Disinfection Patents (Class 4/222)
  • Publication number: 20110252552
    Abstract: A cartridge apparatus for use with a urinal (e.g., a waterless urinal) is configured to be received at least partially within a cartridge housing associated with the urinal bowl thereof. The cartridge apparatus includes a cartridge top member having at least one opening configured to allow urine in a urinal bowl to pass into the cartridge apparatus and a fluidless cartridge trap connected to the cartridge top member that is normally in a closed state to prevent gases (e.g., sewer gases or other odors) from exiting from a cartridge housing and that is in an open state to allow urine to pass therethrough when urine is received in the cartridge apparatus through the cartridge top member. A urinal apparatus with which the cartridge may be used may include a cleaning apparatus for use in disinfecting and/or deodorizing the urinal apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Terrance E. JANSSEN
  • Publication number: 20110218943
    Abstract: A vertical elongated kiosk with a floor-engaging portion is equipped with a handle and optional wheels adjacent a rear surface to facilitate is mobility. A deck region has a dispenser which may include a spout from which hand/surface sanitizer is dispensed in response to a motion sensor. Electrical power is provided alternatively by a storage battery which may be recharged by a solar panel or an ac outlet plug. A wireless receiver/transmitter communicates with a remote base computer to control and monitor the operation of the kiosk. Informational displays, both video and placard, can be accommodated and a business card dispenser provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Keith Haluska, David Stob
  • Patent number: 8006324
    Abstract: A urinal discharge pipe assembly comprising a discharge pipe having a passageway therethrough from an inlet in communication with a urinal discharge outlet and an outlet in communication with a urine disposal system, a foam dispensing device having a foam outlet open into the passageway for discharge of an allotment of foam into the passageway between the inlet and the outlet adequate to form a temporary foam plug across the passageway blocking the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Gotohti.com Inc.
    Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones
  • Publication number: 20110197347
    Abstract: Cartridge (1) for coupling to a toilet flusher comprising at least one chamber (2) for receiving at least one free-flowing toilet cleaning preparation (6). The chamber (2) has an outlet (4) that lies in the direction of gravitation such that the toilet cleaning preparation can be released from the chamber (2) due to the force of gravity. The outlet (4) is, prior to a first coupling to the toilet flusher, secured prior to the release of the toilet cleaning preparation (6). The preparation is released from the cartridge (1) through the outlet due to the force of gravity when the cartridge (1) is first coupled to the toilet flusher. The chamber (2) has a communicating bar (8), wherein the bar and at least one other chamber (10) are designed so that they interact whereby the chamber (10) can be arranged on or next to the bar (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventors: Ralph Butter-Jentsch, Hans-Georg Muehlhausen
  • Patent number: 7976600
    Abstract: A device for detection, collection, containment, neutralization, and elimination of aerosolized contaminants has a lid that fully covers an edge of a toilet bowl for containment of exiting aerosolized contaminants. The lid including a main lid section and a single piece lid cap, with the single piece lid cap having a housing for accommodating an article. The single piece lid cap having a first vent located normal to a natural vertical upward move of the aerosolized contaminants, and a second vent at a back end of the single piece lid cap, oriented substantially parallel to the vertical upward movement of the aerosolized contaminants. The aerosolized contaminants are detected, collected, contained, neutralized, and eliminated by the article within the housing, allowing only uncontaminated air out of the second vent through a natural upward movement of the aerosolized contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph Safuto
  • Patent number: 7934271
    Abstract: Toilet bowl treating/cleaning assemblies are provided. In one form the toilet seat lid has mounted on it a dispenser in a fashion so that pivoting of the lid assists in controlling dispensing of a solid pill containing a treating chemical. Also, structures are provided to avoid dispensing when a consumer determines that bowl treatment is not needed, and to facilitate dispensing in response to manual activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Soller, Michael C. Fryan, Matthew N. Thurin, Kevin L. Askling
  • Patent number: 7921479
    Abstract: A system for conserving water in a conventional water-based urinal where the water has been shut off, the block includes a first block portion that makes up about forty percent to sixty percent of the urinal block and has a first portion composition substantially similar to a conventional, non-paradichlorobenzene block used in water-based urinals for deodorizing during each flush, and a second block portion that makes up about forty to sixty percent of the urinal block and has a second portion composition of a blended mixture of a non-paradichlorobenzene block portion, an odor counteractant gel, and a bacterial culture gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Jay D. Hunter
  • Patent number: 7913330
    Abstract: A dispenser delivery system for a closed container that permits periodic dispensing of a dispersant into a fluid in the container without having to remove a cover over the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph A. King
  • Publication number: 20110016619
    Abstract: A method for determining the point in time for the replacement of one or more of wearing parts, blocking fluids and fragrance and cleaning substances, dependent on the use of a sanitary apparatus, includes the step of placing an indicator element in the run-out region of the sanitary apparatus, which indicator element has an optically recognizable chemical or physical conversion indicator that provides an observable conversion after a predetermined, or pre-set, number of uses, or wettings, of the sanitary apparatus for altering maintenance personnel that maintenance of the sanitary apparatus is required. An apparatus for performing the method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Hans Keller
  • Patent number: 7832024
    Abstract: A system capable of generating foam in a sanitary appliance includes a dosing device previously filled with a foaming substance, the dosing device metering a dosage of the substance, an agitation mechanism to agitate the substance to create foam, a receptacle to retain the substance for communication with the agitation mechanism, a fluid supply to allow fluid transport of the substance to the receptacle, and a trigger for activating the fluid supply. A dosing device of this system is further provided, including a container filled with a foaming substance, a positioner to position and house the container, the positioner further including a pin capable of creating a bottom aperture of the container, a fluid supply, wherein the outlet of the fluid supply is directed at the aperture on the bottom end of the container. A container is also provided that can be used in the dosing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Meng Chow
  • Publication number: 20100235975
    Abstract: Improved treatment blocks useful in the treatment of lavatory appliances, particularly toilets are provided. The improved treatment blocks are solid block compositions which comprise at least one detersive surfactant, a film forming constituent, optionally a bleach constituent and one or more further optional constituents. The improved treatment blocks provide good detersive characteristics and further provide a film forming material which contacts the surfaces of the lavatory appliance, e.g., toilet, in which the block compositions are used. Methods of producing the solid block composition and treatment blocks therefrom, as well as methods of use are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: RECKITT BENCKISER INC.
    Inventors: Tak Wai Cheung, Robert Zhong Lu, Dana Moseson, Steven Wu
  • Patent number: 7793362
    Abstract: A toilet seat lift system for a toilet having a toilet bowl is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the toilet seat lift system includes a seat connecting shaft adapted for attachment to the toilet bowl, a toilet seat carried by the seat connecting shaft, a cover connecting rod extending through the seat connecting shaft, a toilet cover carried by the cover connecting rod, a seat handle carried by the seat connecting shaft and a cover handle carried by the cover connecting rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventors: Owen Stoby, Audrey Stoby
  • Publication number: 20100219293
    Abstract: The invention relates to an odour seal for a vacuum toilet drain system whose cross section in the state of no throughflow tapers off in such a way in the downstream direction that the interior walls on the downstream end of the odour seal rest against each other so that the odour seal in a downstream direction allows throughflow while in the opposite direction it blocks throughflow, wherein the downstream end of the odour seal is closed in the state of throughflow and no throughflow of the odour seal. Furthermore, the invention relates to a drainage device comprising such an odour seal and a sieve which is arranged upstream of the odour seal. Moreover, the invention relates to a vacuum toilet system for an aircraft, comprising such an odour seal or a drainage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Christian Seibt, Peter Hilse
  • Patent number: 7727465
    Abstract: A system and method for extracting active elemental iodine from the contact of water with stored crystal iodine and for introducing the extracted elemental iodine into a water supply line and/or otherwise making the extracted elemental iodine available for an intended use. The system operates by allowing a portion of the water entering from a water supply line to be redirected to a first housing where it makes contact with stored crystal iodine causing to extract active elemental iodine. The iodinized water leaves the first housing and enters a second housing where it makes contact additional stored crystal iodine to help stabilize the elemental iodine concentration. The system can be designed to provide the elemental iodine in more than one potency concentration through the use of a metering valve and different travel routes for the elemental iodine out of the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Spyros J. Papageorge
  • Publication number: 20090260141
    Abstract: One embodiment of a self cleaning toilet bowl rim cover having a water conveyance (5) one end of which is hydraulically connected to water intake valve (9) the other end of water conveyance (5) opens over higher end of inclined surface (1) which slopes downward to drain (4) which is positioned over toilet bowl interior (7) Other embodiments are described and shown
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Gregory McDaniel
  • Publication number: 20090217446
    Abstract: A toilet flushing device comprises a valve assembly, an automatic control device and an manual control device. The automatic control device has a control circuit and causes flushing of the toilet upon an external signal. The manual control device allows manual flushing of the toilet. Thus bot automatic and manual flushing of the toilet are possible. A scent box provides disinfection and good odor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Shin-Yan Wang
  • Publication number: 20090163126
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to devices and methods for cleaning, disinfecting, or sanitizing a toilet bowl surface or other surface. The device features a sheath having a first surface and second surface. The sheath is capable of assuming two positions. In said first position the first surface faces inward toward itself defining a first opening and a first chamber. In the second position the second surface faces inward towards itself defining a second opening and a second chamber and the first surface faces outward. The sheath is moved from the first position into the second position by inverting it over a flexible head attached to a hollow wand. A roughening agent is affixed to the first surface for cleaning toilet bowl surfaces and other surfaces. A cleaning, disinfecting or sanitizing agent can also be applied to the first surface of the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas Clyde Hatch, Matthew Stewart Hatch
  • Publication number: 20090119825
    Abstract: A lavatory cleansing block has two parts. The formulations of each part are such that one part has a substantially shorter in-use life time than the other part. The faster dissolving part may provide a different active ingredient to the lavatory bowl or an increased impact, such as foam level or smell, for the user. A cleansing block comprising a colorant and less than 5% by weight is also claimed. Apparatus for making a lavatory cleansing block comprising means for forming a body formed from a first composition, the body having at least one aperture there through.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Brian Wilson, David Stuart
  • Patent number: 7488416
    Abstract: A bathing pool assembly with water full of nano-scale ozone bubbles for rehabilitation has a bath, a reservoir and two circulating systems. The bath and the reservoir both have a main inlet and a main outlet. The reservoir further has a tap to allow water to flow out of the reservoir, which is provided for people to drink or gargle. The circulating systems are connected respectively to and communicate respectively with the bath and the reservoir to recycle water. The circulating systems are further connected to a gas generator assembly having an oxygen generator and an ozone generator to provide water full of oxygen and ozone to release free radicals and anions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Rosace International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo-Kang Chen
  • Patent number: 7485166
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device for detection, collection, containment, neutralization, and elimination of aerosolized contaminants, comprising a lid that fully covers an edge of a container for containment of exiting aerosolized contaminants, with the lid having housing for accommodating an article. The housing comprising a top vent aligned along atop of a bottom vent, with the top vent optionally smaller in size than the bottom vent, and with the housing, the top vent, and the bottom vent located normal to a natural vertical upward move of the aerosolized contaminants. The aerosolized contaminants are detected, collected, contained, neutralized, and eliminated and sanitized by the article within the housing, allowing only uncontaminated air out of the top vent through a natural upward movement of the aerosolized contaminants via the force of the flush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Safuto
  • Patent number: 7478442
    Abstract: A dispenser delivery system for a closed container that permits periodic dispensing of a dispersant into a fluid in the container without having to remove a cover over the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: King Technology
    Inventor: Joseph A. King
  • Patent number: 7458108
    Abstract: We provide a sink drain air freshener container that is generally used with sink cover or a sink strainer/stopper. The air freshener container contains a plastic-based air freshener that emits the fragrance for at least 20 days after being unwrapped and placed in use in a sink. The air freshener container has perforations to enable the container to be drained. The strainer/stopper is preferably made of disposable plastic and the container is preferably part of the top portion of the strainer/stopper stem that is used in conjunction with the strainer/stopper perforated basket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Bath Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas H. Wolf
  • Patent number: 7445759
    Abstract: A system and method for extracting active elemental iodine from the contact of water with stored crystal iodine and for introducing the extracted elemental iodine into a water supply line and/or otherwise making the extracted elemental iodine available for an intended use. The system operates by allowing a portion of the water entering from a water supply line to be redirected to a first housing where it makes contact with stored crystal iodine causing to extract active elemental iodine. The iodinized water leaves the first housing and enters a second housing where it makes contact additional stored crystal iodine to help stabilize the elemental iodine concentration. The system can be designed to provide the elemental iodine in more than one potency concentration through the use of a metering valve and different travel routes for the elemental iodine out of the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Inventor: Spyros J. Papageorge
  • Publication number: 20080201832
    Abstract: A draining system having an odor seal for a vacuum toilet drain system in which a flexible hose acts as an odor seal. As a result of the flexible hose, propagation of odors can be prevented when the hose collapses flat, for example as a result of its intrinsic weight, and consequently there is no longer a flow-through cross section, wherein, however, drainage of liquids remains possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Christian Seibt
  • Publication number: 20080189841
    Abstract: A pressure-actuated disinfectant dispenser and method for treating wastewater in an aerobic treatment system. The dispenser includes a reservoir for holding a disinfectant supply and a dosage container for holding a dosage of disinfectant. The container is positioned within the reservoir and has a flow-regulated path for fluid communication from the reservoir into the container. The invention also includes actuation means for increasing the pressure within the dosage container to force disinfectant therefrom, and a discharge assembly for discharging fluid from the dosage container into said storage tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Cecil A. Yandell
  • Patent number: 7264774
    Abstract: A method of sanitizing a drain having a drain conduit with a drain trap therein and an improved floor drain for use in the method of sanitizing. The method comprises the steps of (a) temporarily blocking the drain conduit at a position downstream of the trap and (b) at least partially back-filling the drain upstream of the blocked position with a sanitizing fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventor: David Howard
  • Patent number: 7098174
    Abstract: A drainage slime remover capable of spreading a solution of a solid over slime generated wall surface portions, comprising a solid containing a microorganism growth retarding substance and a container which has a shape for permitting the installation thereof at the inlet or upper portion of a drain outlet and stores the solid, characterized in that the container has drain flow-in holes having an opening capable of controlling a drain flow-in amount and provided in the upper surface or the upper side portion of the container and solution flow-out holes having an opening capable of controlling a flow-out amount if a solid solution and provided in the bottom or the lower side portion of the container or additionally in the side surface thereof; and a slime preventing/removing agent which can remove slime from portions such as kitchen sinks and bathroom drain outlets where slime is grown by metabolites such as miscellaneous germs and mildews and which can prevent the occurrence of slime safely and for an extended
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eiji Takemura, Izumi Takano, Kaoru Muto, Takashi Yoshihara, Akira Doshida
  • Patent number: 7065803
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment method for dispensing a product (121) such as cyanuric acid into an existing swimming pool circulation system includes providing a product (121) placed within a permeable bag (120). The permeable bag (120) containing the product (121) is placed into a cavity (104) of a flood feeder (100) having an inlet (105) and an outlet (108). The inlet (105) and the outlet (108) are in fluid communication with the cavity (104) of the feeder (100). A diluent is supplied to the inlet (105) and the diluent is allowed to flood the cavity (104) thereby contacting the permeable bag (120) and dissolving a portion of the product (121) to create a use solution within the cavity (104). The use solution is allowed to exit the cavity (104) through the outlet (108) and to flow into the swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: James Richard Mock, Sr., Roy Siqueiros
  • Patent number: 6944889
    Abstract: A device (1) for dispensing a volatile substance and simultaneously or sequentially dispensing a soluble substance comprising a structure (2, 3, 4) floatable on a liquid (L). The structure includes a first chamber (5) adapted to receive a filling of a first ingredient (A) adapted to release and diffuse a volatile substance, such as a fragrance, as a result of being contacted with the liquid on which the structure is floated. The structure (1) further includes a second chamber (6) adapted to receive a second ingredient, such as a spa product to be dissolved into the liquid. Floating the device (1) on a liquid such as bath water causes the liquid to contact the first (A) and second (B) ingredients, whereby the volatile substance is released from the first ingredient (A) preferably in the form of a vapour or steam, while the second ingredient (B) is dissolved into the liquid. A preferred application is as a bathing implement or a product for toilet hygiene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Simon David Julian Hill
  • Patent number: 6927199
    Abstract: A drainage slime remover capable of spreading a solution of a solid over slime generated wall surface portions, comprising a solid containing a microorganism growth retarding substance and a container which has a shape for permitting the installation thereof at the inlet or upper portion of a drain outlet and stores the solid, characterized in that the container has drain flow-in holes having an opening capable of controlling a drain flow-in amount and provided in the upper surface or the upper side portion of the container and solution flow-out holes having an opening capable of controlling a flow-out amount if a solid solution and provided in the bottom or the lower side portion of the container or additionally in the side surface thereof; and a slime preventing/removing agent which can remove slime from portions such as kitchen sinks and bathroom drain outlets where slime is grown by metabolites such as miscellaneous germs and mildews and which can prevent the occurrence of slime safely and for an extended
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Nippon Soda Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Eiji Takemura, Izumi Takano, Kaoru Muto, Takashi Yoshihara, Akira Doshida
  • Patent number: 6901609
    Abstract: A device (1) for dispensing a volatile substance and simultaneously or sequentially dispensing a soluble substance comprising a structure (2, 3, 4) floatable on a liquid (L). The structure includes a first chamber (5) adapted to receive a filling of a first ingredient (A) adapted to release and diffuse a volatile substance, such as a fragrance, as a result of being contacted with the liquid on which the structure is floated. The structure (1) further includes a second chamber (6) adapted to receive a second ingredient, such as a spa product to be dissolved into the liquid. Floating the device (1) on a liquid such as bath water causes the liquid to contact the first (A) and second (B) ingredients, whereby the volatile substance is released from the first ingredient (A) preferably in the form of a vapour or steam, while the second ingredient (B) is dissolved into the liquid. A preferred application is as a bathing implement or a product for toilet hygiene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Simon David Julian Hill
  • Patent number: 6874697
    Abstract: A device for disinfecting door handles and knobs comprising a dispenser for soap or disinfectant adapted to spray the soap or disinfectant on the door handles or knobs when triggered by the motion of a hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Ronel Domingo Callueng
  • Patent number: 6772450
    Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning a toilet bowl includes a flexible, deformable conduit having a position memory. Spacers project from the conduit and bear against an inner wall of the toilet bowl to maintain pressurized water exit apertures in the conduit spaced from the inner wall and oriented toward flush water exit holes in the toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventors: Tom Saylor, Victor Carrasquillo, Tim Lautze, Ernie Campora
  • Patent number: 6745417
    Abstract: A toilet stool capable of using comfortably without cleaning is provided. The toilet stool comprises a main body 10, a seat 11, a cover 12, injection means 41 and 42, and a control means. The main body 10 can preserve stool temporarily therein. The seat 11 is formed on the main body 10. The cover 12 performs opening and closing operations by rotating about a horizontal axis with respect to the main body 10. The injection means 41 and 42 perform a cleaning operation by injecting pressure liquid for cleaning. The control means causes the injection means 41 and 42 to perform the cleaning operation on the condition that the cover is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Hideo Sumino
  • Publication number: 20040068781
    Abstract: A device (1) for dispensing a volatile substance and simultaneously or sequentially dispensing a soluble substance comprising a structure (2, 3, 4) floatable on a liquid (L). The structure includes a first chamber (5) adapted to receive a filling of a first ingredient (A) adapted to release and diffuse a volatile substance, such as a fragrance, as a result of being contacted with the liquid on which the structure is floated. The structure (1) further includes a second chamber (6) adapted to receive a second ingredient, such as a spa product to be dissolved into the liquid. Floating the device (1) on a liquid such as bath water causes the liquid to contact the first (A) and second (B) ingredients, whereby the volatile substance is released from the first ingredient (A) preferably in the form of a vapour or steam, while the second ingredient (B) is dissolved into the liquid. A preferred application is as a bathing implement or a product for toilet hygiene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Simon David Julian Hill
  • Patent number: 6694536
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed that pushes a toilet seat down automatically by exerting a force based on gas pressure wherein the pressurized gas has a fragrance and the fragrant gas is released into the atmosphere by operation of the apparatus. In one embodiment, a predetermined amount of fragrant, pressurized gas may push a piston to a first distance, which piston exerts a force to push the upright seat closure to an unstable, descending position, and thereafter the piston moves to a greater, second distance, opening a vent to dispense the fragrant gas into the room. In a second embodiment, the fragrant, pressurized gas is directed against the seat through an extending bellows which sealingly engages the toilet seat or cover when the seat or cover is in the upright position. When fragrant, pressurized gas is channeled to the bellows, the bellows maintains its seal for a short time while the pressure rises to push the seat over. Additional embodiments are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Basil Haygreen
  • Patent number: 6691328
    Abstract: A bottle used to dispense a fluid for cleaning a toilet bowl is configured to provide for refilling the bottle. Such a bottle includes a reservoir, a metering portion, and a cover, which is removable to expose an opening within the reservoir for refilling. The cover may include the metering portion, or it may be formed as a cap at an end of the reservoir opposite the metering portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Delfino
  • Patent number: 6676842
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for preventing the formation of deposits in a drainage system (100). The device (10) includes a container (12, 212), connected by a flexible cord (20) to a stopper (22). An antimicrobial composition (24) is placed in the container and the container is inserted into a drain opening (102). The container moves to the bottom of the trap (106) of the drainage system. The container is preferably located at least partially beneath the water or drainage fluid (110) in the bottom of the trap. The cord and stopper prevent the container from moving beyond the trap. The cord and stopper allow for removal of the container from the drainage system, once the composition has been fully dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Osprey Biotechnics, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Scuilla, Peter A. Vandenbergh, David E. Glendening, Perry T. Patterson
  • Patent number: 6666966
    Abstract: The self-disinfecting drain trap is an arrangement for the automatic cleaning and disinfecting of drain traps in drain channels. The cleaning and disinfection take place automatically during normal usage and without interruption of the operation of the drain trap. They take place by means of a novel combination for drain traps of electromechanical oscillation, preferably ultrasound, heating the interior space of the drain trap and heating the confining liquid and preventing growth on the inner wall by means of a growth-inhibiting and antimicrobially effective coating. The danger of recontamination of sanitary apparatuses and devices and therewith also of the ambient air by microorganisms from wastewater pipelines is effectively countered therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Alexander Schluttig
  • Publication number: 20030188377
    Abstract: A method of and system for dispensing material from a dispenser into an area of interest, wherein an interrogation step takes place prior to the dispensing of the material for the satisfaction of at least one criterion relating to the presence/absence of one or more objects, and upon the failure to satisfy the at least one criterion, inhibiting the dispensing of the material to be dispensed until the one or more criterions are satisfied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Carl D. Contadini, John J. Dean
  • Patent number: 6591431
    Abstract: A device to dispense active substances into rinse water, especially in toilet bowls, with a container for the active substance, wherein the container has an opening that connects with an essentially plate-shaped distributor, and with a device to hold the distributor on or close to the toilet bowl wall. The distributor consists of two essentially plate-shaped elements. There are intersecting grooves, channels or the like between the plate-shaped elements, and a first group of grooves runs outward from the distributor while the other second group of grooves only runs within the distributor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Jeyes Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Horst Hautmann, Heinz-Dieter Schönbeck, Kurt Wagner
  • Publication number: 20030106143
    Abstract: A dispenser is provided for dispensing cleaning and deodorizing products for toilets, particularly for hanging over the rim of a toilet bowl. The dispenser comprises a location device and a refill cartridge for storing product to be dispensed. The location device comprises an attachment member for attaching the device to a toilet bowl and an element for receiving and supporting the refill cartridge. The refill cartridge comprises a container which, prior to use, is sealed with a removable lid, wherein removal of the lid exposes at least a portion of the product contained in the container for dispensing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicant: Reckitt Benckiser France
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Lhoste
  • Patent number: 6577240
    Abstract: A pair of sensors (20A and 20B) are mounted at the entrance to a germ sensitive area. When a person enters the area the sensors are activated in sequence, indicating the direction of movement of the person. An indicator, such as a light or sound alarm is mounted upon an antiseptic dispenser, located within the area. The alarm is actuated by the movement and is de-activated once antiseptic is dispensed from the unit. Likewise when the person moves out of the germ sensitive area, the alarm on a dispenser unit located outside the area is energized and is de-activated upon dispensing of antiseptic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: David N. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 6558538
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for preventing the formation of deposits in a drainage system (100). The device (10) includes a container (12, 212), connected by a flexible cord (20) to a stopper (22). An antimicrobial composition (24) is placed in the container and the container is inserted into a drain opening (102). The container moves to the bottom of the trap (106) of the drainage system. The container is preferably located at least partially beneath the water or drainage fluid (110) in the bottom of the trap. The cord and stopper prevent the container from moving beyond the trap. The cord and stopper allow for removal of the container from the drainage system, once the composition has been fully dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Osprey Biotechnics, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Scuilla, Peter A. Vandenbergh, David E. Glendening, Perry T. Patterson
  • Patent number: 6548162
    Abstract: Sanitary wares having a controlled surface are disclosed which are less likely to be stained or soiled and/or possess excellent gloss. The first sanitary ware comprises a sanitary ware body and a surface glaze layer provided on the sanitary ware body, wherein the surface glaze layer has a center line average roughness Ra of less than 0.07 &mgr;m. This sanitary ware is advantageous in that stains or soils are much less likely to be adhered to the surface thereof and, even when adhered to the surface thereof, can be removed by a weak water stream. The second sanitary ware comprises a sanitary ware body and a surface glaze layer provided on the sanitary ware body, wherein the surface glaze layer has a kurtosis Rku of less than 2.70. This sanitary ware advantageously possesses excellent surface gloss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Machida, Koichi Hayashi, Hirotaka Ishibashi, Tomoyasu Ichiki, Masaaki Ito, Masami Ando, Atsushi Kitamura, Toshihiro Aoshima, Katsuhiro Kawakami, Satoshi Horiuchi, Makoto Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 6544537
    Abstract: A toilet system is provided having a receptacle, into which human waste is discharged, the receptacle contains an aqueous disinfectant composition which has an opacifier dispersed therein to reduce the light transmittance of the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Robert L. Mahaffey, Jr., Sandra C. Morse
  • Patent number: 6528467
    Abstract: A drainage slime remover capable of spreading a solution of a solid over slime generated wall surface portions, comprising a solid containing a microorganism growth retarding substance and a container which has a shape for permitting the installation thereof at the inlet or upper portion of a drain outlet and stores the solid, characterized in that the container has drain flow-in holes having an opening capable of controlling a drain flow-in amount and provided in the upper surface or the upper side portion of the container and solution flow-out holes having an opening capable of controlling a flow-out amount if a solid solution and provided in the bottom or the lower side portion of the container or additionally in the side surface thereof; and a slime preventing/removing agent which can remove slime from portions such as kitchen sinks and bathroom drain outlets where slime is grown by metabolites such as miscellaneous germs and mildews and which can prevent the occurrence of slime safely and for an extended
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eiji Takemura, Izumi Takano, Kaoru Muto, Takashi Yoshihara, Akira Doshida
  • Patent number: 6510561
    Abstract: A dispensing device comprising a body defining first and second compartments, separated by a flexible impermeable membrane. The second compartment is closed off by a semi-permeable membrane adjacent which a water container is disposed. An apertured delivery tube leads from the first compartment. The device may be used to dispense a cleaning, disinfectant and/or fragrancing gel into a toilet bowl. On flushing, water enters the container and migrates through the semi-permeable membrane, increasing the pressure in an osmotic agent or swellable hydrogel contained in the second compartment. This imposes a pressure on the flexible impermeable membrane to displace a gel from the first compartment into the toilet bowl through apertures in the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser (UK) Limited
    Inventors: Geoffrey Robert Hammond, Malcolm Tom McKechnie, Steven Poile
  • Patent number: 6449779
    Abstract: A cleaning dispenser assembly to be used in connection with a toilet tank is coupled to a fill valve and an overflow tube of the tank. The dispenser assembly includes a container with a removable lid. A refill tube is coupled to a fill valve of the tank and the container. Tall and short discharge tubes are coupled to the container at different heights to facilitate the withdrawal of fluid from the container while preventing a vacuum from developing within the closed container. U-traps are formed in the refill tube and the discharge tubes to retain a portion of liquid in a steady state so as to seal the passageways in order to prevent gases from escaping into the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Fluidmaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6403032
    Abstract: In assembly for dispensing agents into drains and the like, includes a retaining member having a perforate wall structure substantially surrounding and enclosing a quantity of a sanitizing agent therein. The retaining member is preferably flexible and tubular, and may be formed into a donut-shaped configuration. The retaining member may be provided of a mesh material. The mesh initially holds the sanitizing agent, provided as a powder or in granular form therein. Upon wetting of the sanitizing agent, it may assume a gel-like consistency and erode to dispense the sanitizing agent into the liquid passing through the retaining member. A mount may be employed to both hold the retaining member in a proper position and configuration, and to secure edges of the retaining member in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: West Agro, Inc.
    Inventors: James Carman Abercrombie, Scott John Abercrombie, Curtis Walter Thomas