Miscellaneous Patents (Class 4/661)
  • Patent number: 7996933
    Abstract: A trap for recovering heat energy from a liquid has a chamber 7 with an internal baffle wall 45-48. An upper chamber opening 9 and a weir at an inlet end 13 of a discharge conduit 11 are on opposite sides of the baffle wall. Liquid fed into the chamber via the upper opening flows downward and under the baffle wall before flowing upward and over the weir to be discharged from the chamber through the discharge conduit. A second liquid flows through a heat exchange conduit 17-24. One preferred embodiment has a concentric arrangement of a plurality of cylindrical baffle walls alternating with a plurality of cylindrical chambers of the heat exchange conduit. A corresponding method of heat recovery is also claimed. In one preferred application, the trap is fitted into the base or floor tray of a shower for recovery of heat energy from waste shower water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Garth Kennedy McGregor
  • Patent number: 7979924
    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: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: GSG Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Goettl
  • Patent number: 7979927
    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: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Madison Daniels
  • Patent number: 7937784
    Abstract: A parent-child showerhead includes a wall-mounted showerhead, a hand-held showerhead, and a showerhead bracket. The wall-mounted showerhead is fixed on a conduit extending from a wall and connects to the hand-held showerhead via a hose. The showerhead bracket is provided for the hand-held showerhead to hang thereon. The wall-mounted showerhead has a water diverter disposed therein for controlling the spray water from the wall-mounted showerhead or the hand-held showerhead or from both of them. The water diverter has an adjusting knob for changing a direction of the water flow, and the adjusting knob is located on the wall-mounted showerhead at side close to a user, which is convenient for users to operate. The showerhead bracket is disposed at a lower position of the wall-mounted showerhead, and has a receptacle. The receptacle is in a pivoted state to adjust an angle and provide the hand-held showerhead to be engaged therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Jia-Sen Qiu
  • Patent number: 7934273
    Abstract: Methods of relieving the suction force in a swimming pool or spa. A first method may include the steps of closing an aperture in a hydraulic suction fuse through magnetic force and opening the aperture by increasing suction force within the hydraulic suction fuse. Implementations of hydraulic suction fuses may also utilize a method of adjusting the fuse point of a hydraulic suction fuse. The method may include decoupling a magnet assembly from a first step having a first height, the first step contained in a fuse body contained in the hydraulic suction fuse. The method may also include rotating the magnet assembly and coupling the magnet assembly with a second step having a second height, the second step contained in the fuse body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Paramount Pool & Spa Systems
    Inventors: John M. Goettl, R. Dominic Conn, Steven R. Barnes
  • Publication number: 20110083264
    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: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Vernon Wesley Gunderson
  • Patent number: 7856676
    Abstract: A capsule-type medical device collector has a cylindrical net member (61a) whose mesh size is formed so as to be able to collect a capsule endoscope (3), slits 61d and (61d), an INSULOCK binder (61e), and handle members 61f and (61f). By binding the other end of the cylindrical net member (61a) with the INSULOCK binder (61e) to form the cylindrical net member (61a) in a bag shape and sandwiching ear members (61a1) and (61a1) of the cylindrical net member (61a) between a toilet stool (7) and a toilet seat (71), the cylindrical net member (61a) is fixed on the toilet stool (7). After excretion, the cylindrical net member (61a) is taken out and only a capsule endoscope (3) is collected. In such a manner, a capsule-type medical device discharged from a subject to the outside is easily collected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Toshimasa Akagi, Masami Kurihara
  • Patent number: 7849530
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a household heat recovery device and more specifically to a wastewater heat recovery unit, which absorbs residual heat from the water flowing onto the floor and down the drain of an ordinary household shower or bathtub unit. In one embodiment, the heat recovery device adapts for ease-of-use and enables quick set-up in most existing and typical showers or bathtubs without any tools and without coupling to the existing plumbing. Internal passages direct the effluent shower water through a serpentine path to a discharge drain. Over time, the heat transferred from the water to the device then radiates into the environment—thus reducing the total energy cost for a household by reducing the thermal load on the main heating unit for the household.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Craig Hendricks
  • Patent number: 7841029
    Abstract: A restroom sanitation apparatus that can be used to store and sanitize a toilet plunger within a restroom. The apparatus has a cylindrical lid that is mounted on a round base after a toilet plunger is placed on top of the round base. Within the base is located a scent drawer that includes a volume of material with an incorporated scent, and furthermore, an electric-powered fan which continuously blows air over the volume of material in an effort to disperse the scent throughout the air within a bathroom. The apparatus further includes a hook to mount the toilet plunger once it is within the outer casing and also includes an electric-powered ultraviolet light that acts to kill germs and bacteria once the cylindrical lid has been placed into contact with the round base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Tanya A. Williams
  • Patent number: 7841028
    Abstract: A toilet moving device for facilitating lifting and transporting of a toilet includes a dolly being insertable under a front of a pedestal of the toilet to facilitate lifting of the toilet. A base is coupled to the dolly. A lifting assembly is coupled to the base. The lifting assembly engages a tank of the toilet. The lifting assembly supports the toilet when the dolly is used to lift the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Arnold C. Rojas
  • Patent number: 7832030
    Abstract: A motorized toilet bowl cleaning device includes a main body having a frame that attaches to a rim of a toilet bowl; a container coupled to the main body capable of holding a cleaning solution; a dispenser coupled to the container to spray the cleaning solution; an electric motor coupled to the main body; at least one brushing arm attached to the main body, a power source for powering the electric motor; and at least one moving wheel driven by a motor such that when the main body is attached to the rim, the wheel is in engaging contact with a surface of the rim. The dispenser is positioned and angled in a manner to spray the cleaning solution onto an inside wall of the toilet bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Bolivar Nunez, Isabel Chavez
  • Patent number: 7818830
    Abstract: A safety bathtub spout cover includes a soft exterior spout receiving hollow body. A temperature sensor mechanism is positioned within the water flow within the hollow body. The temperature sensor mechanism is coupled to a temperature display and an audible temperature alarm on the hollow body to signal unsafe temperature conditions sensed by the temperature sensor mechanism. A child-proof manual override may be provided for disengaging the audible alarm. The body may further include a closing mechanism for attaching the spout cover to the faucet in a temporary, non-marring, non-residue attachment manner. The audible alarm may be a progressive audible temperature alarm with varied levels of activation corresponding to the severity of the scald condition sensed. The display is mounted in a manner visible from any viewing height above the faucet. The spout cover features may be incorporated directly into a safety spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Thorley Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley
  • Patent number: 7814583
    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 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: B & S Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ruben J. Lerma
  • Patent number: 7805869
    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: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventors: Charles Pascarelli, David Furman
  • Patent number: 7798907
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an apparatus and system for a target game used in conjunction with a toilet or urinal, wherein a target body is positioned within the toilet basin. The target game comprises a target body and coupling members, wherein the target body is divided into sections. The coupling members secure the target body to the toilet basin and include a securing member and an attachment member, wherein the securing member is any device that is capable of attaching to the toilet and wherein the attachment member couples the securing member to the target body. Other embodiments of the apparatus and system include image projection systems to create the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Gregory A. Piccionelli, Gary Friedman
  • Patent number: 7798469
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lifting, moving, aligning and lowering a toilet. The apparatus comprises a base frame having three sides, and a lift frame pivotally attached at a first end to the base frame. The apparatus further comprises a jack device, operatively attached to the lift frame, for selectively lifting and lowering the lift frame, and an arm pivotally attached to the lift frame. In one preferred embodiment, the jack device includes a jack cylinder, a piston concentrically disposed within the jack cylinder, and a U-shaped member. In the most preferred embodiment, the U-shaped member is attached at a first point to the piston, and wherein the U-shaped member is pivotally attached to the lift frame at a second point, so that as the piston extends from the jack cylinder, the lift frame is moved. A total of three (3) pivot point sets are included in the most preferred embodiment. Left and right side alignment tubes may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Charles H. Junca
  • Patent number: 7797767
    Abstract: A cover for a wall-hung urinal or a cover or a seat board (13) for the toilet seat (12) of a toilet (10) with interchangeable decoration and design elements or articles of daily use which are adapted to the respective individual wishes of the users has at least one through bore (210) or a blind bore (210?), whereby an insert member (200) filling the bore and held in the bore is placed fixedly or detachably in the bore (210; 210?), this insert member being configured as a full body or a hollow body, whereby the insert member (200) is made totally, partially or portionwise of a clear material with or without colouration, whereby fixed or movable decoration articles or articles of daily use or functional articles (230) such as lighting means, radio or television, a CD-player, a time displaying device, a speech and/or music module with a current production source such as a battery or a solar cell, liquid means or games, are placed in the material of the insert member (200) configured as a full body or in the inne
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Axel Benkhardt, Andreas Hack
  • Patent number: 7784119
    Abstract: A hydromassage bathtub includes a bathtub including a sidewall, a deck, and an access opening in one of the sidewall and the deck. A fixture is secured to an outside surface of the bathtub proximate the access opening, and a removable plate configured to cover the access opening. A system component such as a control box is removably mounted on the fixture at a position whereby, upon removal of the plate, the system component can be removed from the fixture by accessing it through the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Sanijet
    Inventors: John Booth, Michael C. Dinsdale
  • Patent number: 7761937
    Abstract: A modified shower head provides a timepiece imbedded within a shower head insert allowing a person showering to keep track of time and also to monitor water usage. It also provides the person showering with a timing mechanism to determine the length of time for use of hair products, tints, dyes and treatments without having to reference an outside timepiece. The insert comprises a timepiece within an encased water-proof enclosure within the shower head insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventors: Gregory J. Foutz, Angela A. Wright, Tarek A. Bawab
  • Patent number: 7721365
    Abstract: The disclosed knee shield is a durable, easy-to-install protective barrier that is fastened underneath sink bottoms. It protects the knees of a wheelchair user from rough and abrasive surfaces and extreme temperatures as mandated by the ADA and other federal, state, and local buildings codes. The knee shield is slotted so that it fits around the drain assembly, without requiring the removal of the sink; drain assembly, or plumber's putty that may already exist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventors: Russell S. Griffin, Tony D. Nugent, Miles B. Dearth
  • Publication number: 20100003655
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a toilet training aid that is temporarily applied inside an existing toilet bowl or urinal in order to help teach male toddlers (or any age) to aim their stream of urine inside the toilet bowl or urinal. The toilet training aid is uniquely designed help keep male toddlers concentration by giving the toddler a target to aim at in the toilet bowl or urinal while allowing him to work on his hand and eye coordination of hitting the target in the toilet bowl or urinal. Thus the toilet training aid expedites the process of teaching male toddlers to control their stream of urine into the toilet bowl or urinal while making it a positive experience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Samuel S. Stephenson, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090255053
    Abstract: A low cost urinal mat that has entertainment value by virtue of matter printed thereon in a sufficiently legible and substantially unobscured form. Preferably, the printed matter consists of an image of a universally recognized person, symbol, flag, etc. for which there is common dislike, derision or even hatred. By way of example, an image of a radical terrorist or of a dictatorial foreign political leader would be a likely candidate for a suitable image. A key aspect of the present invention, aside from the content of the image, is that of providing drainage apertures in a number and size which, while permitting adequate drainage through the mat, does not substantially obscure the image to the point where the content becomes not readily identifiable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Frank Cutrone, III
  • Patent number: 7565706
    Abstract: A pressure assisted flush assembly for use with a toilet includes a compressed air assisted flush water tank that includes a plunger device. One or more plumbing lines are used to connect an incoming water line to the flush water tank and the flush water tank to a toilet bowl. At least one panel is used to enclose the flush water tank (e.g., mounted against a wall). The enclosure comprises an access door configured to allow access to the flush water tank and the access door is secured with a lock mechanism to prevent unauthorized access to the flush water tank. Further, for example, an accessible activator mechanism is configured to activate the plunger of the flush water tank. The assembly may be, for example, configured to retrofit a previously installed flush valve toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Terrance E. Janssen
  • Publication number: 20090158514
    Abstract: A flushable bowl protecting liner which reduces the need for manual cleaning by providing a barrier between the bowl of the toilet and solid waste. The flushable bowl protecting liner would be used in those toilets that use a limited water supply and do not have a large water reservoir held in the bowl during each use. The application is directed to toilets in recreational motor vehicles, aircraft and boats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Doctors
  • Patent number: 7536733
    Abstract: A platform for training and aiding a pet to use a conventional toilet is attached to the rim of a toilet bowl and further provided with a holding means used for holding a tray containing a substance to attract and create a habit for the pet to come to that location. Instead of a tray, a specially designed unit containing cat litter or its equivalent can also be used for the same purpose. Over time, the holding means can be removed as the pet no longer needs to be <<baited>> to the location. In this manner, only the holding means and tray become useless, a far lesser investment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventors: Denis Berube, Regent Dion
  • Publication number: 20090113613
    Abstract: Dispensers for liners and liners are provided wherein the liners are for use in a flush toilet having a bowl defining an interior area and holding water, wherein the water has an upper surface. The liners include an upper surface; a lower surface; a peripheral edge; a central portion, wherein the central portion of the flexible sheet is planar along the upper and lower surfaces of the liner; and a unitary edge portion surrounding the central portion, wherein the unitary edge portion is configured so as to bend flexibly upwardly and inwardly upon application of a force to the central portion of the liner. The peripheral edge is configured so as to fit within an interior area of a toilet bowl so that the central portion of the liner at least partially contacts an upper surface of water within an interior area of a toilet bowl. The liners provide prevent soiling of the interior of a toilet bowl and for efficient removal and flushing of human waste.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: Janet S. Kole
  • Patent number: 7500277
    Abstract: A toilet (10) having an automatic flush assembly (50) includes a toilet bowl (14), a water holding tank (12) for supplying water to the toilet bowl (14), and a flush valve (22). The holding tank (12) supplies water to the toilet bowl (14) and defines a handle opening (34) for an actuating handle (36) of the toilet (10). The flush valve (22) provides fluid communication between the toilet bowl (14) and the holding tank (12). The automatic flush assembly (50) is mounted in the handle opening (34) and includes a sensor section (54), a control section (56), and an actuating mechanism (58). The sensor section (56) detects the presence of a person in front of the toilet bowl (14). The control section (56) receives a detection signal from the sensor section (54) and initiates a flush signal to the actuating mechanism (58), which actuates the flush valve (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: I-CON Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Shawn D Bush
  • Patent number: 7496977
    Abstract: A toilet tank accessory rack has a fixing element and a holding element. The fixing element is assembled on a wall near a toilet tank of a toilet, and forms first assembling portions thereon. The holding element forms second assembling portions for corresponding to and locking with the first assembling portion. At least a storing chamber is provided on a side of the holding element for storing articles, such as shampoo, washing foam, books and magazines, where a user may conveniently fetch during defecating or washing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Ouyang Huei
  • Patent number: 7461418
    Abstract: A system encouraging users to cleanse their hands after use of a tankless toilet having a flush valve controlling the flow of water into a toilet bowl through a conduit, in which an abrupt temperature change in the conduit is used to trigger a recorded message urging the user to wash his or her hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Vlahos Enterprises
    Inventors: Gustav Vlahos, Robert B. Jones
  • Publication number: 20080264810
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices, kits, and methods for temporarily stopping an automatic flushing assembly on a toilet or urinal from activating. The device may be placed over or on the sensor assembly of the toilet to temporarily block the sensor assembly from sensing the user. In preferred aspects, the device is composed of a material that the user is able to flush down the toilet or urinal such that when the user is finished, the device may be removed and disposed of directly into the toilet or urinal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Elizabeth Anne Stewart
  • Publication number: 20080257774
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a towel cake comprising at least a flat board, a lateral board and a towel, wherein the flat board has at least one straight edge and the lateral board is an extension of the flat board from the straight edge with at least two bending sections surrounding the flat board; the towel wraps up the flat board and the lateral board and forms the shape of a cake. The towel cake is then placed in a carrier tray and covered by a transparent external hood so that the towel cake looks even closer to the shape of a cake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Neng Chun Hsu
  • Patent number: 7437781
    Abstract: A toilet seat cover scale device for weighing a person or an object includes, in combination, a toilet seat cover including hinges for hinged attachment to a toilet seat, a scale mechanism connected to the toilet seat cover, the scale mechanism having at least two force sensors located on a bottom of the toilet seat cover for contact with a toilet seat when the toilet seat cover is attached to a toilet seat and is in a closed position. The force sensors transmit the weight force measurements to a processor, which converts the weight force measurements to an accurate total weight measurement, and the processor transmits the accurate total weight measurement to a display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Pleo Originals, LLC
    Inventor: Peter E. Rigas
  • Patent number: 7421746
    Abstract: A toilet installing assembly includes a bladder that has an upper panel and a lower panel sealed together along peripheral edges of the upper and lower panels. The bladder is selectively inflatable and is substantially planar when not inflated and has a generally rounded shape when the bladder is inflated. An inlet valve is fluidly coupled to the bladder. The bladder is positioned around a toilet drain and then inflated. A toilet is positioned on the bladder. The toilet is aligned with the toilet drain and with a plurality of mounting studs. The bladder is then deflated and the toilet lowered onto the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Anold F. Cobi
  • Publication number: 20080201841
    Abstract: A decorative toilet tank covering designed to be easily removed, as to allow for the alteration of décor to occur as personal preference dictates. An extensive selection of colors, themes, patterns, and textures will be offered to compliment any taste. Not only an accent, the covering also proves functional as it provides a non-slip surface on which to place items on, preventing them from sliding off of the tank lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Terry Lynn Bush
  • Patent number: 7412732
    Abstract: In a toilet splash guarding system, a splashguard is placed between a toilet bowl and a toilet seat so as to pop up and take an operational shape when the seat is lifted. The splashguard is attached to the bowl by means of suction cups and to the seat by a strap. It is provided with a hole of adjustable size made in the frontal surface, whereby urine and water are prevented from being splattered on and around the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventor: Larry P. Leonard
  • Patent number: 7404218
    Abstract: An advertising placard unit (36) for use within a toilet tank (20) is provided. The unit (36) includes an advertising information-bearing placard (40, 40a) and connection structure (42, 50, 56) allowing secure coupling of the unit (36) onto an overflow tube (30) forming a part of the tank flush valve assembly (22). Preferably, the placard (40, 40a) is supported in an upstanding, oblique orientation above the tube (30) in such a manner as to not interfere with valve operation or placement of a lid (24) on the tank (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventor: Richard L. Tade
  • Patent number: 7373673
    Abstract: A target permanently manufactured into a toilet or urinal. The target is used as a self competitive game, that triggers the subconscious mind as a training aide to revolutionize the world in health and hygiene. The user scores points by hitting the target in different locations. Closer to the center gives the individual more points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Gloria L. Holland
  • Publication number: 20080109957
    Abstract: An apparatus for lifting, supporting, and transporting a toilet. A frame includes a pair of side members, a bracing mechanism engageable with each of such side members for maintaining distance between inner surfaces thereof, and wheels. A supporting mechanism is disposed within such side members for supporting and receiving a removable platform. The platform slides forward under a toilet, slides backward, and can be removed for allowing such frame member to be placed closely to a toilet. A rotatable lifting arm is connected to an upper end of the side members. A harness is removably and operably connected to such arm. When such toilet is within the frame such harness is capable of being securably connected to such toilet such that the rotatable lifting arm may be implemented to lift such toilet and lower such toilet onto at least one of the platform and a floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Inventor: William Blancke
  • Patent number: 7353549
    Abstract: An interactive toilet seat provides a target for a urine stream from a user. A user will direct their stream of urine at a target which is suspended in the bowl of a toilet. This target is in communication with a control circuit which is in turn communicating with an electronic display. The display is set to display various indicators, entreaties, goads or comparisons which enhances the use of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventor: David Neal Muir, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7318243
    Abstract: A system is provided herein for supporting a lid for a pool cover box that includes (a) an elongated mounting element extending along substantially at least one wall of the pool cover box, and (b) a plurality of bracket assemblies, each adapted for connecting to the mounting element at multiple positions along the mounting element to support the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Lanny R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7316038
    Abstract: An apparatus preventing odor from escaping the toilet bowl by generating a stream of bubbles to cover human waste by using liquid soap, air pump, and low volume water flow. The same system with higher water volume functions as a toilet bidet by using an elevated nozzle attached to the bubble dispensing tube. An additional component of the apparatus is a novel water inline adapter providing an extra, convenient way to create an additional easy water source for the stream of bubbles and the toilet bidet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: Zoltan Egeresi
  • Publication number: 20070294821
    Abstract: A toilet seat assembly (100) includes a top lid (109) having one or more illumination devices (207) such as light bulbs or light emitting diodes (LEDs) or the like. A pivotable seat (107) is positioned below the top lid and the illumination devices (207) project light through an opening in the seat. The top lid (109) includes a removable window which may include decorative elements enabling the toilet seat assembly (100) to have a pleasant appearance yet still permit users to see through the top lid (109) into the interior of the toilet bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventor: Onnie Griner
  • Publication number: 20070283490
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an apparatus for sanitary exiting of public restroom facilities. In particular, the present invention provides a device for convenient, sanitary use of public restroom door handles during opening the door while exiting. A device is configured to the interior of a restroom door where a dispenser is mounted above a receptacle unit. The dispenser may contain antibacterial wipes, paper towels, or facial tissues. A restroom patron, after washing their hands, removes a towelette from the dispenser and applies it to the restroom door handle as a barrier between their hand and the handle. The restroom patron then deposits the towelette in the receptacle unit prior to exiting the restroom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Montgomery R. Wilt
  • Publication number: 20070266492
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lifting, moving, aligning and lowering a toilet. The apparatus comprises a base frame having three sides, and a lift frame pivotally attached at a first end to the base frame. The apparatus further comprises a jack device, operatively attached to the lift frame, for selectively lifting and lowering the lift frame, and an arm pivotally attached to the lift frame. In one preferred embodiment, the jack device includes a jack cylinder, a piston concentrically disposed within the jack cylinder, and a U-shaped member. In the most preferred embodiment, the U-shaped member is attached at a first point to the piston, and wherein the U-shaped member is pivotally attached to the lift frame at a second point, so that as the piston extends from the jack cylinder, the lift frame is moved. A total of three (3) pivot point sets are included in the most preferred embodiment. Left and right side alignment tubes may also be included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventor: Charles H. Junca
  • Publication number: 20070266493
    Abstract: 1. This new invention is a one size, stretch to fit, disposable scented or fragranced sanitation disposable paper cover device for use in restrooms, to cover the tops of toilets, urinals and lavatories that require maintenance. The disposable paper cover device referred to as “SANI-BONNET”, consists of a disposable scented paper fabric material, gathered on the underside towards the center by an expandable band of material such as elastic that is sewn-in or secured continually along the underside edge of the paper fabric material to form a smaller inner circular or oval opening than the whole of the paper fabric material, thereby drawing the edging of the disposable paper fabric material towards the center underside to allow the paper fabric like material to be stretched to a larger opening to fit over the tops of toilets, urinals and lavatories that require maintenance. a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventor: Carlos Jimenez
  • Patent number: 7258783
    Abstract: A water tub including a fluid delivery system utilizes a removeable carrier to provide fluids to the fluid delivery system. In some instances, the carrier is disposable such that depletion of the fluids within the container results in the carrier being thrown away and replaced by an unused carrier. In other instances, the carrier is re-usable and is removed from the fluid delivery system when the fluids within the carrier need to be replenished. In some instances, the carrier can be manually attached and removed from the fluid delivery system without the use of any tools. In some such instances it will include a latching mechanism temporarily coupling the carrier to the fluid delivery system. The carrier may include a plurality of fluid containers, each container containing a fluid used for different types of maintenance of the water tub. The delivery system may utilize a dosing engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Keith W. Harbol
  • Patent number: 7237278
    Abstract: The device 10 is a potty training device having a housing with a pivotal seat 14 positioned over a cavity 16 for receiving the waste material that is discarded by slidably removing the receptacle 18 that forms the base of the bowl-like cavity. The housing also provides shelf 24 or compartment space 20 for storage of items that can be used by the toddler or child 12. Also within the housing are electronic components for recording and playing a musical tune and/or audio clips. A pressure switch 30 positioned under the pivotal seat 14 causes a musical tune or prerecorded audio sequence to be played when the child sits on the pivotal seat 14. The user 12 can selectively record tune or audio clip to be played when the pressure switch 30 is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Dara Scott
  • Patent number: 7231674
    Abstract: A toilet moving cart system for efficiently moving a toilet. The toilet moving cart system includes a base for receiving a conventional toilet, a stub member within the base, a plurality of wheels attached to the base, and a handle attached to the base. The stub member extends upwardly into the lower opening within the toilet when the toilet is positioned upon the base. A cap is removably attached to the base for sealing the fill valve within the toilet during transportation to prevent water leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: David A. Cernik
  • Patent number: 7225481
    Abstract: A comfortable elongated toilet designed for men to sit on the toilet to urinate and dispose of water without contaminating the penis. The Big Boys Cave has a Big Boys Rest to position the penis horizontally. This horizontal position avoids the penis from dropping into the toilet thus preventing men from picking up germs on their penis from the waste in the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Neugyen Culmer
  • Patent number: RE41761
    Abstract: A gray-water recycling system for reclaiming gray-water for use in toilets and lawn care. The system includes a reservoir adapted to treat gray-water and includes an intake pipe, an outlet pipe and an overflow pipe. An inlet coupled to the intake pipe supplies gray-water to the reservoir. A filter is fluidly coupled to the outlet pipe for filtering gray-water to define processed gray-water. A pump is fluidly coupled to the by a pipe. A first valve (24) controls flow of the processed gray-water from the pump. The first valve is fluidly coupled to the pump, a fresh water inlet and a processed gray-water outlet. The first valve is adapted to open the fresh water if the water pressure from the processed gray-water falls. Also included is a pressure valve (52) adapted to manually adjust the pressure of the processed gray-water outlet and to allow a flow of fresh water in the event the solenoid of the first valve fails to operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventors: Cecil A. Wiseman, Christopher Wiseman