JP7130786B2 - Priming type jet toilet - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference to related applications
[0002] This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/810,664, filed April 10, 2013, entitled "Primed Siphonic Flush Toilet," and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/725,832, published under 35 U.S.C. 120(e), claiming benefit under 35 U.S.C. 120(e) claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. 120(e) as a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/069961, filed November 13, 2013 No. 14/619,989, entitled "Primed Siphonic Flush Toilet," filed Feb. 11, 2015 under § 10.100 of this application. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of gravity toilets for the removal of human and other waste. The invention further relates to the field of toilets operating with a primed water delivery system to improve performance.

[0004] Toilet bowls for removing waste, such as human waste, are well known. Gravity toilets generally have two main parts: a tank and a bowl. The tank and bowl are either separate parts that are joined together to form a toilet system (commonly referred to as a two-piece toilet) or are combined into one integral unit (typically referred to as a one-piece toilet). be done).

[0005] A tank, usually located at the back of the bowl, contains water that is used to replenish the bowl with fresh water as well as initiate the flushing action of waste from the bowl to the sewer. When the user wants to flush the toilet, the user depresses a flush lever on the outside of the tank which is connected to a movable chain or lever inside the tank. When the flush lever is depressed, it moves a chain or lever inside the tank that acts to lift and open the flush valve, allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl, thereby initiating toilet flushing.

[0006] There are three general purposes that must be served in the flush cycle. The primary purpose is the removal of solids and other excreta into drains. The second purpose is to clean the bowl to remove solid or liquid waste that has accumulated or adhered to the surface of the bowl, and the third purpose is to ensure that relatively clean water remains in the bowl between uses. It is to replace the amount of water before washing in the bowl so that it remains inside. The second requirement, bowl cleaning, is usually accomplished with a hollow rim extending over the upper circumference of the toilet bowl. Some or all of the flush water is directed through the rim channel and flows through openings located therein to water the entire surface of the bowl and perform the necessary cleaning. A third requirement is to refill the bowl with clean water, thereby restoring the sealing depth against backflow of sewage gases and preparing for the next use and flushing.

[0007] Gravity toilets can be divided into two general categories: wash-down and siphon. In flush toilets, the water level in the bowl of the toilet remains relatively constant at all times. When the flush cycle is initiated, water flows out of the tank and overflows into the bowl. This causes the water level to rise rapidly and the excess water overflows over the trapway weirs and carries with it liquid and solid waste. At the end of the flush cycle, the water level in the bowl naturally returns to the equilibrium water level determined by the weir height.

[0008] In a siphon toilet, the trapway and other hydraulic channels are designed such that a siphon is initiated within the trapway after water is added to the bowl. The siphon tube itself is an inverted U-shaped tube that draws water from the toilet bowl into the sewage pipe. When the flush cycle is initiated, water flows into the toilet bowl and overflows over the weirs in the trapway faster than it can exit the sewer. Eventually enough air is removed from the lower leg of the trapway to initiate a siphon, which then draws the remaining water out of the bowl. The water level in the bowl when the siphon is interrupted is consequently well below the level of the weir, and at the end of the siphon flush cycle the toilet bowl is refilled with water to protect against backflow of sewage gas between the original water level and the sewage gas. A separate mechanism must be provided to re-establish the "seal".

[0009] Siphonic and flush toilets have inherent advantages and disadvantages. Siphonic toilets tend to have smaller trapways due to the requirement that most of the air must be removed from the lower leg of the trapway to initiate the siphon, which can result in clogging. Flush toilets can function with large trapways, but generally the 100:1 dilution level required by plumbing regulations in most countries (i.e., 99% of the pre-flush water volume in the bowl (which must be removed from the bowl and replaced with fresh water during the rinse cycle) requires a smaller amount of pre-rinse water in the bowl. This low pre-rinse amount appears as a small "water spot". The water spot, or surface area, of pre-flush water in the bowl plays an important role in maintaining toilet bowl cleanliness. A large water spot increases the probability that waste will contact water before contacting the ceramic surface of the toilet bowl. This reduces the adherence of effluent to the ceramic surface, thereby making it easier for the toilet bowl to self-clean through the flush cycle. Rinse-off toilets with small water spots therefore often require manual cleaning of the bowl after use.

[0010] Siphonic toilets have the advantage of being able to function with a higher pre-flush water volume in the bowl and a larger water spot. This is possible because the siphon action pulls most of the pre-rinse water volume out of the bowl at the end of the rinse cycle. When the tank is refilled, a portion of the refill water can be directed into the bowl to return the pre-flush water volume to its original level. In this way, the 100:1 dilution level required by many plumbing regulations is achieved even though the starting amount of water in the bowl is significantly higher than the flush water coming out of the tank. In the North American market, siphon toilets have gained wide acceptance and are now regarded as the standard, generally accepted form of toilet bowl. In the European market, the flush toilet remains more accepted and popular, while both versions are common in the Asian market.

[0011] Gravity siphon toilets can be further divided into three general categories, depending on the design of the hydraulic channel used to achieve the flushing action. These categories are non-jetting, rim-jetting, and direct-jetting.

[0012] In a non-spout bowl, all of the flush water exits the tank, enters the bowl inlet area, flows through the main manifold and into the rim channel. Water is sprinkled around the circumference of the bowl through a series of holes positioned below the rim. Some of the holes may be designed to be larger in size to allow more water to flow into the bowl. A relatively high flow rate is required to displace enough air in the lower leg to spill water over the trapway weir quickly enough to initiate a siphon. Non-spout bowls typically have reasonably good performance for bowl cleaning and pre-rinse water replacement, but relatively poor performance for bulk removal. The water supply to the trapway is inadequate and turbulent, thereby filling the lower leg of the trapway sufficiently to make it more difficult to initiate a strong siphon. As a result, trapways in non-jet toilets are typically smaller in diameter and include bends and constrictions designed to impede water flow. Without smaller sizes, bends and constrictions, a strong siphon is not achieved. Unfortunately, the smaller size, bends, and constrictions result in poor performance for bulk waste removal, frequent clogging, and a highly unsatisfactory condition for the end user.

[0013] Toilet bowl designers and engineers have improved bulk waste removal in siphon toilets by incorporating a "siphon spout." In a rim spout toilet bowl, flush water exits the tank, flows through the toilet bowl inlet area, flows through the main manifold and into the rim channel. A portion of the water is sprinkled over the circumference of the bowl through a series of holes positioned below the rim. The remainder of the water flows through an ejection channel positioned in front of the rim. This spout channel connects the rim channel to a spout opening positioned in the sump of the bowl. The ejection opening is sized and positioned to direct a strong stream of water to the opening of the trapway. As water flows through the spout opening, this serves to fill the trapway more efficiently and quickly than can be achieved in a non-spout bowl. This more vigorous and quicker flow of water into the trapway allows toilet bowls to be designed with larger trapway diameters and fewer bends and constrictions, which is superior to non-spout bowls. , to improve performance in bulk excreta removal. Although less water flows out of the rim of a rim jet toilet bowl, the bowl cleaning function is generally acceptable because the water flowing through the rim channel is pressurized by the upstream flow of water from the tank. be. This allows the water to exit the rim hole with higher energy and do a more effective job of cleaning the bowl.

[0014] Rim spout bowls are generally superior to non-spout bowls, but the long path water must travel through the rim to the spout opening dissipates and wastes available energy. . Direct jet bowls can make improvements in this concept and provide better performance in terms of bulk waste removal. In a direct jet bowl, flush water exits the tank, flows through the bowl inlet, and through the main manifold. At this point, the water flows in two parts: through the rim inlet port and into the rim channel, which has the primary purpose of achieving the desired bowl cleaning, and through the spout inlet port, through the main manifold. and a section leading to a "direct spout channel" that connects to the spout opening in the sump of the toilet bowl. Direct jet channels can take a variety of forms, sometimes unidirectional or "double fed" around one side of the toilet bowl, where symmetrical channels run on both sides. down and connect the manifold to the jet opening. As with the rim ejection bowl, the ejection opening is sized and positioned to direct a strong stream of water directly into the opening of the trapway. As water flows through the spout openings, this serves to fill the trapway more efficiently and quickly than can be achieved in non-spout or rim spout bowls. This more forceful, faster flow of water into the trapway allows toilets to be designed with even larger trapway diameters and minimal bends and constrictions, which are non-squirting. Improves performance in bulk waste removal compared to bowls and rim spout bowls.

[0015] Although direct-fed spout bowls are now a large part of the state of the art for bulk waste removal, there remains a major area for improving toilet bowl performance. Government authorities continue to require municipal water users to reduce the amount of water they use. Much of the focus in recent years has been on reducing the water demand required by the operation of the toilet flushing action. To illustrate this point, the amount of water used in the toilet bowl at each flush varies from 7 gallons/flush (before the 1950's) to 5.5 gallons/flush (the late 1960's) to 3 gallons/flush by government authorities. It has been gradually reduced to .5 gallons/flush (1980's). The National Energy Policy Act of 1995 currently requires that toilet bowls sold in the United States can only use 1.6 gallons/flush (6 liters/flush) of water. Recently, regulations were passed in California requiring further reductions in water usage to 1.28 gallons/flush. The commercially available 1.6 gallon/1 flush toilets currently described in the patent literature lose their ability to consistently siphon when reduced to these lower levels of water consumption. Manufacturers are therefore forced and will continue to be forced to reduce trapway diameters, sacrificing performance without the development of improved technology and toilet bowl designs.

[0016] Several inventions have aimed to improve the performance of siphon toilets through optimization of the direct jet concept. For example, in US Pat. No. 5,918,325, siphon toilet bowl performance is improved by improving the shape of the trapway. In US Pat. No. 6,715,162, performance is improved using a flush valve with a semi-curved inlet and an asymmetric flow of water into the bowl.

[0017] U.S. Patent No. 8,316,475 B2 describes a pressurized rim that allows enhanced washout and proper siphoning for using low volumes of water that meet current environmental water use standards. and direct-fed jet configurations.

[0018] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0198610A1 discloses a control element in the main manifold that divides the flow of flush water from the tank inlet into the toilet manifold into the inlet port of the rim and the inlet port of the direct feed spout. It also shows the high performance toilet achieved by U.S. Pat. No. 2,122,834 shows a toilet with an air manifold and a hydraulic manifold for introducing air into the toilet flush cycle to terminate siphoning and prevent backflow into the system. there is Other inventions attempt to address performance between the rim and the spout by dividing the toilet bowl tank into separate sections. See U.S. Pat. No. 1,939,118.

[0019] When the flush volume is pushed below about 6.0 liters, minimizing turbulence and flow restrictions within the internal channels of the toilet bowl is of utmost importance. One of the most important factors in minimizing turbulence and flow restrictions is the management of the air that occupies the rim and jet channels prior to starting the flush cycle. If the air cannot escape from the system before the flush water rushes in, it will continue to occupy space in the channel and restrict flow. U.S. Pat. No. 5,918,325 discloses a toilet bowl with a squirt channel that includes an air delivery means or passage connecting the squirt channel to the rim to allow air to escape from the squirt channel into the rim during flushing. explains. US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0198610A1 similarly discloses a toilet bowl with a downstream communication port that allows air and/or water to pass between the squirt channel and the rim channel.

[0020] There remains a need in the art to further improve siphon bowl performance, particularly to manage the pre-flush air that occupies the spout channel. There is also a need for a toilet that ameliorate the above noted shortcomings in prior art toilets by reducing clogging and allowing significantly improved cleaning during the flush action without sacrificing flush performance. exists in the technical field. Such a toilet bowl should also form a sufficient siphon for low water consumption with a variety of trapway geometries, while still meeting water conservation standards and government guidelines.

[0021] Included within the scope of the present invention is a jet flush valve inlet and a jet flush valve outlet configured to deliver fluid from the jet flush valve outlet to a closed jet fluid passageway; at least one jet flush valve assembly; at least one rim valve having a rim valve inlet and a rim valve outlet; the rim valve configured to deliver fluid from the rim valve outlet to the rim inlet port; A jet flush having an interior surface defining a bowl region and defining (a) at least one rim inlet port for introducing water into the upper peripheral region of the bowl and (b) at least one jet channel. a spout having an inlet port in fluid communication with an outlet of the valve and a spout port positioned within the lower portion of the bowl and configured to eject fluid into the sump region of the bowl. a bowl, wherein the sump area is in fluid communication with the inlet to the trapway with the weir, and the closed effusion fluid passageway comprises the effusion channel, and wherein the effusion flush valve is in the trapway; Positioned above the weir, wherein a closed jet fluid passage comprising a jet channel extends from the outlet of the jet flush valve to the outlet of the jet and, after priming, the closed jet fluid passage is A siphon flush toilet bowl assembly that remains primed with fluid and can help prevent air from entering the closed squirt fluid passageway before and after the flush cycle is activated.

[0022] The toilet bowl assembly may, in one embodiment, further comprise a rim manifold, wherein the rim manifold includes a rim manifold inlet opening for receiving fluid from the outlet of the rim flush valve assembly and a rim manifold inlet opening for receiving fluid from the outlet of the rim flush valve assembly. and a rim manifold outlet opening for delivery to the rim inlet port. In one such embodiment, the bowl may also include a rim extending at least partially over the upper circumference of the bowl, the rim extending from the rim inlet port over the upper circumference of the bowl and extending over the interior region of the bowl. defining a rim channel having at least one rim outlet port in fluid communication with the rim inlet port, wherein the rim inlet port is in fluid communication with the rim manifold outlet opening.

[0023] In another embodiment of the assembly, the bowl has a rim ledge extending transversely along the inner surface of the bowl in an upper peripheral region of the bowl from the rim inlet port at least partially around the bowl. , a rim provided to allow fluid to travel along the rim ledge and enter the interior space of the bowl in at least one location displaced from the rim inlet port.

[0024] The assembly may also include a tank configured to receive fluid from the fluid source, the tank containing at least one fill valve. The tank shall include at least one jet reservoir and at least one rim reservoir, the jet reservoir comprising a jet fill valve and at least one jet flush valve assembly, and the rim reservoir comprising at least one rim valve. . In one such embodiment, the rim reservoir may further comprise a rim fill valve, the rim valve being a rim flush valve assembly, and the rim flush valve assembly comprising an overflow pipe.

[0025] At least a portion of the interior wall of the toilet bowl in the sump region may be configured to slope upwardly from the spout port toward the inlet of the trapway.

[0026] The toilet assembly is preferably capable of operating with a flush volume of about 6.0 liters or less, more preferably about 4.8 liters or less, and in some embodiments about 2.0 liters or less.

[0027] The at least one ejection channel may also be configured to be positioned to extend at least partially around a lower portion of the exterior surface of the bowl.

[0028] The sump area of the bowl in one embodiment has a spout trap defined by the interior surface of the bowl and having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein the inlet end of the spout trap from the spout port and the interior region of the bowl, and the outlet end of the spout trap is in fluid communication with the inlet to the trapway, where the spout trap has a sealing depth. The surface of the spout port is within the spout trap and may be positioned at a sealing depth below the upper surface of the inlet to the trapway as measured longitudinally through the sump area. The jet trap seal depth can be from about 1 cm to about 15 cm, preferably from about 2 cm to about 12 cm, and can be from about 3 cm to about 9 cm.

[0029] The rim valve in one embodiment of the assembly is a rim flush valve assembly having a rim flush valve body extending from a rim flush valve inlet to a rim flush valve outlet and a rim flush valve cover, such as a flapper cover. you can

[0030] The at least one ejection channel may be positioned to pass at least partially under the bowl. A jet flush valve assembly in one embodiment comprises a jet flush valve body extending from a jet flush valve inlet to a jet flush valve outlet and a flush valve cover, wherein the jet flush valve also comprises a backflow prevention mechanism. .

[0031] The flush valve cover described herein for a jet flush valve assembly or optional rim flush valve assembly is at least partially flexible so that it can be peeled upward when opened. can be formed.

[0032] If a backflow prevention mechanism is provided, it may be one or more of a hold down linkage, a hook and catch mechanism, a poppet mechanism, and a check valve.

[0033] The squirt flush valve assembly may also include a squirt flush valve body extending from a squirt flush valve inlet to a squirt flush valve outlet and a flush valve cover. In one such embodiment, the flush valve cover may be at least partially flexible and configured to permit upward peeling when opened. The jet flush valve cover may also further comprise at least one grommet for attachment of a chain having a hinged mount and/or float thereon. In one such embodiment having a cover that is at least partially flexible, the assembly may also include a backflow prevention mechanism.

[0034] Also within the scope of the present invention is a method of maintaining a siphon flush toilet assembly in a primed condition, the method comprising: (a) implementing a toilet bowl assembly; at least one jet flush valve assembly having a jet flush valve inlet and a jet flush valve outlet, the jet flush valve assembly configured to deliver fluid from the jet flush valve outlet to the closed jet fluid passageway; at least one rim valve having a valve inlet and a rim valve outlet; and a bowl having an inner surface defining an inner bowl area, the rim valve configured to channel fluid from the outlet of the rim valve to the rim inlet port. (i) at least one rim inlet port for introducing water into the upper peripheral region of the bowl; (ii) a spout defining at least one spout channel; the spout being the outlet of the spout flush valve; and a spout port positioned in a lower portion of the bowl and configured to discharge fluid into the sump region of the bowl, wherein the sump region is in fluid communication with an inlet to a trapway having a weir, a closed effusion fluid passage comprising a effusion channel, a effusion flush valve positioned above the weir of the trapway and a closed effusion channel comprising the effusion channel A jet fluid passageway extends from the jet flush valve outlet to the jet outlet port and is closed after being primed. (b) activating a flush cycle; and (c) passing fluid through at least one flush flush valve assembly and at least one rim valve. and (d) maintaining the closed jetting fluid passage in a primed condition after completion of the flush cycle. In one preferred embodiment, flow is continued until the water level in the sump is above the spout port.

[0035] In the method noted above, the toilet bowl assembly may further comprise a rim manifold, wherein the rim manifold includes a rim manifold inlet opening configured to receive fluid from an outlet of the rim valve. and a rim manifold outlet opening for delivering fluid to the rim inlet port, wherein the bowl includes a rim on an upper circumference of the bowl, the rim extending at least partially from the bowl from the rim inlet port. defining a rim channel having at least one rim outlet port extending about the upper circumference and in fluid communication with the interior region of the bowl, the rim inlet port fluidly connecting to the rim channel and the rim manifold outlet opening; In communication, the method further comprises introducing fluid from the outlet of the rim valve through the rim manifold inlet, the rim manifold outlet, the rim inlet port, the rim channel and at least one rim channel outlet port into the interior region of the toilet bowl.

[0036] In one embodiment of the method, the rim includes a rim ledge extending transversely around the inner surface of the bowl at least partially from the rim inlet port along the inner surface of the bowl in the upper peripheral region of the bowl. and the method directs the fluid from the rim ledge inlet port such that it travels along the rim ledge and enters the interior space of the bowl within at least one location displaced from the rim inlet port. It may further comprise introducing.

[0037] The toilet bowl assembly in the method may further comprise a tank configured to receive fluid from a source of fluid, the tank having at least one fill valve, the method comprising: Further comprising filling the tank with the valve and supplying fluid from the tank through the at least one jet flush valve assembly and the at least one rim valve to the bowl. The tank may include at least one squirt reservoir and at least one rim reservoir, the squirt reservoir comprising a squirt fill valve and at least one squirt flush valve assembly configured to deliver fluid to the squirt inlet port. The rim reservoir comprises at least one rim valve and is configured to deliver fluid to the rim inlet port through the at least one rim valve, the method comprising: activating the at least one squirt reservoir prior to activating the flush cycle; Further comprising filling with fluid from a fill valve. The at least one rim reservoir may further comprise a rim fill valve, and the method further comprises filling the at least one rim reservoir with the rim fill valve.

[0038] The method may further comprise maintaining a level of fluid in the at least one squirt reservoir from at least one fill valve of the tank above the squirt flush valve assembly inlet after completion of the flush cycle.

[0039] In another embodiment of the method, in the effusion trap, the upper surface of the effusion outlet port is below the upper surface of the inlet to the trapway as measured longitudinally through the sump region. The method may be configured to be positioned at a sealing depth, and the method maintains this sealing depth such that the closed jet fluid passageway is removed from the jet flush valve assembly prior to actuation and after completion of the flush cycle. It may further comprise facilitating fluid priming.

[0040] Also included in the invention herein is at least one jet flush valve assembly configured to deliver fluid to the direct feed jet and a jet flush valve assembly configured to deliver fluid to the rim. a rim manifold, wherein a rim manifold inlet opening configured to receive fluid from the rim valve and a rim manifold outlet opening to deliver fluid to the rim inlet port; a bowl having an interior surface defining an interior bowl region; (a) a rim provided on an upper circumference of the bowl and defining a rim channel; the rim channel fluidly communicating with the rim manifold outlet opening; (b) a spout defining at least one spout channel having an inlet port in communication and at least one rim outlet port in fluid communication with an interior region of the bowl, the spout ejecting fluid from the flush valve assembly; having an inlet port in fluid communication with the squirt flush valve assembly outlet for receiving and a squirt outlet port configured to discharge fluid into a sump region within the bottom portion of the bowl, wherein the sump region is in fluid communication with the inlet of the trapway, and (c) the sump region of the bowl has a spout trap defined by the inner wall of the bowl and having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein the spout The inlet end of the trap receives fluid from the spout port and the interior of the bowl, and the outlet end of the spout trap communicates with the inlet to the trapway, where the spout trap operates before and after the flush cycle. Afterwards, the effusion channel and effusion manifold have sufficient sealing depth to maintain the effusion channel and effusion manifold primed with fluid from the effusion flush valve assembly so that air is closed prior to actuation and after completion of the flush cycle. a siphon flush bowl assembly comprising:

[0041] The present invention provides at least one jet flush valve assembly configured to deliver fluid to a direct feed jet and fluid configured to deliver fluid to a rim inlet port in an upper peripheral portion of the bowl. (a) an upper peripheral portion on the upper periphery of the bowl directing fluid from the rim inlet port at least partially into the bowl; (b) a jet defining at least one jet channel configured to face over the upper peripheral portion and into the sump region, the jet fluidly communicating with an outlet of the jet flush valve assembly; having an inlet port and a spout port in a lower portion of the bowl configured to discharge fluid into a sump area, wherein the sump area is in fluid communication with the inlet of the trapway; (c) a sump area in the bottom portion of the bowl having a spout trap defined by the inner surface of the bowl and having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein the inlet end of the spout trap receives fluid; Received from the spout port and the interior of the bowl, the outlet end of the spout trap is in fluid communication with the inlet to the trapway, wherein the spout trap is connected to the spout channel and the spout prior to and after completion of the flush cycle. A jetted fluid configured to have a sealing depth sufficient to keep the manifold primed with fluid from the jetted flush valve assembly, whereby air is closed prior to actuation and after completion of the flush cycle. Further includes a siphon flush bowl assembly with aiding in preventing entry into the aisle.

[0042] The present invention further includes a method of maintaining a siphon flush bowl assembly in a primed condition, the method comprising: (a) at least one squirt flush valve having a squirt flush valve inlet and a squirt flush valve outlet; at least one rim valve having a valve inlet and a rim valve outlet, wherein the valve assembly and the jet flush valve assembly are configured to deliver fluid from the jet flush valve outlet to the closed jet fluid passage; and a rim valve. has an interior surface defining an interior bowl region configured to channel fluid from the outlet of the rim valve to the rim inlet port, wherein (i) the rim inlet port is (A) the upper circumference of the bowl; (B) a rim having at least one rim outlet port disposed thereon defining a rim channel extending over the upper circumference of the bowl from a rim inlet port and in fluid communication with an interior region of the bowl; an inner surface configured to introduce water from the rim inlet along the inner surface of the bowl in the upper peripheral region of the (ii) a spout defining at least one spout channel, the spout being positioned within a lower portion of the bowl to displace fluid into the bowl with an inlet port in fluid communication with the outlet of the spout flush valve assembly; and a spout outlet port configured to discharge into a sump region of the sump region, wherein the sump region is in fluid communication with the inlet to the trapway having the weir to close the spout. The fluid passageway comprises a jet channel, wherein the jet flush valve is positioned above the weir of the trapway, and the closed jet fluid passage comprising the jet channel extends from the jet flush valve exit to the jet exit. such that after being primed, the closed jet fluid passageway remains primed with fluid to prevent air from entering the closed jet fluid passageway before and after the flush cycle is activated. (b) activating the flush cycle; and (c) directing fluid through at least one jet flush valve assembly so that air does not enter the jet outlet. and (d) reducing the flow rate of fluid through the ejection channel for about 1 second to about 5 seconds until the siphon breaks. including.

[0043] The method of priming may also include step (c), further comprising supplying fluid through at least one rim valve during the flush cycle. The method is to initially prime the bowl after installation by supplying sufficient flow through the spout flush valve assembly outlet to prevent air from entering the spout port until the sump is filled with fluid. You can prepare more.

[0044] The present invention also includes a flush valve for use in a siphon flush toilet bowl, wherein the flush valve comprises a flush valve body extending from a flush valve inlet to a flush valve outlet and a flush valve body extending over the flush valve inlet. and a flapper cover configured to extend, wherein the flush valve further comprises an anti-reflux mechanism. The anti-reflux mechanism may be one or more of a hold down linkage, a hook and catch mechanism, a poppet mechanism, and a check valve. The flush valve may also include a flush valve cover that is at least partially flexible and can be peeled upward when opened. The flush valve cover may also further comprise at least one grommet for attachment of a chain with hinged mounts and/or floats to assist in lifting the cover.

[0045] Also within the scope of the present invention is a flush valve for use in a siphon flush bowl assembly comprising a flush valve body extending from a flush valve inlet to a flush valve outlet and a flush valve body extending from a flush valve outlet to a flush valve outlet. wherein the flapper cover is at least partially flexible and capable of peeling upwardly when opened. In this embodiment, the flush valve may further comprise a backflow prevention mechanism as described above and elsewhere herein.

[0046] Another embodiment of the invention is an adjustable flush connector for a flush toilet comprising a first section having a first rotatable connector, a second section, and an adjustable connector. including. The adjustable connector has a second rotatable connector that is longitudinally moveable along the second section and rotatably positionable. The adjustable flush connector can be used with flush toilets, and preferably siphon flush toilets.

[0047] The adjustable flush connector has a second section, wherein a portion of the surface of the second section and the inner surface of the adjustable connector defining a passageway therethrough each: An adjustable connector is threaded so as to be longitudinally adjustable along the second section and rotatably positionable about the second section.

[0048] In another embodiment of the adjustable flush connector, the first rotatable connector may be configured to be connectable to the rotating rod. A second rotatable connector may be configured to be connectable to the flush actuation bar. The flush actuation bar may comprise a first portion connected to the first valve assembly and a second portion connected to the second valve assembly.

[0049] A further embodiment of the invention includes a first portion configured to be connected to a first valve assembly and a second portion configured to be connected to a second valve assembly. and a flush actuation assembly for use with a flush toilet comprising a rotatable rod. The flush actuation bar is connected to the rotating rod using a connector. In another embodiment, the connector of the flush actuation assembly is an adjustable flush connector positioned to operably connect the rotating rod and the flush actuation bar. The adjustable flush connector comprises a first section, a second section and an adjustable connector, wherein the adjustable connector comprises a second rotatable connector and an adjustable connector is longitudinally moveable and rotatably positionable along the second section of the adjustable flush connector. The adjustable flush connector is connected to the rotating rod using a first rotatable connector positioned on the first section of the adjustable flush connector, the adjustable flush connector is connected to the adjustable A second rotatable connector of the connector is used to connect to the flush actuation bar.

[0050] A portion of the surface of the second section of the adjustable flush connector and the inner surface of the adjustable connector defining a passageway therethrough each have a It may be threaded to allow longitudinal adjustment along the second section and rotational adjustment about the second section. A first portion of the flush actuation bar may also be configured to be connected to the rim valve assembly. A second portion of the flush actuation bar may be configured to be connected to the squirt valve assembly.

[0051] At least one of the first portion of the flush actuation bar and the second portion of the flush actuation bar are configured with the valve body portion and the seal to bend the seal to gradually open the valve. It may be configured to connect to a valve assembly having a rigid cover that includes a rigid cover and a valve cover that includes a rigid cover. The seal may comprise a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is positioned on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. It has a plurality of locking lugs. Also, the seal may comprise a sealing surface and a locking surface, and at least the sealing surface may comprise silicone.

[0052] Another embodiment of the invention includes a valve cover for a flush valve assembly having a flush valve with a valve body, wherein the valve cover is positioned over the valve body. The valve cover comprises a seal and a rigid cover configured to be flexable with the seal to gradually open the valve cover.

[0053] The seal may comprise a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is positioned on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. A plurality of locking lugs may be provided. Each locking lug may comprise a head portion and a neck portion, wherein a distance measured along a transverse line on a cross-section of the top surface of the neck is equal to It may be less than the distance measured along the transverse line. A plurality of locking lugs may be arranged in a first row, a second row, and a third row. The first row may be positioned about 5 mm to about 15 mm from the point of the leading edge of the cover on a central vertical longitudinal plane through the valve cover, and the second row may be about 40 mm from that point. and the third row may be located about 60 mm to about 80 mm from that point.

[0054] Each of the first, second, and third rows of locking lugs on the locking surface may comprise at least one locking lug. Each locking lug may comprise a head portion and a neck portion, wherein the neck portion may have a generally cylindrical shape and the head portion generally has a rounded top. It may be conical with a surface. The head of the first row of locking lugs and the head of the second row of locking lugs may generally be flat along the side facing the central vertical longitudinal plane of the valve cover. . In one embodiment, at least the sealing surface of the valve cover may comprise silicone.

[0055] In another embodiment of the valve cover, the rigid cover may comprise a peel section and a lift section. There may be a lateral separation between a trailing edge of the stripping section and a leading edge of the lifting section, the trailing edge of the stripping section and the leading edge of the lifting section being substantially parallel to each other and in a central longitudinal plane. , and the lateral distance measured from the trailing edge of the ablation section to the leading edge of the lifting section may be about 10 mm to about 20 mm. The peel section may comprise at least one hinged mount, the hinged mount configured to connect with the lifting section.

[0056] The seal of the valve cover may be positioned for face-to-face engagement with the peel section and the lift section of the hard cover. The seal may also be connected to the stripping section and the lifting section using multiple locking lugs and/or using an adhesive. The stripping section may be configured to interact with the flush actuation bar and/or may include a float attachment.

[0057] Another embodiment of the present invention is a valve assembly for a flush toilet. The valve assembly comprises a valve body comprising a link for associating the valve body with a second valve body of the second valve assembly and a valve cover.

[0058] In the valve assemblies included above, the valve cover may comprise a flush valve body portion, wherein the valve cover is positioned over the valve body portion, the valve cover including the seal and the valve body portion. a rigid cover configured to be flexable with the seal to gradually open the cover. The seal may comprise a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is positioned on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. Multiple locking lugs may be provided.

[0059] Further included in the present invention is a first valve assembly comprising a first valve body portion, a first link, and a first valve cover; a second valve body portion; a multiple flush valve assembly comprising two links and a second valve assembly comprising a second valve cover, wherein the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly are connected to the first link and the second valve cover; are configured to be associated with each other by meshing the links of the

[0060] A first link of the multiple flush valve assembly may have a downward hook shape and a second link may have an upward projection, the upward projection mating with the downward hook shape. It is configured to maintain alignment between the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly.

[0061] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a toilet bowl, a first valve assembly, a second valve assembly, a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being the first valve assembly. the second portion configured to be connected to the second valve assembly; a rotary rod; and the rotary rod and the flush actuation bar. a flush actuation assembly comprising: an adjustable flush connector positioned for operable connection; the adjustable flush connector comprising a first section, a second section and an adjustable connector; A siphon flush toilet, wherein the adjustable connector comprises a second rotatable connector, the adjustable connector being longitudinally moveable along the second section and rotatably The positionable adjustable flush connector is connected to the rotating rod using a first rotatable connector disposed on the first section of the adjustable flush connector, the adjustable flush connector is connected to the flush actuation bar using a second rotatable connector of the adjustable connector.

[0062] In a siphon toilet, the first valve assembly may be a rim flush valve assembly. Also within the toilet bowl, the second valve assembly may be a jet flush valve assembly.

[0063] In one embodiment, a first valve assembly comprising a toilet bowl, a flush actuation assembly, a first valve body comprising a first link and a first valve cover, and a second valve assembly comprising a second link. and a multiple flush valve assembly comprising a second valve assembly comprising a second valve cover, wherein the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly comprise a first The one link and the second link are configured to be associated with each other by meshing.

[0064] The first link of this embodiment of the toilet assembly may have a downward hook shape and the second link may have an upward projection, the upward projection being a downward hook shape. It is configured to mate to maintain alignment of the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly.

[0065] Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides a flush actuation bar comprising a first valve assembly, a second valve assembly, a first portion and a second portion, a rotating rod, and a rotating rod. an adjustable flush connector positioned to operably connect a flush actuation bar and a flush actuation bar; the adjustable flush connector comprising a first section, a second section and an adjustable connector; a flush actuation assembly, wherein the adjustable connector comprises a second rotatable connector, the adjustable connector along the second section; The longitudinally movable, rotatably positionable adjustable flush connector uses a first rotatable connector disposed on a first section of the adjustable flush connector. An adjustable flush connector connected to the rotating rod is connected to the flush actuation bar using a second rotatable connector of the adjustable connector. The second valve assembly may also include a float attachment. Float attachments may be selected from the group consisting of float assemblies, chains, strings, cords, ropes, stainless cables, rigid rods, or wires.

[0066] Another embodiment of the present invention includes an embodiment of an assembly kit for use with a toilet comprising a flush actuation assembly and a multiple flush valve assembly, wherein the multiple flush valve assembly comprises a first a first valve assembly comprising a first valve body comprising a link and a first valve cover; and a second valve assembly comprising a second valve body comprising a second link and a second valve cover. a valve assembly, wherein the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly are associated with each other by intermeshing the first link and the second link.

[0067] In the assembly kit embodiments described above, the kit may further comprise a tank-to-bowl gasket tool, wherein the multiple flush valve assembly is a first tank-to-bowl gasket and a and a second tank-to-bowl gasket, the first and second tank-to-bowl gaskets having outer edges, and the tank-to-bowl gasket tool mating with the outer edges of the tank-to-bowl gasket. and can be used as a wrench to attach the tank/bowl gasket to the toilet bowl tank.

[0068] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, are best understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, presently preferred embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. Descriptions of the drawings are provided below.

[0069] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a siphon toilet bowl assembly according to one embodiment of the invention showing the interior of the tank with the squirt flush valve assembly and the rim flush valve assembly; [0070] Fig. 2 is a front view of the toilet bowl assembly of Fig. 1 showing the interior of the tank; [0071] Fig. 3 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the toilet assembly of Figs. 1-2 taken along line 3-3; [0072] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bowl in the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing the rim jet flow passages in the jet channels that curve around the bottom of the bowl's exterior surface. [0073] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the bowl of the embodiment of Fig. 1 showing the rim ledge channels; [0074] FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of the primed interior space in the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 3B is a schematic representation of the primed interior space in the embodiment of FIG. 1 within a closed jet channel including dual jet channels with dual flow paths as in FIG. 3A; FIG. 3B is a schematic representation of the primed interior space in the embodiment of FIG. 1 within a closed jet channel including dual jet channels with dual flow paths as in FIG. 3A; FIG. 3B is a schematic representation of the primed interior space in the embodiment of FIG. 1 within a closed jet channel including dual jet channels with dual flow paths as in FIG. 3A; FIG. 3B is a schematic representation of the primed interior space in the embodiment of FIG. 1 within a closed jet channel including dual jet channels with dual flow paths as in FIG. 3A; [0075] Fig. 2 is a top view of the toilet bowl assembly of Fig. 1; [0076] Fig. 3 is a top view of the bowl portion of the toilet assembly showing the spout manifold opening and the rim manifold opening; [0077] A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the toilet assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 with the flush valve omitted. [0078] Fig. 6 depicts a greatly-enlarged portion of the toilet assembly of Fig. 5 showing the spout; [0079] The longitudinal cross-sectional view of Figure 8 taken along line 7-7. [0080] Fig. 2 is a plan view of the toilet bowl assembly of Fig. 1 with the lid removed from the tank; [0081] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a squirt flush valve of the toilet assembly of Fig. 1; [0082] Fig. 10 is a side view of the jet flush valve of the toilet assembly of Fig. 9; [0083] Fig. 10 is a front view of the squirt flush valve of the toilet assembly of Fig. 9; [0084] Fig. 2 is a front view of a rim flush valve of the toilet assembly of Fig. 1 with an overflow pipe; [0085] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the rim flush valve of Fig. 12; [0086] Fig. 13 is a side view of the rim flush valve of Fig. 12; [0087] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the flush actuation bar relative to the rim and squirt valve of the toilet assembly of Fig. 1; [0088] Fig. 10 is a front perspective view of a siphon toilet bowl assembly according to an embodiment of the invention having a rim channel and at least one rim exit port; [0089] Fig. 2 is a top cross-sectional view of the siphon toilet bowl of Fig. 1 showing the rim channel inlet port, initial rim and jet flow; [0090] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of Fig. 17; [0091] FIG. 2 is a top partial plan view of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of FIG. [0092] FIG. 2 is a top partial plan view of an alternative embodiment of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of FIG. 1 having both a squirt reservoir and a rim reservoir; [0093] A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of FIG. 19 taken along line 21-21 showing fluid flow to the spout with the spout flush valve assembly removed. [0094] Fig. 22 is a greatly enlarged partial cut-away cross-sectional view of the sump region of Fig. 21; [0095] At least a portion of the toilet bowl wall in the sump area with the squirt flush valve assembly removed slopes upward from the squirt outlet port toward the trap inlet to redirect fluid flow to the squirt. FIG. 22 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the siphon toilet bowl assembly to FIG. 21 shown; [0096] Fig. 24 is a greatly enlarged partial cut-away cross-sectional view of the sump region of Fig. 23; [0097] An isometric longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of the present invention with the jet flow under the bowl showing fluid flow to the rim with the rim flush valve assembly removed. . [0098] A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of FIG. 25 showing fluid flow through the spout. [0099] FIG. 26 is a greatly enlarged partial cut-away cross-sectional view of the sump region of FIG. [0100] Fig. 4 is an isometric longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the siphon toilet bowl assembly of the present invention showing fluid flow to the upper peripheral portion of the rim with the rim flush valve and spout flush valve assembly removed; [0101] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the toilet bowl of FIG. 4B relative to various longitudinal cross-sectional views of the rim shelf as shown in FIGS. 30-34. [0102] Along line 30-30 in FIG. 29 showing the depth of the rim shelf and the height of the area formed in the upper peripheral region of the toilet bowl at the location of the rim shelf near the location of the rim inlet port. FIG. 2 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view cut away; [0103] FIG. 29 showing the depth of the rim shelf and the height of the area formed in the upper peripheral region of the toilet bowl at the location of the rim shelf at a location approximately halfway between the rear and front of the bowl. is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along line 31-31 of FIG. [0104] Along line 32-32 in FIG. FIG. 2 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view cut away; [0105] The upper peripheral area of the toilet bowl at the location of the rim ledge at a location approximately halfway between the depth of the rim ledge and the front and rear of the bowl on the side of the bowl opposite the view of FIG. 33 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33 of FIG. 29 showing the height of the region formed therein; FIG. [0106] Cut along line 34-34 in FIG. 29 showing the depth of the rim shelf and the height of the area formed in the upper peripheral region of the toilet bowl at the location of the rim shelf at the rear of the bowl 2 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view; FIG. [0107] Fig. 10 is a front view of a jet valve for use with embodiments of the invention illustrated herein in an open state in one embodiment of a jet valve having a flapper and an anti-reflux mechanism with a hold down link; [0108] Fig. 36 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 35; [0109] FIG. 36 is a front view of the ejection valve of FIG. 35 in a closed state; [0110] Fig. 38 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 37; [0111] Fig. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a further jet valve for use with embodiments of the invention illustrated herein in the closed state of one embodiment of the jet valve having a flapper and a lower poppet opening; [0112] Fig. 40 is a top perspective view of the ejection valve of Fig. 39; [0113] Fig. 40 is a front view of the ejection valve of Fig. 39; [0114] Fig. 40 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 39; [0115] A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the ejection valve of FIG. [0116] Fig. 40 is a bottom perspective view of the ejection valve of Fig. 39 in an open state; [0117] Fig. 45 is a top perspective view of the jet valve of Fig. 44 showing a star-shaped internal rib structure; [0118] Fig. 45 is a front view of the ejection valve of Fig. 44; [0119] Fig. 45 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 44; [0120] A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the ejection valve of FIG. [0121] Additional jet valves for use with the embodiments of the invention illustrated herein in the closed state having anti-backflow mechanisms including tear-off flapper covers and hinged mechanisms with lifting hooks. Top perspective view. [0122] Fig. 50 is a plan view of the ejection valve of Fig. 49; [0123] Fig. 50 is a front view of the ejection valve of Fig. 49; [0124] Fig. 50 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 49; [0125] Fig. 53 shows an enlarged portion of the valve of Fig. 52 at the hook location. [0126] Fig. 49 is a top perspective view of the jet valve of Fig. 49 in an open position and showing internal star ribs; [0127] Fig. 50 is a plan view of the body portion of the jet valve of Fig. 49 showing internal star ribs; [0128] Fig. 56 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along line 56-56 in Fig. 55; [0129] Fig. 49 is a top perspective view of a further embodiment similar to Fig. 49 but having ribs with alternating internal stars; [0130] Fig. 58 is a plan view of the body portion of the jet valve of Fig. 57 showing internal star ribs; [0131] Fig. 58 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along line 59-59 in Fig. 58; [0132] Fig. 13 is a top perspective view of a further jet valve for use with the embodiments of the invention illustrated herein in the closed state, having a backflow prevention mechanism including a tear-off flapper cover and hold down link; [0133] Fig. 61 is a plan view of the ejection valve of Fig. 60; [0134] Fig. 61 is a front view of the ejection valve of Fig. 60; [0135] Fig. 61 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 60; [0136] Shown herein in the closed state, including a tear-away cover, but with an anti-reflux mechanism including an optional feature of the overflow tube to accommodate additional anti-reflux devices such as check valves. 50 is a perspective view of a modification of the ejection valve of FIG. 49 for use with an embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. [0137] Fig. 65 is a front view of the ejection valve of Fig. 64; [0138] Fig. 65 is a top view of the ejection valve of Fig. 64; [0139] Fig. 65 is a right side view of the ejection valve of Fig. 64; [0140] Fig. 68 shows an enlarged portion of the ejection valve of Fig. 67 showing the lifting hook mechanism. [0141] Fig. 14 is a front view of an assembly kit according to one embodiment herein including a flush actuation assembly connected to two valve assemblies; [0142] Fig. 70 is a plan view of the assembly kit of Fig. 69; [0143] Fig. 70 is a front view of the adjustable flush connector and flush actuation bar in the assembly kit of Figure 69; [0144] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the adjustable flush connector and flush actuation bar of FIG. [0145] Fig. 70 is a perspective view of a valve cover used in the assembly kit of Fig. 69; [0146] Fig. 74 is a plan view of the valve cover of Fig. 73; [0147] Fig. 74 is a front view of the valve cover of Fig. 73; [0148] Fig. 74 is a plan view of a seal as used in the valve cover of Fig. 73; [0149] Fig. 77 is a front view of the seal of Fig. 76; [0150] Fig. 70 is an enlarged front view of a portion of the assembly kit of Fig. 69 showing the linking device; [0151] Fig. 79 is an enlarged plan view of a linking device as shown in Fig. 78; [0152] An enlarged front view of a portion of one embodiment of the assembly kit of FIG. 69 having a single multiple flush valve assembly showing connection elements. [0153] Fig. 81 is an enlarged plan view of a connecting element as shown in Fig. 80; [0154] An exploded view of the assembly kit of Figure 69, according to the first embodiment herein. [0155] An exploded view of the assembly kit of Figure 69, according to the second embodiment herein. [0156] Fig. 13 is an exploded view of a tank/bowl gasket kit, according to an embodiment of the present invention; [0157] Fig. 69 is a front view of the assembly kit of Fig. 69 including an alternative embodiment of a connector in the flush actuation assembly; [0158] FIG. 86 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the connector and flush actuation bar in the assembly kit of FIG. [0159] Fig. 86 is a front view of a second alternative embodiment of the connector and flush actuation bar in the assembly kit of Fig. 85; [0160] Fig. 69 is a perspective view of an assembly kit as in Fig. 69 modified to include an alternative embodiment of a float attachment; [0161] Fig. 89 is a perspective view of the second valve assembly in the assembly kit of Fig. 88 showing the float attachment; [0162] Fig. 89 is a side view of the second valve assembly of Fig. 89;

[0163] As used herein, "medial" and "lateral", "upper" and "lower", "anterior" and "posterior", "anterior" and "posterior", Terms such as "left" and "right", "upwardly" and "downwardly" and words of similar import refer to the figures of the accompanying drawings with respect to the orientation of the toilet bowl assembly as shown. It is intended to aid in understanding the preferred embodiments and is not intended to be a limitation on the scope of the invention or to limit the scope of the invention to the preferred embodiments shown in the figures. . Each of the embodiments herein, 10, 1010, 110, 210, 310, and 410, etc., use the same reference numerals as described herein and as shown in the drawings. Unless language to the contrary indicates similar features of the invention, thereby describing alternative constructions of a particular feature, one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to determine one such feature based on the present disclosure and its accompanying drawings. should be applicable to other embodiments describing similar features.

[0164] In the present invention, preferably fluid introduced into the bowl assembly to deliver different amounts of fluid from the jet flush valve and the rim valve, such as the rim flush valve, through separate closed jet fluid paths. A siphon flush toilet assembly is provided that is operable to maintain a primed closed squirt fluid passageway including the squirt channel by isolating the flow. It operates with an air-filled jetting channel and provides stronger performance compared to standard gravity flush siphon toilets, which must expel air to minimize turbulence and flow restriction.

[0165] The toilet bowl assembly of the present invention has a closed jet fluid path that includes a jet channel within the toilet bowl assembly outside the bowl. The jet channel, including the optional jet manifold, can be any geometry of the bowl molding so long as the closed jet fluid path accepts fluid from the jet valve outlet into the jet inlet port and through the jet channel to the jet outlet port. Depending on the geometry, it may have various configurations and extension regions, additional ports or side channels, and the like. The closed jetting fluid path helps keep the jetting channel permanently primed, in effect isolating it, thereby preventing air from entering the jetting channel. . This is done by (1) isolating the effusion channel from the rim flow or other passages open to the atmosphere, and (2) closing the effusion channel flush valve before the water level in the tank drops to the level of the flush valve opening. (3) helps prevent airflow from entering the jet channel and any other jet passages, regions, or optional jet manifold, if used; (4) establishing a sealing depth within the spurt trap in the sump area to help block water from entering the spurt channel outlet; and/or (4) the water level within the spurt trap This is accomplished by constructing and operating the assembly to ensure that the air does not travel backwards and drop to a level where it can enter the ejection channel.

[0166] In general, the ratio of fluid volume to the rim to fluid volume to the spout also affects toilet performance. In a typical prior art siphon spout toilet bowl, about 70% of fresh water is required to power the spout and start the siphon, and only about 30% to clean the bowl through the rim. leave. In the priming toilet bowl herein, much less water is required to initiate the siphon, thereby allowing more water to be used to clean the bowl. Applicants have determined that more than about 50% fresh water can be directed to the rim for significant improvement in toilet flushing. In preferred embodiments, greater than about 60% and as much as about 70% of the water can be directed to the rim.

[0167] In addition to the factors noted above, other features to maintain a sufficient sealing depth of water in the sump area and/or prevent backflow of air from the sump into the ejection channel. The method is to keep the water flowing through and out of the ejection channel slower after breaking the siphon. For example, in a bowl filled to the weir (i.e., there is excess water contributing to the siphon), a burst of greater than about 950 ml/s is required to initiate and maintain a siphon within a trapway approximately 54 mm in diameter. Requires a volumetric flow from the part. This results in a linear flow rate of 127 cm/s over a jet port area of 7.47 cm ² . Larger trapway sizes will require higher flow rates to initiate and maintain a siphon, and smaller trapways will require smaller values. The siphon breaks when the flow rate from the jet is reduced below about 950 ml/s. maintaining a volumetric flow rate from the jet of less than about 950 ml/s and greater than about 175 ml/s (i.e., a linear flow rate of 23.4 cm/s through an area of 7.47 cm ² of the jet port); Air is prevented from entering the closed ejection channel. When the bowl is completely filled to the level of the trapway weir, flow from the spout is stopped without loss of priming as long as the top of the spout channel is positioned below the trapway weir. obtain.

[0168] Controlling such flush valve actuation for the jet flush valve and the rim flush valve can be done in a number of ways. One method uses a solenoid valve as disclosed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0313750 and US Pat. No. 6,823,535, relevant portions of which are incorporated herein by reference. This is due to This valve control method is a purely mechanical method, such as a dual inlet flushing method such as that disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,704,945, relevant portions of which are also incorporated herein by reference. It can be accomplished by modifications to valves and the like. Alternatively, a flush actuation bar balanced for optimum performance of two flush valves in sequence as shown herein may be used.

[0169] The flush actuator bar may be connected to a rotating rod and handle or to other flush actuators using adjustable flush connectors. The adjustable flush connector provides an adjustable connection that compensates for different placements of the rotating rod with respect to the valve assembly within the toilet bowl. This compensation allows most valve assemblies, flush actuation bars, and/or rotating rods to fit together. Adjustments made by the adjustable flush connector may include longitudinal movement along its length, rotation about its longitudinal axis, and/or rotation about its transverse axis.

[0170] Additionally, as discussed in more detail below, system performance may be enhanced by providing a "tear-away" valve cover to facilitate automatic priming of the jets. The cover serves to reduce the actuation force required to open the ejection flapper. With the present invention, where the jet channel is primed, the weight of the water both above and below the flapper requires more than twice as much force as conventional flapper valves. By peeling the cover open, the seal is broken and some water comes in while the air retreats making the cover easier to open. In addition, during initial priming, when the valve is closed, the spout fills with air, and if the flapper suddenly opens, fresh water rushes in too quickly and the air in the spout channel is forced into the toilet bowl. and depending on the geometry of its ejection channel, it may be trapped and not sufficiently expelled. Further, because the embodiments herein provide a primed and closed spurt path, an optional backflow preventer, as further described below, spurts when the toilet bowl requires water entry. It may be provided in the flush valve.

[0171] A preferred valve cover construction for use with a "tear-away" valve cover may optimize valve performance. In particular, a locking element may be provided on the seal to prevent it from disengaging from the valve cover. Additionally, valve assemblies may be provided that are associated with each other using a linking device to maintain consistent flushing performance. Such valve assemblies can be used to ensure proper and consistent alignment between the valve bodies over time.

[0172] Sufficient post-flush depth in the sump area and/or stopping water from entering the closed spout fluid passage through the spout port is a rimless toilet bowl while the siphon is broken. It can also be achieved by keeping water flowing to the rim ledge in the case, or through the rim channel in older toilet designs. Because the toilet system described herein includes separate channels and valve mechanisms for controlling flow to the rim and spout, the system maintains flow through the rim inlet port while the siphon is broken. can be designed to continue Water flow to the rim inlet port is preferably sufficient to maintain the water level in the sump area above the level of the spout outlet port, but insufficient to maintain the siphon within the trapway. is. In this way, additional safeguards may be taken to keep the effusion channel free of air, and dependence on sealing depth within the sump area may be reduced. It should also be noted that the flow through the spout and rim can be utilized together to maintain sufficient post-flush depth within the sump area.

[0173] A related area where the present invention provides improvements over the prior art is in high efficiency siphon toilets with flush volumes below 6.0 liters, preferably below 4.8 liters. The inventive toilet bowl assembly embodiments described herein provide about 6.0 liters or less per flush in a single flush or dual flush toilet assembly while using less water and keeping the bowl extremely clean. , preferably maintain clog resistance consistent with today's toilet bowls of about 4.8 liters per flush or less. Since substantially less water is required to pass through the spurt channel to initiate the siphon, embodiments of the priming toilet assembly herein can function on about 4.8 liters or less per flush, Allows for the production of very high efficiency toilet bowls that can preferably function at about 3.0 or less per flush, and as little as about 2.0 liters per flush.

[0174] In addition, a second related area where the present invention provides improvements over the prior art is in siphon toilets with larger trapways. By changing the size of the trapway, water consumption and toilet bowl performance are significantly affected. In the present invention, because turbulence and restriction to flow are reduced through a closed jet fluid passageway, which in the preferred embodiment includes a primed jet manifold and primed jet channels, the toilet bowl assembly is: It can remain primed in siphon toilets of various trapway sizes and volumes, thereby allowing the toilet bowl assembly to maintain excellent flushing action and cleaning capacity.

[0175] In order to achieve the maximum potential performance of the toilet bowl system of the present invention, the closed fluid jet must be "primed", i.e. filled with water and containing little or no air. Do not stay. Closed fluid spurt channels and spurt channels can potentially compromise the system when they contain significant amounts of air, such as after the toilet bowl is first installed or after major repairs or maintenance. It must be primed before reaching full performance. In order for priming to occur, two basic requirements must be met: (1) water is allowed to flow into the closed fluid ejection path faster than it can exit the closed ejection channel; and (2) through, with, or through the flow of water into the closed ejection channel, the air contained within the ejection channel and the closed ejection fluid path. An escape route must be provided against the current.

[0176] The simplest method of priming a closed spout channel, which may be referred to as "manual priming", is to keep the rim valve closed and block or partially block flow from the spout port. , to open the jet flush valve assembly described herein. The squirt flush valve should be kept open until air bubbles escape from the channel into the tank and are no longer visible, at which point the squirt flush valve is closed and the squirt outlet port is unobstructed. can be released. After refilling the tank, the system should then be fully primed and ready for use at its full potential performance. In a preferred embodiment, the system is designed to self-prime over the first few flushes after installation or after loss of priming due to other unforeseen reasons (maintenance, repair, etc.). In order to autoprime, the same two requirements must be met here, but are system specific. Ensuring an automatic priming system is largely a function of the geometry and design of the jet flush valve, the closed fluid jet path including the jet channel, and the jet outlet port. As described in more detail below, the jet flush valve preferably allows high flow rates to enter the closed jet channel, increasing the flow rate (US Ruffled flush valves (such as those described in US Pat. No. 8,266,723) may be used. In most closed effusion channel designs, the last portion of entrained air in the effusion channel can rise to the space just below the effusion flush valve flapper (or other opening mechanism). Therefore, the valve design must also facilitate the escape of this residual air. As described below, a gradual opening valve, such as a tearable flapper, can confine the flow of water to one side of the valve and facilitate the escape of air around this flow. Certain patterns or ribs in the throat of the flush valve can likewise facilitate this escape of air.

[0177] FIGS. 1-15, 17-19, and 29-34 show a first embodiment of a toilet bowl assembly, generally referred to herein as assembly 10. FIG. Assembly 10 includes at least one squirt flush valve assembly 70 having a squirt flush valve inlet 71 and a squirt flush valve outlet 13 . The jet flush valve body 21 extends between the inlet 71 and the outlet 13 and defines an internal flow path. The jet flush valve assembly may have a variety of configurations and may be any suitable flush valve assembly known in the art or hereafter developed. Preferably, this is for illustration of the use of covers with such valves and floats, as well as with respect to the various embodiments of jet flush valves described below and shown in FIGS. 35-68. is configured similar to that described in co-pending US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0090158, relevant portions of which are incorporated herein. As shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 7-11, the jet flush valve assembly 70 includes a rim flush valve assembly 80 (here the rim valve is , described herein with respect to assembly 80). The rim flush valve assembly 80 and the jet flush valve assembly 70 each preferably have a cover 115 to which a float 117 is attached via a chain 119 or other linkage. As described in co-pending US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0090158, such features help provide enhanced performance and buoyancy control in certain flush valve designs. However, it should be understood that other flush valve assemblies may also be used operating in accordance with the principles of the present invention to provide improved flushing capabilities.

[0178] The jet flush valve assembly 70 delivers fluid from its jet flush valve outlet 13 to the closed jet fluid passageway 1 . The closed ejection fluid passageway 1 includes at least one ejection channel. As shown herein, a single ejection path may be used (see, for example, the arrows shown in FIG. 3 highlighting only one leg of the dual ejection path of assembly 10) or multiple channel. As shown in this embodiment, two such channels 38 are provided. Emerging from one inlet and joining at one outlet, each of the channels flows on its underside around the bowl as illustrated by the flow path shown in FIG. 3A. An ejection manifold may optionally be provided.

[0179] At least one rim valve is used. The rim flush valve can be a variety of valves, including solenoid valves, in-line valves, electronic valves, or water can simply be supplied through an inlet pipe by an electronically controlled valve. As shown herein, a rim flush valve assembly 80 is provided as shown in FIGS. 1-2, 7-8, and 12-14. Each rim valve assembly has a rim flush valve inlet 83 , a rim flush valve outlet 81 , and a rim flush valve body 31 extending from inlet 83 to outlet 81 . The rim flush valve 80, or any other suitable rim valve, so long as it is configured to deliver fluid from the outlet of the rim valve to the rim inlet, also known as the rim inlet port 28 herein. , may be any suitable flush valve assembly or rim valve as noted above.

[0180] In the illustrated embodiment, the rim 32 is configured such that fluid is introduced into the bowl 30 through the rim inlet port 28 and conforms to contours or geometric features formed within the interior surface 36 of the bowl 30. It is of a "rimless" design in that it travels along. That is, the contour may be one or more of the ledges 27 or similar features formed along the upper peripheral portion 33 of the bowl 30 . As shown, the ledge is embedded within the china of the bowl as best shown in FIGS. 29-34. A ledge, also referred to herein as a rim ledge 27, extends from the rim inlet port 28 along the inner surface 39 of the bowl 30 within the upper peripheral portion 33 of the bowl 30, at least partially around the circumference of the bowl; It also extends generally transversely within the recessed contour of the interior surface 36 of the bowl 30, as best shown in FIGS. 30-34. Toilet bowl 30 may come in a variety of shapes and configurations and may have a variety of toilet seat lids and/or lid hinge assemblies. Since such lids are optional, they are not shown in the drawings, and many such lids and assemblies are known in the art, thereby allowing any suitable now known or later developed Any lid can also be used with the present invention.

[0181] In an embodiment such as that shown in Figure 3, the ledge 27 may extend around almost the entire interior surface until it terminates, inducing a vortex effect for cleaning. The rim shelf design is described in co-pending U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0219605A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in relevant portions with respect to describing the rimless feature, and of FIG. Multiple rim ledges and multiple rim inlets can also be accommodated, as shown in an alternative "no rim" embodiment 410 . A similar design, or any future variation of such a design, as shown in British Patent Application No. 2431937A, wherein the bowl is formed without the conventional hollow rim and the water flows through the bowl. A ledge or similar geometry within the contour of the surface of the bowl as shown to allow entry into the interior of the bowl at a location that is transversely displaced from the rim entrance through at least a partial path around the perimeter. It is directed around the contoured inner surface of the bowl in the upper peripheral portion forming the feature and can be used as well. Also, a standard rim channel having a rim inlet port feeding a rim channel defined by a conventional upper rim and having one or more rim outlet ports for introducing wash water into the interior region of the bowl. may also be used in the embodiments described herein (see FIG. 16 and embodiment 110). Such rims may be pressurized or unpressurized and may have various features as described in further detail below with respect to embodiment 110 . The rim feature of embodiment 110 may be incorporated into the rimless versions shown in FIGS. 1-13 or 28 without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0182] In the assembly 10 as pointed out above, the shelf 17 may be recessed. As shown in FIGS. 30-34, the ledge 27 has a relatively constant, preferably constant depth d measured transversely into the profile from the interior surface of the toilet bowl and a ledge and a height h measured longitudinally from 27 to an upper surface 47 above the ledge. The ledge width s varies along the rim flow path from the rim exit port. The contour has an inwardly extending portion 43 and an upper surface 47 above the ledge 27 extending along the ledge, the ledge having the contour as shown in FIG. to form a deeper shelf in an area having a shelf width s1 and a height h1 somewhat greater than its depth to accommodate the strong flow of fluid from the rim inlet port, and Maintaining a moderate shelf size approximately halfway between the rim (see FIG. 31), the flow of the rim is directed to the front of the bowl as shown in FIG. Continue along the shelf towards (see s2 and s3). Depth d is relatively constant, but height h begins to stretch toward the front of the bowl (heights h2 and h3 increase to reference). Preferably, the depth in one embodiment herein remains between about 10 mm and about 30 mm. The height varies from about 35 mm to about 50 mm at the beginning of the flow, from about 35 mm to about 50 mm at the midpoint between the back and front of the bowl, and from about 40 mm to about 55 mm at the front of the bowl. The shelf width is exemplified by s, where s is the tangent from the first radius of curvature r at the recessed edge of the shelf to the second radius of curvature R at which the shelf slopes downward. It is a transverse measurement obtained by measuring along. The shelf is at an angle α with a tangent from the first radius. The angle α in this embodiment varies and, as shown, is 7°, 5°, 7°, 22° and 31° respectively as the ledge progresses along the path in Figures 30-34. . As the angle increases, the radius expands and the shelf width s disappears towards the downward slope when the shelf terminates.

[0183] The depth d remains constant as the flow continues from the front of the bowl to the opposite side of the bowl at the midpoint progressing towards the rear of the bowl in FIG. 34 as shown in FIG. However, the height extends further from about 45mm to about 60mm at the midpoint of Figure 33 to the rear of the bowl, where it is about 50mm to about 65mm. As the height extends (h4 and h5), the ledge 27 reduces to a curve and finally terminates.

[0184] The bowl assembly also includes a spout 20 that defines at least one spout channel, such as spout channel . Spout 20 has an inlet port 18 in fluid communication with outlet 13 of spout flush valve 70 and a spout outlet port 42 positioned in lower or bottom portion 39 of bowl 30 . The spout port may be configured with varying cross-sectional shapes and sizes to discharge fluid into the sump area 40 of the bowl 30 . As long as a closed jetting fluid path is maintained, the space is primed, provided that any holes or outlets are below the waterline in the sump to avoid impact on the sealing depth of the jetting trap. As such, additional optional regions or passageways may be provided, including multiple additional passageways or openings to create spaces within multiple jets or bowls if desired. Additional jets are preferably below the primary outlet. As best shown in Figures 3C-3G, the shape of the internal jet, which includes the space created by the geometry of the bowl around channel 38, is larger than the channel itself, and the inlet 18 and outlet 13. The jet geometry is shown in top, bottom perspective, right side, rear and left side views of FIGS. 3C-3G, respectively. The shape or shared area may vary provided the interior space of the spout 20 remains primed during use.

[0185] The sump area 40 is in fluid communication with an inlet 49 to a trapway 44 having a weir 45 therein. The closed ejection fluid passageway 1 includes an ejection channel 38 . The jet flush valve 70 is preferably positioned at a level L above the trapway weir 45 . The closed jet fluid passageway 1 preferably extends from the outlet 13 of the jet flush valve 70 to the outlet port 42 of the jet 20 . After the assembly is primed, the closed jet fluid passage 1 may remain primed with fluid to prevent air from entering the closed jet fluid passage before and after the flush cycle is activated. can.

[0186] The closed jet fluid passageway is formed by inserting a space or region between the inlet and the jet passageway to provide fluid communication through the jet manifold inlet opening and outlet (not shown). not shown). The toilet bowl assembly may have a rim manifold (not shown). Any such rim manifold communicates with the outlet 81 end of the rim flush valve assembly 80 to provide a rim manifold inlet opening for receiving fluid from the outlet 81 of the rim flush valve assembly 80 and delivering flow to the rim inlet. must have an exit to Such a rim and jet manifold are illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. In Embodiment 10 herein, the rim 32 is a rimless shelf (a conventional rim with a rim channel can also be used). The ledge extends at least partially around the bowl.

[0187] The assembly preferably includes a tank 60 in fluid communication with a fluid source (SF), which may be municipal water, tank water, well water, or the like, thereby providing , the assembly is mounted and the tank 60 is capable of receiving fluid flow through the tank and into the fill valve. The tank preferably has at least one fill valve 66 . The fill valve may be any suitable fill valve commercially available or later developed, so long as it provides a sufficient supply of water to maintain the desired volume in the tank and performs the functions described in this disclosure. It can be assumed that there is. The tank 60 may be one large open container that holds both the rim valve and jet flush valve assemblies as shown in FIGS. 1-13. The tank may be modified as described below with respect to embodiment 1010 to have at least one jet reservoir and at least one rim reservoir. Where a split reservoir is provided, the spout reservoir may include a fill valve or spout fill valve with at least one spout flush valve assembly 70 and the rim reservoir may include at least one rim flush valve assembly and a tank or rim fill valve. and If desired, such a rim reservoir may further accommodate an overflow tube 91 on the rim flush valve assembly 80.

[0188] The toilet bowl assembly of Figures 1-13, like other embodiments herein, has a capacity of about 6.0 liters or less, preferably about 4.8 liters or less, and even more preferably about 2.0 liters or less. It is capable of operating at flush volumes of liters and below.

[0189] The sump area 40 of the bowl preferably has a spout trap 41 defined by the inner surface 36 of the bowl 30 within the lower portion 39 of the bowl 30. As shown in FIG. Blowout trap 41 has an inlet end 46 and an outlet end 50 . Spout trap inlet end 46 receives fluid from spout port 42 and interior region 37 within lower portion 39 of bowl 30 , and outlet end 50 of spout trap 41 includes inlet 49 to trapway 44 . , flows here. The effusion trap has a sealing depth as further described below. For example, as shown in the embodiment 10 shown in FIGS. All variations are also easily incorporated and operable in embodiment 110 of FIG.

[0190] To maintain a siphon flush assembly, such as assembly 10, in a primed condition, the initial steps are as described above and herein including 110, 1010, 210, 310 and 410, etc. Another object of the present invention is to realize a toilet bowl assembly having features as described with respect to various other embodiments of this document, in particular wherein the closed jet fluid passageway 1 with the jet channel 38 therein is a jet flush. A jet fluid passage extending from the outlet 13 of the valve 70 to the outlet 42 of the jet 20 and thereby closed after being primed allows air to pass through the jet fluid passage closed prior to actuation and after completion of the flush cycle. It can remain primed with fluid to prevent it from entering. The flush cycle is actuated by any suitable actuator, such as flush handle H. In one preferred embodiment, the ceramic exterior and handle H are formed from or incorporate a material that provides an antimicrobial surface. After initiating a flush cycle by means of a flush actuator such as a handle, the handle has a portion (which may or may not be detachable) operably connected to flush actuation bar 75 .

[0191] The valves may have actuators that can open both at the same time (this may be done using a standard actuation bar on the flush handle) or provide a balanced approach. By using a flush actuation handle such as that of , one can have timing changes and/or adjustments of the lift based on the weight of each flush valve cover. As best shown in FIG. 15, the handle H is operably connected to a rotating rod P having a rotatable transfer linkage RL. Any hinge, pin connection, washer, or other rotating connector may be used. The flush actuation bar 75 has a balance point BP for movable connection with the rotating rod P through linkage RL. A similar movable rotatable linkage RL' (which may be the same as the rotatable linkage RL) connects the rotating rod and its linkage RL to the flush actuation bar 75 at the balance point BP. The balance point is selected by design that works with the flush valves to precisely and mechanically time the opening of each valve when the handle H is depressed to activate the flush cycle. When handle H is depressed, rotating rod P and linkage RL are forced upward at the end with linkage RL. This in turn pulls the actuation bar 75 up. It is possible to provide a bar 75 with multiple holes to achieve linkages for variable balance points, so that only one bar needs to be manufactured to accommodate various valve cover weights and flushings. Can be used for timing patterns. Although the flush actuation assembly is described with respect to a siphon flush toilet, it is understood that the flush actuation assembly can be used with any style of flush toilet, including flush toilets.

[0192] An assembly kit 1100, such as shown in Figures 69-70 and 85, may be provided to improve actuation and communication between the handle H and one or more valves. Assembly kit 1100 may include flush actuation assembly 11144 comprising rotating rod P, flush actuation bar 1175 and connector 11260 . One end 11142 of the rotating rod P may be connected to a handle H or other flush actuation mechanism located outside the tank, while the opposite end 11143 of the rotating rod P , can be connected to connector 11260 using a rotatable connection. Rotating rod P may be a standard or conventional rotating rod, or may be adjusted to tank size and configuration. As shown in FIG. 85, the placement of the connecting element 11145 on the rotating rod P, which may be one or more openings, the valve openings determined by the manufacturer of the rotating rod, or the rotating rod with respect to the toilet tank. can be positioned at different locations along the . Each manufacturer may have a slightly different arrangement for the connecting elements 11145 along the length of the rotating rod P, or the shape of the rotating rod P itself may be varied. Variations of the embodiments described herein for connector 11260 may be used to compensate for different placements of connecting elements, and as such virtually any rotating rod P, Still other non-conventional flush actuators are contemplated as compatible with embodiments of the present invention. Variations of the connector embodiments described herein may vary between handle H and rotating rod P relative to valve bodies 1131 and 1121 due to differences in handle and rotating rod configurations and/or due to differences in tank size. It can also help to dampen the effects of precision positioning differences. As such, the connector can ensure that the proper amount of lift is provided to the valve to trigger the desired actuation.

[0193] As shown in FIG. Chain C3 is shown hooked to connecting element 11261 on flush actuation bar 1175 at second chain end 11266 forming rotatable connector 11157 of the chain. Flush actuation bar 1175 and rotating rod P are flush actuation bars described in more detail below with respect to the use of adjustable flush connectors 11150 as illustrated in FIGS. and rotating rods. Depending on the type of connector 11260 used, the connecting elements on the rotating rod and the connectors can be varied to form a rotatable connection between these elements. Connector 11260 is capable of at least partial rotational movement about longitudinal axis LAc (FIG. 85) such that flush actuation bar 1175 rotates about axis LAc relative to rotating rod P, which rotates about axis LAc. It should be configured so that it does not rotate around. Additionally, the first rotatable connector 11153 between the rotating rod P and the connector 11260 should be rotatably positionable about the transverse axis TAp of the rotating rod P. A second rotatable connector 11157 between flush actuation bar 1175 and connector 11260 should be rotatably positionable about transverse axis TAb of flush actuation bar 1175 . Preferably, connector 11260 is an adjustable flush connector 11150 as shown in FIGS. 69 and 70 and described in more detail below. Additional variations of this embodiment of a connector sufficient to provide rotational movement of flush actuation bar 1175 with respect to rotating rod P are also acceptable connectors and are shown in FIGS.

[0194] Figures 86 and 87 illustrate additional variations of connectors 11260B and 11260C that cause rotational movement about longitudinal axis LAc. Rotational movement of these variations of the connector about the longitudinal axis LAc is provided by a ball/socket connector 11154 preferably located along the length lc of the connector at the longitudinal center point LC. A similar ball/socket connector 11154 is described in more detail below with respect to a variation of embodiment 1100 using an adjustable flush connector 11150 shown in FIG. 69 as an alternative embodiment to connector 11260. 87, a spacer 11262 can be placed between the ball/socket connector 11154 and the flush actuation bar 1175. As shown in FIG. A spacer 11262 may be included to allow easier rotation of the flush actuation bar 1175 about its longitudinal axis, but is not required for proper functioning of the connector.

[0195] In FIG. 85, the first rotatable connector 11153 between the connector such as shown as chain 11260A and the rotating rod P may be a hinge type connection, where pin 11146 is inserted through opening 11158 located on connector 11260A. hooks inserted into holes, the use of protrusions on one element inserted into openings or recesses on the other element, ball joints, as well as other known connections; It is understood that any connection between the connector 11260 and the rotating rod P that allows rotation of the rotating rod P about its transverse axis TAp may be used. A similar connection between the rotating rod P and the connector 11260 is described in more detail below with respect to the adjustable flush connector 11150 of FIGS. 69-72.

[0196] Similarly, the second rotatable connector 11157 between the flush actuation bar 1175 and the connector 11260 is the connection used for the first rotatable connector 11153 between the connector and the rotating rod. They may be the same or different. As shown in Figures 86 and 87, a hinge-type connection 11268 may be used, wherein protrusions 11263 are integrally formed on connectors 11260B and 11260C. These protrusions 11263 may be inserted into openings 11165 in flush actuation bar 1175 by spring and/or torsional compression of the protrusions and/or sides of the flush actuation bar. Flush actuation bar 1175 is free to rotate about flush actuation bar transverse axis TAb. A second rotatable, including the use of pins passing through openings in both elements, hooks inserted within the openings, ball joints, or other rotatable connections known or hereafter developed. Additional types of connection devices suitable for use with connectors 11157 are also contemplated. A similar connection between connector 11260 and flush actuation bar 1175 is described in more detail below with respect to adjustable flush connector 11150 of FIGS. 69-72.

[0197] While several exemplary variations 11260A-11260C of connectors are described herein, the connector 11260 that provides rotational movement about the longitudinal axis LAc can be used in a flush actuation assembly. is understood. Such rotational movement may be capable of positioning the flush actuation bar and actuating the valve assembly. Preferably, the connector 11260 may be an adjustable flush connector 11150 and the flush actuation assembly may be configured as described below.

[0198] FIG. 71 shows a front perspective view of the adjustable flush connector 11150 shown in FIGS. 69 and 70, and FIG. 72 shows a top perspective view thereof. A preferred adjustable flush connector 11150 is adapted to work in conjunction with a variety of different rotating rods P and/or a variety of different valve configurations. The adjustable flush connector 11150 configuration can have connecting elements that are adjustable with respect to each other in at least one direction. The adjustable configuration may include rotation about its longitudinal axis, rotation about its lateral axis, and/or movement along the longitudinal axis. Specific preferred structures for this purpose are described in more detail below. Adjustable flush connector 11150 preferably has first section 11151 , second section 11152 and adjustable connector 11156 .

[0199] The first section 11151 preferably has a first rotatable connector 11153 configured to be connectable to the rotating rod P. As shown in FIG. The configuration of the connection with the rotating rod P is such that when the end 11143 of the rotating rod P connected to the adjustable flush connector 11150 is moved upward, the adjustable flush connector 11150 also moves upward. is. The end 11143 of the rotating rod P, which is connected to the adjustable flush connector 11150, can move upward when the handle H is depressed. The first rotatable connector 11153 includes structure that enables the first rotatable connector to rotate at least about an axis transverse to the longitudinal centerline CL of the adjustable flush connector 11150. Often such configurations include one or more openings through which pins or hooks can be inserted, hooks to be inserted into holes, ball joints, snap fasteners, other hinged structures, or other It may include known connections.

[0200] The adjustable flush connector 11150 is preferably connected to the rotating rod P using a first rotatable connector 11153 . The opening 11158 of the first rotatable connector 11153 is preferably aligned with the opening at the end of the rotating rod 11143 . After the openings are aligned, pins 11146 can be inserted through the openings and secured on the side opposite from the side from which the pins were originally inserted. The pin is preferably secured by inserting a cotter pin 11139 into the opening at the end of the pin inserted through the opening. Other methods of securing the pin are possible, including spring-loaded pins, split pins, or other pins that preferably prevent pin 11146 from being removed from the opening. Although the method of inserting the pin 11146 through the opening to connect the adjustable flush connector 11150 to the rotating rod P is the preferred method, two elements that allow rotation of the adjustable flush connector 11150 with respect to the rotating rod P are required. It is understood that connecting methods can also be used. The rotatable aspect of the first rotatable connector 11153 causes the longitudinal centerline CL of the adjustable flush connector 11150 to remain perpendicular to the tank bottom while being moved upward by the rotating rod P. be able to.

[0201] The second section 11152 of the adjustable flush connector 11150 may be connected to the first section 11151 of the adjustable flush connector 11150 using a ball/socket connector 11154. Ball/socket connector 11154 allows second section 11152 to rotate relative to first section 11151 about longitudinal centerline CL of adjustable flush connector 11150 . The ball/socket connector 11154 can also swing the second section 11152 back and forth along a plane that intersects the longitudinal axis, and this movement is directed to the longitudinal axis of the second section 11152. A non-vertical degree of freedom can always be given to the bottom of the tank. The ball/socket connector 11154 not only rotates the second section 11152 about the longitudinal axis with respect to the first section 11151, but also rocks back and forth along a plane intersecting the longitudinal axis of the second section. is one possible type of connector that may be used between sections 11151, 11152 to allow for However, rotation of sections 11151 and 11152 with respect to each other can be achieved in only one of these methods, including hook and loop or hinged connections using pins with openings in one or both sections 11151 and 11152. It is understood that any type of connector that permits may be used. It is also understood that adjustable flush connector 11150 may be a single unit that does not allow movement or rotation between first section 11151 and second section 11152 .

[0202] Each of the first and second sections may be independently made of either polymeric material or metal, preferably they are dissimilar materials to prevent mating parts from bonding. A first section 11151 including a ball/socket connector 11154 is preferably molded as a single unit from a polyester material. Second section 11152 is preferably formed from an acetal material. Other materials are also contemplated for use in forming the first and/or second sections, including other polymers, as well as various metals or alloys. Both the first section and the second section are preferably formed through thermoforming, such as an injection molding process. It is understood that other methods may also be used to form the first and second sections of the adjustable flush connector 11150, including resin casting, compression molding, or three-dimensional printing. It is also understood that each section can be made using different processes. The length l _FC of adjustable flush connector 11150 as measured along longitudinal centerline CL is preferably between about 60 mm and about 130 mm. The length l _1FC of the first section 11151 is preferably between about 10 mm and about 50 mm, and the length l _2FC of the second section 11152 is preferably between about 50 mm and about 100 mm.

[0203] The first section 11151 preferably comprises the socket element 11166 of the ball/socket connector 11154 and the second section 11152 preferably comprises the ball element 11167 of the ball/socket connector 11154. Both socket 11166 and ball 11167 may be of generally spherical shape. The ball element 11167 of the second section 11152 is preferably sized to fit within the socket element 11166 of the first section 11151 with minimal movement along the longitudinal axis relative to the first section 11151. is held so that Ball 11167 should be sized to move freely within socket 11166 . The outer surface of the ball may be in contact with the inner surface of the socket, but when contact is made, the friction created between the elements should be such that it does not interfere with the free rotation of ball 11167 within socket 11166. be. However, it is acceptable to use additional force to effect rotation of the elements with respect to each other by friction.

[0204] The second section 11152 of the adjustable flush connector 11150 has an outer surface 11155 that may have optional threads 11159 to be configured to threadably mate with the adjustable connector 11156. A preferred diameter _D2AC of the non-threaded outer surface 11155 of the second section 11152 is in the range of about 3 mm to about 12 mm. Threads 11159 on surface 11155 of adjustable flush connector 11150 may extend along the entire length of second section 11152, excluding ball 11167, or other connector element. However, it is understood that only a portion of surface 11155 may be threaded. If only a portion of surface 11155 has threads 11159 , there should be at least about 20 mm of threads, but sufficient for adjustable connector 11156 to engage this surface 11155 . Additionally, it is understood that surface 11155 may not include threads.

[0205] The adjustable connector 11156 may have a longitudinal length l _AC of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm. The diameter D _1AC of the inner surface of adjustable connector 11156 as measured along a transverse centerline through adjustable connector 11156 is between about 4 mm and about 15 mm. The inner surface diameter D _1AC should match the diameter of the outer surface D _2AC of the second section 11152 so that the second section 11152 can be inserted into the adjustable connector 11156 . The adjustable connector is preferably injection molded from polyester resin or other polymeric material. However, any method of making adjustable connectors may be used, including resin casting, compression molding, or three-dimensional printing. To avoid binding components, the adjustable connector 11156 that mates with the flush actuation bar 1175 and the adjustable flush connector 11150 should be of a different material than each of these components.

[0206] The adjustable connector 11156 may preferably be internally threaded with mating threads that define a passageway through the adjustable connector 11156 such that the adjustable connector 11156 is , may be screwed onto surface 11155 of second section 11152 of adjustable flush connector 11150 having threads 11159 . The screw-like connection allows the adjustable connector 11156 to be longitudinally adjustable along the length of the second section 11152 and rotatably positioned about the longitudinal axis of the second section 11152 . Make possible. Using threading to connect the adjustable connector 11156 to the second section 11152 is one preferred embodiment, however, there are other ways to connect the adjustable connector 11156 to the second section 11152. can also be used. Such a connection may be a slidable connector with a tightening member, or even an adjustable connector 11156 that is longitudinally movable along the second section 11152 and that is longitudinally movable along the second section 11152 . Any other connection that allows it to be rotatably positionable about an axis may also be included. The second section 11152 can also be configured such that a separate adjustable connector 11156 is not required. Such second section 11152 has one or more protrusions or one or more openings disposed along the length of the second section for direct connection with the flush actuation bar. can be provided. The location of the flush actuation bar 1175 is determined by selecting a location for direct connection using a protrusion or opening on the flush actuation bar 1175 with an opening or protrusion on the second section 11152 . It may be adjustable along the length of section 11152 . Additionally, the angle of the openings and/or protrusions in the second section 11152 can vary about the central longitudinal axis so that the flush actuation bar is also aligned longitudinally of the second section. It can be rotatably positionable about an axis.

[0207] Adjustable connector 11156 preferably has a second rotatable connector 11157 . A second rotatable connector 11157 is configured to connect flush actuation bar 1175 to adjustable connector 11156 at a balance point BP on flush actuation bar 1175 . The configuration of the second rotatable connector 11157 is such that the flush actuation bar 1175 is rotatable about a lateral line extending across the adjustable connector 11156 from side to side. Certain preferred configurations are discussed below. Equilibrium point BP is preferably the lifting of end 11143 of rotating rod P, which is typically a depression of handle H or connected to adjustable flush connector 11150, when flush actuation bar 1175 is lifted. but arranged so that the opening timing of each valve with respect to the other is optimized. One embodiment for optimizing the timing between valve cover openings has already been described above and is shown in FIG.

[0208] The flush actuation bar 1175 preferably has a bar body portion 11169 with a preferred length _lFB of the flush actuation bar 1175 of between about 90 mm and about 130 mm. A preferred width w _FB of flush actuation bar 1175 is between about 2 mm and about 5 mm, and a preferred height h _FB of flush actuation bar 1175 is between about 5 mm and about 15 mm. The cross section of flush actuation bar 1175 may be substantially rectangular. However, any shape of cross-section could be used, including circular, oval, hexagonal, triangular, etc., as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art based on this disclosure. Flush actuation over 1175 may be made from a polymeric material, metal, or metal alloy, preferably injection molded using acetal. However, any method of manufacture including resin casting, compression molding, or three-dimensional printing may be used to make the flush actuation bar.

[0209] The flush actuation bar 1175 preferably has two side arms 11177; The two side arms 11177 form and define a large opening 11164 in the bar body 11169 that is preferably positioned around the balance point BP of the flush actuation bar 1175 . A large opening 11164 defined by side arm 11177 may extend along the longitudinal axis of flush actuation bar 1175 . Large opening 11164 preferably has an oval cross-section. However, any shape for large opening 11164 is contemplated, including circular or rectangular. The side arms 11177 are preferably symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the flush actuation bar 1175, but symmetry of these elements is not required. For the preferred shape of the flush actuation bar 1175, the side arms 11177 should be parallel to each other in at least one position along their length. It is contemplated that the size for the large opening 11164 is such that at least a portion of the entire adjustable flush connector 11150, including the adjustable connector 11156, can be inserted therethrough.

[0210] Where the two side arms 11177 are parallel to each other, two small openings 11165 are formed as part of the flush actuation bar 1175 and traverse through the side arms 11177 to define a larger opening 11164. direction. The small opening 11165 is preferably circular, but may have any shape that allows rotation of the connecting element, at least the bottom of the small opening 11165 should be substantially curved. be. Small openings 11165 preferably correspond to or are arranged to receive two projections 11163 extending from the sides of adjustable connector 11156 .

[0211] The adjustable connectors 11156 each extend from one side of the adjustable connector 11156 to attach the flush actuation bar 1175 to the adjustable connector 11156 and form a second rotatable connector 11157. It has two protrusions 11163 that The two protrusions 11163 are preferably positioned toward the top of the adjustable connector 11156 and are preferably positioned on the same line as one another extending across the adjustable connector 11156 . Protrusion 11163 preferably has a cylindrical shape. However, any cross-sectional shape is contemplated, such as oval. The cross-sectional shape is preferably rounded at least on the bottom edge so that the protrusion 11163 can rotate within the small opening 11165 of the flush actuation bar 1175 .

[0212] As one method of forming the second rotatable connector 11157, two projections 11163 are snapped into small openings 11165 in the flush actuation bar 1175 so that it is lateral to the flush actuation bar 1175. Forms a connection that is rotatable around protrusion 11163, which is around an axis. The protrusion 11163 is preferably snapped into place using spring and/or torsional compression of the protrusion 11163 and/or the side arm 11177 so that the protrusion 11163 fits within the small opening 11165. is locked in place. The protrusion 11163 may be spring loaded to penetrate into the small opening 11165, and the preferred protrusion 11163 has an end 11179 that is angled to facilitate insertion of the protrusion 11163 into the small opening 11165. May be angled. The angled end 11179 can also assist in removing the protrusion 11163 from the small opening 11165 when removal is desired. Although a removable connection is preferred, the protrusion 11163 may have a shape and/or size that makes removal difficult or a highly impractical task.

[0213] Any type of connection that is rotatable about the transverse axis of the flush actuation bar 1175 is an acceptable alternative configuration for the second rotatable connector 11157 by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure. understood. The use of an opening through the adjustable connector 11156 and a second section 11152 of the adjustable flush connector 11150 through which a pin can be inserted also allows the flush actuation bar 1175 to be attached to the adjustable flush connector 11150. Contemplated as forming a second rotatable connector 11157 to connect. In one such embodiment, two or more openings are required on the second section 11152 . The openings extend across the second section and are positioned at various points along the length of the second section. Two or more of the openings may extend across the second section at one or more different angles with respect to each other. The two or more openings can allow the adjustable connector 11156 to be longitudinally movable and rotatably positionable. A similar arrangement would also be made to connect the flush actuation bar 1175 directly to the second section 11152 of the adjustable flush connector 11150 without using the adjustable connector 11156 as described above. can be used. Other possible connections may include a threaded surface on protrusion 11163 . A mating threaded female piece with a smooth outer surface can also be used to removably secure the flush actuation bar to the adjustable connector and form a second rotatable connector. be. Riveted connections can also be used, which can form either removable or permanent connections.

[0214] FIG. 69 includes a first valve assembly, a second valve assembly, a toolless flush actuation bar and an adjustable flush connector connected to a rotating rod P and a handle H. One embodiment of an assembly kit 1100 is illustrated having a flush actuation assembly shown as . Alternative kits include the following: a tank/bowl gasket tool as shown in FIGS. 83 and 84 below; a float attachment as shown in FIGS. 88-90; may also accommodate one or more of the multiple flush valve assemblies shown in . Figure 69 shows a connection that associates an action on the handle H with the opening of the valve. When handle H is depressed, rotating rod P vertically lifts adjustable flush connector 11150, which in turn vertically moves flush actuation bar 1175 at equilibrium point BP. The flush actuation bar 1175 is preferably connected to a first valve assembly 1180 at the first portion 11161 of the bar 1175 and a second valve assembly 1170 at the second portion 11162 of the bar 1175. . First valve assembly 1180 is preferably a rim valve assembly and second valve assembly 1170 is preferably a jet valve assembly. Rim valve assembly 1180 and spout valve assembly 1170 are described herein in various embodiments of primed toilets and are similar to those described in earlier embodiments as valves 80 and 70. , or may be identical. One or more different types to allow flush actuation bar 1175 to be usable with a wide range of connector styles used on chains C and C1 connecting flush actuation bar 1175 to each valve assembly 1170 and 1180 connector pieces may be placed on the first portion 11161 and/or the second portion 11162 of the flush actuation bar 1175, including snaps as shown in FIG. 69, or other female fittings. Similarly, hooks or other male fittings may also be included in one or both of first portion 11161 and second portion 11162 .

[0215] The placement of the balance point BP between the adjustable connector 11156 and the flush actuation bar 1175 can affect the timing of when each valve cover 1182 and 1173 opens. Valve covers 1182 and 1173 may be set to open simultaneously or siphon priming spout as described with respect to FIG. It can be set to optimize performance in the toilet bowl.

[0216] When the flush cycle is activated, fluid flows through at least one rim valve, here through a rim flush valve assembly 1180, and through at least one jet flush valve, here a jet flush valve assembly 1170. supplied through The configuration of the closed ejection fluid passageway is such that the timing of the ejection cycle is optimized to keep the closed ejection fluid passageway primed after the completion of the ejection cycle. The ejection mechanism and timing may be the same for optimized performance as described in various embodiments 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, etc., and examples contained herein.

[0217] In one embodiment of the methods herein, after activating the squirt cycle, the flush activation bar directs fluid through at least one squirt flush valve assembly, prevents air from entering the squirt outlet, and traps the trapway. It operates to provide a flow rate sufficient to siphon within. The flow rate is then lowered through the jet channel for about 1 to about 5 seconds until the siphon breaks, and flow is maintained at least until the jet port is covered.

[0218] Fluid is also preferably supplied through at least one rim ejection valve assembly in an ejection cycle. When first installed, the toilet will allow sufficient flow through the spout flush valve assembly outlet to prevent air from entering the spout port until the sump is filled with fluid as described above. Feeding may require priming first. Associated flow rates for performing these steps are outlined elsewhere herein. The toilet assembly can be auto-primed as described above, and all or substantially all of the air will be expelled from the squirt channel when the toilet is in a condition to prime the squirt channel. is preferred. For general performance, a small amount of air is closed, preferably containing up to only about 100ml of air in one embodiment such as embodiment 10 shown herein while still maintaining good operation. acceptable performance may include additional amounts of air, but preferably no more than about 500 ml of air, to avoid performance degradation. . Specific amounts may vary depending on the geometry of the bowl.

[0219] Toilet bowls typically do not, for example, when the toilet bowl is first installed as pointed out above, although other conditions such as plumbing or maintenance can also cause such conditions. is in primed condition. The user can, of course, take manual intervention to prime the toilet assembly after installation, or when configured, the toilet will be flushed within the first few flushes of the toilet without manual user intervention. One or more can be auto-primed.

[0220] As shown herein in FIGS. 1-13 and 29-34, toilet bowls can expel virtually all air in as little as about three flushes, but individual More or less times may be required depending on the toilet bowl geometry. In order for auto-priming to be complete, the following two conditions must be met: (1) the flow rate of fluid through the jet flush valve must be sufficient to provide sufficient energy to displace the air and exiting the jet outlet port; The conditions must be met that it must be greater than the flow rate and (2) the air must be routed upwards through the outlet or through the jet flush valve assembly. This can be accomplished through modification of the geometry and/or cross-sectional area of the jet channel and/or jet port, and/or by modifying the jet valve to enhance performance. Therefore, it is preferable to use a jet flush valve that can deliver high energy and high velocity flow through the jet channel and into the closed jet fluid path. A preferred valve has a streamlined valve body configuration and is incorporated herein by reference for its teachings of valves having radiused inlets and/or weighted covers. 266,733 and co-pending US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 2014/0090158. Other suitable flush valves are commercially available and are described elsewhere herein with respect to other embodiments of toilet bowl assemblies described below in which the same flush valves may be used (e.g. (See also FIGS. 35-68 hereof, which have better air release from the peel capability as described). In addition to gradually lifting the cover, the star-patterned internal ribs can also affect the rate of air evacuation as further described below.

[0221] FIGS. 16 and 20, 21 and 22 illustrate additional embodiments of toilet bowl assemblies described herein. The toilet bowl assembly of Figure 16, referred to herein generally as 110, includes at least one jet flush valve configured to direct fluid, such as flush water, to a jet 120, such as a direct feed jet. It has an assembly 170 and at least one rim flush valve assembly 180 configured to deliver fluid to the rim 132 . Referring to FIG. 21, the toilet bowl assembly 110 also includes a spout manifold inlet opening 114 configured to receive fluid from the outlet 113 of the spout flush valve assembly 170 and a spout inlet port 118 for delivering fluid to the spout inlet port 118 . It also has an ejection manifold 112 with an ejection manifold outlet opening 116 of . Toilet bowl assembly 110 includes a rim manifold inlet opening 124 configured to receive fluid from rim flush valve assembly 180 and a rim manifold outlet opening 126 for delivering fluid to rim inlet port 128. It also has a manifold 122 .

[0222] The assembly 110 further includes a bowl 130 having a rim 132 provided around an upper peripheral portion 133 of the bowl 130. As shown in FIG. In one embodiment, rim 132 may define rim channel 134 as shown. Rim inlet port 128 is in fluid communication with rim channel 134, whereby rim channel 134 is also in fluid communication with rim manifold outlet opening 126 through rim inlet port 128, and rim channel has at least one rim outlet. It is also in fluid communication with port 129 . As used herein, fluid communication means that one element of the assembly is structurally positioned so as to be open to flow from another element. The rim outlet port is in fluid communication with an interior region 137 of bowl 130 , where interior region 137 is defined by interior surface 136 of bowl 130 . The remaining parts of this assembly are similar to those in the tenth embodiment.

[0223] With respect to Embodiment 10, the bowl assembly includes a direct feed jet 20 that has and defines a configuration of at least one jet channel 38 as described above (such jet channel may be may also be provided in embodiment 110). The channel extends between jet inlet port 18 and jet outlet port 42 . At least one jet channel 38 has an inlet port 18 in fluid communication with the jet flush valve outlet opening 16 . The jet also has a jet outlet port 42 configured to discharge fluid from the jet channel 38 into the sump region 40 . The sump area is in fluid communication with a trapway 44 or other toilet outlet conduit for draining the toilet bowl 30 .

[0224] The fluid supply (such as flush water) is of the in-line Flushmaster type in which the bowl is directly connected to an in-wall plumbing water inlet like many industrial or commercial toilets. It can be used when mounted to come from the valve. The assembly may optionally include a tank 60 as shown in Figures 19 and 21 . Preferably, the tank 60 is for receiving the jet flush valve assembly 70 and for allowing fluid from the outlet 13 of at least one jet flush valve assembly 70 to enter the closed jet fluid path 1 and jet channel 13 . At least one opening 62 and a rim pathway for receiving the rim flush valve assembly 80 and for fluid from the outlet 81 of the rim flush valve assembly 30 to the rim outlet port 28 or to the optional rim manifold through the rim manifold inlet opening. and at least one second opening 64 for allowing entry into.

[0225] The tank 60 should also be provided with at least one fill valve 66 and optionally an overflow pipe, such as the overflow pipe 91 shown in the above embodiments, preferably associated with the rim flush valve. Tank 60 may be formed as a single open reservoir containing both the jet flush valve and the rim flush valve in one area as shown in FIG. can be fabricated as two separate reservoirs as shown in embodiment 1010 of FIG. The overflow pipe (known in the art or hereafter developed) rather than the flow of jet flush fluid JF through the jet flush valve to eliminate any opportunity for air to enter the closed jet fluid path 1. It should be operated from the flow of rim flushing fluid RF exiting the rim flushing valve (associated in any way with the valve body that is connected to the rim flushing valve). The rim channel may remain open to air as long as the properties of the invention are not affected by the connection to the overflow pipe within the rim channel.

[0226] The spout flush valve 70 and rim flush valve 80 assemblies are standard commercially available flush valves, including various designs known in the art or hereafter developed, such as, for example, the Fluidmaster 502 flush valve. Valve and flapper designs can also be incorporated. Rim valves may be electrically, mechanically, or computer operated. Preferably, the toilet bowl assembly 10 includes at least one jet flush valve assembly 70 configured to deliver fluid, such as flush water, to the jet 20 and a separate flush valve assembly 70 to deliver fluid to the rim outlet port. and at least one rim flush valve assembly 80 configured. A flush valve assembly for use in the present invention may be configured to be a master flush valve delivering separate fluid streams to the rim and spout, or more preferably to deliver independent fluid streams. at least one jet flush valve assembly 70 and at least one rim flush valve assembly 80 positioned in the rim, known in the art, such as those described above with respect to Embodiment 10 and flush valves 70, 80; It may be any suitable flush valve known in the art or hereafter developed.

[0227] The at least one jet flush valve assembly 70 and the at least one rim flush valve assembly 80 may each be a dual flush valve assembly. An example of a flush valve assembly known in the art that may be preferred in embodiments herein is found in US Pat. No. 8,266,733 B2, relevant portions of which are incorporated herein by reference. can be issued. The two valves can be opened and closed at the same time, or can be opened and closed at different times in the flush cycle to further optimize performance. It is desirable to open the rim flush valve before opening the jet flush valve in order to clean the bowl with cleaner post-flush water. In a preferred embodiment of 6.0 liters/flush, the rim flush valve is opened immediately after the beginning of the flush cycle and closed about 0.1 seconds to about 5 seconds into the cycle, while the jet flush valve is , opens from about 1 second to about 5 seconds into the cycle and closes from about 1.2 seconds to about 10 seconds.

[0228] In a very low volume flush toilet, 3 liters/flush, the rim flush valve is opened immediately after the start of the flush cycle and closed about 1 to about 3 seconds into the cycle while flushing. The flush valve opens from about 0.1 seconds to about 3 seconds into the cycle and closes from about 1.2 seconds to about 3 seconds. In the embodiment herein, when using a 54mm diameter trapway, only about 1 liter of volume flowing from a fully primed closed spurt channel is required to initiate a siphon and bowl cleaning. Depending on the desired effectiveness of and the amount of water directed to that function, it allows the application of the present invention to flush toilets operating on volumes of 2 liters or less.

[0229] Another embodiment of the double flush toilet assembly opens the double flush valve as the rim flush valve immediately after the flush cycle starts, thereby subsequently triggering the jet flush valve (single or double flush). to open after the rim double flush valve. The amount of water delivered to the rim for washing before siphoning is from about 1 liter/wash to about 5 liters/wash, preferably from about 2 liters/wash to about 4 liters/wash; The amount of water sent through the jet flush valve to establish is from about 1 liter/flush to about 5 liters/flush.

[0230] An additional embodiment of a flush valve assembly is shown in FIGS. The valve assembly as described in this embodiment includes embodiments such as the rim valve assembly 80, 1180, as well as the ejection valve assemblies 70, 570, 670, 70, 570, 670, described herein, where differences are noted. 77, 870, 970, and 1170 embodiments. In the double valve assemblies previously described, each valve assembly was allowed to move with respect to the other valve assembly. Sufficient movement of the valve assembly can alter its alignment with the flush actuation bar, resulting in possible changes in the timing of valve release and possible degradation of flush mechanism performance. Although the valve assembly is described with respect to a siphon flush toilet, it will be understood by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure that the valve assembly may be used with any style of flush toilet, including flush toilets.

[0231] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 69-70 and 78-79, a valve assembly 1180 is provided and configured to connect to a second valve assembly 1170. . Valve body portion 1131 of valve assembly 1180 may comprise a first link 11210 for associating valve body portion 1131 with second valve body portion 1121 of second valve assembly 1170 . Valve assembly 1180 may also have valve cover 1182 . As best shown in FIG. 78, the first link 11210 connects with a second link 11220 on the second valve assembly 1170 to connect the linking device 11200, or as described below, Other structures may be formed to keep the distance d _V between the valve assembly 1180 and the second valve assembly 1170 constant. Valve assembly 1180 is secured to hard cover 11180 as described in the embodiments below, preferably using locking lugs 11173 as described and illustrated in FIGS. A seal 11170 is provided. In particular, the seal 11170 should comprise a sealing surface 11171 and a locking surface 11172 having a plurality of locking lugs 11173 . Locking lugs 11173 are insertable into corresponding openings 11188 in rigid cover 11180 . Rigid cover 11180 may then be allowed to flex with seal 11170 by using peel section 11182 and lifting section 11183 to gradually open valve cover 1182 .

[0232] The valve assemblies are described and illustrated herein using numbering associated with the rim valve assembly, and the second valve assembly uses the numbering for the jet valve assembly. Although described and shown in the figures, it is understood that the valve assembly may be a rim valve assembly 1180 and/or a jet valve assembly 1170 . Similarly, the second valve assembly may be a rim valve assembly and/or a jet valve assembly.

[0233] Both the valve assembly 1180 and/or the second valve assembly 1170 allow liquid to enter the valve body portion 1121 or 1131 when the valve cover 1173 or 1182 is closed and allow air to escape upward during flushing. There may be an overflow tube 1191 through which the Overflow tubes 1191 on one or more of valve bodies 1121 and/or 1131 preferably have removable caps 11201 for when use of overflow tube 1191 is undesirable.

[0234] Another embodiment may optionally include a multiple flush valve assembly 11205, as shown in FIGS. Multiple flush valve assembly 11205 preferably comprises a first valve assembly 1180 and a second valve assembly 1170 . The first valve assembly 1180 and the second valve assembly 1170 may be as included in embodiments 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 710, 1010, etc. herein. The multiple flush valve assembly 11205 may also comprise a first link 11210 on the first valve body portion 1131 and a second link 11220 to the second valve body portion 1121 . The first valve assembly is preferably a rim valve assembly 1180 and the second valve assembly is preferably a jet valve assembly 1170 .

[0235] FIG. 78 shows an enlarged front view of the linking device 11200. FIG. The rim valve body portion 1131 preferably comprises a first link 11210 and the spout valve body portion 1121 preferably comprises a second link 11220 . First link 11210 and second link 11220 are configured such that first link 11210 interlocks with second link 11220 to associate first valve assembly 1180 with second valve assembly 1170 . The configuration of the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 indicates the shape of each element such that it can interlock, and the link shapes are described in detail below. Optional linking device 11200 is preferably used to maintain a constant distance d _V between first valve assembly 1180 and second valve assembly 1170 . The connection formed by linking device 11200 minimizes movement of the valve assemblies with respect to each other and maintains consistent performance of flushing.

[0236] The first link 11210 preferably extends from the edge 11211 of the rim valve body 1131 that is located closest to the jet valve assembly 1170. As shown in FIG. The first link 11210 preferably has a downward hook shape formed from two vertical sections 11212 and 11213 and a horizontal section 11214 . The first vertical section 11212 connects with or may be an integral part of the lip 11211 of the rim valve body portion 1131 and extends upwardly from the rim valve body portion 1131 to the first vertical section 11212 . may connect to the horizontal section 11214 at the top 11215 of the . The height h _1VS of the first vertical section 11212 is preferably between about 10 mm and about 30 mm.

[0237] The horizontal section 11214 extends substantially vertically from the first vertical section 11212 and the edge 11211 of the rim valve body 1131 toward the jet valve assembly 1170 and between the rim valve assembly 1180 and the jet valve 1170. It may extend a length l _HS that is slightly greater than the distance d _V . The distance d _V between the rim valve assembly 1180 and the spout valve assembly 1170 may be variable and may depend on the manufacturer of the toilet tank. A preferred distance d _V between rim valve assembly 1180 and jet valve assembly 1170 is from about 2 mm to about 10 mm. Using these distances, the preferred length l _HS for the horizontal section 11214 of the first link 11210 is from about 4 mm to about 12 mm.

[0238] Preferably, the second vertical section 11213 connects with the end of the horizontal section 11214 furthest from the rim valve body 1131 and extends downwardly towards the bottom of the tank, the first vertical section 11212 is substantially parallel to The height h _2VS of the second vertical section 11213 is high enough to interlock with the second link 11220 . A preferred height h _2VS for the second vertical section 11213 is between about 3 mm and about 8 mm. However, this height h _2VS depends on the height h _1VS of the first vertical section and also the height h _UP of the upward projection 11222 of the second link 11220 . The greater the height _hUP of the upward protrusion 11222, the smaller the height _h2VS of the second vertical section 11213 should be. However, the amount of contact area of the second vertical section 11213 and the upward protrusion 11222 adjacent to each other may not be critical. This contact area is preferably sufficient to maintain the link between the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 .

[0239] The first link 11210 is illustrated as having three sections 11212, 11213, 11214; However, all three sections may be integrally formed as a single piece and may also be integrally formed with valve body portion 1131 . The first link is preferably molded as an integral part of the valve body using injection molding, although methods of formation are contemplated including, but not limited to, compression molding, resin casting, and three-dimensional printing. It is Additionally, one or more of these sections may be individually formed and connected to other sections prior to use, for example, through welding, press fitting, or other known connection processes. . Using the described method of forming the first link 11210, either plastic or metal materials can be used.

[0240] Preferably, the second link 11220 extends from an edge 11221 of the jet valve body 1121 that is located closest to the rim valve assembly 1180. As shown in FIG. The second link 11220 preferably has a generally rectangular shape with an upward protrusion 11222 when viewed from the front of the tank. In one embodiment, the second link 11220 has a horizontal element 11223 and an upward protrusion 11222 . Horizontal element 11223 connects to or may be an integral part of edge 11221 of jet valve body 1121 and extends vertically from edge 11221 towards rim valve body 1131 . Horizontal element 11223 may be sized to extend substantially the entire distance d _V between rim valve assembly 1180 and jet valve assembly 1170 . A preferred length l _HE of the horizontal element 11223 is from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. However, this distance may vary depending on the distance d _V between valve assemblies 1180 and 1170. FIG. The height h _HE of the horizontal element 11223 is preferably sized such that the top 11224 of the horizontal element 11223 is directly below the bottom 11217 of the second vertical section 11213 of the first link 11210 . The height h _HE of the horizontal elements 11223 may vary from about 2 mm to about 27 mm, with the height h _UP of the upward projections 11222 being more important. The preferred height h _HE for horizontal element 11223 is such that first link 11210 and second link 11220 maintain relatively constant distance d _V between valve assemblies 1180 and 1170 in relation to each other. corresponds to the preferred size of the three sections 11212, 11213, 11214 of the link 11210 of .

[0241] Preferably, the upward projection 11222 of the second link 11220 extends upwardly from the top of the horizontal element 11224, with the front of the upward projection 11222 preferably aligned with the front of the horizontal element 11223. The upward protrusion 11222 is preferably sized to fit within the hook shape formed by the first link 11210 . The height h _UP of the upward protrusion 11222 of the second link 11220 is such that the rim valve body 1131 and the jet valve body 1121 are fixed together and cannot move toward or away from each other. may be sufficiently tall to interlock with the second vertical section 11213 of the first link 11210 . The preferred height h _UP of the upward protrusion 11222 is about 2 mm to about 5 mm, but the height h HE of the horizontal element 11223 and the height h _HE of the first link 11210 of the first vertical section 11212 and the second vertical section 11213 depends on the heights h _1VS and h _2VS of . A preferred length l _UP of upward protrusion 11222 is from about 1 mm to about 5 mm. This preferred length may be selected so that the upward protrusion 11222 fits snugly within the hook shape of the first link 11210 so that both the valve assemblies 1180 and 1170 move towards each other and or movement away from each other is minimized.

[0242] Although the second link 11220 is described as having two sections 11222 and 11223, the preferred second link 11220 is made from a single piece of material. In particular, the second link 11220 may be made of either metal or polymeric material, preferably polymeric material molded in the shape described for the preferred embodiment above. Preferably, the second link 11220 is integrally formed with the valve body portion 1121 .

[0243] Both the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 can also be provided as separate items that can be mounted on the respective valve assemblies 1180 and 1170 after the valve assemblies have been mounted in the toilet bowl. For such purpose, the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 connect the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 to the first valve body portion 1131 and the second valve body portion 1121 . may include strap fastening mechanisms, tightening mechanisms, tabs, or other connection devices that can each be secured to the . Additionally, the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 may be integrally formed and the linking device 11200 may have only one piece. Linking device 11200 as a single piece may be attached by connecting elements, including straps that are looped and wrapped loosely around the assembly, and/or clamping devices for connecting to the sides of both valve assemblies. For example, a single rigid article may be applied to both valve assemblies. Such an article should be able to keep the distance d _V between the two valve assemblies 1180 and 1170 substantially constant. It should also be noted that valve bodies 1121 and 1131 may also be formed as a single unit, thereby eliminating the need for linking device 11200 .

[0244] Preferably, both the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 are made from a rigid material. However, a flexible material could also be used for one or both of the links. If the upward projection 11222 is made of a compressible material, its length _lUP is increased so that the upward projection 11222 can be compressed to fit within the hook shape of the first link 11210. Good as a thing. If flexible material is used in some or all of the elements described for the preferred first link 11210 and preferred second link 11220, the thickness and/or amount of flexibility that may be used is , the first valve assembly 1180 and the second valve assembly 1170 should not be allowed to substantially move relative to each other.

[0245] Looking at the linking device 11200 from above as in FIG. 79, the width _WLD of the linking device 11200 extending across the tank is visible. The width of the first link 11210 and the width of the second link 11220 are preferably equal and sized such that slight movement of one or both of the valve bodies 1121 and 1131 in the cross-tank direction does not break the interlock. It is good to have. A preferred width W _LD of linking device 11200 is from about 20 mm to about 40 mm. Although the width of the first link 11210 and the width of the second link 11220 are preferably equal, the width of the first link 11210 and the width of the second link 11220 may be larger and the link device 11200 It should be possible to maintain a constant distance between the valve assemblies 1180 and _1170dV . Both the front side 11231 of the linking device 11200 and the rear side 11232 of the linking device 11200 may be open to facilitate installation and removal of one or both of the valve bodies 1121 and/or 1131 from the tank. can be

[0246] One possible method of mounting for the multiple valve assembly 11205 according to this embodiment is to mount one of the valve assemblies 1180 or 1170 in the tank and then mount the second valve assembly 1180 or 1170 separately. That is. Each valve assembly is preferably separately mounted and secured to the bottom of the tank using conventional tank/bowl mounting methods. Additionally, a tank/bowl gasket kit may be used as described below. Each valve body 1121 and 1131 can be inserted through a separate hole in the bottom of the tank. After installing the second valve assembly 1170, the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 are preferably interlocked. By using this method, one valve assembly can be removed, repaired or replaced without adjusting or removing the other valve assembly.

[0247] Another embodiment of a multiple valve assembly 11205 that includes a linking device 11200 may have a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206 as shown in FIGS. A single multiple flush valve assembly 11206 may comprise both the first valve assembly 1180 and the second valve assembly 1170 provided together as a single unit. A single multiple flush valve assembly 11206 may have the first link 11210 and the second link 11220 as described in the above embodiments permanently affixed to each other. Additionally, the first and second valve body portions may be molded as a unitary structure. Affixed linking device 11200 is preferably permanently affixed to both first valve assembly 1180 and second valve assembly 1170 to form a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206 . For a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206, although the entire structure is permanently connected, the linking device 11200 may be a separate element and the separate first valve body portion 1131 prior to installation in the toilet bowl. and the second valve body portion 1121 to form a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206 .

[0248] Preferably, to create a single multiple valve assembly 11206, the two valve bodies 1121 and 1131 and the connecting piece 11207 linking the two valve bodies are integrally formed with each other. The two valve body portions 1121 and 1131 can be as described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein such as 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110 , or a conventional valve body known in the art. Connecting piece 11207, preferably of the same material, may be molded with valve body portions 1121 and 1131 so that the entire structure is a single piece. The connecting pieces may also be permanently connected to valve body portions 1121 and 1131 after formation. The connecting piece 11207 is preferably of sufficient size to maintain a constant distance between the valve bodies, depending on the material used. Preferably, connecting piece 11207 is made of a polymer material such as ABS resin and has a height h _CP of about 2 mm to about 10 mm, a width W _CP of about 10 mm to about 30 mm, and a length l _CP of about 2 mm to about 12 mm. have The length l _CP depends on the distance between the valve openings in the tank. The connecting piece 11207 preferably has the shape of a rectangular cross-section when viewed across the tank. Any cross-sectional shape is contemplated, and the shape may be circular, oval, triangular, octagonal, and the like.

[0249] Another embodiment includes an installation method using a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206, wherein the first valve assembly 1180 and the second valve assembly 1170 are permanently connected together. . Additionally, this mounting method can be used to mount two separate valve assemblies 1170 and 1180 when the linking device 11200 is engaged before the valve is mounted in the tank. In embodiments with a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206, both the first valve body portion 1131 and the interlocking second valve body portion 1121 are mounted in the tank at the same time using conventional tank/bowl mounting methods. can be fixed to the bottom of the tank using Additionally, a tank/bowl gasket kit may be used as described below. Each valve body 1121 and 1131 can be inserted through a separate hole in the bottom of the tank. If not permanently connected, separate valve assemblies 1170 and 1180 may be mounted in a connected configuration. If so, it is contemplated that the individual valve assemblies 1180 and 1170 can be disconnected from each other and individually removed from the tank. However, separate removal is difficult or impossible with a single multiple flush valve assembly 11206, where the first valve assembly 1170 and the second valve assembly are permanently affixed to each other. be done.

[0250] In one embodiment, such as the toilet bowl assembly 110, at least one flush valve assembly separates fluid flow introduced into the bowl assembly 110 for delivering different fluid volumes to the spout 120 and rim 132. There are separate manifolds. This allows fluid to enter the bowl through one toilet bowl inlet, flow into a single manifold that is open, and then continue downward in an uncontrolled or gravity controlled manner into the spout 120 and rim 132. Distinct from traditional toilet bowl designs. In such prior art designs, the amount and nature of fluid flow to the rim or direct jet is difficult to control and typically favors the jet over the rim due to gravity and flow momentum. By isolating the fluid flow to the spout 120 from the fluid flow to the rim 132, while the fluid flow is controlled, the spout and rim receive the desired flow rate. In addition, this allows maintaining a closed ejection fluid path 101 including primed ejection channel 138 and preferably primed ejection manifold 112 .

[0251] An optional spout manifold 112 is preferably preformed in the ceramic or other manufacturing material of the toilet bowl and arranged in a laminated position and/or juxtaposed with the rim manifold. Manifolds can be paralleled, but not exactly at the same level. The jet manifold 112 may have jet manifold outlet openings 116 for delivering fluid to jet inlet ports 118 . Rim manifold 122 may receive varying amounts of fluid, for example, from about 0.1 liters to about 5.5 liters, from rim flush valve assembly 180, preferably from about 0.5 liters to about 4.5 liters. may be provided with a rim manifold inlet opening 124 configured to . Rim manifold 122 also has a rim manifold outlet opening 126 for delivering fluid to rim inlet port 128 . Fluid flow through spout 120 travels directly down spout channel 138, exits spout port 142, and enters sump area 140 at a different time than water passing through rim channel 134 enters, and these One of the streams may stop before the other stream, but the streams preferably occur simultaneously throughout at least part of the flushing cycle. These flow rates are selected to maximize cleaning of the interior surface 137 of toilet bowl 130 prior to draining sump area 140 .

[0252] In another embodiment, the rim channel 134 may be powered directly by line pressure from a typical residential or commercial plumbing line. The opening and closing of flow to the rim can be electronically controlled with a mechanical pilot valve similar to those currently used as toilet bowl fill valves, or with a solenoid valve.

[0253] Although the bowls herein, such as bowls 30, 130, can have different configurations, most bowls are generally round or elongated oval when viewed transversely from the top of the bowl. or preformed into an oval shape. In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, bowl 30 has a generally oval shape. Bowl 130 has a rim 132 provided on its upper circumference and defining a rim channel 134 . The rim channel has an inlet port 128 in fluid communication with a rim manifold outlet opening 126 (at the transition point between the manifold and the rim channel where the cross-section of the rim channel becomes more uniform) and the bowl assembly 110. at least one rim outlet port 129, and preferably a plurality of such outlets, in fluid communication with the interior region 136 of the . The bowl 130 is provided such that the jet channel preferably runs along an exterior surface 135 of the bowl 130 or within the walls of the bowl and the jet outlet port 142 is located within the lower portion 139 of the bowl 130 . It further has an ejection part 120 .

[0254] In various embodiments herein, such as the toilet bowl 10, the spout 20 directs the fluid to the sump area 40, then to the entrance to the trapway 44, and to the toilet bowl outlet O, which can be connected to the sewage outlet. It defines at least one ejection channel 38 having an ejection outlet port 42 configured to eject.

[0255] In the embodiment of FIG. It provides fluid communication and spreads water over the surface of the bowl 30 and serves to clean the bowl during the flush cycle. Water flowing through rim channel 134 is also pressurized after exiting rim outlet port 129 or from an external fluid source as described above in some embodiments herein. can be Depending on the size of the exit port, the geometry of the toilet bowl, and the flow rate, pressurization can cause a strong compressive flow of water, cleaning the bowl and contributing to the siphoning action. The remainder of the flush water from separate jet valve assembly 170 is directed to jet 120 .

[0256] The jets 20, 120 and at least one jet channel 38, 138 herein provide a more powerful high-velocity flow of flush water to the trapway inlets 44, 144, thereby making the toilet even more Capable of being designed with a large diameter trapway, but with minimal bends and constrictions that can affect performance, and bulk waste removal performance for non-jet and/or rim-jet bowls Attention should be paid to improving

[0257] At least one ejection channel 38 extends into the interior of the toilet bowl assembly 10 and is designed to wrap around the exterior surface of the toilet bowl 30, but generally the interior region wall 36 of the bowl 30. It is also positioned to at least partially enter the space defined within the toilet bowl assembly body portion 10 below or beneath. Multiple jet channels of different sizes may be used, for example, two symmetrical channels on either side of bowl 30 deliver a “double fed” flow of fluid to jet 20 .

[0258] The spout port 42 is configured to discharge fluid from the spout channel 38 into the sump area 40, which is in fluid communication with the trapway 44. As shown in FIG. The ejection port 42 preferably measures from about 1.0 cm to about 10 cm, preferably from about 1 cm to about 6 cm, and most preferably from about 1 cm to about 4 cm, measured longitudinally across the inner diameter of the ejection channel 38. of height H _jop in one embodiment herein as shown in FIG. Regardless of the height _Hjop , the cross ^- sectional area of the spout port is maintained at an area of about ^{2 cm2} to about 20 ^cm2 , more preferably about 4 ^cm2 to about 12 ^cm2 , and most preferably about 5 cm2 to 8 cm2. should. In one embodiment herein, the height H _jop of the spout port 42 at the upper surface 54 or topmost point is preferably less than the upper surface 56 of the inlet 49 to the trapway 44 as shown. is positioned at the lowest sealing depth x and measured longitudinally through the sump region 40 . The sealing depth x is preferably from about 1 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably from about 2 cm to about 12 cm, and most preferably from about 3 cm to about 9 cm, allowing air to pass through the ejection channel 38 through the exit port 42. work to prevent This distance avoids rupture in the squirt channel 38 and allows the squirt channel 38 of the toilet bowl assembly 10 to be primed by fluid from the squirt flush valve assembly 70 or other flush valve before and after the flush cycle is actuated. To maintain, there should preferably be no more than a minimum level of fluid within the sump area 40 .

[0259] As explained above, maintaining a primed ejection channel 38, i.e., a closed ejection fluid path 1, significantly reduces turbulence and resistance to flow, improving toilet bowl performance. improved, allowing less water to be used to initiate the siphon. Air in jet channel 38 impedes the flow of flush water and restricts the flow of jet 20 . Additionally, air, if not purged, may be expelled through the spout port 42 and into the trapway 44, slowing the trap siphon and affecting fluid and waste evacuation of the bowl 30.

[0260] To improve the cleaning function of the bowl in rim channel embodiments such as 110, it is also a preferred option to design the toilet bowl assembly such that the rim is pressurized during the flush cycle. Pressurization of rim channel 134 is preferably accomplished by maintaining relative cross-sectional areas according to relationship (I).
A _rm > A _rip > A _rop < 6 cm ² (I)
where A _rm is the longitudinal cross-sectional area of the rim manifold 122 , A _rip is the cross-sectional area of the rim inlet port 28 , and A _rop is the total cross-sectional area of the at least one rim outlet port 29 . Preferably, the cross-sectional area A _jm of the jet manifold 112 is from about 20 cm ² to about 65 cm ² and the cross-sectional area A _rm of the rim manifold 122 is from about 12 cm ² to about 50 cm ² . The cross-sectional area A _jm of the jet manifold 12 is measured at a distance of approximately 7.5 cm downstream from the center of the jet flush valve inlet opening 162 . Similarly, the cross-sectional area A _rm of the rim manifold 122 is measured at a distance of approximately 7.5 cm downstream from the center of the rim flush valve inlet opening 164 . Gravity head obtained from the source or within the tank by maintaining the preferred geometry of the water channel within these parameters and avoiding constrictions or bends that would otherwise affect performance A toilet bowl assembly 110 is enabled that maximizes the potential energy available from the toilet bowl assembly 110, which becomes extremely important when a reduced amount of water is used in the flush cycle. In addition, by keeping the geometry of the water channel within these parameters and avoiding constrictions and overly small passages in the spout or trap, the rim in direct-fed lavatory bowls and favorable pressurization of the ejection channel is enabled, maximizing performance in both bulk removal and bowl cleaning. Preferably, since there are multiple rim exit ports that may vary in size depending on the desired design, the area of the rim exit port is intended to be the sum of all the individual areas of each such exit port. be. Similarly, if multiple jet flow channels 118 or multiple jet outlet/inlet ports are used, the jet channel 118 or any of the multiple ports 142 will be the sum of the jet channel or jet port areas, respectively. Additionally, to take advantage of pressurization within the rim, the spout channel is incorporated into relevant parts with respect to rim and spout channel sizing and toilet bowl geometry in pressurized rim siphon toilet bowl designs. As described in US Pat. No. 8,316,475, it is preferably not made too small or constricted to avoid clogging and poor performance when working with a pressurized rim.

[0261] The sump area 40 of the toilet bowl 30 in embodiment 10 collects water from the rim, spout channel 38 and flushes flush water and excreta out. A sump area 40 is located in the bottom portion 39 of the bowl 30 and is provided for the spout 20 by the inner surface 36 of the bowl 30 and by extending longitudinally from the trap inlet end 46 to the trap outlet end 50 . , wherein the inlet end 46 has an opening 48 for receiving fluid from the jet port 42 . The trap exit end 50 has an opening 52 for fluid to exit the bowl and enter the trapway 44 . The spout trap 41, as shown in FIGS. 22, 24, and 27, has a seal depth x, i. is the distance between the topmost point on the upper surface 54 of the .

[0262] The sealing depth x of the blowout trap is preferably from about 1 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably from 2 cm to about 12 cm, most preferably from 3 cm to help maintain the siphon within the sump region 40. Measured to maintain a distance of approximately 9 cm. When the spout trap sealing depth x is large enough, this means that the trapway will be closed before the water level in the spout trap 41 can be pulled below the depth at which the seal in the spout channel 38 is broken. Establishes a relaxation level of fluid within the sump region 40 that helps ensure that the siphon is broken, thereby preventing air from advancing into the effusion channel 38, leaving the effusion channel 38 in a fully primed state. to maintain Conversely, in some embodiments, the jet trap sealing depth x can be equal to 0 or less than 0 (when above the trap) and the flow rate through the jet flush valve assembly 70 is priming can still be maintained in the jet channel 38 and path 1 by adjusting .

[0263] Within the sump region 40, at least a portion of the interior surface 36 is sloped upwardly from the spout port 42 toward the trap inlet, thereby increasing the sealing depth x of the spout channel 38 and flushing. It has a sloped portion 58 that reduces the likelihood of air entering the jet channel 38 during the cycle or after the flush cycle. The sealing depth x can be further extended by forming a spout channel 38 that temporarily submerges below the floor of the sump before rising to the spout outlet port 42 at the sump floor. The sealing depth x can also be increased by decreasing the diameter of the outlet port 42 . Preferably, the height _Hjop of the outlet port 42 may be reduced to form a circular, oval, or rectangular outlet, which increases the sealing depth x of the outlet channel 38. while maintaining sufficient cross-sectional area and flow through jet 20 .

[0264] FIG. 20 illustrates an alternative embodiment, referred to herein generally as assembly 1010, but featuring a tank 1060 with a separate reservoir as described below. , are identical in all other respects and like reference numerals indicate like elements therein. Tank 1060 may include at least one jet reservoir 1068 and at least one rim reservoir 1072 , with jet reservoir 1068 configured to deliver jet fill valve 1090 and fluid to jet manifold inlet opening 1062 . and at least one squirt flush valve assembly, which may be the same as in assembly 10, such as rim reservoir 1072, rim fill valve 1092, and rim reservoir 1072 to deliver fluid to rim manifold inlet opening 1064. and at least one rim flush valve assembly, which may be the same as in assembly 110, configured. This could be a partial transverse split of the tank 1060, allowing the use of a single fill valve, or the tank split could be a permanent, pre-molded casting of the tank into multiple reservoirs. Anything is fine. If overflow pipes are present in both the jet reservoir 1068 and the rim reservoir 1072 as appropriate, the overflow pipes must be operated from the rim flushing fluid flow RF' and not from the jet flushing fluid flow JF'.

[0265] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate another embodiment, generally referred to herein as assembly 210. As shown in FIG. In all other respects, except for the feature that the sloping walls of the sump area are configured with an upward slope or tapered position towards the entrance of the trapway 244, as explained below. Same as embodiment 110 . A sump wall 258 as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 is designed to extend around and enclose the sump area 240 . The spout outlet port 242 allows fluid JF'' from the spout channel 238 to enter the bowl sump region 240 and thereby enter the toilet bowl from the rim through at least one rim outlet port (not shown). positioned to merge with Jet fluid flow JF'' and rim fluid flow RF'' meet (with waste and other fluids, if any) at this point and then along bowl interior surface 236, over the sump area, They flow together generally downward, enter the sump area 240, enter the trapway inlet 244, and are expelled through the sewage drain. At least a portion of wall 258 is sloped upwardly if desired to increase sealing depth x of effusion channel 238, which seal depth x allows air to enter effusion channel 238 during or after the flush cycle. Help prevent entry. When the sealing depth x is large enough, this means that the trapway 244 will break the siphon before the water level in the effusion trap 241 can be pulled below the depth at which the seal of the effusion channel 238 is broken. By helping to ensure that a level of relaxation of fluid within sump region 240 is established, thereby preventing air from proceeding into jet channel 238, jet manifold 212 is fully primed. to maintain.

[0266] FIGS. 25-27 show a different embodiment than that of FIGS. Same as embodiment 10 in all other respects, except for the feature that at least one effusion channel 338 underlies the bowl sump area 340 as described below. At least one spurt channel 338 is designed to extend into the interior of the toilet bowl assembly 310 so as to be positioned behind the sump area wall at the rear of the interior area wall 336 and the bowl 330 , but not the bowl 330 . is positioned at least partially within the space defined within the toilet bowl assembly body 310 generally below the interior area wall 336 and the sump area wall 358 . At least one spout channel 338 passing below or lower than the sump area 340 terminates in the sump area wall 358, thereby positioning the spout outlet port 342 directly across from the entrance to the trapway 344. do. The advantage of this structure is that the design is gravity capable of maintaining full jetting fluid JF''' capacity, and that the level of fluid in the jetting channel is essentially the same as before the activation of the flush cycle. At least one spurt channel 338 remains primed more easily because it is below the level of the fluid or flush water in the bowl both after and after actuation, thus clearing the air in the spurt channel 338. is. By routing the effusion channel 338 below the sump floor, the sealing depth x of the effusion channel 338 can be adjusted to the sloped sump floor implementation as depicted in FIGS. Further increasing beyond what can be achieved by the morphology, the trapway breaks the siphon before the water level in the effusion trap 341 can be pulled below the sealing depth x at which the effusion channel 338 seal is broken. It provides greater assurance, thereby preventing air from traveling into the jet channel 338 and keeping the jet manifold 312 fully primed.

[0267] FIG. 28 shows a different embodiment than that of FIGS. All other respects are the same except for the features of the upper perimeter portion 433 on the upper perimeter of the bowl 430 as described below. The rim 432 has an upper perimeter portion 433 positioned around the inside of the upper perimeter of the bowl 430 such that fluid RF'''' from the rim manifold draws waste into the sump area 440. It enters the bowl for flushing and joins the displaced fluids entering the toilet bowl through the spout channel 438 and through the spout port 420 . Jet fluid flow JF'''' and rim fluid flow RF'''' join (with waste and other fluids, if present) at this point and then follow along bowl interior surface 436 to sump wall. Above 458, they flow together generally downward, enter sump area 440, enter trapway inlet 444, and are expelled through the sewage drain. When the sealing depth x is large enough, this means that the trapway will break the siphon before the water level in the effusion trap 441 can be pulled below the depth at which the seal of the effusion channel 438 is broken. helps establish a level of relaxation of the fluid within the sump region 440 that helps ensure that air is prevented from traveling into the jet channel 438 and maintains the jet manifold fully primed. do.

[0268] In another embodiment, a rimless version of the embodiment is depicted in FIG. 28, where fluid flow is from the rim inlet port in two opposite directions on the upper peripheral portion 433 to the rear of the distributor and the rim shelf. enter around the portion and travel at least partially around the inner surface of the bowl, thereby creating a cleaning action. In a preferred embodiment, upper perimeter portion 433 may be shaped to guide flush water downward as it flows over the perimeter of bowl 430 . This embodiment is similar to the assembly of Figures 1-13, but has a different rim shelf design.

[0269] In one preferred method embodiment of the present invention, after providing, such as by manufacturing, a toilet bowl assembly 10 such as that described herein, the spout is cleaned prior to and during the flush cycle. It is later primed with fluid JF from at least one jet flush valve assembly 70 . Although the methods herein may be practiced in any of the embodiments herein, including assemblies 10, 1010, 110, 210, and 310, 410, etc., for convenience, exemplary embodiments of the methods are shown in FIGS. Reference is made to assembly 10 embodied in FIGS. 1-13. Analogous parts in alternate embodiments may also be used when practicing the invention with other embodiments.

[0270] Priming the squirt manifold 12, the squirt inlet port 18, and the at least one squirt channel 38 prior to activation of the flush cycle allows the squirt valve flush assembly 70 to be flushed when the toilet bowl assembly 10 is attached to the mounting surface. opening a flapper or cover to allow fluid (such as flush water) to flow through the jet inlet port 18 and at least one jet channel 38 . This priming action is automatically performed by the first actuation of the flush cycle. When rim flush valve 80 and jet flush valve 70 are closed, water is maintained in jet channel 38 and jet manifold 12 and is held in place by the force that atmospheric pressure exerts on the surface of the water in bowl 10 . If any air pockets remain in at least one jet channel 38 or jet manifold 12 after the first flush, they will be pushed out during subsequent flushes to form a fully primed system.

[0271] After initial priming of the toilet bowl assembly of the embodiments herein, the user activates the flush cycle. In a standard prior art toilet bowl assembly, a flush valve assembly and an overflow pipe such as those described herein are provided for use. Both the flush valve assembly and the flush valve cover, which is connected to the valve, are connected to the pivot arm. A pivot arm is attached to the top of the flush valve cover and is a link for attachment to a chain that can be used to lower and raise the valve cover by actuation of any standard valve actuator such as a flush handle and lever. including. In use, the pivot arm of the flush valve cover is attached to the overflow pipe using a standard mating connection projecting from the overflow pipe and opens and closes over the inlet opening of the flush valve assembly.

[0272] When a flush cycle is being initiated or activated in the present invention, the flush valve cover opens both the rim flush valve assembly and the jet flush valve assembly so that fluid flows through at least one jet flush valve assembly 70. Allows passage through and into spouts and rims. These may be opened simultaneously or through a time delay system as known in the art or later developed, such as by using the flush actuation bar 75 and 1175 embodiments noted above. allows for optimum flow through the toilet bowl assembly 10.

[0273] Following activation of the flush cycle, and after completion of the flush cycle, the squirt inlet port 18 and at least one squirt channel 38 (1) determine the depth of water in the reservoir feeding the squirt flush valve. not drop to the level of the inlet 71 to the squirt flush valve 70 before the valve 70 is closed; and (2) remain primed unless the seal of the squirt channel 38 is broken during or after the flush cycle. is. If both of these conditions are met, the closed jetting fluid path 1, including the jetting channel 38 and jetting manifold 12, remains fully primed, waiting for the next flush cycle.

[0274] The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting examples.
example
[0275] Table 1 summarizes data from 20 flushes completed using three different toilet bowls. The present invention was tested based on the embodiments shown herein in FIGS. 1-13 and 29-34. Conventional toilets tested required 79-82% of the flush water to be directed to the jet to achieve the desired hydraulic performance of the siphon. Toilet bowls made according to the present invention provide essentially equivalent hydraulic performance using less than 30% of the flush water directed to the spout, thereby significantly improving bowl cleaning using the remaining water. made it possible.

[0276] Various embodiments 10, 110, 1010, 210, 310, 410, etc. herein may each benefit from variations in the jet flush valves herein. Optional and unique features may be added to the jet flush valve designs noted above to improve operation of various embodiments. In use, if the toilet becomes clogged, or for some other reason the toilet requires a rush of water for various plumbing reasons, it not only releases the clog, but also goes up the spurt passage and provides constant priming. It is important to prevent backflow through the squirt valve in its closed position. Backflow is not a problem in conventional toilet bowls because they are open to the atmosphere. With the primed invention, this is a problem due to the weight of the water and the existing water column in the ejection channel. One way to modify the jet flush valves herein to withstand backflow is by providing the jet flush valve with a backflow preventer. Such an apparatus will now be described with respect to a jet flush valve that is otherwise similar to jet flush valve 70 herein.

[0277] While the flush valve design described above is highly effective against possible backflow of water during water inrush, in some embodiments an additional level of protection is desired. can be rare By deliberately breaking the priming, ie letting the air into a closed jet channel and venting it to the atmosphere, the possibility of backflow is greatly reduced.

[0278] Figures 35-38 show one embodiment of a jet flush valve, referred to herein as jet flush valve 570, having a flapper cover 573 and an anti-backflow mechanism 574 with a pressure linkage arrangement. show. Cover 573 may be the same as cover 15 of valve 70 in assembly 10 . As shown, the cover 573 is fitted with a first front linkage mount 593 for mounting the hold down linkage. The linkage assembly within the anti-backflow mechanism 574 is a first front linkage having an attachment point P for the chain C (such as FIG. 15) to connect to the actuator mechanism to allow lifting of the cover 573. Includes arm 575 . Such chains may comprise floats as described above.

[0279] The first linkage arm is connected to the second linkage arm 576 by a hinge pin, such as pin 578, although other hinge connectors, pins, living hinges, molded pins, rivets, or similar mechanisms may be used. may be used. Similarly, linkage arm 576 is connected by a similar hinge connector to a third linkage arm 577 that is also pivotally mounted to rear hinge mount 579 . In use, when the flapper is lifted, the hold-back linkage of the backflow preventer lifts and is free to flex as shown, thereby providing a clamping force between the first and second linkage arms when fully open. forming an angle of less than about 180° at the

[0280] When closed, the anti-backflow device at point P places the first and second linkage arms at junction region R in a stiffer position where chain C would remain in the absence of action. Positioning the linkage arms more aligned prevents flow from pushing back onto the flapper cover 573 (FIGS. 37 and 38 showing the valve in the closed position).

[0281] Another embodiment 670 of a jet flush valve in which the anti-backflow mechanism 674 is a movable buoyant poppet hat 694. 39-43 show the valve 670 in the closed position, in which the poppet hat 694 is pressed to seal against the area of the outlet 613 of the valve 670. FIG. The upward weight of flush water on the closed valve prevents water from entering the interior of the valve. Backflow cannot enter the bottom of the jet flush valve due to the poppet hat as described above and the pressure from within the primed closed jet path when the valve is closed. If a solid poppet hat is used (rather than as buoyant), more force is required for operation and a spring or other tensioning mechanism may be used to connect the hat to the guide.

[0282] As shown in Figures 45-48, the jet flush valve 670, when open, is activated by lifting of the cover 673 (a chain or other flush actuation as described above with respect to the valve 70). device, etc.) to allow all flow through the valve body. When the cover 673 is lifted, flush water enters the pre-primed valve and continuous downward flow pushes the poppet hat 694 out. Poppet hat 694 is preferably partially elastomeric or polymeric to sealably engage valve at outlet 613 . A poppet hat 694 rests on a post 695 (which may be ribbed in cross-sectional design (or just a circular post), as best shown in FIG. 45).

[0283] The post has a top end 699 that is configured to have a flange 6100 on the side opposite where it connects to the poppet hat 694. As shown in FIG. The flange acts as a stop for the lower, centrally located poppet post guide ring 699 of the ribbed structural support structure in the valve body. As best shown in FIG. 45, a "star" configuration of ribs 696 extending outwardly from central hub 697 is shown. An opening 698 extends through the hub to allow the poppet post to easily pass upward when the valve is in the closed position (see FIG. 43). When open, the post travels downward under the pressure of the flow until the flange 6100 contacts the guide ring 699 in the fully extended position so that the poppet hat 694 does not unnecessarily impede flow. .

[0284] A further embodiment of an anti-reflux jet flush valve 770 is shown in Figures 49-56. In this embodiment, the anti-backflow mechanism 774 is a hook 7101 . Hook 7101 fits onto the front end of cover 7102 of squirt flush valve 770, which is different from other covers in other embodiments as described below. Hook 7101 has an extended hook arm 7103 that contacts a catch 7104 positioned outside the jet valve body. The hook arm 7103 must have some air gap g between it and the facing surface 7105 of the catch 7104, but this air gap must be as small as possible to provide a snug closure so that backflow does not occur. However, it should not be so small that the hook cannot easily pass through and wrap around the catch 7104 when the valve is opened, preferably the gap is about 1 mm to about 5 mm.

[0285] A unique feature of the spout flush valve 770 other than the anti-backflow mechanism 774 is the cover 7102. As shown in FIG. The cover is a "peel off" cover, not just a lift-up flapper cover. This design allows the squirt valve to open from the front of the cover along the edge towards the rear of the cover. The structure is formed to be flexible or partially flexible. Elastomers or other flexible polymers (such as flexible silicone or polyvinyl chloride) or other similar materials that are acceptable and rated for plumbing may be fitted to the flexible portion. Peeling allows the valve cover to peel upwards more slowly along the edge 7105 of the front portion 7106 of the valve cover 7102 toward the neck portion 7107 when water is present above and below the cover. Helps reduce actuation force. Applicants have found that the use of a flexible or semi-flexible cover that allows it to be peeled off along the edge provides a good self-priming aspect for the squirt flush valve and closed squirt path. have found it useful to do Automatic priming can be more difficult with rigid flapper covers, such as hard covers with standard disk seals. By peeling and slowly opening, the valve 770 allows any trapped air to escape. Preferably, at least about 50% of the cover 7102 is flexible at the front portion 7106 of the cover halfway back toward the rear portion 7107 of the cover. The rear half of the cover need not be flexible.

[0286] To actuate the stripping mechanism and lift the hook anti-backflow mechanism, the first chain C1 works with the flush actuation mechanism of the toilet to lift the hook 7101 when the valve is open and lifted. Afterwards, the front portion 7106 of the cover peels off and lifts upward. As it lifts, hinged arm 7108 (which may be formed using any suitable hinge/hinge connection material and structure as noted above with respect to embodiment 570) is flexed upward. A hinged arm 7108 is attached to an optional cover plate 7110 (which may be metal, polymer, or elastomer) using hinge mounts 7109 to assist in peeling the front portion 7106 of the cover 7102 upward. Suitable flush actuators may also be used and/or modified to connect chains C1, C2. After C1 lifts the front of the cover upwards and peels it off at edge 7105, the rear of the cover is lifted. A separate float attachment is provided, which may be a second chain C2, which may have a float as described above. Other variations of float attachments for connecting the float to the rear portion of the cover may also be used, which are described in more detail below and which include float assemblies such as those shown in FIGS. include. Strings, cords, ropes, stainless cables, rigid rods, or wires may also be used with floats as alternative embodiments of float attachment.

[0287] The interior of valve 770 also preferably has a "star" structure using a structure formed from ribs 796 that link the body of the valve to a central hub 797 through which openings 798 extend. Flow can easily pass through the rib structure, which extends radially across the body of the valve to help support the weight of the flushing fluid on the valve. The flapper has twice the force required to open, so the support aids actuation and is also designed to facilitate air escape using molded baffles or ribs as shown. is. The number of ribs can affect flow if there are too many ribs or the ribs are too large or shaped in an inconvenient way.

[0288] Figures 64-68 are the same embodiment of valve 770, but with an optional overflow tube 791 incorporated thereon. The overflow tube 791 includes an upper housing 769 that may allow air to enter and escape for incorporating therein any of a variety of standard valves V as another check valve for back flow through the spout valve. . The valve can be manually turned to the open position to break priming and allow water to enter without backflow. Breaking priming may also be desirable in other situations, such as before maintenance or repair. Suitable valves such as ball valves, disc valves or the like may also be incorporated therein. Valve V is shown schematically in the partial cross-sectional view of FIG. Housing 769 is optional and other direct connection valves may be used. The valve can then be manually reset to the active position by the user and the toilet bowl returned to its primed condition. Preferably, the valve may incorporate a check valve that automatically opens when a positive pressure in excess of that encountered during a normal flushing cycle is created within the closed spurt channel. , remains open, allowing air to enter the channel and break the priming. This check valve can then be manually reset to the active position by the user and the toilet bowl returned to its primed condition. Most preferably, the check valve returns to the closed position after a delay of about 5 seconds to about 60 seconds without requiring manual intervention on the part of the user. This can be done electromechanically or mechanically, for example by a flapper type valve with a fluid damped hinge.

[0289] Figures 58 and 59 show an embodiment 870 identical to that of the jet flush valve 770, having like reference numbers therein referring to like parts, but in the flush valve 870, the support structure has a star configuration. , but has eight ribs instead of the four shown in valve 770 . The number and variations of such ribs are modified to provide variable angles of structural support without unnecessarily impeding flow through the valve, and are modified to maximize and facilitate air expulsion. It will be understood by those skilled in the art to obtain.

[0290] Figures 60-63 show an embodiment of a flush valve 970 having an anti-reflux mechanism 974 that is a restrainer linkage configuration similar to that of valve 570, except that embodiment 970 has a single downward direction. , instead of the third linkage arm, includes a bridge-type structure 9111 that increases in width as it extends downward. Bridge-type structure 9111 acts as a third linkage arm, but divides the downward resistance towards hinged arm 9108 . Such a hinged arm 9108 is attached at the hinge mount 9109 and operates to give the cover 9102 upward “peel off” capability as in embodiments 770 and 870. FIG. The front portion of anti-backflow mechanism 974 includes first and second hinged linkage arms 975 , 976 similar to those of embodiment 570 . A second linkage arm is linked by a standard hinge connection to the top of the bridged structure 9111 , which in turn engages the rear of the hinged arm 9108 by means of a hinged structure 9112 . A first linkage arm is connected to the front portion 9106 of the cover 9102 by a hinge mount 993 . A chain (not shown) may be attached at point P to lift the front of cover 9102 as described in embodiment 570, but unlike embodiment 570, cover 9102 Like the cover 7102 in , it is flexible and can thus be peeled off in an upward direction. An additional chain is used to hold the float in embodiment 710 and raise the rear half of cover 9102 at the location of grommet 9113 or similar structure, as shown for chain C2 in embodiment 710. can be Grommets 9113, or similar structures, may also be used to secure float attachments, including float assemblies, strings, cords, ropes, stainless cables, rigid rods, or wires as shown in FIGS. can be used.

[0291] FIGS. 69 and 70 illustrate another embodiment of a jet valve assembly 1170 similar to jet valve assembly embodiments 770, 870, and 970. FIG. This embodiment may be used without a backflow prevention mechanism, or may include a backflow prevention mechanism as shown in any of the embodiments 570, 670, 770, 870, 970, etc. above. As represented in embodiment 770, a solution to overcome the additional force required to open a primed squirt valve is to provide a gradual opening valve, where sections of the valve are "stripped". It is pulled open to allow some water to enter the spout, which equalizes the pressure before the valve is fully opened. The one or more valve assemblies, preferably at least the jet valve assembly 1170, has a valve cover 1173 and a valve body 1121 and is configured to "snap" open. It is also understood that multiple valve assemblies within a single tank, including rim valve assemblies, may have similar configurations. Also, although the valve assembly is described herein as being used with siphon toilets, it is understood that the valve assembly may also be used with flush toilets, including flush toilets.

[0292] FIGS. 73-75 show one such embodiment of a valve cover 1173, similar to the cover 7102 of embodiment 770, preferably having a seal 11170 and a rigid cover 11180. FIG. Rigid cover 11180 is preferably flexable with seal 11170 to gradually open valve cover 1173 . Rigid cover 11180 may have a peel section 11182 and a lift section 11183, preferably transversely separated from each other. Stripping section 11182 preferably has at least one hinged mount 11108 configured to connect with lifting section 11183 . The configuration of the connection between hinged mount 11108 and lifting section 11183 is preferably a rotatable connection. Such configurations for rotatable connections are described in more detail below and shown in FIGS. 73 and 74. FIG.

[0293] The rigid cover 11180 may operate similarly to the cover plate 7110 of embodiment 770 described above. Preferably, the trailing edge 11185 of the stripping section 11182 and the leading edge 11186 of the lifting section 11183 are substantially parallel to each other and relative to the central longitudinal plane defined by VP and VP' of the valve cover 1173. substantially vertical. There may be a transverse separation TS between edges 11185 and 11186. FIG. The distance d _TS from the trailing edge 11185 of the stripping section 11182 to the leading edge 11186 of the lifting section 11183 is preferably 10 mm to 20 mm, but this distance may depend on the size of the valve cover 1173 . Any separation distance d _TS , even no separation, is contemplated, so long as the stripping section 11182 can be lifted from the valve body 1121 a certain distance without the lifting section 11183 moving, and each section is in its process. There is enough clearance to bend the seal 11170 without interference.

[0294] A chain C1 may be used to connect the peel section 11182 of the rigid cover 11180 to the flush actuation bar 1175. As shown in FIG. When the flush actuation bar 1175 is lifted, the peel section 11182 of the valve cover 1173 can be lifted off the valve body portion 1121 . Stripping section 11182 may be associated with lifting section 11183 through hinged arm 11108 . Hinged arm 11108 is preferably immovable at its connection with stripping section 11182 and is configured to connect to lifting section 11183 at a rotatable connection. The hinged arms 11108 may be integrally formed with the peel section 11182 in the molding process and preferably have two pegs 11115 extending from the outside of each of the hinged arms 11108 . Peg 11115 is preferably cylindrical and sized to be inserted into slot 11116 on hinged mount 11109 . Although two hinged arms 11108 are preferred and shown, it is understood that one or more hinged arms 11108 may be used. An elastically deformable support member 11117 may be disposed between two preferred hinged arms 11108 . An elastically deformable support member 11117 is not necessary as the hinged arm 11108 may itself have a size and shape that is elastically deformable.

[0295] The hinged arm 11108 preferably connects to the lifting section 11183 through a hinged mount 11109, the connection being rotatable about a line parallel to the leading edge 11186 of the lifting section 11183. Hinged mounts 11109 each have a longitudinally extending slot 11116 that preferably has an oval shape, although it is understood that any shape is possible, such as rectangular, circular, or hexagonal. . Peg 11115 on hinged arm 11108 can be inserted into slot 11116 using elastic deformation of elastically deformable support member 11117 . The oval shape allows the pegs 11115 not only to move rotatably, but also longitudinally into their respective slots 11116 . This movement allows stripping section 11182 to optimally interact with lifting section 11183 . It is understood that any rotatable connection may be used to connect hinged arm 11108 to lifting section 11183 and no longitudinal movement is required. Possible rotatable connectors are hinged type joints such as protrusions on one element that snap fit into openings in the other element, or pins that are inserted into openings located in each element. may include the use of Other types of connections capable of rotation about the same axis are also contemplated, including ball and socket type joints.

[0296] As the peel section 11182 continues to lift, the hinged arm 11108 preferably rotates about its connection with the hinged mount 11109, allowing the peel section 11182 to lift without moving the lifting section 11183 for a short period of time. Allows lifting from valve body 1121 . After peel section 11182 is lifted to a sufficient angle by chain C1 and flush actuation bar 1175, hinged mount 11109 preferably acts on lift section 11183, causing lift section 11183 of rigid cover 11180 to open, The entire valve cover 1173 is completely lifted off the valve body 1121 . Float F may also be attached to valve cover 1173 using chain C2, float assembly 11270 described below, or other connecting devices. The float can provide buoyancy to reduce the force required to open the valve cover 1173 and/or control the time the valve closes through a drop in water level in the tank during flushing. A lower positioning of the float along the chain can result in a delayed valve closure and increased flushing volume.

[0297] Assembly kit 1100 having a first valve assembly, a second valve assembly, and a flush actuation assembly with no additional tools and the second valve assembly having a float attachment in the form of float assembly 11270 is shown in FIG. Float assembly 11270 comprises a float F and a float connector 11280 configured to connect the float to second valve assembly 1170 . A float attachment according to this modification may be used in place of chain C2 to connect the float to the second valve assembly. 89-90 show enlarged views of the second valve assembly 1170 with the float assembly 11270. FIG. Figure 89 shows the valve cover 1173 in the closed position and Figure 90 shows the valve cover 1173 in the open position. Float connector 11280 may be a rigid or semi-rigid structure, preferably made from a polymeric material. However, the float connector may be made of a material with a suitable density that does not interfere with the operation of the float F in providing buoyancy to the valve cover 1173. The length _lFA of the float connector can be varied to adjust the speed at which the valve cover is fully opened. Length l _FA may be in the range of about 4 cm to about 14 cm.

[0298] The float connector 11280 has a first end 11271 and a second end 11272 . Float F is secured on first end 11271 of float connector 11280 . The second end 11272 of the float connector is connected to the second valve assembly 1170 using a clip 11273 that snaps onto a raised bar 11274 that is positioned on the lift section 11183 of the second valve assembly 1170 . It is hingedly connected to the lift section 11183 of the valve assembly 1170 . Clip 11273 allows float assembly 11270 to rotate about the longitudinal axis of raised bar 11274 . The longitudinal axis of the bar should be parallel to the axis about which the valve hinge 11275 rotates. A rotating connection, such as a pin, ball joint, or other known rotating or hinged connection inserted through a hole in one or both elements, is a valve hinge 11275. It is understood that the float assembly may be used to connect the lift section of the valve assembly so that it is rotatable about an axis parallel to the axis about which the valve assembly rotates.

[0299] The first end 11271 of the float connector may include a clasp 11276 for retaining the float F. The clasp 11276 is somewhat elastically deformable such that the forces tending to return the clasp to its rest position when the float is inserted into the opening hold the float F firmly in place by friction. When used with a standard float, the _clasp opening at its minimum height h is preferably about 0 cm to about 4 cm high in the rest position and about 4 cm high when the float is inserted therein. 1 cm to about 5 cm in height (float height). The maximum height h _TC of the opening of the clasp is about 2 cm to about 6 cm both at rest and when the float is inserted therein. The bottom of the clasp may have a similarly shaped flat platform 11277 as the bottom of the float and the top of the clasp 11278 may be curved such that the entire first end 11271 is shaped like a cotter pin. take. The elastically deformable nature of the clasp allows the use of a variety of different floats so that the buoyancy of the valve cover is adjustable, and allows easy replacement of floats if necessary. .

[0300] After the peel section is lifted to a point where the upward force builds up on the lift section, the float assists in requiring less force to fully open the lift section. When the valve is open, the connection between the second end 11272 of the float assembly 11270 and the lift section 11183 allows the float F to remain in a vertical position through the opening in the valve cover. One or more stoppers 11279 may be placed on either side of the clip 11273 to prevent the float assembly 11270 from dropping completely with the water level when the water level drops below the level of the float F. A stopper is not necessary for proper functioning of the float, but it will be understood by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure that it may prevent the float assembly from interfering with the operation of other parts of the valve assembly. deaf.

[0301] Although the second or jet valve assembly is described as having a float attachment, the jet valve assembly and/or the rim valve assembly may contain a float attachment and either or both valve assembly may operate similarly.

[0302] FIGS. 76 and 77 illustrate a seal 11170 that may be used with a hard cover to prevent liquid from entering the spout inlet when undesired and may move with the hard cover 11180 to gradually open the valve cover 1173. 1 shows an embodiment. Seal 11170 may have a sealing surface 11171 and a locking surface 11172 . Locking surface 11172 may include a plurality of locking lugs 11173 that may assist in securing seal 11170 to hard cover 11180, as shown in FIGS. 73-75. Seal 11170 is preferably positioned such that peel section 11182 and lifting section 11183 face and engage. The seal is preferably attached to hard cover 11180 using locking lugs 11173 alone or in conjunction with adhesive or other fastening methods. Locking lugs 11173 may serve as an additional feature to help prevent liquid flow forces from tearing seal 11170 away from the hard cover. Although the use of locking lugs 11173 may be preferred, it is understood that the use of adhesives or other fastening methods alone is also possible.

[0303] The locking lugs 11173 may aid in aspects of the valve cover 1173 peeling. The arrangement of the locking lugs 11173 on the seal 11170 includes one or more locking lugs 11173 disposed within the strip section 11182 and one or more locking lugs 11173 disposed within the strip section 11182, as described in further detail below. It may allow stop lug 11173 to be positioned within lifting section 11183 . When the peel section 11182 is lifted, a force may be applied to the seal 1170 in the opposite direction of movement, which pulled the seal 11170 away from the rigid cover 11180 and closed the valve for a longer period of time than desired. may allow you to leave The delay can affect the timing between the opening of the rim valve and the opening of the spout valve, and/or can reduce the benefit of opening the strip section before the lifting section. Locking lug 11173 preferably lifts from valve body 1121 and applies an opposing force to liquid on seal 11170 which should be sufficient to maintain proper timing of valve opening.

[0304] A plurality of locking lugs 11173 may be arranged about the locking surface 11172 and may be positioned to engage a plurality of corresponding openings 11188 in the rigid cover 11180. As shown in FIG. A preferred arrangement may, for example, include three rows of locking lugs 11173, with one or more locking lugs 11173 positioned within each row. Preferably, the first row 11174 may have at least one locking lug 11173 configured to connect to the stripping section 11182 and the second row 11175 connects to the front of the lifting section 11183. and the third row 11176 has at least one locking lug 11173 configured to connect to the rear of the lifting section 11183. Good as a thing. The configuration of the lug 11173 connection is such that the size and shape of each lug 11173 makes it relatively easy to insert the lug into the opening, but more difficult to remove the lug from the opening. . The configuration of the connections between the locking lugs and the respective stripping and lifting sections may depend on the placement and shape of the particular locking lugs. Preferred specific features of the construction are described in more detail below.

[0305] The specific placement of each locking lug depends on the size and/or shape of the valve cover 1173. Rows 11174-11176 may be positioned at varying distances from point CP, which is positioned on the leading edge of seal 11170 on central vertical longitudinal planes VP and VP' through valve cover 1173. FIG. Preferably, for standard valve cover sizes, the first row 11174 may be positioned at a distance _d1R from point CP of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, and the second row 11175 may be positioned at point CP. It may be located at a distance d _2R from about 40 mm to about 60 mm from CP, and the third row 11176 may be located at a distance d _3R from about 60 mm to about 80 mm from point CP. This configuration should allow the seal 11170 to be sufficiently secured to the rigid cover 11180 and allow the peel section 11182 and lift section 11183 to open at different times.

[0306] Other configurations for multiple locking lugs 11173 are also contemplated. For example, only a single row of locking lugs may be used, where the row is preferably located about 5 mm to about 30 mm from point CP. Such an arrangement allows the lugs to secure the seal to the hard cover when the peel section is lifted. A single row may also be positioned from about 30 mm to about 90 mm from point CP. It is also understood to use two rows of locking lugs, where one row is located about 5 mm to about 30 mm from point CP and the second row is about 35 mm to about 90 mm from point CP. placed in place. Generally, no row, one or more rows located between about 5 mm and about 30 mm from point CP may be used, in any combination, between about 35 mm and about 90 mm from point CP. It is understood to include the use of none of the rows, combined with the use of one or more rows, of the lugs located in place. Lag placement may also depend on the size and/or shape of valve cover 1173 . Preferably, at least one row is positioned within the stripping section 11182 and at least one row is positioned within the lifting section 11183 .

[0307] A preferred shape for each of the locking lugs 11173 may include a head portion 11190 and a neck portion 11191 . Head portion 11190 is preferably slightly larger than neck portion 11191 so that seal 11170 abuts rigid cover 11180 when head portion 11190 is inserted into a corresponding opening 11188 in rigid cover 11180. It is locked at the position where Head portion 11190 is preferably generally conical in shape with a rounded top surface and neck portion 11191 is preferably generally cylindrical in shape. The shape of locking lug 11173 is described as having a generally circular cross-section taken parallel to the seal based on the preferred shapes described above, but head portion 11190 and/or neck portion 11191 It is understood that this cross-section of the can have any shape, such as oval, triangular, square. Other shapes with circular cross-sections are also understood, such as a spherical head.

[0308] The distance d _TH measured along a transverse line on the cross section of the bottom surface 11192 of the head portion 11190 is less than the distance d _TN measured along the transverse line on the cross section of the top surface 11193 of the neck portion 11191. can also be large. Additionally, the circumference of the bottom surface 11192 of the head portion 11190 is preferably greater than the circumference of the corresponding opening 11188 in the rigid cover 11180 so that the head portion 11190 performs a locking function with respect to the rigid cover 11180 . The circumference of the top surface 11193 of the neck 11191 is preferably smaller than the circumference of the opening 11188 in the rigid cover 11180 so as to fit within the opening 11188 . Neck portion 11191 may also be made from a compressible material that deforms when inserted within opening 11188 . In such cases, the perimeter of top surface 11193 of neck 11191 may be greater than the perimeter of opening 11188 in rigid cover 11180 . Further, when compressible material is used throughout the neck or locking lugs, the neck section deforms when inserted into the opening to provide sufficient locking so that the head and neck can be formed into a single piece. It is also possible that it can be shaped to assume a cylindrical or other shape with a uniform cross-section.

[0309] A preferred shape for the locking lugs 11173 in the first row 11174 and the second row 11175 is a generally flat surface along the side of the valve cover 1173 facing the central vertical longitudinal plane VP-VP'. 11194 may be included. Flat surface 11194 may extend along both head portion 11190 and neck portion 11191 . A flat surface 11194 on locking lug 11173 is optional and may be used to aid installation, but is not a required element of seal 11170 .

[0310] The dimensions of the head portion 11190 and neck portion 11191 of each of the lugs 11173 may be uniform, but one or more lugs 11173 may have one or more uniform dimensions. As shown in FIGS. 76 and 77, one or more of the lugs 11173 may have a larger head portion 11190 and/or a larger neck portion 11191 than the other locking lugs 11173 . Preferably, the locking lugs 11173 arranged in the third row 11176 are larger than the other locking lugs 11173 and have a different shape than the other locking lugs 11173 . For example, in FIGS. 76 and 77 this locking lug does not share flat surface 11194 with other locking lugs 11173 . The different size and shape of the locking lugs in the third row provide a more secure connection between the seal 11170 and the rigid cover 11180 due to their larger size and continuous contact with the top of the opening. can form One or more of the locking lugs 11173 may have different shapes, and all of the locking lugs 11173 may have uniform size and/or shape.

[0311] The method of locking the seal 11170 to the rigid cover 11180 preferably includes threading and inserting each locking lug 11173 through a corresponding opening 11188 in the rigid cover 11180. As shown in Figs. The head portion 11190 should be resiliently compressed when inserted through the opening 11188 so that it expands after passing through the opening 11188 to perform a locking function. Locking lugs 11173 may all be inserted into respective openings 11188 at the same time, or one or more may be inserted into respective openings 11188 at a time. Prior to inserting locking lugs 11173 into respective openings 11188, adhesive may be applied to locking surface 11172 of seal 11170 and/or the adjacent surface of rigid cover 11180 as appropriate. When the seal 11170 is locked to the hard cover 11180 , the head portion 11190 of the locking lug 11173 may be positioned on the opposite side of the hard cover 11180 from the locking surface 11172 and the neck portion 11191 may be located on the hard cover 11180 . It may be positioned within opening 11188 and may align and connect locking surface 11172 to head portion 11191 . The use of locking lugs 11173 with head portion 11190 and neck portion 11191, as shown in the figures for embodiment 770, is also not required, as lugs 11173 are aligned with corresponding openings in hard cover 11180 for alignment purposes. It may have only neck portion 11191 for insertion into portion 11188 . It is also contemplated to use a seal 11170 that is attached to the rigid cover 11180 using only adhesive without locking lugs.

[0312] The sealing surface 11171 preferably seals the valve with sufficient flexibility to allow bending between the peel section 11182 and the lifting section 11183 without lifting the lifting section 11183 as desired. Made from materials known to Such materials are preferably silicone, but may also include other known polymers with sufficient sealing properties, such as vinyl, rubber, and other elastomers. Locking surfaces 11172 and locking lugs 11173 are preferably also made from these materials, although silicone is also the most preferred material for these elements. The entire seal 11170, including sealing surface 11171, locking surface 11172, and locking lugs 11173, is preferably made from the same material and all parts are molded using injection molding, compression molding, or 3D printing. produced at the same time. The material used for one element may be different than the material used for each of the other elements. Additionally, each element may be made separately by one or more of the processes involved and then affixed together to form seal 11170 .

[0313] Each of the illustrated elements of the embodiments enumerated herein may be supplied individually, as part of one or more kits, or in a pre-assembled toilet bowl. can be attached. An assembly kit 1100 may be provided and installed in a new toilet bowl or used to repair or replace existing toilet bowl components. The assembly kit 1100 may comprise one or more elements, preferably a flush actuation assembly 11144 according to embodiments included above and one or more components according to embodiments also included above. A plurality of valve assemblies 1170 and 1180 are provided.

[0314] Figure 69 shows an assembly kit 1100 according to the first embodiment. Assembly kit 1100 preferably includes rim valve assembly 1180, spout valve assembly 1170, flush actuation assembly 11144, and tank/bowl gasket kit 11241 (shown in FIGS. 83 and 84). Rim valve assembly 1180 may comprise rim valve body portion 1131 , overflow tube 1191 and rim valve cover 1182 . The rim valve cover 1182 may have a chain C to which a float F is attached to connect the rim valve cover 1182 to the flush actuation bar 1175 . It is also understood that the ejection valve assembly may not have an overflow tube, or the overflow tube may be permanently sealed. Spout valve assembly 1170 may have spout valve body 1121 , optional removable cap 11201 on overflow tube 1191 , and spout valve cover 1173 . The spout valve cover 1173 preferably has a first chain C1 and a second chain C2, the first chain C1 connecting the stripping section 11182 to the flush actuation bar 1175, the second chain C2 , the float F may be attached to the lifting section 11183 . The flush actuation assembly 11144 may comprise an adjustable flush connector 11150, a flush actuation bar 1175 and a rotating rod P. The components of the flush actuation assembly 11144 may be assembled and interact with each other according to the flush actuation assembly embodiments 11144 described above. Assembly kit 1100 is shown in greater detail in FIG. In this figure, the assembly kit 1100 is depicted without the rotating rod P. As shown in FIG. 82, both the rim valve assembly 1180 and the spout valve assembly 1170 preferably include a valve/tank gasket 11252 to prevent liquid from leaking from inside the tank around the valve. have.

[0315] FIG. The second assembly kit 11250 can differ from the first assembly kit 1100 of the valve assemblies 1180 and 1170 provided. A second assembly kit 11250 may comprise multiple flush valve assemblies 11205 or 11206 according to the embodiments described above. Multiple flush valve assembly 11205 may include first valve assembly 1170 and second valve assembly 1180 . A first valve assembly may have a first valve cover 1182 and a first link 11210 . A second valve assembly may have a second valve cover 1173 and a second link 11220 . First link 11210 and second link 11220 may interlock to associate first valve assembly 1170 with second valve assembly 1180 . A second embodiment of the assembly kit 11250 may also include a flush actuation assembly 11144 as shown in FIG.

[0316] The tank/bowl gasket kit 11241 can be a separate kit as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 83, the second assembly kit 11250 may also include a tank/bowl gasket kit 11241 to form a larger tank assembly kit 11251 . Tank/bowl gasket kit 11241 may comprise tank/bowl gasket 11242 , locking nut 11243 and sealing washer 11244 . In addition, a specific wrench tool 11245 may be included for use in attaching the component to the tank, as it may be formed in standard or non-standard sizes. A wrench tool 11245 preferably has an open end 11246 to surround the locking nut 11243 and a threaded surface 11248 that may be located on the bottom of the valve body 1121 or 1131 to grip and secure the nut 11243. It is a simple one with an extension arm 11247 that provides a lever action for it. The tank/bowl gasket 11242 and valve/tank gasket 11252 are preferably molded from a thermoplastic elastomer, such as SEBS material, which has good sealing and chemical stability. Locking nut 11243 and sealing washer 11244 are preferably formed from acetal.

[0317] The first embodiment of the assembly kit 1100 and/or the second embodiment of the assembly kit 11250 may include or exclude the tank/bowl gasket kit 11241, in any combination, in the preferred embodiments described above. It is contemplated that two or more of the items described may be included. In addition, either assembly kit 1100 or 11250 may include additional elements such as a flush actuator, which may include handle H and rotating rod P. It is also understood that rotating rod P may be omitted from assembly kits 1100 and/or 11250 as it may be equipped with a handle in another trip lever assembly kit as is done in other assemblies in the art. be.

[0318] Additions including an embodiment of flush actuation assembly 11144 as described above alone or in conjunction with one or more valve assemblies 1170 or 1180 according to one of the embodiments described toilet bowl embodiments are also realized. In particular, the toilet bowl may be similar to the toilet bowl of any of the embodiments 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 1010, etc. described herein, wherein the toilet bowl is shown in FIG. 16 as shown. One toilet bowl embodiment preferably includes a toilet comprising a first valve assembly 1180 , a second valve assembly 1170 and a flush actuation assembly 11144 . The flush actuation assembly 11144 may comprise a flush actuation bar 1175, a rotating rod P and an adjustable flush connector 11150 as described above. Additionally, first valve assembly 1180 may be a rim valve assembly and second valve assembly 1170 may be a jet valve assembly. Further, the flush valve assembly with the toilet bowl may be a multiple flush valve assembly 11205, wherein the first valve assembly 1180 uses a first link 11210 and a second link 11220 respectively to connect to the second flush valve assembly. 2 valve assemblies 1170 . As described above, the first link 11210 may have a downward facing hook shape and the second link 11220 may have a corresponding upward projection. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that first valve body portion 1131 and second valve body portion 1121 may be combined in accordance with the present disclosure, including that the first and second valve assemblies are formed as a single unit. It will be appreciated that the connection between is contemplated such that the first valve body portion 1131 and the second valve body portion 1121 remain aligned with each other using the linking device 11200. deaf.

[0319] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad concepts of the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It is understood that there are

The invention described in the original claims of the present application is appended below.
[1] An adjustable flush connector for a flush toilet comprising:
a first section having a first rotatable connector;
a second section;
an adjustable connector having a second rotatable connector, said adjustable connector longitudinally moveable along said second section and rotatably positionable; Flush connector.
[2] The adjustable flush connector of [1], wherein the flush toilet is a siphon flush toilet.
[3] a portion of a surface of said second section and an interior surface of said adjustable connector defining a passageway therethrough, each said adjustable connector extending longitudinally along said second section; An adjustable flush connector according to [1] which is threaded to allow it to be directionally and rotatably adjusted.
[4] The adjustable flush connector of [1], wherein the first rotatable connector is configured to be connectable to a rotating rod.
[5] The adjustable flush connector of [1], wherein the second rotatable connector is configured to be connectable to a flush actuation bar.
[6] The second rotatable connector is attached to a flush actuation bar having a first portion connected to the first valve assembly and a second portion having a second valve connected to the assembly. An adjustable flush connector according to [1] configured to be connectable.
[7] A flush actuation assembly for use in a flush toilet comprising:
A flush actuation bar comprising a first portion and a second portion, the first portion configured to be connected to a first valve assembly and the second portion being connected to a second valve assembly configured to be
a rotating rod;
A flush actuation assembly comprising a connector positioned to operably connect said rotating rod and said flush actuation bar.
[8] said connector is an adjustable flush connector, said adjustable flush connector comprising a first section, a second section and an adjustable connector;
wherein said adjustable connector comprises a second rotatable connector, said adjustable connector being longitudinally movable along said second section of said adjustable flush connector; rotatably positionable,
wherein said adjustable flush connector is connected to said rotating rod using a first rotatable connector disposed on said first section of said adjustable flush connector; [7], wherein a flush connector is connected to the flush actuation bar using the second rotatable connector of the adjustable connector.
[9] The flush actuation assembly of [8], wherein the flush toilet is a siphon flush toilet.
[10] A portion of the surface of the second section of the adjustable flush connector and an inner surface of the adjustable connector defining a passageway therethrough each have a surface wherein the adjustable connector The flush actuation assembly of [8] threaded to allow for longitudinal and rotatable adjustment along said second section of the flushable connector.
[11] The flush actuation assembly of [8], wherein the first portion of the flush actuation bar is configured to be connected to a rim valve assembly.
[12] The flush actuation assembly of [8], wherein the second portion of the flush actuation bar is configured to be connected to a squirt valve assembly.
[13] At least one of the first portion of the flush actuation bar and the second portion of the flush actuation bar includes a valve body portion, a seal, and a seal that bends to gradually open the valve. The flush actuation assembly of [8] configured to be connected to a valve assembly having a valve cover comprising a rigid cover configured to be compliant.
[14] The seal comprises a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is disposed on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. The flush actuation assembly of [13] comprising a plurality of positioned locking lugs.
[15] The flush actuation assembly of [13], wherein the seal comprises a sealing surface and a locking surface, at least the sealing surface comprising silicone.
[16] A valve cover for a flush valve assembly having a flush valve with a valve body, said valve cover positioned over said valve body, said valve cover comprising:
a seal;
a rigid cover configured to flex with the seal to gradually open the valve cover.
[17] The seal comprises a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is disposed on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. A valve cover for a flush valve assembly according to [16] comprising a plurality of positioned locking lugs.
[18] Each locking lug comprises a head portion and a neck portion, wherein a distance measured along a transverse line on a cross-section of a top surface of said neck portion is a cross-section of a bottom surface of said head portion; A valve cover according to [17] which is less than the distance measured along the transverse line above.
[19] The valve cover for a flush valve assembly of [17], wherein the plurality of locking lugs are arranged in first, second and third rows.
[20] The first row is positioned from about 5 mm to about 15 mm from a point of the leading edge of the valve cover on a central vertical longitudinal plane through the valve cover, and the second row comprises the A valve cover for a flush valve assembly according to [19], wherein the third row is positioned from about 40 mm to about 50 mm from the point and the third row is positioned from about 60 mm to about 80 mm from the point.
[21] A valve cover for a flush valve assembly according to [19], wherein each of said first row, said second row and said third row comprises at least one locking lug.
[22] each locking lug comprises a head portion and a neck portion, wherein said neck portion has a generally cylindrical shape and said head portion generally has a rounded top surface; The valve cover according to [19], which is conical in shape.
[23] the heads of the first row of locking lugs and the heads of the second row of locking lugs generally extend along a side facing a central vertical longitudinal plane of the valve cover; A valve cover according to [22] which is flat on both sides.
[24] The valve cover of [17], wherein at least the sealing surface comprises silicone.
[25] The valve cover of [17], wherein the rigid cover comprises a peel section and a lift section.
[26] there is a lateral separation between a trailing edge of the stripping section and a leading edge of the lifting section, wherein the trailing edge of the stripping section and the leading edge of the lifting section are substantially separated from each other; and substantially perpendicular to a central longitudinal plane, the lateral distance measured from the trailing edge of the stripping section to the leading edge of the lifting section being from about 10 mm to A valve cover according to [25] which is about 20 mm.
[27] The valve cover of [25], wherein the peel section comprises at least one hinged mount, the hinged mount configured to connect with the lifting section.
[28] The valve cover of [25], wherein the seal is positioned for face-to-face engagement with the peel section and the lift section of the rigid cover.
[29] The valve cover of [25], wherein the seal is connected to the strip section and the lift section using a plurality of locking lugs.
[30] The valve cover of [25], wherein the seal is connected to the peel section and the lift section using an adhesive.
[31] The valve cover of [25], wherein the stripping section is configured to interact with a flush actuation bar.
[32] The valve cover of [31], further comprising a float attachment.
[33] A valve assembly for a flush toilet, comprising:
said valve body comprising a link for associating the valve body with a second valve body of a second valve assembly;
A valve assembly for a flush toilet comprising a valve cover.
[34] The valve assembly of [33], wherein the flush toilet is a siphon flush toilet.
[35] Further comprising an overflow tube connected to the valve body and configured to allow liquid to enter the valve body when the valve cover is closed. valve assembly.
[36] The valve cover comprises a flush valve body, wherein the valve cover is positioned over the valve body, and the valve cover comprises:
a seal;
a rigid cover configured to flex with the seal to gradually open the valve cover.
[37] The seal comprises a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is disposed on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. A valve assembly according to [36] comprising a plurality of positioned locking lugs.
[38] A multiple flush valve assembly comprising:
a first valve assembly comprising a first valve body, a first link, and a first valve cover;
a second valve assembly comprising a second valve body, a second link, and a second valve cover;
wherein said first valve assembly and said second valve assembly are configured to associate with each other by mating said first link and said second link.
[39] The first link has a downward hook shape, the second link has an upward projection, and the upward projection meshes with the downward hook shape to close the first valve. The multiple flush valve assembly of [38] configured to maintain alignment between the assembly and said second valve assembly.
[40] A siphon flush toilet comprising:
a toilet bowl;
a first valve assembly;
a second valve assembly;
comprising a first portion and a second portion, the first portion configured to be connected to the first valve assembly and the second portion being connected to the second valve assembly a flush actuation bar configured to:
a rotating rod;
an adjustable flush connector positioned to operatively connect the rotating rod and the flush actuation bar, the adjustable flush connector having a first section and a second section of the adjustable flush connector; and an adjustable connector, wherein said adjustable connector comprises a second rotatable connector, said adjustable connector extending longitudinally along said second section. Movable and rotatably positionable, said adjustable flush connector using a first rotatable connector disposed on said first section of said adjustable flush connector. connected to the rotating rod, the adjustable flush connector is connected to the flush actuation bar using the second rotatable connector of the adjustable connector;
a flush actuation assembly comprising
A siphon-type flush toilet.
[41] The siphon toilet of [40], wherein the first valve assembly is a rim flush valve assembly.
[42] The siphon toilet of [40], wherein the second valve assembly is a jet flush valve assembly.
[43] A flush toilet comprising:
a toilet bowl;
a flush actuation assembly;
a first valve body comprising a first link and a first valve cover;
a second valve assembly comprising a second valve body comprising a second link and a second valve cover, wherein the first valve assembly and said second valve assembly are connected to said first valve assembly; configured to associate with each other by mating a link and said second link
a multiple flush valve assembly comprising
A flush toilet.
[44] The toilet according to [43], wherein the flush toilet is a siphon toilet.
[45] The first link has a downward hook shape, the second link has an upward projection, and the upward projection meshes with the downward hook shape to close the first valve. The toilet of [43] configured to maintain alignment between the assembly and the second valve assembly.
[46] An assembly kit for use in a flush toilet comprising:
a first valve assembly;
a second valve assembly;
a flush activation bar comprising a first portion and a second portion;
an adjustable flush connector positioned to operatively connect a rotating rod and said flush actuation bar; said adjustable flush connector having a first section and a second section of said adjustable flush connector; and an adjustable connector, wherein said adjustable connector comprises a second rotatable connector, said adjustable connector longitudinally moving along said second section. rotatably positionable, wherein the adjustable flush connector rotates using a first rotatable connector disposed on the first section of the adjustable flush connector; configured to connect to a rod, wherein the adjustable flush connector is connected to the flush actuation bar using the second rotatable connector of the adjustable connector;
a flush actuation assembly comprising:
Assembly kit with
[47] The assembly kit according to [46], wherein the flush toilet is a siphon flush toilet.
[48] The assembly kit of [46], wherein the second valve assembly comprises a float attachment.
[49] The assembly kit of [48], wherein the float attachment is selected from the group comprising a float assembly, chain, string, cord, rope, stainless cable, rigid rod, or wire.
[50] An assembly kit for use in a toilet bowl comprising:
a flush actuation assembly;
a multiple flush valve assembly;
wherein said multiple flush valve assembly comprises a first valve assembly comprising a first valve body comprising a first link and a first valve cover;
a second valve assembly comprising a second valve body comprising a second link and a second valve cover;
wherein said first valve assembly and said second valve assembly are associated with each other by mating said first link and said second link;
Assembly kit with
[51] further comprising a tank-to-bowl gasket tool, wherein the double flush valve assembly comprises a first tank-to-bowl gasket and a second tank-to-bowl gasket; The tank/bowl gasket has an outer edge, and the tank/bowl gasket tool is configured to mate with the outer edge of the tank/bowl gasket for attaching the tank/bowl gasket to the toilet bowl. Assembly kit according to [48] that can be used as a wrench.

Claims (15)

A valve cover for a flush valve assembly having a flush valve with a valve body, said valve cover positioned over said valve body, said valve cover comprising: a seal;
a rigid cover configured to flex with the seal to gradually open the valve cover;
The seal includes a sealing surface and a locking surface, wherein the locking surface is positioned on the locking surface to engage a plurality of corresponding openings in the rigid cover. with multiple locking lugs that
Each locking lug comprises a head portion and a neck portion, wherein a distance measured along a transverse line on a cross-section of the top surface of said neck portion is equal to less than the distance measured along the line,
A valve cover for a flush valve assembly , wherein the perimeter of the bottom surface of the head portion is greater than the perimeter of the corresponding opening in the rigid cover. 2. A valve cover for a flush valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein said plurality of locking lugs are arranged in first, second and third rows. The first row is positioned about 5 mm to about 15 mm from a point at the leading edge of the valve cover on a central vertical longitudinal plane through the valve cover, and the second row is about 5 mm from the point. 3. A valve cover for a flush valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein said third row is positioned from about 40mm to about 50mm and said third row is positioned from about 60mm to about 80mm from said point. 3. A valve cover for a flush valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein each of said first row, said second row and said third row comprises at least one locking lug. Each locking lug comprises a head portion and a neck portion, wherein said neck portion has a generally cylindrical shape and said head portion is generally conical with a rounded top surface. 3. The valve cover of claim 2, wherein the valve cover is shaped. The head of the first row of locking lugs and the head of the second row of locking lugs are generally flat along the side facing the central vertical longitudinal plane of the valve cover. A valve cover according to claim 5. 2. The valve cover of claim 1, wherein at least the sealing surface comprises silicone. 2. The valve cover of claim 1, wherein said rigid cover comprises a peel section and a lift section. There is a lateral separation between a trailing edge of the stripping section and a leading edge of the lifting section, wherein the trailing edge of the stripping section and the leading edge of the lifting section are substantially parallel to each other. and substantially perpendicular to a central longitudinal plane, the lateral distance measured from the trailing edge of the stripping section to the leading edge of the lift section being between about 10 mm and about 20 mm; 9. A valve cover as claimed in claim 8. 9. The valve cover of claim 8, wherein the peel section comprises at least one hinged mount, the hinged mount configured to connect with the lift section. 9. The valve cover of claim 8, wherein the seal is positioned for face-to-face engagement with the strip section and the lift section of the rigid cover. 9. The valve cover of claim 8, wherein said seal is connected to said strip section and said lift section using a plurality of locking lugs. 9. The valve cover of claim 8, wherein said seal is connected to said stripping section and said lifting section using an adhesive. 9. The valve cover of claim 8, wherein the strip section is configured to interact with a flush actuation bar. 15. The valve cover of Claim 14, further comprising a float attachment.

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