TOILET CLEANING SYSTEM

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a toilet cleaning system mounted onto a toilet, the toilet cleaning system including a cleaning tool configured to clean an inward facing surface of the toilet bowl; a support arm configured move said cleaning tool along the inward facing surface; and, a control device configured to deploy said support arm to move said cleaning tool towards the inward facing surface; and, to actuate said cleaning tool to clean the inward facing surface.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/478,055, filed Mar. 29, 2017, and entitled “TOILET CLEANING APPARATUS” and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/546,690, filed Aug. 17, 2017, and entitled “TOILET CLEANING APPARATUS” The entirety of the aforementioned applications is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The invention relates to the field of toilet sanitation and cleaning.

Conventional cleaning of a toilet bowl requires doing so manually. Typically, the individual cleaning the bowl manually uses a brush, cleaning-cloth, and cleaning agents of some type to more effectively accomplish the task.

The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations related therewith are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Other limitations of the related art will become apparent to those of skill in the art upon a reading of the specification and a study of the figures.

SUMMARY

The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope.

There is provided, in accordance with an embodiment, a toilet cleaning system mounted onto a toilet, the toilet cleaning system including: a cleaning tool configured to clean an inward facing surface of the toilet bowl; a support arm configured move the cleaning tool along the inward facing surface; and, a control device configured to: deploy the support arm to move the cleaning tool towards the inward facing surface; and, actuate the cleaning tool to clean the inward facing surface.

In certain embodiments the control device deploys the support arm along a cleaning path.

In certain embodiments, the cleaning path is designated according to a three-dimensional map of the inward facing surface.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a processor configured to generate a three-dimension map.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes one or more detection sensors configured to measure dimensions of the inward facing surface; and, wherein the processor generates the three-dimensional map according to the measurements obtained by the one or more detection sensors.

In certain embodiments, the detection sensor measures dimensions of the inward facing surface by detecting locations where there is an increase of current required for moving said support arm due to resistance applied onto the cleaning tool by the inward facing surface.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a stain sensor configured to detect waste on the inward facing surface; wherein the processor utilizes data obtained by the stain sensor to designate a location of the waste to indicate an area on the inward facing surface that requires extensive cleaning.

In certain embodiments, the stain sensor is a camera configured to obtain images of the inward facing surface; wherein processor compares an image of a clean inward facing obtained during activation of the toilet cleaning system and compared to images obtained at predetermined time intervals to determine whether the inward facing surface requires cleaning.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a storage unit configured to store the three-dimensional map of the toilet.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a communication unit configured to receive the three-dimensional map from a third-party device.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a user interface configured for obtaining a three-dimensional map of the toilet; and, a display unit configured to display toilet cleaning system parameters.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a display screen coupled to a toilet seat and configured to display entertainment content to a user of the toilet.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a storage compartment for storing and concealing the cleaning tool when the toilet is not being cleaned, the storage compartment having an elongated opening to enable the cleaning tool and the support arm to pivot into the storage compartment.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a collection compartment configured to collect residue fluid dripping from the cleaning tool during storage of the cleaning tool, wherein the collection compartment has a conduit to channel the residue fluid dripping from the cleaning tool into the toilet bowl.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a storage compartment door configured to enclose the cleaning tool and conceal the storage compartment.

In certain embodiments, the control device is further configured to retract the cleaning tool to the storage compartment upon completion of the cleaning process; and, rinse the cleaning tool prior to storage to remove excess fluid and waste from the cleaning tool.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a soap unit for mixing a cleaning material with the fluid channeled to the cleaning tool.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes one or more sprinklers configured to clean a toilet seat by spraying fluid onto the toilet; and, an air blower to remove fluid residue remaining on the toilet seat, wherein the control device is further configured to: activate the one or more sprinklers to spray the toilet seat; and, activate the air blower to dry the toilet seat.

In certain embodiments, the toilet cleaning system further includes a mobile cleaning tool configured to move along a rail to clean the toilet.

In certain embodiments, the support arm has a flexible member enabling the cleaning tool to clean difficult to reach areas on the inward facing surface.

In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the figures and by study of the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are generally chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale. The figures are listed below.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a toilet cleaning system coupled to a toilet having a toilet bowl and toilet bowl rim, according to certain embodiments;

FIGS. 2A-2B schematically illustrate a toilet cleaning system, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates fluid tubing of a toilet cleaning system, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a soap unit, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a bidet of a toilet cleaning system, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 6A-6C schematically illustrate extraction and retraction of a cleaning tool of a toilet cleaning system, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an operating system of a toilet cleaning, according to certain embodiments;

FIGS. 8A-8B show a method for cleaning a toilet, according to certain embodiments; and,

FIG. 9 shows a display screen coupled to a toilet seat, according to certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein is a toilet cleaning system configured to couple to a toilet to enable cleaning a toilet bowl and a toilet seat, according to certain exemplary embodiments. The toilet cleaning system includes a displaceable cleaning tool for cleaning the toilet bowl and one or more sprinklers for cleaning the toilet seat.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a toilet cleaning system 100 coupled to a toilet 105 having a toilet bowl 110 and toilet rim 115, according to certain embodiments. Toilet cleaning system 100 includes a housing 101 configured to encase components of toilet cleaning system 100 and to function as a cover of toilet bowl 110 and is coupled to toilet 105. Toilet cleaning system 100 can include one or more springs and/or one or more pistons to reduce the rate at which housing 101 is lowered onto toilet rim 115 to prevent damage to toilet cleaning system 100 from the impact of contacting seat 102 and/or toilet rim 115.

In certain embodiments, toilet cleaning system 100 can include seat 102 having an angle enabling fluid on seat 102 to pour into toilet bowl 110 and a plastic edge to ensure water drips from seat 102 into towel bowl 110 and not onto a bottom side of seat 102. Housing 101 and seat 102 can be pivotally connected. In certain embodiments, seat 102 can be disconnected from housing 101 enabling use of toilet cleaning system 100, for example, where the toilet seat is affixed to toilet 105 and cannot be removed without damaging toilet 105. In certain embodiments, toilet cleaning system 100 can include a coupling element 108 configured to connect toilet cleaning system 100 to toilet 105. Coupling element 108 can a universal fitting adaptor 113 configured to enable toilet cleaning system 100 to fit onto most toilet rims. Toilet cleaning system 100 can include a power source 130, such as a replaceable and/or rechargeable battery, or an electric cable to comment to an electric outlet.

FIG. 2A schematically illustrates a perspective view and FIG. 2B schematically illustrates and exploded view of toilet cleaning system 100 of FIG. 1, according to certain embodiments. Toilet cleaning system 100 includes a cleaning tool 205 configured to clean an inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110 of FIG. 1. For example, cleaning tool 205 can be a brush, pressure hose, a scraper, or the like. In certain embodiments, cleaning tool 205 can include a brush, which can be a displaceable brush, a disposable brush, or the like. The brush of cleaning tool 205 can have bristles, hairs, a sponge, or the like. In certain embodiments, bristles are extractable, for example, the bristles can be extracted for cleaning and can be retracted when the cleaning tool 205 is in storage. In certain embodiments, the bristles can be soft when cleaning tool 205 is in storage, however when cleaning tool 205 can be extended during cleaning, for example, cleaning tool 205 rotates generating centrifugal force which extends the bristles outward from cleaning tool 205.

Toilet cleaning system 100 includes a support arm 207 to which cleaning tool 205 is coupled at a distal end thereof. Support arm 207 is coupled to toilet cleaning system 100 at a location which enables support arm 207 to move cleaning tool 205 to reach all areas of the inward facing surface. For example, support arm 207 is coupled to the center of toilet cleaning system 100 enabling support arm 207 to travel an equidistance distance to all areas of the inward facing surface. Support arm 207 can extend and retract to move cleaning tool 205 to various locations of the toilet bowl 110. Support arm 207 can include two or more members, drawn as reference numbers 208, 209, coupled to one another with a joint 212.

Members 208, 209 can be selectively deployed and operated independently to provide an angle between members 208, 209 to enable cleaning tool 105 to engage the inward facing surface of the toilet bowl 110 and change the disposition of cleaning tool 105 relative to toilet bowl 110. Members 208, 209 can be configured as telescopic rods configured to enable extraction and retraction of members 208, 209 to selectively deploy towards the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110. Support arm 207 can include a piston configured to extend members 208, 209 to selectively deploy cleaning tool 205 towards the inner volume of toilet bowl 110 to enable cleaning its entire circumference or to shorten support arm 207 to enable storage of cleaning tool 205. Support arm 207 can be configured to pivot such that an angle between cleaning tool 205 and toilet bowl 110 can be modified. Members 208, 209 can be flexible to enable greater degrees of movement to support arm 207 and improved disposition of cleaning tool 205 to access areas of toilet bowl 110.

Toilet cleaning system 100 can include a rotating plate coupled to a proximal end of support arm 207 and configured to rotate support arm 207 and to enable cleaning tool 205 to access all portions of the inward facing surface. For example, cleaning tool 205 can be configured to rotate about its own axis in three-hundred-sixty degrees. In certain embodiments, rotating plate may only provide a rotation angle within a range of 180 to 220 degrees, and support arm 207 can swivel to opposite sides of toilet bowl 110 to enable cleaning toilet bowl 110. In certain embodiments, support arm 207 is coupled to a slip ring at the proximal end of support arm 207, which enables a three-hundred and sixty degree rotation of support arm 207 without causing damages to the wiring and tubing led to cleaning tool 205.

Housing 101 includes a storage compartment 210 configured to store cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207. Storage compartment 210 includes a cover 211 configured to seal storage compartment 210 and conceal cleaning tool 205. In certain embodiments, storage compartment 210 can include an elongated opening 216 to enable cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207 to pivot therethrough. In certain embodiments, storage compartment 210 can include a storage compartment door 220, for example a pivotally mounted door 220, a spring-loaded door or the like, configured to remain closed and to open in response to extension of support arm 207. In certain embodiments, storage compartment door 220 can be a dedicated door connected by a magnet latch to housing 101. Storage compartment door 220 can be a revolving door that rotates to seal and open storage compartment 210. In certain embodiments, toilet cleaning system 100 can include a collection compartment, for collecting fluid dripping or trickling from the cleaning tool 205 when support arm 207 is in the stored in the folded storage position. The collection compartment can have a conduit for channeling residue fluid from cleaning tool 205 to be dispensed into toilet bowl 110 such that seat 102 remains clean.

In certain embodiments, rotating plate can be configured to rotate cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207 to exit and enter storage compartment 210 by aligning cleaning tool 205 with elongated opening 216, such that cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207 are disposed at an angle relative to elongated opening to conceal cleaning tool 205. Cleaning tool 205 can be aligned to be concealed within storage compartment 210 while any residue fluid can drip through elongated opening into toilet bowl 110 or into the collection compartment.

Toilet cleaning system 100 includes one or more sprinklers, for example, six sprinklers, drawn as numeral representations 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g configured to spray fluid on seat 102 of FIG. 1. Seat 102 can be configured with a slight slope, for example, a slope angle within a range of 10 to 20 degrees, directed towards toilet bowl 110 to urge thereby the fluid sprayed on seat 102 into toilet bowl 110. Toilet cleaning system 100 can include two air blowers, drawn as numeral representations 255, 256 configured to blow air onto seat 102 to force residue fluid from seat 102 into toilet bowl 110 and to dry any remaining fluid. Air from air blower 255, 256 can be led to areas of seat 102 through an air tunnel and ventilates onto seat 102 through air openings, drawn as numeral representations 257a, 257b, 257c.

Toilet cleaning system 100 includes one or more faucets, depicted in FIGS. 2A-2B as a single faucet referenced 213 and in FIG. 3 as two faucets referenced 310, 315. The one or more faucets is configured to regulate the flow of fluid to cleaning tool 205 and to sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g and to ensure sufficient fluid is used to efficiently clean the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110 and seat 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more faucets, for examples, two faucets 310 and 315, can be operated sequentially to ensure an optimal flow rate of fluid is provided to cleaning tool 205 and to sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g.

The toilet cleaning system 100 can include a sanitizer configured to sanitize and clean the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110 and top facing surface of seat 102. In certain embodiments, the sanitizer can sanitize cleaning tool 205 after completion of the cleaning process. The sanitizer can be an ultra-violet light source, an ionizer, or the like. In certain embodiments, toilet cleaning system 100 can include a cover 290 for covering the inner portion of housing 101 of FIG. 1, which can be configured to be selectively removed. Cover 290 can include magnets configured to attach cover to housing 101.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates fluid tubing 300 of toilet cleaning system 100 of FIGS. 1-3, according to certain embodiments. Fluid tubing 300 is coupled to a fluid source 305. Fluid tubing 300 channels fluid through faucets 310, 315, which control the flow of the fluid to cleaning tool 205 and to sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g. Fluid tubing 300 is coupled to cleaning tool 205 to channel fluid to cleaning tool 205 to facilitate the cleaning process. For example, where cleaning tool 205 includes a brush, fluid tubing 300 can be coupled to an external portion of cleaning tool 205 to provide fluid at a distal end of fluid tubing 300 adjacent to the brush, which rinses cleaning tool 205 and the surrounding area to facilitate cleaning the inward facing surface. In certain embodiments, cleaning tool 205 can be made of a silicon material to repel and prevent growth of germs and bacteria. The silicon material can prevent fluid absorption by cleaning tool 205 and to enable quick cleaning of cleaning tool 205. In certain embodiments, fluid tubing 300 can be embedded within cleaning tool 205 to channel fluid through cleaning tool 205 to the brush, which includes cavities through which the fluid is ejected to wet the brush and the surrounding area.

In certain embodiments, the fluid can be transferred with a predetermined high pressure to enable using the fluid to clean toilet bowl 110. The pressurized fluid stream can facilitate washing cleaning tool 205 at the end of the cleaning process. In certain embodiments, the pressurized fluid can be configured to rotate cleaning tool 205 or a portion thereof, for example, actuate the deployment and rotation of the brush to increase the cleaning effectivity of the brush, and to clean cleaning tool 205 after completion of the cleaning process by removing any residue therefrom. Fluid tube 300 provides fluid to the sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g that is sprayed onto seat 102.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a soap unit 400 of toilet cleaning system 100, according to certain embodiments. Soap unit 400 can include a fillable compartment 405 configured for placement of cleaning material 407, which is mixed with fluid poured into fillable compartment 405 through fluid port 410. Fluid port 410 can be coupled to a tube 450 configured to lead fluid to soap unit 400. The mixed fluid and soap 407 flow to toilet cleaning system 100 through fluid tubing 300 which is coupled to an exit port 415 of soap unit 400. In certain embodiments, soap unit 400 can be achieved by using a tube with a narrow passage configured to cause a Venturi effect to redirect fluid through soap unit 400 to mix the fluid with soap 405.

The cleaning material 407 can be stored as a solid bar, fluid, or detergent which can be stored in fillable compartment 405. Fillable compartment 405 can enable the user to insert the cleaning material therein. Fluid tube 300 supplies fluid to toilet cleaning system 100 and can be in fluid communication with fillable compartment 405 such that cleaning material 407 is dispensed into the pressurized fluid stream. Soap unit 400 can be arranged within toilet cleaning system 100 or externally of toilet cleaning system 100 depending on ease of access for filling the cleaning material in to fillable compartment 405. Soap unit 400 can include a valve 420 to configured to actuate and moderate the flow of fluid through the soap unit 400.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a bidet 500 of toilet cleaning system 100 of FIG. 1, according to certain embodiments. Bidet 500 can be configured to provide hygienic cleaning for a user of toilet 105. Bidet 500 includes a faucet 505, an air blower 510, a nozzle sterilization and/or the like. In certain embodiments, fluid tubing 300 of FIG. 3 can provide the fluid to components of toilet cleaning system 100 and to bidet 500. In certain embodiments, bidet 500 can include an air blower 502, which can be configured to perform the function of air blowers 255, 256 for drying seat 102 and for drying the user's skin. In certain embodiments, bidet 500 can include an air sanitizer and water filter.

FIG. 6A-6C schematically illustrate operation of toilet cleaning system 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 6A illustrates toilet cleaning system 100 with cleaning tool 205 in a stored position within storage compartment 210.

FIG. 6B illustrates cleaning tool 205 extracted from storage compartment 210 and extended towards toilet bowl 110. FIG. 6C illustrates cleaning tool 205 in retraction after completion of the cleaning process. In certain embodiments, toilet cleaning system 100 includes a mobile cleaning tool 605 aligned above seat 102, configured to clean seat 102 after sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d rinse seat 102. Mobile cleaning tool 605, may be coupled to a railing 610 of toilet cleaning system 100, configured to enable mobile cleaning tool 605 to travel along rail 610 and clean seat 102. For example, the mobile cleaning tool 605 has a cleaning element 615, such as a sponge that scrubs a top surface of seat 102 to remove waste that is stuck to seat 102. In certain embodiments, cleaning element 615 is a rotating brush configured to rotate while traveling along the rail 610 to clean seat 102. In certain embodiments, support arm 207 can be flexible to enable inserting cleaning tool 205 into a drain port of toilet bowl 110 to enable cleaning it from waste and to unclog the drain port in cases where an object is blocking the ejection of fluid and waste from the toilet bowl. In certain embodiments, the flexibility of support arm 207 enables support arm to reach the inward facing surface in situations where cleaning path is erroneous and cleaning tool 205 does not reach inward facing surface. Support arm 207 can bend or stretch to enable to provide cleaning tool with access to the inward facing surface to compensate for the cleaning path error. In certain embodiments, a mobile sprinkler 616 which moves with mobile cleaning tool 605 and rinses the surface of seat 102 as cleaning element 615 scrubs seat 102.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an operating system 700 of toilet cleaning system 100, according to certain embodiments. Operating system 700 includes a processor 702 configured to operate toilet cleaning system 100. Operating system 700 includes control device 701 configured to control components of toilet cleaning system 100. A user interface 730 configured to enable a user to communicate with processor 702, for example, to provide a three-dimensional map of toilet 105. User interface 730 can include a display unit 732 configured to display parameters of toilet cleaning system 100, such as remaining cleaning time, amount of soap used, water usage, power consumption, and/or the like. In certain embodiments, display unit 732 can provide a notification when toilet cleaning system is operating to prevent interference with the cleaning process.

Control device 701 is configured to operate one or more motors 750, for example, a support arm motor, a cleaning tool motor, a rotating plate motor, and/or the like. The support arm motor is configured to activate support arm 207, for example, where support arm 207 includes a piston, the support arm motor can activate piston to extend or to shorten support arm 207. The support arm motor can also move the support arm towards and from the inward face surface. The cleaning tool motor is configured to actuate cleaning tool 205. For example, cleaning tool 205 is a brush, cleaning tool motor can activate brush to rotate and clean toilet bowl 105. The rotating plate motor operates the movement of rotating plate or sling ring for rotating support arm 207 to enable cleaning tool 205 to reach all areas of inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110.

In certain embodiments, operating system 700 can include a distance sensor 715 configured to measure an interior volume of toilet bowl 110. Distance sensor 715 can obtain measurements, for example, by having a radar or a signal emitter/receiver to detect signals that are sent towards and bounce back from the inward facing surface. The signals received provides measurements that enable processor 702 to map the inner surface of toilet bowl 110 and to generate a cleaning path for cleaning tool 205.

In certain embodiments, toilet bowl 110 can be mapped by processor 702 moves cleaning tool 205 along the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110 and recording a distance at which cleaning tool 205 is in contact with the inward facing surface. Processor 702 determines when cleaning tool 205 is in contact with the inward facing surface by detection sensor 715 measuring when current provided to the support arm motor increases resulting from the resistance provided by the toilet bowl 110. Cleaning tool 205 is moved around toilet bowl 110 until all the areas of the inward facing surface are measures by detection sensor 715. The operating system 700 can generate a three-dimensional map of the inward facing surface.

Control device 701 is configured to operate one or more valves 755 of toilet control system 100, configured to regulate the flow of fluid in fluid tubing 300 to cleaning tool 205 and sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g. Control device 701 is configured to operate air blower 255, 256.

Operating system 700 can include a storage unit 725 configured to store toilet schematic presets, which provides dimension information about and/or three-dimensional map thereof. In certain embodiments, processor 702 can receive a toilet schematic from user interface 730, for example, from an input provided via user interface 730.

In certain embodiments, operating system 700 can include a motion sensor 710 configured to detect when toilet cleaning system 100 is manipulated during the cleaning process. Motion sensor 710 can provide a stop signal to notify processor 702 to stop the cleaning process and provide a resume signal to processor 702 when toilet cleaning system 100 is returned to an operating position on toilet 105.

Operating system 700 can include a stain sensor 720 configured to detect waste that is attached to the inner surface of toilet bowl 110, upon which control device 701 can initiate a cleaning of toilet 100. The stain sensor 710 can determine there is waste on the inward surface by detecting discrepancies between surface readings received of by stain sensor 701. For example, where stain sensor 701 is a radar, which transmits a signal towards the inward surface. The signal bounces off the inward facing surface and is measured by stain sensor 701. The measurement is used by control device 701 to determine whether remaining waste must be removed.

In certain embodiments, stain sensor 720 can include a camera configured to obtain images of the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110. Upon mounting and activation of toilet cleaning system 100 onto toilet 105, stain sensor 720 obtains an image of the inward facing surface when it is clean. While toilet cleaning system 100 is active, stain sensor 720 obtains images of the inward facing surface at predetermined intervals, which are compared by processor 702 to the first image taken when toilet cleaning system 100 was activated. During the comparison, processor 702 makes a determination whether there is waste in the toilet by recognizing differences between the images compared.

The stain sensor 720 identification of the waste can be mapped by control device 701 in the map generated of the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110. Identification of the waste can provide control device 701 with an indication of a location that requires additional cleaning time in the cleaning path. In certain embodiments, stain sensor 720 can provide information on whether the waste was removed during the cleaning process or whether the location of the waste needs to be cleaned again.

In certain embodiments, user interface 730 can be configured to provide an entertainment system. Operating system 700 can include a communication unit 735 to provide wireless capabilities, for example, WiFi, Bluetooth, Near-Field Communication (NFC) or the like to operating system. Communication unit 735 can be configured to communicate with a third-party device having an application for transmitting operation commands to control device 701 and to receive from control device 701 information relating to the operation of toilet cleaning system 100. Communication unit 735 can be configured with a wireless connection for connecting with a remote device, such as an application on a handheld device. The application can be configured for remote operation of toilet cleaning system 100, for example, controlling the operation of toilet cleaning system 100, providing information about power levels, or the like. Communication unit 735 can receive the three-dimensional map from a third-party device having an application configured for communicating with toilet cleaning system 100.

Operating system 700 can include a locking mechanism 712 configured to prevent removal of toilet cleaning system 100 from toilet 100 during the cleaning process. When the cleaning process commences processor 702 can activate locking mechanism 712 and can unlock locking mechanism 712 upon completion of the cleaning process or upon receiving a command to unlock locking mechanism 712.

In certain embodiments, operation system 700 can include a weight measuring unit coupled to seat 102 and configured to obtain a user's weight when the user is sitting on seat 102. Weight measuring unit enables processor 702 to track the user's weight and store the information in storage unit 725. Processor 702 can identify the user according to the user's weight to enable providing the user with customized preferences from toilet cleaning system 100, for example, keeping track of the user's use of the toilet, displaying on display unit a desired show, accessing a preferred website, playing music or the like. An application provided to the user on a third-party device, for example, a smartphone, which enables the user to create an account for tracking the user's use of toilet 105 and toilet cleaning system 100.

Processor 702 can be configured execute programs, such as preset schedules for cleaning the toilet bowl 110. In certain embodiments, processor 702 can include a counter configured to count a number of times toilet 105 is flushed and can accordingly run a cleaning process automatically after a predetermined number of toilet flushes. Processor 702 can track of the toilet's use according to the number of times a load is measured by the weight measuring unit.

FIGS. 8A-8B shows a method for cleaning a toilet, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 8A shows a method for cleaning toilet bowl 110, according to certain embodiments. The method can be performed by operating system 700 of FIG. 7 to clean toilet 105 of FIG. 1. Step 800 discloses processor 702 mapping toilet bowl 110 to enable toilet cleaning system 100 to clean toilet. In certain embodiments, toilet bowl 110 can be mapped by processor 702 according to measurements obtained from distance sensor 715. In certain embodiments, toilet bowl 110 can be mapped by processor 702 operating control device 701 to move cleaning tool along the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110 and recording a distance at which cleaning tool 205 is in contact with the inward facing surface. Processor 701 determines when cleaning tool is in contact with the inward facing surface by measuring when current is increased to the support arm motor because of resistance provided by the toilet bowl 110. Cleaning tool 205 is moved around toilet bowl 110 until the inward facing surface is mapped by control device 701.

Step 802 discloses processor 702 generating a cleaning path. Processor 702 generates the cleaning path according to mapping of toilet bowl 110. The cleaning path provides the path along which cleaning tool 205 is moved along the inward facing surface of toilet bowl 110 to ensure all of toilet bowl 110 is cleaned during the cleaning process.

Step 805 discloses processor 702 deploying cleaning tool 205 towards toilet bowl 110 according to mapping of toilet bowl 110. Processor 702 operates control device 701 to deploy cleaning tool 205 from storage compartment 210 towards toilet bowl 110. For example, by activating the support arm motor that moves the support arm to extract support arm 207 and cleaning tool 205 from storage compartment 210. Support arm 207 can be rotated, for example, by rotating plate to orient cleaning tool towards a location at which cleaning is to commence on toilet bowl 110. As cleaning tool 205 is deployed, storage compartment door 210 opens to enable cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207 to exit storage compartment.

Step 810 discloses processor 702 performing cleaning of toilet bowl 110. Processor 702 activates cleaning tool 205, for example, where cleaning tool 205 has a rotating brush, control device 701 can operate a cleaning tool motor to activate the brush to rotate. Another example, processor 702 operates the valves 855 to actuate fluid through fluid tube 400 to flow to cleaning tool 205 to rinse toilet bowl 110.

Step 815 discloses processor 702 rinse cleaning tool 205. In certain embodiments, upon completion of cleaning toilet bowl 110, cleaning tool 205 is rinsed by fluid. Cleaning tool can also be moved to shake off and remove remaining fluid and waste on the cleaning tool. For example, the brush of cleaning tool 205 can be rotated by cleaning tool motor after brush is no longer in contact with toilet bowl 110 to cause excess fluid and waste to fall into toilet bowl 110 to be flushed away.

Step 820 discloses processor 702 returning cleaning tool 205 to storage compartment 210. Processor 702 operates the support arm motor to retract support arm and to fold it and cleaning tool 205 to enable insertion into storage compartment 210. Once cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207 are stored in storage compartment 210, storage compartment door 220 closes to seal cleaning tool 205 and support arm 207 within storage compartment 210.

FIG. 8B shows a method of cleaning seat 102, according to certain embodiments.

Step 825 discloses processor 702 activating sprinklers to clean seat 102. Processor 702 actuates valves 855 that enable fluid in fluid tube 400 to access sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d to spray fluid onto seat 102. The fluid rinses seat 102 and removes unwanted waste from seat 102. In certain embodiments, control device 701 activates mobile cleaning tool 605 to scrub seat 102 while sprinklers are providing fluid.

Step 830 discloses processor 702 activating air blowers 255, 256 to remove remaining fluid on seat 102. Processor 702 activates air blowers 255, 256 to ensure fluid from sprinklers 251a, 251b, 251c, 251d, 251e, 251f, 251g flows into toilet bowl 110 and does not wet the surroundings of the toilet 105.

FIG. 9 shows a display screen 900 coupled to seat 102, according to certain embodiments. Display screen 900 can provide entertainment, advertisement or the like to a user sitting on seat 102. Display screen 900 can be connected to operating system 700 of FIG. 7, which provides the content to display screen 900.

The present invention can include a system, a method, and/or a computer program product. The computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present invention.

The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire. Rather, the computer readable storage medium is a non-transient (i.e., not-volatile) medium.

Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing/processing devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and/or a wireless network. The network can include copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and/or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing/processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing/processing device.

Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present invention can be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, or either source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like, and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions can execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) can execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.

These computer readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and/or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein includes an article of manufacture including instructions which implement aspects of the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block can occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A toilet cleaning system mounted onto a toilet, the toilet cleaning system including:

a cleaning tool configured to clean an inward facing surface of the toilet bowl;

a support arm configured move said cleaning tool along the inward facing surface; and,

a control device configured to: deploy said support arm to move said cleaning tool towards the inward facing surface; and, actuate said cleaning tool to clean the inward facing surface.

2. The toilet cleaning system of claim 1, wherein said control device deploys said support arm along a cleaning path.

3. The toilet cleaning system of claim 2, wherein said cleaning path is designated according to a three-dimensional map of the inward facing surface.

4. The toilet cleaning system of claim 3, further including a processor configured to generate a three-dimension map.

5. The toilet cleaning system of claim 4, further including:

at least one detection sensor configured to measure dimensions of the inward facing surface; and,

wherein said processor generates said three-dimensional map according to the measurements obtained by said at least one detection sensor.

6. The toilet cleaning system of claim 5, wherein said detection sensor measures dimensions of the inward facing surface by detecting locations where there is an increase of current required for moving said support arm due to resistance applied onto said cleaning tool by the inward facing surface.

7. The toilet cleaning system of claim 4, further including a stain sensor configured to detect waste on the inward facing surface; wherein said processor utilizes data obtained by said stain sensor to designate a location of the waste to indicate an area on the inward facing surface that requires extensive cleaning.

8. The toilet cleaning system of claim 7, wherein said stain sensor is a camera configured to obtain images of the inward facing surface; wherein said processor compares an image of a clean inward facing surface obtained during activation of said toilet cleaning system and compared to images obtained at predetermined time intervals so as to determine whether the inward facing surface requires cleaning.

9. The toilet cleaning system of claim 3, further including a storage unit configured to store toilet presets, wherein said stored toilet presets include said three-dimensional map.

10. The toilet cleaning system of claim 3, further including a communication unit configured to receive said three-dimensional map from a third-party device.

11. The toilet cleaning system of claim 10, further including:

a user interface configured for obtaining said three-dimensional map of the toilet; and,

a display unit configured to display toilet cleaning system parameters.

12. The toilet cleaning system of claim 11, further including a display screen coupled to a toilet seat and configured to display entertainment content to a user of the toilet.

13. The toilet cleaning system of claim 1, further including a storage compartment for storing and concealing said cleaning tool when the toilet is not being cleaned, said storage compartment having an elongated opening to enable said cleaning tool and said support arm to pivot into said storage compartment.

14. The toilet cleaning system of claim 13, further including a collection compartment configured to collect residue fluid dripping from said cleaning tool during storage of said cleaning tool, wherein said collection compartment has a conduit to channel the residue fluid dripping from said cleaning tool into the toilet bowl.

15. The toilet cleaning system of claim 13, further including a storage compartment door configured to enclose said cleaning tool and conceal said storage compartment.

16. The toilet cleaning system of claim 13, wherein said control device is further configured to:

retract said cleaning tool to said storage compartment upon completion of a cleaning process; and,

rinse said cleaning tool prior to storage to remove excess fluid and waste from said cleaning tool.

17. The toilet cleaning system of claim 1, further including a soap unit for mixing a cleaning material with the fluid channeled to said cleaning tool.

18. A toilet cleaning system of claim 1, further including:

at least one sprinkler configured to clean a toilet seat by spraying fluid onto the toilet;

and,

an air blower to remove fluid residue remaining on the toilet seat,

wherein said control device is further configured to: activate said at least one sprinkler to spray the toilet seat; activate said air blower to dry the toilet seat.

19. The toilet cleaning system of claim 14, further including a mobile cleaning tool configured to move along a rail to clean the toilet seat.

20. The toilet cleaning system of claim 1, wherein said support arm has a flexible member enabling said cleaning tool to clean difficult to reach areas on the inward facing surface.