100 of manufacturing a
toilet
seat cover in an example embodiment. At step 1102, a top sheet of material and
a
bottom sheet of material are provided. At step 1104, the bottom sheet is
coupled to the
top sheet on two coupling edges of the bottom sheet, said two coupling 'edges
comprising opposing outer edges. At step 1106, respective hole portions on the
top arid
bottom sheets are formed. At step 1108, the respective hole portions are
aligned to form
a central opening of the cover, said central opening capable of being aligned
substantially with a hollow portion of a toilet seat when the toilet seat is
received by the
cover.
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It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that other variations
and/or
modifications may be made to the specific embodiments without departing from
the spirit
or scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are,
therefore,
to be eonsidered-in-all-resp_ects to _be-illustrative-and-not restrictive.
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