Water Saver Patents (Class 4/415)
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Patent number: 12043991Abstract: This invention is part of the domestic systems that help to make the use of water that is commonly used via various utilities, more economical and ecological. In particular, the invention relates to a system suitable for being inserted in the bathroom to avoid wasting water.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2019Date of Patent: July 23, 2024Inventors: Marco Mazzei, Sara Basso
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Patent number: 11866919Abstract: An improved and redundant system to prevent leakage from a toilet tank and into a toilet bowl. The device comprises a housing configured to surround a float and including sidewalls and bottom portion with a bore hole. A secondary flop is configured for receipt into and for sealing the bore hole when leakage occurs.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2022Date of Patent: January 9, 2024Inventor: Vance Roy Pencheon
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Patent number: 11808022Abstract: A Cover Box toilet accessory that contributes to preventive medicine, improves global health, reduces the spread of diseases, and fights the environmental pollution caused by the emission of infectious and polluting bioaerosols during toilet flushing. The Cover Box is designed to fit over the Water Flushing Button of a conventional toilet and includes a Fixed Base and a Sliding Top with transparent or translucent parts. The Fixed Base includes Fitting Guides and a tension spring. By obstructing the direct access to the Water Flushing Button, this Cover Box forces the user to close the toilet lid before flushing, since the movement of the Sliding Top to reveal the button also indirectly closes the toilet lid, reducing the emission of bioaerosols that can spread diseases and cause environmental pollution. The system has a high global impact and can be used in various settings, having a significant impact on public health.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2023Date of Patent: November 7, 2023Inventors: Ariel Arnaldo Perez, Nicolás Martín Biach
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Patent number: 11702832Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein are directed towards vacuum-assisted toilet systems and methods of using the vacuum-assisted toilet systems. An example vacuum-assisted toilet system includes a toilet bowl defining an outlet and a flush valve fluidly coupled to the outlet. The vacuum-assisted toilet system also includes at least one water source fluidly coupled to the toilet bowl. The water source is configured to supply water to the toilet bowl. The vacuum-assisted toilet system also includes at least one water actuator coupled to the water source. The water actuator is configured to control the amount of water that is supplied by the water source to the toilet bowl. The vacuum-assisted toilet system also includes a controller that is configured to at least partially control the operation of one or more components of the vacuum-assisted toilet system, such as at least one of the flush valve or the water actuator.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2019Date of Patent: July 18, 2023Assignee: BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITYInventors: Kent L. Gee, Scott D. Sommerfeldt, Scott L. Thomson
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Patent number: 11460222Abstract: An automatic hygienic hot water expediter device for the hastening of the delivery of warm/hot water to a spigot for purposes of hygiene and comfort. The automatic hygienic hot water expediter device generally includes a controller, tubing or piping composed of code-appropriate materials, and flow control components.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2020Date of Patent: October 4, 2022Inventor: Chris Lee Nelson
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Patent number: 11193265Abstract: A siphonic flush toilet system and method of priming the same having a toilet bowl assembly comprising at least one jet flush valve assembly and at least one rim valve; and bowl having a rim and a jet defining at least one jet channel. The bowl has a closed jet pathway to maintain the jet channel in a primed state with fluid from the jet flush valve assembly to prevent air from entering the closed jet pathway. Flush valves may have back-flow preventer mechanisms and/or at least partly flexible valve covers, including specific valve cover structures. Flush activation assemblies may have a flush activation bar connected to the pivot rod and/or an adjustable flush connector located between the pivot rod and the flush activation bar. A kit providing one or more flush activation elements is included. The kit elements may be usable with the toilet systems and methods described.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2019Date of Patent: December 7, 2021Assignee: AS America, Inc.Inventors: David Grover, Daigo Ishiyama, Christophe Bucher, Tuan Le, James McHale
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Patent number: 11168471Abstract: A method of flushing a toilet that includes opening a first valve to introduce a first supply of grey water into a passage to prime a siphon; opening a second valve to introduce a second supply of water into a bowl from a tank, the bowl having an outlet that is in fluid communication with an inlet of the passage; closing the first valve to shut off the first supply of water; evacuating the contents of the bowl through an outlet of the passage by way of the siphon generated by the introduction of the first supply of water and the introduction of the second supply of water; and closing the second valve to shut off the second supply of water.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2020Date of Patent: November 9, 2021Assignee: Kohler Co.Inventors: Clayton C. Garrels, William C. Kuru, Randy S. Graskamp
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Patent number: 11124957Abstract: A siphonic flush toilet system and method of priming the same having a toilet bowl assembly comprising at least one jet flush valve assembly and at least one rim valve; and bowl having a rim and a jet defining at least one jet channel, the at least one jet channel having an inlet port and a jet outlet port configured for discharging fluid to a sump area, wherein the sump area is in fluid communication with a trapway. The bowl has a closed jet pathway including the jet channel and extending from the jet flush valve assembly outlet to the jet channel outlet port to maintain the jet channel in a primed state with fluid from the jet flush valve assembly so as to assist in preventing air from entering the closed jet pathway. Flush valves are also disclosed having back-flow preventer mechanisms and/or at least partly flexible valve covers for use with the toilet systems and methods herein.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2018Date of Patent: September 21, 2021Assignee: AS America, Inc.Inventors: James McHale, Christophe Bucher, David Grover
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Patent number: 10633849Abstract: A flush toilet includes a shelf formed on the top edge of a bowl-shaped waste receiving surface, and a rim forming an inner wall surface rising from the outer edge of the shelf. The bowl includes a front side region and a rear side region, respectively, formed on the front side and the rear side of a center axis extending horizontally in the left-right direction so as to divide the bowl equally in the front-rear direction. The inner wall surface includes an overhang portion protruding toward inside of the bowl obliquely from the bottom end of the overhang portion. The ratio between the overhang amount and the width of the shelf is set smaller than 1.0.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2017Date of Patent: April 28, 2020Assignee: TOTO LTD.Inventors: Shu Kashirajima, Masaaki Momoe, Yuuki Shinohara
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Patent number: 10329743Abstract: A system for collecting and accumulating excess water from one or more in-building sources and delivering it to one or more flushing toilet tanks and possibly also to one or more other in-building consumption devices, such as washing machines or utility faucets. The in-building sources may include any of condensate from an air conditioner, cool water in a hot water supply pipe emerging during initial flow, treated waste water and collected rain- or snow water. At the heart of the disclosed system is an accumulation tank of large capacity, having at least two inlets and at least one outlet. One of the inlets is connected to the main water supply system and includes a valve, configured to let fresh water flow into the main tank whenever the level of the water stored therein falls below a given height. Each outlet is connected to a conduit, conveying water from the accumulation tank to one or more toilet flushing tanks, as their only source, and possibly to other water consumption devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2012Date of Patent: June 25, 2019Inventor: Izchak Gago Mimone
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Patent number: 10280602Abstract: A bowl flushing control device of low tank type toilet has a water supply pipe with a working chamber; a waterway switch component used to open and close the waterway of the water supply pipe; a first floater being floatable in the toilet tank, the first floater takes action when the water level in the water tank is lower than the working level; a control rod being movable up and down, the first floater is movably coupled to the control rod; the control rod is movably connected to the waterway switch component to move downwardly and drive the waterway switch component to close the waterway of the water supply pipe when the first floater takes off restriction on the control rod; a activation component used to control the control rod to move upwardly to reset and coupled to the control rod.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2016Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: XIAMEN R&J PRECISION TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventor: Yaping Tang
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Patent number: 9745730Abstract: A toilet tank structure is formed by a primary-secondary water tank set, a tap water inlet control valve, a secondary water tank inlet control valve and a flush control module, and the tap water inlet control valve, the secondary water tank inlet control valve and the flush control module are provided for controlling the flushing and water supply to minimize the waste of water resources effectively, so as to achieve the effects of saving water and improving functionality.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2015Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Inventor: Shun-Jie Chang
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Patent number: 9739042Abstract: The present invention relates to a water disposable system comprised of a connecting member having first side connected to at least one unwanted water source and one valve to control the flow of an unwanted water. A toilet water tank is connected a second side of the connecting member, wherein the water tank comprises: a strainer in a stand pipe; a two float system, wherein a first float is set at a minimum tank volume water line, and a second float set at maximum tank volume water line. A button is coupled with a second float allowing the intake of the fresh water from the fresh water pipe upon actuation. A transparent window or gauge is positioned on the front wall of the tank for determining the volume of water in the toilet tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2016Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Inventor: Kim Gavin
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Patent number: 9644357Abstract: A system for preventing overflow of a toilet includes a sensor, a processor and an actuator. The sensor senses a parameter caused by fluid dynamics within the toilet during a flush cycle. The parameter may involve vibration, sound, pressure, fluid flow rate or other detectible characteristics of the toilet. The processor uses information regarding the parameter that is gathered by the sensor to evaluate the condition of the flush cycle to determine if an impeded flush condition exists. In the event of an impeded flush condition, the processor directs the actuator to close a valve, which may be the toilet flapper valve in some embodiments. Also disclosed are methods for preventing toilet overflow, detecting an impeded flush condition and calibrating the system.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2013Date of Patent: May 9, 2017Assignee: LIMIT, INC.Inventors: Kevin Bowcutt, Ahmed Shishegar, Matthew Ibarra, Daniel Corbin, Dennis Repp, Robert M. Connell, Oscar Dufau, Gregory Blake, Sam Iravantchi
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Patent number: 9045888Abstract: A toilet has an electronic flush assembly operable in either a short or long flush sequence selectable by a user. The long flush sequence includes a pre-rinse cycle and a rinse cycle in which the a supply valve and a flush valve are both opened and closed twice, once each first during the pre-rinse cycle and again during a subsequent rinse cycle. The rim supply valve and the flush valve are opened during the pre-rinse and rinse cycles but are closed at the start and end of each cycle. An electronic control controls operation of the valves as well as water supply control components. Level sensors can also be included to provide feedback to the controller, for example, to prevent overflow conditions.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2013Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: KOHLER CO.Inventors: Joseph Stauber, Peter W. Denzin, Benjamin Marotz
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Patent number: 9038207Abstract: A kit for calibrating an amount of water required by a toilet with an amount of water to be supplied to the toilet has a first recorder for determining an amount of water in a toilet bowl, a second recorder for determining an amount of water in a toilet tank if the water in the toilet bowl reaches a determined level, and a valve for setting an amount of water delivered to the tank if the water reaches a determined level in the tank.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2012Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Brass Craft Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Mahesh Cheerla, Timothy David Mulligan, Mordechai Lev
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Patent number: 9032561Abstract: A lever control mechanism of a drain valve of a toilet tank has a lever assembly assembled in the wall of the toilet tank and a lever linked to the revolving shaft of the lever assembly. The lever assembly is connected to a deviator, which is disposed with a drive arm; the drive arm is connected to the revolving shaft. The deviator is disposed with a joint portion and at least a leading hole to limit the lever revolving vertically. One end of the lever is run through the leading hole to rotationally connect to the joint portion; the drive arm is revolved by the driving of the revolving shaft to drive the lever revolved in the fan shaped vertical surface limited formed by the joint portion and the leading hole.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: R&T (Xiamen) PLUMBING TECHNOLOGY INC.Inventors: Meijuan Chen, Xingdong Wang, Bing Wang
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Publication number: 20150089730Abstract: A flush toilet has a reservoir tank, a toilet main unit, a water supply apparatus, a water discharge apparatus, and a control device for controlling flushing of the bowl portion of the toilet main unit; wherein this control device includes a time measurement device for measuring the time after the water discharge apparatus has been driven for a predetermined time to discharge flush water, until the water level rises from a dead water level inside the reservoir tank with the water discharge apparatus in an off state to a predetermined stopped water level prior to start of flush; and the driving time of the water discharge apparatus responsive to pressure losses in the toilet main unit is adjusted by comparing the water level rise time measured by the time measurement device with the water level rise time in a standard toilet.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2014Publication date: April 2, 2015Inventors: Makoto BEKKI, Masaaki INOUE, Yu YAMASAKI, Hiroyuki HARA
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Publication number: 20150047115Abstract: Disclosed is a toilet bowl water level gauge and associated methods. In one embodiment, the toilet bowl water level gauge comprises a gauge assembly having a stem with a float, and a sleeve, wherein the stem is inserted in the sleeve and slides through the sleeve. Also, the toilet bowl water level gauge comprises a support attached to the gauge assembly, the support being adapted to engage a rim of a toilet bowl. In addition, bowl level sensors are employed for automated calibration of an automated bowl fill system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2014Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Michael J. D'Aurelio
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Publication number: 20150013056Abstract: The present invention concerns technology relating to a sit-down toilet wherein the toilet is flushed using a dramatically reduced amount of flushing water, and relates to a water-saving sit-down toilet wherein the pressure of flushing water discharged from a cistern into the toilet is raised and a straight discharge pipe is used such that the toilet is flushed clean using a small amount of water, and, at the same time, excreta is smoothly discharged as the direct discharge tube is opened and closed automatically by means of the water pressure and a permanent magnet and an electromagnet, and an appropriate amount of residual water is supplied to the toilet bowl such that odors are blocked from rising from a foul-water port into the toilet, and an odor removing unit sucks in odors emanating from the excreta and discharges same through the foul-water port such that the user can use the sit-down toilet without feeling any embarrassment.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2013Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventor: Jae Mo LEE
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Patent number: 8931510Abstract: A rail vehicle contains a sanitary system which has a waste water tank and a fresh water tank which are each equipped with associated filling level sensors. A control device is provided for establishing a link in terms of control between the filling levels in the fresh water tank and waste water tank. The control device monitors the filling level in the waste water tank by associated sensors and controls the filling level in the fresh water tank as a function of a measured filling level in the waste water tank.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2010Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ralph Gaertner, Torge Kamphausen, Walter Lindermuth
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Patent number: 8918923Abstract: A switching device for rim water in a low tank toilet, in which toilet water in a toilet tank is drawn and supplied to the rim of a toilet bowl by the pressure of water that is supplied from a filler valve to the rim through a water supply tube and a supply water switching unit is rotated according to a reduction in the water level of the toilet tank, so that the water supplied from the filler valve is charged into the toilet tank and, at the same time, some water supplied from the filler valve is supplied to the rim through a fill-up water inlet hole.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Watos Corea Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tae Gwang Song
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Patent number: 8904573Abstract: Disclosed is a toilet bowl water level gauge and associated methods. In one embodiment, the toilet bowl water level gauge comprises a gauge assembly having a stem with a float, and a sleeve, wherein the stem is inserted in the sleeve and slides through the sleeve. Also, the toilet bowl water level gauge comprises a support attached to the gauge assembly, the support being adapted to engage a rim of a toilet bowl. In addition, bowl level sensors are employed for automated calibration of an automated bowl fill system.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2009Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Danco, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Michael J. D'Aurelio
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Patent number: 8881319Abstract: Various methods and systems are provided for external float extensions. In one embodiment, an external float extension includes an external adjustment rod configured to affix to a quick flush float of a dual flush assembly and an external float configured to be positioned on the external adjustment rod. In another embodiment, a dual flush assembly includes a quick flush float, an external adjustment rod affixed to the quick flush float, and an external float positioned on the external adjustment rod.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2011Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Danco, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Duston E. A. Stutzman, Douglas C. Saunders
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Patent number: 8783289Abstract: A secondary toilet reservoir water shutoff system and method for use in the water tank of a toilet assembly. The secondary toilet reservoir water shutoff having a beneficial use with toilets to prevent the wasting of water in a failing system. The secondary toilet reservoir water shutoff being activated by a toilet flush handle causing rotation of a timing device thereby opening of a secondary valve for a period of time allowing for the passage of water, the time determined by the degree of rotation of the timing device.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2012Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Inventors: Thomas Evan Daniell, Brian Thomas Alexander
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Patent number: 8776282Abstract: A toilet fill valve assembly for installation into a toilet tank is described, which includes a supply tube, a valve regulating the flow of water, an actuator to open and close the valve; a vertical transmission shaft with upper and lower stops rotatable around its longitudinal axis between first and second positions; a float moveable upwardly under the buoyance force of water entering the tank to engage the lower stop when the shaft is in its first position and the upper stop when the shaft is in its second position, the movement of the float closing valve when the float engages one of the stops; a controller to move the shaft from its first position to its second position, allowing the float to engage the upper stop and increase the volume of water entering the tank between flushes; and a guide rotating the shaft to its first position upon flushing.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Inventor: William Matthews Brawner
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Patent number: 8707474Abstract: Controls for use in association with a toilet conserve water by allowing the amount of water utilized for each flush to be varied. The controls conserve water by minimizing the amount of water lost in the event of either a minor leak or a major leak. The controls may include a magnet to raise a float connected with a water float control valve. The controls may include water level sensor apparatus. The controls may include a force transmission assembly which effects operation of water inlet and outlet valves under the influence of force transmitted from a handle of a toilet. A separate body of water may be maintained in a container in the tank. A pump may be connected in fluid communication with the container and operated under the influence of force transmitted from the handle.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Inventor: Ervin J. Rachwal
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Patent number: 8672233Abstract: A water saving device includes a housing having a hot water inlet chamber connectable to a hot water supply, a temperature sensing chamber having a cold water outlet connectable to a water storage system, and a hot water outlet chamber having a hot water outlet. The inlet and outlet chambers are interconnected by a first port. The inlet and temperature sensing chambers are interconnected by a second port. The temperature sensing and hot water outlet chambers are interconnected by a third port. The device includes a water-pressure actuated piston that is displaceable upon a drop in water pressure in the hot water outlet chamber. The temperature sensing chamber has a temperature-sensitive valve assembly that closes the third port when the temperature of water is below a predetermined level and opens the third port and closes the cold water outlet when the temperature of water is above a predetermined temperature.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2008Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventor: Derick Sinclair
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Patent number: 8650671Abstract: Various embodiments are directed towards toilet fill valves with adjustable bowl fill flow. In one embodiment, a toilet fill valve includes a water inlet, a water outlet, a bowl fill outlet port, and a bowl fill valve. The bowl fill valve has an integrally molded portion that forms a bowl fill valve inlet port. The integrally molded portion of the bowl fill valve inserts into the bowl fill outlet port so that the bowl fill valve inlet port is coupled to the bowl fill outlet port.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Danco, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Larry Schneider
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Patent number: 8650672Abstract: A water leakage protecting device includes a ratchet, a pawl and an auxiliary floater. The ratchet is formed on an outer wall of a floater of a water inlet valve. The auxiliary floater has a floating cavity and a weight cavity therein. The weight cavity has a water drain hole at a bottom thereof. The auxiliary floater is coupled to the water inlet valve through a rotating shaft. The pawl corresponds in position to the ratchet and is connected to one side of the auxiliary floater close to the floater of the water inlet valve. The water leakage protecting device can avoid water waste and ensure toilet safety.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Lab (Xiamen) Santitary Fitting Inc.Inventor: Yongmao Liu
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Patent number: 8590067Abstract: Various systems and methods of controlling the flow of water from a fill valve in a toilet tank to a toilet bowl of a toilet using a bowl fill valve are provided. An inlet of the bowl fill valve is coupled to a bowl fill outlet of the fill valve and the outlet of the bowl fill valve is channeled to the toilet bowl. In illustrative embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of determining when the toilet tank has been substantially drained of water during a flush cycle, and opening the bowl fill valve for a predefined period of time after the toilet tank has been substantially drained of water to fill the toilet bowl of the toilet with water. The predefined period of time is less than a total time of the flush cycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2005Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Danco, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Michael J. D'Aurelio
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Patent number: 8584268Abstract: A dual flush device is disclosed to provide a full flush for removing solid waste and a water-saving partial flush for removing liquid or light solid waste in a toilet. It includes a first flush handle attached to a shaft to raise a lever to open a flapper valve, and a second flush handle that overlaps the first handle and opens the flapper valve through the first handle. A float assembly is disclosed to be used either with the dual flush device or with the original single flush lever assembly to prematurely close an opened flapper valve and reduce water consumption. Using the original flapper valve in a conventional toilet tank, a dual flush function is achieved by any of the three implementation choices: (1) the dual flush device alone; (2) the dual flush device and a float assembly; and (3) a float assembly alone.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2012Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Inventor: James T. Han
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Patent number: 8561225Abstract: A multi flush volume flush valve is in communication with an automatic flush control. The flush control determines the presence of a user and the amount of time the user uses the toilet. The usage time is compared to a predetermined time value to determine the appropriate flush volume based on an assumption regarding usage time and flush volume needs. The comparative value statistically adjusts to the restroom traffic.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2012Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Sloan Valve CompanyInventors: John R. Wilson, Peter J. Jahrling
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Publication number: 20130198944Abstract: A water leakage protecting device includes a ratchet, a pawl and an auxiliary floater. The ratchet is formed on an outer wall of a floater of a water inlet valve. The auxiliary floater has a floating cavity and a weight cavity therein. The weight cavity has a water drain hole at a bottom thereof. The auxiliary floater is coupled to the water inlet valve through a rotating shaft. The pawl corresponds in position to the ratchet and is connected to one side of the auxiliary floater close to the floater of the water inlet valve. The present invention can avoid water waste and ensure toilet safety.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2010Publication date: August 8, 2013Inventor: Yongmao Liu
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Publication number: 20130198945Abstract: A fluid displacement device (2) comprises a flexible plastics container (4). The container (4) is formed from a single sheet of PET/PE which is folded over to create a pocket, and heat sealed along the seams 8a,b,c formed by the edge of the sheet. The container (4) is substantially rectangular in shape, and measures approximately 130 mm by 200 mm. The container is placed in a toilet cistern and suspended above a bottom part thereof. Water flows into the flexible container (4) from the cistern (20) through the holes (6) and comes into contact with the water-swellable polymer. The water-swellable polymer absorbs the water and swells to approximately (400) times its original weight to displace approximately 500 ml water from the cistern (20).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2011Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicant: DRY PLANET LIMITEDInventor: Nigel McGowan
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Patent number: 8499369Abstract: A water conservation device for use within a toilet is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the device includes a connector having a base adapted for connectivity and placement adjacent to a traditional pole assembly and proximate to an opening valve within a tank of the toilet. In at least one embodiment, the device includes a flexible pressure arm integrally formed with the connector base and adapted to couple to the opening valve within the tank of the toilet and adapted to provide a pressure to the opening valve to lessen overall water utilized in each flush of the toilet and thereby conserve water. The water conservation device is adapted for either a total or partial flush of the toilet as selected by a user.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Inventor: Shervin Shokouh Ahmady
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Publication number: 20130185859Abstract: Disclosed are a self-closing water saving device, method, and toilet. The self-closing water saving device for mounting in a tank of a toilet bowl is used for supplying water to the tank, and is characterized by comprising: a water inlet adapted to be connected to an external water source, a water outlet adapted to provide water to the tank, and a jet-propelling port for jetting water to the bottom of a water trap of the toilet bowl or the bottom of a sewer; wherein, when the tank discharges water to the water trap, the water jetted from the jet-propelling port is used to propel the water which is discharged from the tank and flows into the water trap, the bottom of the water trap, or the bottom of the sewer.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2011Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: CHAOAN WANTONG SANITARYWARE CO, LTD.Inventor: Jiwei Yu
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Publication number: 20130180040Abstract: A toilet leak preventing system comprising a conventional toilet, having attached thereto a sensing device able to detect sound or vibration from a leaking toilet, and having means to close the water supply to the toilet after a predetermined time interval.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2012Publication date: July 18, 2013Inventor: Hans D. Baumann
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Publication number: 20130111657Abstract: A switching device for rim water in a low tank toilet, in which even when a channel pipe is closed according to a change in the level of water that is discharged to the rim through a water supply tube, some water that is supplied from a filler valve is supplied to the rim through a fill-up water inlet hole and the water level in the toilet tank can be controlled by selectively controlling the height of a float, so that the water can be economically and efficiently used, and in which a water level control unit can be lifted up according to the change in the level of water that is discharged to the rim, so that the channel pipe can be closed and the toilet tank can be filled with water.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2012Publication date: May 9, 2013Applicant: WATOS COREA Co., LtdInventor: WATOS COREA Co., Ltd
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Publication number: 20130111658Abstract: A switching device for rim water in a low tank toilet, in which toilet water in a toilet tank is drawn and supplied to the rim of a toilet bowl by the pressure of water that is supplied from a filler valve to the rim through a water supply tube and a supply water switching unit is rotated according to a reduction in the water level of the toilet tank, so that the water supplied from the filler valve is charged into the toilet tank and, at the same time, some water supplied from the filler valve is supplied to the rim through a fill-up water inlet hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2012Publication date: May 9, 2013Applicant: WATOS COREA CO., LTDInventor: Watos Corea Co., Ltd
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Patent number: 8397319Abstract: A water-saving flush valve control mechanism is formed as a single unit that can easily be retrofitted onto existing toilet architectures with only one fixed attachment point. Water usage is reduced by providing the user full control in opening and closing the buoyant water valve. Control is achieved by a vertical rigid spine that is attached between the toilet handle arm and the valve. An adjustable lateral extension is included and placed between the toilet handle arm and the vertical rigid spine to ensure that the spine is properly positioned over the valve. Pivotable attachment of the spine to the lateral extension accommodates the arcing pathway of the buoyant valve. A float arm may be added and used to counterbalance the additional weight associated with the flush valve control mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2011Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Inventor: Michael Peter Senderak
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Patent number: 8387652Abstract: An improved fill valve has a pivot valve body that is pivotally suspended immediately below a float housing and is movable between two positions. In a first position, the pivot valve body blocks the flow of water from the float housing. In a second position, the pivot body allows the flow of water from the float housing. The pivot valve body has two top compartments, each separated from the other by a wall. The first compartment retains an amount of water in it. The second compartment functions as a water flow restriction apparatus and includes an upwardly-extending member for sealing off a check valve that is disposed within the bottom of the float housing. The fill valve also includes a pressure compensating drip emitter that allows water to trickle into the float housing at a very slow rate.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Lavelle Industries, Inc.Inventor: Kevin J. Guthrie
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Patent number: 8387172Abstract: A system for controlling the duration and volume of a flow of water in a flush of a Toilet, which includes a buoyant flush valve which is non-automated in user actuation thereof to a raised open position. The system includes a converting element, for converting the buoyant flush valve to a non-buoyant flush valve which is non-automated in user actuation thereof to a raised open position. A programming element enables programming of a controlling time, for controlling the duration and volume of flow of water in a flush of a toilet. A controlling element is connected to the programming element and the non-buoyant flush valve, for retaining the non-buoyant flush valve in a raised open position upon non-automated user actuation thereof to the raised open position, and for releasing the non-buoyant flush valve from the raised open position for closing the non-buoyant flush valve, within the controlling time.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Prodius LLCInventor: Jeffrey Nasrallah
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Publication number: 20130047327Abstract: A water-saving management system for a sanitary facility and a water-saving management method for a sanitary facility are provided. A control device is connected to flush valves corresponding to sanitary facilities of one or more sanitary spaces. The control device outputs flush-associated data to a local server via a transmission network. The local server receives the flush-associated data and transfers mode setting data via the transmission network. The control device sets a flush mode according to the mode setting data, so as to flush the sanitary facilities.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: Alliance Service International CorporationInventors: Yuan-Ye CHIU, Ching-Hsien Ying, Heng-Yen Liu
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Patent number: 8316475Abstract: A siphonic, gravity-powered toilet is provided that includes a toilet bowl assembly having a toilet bowl. The toilet bowl has a rim channel provided along an upper periphery thereof and a direct-fed jet channel that allows fluid, such as water, to flow from the inlet of the toilet bowl assembly to the direct-fed jet outlet port into the interior of the toilet bowl, in the sump of the bowl. The rim channel includes at least one rim channel outlet port. In this toilet, the cross-sectional areas of the toilet bowl assembly inlet, the inlet port to the rim channel, and the outlet port to the direct-fed jet channel are configured so as to be optimized to provide greatly improved hydraulic function at low flush volumes (no greater than about 6.0 liters per flush). The hydraulic function is improved in terms of bulk removal of waste and cleansing of the bowl.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: AS IP Holdco, L.L.C.Inventor: David Grover
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Patent number: 8310369Abstract: Water is conserved by detecting unintended inflow of water into the tank of a flush toilet. A sensor acoustically and/or vibrationally coupled to the flush toilet detects sound and/or vibration generated due to turbulence in water flowing into the toilet tank. An electronic circuit analyzes the sensor output to detect cyclical water inflow not intended by a user. The electronic circuit generates an alert such as an audible and/or visual indication that the toilet is leaking.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: nth Solutions, LLCInventors: Eric L. Canfield, Edward P. Cheslock
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Patent number: 8296871Abstract: The toilet water tank refilling system includes an inlet pipe adapted for installation within the toilet water tank and adapted for connection to a water supply, a valve connected to the pipe, a float operably connected to the valve to open the valve when the water level falls below a predetermined level and to close the valve when the water level in the tank reaches the predetermined level, and a valve outlet discharging water from the water supply into the tank when the valve is open. The system does not have a valve outlet discharging water from the water supply through the overflow tube directly into the toilet bowl. The only paths for discharging water from the water supply to the toilet bowl in the toilet water tank refilling system are through the tank's flush valve when the toilet is flushed and through the overflow tube when the water level in the tank exceeds the predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2010Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Inventor: George J. Wajda
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Publication number: 20120227172Abstract: In accordance with embodiments of apparatus and methods, a control valve suitable for use with a gravity-assisted flush toilet is presented providing means for automatically controlling the supply of mains water to the bowl. In accordance with some embodiments, the control valve supplies at least a portion of the mains water from the fill valve bowl outlet to the tank reservoir until the tank water level is at a predetermined height in the tank reservoir, at which time, the control valve diverts at least a portion of the mains water supplied by the fill valve bowl outlet to the overflow pipe, and therefore to the bowl.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventor: Robert Ernest Hadd
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Patent number: 8242920Abstract: A leak detector is disclosed. The optical leak detector may include a sensor module for transmitting and receiving signals corresponding to the surface level of a monitored fluid and include leak detection logic for detecting a leak signature. The leak detection logic may be configured to determine if fluid contained in a tank is in a non-full state outside of a normal state and activate an alarm.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: D2M International Pty Ltd.Inventors: Darius Mostowfi, Brian Lamb, Jackie Lai, Andrew Butler
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Patent number: RE44783Abstract: Toilet flapper valves with multiple volume flush capability which can be quickly and easily installed to replace existing flapper valves in old or new toilets to give such toilets the capability of providing selectable amounts of flushing water.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2010Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventor: Donald E. Scruggs