U.S. patent application number 09/818451 was filed with the patent office on 2001-11-22 for advanced dual-flush valve.
Invention is credited to Haggstrom, Tracy James, Han, Joseph, Maiwandi, Farid, McKay, John.
Application Number | 20010042265 09/818451 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25225571 |
Filed Date | 2001-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010042265 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Han, Joseph ; et
al. |
November 22, 2001 |
Advanced dual-flush valve
Abstract
A flush valve is adapted to be mounted in the tank of a toilet
and includes a selector assembly and a flush valve. The selector
assembly is accessible from outside the toilet and provides for
initiation of the flushing operation and an alternative choice
between a larger flush water volume and a smaller flush water
volume. A support structure provides for both axial and radial
movement of the selector assembly relative to the flush valve in
order to facilitate mounting and aligning of the flush valve
assembly. A slide mechanism provides for variation of at least the
smaller flush water volume.
Inventors: |
Han, Joseph; (Irvine,
CA) ; McKay, John; (Placentia, CA) ;
Haggstrom, Tracy James; (Orange, CA) ; Maiwandi,
Farid; (Laguna Hills, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Richard L. Meyers
MYERS, DAWES & ANDRAS
Suite 1150
19900 MacArthur Blvd.
Irvine
CA
92612
US
|
Family ID: |
25225571 |
Appl. No.: |
09/818451 |
Filed: |
March 26, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09818451 |
Mar 26, 2001 |
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PCT/US99/21061 |
Sep 14, 1999 |
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PCT/US99/21061 |
Sep 14, 1999 |
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09152750 |
Sep 14, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/325 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E03D 5/02 20130101; F16K
47/08 20130101; F16K 31/26 20130101; E03D 5/09 20130101; E03D 1/142
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
4/325 |
International
Class: |
E03D 001/14 |
Claims
1. A flush apparatus adapted for installation in a toilet tank
having a flush hole, a tank top, and an interior height measured
between the flush hole and tank top, the apparatus comprising: a
support structure; a flush valve carried by the support member and
adapted to be mounted relative to the flush hole of the toilet
tank; a selector assembly carried by the support structure, coupled
to the flush valve, and adapted to be mounted relative to the top
of the tank; the selector assembly being operable exteriorly of the
tank top to alternatively select a first flush volume and a second
flush volume; and the support structure having a height adjustment
variable to provide the apparatus with a height of about the
vertical dimension of the tank.
2. The flush assembly recited in claim 1, wherein the selector
assembly includes a radial adjustment operable independently of the
height adjustment of the support structure for aligning the
selector assembly relative to the top of the tank.
3. The flush apparatus recited in claim 1, wherein the height
adjustment includes a support member; a tab associated with the
support member and being moveable relative to the support member
between a first position wherein the tab has a spaced relationship
with the support member to permit adjustment of the height of the
support structure, and a second position wherein the tab has a
fixed relationship with the support member to fix the height of the
flush apparatus at about the interior height of the tank.
4. The flush apparatus recited in claim 3, wherein the tab is
biased to the second position.
5. The flush apparatus recited in claim 2, wherein the support
member is a first support member, the tab is a first tab, and the
height adjustment, further comprises: a second support member; a
second tab associated with the second support member and being
moveable relative to the second support member between a third
position wherein the tab has a spaced relationship with the second
support member to permit adjustment of the height of the support
structure, and a fourth position wherein the tab has a fixed
relationship with the second support member to fix the height of
the flush apparatus at about the interior height of the tank.
6. The flush apparatus recited in claim 5, wherein: the first
support member and the second support member are diametrically
opposed; the first tab in the first position is disposed radially
inwardly of the first tab in the second position; and the second
tab in the third position is disposed radially inwardly of the
second tab in the fourth position.
7. The flush apparatus recited in claim 6, wherein: the first tab
is biased to the second position and the second tab is biased to
the fourth position.
8. The flush apparatus recited in claim 3, wherein: the support
member includes a plurality of flanges each associated with a
different height of the flush apparatus; the tab includes at least
one tooth for engaging one of the flanges on the support member to
maintain the support member in the engaging relationship with the
tab.
9. The flush apparatus recited in claim 3, further comprising: a
base structure including the tabs; a top structure including the
support member; a receiver included in the top structure, the
receiver being radially adjustable to vary the height of the
receiver relative to the support structure; and a button assembly
carried by the receiver and having a height axially variable
independently of the height of the receiver relative to the support
member.
10. The flush apparatus recited in claim 9, wherein the button
assembly further comprises: a living hinge axially compressible
relative to the receiver to vary the height of the button assembly
relative to the receiver.
11. The flush apparatus recited in claim 1, wherein the tab
comprises portion of a sleeve surrounding the support member.
12. The flush assembly recited in claim 3, wherein the flanges and
the at least one tooth form a bayonet connection between the
support member and the tab.
13. The flush apparatus recited in claim 1, further comprising:
indicia disposed on the support member and providing an indication
as to the height of the support member.
14. The flush apparatus recited in claim 5, further comprising:
indicia disposed on the first support member and the second support
member providing an indication as to the height of the flush
apparatus and facilitating a common height of the first support
member relative to the first tab and second support member relative
to the second tab.
15. The flush apparatus recited in claim 14, wherein the indicia is
outlined by portions of the sleeve.
16. A toilet flush valve, comprising: a shuttle having a first
position associated with a first flush volume and a second position
associated with a second flush volume less than the first flush
volume; portions of the shuttle defining a hole; a button assembly
operable to move the shuttle between the first position associated
with the first flush volume and the second position associated with
the second flush volume; a first button included in the button
assembly and operable to move a first cam surface into the hole to
move the shuttle to the first position associated with the first
flush volume; a second button included in the button assembly and
operable to move a second cam surface into the hole to move the
shuttle to the second position associated with the second flush
volume; a deflection member included in the portions defining the
hole, the deflection member being deflectable to enlarge the hole
and prevent binding of the button assembly when the first button
and the second button are operated to move the first cam surface
and the second cam surface into the hole substantially
simultaneously.
17. The toilet flush valve recited in claim 16, wherein: the
deflection member is deflectable by the second cam surface.
18. The toilet flush valve recited in claim 16, wherein the shuttle
is moveable generally in a plane between the first position and the
second position.
19. The toilet flush valve recited in claim 18, wherein: the first
button is operable by pushing the first button in a direction
generally perpendicular to the plane of the shuttle.
20. A flush valve assembly adapted for use in toilet tank having a
bottom and a top separated by a particular height, comprising: a
base structure adapted for mounting relative to the bottom of the
tank; a top structure coupled to the base structure and adapted for
mounting relative to the top of the tank; a float assembly having a
height and being carried between the base structure and the top
structure; first means for adjusting the distance separating the
base structure and the top structure to provide the flush valve
with a height generally equivalent to the particular height of the
tank; and second means for adjusting the height of the float
assembly in accordance with the adjustment of the first means.
21. The flush valve assembly recited in claim 20, wherein the
second means comprises: a flush valve; a float coupled to the flush
valves; an overflow tube coupled to the float; and third means for
adjusting the height of the overflow tube.
22. The flush valve assembly recited in claim 21, wherein the
overflow tube comprises: an outer tube; and an inner tube having a
telescoping relationship with the outer tube.
23. The flush valve assembly recited in claim 22, wherein the third
means comprises: portions of the inner tube defining a plurality of
exterior flanges; portions of the outer tube defining a window
positioned on the outer tube to expose the flanges of the inner
tube within the outer tube; and a clip extending through the window
of the outer tube to engage at least one of the flanges on the
inner tube in order to fix the height of the overflow tube.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates generally to toilet flush valves and,
more specifically, to valves providing alternative flush water
volumes.
[0003] 2. Discussion of the Prior Art
[0004] Toilets typically include a bowl which is adapted to receive
liquid and solid waste, and a tank which provides a reservoir of
water for flushing the waste from the bowl. Apparatus which is
commonly mounted in the tank includes a flush valve assembly which
is operable by the user to initiate the flushing of the bowl. A
fill valve is also commonly mounted in the tank to refill the tank
with a predetermined amount of water to be used in the next
flushing operation.
[0005] Flush valve assemblies can vary considerably in their
complexity, but typically include a flush valve, a float and an
actuation mechanism. By operation of the actuation mechanism, the
flush valve opens to release water from the tank into the bowl and
closes when the float reaches a predetermined level indicative of
the amount of water left in the tank.
[0006] More complex flush valve assemblies, such as that disclosed
in PCT application number WO9502738 provide alternative flush water
volumes. Prior to initiating the flushing operation, the user
chooses between a large flush water volume for solid waste, and a
smaller flush water volume for liquid waste. In the past, this
selection has been made by a mechanical switch assessible to the
user from outside the tank. Once the selection has been made, the
associated flushing operation is initiated by operation of a pull
tab also assessible from outside the tank.
[0007] These dual-flush toilet valves commonly include a selection
apparatus which is mounted to the top of the tank, and a flush
valve which is mounted to the bottom of the tank. With this design
it is often desirable to adjust the axial distance separating the
flush valve and the selection apparatus in order to accommodate
tanks of various heights. In the past, this axial adjustability was
provided by a shaft extending from the selector apparatus
downwardly toward the flush valve. The length of this shaft had to
be determined and the shaft cut to accommodate a particular height
of the tank. This was a cumbersome procedure which had to be
carried out with each installation. Unfortunately, once the shaft
was cut, the valve assembly was rendered useless for taller toilet
tanks. Mounting has also been a problem in tanks having mounting
holes slightly misaligned. There has been no radial adjustability
in prior flush valves to accommodate these toilets.
[0008] Within the tank, a hollow float has been provided with a
water inlet and an air outlet. Selection of the reduced flush water
volume has provided a controlled release of air from the air outlet
to atmospheric pressure. This structure has facilitated the passage
of water into the hollow float thereby decreasing the buoyancy of
the float during the flushing operation and prematurely closing the
flush valve.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,228,144 discloses a structure for adjusting
the flush volume by controlling a release of air from the hollow
float into a pressure tube which extends into the water in the
tank. This tube provides a variable pressure that is dependent upon
the level of the water in the tank. By adjusting the level of the
tube in the tank, the pressure can be varied to provide a
predetermined but adjustable flush water volume.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In accordance with the present invention, a flush valve
assembly is provided with a selector apparatus including multiply
actuators, such as buttons, which not only initiate the flushing
procedure, but also choose between alternative flush water volumes.
The step for initiating the flushing operation and for selecting
the desired flush volume occurs substantially simultaneously with
the single push of the associated button.
[0011] For the reduced flush volume, the float can be vented
through a slide assembly and into a tube having a variable pressure
dependent of the depth of the tube in the water. This will provide
the reduced flush volume with a predetermined variable volume.
[0012] The slide associated with the air vent includes a first
planar member having an aperture in fluid communication with the
hollow float. A second slide member has a second aperture which is
between first and second positions associated with the first and
second flush water volumes. Movement of the second slide member is
dependent upon operation of two flush actuators. The first flush
actuator initiates the first flush with the lesser volume dependent
upon the position of the pressure tube, while the second actuator
initiates the flushing operation with the greater second flush
volume.
[0013] The axial dimension of the flush valve assembly is
adjustable using mating ridges and a retainer ring. This adjustment
structure provides a variable distance between the flush valve and
a lever associated with the selection apparatus. The shaft
extending from the actuators to the lever is provided with a
consent length and need not be cut to fit the assembly to the
particular height of the tank. Radial adjustment of the selection
apparatus relative to the flush valves accommodates toilets having
mounting holes which are slightly misaligned.
[0014] In a first aspect of the invention, a toilet includes a bowl
adapted to receive waste to be flushed, and a tank providing a
reservoir of water to flush the bowl. A flush valve assembly is
disposed in the tank and operable to release the water into the
bowl in a first volume associated with the flushing of liquid waste
and a second volume greater than the first volume associated with
the flushing of solid waste. A selector apparatus is included in
the flush valve assembly and accessible from outside the tank for
initiating a flushing operation and for selecting one of the first
flush volume and the second flush volume. A flush valve included in
the flush assembly is responsive to operation of the selector
assembly to release the water into the bowl. The flush valve is
responsive to operation of the selector apparatus to select the
first flush volume by opening the flush valve at the beginning of a
first time period associated with the first flush volume and by
closing the flush valve at the end of the first time period.
Similarly, the flush valve is responsive to operation of the
selector apparatus to select the second flush volume by opening the
flush valve at the beginning of a second time period associated
with the second flush volume and closing the flush valve at the end
of the second time period. In this aspect of the invention, the
second time period is greater than the first time period and the
first time period is variable to adjust the first flush volume. A
float having a least one wall forming a hollow chamber includes
first portions of the wall defining at least one water inlet for
receiving water at a first water entry rate associated with the
first flush volume, and a second water entry rate associated with
the second flush volume. Second portions of the wall define at
least one air outlet hole for releasing air from the hollow chamber
at a first air release rate associated with the first water entry
rate, and a second air release rate associated with the second
water entry rate.
[0015] In another aspect of the invention, a flush valve assembly
is adapted to be mounted in a toilet tank having a top and a
bottom, to controllably release water from the tank to flush the
toilet. The flush valve assembly includes a flush valve coupled to
a first column, and a selector assembly coupled to a second column.
One of the first and second columns includes the plurality of first
ridges while the other column includes at least one second ridge
mating with the first ridge in a plurality of patterns each
providing a different spaced relationship between the flush valve
and the selector assembly. A retainer is disposed around the first
and second columns to maintain the first ridges and the second
ridge in a predetermined one of the mating patterns.
[0016] In another aspect of the invention, the flush valve assembly
extends generally along an axis and is adapted for mounting in a
toilet tank having a top and a bottom, to controllably release
water from the tank to flush the toilet. The assembly includes a
flush valve adapted to be mounted at the bottom of the tank and a
selector assembly disposed at the top of the tank. A first push
button is included in a selector assembly and to operate the flush
valve to release a first volume of the water from the tank. A
second push button, also included in the selector assembly, is to
operate the flush valve to release a second volume of the water
from the tank. The second volume of water is different from the
first volume of water. In this aspect, a slide is by operation of
the first push button to a first position associated with the first
volume of the water and is by operation of the second push button
to a second position associated with the second volume of water.
The first and second push buttons are adapted to be pushed axially
while the slide is generally transverse to the axis between the
first position and second position.
[0017] In a further aspect of the invention, a method for flushing
a toilet to alternatively initiate a flushing operation with a
first flush water volume and a second flush water volume, includes
the step of providing a selector apparatus having a first actuator
and a second actuator. Operation of the first actuator initiates
the flushing operation with the first flush volume while operation
of the second actuator initiates the flushing operation with the
second flush water volume. This operation includes the steps of
initiating the flushing operation by pushing a first button, and
selecting the first flush volume by pushing the first button. These
initiating and selecting steps occur substantially
simultaneously.
[0018] In still a further aspect of the invention, a toilet flush
valve includes atop section having an axis, and at least two
support members each extending in a generally parallel relationship
to the axis. A plurality of projections carried by at least one of
the support members extend inwardly toward the axis. A bottom
section of the flush valve includes a plurality of annular flanges
sized and configured to receive the projections of the top section.
A retention ring is between an adjustment position and a locking
position. In the adjustment position the projections are removed
from the flanges, but in the locking position, the projections are
held in a fixed relationship with the flanges providing the flush
valve with a predetermined height.
[0019] A method for adjusting the height of a toilet flush
mechanism provides a further aspect of the invention. This method
includes the step of providing a top section with at least one
support member having a plurality of projections extending radially
inwardly. A bottom section is provided with a cylindrical portion
defining a plurality of annular flanges configured to receive the
projections of the top section. These flanges defined with the
cylindrical portion a geometric section extending axially along the
cylindrical portion. A locking ring can be moved along the support
member of the top section, and provided with at least one tab
engaging the projections of the support member at a predetermined
location dependent on the desired height of the toilet flush
mechanism. The method of adjustment includes the steps of sliding
the support member along the geometric section, and rotating the
top section and the ring relative to the bottom section to engage
the flanges with the projections in order to maintain the flush
valve mechanism at the desired height.
[0020] These and other features and advantages of the invention
will become more apparent with a description of preferred
embodiments and reference to the associated drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet partially in
phantom to illustrate a flush valve assembly of the present
invention mounted in the tank of the toilet;
[0022] FIG. 2 is an assembly perspective view illustrating various
components of the flush valve assembly of a preferred
embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the flush valve
assembly of FIG. 2;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a back perspective view of the flush valve
assembly of FIG. 2;
[0025] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the FIG. 2 embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 6 is an axial cross-section view taken along lines 6-6
of FIG. 5;
[0027] FIG. 7 is an axial cross-section view taken along lines 7-7
of FIG. 5;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of slide mechanism associated with
the FIG. 2 embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 9 is an axial cross-section view of the slide mechanism
taken along lines 9-9 of FIG. 8;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the
flush valve assembly of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a partial exploded view of the FIG. 10
embodiment;
[0032] 10 FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the retention ring
associated with the FIG. 10 embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a radial cross-section view of the retention ring
taken along lines 13-13 of FIG. 12;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of a further embodiment of
the flush valve assembly of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 15 is an axially cross-section view taken along lines
15-15 of FIG. 14;
[0036] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-section view of a column, tab,
sleeve and sleeve assembly of the FIG. 15 embodiment;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a side elevation view of the FIG. 14 embodiment
but turned 90.degree. to show the valve structure in a heightened
state;
[0038] FIG. 18 is an axial cross-section view taken along lines
18-18 of FIG. 17;
[0039] FIG. 19a is an enlarged axial cross-section view of the
button assembly also illustrated in FIG. 17;
[0040] FIG. 19b is an axial cross-section view taken along lines
19b-19b of FIG. 19a;
[0041] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of portions of the button
assembly including a shuttle with a cantilever beam;
[0042] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the shuttle showing the
cantilevered beam depressed when both buttons are activated
simultaneously;
[0043] FIG. 22 is a radial cross-section, expanded view of a clip
adapted for use in adjusting the height of a telescoping overflow
tube;
[0044] FIG. 23 is a radial cross-section view showing the clip and
in an adjustable orientation and a locked state;
[0045] FIG. 24 is a radial cross-section view showing the clip in
an adjustable orientation in an unlocked state;
[0046] FIG. 25 is a radial cross-section view of the clip in a
nonadjustable orientation in a locked state; and
[0047] FIG. 26 is a side elevation view taken along lines 26-26 of
FIG. 14.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS AND BEST MODE OF THE
INVENTION
[0048] A toilet is illustrated in FIG. 1 and designated generally
by the reference numeral 10. The toilet 10 includes a bowl 12 which
is adapted to receive liquid and solid waste. A tank 14 is
typically mounted above the bowl 12 and forms a reservoir for water
16 used to flush the bowl 12. A flush valve assembly 18 is mounted
between a top 21 and a bottom 23 of the tank 14. The flush valve
assembly 18 includes a pressure tube 25 which extends into the
water 16 as described in greater detail below.
[0049] An exploded view of the flush valve assembly is illustrated
in FIG. 2 with assembled views presented in FIGS. 3 and 4. From
these views, it can be seen that the flush valve assembly 18 of a
preferred embodiment has an axis 28 and includes generally a flush
valve 30, an axial adjustment structure 32, a slide mechanism 34,
and a selector assembly 36. In operation, the flush valve 30
releases water from the tank 14 into the bowl 12 in response to the
operation of the selector assembly 36. Depending upon the operation
of the selector assembly 36, the slide mechanism 34 produces a
flush water volume which is selectable between a small variable
volume, intended to flush liquid waste, and a larger fixed volume,
intended to flush solid waste. The axial structure 32 enables the
flush valve assembly 18 to be adjusted for mounting in tanks, such
as the tank 14, having different distances separating the top 21
and the bottom 23.
[0050] As best illustrated in FIG. 2, the flush valve 30 includes a
valve seat 38 which is formed in a base 49 and a valve element
illustrated generally at 41. The valve seat is formed in a ring 43
which is mounted to the bottom 23 of the tank 14 by an exteriorly
threaded pipe 45. Integral with the ring 43 and extending upwardly
from the bottom 23 of the tank 14 are a plurality of columns 47,
50, 52 and 54 which extend toward the selector assembly 36 and
support a coaxial cylinder 56 having circumferential ridges 58.
[0051] These ridges 58 are disposed to extend on the columns 47,
50, 52 and 54 generally transverse, such as perpendicular, to the
axis 28.
[0052] In this particular embodiment, the valve element 41
comprises an elastomeric washer 61 which is mounted to a hollow
float 63 having a circumferential wall 65 extending between a top
wall 67 and a bottom wall 70. In this case, the bottom wall 70
forms a water inlet aperture 72 while the top wall 67 forms an air
outlet aperture 74. The float 63 is integral with an overflow spout
including an upstanding tube 76 and a flared top ring 78 having a
radial flange 81 with an aperture 83. The top ring 78 can be
adhered to the tube 76 or otherwise disposed in a fixed
relationship with the tube 76. In a preferred embodiment, the
flange 81 extends radially on a side of the tube 76 opposite to the
aperture 74 associated with the float 63.
[0053] A top member 90 forms with the base 49 a support structure
87 which maintains the selector assembly 36 in a spaced
relationship with the flush valve 30. This spaced relationship is
adjustable in a preferred embodiment by operation of the axial
adjustment structure 32.
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the top member 90 is formed
with columns 92 and 94 which extend axially from a connecting
flange 96 having a slot 98. A plurality of ridges 101 are formed on
the inner surfaces of the columns 92 and 94. These ridges 101 are
sized and configured to mate with the ridges 58 on the base 49 in a
plurality of patterns which provide different distances of
separation between the flush valve 30 and the selector assembly 36.
Radial flanges 103 and 105 extend longitudinally along the outer
surfaces of the associated columns 92 and 94. These flanges 103 and
105 terminate at flange ends 107, respectively, short of the
connecting flange 96.
[0055] The axial adjustment structure 32 also includes a retainer
112 which functions to hold the ridges 101 of the columns 92 and 94
in a preferred mating relationship with the ridges 58 of the base
49. This retainer 112 in a preferred embodiment is in the form of a
ring and is provided with circumferential slots 114 and 116 which
are shaped to receive the respective columns 92 and 94 and the
associated longitudinally flanges 103 and 105. The circumference of
the retainer ring 112 can also be provided with bendable detente
tabs 118 which are engageable with the ridges 58 to maintain the
retainer 112 in its preferred operative disposition. Portions of
the retainer 112 define a central aperture 121 which is sized to
receive the spout 75 associated with the float 63.
[0056] In its operative disposition, the retainer 112 encircles the
columns 92 and 94 as well as the base 49 circumferentially of the
ridges 58. Adjustment of the axial length of the support structure
92 is accomplished by bending the retainer tabs 118 outwardly to
free the retainer from the ridges 58. The retainer 112 can then be
moved upwardly along the columns 92 and 94 preferably beyond the
flange ends 107 and 109. The columns 92 and 94 can then be bent
outwardly to remove the ridges 101 of the top member 90 from the
ridges 58 of the base 49. This permits the top member 90 to be
moved axially relative to the base 49 thereby providing an
adjustment in the axial length of the support structure 92. When
the ridges 101 have been formed in a new pattern with respect to
the ridges 58, the retainer 112 can be lowered to its operative
position to maintain the predetermined length of the support
structure 92.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the ridges 58 associated with the
base 40 are formed as separate concentric circles having a
generally parallel relationship. The ridges 101 associated with the
columns 92 and 94 are similarly formed as discrete parallel flanges
spaced to mate with the ridges 58. This configuration permits the
top member 90 to be rotated relative to the base 49 thereby
facilitating alignment of the flush valve assembly 18. This
alignment is further facilitated by the selector assembly 36 which
is snap-fit through the slot 98 of the flange 96, into a slide
subassembly 123 which includes a base 125 and a slide element 127.
Neither the selector assembly 36 nor the slide subassembly 123 are
fixed to the flange 96 of the top member 90. This, coupled with the
fact that the structure extending through the slot 98 is smaller
than the slot 98, ensures that the resulting combination of the
selector assembly 36 and the slide assembly 123 is radially with
respect to the flange 96. Alignment of the flush valve assembly 18
is thus facilitated for those toilets which have mounting holes in
the top 21 and bottom 23 which are slightly misaligned. By rotating
the top member 90 relative to the base 49 and/or sliding the
selector assembly 36 relative to the flange 96, the flush valve
assembly 18 can be easily mounted in any tank such as the tank
14.
[0058] The selector assembly 36 is perhaps best illustrated in the
cross-section views of FIGS. 6 and 7 and the enlarged view of the
FIG. 9. From these views it can be seen that a preferred embodiment
of the assembly 36 includes a top housing member 130 and a bottom
housing member 132. The top housing member 130 includes an upper
flange 134 which seats against the top surface of the top 21 of the
tank 14. A cylinder 136 is sized to extend through a hole in the
top 21 and to terminate in a cylindrical guide tube 138.
[0059] The exterior surface of the guide tube 138 is provided with
a bayonet structure 141 which engages opposing elements on a
cylinder 143 associated with the bottom housing element 132. This
bottom element 132 terminates in a flange 145. A cylindrical snap
147 can be provided beneath the flange 145 to engage a hole 152 in
the base 125 of the slide subassembly 123. This base 25 can be
provided with a generally flat configuration and oriented in a
plane perpendicular to the axis 28 of the flush valve assembly 18.
A pair of pivot flanges 154 extend from the bottom side of the base
125, and a tube 156 extends from the top side of the base 125 in
fluid communication with a hole 158 through the base 125. The base
125 is also provided with a pair of guides 161, 163 which are
oriented to receive opposing sides 165 and 167 of the slide
127.
[0060] Portions of the slide 127 include a slot 170 and a hole 172
which opens into a downwardly extending tube 174. The slot 170 is
formed in part by a pair of opposing surfaces 176 and 178 which are
oriented generally perpendicular to the guides 161, 163 and
associated edges 165,167. The slot 170 with its surfaces 176 and
178 is intended to be accessible through the hole 152 of the base
125.
[0061] In the illustrated embodiment a lever 181 is mounted to
pivot on fulcrum pins 183 which engage the pivot flanges 154 of the
base 125. On opposite sides of the pin 183, the lever 181 is formed
with an upwardly facing cup 185 and an internally threaded nut 187.
A pin 190 is provided with external threads 192 which engage the
nut 187, and a shaft 194 which extends through the aperture 83 of
the flange 81 and terminates in an enlargement 196. In a manner
discussed in greater detail below, it will be apparent that this
structure responds to a downward force against the cup 185 by
lifting the pin 190 and the spout 75 thereby raising the float 63
and opening the flush valve 30 at the tank bottom 23 (FIG. 1).
[0062] In addition to the housing elements 130,132, the selector
assembly 36 includes a pair of actuators which in this embodiment
are formed as pushbuttons 198 and 201 each have a semi-circular
configuration. These buttons 198 and 201 are sized to fit within
the cylinder 136 and are exposed at the tank top 21. The push
buttons 198 and 201 have semi-cylindrical projections 203 and 205
respectively which extend into the guide tube 138. These
projections 203 and 205 are adapted to receive associated
half-shafts 207 and 210.
[0063] The half-shafts 207 and 210, which extend to respective ends
212 and 220, include associated flanges 216 and 218 which extend
radially in opposite directions. The half-shafts 207, 210 are
preferably of a length sufficient that the ends 212 and 220 engage
the cup 185 of the lever 181 with the flanges 216 and 218 extending
through to the hole 152 in the base 125 and the slot 170 in the
slide 127.
[0064] In operation, a person will alternatively actuate either the
push button 198 or the push button 201. In either case, the
associated half-shaft 207 or 210 will be moved axially downwardly
until the associated shaft end 212 or 219 applies a downward force
against the cup 185. In the manner previously discussed, this will
initiate the flushing operation by lifting the float 63 and opening
the flush valve 30. Thus, with a single flushing movement, such as
the pushing of one of the buttons 198 and 201 in a single
direction, the flushing operation can be initiated and the
selection of flush volume determined generally simultaneously.
[0065] The remaining structure associated with this particular
embodiment of the flush valve 18 controls the duration of the
flushing operation which is completed when the float 63 moves
downwardly to close the flush valve 30. Increasing the duration of
the flushing operation, for example by depressing the push button
201, will result in a greater flush water volume for flushing solid
waste. Alternatively, decreasing the duration of the flushing
operation, for example by depressing the push button 198, will
result in a reduced flush water volume for flushing liquid
waste.
[0066] This remaining structure includes a flexible tube 220 which
connects the tube 174 of the slide 127 with the air outlet aperture
74 associated with the float 63. A second tube, designated by the
reference numeral 25 in FIG. 1, extends into the water 18 in the
tank 14 a distance which is adjustable to vary the pressure in the
tube 25. This pressure tube 25 is connected to the tube 156
associated with the base 125 of the slide assembly 123. It is the
purpose of these tubes 220 and 25 to respond to operation of the
push button 198 by bleeding air from the float 63 thereby reducing
the buoyancy of the float 63 and causing it to prematurely drop and
close the flush valve 30. Reducing the buoyancy of the float 63,
results in a shorter flushing period and a smaller flush water
volume. Alternatively, operation of the push button 201 is intended
to block the tubes 220 and 25 at the slide assembly 123 so that the
buoyancy of the float 63 is not reduced thereby resulting in an
extended flushing period and a larger flush water volume.
[0067] This opening and closing of the tubes 220 and 25 is achieved
by the slide assembly 123. As the push button 198 is depressed, its
associated half-shaft 207 not only initiates the flushing operation
through the pivot 181, but also results in the flange 216 engaging
the surface 176 of the slot 170 in the slide 127. This moves the
slide 127 relative to the base 125 to a first position where the
associated holes 172 and 158 are aligned thereby providing fluid
communication between the tube 220 and the pressure tube 25. In the
manner previously mentioned, this facilitates venting of air from
the float 63 and results in a shorter flushing period.
[0068] Alternatively, if the push button 201 is depressed, its
associated half-shaft 210 moves downwardly not only to initiate the
flushing operation through the lever 181, but also to bring the
flange 218 into engagement with the surface 178 of the slot 170.
This moves the slide 127 relative to the base 125 to a second
position where the associated holes 172 and 158 are not aligned as
illustrated in FIG. 7. This results in blocking fluid communication
between the tube 220 and the tube 25 thereby preventing the
bleeding of air from the float 63. The float 63 remains fully
buoyant extending the period of the flushing operation and
resulting in a higher flush water volume.
[0069] The resulting structure not only provides for two different
flush volumes, but also provides for variation or adjustment of the
lesser flush volume. This results from varying the pressure within
the pressure tube 25 so that when it is in fluid communication with
the tube 220, air is bled from the float 63 at an adjustable rate.
This pressure in the tube 25 is controlled by varying the distance
that the tube 25 extends into the water 18 in the tank 14. When the
tube 25 is adjusted to extend a greater distance into the water 18,
its pressure increases thereby reducing the rate of air release
from the float 63. With a decrease in this rate of air flow, the
buoyancy of the float 63 is reduced over a longer period of time
resulting in a longer flushing period and a greater flush water
volume.
[0070] The resulting structure of the flush valve assembly 18 of
this embodiment provides for simplified mounting of the assembly 18
by facilitating axial adjustment through the structure 32 and
radial alignment of the selector assembly 36 relative to the slot
98. A flushing operation with two different flush volumes is
further characterized by variations which are possible for the
smaller flush volume.
[0071] A further embodiment of the flush valve assembly associated
with the present invention is illustrated in the perspective view
of FIG. 10 where elements of structure similar to those previously
discussed are designated with the same reference numeral followed
with the lower case letter "a." For example, the flush valve
assembly 18a has an axis 28a, and a supporting structure 91a
including a top structure 281 and a bottom structure 283. A
selection assembly 36a operates a lever 181a to lift the tube 76a
and the float 63a and thereby initiate the toilet flush. A
supporting structure includes the columns or supporting members 92a
and 94a which are operatively positioned relative to a cylinder 56a
having the annular ridges or flanges 58a. As in the embodiment of
FIG. 2, a retention ring 221 holds the support members 92a, 94a in
a fixed but variable position relative to the cylinder 56a thereby
permitting adjustment of the height of the flush valve assembly
18a.
[0072] Of particular interest to this embodiment of the invention
is the retention ring 221 which functions with the support members
92a, 94a of the top 221 a, and the cylinder 56a of the bottom 23a.
As opposed to the retention ring 112 of the FIG. 2 embodiment, this
retention ring 221 includes a pair of sleeves 223 and 225 which are
configured to receive the respective columns 92a and 94a. Each of
these sleeves 223 and 225 includes an associated wing 227 and 230
which bendably supports tabs 232 and 234, respectively. These
elements are best illustrated in the top plan view of FIG. 11. The
tabs 232 and 234 extend radially outwardly to engage the
projections lOla on the associated support members 92a and 94a.
Importantly, this ensures that the retention ring 221 is maintained
with the top 21 a when it is separated from the bottom 23a. Thus
the retention ring 221 need not become a free element of structure
in the assembly process.
[0073] Notwithstanding this desired attached relationship between
the retention member 221 and the support members 92a and 94a, their
relative positions can be axially adjusted to provide the flush
valve assembly 18a with a predetermined height. In order to
accommodate this adjustment, the wings 227 and 230 can be bent
radially inwardly to remove the tabs 232 and 234 from the
associated projections lOla. This will permit the retention ring
221 to be moved axially along the support members 92a and 94a to a
new position. At this desired location, the wings 227 and 230 can
be released permitting the associated tabs 232 and 234 to re-engage
the projections 101a. It is this position of the retention member
221 relative to the support members 92a and 94a which can be
adjusted to dictate the height of the flush valve assembly 18a in
the manner discussed below.
[0074] With reference to the exploded view of FIG. 12, it can be
seen that the bottom 23a of this embodiment includes the cylinder
56a and annular ridges or flanges 58a. However, in this embodiment,
a geometric section 236 defined by both the cylinder 56a and the
flanges 58a, is generally free of the flanges 58a. The geometric
section 236 is associated with the sleeve 225 and the support
member 94a. A similar geometric section 238 cannot be seen in FIG.
11 but is disposed 180 degrees around the cylinder 56a where it is
associated with the sleeve 223 and the support member 92a.
[0075] In the process of constructing the flush valve assembly 19a,
the retention ring 221 can be mounted on the associated support
members 92a and 94a in the manner previously discussed. With the
support members 92a, and 94a extending through the associated
sleeves 223 and 225, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the top 21a and
retention ring 221 can be moved axially relative to the bottom 23a.
This movement is accomplished with the support members 92a and 94a
moving along the respective geometric sections 238 and 236 where
the projections 101a do not contact the flanges 58. This axial
movement can be continued until the retention ring 221 seats over
the cylinder 56a. At this point, with the support members 92a and
94a extending along the geometric sections 238 and 236,
respectively. The top 21 a can still be moved axially of the bottom
23a but only if the wings 227 and 230 are moved from the
projections 101a in the manner previously discussed.
[0076] It can now be seen that a desired height for the flush valve
assembly 18a can be achieved by initially locating the retention
ring 221 at a predetermined position along the support members 92a
and 94a, or alternatively, by adjusting the support ring 221 after
it is operatively positioned over the flanges 58a by operation of
the wings 227 and 230.
[0077] Once the desired height has been achieved, the entire top
21a and retention ring 221 can be angularly moved relative to the
bottom 23a. With this angular movement, the projections 101a on the
support members 92a and 94a will register with the flanges 58a
between the geometric sections 236 and 238. This registration will
fix the top 21a relative to the bottom 23a and thereby fix the
height of the flush valve assembly 18a.
[0078] The height of the assembly 18a can be indicated by indicia
241 provided on one of the columns, such as the column of 52a
associated with the bottom 23a. In this location, the indicia 241
marked by the associated support member, such as the member 94a.
Alternatively, the indicia 241 can be disposed along one of the
support members, such as the member 94a, where the associated
sleeve 225 can provide the same indication as to height. With the
indicia 241 in this location, the height indication would be
provided on the subassembly of the top 21a and the retention ring
221, even prior to attachment of the subassembly to the bottom
23a.
[0079] Another feature of the FIG. 10 embodiment is associated with
the pressure tube 25a which generally functions in the same manner
as the tube 25 in the FIG. 2 embodiment. However, in this case, the
distal end of the tube 25a is provided with a nozzle 250 best
illustrated in FIG. 11. This nozzle 250 includes a bottom wall 252
and side walls 254 and 256 which extend upwardly from the bottom
wall 254. An axial flange is disposed outwardly of the wall 256
while a plurality of ridges extend radially outwardly of the side
wall 254. When fully assembled, the distal end of the tube 25a
extends between the side walls 254 and 256 and over a nipple 263
which extends upwardly from the bottom wall 252. In a preferred
embodiment, the nozzle 250 is formed of plastic and maintains a
more defined orifice in the nipple 263.
[0080] Notwithstanding this advantage, the nozzle 250 provides
additional features that are associated with its relationship to a
holder 265 which can be formed as part of the retention ring 221.
This holder 265, as best illustrated in FIG. 12, has the same
radial cross-section shape as the nozzle 250 and includes an axial
groove 267 and tab 270. With this configuration, the nozzle 250 can
be mounted in the holder 265 with the axial flange 258 extending
through the notch 267. This maintains the nozzle 250 in a preferred
angular position so that the ridges 261 form a detent mechanism
with the tab 270. This enables the nozzle 250, and hence the end of
the tube 25a to be held at different levels relative to the water
18 in the tank 14 (FIG. 1). In the manner previously discussed, the
particular level desired for the end of the tube 25a will
ultimately dictate the flush water volume associated with the
assembly 18a.
[0081] Of course it will be appreciated that there are many
variations on the structure of these preferred embodiments which
will now be apparent. Clearly the push buttons 198 and 201 can be
replaced with other actuation mechanisms to achieve the dual-flush
capability. Structures other than the slide assembly 123 can also
be used to facilitate or inhibit fluid communication between the
tubes 220 and 25.
[0082] Another modification might include the addition of a second
pressure tube, such as the pressure tube 25. This second pressure
tube could be disposed in fluid communication with the tube 220
when the slide subassembly 123 is in the position associated with
the larger flush volume. In such an embodiment, the end of the
second pressure tube would extend more deeply into the water in the
tank than the end of the pressure tube 25 associated with the
smaller flush volume. This modification would result in an
embodiment wherein both the larger flush volume and the smaller
flush volume are adjustable in the manner disclosed.
[0083] Many modifications will also be possible with respect to the
axial adjustment structure 32. A structure which facilitates not
only axial adjustment but also rotation about the axis 28 is of
course preferred.
[0084] A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in
FIGS. 14-25 where elements of structure similar to those previously
discussed are designated with the same reference numeral followed
by the lower case letter "b." For example, it will be noted that
this embodiment of the flush valve assembly 18b includes the
support structure 91b with atop structure 281 and a bottom
structure 283. As in the previous embodiment, the top structure
generally carries the selector or button assembly 36b and is
adapted for disposition in a fixed relationship with the top of the
tank 14 (FIG. 1). The bottom structure 283 generally carries a
float assembly 285 and is adapted to be fixed to the bottom of the
tank 14 (FIG. 1). Float assembly 285 in this case includes the
float 63b and the overflow tube 76b.
[0085] The bottom structure 283 includes the upwardly extending
columns 47b and 52b which mate respectively with downwardly
extending columns or support members 92b and 94b. The support
members 47b and 92b, as well as the support members 52b and 94b
have a telescoping relationship which permits the height of the
flush valve assembly 18b to be adjusted. This adjustment permits
the valve to be adapted for use generally in any tank 14 (FIG. 1)
regardless of the particular height separating the top of the tank
14 from the bottom of the tank 14. Thus, the associated pairs of
columns 47b and 92b, and 52b and 94b, can be adjusted in length and
then fixed at a desired height for the valve assembly 18b.
[0086] This height adjustment is facilitated by a tab 287 and
sleeve 290, associated with the columns 47b and 92b, and a tab 292
and sleeve 294 associated with the columns 94b and 52b. The tab 292
and sleeve 294 are best illustrated in the enlarged view of FIG.
16. This view also illustrates that the downwardly extending column
94b can be provided with the plurality of equally spaced and
inwardly extending flanges or ridges 101b. The tab 292 carried by
the upwardly extending column 52b can be provided with at least one
tooth 296 which is adapted to engage a particular one of the ridges
101b at a preferred height for the valve assembly 18b. The tooth
296 can be formed integral with the tab 292 and disposed to face
outwardly in an engaging relationship with the ridges 101b.
[0087] The tab 292 is between a first position illustrated in FIG.
16 wherein the tooth 296 engages the ridges 101b, and a second
position wherein the tab is moved radially inwardly, to the left in
FIG. 16, to disengage the tooth 296 from the ridges 101b. In the
first position, the tab 292 holds the associated columns 94b and
52b in a fixed relationship. In the second position, the tab 292
disengages the column 52b thereby permitting the columns 52b and
94b to be moved in a telescoping relationship to vary the height of
the flush valve assembly 18b.
[0088] It will be noted that the tab 287 and associated sleeve 290,
on the opposite side of the valve assembly 18b, will appear as a
mirror image of FIG. 16. The tab 287 on that side of the assembly
18b would engage ridges on the column 92b in a first position and
disengage those ridges when moved radially inwardly, to the right
in FIG. 15.
[0089] Thus, in order to facilitate a height adjustment, both of
the tabs 287 and 292 would be moved radially inwardly. When the
desired height was achieved, the tabs 287 and 292 could be moved
radially outwardly to fix the height of the columns 92b and 94b
relative to the associated columns 47b and 52b, respectively.
[0090] In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the tabs 287 and 292 are
formed integral with the sleeves 290 and 294 which surround the
columns 92b and 94b, respectively. With this construction, the
sleeves 290 and 294 on the outside of the valve assembly 18b can be
pushed radially inwardly to move the tabs 287 and 292,
respectively, closer together.
[0091] This will disengage the tooth 296 from the associated ridges
101b and permit adjustment of the valve assembly 18b.
[0092] In this embodiment, the tabs 287 and 292 together with their
associated sleeves 290 and 294, are biased to the first engaging
positions so that the sleeves 290 and 294 can be released to
maintain the columns 92b and 47b, and the columns 94b and 52b, in
their fixed relationships. The resulting change in the height of
the valve assembly 18b can be seen in a comparison of FIG. 15,
which shows an assembly of reduced height, and FIG. 17, which shows
an assembly of increased height.
[0093] With further reference to FIG. 17, it can be appreciated
that an adjustment in the height of the support structure 91b can
be complemented with an overflow tube 76b which is also adjustable
in height. In this embodiment, the overflow tube 76b includes a
larger bottom tube 298 which has a telescoping relationship with a
smaller top tube 301. In this case, the top tube 301 can be
provided with exterior ridges or flanges 303 which are accessible
through a window 305 in the bottom tube 298.
[0094] A clip 307 is disposed outwardly of the bottom tube 298 but
includes at least one tooth which extends through the window 305 to
engage the ridges 303. The clip 307 can be completely removed to
disengage the ridges 303 and accommodate the desired height
adjustment. The clip can then be replaced to maintain a fixed
relationship between the bottom tube 298 and top tube 301.
Alternatively, the clip 305 can be adapted to be carried by the
lower tube 298, but provided with properties for adjustment
relative to the window 305 between a first position and a second
position. In the first position of the clip 307, the tooth 310
engages the ridges 303 to hold the bottom tube 298 and the top tube
301 in a fixed relationship. In the second position of the clip
305, the tooth 310 has a spaced relationship with the ridges 303
thereby facilitating the telescoping relationship between the tube
298 and the tube 301. Thus, with the clip 307 in the second
position the height of the overflow tube 76b is adjustable; with
the clip 307 in the first position, the overflow tube 76b is fixed
at the desired height.
[0095] The embodiment of FIG. 17 is configured with a bottom
structure 283 which includes a bottom housing 308, which is adapted
for connection to the bottom 23 of the tank 14 (FIG. 1), and an
intermediate housing 309, which is coupled to the top structure 281
by the tabs 287 and 292. With this construction, a bayonet
connection 311 can be used to removably couple the intermediate
housing 309 to the bottom housing 308. This greatly facilitates
access to the float 63b and permits adjustment or repair of the
gasket 61b on the bottom of the float 63b. With a simple twisting
movement applied to the top structure 281, the bayonet coupling 311
will permit removal of the top structure 281 and the intermediate
housing 309 without requiring detachment of the bottom housing 308
from the tank 14 (FIG. 1). The intermediate housing 309 can then be
inverted to gain easy access to the float 63b. Following the float
repair, the bayonet structure 311 can be recoupled to connect the
intermediate housing 309 and top structure 281 to the bottom
housing 308.
[0096] With the adjustment in the height of the support structure
91b and/or the overflow tube 76b, it may be necessary to also
adjust the link pin 190b which connects the two. This adjustment of
the link pin 190b is facilitated by providing the pin 190b with a
plurality of equally spaced, outwardly extending fins 313. These
fins 313 are preferably formed with the same separation or pitch as
the ridges 101b on the columns 92b and 94b, and the ridges 303 on
the overflow tube 76b. With this relationship, the link pin 190b
can be rotated to disengage the fins 313 and accommodate changes in
the height of either or both the supporting structure 91b and the
overflow tube 76b.
[0097] A further aspect of the present invention relates to the
selector or button assembly 36b best illustrated in the detailed
view of FIG. 19a. As is the case with the view of FIG. 18, the view
of FIG. 19a is turned ninety degrees from the orientation of the
button assembly 36b in FIG. 17.
[0098] It is of particular advantage that this button assembly 36b
is free to move in both an x plane and a y plane perpendicular to
the axis 28b (FIG. 14). This enables the button assembly 36b to
accommodate small variations in the coaxial alignment of the button
hole in the top 21 of the tank 14, and the flush hole in the bottom
23 of the tank 14 (FIG. 1). With reference to FIG. 17, it can be
seen that the button assembly 36b is free to move out of the plane
of the page due to a slide channel 312 which is formed between
flanges 314 and 316. The button assembly 36b can be mounted on a
slide 318 which is disposed in this slide channel 312. The slide
318 is movable between the flanges 314 and 316 and carries the
remainder of the button assembly 36b along an x axis which is shown
in FIG. 18 and extends perpendicular to the page in FIG. 17.
[0099] With reference to FIG. 18 and the enlarged view of FIG. 19a,
it can be seen that the slide 318 is also formed with a pair of
opposing flanges 321 and 323 which define a slide channel 325. A
slide 327 is within this channel 325 out of the plane of the page
in FIG. 18. This movement of the slide 327 carries the remainder of
the button assembly 36b along a y axis 330 which is shown in FIG.
17 and extends perpendicular to the page in FIG. 18. A cylinder 332
having a lip 334 is carried by the slide 327 and accordingly is
movable along both the x axis 319 and the y axis 330 to facilitate
orientation of the button assembly 36b.
[0100] At the end of the cylinder 332 opposite the lip 334, an
array of teeth 333 are axially aligned and circumferentially
disposed around the cylinder 332. An annular space 335 is provided
beneath these teeth 333. A receiver 339 includes a pair of flanges
340 which extend outwardly to teeth which register with the
circumferential teeth 333 of the cylinder 332. With this
construction, orientation of the buttons 198b and 201b relative to
the front edge of the tank 14, can be accomplished by depressing
the button housing 336 and thereby forcing the receiver 339
downwardly within the cylinder 332.
[0101] This causes the bottom of the receiver 339 and the flanges
340 to move into the annular space 335 where the teeth on the
flange 340 disengage the circumferential teeth on the cylinder 332.
This enables the receiver 339 and button housing 336 to be rotated
into alignment with the tank 14. Once this alignment is achieved,
the button housing 336 can be released to move upwardly under the
bias of a pair of living hinges 342 and 343, until the teeth on the
flange 340 engage new teeth 333 on the circumference of the
cylinder 332. This again fixes the angular relationship of the
cylinder 332, the receiver 339 and button housing 336 at the
properly aligned position.
[0102] With further reference to FIG. 19a, it can be seen that the
buttons 198b and 201b are carried in a housing 336 which is
provided with an annular flange 337 and partial exterior threads
338. The housing 336 is sized to fit within the receiver 332 as
best illustrated in FIG. 19a. With this relationship, the partial
threads 338 form a bayonet fitting with inwardly extending flanges
on the receiver 339.
[0103] As best illustrated in FIG. 19b, there is a spring gap 145
between the base 125b and the flange 96b to allow axial movement of
the button assembly 36b to accommodate height variations in the
tank top. This height adjustment occurs by the flexure of the slide
318 between the flanges 314 and 316, and the pulling of flanges 321
and 323 (FIG. 19a) by the slide 327. The slide 318 is biased to
provide maximum spring gap when no axial force is being applied to
the annular flange 337.
[0104] A flange 341 can be provided to extend outwardly from the
receiver 339, preferably on a side opposite to that of the threads
338. This flange 341 is sized to ride in a vertical slot in the
housing 336. The flange 341 aligns with this slot at a single
radial position of the housing 336 which insures that the buttons
198b and 202b are appropriately aligned with their respective
half-shafts 207 and 210. When the flange 341 is aligned with its
slot in the housing 336, the housing 336 and threads 338 drop into
the receiver 339. At this point the annual flange 337 associated
with the housing 336 can be rotated to provide for a bayonet
engagement between the treads 338 and the receiver 339.
[0105] Since the threads 338 are helical, this rotation will tend
to draw the flange 337 closer to the receiver 339. If the flange
337 is already abutting the top of the tank 14, this rotation of
the threads will cause the receiver 339 to rise within the tank 14
(FIG. 1). The amount of this rise is dependent on the pitch of the
threads 338 which in a preferred embodiment are separated by a
distance of 0.145 inches.
[0106] Raising the level of the receiver 332 within the tank 14
also tends to raise the lever 181b, the link pin 190b, the overflow
tube 76b, and the float 63b. Under these circumstances, the mere
rotation of the button housing 336 could tend to raise the float
63b off of the flush valve and produce a leakage of water from the
tank. In order to inhibit this leakage, the link pin 190b in a
preferred embodiment is provided with an offset shoulder 350 best
illustrated in the detail of FIG. 19a. When the flush valve
assembly 18 is initially installed in the toilet 10 (FIG. 1) the
link pin 190b can be raised and rotated within the cup 345 so that
it is elevated from the cup 345 by an offset distance associated
with the length of the shoulder 350. If the pin 190b is then
rotated, its fins 313 will engage bendable projections 351 in the
bottom of a pan 352 carried by the overflow tube 76b. These
projections 351 will maintain the pin 190b in an offset position
spaced from the bottom of the cup 345. Then when the button housing
336 is dropped into the receiver 339 and turned, any rise in the
receiver 339 will merely elevate the cup 345 of the lever 181b
without elevating the float 63b.
[0107] Another feature of the present invention is illustrated in
FIGS. 18 and 19. This feature is associated with the half-shafts
207 and 210 of the button assembly 36b, which contact a ridge 344
at one end of the lever 181b. At the opposite end of the lever
181b, a cup 345 is formed to receive the link pin 190b. Referring
to FIG. 18, it will be noted that when a button and associated
shaft 207 or 210 are depressed, they force the ridge 344
downwardly. This raises the link pin 190b which carries with it the
overflow tube 76b and the float 63b. Thus, depression of one of the
buttons 207, 210 results in lifting the float 63b to initiate the
flushing of the toilet 10 (FIG. 1).
[0108] In the interest of using all of the water in the tank 14 for
a full flush, it is desirable that the float 63b may be maintained
off of the valve seat until the water in the tank 14 is fully
exhausted. If one relies solely on the flotation of the float 63b,
the weight of the structure associated with the overflow tube 76b
and float 63b will tend to close the flush valve before the tank is
fully vacated.
[0109] In accordance with the present invention, this weight is
offset so that the float 63b rides higher on the surface of the
water 16 inhibiting closure of the valve 30 until the flush water
is vacated from the tank 14. This offset of the structural weight
is facilitated in the illustrated embodiment with a cantilevered
beam 346 which is carried by the lever 181b and has an end 347. The
beam 346 serves two functions in the present embodiment both
involving a block 348 of the button assembly 36b.
[0110] When the link pin 190b and associated float 63b are in the
uppermost flushing position, the beam 346 is disposed relative to
the block 348 in a normally biased state as illustrated in FIG. 19.
In order for the pin 190b to drop, the beam 346 must be bent from
this normally biased state in order the clear the block 348. This
resistance to bending of the beam 346 tends to maintain the pin
190b and float 363b in the uppermost position thereby offsetting
the weight of the associated structure. As the float 63b drops with
the surface of the water 16, the end 347 of the beam 346 clears the
block 348 enabling the flush valve 30 to close as illustrated in
FIG. 18. Note that the end 347 of the beam 346 rides along the
block 348 as it tends to go over center back to its normally biased
position. Thus the beam 346 and block 348 function as a means for
offsetting the weight of the float structure so that the flush
valve will close only when the water in the tank is substantially
exhausted.
[0111] Once the flush valve is in the closed state as illustrated
in FIG. 18, the beam 346 performs another function. As the lever
181b functions to move over center, due to the bias of the beam
346, it tends to stay in either the open state illustrated in FIG.
19 or the closed state illustrated in FIG. 18. With a bias to the
closed state, the half-shafts 207, 210 are biased to the upward
state to facilitate alignment of the button assembly 36b. Jamming
is even further inhibited by providing the half-shafts 207 and 210
with bottom surfaces which are generally flat and horizontal. These
bottom surfaces provide a substantially line contact with the ridge
344 associated with the lever 181b. As a result, pivoting of the
lever 181b does not apply any radial forces to the half-shafts 207
and 210 which might otherwise cause the button assembly 36b to
jam.
[0112] The perspective view of FIG. 20 illustrates a further aspect
of this embodiment. In this view, the buttons 198b and 201b are
shown with their respective shafts 207b and 210b and their
respective cams 216b and 218b. As in the previous embodiment, the
buttons 198b and 201b can be depressed to move their respective
cams 216b and 218b into the slot 170b in the slide 127b. As opposed
to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, however, it can be seen
that the slide 127b is provided with a slot 170b which is
longitudinally asymmetrical and is defined at one end by a surface
345 and at the other end by a surface 347 on a cantilever beam 349.
When the button 198b is depressed along with its shaft 207b, it
forces the cam 216b into the slot 170b where it contacts the
surface 345 pushing the slide or shuttle 127b to the left in FIG.
20. This causes the hole 172b to misalign with the hole 158b, as
illustrated in FIG. 19, and prevents air from venting from the
float 63b (FIG. 18) to ensure a full flush.
[0113] In contradistinction, depression of the button 201b and
associated shaft 210b carries the cam 218b into the slot 170b where
it contacts the surface 347 of the deflection member or beam 349.
This causes the shuttle or slide 127b to move to the right in FIG.
20 carrying the hole 172b into alignment with the hole 158b. As
previously discussed, alignment of these holes facilitates the
venting of air from the float 63b and results in a shorter
flush.
[0114] The function of the deflection member or cantilever beam 349
can be better understood with reference to FIG. 21 which
illustrates operation of the slide 127b when the buttons 198b and
201b are accidentally depressed simultaneously. Under these
circumstances, both of the cams 216b and 218b enter the slot 170b
at the same time. The cam 216b pushes against the surface 345 and
the cam 218b pushes against the surface 347. Without sufficient
length to accommodate both of the cams 216b and 218b, the
cantilever beam 349 deflects as illustrated in FIG. 21. As a
result, the accidental depression of both buttons 198b and 201b
simultaneously does not result in jamming the slide 127b, but
rather accommodates a full flush without any damage to the button
assembly 36b. When the buttons are released, the cams 216b and 218b
withdraw from the slot 170b and the cantilever beam 349 returns to
the general plane of the slide 127b.
[0115] The clip 307 and associated window 305 in the bottom tube
298 were discussed with reference to FIG. 17 along with a procedure
for adjusting the overflow tube 76b. A specific embodiment of this
coupling structure is best illustrated in FIGS. 22-25. FIG. 23 is a
radial cross-section view taken along the lines 23-23 of FIG. 18.
FIG. 22 is a disassembled view of this combination. In the
disassembled view, the telescoping relationship of the bottom tube
298 and top tube 301 are illustrated. The window 305 and the bottom
tube 298 are illustrated to provide access to the ridges 303 of the
top tube 301.
[0116] The clip 307 of this radial cross-section view is
illustrated to have a U-shaped configuration with a pair of legs
352 and 354 extending from a closed end 356 of the clip 307. A
handle 357 can be molded to the closed end 356 of the clip 307. A
pair of ears 358 and 360 are molded to extend outwardly of, and in
a bending relationship with, their respective legs 352 and 354. The
legs 352 and 354 of the clip 307 can be inserted into associated
channels 361 and 363 from either side of the overflow tube 76. For
example, the clip 307 can be inserted into the channels 361, 363
from the left side as illustrated in FIG. 23, or from the right
side as illustrated in FIG. 25.
[0117] The channels 361 and 363 can have similar structures. For
example, the channel 361 can be formed in the bottom tube 298 by an
outer member 365 having a concave surface 367 on one side and an
opposing convex surface 369 on the other side. When the clip 307 is
initially inserted into the channels 361 and 363, the ear 356 is
bent against the associated leg 352 as it passes through the
channel 361. When the closed end 356 abuts the overflow tube 76, as
illustrated in FIG. 23, the tooth 310 engages the ridges 303 to
lock the upper tube 301 relative to the bottom tube 298. With this
locked relationship, the overflow tube 76 has a fixed height.
[0118] If it is desired to further adjust the height of the
overflow tube 76, the handle 357 at the closed end 356 of the clip
307 can be moved outwardly, to the left in FIG. 24.
[0119] This outward movement continues until the ear 360 engages
the concave surface 367 of the housing 365. In this position, the
tooth 310 of the clip 307 disengages the ridges 303 to again permit
the telescoping movement of the top tube 301 relative to the bottom
tube 298.
[0120] With reference to FIG. 25, it can be seen that the clip 307
can be inverted and inserted into the channels 361 and 363 from the
opposite side, the right side in FIG. 25. From this side, the clip
307 and tooth 310 function differently with respect to the ridges
303. When the closed end 358 of the clip 307 is brought against the
opposite side of the tube 298, (the right side in FIG. 25), the
tube 310 engages the flanges 303 to inhibit any further height
adjustment of the overflow tube 76. In this position, the ears 360
engage the convex surface 369 of the housing 365 which tends to
oppose any removal of the clip from this locked state. In order to
provide an indication that the clip 307 has been removed, it will
be noted that the ears 360 and 361 will both flip in the opposite
direction (to the left in FIG. 25) as the clip 307 is withdrawn
from the channels 361 and 363 (to the right in FIG. 25). Thus, the
ears 358 and 360 can provide an indication of tampering with this
height adjustment.
[0121] As illustrated in the side elevation view of FIG. 26, the
pressure tube 25b is coupled at one end to the hole 158b (FIG. 19)
and at the other end to a positive float valve 370. This valve 370,
is adjustable in height relative to the support structure 91b. The
float valve 370 in this embodiment includes an outer cylinder 372
and a wall 374 which divides the cylinder 372 into an
upwardly-opened water chamber 376 and a downwardly-opened air
chamber 378. When the float valve 370 is in an upper position, the
pressure tube 25b is closed. However, when the float valve 370 is
in a lower position, the pressure tube 25b is opened to bleed air
from the float 63b in the manner previously discussed.
[0122] The float valve 370 moves from the upper, closed position to
the lower, open position as the surface of the water in the tank 14
drops below the air chamber 378. At this point, the valve 370 no
longer floats and is free to drop under the weight of the water in
the water chamber 376. As water fills the tank 14, its surface
passes upwardly along the float valve 370. This initially captures
air in the downwardly-opened air chamber 378 and causes the valve
370 to float. When the surface of the water passes below the float
valve 370, water in the water chamber 376 weighs the float valve
370 toward the bottom position.
[0123] Many alterations and modifications may be made by those
having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention. Therefore, it must be understood that
the illustrated embodiment has been set forth only for the purposes
of example and that it should not be taken as limiting the
invention as defined by the following claims. For example,
notwithstanding the fact that the elements of a claim are set forth
below in a certain combination, it must be expressly understood
that the invention includes other combinations of fewer, more or
different elements, which are disclosed in above even when not
initially claimed in such combinations.
[0124] The words used in this specification to describe the
invention and its various embodiments are to be understood not only
in the sense of their commonly defined meanings, but to include by
special definition in this specification structure, material or
acts beyond the scope of the commonly defined meanings. Thus if an
element can be understood in the context of this specification as
including more than one meaning, then its use in a claim must be
understood as being generic to all possible meanings supported by
the specification and by the word itself.
[0125] The definitions of the words or elements of the following
claims are, therefore, defined in this specification to include not
only the combination of elements which are literally set forth, but
all equivalent structure, material or acts for performing
substantially the same function in substantially the same way to
obtain substantially the same result. In this sense it is therefore
contemplated that an equivalent substitution of two or more
elements may be made for any one of the elements in the claims
below or that a single element may be substituted for two or more
elements in a claim. Although elements may be described above as
acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such,
it is to be expressly understood that one or more elements from a
claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the
combination and that the claimed combination may be directed to a
subcombination or variation of a subcombination.
[0126] Insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as
viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or
later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalently
within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions
now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art are
defined to be within the scope of the defined elements.
[0127] The claims are thus to be understood to include what is
specifically illustrated and described above, what is
conceptionally equivalent, what can be obviously substituted and
also what essentially incorporates the essential idea of the
invention.
* * * * *