Miscellaneous Patents (Class 4/661)
  • Patent number: 11812900
    Abstract: Provided is excretion detection system (50) including: toilet seat (10) that is openable; imaging unit (2) with which toilet seat (10) is provided; and information processor (15) that estimates at least one selected from the group consisting of (i) presence or absence of urine or feces, and (ii) a property of the urine or feces, by using imaging data of imaging unit (2), excretion detection system (50) being configured not to capture an image using imaging unit (2) when toilet seat (10) opens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Kawai, Wataru Uchiyama
  • Patent number: 11111661
    Abstract: A method for controlling water spouting of a toilet includes: a target region where a foreign object exists is determined from multiple predetermined regions in the toilet; a target water spout corresponding to the target region is determined according to pre-stored correspondences between the multiple regions in the toilet and water spouts for flushing the multiple regions; and the target water spout is controlled to spout water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: BEIJING XIAOMI MOBILE SOFTWARE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jin Han, Han Wang, Ximing Zhang
  • Patent number: 11026592
    Abstract: An aspect of the disclosure pertains to finger blood pressure cuff. The finger blood pressure cuff may include a housing having an opening sized to receive a human finger and an inflatable elastic bladder disposed about an inward-facing surface of the opening. The inflatable elastic bladder may be inflated to pressurize a user's finger and temporarily occlude blood flow in the user's finger. The finger blood pressure cuff may include a pressure sensor for obtaining blood pressure measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: Fitbit, Inc.
    Inventors: Xi Zhang, Keith Adam Wong, Andrew Larsen Axley, Dan Stefan Tudose, Conor Joseph Heneghan
  • Patent number: 10463210
    Abstract: A night light supported by a toilet seat assembly for directing illumination toward a toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Delta Faucet Company
    Inventors: Michael J. Veros, Gary Jacobs, DeWayne Davis
  • Patent number: 10448789
    Abstract: A foldable bottom wiper. The foldable bottom wiper includes a wiper head having a paper contact surface extending from a base, and a handle extending from the head. The paper contact surface has a recess into which toilet paper can be tucked. In use, toilet paper can be placed over the contact surface and secured thereto by tucking part of the paper into the recess whereby the papers are secured to the head while paper on the head is wiped over part of a bottom to be cleaned with the contact surface of the head facing generally upwards, and the soiled paper being removed by facing the head generally downwards and allowing the papers to fall off under gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Inventor: Christine Buckingham
  • Patent number: 10383485
    Abstract: An example system includes a manipulation device configured to be mounted to a sanitation apparatus for storing or disposing human waste. The manipulation device includes a first arm mechanism, a second arm mechanism, a first articulating joint mechanically coupling the first arm mechanism to the second arm mechanism, a grasping mechanism, and a second articulating joint mechanically coupling the second arm mechanism to the grasping mechanism. The system also includes a control module communicatively coupled to the manipulation device and configured to control the manipulation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Inventor: Attaoulaye Diallo
  • Patent number: 10370837
    Abstract: A toilet dispenser and light is disclosed. Upon detection and activation from sensors, a light may be used to illuminate a toilet bowl, and a treatment substance may be dispensed into the toilet bowl. The dispenser correspondingly configures to hang from the rim of a toilet bowl. Portions of the dispenser may be replaceable, such as a power source and a propellant container used to house a treatment substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Homemation LLC
    Inventors: Taylor Brett Wood, Daken Marcus Tanner, Jeremy Todd Stevenson, Jacob Lynn Larsen
  • Patent number: 10155223
    Abstract: A container designed to store dehydrated biological material under a controlled atmosphere, in particular at ambient temperature, and more particularly DNA, includes an envelope (12) that is made of a gas-tight material. The envelope (12) is made of a material that is metal and cylindrical in shape, sealed at one end, and it includes a stopper (16) that is designed to be connected in an airtight manner to the envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: IMAGENE
    Inventors: Sophie Tuffet, David Georges De Souza
  • Patent number: 9930232
    Abstract: A computerized toilet seat having an image capture system includes a toilet seat body; a positioning auxiliary device, disposed on the toilet seat body and having a main body and a connecting member; an image capture unit, coupled to the connecting member and having an optical positioning element, a first space being defined between the optical positioning element and the buttocks; and a manipulator, electrically connected to the image capture unit for operating the positioning auxiliary device. The manipulator controls the image capture unit to capture an image of the buttocks. After capturing the image, the manipulator calculates and adjusts a relative position of the buttocks and the connecting member through the optical positioning element, and the image of the buttocks is displayed on the manipulator according to a relative position of the first space and the buttocks, and operation information of the positioning auxiliary device is provided to the manipulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Inventor: Shao-Yu Peng
  • Patent number: 9759345
    Abstract: A leak detection and prevention system includes a gear motor linkage assembly. The gear motor linkage assembly includes a gear motor and a gear motor controller/driver module that controls operation of the gear motor. The gear motor linkage assembly also includes a push lever attached to a shaft of the gear motor, the push lever in a home position, wherein when a signal indicating that a leak has been detected is received the gear motor controller/driver module controls the gear motor to rotate the push lever so that the push level non-captively engages a handle of a valve and pushes the handle to a closed position, then the gear motor controller/driver module controls the gear motor to rotate the push lever to the home position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Inventor: Lalit Savla
  • Patent number: 9561854
    Abstract: A toilet assembly for a vehicle comprises a first toilet compartment including a first opening, a first foldable toilet compartment door for closing the first opening, and a first toilet opposite to the first opening. An adjacent second toilet compartment includes a second opening, a second toilet compartment door for closing the second opening, and a second toilet opposite to the second opening. A forward dividing flap is rotatably supported by the front wall and situated between the first toilet compartment and the second toilet compartment for at least partially dividing the first toilet compartment from the second toilet compartment, wherein the forward dividing flap is rotatably supported at the front wall, the first toilet compartment door is retractable to a side facing away from the dividing flap, the first toilet is further from the front wall than is the second toilet, and the forward dividing flap closes the first opening when the first toilet compartment door is retracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Schliwa, Jens Wiebalck, Roland Lange
  • Patent number: 9146032
    Abstract: A toilet lighting system and method is disclosed. The lighting system can include a light source directed into a toilet waste container to seek to provide a predetermined lighting effect. One such effect can be to obscure or mask the appearance of waste in the toilet waste container, which, depending on the particular system, can render the user experience less unappealing and even entertaining, more efficient, and/or less wasteful or messy. The light source can be predetermined and mounted to provide various types of effects when material in the toilet waste container is exposed to the light from the light source. The toilet lighting system can be waterproof and capable of being exposed to high fluid pressure when pressure washed. The toilet lighting system can be powered in a number of ways, including by battery, solar, wind, geothermal, or other power supplying systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: Mark J. Maxwell
  • Patent number: 9139995
    Abstract: A funnel device to assist individuals, especially males, with the standing use of toilet facilities. The funnel is used to contain any urine overspray from an individual standing in front of a toilet. The device may be easily placed and positioned on, or removed from, the toilet. The device is a truncated cone of flexible plastic material, with a large V-shaped space formed in one side. The narrow end of the cone is inserted into the toilet and is sized to extend into the toilet basin. The device is preferably constructed from a sheet of heavy flexible plastic, attached back onto itself at a point near the narrow end of the cone. Holes near the base may be incorporated to allow water to flow into the cone from the toilet bowl. Handle cutouts may be positioned near the upper perimeter of the cone to facilitate placement of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventors: Norma Escudero, Jorge Escudero
  • Patent number: 9038211
    Abstract: A shower curtain is provided with two pockets adapted to receive spaced apart stereo speakers and a third pocket adapted to receive a personal entertainment system. The third pocket is provided with a clear inside window pane facing the inside of the shower and adapted for finger-touch control through the window pane. A closure system integral with the shower curtain is provided for external access to the pockets. In one embodiment, the closure system for access to the pockets is a tongue-in-groove fastening arrangement that provides external access to a personal entertainment system as well as a channel through which wires run to couple the entertainment system to the speakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: HEDAYA HOME FASHIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Joseph A. Hedaya
  • Patent number: 9009881
    Abstract: A retainer assembly for a shower surround includes a first frame arm, a second frame arm, an arcuate frame section, a stop and a retainer. The arcuate frame section interconnects the first frame arm and the second frame arm. The stop extends from the first frame arm, and is substantially between the first frame arm and the second frame arm. The retainer arm extends from the arcuate frame section in a direction that is generally opposite from the first frame arm and the second frame arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Sisk
  • Patent number: 8793819
    Abstract: There is provided a method for controlling a self-generating bidet that can perform power-generation and charging by introduced water and can be stably used. The method for controlling a self-generating bidet comprising a generator, a charging unit, a nozzle part, and a nozzle passage part that is provided between the generator and the nozzle part, the method for controlling the self-generating bidet comprising: a step of sensing the use of the bidet that senses whether the user wishes to use the bidet; and, if it is determined that the user wishes to use the bidet, a step of checking voltage that determines whether the voltage charged in the charging unit is lower than a predetermined reference voltage, and if so, performs power generation through the generator, and charges the charging unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Woongjin Coway Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: In Seok Seo, Ki Chul Kim, Joung Ho Son, Man Uk Park, Sung Worl Jin, Young Sang Yun, Ji Hye Jeong
  • Patent number: 8789808
    Abstract: The urinal with operation controlled via a replica of a motorcycle handlebar is a wall-mounted fixture configured to control the use of the flush valve of said urinal, or toilet, or other plumbing fixture. The replica motorcycle handlebar includes a linkage that runs from the throttle portion of the motorcycle handlebar to the flush valve of said urinal such that upon simulation of a throttling gesture shall pull said flush valve upwardly in order to flush the respective urinal or plumbing fixture. The replica motorcycle handlebar includes a motion sensor that upon detection of a person shall communicate an audio recording of a motorcycle noise. The replica motorcycle handlebar includes mirrors, turn signals, and a horn switch. Throttling motion of the throttle portion may also prompt an additional audio recording of a motorcycle engine being revved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Anthony J. Moley
  • Patent number: 8769734
    Abstract: A remote-controlled vehicle for collecting and transporting bio-waste that is capable of compacting bio-waste, dumping the waste in a variety of ways, and that has a rechargeable battery, among other functions, is disclosed. A system for collecting the bio-waste material also is provided. The system includes a plurality of collection receptacles associated with a structure, each of the plurality of collection receptacles receiving the bio-waste material without the use of water as a carrier. A transport network extends from each of the plurality of collection receptacles to at least one storage receptacle located at the structure. A plurality of vehicles, or carts, is disposed within the transport network and collect the bio-waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Vincent Paul Schaaf
  • Patent number: 8695653
    Abstract: A cover for a toilet is provided. The cover includes a sheet having side-facing portions that extend from a top portion and are configured to extend to a ground surface and a front-facing portion that extends from the top portion and is configured to extend to a ground surface spaced-frontwardly from the toilet. A support is carried on about a proximal end of the front-facing portion for providing support to a technician during servicing of the toilet. The support may be a cushion that is made of any appropriately configured material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey F. Bennett
  • Patent number: 8683625
    Abstract: A device to prevent a sink sprayer hose from becoming caught on under sink plumbing, such as shut-off valves, is herein described. The device comprises a semi-circular shield and a hinged retaining mechanism mounted to an underside of a kitchen sink around shut-off valves and adjacent to the sink sprayer hose. It is held in place to the wall or cabinet surface via a foam adhesive tape. The sprayer hose rests against it, thus preventing it from becoming caught on the shutoff valve as it is withdrawn. This allows for full withdrawal of the hose and elimination of the aggravation that occurs when the hose becomes caught on the valve/piping that is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Lisa A. Straub
  • Patent number: 8615824
    Abstract: A stool collector adapted for being positioned in a use position in which it is secured to a standard water closet or toilet to collect a stool sample delivered by a user, said stool collector comprising a rear piece adapted for being secured between rear halves of a toilet bowl and a tip-up toilet seat, respectively, of said toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: GP Medical Devices ApS
    Inventors: Morten HΓΈstrup SΓΈnderholm, Henning Hedegaard, Christian Emil Erfurt-Hansen, SΓΈren Peter SΓΈgaard, Lars Erik Lund
  • Patent number: 8561225
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventors: John R. Wilson, Peter J. Jahrling
  • Patent number: 8561220
    Abstract: A device (20) for improving drainline clearance for use with an ultra low flushing volume toilet (24). The device (20) includes a centrifuge separator means (30), for separating liquids (L) and solids (S), and a reservoir (42). The separator means (30) has a substantially horizontal inlet (32), adapted for connection to the outlet (26) of a toilet pan (24), an outlet (36) primarily for solids (S) and an outlet (38) primarily for liquids (L). The reservoir (42) is beneath the separator means (30) and has an inlet (38) in fluid communication with the liquids outlet (38) of the separator means (30). The reservoir (42) is adapted to syphonically empty substantially all of its contents into a sewerage drainline (22) after at least 2 flushes of the toilet (24). Further, the separator means (30) and the reservoir (42) have a combined vertical dimension less than the maximum height of the toilet pan outlet for installation adjacent the toilet (24) and substantially above the floor level (F) of the toilet (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Caroma Industries Limited
    Inventor: Stephen John Cummings
  • Patent number: 8544341
    Abstract: A device for estimating a stream of urine entering a toilet or urinal includes a measuring unit configured to estimate an amount of the stream of urine, and an indicator to provide an indication to an individual of the amount of the stream of urine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventors: Ernest W. Grumbles, Timothy A. Bachman, John W. Ahern
  • Patent number: 8528127
    Abstract: A portable toilet and method of using which is foldable or not foldable and which is easily mounted, used, and dismounted by a handicapped and/or bedridden person. The handicapped and/or bedridden person can be transported while disposed on the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Harry E. Gabaldon
  • Publication number: 20130212802
    Abstract: A handwashing playground integrates handwash stations with an interactive, themed play attraction, such as a farm, and includes farm-themed playground with animals and a barn. The animals and farm implements replace faucets and sinks to provide an interactive and entertaining experience, thereby encouraging handwashing and other good personal hygiene behavior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: ELISA MICHELLE HAYS
  • Patent number: 8490225
    Abstract: A sanitary unit comprises a toilet having a bowl (3) provided with a seat (4), and a wash basin (12) supported above the toilet bowl. The wash basin is mounted for sliding movement between a retracted position in which there is access to the toilet bowl, and a forward position in which the wash basin is to be used. The toilet bowl is mounted for simultaneous sliding movement between a retracted position and a forward position in which the toilet bowl is to be used, under the action of a mechanism (56) which interconnects the toilet bowl and the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Saxby
  • Patent number: 8484791
    Abstract: The present invention consists of a pad that is curved to fit the inside surface of a toilet. The pad is large enough to cover the entire inside surface of the toilet. The lower portion of the pad is submerged into the trapped water at the bottom of the toilet. A part of the trapped water sucks up to the pad through the fibers of the pad materials. The wet pad stays on the surface of the toilet bowl. The leaning agent stored in the cleaning pad works with the stain on the bowl surface to clean the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Chien H. Lin
  • Patent number: 8468615
    Abstract: The mounting device has a mounting frame (2) that includes means for securing the sanitary body. A covering (14, 15, 26) is positioned on the mounting frame (2), said covering concealing the mounting frame at least at the front. The covering (14, 15, 26) has at least one first decorative element (15) that conceals the mounting frame (2) at the front and is secured to the mounting frame (2) and at least one second decorative element (26) that conceals the mounting frame (2) at the top. The second decorative element (26) forms a removable cover for a cistern (5) mounted in the mounting frame (2). The covering (14, 15, 26) preferably has at least two further decorative elements (14) that conceal the mounting frame (2) at the sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Geberit International AG
    Inventor: Reto Tremp
  • Patent number: 8424129
    Abstract: A bath spout cover is provided that includes a body structure having an upper portion, two opposing side portions, and a front portion; a receiving area defined between the upper portion, the two opposing side portions, and the front portion; a strap spanning the two opposing side portions, said strap being adjustable on at least one of the side portions of the body structure; and at least one aperture defined by one of the side portions of the body structure, said aperture for receiving an end of the strap. Further provided are methods for securing a bath spout cover to a bath spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Skip Hop, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Henderson, Janet Villano, Ellen Diamant, Elizabeth Zack
  • Patent number: 8365343
    Abstract: An implement for clearing debris from a drain cup or basket strainer in a sink includes an upright handle for gripping and operating the implement. A cutting member configured to cut up the debris and force it through the drain cup or basket strainer is mounted on a lower end of the handle. The cutting member includes a centrally disposed recess for the strainer basket handle or the basket attachment nut in the drain cup. A plurality of radially extending grooves are formed in a lower surface of the cutting member with cutting edges being formed on the edges of the grooves for cutting the debris and forcing it through the drain cup or basket strainer. The recess in the cutting member permits the blades of the cutting assembly to reach the base of the strainer without interference from the strainer basket handle or attachment nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventors: Leland J Sherwood, Leonard G Sherwood
  • Patent number: 8312608
    Abstract: An installation and removal system for a toilet unit is provided. The system includes a base having floor engaging wheels coupled thereto. At least one of the floor engaging wheels is adjustable to maintain the base substantially level relative to the floor. An actuator is disposed on the base. A pair of spaced apart support elements are coupled to the actuator and adapted to engage an underside of the toilet unit. An angle of the support elements relative the base is adjustable. The system includes a retaining system coupled to the spaced apart support elements and adapted to couple with the toilet unit. The retaining system militate against an undesired movement of the toilet unit relative the support elements. A kit and method for using the system are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: John Head
  • Patent number: 8291526
    Abstract: A device for facilitating use of a bathroom fixture according to various exemplary embodiments can include at least a first planar body and a second planar body having a pair of opposed legs extending from each planar body defining a first opening and a second opening for receiving and conforming to a configuration of a base of a bathroom fixture. An interlocking element may be interposed between at least the first planar body and the second planar body for interlocking and stacking at least the first and second planar bodies to form a raised platform adjustable to a predetermined height based upon a user's height for facilitating use of the bathroom fixture according to the user's height. A skid-resistance bottom surface may be provided on either the first planar body or the second planar body for securing the raised platform to an underlying surface to prevent movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Goli Parvizian
  • Patent number: 8281429
    Abstract: Viewing device comprised of two or more mirrors and an illumination component for self-viewing the anal-genital region while seated on a toilet bowl. The preferred embodiment comprises a forward mirror and a rear mirror positioned within a toilet bowl at angles with respect to each other, to the user's eye and to the user's anal-genital region such that when the user peers between slightly spread legs into the forward mirror an upward directed image of the user's anal-genital region is visible. The device preserves the region of the toilet bowl directly below the anal-genital region free of mirrors and all supportive apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Vernon Wesley Gunderson
  • Patent number: 8266739
    Abstract: A remote-controlled vehicle for collecting and transporting bio-waste that is capable of compacting bio-waste, dumping the waste in a variety of ways, and that has a rechargeable battery, among other functions, is disclosed. A system for collecting the bio-waste material also is provided. The system includes a plurality of collection receptacles associated with a structure, each of the plurality of collection receptacles receiving the bio-waste material without the use of water as a carrier. A transport network extends from each of the plurality of collection receptacles to at least one storage receptacle located at the structure. A plurality of vehicles, or carts, is disposed within the transport network and collect the bio-waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Vincent Paul Schaaf
  • Patent number: 8261474
    Abstract: Packaged decorative thin-film appliquΓ©s for the exterior surface of toilet seat lids have a backer panel with a back side and an opposing release side, the release side having a release layer opposite the back side, the decorative thin-film appliquΓ© having an application side facing and in contact with the release layer of the backer card, and a decorative side opposite the application side, the decorative side bearing printed images or indicia, and an appliquΓ© frame substantially surround the decorative thin-film plastic appliquΓ© and in contact with the release layer of the backer panel, the appliquΓ© frame bearing printed images or indicia different from the decorative thin-film appliquΓ©, and a separation between the decorative thin-film appliquΓ© and the appliquΓ© frame at which the decorative thin-film appliquΓ© is separable from the backer panel with the appliquΓ© frame remaining on the backer panel. A pre-packaged appliquΓ© for hygienic and decorative use on a toilet set lid is thus provided for retail sales.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Celeste Massullo
  • Patent number: 8215040
    Abstract: A method for advertising in a restroom is shown and described. The method includes the use of a three-dimensional advertisement article which may attach to a wall above a urinal and at least partly cover the urinal. The advertisement article may resemble a container, perhaps a bottle or can, for a product, which may be beer or a soft drink, being advertised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Charles Pascarelli, David Furman
  • Patent number: 8176579
    Abstract: A modular shower pan includes at least four polygon panels adapted to interlock in side by side relation to form a body. Each panel has a planar bottom surface and a top surface that is sloped based upon a pre-selected drain position on the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Madison Daniels
  • Patent number: 8151732
    Abstract: A pet waste management device includes a housing having upper and lower ends. The device includes a receiving bowl positioned in the housing, the bowl having an open upper end and a lower end having an outlet. A cover is situated upwardly adjacent the bowl upper end. A water outlet is positioned adjacent the bowl upper end to introduce water into the bowl. A supply line provides water to the water outlet. The device includes a first foot pedal configured to selectively allow water from the supply line to enter the bowl through the water outlet. A drain line is operatively coupled to the bowl lower end to drain contents of the bowl. The device includes a heating unit to prevent water from freezing, the heating unit including a resistive heating element and a thermostat and is in electrical communication with a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventors: Curt R. Fournier, Victoria D. Januszewski
  • Patent number: 8136178
    Abstract: A spa speaker apparatus having a housing with a speaker mounted therein, wherein the speaker can be extended and retracted with respect to the housing and the speaker is also rotatable within the housing. A system for providing audio to a spa is also disclosed. The system comprises a spa having walls and at least one speaker unit mounted to a spa wall. Each of the speaker units is capable of receiving an audio signal, and generating sound towards the occupants of the spa. Each of the speaker units comprises a speaker that is individually retractable to be hidden behind the spa wall and extendible from the spa wall. Each of the speakers is also rotatable within the spa wall to direct the speaker sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: B & S Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ruben J. Lerma
  • Patent number: 8122525
    Abstract: A putting green whose perimeter is level with the top of a concrete-sided pool having a decorative ribbon along the top of the pool side and an apron surrounding the pool having at least partially flat surface, the putting green overlying a deck including a) a waterproof surface comprising decking surface members having lengths and ends, the lengths being sized to the dimensions of the pool and the surface being at the same level as the pool apron; b) supports including i. cross members which are perpendicular to the lengths of the decking surface members; ii. underlying joists that form a sturdy base for the cross members; and iii. joist hangers being secured to the sides of the pool below the decorative ribbon along the top of the pool side and being sunk into the concrete side of the pool; and c) a putting green comprising at least the layers of gravel, sand and artificial grass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffery L. Getz
  • Patent number: 8112828
    Abstract: The toilet anti-splatter apparatus limits urine splash in a toilet. The apparatus is provided in a plurality of sheets, all combined in a stack with one edge having a releasable bond. Each sheet provides a floating target with bulls eye containing a foaming agent. Upon water contact, the surfactant foaming agent foams, thereby diminishing splatter. The sheets are disposable and biodegradable and further inhibit splatter by floating until flushed. Available embodiments of the apparatus include those with bactericidal and fungicidal chemicals within the center capsule. Further embodiments contains dyes to encourage target strike by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Manuel B. Varela, III
  • Patent number: 8079094
    Abstract: A dispenser discharging antibacterial, self-drying disinfectant solution is suspended from an inside wall of a public rest facility stall to transport the solution through a length of tubing to an inlet port at a rear or side surface of a non-porous and non-absorbent toilet seat in filling a hollow therein below an opening in the top surface of the seat in introducing the disinfectant solution to be spread about the top surface in cleansing it of any generally sexually transmitted germs, viruses and bacteria that might be present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. DiPano
  • Patent number: 8074305
    Abstract: A bubbling bath additive 42 made of a surfactant 46 and a bubbling agent 44, and a housing member 12 for housing the bubbling bath additive 42 are provided. A floating part 22, 34 that is situated above the housing member 12 and floats on the water surface, and an ejection port 33 that is provided above the waterline of the floating part 22, 34 and through which bubbles formed by the bubbling bath additive 42 are ejected outward from inside, are provided. A suction port 14 through which water flows inward from outside is provided near a lower end part of the housing member 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Health
    Inventor: Toyohiro Matsuda
  • Patent number: 8069509
    Abstract: A sanitary device 210 is provided. The sanitary device 210 includes a body and mounting means on the body for mounting the body on a toiletry actuation device 312 of a toilet 310. A stack of leaves of material is provided on the body, the leaves of material being selectively removable so as to enable a user to actuate the toiletry actuation device 312 by removing an uppermost leaf of material from the stack, to reveal a lower leaf of material, and then pressing on the lower leaf of material to actuate the toiletry actuation device 312. In this way, a user can actuate the actuation device 312 without having to touch the toiletry actuation device 312 in a manner in which the user touches a surface which has been touched previously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel Adam Polakow
  • Patent number: 8056155
    Abstract: Methods of cleaning a swimming pool using a swimming pool cleaning head. A first method may include intermittently raising a nozzle head under water and ejecting a stream of water under water, incrementally rotating the nozzle head in a clockwise direction, retracting the nozzle head, sliding a cam reverser, and reversing the direction of rotation of the nozzle head with the cam reverser to counterclockwise. A second method may include rotating a stem by sliding at least one pin coupled to the stem through at least one channel in a cam, the stem configured to release a stream of water under water in a swimming pool. The method may further include reversing the direction of rotation of the stem by sliding a slidable section of the cam with the at least one pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: GSG Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Goettl
  • Patent number: 8024823
    Abstract: A water conservation system comprising a reservoir for storing water; a toilet water tank for storing water, the toilet water tank is disposed below the reservoir; and a tube fluidly connecting the reservoir and the tank, wherein the tube is configured such that a first end of the tube reaches near a bottom surface of the reservoir, a second end of the tube reaches near a bottom surface of the tank, and an elevated portion with a crest that is oriented above the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Edward J. Sanaghan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8015634
    Abstract: An insulated cover for toilet water closets intended to prevent condensation and its associated damaging properties is herein disclosed. The water closet section of the toilet is covered on the bottom and all four (4) side surfaces up to a water line with a preformed foam covering. The foam is envisioned to be of a closed cell design similar to that used on insulating sleeves for glasses and canned beverages. The foam is approximately one-quarter (ΒΌ) inch thick and available in a wide variety of colors to match all bathroom decors. The foam covering would be made in halves that meet in a shiplap joint on the sides of the water closet. Finally, the cover would be held in place on the water closet with multiple strips of hook and loop fastener material, thus allowing it to be easily removed for replacement or cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: James P. Lessard
  • Patent number: 8011401
    Abstract: A toilet bowl protecting assembly includes a flexible toilet bowl covering with a top wall having a front edge, a pair of lateral edges and a rear edge. A vertical wall is attached to and extends downwardly from the top wall. The vertical wall is attached to and is coextensive with each of the front and lateral edges. The top wall is positioned on top of a toilet lid and seat of the toilet and the vertical wall extending downwardly over a toilet bowl of the toilet. A flexible tank covering including an upper wall and a perimeter wall is attached to and extending downwardly from the upper wall, the tank covering is positionable on and covering a tank of the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: David K. Utterback
  • Patent number: 8006324
    Abstract: A urinal discharge pipe assembly comprising a discharge pipe having a passageway therethrough from an inlet in communication with a urinal discharge outlet and an outlet in communication with a urine disposal system, a foam dispensing device having a foam outlet open into the passageway for discharge of an allotment of foam into the passageway between the inlet and the outlet adequate to form a temporary foam plug across the passageway blocking the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Gotohti.com Inc.
    Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones