RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation patent application of pending U.S. Patent Application No. 61/515,427, filed Aug. 5, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND Urinals can include urinal screens configured for several purposes. First, urinal screens can receive, trap and direct an incoming urine stream into the waste drain of a urinal. Urinal screens can also prevent debris from entering and clogging the waste drain of a urinal. Further, urinal screens can hold blocks of deodorant containing material to freshen and sanitize the urinal between uses. Finally, urinal screens can hide collections of urine that have not drained from the urinal bowl.
It would be advantageous if urinal screens could be improved.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the invention there is provided a urinal screen assembly. The urinal screen assembly includes a base having opposing major surfaces, a plurality of apertures extending therebetween and a rim. The base is configured to seat in a contoured orientation against contours on a surface of a urinal bowl. The base includes one or more deodorizing and cleaning agents. A retention structure extends from one of the major surfaces of the base. A block is positioned within the retention structure. The block includes one or more deodorizing and cleaning agents configured to deodorize and clean the urinal bowl. The deodorizing and cleaning agents in the base and the deodorizing and cleaning agents in the block are configured to combine to form a deodorizing and cleaning zone that extends radially beyond the edges of the block.
According to the invention there is also provided a method of assembling a urinal screen assembly. The method includes the steps of providing a base having opposing major surfaces, a plurality of apertures extending therebetween and a rim, the base configured to seat in a contoured orientation against contours on a surface of a urinal bowl, wherein the base includes one or more deodorizing and cleaning agents, extending a retention structure from one of the major surfaces of the base and positioning a block within the retention structure, wherein the block includes one or more deodorizing and cleaning agents configured to deodorize and clean the urinal bowl. The deodorizing and cleaning agents in the base and the deodorizing and cleaning agents in the block configured to combine to form a deodorizing and cleaning zone that extends radially beyond the edges of the block.
According to the invention there is also provided a urinal. The urinal includes a urinal bowl configured to receive an incoming stream of urine. The urinal bowl has a plurality of contours. A urinal screen assembly is positioned within the urinal bowl and is configured to seat in a contoured orientation against the plurality of contours of the urinal bowl. The urinal screen assembly has a base having opposing major surfaces, a plurality of apertures extending therebetween and a rim. The base has one or more deodorizing and cleaning agents. A retention structure extends from one of the major surfaces of the base. A block is positioned within the retention structure. The block includes one or more deodorizing and cleaning agents configured to deodorize and clean the urinal bowl. The deodorizing and cleaning agents in the base and the deodorizing and cleaning agents in the block are configured to combine to form a deodorizing and cleaning zone that extends radially beyond the edges of the block.
Various objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the invention, when read in light of the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of an improved urinal screen assembly.
FIG. 1B is an assembled perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 1A.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 1B shown installed in a urinal.
FIG. 3 is an assembled perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 1B shown with an alternate retention structure.
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of an improved urinal screen assembly.
FIG. 5 is an assembled perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, in elevation, of a portion of the assembled improved urinal screen of FIG. 5.
FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of an improved urinal screen assembly.
FIG. 8 is an assembled perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the assembled improved urinal screen of FIG. 7.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 8 shown installed in a urinal.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 8 shown installed in a urinal in an inverse position.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternate support member for the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 7.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternate base incorporating a support member.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another alternate base incorporating a support member.
FIG. 15 is a side view, in elevation, of an alternate post for the improved urinal screen assembly of FIG. 7.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an improved urinal screen assembly.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an alternate retention structure for an improved urinal screen assembly.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a retention structure from an improved urinal screen assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention will now be described with occasional reference to the specific embodiments of the invention. This invention may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The terminology used in the description of the invention herein is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used in the description of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of dimensions such as length, width, height, and so forth as used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical properties set forth in the specification and claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained in embodiments of the present invention. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical values, however, inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from error found in their respective measurements.
The description and figures disclose an improved urinal screen assembly, combining a scented base with a scented block, for positioning within a urinal bowl of a urinal. Generally, the improved urinal screen assembly is configured to seat in a generally contoured orientation against the various contours of the urinal bowl, thereby facilitating the functions of receiving, trapping and directing an incoming urine stream into the waste drain of a urinal, preventing debris from entering and clogging the waste drain of a urinal, providing deodorizing materials to freshen and sanitize the urinal and hiding collections of urine that have not drained from the urinal bowl. The term “urinal,” as used herein, is defined to mean a receptacle used by males for urinating. The term “urinal bowl” as used herein, is defined to mean that portion of a urinal to which urine is generally directed. The term “urinal screen”, as used herein, is defined to mean a structure positioned within the urinal bowl and through which urine passes.
Referring now to FIG. 1A (exploded perspective view) and FIG. 1B (assembled view), an improved urinal screen assembly (hereafter “screen assembly”) is illustrated generally at 10. The screen assembly 10 includes a base 12, a retention structure 14 extending from the base 12 and a block 16.
Referring again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the base 12 is configured as a foraminous structure, thereby allowing fluids, such as urine and water, to pass through the screen assembly 10 and into a waste drain (not shown) connected to a urinal bowl (not shown). The base 12 includes a plurality of spaced apart apertures 20. In some embodiments, the apertures 20 are arranged in rows and columns. In other embodiments, the apertures 20 can be arranged in any desired orientation, including random patterns. The apertures 20 have a diameter D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D1 is in a range of from about 0.20 inches to about 0.40 inches. However, in other embodiments, the diameter D1 can be less than about 0.20 inches or more than about 0.40 inches. While the apertures 20 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B have a generally circular cross-sectional shape, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the apertures 20 can have any desired cross-sectional shape. Additionally, while each of the apertures 20 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B are shown to have the same diameter, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the apertures 20 can have different diameters.
Referring again to FIG. 1A, the base 12 has a rim 22. The term “rim”, as used herein, is defined to mean an outer edge of the base 12. Optionally, the rim 22 includes a plurality of spaced apart slots 24. The optional slots 24 are configured to assist the base 12 in seating against the various contours of the urinal bowl. The slots 24 can be spaced apart about the rim 22 with any desired spacing. In addition, the slots 24 can be spaced apart such as to achieve any desired grouping of one or more slots 24. While the embodiment of the base 12 illustrated in FIG. 1A shows a quantity of six slots 24, it should be appreciated that the base 12 can have any desired quantity of slots 24 sufficient to assist the base 12 in seating against the various contours of a urinal bowl. While the embodiment of the screen assembly 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B show the slots 24, it should be appreciated that the slots 24 are optional and the screen assembly 10 can be practiced without the slots 24.
Referring now to FIG. 1A, the slots 24 have a length L1 and a width W1. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L1 is in a range of from about 0.375 inches to about 0.75 inches and the width W1 is in a range of from about 0.04 inches to about 0.09 inches. Alternatively, the length L1 can be less than about 0.375 inches or more than about 0.75 inches and the width W1 can be less than about 0.04 inches or more than about 0.09 inches.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the base 12 has a generally triangular cross-sectional shape, with generally rounded corners. Although in other embodiments, the screen assembly 10 can be practiced with a base 12 having other cross-sectional shapes, such as for example an ovular or circular cross-sectional shape and the corners need not be rounded.
The base 12 is configured for contact with the contours of a urinal bowl. Accordingly, the base 12 is made from materials that are flexible, bio-compatible and also compatible with the materials that form the urinal bowl, such as for example, porcelain-based materials or stainless steel. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 12 is made from polymeric-based material, such as the non-limiting example of polypropylene. However, in other embodiments, the base 12 can be made from other desired polymeric materials or combinations of materials, sufficient to be flexible, bio-compatible and also compatible with the materials that form the urinal bowl.
Referring again to FIG. 1A, the base 12 has a thickness T1. The thickness T1 of the base 12 is configured to provide sufficient rigidity to the base such that the block 16 is positioned substantially above any collections of urine that have not drained from the urinal bowl. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness T1 is in a range of from about 0.05 inches to about 0.20 inches. Alternatively, the thickness T1 of the base 12 can be less than about 0.05 inches or more than about 0.20 inches, sufficient to provide rigidity to the base 12 such that the block 16 is positioned substantially above any collections of urine that have not drained from the urinal bowl. While the thickness T1 of the base 12 illustrated in FIG. 1A is shown to be constant throughout the base 12, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the thickness T1 of portions of the base 12 can vary.
While the base 12 is illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B as a unitary structure, in other embodiments, the base 12 can include layers of various materials or the base 12 can be assembled from multiple discrete component structures.
Referring again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the retention structure 14 extends from the base 12 and is configured to retain the block 16 in a position adjacent the base 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention structure 14 has the form of a collar, which includes an inner surface 26a and an outer surface 26b. As will be explained in more detail below, the retention structure 14 can have other forms and shapes sufficient to retain the block 16 in a position adjacent the base 12. The inner surface 26a of the retention structure 14 defines an opening 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 27 has a circular cross-sectional shape that generally corresponds to a circular cross-sectional shape of the block 16. However, in other embodiments, the opening 27 can have other cross-sectional shapes sufficient to generally correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the block 16.
As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the retention structure 14 is formed as an integral extension of the base 12. However, as will be discussed in more detail below, in other embodiments, the retention structure 14 can be a distinct component or distinct assembly that is subsequently assembled to the base 12.
Referring again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the base 12 and the retention structure 14 include ingredients and/or chemicals, or combinations thereof, configured to provide an effective deodorizing and cleaning agent for the urinal and urinal bowl. The ingredients and/or chemicals can include one or more surfactants, biological non-pathogen spores or other ingredients, chemicals and/or agents having desired characteristics, such as for example dyes, fragrances and/or malodor counteractants. In certain embodiments, the base 12 and the retention structure 14 are configured such that the ingredients and/or chemicals have an operating life in a range of from about 15 days to about 120 days. In other embodiments, the base 12 and the retention structure 14 can be configured such that the ingredients and/or chemicals have an operating life less than about 15 days or more than about 120 days.
Referring again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the block 16 is formed from a combination of ingredients and chemicals configured to provide an effective deodorizing and cleaning agent for the urinal and urinal bowl. In certain embodiments, the block 16 can include a degradable base material, one or more surfactants and biological non-pathogen spores. In other embodiments, the block 16 can include other ingredients, chemicals and/or agents having desired characteristics. Optionally, the block 16 can include dyes, fragrances and/or malodor counteractants. However, it should be appreciated that the screen assembly 10 can be practiced without a block 16 having degradable base material, one or more surfactants, biological non-pathogen spores, dyes, fragrances or malodor counteractants. In certain embodiments, the block 16 is configured to have an operating life in a range of from about 15 days to about 60 days. In other embodiments, the block 16 can have an operating life less than about 15 days or more than about 60 days.
Referring again to FIG. 1, the block 16 has a diameter D2. The diameter D2 generally corresponds to a diameter of the opening 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D2 is in a range of from about 2.5 inches to about 3.25 inches. Alternatively, the block 16 can have a diameter D2 less than about 2.5 inches or more than about 3.25 inches sufficient to generally correspond to the diameter of the opening 27. While the embodiment of the block 16 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B shows the block 16 as having a generally circular cross-sectional shape, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments the block 16 can have other desired shapes, including the non-limiting example of a square cross-sectional shape.
Referring now to FIG. 2, the screen assembly 10 is shown in an installed position within a urinal bowl 30 of a urinal 32. The urinal bowl 30 has a plurality of contours 34 that form a surface 36 of the urinal bowl 30. As discussed above, the screen assembly 10 seats against the plurality of contours 34 of the surface 36 of the urinal bowl 30.
Referring again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the screen assembly 10 advantageously combines the deodorizing and cleaning agents contained within the block 16 with deodorizing and cleaning agents contained within the base 12 and the retention structure 14 into an effective deodorizing and cleaning structure. The screen assembly, having the unique combination of deodorizing and cleaning agents provided by the base 12, the retention structure 14 and the block 16 allows an unexpected increase in the deodorizing and cleaning ability of the screen assembly 10. Without being held to the theory, it is believed that the combination of the deodorizing and cleaning agents contained within the block 16 and the deodorizing and cleaning agents contained within the base 12 and the retention structure 14 effectively combine to form a deodorizing and cleaning zone that extends radially past the outer rim of the block 16 to the rim 22 of the base 12. The deodorizing and cleaning zone is more effective than the areas affected solely by a deodorizing and cleaning block 16.
As discussed above, the retention structure 14 is configured to retain the block 16 in a position adjacent the base 12. While the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2 shows the retention structure 14 as having the structure of a retention collar, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments the retention structure 14 can have other forms or structures. Referring now to FIG. 3, a first example of an alternate screen assembly 110, having a base 112 and retention structure 114 is shown. In this embodiment, the retention structure 114 includes a support collar 130 and a plurality of retention segments 132 extending from the support segment 130.
Referring again to FIG. 3, the support collar 130 is configured to extend from the base 112 and further configured to connect with a first end 138a of the retention segments 132. The support collar 130 has a diameter D3 that is generally larger than a diameter D2 of the block 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D3 is in a range of from about 3.0 inches to about 3.5 inches. However, in other embodiments, the diameter D3 can be less than about 3.0 inches or more than about 3.5 inches, sufficient to be larger than the diameter D2 of the block 116.
As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, each of the retention segments 132 has a first component 140a and a second component 140b. The first component 140a extends in a generally vertical direction from the base 112 to the second component 140b. The second component 140b extends a short distance from the first component 140a in a radially inward horizontal direction. The retention segments 132 are configured to have flexibility such as to allow minor radial movement about the respective first ends 138a. In operation, the radial movement of the retention segments 132 allows the retention segments 132 to be separated a sufficient distance such as to allow the block 116 to be inserted between the separated retention segments 132 and into the interior of the retention structure 114. The block 116 is then positioned adjacent the base 112. The block 116 is retained within the retention structure 114 in a horizontal direction by the plurality of first components 140a and in a vertical direction by the plurality of second components 140b.
In a manner similar to the screen assembly 10 discussed above, the base 112 and the retention structure 114 include the same ingredients and/or chemicals configured to provide an effective deodorizing and cleaning agent for the urinal and urinal bowl. However, it should be appreciated that the base 112 and the retention structure 114 can have different ingredients and/or chemicals than the screen assembly 10 discussed above.
The retention structure 114 illustrated in FIG. 3 advantageously allows a block 116 to be inserted into the retention structure 114 and further allows an expended block 116 to be easily removed from the screen assembly and a replacement block 116 to be easily installed.
While the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 shows the first component 140a as having a generally vertical orientation and the second component 140b as having a generally horizontal orientation, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the first and second components, 140a and 140b, can have other desired orientations including angled orientations.
While the projections 132 illustrated in FIG. 3 are shown to have a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape, alternatively in other embodiments, the projections 132 can have other cross-sectional shapes, including the non-limiting example of circular cross-sectional shapes.
Referring again to FIG. 3, adjacent segments 132 form openings 142. The openings 142 are configured to allow an incoming stream of urine to pass through the retention structure 114 and contact the block 116. The openings 142 can have any desired shape and size. While the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 shows openings 142 formed between each pair of adjacent segments 132, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the openings 142 can be formed between any desired adjacent segments 132 and need not be formed between each pair of adjacent segments 132.
Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, a second example of an alternate screen assembly is shown generally at 210. The screen assembly 210 includes a base 212, a retention structure 214 and a block 216. In this embodiment, the screen assembly 210 is formed by assembling the retention structure 214 to the base 212. The base 212 includes a plurality of apertures 220.
Referring now to FIG. 4, the base 212 and the block 216 are the same as, or similar to, the base 12 and the block 16 discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. However, in other embodiments, it should be appreciated that the base 212 and the block 216 can be different than the base 12 and the block 16.
The retention structure 214 includes a lower rim 230, a plurality of segments 232, an upper rim 234 and a plurality of posts 236. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention structure 214 is formed such as to be a single unitary structure. However, in other embodiments, the retention structure 214 can be formed from an assembly of discrete components.
The lower rim 230 is configured to seat against the base 212 and further configured to connect with a first end 238a of each of the segments 232. The lower rim 230 has a diameter D4 that is generally larger than a diameter D2 of the block 216. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D4 is in a range of from about 3.0 inches to about 3.5 inches. However, in other embodiments, the diameter D4 can be less than about 3.0 inches or more than about 3.5 inches, sufficient to be larger than the diameter D2 of the block 216.
Referring again to FIG. 4, each of the segments 232 has a first component 240a and a second component 240b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first components 240a are the same as the first components 140a discussed above and shown in FIG. 3. However, in other embodiments, the first components 240a can be different from the first components 140a. The second components 240b extend from the first components 240a in a generally horizontal direction and are connected to the upper rim 234.
Referring again to FIG. 4, adjacent segments 232 form openings 242. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 242 are the same as, or similar to, the openings 142 described above and illustrated in FIG. 3. However, in other embodiments, the openings 242 can be different from the openings 142.
The posts 236 are connected to the lower rim 230. The posts 236 will be discussed in more detail below.
As discussed above, the retention structure 214 is configured to retain the block 216 in a position adjacent the base 212. Accordingly, the retention structure 214 is made from the same or similar materials as described above for retention structure 114. In other embodiments, however, the retention structure 214 can be made from other desired materials. Similarly, the retention structure 214 optionally can include the same, or similar ingredients and/or chemicals as described above for retention structure 114. In other embodiments, however, optionally the retention structure 214 can include other desired ingredients and/or chemicals. However, it should be appreciated that the screen assembly 210 can be practiced without the retention structure 214 having added ingredients and/or chemicals.
Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, the screen assembly 210 is assembled as described in the following steps. First, a block 216 is positioned within the interior of the retention structure 214. Next, the base 212 is positioned relative to the retention structure 214, such that the retention structure 214 is substantially proximate to the center of the base 212 and the plurality of posts 236 extend through corresponding apertures 220 in the base 212. Lastly, the ends of the posts 236 are attached to the base 212 such as to retain the base 212, block 216 and the retention structure 214 in an assembled configuration as shown in FIG. 5. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the posts 236 are attached to the base 212 by ultrasonic welding. However, in other embodiments, the posts 236 can be attached to the base 212 by other methods, such as for example by adhesives. In still other embodiments, the posts 236 can be deformed by other processes such as the non-limiting examples of processes incorporating heat, sufficient to retain the base 212, block 216 and retention structure 214 in an assembled configuration.
Referring now to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a screen assembly is shown generally at 310. In this embodiment, a support member is used to provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly 310. The screen assembly 310 includes a base 312, a retention structure 314, a block 316 and a support member 318. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 312, retention structure 314 and block 316 are the same as, or similar to, the base 212, retention structure 214 and block 216 discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. However in other embodiments, the base 312, retention structure 314 and block 316 can be different than the base 212, retention structure 214 and block 216.
Referring again to FIG. 7, the support member 318 is configured to provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly 310 as the screen assembly 310 is seated in a generally contoured orientation against the contours of the urinal bowl. The support member 318 includes a plurality of spaced apart spokes 344 extending radially from an intersection 345. While the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7 shows a quantity of three spokes 344, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, more or less than three spokes 344 can be used.
Referring again to FIG. 7, each of the spokes 344 includes an aperture 346. The apertures 346 are configured to receive posts 336 extending from a lower rim 330 of the retention structure 314. Each of the spokes 344 further includes a segment 348 that extends beyond the apertures 346. The apertures 346 and the segments 348 will be discussed in more detail below.
The spokes 344 are connected to a rim 350. The rim 350 is configured to provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly 310 as the screen assembly 310 is seated in a generally contoured orientation against the contours of the urinal bowl. The rim 350 has a diameter D5. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D5 is in a range of from about 3.0 inches to about 4.0 inches. In other embodiments, the diameter D5 can be less than about 3.0 inches or more than about 4.0 inches.
Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, the screen assembly 310 is shown in an assembled condition. In the assembled condition, the posts 336 extend through corresponding apertures 320 in the base 312 and through the apertures 346 in the spokes 344 of the support member 318. In these positions, the spokes 344, segments 348 and rim 350 cooperate to provide rigidity and support to the base 312, thereby advantageously allowing the screen assembly 310 to seat in a generally contoured orientation against the contours of the urinal bowl (not shown).
Referring again to FIG. 7, the spokes 344, segments 348 and the rim 350 have a thickness T2. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness T2 is in a range of from about 0.05 inches to about 0.20 inches. Alternatively, the thickness T2 can be less than about 0.05 inches or more than about 0.20 inches. While the thickness T2 of the spokes 344, segments 348 and the rim 350 is shown to be constant, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the thickness T2 can vary.
While the spokes 344 are shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7 to be of a generally straight and constant width along their lengths, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the spokes 344 can have other desired shapes, other desired lengths and also can have inconsistent widths along their lengths.
As discussed above, the support member 318 is configured to provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly 310 as the screen assembly 310 is seated in a generally contoured orientation against the contours of the urinal bowl. Accordingly, the support member 318 is made from flexible, bio-compatible materials and materials that are also compatible with the materials that form the urinal bowl. In the illustrated embodiment the support member 318 is made from polymeric-based materials, such as the non-limiting example of polypropylene. In other embodiments, the support member 318 can be made from other desired materials or combinations of materials sufficient to be flexible, bio-compatible and provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly 310. Optionally, the support member 318 can be infused with additives configured to provide deodorizing scents. However, it should be appreciated that the screen assembly 310 can be practiced without scent additives infused in the support member 318.
Referring again to FIG. 7, the screen assembly 310 is assembled as described in the following steps. First, a block 316 is positioned within the interior of the retention structure 314. Next, the base 312 is positioned relative to the retention structure 314, such that the retention structure 314 is substantially proximate to the center of the base 312 and the plurality of posts 336 extend through corresponding apertures 320 in the base 312. Next, the support member 318 is positioned such that the posts 336 of the retention structure 314 extend through the apertures 346 in the spokes 344. Lastly, the ends of the posts 336 are attached to the support member 318 such as to retain the base 312, block 316, retention structure 314 and the support member 318 in an assembled configuration as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. The posts 336 can be attached to the support member 318 by any desired method, including by the methods discussed above.
Referring now to FIG. 10, the screen assembly 310 is shown in an installed position within a urinal bowl 360. In this position, the retention structure 314 is in an upright orientation relative to the base 312. However, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the screen assembly 310 can be installed within a urinal bowl 360 in an inverted orientation, such that the retention structure (not shown) and base 312 are flipped, resulting in an upright orientation of the base 312 relative to the retention structure.
While the support member 318 illustrated in FIG. 7 has been described above as having the structure of spokes 344 oriented in a generally Y-shaped configuration, it should be appreciated that a support member can have other desired shapes and configurations sufficient to provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly. One non-limiting example of an alternate structure of a support member is illustrated in FIG. 12 generally at 418.
Referring now to FIG. 12, the support member 418 includes a plurality of spokes 444 extending radially from an intersection 445. The spokes 444 include apertures 446 and segments 448. In the illustrated embodiment, the spokes, apertures 446 and segments 448 are the same as, or similar to, the spokes 344, apertures 346 and segments 348 illustrated in FIG. 7 and described above. In other embodiments, the spokes 344, apertures 446 and segments 448 can be different than the spokes, 344, apertures 346 and segments 348. Adjacent segments 448 are connected together by connectors 460a-460f. The connectors 460a-460f are configured to provide rigidity and support to the screen assembly as the screen assembly is seated in a generally contoured orientation against the contours of the urinal bowl. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the support member 418 is formed such as to be a unitary structure. However, in other embodiments, the support segment 418 can be formed such as to be an assembly of discrete components.
While the embodiments of the support members 318 and 418 illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 12 are described above as having a plurality of spokes, rims and connectors, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the support members can have any desired shape, structure and combination of components.
In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 12, the support members 318 and 418 are illustrated and described above as being discrete components that are later assembled to the base and retention structure. It is within the contemplation of this invention that in other embodiments, the base can be formed such as to incorporate support structures, thereby allowing the base and the support structures to be a single, unitary structure. The single, unitary structure forming the base and the support structures can have any desired shape, form and size. Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, two non-limiting examples of these embodiments are illustrated.
Referring now to FIG. 13, a first example of a base formed to incorporate a support structure 518 is shown generally at 512. In this embodiment, the base 512 has been formed to further incorporate a retention structure 514, thereby providing a single, unitary structure for the base 512, retention structure 514 and the support member 518. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention structure 514 is the same as, or similar to, the retention structure 14 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In other embodiments, the retention structure 514 can be different from the retention structure 14. The support structure 518 includes radially-oriented spokes 544 and a circumferential rim 550. In the illustrated embodiment, the spokes 544 and the rim 550 are the same as, or similar to, the spokes 344 and the rim 350 discussed above and shown in FIG. 7. However, in other embodiments, the spokes 544 and the rim 550 can be different than the spokes 344 and the rim 350.
Referring again to FIG. 13, the incorporated support member 518 can be a different material or materials than the materials used for the base 512. However, it should be appreciated that the support member 518 can be molded at the same time as the base 512 and can use the same materials as the base 512.
Referring now to FIG. 14, a second example of a base incorporating a support structure is shown generally at 612. The base 612 includes a retention structure 614 and a support structure 618. In this embodiment, the retention structure 614 and the support structure 618 are formed as portions of the base 618, thereby providing a single, unitary structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention structure 614 is the same as, or similar to, the retention structure 114 described above and illustrated in FIG. 3. In other embodiments, the retention structure 614 can be different from the retention structure 114. The support structure 618 includes radially-oriented spokes 644 and a circumferential rim 650. In the illustrated embodiment, the spokes 644 and the rim 650 are the same as, or similar to, the spokes 344 and the rim 350 discussed above and shown in FIG. 7. However, in other embodiments, the spokes 644 and the rim 650 can be different than the spokes 344 and the rim 350.
Referring again to FIG. 6, the assembly of the screen assembly 210 has been described above as involving a process of attaching the posts 236 to the base 212 such as to retain the base 212, retention structure 214 and block 216 in an assembled configuration. However, in other embodiments, a screen assembly can be assembled in other manners. Referring now to FIG. 15, one non-limiting example of an alternate post 736 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the post 736 is configured as a snap-connector, with resilient walls 752 and annular retention boss 754. In operation, the base 712, retention structure 714, block 716, and support member 718 are brought together as described above. However, the plurality of posts 736 are simply snapped through the corresponding apertures 720 in the base 712 and the apertures 746 in the support member 718, with the annular retention boss 754 retaining the base 712, retention structure 714, block 716 and support member 718 in an assembled configuration. While the example of the alternate post 736 illustrated in FIG. 15 shows a snap connector, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the post can be other structures sufficient to retaining the base 712, retention structure 714, block 716 and support member 718 in an assembled configuration.
Referring now to FIG. 16, another embodiment of a screen assembly is shown at 810. In this embodiment, additional structures are positioned on the surface of a base, such that the additional structures can provide splash resistance to a stream of incoming urine. The screen assembly 810 includes a base 812, a retention structure 814, a block 816 and a support member (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the retention structure 814, block 816 and support member are the same as, or similar to the retention structure 214, block 216 and support member 218 illustrated in FIG. 5 and described above. However, in other embodiments, the retention structure 814, block 816 and support member can be different from the retention structure 214, block 216 and support member 218.
Referring again to FIG. 16, the base 812 includes a plurality of projections 862 extending from an upper surface 864 of the base 812. The projections 862 are configured to provide splash resistance to a stream of incoming urine (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 862 have the general shape of blades of grass and extend in a substantially vertical direction from the upper surface 864 of the base 812. However, in other embodiments, the projections 862 can have other desired shapes and can extend from the base 812 in any desired direction sufficient to provide splash resistance to a stream of incoming urine. While the illustrated embodiment shows the projections as being formed as a portion of the base 812, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the projections 862 can be discrete components that are attached to the base 812.
Referring again to embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the retention structure 214 has been described above as having segments 232 connected to the lower rim 230 and the upper rim 234, with openings 242 formed between adjacent segments 232. In other embodiments, the retention structure can have other structures and can be configured for other functions. One non-limiting example of an alternate retention structure is illustrated in FIG. 17 at 914. The retention structure 914 is configured to retain a block 916 in a position adjacent the base (not shown). In this embodiment, the retention structure 914 includes a top 970 and a circumferential side wall 972. The top 970 and the side wall 972 include a plurality of apertures 974. The apertures 974 are configured to allow an incoming stream of urine to pass through the retention structure 914 and contact the block 916. While the illustrated embodiment shows the apertures 974 are having a circular cross-sectional shape, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the apertures 974 can have other desired shapes, such as for example rectangular cross-sectional shapes.
Another embodiment of a screen assembly is illustrated in FIG. 18 generally at 1010. In this embodiment, a retention structure 1014 can be configured to include a slit 1080 positioned in the first components 1040a of the retention structure 1014. The slit 1080 is configured to have both a closed position, as shown in FIG. 18, and an open position, as shown in the phantom lines of FIG. 18. In a closed position, the retention structure 1014 is configured to retain the block (not shown) as described above. In an open position, the slit 1080 advantageously provides for several opportunities. First, in certain scenarios, the slit 1080 provides a space sufficient for insertion of the block into the retention structure 1014 after the assembly of the screen assembly is completed, thereby facilitating an effective assembly process. Second, in other scenarios, the slit 1080 allows either the removal of the existing block or the insertion of a new block into an assembled screen assembly, thereby providing an effective reloading process. Activation of the slit 1080 from a closed position to an open position can be any desired method, including the non-limiting example of squeezing the sides of the retention structure 1014.
While the slit 1080 is illustrated in FIG. 18 as being positioned in the side of the retention structure 1080, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the slit 1080 could be positioned in the top of the retention structure 1014. Further, it is within the contemplation of this invention that the slit 1080 can have any desired shape and size.
The principle and mode of operation of the improved urinal screen assembly have been described in certain embodiments. However, it should be noted that the improved urinal screen assembly may be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its scope.
