With Indicator Patents (Class 4/314)
  • Patent number: 11920746
    Abstract: A flameless electric candle having a fan-driven scent diffuser. The candle includes a body portion having a translucent portion and a generally elongated cylindrical shape and housing therein a light emitting device configured to permit its emitted light to be partially visually discernible through the translucent portion. There is below the body portion, a base portion that includes a PCB, a switch, a light emitting device, a power source, a fan oriented to force air in a downwards direction away from the body portion, a pad configured to receive upon a surface thereof a fragrance or scent, openings in a wall of the base portion to allow the forced air scented by the fragrance to escape the base portion. The switch is selectable among a first mode in which the LED and fan are both on, an off mode both the LED and fan are off, and a second mode wherein only one of the LED or fan is on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: ULTA-LIT TREE COMPANY
    Inventors: John DeCosmo, James L. Howard
  • Patent number: 11426087
    Abstract: The invention describes a measuring system for the continuous non-invasive determination of blood pressure at one or more fingers. The fingers chosen for measurement and the adjacent parts of the palm rest on a supporting surface of a housing, which has the shape of a computer mouse. Inside the housing of the “CNAP Mouse”, i.e. underneath the supporting surface for the hand, the pressure generating system is located. The finger sensors are mounted on the supporting surface for the hand. The forearm and the back of the hand are left free and may be used to place intra-venous or intra-arterial access elements. Since the hand will rest on the supporting surface motion artefacts are largely avoided. Tilting or turning of the sensors is hardly possible since the fit of the sensors and thus the coupling of light and pressure are optimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: CNSYSTEMS MEDIZINTECHNIK AG
    Inventors: Jürgen Fortin, Andrea Fortin, Klaus Popp
  • Patent number: 11391615
    Abstract: A computing system having a memory and a processor configured to process flow data packets (FDPs) collected from a set of sensor devices, each installed in a toilet that collects a flow data packet (FDP) in response to a detected event, wherein each FDP includes a sequence of flow rate values collected over the course of the detected event. The processor is configured to: issue a first type of alert in response to a number of flow rate values in a current FDP being above a threshold; issue a second type of alert in response to a detected abnormal behavior of the current FDP relative to previously collected FDPs for an associated toilet; and issue a third type of alert based on a water usage for the toilet, wherein the water usage is based on calculated flow rate for a toilet determined from at least one FDP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: MOBIUS LABS, INC.
    Inventors: Karl Appel, Matthew Cusack, Frank Lipowitz, John Gebbia, Trey Alexander Briccetti, Devon Bernard
  • Patent number: 11311156
    Abstract: A toilet seat with handles is disclosed. The handles include light transmitters and light receivers. The light transmitters and receivers may be used to determine blood oxygen saturation levels and heart rate of a toilet seat user. Ultrasonic transmitters and receivers in the toilet seat handle are also disclosed for determining bone density of a toilet seat user. The handles may be retractable and may include UV sanitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: Medic, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Dan Allen, Andrew Davis, Justin R. Robinson
  • Patent number: 11064886
    Abstract: A device for determining physiological data through analysis of human excrement in a toilet using at least one indicator and/or sensor, and a method for determining physiological data by analysis of human excrement in a toilet by measurement of urine and/or stool values, in order to achieve maximally universal use of the device, including in a wide variety of toilet designs, with reasonable design effort and manageable costs. A measurement system, in which an indicator or sensor can be brought into a measurement position, in which sufficient contact with the urine or stool to be examined occurs via an arm for each measurement, wherein the indicator or sensor is/are designed as (an) independent unit(s), and by a corresponding method in which a plurality of previously determined values are measured and then processed further and forwarded as applicable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: MEDIPEE GMBH
    Inventor: Thomas Prokopp
  • Patent number: 10921310
    Abstract: A system and method for analyzing bio-fluid constituents and properties in a bio-fluid sample, wherein the system comprises a bio-fluid collection apparatus, a bio-fluid testing/analysis apparatus, and a reporting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Inventors: Asghar David Mostafa, Thomas Joseph Brown, Joseph Kralowetz, Michael Giovannoni, Joseph Roesch, Roland Probst, Sean Higgins
  • Patent number: 10602986
    Abstract: A smart furniture includes a furniture article designed for being used by a user and a smart system which includes a detection module built-in with the furniture article for detecting health data of the user when the furniture article is used. In particular, the detection module includes a plurality of sensors located at a user supporting surface of the furniture article for collecting health data of the user. The health data of the user is then analyzed to ensure the user to use the furniture article in a proper way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: Furniture of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Lei Yang
  • Patent number: 10514339
    Abstract: A test strip analyser is provided. The test strip analyser includes a frame, a test control module and an optical system. The test control module is disposed in the frame and includes a test strip carrier of a plurality of test strip carriers and a sample container of a plurality of sample containers. The test strip carrier is disposed on the frame and adapted to hold a test strip. The sample container is adapted to contain a sample. The optical system is disposed above the frame and the test control module and includes a light sensor and controller. The light sensor is configured to capture an image of the test strip. The controller is connected to the light sensor to control the light sensor, and the light sensor feedbacks the image to the controller. In addition, an analysing method using the same is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventors: Chung-Jung Chen, Ming-Tien Lin
  • Patent number: 10376246
    Abstract: Provided is a biomonitoring device that measures a parameter of a material expelled during use of a toilet by a user. Also provided is a biomonitoring mirror device that identifies a user, detects a febrile illness in a user, dispenses medications/supplements, connects to electrical device accessories in the bathroom, and provides an interactive user interface. Additionally provided is a system for measuring a parameter of a material expelled during use of a toilet by a user. Further provided is a method of determining a physiological parameter of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Toi Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Vikram Kashyap, Kevin D. Simmons, Thomas Reidemeister, Benjamin K. Yaffe, Rodolfo Camacho
  • Patent number: 10214889
    Abstract: An in-toilet leak detector is disclosed, as are communication systems for reporting toilet leaks. The leak detector comprises an inlet that receives water from the toilet's fill tube and diverts it through a flow tube. A capacitive sensor is located between the inlet and an opening of the flow tube from which water flows into the overflow tube of the toilet tank. A housing is connected to the flow tube and the inlet and contains a controller and other electronics, including one or more transceivers. The leak detector measures the duration of water flow and establishes an alert if the water flow is shorter or longer in duration than a calibrated normal duration. The transceivers connect the leak detector to a computer network, and leak alerts are communicated to a server or servers so that they can be forwarded directly to those responsible for fixing the toilets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Leak Beeper, LLC
    Inventors: James A Brackett, Sr., John Beal, Timothy Bottger
  • Patent number: 10145787
    Abstract: This invention discloses an excreta occult blood inspection method and the apparatus thereof. The inspection method comprises the following steps. At least one light source is provided to emit at least one light to illuminate excreta to produce at least one specimen light. At least one photo-sensitive unit is provided to receive the specimen light and generate a detected data. An analysis processor is provided to receive and analyze the detected data to produce an analysis data. Above-mentioned method and apparatus can make excreta occult blood inspection become efficient and convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: WELLYSUN INC.
    Inventor: Shuo-Ting Yan
  • Patent number: 10064582
    Abstract: This document describes assessment of human physiological systems. Various noninvasive sensors can be used to detect vitals and other parameters and combined with mathematical models to assess the functional state of physiological systems. Conventional techniques can use invasive sensors to monitor cardiac pressures and volumes, along with pressure transit to quantify cardiovascular health. While known to be effective these invasive techniques often require surgery and are resource intensive limiting their use to cases where the risks and costs are of clear immediate benefit. In contrast, noninvasive health monitors present little if any risk and are easy to use. Further, the techniques described herein can determine trends in a person's cardiovascular health. With these trends, a person can know if the effort they expend to improve heart health actually makes a difference. Further, negative trends can be found that can spur people to improve their health or get medical attention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Google LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Rogers
  • Patent number: 9702132
    Abstract: A toilet night light is provided. The toilet night light includes a housing. A clip is attached to the housing and is sized to releasably attach to a toilet bowl suspending the toilet night light under the toilet seat. A light is disposed within the housing. The light is directed to at least an inside portion of the toilet bowl to illuminate the inside of the toilet bowl. A power source, such as a battery is electrically connected to power the light. The present invention further include a switch operatively connected to the light and is activated to turn the light on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Inventor: Kenneth Ray Chimene
  • Patent number: 9635988
    Abstract: A toilet seat cover with a full-directional night lamp includes an upper lid, a seat and two supports. A cylindrical night lamp is locked on the upper lid or locked between two seat shaft sleeves at two sides of the seat. The night lamp comprises at least one electric body and at least one light-pervious tube. The electric body has at least one end thereof defined as a light source end. The light source end of the electric body is axially sleeved on and fixed to the light-pervious tube. The whole night lamp can be detachably mounted on the upper lid or locked between the two seat shaft sleeves at two sides of the seat, thereby attaining a full 360 degree emission of light and allowing the lighting emission to be free of the operation state of the toilet seat cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: HOTI (XIAMEN) PLUMBING INC.
    Inventors: Guobin Chen, Feng Guo
  • Publication number: 20150089730
    Abstract: A flush toilet has a reservoir tank, a toilet main unit, a water supply apparatus, a water discharge apparatus, and a control device for controlling flushing of the bowl portion of the toilet main unit; wherein this control device includes a time measurement device for measuring the time after the water discharge apparatus has been driven for a predetermined time to discharge flush water, until the water level rises from a dead water level inside the reservoir tank with the water discharge apparatus in an off state to a predetermined stopped water level prior to start of flush; and the driving time of the water discharge apparatus responsive to pressure losses in the toilet main unit is adjusted by comparing the water level rise time measured by the time measurement device with the water level rise time in a standard toilet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Makoto BEKKI, Masaaki INOUE, Yu YAMASAKI, Hiroyuki HARA
  • Patent number: 8984675
    Abstract: An adapter includes an interface module that receives signals from a first sensor that indicate a first fill status of a holding tank. A control module of the adapter generates a control signal based on the first fill status. The toilet is at least partially controlled by a toilet control module that restricts a flush capability of the toilet based on the control signal. An isolation module of the adapter isolates the interface module and the control module from at least one of voltage and current fluctuations that are external to the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Thetford Corporation
    Inventors: James Miller, Rick Danks, Ian Vivero
  • Publication number: 20150059074
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for housing a dye tablet that is capable of acting as a visual warning device to liquid overflow in liquid containers, particularly toilet cisterns. The device may be affixed to the overflow pipe by means of a clip attachment or through integration with the overflow pipe upon creation. The device contains apertures to allow liquid to enter the compartment housing the dye tablet whereby the dye particles become immersed in the liquid. The highly colourised liquid is highly noticeable as it exits the overflow pipe and thus gives warning of a system malfunction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Brett Davies
  • Publication number: 20140304903
    Abstract: An odor eliminating apparatus for eliminating odorous compounds from a toilet bowl includes a housing with an extension disposed inside the bowl above the headspace of the water. A fan establishes an air flow through the housing to exhaust gases from the bowl. A filter eliminates the odorous compounds and optionally refreshes the air. The apparatus may be portable so that it can be installed onto and removed from the bowl as desired. Speakers in the housing are used to play audio clips when a person is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: COGSWELL INNOVATION, INC.
    Inventor: David Lee Cogswell
  • Publication number: 20140053329
    Abstract: Various systems and methods of controlling the flow of water from a fill valve in a toilet tank to a toilet bowl of a toilet using a bowl fill valve are provided. An inlet of the bowl fill valve is coupled to a bowl fill outlet of the fill valve and the outlet of the bowl fill valve is channeled to the toilet bowl. In illustrative embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of determining when the toilet tank has been substantially drained of water during a flush cycle, and opening the bowl fill valve for a predefined period of time after the toilet tank has been substantially drained of water to fill the toilet bowl of the toilet with water. The predefined period of time is less than a total time of the flush cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Danco, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Michael J. D'Aurelio
  • Patent number: 8534313
    Abstract: An auxiliary actuator for a toilet fill valve comprises a plunger oriented under an arm of the toilet fill valve to lift the arm to close the toilet fill valve when the plunger is in a raised position. A spring or hydraulic mechanism urges the plunger into the raised position. A solenoid mechanism is normally de-energized and engages a latching mechanism of the plunger when the plunger is in a lowered position. An electronic sensing circuit has at least one sensor and a power source. The electronic sensing circuit is electrically connected with the solenoid mechanism to energize the solenoid mechanism upon detection of a fault condition based on the input of the at least one sensor. Fault conditions may include a flush valve leak, a stuck-open flush valve, a plugged toilet, and a leaking fill valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Kermit L. Achterman
  • Publication number: 20130232677
    Abstract: A control system for a flush toilet includes a water delivery device for delivering a source of flush water to a bowl. The control system includes a controller and a user interface. The controller is operative to control the toilet through a flush sequence in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the controller opens the water delivery device to deliver a predetermined amount of water to the bowl. In the second mode, the controller opens the water delivery device to deliver a user adjustable amount of water to the bowl. The user interface is in communication with the controller for selecting between the first mode and the second mode. Where the toilet is a macerator toilet, the controller monitors current draw unit when the current draw satisfies a predetermined current condition. The controller may operate in a normal mode and a lockout mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: THETFORD CORPORATION
    Inventors: James K. Miller, Ricky L. Danks, Julian N. Smith, Daniel Delaney, George Grech, Forrest D. Butterwick
  • Patent number: 8510875
    Abstract: An indicator that the cartridge is draining slowly is placed on top of the cartridge. When slow draining causes urine to pool on top of the cartridge, liquid enters a float housing, causing an indicator to change color. The indicator is visible through a lens in a diverter. The indicator may be a disk that undergoes a chemical reaction to change color or a float that flips over to reveal a side having a different color. When the cartridge is operating properly, the float displays a first color. Flipping of the float reveals a second color to the observer. A color change indicates, such as by signaling, that the cartridge needs to be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas Helbig, Michael L. Higgins, Erik Brown, Martin Oberlack, Jorg Schaffner, Martin Bremerich, Joerg-Michael Fitzke
  • Publication number: 20130186196
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided to reduce cross-talk between multiple capacitive sensors used in an electronic toilet and between multiple capacitive sensors used in an electronic faucet and an electronic soap dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: MASCO CORPORATION OF INDIANA
  • Patent number: 8310369
    Abstract: Water is conserved by detecting unintended inflow of water into the tank of a flush toilet. A sensor acoustically and/or vibrationally coupled to the flush toilet detects sound and/or vibration generated due to turbulence in water flowing into the toilet tank. An electronic circuit analyzes the sensor output to detect cyclical water inflow not intended by a user. The electronic circuit generates an alert such as an audible and/or visual indication that the toilet is leaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: nth Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Eric L. Canfield, Edward P. Cheslock
  • Publication number: 20120221192
    Abstract: An inspection device is provided to monitor hygienic conditions of a space unit for a vehicle. The vehicle includes, but is not limited to, an inspection device, the use of an inspection device, and a method to assure hygienic conditions in a vehicle. In order to optimize assuring hygienic conditions in interior spaces on board a vehicle an inspection device is provided that includes, but is not limited to, an optical detection device. The optical detection device generates electromagnetic radiation to irradiate a surface to be cleaned, and renders visible soiling that, in visible light, is invisible to the human eye. The optical detection device is permanently installable on an interior lining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventor: Christian SEIBT
  • Patent number: 8209791
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include devices for reliably indicating when the water level in a toilet tank rises to the top of the overflow tube. Indicators use the presence of water in the overflow to provide for visual, olfactory and/or auditory indication of the malfunction. Features of the invention provide for a safe, inexpensive and reliable device for detecting toilet malfunction. Indicators are housed in a device that is positioned to intercept overflow water passing from the toilet tank to the toilet bowl. The presence of water in the device housing is used to release indicators into the toilet bowl water or into the air. Improvements are provided that eliminate false positive indications and prevent inadvertent damage to the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: David W. Williams
  • Patent number: 8037551
    Abstract: Methods for communicating with an automatic flush valve device. The automatic flush device having a variety of operational modes which can be selected from to control the operation of the device. The communication from the automatic flush device providing a user with information regarding the status of the flush valve device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventors: John R. Wilson, Xu Wang
  • Publication number: 20100242160
    Abstract: A system and method for conditionally interfering with the operation of a conventional toilet tank fill valve prevents toilet overflow and conserves water. A single self-contained apparatus, located completely within the toilet tank, detects and prevents a toilet overflow and/or conserves water by conditionally interfering with or overriding the normal operation of a toilet tank fill valve to prevent a further flush. Exemplary illustrative non-limiting steps include removing the toilet tank lid to provide access to said toilet tank fill valve within the tank, manually snapping an assembly onto said fill valve protective cap, and automatically and conditionally actuating said assembly to cause the assembly to selectively interfere with or override the operation of said toilet tank fill valve. An exemplary illustrative non-limiting device comprises an attaching structure for manual attachment to said fill valve cap, and a control mechanism supported by said attaching structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: Eric L. Canfield, Scott Soma, James Canfield
  • Publication number: 20100064426
    Abstract: The present invention which provides a novel means for raising and lowering the seat on a toilet bowl is composed of a housing unit which has a base portion and a handle portion, means for attaching the base portion to the bottom side of the toilet seat, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), an infrared emitter, a signal processor, an infrared receiver module, a speaker, a LED module, a power source, a ball switch, and a power detector. It is to provide a method and an apparatus in a sanitary application or especially in a public toilet, whereby the method and apparatus achieve a clean and hygienic way of raising the toilet seat, and also alert the user to lower the toilet seat after use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Marc Chikara Imamura
  • Publication number: 20100000013
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include devices for reliably indicating when the water level in a toilet tank rises to the top of the overflow tube. Indicators use the presence of water in the overflow to provide for visual, olfactory and/or auditory indication of the malfunction. Features of the invention provide for a safe, inexpensive and reliable device for detecting toilet malfunction. Indicators are housed in a device that is positioned to intercept overflow water passing from the toilet tank to the toilet bowl. The presence of water in the device housing is used to release indicators into the toilet bowl water or into the air. Improvements are provided that eliminate false positive indications and prevent inadvertent damage to the toilet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: David W. Williams
  • Publication number: 20090154524
    Abstract: An integrated system for hydro-thermo-sanitary apparatuses comprising electric current generating means, a control board, water temperature sensors and LEDs or strips of LEDs arranged near the water outlet section for indicating the dispensed water temperature according to the colour with which the light of the LEDs is emitted. An acoustic-vocal indicator may also be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Agostino Girelli
  • Patent number: 7461418
    Abstract: A system encouraging users to cleanse their hands after use of a tankless toilet having a flush valve controlling the flow of water into a toilet bowl through a conduit, in which an abrupt temperature change in the conduit is used to trigger a recorded message urging the user to wash his or her hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Vlahos Enterprises
    Inventors: Gustav Vlahos, Robert B. Jones
  • Publication number: 20080250555
    Abstract: A toilet over flow prevention system for installation into a toilet having a tank in fluid communication with a bowl and having a flapper style flush valve and a supplemental water supply. The over flow system includes a flapper solenoid mounted in the tank, for depressing the flapper valve into a closed position, a overflow sensor mounted in the bowl for sensing a over fill condition in the bowl, and a control box communicating with the over flow sensor and the flapper solenoid for operably signalling the flapper solenoid to depress the flapper valve into the closed position in the case of a over fill condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: EDWARD GAFFEY
  • Publication number: 20080209620
    Abstract: A toilet assembly (10) comprising a bowl (14), a toilet seat, a hinge (16, 18) that is mounted on the bowl and that pivotally supports the toilet seat for movement between raised and lowered positions, the hinge (18) having therein a bore, a tank (24) mounted on the rear of the bowl, the tank adapted to contain water for flushing the toilet and having flushing apparatus for causing the water in the tank to flow into the bowl, a latch bolt (32) extending through the hinge bore, the latch bolt including a member engageable with the toilet seat to move the toilet seat from its raised position toward its lowered position, the latch bolt further including a catch lever and a spring biasing the catch lever upwardly, a release lever mounted on the latch bolt for movement between a catch position and a release position, the release lever moving from its catch position to its release position in response to flushing of the toilet, and a nut threaded onto the latch bolt (32) to secure the hinge (18) to the bowl (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: BEMIS MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Joseph Hand, John Seaman, Scott Mailhot, Randy Hulsebus
  • Patent number: 6802084
    Abstract: A leak detection and reporting system for detecting and reporting different types of leaks. Different alarms are activated in response to different types of leaks. The present invention includes a timing module and a water flow sensor. The timing module measures a standard fill time required to properly fill a reservoir. A lower time threshold and an upper time threshold are then calculated based upon the standard fill time. A first alarm may be activated if a subsequent fill time is below the lower time threshold to identify a small leak. Also, a second alarm may be activated if a subsequent fill time is above the upper time threshold to identify a larger leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Ghertner Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Ghertner, Vince Luciani
  • Patent number: 6779206
    Abstract: A toilet or urinal facility having a screen to display video material. A sensor detects the presence of a person in the facility. A memory device stores data from and is connected to the sensor. A video/audio device is connected to the screen to relay messages thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Inventor: John Sykes
  • Patent number: 6715165
    Abstract: A five-second leak detection technique is used to test for invisible leaks in toilets and similar fixtures. Because of its speed it is particularly useful for large apartment complexes, condominiums and hotels where it is desirable to check hundreds of toilets in a short time. It's clear-cut results and high visibility make it ideal for home use as it unequivocally identifies seeps and slow leaks that may be undetectable otherwise. Checking is done by applying a swath of liquid with a high color density across the porcelain surface just below the rim drain holes in the toilet. If the a toilet is leaking, tiny rivulets of water draining from these holes will immediately cause white streaks in the dense colored swath, alerting the operator to the presence of a leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: John E. Schommer
  • Patent number: 6684418
    Abstract: Disclosed are an infant's chamber pot having a health checking function and an operating method thereof. The infant's chamber pot comprises a power source section; a temperature sensor installed on a bottom surface inside the chamber pot to measure a temperature of stool; a controller electrically connected to the temperature sensor, operated by a voltage supplied from the power source section and having a memory part in which melody signal data and warning signal data are stored, the controller selectively outputting the melody signal data or the warning signal data depending upon the stool temperature sensed by the temperature sensor, by comparing the stool temperature with a normal threshold temperature; and a speaker electrically connected to an output terminal of the controller, the speaker converting the signal data outputted from the controller into an audible signal and then, outputting the audible signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Keun Seob Choi
  • Patent number: 6572564
    Abstract: A system for providing a home health care service includes a health care center, a service recipient device, and the Internet that connects these components. The health care center: is constructed on the Internet; includes a database for registering personal data that are necessary for the health care of registered at-home patients as basic health care data and storing measurement data that are provided from at-home patients over the course of time; and has the functions of inferring the health conditions of at-home patients based on the measurement data as well as the basic health care data and offering services necessary for health care or services appropriate for inferred health conditions, to at-home patients. The service recipient device includes a biosensor and a signal processor. The biosensor detects chemical components contained in a substance that is discharged from the human body and converts detected values to electrical signals at the point of discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Narushi Ito, Akio Ohashi
  • Patent number: 6536470
    Abstract: A back flow prevention valve for preventing water from draining back into a water supply line. The back flow prevention valve includes a housing comprising a tubular body having a first and second open end each having a respective covering thereon with an aperture extending therethrough. A water supply pipe is fluidly coupled to the aperture in a first covering. A cylinder is coupled to the first covering and extends inward of the tubular body. A piston having a bore extending therethrough is slidably positioned in the cylinder. A biasing member biases the piston toward the first covering. The aperture in the second covering has a ledge therein for opening the valve. A one-way valve is removably coupled to the piston and is adapted for letting water move outwardly through the piston toward the second end of the tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventors: Wayne J. Carn, Eric Murray, Russell J. Sawford
  • Patent number: 5735798
    Abstract: A toilet-installed digital sphygmomanometer provided with retractable cuffs. A housing (36) is arranged laterally of a toilet seat and two occluding finger cuffs (62) different in size are mounted to associated respective sliders (70) in a manner movable relative to the housing (36). In use, one of the sliders is moved to permit a cuff (62), of a size suited to the size of the user's finger, to protrude out of the surface of the housing (36) for engagement by the finger. When not in use, all the cuffs are retracted within the housing so that the cuffs are kept clean. In another embodiment, a plurality of pivoting arms are hinged to the housing and the cuffs different in size are mounted, respectively, to the associated pivoting arms. In still another embodiment, a plurality of cuffs different in size are mounted to a revolving member journaled to the housing and a particular cuff is selected by rotating the revolving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuniaki Shinohara, Takanori Matsuno, Yoshiki Hiruta, Keisuke Kanzaki, Kentaro Todoroki
  • Patent number: 5704076
    Abstract: A toilet tank flush valve for use in the demand mode, and which includes a discharge control and closure valve for controlling the flow of water from the tank or reservoir to the bowl, and with the valve further having a generally cylindrical configuration with an open top and a closed bottom defining a water retaining chamber, with the chamber extending upwardly above the discharge drain opening and being designed to retain a fill of a certain first quantity of water. Pivotal opening of the valve, while tipping a portion of the water outwardly of the enclosure, will not discharge more than about 70% of the volume of water retained within the enclosure so as to permit a more positive seal of the valve onto the discharge drain opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Olof H. Olson
  • Patent number: 5410471
    Abstract: A networked health care and monitoring system (10) capable of providing an updated reliable vital information on the health condition of individuals and adapted to support home health care and maintenance. The system includes testing and measuring instruments (39; 43; 46; 49; 56) associated with certain household appliances such as a toilet system (12) and adapted to monitor the vital information passively in response to the use thereof in connection with routine living activities of the individuals. The system may further include control devices (39; 46; 49; 56) associated with certain household appliances, such as an ergometer (15), having health care and maintenance functions and adapted to control the appliances based on the vital information monitored by the testing and measuring instruments in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Assignee: Toto, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Alyfuku, Yoshiki Hiruta
  • Patent number: 5384917
    Abstract: A new and improved child's auxiliary toilet seat for a toilet includes a hinge pin assembly which includes a hinge pin and first hinge members connected to the toilet for receiving the hinge pin. A first toilet seat assembly has a large aperture for adults. A second toilet seat assembly includes a narrower aperture for children. The second seat portion includes a portion proximal to the water tank and a portion distal to the water tank. The second seat portion further includes a first side portion and a second side portion that extend between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The respective first side portion and the second side portion include respective leg supporting extension members which project toward each other from the respective first and second side portions, thereby narrowing the aperture for the children's use. A toilet seat cover covers the toilet seat assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Inventor: Wilma J. Epling
  • Patent number: 5198192
    Abstract: A urine detection device is disposed to a urine receiving surface of a toilet stool in which urine, diluting water and reagent are mixed by vertically moving a piston in the cylinder of the detection device, the reaction between them is detected by an electrode and the ingredient in urine is detected. Liquid in the cylinder is stirred by a stirring device to blown air into the reagent reservoir, by which oxygen is dissolved in the reagent. Cleaning liquid is sprayed from the nozzle to the electrode for flushing. An opening is disposed to a supporting wall of the toilet stool, through which the cylinder is detached or attached. The electrode is disposed such that its rear end is directed to the opening and detached or attached through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Inax Corporation
    Inventors: Shiro Saito, Ryuichi Kawamoto, Mineharu Kondo, Shigeru Sakakibara
  • Patent number: 5185891
    Abstract: A manual flush control for toilets having a normally closed flapper type float valve held shut by the head of water pressure in the flush tank, and characterized by a height limiting means for said valve to cause servo closing and preempting automatic operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Leif Rise
  • Patent number: 5184359
    Abstract: A toilet system (10) with urine assay function is disclosed which comprises a toilet stool (12) having a toilet bowl (14) and a small urine-sampling cavity (52). A frame (42) is mounted on the toilet stool to support a testing sheet handling and transfer mechanism (30) which comprises a swingable carriage (46) and a slidable arm (50) supported by the carriage for linear telescoping movement. The carriage is swingable about a vertical axis (48) between a first position in which the carriage is oriented toward the sampling cavity and a second position in which the carriage is oriented to a lateral side of the stool wherein a disposal station is provided.The toilet system enables the use of testing sheets (32) which are made from water insoluble materials.Various other embodiments are also disclosed.The system provides a high degree of reliability of analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoki Tsukamura, Kiyoshi Alyfuku, Yuzuru Nakamura, Yoshiki Hiruta, Hiroshi Tsuboi
  • Patent number: 5148701
    Abstract: Water testing apparatuses and methods for detecting contaminants in water supplies, such as from wells or other domestic water sources. The apparatuses are for use in reservoirs, such as a water closet of a sanitary toilet. They include an enclosure which defines an interior chamber which is intermittently charged with water. The water charged to the interior chamber is passed through one or more filters, preferably a packed column, which removes or otherwise indicates the presence of contaminants in the water. A counter measures the water passed through the system. Water is discharged from the interior chamber using a siphon. The siphon and restriction of flow caused by the filters help control the direction of flow and substantially prevent backflow. The summit of the siphon includes a relief valve for venting gas during filling of the siphon discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Washington State University Research Foundation
    Inventor: John J. Brown
  • Patent number: 5144700
    Abstract: A water monitor for a toilet flush tank includes a sensing system and an alarm system. The sensing system includes a tube having a constricted aperture in the base. The tube is normally filled with water. When the flush tank is emptied water begins to drain slowly from the tube. A float in the control tube responds to the water level in the tube. A contact attached to the float closes contacts on the control tube if the flush tank does not refill. The closing of the contact is used to trigger an alarm signal. The monitor includes a self cleaning drainage aperture for the control tube and a flexible mounting belt which provides for simple mounting and adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Inventor: Michel M. Martin
  • Patent number: 5111539
    Abstract: A toilet device with a system for inspecting the health condition of the toilet user includes a toilet having a bowl surface with a urine reservoir for holding a urine sample, a box having at least a water tank disposed rearwardly and upwardly of the toilet, the box having an outlet opening in a bottom thereof, a slider for holding a urine test paper piece, the slider being movable from within the box toward the urine reservoir to immerse the urine test paper piece in the urine sample in the urine reservoir, a urine analyzing device disposed in the box, for analyzing constituents of the urine sample attached to the urine test paper piece, a lifting and lowering mechanism for reciprocally lifting and lowering the slider through the outlet opening along a substantially vertical inclined path between the urine analyzing device and the urine reservoir, and a display panel for controlling the lifting and lowering mechanism and the urine analyzing device and for displaying results of a urine analysis effected by th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiki Hiruta, Naoki Tsukamura, Yoshinobu Uchimura, Toshifumi Shigematsu, Hironori Yamasaki, Toshio Yamaguchi