CA2175938A1 - Toilet bowl odour extractor - Google Patents
Toilet bowl odour extractorInfo
- Publication number
- CA2175938A1 CA2175938A1 CA 2175938 CA2175938A CA2175938A1 CA 2175938 A1 CA2175938 A1 CA 2175938A1 CA 2175938 CA2175938 CA 2175938 CA 2175938 A CA2175938 A CA 2175938A CA 2175938 A1 CA2175938 A1 CA 2175938A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- toilet
- flush water
- air extraction
- adaptor
- exhaust blower
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- 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
Abstract
An odour extracting system for a conventional toilet comprising an exhaust blower, a toilet adaptor, and an air extraction duct wherein the toilet adaptor is located between the tank and toilet bowl and comprises an air extraction conduit and a flush water conduit. The air extraction conduit has a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end for attachment to an air extraction duct which is further connected to an exhaust blower. The exhaust blower continuously draws malodorous air from the toilet bowl through a plurality of flush water outlet holes located therein, through the air extraction conduit and the air extraction duct, while the toilet is in an unflushed state. When the toilet is flushed, water from the tank of the toilet pours through the flush water conduit of the toilet adaptor. The orientation of the air extraction duct coupled with the location of the exhaust blower aid in preventing water which is drawn into the air extraction duct by the exhaust blower, from passing along the air extraction duct and coming into contact with the exhaust blower.
Description
217~38 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to toilets. More specifically, the present invention relates to a toilet having an odour extracting system which 5 employs flush water outlet holes as air extraction ducts to exhaust air directly from the bowl of the toilet.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Air extraction devices are well known. Conventional toflets 10 usually comprise a bowl, a water tank, water inlet and outlet pipes, but no mechanism for removing odour from the toilet bowl.
A common problem associated with toilets is the foul odour that can remain in the bathroom during and in particular, following the use of a 15 toilet. Such odours may result in either embarrassing or inconvenient situations.
Typically, ceiling or wall fans are used to extract offensive odours. However, such fans are generally ineflfective in providing an 20 immediate solution since they are usually located some distance from the source of the odour and therefore are required to draw malodorous air from the source, through the room to the exhaust fan in order to clear the odour from the room.
There have been several prior art designs which involve various types of ventilation systems for toilet bowls and these may be divided into three categories: (1) In the first category of inventions, air is drawn from the toilet bowl into the sewer waste pipe; (2) An alternate category of invention involves pumping air from the toilet bowl and through a filter or scrubber which 2175.g3~
deodorizes it; and (3) A third type of invention draws the air from the toilet bowl and discharges it outside.
Three previously known forms of ventilation systems for toilets 5 which draw air from the toilet bowl into the sewer pipe are disclosed in United States Patent 4,318,192 (Williams et al.), United States Patent 4,222,129 (Baker) and United States Patent 4,365,361 (Sanstrom).
United States Patent 4,318,192 (Williams et al.) shows a 10 ventil~te~l toilet which comprises a modified flapper valve assembly with a fan contained within the tank of a conventional toilet. The fan withdraws cont~min~ted air from the toilet bowl, through an ~nmll~r discharge channel between inner and outer flapper valve tubes and vents downwardly through an inner tube disposed in the siphon portion of the waste duct into the waste pipe.15 One disadvantage of this system is that it requires modifications to be made to an existing toilet. In particular, a hole must be made into the siphon portion of the waste duct for placement of the inner tube through which the air from the toilet bowl is vented. Furthermore, since the fan compartment is located inside the tank of the toilet, noise from the motor may be disturbing.
United States Patent 4,222,129 (Baker) involves a combination toilet and odour extracting apparatus and therefore requires a specially made toilet. Generally, the apparatus comprises a motor built into a rear portion of the toilet bowl, having an upper shaft which connects to an odour extractor and 25 a lower shaft which connects to a hydraulic pump. The toilet is provided withseparate air and water passages disposed in the rim of the toilet. In operation,odours are extracted directly from the bowl via the air passage and are directedto the sewer connection while the hydraulic pump simultaneously moves water contained in a trap to a reservoir to permit the passage of the exhaust air. A
2175~38 major disadvantage to this invention is the fact that a conventional toilet cannot be readily adapted to this invention.
United States Patent 4,365,361 (Sanstrom) relates to a blower 5 assembly, mounted adjacent to a conventional toilet, which draws air from the rearward portion of the bowl rim and directly vents toilet bowl odours to the waste pipe. Sanstrom teaches an air and odour inlet shroud which is disposed between the top of the bowl and lower portion of a conventional toilet seat; a housed blower assembly; a pair of flexible air conduits which connect the 10 opening in the air and odour inlet shroud and the blower assembly; and a spacer plate assembly which mounts between the floor and the toilet and contains a passage for directing exhaust air into the waste pipe. A major disadvantage of this invention is the fact that the motor is located right behind the toilet resulting in a level of noise that may be disturbing. Furthermore, the 15 spacer plate assembly piece requires installation and will necessitate exposure of the sewage drain.
Two prior art inventions which involve ventilation through a filter are United States Patent 4,031,574 (Werner) and German Patent 2,259,046.
United States Patent 4,031,574 (Werner) discloses a battery operated, timed ventilator which mounts inside a conventional toilet tank.
Malodorous air is drawn directly from the toilet bowl and through a charcoal filter for deodorizing. The ventilator comprises a blower/filter assembly which 25 mounts to the overflow pipe of a conventional toilet. Air is drawn through the water outlets disposed around the rim of the toilet bowl, up the overflow, through the fan and into a charcoal filter. The filtered air is then exhausted into the top portion of the tank. A major disadvantage of this invention is the fact that the air is vented straight into the tank and may not provide adequately 30 filtration of the offensive odour.
2175!338 German Patent 2,259,046 teaches a blower assembly mounted within the top portion of a toilet tank which is provided with a duct that connects to the water outlet of the tank near the tank and bowl connection. In one embodiment, the blower assembly vents through a filter to the exterior of 5 the tank and into the bathroom. In a second embodiment, the blower assembly draws in fresh air from the side of the tank, mixes the fresh air with the malodorous air from the bowl and vents from the rear of the tank via an external port.
Ventilation systems for toilets which vent to the outside are known in the prior art as disclosed in United States Patent 5,369,812 (Trombley), United States Patent 5,016,294 (Canovas), and U.K. Patent 2,237,825, however, there remains a need for a simple and discreet mech~nism.
United States Patent 5,369,812 (Trombley) involves a toilet ventilation apparatus comprising an air intake mech~nism which either mounts to the under side of a toilet seat or is integrated into the rim of the toilet bowl;
an air extraction means; a moisture trap; and an automatic actuation device.
The air extraction means may be any air displacement device such as a fan or 20 extraction pump which is placed at a remote location from the toilet and vents the air to an exterior location. A major disadvantage of this invention is the noise which would result from the placement of the motor within the bathroom.
Furthermore, when the air intake mech~nism is integrated into the rim of the toilet bowl, the entire bowl is purchased as a specially made component and is 25 therefore not retrofitable to a conventional toilet.
United States Patent 5,016,294 (Canovas) involves a toilet seat adapter disposed between the toilet seat and the upper rim of a conventional toilet. The adaptor comprises a plastic plate which clips to the toilet rim and 30 to a flexible perforated plastic hose. The hose communicates with a vacuum 217~i~38 pump or exhaust fan. A disadvantage of this invention is the difficulty in keeping the adaptor, plastic hose and toilet rim clean. Furthermore, the plastichose is visible and unsightly especially when the toilet seat is raised.
U.K. Patent 2,237,825 involves a toilet flush assembly having an integral extractor fan assembly disposed in the tank of a conventional toilet.
A siphon tube and an air extractor tube are connected via a two way valve assembly which operates by the flush handle. When air is extracted via the fan, the two way valve prevents water passing through the siphon tube such that air can be drawn through the toilet bowl. When the toilet is flushed, the two way valve moves to block the air extractor and permits water to pass to the bowl without being drawn into the fan. A disadvantage to this invention is the fact that the fan is located within the tank thereby resulting in increased noise. Aswell, there may be difficulty in adapting this invention to fit conventional North American toilets.
Consequently, there is a need for a malodorous air extraction mechanism that is easily retrofitable, simple, quiet and discreet.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel, toilet bowl odour extractor which obviates or mitigates at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art odourless toilets.
Accordingly, one aspect the present invention provides a conventional toilet equipped with a toilet adaptor wherein the toilet adaptor comprises a flush water conduit attached between the tank and the bowl of the toilet to permit flow of flush water from the tank to the flush water outlet holes in the toilet bowl, and an air extraction conduit having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end in communication 217~9~8 with an air extraction duct leading to an exhaust blower. The exhaust blower is located in the ceiling above the toilet and vents the air to an exterior location.
In accordance with another aspect the present invention provides 5 a conventional toilet equipped with a toilet adaptor wherein a portion of the air extraction duct is an inverted U-shaped and the exhaust blower, which vents the air to an exterior location, is located beneath the room in which the toilet is situated.
A presently prerell~d embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of a disassembled toilet bowl odour extractor positioned between the toilet bowl and tank in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 shows a rear view of the assembled toilet bowl odour 20 extractor of Figure 1 located between the toilet bowl and tank, provided with a U-shaped ventilation duct; and Figure 3 shows a side view of a toilet bowl odour extractor having an extraction fan located in a plurality of possible locations;
Figure 4 shows a cross-section of a toilet adaptor taken on along a section line 4-4 in Figure l; and, -Figure 5 shows a cross-section of a toilet adaptor taken along a section line 5-5 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present mventlon.
An odour extracting system which attaches between the tank and the toilet bowl of a conventional toilet in accordance with the present invention is indicated generally at 10 in Figures 1, 2 and 3. Odour extracting system 10 10 generally comprises an exhaust blower 12, a toilet adaptor 14, and air extraction duct 18. Figure 1 shows the ventilated toilet in a disassembled state.
As shown in Figures 1 and 4, toilet adaptor 14 is located between 15 tank 22 and toilet bowl 26 such that flush water conduit 92 of toilet adaptor 14 forms a watertight/airtight seal with the flush water outlet 80 of tank 22 by means of an upper gasket 32 and a watertight/airtight seal with flush water inlet 24 of toilet bowl 26 by means of lower gasket 36.
Toilet adaptor 14 is attached between tank 22 and toilet bowl 26 by an attachment means such as conventional connection bolts 40 with washers 44 that pass through bolt holes 48 located proximal flush water outlet 80 in thebottom of the tank 22, through bolt holes 56 in toilet adaptor 14 and into bolt holes 52 located proximal water inlet 24 of toilet bowl 26. The conventional connection bolts 40 are affixed by means of nuts 60, washers 64, and lock-washers 68. Alternative attachment means are available, such as, by way of example only, adhesive or screws. The choice of a suitable attachment means is believed to be within the purview of a person skilled in the art.
As best shown in Figure 4, toilet adaptor 14 has an air extraction conduit 72 having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit 92 and a second end for attachment to an air extraction duct 18 which is further connected to exhaust blower 12.
s Air extraction duct 18 is preferably attached to toilet adaptor 14 around air extraction conduit 72 by means of adhesive. However, other attachment means are available such as temperature fit or a screw fit. The choice of a suitable attachment is believed to be within the purview of a person10 skilled in the art and will be dependant on the materials used to m~nllf~cture both the air extraction duct 18 and the toilet adaptor 14 (see below). The jointof air extraction duct 18 to toilet adaptor 14 should be both airtight and watertight to ensure optimum performance of the apparatus.
When the toilet is in an unflushed state, a rubber-type stopper (not shown) in tank 22 substantially seals flush water outlet 80. As a result, there is no water passing through toilet adaptor 14, and exhaust blower 12 continuously draws malodorous air from toilet bowl 26, through the conventional water outlets (not shown) located in rim 76 of toilet bowl 26 (as indicated in Figure 1 by solid arrows 84), through flush water inlet 24, flush water conduit 92 of toilet adaptor 14 and out air extraction conduit 72 of toilet adaptor 14. The malodorous air is then drawn through air extraction duct 18 by exhaust blower 12 and vented to the atmosphere.
When the toilet is flushed, the rubber stopper (not shown) which substantially seals flush water outlet 80 in tank 22 is removed and water in tank 22 pours through flush water outlet 80 and through flush water conduit 92 of toilet adaptor 14. The water passes via flush water inlet 24, through the water outlets (not shown) located in rim 76 and into toilet bowl 26.
2175~8 In the embodiment represented in Figure 2, a portion of air extraction duct 18 is an inverted U-shape, with the inverted U-shaped portion being above the maximum water level 96 in tank 22. This orientation of air extraction duct 18 aids in preventing water which is drawn into the air extraction duct 18 by the exhaust blower 12, from passing along air extraction duct 18 and coming into contact with exhaust blower 12. Exhaust blower 12 is located, in this embodiment, below the flooring of the room in which the toilet is situated and is sized such that the suction pressure generated does not draw water through the U-shaped duct portion into the blower.
In the embodiment represented in Figure 3, exhaust blower 12 is located in a ceiling space above the toilet. In this particular orientation, an inverted U-shaped air extraction duct 18 is unnecessary, provided that exhaust blower 12 is sized such that it will not create a vacuum within the air extraction conduit 72 sufficient to draw water into exhaust blower 12.
Determination of a suitable placement for exhaust blower 12 is believed to be within the purview of a person skilled in the art and will dependon a number of factors, such as, by way of example only, the specifications of the building, cost, adequacy of the mounting location, size of the blower and building regulations.
Similarly, the selection of a suitable blower is believed to be within the purview of a person skilled in the art. As will be apparent to the reader, the type and size of the exhaust blower 12 will be dependent on a number of factors, including the bore-size and length and diameter of the air extraction duct 18.
Although the preferred embodiments have been described with 30 reference to a dedicated exhaust blower 12, it is contemplated that the air extraction duct 18 from the toilet adaptor 14 may be routed to an existing exhaust blower 12 in the building in which the toilet is situated. This existingexhaust blower 12 may, for example, be a conventional bathroom extraction fan. Furthermore, it is also contemplated that the several toilets employing 5 odour extracting system 10 may share one exhaust blower via a manifold type arrangement.
Typically, it is contemplated that exhaust blower 12 would be activated by a switch proximal to the bathroom in which system 10 is installed 10 but may be also connected to operate with the bathroom lights as is common practice. However, exhaust blower 12 may be rated for continuous operation wherein air is drawn through system 10 continuously to elimin~te any malodorous air arising from residual bacteria and trace unflushed material rem~ining in toilet bowl 26 between flushes. It is further contemplated that 15 exhaust blower 12 may be also connected to activate via a timer set to a predetermined cycle time.
As will be apparent to a person skilled in the art, the type of piping used for air extraction duct 18 is not particularly limited. In a preferred 20 embodiment, the air extraction conduit will be formed from ABS waste pipe having a Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) rating which is available at most building supply stores. Alternative piping includes, by way of example only, PVC, polyethylene, nylon, alllmimlm, and the like.
The toilet adaptor 14 of the present invention is preferably formed from nylon, although other suitable materials, such as PVC, polyethylene, ABS
or ceramic may also be used.
Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of flush water adaptor 14.
In this embodiment, adaptor 14 is provided with a separator plate 96 which 217-i938 separates the end of flush water conduit 92, in communication with flush water outlet 80 from the first end of air extraction conduit 72. Separator plate 96 directs malodorous air from the end of flush water conduit 92, in communication with flush water inlet 24 to the first end of air extraction 5 conduit 72. Separator plate 96is placed to deter flush water from entering airextraction conduit 72 when the toilet is flushed by deflecting the flush water away from the air extraction conduit 72 directly towards flush water inlet 24.
The embodiments discussed herein have been described with 10 reference to venting the malodorous air to the atmosphere. However, it is also contemplated that the air may be vented into, for example, a conventional waste/sewage/vent present as a component of most plumbing systems found in residential and/or commercial buildings. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the apparatus of the present invention may further comprise an air filter, such lS as an activated carbon filter, to filter the malodorous air prior to venting. Air filters suitable for such a use are well known in the art and will not be discussed in detail herein.
The present invention has been described with reference to a presently preferred embodiment. Other variations and embodiments of the present invention may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
Accordingly, the scope of protection sought for the present invention is only limited as set out in the attached claims.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to toilets. More specifically, the present invention relates to a toilet having an odour extracting system which 5 employs flush water outlet holes as air extraction ducts to exhaust air directly from the bowl of the toilet.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Air extraction devices are well known. Conventional toflets 10 usually comprise a bowl, a water tank, water inlet and outlet pipes, but no mechanism for removing odour from the toilet bowl.
A common problem associated with toilets is the foul odour that can remain in the bathroom during and in particular, following the use of a 15 toilet. Such odours may result in either embarrassing or inconvenient situations.
Typically, ceiling or wall fans are used to extract offensive odours. However, such fans are generally ineflfective in providing an 20 immediate solution since they are usually located some distance from the source of the odour and therefore are required to draw malodorous air from the source, through the room to the exhaust fan in order to clear the odour from the room.
There have been several prior art designs which involve various types of ventilation systems for toilet bowls and these may be divided into three categories: (1) In the first category of inventions, air is drawn from the toilet bowl into the sewer waste pipe; (2) An alternate category of invention involves pumping air from the toilet bowl and through a filter or scrubber which 2175.g3~
deodorizes it; and (3) A third type of invention draws the air from the toilet bowl and discharges it outside.
Three previously known forms of ventilation systems for toilets 5 which draw air from the toilet bowl into the sewer pipe are disclosed in United States Patent 4,318,192 (Williams et al.), United States Patent 4,222,129 (Baker) and United States Patent 4,365,361 (Sanstrom).
United States Patent 4,318,192 (Williams et al.) shows a 10 ventil~te~l toilet which comprises a modified flapper valve assembly with a fan contained within the tank of a conventional toilet. The fan withdraws cont~min~ted air from the toilet bowl, through an ~nmll~r discharge channel between inner and outer flapper valve tubes and vents downwardly through an inner tube disposed in the siphon portion of the waste duct into the waste pipe.15 One disadvantage of this system is that it requires modifications to be made to an existing toilet. In particular, a hole must be made into the siphon portion of the waste duct for placement of the inner tube through which the air from the toilet bowl is vented. Furthermore, since the fan compartment is located inside the tank of the toilet, noise from the motor may be disturbing.
United States Patent 4,222,129 (Baker) involves a combination toilet and odour extracting apparatus and therefore requires a specially made toilet. Generally, the apparatus comprises a motor built into a rear portion of the toilet bowl, having an upper shaft which connects to an odour extractor and 25 a lower shaft which connects to a hydraulic pump. The toilet is provided withseparate air and water passages disposed in the rim of the toilet. In operation,odours are extracted directly from the bowl via the air passage and are directedto the sewer connection while the hydraulic pump simultaneously moves water contained in a trap to a reservoir to permit the passage of the exhaust air. A
2175~38 major disadvantage to this invention is the fact that a conventional toilet cannot be readily adapted to this invention.
United States Patent 4,365,361 (Sanstrom) relates to a blower 5 assembly, mounted adjacent to a conventional toilet, which draws air from the rearward portion of the bowl rim and directly vents toilet bowl odours to the waste pipe. Sanstrom teaches an air and odour inlet shroud which is disposed between the top of the bowl and lower portion of a conventional toilet seat; a housed blower assembly; a pair of flexible air conduits which connect the 10 opening in the air and odour inlet shroud and the blower assembly; and a spacer plate assembly which mounts between the floor and the toilet and contains a passage for directing exhaust air into the waste pipe. A major disadvantage of this invention is the fact that the motor is located right behind the toilet resulting in a level of noise that may be disturbing. Furthermore, the 15 spacer plate assembly piece requires installation and will necessitate exposure of the sewage drain.
Two prior art inventions which involve ventilation through a filter are United States Patent 4,031,574 (Werner) and German Patent 2,259,046.
United States Patent 4,031,574 (Werner) discloses a battery operated, timed ventilator which mounts inside a conventional toilet tank.
Malodorous air is drawn directly from the toilet bowl and through a charcoal filter for deodorizing. The ventilator comprises a blower/filter assembly which 25 mounts to the overflow pipe of a conventional toilet. Air is drawn through the water outlets disposed around the rim of the toilet bowl, up the overflow, through the fan and into a charcoal filter. The filtered air is then exhausted into the top portion of the tank. A major disadvantage of this invention is the fact that the air is vented straight into the tank and may not provide adequately 30 filtration of the offensive odour.
2175!338 German Patent 2,259,046 teaches a blower assembly mounted within the top portion of a toilet tank which is provided with a duct that connects to the water outlet of the tank near the tank and bowl connection. In one embodiment, the blower assembly vents through a filter to the exterior of 5 the tank and into the bathroom. In a second embodiment, the blower assembly draws in fresh air from the side of the tank, mixes the fresh air with the malodorous air from the bowl and vents from the rear of the tank via an external port.
Ventilation systems for toilets which vent to the outside are known in the prior art as disclosed in United States Patent 5,369,812 (Trombley), United States Patent 5,016,294 (Canovas), and U.K. Patent 2,237,825, however, there remains a need for a simple and discreet mech~nism.
United States Patent 5,369,812 (Trombley) involves a toilet ventilation apparatus comprising an air intake mech~nism which either mounts to the under side of a toilet seat or is integrated into the rim of the toilet bowl;
an air extraction means; a moisture trap; and an automatic actuation device.
The air extraction means may be any air displacement device such as a fan or 20 extraction pump which is placed at a remote location from the toilet and vents the air to an exterior location. A major disadvantage of this invention is the noise which would result from the placement of the motor within the bathroom.
Furthermore, when the air intake mech~nism is integrated into the rim of the toilet bowl, the entire bowl is purchased as a specially made component and is 25 therefore not retrofitable to a conventional toilet.
United States Patent 5,016,294 (Canovas) involves a toilet seat adapter disposed between the toilet seat and the upper rim of a conventional toilet. The adaptor comprises a plastic plate which clips to the toilet rim and 30 to a flexible perforated plastic hose. The hose communicates with a vacuum 217~i~38 pump or exhaust fan. A disadvantage of this invention is the difficulty in keeping the adaptor, plastic hose and toilet rim clean. Furthermore, the plastichose is visible and unsightly especially when the toilet seat is raised.
U.K. Patent 2,237,825 involves a toilet flush assembly having an integral extractor fan assembly disposed in the tank of a conventional toilet.
A siphon tube and an air extractor tube are connected via a two way valve assembly which operates by the flush handle. When air is extracted via the fan, the two way valve prevents water passing through the siphon tube such that air can be drawn through the toilet bowl. When the toilet is flushed, the two way valve moves to block the air extractor and permits water to pass to the bowl without being drawn into the fan. A disadvantage to this invention is the fact that the fan is located within the tank thereby resulting in increased noise. Aswell, there may be difficulty in adapting this invention to fit conventional North American toilets.
Consequently, there is a need for a malodorous air extraction mechanism that is easily retrofitable, simple, quiet and discreet.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel, toilet bowl odour extractor which obviates or mitigates at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art odourless toilets.
Accordingly, one aspect the present invention provides a conventional toilet equipped with a toilet adaptor wherein the toilet adaptor comprises a flush water conduit attached between the tank and the bowl of the toilet to permit flow of flush water from the tank to the flush water outlet holes in the toilet bowl, and an air extraction conduit having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end in communication 217~9~8 with an air extraction duct leading to an exhaust blower. The exhaust blower is located in the ceiling above the toilet and vents the air to an exterior location.
In accordance with another aspect the present invention provides 5 a conventional toilet equipped with a toilet adaptor wherein a portion of the air extraction duct is an inverted U-shaped and the exhaust blower, which vents the air to an exterior location, is located beneath the room in which the toilet is situated.
A presently prerell~d embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of a disassembled toilet bowl odour extractor positioned between the toilet bowl and tank in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 shows a rear view of the assembled toilet bowl odour 20 extractor of Figure 1 located between the toilet bowl and tank, provided with a U-shaped ventilation duct; and Figure 3 shows a side view of a toilet bowl odour extractor having an extraction fan located in a plurality of possible locations;
Figure 4 shows a cross-section of a toilet adaptor taken on along a section line 4-4 in Figure l; and, -Figure 5 shows a cross-section of a toilet adaptor taken along a section line 5-5 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present mventlon.
An odour extracting system which attaches between the tank and the toilet bowl of a conventional toilet in accordance with the present invention is indicated generally at 10 in Figures 1, 2 and 3. Odour extracting system 10 10 generally comprises an exhaust blower 12, a toilet adaptor 14, and air extraction duct 18. Figure 1 shows the ventilated toilet in a disassembled state.
As shown in Figures 1 and 4, toilet adaptor 14 is located between 15 tank 22 and toilet bowl 26 such that flush water conduit 92 of toilet adaptor 14 forms a watertight/airtight seal with the flush water outlet 80 of tank 22 by means of an upper gasket 32 and a watertight/airtight seal with flush water inlet 24 of toilet bowl 26 by means of lower gasket 36.
Toilet adaptor 14 is attached between tank 22 and toilet bowl 26 by an attachment means such as conventional connection bolts 40 with washers 44 that pass through bolt holes 48 located proximal flush water outlet 80 in thebottom of the tank 22, through bolt holes 56 in toilet adaptor 14 and into bolt holes 52 located proximal water inlet 24 of toilet bowl 26. The conventional connection bolts 40 are affixed by means of nuts 60, washers 64, and lock-washers 68. Alternative attachment means are available, such as, by way of example only, adhesive or screws. The choice of a suitable attachment means is believed to be within the purview of a person skilled in the art.
As best shown in Figure 4, toilet adaptor 14 has an air extraction conduit 72 having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit 92 and a second end for attachment to an air extraction duct 18 which is further connected to exhaust blower 12.
s Air extraction duct 18 is preferably attached to toilet adaptor 14 around air extraction conduit 72 by means of adhesive. However, other attachment means are available such as temperature fit or a screw fit. The choice of a suitable attachment is believed to be within the purview of a person10 skilled in the art and will be dependant on the materials used to m~nllf~cture both the air extraction duct 18 and the toilet adaptor 14 (see below). The jointof air extraction duct 18 to toilet adaptor 14 should be both airtight and watertight to ensure optimum performance of the apparatus.
When the toilet is in an unflushed state, a rubber-type stopper (not shown) in tank 22 substantially seals flush water outlet 80. As a result, there is no water passing through toilet adaptor 14, and exhaust blower 12 continuously draws malodorous air from toilet bowl 26, through the conventional water outlets (not shown) located in rim 76 of toilet bowl 26 (as indicated in Figure 1 by solid arrows 84), through flush water inlet 24, flush water conduit 92 of toilet adaptor 14 and out air extraction conduit 72 of toilet adaptor 14. The malodorous air is then drawn through air extraction duct 18 by exhaust blower 12 and vented to the atmosphere.
When the toilet is flushed, the rubber stopper (not shown) which substantially seals flush water outlet 80 in tank 22 is removed and water in tank 22 pours through flush water outlet 80 and through flush water conduit 92 of toilet adaptor 14. The water passes via flush water inlet 24, through the water outlets (not shown) located in rim 76 and into toilet bowl 26.
2175~8 In the embodiment represented in Figure 2, a portion of air extraction duct 18 is an inverted U-shape, with the inverted U-shaped portion being above the maximum water level 96 in tank 22. This orientation of air extraction duct 18 aids in preventing water which is drawn into the air extraction duct 18 by the exhaust blower 12, from passing along air extraction duct 18 and coming into contact with exhaust blower 12. Exhaust blower 12 is located, in this embodiment, below the flooring of the room in which the toilet is situated and is sized such that the suction pressure generated does not draw water through the U-shaped duct portion into the blower.
In the embodiment represented in Figure 3, exhaust blower 12 is located in a ceiling space above the toilet. In this particular orientation, an inverted U-shaped air extraction duct 18 is unnecessary, provided that exhaust blower 12 is sized such that it will not create a vacuum within the air extraction conduit 72 sufficient to draw water into exhaust blower 12.
Determination of a suitable placement for exhaust blower 12 is believed to be within the purview of a person skilled in the art and will dependon a number of factors, such as, by way of example only, the specifications of the building, cost, adequacy of the mounting location, size of the blower and building regulations.
Similarly, the selection of a suitable blower is believed to be within the purview of a person skilled in the art. As will be apparent to the reader, the type and size of the exhaust blower 12 will be dependent on a number of factors, including the bore-size and length and diameter of the air extraction duct 18.
Although the preferred embodiments have been described with 30 reference to a dedicated exhaust blower 12, it is contemplated that the air extraction duct 18 from the toilet adaptor 14 may be routed to an existing exhaust blower 12 in the building in which the toilet is situated. This existingexhaust blower 12 may, for example, be a conventional bathroom extraction fan. Furthermore, it is also contemplated that the several toilets employing 5 odour extracting system 10 may share one exhaust blower via a manifold type arrangement.
Typically, it is contemplated that exhaust blower 12 would be activated by a switch proximal to the bathroom in which system 10 is installed 10 but may be also connected to operate with the bathroom lights as is common practice. However, exhaust blower 12 may be rated for continuous operation wherein air is drawn through system 10 continuously to elimin~te any malodorous air arising from residual bacteria and trace unflushed material rem~ining in toilet bowl 26 between flushes. It is further contemplated that 15 exhaust blower 12 may be also connected to activate via a timer set to a predetermined cycle time.
As will be apparent to a person skilled in the art, the type of piping used for air extraction duct 18 is not particularly limited. In a preferred 20 embodiment, the air extraction conduit will be formed from ABS waste pipe having a Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) rating which is available at most building supply stores. Alternative piping includes, by way of example only, PVC, polyethylene, nylon, alllmimlm, and the like.
The toilet adaptor 14 of the present invention is preferably formed from nylon, although other suitable materials, such as PVC, polyethylene, ABS
or ceramic may also be used.
Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of flush water adaptor 14.
In this embodiment, adaptor 14 is provided with a separator plate 96 which 217-i938 separates the end of flush water conduit 92, in communication with flush water outlet 80 from the first end of air extraction conduit 72. Separator plate 96 directs malodorous air from the end of flush water conduit 92, in communication with flush water inlet 24 to the first end of air extraction 5 conduit 72. Separator plate 96is placed to deter flush water from entering airextraction conduit 72 when the toilet is flushed by deflecting the flush water away from the air extraction conduit 72 directly towards flush water inlet 24.
The embodiments discussed herein have been described with 10 reference to venting the malodorous air to the atmosphere. However, it is also contemplated that the air may be vented into, for example, a conventional waste/sewage/vent present as a component of most plumbing systems found in residential and/or commercial buildings. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the apparatus of the present invention may further comprise an air filter, such lS as an activated carbon filter, to filter the malodorous air prior to venting. Air filters suitable for such a use are well known in the art and will not be discussed in detail herein.
The present invention has been described with reference to a presently preferred embodiment. Other variations and embodiments of the present invention may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
Accordingly, the scope of protection sought for the present invention is only limited as set out in the attached claims.
Claims (14)
1. A toilet having air extraction means comprising (i) a toilet bowl having a plurality of flush water outlet holes located therein;
(ii) a tank for containing flush water located above the toilet bowl;
(iii) a flush water conduit attached between the tank and the bowl to permit flow of flush water from the tank to the flush water outlet holes; and (iv) an air extraction conduit having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end in communication with an air extraction duct leading to an exhaust blower, the exhaust blower being operable to draw air from the toilet bowl, through the flush water outlet holes and into the air extraction duct.
(ii) a tank for containing flush water located above the toilet bowl;
(iii) a flush water conduit attached between the tank and the bowl to permit flow of flush water from the tank to the flush water outlet holes; and (iv) an air extraction conduit having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end in communication with an air extraction duct leading to an exhaust blower, the exhaust blower being operable to draw air from the toilet bowl, through the flush water outlet holes and into the air extraction duct.
2. A toilet adaptor for location between a flush water inlet of a toilet bowl and a flush water outlet of a flush water tank, the adaptor comprising (i) a lower surface for engaging the toilet bowl proximal the flush water inlet;
(ii) an upper surface for supporting the tank;
(iii) a flush water conduit having a first end adapted to engage around the flush water outlet of the tank and a second end adapted to engage around the flush water inlet of the toilet bowl; and (iv) an air extraction conduit having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end for attachment to an exhaust blower;
the exhaust blower being operable to draw air from the toilet bowl, through the flush water outlet holes and into the air extraction duct.
(ii) an upper surface for supporting the tank;
(iii) a flush water conduit having a first end adapted to engage around the flush water outlet of the tank and a second end adapted to engage around the flush water inlet of the toilet bowl; and (iv) an air extraction conduit having a first end in communication with the flush water conduit and a second end for attachment to an exhaust blower;
the exhaust blower being operable to draw air from the toilet bowl, through the flush water outlet holes and into the air extraction duct.
3. A malodorous air extraction kit for fitting to a toilet comprising:
(i) a toilet adaptor according to claim 2; and (ii) an exhaust blower.
connected by an air extraction duct.
(i) a toilet adaptor according to claim 2; and (ii) an exhaust blower.
connected by an air extraction duct.
4. The toilet defined in claim 1 wherein the exhaust blower is located in a ceiling space remote of the toilet.
5. The toilet defined in claim 1 wherein the exhaust blower is located in a floor space remote of the toilet.
6. The toilet adaptor defined in claim 2 wherein the exhaust blower is located in a ceiling space remote of the toilet.
7. The toilet adaptor defined in claim 2 wherein the exhaust blower is located in a floor space remote of the toilet.
8. The toilet of claim 5 wherein a portion of the air extraction duct is provided with an inverted U-shaped portion being above the maximum water level in the tank of the toilet.
9. The toilet adaptor of claim 7 wherein a portion of the air extraction duct is provided with an inverted U-shaped portion being above the maximum water level in the tank of the toilet.
10. The toilet adaptor defined in claim 2 wherein the air extraction conduit communicates perpendicularly with the flush water conduit.
11. The toilet adaptor of claim 2 wherein the adaptor is formed from PVC.
12. The toilet adaptor of claim 2 wherein the adaptor is formed from ABS.
13. The adaptor according to claim 2 wherein the exhaust blower vents air drawn from the toilet bowl to the atmosphere, exterior of a building containing the toilet.
14. The toilet according to claim 1 wherein the exhaust blower vents air drawn from the toilet bowl to the atmosphere, exterior of a building containing the toilet.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2175938 CA2175938A1 (en) | 1996-05-07 | 1996-05-07 | Toilet bowl odour extractor |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2175938 CA2175938A1 (en) | 1996-05-07 | 1996-05-07 | Toilet bowl odour extractor |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2175938A1 true CA2175938A1 (en) | 1997-11-08 |
Family
ID=4158154
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2175938 Abandoned CA2175938A1 (en) | 1996-05-07 | 1996-05-07 | Toilet bowl odour extractor |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2175938A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2006134192A2 (en) * | 2005-06-13 | 2006-12-21 | Pedro Escortell Garcia | Odour extraction kit for toilets and urinals |
| EP3770349A1 (en) * | 2019-07-23 | 2021-01-27 | Michail Foinikianakis | Toilet bowl |
-
1996
- 1996-05-07 CA CA 2175938 patent/CA2175938A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2006134192A2 (en) * | 2005-06-13 | 2006-12-21 | Pedro Escortell Garcia | Odour extraction kit for toilets and urinals |
| WO2006134192A3 (en) * | 2005-06-13 | 2007-03-22 | Garcia Pedro Escortell | Odour extraction kit for toilets and urinals |
| EP3770349A1 (en) * | 2019-07-23 | 2021-01-27 | Michail Foinikianakis | Toilet bowl |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US7730560B2 (en) | Odorless toilet | |
| US6983491B2 (en) | Odor removal apparatus and/or methods | |
| US6298500B1 (en) | Ventilated toilet seat | |
| US6804837B1 (en) | Odor transporter system for a toilet bowl | |
| US6167576B1 (en) | Ventilated toilet seat | |
| US7103925B2 (en) | Odor eliminating system for a toilet, toilet including the odor eliminating system, and toilet seat assembly | |
| WO2006022893A1 (en) | System for venting noxious fumes from a toilet | |
| US6158058A (en) | Ventilated toilet | |
| US5044018A (en) | Toilet with device for removing unpleasant odors | |
| US7376982B1 (en) | Toilet bowl venting apparatus | |
| CA2293817C (en) | Toilet ventilating system | |
| US20100058525A1 (en) | Toilets | |
| US5996131A (en) | Commode ventilation system | |
| GB2268520A (en) | Vented toilet seat | |
| CA2175938A1 (en) | Toilet bowl odour extractor | |
| US20060248634A1 (en) | Ventilated toilet seat | |
| EP3037594B1 (en) | Lavatory systems | |
| US5351344A (en) | Fluid evacuation system | |
| KR100488298B1 (en) | Toilet seat ventilating apparatus | |
| WO1988006661A1 (en) | Improved ventilating toilet | |
| GB2140052A (en) | Ventilating apparatus for a toilet pan | |
| KR200220460Y1 (en) | Toilet Stool Ventilating Device | |
| CA1319465C (en) | Ventilated toilet | |
| GB2290315A (en) | Ventilation of W.C. bowl | |
| KR20020037578A (en) | Toilet Stool Ventilating Device |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |