JPWO2021011556A5 - - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to toilet seat assemblies, and more particularly to toilet seat assemblies that aid in a user's personal hygiene.

Toilet seat assemblies, such as those involving water-based toilet systems, are known for washing and cleaning the perineal area of a user. Such assemblies may also be used by people with poor dexterity or movement disorders who may not be able to care for themselves effectively and who may otherwise be unable to wash or clean themselves without assistance. There is also interest in medical and assisted living applications for individuals with cancer. To assist these individuals, the toilet seat assembly may include a spray nozzle to deliver water and/or other liquid products to the user's perineal area to cleanse the area after urinating or defecating. The perineal area may then be dried using the toilet seat assembly dryer.

For older people who may not be skilled, operating, maintaining, and cleaning toilet seat assemblies can be difficult and cumbersome. Additionally, these toilet seat assemblies can be difficult to operate for individuals with early-onset dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or neurodegenerative diseases with complex surgical instructions. Specifically, such individuals may forget how to use a toilet seat assembly if there are too many buttons required or too many steps required. Replacing cleaning agents or other medications can also be difficult for less dexterous individuals if the toilet seat assembly has complex instructions for refilling specific liquids or solutions.

Furthermore, while traditional spray nozzles are designed to extend to spray the user's perineal area and then retract to avoid contact with body fluids, various contaminants can Over time, the spray nozzle or other parts of the toilet seat assembly may need to be cleaned. However, as mentioned above, this can be difficult for less dexterous individuals who may have difficulty caring for themselves.

It would be beneficial for the toilet seat assembly to be designed for ease of use and include components to simplify its operation. Additionally, it would be desirable for the toilet seat assembly to be able to sterilize certain portions thereof after a cleaning operation without requiring manual cleaning by the user.

1 is a perspective view of an exemplary toilet seat assembly having a seat base and a lid configured to communicate with a controller; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1 with the seat base housing removed to show the internal components of the seat base including the cleaning device, drying device, and spray canister device; FIG. The toilet seat assembly of FIG. 2 with various internal components removed to show the cleaning device having a spray wand, a collar shroud, and a motor, the cleaning device being coupled via tubing to a water reservoir and a cleaning agent reservoir. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cleaning device of FIG. 3 separated from the toilet seat assembly, showing the spray wand, collar shroud, and motor, with the spray wand in a retracted position; FIG. FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a cleaning device similar to FIG. 4A showing the spray wand in an extended position for spraying one or more liquid products from its nozzles; FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a spray wand showing a body portion and a head portion thereof having a nozzle for delivering one or more liquid products to the perineal area of a user. 1 is a perspective view of a collar shroud of a cleaning device showing an opening for receiving a germicidal light source therein, a bracket for positioning the collar shroud within a toilet seat assembly, and an opening for fluidly coupling to a water reservoir; FIG. It is. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the collar shroud of FIG. 6 surrounding the spray rod of FIG. 5, with an opening in the collar having a germicidal light source disposed therein to shine germicidal light onto the spray rod; FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the collar shroud of the cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 showing a power circuit board for powering a germicidal light source positioned on the collar shroud and electrically connected to the germicidal light source; FIG. FIG. 8A is an enlarged perspective view similar to FIG. 8A of the opposite side of the collar shroud. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a collar shroud, where the collar shroud includes a single opening for fluidly coupling to a water reservoir. 3 is a partial perspective view of the cleaning device of FIG. 2 showing the spray canister device positioned within the toilet seat assembly in a retracted position and adjacent to the cleaning device; FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1 showing a spray wand extending from an opening in the seat base to deliver liquid product to the perineal area of a user; FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary spray pattern of a spray wand that would be sprayed onto the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary spray pattern of a spray wand that would be sprayed onto the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary spray pattern of a spray wand that would be sprayed onto the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 12C illustrates the exemplary spray pattern shown in FIGS. 12A-12C magnified and isolated from the toilet seat assembly; FIG. 12C illustrates the exemplary spray pattern shown in FIGS. 12A-12C magnified and isolated from the toilet seat assembly; FIG. 12C illustrates the exemplary spray pattern shown in FIGS. 12A-12C magnified and isolated from the toilet seat assembly; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the water reservoir of FIG. 3 separated from other components of the toilet seat assembly. FIG. FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the water reservoir of FIG. 14; 1 is a schematic diagram of a controller, a control unit of a toilet seat assembly, and a cleaning device including a reservoir, a pump, and a spray wand; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a method for operating a liquid reservoir system; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 2 with various internal components removed to show a drying device having a fan, an elongated conduit, and a heating unit; FIG. 2 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view with a portion of the elongated conduit removed to show a heating unit of a drying device positioned within the elongated conduit to recover air produced by a fan; FIG. FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the drying device shown in FIG. 18; 3 is a perspective view of the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 2 with various internal components removed to show the spray canister apparatus having the spray canister, canister housing, tray, chassis, and motor; FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of the rear of the housing of the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1 with the maintenance cover removed to show the opening for installing the spray canister and canister housing, the valve for refilling the cleaning agent assembly, and the service button; FIG. It is a diagram. 1 is a front view of a controller associated with a toilet seat assembly for controlling operation of the toilet seat assembly, the controller including a flip cover; FIG. 23B is a front view of the controller of FIG. 23A showing the flip cover in an open position revealing additional buttons for controlling the toilet seat assembly; FIG. FIG. 23B is a top view of the controller of FIG. 23A. FIG. 23B is a right side view of the controller of FIG. 23A. FIG. 23B is a left side view of the controller of FIG. 23A. 23D is a view similar to FIG. 23D with the flip cover of the controller in the open position. 23E is a view similar to FIG. 23E with the flip cover of the controller in the open position. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a controller associated with a toilet seat assembly, the controller including a flip cover. 24B is a perspective view of the controller of FIG. 24A with the flip cover in an open position; FIG. FIG. 24B is a top view of the controller of FIG. 24A. FIG. 24B is a right side view of the controller of FIG. 24A. FIG. 24B is a left side view of the controller of FIG. 24A. 1 is a schematic diagram of a controller, a control unit of the toilet seat assembly, and example components of the toilet seat assembly that the control unit is configured to control; FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of the rear side of the toilet seat assembly of FIG. 1 showing the bracket assembly coupled to a portion thereof, the bracket assembly including threaded fasteners for attaching the toilet seat assembly to an existing toilet structure; FIG. The bracket assembly of FIG. 26 removed from the toilet seat assembly, the base plate having a flat portion and a sleeve portion for receiving one or more grab bars, and an arm plate having a base portion and two arms, each having an adjustable FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bracket assembly including a portion and a pair of hinges having attachment portions. 27B is a perspective view of the opposite side of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A showing slots in the base portion of the arm plate for adjusting the positioning of the toilet seat assembly; FIG. 27B is a front view of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A without the base plate; FIG. 27B is a rear view of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A without the base plate; FIG. 27B is a left side view of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A without the base plate; FIG. 27B is a right side view of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A without the base plate. FIG. 27B is a top plan view of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A without the base plate; FIG. 27B is a bottom plan view of the bracket assembly of FIG. 27A without the base plate; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rear side of a toilet seat assembly with a bracket assembly attached and a pair of grab bars coupled at a first end thereof for assisting an individual in sitting on and rising from the toilet seat assembly; FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a toilet seat assembly including a grab bar having a second end that is adjustable according to the height of the toilet seat assembly. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a method of sterilizing a spray wand after a toilet seat assembly cleaning operation;

According to the present disclosure, a toilet seat assembly is provided that includes a seat base and a seat lid, and further includes a cleaning device, a drying device, and a spray canister device positioned on the seat base. A controller having a user interface is configured to communicate with a control unit of the toilet seat assembly to control operation of components of the toilet seat assembly, as described in further detail below. Once so configured, the user operates the toilet seat assembly to clean the user's perineal area via the cleaning device, dry the user's perineal area via the drying device, and dry the user's perineal area via the drying device. One or more liquid products may be sprayed into the user's perineal area via the perineal area.

As mentioned above, the toilet seat assembly includes a cleaning device. The cleaning device includes a spray rod positioned within the seat base and fluidly coupled to a cleaning agent reservoir and a water reservoir, and a collar shroud extending at least partially around an outer surface of the spray rod. The spray wand has a body portion and a head portion having one or more nozzles and is configured to deliver water from the water reservoir and/or liquid from the detergent reservoir through the one or more nozzles. ing. The collar shroud of the cleaning device may include one or more germicidal light sources positioned proximate to the spray rod such that the germicidal light source can shine germicidal light onto the spray rod to facilitate sterilization thereof.

One or more motors may be operably coupled to the cleaning device, and one of the one or more motors may be configured to move the spray wand between a retracted position and an expanded position. Additionally, one of the one or more motors may be configured to rotate the head portion of the spray wand to deliver water and/or irrigant to the perineal area. In operation, the motor may be configured to extend and rotate the spray wand in response to a user interface of the controller receiving user input.

In some forms, the collar shroud may include one or more tubular openings extending therethrough to provide access to the exterior surface of the spray rod. The one or more openings that provide access to the exterior surface of the spray wand are fluidically connected to the water reservoir of the toilet seat assembly so that water can be delivered therefrom to the spray wand for rinsing the exterior surface of the wand. can be combined with

In some embodiments, the toilet seat assembly further includes a drying device. Drying devices generally include a fan, a heating unit, and a conduit for delivering air from the fan to the user's perineal area. The fan is configured to blow air through the conduit and a heating unit positioned therein to deliver air after the perineal area has been cleaned with water and/or cleaning agent via the cleaning device. . The speed of the air or the temperature of the air delivered by the fan is configured to be regulated by a controller associated with the toilet seat assembly.

In some configurations, a spray canister apparatus is also provided that includes a canister containing a liquid product, a canister housing having an opening, a chassis element, and a tray slidably coupled to the chassis element. The spray canister apparatus and its operation are substantially disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16/426,436, filed May 30, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In particular, the spray canister device may be positioned within the toilet seat assembly such that the spray canister device can be used to apply liquid product to the perineal area of the user. A motor controlled by the control unit of the toilet seat assembly is configured to move the tray slidably between a retracted position within the toilet seat assembly and an extended position extending outwardly from an opening in the toilet seat assembly. may be operably coupled. When so configured, the canister housing and the canister positioned therein may be moved with the tray between a retracted position and an expanded position such that the liquid product may be sprayed into the perineal area of the user. . In some forms, the spray canister device may be configured to spray the liquid product after the user's perineal area has been cleaned and dried by the cleaning device and drying device, respectively.

A controller associated with the toilet seat assembly is configured to control operation of components included in the toilet seat assembly. The controller includes a user interface for receiving user input, a processor or control circuit, communication circuitry, and memory. In some forms, upon receiving user input at the user interface, the processor of the controller is configured to cause the communication circuit to communicate a control signal to a control unit of the toilet seat assembly to cause operation of a component of the toilet seat assembly. ing. For example, the controller may communicate a control signal to a motor of the cleaning device configured to move the spray wand to an expanded position to deliver water and/or cleaning agent to the user's perineal area.

Additionally, the user may, via the user interface of the controller, adjust various values of the toilet seat assembly, such as, among other things, the temperature of the water in the water reservoir, the speed and temperature of the air from the drying device, as described in further detail below. mechanism can be adjusted. Additionally or alternatively, the toilet seat assembly may further include an auxiliary user interface coupled to the control unit for operating the toilet seat assembly. In some forms, the auxiliary user interface coupled to the control unit is in the form of a piezoelectric button positioned on the seat base housing for convenient access by the user.

The exemplary toilet seat assembly may further include a bracket assembly for securing the toilet seat assembly to an existing toilet bowl and water tank structure. For example, the seat and lid of an existing toilet bowl may be removed and the toilet seat assembly secured to the existing toilet bowl via a bracket assembly. The bracket assembly may include a base plate, an arm plate, and a pair of hinges for attaching the toilet seat assembly to an existing toilet bowl and water tank. In other forms, the bracket assembly may include only the arm plate and hinge. The base plate, arm plate, and hinge each include means for adjusting to the size of an existing toilet bowl so that the toilet bowl assembly can be attached to a plurality of different sized toilet bowls and water tank structures. For example, the base plate, arm plate, and hinge may include slots that are aligned according to the size and height of the selected toilet bowl. In some forms, the base plate includes a sleeve portion configured to attach to one or more grab bars and positioned proximate the toilet bowl assembly to allow a user to rise from the toilet seat assembly and to May make sitting easier.

Referring now to the drawings, and more specifically to FIG. ) A toilet seat assembly (100) is shown further including a lid (106) having a lid (106). A power cord (110) is shown extending from the toilet seat assembly (100) having a wall connector (112) for connection to a standard wall outlet, such as a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet, and is shown extending from the toilet seat assembly (100). (100) is configured to power the components of (100). As mentioned above, a cleaning device (200), a drying device (300), and a spray canister device (400) (all shown in FIG. 2) are positioned on the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100). Ru. A controller (150) in the form of a remote control (152) is shown associated with the toilet seat assembly (100) and is configured to control its operation via a user interface (154). A maintenance cover (114) is positioned on the rear (116) of the housing (104) in a closed position covering one or more openings (shown in FIG. 14) for servicing components of the toilet seat assembly (100). be done. Each component of the toilet seat assembly (100) will be described in turn below.

The housing (104) of the seat base (102) may be shaped and contoured for user comfort. For example, the housing (104) may be tilted at an angle that facilitates and assists individuals with mobility impairments to sit and stand on the toilet seat assembly (100). More specifically, the seat base (102) may be sloped downwardly toward the front thereof. Various electrical components are positioned on the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100), as described below. an enclosure (104) comprising a seat base (102) to prevent the ingress of water or bodily fluids within the seat base (102) that would otherwise interfere with electrical components positioned therein; The base portions (103) may be joined together such that the housing (104) overlaps the edges of the seat base portion (103). Additionally or alternatively, a seal (not shown) is positioned between the housing (104) and the base portion (103), such as a rubber gasket, to insulate the seat base (102) from water or body fluids. may be included. As shown, handle (118) may be positioned on the side of housing (104) to facilitate rising and seating from toilet seat assembly (100).

The seat base (102), including the base portion (103) and the housing (104), may be formed from a polycarbonate and polybutylene terephthalate (PC-PBT) composition to facilitate cleaning. In other forms, the sheet base (102) may be formed from other plastics or resins typically used in both acute care and post-acute care environments. Other components of the toilet seat assembly (100), such as the lid (106) and maintenance cover (114), may also be formed from plastic or resin materials to facilitate ease of cleaning and ease of sterilization. . For example, the lid (106) and other components may also be formed from polycarbonate and polybutylene terephthalate (PC-PBT) compositions.

As shown, the lid (106) has rib members (108) supporting the lid (106) when the lid (106) is in a closed position proximate the housing (104) of the seat base (102). As such, it includes on its inner surface (120) a support (107) in the form of six reinforcing rib members (108). In other forms, the lid (106) may include any number of reinforcing rib members (108). In some embodiments, supports (107) may alternatively be formed as support posts, wedges, and ridges, among other structures configured to support lid (106). . So configured, when the lid (106) is in the closed position, the user will be able to control the lid (106) so that there is less risk of the lid (106) breaking, bending, or otherwise buckling under the user's weight. , can sit on the lid with increased support. In some forms, the lid (106) is made from a resilient, durable plastic or resin material to promote increased rigidity. In one exemplary embodiment, the toilet seat assembly (100) is configured to support a user of up to 325 pounds when the lid is in the closed position. Additionally, the toilet seat assembly (100) is configured to support a user of up to 325 pounds in both the closed lid position and the open lid position in some configurations.

FIG. 2 shows the housing of the seat base (102) to reveal the internal components of the toilet seat assembly (100), including, for example, the cleaning device (200), the drying device (300), and the spray canister device (400). Figure 2 shows the toilet seat assembly of Figure 1 with the body (104) removed. As shown, the irrigation device (200) includes a spray wand fluidically coupled to a water reservoir (204) and an irrigation agent reservoir (206) for delivering water and/or irrigation agent to the perineal area of the user. (202) included. For ease of explanation, due to the number of components positioned within the seat base (102), fluid connections (e.g., plastic or rubber tubing) between the components of the cleaning device (200) are shown in FIG. 2, but can instead be seen in more detail in FIG.

Further, the cleaning device (200) may include a collar shroud (208) extending around at least a portion of the outer surface (210) of the spray wand (202). In a preferred form, the collar shroud (208) is one for sterilizing the spray wand (202) after the water and/or cleaning agent has been sprayed onto the user's perineal area, as described in further detail below. or multiple germicidal light sources (shown in FIG. 7). The collar shroud (208) may include one or more openings (i.e., the openings (212, 212') shown in FIG. 6) through its sidewalls (214) to allow water to drain after a cleaning operation. Access is provided to the outer surface (210) of the spray wand (202) so that it can be delivered through the openings (212, 212') to rinse the spray wand (202).

As shown, spray wand (202) is coupled to a motor (216) that positions spray wand (202) in a retracted position (i.e., seat base (102) of toilet seat assembly (100)). and an extended position (i.e., extending from the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100)). When spray wand (202) is in the expanded position, one or more pumps (e.g., water pump (218), or detergent pump (220)) coupled to water and detergent reservoirs (204, 206) , water and/or cleansing agent may be delivered to the spray wand (202) and sprayed from its nozzle (222) onto the perineal area of the user. Additionally, spray wand (202) is coupled in some configurations to an auxiliary motor, as described below, to rotate spray wand (202).

The exemplary drying apparatus (300) seen in FIG. 2 includes a fan (302), a heating unit (304) (shown in FIG. 12), and a conduit (306). One end of conduit (306) may be covered by a drying cover (308). A fan (302) is arranged through a conduit (306) to deliver air to the user's perineal area after the perineal area has been cleaned with water and/or cleaning agent via the cleaning device (200). , configured to blow air through a heating unit (304) positioned therein. The speed or temperature of the air delivered by fan (302) may be adjusted by the user via user interface (154) of controller (150).

A spray canister apparatus (400) includes a canister (402) containing a liquid product, a canister housing (404) having an opening, a chassis element (406), and slidably coupled to the chassis element (406). a tray (408). In the illustrated form, the spray canister device (400) is positioned within the toilet seat assembly (100). A motor (410) is operably coupled to the tray (408) and moves the tray (408) between a retracted position within the seat base (102) and an expanded position extending outwardly from an opening in the seat base (102). 408) is slidably moved. When so configured, the canister housing (404) and the canister (402) positioned therein are arranged such that the liquid product can be sprayed into the user's perineal area and then pulled back to the initial position. It can be moved with the tray (408) between a storage position and an expanded position. In some forms, the spray canister device (400) may be configured to spray the liquid product after the user's perineal area has been cleaned and dried by the cleaning device (200) and drying device (300), respectively. good. The spray canister device (400) is configured to operate via a controller (150) associated with the toilet seat assembly (100).

A power source (122) receives power from a power cord (110) and may be positioned within the seat base (102) coupled to a control unit (124) of the toilet seat assembly (100). Control unit (124) may include one or more circuit boards (126, 128) for controlling components of toilet seat assembly (100). For example, the circuit board (126) may be a power circuit board that includes a power circuit, and the circuit board (128) may be a control circuit board that includes a control circuit. The circuit boards (126, 128) may be manufactured, for example, as printed circuit boards (PCBs) as known in the art.

The control unit (124) causes operation of the cleaning device (200) to spray water and/or cleaning agent, causes operation of the drying device (300), and sprays the spray canister device, as described in further detail below. (400). The control unit (124) includes a processor (130) and a communication circuit (132) (shown in FIG. 16) that receives communications from a controller (150) associated with the toilet seat assembly (100), such as a remote control (152). may include. When so configured, the user interface (154) of the controller (150) controls control signals to the controller (150) to cause operation or adjustment of one of the components of the toilet seat assembly (100). User input configured to be communicated to unit (124) may be received.

As seen in both FIGS. 1 and 2, a sensor (134) may be positioned proximate to the seat base (102) to determine whether a user is present on the toilet seat assembly (100). . For example, sensor (134) may be positioned behind a window (136) made from a translucent material such as glass or thin plastic so that sensor (134) can detect when a user is present. In some forms, sensor (134) may be an infrared sensor, a photoelectric sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor coupled to control unit (124) of toilet seat assembly (100). If the sensor (134) does not detect the presence of a user, the sensor (134) may e.g. Operating the cleaning device (200) may be prevented from spraying the surrounding area. Alternatively, a pressure sensor (not shown) may be incorporated into the housing (104) of the seat base (102) to assess the presence of a user.

Toilet seat assembly (100) may further include, for example, a speaker (not shown) configured to emit a sound when toilet seat assembly (100) completes a cleaning and/or drying operation. In some forms, a speaker may be coupled or integrated with the controller (150) to generate sound therefrom. In other forms, the speaker may be positioned proximate the housing (104) of the seat base (102). The speaker volume may be adjusted via a controller (150) associated with the toilet seat assembly (100). In some embodiments, the speaker connects with a user's mobile communication device (e.g., a mobile phone or smartphone) via a wireless short-range communication protocol, such as Bluetooth, to play audio selected by the user. It may be configured as follows.

In some forms, the toilet seat assembly (100) may further include a light source (not shown) positioned proximate the housing (104) of the seat base (102) to illuminate a portion thereof. For example, the light source may be turned on or off via controller (150) and may be desirable for using and/or cleaning toilet seat assembly (100) in dimly lit areas.

Additionally or alternatively, an auxiliary user interface (138) communicatively coupled to controller (150) and/or control unit (124) may be included. For example, the auxiliary user interface (138) may be positioned proximate to the surface of the housing (104) of the seat base (102) for convenient access. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the auxiliary user interface (138) is in the form of a piezoelectric button (140). The piezoelectric button (140) may be mechanically sealed (e.g., using a flexible film or plastic) to prevent the ingress of water or body fluids into the interior of the seat base (102). . In the illustrated form, the auxiliary user interface (138) is attached to the housing (104) for convenient access to the individual using the toilet seat assembly (100) (e.g., between where the user's legs are positioned). is positioned at the front (142) of the.

In some forms, auxiliary user interface (138) may be activated multiple times to activate different features of toilet seat assembly (100). For example, one touch may cause the toilet seat assembly (100) to operate the spray wand (202) to clean the user's perineal area, and two presses may cause both the cleaning and drying operations. can be caused. In other embodiments, a user may program a specified sequence of operations to be performed in response to the auxiliary user interface (138) receiving user input. For example, a user may select that operation of the cleaning device (200) and drying device (300) only occur when the auxiliary user interface (138) receives user input. When so configured, both user interface (154) and auxiliary user interface (138) of controller (150) may be used to operate toilet seat assembly (100). Further, the auxiliary user interface (138) may include one or more indicators, such as in the form of LEDs (144), configured to indicate various operating conditions to the user. For example, in embodiments where the indicator is an LED (144), the illumination of the LED (144) may indicate the end of the cleaning operation via blue light, or the LED (144) may indicate the end of the cleaning operation via amber light. may indicate an error in the toilet seat assembly (100), such as a broken component. In other forms, any color may be selected to indicate different information to the user.

In some embodiments, the toilet seat assembly (100) includes a seat base heater (not shown) positioned within the seat base (102) to heat the surface of the housing (104). For some individuals located in colder regions, it may be desirable for the housing (104) of the seat base (102) to be heated before using the toilet seat assembly (100). The seat base heater may be controlled by a controller (150) associated with the toilet seat assembly (100) and may further vary depending on user preferences that may be selected in the user interface (154) of the controller (150). May include various heat settings such as medium, high, etc.

The cleaning device (200) will be described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 3-11. Referring now to FIG. 3, various components of the toilet seat assembly (100), including the housing (104), the drying device (300), and the spray canister device (400), are shown for simplicity and ease of explanation. The components have been removed to more clearly show the cleaning device (200) and components connected thereto. As shown, the cleaning device (200) includes a spray wand (202) and a collar shroud (208) extending around an outer surface (210) of the spray wand (202). A motor (216) is coupled to the spray wand (202) and moves the spray wand (202) between a retracted position and an expanded position to deliver water and/or cleansing agent to the user's perineal area. It is configured as follows.

As shown in FIG. 3, the spray wand (202) is moved between a retracted position (i.e., inside the seat base (102)) and an extended position (i.e., outside the seat base (102)); The head portion (224) partially extends from the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100). Once so configured, motor (216) directs spray wand (202) to the toilet seat assembly for delivering water and/or cleansing agent to the user's perineal area, as described in further detail below. (100) may extend from the seat base (102). In some forms, spray wand (202) may be configured to stop at different predetermined points between the retracted and expanded positions. For example, depending on user preference, spray wand (202) may be configured to extend from about 10 mm to about 50 mm from seat base (102). In other forms, the spray wand (202) may extend further from the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100). In some forms, spray wand (202) may be made from stainless steel to inhibit the growth of germs or bacteria thereon.

As mentioned above, the controller (150) of the toilet seat assembly (100) may be configured to operate the cleaning device (200). For example, in response to user interface (154) of controller (150) receiving user input, controller (150) causes motor (216) coupled to spray wand (202) to The device may be configured to move the device to an extended position. Additionally, user input may rotate spray wand (202) by either motor (216) or another separate motor, as described below. Once so configured, controller (150) moves spray wand (202) between a retracted position and an expanded position and rotates spray wand (202) to deliver water and/or irrigant to the perineum. Delivery can be made to precise areas of the region.

As described in further detail below, the user also controls the selected spray pattern of the spray wand (202) via the user interface (154) of the controller (150) according to the desired coverage of the perineal area. Can be programmed. Additionally, a user may select the water time (eg, the amount of time that spray wand (202) sprays water and/or cleaning agent) via user interface (154) of controller (150). Such features may be programmed and stored in the memory of controller (150), as further described with respect to FIGS. 16A and 16B.

A water reservoir (204) and a cleaning agent reservoir (206) are shown positioned on the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100). In operation, water reservoir (204) is configured to contain a quantity of water and cleaning agent reservoir (206) is configured to contain a quantity of cleaning agent or other liquid product. For example, water reservoir (204) may be configured to contain approximately 600 to 605 cubic centimeters of water, and cleaning agent reservoir (206) may be configured to contain approximately 300 to 350 cubic centimeters of cleaning agent. It's okay.

Both the water reservoir (204) and the irrigant reservoir (206) are arranged such that either water and/or irrigant can be delivered to the perineal area of the user via the nozzle (222) of the spray wand (202). , can be fluidly coupled to the spray rod via a tube, channel, or the like. In other embodiments, the head portion (224) of the spray wand (202) includes two separate nozzles, one nozzle fluidly coupled to and configured to deliver a water reservoir (204). ) and another nozzle fluidly coupled to the irrigant reservoir (206) and configured to deliver the irrigant. Additionally, both the water reservoir (204) and the cleaning agent reservoir (206) are each powered by a water pump for pumping the respective liquid from each reservoir (204, 206) to the spray rod (202) of the cleaning device (200). (218) and irrigant pump (220). According to one approach, water reservoir (204) and water pump (218) are configured to dispense about 600 mL to about 800 mL/min. In another exemplary embodiment, water reservoir (204) and water pump (218) dispense about 605 mL to about 750 mL per minute.

Cleaning agents or other liquid products contained in the cleaning agent reservoir may include, for example, amounts of water, aloe vera, moisturizers, deodorants, vitamins, fragrances, cocamidopropyl betaine, lauryl sulfate, diazolidinyl, among other ingredients. May include urea, methyl paraben propylene glycol, and/or citric acid additives.

In the illustrated embodiment, the water inlet (226) is shown positioned adjacent to the power cord (110) and is connected to an external source, such as existing plumbing in the bathroom where the toilet seat assembly (100) is located. Configured to be coupled to a water source. In some forms, water inlet (226) connects water reservoir (204) such that water from water inlet (226) continuously fills water reservoir (204) for operation of cleaning device (200). may be directly coupled to. In other forms, water inlet (226) may be coupled to a water regulator (not shown) positioned within toilet seat assembly (100), which in turn connects to water reservoir (204). is combined with The water regulator is configured to reduce the water pressure of water entering through the water inlet (226) so that water does not rupture any fluid connections or overfill the water reservoir (204). The water does not flow into the water reservoir (204) at too high a pressure that could cause damage or otherwise damage the components of the toilet seat assembly (100).

Further, as shown in Figure 3, the water reservoir (204) is connected to a water pump (218) via a tube (228), and the water reservoir (204) is further connected to a spray rod via a tube (230). It is connected. In embodiments in which the collar shroud (208) includes openings (212, 212') that allow access to the exterior surface (210) of the spray rod (202), water from the water reservoir (204) flows onto the spray rod (202). A diverter valve (not shown) may be included so that both the spray rod (202) and the openings (212, 212') of the collar shroud (208) can be supplied for rinsing the spray rod (202). When so configured, water in the water reservoir (204) is received through the water inlet (226), flows through the tube (232) to the water reservoir (204), and then flows through the pump (218). via tube (230) and through a spray rod and/or tube (234) to openings (212, 212') in collar shroud (208).

The water reservoir (204) may further include a heater or heating member so that the temperature of the water within the water reservoir (204) can be adjusted by the user. For example, an immersion heater (231) (shown in FIG. 15) may be used to heat the water contained in the water reservoir (204) to the desired temperature. A user may desire that warmer or cooler water be used to perform a cleaning operation by the cleaning device (200), and the temperature may be adjusted via the user interface (154) of the controller (150). For example, the user interface (154) may provide the user with temperature options such as low, medium, and high. In other forms, the user interface (154) may include a sliding scale or dial to accurately select the temperature of the water in the water reservoir (204). To prevent the water in the water reservoir (204) from becoming too hot to spray onto the user, a thermistor (236) may be incorporated into the circuit configured to control the heater and the temperature of the water. is used to prevent the cleaning device (200) from spraying water through the spray rod (202) when the resistance of the thermistor (236) may be done.

Similarly, the irrigant reservoir (206) is fluidly connected to the irrigant pump (220) via tubing (238) and to the spray wand (202) via tubing (240). In operation, the irrigant in the irrigant reservoir (206) is pumped through the irrigant pump (220) to the spray wand (202), which delivers the irrigant to the user's perineal area via its nozzle (222). can be delivered. Alternatively, as discussed above, the cleaning agent may be delivered through a separate nozzle positioned in the head portion (224) of the spray wand (202).

Cleaning agent reservoir (206) includes a valve (242) positioned on its top surface (244) to receive additional cleaning agent. As mentioned above, maintenance cover (114) (shown in FIG. 1) covers valve (242) for refilling when maintenance cover (114) is in the closed position. In some forms, valve (242) is a keyed connection such that a filled bottle containing additional cleaning agent requires a corresponding lid to push down on valve (242) and refill the cleaning agent reservoir. may include. For example, valve (242) may include a spring (not shown) to continuously bias valve (242) to the dispensing position. Depressing the valve (242) through the lid of the fill bottle causes the cleaning agent contained therein to flow into the cleaning agent reservoir (206), refilling the reservoir (206) with cleaning agent or other liquid product. obtain. When so configured, this pressure actuated configuration prevents any potential spillage of cleaning agent for elderly and less dexterous users. Additionally, once the fill bottle lid is matingly coupled to the valve (242), no manipulation of the fill bottle is required (e.g., to effect flow of cleaning agent from the fill bottle to the cleaning agent reservoir (206)). , no squeezing or manipulation of the filled bottle is required).

Additionally, both the water reservoir (204) and the cleaning agent reservoir (206) are equipped with a level sensor (241) (see, e.g., FIG. 15) for detecting when the level of liquid contained therein falls below a predetermined threshold. The float switch 243 shown in FIG. Each sensor may be coupled to an indicator associated with the toilet seat assembly (100) to indicate when the level of liquid therein is low and requires replacement. For example, each sensor may be coupled to an LED (144) on a piezoelectric button (140) or an LED on a controller (150) such that when the sensor detects a low level of cleaning agent/water, the controller The LED (144) or LEDs on (150) are lit to indicate this to the user. In some configurations, each sensor has a different color, such that one color indicates low liquid in the water reservoir (204) and another color indicates low liquid in the detergent reservoir (206). of LEDs may be used. Alternatively, the sensor may be communicatively coupled to the user interface (154) of the controller (150) to indicate to the user, eg, on its screen, that the water and/or cleaning agent level is low.

In some embodiments, the water reservoir (204) may be continuously refilled via water from the water inlet (226) without requiring user input. For example, if the sensor detects that the water level in the water reservoir (204) is below a certain threshold, the control unit (124) of the toilet seat assembly (100) will control the water inlet (226) valve (not shown). ) may be controlled to allow more water to flow into the water reservoir (204) to refill the water reservoir (204).

Figures 4A and 4B show spray wand (202) in retracted and expanded positions, respectively. As described in further detail below, one or more motors move the spray wand (202) between the positions shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B to apply water and/or cleansing agent to the user's perineum. configured to deliver to the area. In operation, the spray rod (202) advances from the seat base (102) through the collar shroud (208).

As mentioned above, cleaning device (200) includes one or more motors, such as motor (216). As shown, motor (216) is configured to move the spray wand between a retracted position (seen in FIG. 4A) and an expanded position (seen in FIG. 4B). Motor (216) may be attached to toilet seat assembly (100) via motor mount (246). In some forms, motor (216) may be a stepper motor. As shown, motor (216) is configured to advance in direction A a slide plate (248) connected to spray rod (202). The spray wand (202) coupled thereto is then advanced in direction A from the seat base (102) of the toilet seat assembly (100) toward the extended position. Additionally, in one exemplary approach, a guide (250), such as in the form of an elongated rod (252), may be provided so that the slide plate (248) is undesirable during operation of the spray rod (202). It may slide along a guide (250) on a track to prevent movement in the direction.

The cleaning device (200) may further include a force sensor (245) as shown in FIG. 4B to which an actuator (247) is connected. When spray wand (202) returns to the retracted position, slide plate (248) may contact actuator (247) and push down, indicating that spray wand (202) is fully retracted. In some forms, when actuator (247) is depressed, force sensor (245) triggers rinsing of spray rod (202) and illumination of germicidal light source (276) of collar shroud (208), as described below. It is possible.

The slide plate (248) described above, in some embodiments, includes a rotation adapter (254) configured to rotate the spray wand (202) via a second motor, such as the motor (256) shown in FIG. 4B. ) may be further coupled to. In such a configuration, rotational adapter (254) is coupled to flange (258) via spacer (260, 260'), and flange (258) connects at its end 264 to the body portion of spray rod (202). (262). Spacers (260, 260') typically include rotational adapters (254) and flanges ( 258). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, tubes (230) from water reservoir (204) and tubes (240) from irrigant reservoir (206) are connected to flanges (258) formed by spacers (260, 260'). and the rotating adapter (254) to deliver water and cleaning agent to the spray rod (202), respectively.

Rotating adapter (254) is configured to be rotated by, for example, a motor (256) shown in FIG. 4B. Alternatively, a single motor may be configured with multiple gears such that the single motor can move the spray wand (202) between the retracted and extended positions and the spray wand. (202). As described in further detail herein, a controller (150) associated with the toilet seat assembly (100) causes operation of one or more motors to cause the spray wand (202) of the cleaning device (200) to is configured to move and rotate and supply water and/or cleaning agent.

Figures 5 and 6 show enlarged isolated views of the spray rod (202) and collar shroud (208), respectively. Referring now to FIG. 5, spray wand (202) includes a body portion (262) and a head portion (224). As mentioned above, spray wand (202) includes an outer surface (210). The head portion (224) of the spray wand (202) has an upper surface (266). As shown, a nozzle (222) is positioned in the head portion (224) of the spray wand (202) such that water and/or cleansing agent can be sprayed therefrom into the user's perineal area. In other forms, the head portion (224) of the spray wand (202) may include multiple nozzles for delivering separate liquid products such as water and cleaning agent.

As shown in FIG. 6, the collar shroud (208) is formed as a generally annular structure having an opening (268) that corresponds to the shape of the spray rod (202) and is configured to receive the spray rod. In some embodiments, collar shroud (208) includes a bracket portion (270) for attaching collar shroud (208) to seat base (102) of toilet seat assembly (100). As shown, the collar shroud (208) includes a germicidal light source (see FIG. including an opening (272) configured to receive an aperture (as shown).

As mentioned above, the collar shroud (208) may further include an opening (212, 212') through its sidewall (214) fluidly coupled to the water reservoir (204). In operation, water may be delivered through the openings (212, 212') via the water pump (218) to rinse the spray rod (202) after a cleaning operation. Due to the annular shape of the spray rod (202), the pair of openings (212, 212') are preferably spaced apart from each other such that both sides of the spray rod (202) can be rinsed with water. As shown in FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, a single tube (234) from the water reservoir (204) is connected to each opening with two separate tubes (274, 274') extending therefrom. The split valve 273 is connected to supply water to the sections (212, 212'), respectively.

With respect to FIG. 7, collar shroud (208) and spray rod (202) are shown positioned such that collar shroud (208) surrounds the outer surface (210) of spray rod (202). As shown, in some embodiments, a germicidal light source (276) is positioned in each of the openings (272) to illuminate the spray wand (202) with germicidal light. In some forms, the germicidal light source (276) may be an LED, such as a chip-on-board LED. Germicidal light source (276) is to be understood as a light source configured to produce light that is known for its germicidal or germicidal properties. In some forms, the germicidal light is ultraviolet (UV) light and the germicidal light source (276) is a UV LED. In other forms, germicidal light is any light having a wavelength of about 405 nm to about 470 nm.

As shown, the two germicidal light sources (276) of FIG. 7 are aligned in direction A. In other forms, the opening (272) for receiving the germicidal light source (276) may be positioned in other configurations. For example, the openings (272) may be spaced apart and extend radially around the inner annular sidewall (278) of the collar shroud (208). In an alternative embodiment, germicidal light source (276) may instead be positioned at another structure within toilet seat assembly (100) proximate spray wand (202).

Next, the sterilizing operation of the spray rod (202) will be explained. After a cleaning operation in which the spray wand (202) is extended to deliver water and/or cleansing agent to the perineal area of the user, either urine, excrement, or other body fluids are removed from the spray wand (202). There is a possibility of inadvertent splashing on the outer surface (210). As shown in FIG. 4A, when the spray wand (202) returns to the retracted position, the water pump (218) pumps the water from the water reservoir (204) through the tube (234) to the collar shroud (204) to rinse the spray wand (202). Water may be pumped into the openings (212, 212') of 208). Additionally or alternatively, germicidal light source (276) may then illuminate exterior surface (210) of spray wand (202) with germicidal light to facilitate disinfection of spray wand (202). When so configured, collar shroud (208) facilitates hygienic use of toilet seat assembly (100).

8A and 8B show views similar to FIG. 7 of a collar shroud (208) positioned to surround the outer surface (210) of the spray rod (202), where the collar shroud (208) includes wires, connectors, It includes a power circuit (280) electrically coupled to a germicidal light source (276), such as via traces. The power circuit board (280) includes a power circuit configured to be administered to power the germicidal light source (276) for illuminating the germicidal light. When so configured, germicidal light is directed to the nozzle (222), the body portion (262), or the head portion (224) of the spray wand (202), which includes both a head portion (224) and a body portion (262). can be irradiated. The power circuit may be configured to close to power the germicidal light source (276) when the spray wand (202) is returned to the storage position. In other words, illumination of the germicidal light source (276) may be initiated upon completion of the cleaning operation. In one approach, the power circuit board (280) of the collar shroud (208) is connected to the control unit of the toilet seat assembly (100) such that the germicidal light source (276) of the collar shroud (208) can be controlled by the control unit (124). (124).

In some forms, germicidal light source (276) may illuminate spray wand (202) with germicidal light for a predetermined period of time after each cleaning operation of toilet seat assembly (100). For example, when spray wand (202) is returned to the storage position, germicidal light source (276) may be activated for about two minutes to illuminate the exterior surface of spray wand (202). In other forms, germicidal light source (276) may be activated for a period of about 1 minute to about 3 minutes.

As described above with respect to FIG. 4B, actuation of actuator (247) of force sensor (245) may be configured to trigger illumination of germicidal light source (276). In particular, the force sensor (245) may be electrically coupled to the power circuit board (280) of the collar shroud (208) via wires, connectors, traces, etc., such that actuation of the actuator (247) (280) is configured to close the power circuit of (280) to supply power to the sterilizing light source (276) for a predetermined period of time. When so configured, the collar shroud (208) extends the spray wand (202), sprays water and/or cleaning agent, and retracts the spray wand (202) after each cleaning operation, for example. For this purpose, the spray rod (202) is configured to be illuminated with germicidal light.

An exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a collar shroud (1208) is described with respect to FIG. Collar shroud (1208) includes an annular opening (1268) configured to receive spray rod (202). Similar to collar shroud (208), collar shroud (1208) includes one or more openings (1272) configured to receive a germicidal light source therein. As shown, opening (1272) is annular in shape such that the germicidal light source positioned therein has a corresponding annular shape. Collar shroud (1208) may also include a bracket portion (1270) for attaching collar shroud (1208) within seat base (102) of toilet seat assembly (100). As shown, the collar shroud (1208) is configured such that water from the water reservoir (204) is pumped through the opening (1212) and the spray rod (202) is positioned within the annular opening (1268). It includes a single opening (1212) configured to be fluidly coupled to the water reservoir (204) so that the outer surface (210) can be rinsed. Collar shroud (1208) also includes a power circuit board (1280) and further includes a window (1271) located between the germicidal light source positioned within opening (1272) and power circuit board (1280). ) to prevent water from splashing onto the power circuit board (1280) when water is pumped through the opening (1212).

Figures 10 and 11 show further views of the cleaning device (200) positioned within the toilet seat assembly (100). As shown, the seat base (102) includes an opening (156) through the base portion (103) through which the spray wand (202) can be extended and retracted during a cleaning operation. Make it. When the spray wand (202) is in the retracted position, the top surface (266) of its head portion (224) extends over the surface of the seat base (102) such that there are no portions extending outwardly from the seat base (102). It is configured to maintain the same plane as the Other embodiments may use a cover that is opened during the cleaning operation. For example, the cover may be hingedly connected to the seat base (102) and additionally attached to the toilet seat assembly (100) using a spring, thereby causing the motor (216) to move the spray wand (202). The cover may be pushed to the open position when moved to the extended position and biased back to the closed position via the spring when the spray wand (202) is moved to the retracted position. Figure 11 shows the toilet seat assembly of Figure 1 including a base portion (103) and a housing (104) of the seat base (102), with the head portion (224) of the spray wand (202) having an opening. (156) to spray the user's perineal area. Once nozzle (222) has sprayed water and/or cleaning agent, spray wand (202) may be returned to the retracted position, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 10, for example.

As mentioned above, the spray wand (202) is moved between a retracted position (i.e., at least partially within the seat base (102)) and an extended position (i.e., within the seat base (102)) via one or more motors. extending at least partially from), the nozzle (222) of which may deliver water and/or irrigant to a selected location in the user's perineal region. The device may be further configured to rotate as shown in FIG. In some forms, the control unit (124) of the toilet seat assembly (100) controls the nozzle (222) to deliver water and/or cleaning agent in one or more predetermined or programmed patterns during a flushing operation. ) may be configured to control one or more motors to change the trajectory of the motor.

Exemplary patterns for delivering water and/or cleaning agent via spray wand (202) are shown in more detail in FIGS. 12A-12C and 13A-13C. The pattern may be programmed to run over one or more cycles, each cycle including water and/or cleaning agent between a start point and a stop point following the direction of the illustrated path during the spraying operation. Including spraying. 12A and 13A, a linear spray pattern (282) is shown in which the spray rod (202) is moved to an extended position at a starting point (283) and begins spraying through the nozzle (222); Spraying may continue as the water and/or cleaning agent is retracted and expanded so that it is sprayed linearly between the start point (283) and stop point (284). The arrows shown adjacent to the linear spray pattern (282) are intended only to indicate exemplary movement of the spray rod (202) between a starting point (283) and a stopping point (284). There is. The linear pattern (282) may be configured to begin at several different starting or stopping points, and may oscillate between the starting and stopping points any number of times. Once so configured, the length and number of cycles of linear pattern (282) may be adjusted according to user preference. In typical form, linear pattern (282) does not require any rotation of spray rod (202). In other forms, spray wand (202) may be rotated such that linear pattern (282) is offset from central positioning, as shown in FIG. 12A.

In one example, the starting point of linear pattern (282) may be approximately 200-250 mm apart from sensor (134) proximate seat base (102), and the stopping point may be approximately 175-225 mm from sensor (134). May be spaced apart. According to one approach, the starting point of linear pattern (282) is about 212 mm from sensor (134) and the stopping point is about 200 mm from sensor (134). When spray wand (202) is extended, nozzle (222) may begin spraying water and/or cleaning agent and oscillate between a start and stop point for a predetermined number of cycles. In other forms, the linear pattern may extend between a starting point approximately 205 mm apart from the sensor (134) and a stopping point approximately 192 mm apart from the sensor (134).

Control unit (124) may also be configured to cause spray rod (202) to spray in the example "zigzag" or winding pattern (286) shown in FIGS. 12B and 13B. As shown, pattern (286) may begin at a starting point (287). The spray rod (202) then expands, retracts, and rotates in a combination such that the water and/or cleaning agent is sprayed by the nozzles (222) in the pattern (286) until the stop point (288) is reached. It may be moved by The arrows shown adjacent to pattern (286) are only intended to indicate exemplary movement of the spray between starting point (287) and stopping point (288). Pattern (286) may also be configured to start at several different start and stop points, and oscillate between the start and stop points while following pattern (286) over and over again. Good too. For example, the pattern may be flipped, rotated, or adjusted according to the user's preferences. In one illustrative example, the spray patterns of FIGS. 12B and 13B may be rotated approximately 90 degrees such that the spray wand (202) sprays fluid in a left-right direction of the user.

In one example, the starting point may be approximately 192 mm apart from sensor (134) and offset such that spray wand (202) rotates approximately 3 degrees counterclockwise at the starting point. The spray wand (202) may then be moved linearly approximately 205 mm from the sensor (134), clockwise approximately 3° with a stop point where the spray wand (202) is spaced approximately 205 mm from the sensor (134). It continues to rotate expanding and retracting within the pattern (286) until it is rotated to .

In yet another embodiment, spray wand (202) is moved by control unit (124) to spray water and/or cleaning agent in a square, rectangular, or box-like pattern 290, as shown in FIGS. 12C and 13C. May be sprayed. Pattern (290) may be configured to clean the user's anal area. As shown, the spray rod (202) may be extended and rotated such that the nozzle (222) is positioned to spray at the starting point (291), and the spray rod (202) may be It may be moved by the control unit (124) to spray water in a box-like pattern (290) until returning to point (292). The arrows shown adjacent to pattern (290) are only intended to indicate exemplary movement of the spray between starting point (291) and stopping point (292). Similar to the patterns described above, the box pattern (290) may be programmed with any shape or size and may oscillate between starting and stopping points any number of times. In other forms, the spray wand (202) may be configured to spray any polygonal, circular, or other shaped pattern depending on the user's preference.

The starting point of the box pattern (290) may be, for example, approximately 190 mm apart from the sensor (134) and offset such that the spray wand rotates approximately 4° clockwise at the starting point. The spray rod (202) is then rotated counterclockwise to approximately 4 degrees, retracted to approximately 162 mm from the sensor (134), rotated clockwise to approximately 4 degrees, and then retracted approximately 190 mm from the sensor (134). It may be expanded back to a distant starting point. When so configured, water and/or cleaning agent is sprayed into the box.

Additionally, any of the patterns described above (e.g., linear pattern (282), zigzag pattern (286), box pattern (290)) may be used to target selected areas or combinations of areas of the perineal region. , can be combined in any order during the cleaning operation. In some forms, controller (150) may include one or more predetermined pattern settings (described in further detail below with respect to FIG. 23B), each including one or a combination of different patterns. Such pattern settings may correspond to male cleansing, female cleansing, and/or cleaning of the anal area. For example, one pattern setting selection may be provided for cleaning the female anatomy, including (1) a linear pattern for several cycles, (2) a zigzag pattern for several cycles, and ( 3) May include a box pattern for several cycles. In another example for cleaning the male anatomy, the pattern settings include (1) a first linear pattern of a first length for several cycles; (2) a first linear pattern of a first length for several cycles; a second linear pattern of a second length; and (3) a box pattern for a number of cycles. In yet another example, one pattern setting may be specifically designed for cleaning the anal region of the perineal region and may include only a box pattern for multiple cycles. In other forms, a user may be able to program or select one or more preferred patterns to customize pattern settings for spraying through spray wand (202).

Controller (150) (FIG. 23B) may also include one or more time selections (eg, 45 seconds, 60 seconds, or 90 seconds) to adjust the duration of the pattern settings. For example, a user may select a 45 second pattern setting such that spray wand (202) is configured to spray water and/or cleaning agent in various patterns over 45 second intervals. Depending on the time selection, each different pattern in the selected pattern setting may oscillate at a different number of cycles. Referring to the pattern settings for cleaning the female anatomy described above, the 45 second selection may include a 10 cycle linear pattern, a 1 cycle zigzag pattern, and a 2 cycle box pattern. Alternatively, the 90 second selection may include a 20 cycle linear pattern, a 2 cycle zigzag pattern, and a 4 cycle box pattern. When so configured, the number of cycles for each individual pattern may be scaled to correspond to different time selections of duration of pattern settings selected by the user.

An exemplary water/liquid reservoir (204') for use in the toilet seat assembly (100) and its operation is shown in more detail in FIGS. 14-17. The water reservoir (204') is substantially similar to the water reservoir (204) shown in FIG. 3, and the differences will be described below. Referring to Figure 14, the water reservoir (204') is shown separate from the seat base (102). As shown, water reservoir (204') includes a housing 221 having a base portion 223, a cover portion (225), an inlet (227), and an outlet (229). The housing (221) of the reservoir (204') is configured to contain a quantity of liquid, such as water. As mentioned above, the outlet (229) of the water reservoir (204') is connected to one or more tubes, e.g. (230)) may be fluidly coupled to the spray rod (202). Water reservoir (204') is also coupled via tube (228) to a water pump (e.g., water pump (218) shown in FIG. 3) to pump liquid from reservoir (204') to spray rod (202). pumping and also recirculating the liquid contained within the housing (221) of the reservoir (204'). According to one approach, water inlet (226) may be fluidly coupled to inlet (227) via tube (232) to control the entry of liquid into reservoir (204').

FIG. 15 depicts an exploded view of the water reservoir (204') shown in FIG. 14 showing exemplary internal components thereof. As described above with respect to FIG. 3, a heating member, such as an immersion heater (231), is positioned within the housing (221) to heat the liquid contained within the housing (221) to a desired temperature. One or more sensors, such as temperature probes (233, 235), may be positioned proximate heater (231) to continuously measure the temperature of the liquid contained in housing (221). In some forms, temperature probes (233, 235) may be formed from a conductive material such as copper. Additionally, a thermistor (236') (similar to thermistor (236) shown in FIG. 3) is incorporated into the control circuit so that the temperature exceeds a certain threshold determined at least in part by the resistance of thermistor (236'). When raised, the cleaning device (200) may be prevented from spraying water through the spray rod (202). Alternatively, the control unit (124) may prevent operation of the cleaning device (200) when the temperature probe (233, 235) indicates that the temperature is above a predetermined threshold. For example, the threshold may be selected to be a temperature of about 41°C. In other forms, the threshold may be selected to be a temperature of about 35°C to about 45°C.

Additionally, the housing (221) of the reservoir (204') includes various internal struts and baffles (e.g., baffles (237) and baffles (237) and (239)). The water reservoir (204') may also include a level sensor (241) configured to detect the amount of liquid contained in the housing (221). As shown in Figure 15, the level sensor (241) is a float switch configured to detect when the level of liquid contained within the housing (221) falls below a predetermined threshold as a result of a cleaning operation. (243) may be used. The level sensor (241) communicates with the control unit (124) so that the control unit (124) can facilitate entry of liquid into the reservoir (204') when the liquid level is below a predetermined threshold. may be combined if possible. In some forms, the water reservoir (204') may begin refilling as soon as the cleaning operation begins.

During standby operations when the toilet seat assembly (100) is not currently in use by the user, the heater (231) is turned off or at a low power setting so that the liquid within the housing (221) is not continuously heated. It can work. Upon detecting the presence of the user via the sensor (134), the control unit (124) turns on the heater (231) or puts it in a high power state to direct the liquid in the reservoir (204') to the liquid selected by the user. The toilet seat assembly (100) may be heated to a preset temperature such that the heated liquid can be used to clean the user's perineal area after using the toilet seat assembly (100). For example, control unit (124) may operate heater (231) for between about 30 seconds and about 60 seconds depending on the desired temperature of the liquid, which is controlled via controller (150) (FIG. 23B). may be selected. For example, the controller (150) may allow a user to select a low setting (e.g., about 32°C), a medium setting (e.g., about 35°C), and a high setting (e.g., about 38°C) for the set temperature. obtain. To promote a more even distribution of heat throughout the liquid, the control unit (124) causes operation of the pump (218) to periodically recirculate the liquid contained within the reservoir (204'). obtain. When so configured, the spray wand (202) may be able to consistently provide warm water throughout the cleaning operation.

sufficient to heat the liquid within the housing (221) to the desired temperature between the first time that the sensor (134) detects the presence of the user and the second time that the spray wand (202) is activated. In order to facilitate maintenance time, the heater (231) may maintain the liquid within the housing (221) at a temperature close to the set temperature (i.e., the user-selected setting described above). In some forms, if the temperature probe (233, 235) detects that the water has dropped below about 2 degrees Celsius of the set temperature, the control unit (124) operates the heater (231) to set the liquid at the set temperature. Can be heated back to temperature. Additionally, control unit (124) may recirculate liquid to pump (218) as described above to promote more even heat distribution. When so configured, the liquid within the reservoir (204') may be maintained at or near the set temperature for extended periods of time.

In some cases, the control unit (124) is configured to drain at least a portion of the liquid contained in the reservoir (204') when the temperature probe (233, 235) detects that the liquid exceeds a temperature threshold. may be configured. For example, such a temperature threshold may be within a range of about 40°C to about 41°C. The housing (221) may then be refilled with liquid via the inlet (227). In some alternatives, controller (150) (FIG. 23B) may be configured to cause control unit (124) to drain water reservoir (204') for cleaning or servicing.

Water reservoir (204') also flushes fluid connections between components prior to spraying the liquid via spray wand (202) to remove any residual unheated liquid in the fluid line (e.g., tubes (228), 230, 232)). For example, after a cleaning operation, at least some liquid may remain in the tube (230) that connects the outlet (229) of the reservoir (204') to the spray rod (202). Before the next cleaning operation, the control unit (124) operates the pump (218) at low power to pump the remaining cold liquid from the tube (230) through the nozzle (222) of the spray rod (202). It may drain gradually into the toilet bowl and prevent liquid below a selected temperature from being delivered to the user's perineal area.

As shown in FIG. 17, an example method (1700) of operating a cleaning device is provided that includes detecting (1702) the presence of a user via a sensor, such as sensor (134). Upon detecting the presence of the user, operation of the heater (231) may be adjusted to adjust the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir in step (1704). Additionally, in step (1706), the method includes recirculating the liquid in the reservoir upon the sensor detecting the presence of the user. When so configured, the method (1700) allows the liquid in the reservoir to be reheated and recirculated in step (1708) before being optionally sprayed, for example from a spray wand. In some forms, the sensor may be an infrared sensor. According to another approach, the method (1700) may further include detecting (1710) the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir using a temperature sensor. When the temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the liquid exceeds a predetermined threshold, a control unit (e.g., control unit 124) causes the pump to drain at least a portion of the reservoir in step (1712), optionally causing the pump to drain at least a portion of the reservoir. The reservoir may be configured to be refilled via the inlet. In yet another approach, the method also includes the steps of: detecting (1712) the amount of liquid in the reservoir via a level sensor; and refilling the liquid when the detected amount of liquid falls below a predetermined threshold. (1714). In some forms, a controller (e.g., controller (150) ) may be provided.

The drying device (300) is described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 18-20. In FIG. 18, various other components of the toilet seat assembly (100), including the housing (104), have been removed for simplicity and ease of illustration, and the drying device (300) and components connected thereto. It shows the elements more clearly.

As shown, the drying apparatus (300) includes a fan (302), an elongated conduit (306), and a heating unit (304) configured to heat the air produced by the fan (302). . In some embodiments, fan (302) may be an electric impeller blower to provide air at a constant static pressure. A fan (302) is coupled to a first end (310) of elongated conduit (306) for delivering air therethrough. According to one approach, elongate conduit (306) may be formed at an angle such that water is prevented from entering conduit (306) and otherwise interfering with operation of drying device (300). The heating unit (304) controls the air to a predetermined temperature before it is delivered from the second end (312) of the elongated conduit (306) to the perineal region of the user, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. The enlarged portion (311) of the elongate conduit (306) is positioned to heat the elongated conduit (306) to a temperature of 100.degree. In some forms, heating unit (304) may be a positive temperature coefficient heater. When so configured, the heating unit (304) may be formed from a ceramic material, for example, to provide self-regulating heating characteristics.

The drying device (300) may further include a thermistor or temperature sensor positioned proximate to the nozzle (303) of the drying device (300) so that the temperature of the air can be measured. Based at least in part on the measured temperature, control unit (124), or a separate control circuit board (319) (FIG. 20) coupled to drying device (300), supplies heating unit (304) with may be configured to provide alternating amounts of power (e.g., periodic hot/cold patterns) to improve user comfort and reduce heat buildup in the user's perineal region.

As shown, the drying cover (308) described above is hinged to a portion of the seat base (102) and covers the second end (312) of the conduit (306), thereby preventing pressure from the air. The drying cover is blown open while air is delivered from the drying cover (308). As mentioned above, the drying device (300) is configured to be controlled by the controller (150) of the toilet seat assembly (100). For example, the controller (150) may turn the fan (302) on or off, adjust the speed of the fan (302), and adjust the heating unit (302) in response to user input received at the user interface (154) of the controller (150). 304) can be adjusted. Additionally or alternatively, a user may set the drying time (ie, the amount of time the drying device is blowing air) via the user interface (154) of the controller (150).

FIG. 20 shows an exploded view showing the individual components of the drying device (300) in more detail. For example, the nozzle (303) located behind the drying cover (308) in Figure 19 is shown as having multiple ports (305) for evenly distributing air to the perineal area after a cleaning operation. . Additionally, air velocity may be increased at the nozzle (303) by restricting airflow through smaller individual ports (305). Various struts and baffles (307, 309) supporting components of the dryer (300) are shown, as well as a control circuit board (319) for the dryer (300). The insulating layers (313, 315, 317) also prevent the heating unit (304) from overheating or damaging other components when the drying apparatus (300) is assembled. may be included and positioned in close proximity to.

The spray canister apparatus is described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 21 and 22. In FIG. 21, various other components of the toilet seat assembly (100), including the housing (104) and its connection to the spray canister device (400), have been removed for simplicity and ease of illustration. Its components are shown more clearly. As mentioned above, a spray canister device for use in connection with the disclosed toilet seat assembly is fully disclosed by U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/426,436, filed May 30, 2019. , the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As shown in FIG. 21, the spray canister apparatus (400) includes a canister (402) containing a liquid product, a canister housing (404) having an opening, a chassis element (406), and a chassis element (406). a tray (408) slidably coupled to the tray (408). A motor (410), which may be operated by the controller (150) of the toilet seat assembly (100), is operably coupled to the tray (408) to provide storage position within and control of the seat bases (102). The tray (408) may be slidably moved between an expanded position and an extended position extending outwardly from the opening of the tray (408). When so configured, canister housing (404) and canister (402) positioned therein are in a storage position with tray (408) so that liquid product can be sprayed into the user's perineal area. It can be moved to and from the expanded position. In some forms, the spray canister device (400) may be configured to spray the liquid product after the user's perineal area has been cleaned and dried by the cleaning device (200) and drying device (300), respectively. good.

For example, liquid products configured to be delivered by the spray canister device (400) may include skin protectants, ointments, creams, zinc oxide, calamine, barrier solutions, cleaning solutions, moisturizers, skin sealants, water, pharmaceuticals, among others. , but are not limited to one or more of the following: In some approaches, the liquid product is a barrier solution, whereby the barrier solution is used to protect the user's skin, such as through a cleaning device (200), and to prevent excess moisture after cleaning. can be applied to the perineal area.

Figure 22 shows the rear (116) of the housing (104) of the seat base (102) with the maintenance cover (114) removed to reveal the openings therebelow. As mentioned above, the maintenance cover (114) is configured to be moved via a hinge or pivot point between a closed position and an open position. Below maintenance cover (114) is an opening (158) that allows access to the interior of seat base (102) for installation and removal of spray canister (402) and spray canister housing (404). be. According to one approach, opening (158) facilitates insertion of canister housing (404) and canister (402) into seat base (102) to engage tray (408) positioned therein. Shaped to facilitate. For example, opening (158) may be formed in canister housing (404) to only allow canister housing (404) and canister (402) to be inserted into seat base (102) in the desired orientation. It may be molded to correspond to the shape, thus simplifying installation for the user.

The irrigant valve (242) of the irrigant reservoir (206) is also shown positioned in the recess (160) of the housing (104). To refill the cleaning agent reservoir (206), the maintenance cover (114) may be pivoted open and a fill bottle may be used to fill the reservoir (206) as described above. The toilet seat assembly (100) may also include a service button (162) or switch, as shown in FIG. 22. Upon actuation of the service button (162), the control unit (124) of the toilet seat assembly (100) may, for example, move the spray wand (202) to the extended position for cleaning, activate the germicidal light source (276), etc. One or more servicing operations may be performed, including directing germicidal light onto the spray wand (202) and rinsing the spray wand (202).

Referring now to FIGS. 23A-23G, a controller (150) associated with toilet seat assembly (100) is provided to control various operations of toilet seat assembly (100). As shown in FIG. 23A, the controller (150) is in the form of a remote control (152) that includes various buttons such as a primary button (164) for adjusting the mechanisms of the toilet seat assembly (100). ) includes or is operably coupled to a user interface (154). In other embodiments, controller (150) may be a wall-mounted display that includes, for example, a touch screen, a mobile communication device (eg, a cell phone or smart phone), or any other remote control. Controller (150) may be connected to toilet seat assembly (100) via either a wireless or wired connection.

As shown in FIG. 23B, the user interface (154) of the controller (150) includes primary buttons (164) and secondary buttons ( 166). In the alternative, the cover may be a sliding cover and may cover either the primary button (164) and the secondary button (166), only the primary button (164), or only the secondary button (166). In yet other forms, controller (150) may not include a cover.

The primary button (164) and the secondary button (166) cover the secondary button (166) when the flip cover (168) is in the closed position so that the surface of the flip cover (168) meets the front panel as shown in FIG. 23A. It may be positioned in a recess in the front panel of controller (150) so that it remains substantially coplanar. Each primary button (164) may correspond to operation of a cleaning device (200), a drying device (300), and/or a spray canister device (400).

The secondary buttons (166) can be used to control, for example, the position of the spray wand (202), the temperature of the water, the pattern settings, the duration of the pattern settings, the amount of liquid sprayed from the spray wand (202), and the heater of the seat base (102). adjusting the temperature of the air blown by the drying device (300), the duration for which air is blown by the drying device (300), turning the speaker sound on or off, and/or the toilet seat assembly. The characteristics of each component of the toilet seat assembly (100) may be adjusted as described above, including turning on or off the light associated with (100). By way of example, the "Water Pattern" secondary button may have multiple modes corresponding to the various pattern settings described above, including the patterns shown in FIGS. 12A-12C and 13A-13C. In some embodiments, where the water pattern button has three modes, the pattern settings are configured for female anatomy cleansing, male anatomy cleansing, and anal area cleansing. obtain. Additionally, the "Water Time" secondary button may have various modes of adjusting the duration of the pattern settings such that the number of cycles for each individual pattern may be adjusted.

Both primary button (164) and secondary button (166) may include Braille text thereon to assist visually impaired users in operating controller (150). 23C-23G show various additional views of controller (150), such as a top side (180), a right side (181), and a left side (182).

Controller (150) may further include one or more indicators or LEDs to communicate information to the user regarding the operation of toilet seat assembly (100). For example, the indicator may be in the form of an LED similar to the auxiliary user interface LED (144). For example, if one of the sensors in the water reservoir (204) or detergent reservoir (206) detects that the detergent/water level is low, an LED on the controller (150) is illuminated to indicate that the detergent/water level is low. may be shown to the user. In some configurations, each sensor has a different color, such that one color indicates low liquid in the water reservoir (204) and another color indicates low liquid in the detergent reservoir (206). of LEDs may be used. Additionally or alternatively, the indicator may be illuminated to indicate a system problem or error to the user. In embodiments of controller (150) that include an indicator, flip cover (168) may include an opening or window to visually indicate the indicator to the user.

In other embodiments, the indicator may be in the form of a digital screen interface on controller (150). In such a configuration, the screen interface may, for example, display a graphical representation of the amount of water and cleaning agent in the water and cleaning agent reservoirs (204, 206), respectively.

An alternative embodiment of the controller (1150) is shown in FIGS. 24A-24E. Specifically, it includes a flip cover (1168) hinged to the controller (1150) and configured to cover one or more secondary buttons (1166) when the flip cover (1168) is in the dispensing position. A controller (1150) is shown. Unlike flip cover (168) of controller (150), flip cover (1168) is configured to cover the front of controller (1150) and includes a window through which primary buttons (1164) can be seen. As shown, controller (1150) further includes a primary button (1164) that, in operation, may correspond to operation of cleaning device (200), drying device (300), and/or spray canister device (400). Controller (1150) and controller (150) are substantially similar in all respects, including their operation, unless otherwise described herein. 24C-24E show various additional views of controller (1150), such as a top side (1180), a right side (1181), and a left side (1182).

Referring now to FIG. 25, which shows a schematic diagram of the control scheme for the toilet seat assembly (100), the controller (150) further includes a processor (170), a communication circuit (172), and a memory (174); The device is configured to be programmed to store desired user settings. For example, a user may enter a "program" mode for one or more selected profiles to select desired settings such as water temperature, air temperature, etc., among others. The processor (170) of the controller (150) may be configured to store profiles in its memory (174) so that different users of the toilet seat assembly (100) may utilize different settings depending on their profile. . For example, one user may program a particular water and/or cleaning agent delivery pattern (e.g., the spray wand (202) rotates from side to side while spraying as it is extended and retracted to step out to completely cover the shadow area).

The communication circuit (172) of the controller (150) is configured to communicate with the communication circuit (132) of the control unit (124) within the toilet seat assembly to control the operation of the toilet seat assembly (100). For example, the communication circuit (172) of the controller (150) communicates one or more control signals to the communication circuit (132) of the control unit (124) to and/or may be configured to cause operation of the spray canister device (400). As shown, the control unit (124) controls the cleaning device (200), the drying device (300), the spray canister device (400), among others, via one or more control signals from the controller (150). , a water heater, a seat heater, and a seat base light.

Exemplary operation of the cleaning device (200) will now be described with reference to FIGS. 23B and 25. The user first selects water pattern, water time, water temperature, and/or other desired settings via secondary buttons (166) of user interface (154) and then causes operation of cleaning device (200). The primary button (164) may be configured to interact with the primary button (164). The processor (170) of the controller (150) (when a user interacts with the user interface (154) of the controller (150)) provides control to the communication circuit (172) and to the control unit (124) of the toilet seat assembly (100). The device is configured to communicate signals. Upon receiving the control signal, control unit (124) is configured to cause operation of cleaning device (200) based at least in part on the user selected settings. Once so configured, a user may control each included aspect of toilet seat assembly (100) via controller (150).

As shown in FIGS. 26-29, the toilet seat assembly (100) also optionally includes a bracket assembly (500) for attaching the toilet seat assembly (100) to an existing toilet bowl and water tank structure. For example, as discussed below, an existing toilet lid may be removed and a toilet seat assembly (100) secured via a bracket assembly (500). In some configurations, bracket assembly (500) is further configured to facilitate attachment to grab bar assembly (502) to assist an individual in sitting on or rising from toilet seat assembly (100). ing. Additionally, bracket assembly (500) may include a hinge (504) to facilitate cleaning of the underside of seat base (102), as described in further detail below.

Figure 26 shows the bracket assembly (500) attached to the rear (116) of the seat base (102) with the toilet bowl and cistern removed. As shown, the bracket assembly (500) includes a base plate (506), an arm plate (508), and a pair of adjustable hinges (504, 504'). Bracket assembly (500) may be coupled to seat base (102) of toilet seat assembly (100) via threaded fasteners (510), as shown in FIG. The threaded fasteners may, for example, be screws and are secured to threaded openings (not shown) positioned in the seat base (102) to couple the bracket assembly (500) to the toilet seat assembly (100). may be done. Once bracket assembly (500) is coupled to toilet seat assembly (100), bracket assembly (500) may be attached to an existing toilet bowl as described below.

27A and 27B show front and rear perspective views of bracket assembly (500). As shown in FIG. 27A, bracket assembly (500) includes two hinges (504, 504'). In other embodiments, bracket assembly (500) may include more than two hinges. As shown, each hinge (504, 504') has an attachment portion (512) and an adjustment portion (514). Each attachment portion (512) includes an opening (516) for receiving a threaded fastener (510) for coupling to the interior structure of the seat base (102) as described above. Each adjustment portion (514) has one or more slots (518) configured to receive a threaded fastener (520) to secure adjustment portion (514) to an arm (522) of arm plate (508). )including. When so configured, adjustment portion (514) includes threaded fasteners (520) to adjust the height of bracket assembly (500) to facilitate attachment to existing toilet bowls of different sizes. may be adjusted to be secured to different portions of one or more slots (518).

As shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B, base plate (506) is typically substantially flat and includes one or more openings for receiving threaded fasteners (526) (shown in FIG. 26). a section (524) and a sleeve section (528) extending from the flat section (524), the sleeve section (528) extending through the seat base (102) along an axis parallel to the rear surface (532). It has an opening (530) extending from the top. As shown, the sleeve portion (528) of the seat base (102) has openings (530) across the opening (530) at spaced intervals for receiving threaded fasteners or biasing pins (not shown). 534). Aperture (534) is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 28.

Arm plate (508) includes a base portion (536) configured to be positioned adjacent flat portion (524) of base plate (506), and arm plate (508) includes two arms (522, 522'). Base portion (536) includes a number of slots (538) for adjusting the positioning of bracket assembly (500), as well as adjustment portions (514) of hinges (504, 504'). Slot (538) may be positioned such that toilet seat assembly (100) can be placed in a desired location, and then screw fastener (526) is inserted to secure toilet seat assembly (100) to the toilet bowl. It may be advanced through an opening (540) in flat portion (524) of base plate (506). The arms (522, 522') extend above and outwardly of the sleeve portion (528) of the base plate (506) such that the arms (522, 522') are supported thereon, as shown in FIG. 27B. do.

Once the toilet seat assembly (100) is secured to an existing toilet via the bracket assembly (500), the positioning of the upwardly secured hinges (504, 504') on the rear (116) of the seat base (102) is , allowing the entire toilet seat assembly (100) to pivot about the hinges (504, 504') such that the toilet seat assembly (100) can be attached to the underside of the seat base (102) for servicing or cleaning. FIGS. 27C to 27H show additional exemplary views of the bracket assembly (500) pivoted upward parallel to the existing toilet water tank to facilitate access to the base plate. (506) is not included.

Referring now to FIGS. 28 and 29, grab bar assembly (502) of bracket assembly (500) is shown, with grab bar assembly (502) of bracket assembly (500) within sleeve portion (528) of base plate (506). It includes two elongated bars (542, 542') that can be coupled to the first end 543. In some forms, a base plate (506) is included in the grab bar assembly (502) such that the bracket assembly (500) can be used to secure the toilet seat assembly to an existing toilet without the base plate (506). Good too. As shown, the elongated bars (542, 542') can be used to assist an individual using the toilet seat assembly (100) in standing or sitting positions. Extending parallel to each other on each side of the toilet seat assembly (100). The elongate bar (542, 542') may include a cover (544), such as a soft plastic covered foam, on a portion thereof to enhance user comfort. The first end (543) of the elongated bar (542, 542') is attached to the base plate (506) so that a screw fastener can be advanced to secure the grab bar assembly (502) to the bracket assembly (500). It may include an opening (not shown) corresponding to opening (534) in sleeve portion (528). In other embodiments, the elongate bar (542, 542') is inserted into the sleeve portion (528) by a user who presses it inwardly to insert the first end of the elongate bar (542, 542') into the sleeve portion (528). The biasing pin may include a biasing pin that may be slid within portion (528), upon reaching one of the openings (534) to lock grab bar assembly (502) in place. It may be biased upwardly via known means. The second end (546) of the elongate bar (542, 542') extends downwardly toward the ground near the toilet seat assembly (100), as shown in FIG. Similarly, the second end (546) of the elongated bar (542, 542') may include an adjustment mechanism such that the grab bar assembly (502) can be installed in existing toilets of various heights. Such adjustment mechanism surrounds the second end (546) of the elongated grab bar (542, 542') and is in a predetermined position such that the grab bar assembly (502) contacts the ground to provide a sturdy and secure hold. A telescoping sleeve (548) can be included that is configured to lock in place at a point.

A schematic illustration of an exemplary method (600) of sterilizing the spray wand (202) of the toilet seat assembly (100) is provided in FIG. The disclosed method includes receiving (602) user input. User input may be received, for example, by a user interface (154) of a controller (150) associated with the toilet seat assembly (100) or by an auxiliary user interface (138). Upon receiving the user input, in step (604) the toilet seat assembly control unit (124) moves the spray wand (202) of the cleaning device (200) between the retracted position and the expanded position to dispense water and/or water. or configured to deliver irrigant to the perineal region of the user. In step (606), after the spray wand (202) is returned to the retracted position, the outer surface (210) of the spray wand (202) receives water from, for example, a water reservoir (204) positioned within the seat base (102). May be rinsed with water. Additionally, in step (608), spray wand (202) is exposed to one or more germicidal light sources (276) to facilitate disinfection thereof. In some forms, the germicidal light source (276) is an LTV light source selected for its germicidal properties. In some embodiments, a method (600) of sterilizing a spray wand (202) includes the step of delivering air through a drying device (300) of a toilet seat assembly (100) to dry a perineal area of a user. further including.

The use of singular terms such as "a", "an", etc. is intended to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. There is. The terms "comprising,""having,""including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms. Descriptions of particular embodiments as "preferred" embodiments and other recitations of preferred embodiments, features, or ranges, or any suggestion of preference are not to be considered limiting. The present disclosure is believed to encompass embodiments that are currently considered less preferred and may be described in their entirety herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order, unless indicated otherwise herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is intended to clarify the disclosure and to limit the scope of the disclosure. isn't it. Any description herein of the nature or advantages of the disclosed apparatus or preferred embodiments is not intended to be limiting. This invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited herein as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, unless indicated otherwise herein or clearly contradicted by context, the present disclosure includes any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof. Any unclaimed language should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Any description or suggestion herein that a particular feature constitutes an element of a claimed invention is not intended to be limiting, except as reflected in the claims below. Marking a patent number on any product or identifying a patent number in connection with any service indicates that all embodiments described herein are incorporated into such product or service. It should not be considered a thing .

Claims (20)

A toilet seat assembly including a cleaning device, the cleaning device comprising:
a spray wand including a body portion and a head portion, the head portion including a nozzle configured to deliver one or more liquid products therethrough; a positioned collar shroud, the collar shroud extending around at least a portion of the surface of the spray wand and including one or more germicidal light sources positioned proximate the spray wand; Equipped with a color shroud,
the spray wand is configured to be moved between a retracted position and an expanded position;
The toilet seat assembly, wherein the germicidal light source is configured to expose the spray wand to germicidal light when the spray wand is moved between the retracted position and the expanded position. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more germicidal light sources are ultraviolet light sources. The spray wand is coupled via a first fluid connection to a water reservoir containing water, the water reservoir having a sensor configured to detect a water level within the water reservoir; and an indicator that is triggered upon falling below a predetermined threshold. 4. The toilet seat assembly of claim 3, wherein the water reservoir further includes a heater for regulating the temperature of the water contained within the water reservoir. The water reservoir further includes a sensor that detects the temperature of the water, and is configured to prevent operation of the cleaning device when the sensor detects that the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold. 5. The toilet seat assembly of claim 4. The spray wand is coupled via a second fluid connection to a cleaning agent reservoir containing cleaning agent, the cleaning agent reservoir having a sensor configured to detect a cleaning agent level within the cleaning agent reservoir. and an indicator that is triggered when the cleaning agent level falls below a predetermined threshold. 7. The toilet seat assembly of claim 6, wherein the spray wand is configured to deliver one or more of the cleaning agent and the water through the nozzle in the head portion thereof. the collar shroud includes at least one opening through a side wall thereof allowing access to the spray rod, the at least one opening being coupled to the water reservoir via a third fluid connection; 7. The toilet seat assembly of claim 6. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, further comprising a drying device configured to deliver air at one or more of a predetermined temperature and a predetermined rate. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the cleaning device is communicatively coupled to a user interface, the user interface comprising a waterproof piezoelectric button located on an exterior surface of the toilet seat assembly. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the collar shroud is formed from polyvinyl chloride. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the germicidal light source is positioned radially around an annular sidewall of the collar shroud. The toilet seat assembly includes a seat base and a lid, the cleaning device is positioned on the seat base, and the lid is spaced about and configured to reinforce the lid. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, including one or more rib members. further comprising a bracket assembly removably coupled to the seat base, the bracket assembly including one or more adjustable hinges, and the bracket assembly configured to secure the toilet seat assembly to a toilet. 14. The toilet seat assembly of claim 13. One or more motors are operably coupled to the cleaning device, one of the one or more motors configured to move the spray wand between the retracted position and the expanded position. The toilet seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the toilet seat assembly is 16. The toilet seat of claim 15, wherein one of the one or more motors is configured to rotate the head portion of the spray wand to deliver the one or more liquid products. assembly. A method of sterilizing a cleaning device positioned within a toilet seat assembly, the method comprising:
receiving user input at a user interface associated with the toilet seat assembly;
moving a spray wand of the cleaning device between a retracted position and an extended position;
rinsing the spray wand of the cleaning device with water in response to the user input;
exposing the spray wand to one or more germicidal light sources, the one or more germicidal light sources positioned within the toilet seat assembly and extending at least partially around a surface of the spray wand; to do, to expose,
including methods. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising spraying one or more liquid products by a nozzle of the spray wand when the spray wand reaches the expanded position. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising delivering air at a predetermined temperature by a drying device. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more germicidal light sources are ultraviolet light sources.