U.S. patent application number 11/562169 was filed with the patent office on 2007-04-26 for closure apparatus and method of installing same.
Invention is credited to Robert Andersen.
Application Number | 20070089223 11/562169 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37983939 |
Filed Date | 2007-04-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070089223 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Andersen; Robert |
April 26, 2007 |
CLOSURE APPARATUS AND METHOD OF INSTALLING SAME
Abstract
A toilet assembly that includes a bowl, a toilet seat member
mounted on the bowl for movement between raised and lowered
positions, and a tank mounted on the bowl. The tank is adapted to
contain water for flushing the toilet and has a flushing apparatus
for causing the water in the tank to flow into the bowl. The toilet
assembly also includes a hydraulic closure apparatus mounted on the
toilet. The apparatus includes a member movable relative to the
toilet and engageable with the seat member such that movement of
the member in one direction moves the seat member toward the
lowered position. Movement of the seat member toward the raised
position moves the member in an opposite direction. The apparatus
also includes a cylinder and a piston slidable inside the cylinder.
The piston divides the cylinder into first and second chambers and
is connected to the member such that movement of the member in the
opposite direction moves the piston in the direction minimizing the
volume of the second chamber. The apparatus further includes a
spring positioned in the second chamber. The spring is compressed
by the piston when the piston moves in the direction minimizing the
volume of the second chamber. The apparatus also further includes a
conduit having one end in communication with the second chamber and
a second end positioned in the water in the tank. The toilet
assembly further includes a valve arrangement for closing the
second end of the conduit when the tank is relatively full of water
and for opening the second end of the conduit when the toilet is
flushed.
Inventors: |
Andersen; Robert; (Glenview,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MICHAEL BEST & FRIEDRICH, LLP
100 E WISCONSIN AVENUE
Suite 3300
MILWAUKEE
WI
53202
US
|
Family ID: |
37983939 |
Appl. No.: |
11/562169 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10484667 |
Jul 6, 2004 |
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PCT/US02/23580 |
Jul 25, 2002 |
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11562169 |
Nov 21, 2006 |
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09916816 |
Jul 27, 2001 |
6438764 |
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10484667 |
Jul 6, 2004 |
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60738630 |
Nov 21, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/246.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 13/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/246.1 |
International
Class: |
A47K 13/10 20060101
A47K013/10 |
Claims
1. A toilet assembly comprising: a bowl; a toilet seat member
mounted on the bowl for movement between raised and lowered
positions; a tank mounted on the bowl, the tank adapted to contain
water for flushing the toilet and having a flushing apparatus for
causing the water in the tank to flow into the bowl; a hydraulic
closure apparatus mounted on the toilet, the apparatus including a
member movable relative to the toilet and engageable with the seat
member such that movement of the member in one direction moves the
seat member toward the lowered position, and such that movement of
the seat member toward the raised position moves the member in an
opposite direction; a cylinder; a piston slidable inside the
cylinder, the piston dividing the cylinder into first and second
chambers, and the piston connected to the member such that movement
of the member in the opposite direction moves the piston in the
direction minimizing the volume of the second chamber; a spring
positioned in the second chamber, the spring being compressed by
the piston when the piston moves in the direction minimizing the
volume of the second chamber; and a conduit having one end
communicating with the second chamber and having a second end
positioned in the water in the tank; and a valve arrangement for
closing the second end of the conduit when the tank is relatively
full of water and for opening the second end of the conduit when
the toilet is flushed.
2. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the piston and the
member form a unitary structure.
3. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 and further comprising a
piston rod connected to the piston and connected to the member.
4. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 and further comprising a
valve arrangement for allowing water flow from the second chamber
to the first chamber when the piston moves in the direction
minimizing the volume of the second chamber, and for preventing
water flow from the first chamber to the second chamber.
5. An apparatus as set forth in claim 4 wherein the piston includes
a piston body, and where the valve arrangement for allowing water
flow from the second chamber to the first chamber includes a plate
in the first chamber and a seal between the piston body and the
plate, the plate capable of moving relative to the piston body and
to the seal such that the seal changes shape with the relative
positioning of the plate, the seal permitting water flow around the
piston when the piston moves in the direction minimizing the volume
of the second chamber and preventing water flow around the piston
when the piston moves in the direction maximizing the volume of the
second chamber.
6. An apparatus as set forth in claim 4 and further comprising a
second conduit, the second conduit adapted to transport water flow
from the first chamber to the tank.
7. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the piston includes
a seal positioned around an outer edge of the piston, the seal
preventing water flow around the piston.
8. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the conduit is
formed of flexible tubing.
9. A toilet assembly comprising: a bowl; a toilet seat member
mounted on the bowl for movement between raised and lowered
positions; a tank mounted on the bowl, the tank adapted to contain
water for flushing the toilet and having a flushing apparatus for
causing the water in the tank to flow into the bowl; a
hydraulically actuated device for moving the seat member toward the
lowered position in response to a flow of water to the device; a
conduit having one end in communication with the device and an
opposite end in the tank below the level of water in the tank; and
a valve member movable between a first position in which the valve
member seals the opposite end of the conduit and a second position
in which the valve member allows water to flow into the opposite
end of the conduit, the valve member moving to the first position
when the tank is relatively full of water, and the valve member
moving to the second position when the toilet is flushed.
10. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 9 and further
comprising a float positioned in the tank and coupled to the valve
member, wherein the float lowers in response to flushing the toilet
and moves the valve member to the second position.
11. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 9 wherein the valve
member includes a nipple, the nipple seated in the opposite end of
the conduit when the valve member is in the first position.
12. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 9 and further
comprising a second conduit, the second conduit having a first end
in communication with the device and a second end positioned above
the level of the water in the tank.
13. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 9 and further
comprising a second conduit, the second conduit having a first end
in communication with the device and a second end positioned below
the level of water in the tank.
14. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 13 and further
comprising a second valve member movable between a first position
in which the second valve member seals the second end of the second
conduit and a second position in which the second valve member
allows water to flow into the second end of the second conduit, the
second valve member moving to the first position when the tank is
relatively full of water, and moving to the second position when
the toilet is flushed.
15. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 9 and further
comprising a second conduit, the second conduit having a first end
in communication with the device and a second end in direct
communication with the opposite end of the first-mentioned
conduit.
16. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 15 wherein the first
position of the valve member blocks communication between the
first-mentioned conduit and the second conduit, and the second
position of the valve member allows communication between the
first-mentioned conduit and the second conduit.
17. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 9 wherein the conduit
is formed of flexible tubing.
18. A hydraulic closure apparatus for a toilet seat member movable
between raised and lowered positions, the toilet seat member being
mounted on a toilet having a flushing apparatus, the closure
apparatus comprising: a member movable relative to the toilet and
engageable with the seat member such that movement of the member in
one direction moves the seat member toward the lowered position,
and such that movement of the seat member toward the raised
position moves the member in an opposite direction; a cylinder; a
piston slidable inside the cylinder, the piston dividing the
cylinder into first and second chambers adapted to contain fluid,
and the piston connected to the member such that movement of the
member in the opposite direction moves the piston in the direction
minimizing the volume of the second chamber; a spring positioned in
the second chamber, the spring being compressed by the piston when
the piston moves in the direction minimizing the volume of the
second chamber; a first conduit having one end communicating with
the first chamber and having a second end; a second conduit having
one end communicating with the second chamber and having a second
end; and a valve arrangement for preventing communication between
the second ends of the conduits except when the toilet is flushed
and for permitting communication between the second ends of the
conduits when the toilet is flushed, whereby fluid flow between the
first and second chambers is permitted when the toilet is
flushed.
19. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 wherein the piston and
the member form a unitary structure.
20. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 and further comprising a
piston rod connected to the piston and connected to the member.
21. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 and further comprising a
second valve arrangement for allowing fluid flow from the second
chamber to the first chamber when the piston moves in the direction
minimizing the volume of the second chamber.
22. An apparatus as set forth in claim 21 wherein the second valve
arrangement also prevents water flow from the first chamber to the
second chamber.
23. An apparatus as set forth in claim 22 wherein the piston
includes a piston body, and where the second valve arrangement
includes a plate in the first chamber and a seal between the piston
body and the plate, the plate capable of moving relative to the
piston body and to the seal such that the seal changes shape with
the relative positioning of the plate, the seal permitting fluid
flow around the piston when the piston moves in the direction
minimizing the volume of the second chamber and preventing fluid
flow around the piston when the piston moves in the direction
maximizing the volume of the second chamber.
24. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 wherein the piston
includes a seal positioned around an outer edge of the piston, the
seal preventing fluid flow around the piston.
25. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 wherein the conduits are
formed of flexible tubing.
26. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 wherein the second ends
of the conduits are adapted to be located in the water in the
tank.
27. An apparatus as set forth in claim 18 wherein the valve
arrangement includes a valve member movable between a first
position in which the valve member prevents communication between
the second ends of the conduits and a second position in which the
valve member permits communication between the second ends of the
conduits, the valve member moving to the second position when the
toilet is flushed, and the valve member moving to the first
position after the toilet is flushed.
28. An apparatus as set forth in claim 27 wherein the toilet has a
tank adapted to contain water, and wherein the apparatus further
comprises a float adapted to be positioned in the tank and coupled
to the valve member to move the valve member between the first and
second positions, wherein the float lowers in response to flushing
the toilet and moves the valve member to the second position.
29. A toilet assembly comprising: a bowl having therein a bore for
mounting of a toilet seat member hinge; a hinge mounted on the
bowl, the hinge having therein a bore that aligns with the bore in
the bowl; a toilet seat member pivotally supported by the hinge for
movement between raised and lowered positions; a tank mounted on
the rear of the bowl, the tank adapted to contain water for
flushing the toilet and having a flushing apparatus for causing the
water in the tank to flow into the bowl; a mounting bolt extending
through the hinge bore and the bowl bore, the mounting bolt having
a central bore and a lower end; an upper rod movable in the bore of
the mounting bolt, the rod being engageable with the toilet seat
member such that upward movement of the rod moves the toilet seat
member from its raised position toward its lowered position, and
such that movement of the toilet seat member from its lowered
position to its raised position moves the rod downward; a mounting
nut threaded onto the mounting bolt to secure the hinge to the
bowl; a cylinder connected to the lower end of the mounting bolt; a
piston slidably housed in the cylinder, the piston dividing the
cylinder into upper and lower chambers, the piston including a
piston body, and a piston rod extending from the piston body and
through the upper chamber, the piston rod coupled to the upper rod
such that the piston rod and the upper rod move vertically
together, the piston also including a plate surrounding the piston
rod, and a seal positioned around the piston rod between the piston
body and the plate, the plate capable of moving relative to the
piston body and to the seal such that the seal changes shape with
the relative positioning of the plate, the seal permitting water
flow around the piston when the piston moves downward and
preventing water flow around the piston when the piston moves
upward; a spring positioned in the lower chamber of the cylinder to
bias the piston upward, the spring adapted to be compressed by
downward movement of the piston; an inflow tube communicating
between the tank and the lower chamber of the cylinder, a first end
of the inflow tube communicating with the water in the tank and a
second end of the inflow tube communicating with the lower chamber;
an outflow tube communicating between the upper chamber of the
cylinder and the tank, a first end of the outflow tube
communicating with the upper chamber and a second end of the
outflow tube communicating with the tank at a point above the water
in the tank; a weighted float positioned in the tank; and a nipple
coupled to the weighted float, the nipple movable between a seated
position in which the nipple seals the first end of the inflow tube
and an open position in which the nipple is unseated from the first
end of the inflow tube so that the water can enter the first end of
the inflow tube, the nipple being moved by the float to the seated
position when the tank is relatively full of water, and the nipple
moving to the open position when the toilet is flushed; wherein
movement of the toilet seat member from its lowered position to its
raised position moves the rod downward, thereby moving the piston
downward against the force of the spring to a lower position;
wherein, when the tank is relatively full of water, the nipple
being in the seated position, in combination with the seal,
substantially prevents water flow into the lower chamber, thereby
locking the piston in its lower position; wherein, upon flushing
the toilet with the seat member in its raised position, the
weighted float lowers in response to flushing of the toilet to
cause the nipple to move to its open position, allowing water in
the tank to flow through the inflow tube into the lower chamber,
thereby allowing the spring to move the piston and the rod upward
to move the seat member to its closed position, with water in the
upper chamber flowing into the tank via the outflow tube.
30. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 29 wherein the nipple
is formed of an elastomeric material.
31. A toilet assembly as set forth in claim 29 wherein the inflow
tube and the outflow tube are formed of flexible tubing.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending
U.S. application Ser. No. 10/484,667, filed on Jul. 6, 2004, which
is a 371 of PCT/US02/23580, filed Jul. 25, 2002, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/916,816, filed
Jul. 27, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,438,764. This application also
claims the benefit of co-pending Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 60/738,630, filed on Nov. 21, 2005. The entire contents of
all of the foregoing are hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to toilets, and,
more specifically, to devices for closing a toilet cover.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] There are many devices in the prior art which automatically,
or semi-automatically, lower a toilet seat, a toilet lid, and/or a
toilet seat and lid assembly. As users often neglect to fully close
a toilet lid after use, a device for automatically closing a lid
upon conventional flushing of the toilet offers a numbers of
advantages. For example, when not in use, a fully closed toilet is
safer in that it prevents children and pets from falling into the
toilet bowl. In addition, a closed toilet is more sanitary in that
it prevents pets from drinking from the bowl and averts cases of
toilet users leaving the seat and lid assembly in an open position,
thereby causing an inattentive subsequent user to sit on the actual
toilet bowl instead of the toilet seat. In addition, it also helps
to eliminate the situation where a male user utilizes the facility
without raising the seat prior to urinating, by requiring that the
male bend over and raise at least the lid, and preferably both the
lid and seat, prior to urinating. Moreover, a fully closed toilet
is overall more aesthetically pleasing.
[0004] However, all such known devices are believed to be
relatively more obtrusive than the present invention in that they
substantially detract from the usually smooth, simple appearance of
the toilet or surrounding area, they make toilet cleaning more
difficult, or they interfere with a conventional toilet's function,
such as use of the flush handle. Most of the devices are also
relatively complex and sometimes difficult to install, therefore
often resulting in a rather costly device.
[0005] The devices of the prior art may be classified into several
categories according to the actuation means each uses to initiate
the closing of a lid and/or seat. More specifically, the actuation
means used include: 1) foot pedals; 2) simple release of a user's
hand, for those requiring the lid and/or seat to be held open while
using the toilet; 3) sensors of various types; 4) timers of various
types; 5) the toilet's existing flush handle; 6) water from either
the supply line or the toilet's existing tank; 7) electric
switches, which may primarily initiate flushing but also result in
lid and/or seat closing; 8) the toilet's existing float or a
special additional float or float/weight or float sensor; and, 9)
the toilet's existing flush arm.
[0006] Unfortunately, all of these actuation means have
disadvantages, for example, with respect to how they communicate
with the lid and seat of the toilet. More specifically, several
devices, such as those employing foot pedals, require the use of
levers and/or rods and/or cylinders and/or air tubes positioned
along the side(s) of the toilet bowl and all are believed to be
highly obtrusive. For example, the devices set forth in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,112,336, 5,289,593 and 5,267,356 disclose use of a visible
sheathed cable end attached to an obtrusive mechanism mounted
either atop the toilet's bowl ledge or to the side of said ledge.
In addition, U.S. Pat. No. 5,781,938 discloses a float-actuated
line which moves an obtrusive seat counter-balancing arm which is
visible over the side of said ledge. U.S. Pat. No. 5,307,524
discloses an electric line over the side of the ledge to an
obtrusive, expensive mechanism requiring a microprocessor atop the
toilet's bowl ledge. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,754,985 and 5,222,260
disclose obtrusive apparatus mounted atop the front of the toilet's
tank.
[0007] Similarly, those employing the hand-release approach are
also obtrusive in that they require the user to hold the lid and/or
seat open while using the toilet. In addition, those employing
timers are frequently visually obtrusive because the timers are
generally incorporated into sizable devices mounted atop the toilet
bowl ledge. Also, the timers may initiate closing action at a time
inconvenient to a particular user.
[0008] Devices that use portions of a toilet's tank to assist with
automatically closing a seat and lid assembly also have some
disadvantages. For example, devices employing the toilet's existing
flush handle are often visually obtrusive because the chains,
cables, rods or levers are attached to or interact with the flush
handle and their attachment to the flush handle interferes with use
of the handle to flush the toilet. In addition, devices using the
toilet's existing or added float(s), floating weights or a float
switch are believed to be more visually obtrusive than the present
invention in that they all employ a communication means with the
seat or lid which may extend over the side of the toilet bowl's
ledge or be mounted to the front of the toilet's tank. Those
employing special added floats also reduce the effective water
capacity of the tank which is especially disadvantageous when used
with smaller, lower flush volume toilets.
[0009] Although sometimes not as visually obtrusive, several other
devices are difficult to install, complex in design and therefore
often expensive. For example, devices employing sensors of various
types and electric switches to close the lid and/or seat are
believes to be considerably complex and costly. In addition,
devices employing either water from the toilet's supply line or
tank require additional plumbing work and therefore are relatively
difficult to install. Also, these devices increase risk of water
leakage.
[0010] Of all disclosed devices referred to above, only U.S. Pat.
No. 6,230,336 disclosed use of a direct mechanical connection to
the toilet's flush arm as the actuating means. However, this direct
mechanical connection is relied upon only to, via a line or cord,
activate an electrical switch in an obtrusive electromechanical
device atop the toilet bowl's ledge that appears to be complex and
costly. The reason only this one of the many prior art devices uses
such a connection to the flush arm as the actuation means is
believed to be that most flush arms are designed with little more
strength than that required to raise the flush valve and they will
not tolerate a significant additional load without breaking.
[0011] Of all the known devices to open and close a toilet seat or
lid, only the following utilize the standard lid/seat assembly
mounting openings provided on toilet bowl ledges as a less
obtrusive method of communicating between the automatic closing
actuation means and the lid and seat: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,230,336 and
6,185,754 disclose use of the mounting opening as a water conduit
to an obtrusive mechanism mounted atop the toilet bowl's ledge;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,867,843 discloses use of the mounting opening for
an air tube to an obtrusive mechanism mounted atop the toilet
bowl's ledge; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,410,766 and 4,951,323 disclose use
of the mounting opening as a pathway for a flexible cable to raise,
rather than automatically lower, a seat or lid; while U.S. Pat. No.
4,975,988 discloses use of the mounting opening as a pathway for a
flexible cable connected to a foot pedal to lower as well as raise
the seat. None of the prior art uses the mounting opening or bowl
ledge in the manner provided by the present invention.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0012] A closure apparatus and a method of installing the same are
provided.
[0013] More specifically, in one embodiment, the closure apparatus
is adapted to mount to a toilet having a cover, a bowl ledge and a
flush mechanism. The closure apparatus includes a mounting bolt
having an opening extending therethrough and a rod disposed within
the opening of the bolt. The apparatus also includes a spring that
is adapted to be deformed by the rod to thereby bias the rod and a
lever movable with respect to the mounting bolt. A latch release
mechanism coupled to the lever is also included. Upon flushing of
the toilet when the cover is open, and when the closure apparatus
is mounted on the bowl ledge, the flush mechanism causes the latch
point of the lever to move with respect to the mounting bolt. This
allows the spring to move the rod which pushes the cover, to
thereby close the cover.
[0014] The closure apparatus may further include an adjustment
mechanism that engages the rod and the latch point of the lever.
The adjustment mechanism may be adjustable with respect to the
lever. The adjustment mechanism may include a stop adjuster or
washer.
[0015] In another embodiment, a toilet is provided that includes a
toilet bowl, a bowl ledge disposed on the toilet bowl and a tank
disposed on a rear portion of the bowl ledge that includes a flush
mechanism. The toilet further includes a cover that is disposed on
the front end of the bowl ledge and a closure apparatus adapted to
mount to the bowl ledge. The closure apparatus includes a mounting
bolt having an opening extending therethrough and a spring-biased
rod disposed within the opening of the bolt. The apparatus also
includes a spring that is adapted to be deformed by the rod and
lever movable with respect to the mounting bolt. A latch release
mechanism coupled to the lever is also included. Upon flushing the
toilet when the cover is open, and when the closure apparatus is
mounted on the bowl ledge, the flush mechanism causes the latch
point of the lever to move with respect to the mounting bolt. This
allows the spring to move the rod which pushes the cover, to
thereby close the cover.
[0016] In another embodiment, a toilet cover assembly adapted to
mount to a toilet is provided. The toilet cover assembly includes a
cover, a hinge mount adapted to mount to a bowl ledge of the toilet
and a closure apparatus adapted to mount the hinge mount to the
bowl ledge of the toilet. The closure apparatus includes a mounting
bolt having an opening extending therethrough, a rod disposed
within the opening of the mounting bolt and a spring adapted to be
deformed by the rod to thereby bias the rod. The closure apparatus
further includes a lever that has a latch point and is movable with
respect to the mounting bolt and a latch release mechanism coupled
to the lever. Upon flushing the toilet when the cover is open, and
when the closure apparatus is mounted on the bowl ledge, the flush
mechanism causes the latch point of the lever to move with respect
to the mounting bolt. This allows the spring to move the rod which
pushes the cover, to thereby close the cover.
[0017] A method of installing a closure apparatus adapted to mount
to a toilet is also provided. The method includes the steps of
securing a mounting bolt having a longitudinal opening therethrough
to the bowl ledge of the toilet, inserting a spring-biased rod into
the longitudinal opening of the mounting bolt, providing a spring
and attaching a lever movable with respect to the mounting bolt.
The method also includes the steps of connecting a first end of an
actuating member to the lever and linking a second end of the
actuating member to a flush mechanism.
[0018] In another embodiment, the invention also provides a toilet
assembly including a bowl, a toilet seat member mounted on the bowl
for movement between raised and lowered positions, and a tank
mounted on the bowl. The tank is adapted to contain water for
flushing the toilet and has a flushing apparatus for causing the
water in the tank to flow into the bowl. The toilet assembly also
includes a hydraulic closure apparatus mounted on the toilet. The
apparatus includes a member movable relative to the toilet and
engageable with the seat member such that movement of the member in
one direction moves the seat member toward the lowered position.
Movement of the seat member toward the raised position moves the
member in an opposite direction. The apparatus also includes a
cylinder and a piston slidable inside the cylinder 111e piston
divides the cylinder into first and second chambers and is
connected to the member such that movement of the member in the
opposite direction moves the piston in the direction minimizing the
volume of the second chamber. The apparatus further includes a
spring positioned in the second chamber. The spring is compressed
by the piston when the piston moves in the direction minimizing the
volume of the second chamber. The apparatus also further includes a
conduit having one end communicating with the second chamber and a
second end positioned in the water in the tank. The toilet assembly
further includes a valve arrangement for closing the second end of
the conduit when the tank is relatively full of water and for
opening the second end of the conduit when the toilet is
flushed.
[0019] In another embodiment, the invention provides a toilet
assembly including a bowl, a toilet seat member mounted on the bowl
for movement between raised and lowered positions, and a tank
mounted on the bowl. The tank is adapted to contain water for
flushing the toilet and has a flushing apparatus for causing the
water in the tank to flow into the bowl. The toilet assembly also
includes a hydraulically actuated device for moving the seat member
toward the lowered position in response to a flow of water to the
device. The toilet assembly further includes a conduit having one
end in communication with the device and an opposite end in the
tank below the level of water in the tank. The toilet assembly also
further includes a valve member movable between a first position in
which the valve member seals the opposite end of the conduit and a
second position in which the valve member allows water to flow into
the opposite end of the conduit. The valve member moves to the
first position when the tank is relatively full of water and moves
to the second position when the toilet is flushed.
[0020] In another embodiment, the invention provides a hydraulic
closure apparatus for a toilet seat member movable between raised
and lowered positions. The toilet seat member is mounted on a
toilet having a flushing apparatus. The closure apparatus includes
a member movable relative to the toilet and engageable with the
seat member such that movement of the member in one direction moves
the seat member toward the lowered position, and movement of the
seat member toward the raised position moves the member in an
opposite direction. The apparatus also includes a cylinder and a
piston slidable inside the cylinder. The piston divides the
cylinder into first and second chambers adapted to contain fluid.
The piston is connected to the member such that movement of the
member in the opposite direction moves the piston in the direction
minimizing the volume of the second chamber. The apparatus also
includes a spring positioned in the second chamber. The spring is
compressed by the piston when the piston moves in the direction
minimizing the volume of the second chamber. The apparatus further
includes a first conduit having one end communicating with the
first chamber and having a second end, and a second conduit having
one end communicating with the second chamber and having a second
end. The apparatus further includes a valve arrangement for
preventing communication between the second ends of the conduits
except when the toilet is hushed and for permitting communication
between the second ends of the conduits when the toilet is flushed.
Whereby, fluid flow between the first and second chambers is
permitted when the toilet is flushed.
[0021] In another embodiment, the invention provides a toilet
assembly including a bowl having therein a bore for mounting of a
toilet seat hinge and a hinge mounted on the bowl. The hinge having
therein a bore that aligns with the bore in the bowl. The toilet
assembly also includes a seat member pivotally supported by the
hinge for movement between raised and lowered positions and a tank
mounted on the rear of the bowl. The tank is adapted to contain
water for flushing the toilet and has a flushing apparatus for
causing the water in the tank to flow into the bowl. The toilet
assembly also includes a mounting bolt extending through the hinge
bore and the bowl bore. The mounting bolt has a central bore and a
lower end. The toilet assembly further includes an upper rod
movable in the bore of the mounting bolt. The rod is engageable
with the toilet seat member such that upward movement of the rod
moves the toilet seat member from its raised position toward its
lowered position. Movement of the toilet seat member from its
lowered position to its raised position moves the rod downward. The
toilet assembly further includes a mounting nut threaded onto the
mounting bolt to secure the hinge to the bowl, a cylinder connected
to the lower end of the mounting bolt, and a piston slidably housed
in the cylinder. The piston divides the cylinder into upper and
lower chambers. The piston includes a piston body and a piston rod
extending from the piston body and through the upper chamber. The
piston rod couples to the upper rod such that the piston rod and
the upper rod move vertically together. The piston also includes a
plate surrounding the piston rod and a seal positioned around the
piston rod between the piston body and the plate. The plate is
capable of moving relative to the piston body and to the seal such
that the seal changes shape with the relative positioning of the
plate. The seal permits water flow around the piston when the
piston moves downward and prevents water flow around the piston
when the piston moves upward. The toilet assembly also includes a
spring positioned in the lower chamber of the cylinder to bias the
piston upward. The spring is adapted to be compressed by downward
movement of the piston. The toilet assembly also includes an inflow
tube communicating between the tank and the lower chamber of the
cylinder. A first end of the inflow tube communicates with the
water in the tank and a second end of the inflow tube communicates
with the lower chamber. The toilet assembly further includes an
outflow tube communicating between the upper chamber of the
cylinder and the tank. A first end of the outflow tube communicates
with the upper chamber and a second end of the outflow tube
communicates with the tank at a point above the water in the tank.
The toilet assembly further includes a weighted float positioned in
the tank and a nipple coupled to the weighted float. The nipple is
movable between a seated position in which the nipple seals the
first end of the inflow tube and an open position in which the
nipple is unseated from the first end of the inflow tube so that
the water can enter the first end of the inflow tube. The nipple is
moved by the float to the seated position when the tank is
relatively full of water and is moved to the open position when the
toilet is flushed. Wherein, movement of the toilet seat member from
its lowered position to its raised position moves the rod downward,
thereby moving the piston downward against the force of the spring
to a lower position. Also wherein, when the tank is relatively full
of water, the nipple is in the seated position, in combination with
the seal, to substantially prevent water flow into the lower
chamber, thereby locking the piston in its lower position. Also
wherein, upon flushing the toilet with the seat member in its
raised position, the weighted float lowers in response to flushing
of the toilet to cause the nipple to move to its open position,
allowing water in the tank to flow through the inflow tube into the
lower chamber, thereby allowing the spring to move the piston and
the rod upward to move the seat member to its closed position, with
water in the upper chamber flowing into the tank via the outflow
tube.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a conventional toilet, showing
a portion of a first embodiment of a seat and lid assembly closure
apparatus.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the toilet, wherein several
portions of the first embodiment of the closure apparatus are
shown.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment of
the closure apparatus, wherein a tank and a bowl ledge of the
toilet are shown in section and a lid is in a closed position.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment of
the closure apparatus, wherein the tank and the bowl ledge are
shown in section and the lid is in an open position.
[0026] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment of
the closure apparatus, wherein the tank and bowl ledge are shown in
section and a flush handle of the toilet has been actuated.
[0027] FIG. 6A is a top plan view of a portion of the first
embodiment of the closure apparatus shown in FIGS. 3-5.
[0028] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the first
embodiment of the closure apparatus taken along line 6B-6B of FIG.
6A.
[0029] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a lever used in the first,
second and third embodiments of the closure apparatus.
[0030] FIG. 8A is a top plan view of a bracket used in the first,
second and third embodiments of the closure apparatus.
[0031] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the bracket taken along
line 8B-8B of FIG. 8A.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the rod used in the
first, second and third embodiments of the closure apparatus.
[0033] FIG. 10A illustrates a portion of a second embodiment of the
closure apparatus.
[0034] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment
of the closure apparatus taken along line 10B-10B of FIG. 10A.
[0035] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a washer used in the second
embodiment of the closure apparatus.
[0036] FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
of the closure apparatus, wherein the toilet ledge is shown in
section.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
of the closure apparatus, wherein the toilet ledge is shown in
section and a lever is disposed at a bottom portion of a spring
holder.
[0038] FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of a third embodiment of
the closure apparatus, wherein the toilet ledge is shown in
section.
[0039] FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the rod used in the
preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus.
[0040] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus, wherein the rod is
in the extended position.
[0041] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus, wherein the rod is
in the depressed position.
[0042] FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the preferred
embodiment of the closure apparatus, wherein the tank, bowl ledge
and hinge mount are shown in section and the rod is in the extended
position.
[0043] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of another
embodiment of the closure apparatus.
[0044] FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first
embodiment of an in-tank portion of the closure apparatus for use
with the portion illustrated in FIG. 19.
[0045] FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of a second
embodiment of an in-tank portion of the closure apparatus for use
with the portion illustrated in FIG. 19.
[0046] FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of a third
embodiment of an in-tank portion of the closure apparatus for use
with the portion illustrated in FIG. 19.
[0047] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of another
embodiment of the closure apparatus.
[0048] FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional view of an in-tank
portion of the closure apparatus for use with the portion
illustrated in FIG. 23.
FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 1-5, a first embodiment of a seat and
lid assembly closure apparatus is shown in combination with a
conventional toilet 1. As shown, the conventional toilet includes a
tank 2, having a flush handle 3 attached thereto, mounted on a bowl
ledge 4. A cover, such as a seat or ring 200 (see FIG. 4), a lid 5
or a seat and lid assembly, is attached to a hinge mount 6 disposed
on the bowl ledge 4. As shown, for example, in FIG. 3, the cover or
lid 5 pivots at pivot point 12. In addition, the ledge 4 has a
mounting opening 13 for mounting a hinge mount 6 of a toilet seat
and lid 5.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 1, when viewing the toilet and closure
apparatus from a top view, only an enlarged head 7 of a rod 8 of
the apparatus is visible.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, when viewing the toilet and closure
apparatus from a side perspective view, only the head 7 of the rod
8 and the spring 9 are visible above ledge 4 and only a portion of
an adjustment mechanism, such as a stop adjuster 10, and a lever 11
are partially visible below ledge 4.
[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 3-5, the closure apparatus includes a
rod 8 having a first end disposed above the ledge 4 and a second
end disposed below the ledge 4. As shown in FIG. 9, the rod 8
includes a head 7 disposed at its first end and a series of male
threads 18 at its second end. A spring, such as a compression
spring 9, is disposed around the rod at its first end. The rod 8
may be constructed of plastic or non-corrosive metal, and other
like materials.
[0053] The closure apparatus also includes a mounting bolt 15
having an opening, such as a longitudinal guide opening 14, for
receiving a portion of the rod 8. The longitudinal guide opening
14, as shown in FIG. 6B, which is of only slightly larger inside
diameter than the outside diameter of rod 8, serves as a guide to
maintain the rod 8 in a vertical position as it moves up and down.
More specifically, the rod 8 first extends through the compression
spring 9 and then through the longitudinal guide opening 14 of the
mounting bolt 15. The mounting bolt 15 is inserted through a
mounting opening 13 disposed on the ledge 4 and is fastened to the
ledge by a mounting nut 16 having pins 17. The mounting bolt 15 and
the mounting nut 16 together fasten hinge mount 6 of the toilet
seat and lid assembly to the toilet ledge 4. The mounting bolt 15
may be constructed of plastic or non-corrosive metal, and other
like materials. The mounting nut 16 is preferably constructed of
plastic, as are most conventional toilet seat and lid assembly
mounting nuts.
[0054] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the arrangement of the rod 8, the
compression spring 9, the mounting bolt 15 with the longitudinal
guide opening 14 inserted through opening 13 in ledge 4 (shown in
FIGS. 3-5), the mounting nut 16 and a portion of a lever 11, which
is discussed in more detail below. In addition, a slot 34 is
provided on the top of mounting bolt 15 to permit said bolt to be
screwed down into mounting nut 16.
[0055] The closure apparatus also includes an adjustment mechanism,
such as a stop adjuster 10. As shown in FIG. 6B, the stop adjuster
10 includes a top portion having female threads 19 for engaging the
male threads 18 disposed on the second end of the rod 8. The stop
adjuster 10 also includes a smooth side surface area 20 and a top
surface 22. The stop adjuster 10 is of larger diameter than rod 8
and may be constructed of plastic or a non-corrosive metal, and
other like materials.
[0056] The closure apparatus further includes a lever 11, as shown
in FIGS. 3-5, and most specifically, in FIG. 7. The lever 11
includes a front end 46 having at least one opening for receiving a
pin 17 of the mounting nut 16 and a latch point 21 for engaging the
adjustment mechanism. More specifically, the latch point 21 engages
the top surface 22 of the stop adjuster 10. The lever 11 also
includes a rearward extension 33 and rearward end 23 having an
opening 24. It is mounted on the pins 17 of the mounting nut 16 and
pivots about the pins 17. The lever 11 is preferably constructed of
non-corrosive metal, and may be constructed of other like
materials.
[0057] In FIG. 3, the lever 11 is shown with its rearward end
slightly elevated because the side surface area 20 of the stop
adjuster 10 is preventing latch point 21 of latch lever 11 from
moving inward toward the rod 8. This condition exists when the lid
5 is in the closed position and the rod 8 is in an extended or
elevated position.
[0058] When rod 8 and stop adjuster 10 are sufficiently depressed,
the latch point 21 of latch lever 11 typically engages the top
surface 22 of the stop adjuster 10. When the rod 8 and stop
adjuster 10 are not sufficiently depressed, the latch point 21 of
the latch lever 11 may slide on the side surface 20 of stop
adjuster 10. The threaded engagement of stop adjuster 10 with rod 8
allows the stop adjuster 10 to be adjusted to control the point at
which latching will occur to accommodate different thickness of
ledge 4 on which the closure apparatus may be mounted as well as
variations in toilet configurations which require the seat and lid
to latch at somewhat different elevation angles.
[0059] The closure apparatus further includes a latch release
mechanism. The latch release mechanism may include an actuating
member, such as a cable 25 or nylon line, having a first end 25a
and a second end 25b. The first end 25a is attached to the lever 11
and the second end 25b is linked to a flush mechanism, or a device
that is actuated in response to flushing the toilet, such as a
flush arm 30 or a float arm, disposed within tank 2 of the toilet
1. More specifically, the first end 25a of the cable 25 is attached
to the rearward end 23 of the lever 11 through the opening 24 of
the lever 11. The actuating member may also comprise any electric
or electromechanical device.
[0060] The latch release mechanism may further include a bracket 27
for receiving the cable 25 that is adapted to be mounted on a rear
wall of the tank 2 and includes a groove 26. As illustrated in FIG.
8A, a pulley 28 is mounted to the bracket 27 at a lower end, and
the groove 26 is included in a top portion of bracket 27. FIG. 8B
shows the top portion of the bracket 27. More specifically, the
cable 25 proceeds through opening 24 of latch lever 11 upward
behind the toilet's tank 2 and through the groove 26 provided in
the bracket 27. The bracket 27, which is preferably constructed of
plastic, preserves a small gap between the cable 25, and the
underside and flanges of a tank top when fitted on tank 2. This
assures free movement back and forth of the cable 25 through the
groove 26. The cable 25 then proceeds from the groove 26 downward
under the pulley 28 provided at the lower end of the bracket 27 and
then upward where it attaches to an adjusting chain 29, similar to
those commonly used to attach flush valve flaps to flush arms. The
adjusting chain 29 in turn attaches to the toilet's flush arm 30 by
a fastener, such as a S-hook 31.
[0061] Alternatively, the latch release mechanism may include a
solenoid mounted at a bottom rear of the toilet tank 2 and
connected to the rearward end 23 of the lever 11. The solenoid may
be activated, for example, by a switch mechanism disposed on the
flush arm 30 or float arm instead of cable 25.
[0062] FIG. 4 shows lid 5 raised to its full upright position,
pivoting about its pivot point 12. Its rearward edge 32 has engaged
and depressed rod 8 which has stressed compression spring 9 and
moved side surface area 20 of stop adjuster 10 below latch point 21
of latch lever 11. As shown, when this occurs the weight of
rearward extension 33 of latch lever 11, relative to its pivot
point at pins 17, rotates latch lever 11 clockwise. This results in
the engagement of latch point 21 with the top surface 22 of stop
adjuster 10, and the latching of the rod 8 in its depressed
position with its associated compression spring 9 deformed. In this
state the interface of latch point 21 with top surface 22 of stop
adjuster 10, and the pivot point of the lever 11 at pins 17 are
both approximately vertically aligned with rod 8, permitting the
interface to be small, yet still securely latch rod 8 with the
energy stored in deformed spring 9.
[0063] FIG. 5 illustrates the toilet being flushed, with the flush
handle 3 depressed and the flush arm 30 raised. By pulling the
adjusting chain 29 and the adjusting side of the cable 25 upward,
the cable 25 on the opposite side of the pulley 28 moves downward
and the cable 25 behind tank 2 moves upward, thereby generating a
pulling force that is applied to lever 11. More specifically, the
force is applied at the opening 24 near the rear end of 23 of latch
lever 11 where the cable 25 is attached. Because the previously
described interface of latch point 21 and top surface 22 (shown in
FIG. 4) of stop adjuster 10 is small, the interface presents only a
small amount of friction to overcome to release the latch
condition. In addition, because the rearward extension 33 of latch
lever 11 relative to its pivot point at pins 17 provides
substantial leverage, only a few ounces (less than 1100 grams) of
pulling force need be applied by cable 25 at its attachment point
to opening 24 of latch lever 11 to release the latch point 21.
Accordingly, just a slight pull by the cable 25 at the opening 24
of the latch lever 11 results in an upward movement of the rearward
end 23 of latch lever 11, causing latch lever 11 to pivot
counter-clockwise about pins 17 and disengaging latch point 21 from
the top surface 22 (shown in FIG. 4) of stop adjuster 10.
[0064] When disengaged, deformed compression spring 9 forces the
rod 8 upward. The top portion 7 of rod 8 then pushes the rearward
edge 32 of lid 5, resulting in the lid 5 being tilted forward about
its pivot point 12 to a point at which lid 5 will continue to close
of its own weight and momentum to a fully-closed position. In some
toilet configurations the cover may softly close instead of
sometimes forcefully and loudly closing due to its own weight and
momentum. In any case, when a user wishes to flush a toilet while
sitting on the seat, although the closure apparatus does initiate
closure of the cover, there is insufficient force to discomfort a
user seated on the toilet. By simply leaning gently backward, the
user may re-latch the cover or lid 5 into an open position. In
addition, the closure apparatus does not interfere with manual
closing of the cover or lid 5 before flushing, if desired.
[0065] Referring again now to FIG. 3, when the flush handle 3 is
released, the pull of flush arm 30 on the adjusting chain 29 and
cable 25 is released and the weight of rearward extension 33 of
latch lever 11 is free to pull the cable 25 downward. This allows
for immediate resetting of the lever 11 when the lid is next
raised. This is advantageous in several circumstances, for example,
when another user wishes to use the toilet immediately after a
first user and before the toilet's tank has filled entirely with
water as well as when a user wishes to flush a toilet while seated
on the toilet seat.
[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 10-12, a second embodiment of the
closure apparatus is shown. Like the first embodiment of the
closure apparatus, the closure apparatus shown in FIGS. 10 and 12
includes a rod 8 having a first end disposed above the ledge 4 and
a second end disposed below the ledge 4. The rod 8 also includes a
head 7 disposed at its first end and a series of male threads at
its second end. A mounting bolt 15 is also included which has an
opening, such as a longitudinal guide opening 14, for receiving the
rod 8.
[0067] This closure apparatus, however, differs from the first
embodiment of the closure apparatus. For example, this second
embodiment of the closure apparatus does not include a compression
spring disposed around the rod 8 above the ledge 4 like the first
embodiment. Rather, as shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B and 12, a spring
holder 38 is disposed below the ledge 4 and a compression spring 9
is disposed therein. The spring holder 38 further includes a
threaded top portion for engaging the bolt 15. The top portion of
the spring holder 38 functions in a manner similar to a mounting
nut. The spring holder 38 is preferably constructed of plastic.
[0068] In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, the adjustment mechanism
of the second embodiment of the closure apparatus is a washer 35.
The washer 35 is disposed within the spring holder 38 and may
engage the latch point 21 of the lever 11. The washer 35 includes a
female threaded center opening 36 suitable for threading onto the
lower end of rod 8 and ears 37, and is preferably constructed of
non-corrosive metal.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 12, the spring holder 38 further includes
side openings 39 through which the ears 37 of washer 35 extend,
thereby allowing the latch point 21 of lever 11 to engage the ears
37 and prevent rotational movement of the washer 35 when rod 8 is
threaded into it. Rod 8 is adjustably threaded into the washer 35,
which sits on compression spring 9 within the spring holder 38.
[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 10A, enlarged head 7 of rod 8 (shown
in FIG. 10B) sits above the mounting bolt 15 having a slot 34 and
the top portion of the spring holder 38 is provided with pins 17
for mounting the lever 11 (shown in FIGS. 3-6).
[0071] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the lever 11 may
be mounted to a bottom portion of the spring holder 38. More
specifically, the lever 11 may have a pivot point at 17a which may
be connected to the spring holder 38 below the spring. Here the
lever 11 may also have a latch point 21a for engaging the ears
37.
[0072] The latching and unlatching operation of this closure
apparatus is essentially the same as that of the previously
described first embodiment of the closure apparatus, except that
compression spring 9 is compressed by washer 35 instead of the head
7 of rod 8. In addition, latch point 21a of latch lever 11 latches
upon ears 37 of washer 35 instead of latching upon the top surface
22 of stop adjuster 10 (shown in FIGS. 3-6) to latch and unlatch
rod 8. The threaded interface of rod 8 and washer 35 provides a
mechanism for adjusting the height of rod 8 at which latching will
occur to accommodate different thicknesses of ledge 4 on which this
embodiment of the closure apparatus may be mounted.
[0073] Referring now to FIG. 14, a third embodiment of the closure
apparatus is provided. Like the first and second embodiments of the
closure apparatus, and as shown in FIG. 14, the third embodiment of
the closure apparatus includes a rod 8 having a first end disposed
above the ledge 4 and a second end disposed below the ledge 4. The
rod 8 also includes a head 7 disposed at its first end and a series
of male threads at its second end. A mounting bolt 15 is also
included which has an opening, such as a longitudinal guide opening
14, for receiving the rod 8.
[0074] The third embodiment of the closure apparatus, however,
differs from the first and second embodiments of the closure
apparatus. For example, the third embodiment of the closure
apparatus includes a set of expansion springs 40 that are
positioned below the ledge 4, instead of a compression spring 9 as
used in the second embodiment of the closure apparatus. Each
expansion spring 40 includes a first end 40a and a second end
40b.
[0075] In addition, the adjustment mechanism of this closure
apparatus includes a washer 43 similar to washer 35 (shown in FIG.
11) of the second embodiment. The washer 43 has a threaded center
opening suitable for threading onto rod 8 and ears 44 suitable to
interface with latch point 21 of latch lever 11. The washer 43 also
provides, at a 90 degree differential from the ears 44, arms 45
adapted to be attached to the second ends 40b of the expansion
springs 40. The washer 43 is preferably constructed of
non-corrosive metal, and the like.
[0076] In this embodiment, a mounting nut 41 is provided which, in
addition to pins 17 upon which latch lever 11 may be mounted,
provides arms 42 to which the first ends 40a of expansion springs
40 may be attached at a 90 degree differential from said pins
17.
[0077] The operation of this third embodiment of the closure
apparatus is essentially the same as that of the second embodiment
of the closure apparatus, except that the closure apparatus of this
embodiment stresses its expansion springs 40 by expanding them,
instead of by compression. This closure apparatus may be adjusted
in the same manner as the closure apparatus of the second
embodiment.
[0078] Each of the foregoing embodiments of the closure apparatus
may be relatively simply installed. Mounting bolt 15, with rod 8
inserted in it, is installed and tightened in the same manner as a
conventional toilet lid and seat mounting bolt except that it
threads into one of the combination mounting nut and latch lever
mounting apparatus described instead of into a standard mounting
nut. For example, the mounting nut 16 may then be attached to the
mounting bolt 15, such that the mounting nut fastens the mounting
bolt to the bowl ledge 4. Rod 8 is then inserted through the
longitudinal guide opening 14 of mounting bolt 15 and threaded into
the adjustment mechanism, such as the stop adjuster 10 or washer 35
or 43 as described.
[0079] A spring is also provided, for example around the rod 8 or
below the bowl ledge 4, depending on the preferred embodiment. More
specifically, in the first embodiment of the closure apparatus a
compression spring 9 is disposed around the rod 8. In the second
embodiment of the closure apparatus, a compression spring 9 is
disposed below the bowl ledge 4 and is disposed within the spring
holder 38. In the third embodiment, at least one expansion spring
40 is positioned below the ledge 4 and each spring 40 is attached
at one end to a mounting nut 41 and at a second end to a washer
43.
[0080] A lever 11 movable with respect to the mounting bolt is also
provided. More specifically, the lever 11 may be attached to the
mounting nuts 16 or 41 or a portion of the spring holder 38.
[0081] The first end of the actuating member, such as a cable 25,
is then connected to the lever 11 and the second end of the
actuating member is linked to the flush mechanism. More
specifically, a toilet tank cover is first removed and the bracket
27 having a groove 26 is mounted to the toilet tank 2, for example,
to a top portion of the toilet tank 2. The actuating member, for
example the cable 25, is then pulled upward and around the back
portion of the tank 2, and placed in the groove 26 of the bracket
27.
[0082] After the actuating member is placed in the groove 26, it is
then attached to the flush mechanism. More specifically, the
actuating member may be disposed around a pulley 28 disposed within
the tank 2 and then attached to an adjusting chain 29. The
adjusting chain 29 may then be connected to the toilet's existing
flush arm 30, with any slack removed, and the top of the tank 2 may
be replaced. Alternatively, the actuating member may be attached to
a flush arm 30 or a float arm, or other device disposed within a
toilet tank 2.
[0083] Referring now to FIGS. 15-18, a preferred embodiment of the
closure apparatus is provided. Like the foregoing embodiments of
the closure apparatus, and as shown in FIGS. 16-17, the preferred
embodiment of the closure apparatus includes a rod 47 having a
first end disposed above the ledge 4 and a second end disposed
within the longitudinal opening 14 in the mounting bolt 15.
[0084] The preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus, however,
differs from the foregoing embodiments of the closure apparatus.
For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the rod 47 lacks the head 7
disposed at the first end of the rod 8, as used in the foregoing
embodiments, and at its second end, rod 47 of the preferred
embodiment is provided with a slot 48 and, at a 90 degree
differential, an opening 49, instead of the series of male threads
18 as used in the foregoing embodiments.
[0085] In addition, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, a compression
spring 9 adapted to be inserted into the longitudinal opening 14 of
the mounting bolt 15 is provided.
[0086] In addition, it may be seen that the mounting bolt 15 of the
preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus lacks a bolt head at
its top end, as provided in the prior embodiments. Instead, a cap
nut 50 having female threads and adapted to be threaded onto the
top end of the mounting bolt 15 is provided. In addition, the
mounting bolt 15 of the preferred embodiment is provided with, for
example, one or more indentations 52 which constrict the inside
diameter of the longitudinal opening 14 of the mounting bolt 15 at
a desired point, such that they may provide a seat upon which the
bottom end of the compression spring 9 may rest when the
compression spring 9 is inserted in the longitudinal opening 14 of
the mounting bolt 15.
[0087] In addition, the preferred embodiment provides a mounting
nut 51 similar to a conventional toilet lid and seat assembly
mounting nut.
[0088] The preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus also
includes a lever 53 having an opening 55 disposed at the top of its
front end 54, which is adapted to be insertable through the spring
9 and into the slot 48 provided at the second end of the rod 47 and
pivotally attached to rod 47 by a pin 56 provided. The pin 56 is
adapted to be inserted through the opening 49 of the rod 47 and the
opening 55 of the lever 53. The lever 53 also includes a latch
point 57.
[0089] Referring now to FIG. 18, it may be seen that lever 53, like
lever 11 of the prior embodiments, extends rearwardly and is
provided at its rearward end 23 with an opening 24.
[0090] In addition, the preferred embodiment also includes a
bracket 58 having a groove 59 at its top end and a forward
extension 60 with at least one opening 61 therein at its lower end,
instead of the pulley 28 as used in the foregoing embodiments.
[0091] In addition, the preferred embodiment of the closure
apparatus also includes a lever 62 adapted to be pivotally mounted
to the at least one opening 61 in the forward extension 60 of the
bracket 58 and extend forwardly from its pivot point over the flush
arm 30 of the toilet and rearwardly to just inside the rear wall of
the tank 2. The lever 62 is provided near its rearward end with an
opening 63.
[0092] This embodiment is further provided with a cord lock 64, for
example of one of the types commonly used on clothing having
drawstrings.
[0093] As shown in FIG. 18, an actuating means, such as cable 25,
is attached at its second end 25b to the opening 63 in the lever
62, proceeds through groove 59 in bracket 58 and downward through
opening 24 near the rearward end of lever 53 and then through cord
lock 64. Cord lock 64 may then be squeezed and moved to adjust the
length of the actuating means, such as cable 25, to accommodate
toilets with tanks of different heights and hinge mounts of
different thicknesses.
[0094] The latching operation of this preferred embodiment of the
closure apparatus is similar to that of the foregoing embodiments
of the closure apparatus, except that, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17,
the compression spring 9 of this embodiment is compressed by the
second end of the rod 47, instead of by the head 7 of the rod 8 or
by washers 35 or 43 as used in the first, second and third
embodiments, respectively. In addition, and as shown in FIG. 17,
because of its previously described pivotal attachment to rod 47,
lever 53 of this preferred embodiment moves downward as rod 47 is
depressed and, once latch point 57 of lever 53 is below the bottom
end of the mounting bolt 15, the lever 53 may rotate clockwise such
that the latch point 57 of the lever 53 latches upon the bottom
edge of the mounting bolt 15. The lever 53 may also engage a
slotted cap (not shown) threaded onto the bottom of the mounting
bolt 15.
[0095] The latch releasing operation of this preferred embodiment
of the closure apparatus is also similar to that of the foregoing
embodiments of the closure apparatus, except that, when the toilet
is flushed and the flush arm 30 is raised, the flush arm 30 raises
the forward extension of the lever 62 upward, which moves the
rearward extension of lever 62 downward and the cable 25 behind the
tank and cord lock 64 attached thereto upward. When the cord lock
contacts the rear end 23 of lever 53, it raises the rear end 23 of
the lever 53 causing the lever to rotate counter-clockwise,
releasing the latch condition between the latch point 57 of the
lever 53 and the bottom end of the mounting bolt 15.
[0096] This preferred embodiment of the closure apparatus may be
provided fully assembled except for the cap nut 50 in order to make
it easy to install. It may be installed by inserting the mounting
bolt 15 upward through the bottom of the mounting opening 13 in the
bowl ledge 4 and through the hinge mount 6 of a toilet seat and lid
assembly, threading the cap nut 50 onto the top of the mounting
bolt 15 and then tightening the mounting nut 51 under the bowl
ledge 4 by hand. After removing the top from the tank 2, the
bracket 58 may be mounted atop the rear wall of the tank 2 with the
forward extension of the lever 62 resting atop the flush arm 30 and
the top of the tank 2 may be replaced. With the lid 5 lifted (as
shown in FIG. 4) to latch the closure apparatus in the latched
position, which corresponds to the lowest position of the rear end
23 of the lever 53, the cord lock may be squeezed and moved to just
below the opening 24 near the rear end 23 of lever 53.
[0097] From the foregoing, it may be seen that a relatively simple
and inexpensive mechanical closure apparatus has been provided that
automatically closes a toilet cover upon flushing a toilet, for
example, in a conventional manner using a flush handle. The closure
apparatus may be easily installed without the need for tools. It
may be used by anyone capable of raising the lid and flushing the
toilet using the flush handle.
[0098] From the foregoing, it may also be seen that a relatively
unobtrusive closure apparatus has been provided. In order to be
minimally obtrusive as to user interactions the rod 8 or 47, for
example, is placed through the hinge mount opening only about one
inch (2.54 centimeters) behind the cover, such as lid 5, and the
seat pivot axis 12 as opposed to a point ten to 14 inches (25.4 to
35.6 centimeters) in front of the axis at which a user would
ordinarily grasp a cover, such as a lid 5, a seat, or a lid and
seat assembly. This configuration provides such substantial
mechanical advantage to the user that the additional force required
of a user to depress the rod 8 or 47 and stress the associated
spring or springs, as well as lift the cover is minimal.
Additionally, the latch mechanism is so constructed that minimal
force is required to release the latch point 21, 21a, or 57. The
latch lever 11 or 53 is positioned directly below the ledge's
mounting opening, pivots at a point above or below its latch point
21 or 57 and extends rearward about 9 inches (22.9 centimeters)
toward the rear of the toilet's tank 2. At the rear of the toilet's
tank 2 it attaches to the latch releasing mechanism.
[0099] This configuration enables utilization of a small latch
interface with minimal friction, eliminates the need for a
latch-biasing spring whose resistance must be overcome to release
the latch point 21 or 57, provides a substantial mechanical
advantage to the latch releasing mechanism, and eases the path of
the latch releasing mechanism by avoiding obstacles such as toilet
tank mounting bolts and a sharply-angled pull around the rear
bottom corner of the tank. Accordingly, the latch release mechanism
requires a minimal force, such as only a few ounces (less than 100
grams), to move the rearward end of the latch lever 11 or 53.
Therefore, the latch releasing mechanism can be actuated, for
example, by a direct mechanical connection to a flush mechanism,
such as a toilet's existing float arm or flush arm 30, without over
stressing the flush mechanism and with only minimal added force
being required to be applied to the flush handle 3 by the user.
[0100] Utilizing the flush mechanism, such as the flush arm 30, in
this manner allows the latch lever 11 or 53 to be reset immediately
upon release of the flush handle 3 by a user, which is
advantageous, for example, when another user wishes to use a toilet
1 immediately after a prior user and before the toilet's tank 2 has
refilled with water or a user flushes the toilet 1 while still
seated thereon.
[0101] While the closure apparatus has been described with
reference to specific examples which are intended to be
illustrative only and not limiting, it will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art that changes, additions or deletions may
be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention. For example, rod 8 or 47 could
be a rigid tubular structure instead of a solid rod structure and
either form could be a square or rectangular in shape rather round,
provided longitudinal guide opening 14 in mounting bolt 15 was
compatibly configured to guide such alternative constructions of
rod 8 or 47. In addition, cable 25 could also be a line, cord or
strap and, the latch release mechanism could be actuated by
connection of cable 25 to the toilet's float arm or an added
float/weight instead of to the toilet's flush arm, without
departing from the spirit of the present invention.
[0102] The following describes improvements and additions to the
foregoing. While the disclosed apparatus has been described with
reference to specific examples, which are intended to be
illustrative only and not limiting, it will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art that changes, additions or deletions may
be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the weighted float
valve assembly shown could be replaced with the type of float valve
commonly used in furnace-mounted humidifiers, or be a ball valve or
needle valve. Further, the valve mechanism could be associated with
an existing float or flush arm or flush handle. Similarly the
portion of the pushrod extending through the hollow bolt could be a
slender metal rod instead of the full inside diameter of the hollow
bolt to permit the hollow bolt to be made of plastic instead of
metal. In addition, while the apparatus has been described as
closing the lid 5 (and thereby the seat 200 too), it should be
understood that the apparatus may alternatively be configured to
close just the ring or seat 200. As used hereinafter, the term
"toilet seat member" is considered to be either the ring 200 or the
lid 5.
[0103] FIGS. 19-24 illustrate additional embodiments of the
invention. FIG. 19 illustrates a hydraulic closure apparatus 65 for
use with one of the in-tank valve arrangements illustrated in FIGS.
20-22. As shown in FIG. 19, the hydraulic closure apparatus 65
includes a rod 66, a mounting bolt 67, a housing or cylinder 68,
and a spring 69. The mounting bolt 67 has a central opening 70 for
receiving a portion of the rod 66. The central opening 70, which is
of only slightly larger inside diameter than the outside diameter
of the rod 66, serves as a guide to maintain the rod 66 in a
vertical position as it moves up and down. Similar to the previous
embodiments, the mounting bolt 67 is inserted through the mounting
opening 13 disposed on the ledge 4 of the toilet 1 and is fastened
to the ledge 4 by a mounting nut 71. A cap nut 72 is provided on
top of the mounting bolt 67 and functions like the head of a
bolt.
[0104] An adapter 73 is positioned on the lower end of the mounting
bolt 67, the end opposite from the cap nut 72. The mounting bolt 67
and the adapter 73 may include opposing male and female threads
suitable for threading or they may include molded projections such
that the adapter 73 is force fit onto the mounting bolt 67. Other
known attachment means can be used. The adapter 73 receives the
upper end of the cylinder 68 to fasten the cylinder 68 to the
mounting bolt 67. The cylinder 68 has an outside diameter similar
to the inside diameter of the adapter 73 so that the cylinder 68
tightly seals with the adapter 73. In addition, a projection may be
molded on the cylinder 68 to engage the adapter 73. Glue, caulk,
threading or other fastening means may also be used to help fasten
and seal the interface between the cylinder 68 and the adapter
73.
[0105] A one-way valve assembly or piston 74 slidably received
inside the cylinder 68 divides the cylinder 68 into a lower chamber
75 and an upper chamber 76. The spring 69 is positioned in the
lower chamber 75 of the cylinder 68 and is compressed by the piston
74 when the lid 5 is lifted and pushes the rod 66 downward.
[0106] The piston 74 includes a piston body 77, a plate 78, an
annular elastomeric seal 79, and a central projection or piston rod
80. The piston rod 80 couples to the rod 66 so that the piston 74
and rod 66 move together. The elastomeric seal 79 surrounds the
piston rod 80 and is sized to interface tightly with the cylinder
68, absent conditions described below. The piston body 77 and the
plate 78 have diameters slightly smaller than the inside diameter
of the cylinder 68 to allow water or other fluid to flow past. The
plate 78 has a central aperture through which the piston rod 80
extends in a manner that allows some relative movement between the
plate 78 and the elastomeric seal 79. When the rod 66 is depressed
and the piston 74 moves downward, the plate 78 trails behind the
elastomeric seal 79, allowing the elastomeric seal 79 to expand
upward and shrink horizontally so that water can pass by the
perimeter of the elastomeric seal 79. Thus, when the piston 74 is
pushed downward by the rod 66, water from the lower chamber 75 can
flow around the piston body 77, the seal 79 and the plate 78 and
into the upper chamber 76. This allows the piston 74 to freely move
downward against the force of the spring 69, reducing the volume of
the lower chamber 75. When downward pressure on the rod 66 ceases
and the spring 69 attempts to bias the piston 74 upward, pressure
exerted on the plate 78 by water in the upper chamber 76 causes the
elastomeric seal 79 to contract vertically and expand horizontally,
thereby sealing against the cylinder 68. In this sealed state, the
water cannot move around the piston 74 from the upper chamber 76 to
the lower chamber 75. Because, for reasons explained below, water
cannot enter the lower chamber 75 until the toilet is flushed, the
piston 74 is effectively locked in place until the toilet is
flushed.
[0107] In another construction (not shown) of the hydraulic closure
apparatus 65, a conduit is positioned on the cylinder 68 to
communicate between the upper chamber 76 and the lower chamber 75.
The conduit includes a one-way valve (e.g., a check valve) that
allows water to flow from the lower chamber 75 to the upper chamber
76, but not from the upper chamber 76 to the lower chamber 75.
Therefore, when the piston 74 is pushed downward, water flows
through the conduit to the upper chamber 76, rather than around the
piston 74.
[0108] The hydraulic closure apparatus 65 also includes an inflow
tube 81 and an outflow tube 82. Both the inflow tube 81 and the
outflow tube 82 extend between the hydraulic closure apparatus 65
and the tank 2. The inflow tube 81 connects to the cylinder 68 via
a first stem 83, bringing the lower chamber 75 of the cylinder 68
into fluid communication with the water in the tank 2. The cylinder
68 further includes a bracket 84 to help position the inflow tube
81 relative to the cylinder 68 for aesthetic purposes. The outflow
tube 82 connects to the adapter 73 via a second stem 85, bringing
the upper chamber 76 of the cylinder 68 into fluid communication
with the tank 2, as further described below. The inflow tube 81 and
the outflow tube 82 are made of a flexible material so that both
can be easily concealed around the toilet 1.
[0109] FIG. 20 illustrates an in-tank valve arrangement 90 for use
with the hydraulic closure apparatus 65 of FIG. 19. The inflow tube
81 of the hydraulic closure apparatus 65 is situated in the tank 2
such that the open end 91 of the inflow tube 81 is under water. The
valve arrangement 90 closes the end 91 of the tube 81 when the tank
2 is relatively full of water and opens the end 91 of the tube 81
when the toilet is flushed. As explained below, various suitable
valve arrangements can be employed. The outflow tube 82 of the
hydraulic closure apparatus 65 is situated in the tank 2 such that
the open end 92 of the outflow tube 82 is positioned above the
water. Therefore, water in the upper chamber 76 of the cylinder 68
can flow through the outflow tube 82 into the tank 2, but water in
the tank 2 cannot flow through the outflow tube 82 into the upper
chamber 76 of the cylinder 68.
[0110] A weighted float 93 surrounds the inflow tube 81 and is
coupled to an elastomeric nipple or valve member 94 by way of a
chain, string, rod, or other connecting element 95. In another
construction (not shown), the connecting element 95 couples the
valve member 94 directly to the flush arm 30 of the toilet 1. The
elastomeric nipple 94 is movable relative to the open end 91 of the
inflow tube 81 between an upper seated or sealing position shown in
FIG. 20 and a lower unseated position (not shown). When the tank 2
is full of water, the float 93 pulls the nipple upward to its
seated position in which the nipple 94 creates a seal to prevent
water from entering the inflow tube 81. The nipple 94 may be
weighted such that the elastomeric nipple 94 naturally sinks toward
the bottom of the tank 2 and the float 93 must pull on the
connecting element 95 to raise the nipple 94 to its seated
position. Alternatively, the connecting element 95 may be an
incompressible member such that the distance between the float 93
and the nipple 94 is constant. Therefore, when the float 93 moves
in response to the water level in the tank 2, the nipple 94
likewise moves the same distance. A flange or shoulder 96 is formed
on the inflow tube 81 so that the weighted float 93 can not move
too low and allow the nipple 94 to become unaligned with the end 91
of the inflow tube 81. When the nipple 94 is unseated, water can
flow through the end 91 of the tube 81.
[0111] As the lid 5 is raised and the rod 66 is depressed, the
piston 74 slides downward, defoming the spring 69 and permitting
water to move from the lower chamber 75 of the cylinder 68 to the
upper chamber 76. As soon as downward pressure on the rod 66
ceases, the piston 74 seals, prohibiting a reverse flow from the
upper portion 76 of the cylinder 68 back to the lower portion 75.
Since, by virtue of the in-tank valve arrangement 90 shown in FIG.
20, water cannot flow through the inflow tube 81 into the lower
chamber 75 of the cylinder 68 when the tank 2 is full, the lower
chamber 75 is prevented from increasing in volume. As a result, the
rod 66 and piston 74 are held in a lower or depressed position,
against the force of the spring 69, even when the lid stops pushing
the rod downward.
[0112] When the toilet 1 is flushed and the water level in the tank
2 drops, the weighted float 93 also moves downward, allowing the
elastomeric nipple 94 to unseal the end 91 of the inflow tube 81
and permit water to flow through the inflow tube 81 into the lower
chamber 75 of the cylinder 68. The flow of water into the lower
chamber 75 permits the spring 69 to move the piston 74 and the rod
66 upward to close the seat 200 and lid 5. As this happens, water
in the upper chamber 76 of the cylinder 68 is ejected out the
outflow tube 82 and back into the tank 2. An O-ring 97 is provided
(see FIG. 19) to seal around the rod 66 and prevent a
gravity-induced backflow from the outflow tube 82 from exiting
upward around the rod 66.
[0113] FIG. 21 illustrates another in-tank valve arrangement 100.
Like the previous arrangement, the in-tank valve arrangement 100
includes the inflow tube 81 and the outflow tube 82 from the
hydraulic closure apparatus 65. In this embodiment, both the open
end 101 of the inflow tube 81 and the open end 102 of the outflow
tube 82 are under water in the tank 2. A weighted float 103 is
positioned in the tank 2 and surrounds both the inflow tube 81 and
the outflow tube 82. The float 103 is coupled to a first
elastomeric nipple 104 and to a second elastomeric nipple 105 by
way of a connecting element 106 similar to that of the previous
embodiment. The first elastomeric nipple 104 moves with the float
103 to seal and unseal the end 101 of the inflow tube 81. The
second elastomeric nipple 105 moves with the float 103 to seal and
unseal the end 102 of the outflow tube 82. A flange 107 is formed
on the inflow tube 81 and the outflow tube 82 so that the weighted
float 103 cannot move too low and allow either of the elastomeric
nipples 104, 105 to become unaligned with the respective open ends
101, 102.
[0114] FIG. 22 illustrates another in-tank valve arrangement 110.
In this embodiment, the inflow tube 81 and the outflow tube 82 are
in direct fluid communication with each other, as further described
below, forming a closed system. A weighted float 111 is positioned
in the tank 2 and surrounds both the inflow tube 81 and the outflow
tube 82. The float 111 is coupled to a pin or needle valve 112 by
way of a connecting element 113 similar to the previous
embodiments. The valve 112 is located in the junction 114 between
the inflow tube 81 and the outflow tube 82. When the tank 2 is full
of water, the weighted float 111 holds the valve 112 in an upper or
closed position to prevent water from flowing between the inflow
tube 81 and the outflow tube 82. When the toilet 1 is flushed, the
float 111 lowers, thereby allowing the valve 112 to slide downward
to an open position such that water can flow from the outflow tube
82 to the inflow tube 81, and consequently into the lower chamber
75 of the piston 68. A flange 115 formed at the junction 114
prevents the weighted float 111 from sliding off the inflow tube 81
and outflow tube 82 and, likewise, the valve 112 from sliding
entirely out of the junction 114.
[0115] In another embodiment of the invention (not shown), the
inflow tube 81 and the outflow tube 82 are again in direct fluid
communication with each other, forming a closed system, but the
fluid is a hydraulic fluid rather than water. Any suitable fluid
can be used. Hydraulic fluid eliminates the hardness buildup on the
valve 112 and seal 79 (FIG. 19) that can occur when water is used.
Regardless of the fluid used, the tubes 81 and 82 need not be
submerged in the water in the tank. Any valve arrangement can be
employed, as long as it prevents flow between the tubes 81 and 82
except when the toilet is flushed. Such a valve arrangement could
be activated, for example, by a float or by the flushing mechanism
of the toilet.
[0116] FIG. 23 illustrates a hydraulic closure apparatus 120 that
is another embodiment of the invention. Except as described below,
the hydraulic closure apparatus 120 is substantially identical to
the apparatus 65 of FIG. 19, and common elements have been given
the same reference numerals.
[0117] The apparatus 120 has an adapter 128 positioned on the lower
end of the mounting bolt 67. Unlike the adapter 73 shown in FIG.
19, the adapter 128 is not connected to an outflow tube. A piston
129 is connected to the lower end of the rod 66 and is slidably
received in the cylinder 68. Unlike the piston 74, the piston 129
is a simple piston integrally formed with the rod 66. However, in
other embodiments the piston 129 may be a separate component
coupled to the rod 66. The piston 129 includes an O-ring 132 along
the outside perimeter, such that the O-ring 132 seals against the
inside of the cylinder 68. When the rod 66 is depressed, the piston
129 moves downward, reducing the volume of the lower chamber 75.
Air enters the upper chamber 76 through spaces between the mounting
bolt 67, the rod 66, and the adapter 128 to fill the increased
volume of the upper chamber 76. In some embodiments, the adapter
128 or the cylinder 68 may include a bore to allow air to enter the
upper chamber 76. The O-ring 132 forms a seal between the piston
129 and the cylinder 68 so that air, water, and other fluid cannot
pass between the upper chamber 76 and the lower chamber 75.
[0118] The hydraulic closure apparatus 120 also includes a tube 133
communicating between the lower chamber 75 and the tank 2. The tube
133 connects to the cylinder 123 via a stem 134, bringing the lower
chamber 75 of the cylinder 123 into fluid communication with the
water in the tank 2. The tube 133 allows water to flow in both
directions to and from the tank 2.
[0119] FIG. 24 illustrates an in-tank valve arrangement 140 for use
with the hydraulic closure apparatus 120 of FIG. 23. The tube 133
of the hydraulic closure apparatus 120 is situated in the tank 2
such that the open end 141 of the tube 133 is under water. A
weighted float 142 surrounds the tube 133 and is coupled to an
elastomeric nipple 143 by way of a connecting element 144. The
float 142 and the nipple 143 function in the same manner with
respect to the tube 133 as do the float 93 and the nipple 94 with
respect to the tube 81 of FIG. 20.
[0120] As the lid 5 is raised and the rod 66 is depressed, the
piston 129 slides downward, deforming the spring 69 and ejecting
the water in the lower chamber 75 through the tube 133 toward the
tank 2. The water pressure in the tube 133 is sufficient to push
the nipple 143 out of the tube end 141 and allow water in the tube
133 to flow into the tank 2. When downward movement of the rod 66
ceases and no more water is being ejected from the lower chamber
75, the nipple 143 rises by way of the float 142 or its own
buoyancy to seal the end 141 of the tube 133. At this time, no
water can enter or exit the lower chamber 130 of the cylinder 123,
holding the piston 129 in the depressed or lower position against
the force of the spring 69.
[0121] When the toilet 1 is flushed and the water level in the tank
2 drops, the float 142 also moves downward, allowing the nipple 143
to unseal the end 141 of the tube 133 and permit water to flow
through the tube 133 into the lower chamber 75 of the cylinder 68.
The flow of water into the lower chamber 75 permits the spring 69
to move the piston 129 and the rod 66 upward to close the seat 200
and lid 5. As this happens, the air in the upper chamber 76 is
ejected out of the cylinder 68 through the spaces between the
mounting bolt 67, the rod 66, and the adapter 128 or through a bore
provided in the adapter.
[0122] The hydraulic closure apparatus 65, 120 eliminate the need
for a wand, cable, or rod to communicate the release action of
flushing to the rod 66 from the tank 2. All that is needed is
flexible tubing which can be more easily concealed and allows more
flexibility in placement of the in-tank valve arrangements 90, 100,
110, and 140.
[0123] The hydraulic closure apparatus 65, 120 also allow for a
substantial differential between restrained force and release force
simply by having greater disparity in diameters between the
cylinder 68 and the inflow tubes 81, 133. For example, to restrain
a spring having a compressed force of eleven pounds, only one or
two ounces of force is needed to release it. As a result, the size
and movement distance of the floats can be minimized.
[0124] The release action of the hydraulic closure apparatus 65,
120 can also be made smooth, as opposed to the possibly sudden,
jerky release of a mechanical trigger, by metering the flow of
water in the inflow tubes 81, 133 and adjusting design details of
the one-way valve assembly 74. Also mechanical friction and wear of
the hydraulic closure apparatus 65, 120 are minimized. The
elastomeric seal 78 interfacing tightly with the cylinder 68 is a
lubricous cup seal. In addition, the elastomeric nipples 89, 104,
105, and 143 are subject to only linear in and out action and not
rubbing action.
[0125] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth above or illustrated in the following
drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of
being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it
is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used
herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded
as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and
variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed
thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "mounted,"
"connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are
used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings,
connections, supports, and couplings. Further, "connected" and
"coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections
or couplings.
* * * * *