Alternate Unicyclic Flush Patents (Class 4/325)
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Patent number: 7219375Abstract: A flushing arrangement (30) including an opened topped housing (32) surrounding the flush valve (12). An opening (40) is provided in a lower part of the housing (32) with a selectively openable gate (44). The arrangement (30) is configured such that for a low volume flush the gate (44) is closed and only water in the housing (32) or located thereabove will be flushed, and for a high volume flush the gate (44) is open wherein substantially all of the water in the cistern (20) above the lowest part of the opening (40) is flushed.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2004Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventor: David William Steadman
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Patent number: 7200877Abstract: A dual flush toilet system (120) with a water tank (122), a discharge opening (159), a flush valve (156), and a toilet bowl, is provided with a dual action flush lever (130) for actuating a full or a partial flush operation, an engaging device (161) with a V-shaped groove (160) for selectively engaging the flush valve (156) in both upward or downward movements and rotations about a vertical axis, a travel limit device (141) for limiting the maximum vertical travels of the flush valve (146), a load device (420) for selectively applying a downward load to the flush valve (156) to forcibly push the flush valve (156) down to close the discharge opening (159), and an electronic control system (1020) for electronically regulating the volumes of water used to flush the dual flush toilet system (120) according to the wastes in the toilet bowl.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Karl Peng
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Patent number: 7062801Abstract: A two stage toilet tank bowl control system includes a tank ball selectively positioned on the valve seat in the water tank. The tank ball is linked to a lifting lever so as to raise the tank ball from the seat when the lifting lever is rotated in its flushing direction. An air outlet tube communicates with the interior of the tank ball to permit air to be exhausted from the interior of the tank ball. The air tube communicates with a passageway in a air flow block mounted to the wall of the water tank. The passageway has a full flush branch and a partial flush branch. A partial flush valve maintains the partial flush branch closed during conditions of full flush. A full flush handle moves the lifting lever in its flushing direction with the partial flush valve maintained in a closing condition against the outlet of the partial flush branch.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2004Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Inventor: John F. Oliver
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Patent number: 6920649Abstract: A flushing mechanism for toilet tank comprises an overflow tube (1) provided with a sealing valve (3, 4) co-operating with a discharge orifice (5?) including a first floater (30) mounted on a height-adjusting screw (31) and a second floater (40) mounted pivoting about a fixed pin (41). The adjusting screw (31) is articulated (33) on a lever (34) articulated about a fixed pin (35), the lever (34) is provided with a snug (36) co-operating with a first locking cam (37) and the second floater (40) is provided with a snug (42) co-operating with a second locking cam (43). The invention is applicable to double-volume flushing systems.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2002Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Societe Etex de Recherches Techniques, SertInventor: Jean-Claude Oury
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Patent number: 6898808Abstract: A double trip handle type flush control assembly is disclosed, which operates to allow either a full volume of water to be drawn out of the toilet tank or a partial volume of water to be drawn out of the tank. In particular, the double trip handle type flush control assembly of the present invention is adaptable for use in any size toilet tank. Further, the flush control assembly of the present invention has been adapted to accommodate a refill tube, which directs water from a ball cock valve into an overflow tube to refill the toilet trapway after flushing.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Aquanotion Ltd.Inventors: Josef Molho, Branislav Kragulj
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Patent number: 6874172Abstract: A dual discharge valve for immersion in fluid, in a cistern includes a housing having an upper portion and a lower portion. An upwardly movable main valve assembly within the housing forms therewith a variable volume upper chamber and lower chamber. A first vent means is between the upper and lower chambers and an outlet leads down from the lower housing portion, which portion contains a seat for the main valve assembly at the entry to the outlet so that in the lowered position of the main valve assembly the outlet is blocked against the ingress of fluid. A central stem extends upwardly from the main valve assembly and is actuable by a first operating means remotely from the upper housing to raise the main valve assembly off its seat, the wall of the lower portion of the housing above the seat having apertures.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Inventor: Douglas Robert David Frost
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Publication number: 20040255372Abstract: The present invention relates to a double trip handle type flush control assembly, which operates to allow either a full volume of water to be drawn out of the toilet tank or a partial volume of water to be drawn out of the tank. In particular, the double trip handle type flush control assembly of the present invention is adaptable for use in any size toilet tank. Further, the flush control assembly of the present invention has been adapted to accommodate a refill tube, which directs water from a ball cock valve into an overflow tube to refill the toilet trapway after flushing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2003Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Josef Molho, Branislav Kragulj
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Patent number: 6823534Abstract: A dual flush toilet and dual flush apparatus for a toilet having a discharge port for flushing water into a toilet bowl includes a buoyant flush valve for releasably sealing a discharge port and having a cavity for trapping air to cause a flush valve to remain open after unsealing of the flush valve from the discharge port. The flush valve has a weight for causing seating of the flush valve on the discharge port after flush the water through the discharge port. A control mechanism monitor the water tank is provided for controlling buoyancy of the flush valve by releasing entrapped air to effect either a full flush or partial flush of water from the water tank through the toilet bowl.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2003Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Inventor: Feiyu Li
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Publication number: 20040199988Abstract: A dual flush toilet and dual flush apparatus for a toilet having a discharge port for flushing water into a toilet bowl includes a buoyant flush valve for releasably sealing a discharge port and having a cavity for trapping air to cause a flush valve to remain open after unsealing of the flush valve from the discharge port. The flush valve has a weight for causing seating of the flush valve on the discharge port after flush the water through the discharge port. A control mechanism monitor the water tank is provided for controlling buoyancy of the flush valve by releasing entrapped air to effect either a full flush or partial flush of water from the water tank through the toilet bowl.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2003Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventor: Feiyu Li
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Publication number: 20040181864Abstract: This invention provides the individual home owner, the community's agencies, and others, an opportunity to make substantial savings in an indispensable commodity It will help alleviate part of the neediness for potable drinkable water. This is essential for a community's life and growth and in its control of the necessary expenditures for a physical resource.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2003Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventor: Jonas Browne
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Patent number: 6785913Abstract: A flushing mechanism for a dual flush cistern system comprises a float assembly (1) comprising a hollow valve stemn (2) carrying a sealing valve (3) for sealing the outlet opening of the cistern at or towards one end and being open at each end to define an overflow passage and a float (6) fixedly attached around the valve stem (2), a cylindrical guide member (7) surrounding the float (6) and having at the end adjacent the sealing valve at least one opening to allow liquid to pass to the outlet opening, an operating rod (17) arranged to move vertically upward to raise the float assembly (1) to open the vavle (3), first and second operating means (25, 26) arranged to effect such vertical movement of the operating rod (17), the first operating means (25), an operation, being arranged to raise the float assembly (1) a first distance to a level which the float assembly (1) is buoyant, and the second operating means (26) being arranged to raise the float assembly (1) a second distance, less than the first distanceType: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Cistern Technology Pte., Ltd.Inventor: King Chee Ho
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Patent number: 6775859Abstract: A dual flush toilet includes a handle pivotally mounted to a tank. A water outlet fluidly coupled to the tank has an upper edge defining a primary opening. An overflow tube is fluidly coupled to the water outlet. The overflow tube has a break therein such that a first section and a second section are defined. The first and second sections are positionable in a closed position mated together and an open, spaced position. A pivot assembly mechanically couples the second section to the handle such that the secorid section is removed from the first section when the handle is rotated in a first direction. A primary plug is mechanically coupled to the handle such that the primary plug is removed from the primary opening when the handle is rotated in a second direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2003Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Inventor: Seroosh Gorginians
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Publication number: 20040111793Abstract: The invention provides a toilet cistern dual flush valve (10) operable selectively in a full flush mode in which a relatively large volume of water is discharged from the cistern or a partial flush mode in which a relatively small volume of water is discharged from the cistern. The dual flush valve (10) comprises a stem (36) carrying a valve closure (38) seatable on an outlet from the cistern, means to raise the stem (70, 72,74), buoyant means (50) attached to the stem (36) which in the full flush mode maintains the stem (36) in the open position until the relatively large volume of water has been discharged and the buoyant means (50) loses buoyancy whereafter the stem (36) descends under gravity to the closed position, and means (54) which operates in the partial flush mode to add sufficient mass to the stem when the relatively small volume of water has been discharged causing the stem (36) to descend to the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventors: John Nicoll Sutherland, John Clark Bassil, Karl Thomas Tickle, Anthony Ross Welsh, Christian Van Zyi
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Patent number: 6746844Abstract: Experimental and analytical methods enable reconstruction of signal transduction networks from gene expression profiles. Signal transduction pathways can be reverse-engineered by 1) experimentally manipulating individual genes, 2) generating cellular expression profiles, and 3) analyzing for common patterns among these profiles. Analysis of patterns among profiles permits reconstruction of pathways and networks of interrelationships among genes and their products.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: Affymetrix, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan D. Oliner, Earl Hubbell
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Patent number: 6742194Abstract: A dual-flush flapper valve assembly, set for a normally short flush, is provided for use with a pivoting flapper valve in a flush tank. The assembly comprises a weight, which moves back and forth along a guide relative to the flapper's pivot point. The moveable weight, if activated, temporarily reduces the turning moment arm of the flapper for ensuring a long flush. The assembly further comprises an actuator to trap and release the weight, resulting in either a short flush (when the weight is remote from the pivot) or a long flush (when the weight is close to the pivot). The flapper assembly is engageable through a resistance force, for selectively triggering the actuator, shifting the weight and resulting in a long flush. After a long flush the assembly resets for a short flush, until activated once again.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Peter Shim
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Publication number: 20040083542Abstract: The invention concerns a flushing mechanism for toilet tank comprising an overflow tube (1) provided with a sealing valve (3, 4) co-operating with a discharge orifice (5′) including a first floater (30) mounted on a height-adjusting screw (31) and a second floater (40) mounted pivoting about a fixed pin (41). The invention is characterised in that the adjusting screw (31) is articulated (33) on a lever (34) articulated about a fixed pin (35), the lever (34) is provided with a snug (36) co-operating with a first locking cam (37) and the second floater (40) is provided with a snug (42) co-operating with a second locking cam (43). The invention is applicable to double-volume flushing systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Jean-Claude Oury
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Publication number: 20040040077Abstract: A dual-flush flapper valve assembly, set for a normally short flush, is provided for use with a pivoting flapper valve in a flush tank. The assembly comprises a weight, which moves back and forth along a guide relative to the flapper's pivot point. The moveable weight, if activated, temporarily reduces the turning moment arm of the flapper for ensuring a long flush. The assembly further comprises an actuator to trap and release the weight, resulting in either a short flush (when the weight is remote from the pivot) or a long flush (when the weight is close to the pivot). The flapper assembly is engageable through a resistance force, for selectively triggering the actuator, shifting the weight and resulting in a long flush. After a long flush the assembly resets for a short flush, until activated once again.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Peter Shim
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Patent number: 6691332Abstract: A dual volume discharge apparatus for selectively discharging a full flush or a half flush of liquid from a reservoir, said discharge apparatus including: actuator means (1) selectively moveable from a closed position to either a full flush position or a half flush position, sealing means (11) moveable by said actuator means (1) from a closed position to either a full flush position or a half flush position, said sealing means being biased toward said closed position when in said half flush position, liquid outlet (17) which is sealed by said sealing means (11) to prevent flow of liquid out of said reservoir when said sealing means (11) is in said closed position and which allows flow of liquid out of said reservoir when said sealing means (11) is in the full flush position or the half flush position, stop means (21) co-operable with said sealing means and being biased towards position capable of holding said sealing means in said half flush position when said actuator means in said half flush position untilType: GrantFiled: March 14, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: VGM (Aust) PTY Ltd.Inventor: Kah Hin Khoo
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Patent number: 6651265Abstract: The water saving siphon cover 100 comprises a flexible air chamber 10 and a rigid air housing 20 connected to the lower side of the air chamber 10 to form an air room 30 inside. The air chamber 10 comprises a supporting portion 11, a variable portion 12 having a horizontal portion 12a and a sloping portion 12b, a ceiling portion 13 closing the upper side of the variable portion 12, an outer flange 15, and a pair of hinge portions 17, each being extended from one side of the outer flange 15. The cup shaped air housing 20 comprises a suction hole 22 and an air vent 23. The water saving siphon cover 100 is installed such that the end of the hinge portion 17 blocks an outlet port 36 in a water tank 37, being hinged to the overflow tube 31. Thus, the water saving siphon cover 100 can save water according to the required amount of wash water based on a change in the opening time of the outlet port 36 caused by a difference between the buoyant force for flushing urine and the buoyant force for flushing feces.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Weglo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jeung-Ui Kwen
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Patent number: 6643855Abstract: A device for controlling the discharging amount of the flush water from toilet tank includes a U-shaped member secured to a lateral wall in the tank and close on two lateral sides by a pair of U-shaped plates, a large rotor, an eccentric wheel and a small rotor disposed into the U-shaped member, a small float ball connected to the eccentric wheel, a trip lever connected to the small rotor, a check plate pivoted to one end of the U-shaped member, a large flush hand connected to a cylindrical body of the large rotor and a small flush handle connected to a positioning rod of the small rotor to be actuated by the large flush handle. When press the large flush handle, a large amount of flush water can be discharged and when press the small flush handle, a small amount of flush water is discharged.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Inventor: Jia-Jang Huang
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Patent number: 6640351Abstract: In combination, a cistern and flushing apparatus, the cistern having an outlet (7), and the apparatus comprising a valve (3, 5) for closing the outlet, the valve having a seat (5) and a sealing member (3) movable onto and off the seat, an actuating float (1) constrained to move substantially vertically in the cistern and connected with the sealing member so that the buoyancy of the float acts to press the sealing member onto the seat, means (10) for holding the float against its buoyancy and an actuation mechanism (18, 18, 11) for releasing the float thereby to open the valve.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Clorindo Diaz-Perez
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Patent number: 6637041Abstract: The present invention is a toilet tank discharge device, which includes a single deposit with two perfectly dosed and measured water lots, which depend on the specific use, in order to first give a determined quantity and subsequently, only in those cases when required by the user, the entire content of the deposit.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Inventors: José Blanco Gutierrez, Juan Sanz Luz
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Publication number: 20030131403Abstract: A flushing mechanism for a dual flush cistern system comprises a float assembly (1) comprising a hollow valve stem (2) carrying a sealing valve (3) for sealing the outlet opening of the cistern at or towards one end and being open at each end to define an overflow passage and a float (6) fixedly attached around the valve stem (2), a cylindrical guide member (7) surrounding the float (6) and having at the end adjacent the sealing valve at least one opening to allow liquid to pass to the outlet opening, an operating rod (17) arranged to move vertically upward to raise the float assembly (1) to open the vavle (3), first and second operating means (25, 26) arranged to effect such vertical movement of the operating rod (17), the first operating means (25), an operation, being arranged to raise the float assembly (1) a first distance to a level which the float assembly (1) is buoyant, and the second operating means (26) being arranged to raise the float assembly (1) a second distance, less than the first distance iType: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2002Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventor: King Chee Ho
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Patent number: 6581216Abstract: A commode shutoff device having a diverter housing, diverter valve within diverter housing, diverter arm, a means for actuating the diverter arm, support bracket, and an alternate water line is disclosed. Water is redirected from the overflow water line to the alternate water line by actuating the diverter arm through manually pulling up on the flush handle. Once the water is redirected, it can no longer flow into the bowl, thus preventing an overflow.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Inventor: Richard Halsell
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Publication number: 20030110555Abstract: A water supply tank apparatus comprises a tank adapted for receiving and storing water; a drain pipe adapted for draining the water from the tank; a fill pipe adapted for filling the tank; a drain shutter adapted for enabling and disabling the draining device; a water level sensor providing a shutter closer adapted for closing the drain shutter at a selectively adjustable low water level; a device for disabling water filling at a selected high water level; and a lever and chain arrangement for opening the drain shutter thereby enabling draining of the tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2001Publication date: June 19, 2003Inventor: Terry Tate
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Patent number: 6571401Abstract: A flush and tap toilet water saver system is provided for use in the modem 1.6 gallon toilets that can utilize a flapper valve, a water supply valve which is controlled by a float ball, and a conventional operating handle. A main flapper valve has a bleeder valve installed thereon. The operating handle is rotated normally to open the main flapper valve and simultaneously open the bleeder valve thereby venting air from the main flapper valve and causing it to lose buoyancy and close sooner thus allowing only an abbreviated flush cycle in the toilet tank. When the operating handle is first pushed and then quickly tapped, the tap doses the bleeder valve and cuts off the venting air which causes the flapper valve to maintain full buoyancy and only close when the valve pusher mechanism rotates a valve pusher to force the flapper valve closed just when 1.6 gallons of water is released.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2002Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Inventor: Joseph Jack Comparetti
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Patent number: 6510563Abstract: An adapter for attachment to an existing single flush valve system to convert the single valve system to a dual flush valve system comprises a pair of tubular sections vertically offset from one another and connected by a hollow, enclosed channel. The upper section is adapted to engage a discharge pipe of an existing single flush valve system in order to select a discharge level for a lower volume flush and direct water flowing through the discharge pipe through the adapter. The bottom section of the adapter includes a pivotable flapper valve that can be operated independently of the flapper valve disposed on the single flush system in order to provide a greater volume of water for flushing of the toilet. A mounting arrangement is also provided for attachment to the toilet tank which enables the existing and additional flapper valves to be selectively activated using a pair of handles connected to the arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Inventors: Louis Jarosinski, Jane Summers
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Publication number: 20030000007Abstract: A dual volume discharge apparatus for selectively discharging a full flush or a half flush of liquid from a reservoir, said discharge apparatus including: actuator means (1) selectively moveable from a closed position to either a full flush position or a half flush position, sealing means (11) moveable by said actuator means (1) from a closed position to either a full flush position or a half flush position, said sealing means being biased toward said closed position when in said half flush position, liquid outlet (17) which is sealed by said sealing means (11) to prevent flow of liquid out of said reservoir when said sealing means (11) is in said closed position and which allows flow of liquid out of said reservoir when said sealing means (11) is in the full flush position or the half flush position, stop means (21) co-operable with said sealing means and being biased towards position capable of holding said sealing means in said half flush position when said actuator means in said half flush position untilType: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Kah Hin Khoo
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Patent number: 6467100Abstract: A water conservation apparatus for use in a toilet having a dual action handle that is connected to an adjustable activating rod. The adjustable activating rod is connected to both a first pull chain for effectuating a full tank flush and a second pull chain for effectuating a limited flush. A spring loaded release control mechanism is coupled to the adjustable rod to regulate the pivotal movement of the dual action handle and the adjustable activating rod. A stabilizing jackscrew assembly is carried by the spring loaded release control mechanism to secure the apparatus in the toilet tank.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Inventor: Jeff Leach
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Patent number: 6463596Abstract: A simple structured water-saving device of stool water box comprises: a toggle having an inner wall being formed with a plurality of strips; and a press firmly secured to one side of the toggle. The toggle is engaged to a lower end of a water drainage tube of a stool water box; and the press is adhered to a top of a plug of the water box. A chain is used to connect the plug with the flush handle. When the flush handle is pressed downwards, the plug will be pulled by the chain to be opened, so that the press bends through an angle and generates an elastic force. When the flush handle suffers from a force, the plug will seal the water outlet of the water box by an elastic force of the press. Therefore, the object of saving water is achieved.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2001Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Inventors: Yeng-Jung Weng, Shu-Lian Weng
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Patent number: 6442772Abstract: A flush valve is adapted to be mounted in the tank of a toilet and includes a selector assembly and a flush valve. The selector assembly is accessible from outside the toilet and provides for initiation of the flushing operation and an alternative choice between a larger flush water volume and a smaller flush water volume. A support structure provides for both axial and radial movement of the selector assembly relative to the flush valve in order to facilitate mounting and aligning of the flush valve assembly. A slide mechanism provides for variation of at least the smaller flush water volume.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2001Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Fluidmaster, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Han, John McKay, Tracy James Haggstrom, Farid Maiwandi
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Publication number: 20020112282Abstract: A flush valve is adapted to be mounted in the tank of a toilet and includes a selector assembly and a flush valve. The selector assembly is accessible from outside the toilet and provides for initiation of the flushing operation and an alternative choice between a larger flush water volume and a smaller flush water volume. A support structure provides for both axial and radial movement of the selector assembly relative to the flush valve in order to facilitate mounting and aligning of the flush valve assembly. A slide mechanism provides for variation of at least the smaller flush water volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2002Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Joseph Han, John McKay, Tracy James Haggstrom, Farid Maiwandi
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Publication number: 20020095717Abstract: A dual flush-volume outflow valve assembly for a toilet tank is provided. The outflow valve assembly comprises a base having an opening configured to pass water out of the toilet tank, a lower outflow tube section extending upwardly from the base, and an upper outflow tube section adjustably coupled to and extending upwardly from the lower outflow tube section. The lower outflow tube has a hollow interior and includes a high-volume flush valve positioned to pass a first, larger volume of water from the toilet tank to the toilet bowl when opened. The upper outflow tube section has a hollow interior and includes a low-volume flush valve positioned to pass a second, smaller volume of water from the toilet tank to the toilet bowl when opened. In some embodiments, the hollow interiors of the upper outflow tube section and the lower outflow tube section are positioned over and in line with the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2001Publication date: July 25, 2002Inventor: Douglas P. Hand
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Patent number: 6421844Abstract: A toilet flushing apparatus for using a portion of the water in the tank of the toilet for flushing light waste materials from the bowl of the toilet. The toilet flushing apparatus includes a bracket member being designed for coupling to an exterior surface of a tank of the toilet. A primary handle member is designed for coupling to the actuating arm of the trip lever. The primary handle member is pivotal with respect to the bracket member. The primary handle member is designed for flushing of the toilet when the primary handle member is pivoted. A secondary handle member is coupled to the bracket member. The secondary handle member pivots with respect to the bracket member. The secondary handle member abuts the primary handle member and pivots the primary handle member when the secondary handle member is pivoted by the hand of the user.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Inventor: Jonathon L. Scott
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Patent number: 6385786Abstract: Water-saving device for flush toilets comprises a bracket which can be mounted on the exterior of a toilet water tank directly behind the flush handle on the front wall of the water tank. The device comprises a bracket body, having a lever pivotally secured thereto, one end of the pivot lever has a vertically adjustable set screw which can be moved up or down to engage the end portion of the flush handle, designed to limit the flush handle to a predetermined amount of downward travel in the short flush mode, whereby allowing a smaller selected amount of water to be dispensed when the flush handle is held down for a predetermined time before releasing it. In the full flush mode the pivot lever is manually moved counter-clockwise and away from the normal path of the flush handle to allow the entire content of the water tank to empty into the toilet bowl.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2001Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Inventor: Joseph Lester
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Patent number: 6370703Abstract: A toilet includes a fan configured to draw gases from the toilet bowl into the sewer line. The toilet also includes a tank assembly configured so that the tank contains a low water volume prior to the act of a user sitting on the toilet seat, and a high water volume when and after the user sits on the toilet seat. The tank assembly includes a pivoting trap cover comprising a container with an open lower end. The trap cover has an interior separator, comprising a wall. In a lowered position of the trap cover, the separator establishes a water trap or seal between an interior chamber of the trap cover and an exhaust conduit from the tank to the sewer line. In a raised position of the trap cover, the separator permits air flow from the interior chamber of the trap cover into the exhaust conduit and down to the sewer. The tank assembly also includes a float valve configured to permit water to flow into the tank from a water supply.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2000Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Inventors: Kyung Tae Kim, Kyung Hoon Kim
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Publication number: 20020023295Abstract: A water conservation apparatus for use in a toilet having a dual action handle that is connected to an adjustable activating rod. The adjustable activating rod is connected to both a first pull chain for effectuating a full tank flush and a second pull chain for effectuating a limited flush. A spring loaded release control mechanism is coupled to the adjustable rod to regulate the pivotal movement of the dual action handle and the adjustable activating rod. A stabilizing jackscrew assembly is carried by the spring loaded release control mechanism to secure the apparatus in the toilet tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 28, 2002Inventor: Jeff Leach
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Patent number: 6336229Abstract: A water saving apparatus for water tank includes a stop valve means located above a water outlet, a linkage bar means located above the stop valve means and two chains for connecting the stop valve means with the linkage bar means. The stop valve means has a valve cap engaged with a movable strut and a hollow ball for linking to a tank ball. The linkage bar means has a handle located outside the water tank. The handle engages with a shaft stem and a shaft sleeve for actuating two beams located inside the tank. The chains connect the beams respectively with the tank ball, hollow ball and movable strut. Moving the handle downward, one beam will be moved up to make the hollow ball become buoyant for opening the water outlet rapidly to release a large amount of water to flush feces. Moving the handle upward, another beam will be moved up to make the hollow ball become not buoyant for closing the water outlet sooner so that a small amount of water will be released for flushing urine for saving water.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2000Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Inventor: Jeng-Yeou Guo
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Publication number: 20020000006Abstract: A flush activation system is provided for controlling the drainage of water from a toilet flush tank during a flush. The system comprises a valve assembly; a displaceable flush lever assembly coupled to the valve assembly; at least one auxiliary assembly coupled to the flush lever assembly; and, an actuation assembly coupled to the auxiliary assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve member displaceable for initiating and terminating the drainage of water from the flush tank. The flush lever assembly is adapted to actuate the displacement of the valve member. The auxiliary assembly includes an activating arm having at least one activating float component coupled at a terminal end thereof, and is pivotally displaceable between angularly offset active and inactive positions. The activating arm is biased in orientation at its active and inactive positions in angularly offset manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2001Publication date: January 3, 2002Inventor: Thomas W. Hwang
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Patent number: 6332229Abstract: A gravity drop-toilet uses main water via electronically programmed valves to rinse separate areas of a bowl (71) in sequence via appropriately located and pointing jet orifices (136, 138,140) with about 70% less water than siphon toilets. Electronically timed valve (180) hydraulically causes a pair of bellows (110) to compress and expand and thereby reversibly pivot a mechanical linkage to retain waste in the bowl and drop waste via a vertical waste passageway into a sewer pipe (30). The linkage comprises a transfer arm (118) that pivots a rotating arm of a cup (128) and flap actuating arm (104) to pivot a springy plate (78) upward against a dimple (80) formed on under the side of the flap (30) which thereby aligns itself against the bottom edge (74) of the bowl (71). A urine version of this mechanism uses apertures (174, 175) that they enclose combine to center defecating sitters over a cylinder outlet (48) of the bowl.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2001Date of Patent: December 25, 2001Inventors: Conor O'Malley, Joseph Zappel
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Publication number: 20010042265Abstract: A flush valve is adapted to be mounted in the tank of a toilet and includes a selector assembly and a flush valve. The selector assembly is accessible from outside the toilet and provides for initiation of the flushing operation and an alternative choice between a larger flush water volume and a smaller flush water volume. A support structure provides for both axial and radial movement of the selector assembly relative to the flush valve in order to facilitate mounting and aligning of the flush valve assembly. A slide mechanism provides for variation of at least the smaller flush water volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Inventors: Joseph Han, John McKay, Tracy James Haggstrom, Farid Maiwandi
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Patent number: 6317899Abstract: A dual flush water conservation toilet includes separate fill tanks in a toilet tank which pivot to deposit water into a plenum chamber in the toilet tank. The fill tanks are selectively pivoted to deposit different quantities of water for flushing.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2000Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Assignee: Niagara Conservation CorporationInventor: Kirk S. Brewer
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Patent number: 6311342Abstract: A flush activation system is provided for controlling the drainage of water from a toilet flush tank during a flush. The system comprises a valve assembly; a displaceable flush lever assembly coupled to the valve assembly; at least one auxiliary assembly coupled to the flush lever assembly; and, an actuation assembly coupled to the auxiliary assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve member displaceable for initiating and terminating the drainage of water from the flush tank. The flush lever assembly is adapted to actuate the displacement of the valve member. The auxiliary assembly includes an activating arm having at least one activating float component coupled at a terminal end thereof, and is pivotally displaceable between angularly offset active and inactive positions. The activating arm is biased in orientation at both its active and inactive positions in angularly disposed directions away from a vertical orientation.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Inventor: Tom Hwang
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Publication number: 20010016959Abstract: A flush tank has a downwardly open outlet, a valve for filling the tank with a liquid, and a flush valve having a tube fitted to the outlet and having an upper end vertically displaceable in the tank between an upper position and a lower position. A float fixed to the tube upper end and having an upwardly open compartment has a low buoyancy insufficient to hold the tube upper end above the liquid level when the compartment at least partially filled with water and a high buoyancy capable of holding the tube upper end above a liquid level in the tank when the compartment is empty.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: August 30, 2001Applicant: DAL-Georg Rost & Sohne Sanitararmaturen GmbHInventor: Ulrich Stahlhut
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Patent number: 6263520Abstract: Controlling a volume of water contained in the toilet's water tank by manipulating short or long a drawing line connected to an operating lever, includes an operating part having an operating member connected with the line and either operated short by pressing an auxiliary button along with the operating lever's handle, or operated long by pressing the overall handle without pushing the auxiliary button; a flush valve opening a drain pipe's intake with a buoyancy maintained if a working distance of the line is short; and a buoyancy control part letting the flush valve's upper part communicate with the water tank and closing the valve to remove the buoyancy if the working distance of the line is long. This system is easily installed in a drain pipe of the water tank already provided to the toilet body, and is capable of controlling a volume of water after installation just by turning the operating lever's handle in one direction only, thus attaining an advantageous economical aspect.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Shin Woo Watos Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kong Seuk Song
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Patent number: 6244829Abstract: A liquid forced-feed apparatus has a built-in float in a hermetic vessel provided with a working fluid inlet port, a working fluid discharge port, a forced-feed liquid inlet port, and a forced-feed liquid discharge port. A snap mechanism which is actuated to operate the working fluid inlet port and the working fluid discharge port with the upward and downward strokes of the float, to thereby force a liquid in the hermetic vessel out through the forced-feed liquid discharge port. A power transmitting shaft for transmitting the upward-and-downward movement of the float to the snap mechanism extends out of the hermetic vessel. The snap mechanism is disposed outside of the hermetic vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1998Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: TLV Co. Ltd.Inventor: Hideaki Yumoto
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Patent number: 6178567Abstract: The flush system for a toilet provides a discharge pipe upstanding within a flush tank of the toilet. The pipe has a bottom with a bottom opening through which water from the flush tank travels to the toilet bowl of the toilet. The bottom is connected to the first inlet controlled by a first valve and a second inlet controlled by a second valve. The first inlet is at a higher elevation than the second inlet with respect to the bottom opening. The flush system further comprises actuating handle for selectively moving the first and second members in a first mode or a second mode such that in the first mode, only the second inlet is opened and in the second position the first and second inlets are opened.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1999Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Inventor: Edward J. Bliss
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Patent number: 6151724Abstract: The toilet tank water conservation device has a bracket adapted for attachment to the overflow tube of a toilet tank. The bracket includes a guide ledge having a bore defined therein. The device includes a float ball attached to a cylindrical guide rod, the rod being slidable through the bore defined in the guide ledge. The device is installed so that when the toilet tank is flushed, the water level drops and the ball drops by gravity, striking the flapper flush and closing the flush valve early in order to (1) conserve water by limiting the amount of water released from the tank into the bowl, and consequently (2) decreasing the likelihood of overflow from the toilet bowl in the event of a clogged drain. The device may include a flange about the circumference of the rod in order to prevent the rod from sliding through the bore when water drains from the tank.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Inventor: Roland C. Klingenstein
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Patent number: 6094753Abstract: A flush valve has a valve ring defining a downwardly open valve port and an overflow tube centered on an upright axis and having a lower end seatable on the port. The tube is displaceable relative to the port between a lower closed position and an upper open position. Mechanism inside the tube can lift the tube into the open position and thereby allow water in the tank to move down and out through the port. A lower float vertically fixed in the tank is displaceable between a latching position and a releasing position and is constructed such that when submerged it normally assumes the latching position. A latch on the lower float engageable with the tube can hold the tube in the open position and can release the tube for movement into the closed position and ending of a flushing cycle. An upper float in the tank above the lower float has a part engageable with the lower float for displacing same into the releasing position on downward displacement of the upper float toward the lower float.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: DAL-Georg Rost & Sohne Sanitaramaturen GmbHInventor: Hermann Korte
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Patent number: 6081938Abstract: A flush valve is adapted to be mounted in the tank of a toilet and includes a selector assembly and a flush valve. The selector assembly is accessible from outside the toilet and provides for initiation of the flushing operation and an alternative choice between a larger flush water volume and a smaller flush water volume. A support structure provides for both axial and radial movement of the selector assembly relative to the flush valve in order to facilitate mounting and alignment of the flush valve assembly. A slide mechanism provides for variation of at least the smaller flush water volume.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Assignee: FluidMaster, Inc.Inventors: Richard C. McClure, John C. McKay, Miguel C. Garcia