Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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SANITARYWARE CLEANING SYSTEM
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 15/415,502, entitled
"SANITARYWARE CLEANING SYSTEM," filed January 25, 2017, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application Serial No.
14/723,003,
entitled "SANITARYWARE CLEANING SYSTEM," filed on May 27, 2015, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/003,222, entitled
"SANITARYWARE CLEANING SYSTEM," filed on May 27, 2014, all the
disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for cleaning
sanitary fixtures, such as toilets.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Automatically dispensing disinfecting and deodorizing sanitaryware cleaning
products are a boon to commercial and residential applications. These products
can
minimize the time and effort required to clean sanitary fixtures, such as for
example
toilets, by extending the time periods between manual cleanings, or
eliminating the
need for manual cleaning altogether, while keeping the fixtures and their
environs tidy
and fresh. Toilet cleaning products typically include a cleaning material
formed into a
water-soluble tablet. The tablet is then situated within either the toilet
tank or toilet
bowl such that when the toilet is flushed, some of the flushing water
interacts with the
tablet, dissolves some of the cleaning material, and dispenses the material
into the toilet
bowl.
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Cleaning agents in the tablets can include chemicals that can degrade
components of the toilet tank and toilet bowl and can be harmful upon direct
contact
with human skin. Situating the cleaning tablets in the tank or bowl,
especially in
locations that require a person to manually replace the tablets when they are
spent, can
therefore be undesirable. Toilet tank and toilet bowl placed cleaning products
also put
the unsightly tablets or tablet housings in plain view, detracting from
otherwise clean,
uninterrupted lines of the sanitary fixture and presenting a hazard to
children and pets.
Flush toilets can be classified into three general categories depending on the
design of the hydraulic channels used to achieve the flushing action: non-
jetted, rim-
jetted, and direct-jetted toilets. In non-jetted bowl designs, all of the
flush water exits
the tank into a bowl inlet area and flows through a primary manifold into the
rim
channel. The water can be dispersed around the perimeter of the bowl via a
series of
holes positioned underneath the rim. Although they can generally be inferior
to other
designs with respect to flushing power and efficiency, non-jetted bowls are
well suited
for the invention described herein since all of the dissolved cleaning fluid
would be
distributed around the rim of the bowl, achieving greater cleaning efficacy.
The bulk waste removal in toilets may be improved over non-jetted designs by
incorporating "siphon jets." In a rim-jetted toilet bowl, the flush water
exits the tank,
flows through the manifold inlet area and through the primary manifold into
the rim
channel. A portion of the water is dispersed around the perimeter of the bowl
via a
series of holes positioned underneath the rim. The remaining water flows
through a jet
channel positioned at the front of the rim. This jet channel connects the rim
channel to a
jet opening positioned in the sump of the bowl, which is sized and positioned
to send a
powerful stream of water directly at the opening of the trapway.
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In a direct-jetted bowl, the flush water exits the tank and flows through the
bowl
inlet and through the primary manifold. At this point, the water is divided
into two
portions: a portion that flows through a rim inlet port to the rim channel
with the
primary purpose of achieving the desired bowl cleansing, and a portion that
flows
through a jet inlet port to a "direct-jet channel" that connects the primary
manifold to a
jet opening in the sump of the toilet bowl (see for example, US 8,316,475).
A new toilet has been described in U.S. Patent Application No. 61/810,664,
"Primed Siphonic Flush Toilet," the disclosure of which is incorporated by
reference
herein in its entirety. This new toilet construction utilizes isolated rim and
jet channels.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Generally speaking, it is an object of the present invention to provide a
sanitaryware cleaning system that avoids disadvantages of prior art
constructions.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a sanitary fixture, such
as
a toilet, may include a compartment between the toilet tank and the bowl for
receiving
and housing a cleaning product. The compaitment may situate the cleaning
product in
the flow path at any point downstream of the flush valve and upstream of the
outlet
ports of the toilet rim such that, with every flush, water flowing past the
cleaning
product injects cleaning material into the bowl via the rim outlet ports. In
some
embodiments, a perforated or slotted basket may hold the tablet within the
compartment
while simultaneously allowing water to flow from the tank, past the cleaning
tablet, and
into the toilet bowl. In alternative embodiments, the cleaning product may be
tethered to
a cap to permit the tablet to move freely in the water path with or without
the use of a
basket.
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In some embodiments, a cap can cover the compartment with a water-tight fit to
seal the system from leaks. The cap may further utilize a child-resistant
design to
prevent access by children and pets. The visible portion of the cap can be
color-matched
to the surface of the sanitary fixture or otherwise designed to be
aesthetically pleasing
and/or unobtrusive to the eye.
According to an alternate exemplary embodiment, a cleanser assembly for a
sanitary fixture having a deck, a bowl, and a compartment defined in the deck
in fluid
communication with a waterway leading into the bowl, includes a housing
mountable
onto the deck over the compartment. The housing is configured to receive a
reusable or
disposable cartridge containing the cleaning product for insertion into the
compartment
such that the cleaning product is introduced into the waterway and then
delivered to the
bowl.
Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will in part be
obvious and will in part be apparent from the specification, and the scope of
the
invention will be indicated in the claims.
The present invention accordingly comprises the features of construction,
combinations of elements, and arrangement of parts, all as exemplified in the
constructions herein set forth.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a fuller understanding of the inventive embodiments, reference is had to
the
following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in
which:
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a sanitaryware cleaning system, in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;
FIGS. 2A and 2B show perspective and cutaway views, respectively, of a
basket, cap, and cleaning product, in accordance with various embodiments of
the
present invention;
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of sanitaryware cleaning system with a
basket placed in a compartment, in accordance with various embodiments of the
invention;
FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a basket situated in a compartment, in
accordance with various embodiments of the invention;
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of another basket, in accordance with various
embodiments of the invention;
FIGS. 6A and 6B show a cross-sectional view of cleaning pucks situated in a
compartment, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;
FIGS. 7 and 8 show cross-sectional and exploded views of a cleaning cup for
use in sanitary fixture, in accordance with various embodiments of the
invention;
FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a cleaning product tethered to a cap, in
accordance with various embodiments;
FIG. 10 shows a perspective, cut-away view of a primed siphonic flush toilet,
in
accordance with various embodiments of the invention;
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FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a sanitary fixture provided with an
enclosure for the compaitment in accordance with embodiments of the present
invention;
FIG. 12 shows a side elevation view of a sanitary fixture including a
seat/cover mounted thereto via an L-bracket, in accordance with various
embodiments
of the present invention;
FIGS. 13A and 13B show perspective and side elevation views of a
compartment enclosure and a seat/cover mounted to a sanitary fixture with a
hinge that
includes arms and a pivot, in accordance with various embodiments of the
present
invention;
FIGS. 14A and 14B show perspective and side elevation views of another
compartment enclosure and a seat/cover mounted to a sanitary fixture with a
hinge that
includes arms and a pivot, in accordance with various embodiments of the
present
invention;
FIGS. 15A and 15B show perspective and cross-sectional views of a
seat/cover mounted to a sanitary fixture with a hinge that includes a pivot
extending
from the compartment enclosure into nested arms of the seat/cover, in
accordance with
various embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of another sanitaryware cleaning system, in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a compartment enclosure housing a
reservoir, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of a compartment enclosure housing
another reservoir, in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention;
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FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of a compartment enclosure housing yet
another reservoir, in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention;
FIG. 20 shows a cross-sectional view of a compartment enclosure housing still
another reservoir, in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention;
FIGS. 21A and 21B show perspective and cross-sectional views of a
sanitaryware cleaning system, in accordance with various embodiments of the
present
invention;
FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of another sanitaryware cleaning system, in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;
FIGS. 23A and 23B show perspective views of alternate embodiments of a
sanitaryware cleaning system, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 24 shows a cross-sectional view of still another sanitaryware cleaning
system, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;
FIGS. 25A-25C are various views of an exemplary sanitaryware cleaning
system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 26A and 26B are perspective views of the sanitaryware cleaning system
of FIGS. 25A-25C, illustrating different operational states;
FIGS. 27A and 27B are enlarged isolated views of the cartridge housing of the
sanitaryware cleaning system shown in FIGS. 25A-25C, 26A, and 26B;
FIGS. 28A, 28B, 29, and 30 are various views of component parts of the
cartridge housing shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B;
FIGS. 31A and 31B are perspective and side elevational views of an exemplary
cartridge, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 31C is a perspective view of an exemplary body of the cartridge shown in
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FIGS. 31A and 31B;
FIGS. 31D and 31E are various views of an exemplary cap of the cartridge
shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B;
FIG. 32A is a perspective view of a body and a cap of another exemplary
cartridge in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 32B-32F are various views of the cartridge shown in FIG. 32A,
illustrating exemplary dimensions thereof;
FIG. 33 are magnified views of various components of a spud assembly, in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary cartridge housing with the
spud assembly shown in FIG. 33, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present
invention;
FIG. 35 is a top perspective view of a spud of the spud assembly shown in FIG.
33;
FIGS. 36A and 36B are top and bottom views of an exemplary cartridge housing
lid, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 37A-37C are partial side cross-sectional views illustrating the lid
shown
in FIGS. 36A and 36B in closed, partially open, and fully open positions;
FIG. 38 is a perspective, partially transparent, cross-sectional view of an
exemplary spring-loaded cartridge housing, in accordance with an embodiment of
the
present invention;
FIG. 39 is a perspective, transparent view of an exemplary cartridge housing
having a latch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention;
FIGS. 40A and 40B are schematic views of the latch assembly shown in FIG.
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39, illustrating the latch assembly in open and closed states; and
FIGS. 41 and 42 are perspective views of alternate cartridge housings, in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of sanitaryware cleaning system 100, in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. System 100
includes
sanitary fixture 110, in this case, a toilet, having tank 112, deck 114, and
bowl 116.
While the sanitary fixture shown in FIG. 1 is a toilet, it should be
appreciated that
embodiments of the present invention have application in other types of
sanitary
fixtures, such as bidets, for example.
Sanitary fixture 110 can include compartment 120 for receiving and/or housing
cleaning product 130, which may be used to clean, disinfect, and/or deodorize
sanitary
fixture 110. As shown in FIG. 1, cleaning product 130 may include one or more
cleaning agents formed into a water-soluble solid product, such as a tablet,
for example,
that dissolves when contacted with water. It should be understood, however,
that in
other embodiments, cleaning agents may be incorporated into a liquid cleaning
product.
During operation of sanitary fixture 110, a measured amount of water can flow
past cleaning product 130, dissolving a portion of cleaning product 130 and
injecting
the cleaning agents into bowl 116. Any suitable cleaning product known in the
art that
fits within compartment 120 may be used with the embodiments described herein
to
introduce new cleaning agents into bowl 116 each time sanitary fixture 110 is
operated
or with some other frequency.
Compai ________ tment 120 may be sealed from the outside environment with cap
124.
Cap 124 can provide a water-tight or water-resistant seal with compartment 120
to
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prevent leaks or spray into or out of compartment 120. 0-rings 126a and 126b
(shown
in FIG. 4) may facilitate the desired water-tight fit. Cap 124 may be
removably coupled
to compartment 120 using any suitable coupling features, such as one or more
threads,
clips, clasps, or latches, for example. Cap 124 may also form a press-fit
coupling with
the edges of compaitment 120. In some embodiments, cap 124 may use a child
proof
design, such as a squeeze-and-turn, push-down-and-turn, or a push-tab-and-turn
threaded coupling. Child proofing compartment 120 may help to prevent children
or
pets from accessing tablet 130, which can contain potentially harmful
ingredients.
Cap 124 may be formed from any suitable plastic, metal, or composite material,
or
cap 124 may be formed from a ceramic material similar or identical to the
ceramic
material used to form the body of sanitary fixture 110.
Compaitment 120 may be positioned at any location that provides access to the
flush water channel(s) downstream of the flush valve and upstream of the rim
outlet
port(s). To minimize the potential for leaks, a preferable position is
on/under deck 114
of sanitary fixture 110. That is, compartment 120 may include a hole in deck
114 that
extends from its top surface and into waterway 140 below. The hole may be
formed
using any process suitable for working with sanitary fixtures, which are
typically made
of porcelain. For example, the hole may be formed when the sanitary fixture is
molded
or after the fixture is molded, and before or after the fixture is glazed and
fired, using a
punching or drilling process. Compaitment 120 may be located at any location
on and
under deck 114 that provides easy access from the top for replacing tablet 130
and
access to the flow of water between tank 112 and bowl 116.
In particular, compartment 120 may be located at least partially within
waterway 140, which can run between tank 112 and one or more outlet ports near
the
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rim of bowl 116. Depending on the particular construction of sanitary fixture
110, the
number of rim outlet ports (e.g., 1, 5, 10, 20, etc.) provided near the rim
may vary.
Water flowing through waterway 140 and past compartment 120 may enter bowl 116
via some or all of the rim outlet ports provided.
FIGS. 2A and 2B show perspective and cutaway views, respectively, of
basket 122, cap 124, and cleaning product 130 in accordance with various
embodiments. Basket 122 can be situated within compartment 120 and may include
one
or more slots, perforations, or orifices (generally referred to herein as
apertures) to
allow water to flow past cleaning product 130 while maintaining the cleaning
product
within the basket. Although cap 124 is depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B as clipping
onto
grooved features formed on the internal surface of basket 122, cap 124 may be
coupled
to basket 122 and/or the compartment in which basket is housed using the
various
alternative methods described above as well as using other methods known in
the art.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of sanitaryware cleaning system 100 with
basket 122 placed in compai tment 120, in accordance with various
embodiments of the
invention. According to some embodiments, basket 122 may be placed in
compartment 120 to maintain cleaning product 130 at least partially in
waterway 140
between tank 112 and bowl 116. Basket 122 can include one or more slots,
perforations,
or orifices to allow water to flow from tank 112, past tablet 130, and into
bowl 116.
Basket 122 may be formed from any suitable plastic, metal, or composite
material.
However, it may be advantageous to choose a material that is resistant to
degradation
with prolonged exposure to water and the chemicals bound up in cleaning
product 130
to prolong its life and to avoid the need to replace basket 122 periodically.
Basket 122
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may be removable from compartment 120 if desired to clean the basket, replace
the
basket, access the waterway, and/or to facilitate replacement of tablet 130.
FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of basket 122 situated in compartment 120,
in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. As depicted in FIG.
4,
basket 122 can extend fully through waterway 140 to situate cleaning product
130
within the flow of water between tank 112 and bowl 116. In some embodiments,
however, basket 122 may only extend partially into waterway 140. Generally
speaking,
the higher the surface area of cleaning product 130 contacted by fluid in
waterway 140,
the higher the volume of cleaning agents discharged into bowl 116. Thus, the
rate at
which cleaning agents are injected into bowl 116 may be varied by varying how
far
basket 122 extends into waterway 140, among other variables, such as the size
of the
slots, perforations, or orifices of basket 122.
As depicted in FIG. 4, basket 122 may sit fully within compaitment 120.
Alternatively, as depicted in FIG. 3, basket 122 may include lip 122a
(integrally formed
with basket 122 or otherwise coupled thereto) configured to rest atop or just
below the
surface of deck 114.
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of basket 222, in accordance with various
embodiments of the invention. Basket 222 may be configured to inject cleaning
agents
into the bowl periodically (e.g., every 3, 5, or 10 flushes) as opposed to
basket 122,
which results in injection of cleaning agents every flush. In order to reduce
the
frequency at which cleaning agents are injected into the bowl, basket 222 can
include
outer shell 223a having slots 228a and inner shell 223b (visible through slots
228a)
having slots 228b. When slots 228a and 228b are aligned, water flowing past
basket 222
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through the waterway (e.g., waterway 140) can contact a cleaning product
(e.g.,
cleaning product 130) placed within the basket and inject cleaning agents into
the bowl.
In order to periodically align slots 228a and 228b, basket 222 can include
waterwheel 226, which may be coupled to one or the other of outer shell 223a
and inner
shell 223b. When fluid flows through the waterway past basket 222, waterwheel
226,
and by extension either outer shell 223a or inner shell 223b, can rotate a
certain amount
as shown by the arrows depicted in FIG. 5. By rotating one of outer shell 223a
and inner
shell 223b with respect to the other, slots 228a and 228b can be periodically
aligned
(opened) and misaligned (closed) in order to provide a periodic injection of
cleaning
agents. The periodicity of injection may be varied by altering the distance
waterwheel 226 rotates each flush as well as by altering the relative spacing
between
slots 228a and between slots 228b. The non-rotating shell, that is, the shell
not coupled
to waterwheel 226, may be coupled (e.g., via a press fit with or without 0-
rings, with a
threaded connection, or with one or more clips or fasteners) to cap 224 to
rotatably fix
that shell in compartment 120.
FIG. 6A shows a cross-sectional view of cleaning puck 324 situated in
compartment 120, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
Cleaning
puck 324 may combine aspects of a cap (e.g., cap 124 or 224) and a basket
(e.g.,
basket 122 or 222) in a single component. Accordingly, cleaning puck 324 can
include
a hollow cavity to house cleaning product 130 and can be placed within
compartment 120 of sanitary fixture 110. 0-ring 126 may be provided around a
perimeter of cleaning puck 324 configured to reside within compartment 120 in
order to
seal compartment 120 off from the environment outside of sanitary fixture 110.
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Cleaning puck 324 may be removably coupled to edges of compaitment 120 using,
for
example, a press-fit or threaded coupling.
When fluid flows through waterway 140, some amount of fluid can enter into
the hollow cavity of cleaning puck 324 to contact cleaning product 130 and
carry
cleaning agents into bowl 116. In some embodiments, cleaning puck 324 may be a
consumable unit that is replaceable when cleaning product 130 is exhausted. In
other
embodiments, cleaning puck 324 may be designed to receive a new cleaning
product
when cleaning product 130 is exhausted.
FIG. 6B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative cleaning
puck 324b, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.
Like
cleaning puck 324, cleaning puck 324b can be provided as a single component
that
includes a hollow cavity to house cleaning product 130, which in this case is
cylindrically-shaped and extends into waterway 140. As water erodes cleaning
material 130, the force of gravity can cause the material to remain in
waterway 140.
Further, in contrast to cleaning puck 324, the section of cleaning puck 324b
that extends
above deck 114 can be sized and shaped to retain air compressed in waterway
140 when
sanitary fixture 110 is flushed. This compressed-air chamber can help to
ensure that
water flowing down waterway 140 suitably interacts with cleaning product 130.
FIGS. 7 and 8 show cross-sectional and exploded views, respectively, of a
cleaning cup 424 for use in sanitary fixture 110, in accordance with various
embodiments of the invention. Cleaning cup 424, like cleaning puck 324 can
combine
aspects of a cap (e.g., cap 124 or 224) and a basket (e.g., basket 122 or 222)
in a single
component. Cleaning cup 424 may be placed directly into compartment 120 of
sanitary
fixture 110 and can seal the compaitment off from the environment outside
sanitary
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fixture 110 using a press-fit or threaded coupling with or without an 0-ring.
Cleaning
cup 424 can include a hollow cavity to retain cleaning component 130 with
slots
permitting fluid communication into the hollow cavity such that when water
flows
through waterway 140, water contacts cleaning component 130 and carries
cleaning
agents into bowl 116.
In some embodiments, cleaning cup 424 may be configured to mate with
sleeve 426, which may be formed from any suitable material, such as a plastic,
metal,
composite, or ceramic material. Sleeve 426 may include an interior annular
perimeter
with one or more coupling components formed thereon (e.g., threads
complementary to
threads formed on an outer annular perimeter of cleaning cup 424. In these
embodiments, cleaning cup 424 may be provided with one or more sealing
elements
(e.g., 0-rings) to seal off compaitment 120. In other embodiments, sleeve 426
may be
received within a sealing sleeve 428 designed to fit closely against the
contours of the
outer surfaces of compaitment 120. Sealing sleeve 428 may be formed from a
resilient
material, such as silicone or rubber, for example.
FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of cleaning product 130 tethered to cap 524,
in
accordance with various embodiments. In these embodiments, cleaning product
130
may be provided with tether 132, which may be removably coupled to a feature
of
cap 524 (e.g., using a press-fit coupling, an adhesive, or the like). Cleaning
product 130
may then be placed within compaitment 120 of sanitary fixture 110. Tether 132
may
permit cleaning product 130 to move freely in waterway 140 between tank 112
and the
rim outlet ports to facilitate dissolution of the cleaning agent. The length
of tether 132
may be optimized to prevent cleaning product 130 from having prolonged contact
with
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any surfaces of sanitary fixture 110. Cap 524 may be removably coupled to a
feature of
compartment 120 as described above.
In some embodiments, one or more elements of cleaning product 130, cap 524,
and tether 132 may be part of a single consumable cleaning agent package,
which could
eliminate the need for ensuring long-term chemical compatibility of the
elements, and
could provide a less expensive and more reliable system.
The efficacy of a particular sanitaryware cleaning system may depend on many
factors, including how much cleaning material is dispensed into the bowl,
where the
cleaning material is dispensed, and how much of the cleaning material is
jetted directly
through the trapway and out of the bowl without contacting a significant
portion of the
surface to be cleaned. These factors may all be influenced by the particular
designs of
the sanitaryware system. Cleaning sanitary fixture 110 using cleaning products
dispensed through the rim outlets may be particularly effective when used in
conjunction with a system that discharges all of the cleaning agents through
the rim
outlets.
For instance, a primed siphonic flush toilet with isolated rim and jet
channels
may be particularly well suited for use with the embodiments disclosed herein
because
the isolated channels allow the cleaning systems described herein to be
positioned in the
rim channel. In particular, because compartment 120 may be positioned within
the rim
channel to allow 100% of the dissolved cleaning agents to flow through the rim
outlet
ports, this construction can ensure maximum utilization of the cleaning agent
by
avoiding its direct injection into the entrance of the trapway through the jet
outlet port.
Accordingly, a primed siphonic flush toilet construction can ensure optimal
bulk
removal waste from the toilet system in combination with optimal efficacy of
the
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cleaning systems described herein. A perspective, cut-away view of a primed
siphonic
flush toilet in accordance with some embodiments is shown in FIG. 10.
According to
embodiments of the present invention, compai tment 120 may be located
within rim
flush (RF) channel 140RF such that the cleaning agents are not directed via
jet flush
(JF) channel 140JF.
RF channel 140RF can inject cleaning agents into bowl 116 via rim outlet
port 150 while JF channel 140JF can direct water through bowl outlet port 152.
In
particular, FIG. 10 depicts water, including dissolved cleaning agents,
entering
bowl 116 via rim outlet port 150. As the clean water enters bowl 116, the
cleaning
agents can clean, disinfect, and deodorize most or all of the surface area of
bowl 116.
As shown in FIG. 10, after flushing is complete, a volume of clean water,
including
dissolved cleaning agents, remains in bowl 116, providing long-lasting
disinfecting and
deodorizing effects. While FIG. 10 depicts a primed siphonic flush toilet,
isolated rim
and jet chambers may be employed in other types of sanitaryware fixtures.
Although non-jetted bowls typically provide lower flushing power and
efficiency than other designs, non-jetted bowls may also be well suited for
the use with
the embodiments disclosed herein since all of the dissolved cleaning fluid
would be
distributed around the rim of the bowl, achieving greater cleaning efficacy.
Furthermore, while the embodiments described herein may be applied to typical
jetted bowls, the efficacy and efficiency of the cleaning agent might be
somewhat
diminished due to the significant portion that would exit the jet outlet and
be directed
directly towards the trapway entrance and out of the bowl. In fact, using
"direct-jetted"
construction, as much as 75% of the cleaning agent may be directed to the jet
outlet
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port, much of which is then siphoned directly up the trap and out of the
toilet outlet
resulting in material waste, diminished efficacy, and frequent tablet
replacement.
The embodiments disclosed with respect to FIGS. 1-10 each provides access to
waterway 140 of sanitary fixture 110 via compartment 120 directly accessible
from
deck 114. Alternative embodiments, in which access to waterway 140 is
contained
within a compartment enclosure, are disclosed below with respect to FIGS. 11-
15. A
compartment enclosure can serve to seal off waterway 140 from the environment
outside of sanitary fixture 110, conceal the cleaning product and the various
containing
components disclosed above from a user of the fixture, and/or provide a
mounting point
for seat/cover 118. Compartment enclosures may be used with any of the
embodiments
disclosed above.
FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of sanitary fixture 110 provided with
compartment enclosure 150. Enclosure 150 can include an aperture, covered by
cap 152, which can provide access to compai tment 120 for purposes of
changing
cleaning product 130. In some embodiments, cap 152 may simply cover a hollow
cavity
within enclosure 150 such that changing or replenishing cleaning product 130
proceeds
as described for each of the embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 1-10.
Alternatively, compartment 120 may be understood to extend from
waterway 140, through deck 114 and enclosure 150, to the aperture in enclosure
150
sealed off by cap 152. In these embodiments, cap 152 may be functionally
similar to
cap 124 or 224, cleaning puck 324, or cleaning cup 424. Each of the other
components
of the above-described embodiments can be lengthened appropriately to traverse
the
additional height of compartment enclosure 150 such that cleaning product 130
remains
in communication with waterway 140 below deck 114.
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FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of seat/cover 118 mounted to sanitary
fixture 110 with L-bracket 160, in accordance with various embodiments of the
present
invention. L-bracket 160 may raise the pivot point of seat/cover 118, as
compared with
conventional seat hinges, to avoid interference with enclosure 150. L-bracket
can be
mounted to deck 114 using fastener 162 and can include hinge 164 for rotatably
coupling seat/cover 118 to sanitary fixture 110.
FIGS. 13A and 13B are perspective and side elevational views, respectively, of
seat/cover 218 mounted to sanitary fixture 110 with hinge 260 that includes
arms 262
and pivot 264. Arms 262 can be curved or L-shaped members extending from an
edge
of seat/cover 218 and into compai tment enclosure 250 to be rotatably
coupled to
pivot 264. Flapped apertures 254 may be provided in enclosure 250 to receive
arms 262
and to prevent visibility into the interior of enclosure 250. The flaps that
close flapped
apertures 254 may be formed from a resilient material, such as silicone or
rubber, for
example.
FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective and side elevational views, respectively, of
seat/cover 318 mounted to sanitary fixture 110 with hinge 360 that includes
arms 362
and pivot 364. Arms 362 can be removably inserted into sockets 354 of
compartment
enclosure 350 and rotatably couple to pivot 364 outside of enclosure 350,
providing for
easy installation and removal of seat/cover 318 for cleaning.
FIGS. 15A and 15B show perspective and partial cross sectional views,
respectively, of seat/cover 418 mounted to sanitary fixture 110 with hinge 460
that
includes pivot 454 extending from enclosure 450 into nested arms of seat/cover
418. In
particular, pivot 454 extends through an aperture in an arm of seat 418b
extending
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towards deck 114 and into a recess in an arm of cover 418a extending towards
deck 114.
As previously noted, cleaning agents for use with the embodiments disclosed
herein may be provided in a water-soluble solid product, such as cleaning
product 130,
or in liquid form. Embodiments of the present invention that utilize liquid
cleaning
products will be described below with respect to FIGS. 16-24.
FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a sanitaryware cleaning system 200, in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Sanitaryware
cleaning
system 200 can include sanitary fixture 110, compartment enclosure 550,
seat/cover 518, and reservoir 170. Enclosure 550 and seat/cover 518 may each
be
substantially similar to and, indeed, may be freely interchangeable with any
of the
enclosures and seat/cover combinations disclosed above with respect to FIGS.
11-15.
The only difference between enclosure 550 and enclosure 150, 250, 350, and 450
disclosed above is that enclosure 550 houses reservoir 170 that receives
and/or contains
cleaning product 230 (e.g., from a bottle of liquid cleaning material as
depicted in
FIG. 16). In that respect, reservoir 170 may be likened to compartment 120 of
FIGS. 1-
15.
Compartment enclosure 550 can include an aperture in its top surface in fluid
communication with reservoir 170 for receiving cleaning product 230. This
aperture
may be substantially similar to the apertures of enclosures 150, 250, 350, and
450, and
may similarly be closed by a cap such as cap 152. Each of the embodiments
disclosed
below with respect to FIGS. 17-20 are similar in that they include a reservoir
that may
be filled with cleaning product 230 via the aperture in enclosure 550. These
embodiments differ in the manner in which cleaning product 230 is released
into
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waterway 140. However, each embodiment may be considered to include a normally-
closed valve that opens when water is flowing through waterway 140 and closes
once
again when water ceases to flow.
FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of compartment enclosure 550 housing
reservoir 270, in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention.
Cleaning product 230 may be introduced into reservoir 270 via the method
described
above. When water flows through waterway 140, arm 274 can be deflected from
its
neutral position, thereby opening valve 272 and permitting cleaning product to
flow
from reservoir 270 into waterway 114 and thereafter into bowl 116. Once water
stops
flowing through waterway 114, arm 274 returns to its neutral position, thereby
closing
valve 272.
FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of compartment enclosure 550 housing
reservoir 370, in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention. The
embodiment depicted in FIG. 18 includes arm 374, which is operationally
similar to
arm 274 of FIG. 17. However, rather than manually opening a valve, arm 374
activates
powered valve 372, which may be implemented, for example, as a battery-powered
solenoid valve. FIG. 18 depicts powered valve 572 being powered by batteries
376;
however, it should be understood that any suitable power source can be
employed to
power valve 372.
FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of enclosure 550 housing reservoir 470,
in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Reservoir 470
may be
in fluid communication with waterway 140 via compartment 472 that houses a
pinwheel mechanism. The pinwheel mechanism may be configured to receive a
measured amount of cleaning product 230 while in a rest position when water is
not
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flowing in waterway 140. Once water begins to flow in waterway 140, the water
can
spin the pinwheel about a pivot point, thereby introducing the cleaning
product into the
water flowing toward bowl 116. The pinwheel can continue to spin, introducing
more
cleaning product 230 into the bowl until the flow of water through waterway
140
ceases.
FIG. 20 shows a cross-sectional view of enclosure 550 housing reservoir 570,
in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Reservoir 570
may be
in fluid communication with waterway 114 via a capillary tube 572. When water
begins
to flow through waterway 140, the change in pressure can draw cleaning product
230
through capillary tube 572 and into the water flowing toward bowl 116. The
amount of
cleaning product 230 dispensed with each flush may be varied, for example,
based on
the diameter of capillary tube 572.
FIGS. 21A and 21B show perspective and cross-sectional views of a
sanitaryware cleaning system 300, in accordance with various embodiments of
the
present invention. Sanitaryware cleaning system 300 can include sanitary
fixture 110,
seat/cover 618, and reservoir 670. Sanitaryware cleaning system 300 may be
substantially similar to the embodiments disclosed above with respect to FIGS.
16-20
with the exception that the reservoir is located above the seat/cover rather
than in a
compartment enclosure. Indeed cleaning product 230 may be introduced into
waterway 140 using any of the mechanisms depicted in FIGS. 17-20 adapted for
the
slightly altered flow path of cleaning product 230. As with compartment
enclosure 550,
cleaning product 230 may be introduced into an aperture formed in the top of
seat/cover 618 that is in fluid communication with reservoir 670.
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FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of a sanitaryware cleaning system 400, in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Sanitaryware
cleaning
system 400 can include sanitary fixture 210, which may be substantially
similar to
sanitary fixture 110, with the exception that compartment 220 (akin to
compartment 120
of FIG. 1) may be sized and shaped to receive a bottle of cleaning product
230. Thus,
cleaning product may be received directly into a reservoir located under deck
214 of
sanitary fixture 210. Once cleaning product 230 is introduced into the
reservoir, it can
be injected into waterway 140 using any of the mechanisms depicted in FIGS. 17-
20
adapted for the slightly altered flow path of cleaning product 230. Sanitary
fixture 210
may additionally or alternatively include a compartment formed in a side-
facing surface
of deck 214 in fluid communication with the reservoir.
FIGS. 23A and 23B show perspective views of alternate embodiments of
sanitaryware cleaning system 500. Sanitaryware cleaning system 500 can include
sanitary fixture 310, which may be similar to sanitary fixture 210, with the
exception
that compartment 320 may be accessible from a fill port 313 located away from
deck 314 and bowl 316. As depicted in FIG. 23A, for example, fill port 313 may
be
located under and extending away from tank 312. Cleaning product 230 may be
introduced into the fill port, which may be in fluid communication with a
reservoir that
may be substantially similar to the reservoir of sanitary fixture 210. Once
cleaning
product 230 is introduced into the reservoir, it can be injected into waterway
140 using
any of the mechanisms depicted in FIGS. 17-20 adapted for the slightly altered
flow
path of cleaning product 230. As illustrated in FIG. 23B, fill port 313 may be
accessible
via a flap 315 that closes fill port 313 when not in use.
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FIG. 24 is a cutaway view of sanitaryware cleaning system 600, in accordance
with various embodiments of the present invention. Sanitaryware cleaning
system 600
can include sanitary fixture 410, which may be similar to sanitary fixture
210, with the
exception that compartment 420 may be plunger activated by seat/cover 718.
That is,
cleaning product 230 may be introduced into reservoir 770, which may be
substantially
similar to the reservoirs of FIGS. 22, 23A, and 23B, and a measured amount of
cleaning
product 230 may be released into the waterway located below reservoir 770 when
the
plunger is contacted by seat/cover 718.
FIGS. 25A-42 are various views of alternate exemplary sanitaryware cleaning
systems and their associated components.
As shown in FIGS. 25A-25C, 26A, 26B, 27A, and 27B, system 1000 can
include a sanitary fixture 1010, and a cleanser assembly having a cartridge
housing
1050 and a cleaning product cartridge 1080. A compartment/reservoir can be
defined in
deck 1014. Cartridge housing 1050 can be mountable onto deck 1014 over the
compartment and adjacent to seat/cover 1018 (e.g., adjacent to a rear hinged
portion of
seat/cover 1018), and can be configured to receive cartridge 1080 and
introduce the
cartridge at least partially into the compartment (FIG. 26A). In certain
embodiments,
cartridge housing 1050 can be disposed on the deck at a suitable distance from
the tank
(if any), so as to allow easy user access to the housing during servicing at
the housing or
cleaning of fixture 1010.
Embodiments of the cartridge housing and cartridge can be employed in any
toilet that includes one or more water flow paths leading into the bowl. In
toilets that
utilize separate flow paths for rim and jet flows, such as those that employ
VorMaxTm
toilet flush technology, the cartridge housing can be installed over the
compartment in
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the rim flow path, allowing the cleaning product to only contact water in that
path. The
VorMaxTm flush technology is discussed in detail in U.S. Patent Application
Publication Nos. 2015/0197928 and 2016/0002903, both of which are herein
incorporated by reference in their entireties.
Referring to FIGS. 27A, 27B, 28A, and 28B, housing 1050 can include a base
portion 1060 having one or more openings 1062 configured to couple to seat
posts
1065. Base portion 1060 with seat posts 1065 can support a rear portion of
seat/cover
1018 when the seat/cover is installed. In some embodiments, seat posts 1065
can also
couple to complementary features (e.g., openings, via threaded coupling, press-
fitting,
or the like) in deck 1014. Housing 1050 can also include a platform 1070
disposed on
base 1060. A receptacle or aperture 1070a can be defined in platform 1070 to
receive
cartridge 1080. When cartridge housing 1050 is properly installed to fixture
1010,
aperture 1070a aligns with the compartment in the deck and introduces
cartridge 1080 /
cleaning product 1030 therein. In certain embodiments, aperture 1070a can be
defined
within a recess 1070r defined proximate the center on the upper surface of
platform
1070 (see, e.g., FIG. 27B).
Referring to FIG. 29, housing 1050 can include a seat plate 1067 disposable
adjacent to an underside of base 1060. Seat plate 1067 can be defined with
holes 1067h
configured to align with corresponding holes on deck 1014, and through which
one or
more fasteners can be disposed to secure the seat plate onto the deck. Seat
plate 1067
can also include openings 1067s configured to receive, or otherwise, retain
seat
posts 1065. In certain embodiments, each opening 1067s can be defined in a
recess
1067r configured to accommodate neck portion 1065n (FIG. 30) of a
corresponding seat
post 1065 when the seat post is coupled to the opening.
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As shown in FIG. 29, seat plate 1067 can also be defined with an aperture
1067a
configured to align with aperture 1070a of platform 1070 as well as the
compartment in
deck 1014. This can allow cartridge 1080 to pass therethrough (e.g., through
apertures
1070a and 1067a) and at least partially into the compartment. In some
embodiments,
aperture 1067a can have a circumference that is larger than that of aperture
1070a.
Referring to FIGS. 31A-31E, cartridge 1080 can include a body 1082, a cap
1084, and cleaning product 1030.
Body 1082 can include a main section 1082m, and a plurality of legs 1082g that
merge to form a lower portion of the body. This construction can provide a
basket-like
structure having slots 1082s that allow cleaning product 1030 to contact and
dissolve
into water flowing toward the bowl.
Cartridge 1080 can have a length sufficient to allow cleaning product 1030 to
not only pass through aperture 1070a, but also at least partially enter into
the
compartment. According to a preferred embodiment, the compartment is a pathway
that
allows water to pass therethrough during a flush and contact cleaning product
1030
prior to entering the bowl.
The length of cartridge 1080 and/or the extent to which the cartridge can
enter
into the compartment can preferably be defined such that a gap exists between
the lower
portion of body 1082 and the compaitment surface (e.g., bottom surface of the
rim flow
path) when the cartridge is installed. The size of the gap should be
sufficient to allow a
suitable amount of cleaning product to be disposed in cartridge 1080 without
the
cartridge actually contacting the compaitment surface (e.g., about 3
millimeters). Such a
gap can minimize any turbulence that the cartridge may cause to the water
flow.
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The size and shape of body 1082 and/or the thickness and arrangement of legs
1082g are preferably defined so as to minimize drag force on and/or turbulence
in the
water flowing (e.g., in the rim flow path) toward the bowl. For example, body
1082 and
legs 1082g can have a tapered profile, reducing the cartridge surface area
exposed to the
water flow. In certain embodiments, the spacing between legs 1082g can also be
defined to allow cleaning product 1030 to exit cartridge 1080 and flow with
the water
(e.g., in the rim flow path) when the cleaning product has diminished to an
insignificant
size ¨ e.g., a size in which the remaining product will easily, fully dissolve
in the water
and not clog the flow path. The construction of cartridge 1080 can thus be
optimized to
allow prolonged use of cleaning product 1030 and thus extended times between
replacements of the cartridge and/or cleaning product (e.g., to 30 days or
more).
Body 1082 can include one or more alignment protrusions 1082p (see, e.g.,
FIGS. 31A-31C) configured to align with complementary features in or proximate
aperture 1070a of platform 1070. When the cartridge is inserted into aperture
1070a and
rotated in an appropriate direction, protrusions 1082p can, for example, align
and/or
releasably couple to such complementary features to secure or lock cartridge
1080 to
cartridge housing 1050. Main section 1082m is preferably solid throughout its
surface,
which can provide added protection from leaks in or through cartridge 1080
(e.g.,
should any 0-ring(s) used to seal cartridge 1080 in aperture 1070a become
compromised).
Cartridge 1080 can be a reusable unit that receives a new cleaning product
1030
when a prior one is depleted. For example, cleaning product 1030 can be
inserted/re-
inserted into body 1082 by removing cap 1084 from the body. Alternatively,
cartridge
1080 can be a disposable unit that is replaced when cleaning product 1030 is
depleted.
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In either case, cartridge 1080 can be composed of any suitable material, such
as, e.g.,
polypropylene, biodegradable material [e.g., polylactic acid, polyvinyl
chloride (PVC),
polycaprolactone, polyesters, aromatic-aliphatic esters, etc.], or the like.
As shown in FIGS. 31D and 31E, for example, cap 1084 can include a
base 1084b configured to couple to body 1082, and a grip handle 1084h. Cap
1084 can
be secured to body 1082 in any suitable manner, such as, e.g., via a press-fit
coupling, a
snap and lock coupling, or a squeeze-and-turn, push-down-and-turn, or push-tab-
and-
turn threaded coupling. Securing the cap can limit access to the cleaning
product when
disposed in the cartridge, and protect children and/or pets from hazardous
chemicals
that may be present therein. For example, in a preferred embodiment, once the
cleaning
product is inserted into the cartridge, the cap can be snapped into the body
and locked
such that a user would not be able to open it to access or remove the product.
Referring to FIGS. 32A-32F, which show a preferred cartridge embodiment that
includes a body 1082' and a cap 1084' (along with exemplary dimensions thereof
in
millimeters / degrees), the cap can be coupled to body 1082' and locked
thereto via
complementary coupling members 1082'z and 1084'z on the body and the cap.
Coupling members 1082'z and 1084'z can include one or more flanges, threads,
or the
like that interconnect with one another when cap 1084' is positioned on body
1082' and
joined thereto.
It should be appreciated that the dimensions of the body and cap of the
cartridge
shown in FIGS. 32A-32F are merely exemplary, and that the various components
of
either cartridge 1080 or 1080' can have any suitable dimensions. For example,
the
distance between each leg 1082'g (or leg 1082g) can range from 5mm to 9mm
[e.g.,
preferably about 7mm at the leg ends proximate main section 1082'm (or main
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section 1082m) to about 8mm at the ends proximate the bottom portion of the
cartridge]
so as to allow cleaning product 1030 to exit the cartridge and flow with the
water when
the cleaning product has diminished to an insignificant size, as described
above. It is
understood that the present disclosure envisions ranges between any two
recited
endpoints.
The handle of the cap can also have any suitable height. As shown in FIG. 31E,
for example, handle 1084h can be defined with a slight curvature such that the
thickness
proximate the center of the handle is less than that at the ends of the
handle. The
dimensions and placement of handle 1084h can facilitate access to cartridge
1080
during installation and/or replacement, even for users with large hands or
fingers.
Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, the cartridge (e.g., such as cartridge 1080 or
1080') can be coupled to aperture 1070a via a spud assembly 1078. Spud
assembly
1078 can include spud 1078s, gasket 1078g, 0-ring washer 1078w, and nut 1078n.
These components can be appropriately oriented and coupled to spud 1078s to
further
secure the spud and/or provide a water-tight seal.
As shown in FIG. 33, spud 1078s can include threaded portions 1078t about its
exterior surface configured to couple to complementary threads 1070t in
aperture
1070a. Spud 1078s can also include one or more slots 1079s and channels 1079c
(FIG.
35) configured to interoperate with complementary protrusions of the cartridge
body
(e.g., protrusions 1082p). Slots 1079s and channels 1079c can be defined in an
interior
surface 1079i of spud 1078s, and can each run along the interior surface in a
downward,
spiral-like manner. This configuration of slots and channels can, for example,
accommodate the slanted protrusions 1082p on body 1082 (angle D in FIG. 31B).
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Referring to FIGS. 36A and 36B, a lid 1090 can cover the upper surface of
housing 1050, particularly recess 1070r and aperture 1070a of platform 1070.
In various
embodiments, lid 1090 can include one or more notches 1090n having pins or
flanges
1090f configured to couple to corresponding arms that interface with platform
1070.
In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 37A-37C, flanges 1090f of lid
1090 can be coupled to arms 1071 via openings 1071n. Arms 1071, which can be
disposed in platform 1070, can be biased by one or more springs, or other
elastic
elements to keep lid 1090 open. Arms 1071 can be displaceable (e.g., through
corresponding openings in platform 1070), allowing the connection or hinge
points
(e.g., between arms 1071 and pins/flanges 10900 to shift in generally upward
and
downward directions during opening and closing of lid 1090, as shown in FIGS.
37A-
37C. This can provide added leak protection for housing 1050, by defining a
minimum
gap requirement between a top surface of grip handle 1084h and undersurface
1090u of
lid 1090. Particularly, the configuration of protrusions 1082p, slots 1079s,
and channels
1079c can keep cartridge 1080 from fully entering aperture 1070a when
inserted, unless
the protrusions, slots, and channels are properly aligned and engaged. In an
unsecured
cartridge position, grip handle 1084h may be raised just enough that it
contacts
undersurface 1090u of lid 1090 when a user attempts to close the lid (see,
e.g., FIG. 34).
This, in turn, pulls arms 1071 upward from platform 1070, as shown in FIGS.
37A-
37C, resulting in an improperly shut lid. Cartridge 1080 must then be securely
locked in
aperture 1070a in order for lid 1090 to fully and properly close. The ability
of the arm
1071 hinge points to rise, taken in conjunction with the configuration of
protrusions
1082p, slots 1079s, and channels 1079c, can thus alert a user to an improperly
installed
cartridge.
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In another exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 38, the lid can be coupled to
the enclosure via a spring-loaded, curved hinge mechanism. For example,
platform
1070 can be defined with one or more channels 1070c configured to slidably
receive
corresponding arms 1072 that interface with lid 1090. Arms 1072 can be
slidably
inserted into respective channels 1070c, and can include openings 1072n
configured to
couple, for example, to pins/flanges 1090f of lid 1090. A spring 1074, or
other similar
elastic member, can be disposed within each channel 1070c to bias a
corresponding arm
1072 so as to open lid 1090. In its open position, lid 1090 can thus remain
open to allow
for uninterrupted user access to cartridge 1080 during installation and/or
replacement
thereof
In various embodiments, channels 1070c and arms 1072 can have similar
curvatures. The curvatures can be defined to correspond to the curvature of
platform
1070 proximate a hinge structure for seat/cover 1018 (see, e.g., FIG. 25C),
which can
facilitate rotational movement of lid 1090, during opening and closing
thereof, at least
partially about the seat/cover's hinge structure.
It should be appreciated that the cartridge housing embodiments described
above can provide an overall cleaner look, since they lack parting lines that
may
otherwise be associated with conventional hinges.
Additionally, employing dual-arm hinge constructions, such as those described
above, can be preferable over those with single, centralized hinge mechanisms,
since
distorted movement of the lid can be avoided even when the lid is lifted from
its side. In
certain embodiments, housing 1050 and/or lid 1090 can include with one or more
of
notches, angled or curved side profiles, or the like, that further facilitate
user access to
and lifting of the lid.
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Furthermore, in some or all of the cartridge housing embodiments that employ
arms 1071 or arms 1702, lid 1090 can open, e.g., toward seat/cover 1018 or a
tank (if
any), by a predefined amount so as to provide sufficient room for user access
to
cartridge 1080 during cartridge installation/replacement. Embodiments that
have the lid
open toward seat/cover 1018 (rather than toward the fixture's tank, if any),
in particular,
can be more aesthetically pleasing, and can avoid the lid interfering with a
user's hands
during installation/replacement.
In some embodiments, lid 1090 can also have round edges, rather than sharp
ones, to facilitate cleaning of housing 1050 and avoid collection of dirt or
dust.
Likewise, housing 1050 can also include only rounded exterior edges.
Referring to FIGS. 39, 40A, and 40B, embodiments of the cartridge housing can
include a latch assembly configured to releasably secure the lid to the
platform. The
latch assembly can be employed with any of the varying hinge mechanism
embodiments described above. Latch assembly 1076 can be a magnetic mechanism,
and
can include a slidable latch 1076s disposed in a wall 1070w of platform 1070,
and
corresponding elements A and B having complementary magnetic polarities.
Magnetic
element A can be affixed to undersurface 1090u of lid 1090 (e.g., via an
adhesive or the
like), and magnetic element B can likewise be affixed to a portion of latch
1076s. In
closed position, latch 1076s is disposed such that magnetic element B at least
partially
aligns and attracts magnetic element A. In open position, latch 1076s is
disposed such
that magnetic element B is shifted from magnetic element A.
In certain embodiments, latch assembly 1076 can include a spring element to
bias the latch to its closed position. When a sufficient force is applied to
latch 1076s,
the bias of the spring can be overcome, allowing the latch to open. In various
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embodiments, latch 1076s can also be configured to slide in wall 1070w in
accordance
with the curvature of the wall. As shown in FIG. 39, for example, latch 1076s
can slide
in wall 1070w about a latch rotation axis Z.
Alternate embodiments of the cartridge housing can employ a simpler magnetic
latch assembly that includes only magnetic elements, without a separate latch
(see, e.g.,
FIG. 38). This requires fewer or no holes on housing 1050 and/or lid 1090. In
these
embodiments, lid 1090 can remain closed when magnetic elements A and B are in
close
proximity to one another, and can open when sufficient force is applied to
counteract
the magnetic force. It should be appreciated that this simpler magnetic latch
assembly
can be employed in any of the hinge mechanism embodiments described above.
According to an exemplary embodiment, cartridge housing 1050 can include
indicia that provide user instructions for installing/replacing cleaning
product cartridge
1080. As shown in FIG. 27B, for example, housing 1050 can include indicia 1099
(e.g.,
on the surface of recess 1070r and/or on another suitable portion of platform
1070) in
the form of text, symbols, and/or images, such as, for example, "Lock",
"Unlock", and
one or more padlock images, which can visually indicate to a user the proper
direction
to orient cartridge 1080, with respect to aperture 1070a, during
installation/replacement
of the cartridge. Cartridge 1080, and more particularly cap 1084, can also
include a
corresponding alignment indicator 1084i (FIG. 27B).
In some embodiments, aperture 1070a can be defined slightly off-center in
platform 1070 so as to accommodate indicia 1099 on recess 1070r.
Alternatively,
aperture 1070a can be placed near the center of recess 1070r (and platform
1070), and
indicia 1099 can be placed near the aperture.
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Further embodiments of the sanitaryware cleaning system can include cartridge
housings having different constructions. Referring to FIG. 41, a cleanser
assembly
includes a cartridge housing 1150 having a receptacle or aperture 1170a
defined in a
more shallow recess 1170r. In certain embodiments, the lid of housing 1150 can
include
an opening that allows at least a portion of the cleaning product cartridge to
pass
therethrough (e.g., grip handle 1084 of cartridge 1080). Or, as shown in FIG.
42,
cartridge housing 1250 may lack a recess altogether, having only an aperture
1270a
defined on platform 1270.
It should be appreciated that cartridge housing 1050 can be composed of any
suitable material (e.g., porcelain, metal, rubber, such as silicone rubber,
plastic, such as
polypropylene homopolymer, or the like), and can be manufactured in any
suitable
manner (e.g., by injection molding). Additionally, these components can be
provided in
an integrated structure or, alternatively, formed from separate components
that are later
integrated.
In various embodiments, the height of the cartridge housing can be
substantially
the same as the height of the fixture's seat/cover 1018 (FIG. 25C). This
provides a
cleanser assembly having a low profile, giving the appearance of being an
integral part
of the sanitary fixture.
Additionally, exemplary cleanser assemblies can be provided on tankless
fixtures as well as those with tanks.
Accordingly, new, aesthetically pleasing sanitaryware include cleanser
assemblies that are visually congruent with the sanitary fixtures. An
exemplary
cartridge housing is simple to install, easy to clean, and includes seat posts
for
supporting the fixture's seat/cover. The housing's low profile and curved
shape
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complements the corresponding shape of the fixture's seat/cover, and provides
a
balanced look that makes the cleanser assembly appear to be an integral part
of the
sanitary fixture.
It will thus be seen that the aspects, features and advantages made apparent
from
the foregoing are efficiently attained and, since certain changes may be made
without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all
matter
contained herein shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting
sense.
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