US20020194670A1 - Ventilation system for malodorous air removal - Google Patents
Ventilation system for malodorous air removal Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020194670A1 US20020194670A1 US10/164,907 US16490702A US2002194670A1 US 20020194670 A1 US20020194670 A1 US 20020194670A1 US 16490702 A US16490702 A US 16490702A US 2002194670 A1 US2002194670 A1 US 2002194670A1
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- Prior art keywords
- fan
- air
- toilet
- hose
- ventilating
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D5/00—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system
- E03D5/02—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor
- E03D5/09—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor directly by the hand
- E03D5/092—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor directly by the hand the flushing element, e.g. siphon bell, being actuated through a lever
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D5/00—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system
- E03D5/02—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor
- E03D5/09—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor directly by the hand
- E03D5/094—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor directly by the hand the flushing element, e.g. siphon bell, being actuated through a cable, chain or the like
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D5/00—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system
- E03D5/10—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated electrically, e.g. by a photo-cell; also combined with devices for opening or closing shutters in the bowl outlet and/or with devices for raising/or lowering seat and cover and/or for swiveling the bowl
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D9/00—Sanitary or other accessories for lavatories ; Devices for cleaning or disinfecting the toilet room or the toilet bowl; Devices for eliminating smells
- E03D9/04—Special arrangement or operation of ventilating devices
- E03D9/05—Special arrangement or operation of ventilating devices ventilating the bowl
- E03D9/052—Special arrangement or operation of ventilating devices ventilating the bowl using incorporated fans
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- Sanitary Device For Flush Toilet (AREA)
Abstract
An odor evacuation and mitigation system for a bathroom space including a central evacuation fan system, an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet bowl, an automatic flushing system, and a steam and moisture ventilation system. The fan system includes an enclosure having a motor and fan therein and connected to an exhaust hose for expelling odors. The odor evacuation system for a toilet includes a flush valve in communication with a pipe, connected to an external suction device for removal of odors, through an overflow pipe and an evacuation pipe. The automatic flushing system includes a sensor connected to a servomotor for rotation of an actuation lever connected to a flush valve. The steam ventilation system includes a manifold body disposed over a shower enclosure and having a grille through which air flows into the manifold body and outward through an externally extending hose.
Description
- This is a continuation-in-part application of co-pending PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US01/50232, filed Dec. 20, 2001, and designating the United States, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/742,771, filed Dec. 20, 2000.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to room ventilation systems.
- 2. Background Art
- Various types of toilet assemblies having an odor mitigation system are known in the art. An efficient way for odor removal from a water closet is by drawing odorous air from the toilet bowl through the flush rim. Ventilation systems utilizing this air passage have been disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,703,010, 4,165,544, 4,583,250, 4,989,276, 5,321,856, and 5,617,590.
- The system described in the '010 patent includes a suction means in air communication with the airspace between the water within the water tank and the lid of the tank. The suction device is capable of withdrawing the odorous air that moves from the toilet rim through an overflow pipe into the airspace, and subsequently disposing it away from the water closet through an exhaust pipe. Withdrawing the air from the airspace in a tightly closed water tank may create suction pressure especially when the toilet is flushed. Thus, the '010 system requires a regulating valve to reduce suction in the water tank.
- Similarly, the flush toilet exhaust systems disclosed in the '856 and '590 patents are also designed to withdraw the odorous air from the airspace above the water level inside the water tank. These systems include a sealing means ('856 patent) or a flexible strip ('590 patent) that can be installed at the upper edge of the water tank. The sealing means of the '856 patent is a hollow strip being in air communication with a hose connector and a blower. The sealing means defines holes facing the interior of the water tank for receiving the odorous air from the airspace. After the odorous air enters the sealing means, it is pulled into the hose connector for remote exhaust. The flexible strip of the '590 patent seals the lid of the tank to create an airtight space from which the odorous air is withdrawn. Both systems require a vent device to reduce the problem of undesirable suction when the toilet is flushed.
- Unlike the patents described earlier, the '544 patent describes a system that is designed to withdraw the odorous air from the upper end of the overflow pipe. This system includes a hollow, open bottom, vertical sleeve that is positioned over the upper end of the overflow pipe. The lower end of the sleeve terminates below the water level in the water tank so that a water seal is achieved to provide closed communication between the overflow passageway and the sleeve. The system also includes a means for creating low air pressure connected to the sleeve so that odorous air is drawn from the sleeve for remote exhaust. The inefficiency in withdrawing the odorous air from the sleeve into the exhaust pipe can be a drawback with this system, because only low air pressure can be applied so that the water within the sleeve is not also withdrawn.
- The '250 patent discloses a self-contained system for removal of foul air from above the overflow pipe. This system comprises a powered exhaust fan attached directly above the overflow pipe, twin charcoal filters for filtering the air, and a modified overflow pipe that retains the function of the conventional overflow pipe and also allows for the recycling of previously filtered air. A drawback in this system rests on the efficiency of the system, which in turn, is limited by the volume of odorous air that can be filtered through the system. In addition, like other charcoal filter, the filter of this invention will require replacement periodically.
- Yet another system disclosed in the '276 patent shows a toilet system that includes vent channels formed along the base and the back inside of the water tank. The system also includes a vent adapter mounted inside of the passage that directs the flow of ventilating air along the vent channels to an exhaust fan to the outside atmosphere. One drawback of this system is the requirement of a specially designed toilet bowl and water tank.
- Similar to the ventilated toilet systems, several patents have disclosed different types of toilet systems that include automatic flushing mechanisms. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,831,670, and 5,369,816 disclose toilet systems having a weight activated flushing mechanism. This type of mechanism includes an electric motor that is activated by the weight of the user sitting on and then leaving the seat. When the motor is activated, the tripping mechanism trips the flush valve open to allow the water to flush. A major drawback for the weight activating flushing mechanism is that it does not operate when the user does not sit down on the seat. Therefore, when people who normally do not sit down on the seat for a urinal purpose use the toilet, the toilet will need to be flushed manually.
- A different flushing mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,384. This mechanism comprises a motion-sensing device positioned in the water tank and aligned with a window in the toilet cover when the cover is in a raised position. The motion-sensing device is operatively connected to a motor that drives an L-shaped lever that is connected to a flapper valve. The flushing system operates when the motion-sensing device is activated when the user uses the toilet and then moves away from the toilet. The motion sensing device charges electric current to the motor which drives the lever upward such that the flapper is lifted to open the valve for the water to flush.
- A similar flushing system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,141,091. This system comprises three functional blocks: an input sensor or switch, a logic control circuit and an Electro-mechanically operated liquid dispenser or flusher. The whole assembly, which is attached to the inner side of the water tank, is hermetically sealed in order to protect the actuator against moisture and possible corrosion. The movable end of the plunger is with a chain or wire connected to the flush handle and drain valve. In the flushing system of '384 and '091 patents, most of the components have to be fitted inside the water tank. Possible concerns of these systems are in the limitation of fitting all the parts into an existing toilet system and the need to modify the water tank and the toilet lid for positioning the motion-sensing device.
- In order to address the unresolved detriments of prior ventilation systems, the present invention contemplates a ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a room in a building by withdrawing air from a location removed from the ceiling. In a bathroom, the location may be a toilet bowl. In a kitchen, the location may be a cooking appliance. In a work space, the location may be a work bench.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, a ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet bowl comprises a ventilation pipe having a lower end open into the discharge conduit and an upper end connectable to a flexible air conduit. The flexible air conduit is connectable to a first end of a suction hose providing passageway for air communication between the ventilation pipe and the suction hose. The second end of the suction hose is connected to a suction device, which may operate continuously or by a switch.
- In one feature of the invention, the flexible air conduit defines a substantially flat rectangular accordion hose being expandable and contractible. The accordion hose defines a first end and a second end, with the first end having a first flat end being positioned between the tank and the lid. The first flat end has a head defining a round terminal end snugly connectable to the upper end of the ventilation pipe. The second end is connectable to the first end of the suction hose.
- The accordion hose can be threaded through a hole in a bathroom wall into an inner space of the wall. The accordion hose may be bendable within the inner space to be flexibly connected to the suction hose.
- The ventilation apparatus may include a wall bracket that can be affixed to the wall. The bracket defines a substantially rectangular plate having a recess end defining a space that is flanked by a first corner edge and a second corner edge. The space is aligned to the hole in the bathroom wall such that the accordion hose is threaded through the space between the first and the second corner edges of the bracket into the hole of the bathroom wall to be connected to the suction hose.
- The ventilation apparatus may include an elbow adapter defining a vertical arm connectable to the upper end of the ventilation pipe, and a horizontal arm connectable to the round terminal end of the flexible air conduit. The elbow adapter further defines an air channel in air communication with the ventilation pipe and the passageway of the flexible air conduit. Further, the elbow adapter can be horizontally swiveling such that the horizontal arm can be variably oriented for connection to the round terminal end of the flexible air conduit.
- Additionally, the ventilation apparatus further comprises a draining device having an inlet end for receiving overflow water and an outlet end open into the discharge conduit.
- In one embodiment, the draining device includes a first tube and a second tube, one connected to each side of the ventilation pipe. Each tube has an inlet end disposed under the water level in the tank, and an outlet end connected to a tubular connector for connecting the tubes to the ventilation pipe. The tubular connector in one aspect has four connecting ends. First and second connecting ends are each attached to the outlet end of one of the two tubes. A third connecting end is attached to the upper end of the ventilation pipe and a fourth connecting end is attached to the first end of the hose. The connecting outlet ends and the tubular connector are positioned above the water level in the tank. The tubes are in communication with the tubular connector, the ventilation pipe, and the discharge conduit.
- In a stationary mode, each tube of the draining device maintains the same water level as that outside the tube. In a draining mode, when excess water rises above the level of the tubular connector, there is an increased water pressure that pushes the excess water into the tube through the inlet end such that the water moves out at the outlet end, passing the tubular connector into the ventilation pipe and drains into the discharge conduit.
- In another embodiment, the ventilation apparatus comprises a draining device having an upside-down U-shaped hollow tube. The tube has a first leg defining an inlet end disposed under the water in the tank for receiving the overflow water, and a second leg defining an outlet end being open directly to the conduit. The tube has a bend portion disposed above the water level in the tank. In a non-draining mode, the first leg of the hollow tube maintains the same water level as that in the tank. In a draining mode, when there is excess water above the level of the bend portion, the increased water pressure inside the tank pushes the excess water into the first leg, through the inlet end such that the water moves through the bend portion to the second leg and out the outlet end into the conduit.
- Another embodiment of the ventilation apparatus is provided for eliminating odor from a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe, a discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, the discharge conduit and the rim, and a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the discharge conduit. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the passageway comprises a support member defining a hollow cylinder disposed around the overflow pipe. The hollow cylinder defines a bottom end and a top end. The top end defines a groove having a plurality of stop pins disposed spatially and perpendicularly across the groove creating a plurality of gaps for water and air communication. The support member defines at least one bore for receiving a securing means for tightening the support member to the overflow pipe. The securing means may include a plastic thumbscrew.
- Further, in this embodiment, the ventilation apparatus may include a draining member including an elbow-shaped hollow tube having a first arm connected to a second arm. The first arm snugly fits in the groove of the support member such that the second arm is parallel to the support member. The first arm defines a side opening aligned to the plurality of gaps of the support member, a vent hole disposed oppositely to the side opening, and an outlet end. The second arm defines an inlet end having a plurality of apertures for receiving water from the tank.
- In addition, the ventilation apparatus may further include a suction hose having a first end connectable to the outlet end of the first arm, and a suction device connectable to a second end of the suction hose. The suction device may operate continuously or by a switch control.
- The ventilation apparatus may include a flexible air conduit, which defines a substantially flat rectangular accordion hose that is expandable and contractible. The accordion hose has a first flat end disposed at a first end of the accordion hose. The first flat end is positioned between the tank and the lid. The first flat end has a head defining a round terminal end connectable to the outlet end of the first arm. A second end of the accordion hose is connectable to the first end of the suction hose. The flexible air conduit defines a passageway in air communication with the suction hose, the first arm, and the overflow pipe.
- Another embodiment of the ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a standard flush toilet bowl comprises a suction hose having a first end and a second end, the second end connected to a suction device. The first end of the suction hose is connectable to a connecting end of an air conduit. The air conduit has an air inlet end open into an airspace above the water level in the tank. The air conduit may be substantially flat and elbow-shaped. The air conduit is disposed between the tank and the lid such that the lid can be tightly sealed above the air conduit and around the tank.
- The ventilation apparatus may also include an elbow adapter defining a vertical arm and a horizontal arm. The vertical arm has an inlet opening for fitting over the upper end of the overflow pipe. The horizontal arm has an outlet end disposed within the airspace above the water level and pointing in the direction of the air inlet end of the air conduit. The elbow adapter further defines a channel in air communication with the overflow pipe and the airspace.
- In yet another embodiment, the ventilation apparatus comprises a ventilation pipe, a hose, a suction device, a draining device, and a vacuum ring that is positioned around the discharge conduit and below the flush valve. The vacuum ring defines a plurality of openings for air communication with the discharge conduit. In this embodiment, the ventilation pipe has a lower end open into the vacuum ring, and an upper end connected to a first end of the hose. A second end of the hose is connected to the suction device. The suction device provides sufficient suction to pull air from the bowl, through the passageway, into the vacuum ring passing the ventilation pipe, and the hose to be discharged at a distant location.
- In this embodiment, the draining device has an upside down U-shaped hollow tube. The tube has a first leg having an inlet end disposed under the water in the tank for receiving the overflow water, and a second leg having an outlet end being connected directly to the conduit. The tube has a bend portion disposed above the water in the tank. In a non-draining mode, the first leg of the hollow tube maintains the same water level as that in the tank. In a draining mode, there is an increased water pressure inside the tank that pushes the excess water into the first leg through the inlet end such that the water moves through the bend portion to the second leg and out the outlet end into the discharge conduit.
- Alternatively, the draining device includes a U-shaped-hollow tube which defines a hook-shaped tube and an L-shaped tube. The hook-shaped tube defines a first leg having an inlet end facing the bottom of the sink, and a bend portion having a hook end. The L-shaped tube defines a second leg having a top end connected to the hook end of the bend portion, and a base having the outlet end open into the discharged conduit. The top end of the second leg can be connected to the hook end of the bend portion by a lock mechanism or a tight swivel.
- In the embodiments described above, the upper end of the ventilation pipe may flexibly extend through an opening in the back, side, or lid of the tank to be connected to the first end of the hose. The hose may extend substantially behind the wall of the toilet room. In addition, the suction device may include any fan such as an exhaust fan or a vent fan. The suction device may also include any kind of vacuum system such as a vacuum pump.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, the ventilation apparatus includes an air conduit connected to a ventilation pipe at one end and to a hose at the other end. The air conduit may include a male air conduit and a female air conduit. The male air conduit defines a ventilation pipe-connecting end that can be tightly connectable to a ventilation pipe by a locking mechanism or a tight swivel, and a first flat portion defining a first flat end that extends outside the water tank through a space between the tank and the lid. The space can be an existing space in certain type of tanks or can be created by the placement of the first flat portion between the tank and the lid.
- Furthermore, the female air conduit defines a hose connecting end that can be tightly connected to the hose and a second flat portion defining a second flat end. The hose connecting end can be connected to the hose by a locking mechanism or by a tight swivel. The second flat end has an opening that is slightly larger than the outer perimeter of the first flat end of the male air conduit. The first flat end may be snugly inserted into the opening of the second flat end.
- In one embodiment, the hose and a substantial portion of the female air conduit are positioned behind the wall of the water closet. The second flat end of the female air conduit may extend from behind the wall through a hole in the wall of the water closet to be connected to the first end of the male air conduit. The hole may be shaped and sized to allow the second flat end to be snugly inserted therethrough.
- In this embodiment, the ventilation apparatus may further include a wall bracket affixed on the wall behind the tank. The wall bracket defines a slot, which is shaped and sized to allow the second flat end of the female air conduit to be snugly inserted therethrough. The slot is placed in alignment with the hole. The first flat end of the male air conduit is inserted into the opening of the second flat end, preferably passing the slot into the wall area. Additionally, the wall bracket may define a lower flange and an upper flange for pressing the flat ends tightly together and to minimize any air leakage. Alternatively, the perimeter of the slot can be sealed with any suitable caulking material.
- Optionally, the air conduit may be a one-piece elbow shaped unit that defines a hose connecting end connectable to a hose, and a flat portion disposed between the tank and the lid. The flat portion defines an inlet end open into an airspace between the water level and the lid of the tank. The inlet end receives the odorous air that moves from the bowl into the airspace in the tank through an overflow pipe. The air moves passing the air conduit into the hose to be discharged.
- In another embodiment, a toilet system comprises a toilet bowl with a rim, a water tank with a top, an overflow pipe having a lower end open in to a discharged conduit, and an upper end for receiving overflow water. The ventilation apparatus includes a cylinder disposed around the overflow pipe forming an annular space around the overflow pipe. The cylinder defines a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the cylinder is disposed under the water, but slightly above the bottom of the tank to allow the water to flow from the tank into the annular space. The ventilation apparatus further includes a plug and a hose. The plug defines a pipe-connecting end snugly fitted onto the upper end of the overflow pipe, and a hose-connecting end snugly fitted onto a first end of the hose. The plug further defines a plurality of holes for water communication between the annular space and the overflow pipe, and for air communication between the overflow pipe and the hose. The bottom end of the cylinder may be fastened on to the overflow pipe and the top end of the cylinder may be fastened and sealed onto the first end of the hose. A second end of the hose is connected to a suction device.
- In another aspect, the present invention contemplates a hose box for shielding a ventilation hose. The box is used in a situation in which the hose has to be extended outside the wall into the bathroom and reenter the ceiling when the space inside the wall does not allow the ventilation hose to be threaded therethrough. The hose box comprises a back wall, a top wall, a first side wall, or second side wall, and a front cover. The back wall defines a top end, a bottom end, and a first hole sized to receive the ventilation hose therethrough. The back wall is attachable to the bathroom wall over an inlet opening, which is also sized to receive the hose. The first hole is in alignment with the inlet opening. The top wall defines a first end or bottom end, and a second hole sized to receive the hose. The top wall is attachable to the ceiling of the bathroom. The second hole is in alignment with an outlet opening in the ceiling. The first end of the back wall is attached to the first end of the top wall at a right angle. The second end of the back wall and the second end of the top wall each defines at least one supporting ledge.
- Furthermore, the first side wall and the second side wall are right-angled triangular. Each side wall is attached to each side of the back wall and the top wall forming an open box. Moreover, the front cover is sized to fit between the ledge of the back wall and the ledge of the top wall.
- Another aspect of the present invention includes a hose box kit for shielding a suction hose in a situation in which the suction hose cannot be threaded around the corner between the wall and the ceiling. The hose box kit has a template member including a back plate attached to a top plate at a right angle. The back plate defines a plurality of holes for receiving a plurality of fasteners for fastening the back plate to a bathroom wall close to the ceiling. Likewise, the top plate defines a plurality of holes for receiving a plurality of fasteners for fastening the top plate to the ceiling. The back plate further defines a first opening aligned to an inlet opening in the bathroom wall where the suction hose is threaded outside the wall into the hose box kit. The top plate defines a second opening for guiding the suction hose into an outlet opening in the ceiling. Both the back plate and the top plate have a plurality of latches.
- The hose box kit may further comprise a corner cover member defining a front plate connected at a right angle to a first side plate and a second side plate. The front plate is substantially rectangular, whereas the first side plate and the second side plate are triangular. The first side plate and the second side plate defines a plurality of locking latches matable to the plurality of latches of the back plate and the top plate such that the corner cover member can be securely locked onto the template member, forming a triangular hose box.
- In addition, the present invention further includes a toilet system comprising an automatic flushing mechanism. The toilet system includes a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl and a water tank, a discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank and the discharge conduit. The system also includes a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit and a flapper for opening and closing the flush valve to allow the water to move from the tank to the passageway into the bowl.
- Another embodiment of the flushing mechanism comprises a lever, a motion device, and a sensing device. The lever can include an L-shaped bar member, an attachment member, a cable member, and a flapper cord. The bar member preferably defines a long arm connected to a first end of the flapper cord, and a short arm pivotably connected to the attachment member. The short arm defines a first bore. The attachment member has a first end attachable to the water tank, and a second end defining a second bore being in alignment with the first bore. The cable member defines a first end portion and a second end, the first end portion being threaded through the second bore and the first bore, and slidingly secured to the short arm of the bar member. The second end of the cable member is connectable to the motion device. The flapper cord has the second end attached to the flapper.
- The lever has a rest position and a flushing position. In the rest position, the long arm of the lever points downward to relax the flapper cord, and thus allows the flapper to close the flush valve. In the flushing position, the long arm moves upward such that the flapper cord pulls on the flapper causing the flapper to move upward and open the flush valve to allow the water to flush. After the water flushes, the long arm of the lever returns to the rest position.
- In this embodiment, the sensing device which is operatively connected to the motion device, and is capable of detecting the presence or movement of a toilet user. The motion device can include a movable elongated shaft that has a cable end connected to the second end of the cable member. When the sensing device is activated, it can actuate the motion of the shaft such that it pulls on the cable member and thus lifts the long arm of the bar member upward in the flushing position. After the flush, the shaft of the motion device moves back to its original position and the cable member is relaxed. Consequently, the long arm of the bar member points downward so that the flapper cord is relaxed and the flapper sits back to close the valve. The sensing device can be a motion detector, which is activated by user movement in the target area. Alternatively, the sensing device can be a noise-activated device. The sensing device can generate an electrical signal that operates the motion device. Preferably, both the sensing device and the motion device are affixed to a wall of the toilet room such that the sensing device can detect the movement of the user.
- In another embodiment of the present invention the automatic flushing mechanism comprises a sensing device capable of detecting the presence of a toilet user, a motion device being activatable by the sensing device and connected to a rotational lever for effectuating flushing. The rotational lever comprises a disk, a long bar, a short bar, and a cable member. The disk has a center, which is rotatably attached to a wall of the water tank. A proximal end of the long bar is attached at a first position on a first surface of the disk at a first position, and a distal end of the long bar is attached to a flapper cord connected to the flapper. The long bar is preferably weighted. A proximal end of the short bar is attached to a second position of a second surface of the disk, and a distal end of the short bar is attached to the cable member. The center is disposed linearly between the first position and the second position. Further, the cable member defines a first end and a second end, the first end is secured to the distal end of the short bar, and the second end being connectable to a motion device.
- The sensing device can be affixed to a wall of the toilet room such that it can detect a user. The sensing device may be a motion detector that can be automatically activated by the movement of the user. The sensing device is connected to the motion device and activates the motion device electrically. Moreover, the motion device is affixed to a wall of the toilet room. Preferably, the motion device includes a solenoid for activating the flush mechanism.
- When the motion device is activated, it causes the cable member to pull on the short arm such that the short arm moves downwardly. At the same time the disk is rotated in a first direction such that the first position on the disk where the long bar is attached rotates upwardly while pulling the flapper up to open the flush valve. As a result, the water moves from the water tank into the discharge conduit. When the motion device relaxes the cable member, the disk rotates in an opposite direction such that the first position with the long bar moves rotatably downward to relax the flapper cord such that the flapper sits back on the flush valve.
- Another aspect of the present invention contemplates a fan system for ventilating bathroom air and steam. The fan system is capable of receiving odorous air or steam from two or more locations in a bathroom to be discharged at an outside location. The fan system may be retrofitted in an existing exhaust system of a building.
- The fan system comprises a fan box having a cavity defining a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment defines a plurality of first inlet openings for receiving air or steam from a first location. The second compartment defines a plurality of second inlet openings for receiving air or steam from a different second location. The fan box includes an outlet opening in air communication with the first and the second compartments. The outlet opening is connected to an exhaust hose leading to an outside location.
- The fan box has four side walls hingedly attached to a top wall such that one or more of the side walls are pivotable towards the cavity of the fan box. The fan box defines an open bottom side for receiving a first fan and a second fan. The first inlet openings and the second inlet openings are disposed on one or more side walls, whereas the outlet opening is disposed on one of the side walls.
- The first fan is disposed within the first compartment, and the second fan is disposed within the second compartment. The first fan operates to pull air from the first location through one or more of the first inlet openings into the fan box, while the second fan operates to pull air from the second location through one or more of the second inlet openings into the fan box. Both the first fan and the second fan drive air out of the fan box through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for discharging at an outside location.
- In one embodiment, one of the first inlet openings is connected to a ventilation tubing for ventilating air from a bathing facility, and one of the second inlet openings is connected to a suction hose of a ventilation apparatus for ventilating odor from a toilet. The bathing facility can be a shower stall or an enclosed bathtub.
- The fan system may further comprise a first inlet adapter attachable to one of the first inlet openings, a second inlet adapter attachable to one of the second inlet openings, and an outlet adapter attachable to the outlet opening. The first inlet adapter has a first circular lip connectable to the ventilation tubing. The second inlet adapter has a second circular lip connectable to a suction hose, and the outlet adapter has a third circular lip for connecting to the exhaust hose.
- Moreover, the ventilation tubing has a connecting end and an intake end. The connecting end is connected to the first inlet adapter, and the intake end being in air communication with the bathing facility. The intake end includes an intake housing, which defines a base having an intake opening. The intake housing may be a dome. Furthermore, the intake housing has a removable intake grille that covers the intake opening. The intake grille receives air and steam from the bathing facility.
- In an embodiment, the fan system for ventilating bathroom air includes a shroud unit defining a first shroud for retaining a first fan in a first compartment, and a second shroud for retaining a second fan in a second compartment. The first shroud has a first tract opening and the second shroud has a second tract opening. Both the first and the second tract openings are in air communication with the outlet opening and an exhaust hose. The fan box may include a first electrical outlet for supplying electricity to operate the first and the second fans. The electrical outlet may be connected to a switch that can be operated by a user.
- Additionally, the fan system further comprises a cover plate for keeping the first fan and the second fan in place within the fan box, the cover plate being secured to the bottom side of the fan box. The fan system may include a grille plate attachable to the cover plate for a decorative purpose. Alternatively, the grille plate may define an insert slot for receiving a grille insert that can be replaced by an optional light unit for lighting the bathroom. The grille plate includes one or more grille plate fasteners for fastening the grille plate to the cover plate.
- The optional light unit includes a reflector plate, a light bulb, a second electrical outlet for supplying electricity to the light bulb, and a shield for protecting the light bulb. The reflector plate can fit into the insert slot and can be secured to the grille plate. The light bulb includes a socket secured to the reflector plate. The socket has a connecting plug for inserting into the second electrical outlet. The second electrical outlet may be connected to a second switch that can be operated by a user. Optionally, the second electrical outlet may be electrically connected to the first electrical outlet, and both outlets are connected to a switch that a user can operate. In this way, the user can turn on the fans and the light at the same time.
- In an embodiment, the fan box is a stacked fan box, which defines a first compartment stacking above a second compartment. The fan system further comprises a stacking shroud unit, which is insertable into the stacked fan box. The stacking shroud unit defines a first shroud and a second shroud. The first shroud includes a first platform having a first cavity for receiving and holding a first fan within the first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Likewise, the second shroud includes a second platform having a second cavity for receiving and holding a second fan within the second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Both the first and the second tract openings are in air communication with the outlet opening and the exhaust hose.
- In another alternative embodiment, the fan box is a side-by-side fan box having a cavity defining a first compartment disposed on the same plane as a second compartment. In this embodiment, the fan system further includes a side-by-side shroud unit defining a left shroud and a right shroud. The left shroud includes a first platform having a first cavity for receiving and holding a first fan within the first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Likewise, the right shroud includes a second platform having a second cavity for receiving and holding a second fan within the second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Both the first and the second tract openings are in air communication with an outlet opening and an exhaust hose. The first platform and the second platform may be made from a single piece material.
- In another embodiment, the fan system for ventilating air from a plurality of locations in a building comprises a fan box having a plurality of compartments. Each compartment defines an inlet opening for receiving air from one of the plurality of locations. The fan box further comprises an outlet opening in air communication with said plurality of compartments. The outlet opening is connected to and in air communication with an exhaust hose.
- Additionally, the fan system in this embodiment further comprises a plurality of fans, each being disposed within each of the plurality of compartments, whereby the plurality of fans pulls air from the plurality of locations through each of the inlet openings into each of the plurality of compartments. The plurality of fans is capable of driving air out of the plurality of compartments through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for releasing to an outside location.
- Moreover, the fan system may further include a hanger unit attachable to the fan box for hanging the fan box to a beam or any suitable structure. The hanger unit includes a hanger plate fastened to the top wall of the fan box. The hanger unit further includes a plurality of hanger arms, each defining a top end connected to a side end in a substantially right angle. The top end is slidably attached to the hanger plate such that the top end adjustably extends out from each side walls of the fan box. The side end has an elongated slot for receiving a plurality of hanger fasteners for securing the fan system to a beam or any suitable structure.
- In another embodiment, a fan system for ventilating air from at least one interior location is provided. The fan system includes a fan enclosure having a compartment and the fan enclosure including an inlet opening and an outlet connected to an exhaust hose with the inlet opening being disposed at a level lower than the ceiling in the interior location. A motor is disposed in the compartment and a fan is disposed within the compartment and in electrical communication with the motor, the fan has a vacuum side and a blower side. When the vacuum side of the fan operates to pull air from the location through the inlet opening into the fan enclosure, the blower side of the fan drives air out of the fan enclosure through the outlet into the exhaust hose for discharging at an exterior location.
- The room associated with the ventilation system of this embodiment further includes a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub, and a shower and tub combination, the ventilation system characterized by a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to the manifold body and visible from within the enclosure, the diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a conduit extending from the manifold body to the fan enclosure compartment.
- In a further aspect, the present invention provides an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a rim thereof, the rim having a plurality of holes therein for flow of water from the tank to the bowl. The odor evacuation system is characterized by a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in flow communication with the flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in flow communication with the overflow pipe, a pipe in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank, and a suction device disposed externally of the toilet and having an activated state and a non-activated state. When the suction device is in its activated state, air within the toilet bowl and rim is removed to the suction device through the flush valve, overflow pipe, evacuation pipe, and externally extending pipe, and odors are removed from the bowl and rim. When the suction device is in its non-activated state, no odors are removed.
- A further embodiment of the present invention provides an automatic flushing system for a toilet having a toilet bowl and a toilet tank with a flush valve, the flush valve including a flapper, a flapper clip and a flapper chain connecting the flapper clip and the flapper, and an actuation lever attached to the flapper clip and having a flush position and a null position. The automatic flushing system is characterized by a sensing device located externally of the toilet and having a sensing range, a motor in electrical communication with the sensing device and operatively connected to the actuation lever. When the sensing device detects an object in its the sensing range, the actuation lever is in its the null position, whereas upon detection by the sensing device that an object has left the sensing device sensing range, the actuation lever is urged into its the flush position by the motor.
- In another embodiment, an odor evacuation and mitigation system for a bathroom having at least one of a toilet and a shower enclosure is provided, including an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a rim thereof, the rim having a plurality of holes therein for flow of water from the tank to the bowl. The odor evacuation system has a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in flow communication with the flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in flow communication with the overflow pipe, a pipe in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank, and a suction device disposed externally of the toilet and having an activated state and a non-activated state. When the suction device is in its activated state, air within the toilet bowl and rim is removed to the suction device through the flush valve, overflow pipe, evacuation pipe, and externally extending pipe, and odors are removed from the bowl and rim. The bathroom further includes a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub, and a shower and tub combination, the ventilation system characterized by a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to the manifold body and visible from within the enclosure, the diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a conduit extending from the manifold body to the fan enclosure compartment. The odor evacuation and mitigation system is characterized by a central evacuation fan system, including a fan box having a compartment with the compartment with the fan box including an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and at least one auxiliary opening, an exhaust hose being connected to the outlet opening and at least one conduit being connected to the auxiliary opening. A fan is disposed within the compartment, wherein when the fan operates to pull air from the location through the inlet opening into the fan enclosure and through an auxiliary opening via a conduit, the fan drives air out of the fan enclosure through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for discharging at an exterior location.
- In another form of the present invention, a method of installation of an odor evacuation and mitigation system is characterized by inserting a fan box of a central evacuation fan into a ceiling one of prior to and after installation of drywall on the ceiling, threading a pipe into the fan box and connecting it thereto, connecting an external hose to an outside location and to the fan box, and placing a cover on the fan box.
- It is one object of the present invention to provide a toilet system having a ventilation apparatus for removing odorous air from the toilet bowl without creating negative pressure in the water tank. Another objective is to provide an automatic flushing mechanism that can be retrofitted to a traditional flush toilet system. In addition, a further objective is to provide a fan system that can efficiently drive the odorous air or steam from the bathroom for discharging outside.
- Significant benefits are achieved by features of the invention that permit removing of odorous air directly from the air passageway in the toilet bowl into the ventilation pipe, and fitting of the lever in the water tank while having the automatic motion device affixed on the wall. Further benefits are achieved by the fan system capable of receiving air or steam from a plurality of locations and discharging it outside through an exhaust hose. These and other objects and benefits of the invention will be made clear upon consideration of the following written description and accompanying figures.
- The above mentioned and other features and objects of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective partial sectional view of a toilet system having a water tank fitted with a ventilation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a ventilation apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the ventilation apparatus according to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1.
- FIG. 4 is a top view of the ventilation apparatus according to further embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view of the ventilation apparatus according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4.
- FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the ventilation apparatus depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5.
- FIG. 7 is a front partial sectional view of a toilet system with the water tank fitted with a flushing mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a front view of the lever of the flushing mechanism illustrated in FIG. 7, with the lever in the non-operative position.
- FIG. 9 is a front view of the lever shown in FIG. 8, with the lever in the flushing position.
- FIG. 10 is a side view of the lever of the embodiment shown in FIGS.7-9.
- FIG. 11 is a front partial sectional view of a toilet system with the water tank fitted with a ventilation apparatus of the embodiment of FIGS.4-6, and the flushing mechanism of the embodiment of FIGS. 7-10.
- FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of an aspect of the U-shaped hollow tube depicted in FIGS.4-6.
- FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of a male air conduit and a female air conduit in one embodiment of the ventilation apparatus.
- FIG. 14 is a front view of a male air conduit as shown in FIG. 13.
- FIG. 15 is a front view of a wall bracket.
- FIG. 16 is a front partial sectional view of another embodiment of a ventilation apparatus.
- FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of a plug.
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a hose box for shielding a suction hose according to one aspect of the invention.
- FIG. 20 is a side view of a hose box according to the embodiment in FIG. 19.
- FIG. 21 is a front view of a back wall of a hose box according to the embodiment in FIGS.19-20.
- FIG. 22 is a top view of a flexible air conduit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 23 is a side view of the flexible air conduit as shown in FIG. 22.
- FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible air conduit shown in FIG. 23, taken along line24-24 as viewed in the direction of the arrows.
- FIG. 25 is a front view of a head of a first flat end of the flexible air conduit of FIGS.22-23.
- FIG. 26 is a side view of the flexible air conduit according to the embodiment shown in FIGS.22-25.
- FIG. 27 is a front view of another wall bracket.
- FIG. 28 is a side view of the wall bracket shown in FIG. 27.
- FIG. 29 is a front view of yet another wall bracket for use with the present invention.
- FIG. 30 is a side view of the wall bracket shown in FIG. 29.
- FIG. 31 is a side view of an elbow adapter for use with one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 32 is a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of a ventilation apparatus.
- FIG. 33 is a rear view of the alternative embodiment of a ventilation apparatus as shown in FIG. 32.
- FIG. 34 is a top elevational view of the alternative embodiment of a ventilation apparatus as shown in FIGS.32-33.
- FIG. 35 is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the ventilation apparatus as shown in FIGS.32-34.
- FIG. 36 is a top perspective view of a hose box kit.
- FIG. 37 is a side view of a template member of the hose box kit shown in FIG. 36.
- FIG. 38 is a top perspective view of the template member shown in FIG. 37.
- FIG. 39 is a front view of the template member shown in FIGS.37-38.
- FIG. 40 is a side view of a corner cover member of the hose box kit shown in FIG. 36.
- FIG. 41 is a side perspective view of corner cover member as shown in FIG. 40.
- FIG. 42 is a side elevational view of a rotational lever of an automatic flushing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 43 is another side elevational view of the rotational lever shown in FIG. 42.
- FIG. 44 is a side view of the rotational lever shown in FIGS.42-43.
- FIG. 45 is a side elevational view of a fan system according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 46 is an exploded view of a fan system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 47 is a side perspective view of a fan box according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 47A is another side perspective view of the fan box shown in FIG. 47.
- FIG. 48 is a side perspective view of a shroud unit.
- FIG. 49 is a top perspective view of an intake housing.
- FIG. 50 is a side view of the intake housing shown in FIG. 49.
- FIG. 51 is a top elevational view of an intake grille of the intake housing shown in FIGS.49-50.
- FIG. 52 is a top elevational view of a grille plate according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 52A is a top elevational view of a grille insert for use with the present invention.
- FIG. 53 is a side view of a light bulb according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 54 is a top perspective view of a fan according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 55 is a side elevational view of a shroud unit according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a commercial flush toilet with a ventilation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 57 is an exploded view of a fan system according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 58 is an exploded view of a grille for the fan system of FIG. 57 in accordance with another embodiment.
- FIG. 59 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a toilet tank having an automatic flushing system and ventilation system according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 60 is a partial exploded view of the automatic flushing system of FIG. 59.
- FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a shower enclosure including a ventilation system for removal of steam and moisture according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 62 is an exploded view of the ventilation system of FIG. 61.
- Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to better illustrate and explain the present invention. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate embodiments of the invention, in several forms, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.
- For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same.
- As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention contemplates
ventilation apparatus 10 for eliminating odor from traditionalflush toilet 11.Toilet 11 generally includestoilet bowl 12 withrim 13 defining a plurality ofholes 13A,water tank 14 with lid 6,discharge conduit 15 connectingbowl 12 andtank 14, andpassageway 16 providing communication betweentank 14,discharge conduit 15, and rim 13.Toilet 11 includesflush valve 17 disposed abovedischarge conduit 15,flush valve 17 havingflapper 18 for opening and closingpassageway 16 to allow movement of water fromtank 14 intodischarge conduit 15, water inconduit 15 is distributed alongpassageway 16 withinrim 13 and intobowl 12 through the plurality ofholes 13A. - According to one aspect of the present invention,
ventilation apparatus 20 hasventilation pipe 21, as shown in FIG. 2, havinglower end 22 andupper end 23,lower end 22 being open intodischarge conduit 24.Ventilation apparatus 20 includessuction hose 25 having first end 26 andsecond end 27,first end 26 being connected toupper end 23 of theventilation pipe 21. Thesuction hose 25 is in fluid communication with theventilation pipe 21.Second end 27 ofsuction hose 25 is connected tosuction device 28.Suction device 28 is capable of pulling air frombowl 12 throughpassageway 16 intoventilation pipe 21 and subsequently intosuction hose 25 to be discharged at a remote location, preferably outside the building.Upper end 23 ofventilation pipe 21 may extend throughopening 149 in back 9 (see FIG. 1), or on side 8 oftank 14 or on top 7 of lid 6 (FIG. 7) for connecting tofirst end 26 ofsuction hose 25.Suction hose 25 may be substantially hidden in the wall of the toilet room.Suction device 28 may be an exhaust fan, a vent fan or any suitable vacuum system or system for drawing air. -
Ventilation apparatus 20 further include drainingdevice 31, which includes at least one conduit for receiving and draining overflow water. As illustrated in FIG. 3, another feature ofventilation apparatus 30 incorporates drainingdevice 31 having first elongatedhollow tube 32 and second elongatedhollow tube 33. Each oftubes inlet end tubes outlet end tubular connector 38 for connectingtubes ventilation pipe 39. Outlet ends 36 and 37 andtubular connector 38 are positioned above the normal water level intank 14. - In one embodiment,
tubular connector 38 has four connecting ends. First connectingend 41 and second connectingend 42 are attached to one of outlet ends 36 and 37 oftubes end 43 is attached overupper end 44 ofventilation pipe 39. Fourth connectingend 45 ofconnector 38 is attached tofirst end 46 ofsuction hose 47. Thus,tubes tubular connector 38,ventilation pipe 39, and dischargeconduit 40.Suction hose 47 is in fluid communication withtubular connector 38,ventilation pipe 39, and dischargeconduit 40. Air movement is in the direction indicated by the solid arrows A shown in FIG. 3. - In a non-draining mode,
tubes tank 14outside tubes water tank 14. In a draining mode, when there is excess water that rises above the level oftubular connector 38, increased water pressure insidetank 14 pushes excess water intotubes tubes tubular connector 38 intoventilation pipe 39 and drains throughlower end 48 ofventilation pipe 39 that is open intodischarge conduit 40 belowflapper 49. Water movement is in the direction indicated by the broken arrows w in FIG. 3. - It is contemplated that
ventilation apparatus 20 of the present invention is sized to fit in a water tank of a traditional flush toilet system without much modification.Ventilation apparatus 20 replaces the overflow pipe in the traditional system to facilitate both the ventilation of the odorous air and the draining of overflow water. As shown in FIG. 1,ventilation apparatus 20 of the present invention can be fitted sealingly ontodischarge conduit 15. Also as shown in FIG. 1, opening 149 may be cut through a wall oftank 14 or lid 6 (FIG. 7) to allowventilation pipe 151 to extend outside the tank and be connected tovacuum hose 150. - In yet another embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS.4-6,
ventilation apparatus 50 includes drainingdevice 51 that has upside-down U-shapedhollow tube 52.Tube 52 hasfirst leg 53 having inlet end 54 for receiving overflow water disposed below the normal water level intank 14, andsecond leg 55 having outlet end 56 being connected directly to dischargeconduit 58.Tube 52 hasbend portion 57 disposed above the normal water level in the tank. - Alternatively, draining
device 31, as depicted in FIG. 12, comprises U-shaped-hollow tube 200, which includes hook-shapedtube 201 and L-shapedtube 206. Hook-shapedtube 201 definesfirst leg 202 having inlet end 210 facing bottom 5 oftank 14, andbend portion 203 having hook end 207. L-shapedtube 206 definessecond leg 204 havingtop end 209 connected to hookend 207 ofbend portion 203, andbase 205 having outlet end 208 open into discharge conduit (not shown).Top end 209 ofsecond leg 204 may be connected to hookend 207 ofbend portion 203 by a lock mechanism or a tight swivel. - Turning again to FIGS.4-6, in a non-draining mode,
first leg 53 ofhollow tube 52 maintains a comparable water level as the normal water level intank 14. In a draining mode, when there is excess water above the level ofbend portion 57, increased water pressure insidetank 14 pushes excess water intofirst leg 53, throughinlet end 54 such that the water moves throughbend portion 57 tosecond leg 55 and throughoutlet end 56 intodischarge conduit 58. -
Inlet end 54 is positioned close to bottom 5 oftank 14 in order to maximize water pressure atinlet end 54 to push water insidehollow tube 52.Inlet end 54 offirst leg 53 may be between ½″ and ¾″ above bottom S oftank 14.Inlet 54 end may define a plurality ofopenings 59 to increase water movement fromtank 14 intotube 52 for draining. Eachopening 59 may be about ¼″ in diameter. - In the embodiment shown in FIGS.4-6,
ventilation apparatus 20 for eliminating the odor fromtoilet bowl 50 may includevacuum ring 60 disposed arounddischarge conduit 58 and belowflush valve 61,vacuum ring 60 definescircular tube 60A having a plurality of openings for fluid communication withdischarge conduit 58.Circular tube 60A may be of any suitable diameter, for example about three-quarters of an inch in diameter.Ventilation apparatus 20 further comprisesventilation pipe 63 havinglower end 64 andupper end 65.Lower end 64 is open intovacuum ring 60 whileupper end 65 is connected to one end ofsuction hose 25. Second end ofsuction hose 25 is connected tosuction device 28 as previously described, which is capable of pulling air frombowl 12 throughpassageway 16 intoventilation pipe 21 and subsequently intosuction hose 25 to be discharged at a remote location. - In another embodiment,
ventilation apparatus 230 depicted partially in FIG. 13 may includeair conduit 230A connectingupper end 247 ofventilation pipe 231 andfirst end 248 ofsuction hose 242.Air conduit 230A may includemale air conduit 232 andfemale air conduit 240.Male air conduit 232 defines ventilationpipe connecting end 233 andflat portion 234, which defines firstflat end 238. Pipe-connectingend 233 can be tightly connectable to theupper end 247 of theventilation pipe 231 by locking mechanism or a tight swivel.Male air conduit 232 defines a gradually increasing width from the pipe-connectingend 233 to firstflat portion 234. (See FIG. 14). Firstflat portion 234 maintains a uniform width, for example about three inches. In addition, firstflat portion 234 extendsoutside water tank 236 throughspace 235 betweentank 236 andlid 237. The thickness of firstflat portion 234 betweentank 236 andlid 237 is about ¼ inch.Male air conduit 232 definespassageway 246 in fluid communication withventilation pipe 231.Space 235 can be an existing space in certain type of tanks or can be created by the placement of firstflat portion 234 betweentank 236 andlid 237. - Furthermore,
female air conduit 240 defines hose-connectingend 241 and secondflat portion 243 defining secondflat end 244. Hose-connectingend 241 may be connected tofirst end 248 ofsuction hose 242 by a locking mechanism or by a tight swivel.Female air conduit 240 defines a gradually increasing width from hose-connectingend 241 to secondflat portion 243.Flat portion 243 defines a uniform width, for example about three inches. In addition,female air conduit 240 defines a passageway in fluid communication withsuction hose 242. Secondflat end 244 defines opening 245 that is slightly larger than outer perimeter of firstflat end 238 ofmale air conduit 232. Firstflat end 238 may be snugly inserted into opening 245 of secondflat end 244. - One arrangement of the invention involves
suction hose 242 andfemale air conduit 240 being positioned behind wall W of water closet WC. It is also preferable that secondflat end 244 offemale air conduit 240 extends from behind wall W through hole H into water closet WC to be connected to firstflat end 238 ofmale air conduit 232. Hole H is shaped and sized to allow secondflat end 244 to be snugly inserted therethrough. Alternatively, hole H may be shaped and sized to allow firstflat end 238 to be snugly inserted therethrough to be connected to secondflat end 244 behind wall W.Male air conduit 232 may be made of substantially rigid material to support the weight oflid 237, whereas,female air conduit 240 may be made of a more flexible material. - As shown in FIG. 13, once
male air conduit 232 is connected toventilation pipe 231,female air conduit 240 is connected tosuction hose 242, andmale air conduit 232 is connected tofemale air conduit 240, so that odorous air may be drawn fromventilation pipe 231 intosuction hose 242 to be discharged as described herein above. -
Ventilation apparatus 230 may further include wall bracket 250 (shown in FIG. 15) affixed on wall W behindtank 236 as shown in FIG. 13.Wall bracket 250 definesslot 251, which is shaped and sized to allow secondflat end 244 offemale air conduit 240 to be snugly inserted therethrough. Secondflat end 244 may slightly extend fromslot 251 to receive firstflat end 238 ofmale air conduit 232. First flat end is inserted into opening 245 of secondflat end 244, which may extend further throughslot 245 into wall W. Additionally,wall bracket 250 can definelower flange 252 andupper flange 253 for holding the flat ends tightly together and to minimize any air leakage. Preferably,flanges - Referring now to FIGS.22-26, in an alternative embodiment,
flexible air conduit 320 defines substantially flatrectangular accordion hose 321, which includespassageway 329, cross-section (24-24) of which has an elongated oval shape as shown in FIG. 24.Accordion hose 321 defines a series of alternatingridges 324 andvalleys 325 that are horizontally contractible and expandable. Preferably,accordion hose 321 is made of a flexible and bendable material such as plastic or rubber. -
Flexible air conduit 320 includes firstflat end 322 disposed at a first end ofaccordion hose 321. Firstflat end 322 may be slightly flatter than theaccordion hose 321 in order to fit in aspace 335 betweenlid 330 andwater tank 331 as shown in FIG. 26. Firstflat end 322 has head 328 (see FIG. 25) defining roundterminal end 326 matable toupper end 332 ofventilation pipe 333 of toilet system as shown in FIG. 26.Flexible air conduit 320 further includessecond end 327 disposed atsecond end 322 ofaccordion hose 321.Second end 327 is snugly connectable to suction hose 334 (as shown in FIG. 26), which is connected to a suction device (not shown). - Referring now to FIG. 26,
flexible air conduit 320 is connected betweenupper end 332 ofventilation pipe 333 at the round terminal end.Flexible air conduit 320 extends horizontally withinspace 335 betweenlid 330 andtank 331 to bathroom wall W behindtank 331.Flexible air conduit 320 may be contracted or expanded such that it can be threaded through hole H in wall W and bent upwardly to be connected tosuction hose 334. -
Flexible air conduit 320, likeair conduit 230A may be used in conjunction withwall bracket 250 shown in FIG. 15 in a similar way as what has been shown in FIG. 13 and as described herein above. In addition,alternative wall bracket 350 shown in FIGS. 27-28 may also be used with eitherair conduit 230,flexible air conduit 320, or elbow shapedair conduit 281 shown in FIG. 18.Alternative wall bracket 350 includes substantiallyrectangular plate 351 having one ormore bores 352 for receivingfasteners 352A such as nails or screws forfastening plate 351 to wall W of the bathroom.Plate 351 hasrecess end 353 flanked byfirst corner edge 355 andsecond corner edge 356. The width of therecess end 353 between thefirst corner edge 355 andsecond corner edge 356 substantially matches the width ofair conduit 358. As shown in FIG. 28,bracket 350 can be affixed to wall W withfastener 352A, such thatrecess end 353 is aligned to hole H in wall W sized to receiveair conduit 358 therethrough.Air conduit 358 is positioned atrecess end 353 betweenfirst corner edge 355 andsecond corner edge 356, through hole H into inner wall space I to be connected to suction hose (not shown). - Another
wall bracket 360 as shown in FIGS. 29-30 may be included in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-6, 11, and 16.Wall bracket 360 defines substantially rectangular plate 361 having one ormore bores 363 for receivingfasteners 363A such as nails or screws for fastening plate 361 to wall W of the bathroom. Plate 361 hasround slot 364 for receivingcylindrical suction hose 365.Round slot 364 is aligned to hole H in wall W sized to receivesuction hose 365 therethrough. It is contemplated thatsuction hose 365 defines corrugatedouter surface 367 consisting of a series of alternatingridges 368 and valleys 369. As illustrated in FIG. 30, whenbracket 360 is affixed to wall W byfasteners 363A,suction hose 365 may be forced throughround slot 364 and hole H into inner wall space I to be connected to suction device (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment,round slot 364 and hole H are positioned between tworidges 368 ofcorrugated surface 367 ofsuction hose 365, and holdsuction hose 365 in place without sliding in or out of wall W. - In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a toilet system comprises a
ventilation apparatus 260 shown in FIGS. 16-17.Ventilation apparatus 260 fits in a toilet system that includestoilet bowl 12 withrim 13 defining a plurality ofholes 13A,water tank 14 with a lid 6,overflow pipe 261 connecting to discharge conduit, which connectsbowl 13 andtank 14.Ventilation apparatus 260 comprisescylinder 262, plug 263,suction hose 264, and suction device (not shown).Cylinder 262 is slightly larger and longer thanoverflow pipe 261.Cylinder 262 hastop end 265 coveringfirst end 266 ofhose 264, andbottom end 267 disposed under the water intank 14. Thecylinder 262 is disposed overoverflow pipe 261 such that annular space s is formed betweenoutside wall 268 ofoverflow pipe 261 and insidewall 269 ofcylinder 262.Plug 263 defines pipe-connectingend 270 snugly fitted onto upper end 261 A ofoverflow pipe 261, and hose-connectingend 271 snugly fitted ontofirst end 266 ofhose 264. Plug 263 also defines a plurality ofholes 272 for providing fluid communication between annular space s and the overflow pipe 261 (see arrow w), and fluid communication between theventilation pipe 261 and hose 264 (see arrow A).Bottom end 267 ofcylinder 262 is disposed slightly above the bottom of the tank (not shown) to allow water to flow into space s (see arrow w).Lower end 267 ofcylinder 262 may be fastened ontooverflow pipe 261 andtop end 265 ofcylinder 262 may be fastened tohose 264.Second end 274 ofhose 264 is connected to suction device (not shown). - In one aspect of the above embodiment, plug263 can be of any shape as long as it fits
first end 266 of thehose 264 and top end 261 A ofoverflow pipe 261, and includes a plurality ofholes 272. Plug 263 may be spherical, like a whiffle ball (as shown in FIG. 17), or cylindrical, like a hollow disk. - In the embodiment depicted in FIGS.16, ventilation occurs when odorous air is drawn (see arrow A) from the toilet bowl (not shown) through the discharge conduit (not shown). The air then moves from the discharge conduit into
overflow pipe 261, passingplug 263 intohose 264, to be discharged at a remote location. On the other hand, when there is excess water, the excess water flows into annular space s betweenoverflow pipe 261 andcylinder 262 from the bottom of the tank. Water in annular space s is pushed towards the plurality ofholes 272 onplug 263, and drained intooverflow pipe 261, to be discharged into the discharge conduit (not shown). - It is contemplated that in the embodiments described above (FIGS.1-6, 11, 13, 16, and 22-26), the ventilation apparatus may include elbow adapter 340 (shown in FIG. 31.).
Elbow adapter 340 definesvertical arm 341 andhorizontal arm 342. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-6, 11, and 16, one ofvertical arm 341 andhorizontal arm 342 may be connected to a ventilation pipe of the present invention (such as 21 of FIG. 1), and the other arm may be connectable to a suction hose (such as 25 of FIG. 1). In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13 and 22-26, one ofvertical arm 341 andhorizontal arm 342 may be connected to a ventilation pipe of the present invention (such as 21 of FIG. 1), and the other arm may be connected to an air conduit (such as 230A of FIG. 13).Elbow adapter 340 further defines inlet opening 343 disposed at end 341A ofvertical arm 341 and outlet opening 344 disposed at end 341B ofhorizontal arm 342. Air channel 345 is disposed between inlet opening andoutlet opening 344. -
Elbow adapter 340 may be snugly or swivelingly connected toventilation pipe 21.Vertical arm 341 orhorizontal arm 342 may be positioned such that inlet opening 343 ofvertical arm 341 or outlet opening 344 ofhorizontal arm 342 points toward the back of the water tank. Further, the other arm may be connected tosuction hose 25 orair conduit 230A such that suction hose, or air conduit, 25, 230A is extended outside the water tank, such as horizontally within a space between the lid and the tank. - Turning now to FIGS.32-35, an alternative embodiment of the
ventilation apparatus 370 also fits in a toilet system that includes a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe (not shown) connecting to a discharge conduit (not shown), which connects the bowl and the tank (not shown).Ventilation apparatus 370 comprisessupport member 371 and drainingmember 372.Support member 371 defineshollow cylinder 373 having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the overflow pipe so thathollow cylinder 373 may be placed substantially over the overflow pipe.Hollow cylinder 373 definestop end 374 andbottom end 375.Top end 374 definesgroove 376 for receiving drainingmember 372.Groove 376 has a plurality of stop pins 377 disposed spatially and perpendicularly acrossgroove 376 creating a plurality ofgaps 378 for fluid communication. Whensupport member 371 is placed over the overflow pipe, stop pins 377 rest on the top end of the overflow pipe (not shown), and in the exemplary embodiment, eachstop pin 377 is a rod having a diameter of about ⅛ inch.Support member 371 further defines one ormore bores 379 for receiving one or more securing means 380 for tighteningsupport member 371 to the overflow pipe. In the exemplary embodiment,support member 371 defines two threadedbores 379, while securing means 380 are plastic thumbscrews. - Draining
member 372 includes elbow-shapedhollow tube 381 definingfirst arm 382 andsecond arm 383 connected to each other atbend portion 390.First arm 382 snugly fits ingroove 376 ofsupport member 371 such thatsecond arm 373 is parallel tohollow tube 373 ofsupport member 371.First arm 382 includesoutlet end 384 connectable to and being in fluid communication with suction hose (not shown), or an air conduit (shown as 230A in FIGS. 13 and 22-26).Outer perimeter 390 ofoutlet end 384 may be threaded for securing the suction hose or an air conduit thereon.First arm 382 definesside opening 389 aligning to the plurality ofgaps 378 between stop pins 377 ofsupport member 371.First arm 382 further definesvent hole 387 disposed onopposite side 387A ofside opening 389.Vent hole 387 functions to relieve the vacuum pressure that may occur when water is flushed.Second arm 383 definesinlet end 385 having a plurality ofapertures 386 in water communication with the tank. In the exemplary embodiment, the plurality of holes includes 16 holes, each having a diameter of ¼ inch. -
Ventilation apparatus 370 with drainingmember 372 snugly placed ingroove 376 of supportingmember 371 may be fitted in a water tank by placinghollow cylinder 373 over the existing overflow pipe. Securing means 380 may be threaded throughbores 379 and pressed against the overflow pipe to keep thesupport member 371 secured to the overflow pipe. In the final position,inlet end 385 ofsecond arm 383 is disposed under the water, slightly above the bottom of the tank (not shown). When the water tank is being filled, water moves from the tank intosecond arm 383 through the plurality ofapertures 386 ofsecond arm 383. Once the water level in the tank reaches the standard level, the water level insecond arm 383 stays belowbend portion 390 of elbow-shapedhollow tube 381. In the draining mode, in which there is excess of water in the tank, water pressure increases such that water is pushed through the plurality ofapertures 386 intosecond arm 383. Water subsequently moves passingbend portion 390 intofirst arm 382 and then throughside opening 389 and the plurality ofgaps 378 into the overflow pipe to be drained into the toilet bowl through the discharge conduit (not shown). - In addition,
outlet end 384 is connected to the suction hose, which in turn is connected to a suction device such as an exhaust fan (not shown). When the suction device is operating, the odorous air from the toilet bowl is drawn into the overflow pipe, passing the plurality ofgaps 378 andside opening 389 intofirst arm 382 of drainingmember 372. Subsequently, odorous air passes throughoutlet end 384 into the suction hose to be discharged in a remote location. The suction device may operate continuously or may be operable by means of a switch control (not shown) that can be turned on and off by a user. - In yet another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 18,
ventilation apparatus 280 is connected toairtight water tank 285 withlid 286.Ventilation apparatus 280 comprises elbow-shapedair conduit 281 that defineshose connecting end 282 andair inlet end 283.Air conduit 281 may extend substantially behind the wall to be connected tohose 288, andhose 288 is connected to a suction device (not shown).Air inlet end 283 is inserted through space sp betweenwater tank 285 andlid 286.Lid 286 is tightly sealed totank 285 to create an airtight tank. -
Air conduit 281 is substantially flat, in the exemplary embodiment having a width of about three inches and a thickness of about ¼ inch.Air conduit 281 further definespassageway 287 providing fluid communication between airspace sp above the water level in the tank andhose 288. - In this embodiment, the odorous air (see arrow A) moves from the toilet bowl (not shown) into
overflow pipe 289 and is released into airspace sp above the water. The odorous air within the airspace is simultaneously drawn intoair inlet end 283 ofair conduit 281, passing throughpassageway 287 and intohose 288 to be discharged elsewhere. - It is contemplated that in this embodiment, the ventilation apparatus may include elbow adapter340 (as shown in FIG. 31).
Elbow adapter 340 may be swiveling such thathorizontal arm 341 is positioned to point towardair inlet end 283. In this way, odorous air from the toilet bowl may be specifically directed from overflow pipe to theair conduit 281. - Another aspect of the present invention contemplates
hose box 300 as shown in FIGS. 19-21.Box 300 may be used to hide from view suction hose v that extends outside a bathroom wall to the ceiling in order to bypass any difficult corner between the wall and the ceiling.Box 300 comprisesback wall 301 andtop wall 302. Backwall 301 definestop end 303,bottom end 304, andfirst hole 305 suitable for receiving hose v.Top wall 302 definesfirst end 306,second end 307,second hole 308 suitable for receiving hose v. Top end 303 ofback wall 301 is attached tofirst end 306 of top wall at a right angle r.Bottom end 304 ofback wall 301 defines at least one supportingledge 309, andsecond end 307 oftop wall 302 defines at least one supportingledge 310. -
Hose box 300 further comprisesfirst side wall 311, andsecond side wall 312, each being a right triangle. Each offirst side wall 311 andsecond side wall 312 is attached to each side ofback wall 301 andtop wall 302 forming an open triangular box (see FIG. 19). - Additionally,
hose box 300 comprisesfront cover 313 sized to fit on supportingledge 310 oftop wall 302 andledge 309 ofback wall 301.Box 300 is affixed to a bathroom wall such thatback wall 301 is against the bathroom wall andtop wall 302 is against the ceiling. The bathroom wall defines an inlet opening (not shown) in alignment withfirst hole 305 ofback wall 301. In addition, the ceiling defines an outlet opening (not shown) in alignment withsecond hole 308. -
Hose shielding box 300 may be used in a situation in which suction hose v has to be threaded outside the bathroom wall to avoid any sharp corner between the wall and the ceiling, or to traverse the wall framing. Hose v can be inserted through the inlet opening of the wall in tobox 300 throughfirst hole 305 and outsidebox 300 throughsecond hole 308 and back up into the ceiling through the outlet opening. - Referring now to FIGS.36-41,
hose box kit 400 is provided as an alternative tohose box 300 shown in FIGS. 19-21.Hose box kit 400 comprisestemplate member 401 andcorner cover member 402.Template member 401 defines backplate 403 connected totop plate 404 at right angle r.Back plate 403 has first opening 405 sized to receive a suction hose (not shown).Top plate 404 hassecond opening 406 also sized to receive the suction hose.Template member 401 may be made of a one-piece material such as a plastic or aluminum sheet that is bent into a right angle.Back plate 403 andtop plate 404 have a plurality ofholes 407 for receiving fasteners such as nails, screws or bolts for attachingtemplate member 401 to a corner between a wall and the ceiling.Back plate 403 is attachable to the wall andtop plate 404 is attachable to the ceiling. Bothback plate 403 andtop plate 404 define a plurality oflatches 408 capable of receiving and lockingcorner cover member 402 thereon. -
Corner cover member 402 definesfront plate 410 connected tofirst side plate 411 andsecond side plate 412.Front plate 410 is substantially rectangular, whilefirst side plate 411 andsecond side plate 412 are triangular as shown in FIG. 40.First side plate 411 andsecond side plate 412 define a plurality of locking latches 413 that may be snapped against the plurality oflatches 408 oftemplate member 401 and thus can lockcorner cover member 402 ontemplate member 401. - Similar to
hose box 300,hose box kit 400 may be used in a situation in which the suction hose has to be threaded outside the bathroom wall to negotiate a tight corner between the wall and the ceiling.Template member 401 may be affixed to the bathroom wall such thatback plate 403 rests against the bathroom wall andtop plate 404 rests against the ceiling. The bathroom wall defines an inlet opening (not shown) being in alignment withfirst opening 405 oftemplate member 401. The ceiling defines an outlet opening (not shown) being in alignment tosecond opening 406 oftemplate member 401. The suction hose can be inserted through the inlet opening of the wall, throughfirst opening 405 oftemplate member 401, throughsecond opening 406 oftemplate member 401, and through the outlet opening into the ceiling. Thencorner cover member 402 is snapped ontotemplate member 401 such that the protruding hose is hidden withinhose box kit 400. - Although the snap locking mechanism works well for the attachment of
corner cover member 402 totemplate member 401, other types of attachment may also be used. For example, thecorner cover member 402 may be nailed or screwed ontotemplate member 401. - Another aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS.7-10. A toilet system comprises
automatic flushing mechanism 69 for a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl and a water tank, a discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, and the discharge conduit, a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the passageway.automatic flushing mechanism 69 compriseslever 70 which includes L-shapedbar member 71,attachment member 72,cable member 73, andflapper cord 74. Bar member defineslong arm 75 connected toflapper cord 74 which is connected toflapper 76, andshort arm 77 having first bore 78 (see FIG. 8).Attachment member 72 is pivotably connected toshort arm 77.Attachment member 72 andshort arm 77 ofbar member 71 may be pivotably secured together by a two-headedpin 86.Attachment member 72 hasfirst end 79 connectable to or supported on the water tank, andsecond end 80 defining second bore 81 in alignment withfirst bore 78. - Cable member defines
first end 82 andsecond end 83,first end 82 is threaded throughsecond bore 81 and first bore 78, and is slidingly secured toshort arm 77 ofbar member 71.Second end 83 is connectable toautomatic motion device 84.Lever 70 may assume a rest position as shown in FIG. 8 and a flushing position as shown in FIG. 9. In the rest position FIG. 8,long arm 75 ofbar member 71 points downward to relaxflapper cord 74, and allowflapper 76 to close flush valve 85 (see FIG. 7). In the flushing position FIG. 9,long arm 75 ofbar member 71 moves upward such thatflapper cord 74 pulls onflapper 76 causingflapper 76 to move upward to open flush valve 85 (see FIG. 7) and allow water to flush. After the flushing is complete,long arm 75 ofbar member 71 returns to the rest position.Flapper cord 74 is for connectinglong arm 75 toflapper 76 and may be a metal chain, a rubber string, or other suitable material such as durable nylon cord.Bar member 71 andattachment member 72 may be made of any suitable material such as metal or durable plastic. - Returning to FIG. 7, the present invention further contemplates a toilet system having
flushing mechanism 69 that includeslever 70 of the present invention connected tomotion device 84 that is operatively connected to sensingdevice 88. As described above,second end 83 ofcable member 73 is connectedmotion device 84.Motion device 84 may have a movableelongated shaft 86 that hascable end 87 connected tosecond end 83 ofcable member 73. - Sensing
device 88 is operatively connected tomotion device 84.Sensing device 88 is capable of detecting the presence or movement of a toilet user. When sensingdevice 88 is activated, it can actuatemotion device 84 to pull oncable member 73. In the illustrated embodiment,shaft 86 retracts to pullcable member 73.Cable member 73 subsequently slides backward so thatfirst end 82 pulls onshort arm 77 towardattachment member 72 and thus liftslong arm 75 ofbar member 71 upward in the flushing position.Long arm 75 pulls onflapper cord 74 and thus liftsflapper 76 to openflush valve 85. Water then moves fromtank 90 throughflush valve 85 intodischarge conduit 15 oftoilet bowl 12. After the flushing is completed, the shaft ofmotion device 84 moves back to its original position and the cable member is relaxed. Consequently,long arm 75 of bar member points downward so thatflapper cord 74 is relaxed andflapper 76 re-seats to closeflush valve 85.Long arm 75 may haveweight 75A in it to facilitate its downward movement. - As shown in FIG. 7,
automatic flushing mechanism 69 may be installed onto a traditional flush toilet that has a manual flushing mechanism. The original flush lever can be retained or removed. As shown in FIG. 1,manual flushing mechanism 140 comprisesmanual lever 141 that hasend 142 attached to stem 143 of flushinghandle 144, andsecond end 145 havingflapper line 146 attached toflapper 18. Flushinghandle 144 is pivotably disposed onwall 147 oftank 14.Stem 143 of flushinghandle 144 is inserted through wall bore 148 to be attached tomanual lever 141.Manual mechanism 140 can be connected toflapper 76 byline 146 to serve as a “fail safe” mechanism shouldautomatic system 69 fail to operate. - Return again to FIG. 7, to install
automatic flushing mechanism 69,attachment member 72 is hung on a rim of the tank or secured to a side of the tank by a fastener such as a set screw or a bolt.Second end 83 ofcable member 73 is threaded throughbore 89 defined on a wall oftank 91 to be connected toelongated shaft 86 ofmotion device 84. Lastly,flapper cord 74 is connected toflapper 76. If the manual flushing mechanism is removed prior to the installation ofautomatic flushing mechanism 69, bore 89 can be the same bore that holds the flushing handle for the manual flushing mechanism. If the manual flushing mechanism is not removed, bore 89 is separate from the bore that holds the flushing handle for the manual flushing mechanism.Flapper 76 may be connected to bothflapper cord 74 of the present invention andflapper line 46 of the manual flushing mechanism. In this way, the flapper can optionally be lifted open or closed by eitherautomatic flushing mechanism 69 or the manual flushing mechanism. - Further, both sensing
device 88 andmotion device 84 in the exemplary embodiment are affixed to a wall of the toilet room such thatsensing device 88 may detect the movement of the user.Sensing device 88 may be a motion detector, which is activated by the user present in the target area, or the user leaving the area. Alternatively,sensing device 88 can be a noise-activated device or a heat sensing apparatus. Sensing device may generate an electrical signal that activatesmotion device 84.Motion device 84 may be a solenoid, havingshaft 86 suspended in a movable manner within a magnetic coil. If the coil is energized by the application of electrical current,shaft 86 will move according to the polarity and current through the coil, and will operate on lever for opening or closing theflush valve 17.Motion device 84 may include a time delay control that allowsshaft 86 to move back to its original position only after flushing is complete.Device 84 may be spring biased to returnshaft 88 to its neutral position. - Referring now to FIGS.42-44, a
lever 500 is an alternative configuration of thelever 70 shown in FIGS. 7-8. Thelever 500 comprises along bar 501, adisk 502, ashort bar 503, aflapper cord 504, and acable member 505. The long bar has adistal end 506 attached to a flapper cord 507 that is connected to aflapper 508. Aproximal end 509 of thelong bar 501 is attached to afirst surface 510 of thedisk 502 at a first position A having a distance D1 away from a center C. Aproximal end 511 of theshort bar 503 is attached to asecond surface 512 of thedisk 502 at a second position B that lies linearly to the first position A and the center C. The distance D2 between the first position A and the center C should be the same as the distance D1 between the second position B and the center C. - As shown in FIG. 44,
lever 500 may be installed insidewater tank 516 by fastening center C ofdisk 502 totank 516 withfastener 517 such thatdisk 502 is rotatable around axis x.Fastener 517 may have a hook end (not shown) for fastening to rim 516A oftank 516. In addition,distal end 513 ofshort bar 503 extendsoutside tank 516 through slot opening 518 to be connected tocable member 505, which can be connected to a motion device (not shown), as described above.Slot opening 518 may be rectangular or curved to accommodate the rotational movement ofshort bar 503. - In a non-flushing position depicted in FIG. 42,
disk 502 situates such that first position A lies below second position B and center C, resulting inlong bar 501 being closer to the bottom oftank 516. In this position,flapper cord 504 relaxes, whileflapper 508 sits on the flush valve (not shown). In a flushing position depicted in FIG. 43, when the motion device is activated,cable member 505 pulls onshort bar 503 causingdisk 502 to rotate in direction a. Consequently,long arm 501 is lifted in direction u such thatflapper cord 504 pullsflapper 508 off the flush valve (not shown) so that water can flush into the toilet bowl (not shown). - In another feature of the invention shown in FIG. 11,
toilet system 100 comprises a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl (not shown) andwater tank 101,discharge conduit 102 connecting the bowl andtank 101, a passageway 103A providing communication betweentank 101, anddischarge conduit 102,flush valve 103 disposed abovedischarge conduit 102,flush valve 103 hasflapper 104 for opening and closing the passageway 103A to allow the movement of water fromtank 101 to the passageway 103A.Toilet system 100 further comprisesventilation apparatus 105 which includesventilation pipe 106 havinglower end 110 open intodischarge conduit 102 andupper end 111 connected tofirst end 112 ofhose 107,vacuum ring 108 positioned arounddischarge conduit 102 belowflush valve 103, and drainingdevice 120. Opening 121 may be situated in the back on the side, or on the lid to receiveupper end 111 ofventilation pipe 106 that extends outside the tank to be connected tofirst end 112 ofhose 107, which may be disposed behindwall 122 of the room. - Ventilation apparatus includes
suction device 109, which is connected tosecond end 113 ofhose 107.Suction device 109 may be positioned at a distant location, providing thatsuction device 109 has sufficient suction force to pull the air from the toilet bowl into the passageway 103A and further intoventilation pipe 106 andhose 107 to be discharged at a distant location, such as outside the building. Drainingdevice 120 includes an upside down U-shapehollow tube 123 having inlet end 124 and outlet end 125 as previously shown in FIGS. 4-6, and as described herein above. Alternatively, drainingdevice 120 may include two elongated hollow tubes connected to the ventilation pipe by a tubular connector as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.Toilet system 100 as shown in FIG. 11 further comprisesautomatic flushing mechanism 130.Flushing mechanism 130 includeslever 131,sensing device 133, andmotion device 132.Lever 131 includes a bar member, an attachment member, a cable member, and a flapper cord, as shown in FIGS. 710 and as described herein above. - Referring now to FIGS.45-53, a further aspect of the present invention includes
fan system 700 for ventilating bathroom air.Fan system 700 is capable of receiving odorous air or steam from two or more locations in a bathroom to be discharged at an outside location. -
Fan system 700 shown in FIGS. 45-47 comprisesfan box 701, which can be of any suitable size or shape. In the exemplary embodiment,fan box 701 is a hollow rectangular box definingtop wall 741, and fourside walls 740. As shown in FIG. 47A, one or more of fourside walls 740 is attached totop wall 741 byhinge 741 A. Hingedside walls 740 may be pivoted towards the inside offan box 701. This feature allows thefan box 701 to be connected to other components of thefan system 700 described herein below, afterfan box 701 has been installed within the space above the ceiling through an opening in the ceiling (not shown).Fan box 701 definesbottom side 745 substantially aligned to the plane of the ceiling. -
Fan box 701 further definescavity 701 A formingfirst compartment 702 andsecond compartment 703, as depicted in FIGS. 46-47.First compartment 702 defines a plurality offirst inlet openings 704 for receiving air from at least one location in the bathroom, andsecond compartment 703 defines a plurality ofsecond inlet openings 705 for receiving air from at least one other location. Each of the plurality offirst inlet openings 704 andsecond inlet openings 705 is disposed on each ofside walls 740, while outlet opening is disposed on one ofside walls 740. -
Fan box 701 may include a plurality ofcaps 706 for closing each of the plurality offirst inlet openings 704 and the plurality ofsecond inlet openings 705 when not in use for receiving air or steam. -
Side walls 740 andtop wall 741 may have a plurality of retainingbrackets 740A for attachingfan box 701 to beams or any suitable roof or ceiling structures. Retainingbrackets 740A define bores for receiving any suitable fasteners such as threaded screws, bolts or nails for securingfan box 701 to the beams, or other roof or ceiling structures (not shown). - Referring back to FIGS.45-47,
fan system 700 may includehanger unit 790 attachable tofan box 701 for hangingfan box 701 to a beam.Hanger unit 790 includes ofhanger plate 791 secured totop wall 741 offan box 701, and a plurality ofhanger arms 792, each definingtop end 793 andside end 794.Top end 793 of each of the plurality ofhanger arms 792 is slidably attached tohanger plate 791, such thattop end 793 adjustably extends away fromside walls 740 offan box 701 to reach a beam or other suitable structure. Side end 794 of each of the plurality ofhanger arms 792 defines elongatedslot 795 for receiving a plurality of hanger fastener (not shown) forfastening fan system 700 to a beam or any suitable structure. -
Fan system 700 further comprisesfirst fan 710 disposed withinfirst compartment 702,second fan 711 disposed withinsecond compartment 703, andexhaust hose 712 connected tooutlet opening 709.First fan 710 is capable of pulling air from the first location through one of the plurality offirst inlet openings 704 intofan box 701. Similarly,second fan 711 operates to pull air from the second location through one of the plurality ofsecond inlet openings 705 intofan box 701. Bothfirst fan 710 andsecond fan 711 drive the air out offan box 701 through outlet opening 709 intoexhaust hose 712 for releasing at an outside location. - In another feature, also depicted in FIGS.45-51, one of the plurality of
second inlet openings 705 is connected to suction hose 713 ofventilation apparatus 714 for ventilating odorous air from a toilet (not shown). In addition, one of the plurality offirst inlet openings 704 may be connected toventilation tubing 715 for ventilating air from a bathing facility (not shown), such as a shower stall or an enclosed bathtub. - As shown in FIGS.45-46,
fan system 700 may further comprisefirst adapter 716 attachable to one of the plurality offirst inlet openings 704,second adapter 717 attachable to one of the plurality ofsecond inlet openings 705, andoutlet adapter 718 attachable tooutlet opening 709.First adapter 716 has firstcircular lip 716A for connecting toventilation tubing 715. Similarly,second adapter 717 has secondcircular lip 717A for connecting to suction hose 713 ofventilation apparatus 714. Likewise,outlet adapter 718 has thirdcircular lip 718A for connecting to exhausthose 712.Fan system 700 may include a plurality of tubing clamps 726 for securing the tubing or hoses to respective adapters. - As demonstrated in FIG. 45,
ventilation tubing 715 defines connectingend 719 andintake end 720.Connecting end 719 is snugly connected tosecond inlet adapter 716, andintake end 720 being in fluid communication with the bathing facility.Intake end 720 includesintake housing 721, which hasbase 724 definingintake opening 722 for receiving air from the bathing facility, andorifice 723 for connecting to intake end 720 ofventilation tubing 715.Intake housing 721 may have a domeshape (see FIGS. 45 and 49-50).Intake housing 721 includes a ceiling fastener (not shown) forfastening intake housing 721 to the inner side of the ceiling (not shown) above the bathing facility.Intake opening 722 is aligned to a hole (not shown) in the ceiling to allow air or steam within the bathing facility to move intointake housing 721. -
Intake housing 721 is adapted to include intake grille 725 (shown in FIG. 51), which defines a plurality ofgaps 725A for receiving the air or steam from the bathing facility (shown in FIG. 51).Intake grille 725 fits overintake opening 722 such thatintake grille 725 is situated substantially on the same plane as the ceiling within the bathing facility.Intake grille 725 may includegrille fastener 725B forfastening intake grille 725 tobase 724 ofintake housing 721, other known methods of attachment may be used forintake grille 725 to fit overintake opening 722. - In one embodiment of the invention, as further illustrated in FIGS. 46 and 48,
fan box 701 is a stacked fan box definingfirst compartment 702 disposed abovesecond compartment 703. Fan system further includes stackingshroud unit 729, which containsfirst shroud 730 stacking abovesecond shroud 731. Stackingshroud unit 729 may includepartition 738 betweenfirst shroud 730 andsecond shroud 731.First shroud 730 includes first platform 736 havingfirst cavity 736A for receiving and supportingfirst fan 710.First shroud 730 further includes first substantiallycircular wall 737 having first tract opening 732 for directing the air movement towards outlet opening 709 offirst compartment 702. Likewise,second shroud 731 includessecond platform 742 havingsecond cavity 742A for receivingsecond fan 711.Second shroud 731 further includes second substantiallycircular wall 739 having second tract opening 733 for directing the air movement towards outlet opening 709 ofsecond compartment 703. Bothfirst tract opening 732 and second tract opening 733 are in fluid communications withoutlet opening 709 andexhaust hose 712. - Moreover,
fan box 701 may include a first electrical outlet (not shown) for supplying electricity to operatefirst fan 710 andsecond fan 711 andelectrical shield 727 for blocking the moisture from steam to reach the electrical outlet. The electrical outlet may be electrically connected to a switch (not shown) that a user can operate. Alternatively,first fan 710 andsecond fan 711 may be set to operate continuously or upon activation by a sensor. - Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 46,
fan system 700 further comprisescover plate 755 attachable tobottom side 745 offan box 701.Cover plate 755 may include a cover plate fastener (not shown) for fasteningcover plate 755 tobottom side 745 offan box 701. -
Fan system 700 may include agrille plate 760 attachable to coverplate 755, and the opening in the ceiling (not shown), in whichfan box 701 is installed therethrough.Grille plate 760 may include one or moregrille plate fasteners 761 for fastening thegrille plate 760 to coverplate 755.Grille plate 760 may have any decorative design. - Alternatively,
grille plate 760 shown in FIGS. 52-52A may defineremovable grille insert 765 attached to insertslot 762 disposed in the middle ofgrille plate 760.Grille insert 765 may be replaceable by optionallight unit 770 for lighting the bathroom. - Optional
light unit 770 shown in FIGS. 46 and 52 includes aluminum lightbulb reflector plate 771, which may fit intoinsert slot 762 and may be secured togrille plate 760.Light unit 770 further includeslight bulb 772 and shield 780 for protectinglight bulb 772. It is contemplated the light unit may include more than onelight bulb 772. - As shown in FIGS. 46 and 52,
light bulb 772 includessocket 773 secured to aluminum lightbulb reflector plate 771.Socket 773 has connectingplug 774 for inserting into a second electrical outlet (not shown) for supplying electricity tolight bulb 772.Shield 780 may be secured to aluminum lightbulb reflector plate 771, orgrille plate 760. It is contemplated thatshield 780 may be of any suitable shape and any decorative design. - It is further contemplated that the second electrical outlet may be connected to a second switch (not shown) that a user can operate. Optionally, the second electrical outlet may be electrically connected to the first electrical outlet, and both outlets are connected to a switch that a user can operate. In such case, the user may operate the fans at the same time the user turns on
light bulb 772. - In an alternative embodiment, fan system799 for ventilating bathroom air comprises fan box 800 (see FIG. 54) being substantially flat and rectangular, having four
side walls 801 attached totop wall 802. In this embodiment, at least oneside wall 801 is attached totop wall 802 by a plurality ofhinges 810 such that one ormore side walls 801 may be pushed toward the inside offan box 800 during the installation of the components described herein below.Fan box 800 includes a plurality of retainingbrackets 803 for attachingfan box 800 to a beam or any other suitable structures in the space above the ceiling.Fan box 800 comprisesfirst compartment 805 disposed on the same plane assecond compartment 806.First compartment 805 defines a plurality offirst intake openings 807 for receiving air from one or more locations. Similarly,second compartment 806 defines a plurality ofsecond inlet openings 808 for receiving air from one or more locations.Fan box 800 further defines outlet opening 809 being in fluid communication with bothfirst compartment 805 andsecond compartment 806.Outlet opening 809 is connectable to an exhaust hose (not shown). The operation and additional elements of fan system 799 are similar to that offan system 700. - In this alternative embodiment fan system799 further comprises a side-by-
side shroud unit 820 as illustrated in FIG. 55. Side-by-side shroud unit 820 defines leftshroud 821 for retaining a first fan (not shown), andright shroud 822 for retaining a second fan (not shown).Left shroud 821 includesfirst platform 823 definingfirst cavity 823A, and first substantiallycircular wall 824 definingfirst tract opening 824.Right shroud 822 includessecond platform 830 definingfirst cavity 830A, and first substantiallycircular wall 831 definingfirst tract opening 832.First platform 823 andsecond platform 830 may be made from a single piece material into asingle platform 834. - Side-by-
side shroud unit 820 may be inserted and retained withinfan box 800 such that leftshroud 821 is disposed withinfirst compartment 805, andright shroud 822 is disposed withinsecond compartment 806. Furthermore, the plurality offirst inlet openings 807 is in fluid communication withfirst cavity 823A, and plurality ofsecond inlet openings 808 is in fluid communication withsecond cavity 830A. Fan system 799 may include a plurality of caps (not shown) for closing any of the plurality offirst inlet openings 807 andsecond inlet openings 808 that are not in use. - The first fan (not shown) may be inserted through
first cavity 823A and secured ontofirst platform 823 with a plurality of first fan fasteners (not shown). Likewise, the second fan may be inserted throughsecond cavity 830A and secured ontosecond platform 830 with a plurality of first fan fasteners (not shown). It is contemplated that fan system 799 having side-by-side fan box 800 may be connected to the components offan box 701 as described herein above. - In an operating mode, the first fan and the second fan pull air into
fan box 800 through any of the plurality offirst openings 807 and any of the plurality ofsecond openings 808. Air moves throughfirst cavity 823A andsecond cavity 830A along first substantiallycircular wall 821 towards first tract opening 824 tooutlet opening 809, and along second substantiallycircular wall 831 towards second tract opening 832 tooutlet opening 809. Air is then pushed through outlet opening 809 into the exhaust hose (not shown) to be discharged at an outside location. - In another embodiment, the fan system for ventilating air from a plurality of locations in a building (not shown) comprises a fan box having a plurality of compartments. Each compartment defines an inlet opening for receiving air from one of the plurality of locations. The fan box further comprises an outlet opening in air communication with said plurality of compartments. The outlet opening is connected to and is in air communication with an exhaust hose.
- Furthermore, the fan system of this embodiment comprises a plurality of fans, each being disposed within each of the plurality of compartments, whereby the plurality of fans pulls air from the plurality of locations through each of the inlet openings into each of the plurality of compartments. The plurality of fans is capable of driving air out of the plurality of compartments through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for releasing to an outside location.
- In another embodiment, the present invention contemplates
ventilation apparatus 900 for eliminating odor from a commercial flush toilet. As shown in FIG. 56,commercial toilet 911 generally includestoilet bowl 912 withrim 913 defining a plurality ofholes 913A, anddischarge conduit 915 connectingbowl 912 to water supply WS. This embodiment is suitable for locations that lack a tank for providing discharge water for the toilet system. -
Ventilation apparatus 900 includesair conduit 930 havingfirst end 930A and second end 930B, first and second ends 930A, 930B being in fluid communication.First end 930A ofair conduit 930 is connected to dischargeconduit 915 byvacuum connector 960 andfastener 950.Vacuum connector 960 has a plurality ofair holes 960A, which communicate air betweentoilet bowl 912 andair conduit 930. Second end 930B ofair conduit 930 is connected to and is in air communication withhose 925.Hose 925 is connected to a suction device (not shown in FIG. 56, but generally such as shown at 28 in FIG. 3) capable of pulling air throughhose 925,air conduit 930,vacuum connector 960,discharge conduit 915, and ultimately,toilet bowl 912. Second end 930B ofair conduit 930 can further includevalve 970 regulating air pressure in the air conduit. - Another embodiment of the fan system,
fan system 1000, similar to that shown in FIG. 46, is shown in FIG. 57 as havingenclosure 1002, shown in a square configuration, withaccess openings 1004. Onesuch access opening 1004 is reserved for connection to outlet 1016 andexhaust hose 1006 while theother access openings 1004 may be used for connection to other systems such as, for example, other ventilation systems or automatic flush systems viaaccess plates 1005.Enclosure 1002 definessingle compartment 1008 within which is disposed singleelectric motor 1010 and twoimpellers blower side impeller 1012 and the other beingvacuum side impeller 1014.Vacuum side impeller 1014 is used to pull the odorous air intoenclosure 1002 whileblower side impeller 1012 propels the odorous air through outlet 1016 intohose 1006 for removal to a remote location (typically outside of the room in which fan system is installed).Impellers motor 1010 are maintained withinhousing 1018 withimpellers panel 1020 inserted therebetween to ensure that there is no disruption of one operation by the other device. In addition toaccess openings 1004 inenclosure 1002,open bottom side 1022 thereof is structured for engagement withgrille 1024 which may be visible to an observer from belowfan system 1000. -
Grille system 1024 forfan system 1000 is shown in FIG. 58 as having three portions: firstaccess shield portion 1026,insert portion 1028, andcircular cover 1030.Access shield portion 1026 includes a plurality ofopenings 1032 which provide inlets for air, typically room air, to be ventilated from the bathroom or other room location.Insert portion 1028, which locks intoopening 1027 viatabs 1029, provides a cover plate for a lamp unit, such aslamp unit 770 of FIG. 46, which is disposed withinenclosure 1002 offan system 1000;insert portion 1028 further providescircular opening 1034 for mounting a bulb or a lamp unit (not shown). Circular insert or cover 1030 seals opening 1034 through locking engagement with the edges ofopening 1034 when no light is installed, and a suitable bulb or lamp unit may have a similar engagement withopening 1034. Referring again to FIG. 57, the structure offan system 1000 is in many ways similar tofan system 700, but notably different is the structure ofenclosure 1002 definingsingle compartment 1008 having onlysingle motor 1010 and only oneblower side impeller 1012 and onevacuum side impeller 1014. -
Ventilation system 1036 is configured for removal of odors and the like from within the wash down holes underneath the rim of a toilet bowl as shown in FIG. 59.Ventilation system 1036 may be fitted to an already existing toilet, such astoilet 911 of FIG. 56 or a toilet includingtoilet tank 1038 shown in dashed lines, or may be provided before the toilet is installed in its desired location.Ventilation system 1036 includesflexible hose 1040 connected to a externally located fan system, such asfan system 1000 shown in FIG. 57, which provides vacuum suction to remove odors and other bacteria from the wash down holes underneath the toilet rim.End 1042 ofhose 1040 opposite the connection to the fan system is connected tofirst end 1044 offemale adapter 1046 inserted intoopening 1048 inbottom wall 1039 oftoilet tank 1038. Even if the toilet is fully installed, a suitable hole may be cut inbottom wall 1039 such that thatfemale adapter 1046 is inserted andventilation system 1036 attached and installed. The other end, orsecond end 1050, offemale adapter 1046 is connected tolower end 1053 ofevacuation pipe 1052 disposed completely withintoilet tank 1038.Upper end 1055 ofevacuation pipe 1052 is connected tooverflow pipe 1054 by a plurality of 90°elbows elbows Overflow pipe 1054 is in fluid communication with flush valve 1062, disposedproximate bottom wall 1039 oftoilet tank 1038, throughflush pipe 1064.Overflow pipe 1054,flush pipe 1064, and flush valve 1062 may be already existing components in the toilet. - In operation, when vacuum suction is produced by externally located
fan system 1000, for example, any odors and/or bacteria residing in the wash down holes of the toilet rim are sucked intoventilation system 1000 through flush valve 1062,overflow pipe 1054,elbows adapter 1060,evacuation pipe 1052, and then throughhose 1040 located externally oftoilet tank 1038. Whenfan system 1000, such as that shown in FIG. 57, is used thenvacuum side impeller 1014 provides the necessary vacuum suction for actuation of the ventilation system. - In FIG. 60,
automatic flush system 1066 is shown as being mounted toreplacement overflow pipe 1068 having bracket 1070 thereon.Replacement overflow pipe 1068 may be placed over a portion of existingoverflow pipe 1054, or may be structured such thatentire overflow pipe 1054 is replaced.Automatic flush system 1066 includessmall servo motor 1072 disposed withinrectangular enclosure 1074, which is then mounted to servo bracket 1070 provided onreplacement overflow pipe 1068. Pivotably mounted on the exterior ofenclosure 1074 and in electrical operative engagement withservomotor 1072 isactuation lever 1076. The opposite end ofactuation lever 1076 is connected toflapper clip 1078 and throughflapper clip 1078 toflapper chain 1080, which is further connected toflapper 1082 of flush valve 1062, as in known toilet systems.Actuation lever 1076 is movable between a null, or rest, position in which flush valve 1062 is closed and no flushing occurs and a flush position, in which flush valve 1062 opens and the toilet is flushed. In electrical communication with the servomotor is sensingdevice 1084 disposed externally of the toilet and which is used to detect whether an object is within the sensing range for determination of actuation ofautomatic flush system 1066. - When sensing
device 1084 detects that an object is within the sensing range,automatic flush system 1066 is not actuated, oractuation lever 1076 is in its null position. The sensing range of thesensing device 1084 will be determined by whethersensing device 1084 is an optical sensor which would have a sensing range of the area around the toilet, a weight sensor which would sense if a person was seated upon the toilet, a mechanical or magnetic sensor which would determine if the toilet lid has been lifted and/or replaced. In the embodiment described hereinbelow,sensing device 1084 is an optical sensor and thus senses whether an object, more specifically a person, is within the area of the toilet. Alternatively,sensing device 1084 may be positioned such that the object being sensed is the toilet lid and whether the toilet lid is in a raised or a lowered position. Oncesensing device 1084 detects that the object has moved away from its sensing range,servo motor 1072 is actuated and causesactuation lever 1076 to rotate from the null position to a flush position, thereby movingflapper clip 1078 andflapper chain 1080 to raiseflapper 1082 and allow the flush of the toilet to occur.Flapper 1082 will then remain open for a predetermined time period, such as, for example approximately ten seconds, to accommodate the flush, and once the predetermined time period has elapsed,servo motor 1072 will then resetactuation lever 1076 to its null position, thereby closing flush valve 1062.Automatic flush system 1066 may be used in conjunction withfan system 1000 of FIG. 57, in whichcase sensing device 1084 would also send a signal tofan system 1000 to cause the fan to run for another predetermined time period, such as, for example, approximately 90 seconds, after actuation ofautomatic flush system 1066 for removal of any odors within thesystem 1066. -
Automatic flush system 1066 may also include a manual override device associated withsensing device 1084 such that the manual override may be flipped, or switched, so that the fan will continue to run for a time period longer than the predetermined time period described above, yet still allowstoilet 1038 to be flushed automatically through the operation ofsystem 1066. In order to preventtoilet 1038 from overflowing, an overflow sensor may be incorporated withinsensing device 1084 such that if an overflow condition is sensed,actuation lever 1076 is moved to its null position andtoilet 1038 is unable to be flushed until the overflow condition is corrected. In a similar manner,automatic flushing system 1066 may include an on-off capability whereinactuation lever 1076 is moved to its null position to prevent flushing of the toilet at certain times, such as, for example, when one is cleaningtoilet 1038 or immediately after a power outage.Flapper chain 1080 may be equipped with an adjustable ball weight to ensure thatflapper 1082 moves rapidly to its closed position and thereby conserve water during the toilet flushing, or the predetermined time period for flushing, as described above, may be adjusted to likewise reduce the amount of water utilized during flushing. -
Ventilation system 1086 includesenclosure 1088 for a wash basin, such as a shower, a tub, or a shower and tub combination, as shown in FIG. 61, and includessystem 1090 for removing steam or moisture fromenclosure 1088; however, only grille 1092 (FIG. 62) ofventilation system 1086 would be visible to a person standing withinenclosure 1088.Ventilation system 1086, as shown in FIG. 62, includesmanifold body 1094 mounted above shower ortub enclosure 1088 in the ceiling and concealed from view withdiffuser grille 1092 being detachably mounted thereto.Manifold body 1094 is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes at least oneaccess plate 1096 for connection of hose orpipe 1098 thereto. Whenventilation system 1086 is to be installed,access plate 1096 is removed and one end of hose orpipe 1098 attached to accessplate 1096 while the other end of hose orpipe 1096 is connected to suction device 1100 (FIG. 61), or a remote location, for removal of the steam or moisture.Access plate 1096 is then inserted intoopening 1095 inbody 1094 and secured allowingpipe 1098 to be connected tobody 1094. Diffuser grille includes a plurality ofinlet openings 1104 and a set of spring ortension clips 1102 formed near the circumference thereof for mounting tomanifold body 1094, the use ofsuch clips 1102 enables quick installation ofdiffuser grille 1092 since one need only to placediffuser grille 1092 and insertclips 1102 and allowclips 1102 to “snap” into a locking position.Inlet openings 1104 are provided such that any steam or moisture produced will be evacuated throughinlet openings 1104 and intomanifold body 1094 from which the steam and moisture will pass through the hose tosuction device 1100 or remote location.Ventilation system 1086 is particularly adapted to be used in conjunction withfan system 1000 of FIG. 57 to facilitate the suction of the steam or moisture throughventilation system 1086 for expulsion to another location. - Although
systems fan ventilation system 1000 shown in FIG. 57 includesaccess openings 1004 with removable panels which allow for connection to other systems.Fan ventilation system 1000 may be simultaneously connected totoilet ventilation system 1036 andflush system 1066 of FIGS. 59 and 60 and showerenclosure ventilation system 1086 of FIGS. 61 and 62. Thus, the separate systems may be integrated to support odor removal and mitigation from the toilet bowl, from the area above and surrounding the toilet and wash basin and from within the shower enclosure. Similarly,fan ventilation system 1000 may be connected to several air removal systems in kitchens, nurseries, work areas, or other locations requiring ventilation. Furthermore, singleelectric motor 1010 ofsystem 1000, andimpellers motor 1010 andimpellers systems - The systems described above are not only capable of being integrated, but provide easier installation methods. With
ventilation system 1000 of FIG. 57, an installer would first fastenaccess plates 1005, without any openings, to accessopenings 1004 which will be facing the joists or equivalent structures, which depending upon the location within the home will be either ceiling or floor joists,place enclosure 1002 between the joists, andsecure enclosure 1002 to the joists. Then an installer would attach the necessary conduits to accessplates 1005 having the correctly sized apertures and secure the conduits andaccess plates 1005. Then electrical connections would be made andmotor 1010 andimpellers enclosure 1002 and connected electrically. Lastly,grille 1024 would be placed over openbottom side 1022 of theenclosure 1002. - For shower
enclosure ventilation system 1086 of FIG. 61,hose 1098 is connected to centralfan ventilation system 1000 and inserted between joists to a location overshower enclosure 1088.Manifold body 1094 is placed and secured between two joists with the opening oriented towardcentral ventilation system 1000.Hose 1098 is then pulled through the opening andaccess plate 1096 is attached tohose 1098 and placed within the opening wherebyhose 1098 is securely fixed tobody 1094. Lastly,grille 1092 is placed over bottom 1097 (FIG. 62) ofmanifold body 1094. - With toilet odor evacuation and
mitigation system 1036, the toilet tank is emptied andhole 1048 drilled in the bottom of the tank, thenfemale adapter 1046 is inserted tohole 1048 andpipe 1052, andelbows adapter 1060 connected.Replacement overflow pipe 1068 with servo bracket 1070 placed overoverflow pipe 1054 prior to the connection ofelbows elbow 1058 connected tooverflow pipe 1068.Next hose 1040 is connected toadapter 1046 disposed inhole 1048 in the bottom of the tank and fed into a hole drilled in the drywall and between studs and joists tocentral ventilation system 1000.Automatic flushing system 1066 may be installed simultaneously with toiletodor evacuation system 1036. A hole may be drilled in the drywall near the back of the tank andelectrical gang box 1083 may be inserted in the wall above the tank. Alternatively,electrical gang box 1083 may be inserted in another suitable location wherein sensingdevice 1084 may sense whether a person is within the vicinity of the toilet.Sensing device 1084 havingcable connection 1085 forservo motor 1072 may be inserted intogang box 1083 andcable 1085 threaded between the studs and through the hole that was drilled.Servo motor 1072 may be placed and secured to bracket 1070 onoverflow pipe 1068, andactuator lever 1076 connected toflapper chain 1080.Cable 1085 may then be connected toservo motor 1072 by threading it into the toilet tank andservo cover 1074 placed overentire servo motor 1072 for protection. Once all steps have been completed, the entire bathroom odor evacuation system may be installed and operational. Thus, the installation may be done quickly and even in those cases where it is being used as a remodeling replacement being retrofit into a finished bathroom. - While this invention has been described as having exemplary structures, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.
Claims (42)
1. A fan system for ventilating air from at least one interior location in a room characterized by: a fan enclosure having a compartment, said fan enclosure including an inlet opening and an outlet; said inlet opening being disposed at a level lower than a ceiling in the interior location; a motor disposed within said compartment; a fan disposed within said compartment and drivingly connected to said motor, said fan having a vacuum side and a blower side; and an exhaust conduit connected to said outlet, said vacuum side of said fan oriented to pull air from the location through said inlet opening into said fan enclosure, and said blower side of said fan oriented to drive air out of said fan enclosure through said outlet into said exhaust hose for discharge at an exterior location.
2. The fan system for ventilating air of claim 1 further characterized by a grille detachably fixed to said fan enclosure, said grille being disposed below said inlet opening and defining a plurality of openings for receiving air from the location.
3. The fan system for ventilating air of claim 2 characterized in that said grille defines at least one void, said grille further includes at least one detachable insert piece, said insert piece defining a cover for at least a portion of said void.
4. The fan system for ventilating air of claim 1 wherein the room includes a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub and a shower and tub combination, said ventilation system characterized by a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to said manifold body and visible from the enclosure, said diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a conduit extending from said manifold body to said fan enclosure compartment.
5. The fan system for ventilating air of claim 4 further characterized in that said manifold body includes a removable access plate, said plate protecting said manifold body during installation thereof.
6. An odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a rim thereof, the rim having a plurality of holes therein for flow of water from the tank to the bowl, the odor evacuation system characterized by a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in fluid communication with said flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in fluid communication with said overflow pipe, a pipe in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank, and a suction device disposed externally of the toilet and having an activated state and a non-activated state, said suction device is disposed such that in said activated state, air within the toilet bowl and rim is removed to said suction device through said flush valve, overflow pipe, evacuation pipe, and externally extending pipe, to remove odors from the bowl and rim.
7. An automatic flushing system for a toilet having a toilet bowl and a toilet tank with a flush valve, the flush valve including a flapper, a flapper clip and a flapper chain connecting the flapper clip and the flapper, an actuation lever attached to said flapper clip, said actuation lever having a flush position and a null position, said automatic flushing system characterized by a sensing device located externally of the toilet and having a sensing range, a motor in electrical communication with said sensing device, and a motor operatively connected to said actuation lever, wherein when said sensing device detects an object in its said sensing range, said actuation lever is in its said null position and upon detection by said sensing device that an object has left said sensing device sensing range, said actuation lever is urged into its said flush position by said motor.
8. An odor evacuation and mitigation system for a bathroom having at least one of a toilet and a shower enclosure, including an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl including a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in flow communication with said flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in flow communication with said overflow pipe, a conduit in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank; and a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub, and a shower and tub combination, said ventilation system including a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to said manifold body and visible from the enclosure, said diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a hose extending from said manifold body to and external location, said system characterized by a central evacuation fan system including a fan box having a compartment, said fan box including an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and at least one auxiliary opening, an exhaust hose connected to said outlet opening, at least one conduit connected to said auxiliary opening and a fan disposed in said compartment, wherein when air is drawn into said compartment through said inlet opening and said auxiliary opening thorough said conduit, said fan blowing said air through said outlet opening into said exhaust hose and to an external location.
9. The odor evacuation and mitigation system of claim 8 further characterized by a sensing device located externally of the toilet and having a sensing range, a motor in electrical communication with said sensing device, and an actuation lever operatively connected to said motor and attached to the flapper clip, said actuation lever having a flush position and a null position, wherein when said sensing device detects an object in its said sensing range, said actuation lever is in its said null position and upon detection by said sensing device that an object has left said sensing device sensing range, said actuation lever is urged into its said flush position by said motor.
10. A method of installation of an odor evacuation and mitigation system characterized by inserting a fan box of a central evacuation fan into a ceiling one of prior to installation of drywall and after installation of drywall on the ceiling; threading a conduit into the fan box and connecting it thereto; connecting an external hose to an outside location and to the fan box; and placing a cover on the fan box.
11. The method of claim 10 further characterized by inserting an enclosure for a steam ventilation system into a ceiling over a shower enclosure; and threading a pipe from the enclosure into the fan box and connecting it thereto.
12. The method of claim 10 further characterized by installing an odor evacuation system in a toilet and an externally extending pipe from the toilet; and pulling the externally extending pipe and connecting it to the fan box.
13. A ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe having a lower end connected to a discharge conduit and an upper end for receiving the overflow water, the discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, the discharge conduit and the rim, a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the discharge conduit and the passageway; the ventilation system characterized by a suction device; said hose having a first end and a second end, said second end connected to said suction device; a cylinder sized to fit over the overflow pipe, said cylinder defining a top end and a bottom end, said cylinder being disposed over the overflow pipe with said bottom end slightly above the bottom of the tank creating an annular space between the overflow pipe and said cylinder for water communication from the tank, said cylinder defining a plurality of bores for receiving a plurality of fasteners for securing said cylinder to the overflow pipe.
14. The ventilation apparatus of claim 13 characterized by a plug snugly fitted between said first end of said hose and said upper end of the overflow pipe, said plug defining a plurality of holes for providing air communication between said overflow pipe and said hose, and providing water communication between said annular space s and said overflow pipe.
15. A ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe having a lower end open into a discharge conduit and an upper end for receiving overflow water, the discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, the discharge conduit and the rim, a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the discharge conduit and the passageway; the ventilation apparatus characterized by a suction hose and a suction device, said suction hose having a first end and a second end, said second end connected to said suction device; an air conduit having a hose connecting end connectable to said suction hose, and an air inlet end open into an airspace above the water level in the tank, said air conduit being substantially flat and elbow-shaped, said air conduit being disposed between the tank and the lid such that the lid can be tightly sealed above said air conduit and around the tank; and an elbow adapter having a vertical arm, and a horizontal arm, said vertical arm defining an inlet opening for fitting over the upper end of the overflow pipe, said horizontal arm defining an outlet end disposed above the water level and facing said air inlet end of said air conduit, said elbow adapter defining a channel in air communication with the overflow pipe and said airspace.
16. A fan system for ventilating bathroom air from two locations in a bathroom characterized by: a fan box having a cavity defining a first compartment and a second compartment, said first compartment defining a plurality of first inlet openings for receiving air from a first location, and a second compartment defining a plurality of second inlet openings for receiving air from a second location, said fan box including an outlet opening in air communication with said first and said second compartments; a first fan disposed within said first compartment; a second fan disposed within said second compartment; and an exhaust hose connected to said outlet opening, thus when said first fan operates to pull air from the first location through one of said first inlet openings into said fan box, and said second fan operates to pull air from the second location through one of said second inlet openings into said fan box, and when said first fan and said second fan drive air out of said fan box through said outlet opening into said exhaust hose for discharging at an outside location.
17. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 16 characterized in that said fan box includes at least one side wall hingedly attached to a top wall such that said side wall is pivotable towards said cavity of said fan box.
18. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 16 characterized in that one of said first inlet openings is connected to a ventilation tubing for ventilating air and steam from a bathing facility, and one of said second inlet openings is connected to a suction hose of a ventilation apparatus for ventilating odor from a toilet.
19. The fan system for ventilating bathroom of claim 16 characterized by a first inlet adapter attachable to one of said first inlet openings, said first inlet adapter having a first circular lip for connecting to said ventilation tubing; a second inlet adapter attachable to one of said second inlet openings, said second inlet adapter having a second circular lip for connecting to said suction hose; and an outlet adapter attachable to said outlet opening, said outlet adapter having a third circular lip for connecting to said exhaust hose.
20. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 19 characterized in that said ventilation tubing has a connecting end and an intake end, said connecting end being connected to said second inlet adapter, and said intake end being in air communication with said bathing facility.
21. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 20 characterized in that said intake end includes an intake housing defining a base having an intake opening for receiving air from said bathing facility.
22. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 21 characterized in that said intake housing is a dome.
23. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 22 characterized in that said intake end includes an intake grill for receiving air and steam from said bathing facility snugly fitted over said intake opening.
24. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 16 characterized in that a first shroud for retaining said first fan in said first compartment, and a second shroud for retaining said second fan in said second compartment, said first shroud having a first tract opening and said second shroud having a second tract opening, both said first and said second tract openings being in air communication with said outlet opening and said exhaust hose.
25. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 24 characterized in that said fan box further includes a first electrical outlet for supplying electricity to operate said first and said second fans.
26. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 25 characterized in that said fan box further includes an electrical shield for blocking the steam from interfering with the first electrical outlet, said electrical shield being disposed within said cavity of said fan box, and between said electrical outlet and said first fan and said second fan.
27. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 26 characterized in that said electrical outlet is connected to a switch.
28. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 26 characterized by a cover plate for keeping said first fan and said second fan in place within said fan box, said cover plate being secured to a bottom side of said fan box.
29. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 28 characterized in that said cover plate includes a cover plate fastener for securing said cover plate to the bottom side of said fan box.
30. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 28 further characterized by a grill plate attachable to said cover plate, said grill plate having grill plate at least one fastener for fastening said grill plate to said cover plate.
31. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 30 characterized in that wherein said grill plate defines an insert slot disposed in the middle of said grill plate, and a removable grill insert attachable within said insert slot.
32. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 31 characterized in that said grill plate includes a light unit attachable within said insert slot.
33. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 32 characterized in that said light unit includes an aluminum light bulb reflector plate fitted into said insert slot, a light bulb secured to said reflector plate, said light bulb having a socket connecting to a plug electrically connectable to a second electrical outlet, and a shield for protecting said light bulb secured to said grill plate.
34. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 33 characterized in that said second electrical outlet is connected to a second switch.
35. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 33 characterized in that said second electrical outlet is electrically connected to said first electrical outlet.
36. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 16 characterized in that said fan box is a stacked fan box having said first compartment disposed above said second compartment within said cavity of said stacked fan box.
37. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 36 characterized by a stacking shroud unit insertable through said bottom side and including, a first shroud having a first platform defining a first cavity for receiving and holding said first fan within said first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing air and steam movement towards said outlet opening; and a second shroud having a second platform defining a second cavity for receiving and holding said second fan within said second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing air movement towards said outlet opening.
38. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 16 characterized in that said fan box is a side-by-side fan box having said first compartment disposed on the same plane as said second compartment.
39. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 38 characterized in that said fan box further includes a side-by-side shroud unit having: a left shroud having a first platform defining a first cavity for receiving and holding said first fan within said first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing air and steam movement towards said outlet opening; and a right shroud having a second platform defining a second cavity for receiving and holding said second fan within said second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing air movement towards said outlet opening.
40. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air of claim 16 characterized in that the fan system includes: a hanger unit attachable to said fan box for hanging said fan box to a beam or any suitable structure, said hanger unit including a hanger plate fastened to said top wall of said fan box, and a plurality of hanger arms, each defining a top end connected to a side end in a substantially right angle, said top end being slidably attached to said hanger plate such that said top end adjustably extending out from each of said side walls of said fan box, each of said side end has an elongated slot for receiving a plurality of hanger fasteners for securing said fan box to a beam or any suitable structure.
41. A fan system for ventilating air from a plurality of locations in a building characterized by: a fan box having a cavity defining a plurality of compartments, each defining an inlet opening for receiving air from one of said plurality of locations, and an outlet opening connected to an exhaust hose; and a plurality of fans, each being disposed within each of said plurality of compartments, thus when said plurality of fans pulls air or steam from said plurality of locations through said inlet opening into each of said plurality of compartments, and when said plurality of fans drives air or steam out of said compartments through said outlet opening into said exhaust hose for releasing to an outside location.
42. A ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, and a discharge conduit in air communication with and connecting the bowl and a water supply characterized by: an air conduit having a first end and a second end, said air conduit having an air channel connecting said first and second ends; a vacuum connector connecting said first end of said air conduit to the discharge conduit, said vacuum connector defining a plurality of air holes in air communication with said air conduit and the discharge conduit; a suction device; and a suction hose connected at one end to said second end of said air conduit, and connected at an opposite end to said suction device.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/164,907 US20020194670A1 (en) | 2000-12-20 | 2002-06-07 | Ventilation system for malodorous air removal |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US09/742,771 US20020073482A1 (en) | 2000-12-20 | 2000-12-20 | Toilet system with a ventilation apparatus and an automatic flushing mechanism |
WO2CT/US01/50232 | 2001-12-20 | ||
PCT/US2001/050232 WO2002061213A2 (en) | 2000-12-20 | 2001-12-20 | Toilet system with a ventilation apparatus and an automatic flushing mechanism |
US10/164,907 US20020194670A1 (en) | 2000-12-20 | 2002-06-07 | Ventilation system for malodorous air removal |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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PCT/US2001/050232 Continuation-In-Part WO2002061213A2 (en) | 2000-12-20 | 2001-12-20 | Toilet system with a ventilation apparatus and an automatic flushing mechanism |
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US20020194670A1 true US20020194670A1 (en) | 2002-12-26 |
Family
ID=46279244
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/164,907 Abandoned US20020194670A1 (en) | 2000-12-20 | 2002-06-07 | Ventilation system for malodorous air removal |
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US20050081285A1 (en) * | 2003-04-17 | 2005-04-21 | Mundt Fred S. | Ventilated toilet system |
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2002
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Legal Events
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