Classifications

• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
  • A47K13/00—Seats or covers for all kinds of closets
  • A47K13/14—Protecting covers for closet seats
  • A47K13/18—Protecting covers for closet seats of paper or plastic webs
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
  • A47K13/00—Seats or covers for all kinds of closets
  • A47K13/14—Protecting covers for closet seats
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
  • A47K13/00—Seats or covers for all kinds of closets
  • A47K13/24—Parts or details not covered in, or of interest apart from, groups A47K13/02 - A47K13/22, e.g. devices imparting a swinging or vibrating motion to the seats

Definitions

• the present disclosure relates broadly to a toilet seat cover, to a toilet seat, a method of manufacturing a toilet seat cover and to a method of manufacturing a toilet seat.
• Flush toilets typically comprise a bowl portion (or toilet bowl) which receives e.g. waste.
• the bowl portion has an opening which is defined by the rim of the bowl portion.
• the rim can be overlaid with a sanitary/toilet seat.
• the toilet seat is typically hinged to an end of the rim, to allow the seat to be laid over the rim when sitting is desired.
• the seat can be lifted or rotated off the rim into an erect position substantially perpendicular to the opening of the bowl, and may be rested against a wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet.
• toilet seats may be soiled or dirty which discourage users from sitting on or to even come into contact with the seats.
• a seat laid over the rim may be soiled by a standing male user.
• cleaners may be employed to attempt to clean each toilet seat as soon as it is used. However, this may be a costly and non-practical way of matching number of cleaners to peak period usage of toilets. Moreover, cleaners may not have applied any antiseptic agents or sterilizing chemicals to clean the surface of the seat.
• Some users may use disposable covers which may be placed on the seats directly.
• seat covers typically comprise a sheet of paper shaped like toilet seats.
• Such sheets are typically of inadequate thickness for manufacturing cost effectiveness and may break easily when not handled properly, particularly when the disposable covers are wet, as a result of e.g. a wet toilet seat or urine from a previous user.
• the paper disposable covers generally do not fit well on toilet seats as they are smaller in size compared to the toilet seats. As such, users have to lay a few pieces of such paper disposable cover, on top of each other in order to cover the seats completely, and also to provide sufficient thickness. This inefficient coverage results in additional cost incurred. Further, such sheets do not rest properly on toilet seats and tend to slip when the user sits on it.
• a toilet seat cover comprising a top sheet of material; a bottom sheet of material, the bottom sheet coupled to the top sheet on two coupling edges of the bottom sheet; said cover capable of receiving a toilet seat between the top and bottom sheets.
• the two coupling edges may be opposing outer edges; such that the cover is capable of receiving the seat between the opposing outer edges.
• the top and bottom sheets may comprise respective hole portions, the respective hole portions aligned to form a central opening of the cover; said central opening capable of being aligned substantially with a hollow portion of the toilet seat when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
• the toilet seat cover may further comprise a flap hinged from a side of the central opening; said flap being capable of extending through the hollow portion of the toilet seat when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
• At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise one or more perforations for forming the respective hole portion when the perforations are torn.
• the perforations may allow the flap to be formed when the perforations are torn.
• At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise one or more additional perforations for reducing a size of the flap, when the one or more additional perforations are torn.
• the flap may be hinged proximate a front edge of the cover.
• the top and bottom sheets may each comprise a fluid permeable material. At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise a fluid impermeable material.
• At least one of the top and bottom sheets may comprise an internal layer of material and an external layer of material, the external layer being exterior of the cover.
• the internal layer may comprise a fluid impermeable material.
• the external layer may comprise an absorbent material.
• the top and bottom sheets may be rectangular in shape.
• the bottom sheet may be further coupled at one or more other edges of the bottom sheet to the top sheet, each said other edges corresponding to a coupling edge; each said other edge disposed from the corresponding coupling edge such that each other edge and respective coupling edge forms a sleeve for receiving one fork of a horseshoe shaped-toilet seat.
• the other edges may be joined together substantially along respective perimeters to form a ring.
• the bottom sheet may be further coupled to the top sheet on a front edge of the bottom sheet; and the cover further comprises a mouth for allowing the seat to be inserted through.
• the bottom sheet may further comprise an additional opening positioned between the central opening and a mouth edge, said additional opening extending across substantially the opposing outer edges.
• the top and bottom sheets may each further comprise peripheral areas extending beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat, capable of being folded and disposed under the toilet seat.
• the bottom sheet may further comprise one or more apertures for cooperating with one or more engaging members provided on the toilet seat when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
• the peripheral areas may comprise one or more receiving apertures for engaging with one or more engaging members provided on a received toilet seat, when the peripheral areas are folded.
• a toilet seat comprising engaging members for engaging the apertures or receiving apertures on the toilet seat cover of the first aspect, said engaging members being located on an underside of the toilet seat.
• the engaging members may be detachable.
• a method of manufacturing a toilet seat cover comprising providing a top sheet of material and a bottom sheet of material; coupling the bottom sheet to the top sheet on two coupling edges of the bottom sheet.
• Coupling the bottom sheet to the top sheet may comprise coupling opposing outer edges as the two coupling edges.
• the method may further comprise forming respective hole portions on the top and bottom sheets; aligning the respective hole portions to form a central opening of the cover; said central opening capable of being aligned substantially with a hollow portion of a toilet seat when the toilet seat is received by the cover.
• the method may further comprise forming a flap hinged from a side of the central opening; said flap being capable of extending through the hollow portion of the toilet seat when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
• the method may further comprise forming one or more perforations on at least one of the top and bottom sheets; said one or more perforations for forming the respective hole portion when the perforations are torn. The perforations may allow the flap to be formed when the perforations are torn.
• the method may further comprise forming one or more additional perforations on at least one of the top and bottom sheets; said one or more additional perforations allow size of the flap to be reduced when the one or more additional perforations are torn.
• Forming the flap may comprise forming the flap hinged proximate a front edge of the cover.
• the method may further comprise providing a fluid permeable material for each of the top and bottom sheets.
• the method may further comprise providing a fluid impermeable material for at least one of the top and bottom sheets.
• the method may further comprise providing for at least one of the top or bottom sheets, an internal layer of material and an external layer of material, the external layer being exterior of the cover.
• the method may further comprise providing a fluid impermeable material for the internal layer.
• the method may further comprise providing an absorbent material for the external layer.
• the method may further comprise providing rectangular-shaped top and bottom sheets.
• the method may further comprise coupling one or more other edges of the bottom sheet to the top sheet, each said other edges corresponding to a coupling edge; each said other edge disposed from the corresponding coupling edge such that each other edge and respective coupling edge forms a sleeve for receiving one fork of a horseshoe shaped-toilet seat.
• the method may further comprise joining the other edges together substantially along respective perimeters to form a ring.
• the method may further comprise coupling a front edge of the bottom sheet to the top sheet; and forming a mouth on an uncoupled edge for allowing the seat to be inserted through.
• the method may further comprise forming an additional opening between the central opening and a mouth edge on the bottom sheet, said additional opening extending across substantially the opposing outer edges.
• the method may further comprise providing peripheral areas on the top and bottom sheets, said peripheral areas extending beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat; and forming the peripheral areas for being folded and disposed under the toilet seat.
• the method may further comprise providing apertures on the bottom sheet, said apertures for aligning with engaging members provided on the toilet seat when the toilet seat is received between the top and bottom sheets.
• the method may further comprise providing receiving apertures on at least the bottom sheet for engaging with engaging members provided on a received toilet seat.
• a method of manufacturing a toilet seat comprising attaching engaging members on an underside of the toilet seat, said engaging members for engaging the apertures or receiving apertures on the toilet seat cover of the first aspect.
• the engaging members may be detachable.
• Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a flush toilet in an example embodiment.
• Figure 2a is an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 2b is a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 2c is a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 3 is a schematic side view of a flush toilet in an example embodiment.
• Figure 4a is an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 4b is a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 4c is a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 5 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 6 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Figure 7 is flow chart illustrating a method for manufacturing a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• Coupled or “connected” as used in this description are intended to cover both directly connected or connected through one or more intermediate means, unless otherwise stated.
• sheets refer to sheets of material suitable for use as herein described.
• terms such as “about”, “approximately” and the like whenever used typically means a reasonable variation, for example a variation of +/- 20% of the disclosed value, a variation of +/- 10% of the disclosed value, a variation of +/- 5% of the disclosed value, or a variance of 4% of the disclosed value, or a variance of 3% of the disclosed value, or a variance of 2% of the disclosed value or a variance of 1% of the disclosed value.
• FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of a flush toilet 100 in an example embodiment.
• the flush toilet 100 comprises a bowl portion (or toilet bowl) 102 which receives e.g. waste.
• the bowl portion 102 comprises an opening 104 defined by a periphery or rim 106 of the bowl portion 102.
• a toilet seat 110 is hinged at a rear or hinged end 108 to the rim 106.
• the toilet seat 1 0 may be deployed to be laid over the rim 106 when sitting is desired. This may be termed the deployed position.
• the toilet seat 110 is annular or ring-shaped with a hollow portion 112 and covers the rim 106 substantially completely, when deployed to be laid over the rim 106.
• an opposing or front end 114, substantially diametrically opposite the hinged end 108, of the seat 110 may be lifted off the rim 106 to move the seat 110 into an erect/vertical position, such that the seat 110 is substantially perpendicular to the opening of the bowl 102 (as shown in Figure 1). This may be termed the undeployed position.
• the seat 110 may be rested against a wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 100 when in the erect position.
• the toilet seat 110 When sitting is desired, a user sits on the toilet seat 110 facing away from the wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 100, such that the user's back faces the wall surface or water tank.
• the rear or hinged end 108 of the toilet seat 110 is proximate the wall surface or water tank, while the front end 114 is the distal end of the toilet seat 10 from the wall surface or water tank.
• the seat 110 is hinged to the bowl 102.
• the seat may be coupled to the bowl via alternative means.
• the seat may be swivelled or rotated in a planar direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the rim surface of the bowl between the deployed position - where the seat substantially covers the rim of the bowl, and an undeployed position - where the seat is not covering the bowl.
• FIG. 2a shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• the seat cover 200 comprises a first or top sheet 202 and a second or bottom sheet 204.
• the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 are substantially rectangular in shape and are coupled together or sealed at two side edges, for example outer side edges 206a, 206b such that the two side edges 206a, 206b are diametrically opposite each other.
• the edges of the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 that are coupled together are termed coupling edges.
• FIG 2b shows a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover 200 in an example embodiment.
• view of the bottom sheet 204 is partially obscured.
• a mouth 2 0 of the cover 200 is formed.
• a seat (compare 10 of Figure 1) can be inserted through the mouth 210 such that the toilet seat 110 is received within the cover 200 between the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 and between the opposing side edges 206a, 206b.
• the cover 200 functions as an envelope for receiving the seat 110 as an insert.
• the toilet seat 110 is hinged to the toilet bowl (not shown in Figures 2a and 2b) at the hinged end 108.
• the toilet seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200 at the front end 14 first.
• the toilet seat 110 is shown in Figure 2b to more clearly illustrate the position of the toilet seat 110 within the seat cover 200, when the toilet seat 1 0 is held within the seat cover 200. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 200 is in use and covers the toilet seat 110, the toilet seat 1 0 may not be visible from the top view.
• the top and bottom sheets 202 and 204 are coupled together, such that the toilet seat 110 is inserted or removed from the cover 200 via the unsealed mouth edge 208.
• This may advantageously allow the cover 200 to be easily pulled over the seat 110 as the sealed edge 212 prevents the front end 1 14 of the toilet seat 110 from extending past the edge 212 when the seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200.
• the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 respectively comprise hole portions 214a,
• the cover 200 comprises a central opening 216 (Figure 2b) formed by the hole portions 214a, 214b ( Figure 2a).
• the central opening 216 is positioned such that it is substantially aligned over or within the hollow portion 112 of the toilet seat 110, when the cover 200 is in use (i.e. the seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200).
• the central opening 216 is smaller than the hollow portion 1 12 of the toilet seat 110.
• the example embodiment advantageously provides a more secure fit over the toilet seat, when compared with the single sheeted covers of the prior art.
• the single sheeted covers of the prior art are merely placed on top of a surface of the toilet seat and will not be firmly secured onto the surface of the seat.
• the single sheeted covers of the prior art are often shifted or displaced by air movement when users come near to try and sit on a single sheeted cover lying on top surface of the toilet seat.
• the example embodiment allows the seat to be inserted into and sandwiched by the cover, thus allowing the cover to provide a more secure fit over the seat.
• the central opening 216 is not formed prior to use.
• the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 respectively comprise perforations 218a, 218b which outline or define cut out portions.
• the cut out portions may be moved to form the respective hole portions 214a, 214b, which form the central opening 216 of the cover 200.
• the central opening 216 is not formed prior to use. It will be appreciated that in alternative example embodiments, the central opening 216 ma be formed at the time of production, and prior to use. This may provide convenience to the user in that the user can sit on the seat cover e.g.
• the perforations 218a, 218b are not formed completely around the perimeter of the hole portions 214a, 214b. Instead, respective sections 220a, 220b of the perimeter of the hole portions 214a, 214b are not perforated.
• the cut out portions form flaps 222a, 222b hinged at the sections 220a, 220b of the perimeter of the hole portions 214a, 214b which are not perforated.
• the flaps 222a, 222b are hinged proximate the edge 212. That is, the sections 220a, 220b that are not perforated are proximate the edge 212.
• the edge 2 2 is termed a front edge of the cover 200 for being proximate the front end of the seat 110.
• the flaps 222a, 222b may extend through the central opening 216 and the hollow portion 112 of the toilet seat 110, into the bowl portion (e.g. 02 of Figure 1) of the flush toilet (e.g. 100 of Figure 1).
• the flaps 222a, 222b thus line or cover a section of the interior wall of the toilet bowl (e.g. 102 of Figure 1).
• the front interior wall of the toilet bowl 102 ( Figure 1) may be lined with the flaps 222a, 222b.
• the flaps 222a, 222b provides a barrier to prevent a male user's body part from coming into contact with the front interior wall of the toilet bowl 102 ( Figure 1) when the user is seated, thus protecting the user from contamination caused by germs and/or dirt on the interior walls of the toilet bowl.
• FIG. 2a and 2b shows two flaps 222a and 222b formed on both the top and bottom sheets 202, 204
• the flap may be formed on only the bottom sheet 204.
• the perforations on the top sheet 202 may form completely around the perimeter of the hole portion 214a such that the cut out portion of the top sheet 202 is detached completely from the top sheet 202.
• a flap may be formed only on the top sheet 202, while the cut out portion of the bottom sheet 204 may be detached completely.
• Figure 2c shows a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover 200 in an example embodiment.
• the seat 110 is provided with hooks 116 (not visible in Figure 1) on an underside of the seat 110.
• top and bottom sheets 202, 204, unsealed edge 208, mouth 210, opposing side edges 206a, 206b, front edge 212, and central opening 216 of the cover 200 as described in the accompanying description for Figure 2b are also shown.
• the flaps 222a, 222b as shown in Figure 2b have been omitted in Figure 2c for ease of illustration, but will be understood to be present.
• Figure 2c also shows the underside of the toilet seat 110.
• the toilet seat 110 is received within the cover 200, between the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 and between the opposing side edges 206a, 206b.
• the hinged end 108, front end 114, and hollow portion 1 2 of the toilet seat 10 as described in the accompanying description for Figure 2b are also shown.
• the toilet seat 10 is shown in Figure 2c to more clearly illustrate the position of the toilet seat 110 within the seat cover 200 when in use. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 200 is in use and covers the toilet seat 110, the toilet seat 110 may not be visible from the bottom view
• the underside of the toilet seat 110 comprises hooks 6 protruding from the underside of the toilet seat 1 0. It will be appreciated that the underside of a toilet seat is the side of the toilet seat which is in contact with or facing the toilet bowl when the seat is deployed.
• the cover 200 further comprises apertures 224 positioned on the underside of the cover 200 and aligned with the hooks 116 when the cover 200 is fitted over the seat 10 (i.e. the seat 0 is inserted into the cover 200).
• the cover 200 further comprises receiving apertures 226 on peripheral areas of the cover 200.
• a peripheral area of the cover 200 is an area where the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 extend beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat such that the sheets do not sandwich the received seat.
• the peripheral areas of the cover 200 may be folded along folding lines 230 towards the hooks 116.
• the hooks 116 may further engage the receiving apertures 226 to additionally secure the cover 200 onto the seat 110.
• Providing the hooks 116 on the underside of the toilet seat 110 may allow the cover 200 to be more secured to the toilet seat 110 via the apertures 224 when the toilet seat 110 is inserted into the cover 200.
• this may further prevent the cover 200 from easily shifting about the seat 110 when a user is seated on the toilet seat, as the hooks 116 on the underside of the toilet seat 110 cooperates with the apertures 224 to prevent the cover 200 from moving relative to the seat 110.
• the hooks 1 6 function as engaging members.
• the peripheral areas of the cover 200 are folded and disposed under the seat 110, for example, such that the receiving apertures 226 are also engaged with the hooks 116, the securing of the cover 200 to the seat 110 is yet further enhanced.
• the receiving apertures 226 are formed on both the top and bottom sheets 202, 204, such that they are substantially aligned when the cover 200 is assembled i.e. the top and bottom sheets 202, 204 are aligned.
• the receiving apertures 226 may be provided only on the bottom sheet 204.
• the apertures 224 and/or receiving apertures 226 formed on one or both the top and/or bottom sheets may be cut out portions which are cut out from perforations similar to those as described for the hole portions 214a, 214b.
• the apertures 224 and/or receiving apertures 226 may also be formed as aperture flaps, such that they are hinged to the top and/or bottom sheets, and are not completely detached from the top and/or bottom sheets 202, 204.
• flaps in some example embodiments may advantageously save manufacturing and material costs of the cover as the cut out portions need not be disposed off if they are not fully detached from the top and bottom sheets.
• the toilet may require less cleaning as the occurrence of littering of the cut out portions may be reduced through the use of flaps.
• the apertures and/or receiving apertures may already be formed during manufacturing, and prior to use, 2014/000139
• the size of the toilet seat cover is based on the size of the toilet seat it is intended for.
• the toilet seat cover measures about 395mm by 450mm.
• the size of the central opening of the toilet seat cover is also based on the hollow portion of the toilet seat.
• a central opening that is too large may not serve the function of preventing soiled water in the toilet bowl from splashing out and coming into contact with a user when in use.
• a central opening that is too small may require a user to sit in a precise position to utilise, such that the toilet seat cover is not soiled.
• the central opening of the toilet seat cover measures about 180mm by 220mm across its diameters for a toilet seat having a hollow portion measuring about 220mm by 260mm across its diameters.
• FIG 3 shows a schematic side view of a flush toilet 300 in an example embodiment.
• the flush toilet 300 comprises a bowl portion (or toilet bowl) 302 which receives e.g. waste.
• the bowl portion 302 comprises an opening 304 defined by a periphery or rim 306 of the bowl portion 302.
• a toilet seat 310 is hinged at a rear or hinged end 308 to the rim 306.
• the toilet seat 310 may be deployed to be laid over the rim 306 when sitting is desired. This may be termed the deployed position.
• the toilet seat 310 is horseshoe-shaped such that it comprises two forks or arms 3 6 extending from the hinged end 308 to form a U-shape around a hollow portion 312.
• the toilet seat 310 covers the rim 306 substantially completely when deployed to be laid over the rim 306 except for the space break between the arms 316.
• an opposing or front end 314, substantially diametrically opposite the hinged end 308, of the seat 310 may be lifted off the rim 306 to move the seat 310 into an erect/vertical position such that the seat 310 is substantially perpendicular to the opening of the bowl 302. This may be termed the undeployed position.
• the seat 310 may be rested against a wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 300 when in the erect position.
• Figure 3 shows the toilet seat 310 in between the deployed and the erect positions.
• the toilet seat 310 When sitting is desired, a user typically sits on the toilet seat 310 facing away from the wall surface or water tank of the flush toilet 300, such that the user's back faces the wall surface or water tank.
• the rear or hinged end 308 of the toilet seat 310 is proximate the wall surface or water tank, while the front end 314 is the distal end of the toilet seat 310 from the wall surface or water tank.
• the seat 310 is hinged to the bowl 302.
• the seat may be coupled to the bowl via alternative means.
• the seat may be swivelled or rotated in a planar direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the rim surface of the bowl between the deployed position - where the seat substantially covers the rim of the bowl, and an undeployed position - where the seat is not covering the bowl.
• FIG 4a shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• the seat cover 400 comprises a first or top sheet 402 and a second or bottom sheet 404.
• the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 are substantially rectangular in shape and are coupled together or sealed at two side or outer edges 406a, 406b such that the two side edges 406a, 406b are diametrically opposite each other.
• the edges of the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 that are coupled together are termed coupling edges.
• FIG 4b shows a top view of the assembled toilet seat cover 400 in an example embodiment.
• view of the bottom sheet 404 is partially obscured.
• a mouth 410 of the cover 400 is formed.
• a seat (compare 310 of Figure 3) may be inserted through the mouth 410, such that the toilet seat 310 is received within the cover 400, between the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 and between the opposing side edges 406a, 406b.
• the cover 400 functions as an envelope for receiving the seat 310 as an insert.
• the toilet seat 310 is hinged to the toilet bowl (not shown in Figures 4a and 4b) at the hinged end 308.
• the toilet seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400 at the front end 314 first.
• the front end 314 is substantially diametrically opposite the hinged end 308.
• the toilet seat 310 is shown in Figure 4b to more clearly illustrate the position of the toilet seat 310 within the seat cover 400, when the toilet seat 310 is held within the seat cover 400. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 400 is in use and covers the toilet seat 310, the toilet seat 310 is may not be visible from the top view.
• a front edge 412 of the cover 400 opposite the mouth 410 is sealed (i.e. the top and bottom sheets 402 and 404 are coupled together), such that the toilet seat 310 is inserted or removed from the cover 400 via the unsealed mouth edge 408.
• This may advantageously allow the cover 400 to be easily pulled over the seat 310, as the sealed edge 412 may prevent the front end 314 of the toilet seat 310 from extending past the edge 412 when the seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400.
• the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 respectively comprise hole portions 414a, 414b ( Figure 4a) such that the cover 400 comprises a central opening 416 ( Figure 4b) formed by the hole portions 414a, 414b ( Figure 4a).
• the central opening 416 is positioned such that it is substantially aligned over or within the hollow portion 312 of the toilet seat 3 0, when the cover 400 is in use (i.e. the seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400).
• the central opening 416 is not formed prior to use.
• the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 respectively comprise perforations 418a, 418b which outline or define cut out portions.
• the cut out portions may be moved to form the respective hole portions 414a, 414b, which form the central opening 416 of the cover 400.
• the perforations 418a, 418b are not formed completely around the perimeter of the hole portions 414a, 414b.
• respective sections 420a, 420b of the perimeter of the hole portions 414a, 414b are not perforated and cannot be easily torn or broken by a e.g. user.
• the cut out portions form flaps 422a, 422b hinged at the sections 420a, 420b of the perimeter of the hole portions 4 4a, 414b which are not perforated.
• the flaps 422a, 422b are hinged proximate the edge 412. That is, the sections 420a, 420b which are not perforated are proximate the edge 412.
• the edge 412 is termed a front edge of the cover 400 for being proximate the front end of the seat 310.
• the flaps 422a, 422b may extend through the central opening 416 and the hollow portion 312 of the toilet seat 310, into the bowl portion (e.g. 302 of Figure 3) of the flush toilet (e.g. 300 of Figure 3).
• the flaps 422a, 422b thus line or cover a section of the interior wall of the toilet bowl (e.g. 302 of Figure 3).
• the front interior wall of the toilet bowl 302 ( Figure 3) may be lined with the flaps 422a, 422b.
• the flaps 422a, 422b provides a barrier to prevent a male user's body part from coming into contact with the front interior wall of the toilet bowl 302 ( Figure 3) when the user is seated, thus protecting the user from contamination caused by germs and/or dirt on the interior walls of the toilet bowl.
• the flap may be formed on only the bottom sheet 404.
• the perforations on the top sheet 402 may form completely around the perimeter of the hole portions such that the cut out portion of the top sheet 402 is detached completely from the top sheet 402.
• a flap may be formed only on the top sheet 402, while the cut out portion of the bottom sheet 404 may be detached completely.
• the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 are also coupled or sealed together at inner edges 424a, 424b.
• Each inner edge 424a, 424b is located between a respective outer edge 406a, 406b and the central opening 416, and is preferably substantially alongside the respective outer edge 406a, 406b.
• respective sleeves portions between each inner edge and outer edge
• each sleeve may receive one arm or fork 316 of the horseshoe shaped toilet seat 310.
• Each sleeve may be substantially tubular in shape.
• the inner edge 424a, 424b is located a distance away from the respective outer edge 406a, 406b, to form respective sleeves that are of sufficient width to receive an arm or fork 316 of the horseshoe shaped toilet seat 310.
• the size of the toilet seat cover is based on the size of the toilet seat it is intended for. For a toilet seat size measuring about 365mm by 420mm in size, the toilet seat cover measures about 395mm by 450mm.
• the size of the central opening of the toilet seat cover is also based on the hollow portion of the toilet seat.
• a central opening that is too large may not serve the function of preventing soiled water in the toilet bowl from splashing out and coming into contact with a user when in use.
• a central opening that is too small may require a user to sit in a precise position to utilise, such that the toilet seat cover is not soiled.
• the central opening of the toilet seat cover measures about 180mm by 220mm across its diameters for a toilet seat having a hollow portion measuring about 220mm by 260mm across its diameters.
• the width of the sleeves of the toilet seat cover are based on the size of the arms or forks of the horseshoe shaped toilet seat.
• the sleeves of the toilet seat cover may each have a width of about 100mm.
• the coupled inner edges 424a, 424b are shorter in length than the outer edges 406a, 406b such that when the seat 310 is received in the cover 400, the inner edges 424a, 424b are substantially within the opening hollow portion 312 of the seat 3 0.
• the inner edges may be joined to form a complete circle or oval ring surrounding the central opening 416. That is, the inner edges may be coupled for the top and bottom sheets substantially around the perimeter of the edges and about the central opening 416.
• the provision of sleeves for receiving a respective arm or fork 316 of the toilet seat 310 may advantageously allow the cover 400 to be fitted more securely to the toilet seat 310. Additionally, the sleeves may reduce the possibility of the cover 400 slipping on its side when fitted over the toilet seat 310 such that part of the seat 300 is exposed via the central opening 416.
• the coupled inner edges 424a, 424b further advantageously seals the arms or forks 316 of the toilet seat such that dirt or stains on the arms or forks 316 is prevented from seeping past the inner edges 424a, 424b, and coming into contact with a user using the seat.
• the sealing in the inner edges may additionally advantageously prevent droppings of a user from being caught between the sheets 402, 404 of the cover 400, when the toilet seat cover 400 is in use.
• the toilet seat cover 400 when the toilet seat cover 400 is in use, there is no gap between the toilet seat and the bottom sheet 404. Droppings from a user may thus be prevented from being unintentionally deposited onto the underhanging portion of the bottom sheet 404.
• Figure 4c shows a bottom view of the assembled toilet seat cover 400 in an example embodiment.
• the seat 310 is provided with hooks 318 on an underside of the seat.
• top and bottom sheets 402, 404, unsealed edge 408, mouth 410, opposing side or outer edges 406a, 406b, front edge 412, and central opening 416 of the cover 400 as described in the accompanying description for Figure 4b are also shown.
• the flaps 414a, 414b as shown in Figure 4b has been omitted in Figure 4c for ease of illustration.
• Figure 4c also shows the underside of the toilet seat 310.
• the toilet seat 310 is received within the cover 400, between the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 and between the opposing side edges 406a, 406b.
• the arms or forks 316 of the horseshoe- shaped toilet seat 310 are held within sleeves defined by the inner edges 424a, 424b and outer edges 406a, 406b.
• the hinged end 308, front end 3 4, and hollow portion 312 of the toilet seat 310 as described in the accompanying description for Figure 4b are also shown.
• the toilet seat 310 is shown in Figure 4c to more clearly illustrate the position of the toilet seat 310 within the seat cover 400 when in use. It will be appreciated that when the seat cover 400 is in use and covers the toilet seat 310, the toilet seat 310 may not be visible from the bottom view.
• the underside of the toilet seat 310 comprises hooks 318 protruding from the underside of the toilet seat 3 0. It will be appreciated that the underside of a toilet seat is the side of the toilet seat which is in contact with or facing the toilet bowl when the seat is deployed.
• the cover 400 further comprises apertures 428 positioned on the underside of the cover 400 and aligned with the hooks 318 when the cover 400 is fitted over the seat 310 (i.e. the seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400).
• the cover 400 further comprises receiving apertures 426 on peripheral areas of the cover 400.
• a peripheral area of the cover 400 is an area where the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 extend beyond a surface area of a received toilet seat such that the sheets do not sandwich the received seat.
• the peripheral area of the cover 400 may be folded along folding lines 430 towards the hooks 318 on the underside of the toilet seat 310.
• the hooks 318 further engage the receiving apertures 426 to additionally secure the cover 400 onto the seat 310.
• Providing the hooks 318 on the underside of the toilet seat 310 may allow the cover 400 to be more secured to the toilet seat 3 0 via the apertures 428 when the toilet seat 310 is inserted into the cover 400.
• this may further prevent the cover 400 from easily shifting about the seat 310 when a user is seated on the toilet seat, as the hooks 318 on the underside of the toilet seat 310 cooperates with the apertures 428 to prevent the cover 400 from moving relative to the seat 310.
• the hooks 318 function as engaging members.
• the receiving apertures 426 are formed on both the top and bottom sheets 402, 404, such that they are substantially aligned when the cover 400 is assembled i.e. the top and bottom sheets 402, 404 are aligned.
• the receiving apertures 426 may be provided only on the bottom sheet 404.
• the apertures 428 and/or receiving apertures 426 formed on one or both the top and/or bottom sheets may be cut out portions which are cut out from perforations similar to those as described for the hole portions 414a, 414b.
• the apertures 428 and/or receiving apertures 426 may also be formed as aperture flaps, such that they are hinged to the top and/or bottom sheets, and are not completely detached from the top and/or bottom sheets 402, 404.
• FIG. 5 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover 500 in an example embodiment.
• the toilet seat cover 500 is similar to the toilet seat cover 200 described in Figure 2a, 2b and 2c, but with hole portions which are different in design.
• the hole portions 502a and 502b are of a different shape, and are substantially comprising of two portions.
• the hole portions 502a and 502b comprise additional perforations 504a, 504b which allow the size of the flap (when formed) to be modifiable.
• Other components such as the top and bottom sheets, apertures, edges, etc., of the toilet seat cover 500 are not described or shown for ease of illustration.
• the flaps e.g. numerals 222a, 222b and 422a, 422b in Figures 2b and 4b respectively
• the perforations e.g. numerals 218a, 218b and 4 8a, 418b of Figures 2a and 4a respectively
• the size of the flaps e.g.
• numerals 222a, 222b and 422a, 422b in Figures 2b and 4b respectively are therefore defined by the perforations (e.g. numerals 218a, 218b and 418a, 418b of Figures 2a and 4a respectively) formed substantially around the perimeter of the hole portions.
• the additional perforations 504a, 504b may allow respective portions 506a, 506b (shaded in Figure 5) opposite the respective hinged ends 508a, 508b to be completely detached and removed from the toilet seat cover 500.
• the flaps (e.g. portion 510a, 510b) formed in the toilet seat cover 500 are comparatively smaller than the flaps formed in the toilet seat cover 200 shown in Figure 2a.
• the water in the toilet bowl may be contaminated with e.g. germs and bacteria and should the water come into contact with the flap,- the flap may be contaminated.
• the contaminated water may seep towards a seated user via the flap.
• a contaminated flap of a relatively larger size may be more difficult to handle.
• FIG 6 shows an exploded view of a toilet seat cover 600 in an example embodiment.
• the toilet seat cover 600 is similar to the toilet seat cover 200 described in Figure 2a, 2b and 2c, and further comprises an additional opening 606 in the bottom sheet 604.
• the additional opening is not present on the top sheet 602.
• the additional opening 606 is positioned on the bottom sheet 604, between the unsealed/ mouth edge 608 and extending across substantially the opposing outer side edges.
• Other components of the toilet seat cover such as the apertures, edges, etc., of the toilet seat cover 600 are not described or shown for ease of illustration.
• the additional opening 606 on the bottom sheet 604 of the toilet seat cover 600 may advantageously prevent droppings of a user from being caught between the sheets 602, 604 of the cover 600, when the toilet seat cover 600 is in use.
• underhang for the bottom sheet 604 may be minimised, or a gap between the toilet seat and the bottom sheet 604 may be minimised. Droppings from a user may thus be prevented from being unintentionally deposited onto the underhanging portion of the bottom sheet 604.
• the covers e.g. numerals 200 and 400 in Figures
• the edges may be interior to the main body of the cover or each sheet. That is, the edges coupled together are described as being outer edges (e.g. 406a, 406b of Figure 4b). However it will be appreciated that the coupling may alternatively be performed on other edges, such as at at least a portion of the edges of the opening (e.g. 216, 416 of Figures 2b, 4b respectively).
• the cover e.g. numerals 200 and 400 in Figure 2c and 4c respectively
• peripheral areas which can be folded and disposed under the toilet seat (e.g.
• the peripheral areas When the peripheral areas are folded, hooks (e.g. numerals 116 and 318 in Figure 2c and 4c respectively) provided on the toilet seat further engage the receiving apertures (e.g. numerals 226 and 426 in Figure 2c and 4c respectively).
• the toilet seat may not comprise the hooks and the receiving apertures may be absent.
• the peripheral areas of the cover may still be folded and disposed (or tucked) under the seat when the seat is deployed, to additionally secure the cover onto the seat, and to add stability to the cover.
• Example embodiments of the present application may therefore provide a cover for covering a toilet seat.
• the cover may more effectively shield a user from the toilet seat, as it may be securely fitted (or pulled) enveloping the toilet seat.
• the securing may be enhanced.
• the cover in the example embodiments of the present application may be disposable, such that a fresh toilet seat cover may be fitted over the seat as and when it is desired. This advantageously provides a clean, fresh surface for a user to sit on each time the use of the toilet is desired.
• the seat cover may be easily removed for disposal, when use of the toilet is completed.
• the top and bottom sheets (e.g. numerals 202, 204 and 402, 404 in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c and 4a, 4b, 4c respectively) of the covers (e.g. numerals 200 and 400 in Figures 2b, 2c and 4b, 4c respectively) are made of impermeable materials such that fluids are prevented from permeating or seeping through the seat covers when placed over toilet seats.
• the impermeable materials may be polymer-based films, oil-coated paper, etc.
• numerals 202, 204 and 402, 404 in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c and 4a, 4b, 4c respectively) of the covers are made of permeable materials. This may be advantageous in situations of disposal in wet bins, flush toilets etc.
• the top and bottom sheets may be a multiple- layer sheet. That is each sheet comprises an internal layer and an external layer, wherein the internal layer is in contact with the toilet seat when it is placed over or envelopes the toilet seat, while the external layer is on the exterior of the cover.
• an external layer of a top sheet contacts a user when in use.
• the interior or internal layer comprises an impermeable or water proof material which prevents the fluids from seeping or permeating through the seat covers and the exterior layer is made of a permeable or an absorbent layer which can be more comfortable for a user to sit on, as the absorbent layer is generally of a softer material.
• the absorbent layer can absorb perspiration from the user, which can allow a more comfortable sitting experience for the user.
• the absorbent material may be non-woven material and may be material such as polyethylene-based material, polypropylene, non-woven, paper, cotton, etc, and the impermeable materials may be polymer-based film, oil-coated paper, etc.
• the top and bottom sheets may be formed from a single sheet of material that is folded over such that the fold forms one of the coupled edges (e.g. numerals 206a, 206b, 212 and 406a, 406b, 412 in Figures 2a, 2b, 2c and 4a, 4b, 4c respectively).
• the hooks may be replaced with any other suitable engaging members or means e.g. a retaining clip, post or stub, etc, without departing from the scope of the invention.
• suitable engaging members e.g. a retaining clip, post or stub, etc.
• the hooks or suitable engaging member may also be detachable such that they may be easily attached to and removed from the toilet seat (such as a conventional toilet seat).
• permeable and impermeable layers of material are bonded together to form a single sheet by means of glue or any adhesive materials.
• the bonded single sheet material is folded into an envelope shape, and sealed at the side edge (and front edge, if desired) using a hot sealing machine, ultrasonic machine or sewing means etc.
• the mouth e.g. 210, or 410 of Figure 2b and 4b respectively
• the toilet seat cover is sent for the punching of perforations (e.g. 218a, 418a of Figure 2a and 4a respectively) for the centre hole portion (e.g. 214a, 414a of Figure 2a and 4a respectively) as well as the perforations for the apertures (e.g. 224, 428 of Figure 2c and 4c respectively) and receiving apertures (e.g. 226, 426 of Figure 2c and 4c respectively).
• an additional step of sealing the inner edges e.g. 424a, 424b of Figure 4b via e.g. heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or thread sealing etc. is performed.
• the openings or portions formed as a result of torn perforations in the example embodiments described herein may be formed during the production of the toilet seat cover. That is, instead of forming perforations (on the top and/or bottom sheets) which is to be torn by a user, cuts may already be made during the manufacturing. For example, the hole portions 214a, 214b of Figure 2a and 2b may be cut during manufacturing of the toilet seat cover such that the flaps 222a, 222b are formed, without the need to form any perforations which have to be later torn by the user.
• FIG. 7 shows a flow chart illustrating a method 700 of manufacturing a toilet seat cover in an example embodiment.
• a top sheet of material and a bottom sheet of material are provided.
• the bottom sheet is coupled to the top sheet on two coupling edges of the bottom sheet.

Landscapes

• Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Public Health (AREA)
• Toilet Supplies (AREA)
• Non-Flushing Toilets (AREA)

Priority Applications (13)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Publications (1)

Family

ID=54145070

Family Applications (2)

Family Applications After (1)

Country Status (11)

Families Citing this family (4)

Citations (3)

Family Cites Families (31)

• 2014
  • 2014-03-21 WO PCT/SG2014/000139 patent/WO2015142281A1/en active Application Filing
  • 2014-08-26 KR KR1020167007993A patent/KR101915630B1/ko active IP Right Grant
  • 2014-08-26 WO PCT/SG2014/000400 patent/WO2015142282A1/en active Application Filing
  • 2014-08-26 JP JP2016563770A patent/JP6441386B2/ja not_active Expired - Fee Related
  • 2014-08-26 AU AU2014386815A patent/AU2014386815A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2014-08-26 GB GB1602033.1A patent/GB2531478A/en not_active Withdrawn
  • 2014-08-26 RU RU2016103607A patent/RU2658273C2/ru active
  • 2014-08-26 EP EP14886599.1A patent/EP3016562A4/en not_active Withdrawn
  • 2014-08-26 MY MYPI2016701251A patent/MY171562A/en unknown
  • 2014-08-26 CA CA2919625A patent/CA2919625C/en active Active
  • 2014-08-26 CN CN201480049983.6A patent/CN106061344A/zh active Pending
  • 2014-08-26 US US14/914,148 patent/US20160206159A1/en not_active Abandoned

Patent Citations (3)

Also Published As

Similar Documents

Legal Events