With Flush Supply Actuated By Valved Discharge Patents (Class 4/435)
  • Patent number: 11510834
    Abstract: Provided is an automatic excretion disposal device (1) which is configured to automatically perform an excretion disposal of a person (P) to be cared, the device including: a cup (2) which is attached to a body of the person to be cared to receive excretion; a detection unit (3) which is configured to detect excretion in the cup; a feed water pipe which is configured to decompress cleaning water from a water supply (W) to a predetermined pressure and directly supplies the cleaning water, on the basis of detection result of the detection unit; a suction motor (30) which is configured to suck sewage generated when the body and inside of the cup are cleaned with the cleaning water supplied from the feed water pipe (R1), and to discharge the sewage to outside of the cup; a tank (10) which is configured to temporarily store the drainage sucked by the suction motor; and a drainage pump (20) which is configured to cause the drainage to forcibly flow out to a drainage piping connected to a sewer or a septic tank, whi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: LibertySolution Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Miyuki Furuta
  • Patent number: 10738449
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a hydraulic energy storage mechanism, including a cylinder block, a cylinder body, a piston, a support, and a latch bolt component. In the present invention, a cylinder body, a piston, and a support structure being provided with a power slide block is used, and the tap water pressure is applied to push the piston to compress a spring and converted into elastic potential energy; the power slide block is driven by releasing the elastic potential energy to operate a suction drainage device of a water closet. The present invention has advantages of a small volume, large acting force, a simple structure, and reliable working, and effectively improves sewage drainage efficiency of the water closet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Inventor: Guoqing Gu
  • Patent number: 10683652
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to systems and methods for reducing sound in vacuum toilets. In one example, multiple rinse injections are used at appropriately timed intervals in order to reduce the vacuum flush sound levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, LLC
    Inventors: David Beach, Kent Gee, John Yu, Scott Sommerfeldt, Garen Murray, Razmik Boodaghians, David Ji Chun Kim
  • Publication number: 20140208498
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to quick release toilet concepts, which can be useful particularly on-board aircraft and other passenger transport vehicles. Further specific embodiments relate to a quick release rinse valve, a quick release flush valve, an integrated rinse ring, a replaceable toilet bowl, an integrated anti-siphon/rinse valve, and improved flush valve performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventors: David A. Beach, Robert G. Ratliff, Howard C.B. Kuhns
  • Patent number: 8566971
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Stauber, Peter W. Denzin, Ben Marotz
  • Publication number: 20130031709
    Abstract: A water-saving toilet bowl without a water tank is provided, which comprises a flush pipe, a discharging pipe and a flush device. The flush device comprises a control cavity and a control valve that controls a drive motor to open or close the control cavity. A linkage rod links with a motor shaft of the drive motor. A through hole is provided in a partition. A control valve core is linked with the linkage rod via the through hole so that the control valve core is slid so as to open or close the through hole, and thereby the pressure change is controlled. The flush pipe of the toilet bowl is connected to two outlet passages of the flush device. An inlet passage is communicated with the outlet passages through a connection passage, and effluent water enters the flush pipe to flush the toilet bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Fuhuan Chen
  • Patent number: 7886374
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a passively discharging and water-saving toilet bowl having an operation mechanism in which all parts are accurately operated as well as a water supply controlling mechanism by which the water level in a water reservoir can be controlled arbitrarily. The toilet bowl, having an operation mechanism conducted with an operation unit comprising: a first operation unit, operated with a manipulation lever, communicating both with a stool-discharging piston for opening or closing a stool-discharging pipe and with a flap valve for opening or closing a water reservoir; and a second operation unit, operating in response to the position of a float for controlling the water level of the water reservoir in such a manner that the second operation unit is connected to and separated from the first operation unit when the float is situated at an upper position and a lower position, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: 3-Liter Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-Se Jun
  • Patent number: 7690053
    Abstract: Vacuum toilet assemblies are detailed. These assemblies are designed to reduce both operational noise and water usage of the toilets while continuing to promote effective disposal of waste. They also require less air for operation than do conventional vacuum toilets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Pondelick
  • Publication number: 20080229489
    Abstract: A toilet flush opening device (10) includes a water cistern (12) that includes a lower discharge aperture (14) and a vertical moveable discharging open/close element (16) for this aperture (14), which is able to occupy a closed lower position to keep the water in the cistern (12) or an open upper position to discharge the water into a toilet bowl. The device is characterized in that the open/close element (16) can be urged from its lower position to its upper position by an electrohydraulic actuator (18) which includes a controlled solenoid valve (20), and an expandable hydraulic device (22) that can be supplied with water at pressure by the solenoid valve (20) to urge the open/close element (16) from its closed lower position to its open upper position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: CELEC CONCEPTION ELECTRONIQUE EN ABREGE CELEC
    Inventor: Christian Martin
  • Patent number: 6732386
    Abstract: A rinse fluid valve for use in a vacuum toilet system is disclosed. The vacuum toilet system includes a waste receptacle with a rinse fluid dispenser associated therewith and a source of rinse fluid. The rinse fluid valve has a housing with an inlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid source and an outlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid dispenser. A flow path extends from the inlet to the outlet. A moveable rinse fluid valve member is disposed in the flow path and movable between open and closed positions. A fuse valve is also disposed in the flow path and has a normally open position to allow fluid flow therethrough. The fuse valve is actuatable to a closed position after a desired volume of fluid has passed therethrough, thereby to cease rinse fluid flow through the flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: William B. Anderson, Douglas M. Wallace, Jay D. Stradinger, Mark A. Pondelick, Michael B. Hancock, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6704947
    Abstract: A discharge valve is disclosed for use in a vacuum toilet system having a waste receptacle defining an outlet and a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum. The discharge valve comprises a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, and a rotatable discharge valve member disposed in the housing for selectively establishing fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet. A periphery of the disk valve member being formed with a series of gear teeth. An actuator is provided having a rotatable spur gear adapted to engage the periphery of the discharge valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Douglas M. Wallace, Michael B. Hancock, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6536054
    Abstract: A vacuum bowl assembly for use in a vacuum toilet positioned on a support surface and having a discharge valve. The vacuum bowl assembly comprises a frame having a bottom member adapted to engage the support surface, and a top member defining a shoulder. A removable bowl is provided having a flange extending about an upper edge sized to engage the shoulder, and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with the discharge valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Jay D. Stradinger, Douglas M. Wallace, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Michael B. Hancock, Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6536055
    Abstract: A modular vacuum toilet, and a method of servicing such a toilet, are disclosed. The toilet is used with a vacuum toilet system having a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum pressure and a source of rinse fluid. The modular vacuum toilet comprises a frame and a removable bowl engaging and supported be the frame, the bowl defining an outlet and having a rinse fluid dispenser associated therewith. The modular vacuum toilet also has a valve set module. The valve set module includes a discharge valve having an inlet in fluid communication with the bowl outlet, an outlet in fluid communication with the sewer line, and a movable discharge valve member disposed between the discharge valve inlet and outlet. A rinse fluid valve is also incorporated into the valve set module and has an inlet in fluid communication with the source of rinse fluid, an outlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid dispenser, and a movable rinse fluid valve member disposed between the rinse fluid valve inlet and outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Mark A. Pondelick, Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Douglas M. Wallace, Ian Tinkler, Michael B. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6470505
    Abstract: A water efficient toilet includes a self pressurized tank connected to a water supply through conduits and includes a valve operatively connected to the conduits. The toilet assembly has a bowl with inner walls, the bowl having a lower reservoir connected to a trap way and an upper rim with a channel therein. The channel is provided with a plurality of openings and the lower reservoir of the bowl has through holes. The through holes of the lower reservoir and the channel of the upper rim of the bowl are connected to the valve by a first and second conduit. When flushing the toilet by opening the valve, a phased inflow of water in the toilet is induced. The phased inflow of water includes an initial and an intermediate inflow of water. The initial inflow of water passes into the first conduit and through the through holes of the lower reservoir to initiate the evacuation of the contents of the lower reservoir through the trap way into a drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Perfecteau LLP
    Inventor: Paul Boisvert
  • Patent number: 6467101
    Abstract: A toilet flushing and cleaning device includes a reservoir with a cylinder and a mixing tube disposed therein. The cylinder communicates with a water source. A plunger is slidably disposed in the cylinder. A plurality of spray nozzles communicate with the mixing tube. When a flush valve is opened to allow water into the cylinder, the piston is driven upwards. The increase in air pressure drives pressurized air and water into the mixing tube such that the spray nozzles clean the toilet with a burst of air-water mixture. In a further embodiment, a funnel is disposed in the toilet bowl and a bucket is suspended at the lower opening of the funnel. When the piston is driven upwards, the bucket is pivoted to release its contents. Additionally, a blower disposed between the funnel and the toilet bowl may be used to drawing air and odors from inside said funnel and directing air into said toilet bowl for release through the existing drain pipe and vent pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Jorge Artola
  • Patent number: 6370709
    Abstract: A discharge valve is disclosed for use in a vacuum toilet system having a waste receptacle defining an outlet and a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum. The discharge valve comprises a housing defining an inlet and an outlet and a rotatable discharge valve member disposed in the housing for selectively establishing fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet. A periphery of the disk valve member being formed with a series of ear teeth. An actuator is provided having a rotatable spur gear adapted to engage the periphery of the discharge valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Douglas M. Wallace, Michael B. Hancock, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6353942
    Abstract: A modular vacuum toilet, and a method of servicing such a toilet, are disclosed. The toilet is used with a vacuum toilet system having a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum pressure and a source of rinse fluid. The modular vacuum toilet comprises a frame and a removable bowl engaging and supported be the frame, the bowl defining an outlet and having a rinse fluid dispenser associated therewith. The modular vacuum toilet also has a valve set module. The valve set module includes a discharge valve having an inlet in fluid communication with the bowl outlet, an outlet in fluid communication with the sewer line, and a movable discharge valve member disposed between the discharge valve inlet and outlet. A rinse fluid valve is also incorporated into the valve set module and has an inlet in fluid communication with the source of rinse fluid, an outlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid dispenser, and a movable rinse fluid valve member disposed between the rinse fluid valve inlet and outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International OY
    Inventors: Mark A. Pondelick, Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Douglas M. Wallace, Ian Tinkler, Michael B. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6349424
    Abstract: A rinse fluid valve for use in a vacuum toilet system is disclosed. The vacuum toilet system includes a waste receptacle with a rinse fluid dispenser associated therewith and a source of rinse fluid. The rinse fluid valve has a housing with an inlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid source and an outlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid dispenser. A flow path extends from the inlet to the outlet. A moveable rinse fluid valve member is disposed in the flow path and movable between open and closed positions. A fuse valve is disposed in the flow path upstream of the rinse fluid valve and has a normally open position to allow fluid flow therethrough. The fuse valve is actuatable to a closed position after a desired volume of fluid has passed therethrough, thereby to cease rinse fluid flow through the flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Douglas M. Wallace, Michael B. Hancock, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6349425
    Abstract: An integrated valve set for use in a vacuum toilet system is disclosed. The vacuum toilet system includes a waste receptacle defining an outlet and having a rinse fluid nozzle, a source of rinse fluid, and a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum pressure. The integrated valve set comprises a discharge valve having an inlet in fluid communication with the waste receptacle outlet, an outlet in fluid communication with the sewer line, and a rotatable discharge valve member adapted to selectively establish fluid communication between the discharge valve inlet and discharge valve outlet. An integrally mounted rinse fluid valve has an inlet in fluid communication with the pressurized rinse fluid source, an outlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid nozzle, and a rinse fluid valve member adapted to selectively establish fluid communication between the rinse fluid valve inlet and the rinse fluid valve outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Douglas M. Wallace, Michael B. Hancock, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6347416
    Abstract: A vacuum bowl assembly for use in a vacuum toilet positioned on a support surface and having a discharge valve. The vacuum bowl assembly comprises a frame having a bottom member adapted to engage the support surface, and a top member defining a shoulder. A removable bowl is provided having a flange extending about an upper edge sized to engage the shoulder, and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with the discharge valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Jay D. Stradinger, Douglas M. Wallace, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Michael B. Hancock, Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6279176
    Abstract: A low volume high-pressure toilet. When the user sits on the toilet seat, a hydraulic piston pressurizes the water tank, which optimally holds 1.7 liters of water. Water is released at high pressure through the toilet interior rim and a lower waterjet, forcing the wastewater down a waste pipe. To minimize velocity pressures losses that would be caused by a p-trap, the waste is released straight down a pipe. Sewer gases are prevented from traveling back up the pipe by a sealing valve that occludes the cross sectional area of the waste cavity in the bottom of the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: 1:7 Water Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Pedro M. Aviles
  • Patent number: 6085366
    Abstract: Apparatus for pressurizing rinse fluid to a toilet is provided comprising a reservoir for receiving gravity fed rinse fluid. The reservoir is connected to a source of pressurized air through an air inlet valve mechanically coupled to a controller. A rinse fluid discharge valve is connected to an outlet of the reservoir and is operatively connected to the controller. When triggered, the controller allows pressurized air to enter the reservoir, thereby pressurizing the rinse fluid contained therein. The controller then opens the rinse fluid discharge valve to deliver the pressurized rinse fluid to the toilet. The controller and rinse fluid discharge valves are preferably pneumatically operable so that a separate power source is not required for the pressurized rinse fluid apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Evac International OY
    Inventors: Mark Pondelick, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6006373
    Abstract: A galley waste collection system for a passenger transport vehicle having a vacuum sewage collection system includes a basin for receiving galley waste and a normally-closed discharge valve connected between the outlet opening of the basin and the sewer pipe of the vacuum sewage collection system. A flush element is responsive to operation by a user of the galley waste collection system to issue a discharge command, and a control unit operates selectively in response to the discharge command to open the discharge valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: EVAC International Oy
    Inventor: Thao Hoang
  • Patent number: 5983414
    Abstract: A vacuum sewer toilet system comprises a toilet compartment, a toilet bowl installed in the toilet compartment, a vacuum sewer, at least one electrically operated device for initiating an emptying and rinsing operation of the toilet bowl, and electrical components for controlling supply of operating current to the electrically operated device. The electrical components are incorporated in a control unit that is sealed against humidity and is protected against unauthorized human access. The control unit is mounted in the toilet compartment at a location that is spaced from the toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Evac AB
    Inventors: Gunnar Lindroos, Paul Wallstrom
  • Patent number: 5933882
    Abstract: A flush toilet for a recreational vehicle has a flush mechanism including a lever that can be either depressed to cause a full flush of the toilet, or raised to rinse the bowl only. The lever operates a linkage that is designed so that, even after a partial failure of the linkage, the linkage can still be operated to introduce water into the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Sanitation Equipment Limited
    Inventor: David Charles Robert Fleming
  • Patent number: 5906011
    Abstract: A flush toilet for a recreational vehicle has a flush mechanism including a pair of foot pedals, one for opening the bowl outlet closure of the toilet, and the other for opening the flush water valve. Depression of the first foot pedal also depresses the water valve foot pedal, though that pedal can also be operated separately. An actuating cable for the water valve extends through the arm of the bowl closure foot pedal so that, if the water valve foot pedal breaks or is damaged, the water valve can still be opened for rinsing the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Sanitation Equipment Limited
    Inventor: David Charles Robert Fleming
  • Patent number: 5815852
    Abstract: A flush toilet, for example, for use in a recreational vehicle comprises two main plastic mouldings, one of which includes the toilet bowl and the other of which forms a "shell" or outer housing in which the bowl is supported so that the bowl outlet is located in an internal space defined by the shell. In accordance with the invention, the toilet is provided with a flushing mechanism that includes a bowl rinse nozzle adjacent the rim of the bowl and an internal rinse nozzle for rinsing the walls of the internal space and flushing mechanism within the outer shell. This reduces the risk of odours developing from contamination of the shell and also means that the shell is relatively clean inside in the event that servicing of the toilet is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Sanitation Equipment Limited
    Inventor: David Charles Robert Fleming
  • Patent number: 5657495
    Abstract: A trap-forming device that includes a hollow body having an upstream orifice situated in a bottom portion of the body for communicating with an upstream length of fluid evacuation pipework, and a downstream orifice situated in the bottom portion of the body for communicating with a downstream length of the evacuation pipework. The device also includes a retainer defining an overflow edge and cooperating with a portion of the upstream length of pipework to retain a barrier-forming quantity of fluid, and a control displacement mechanism for displacing the retainer between an active position and retracted position. The trap-forming device may be connected to a toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Inventor: Guy Dufresne
  • Patent number: 5495626
    Abstract: A vacuum sewer toilet system comprises a toilet compartment, a toilet bowl installed in the toilet compartment, a vacuum sewer, at least one electrically operated device for initiating an emptying and rinsing operation of the toilet bowl, and electrical components for controlling supply of operating current to the electrically operated device. The electrical components are incorporated in a control unit that is sealed against humidity and is protected against unauthorized human access. The control unit is mounted in the toilet compartment at a location that is spaced from the toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Evac AB
    Inventors: Gunnar Lindroos, Paul Wallstro/ m
  • Patent number: 5421040
    Abstract: A vacuum toilet system comprises a toilet bowl having a cover mounted for movement relative to the toilet bowl between an open position and a closed position, the cover being in at least partially sealing relation with the rim when in the closed position. A liquid supply opening is provided for introducing liquid into the toilet bowl when the cover is in the closed position. A discharge valve connects the outlet opening of the toilet bowl to a sewer pipe, in which a partial vacuum can be established. A reservoir has an inlet opening for receiving rinse liquid and an outlet opening in communication with the liquid supply opening. The inlet opening of the reservoir is exposed to substantially the same pressure as the liquid supply opening when the toilet bowl cover is in the open position and the discharge valve is closed. Rinse liquid is drawn from the reservoir into the toilet bowl by way of the liquid supply opening when the discharge valve is open and the cover is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Metra Oy AB
    Inventor: Sven Oldfelt
  • Patent number: 5317763
    Abstract: The noise developed in a suction toilet system, for example in an aircraft, by the activation of a suction valve is substantially reduced by generating the required suction with the aid of two valves, one of which is a by-pass flow valve that can be arranged away from the toilet bowl itself. The air supply for the by-pass flow valve is provided through a noise damper, whereby a substantial reduction in the noise is achieved. The by-pass flow valve is connected to the conduit that connects the bowl to the collecting container with a T-coupling near the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Deutsche Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Helge Frank, Christian Sparr
  • Patent number: 5245711
    Abstract: A vacuum toilet system comprises a toilet bowl having a cover mounted for movement relative to the toilet bowl between an open position and a closed position, the cover being in at least partially sealing relation with the rim when in the closed position. A liquid supply opening is provided for introducing liquid into the toilet bowl when the cover is in the closed position. A discharge valve connects the outlet opening of the toilet bowl to a sewer pipe, in which a partial vacuum can be established. A reservoir has an inlet opening for receiving rinse liquid and an outlet opening in communication with the liquid supply opening. The inlet opening of the reservoir is exposed to substantially the same pressure as the liquid supply opening when the toilet bowl cover is in the open position and the discharge valve is closed. Rinse liquid is drawn from the reservoir into the toilet bowl by way of the liquid supply opening when the discharge valve is open and the cover is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Oy Wartsila Ab
    Inventors: Sven Oldfelt, Gary L. Stahl, Bjorn M. Still
  • Patent number: 5245710
    Abstract: A toilet bowl has a discharge opening for flowing waste material into a gas-tight hopper. A waste valve is disposed between the discharge opening and the hopper for controlling the flow of waste material into the hopper. A first air valve selectively allows air to flow into the hopper for pressurizing the hopper and communicating the waste material from the hopper to the inlet of a grinder. The outlet of the grinder is coupled to a one-inch waste conduit which leads to a waste tank which may be disposed in any convenient location. A second air valve selectively allows air to flow into the waste conduit for pressurizing the waste conduit and forcing the waste at high velocity to the waste tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Microphor, Inc.
    Inventors: Vernon W. Haselswerdt, John M. Mayfield, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5036554
    Abstract: A water saving toilet construction includes a toilet unit which is adapted for flushing with less than approximately one gallon of water, a holding tank which is located beneath the toilet unit and a macerator discharge pump assembly which is operative for macerating waste effluent from the holding tank and discharging it into a sewer line. The holding tank has a volume of at least approximately two and one half gallons so that a sufficient volume of waste effluent can be discharged from the toilet at one time to minimize the potential for clogging the sewer line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Inventor: Luther H. Blount
  • Patent number: 5007117
    Abstract: A vacuum toilet system comprises a waste-receiving bowl defining an interior space for receiving waste material. A sewer pipe defines an interior space that can be placed at a pressure that is lower than that in the interior space of the waste-receiving bowl, and a discharge valve is connected between the outlet of the waste-receiving bowl and the sewer pipe for controlling passage of material between the waste-receiving bowl and the sewer pipe. A rinse liquid valve controls supply of rinse liquid to the waste-receiving bowl. A controller is responsive to a user stimulus to open and close the discharge valve in accordance with a predetermined cycle, and to open the rinse liquid valve during at least the interval during which the discharge valve is being opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: Oy Wartsila AB
    Inventors: Sven Oldfelt, Gary L. Stahl
  • Patent number: 4947492
    Abstract: A lavatory system suitable for use on a commercial passenger aircraft includes a toilet bowl for receiving waste and a waste-holding tank in fluid communication with the toilet bowl for receiving waste from the toilet bowl. A flapper valve is provided in the bottom of the toilet bowl and operates to control the passage of the toilet bowl contents into the waste-holding tank. Water, which may be from the potable water supply system, is directed into the toilet bowl to wash the sides of the toilet bowl and to assist in moving waste material to the waste-holding tank. A water inlet valve controls the introduction of water into the toilet bowl by actuation of a flushing switch. The water is introduced into the toilet bowl through a single nozzle which moves and progressively directs the flow of the water onto the entire interior of the toilet bowl in such a manner that a minimal amount of water is utilized per flush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Weber Aircraft
    Inventor: Ray T. Vincent
  • Patent number: 4918764
    Abstract: An electrically operated toilet wherein a toilet bowl is coupled to an electrically operated water valve which selectively flows water into the toilet bowl. An electrically operated waste valve is coupled to the discharge opening of the toilet bowl for selectively allowing waste material to pass out of the toilet bowl. A control unit is coupled to the water valve and to the waste valve for operating the water valve and the waste valve is a synchronous manner so that water is allowed to flow into the toilet and subsequently out of the discharge opening, while ensuring that the waste valve closes off the discharge opening after the flush cycle is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Assignee: Microphor, Inc.
    Inventors: Vernon W. Haselswerdt, John M. Mayfield, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4637079
    Abstract: A toilet backflow preventing valve and toilet bowl support for mounting between a standard soil pipe mounting flange and drain horn of a standard toilet bowl supports the toilet bowl closely adjacent the floor level, receives standard toilet bolts clamping the valve between the toilet bowl and the soil pipe and has a manually actuated slide with an open position that does not obstruct flow and a closed position sealing the soil pipe to prevent blackflow into the toilet bowl. A feature includes O-ring seals for the opposite faces of the slide and relative rotation of the slide and seals to facilitate the sliding action without damaging the seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1987
    Inventor: Robert R. Hodge
  • Patent number: 4595346
    Abstract: Two flanged sleeves, closed and valved at one end, and a bonnet with two gudgeons act as a cylinder-piston mechanism for pumping. The upper sleeve is movable and spring-loaded, accepts and is filled with liquid. When the bonnet is depressed, through its gudgeons, upper valve is closed, upper sleeve is pushed down, lower valve is constrained open, and the content is pumped into a discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1986
    Inventor: Edward Bozoyan
  • Patent number: 4376314
    Abstract: A vehicular toilet comprising a toilet bowl having an upper rim defining a bowl opening and a lower outlet, a flush valve for selectively controlling the application of a vacuum to the bowl outlet for flushing the toilet, a flush ring proximate the toilet bowl rim having apertures for directing liquid downwardly onto the surface of the bowl during flushing, means for increasing the cleaning effectiveness of the liquid as it flows downwardly over the toilet bowl during flushing including means for sealing the toilet bowl opening, a manifold having air inlet apertures and air outlet apertures communicating with the interior of the toilet bowl above the flush ring, and a baffle for directing the air pulled into the bowl from the air manifold during flushing downwardly over the liquid discharged from the flush ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1983
    Assignee: Kidde, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Iwans
  • Patent number: 4306321
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a closet combined with a sewage tank (7). The closet comprises a stand enclosing the sewage tank (7) and supporting a chair (1) composed of closet bowl (3), closet seat (4) and closet cover (5). A flushing water tank (18) is connected to the closet. The closet bowl (3) is adapted to be closed in a pressure-tight manner by means of the closet cover (5) and is provided with a discharge valve (8) opening at a predetermined overpressure in the closed closet bowl (3). Means (24, 25, 31) comprising an air-pump (24) are provided to empty the closet bowl (3). By means of the air-pump (24) and said means (25, 31) simultaneously both the closet bowl (3) and the flushing water tank (18) are placed under overpressure. A member (21) is provided to supply flushing liquid from the flushing water tank (18) to the closet bowl (3) when the discharge valve ( 8) in the closet bowl (3) has been opened and the overpressure therein has been reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1981
    Inventor: Lars-Olof Norlin
  • Patent number: 4297751
    Abstract: A sewer system in which partial vacuum is used for transporting sewage through a sewer pipe to a collecting chamber or the like. The system comprises only a few sewage producing units, preferably only one at a time usable unit. The length of the sewer pipe from a sewage producing unit to the collecting chamber is comparatively small and the operating devices of the system are arranged to generate vacuum in the sewer pipe principally only for the time required for transporting each separate sewage discharge emitted into the sewer pipe. Preferably, the operating devices are arranged to stop generating the vacuum before the actual transport of the sewage takes part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1981
    Assignee: Oy Wartsila AB
    Inventors: Henry Olin, Nils Tallberg, Martti Varis
  • Patent number: 4232409
    Abstract: Presented is an apparatus for use in conjunction with a toilet of the flush-type which utilizes a charge of compressed air in conjunction with a low volume of water to discharge waste products from a toilet fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1980
    Inventor: Minh Van Pham
  • Patent number: 4185340
    Abstract: Toilet apparatus that has a plurality of improved features including: a sealing mechanism for closing the bottom opening of a toilet bowl so that the effectiveness of the seal is maintained over extended periods of time, a flushing circuit that has a water reservoir that assures proper depth is achieved in the pool of water that is formed after the sealing mechanism is closed, an over flow tube which assures that the water seal therein is maintained, and a control valve which has an inlet fitting that assures that damage to the valve or related parts does not occur during installation of the toilet apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1980
    Assignee: Thetford Corporation
    Inventors: Frank T. Sargent, Arthur W. Henke, John M. Antos, John T. Cameron
  • Patent number: RE45688
    Abstract: Disclosed is a sewer system including a sewage receptacle, sewer piping connected to the sewage receptacle by means of a discharge valve, a mechanism for generating vacuum in the sewer piping, and a control mechanism for controlling the discharge valve. In order to achieve a more rapid closing of the discharge valve after discharge of the sewage from the sewage receptacle, the vacuum sewer system further comprises an aeration device in direct fluid communication with the discharge valve. The control mechanism is arranged to control the aeration device. Also disclosed is a discharge valve (2) for such a vacuum sewer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Evac Oy
    Inventors: Vesa Lappalainen, Gunnar Lindroos, Kaj Ronnblad