(19)
(11) EP 4 563 760 A1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION
published in accordance with Art. 153(4) EPC

(43) Date of publication:
04.06.2025 Bulletin 2025/23

(21) Application number: 23772580.9

(22) Date of filing: 28.07.2023
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC): 
E03D 9/00(2006.01)
E03D 11/12(2006.01)
(52) Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC):
E03D 9/002; E03D 11/12
(86) International application number:
PCT/IB2023/057706
(87) International publication number:
WO 2024/023792 (01.02.2024 Gazette 2024/05)
(84) Designated Contracting States:
AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC ME MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR
Designated Extension States:
BA
Designated Validation States:
KH MA MD TN

(30) Priority: 28.07.2022 PT 2022118133

(71) Applicant: EXOTICTARGET - LDA
4900-425 Viana do Castelo (PT)

(72) Inventor:
  • MARUJO, Nuno
    4900-425 Viana do Castelo (PT)

(74) Representative: Patentree 
Edificio Net Rua de Salazares, 842
4149-002 Porto
4149-002 Porto (PT)

   


(54) RETRACTABLE TOILET BOWL WITH AUTOMATIC CLEANING


(57) The present disclosure relates to a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning, comprising: a support structure, a toilet bowl rotationally coupled to the support structure, rotatable between a retracted closed position within the support structure, and a projected open position for receiving the user; a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat, wherein the system comprises: at least one water outlet adjustable in terms of position and/or water pressure, and arranged inside the support structure for sanitizing the interior of the toilet bowl when in the retracted position; an optical sensor to capture images of the interior of the toilet bowl; and a processor configured to process the captured images and adjust in terms of position and/or pressure the water outlet.




Description

TECHNICAL FIELD



[0001] The present description relates to the development of a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning.

PRIOR ART



[0002] Any existing proposal in the state of the art requires, at some point, human intervention. Namely, after using the toilet, a manual action is required to flush the toilet (or start self-cleaning systems). One of the problems with this need for human intervention is that the action may not be taken (e.g. due to forgetfulness) and the toilet remains dirty. In addition, a disadvantage of known solutions is that the devices can offer difficulties associated with opening and closing, especially [in rare cases] when the operator does not have the conditions to do so.

[0003] In addition, water release mechanisms (commonly known as the flush) or water pumps, perform cleaning in an indiscriminate manner, without dirt retention, or the possibility of interrupting the washing cycle. This simple injection of water, produces a consumption without considering the excess water used, as well as without evaluating if the cleaning is effectively performed. On the other hand, a flush is often not enough for washing.

[0004] It is important to note that toilets with devices for washing and drying the toilet bowl and seat are less efficient in the use of resources (water and electricity) and produce worse results, since the means used allow dirt to "spread" before a directed flow.

[0005] Figure 1 shows patent ES2332974B1, which discloses a concealed toilet that is fixed with the body in a rocking assembly between a vertical position and a horizontal position, by means of a rotating siphon that determines the mode of a cylindrical spherical joint in relation to a piece through which the evacuation outlet is established towards the drain, passing in the upper part a cistern that is provided with an outlet oriented for the situation in which the cistern is in the vertical position, for cleaning the same. The cleaning system sends water by gravity to the roller provided with holes. The cleaning of the toilet bowl is done during its closing and makes the drying when it opens through an elastic lip that makes a sweep. It is not the best cleaning method, since if there is dirt on the toilet seat it only spreads it. In addition to water splashes, since the cleaning is done with the toilet bowl closing. There is no tightness.

[0006] As per Figure 1, the LAGARES PRODUCCIONS DE DISSENY, S.L. patent presents a rigid door that moves almost vertically, causing the sanitary appliance to grow in height and occupy a lot of vertical space. On the other hand, there is no illusion of suspension at the baseboard level. The baseboard is always at the same level as the front panel, preventing the storage of a raised toilet seat.

[0007] US4970732A discloses a concealed toilet bowl contained in a case installed in the wall, comprising a driving mechanism for moving the toilet bowl out of the compartment for use or into the compartment to conceal it, a blower, a water tank and pipe lines for discharging water into the toilet bowl. According to this document, there is human intervention at some point: "the concealed toilet bowl contained in a case installed in a recess of a wall, said case divided into a plurality of compartments for mounting the toilet bowl, a driving mechanism, a blower, pipe lines, a water tank, said driving mechanism having a motor to be started to revolve clockwise or anti-clockwise or stopped by a switch". Therefore, there is always human intervention at some point in this system; they use gravity flush; they do not have a dirt detecting mechanism and they do not have a way to stop the flush when there is no need to use more water.

[0008] US20180035852A1 presents a toilet bowl on which a toilet seat is provided, the toilet further comprising: a detecting device configured to detect position information of a user; a retractable cover provided on the toilet seat switchable between statuses of closing the through hole of the toilet seat and opening the through hole of the toilet seat; and a controller in signal connection with the detecting device and the retractable cover, and the controller is configured to compare the position information detected by the detecting device with a preset range, wherein the retractable cover is configured to retract in the case where the position information falls within the preset range and to extend to cover the through hole in the case where the position information exceeds the preset range. In summary, this device is for conventional toilets, with a toilet seat being provided. In this case, there is no space saving. Despite having an automatic toilet flush controller (when the user gets up, the retracted cover extends and causes the flush). However, they use a gravity flush; they use the flush water indiscriminately and do not guarantee that the toilet is clean; they do not have a way to stop the flush when there is no need to use more water and do not have a dirt retention mechanism.

[0009] WO2011138798A1 refers to a methodology of automatically cleaning toilet pots, which are preferably wall-mounted toilet pots, of the WC type toilet pot or the Anglo-Indian type toilet pot, but preferably of the WC type toilet pot. This automatic retractable self-cleaning assembly is based on a retraction system and cleaning mechanism. More particularly, this invention refers to the fluidic cleaning of the toilet pots, and its movement, in and out of the cabinet that encloses this assembly. The synergistic operations of the assembly, which is automatic, offer a solution to the problems associated with toilet pots. Due to the fundamental nature of this automatic retractable self-cleaning assembly, it can be properly modified to clean various objects, including, without limitation, engines, gear boxes, etc., based on the same mechanism used for cleaning toilet pots. This type of solution does not free up space as the dimensions of the structure are significant, according to the document: 900mm x 650mm x 900mm to about 1000mm x 750mm x 900mm, and preferably 950mm x 700mm x 900mm. They are presented as a solution for traditional/conventional wall-mounted toilet pots and their retractable displacement is carried out horizontally. The structure that supports the traditional toilet pot is a strolley-type structure that moves horizontally in and out of the cabinet, which is not equivalent to having a wall-mounted toilet pot. In addition, if this appliance is not placed under a counter, we have a large box taking up space in the bathroom, which is not aesthetic at all. Cleaning is done through a combination of nozzles and brush mechanism. There is no mention about the way the brush is cleaned. Traditional scrub brushes are a place of great dirt and proliferation of germs and bacteria. The contact of this brush with solids causes the dirt to spread, making it not very hygienic.

[0010] Despite the existence of a processing unit that controls and monitors the level of cleaning required (cleaning, water consumption, injection of cleaning fluid). At no point in the text it is described how this automatic cleaning is performed. According to WO2011138798A1, the user can program the device adjusting it to their needs. Therefore, in this solution there is a lack of automation of the mechanism to recognize if the toilet seat and bowl are dirty or clean and automation to stop when it is clean. In this mechanism there is no autonomous water saving, as the device does not recognize when it is clean. In addition, it has a proximity sensor, but whenever the apparatus opens it will trigger the cleaning cycle, even if not needed. It uses abrasive detergents. With our solution there is no need for this environmental aggression.

[0011] These facts are described in order to illustrate the technical problem solved by the embodiments of the present document.

DESCRIÇÃO GERAL



[0012] The present description relates to a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning, comprising: a support structure, a toilet bowl, a toilet a seat rotationally coupled to the support structure, rotatable between a retracted closed position within the support structure, and a projected open position for receiving the user; a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat, wherein said system comprises: at least one water outlet adjustable in terms of position and/or pressure; an optical sensor to capture images of the interior of the toilet bowl in the retracted closed position and a processor configured to process the captured images and adjust the water outlets in terms of position and/or pressure according to the processed images. In an embodiment, the retracted closed position corresponds to a maintenance position within the support structure and a projected open position corresponds to a usage position.

[0013] The present disclosure does not require human intervention, as everything is executed autonomously by the device through a plurality of sensors installed in the solution. For example, a proximity sensor allows the toilet to be opened so that the device is ready for use without the need for any user intervention (it automatically opens when the user approaches). The integration of a weight sensor and respective programming of the automaton, allows the device to be closed and the washing to be started, without any human intervention. This is done by determining the weight difference, detected by the weight sensor. Whenever a certain weight reduction occurs, the device closes after a preset time.

[0014] None of the existing solutions has a retracted baseboard, so as to allow the incorporation of an "elevation support" embedded in the device itself.

[0015] In those equipments where the toilet bowl is subjected to a rotation [vertically], there is no lumbar support. When there are systems with "small doors", that is, some type of swinging door, these take up space in the upper part of the equipment when closed. This happens because the "small door" moves mostly vertically when it is folded back into the equipment causing an increase in the height of the equipment.

[0016] The toilet bowl washing system consists of several water injectors (placed in strategic locations), an optical sensor and a programmed electronic board (located in the technical area), which allows to compare the surface of the toilet bowl/seat with a pre-established reference and the current state. In other words, the processor compares high-contrast images, of the initial state (clean) and the moment when it determines the need for cleaning. This translates into an adaptive washing, ending when the automaton detects that the level of cleaning meets the requirements defined by the manufacturer of this equipment.

[0017] On the other hand, the device with the most retracted baseboard is possible to store elements in a built-in (hidden, embedded) way in the equipment itself, such as an "elevation support" (which serves to raise the feet, or as a step for children). This freed baseboard space also makes it possible that, at the design level, the toilet looks suspended, only partially embedded in the wall and makes it more convenient to clean the floor.

[0018] The lumbar support system (i.e., the "small door", in the case of the present disclosure a sectional and/or flexible slidable door) allows this component to provide for a lumbar support. The lumbar support system ("small door") allows lumbar support, while blocking access (visual and physical) to the technical area (interior of the equipment), without occupying space in the upper part of the equipment when closed, i.e., "small door" retracted.

[0019] One of the objectives of the present embodiments is to reduce the occupied area, that is, to decrease the space occupied by the device both in depth and in height. The present device also aims to avoid human intervention in the use of the equipment, meaning that the user doesn't need to touch the device at any point in order to use it. This solution also enables a significant reduction in water consumption. It's important to mention that water saving is achieved thanks to the processor, which can halt the washing process when it's no longer necessary, that is, when the device is effectively clean. Conventional toilets use one or more flushes and are not capable of stopping the flush when it's no longer needed. Additionally, an important advantage of the solution is that it allows a reduction in water consumption associated with the use of pressurized jets instead of a free-flowing flush.

[0020] The present disclosure aims to present a way to optimize the space occupied by sanitary devices, thus ensuring a larger area available for the user's mobilization and, at the same time, allowing the reduction of cleaning costs or water used by the device.

[0021] The present disclosure is based on the concept of water consumption reduction; reduction of occupied area (volumetric), automation in equipment operability and a self-cleaning and drying system for the toilet bowl and seat.

[0022] The present disclosure promotes less occupied space, both in depth and height; the retracted baseboard (the lower and front part of the equipment is free). It allows having a drawer

[0023] (or other elements) for foot support. In a preferred embodiment, it allows for the "illusion of suspension" of the toilet, being only 18 cm embedded.

[0024] In an embodiment, the electronic board is programmed to determine the equipment's closure and the start of the washing process. The washing is performed when necessary and only for the shortest required duration, thanks to the comparison between the current state and the reference state (high-contrast image comparison is executed through a programmatic model).

[0025] The software enables to record water consumption for each washing cycle, as well as to determine the user's weight/load on the toilet seat during use. Clock and internal scheduling.

[0026] The software enables the mechanism to perform maintenance washes - that is, washes that do not immediately follow toilet use, but are scheduled during periods of lower usage for a more thorough cleaning, these maintenance washes can occur after a predetermined number of uses or a specific time period (x days, i.e., a few predetermined days).

[0027] The software enables, by combined action with sensors, to determine the state of cleanliness of the toilet and the seat, and to interrupt the washing cycle, allowing water savings when no longer needed, or conversely, to proceed with the washing until optimal cleanliness is achieved.

[0028] In an embodiment, the software can be developed as follows:
The images are converted to grayscale to simplify processing.

[0029] The images, which have an approximate resolution of 5 Mb, are transformed into pixelated images with 256 possible shades of gray. These shades are divided into 8 groups of 32 shades of gray. Each of the 5 million pixels has a variation of gray, from white to black, in 8 possible shades. The first shade, corresponding to the lightest spectrum, is interpreted as "clean", while the eighth shade, corresponding to the darkest spectrum, is interpreted as "dirty". The intermediate shades, following the same scale of shades, are interpreted as "not clean", according to the proportional classification. The algorithm allows ignoring pixels that, alone, may have different and discrepant qualifications in relation to adjacent pixels, avoiding point interference.

[0030] The algorithm analyzes the pixels individually and within their context. This means that the result of each pixel is analyzed within a quadrangular group formed by neighboring pixels. These groups can consist of 9 (3x3), 25 (5x5), 36 (6x6), 49 (7x7), or more pixels. Within each of these groups, patterns of dirt levels (tonal patterns) are generated, and their classification is interpreted based on comparison with previously obtained results using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN).

[0031] In other words, each image is compared only with the results of a database obtained through CNN training.

[0032] In an embodiment, the CNN is trained as follows: The CNN is composed of multiple layers, including convolutional layers, pooling layers, and fully connected layers. The training of the CNN is performed using supervised learning techniques, such as the backpropagation algorithm, which adjusts the weights of the connections between the layers to optimize the performance of the model. Alternatively, or in addition to these convolutional neural networks (CNNs), other machine learning techniques, such as Support Vector Machines (SVMs) and Content Based Image Retrieval (CBIR), can be applied with the aim of improving the accuracy of image classification. These techniques are applied in conjunction with the features extracted from the images, providing more reliable and accurate results in classification.

[0033] The present disclosure further describes a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning, comprising: a support structure, a toilet bowl rotationally coupled to the support structure, rotatable between a retracted closed position within the support structure, and a projected open position for receiving the user; a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat, wherein said system comprises: at least one adjustable water outlet, containing at least one rotating central injector, and arranged in the interior of the support structure for sanitizing the toilet seat and interior of the toilet bowl when in the retracted position; a plurality of holes that act as air injectors on the toilet seat and that are located in the same structure that performs the washing; an optical sensor to capture images of the interior of the toilet bowl; a processor configured to process the captured images and directionally adjust the water outlet according to the processed images. In an embodiment, the system may comprise a plurality of water outlets adjustable in terms of direction and/or pressure.

[0034] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a motor or a hydraulic actuator (doubleacting cylinder) to drive the rotation of the toilet bowl. In the case that a hydraulic actuator is used, it may or may not use the water supply network pressure for actuation. In this case, the water employed in the pneumatic actuation (cylinder volume filling of the actuator) will be reused in the cleaning phase. In an embodiment, a water recovery system is disclosed for reusing the water employed during the actuation, according to the previous embodiment.

[0035] In the case of hydraulic actuation, the water supply network pressure is used, that is, the hydraulic actuator/cylinder is actuated directly with the water/network pressure through a loading and unloading electrovalve for each movement, promoting the opening and closing of the toilet bowl.

[0036] In the case of hydraulic actuation, the reuse of the water used to actuate the cylinder (in both directions of movement) in the filling of the base of the toilet bowl. This reuse consists of the redirection of the volume of water in retraction (in the non-compressed chamber of the cylinder) to the base of the toilet bowl through the control valve. In other words, the electrovalves (with 3 ports) are connected to the water supply network (pressurized input), to the cylinder (pressurized output) and to the base of the toilet bowl (discharge). In this way, with the inverted actuation of both valves, one valve establishes a connection between the supply network (under pressure) and one of the ports of the cylinder, actuating the movement of the piston in one direction, while the water used in the previous cycle is expelled through the opposite port of the cylinder, being directed to the base of the toilet bowl through the other valve. The system works in both directions through the simultaneous inversion of both valves.

[0037] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a proximity sensor and wherein the processor is further configured to actuate the motor for automatic opening of the toilet bowl when the proximity sensor detects the approach of a user.

[0038] In an embodiment, the toilet comprises a weight sensor to detect if a user is seated on the toilet bowl, and wherein the processor is further configured to actuate the motor for automatic closing of the toilet bowl when the weight sensor no longer detects a user seated on the toilet bowl.

[0039] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to: stop the closing of the toilet bowl when any force contrary to the closing movement of said toilet bowl is detected, and return to the opening position.

[0040] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a light source for illuminating the interior of the toilet bowl, in particular the light source may be a LED (light-emitting diode). In the present embodiment, the light source used may be of the LED type to increase the contrast, thus improving image capture. This type of lighting can contain any visible or invisible electromagnetic radiation from the electromagnetic spectrum to improve image capture. In an embodiment, the light source may be a UV (Ultraviolet)-LED or RGB (red, blue and green)-LED.

[0041] In an embodiment, the toilet may further comprise at least one directionally adjustable air outlet arranged inside the support structure for drying the interior of the toilet bowl when in the retracted position. These air outlets may be directed to the drying of the interior of the toilet bowl and seat and will be sized in order to avoid significant load losses, thus enabling the use of medium pressure systems (namely "blowers" of reduced size and power).

[0042] In an embodiment, the air conveyance system for drying may be sized with particular attention to the air conveyance sections between the blower and the air outlets in order to avoid significant load losses, thus enabling the use of medium-pressure systems (namely, reduced-size centrifugal fans - blowers).

[0043] In an embodiment, the drying system may operate with a pressure between 4 and 8 kPa and flow rates between 500 and 2000 l/min.

[0044] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a control valve and/or pressure regulators to adjust the pressure at the air outlets. Pressure control is not applicable in this type of systems, the objective is always to maintain the maximum flow rate possible while having the minimum pressure losses along the system.

[0045] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a control valve.

[0046] In an embodiment, the toilet can comprise a macerator pump for removing waste and/or water from the toilet bowl to a sewer (the present embodiment can be applied to conventional wall-mounted and/or floor-mounted sewers).

[0047] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to process the captured images in real-time. In an embodiment, image processing can be performed in real-time or by comparing a static image with an initial image.

[0048] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to process the captured images and directionally adjust the water outlets according to dirt stains detected in the processed images.

[0049] In an embodiment, the dirt stains are spots detected in the processed images that are darker and/or have higher contrasts than the rest of the interior of the toilet bowl. Image analysis with contrasts refers to the process of examining and interpreting features and details present in an image based on their contrast differences. Contrast in an image is the difference between the brightness levels of different areas, enabling the differentiation of objects and patterns.

[0050] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to compare the captured images to a pre-established reference image.

[0051] In an embodiment, the images are compared using high-contrast and/or pixel comparison, and/or overlay comparison techniques.

[0052] In an embodiment, the support structure may comprise an opening for receiving the retracted toilet bowl as well as a sectional and/or flexible door (small door) slidable between a lowered position to close said opening and a raised and open position for the passage of the retracted toilet bowl.

[0053] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a toilet seat coupled to said toilet bowl for the user to sit on.

[0054] In an embodiment, the adjustable water outlets can be powered by electromechanically controlled valves.

[0055] In an embodiment, the electromechanically controlled valves are solenoid valves and/or ball valves and/or butterfly valves and/or globe valves and/or needle valves.

[0056] In an embodiment, the toilet is configured for receiving a drain.

[0057] In an embodiment, the toilet bowl can be made of ceramic material, metal, polymer, or composite material.

[0058] In an embodiment, the support structure has dimensions between 44-50 cm in width and 78-90 cm in height.

[0059] In an embodiment, the support structure may have a minimum depth of 26 cm and a maximum depth of 29 cm or 32 cm. In an embodiment, the structure may have a depth of 28.8 cm.

[0060] In an embodiment, for better results, in the event of an electrical failure, the device is configured to assume a neutral position. It may also incorporate internal batteries that enable autonomous operations of opening, closing, and washing until the electrical failure is resolved. It is noteworthy that upon reaching the battery discharge limit, for safety and utility reasons, the device of the present disclosure always defaults to a neutral position, allowing the manual opening/closing thereof. By opting for the hydraulic actuation solution most of the device's functionalities remain available, including movement and cleaning of the toilet bowl. In this scenario, maceration and drying functionalities may not be available depending on the battery to be installed.

[0061] In an embodiment, the toilet may comprise a latch to lock the toilet's opening when it is closed.

[0062] The present disclosure further presents a computer-implemented method for training a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl comprising a support structure, a toilet bowl rotationally coupled to the support structure, rotatable between a retracted closed position within the support structure, and a projected open position for receiving a user, a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat, wherein the respective method comprises a convolutional neural network for real-time object recognition using at least one input image from the toilet bowl's interior, wherein the convolutional neural network is trained to map each pixel of an input image to a corresponding semantic class and to segment the object in images in order to identify and delimit the location of objects of interest within the input image of the toilet bowl's interior, wherein the toilet with a retractable toilet bowl is in accordance with any of the preceding embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES



[0063] For an easier understanding, figures are herein attached, which represent preferred embodiments that do not intend to limit the object of the present description.

Figure 1: Representation of a prior art solution in which a toilet is presented whose installation is established so that it can be retracted to a hidden position when not in use, with a structural and assembly arrangement that determines the conditions of mobility and use of the toilet in said installation.

Figure 2: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the toilet with a retractable toilet bowl, wherein:

(1) represents a rotating coating;

(2) represents a static coating;

(3) represents a motion sensor;

(4) represents a sewage inlet;

(5) represents a technical area (where the electronic board and processor are located);

(24) represents a free area.

Figure 3: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the device wherein:

(6) represents a toilet seat;

(7) represents a toilet bowl;

(2) represents a static coating, in a lateral view;

(9) represents a sectional and/or flexible slidable door/small door.

Figure 4: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the device, wherein:

(11) represents a macerator pump;

(12) represents a rotating point;

(13) represents elevation feet;

(14) represents a drain;

(15) represents a tube connecting the toilet bowl to the macerator pump;

(16) represents a tube that connects to the sewer;

(20) represents a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat;

(8) represents a support structure;

(4) represents sewage outlet;

(10) represents a latch.

Figure 5: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the device, wherein:

(18) represents an electronic board;

(19) represents a processor.

Figure 6: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the device, wherein:

(21) represents air nozzles;

(22) represents rotating water nozzles;

(23) represents an optical sensor;

(28) represents a rotating structure.

Figure 7: Side view of a schematic representation of an embodiment of the device, wherein (26) represents lateral guides.

Figure 8: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the device, wherein:

(25) represents a weight sensor;

(17) represents an air pump, i.e., a centrifugal fan;

(27) represents a solenoid valve.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION



[0064] The present disclosure relates to a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning.

[0065] Figure 2 describes an embodiment of a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl, where 1 represents a rotating coating; 2 represents a static coating; 3 represents a motion sensor; 4 represents a sewage inlet; 5 represents a technical area.

[0066] In an embodiment, when the proximity sensor is activated, the toilet opens. After its use and some time of inactivity (pre-determined in the equipment), the system is closed, and the washing and drying process is started.

[0067] After the toilet is used by the user, the toilet will close, thus causing the entire toilet seat to be embraced by the cleaning cover.

[0068] The edges of the washing/cleaning cover will enclose the toilet seat and compress the sponge seal against the outer surface of the toilet, ensuring the sealing between the toilet and the cleaning cover.

[0069] Next, the system will lock the position of the toilet and the cleaning process starts. In a first phase, the water at the bottom of the toilet bowl together with the waste, such as urine and feces, will be removed by actuating the macerator pump which is responsible for evacuating the water and waste to the sewer. This is followed by the beginning of the washing of the toilet bowl and seat with the actuation of the solenoid valve 27, which allows pressurized water to be sent to the rotating nozzles located inside the washing cover. The use of these nozzles and pressurized water allows all internal surfaces of the toilet bowl and the entire toilet seat to be cleaned. The water resulting from this cleaning step is redirected to the sewer, either by using the macerator pump or by the existence of a drain in the rear of the cleaning cover. Once the cleaning process is complete, the solenoid valve is deactivated and the circulation of water to the nozzles ceases. In an embodiment, the system comprises three rotating nozzles located inside the washing cover, i.e., cleaning cover.

[0070] Figure 3 describes an embodiment of a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning, where 6 represents a toilet seat; 7 represents a toilet bowl; 2 represents a static coating, in a side view and 9 represents a sectional and/or flexible slidable door/small door. In an embodiment, the support structure 8 allows all elements to be coupled.

[0071] Figures 2 and 3 depict embodiments where the toilet is open or closed, with different coatings. The static coating of Figure 2 shows the free area 24. With the retracted baseboard, it is possible to store elements in a built-in (hidden, embedded) way in the equipment itself. This free baseboard space also makes it possible that, at the design level, the toilet looks suspended, only partially embedded in the wall. Importantly, this toilet can be connected to conventional sewer outlets without any installation disturbance, and the sewer can be either wall-mounted or floor-mounted.

[0072] Finally, an air pump is activated, directing a jet of air, through nozzles located inside the cleaning cover against the toilet seat and bowl, allowing for a quick drying of the toilet. The cleaning and drying process of the toilet is completed. In an embodiment, the air pump is activated, directing a jet of air, through 4 nozzles located inside the cleaning cover.

[0073] Figure 4 describes an embodiment of a toilet, wherein 10 represents a latch; 11 represents a macerator pump; 12 represents a rotating point (the point where the rotating structure, the toilet seat, and the toilet bowl pivot); 13 represents elevation feet (allowing adjustment to a desired height for a more comfortable position of a seated user); 14 represents a drain; 15 represents a tube connecting the toilet bowl to the macerator pump; 16 represents a tube that connects to the sewer and 20 represents a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat. In the embodiments of Figures 4 and 5 (side and perspective view), the toilet is depicted open, without a static coating, with the rotating coating (it is the part that hides the rotating structure 28), and with the small door in the usage mode. The lateral guides 26 drive the small door to the usage position and to the closed position, as shown in Figure 7.

[0074] In an embodiment, the guides 26 are mirrored to assist in the movement of the sliding door, namely, a sectional and/or flexible slidable door/small door. In an embodiment, the tube 16 connecting the toilet bowl to the macerator pump is easily connected to the sewer and/or wall. Said tube 15 is flexible and malleable.

[0075] In an embodiment, the macerator pump 11 is responsible for removing waste and/or water from the toilet bowl to a sewer.

[0076] In the embodiment of Figure 6, it is possible to visualize the air nozzles 21; the rotating water nozzles 22, and an optical sensor 23. These components are part of the toilet cleaning system and when the air pump 17 is activated, directing a jet of air through nozzles located inside the cleaning cover against the toilet seat and bowl, allowing a quick drying of the toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning. In an embodiment, the air nozzles 21 allow and favor a quick drying of the toilet.

[0077] In an embodiment, the integration of a weight sensor 25 and the corresponding programming of the automaton allows the device to be closed and the washing to be started, without any human intervention, as shown in Figure 8. It is still possible to visualize in Figure 8 a drain 14 that allows the device to be connected to the sewer.

[0078] In the embodiment of Figure 8, it is possible to visualize an air pump 17 and a solenoid valve 27. One of the main functions of the solenoid valve is to enable the delivery of pressurized water to the rotating nozzles positioned inside the cleaning cover. On the other hand, the air pump 17 allows for the quick and efficient drying of the toilet.

[0079] The embodiments described are combinable with each other. The present invention is, of course, in no way restricted to the embodiments described in this document, and a person with average knowledge in the art will be able to predict many possibilities of modifying it and substituting technical features with equivalent ones, depending on the requirements of each situation, as defined in the attached claims. The following claims define additional embodiments of the present description.


Claims

1. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl with automatic opening-closing and automatic cleaning, comprising:

a support structure,

a toilet bowl rotationally coupled to the support structure, rotatable between a retracted closed position within the support structure, and a projected open position for receiving the user;

a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat,

wherein said system comprises:

at least one water outlet adjustable in terms of position and/or water pressure, and arranged inside the support structure for sanitizing the interior of the toilet bowl when in the retracted position;

an optical sensor to capture images of the interior of the toilet bowl;

a processor configured to process the captured images and adjust in terms of position and/or pressure the water outlet.


 
2. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to the previous claim further comprising a hydraulic actuator or a motor to actuate the rotation of the toilet bowl.
 
3. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to the previous claim comprising a proximity sensor and wherein the processor is further configured to actuate the motor or the hydraulic actuator to automatically open the toilet bowl when the proximity sensor detects the approach of a user.
 
4. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to claim 2 or 3 wherein the hydraulic actuator uses the pressure of the water supply network to actuate the toilet bowl.
 
5. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the processor is configured to interrupt the exit of water when the complete cleaning of the interior of the retractable toilet bowl is detected.
 
6. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims further comprising a weight sensor to detect whether a user is sitting on the toilet bowl and wherein the processor is further configured to actuate the motor or the hydraulic actuator to automatically close the toilet bowl when the weight sensor ceases to detect a user sitting on the toilet bowl.
 
7. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the water outlet has a rotating sprinkler.
 
8. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the processor is configured to: stop the closing of the toilet bowl when any force contrary to the closing movement of said toilet bowl is detected, and return to the opening position.
 
9. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims comprising a light source for illuminating the interior of the toilet bowl, wherein the light source is a LED.
 
10. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims further comprising at least one directionally adjustable air outlet and arranged inside the support structure for drying the interior of the toilet bowl when in the retracted position.
 
11. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to the previous claim wherein the air outlets have a pressure between 4 and 10 kPa and flow rates between 500 and 2000 I/min.
 
12. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of claims 8 to 9 further comprising a centrifugal fan for adjusting the pressure in the air outlets.
 
13. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims comprising a macerating pump for removing waste and/or water from the toilet bowl to a sewer.
 
14. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the processor is configured to process the captured images in real-time.
 
15. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the processor is configured to process the captured images and adjust the direction and/or pressure of the water output according to dirt stains detected in the processed images.
 
16. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the dirt stains are contrasts detected in processed images of tones different than the rest of the inside of the toilet bowl.
 
17. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the processor is configured to compare captured images with a pre-established reference image.
 
18. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the images are compared by high-contrast and/or pixel comparison and/or overlay comparison.
 
19. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the support structure comprises an opening for receiving the retracted toilet bowl as well as a sectional door slidable between a lowered position to close said opening and a raised and open position for the passage of the retracted toilet bowl.
 
20. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims comprising a toilet seat coupled to said toilet bowl for the user to sit on.
 
21. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the adjustable water outlets are powered by electromechanically controlled valves.
 
22. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to the previous claim wherein the electromechanically controlled valves are solenoid valves and/or ball valves and/or butterfly valves and/or globe valves and/or needle valves.
 
23. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the toilet is configured for receiving a drain.
 
24. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the toilet bowl is made of ceramic, metal, composite, or plastic.
 
25. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the support structure has dimensions between 44-50 cm width and 78-90 cm height.
 
26. Toilet with a retractable toilet bowl according to any of the previous claims wherein the support structure has a minimum depth of 26 cm and a maximum depth of 32 cm.
 
27. A computer-implemented method for training a toilet with a retractable toilet bowl comprising a support structure, a toilet bowl rotationally coupled to the support structure, rotatable between a retracted closed position within the support structure, and a projected open position for receiving a user, and a system for sanitizing the toilet bowl and seat.
 




Drawing

























Search report



















Cited references

REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION



This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader's convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.

Patent documents cited in the description