WO2016073651A1 - Automatic flush-type recognition - Google Patents

Abstract

A touchless flush system, comprising a toilet bowl, a flush controller, and a sensor unit. The flush controller is operatively connected to the toilet bowl. The sensor unit is operatively connected to the flush controller, the sensor unit being operable to detect changes within the toilet bowl. The sensor unit detects changes in properties of the toilet bowl with respect to contents present therein, wherein if a detected change in properties satisfies a first predetermined threshold, the flush controller causes a flush volume to be delivered to the toilet bowl.

Description

AUTOMATIC FLUSH-TYPE RECOGNITION

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/075,181, entitled "AUTOMATIC FLUSH-TYPE RECOGN ITION" filed November 4, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods that cause a system, such as a toilet to activate and effect one or more types of flushes without requiring a user to touch the system itself.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Many systems that incorporate sensors to activate systems currently exist for causing systems to activate such as toilets. For example, the toilet may be caused to flush when a user moves towards or away from the system. Similarly, current systems activate by opening/closing valves of a fluid system when a user's hands move towards sensors of the system. One problem with these systems is that they fail to provide users the ability to automatically change between modes and/or send one or more requests for system specific flushing action (e.g. a partial flush versus a full flush). It is understood that full volume flushes may be designed to take care of solid waste whereas partial volume flushes may be designed to dispose of liquid waste (the importance being that the partial flush is optimized for reduced water usage).

[0004] Currently known systems accomplish dual flushes by allowing the user to manually select a particular flush volume (e.g. partial or full) through a button or buttons. However, users often become confused with the flushing options or simply careless such when deciding upon flush volumes. As such, often full flush volumes are selected which wastes significant amounts of water. This is particularly problematic today when water conservation is one of the most important issues society faces. [0005] Accordingly, there exists a need for a touchless activation system the conserves overall costs and is capable of switching between different flush modes automatically without requiring manual instructions from a user or the like in order to efficiently and easily dispose of waste.

SUMMARY

[0006] The following simplified summary is provided in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview, and is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0007] The herein disclosed embodiments employ auto-detection of contents received by a vessel such as a toilet bowl, wherein characteristics of the contents are detected for determination of a particular type. Once the system has auto-detected one of a plurality of contents types, an appropriate flush volume is initiated either automatically, manually, or through touchless activation.

[0008] A touchless flush system generally comprises a toilet, a flush controller, and a sensor unit. The toilet may further comprise a tank and a bowl, the bowl being hydraulically connected to the tank, and a seat. The flush controller is operatively connected to the toilet tank and toilet bowl. The sensor unit is operatively connected to the flush controller, the sensor unit being operable to detect changes within the toilet bowl. The sensor unit detects changes in properties of the toilet bowl with respect to contents present therein, wherein if a detected change in properties satisfies one or more predetermined thresholds, the flush controller causes one or more predetermined flush volumes to be delivered to the toilet bowl.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sensor unit may be operable to detect a brightness, a color, or a movement in the toilet bowl, further at one or more locations, and at one or more intervals in the toilet bowl. In one aspect, one or more locations in the toilet bowl may serve as one or more reference locations. In one aspect, one or more locations in the toilet bowl may serve as one or more areas of interest. In one aspect, the one or more reference locations are directed to one or more interior sides of the toilet bowl, above a water line in the bowl. It is anticipated that the contents of the bowl are unlikely to be found in the one or more reference locations. Thus, the one or more reference locations are intended to establish a baseline observation of brightness, color, or movement. In some embodiments, the sensor unit may be directed to detect conditions at the area of interest. The contents of the bowl are anticipated to be in the middle area of the bowl. Thus, in some embodiments, the area of interest to which the sensor unit is directed is the middle area of the bowl. In one aspect, the sensor unit is operable to conduct a comparison as to the conditions detected. If a difference between the brightness, color, or movement of the contents located in the area of interest as compared to the brightness, color, or movement of a reference location satisfies a one or more predetermined thresholds, the sensor unit communicates with the flush controller to effect one or more flush volumes to be delivered to the toilet bowl. In one aspect, the one or more predetermined thresholds comprise a range of conditions, such as a range of brightness differentials.

[0010] The sensor unit may comprise an optical sensor that detects brightness, color, or movement of contents within the toilet bowl. In one aspect, the optical sensor may be a low-resolution camera. In one embodiment, the optical sensor unit may be a high resolution camera. In one embodiment, the optical sensor may be a simple phototransistor. In one aspect, the sensor unit may additionally comprise a light source. The light source may preferably emit a light that is beyond the bounds of those observable by the human eye. In one embodiment, the light source is an infrared light. In one embodiment, the light source is a light emitting diode (LED). In one embodiment, the sensor unit further comprises a light shield. In one aspect, the light shield is a wall between the optical sensor and the light source. In one embodiment, the light shield attenuates or prevents the light from the light source to bleed or oversaturate the optical sensor. In one aspect, the sensor unit further comprises one or more polarizing lenses. According to an aspect, the one or more polarizing lenses cover the optical sensor. According to an aspect, the one or more polarizing lenses cover the light source. In one embodiment the one or more polarizing lenses is one polarizing lens which covers both the optical sensor and the light source. The polarizing lens may be attached to the sensor unit by the light shield or may be supported by a different support structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the one or more locations in the toilet bowl may be illuminated by the light source, preferably being an infrared LED (IRLED), to create more predictable lighting conditions such that detection by the one or more optical sensors is more accurate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the sensor unit is operable to detect a plurality of predetermined content observation ranges, each of which correspond to a flush volume.

[0013] In some embodiments, there is at least a first predetermined brightness content observation range and a second predetermined brightness content observation range. In some embodiments, the at least first predetermined brightness content observation range is associated with the flush controller imparting a full flush volume, and the at least second predetermined brightness content observation range is associated with the flush controller imparting a partial flush volume.

[0014] In this respect, the need for a full flush may require the first predetermined brightness content range to be greater than the second predetermined brightness content range, as the presence of solids likely creates a circumstance where the brightness levels differ more significantly as between the one or more reference locations and the one or more areas of interest being observed by the sensor unit.

[0015] In some embodiments, there is at least a first predetermined color content observation range and a second predetermined color content observation range. In some embodiments, the at least first predetermined color content observation range is associated with the flush controller imparting a full flush volume, and the at least second

predetermined color content observation range is associated with the flush controller imparting a partial flush volume.

[0016] In this respect, the need for a full flush may require the first predetermined color content range to be greater than the second predetermined color content range, as the presence of solids likely creates a circumstance where the color levels differ more significantly as between the one or more reference locations and the one or more areas of interest being observed by the sensor unit.

[0017] In some embodiments, there is at least a first predetermined motion content observation range and a second predetermined motion content observation range. In some embodiments, the at least first predetermined motion content observation range is associated with the flush controller imparting a full flush volume, and the at least second predetermined motion content observation range is associated with the flush controller imparting a partial flush volume. [0018] In this respect, the need for a full flush may require the first predetermined motion content range to detect larger volumes of movement with instances of no movement, as compared to the second predetermined motion content range which may be required to detect smaller, but continuous volumes of movement. In this respect, liquid waste from a user likely creates a circumstances of a smaller, but more constant stream or flow, whereas deposition of solid waste by a user likely creates a circumstance of somewhat comparatively intermittent discharge of matter having a larger volume. In the foregoing embodiment, the optical sensor operable to detect motion may account for a higher likelihood of movement (fluid waste) occurring in the one or more reference locations in addition motion near the middle area of the bowl, to effect only a partial flush, whereas motion detected near the middle area of the bowl in the absence of movement in the one or more reference location is more likely to be associated with a full flush (solid waste).

[0019] Further, a seat may be hingedly connected to an upper portion of a toilet bowl, wherein the sensor unit may be removably connected to or integrally formed with a lower side of the seat. The sensor unit may optionally be capable of swiveling or rotating inversely to the raised orientation of the hinged seat in order to maintain an observation direction of the optical sensor aimed at the one or more locations in the toilet bowl, including for example, one or more reference locations and one or more areas of interest. The sensor unit's swivel operation may be the result of a gravity counterweight, mechanical gear, motor, or the like. The sensor unit may further comprise a tilt sensor operable to detect when the seat is in or approaching a raised position or a lowered position, wherein if the seat is in the raised position, the sensor unit causes the flush controller to default to delivery of a partial flush volume to the toilet bowl as long as the seat is in the raised position. This is particularly advantageous since it means an optic sensor of the sensor unity is not required to detect contents in the bowl when the seat and/or lid is raised. The sensor unit may automatically detect whether one or more of the plurality of predetermined thresholds are met or exceeded once the tilt sensor detects that the seat is in the lowered position. The tilt sensor may be one or more ball sensors, mercury switches, or

accelerometers.

[0020] In some embodiments, the sensor unit may further comprise one or more proximity sensors. In one aspect, the one or more proximity sensors are ambient light sensors operable to detect ambient lighting conditions. In one aspect, the one or more proximity sensors are capacitive sensors operative to detect the presence or absence of a user seated on the seat of a toilet. According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may automatically direct the flush controller to initiate a flush upon a predetermined change in the proximity of the user.

[0021] For example, if the at least one proximity sensor, preferably an ambient light sensor, detects predetermined changes in ambient lighting conditions (e.g. the user stands or the lid closed), the sensor unit may automatically direct the flush controller to impart a predetermined flush volume, either a partial flush or a full flush.

[0022] By way of another example, if the at least one proximity sensor, preferably a capacitive sensor, detects predetermined changes in the presence of a user seated on a toilet set (e.g. the user remains seated for a prolonged period of time, the user stands or the lid closed), the sensor unit may automatically direct the flush controller to impart a predetermined flush volume, either a partial flush or a full flush.

[0023] In other embodiments, the sensor unit may detect a brightness or color of a reference portion of the bowl after delivery of the flush volume, wherein if the sensor unit detects that contents remain in the bowl after delivery of the flush volume, then the sensor directs the flush controller to impart another flush in an attempt to evacuate the remaining contents. In the foregoing embodiment, the sensor unit may detect one or more reference portions of the bowl at various heights corresponding to the water level in the bowl. For example, if the sensor unit detects at one or more reference portions, that the water level is high enough that the delivery of additional flush volume would cause the bowl to overflow, then the sensor may prevent the flush controller from directing another flush. In any of the foregoing fault or malfunction scenarios are detected by the sensor, the touchless flush system may be configured to transmit an alert. The alert message may be transmitted by a flashing LED, an audible sound emitted by a beeper, a message legible by the user, or an alert wirelessly transmitted to a maintenance server, home network, or wirelessly connected device such as a user's personal computer or mobile device.

[0024] In one aspect, the sensor unit may comprise one or more infrared phototransistors. In one aspect, the optical sensor unit may be a single-line pixel camera. In one aspect, the sensor unit may comprise one or more light sources for emitting infrared or other lighting type to the content area of the bowl. In one aspect, the sensor unit may further comprise one or more polarizing filters to reduce the observation of glare or reflection, which otherwise deliver an inaccurate pixel intensity value (discussed below). In one aspect, the light source may emit a strobe at a time corresponding with the sensor's time of content observation. The use of the strobe, as opposed to constantly emitting a light, also serves to reduce power consumption from a power source, such as a battery.

[0025] In one aspect, the sensor unit may include both an optical sensor and light source. In this aspect, a light shield may be oriented between the light source and the optical sensor to prevent the optical sensor to detect light which otherwise is intended to illuminate the one or more reference portions of the toilet bowl.

[0026] In one aspect, the sensor unit includes a pressure sensor operable to detect the seated presence of a user. The pressure sensor may optionally be a capacitive sensor.

[0027] The system may also comprise a deodorizer unit, wherein if a predetermined content brightness or color range is satisfied, the deodorizer unit is activated. In an alternative embodiment, if a predetermined ambient light range is satisfied, the deodorizer unit is activated. In another embodiment, if a predetermined proximity range is satisfied, the deodorizer unit is activated. In yet another embodiment, if a predetermined seat tilt position is satisfied, the deodorizer unit is activated. The deodorizer unit may be a fan. Optionally, the deodorizer unit may be a vent positioned on the bottom of the toilet seat with fluid lines operable to extract fumes from the bowl to an activated carbon filter in communication with the tank. Optionally, the activated carbon filter may be located under, adjacent to, or otherwise near the tank. A fan may be in communication with the vent. In other embodiments, the deodorizer unit may be designed to operate with the rim wash- down apertures of the toilet bowl to actively vent fumes of the bowl into the tank through an overflow tube disposed in the toilet tank. In this embodiment, a fan and corresponding filter may be positioned within the tank.

[0028] As used and discussed herein, pixel intensities are values which correspond to brightness and/or color. An optical sensor's (e.g., a camera) image processor assigns the values based upon the image captured. For example, a 2-d histogram (chart) of an image may show the number of pixels (plotted on the y axis) as distributed among various intensities (plotted along the x-axis) as found in the image captured by the sensor. For an 8- bit grayscale image, there are 256 different possible intensities with the intensity value of 0 representing the darkest value (black) and the value of 256 representing the brightest value (white). A histogram which shows large groupings of pictures at various intensity levels significantly far apart indicates an image with high contrast.

[0029] In one aspect, a sensor unit may have an image processor that processes one or more images, at one or more points in time, at one or more locations in the bowl, with at least one reference portion intended to be aimed at the contents, and optionally a second reference portion intended to be aimed at the water's edge. In one aspect, the sensor's image processor assigns pixel intensity values to particular reference portions detected. In one aspect, the sensor unit then determines the difference in value between the one or more reference portions as detected at one or more points in time. In one aspect, the predetermined difference in pixel intensity (brightness) range associated with the need for a full flush may be any pixel intensity greater than 100. In another aspect, a predetermined brightness differential range associated with the need for a full flush may be any pixel intensity greater than 150. In one aspect, a predetermined differential range associated with the need for only a partial flush may be any pixel intensity less than 100. In one aspect, a predetermined differential range associated with the need for only a partial flush may be any pixel intensity less than 50. In one aspect, a predetermined differential range associated for a baseline, needing no flush, is any pixel intensity of 20 or less. In some embodiments, the first or second range is oriented to measure changes from nominal values indicative of light or dark edges being detected by the sensor unit.

[0030] In other embodiments, the changes in properties of the toilet bowl detected by the sensor unit relate to a surface of contents within the bowl, temperature within the bowl, and/or weight differential of contents in the bowl.

[0031] In one aspect, the system can automatically self-calibrate. When one or more of the various sensors (optical, proximity, capacitive) detect that no user is present, the sensors will make observations at various periods, including optionally regular periods, to detect baseline conditions. For example, the observable conditions in a toilet bowl may change if the presence of natural light changes throughout the day, or if a user turns on a bathroom light. Despite these changes, the sensor unit will automatically re-calibrate its baseline when the absence of a user is detected. Recalibration occurs at a slower detection intervals so as to use less energy from a power source, such as a battery.

[0032] A method of automatically detecting a flush is also disclosed herein, the method comprising: conducting a first measurement of a toilet bowl using a sensor unit; conducting a second measurement of the toilet bowl using the sensor unit after a change in a content of, or addition of a content to, the toilet bowl; and comparing the second measurement with the first measurement, wherein if a first predetermined range is satisfied between the first and second measurements, a first volume is delivered to the toilet bowl.

[0033] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the claimed subject matter may be employed and the claimed subject matter is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features may become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional toilet with preferred embodiment of an optic sensor installed on the underside of a toilet seat.

[0035] FIG. 2 is an exemplary depiction of a top plan view of a toilet bowl with contents with a relatively large range of brightness.

[0036] FIG. 3 is an exemplary depiction of a top plan view of a toilet bowl with contents with relatively small range of brightness.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the one or more exemplary sensors comprised by the herein described automatic flush-type recognition system.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a schematic elevation view of a sensor unit with a polarized lens and a light shield between a light source and an optical sensor

[0039] FIG. 6 is an exemplary depiction of a top plan view of a toilet with the seat down in ghost, to show an exemplary sensor unit also in plan view when attached to the bottom of a toilet seat.

[0040] FIG. 7 is an exemplary depiction of a top plan view of a toilet with the seat in the upright position, showing an exemplary sensor unit and capacitive sensors beneath the seat.

[0041] FIG. 8 is an exemplary depiction of side elevation view of a toilet with the seat down, illustrating an exemplary sensor unit and capacitive sensors beneath the seat. [0042] FIG. 9 is an exemplary depiction of a touchless flush system as described herein, as well as a cleansing unit mounted in the tank.

[0043] FIG. 10 is an exemplary depiction of a touchless flush system as described herein with a deodorizing unit mounted at the base of the seat having a valve in the toilet bowl and an activated charcoal filter mounted beneath the tank.

[0044] FIG. 11 is an exemplary depiction of a touchless flush system as described herein with a deodorizing unit mounted in the tank having a valve in the toilet bowl and an activated charcoal filter mounted beneath the tank.

[0045] FIG. 12 is an exemplary depiction of a touchless flush system as described herein with a deodorizing unit mounted at the base of the seat in fluid communication with rim wash-down apertures in the bowl and an activated charcoal filter mounted beneath in a tank.

[0046] FIG. 13 is an exemplary depiction of a touchless flush system as described herein with a deodorizing unit with a charcoal filter, both mounted in the tank and in fluid communication with rim wash-down apertures in the bowl.

[0047] FIG. 14 is an exemplary logic tree illustrating a preferred method for the touchless flush system to select a flush volume.

[0048] FIG. 15 is an exemplary logic tree illustrating a preferred method for the touchless flush system to select a flush volume and deodorizer activation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] The features of the present disclosure may be economically molded by using one or more distinct parts and associated components which, when assembled together in a toilet configuration in an economical fashion, may form the disclosed device regardless of the particular form. Unless defined otherwise, all terms of art, notations and other scientific terms or terminology used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

[0050] In some cases, terms with commonly understood meanings are defined herein for clarity and/or for ready reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed to represent a substantial difference over what is generally understood in the art. All patents, applications, published applications and other publications referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. If a definition set forth in this section is contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with a definition set forth in the patents, applications, published applications and other publications that are herein incorporated by reference, the definition set forth in this section prevails over the definition that is incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] As used herein, "a" or "an" means "at least one" or "one or more." As used herein, the term "user", "subject", "end-user" or the like is not limited to a specific entity or person. For example, the term "user" may refer to a person who uses the systems and methods described herein, and frequently may be a field technician. However, this term is not limited to end users or technicians and thus encompasses a variety of persons who can use the disclosed systems and methods.

[0052] The system and methods described herein for automatically detecting and/or activating multiple activation modes for improved water conservation and flush control can now be better understood turning to the following detailed description. It is to be expressly understood that the illustrated embodiments are set forth as examples and not by way of limitations on the embodiments as ultimately defined in the claims.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a touchless flush system 1 (e.g. a toilet in this embodiment). It can be seen that touchless flush system 1 comprises a toilet bowl 12 designed to receive disposable waste, wherein the bowl 12 is in fluid communication with toilet tank 14. Tank 14 as depicted is positioned above bowl 12 but is not so limited. In other embodiments, tank 14 may be positioned level with, or below bowl 12. Tank 14 may comprise a predetermined volume of water and may be in fluid communication with an external water source 60 (not depicted). In this respect, activating touchless flush system 1 causes water contained in tank 14 to be sent to bowl 12 to dispose of waste stored therein. As defined herein, "waste" may be any type of liquid or solid waste typically received by a toilet.

[0054] Touchless flush system 1 may further comprise a toilet seat 16 hingedly connected to bowl 12 so that seat 16 pivots about a hinge between positions as a user is seated (seat 16 in lowered position) or standing (seat 16 in raised position). Touchless flush system 1 preferably comprises one or more sensor units 10 positioned on the underside of toilet seat 16 towards the portion of seat 16 closed to the hinge and bowl 12. Positioning the one or more sensor units 10 in this respect ensures that the sensor is capable of detecting the contents in bowl 12 when the seat 16 is either in a raised or lowered position. Touchless flush system 1 may further comprise a toilet lid 18 hingedly connected to bowl 12 so that lid 18 pivots between positions corresponding with a greater likelihood of use (lid 18 in raised position) or not in use (lid 18 in lowered position).

[0055] A sensor unit 10 as understood herein means one or more sensors that detect certain conditions present on or within bowl 12. As described more particularly below, sensor unit 10 may comprise structure that allows it to be mounted directly to seat 16 or to be integrally formed therewith. Sensor unit 10 may comprise active or passive infrared sensors, optic sensors such as cameras, simple phototransistors, tilt sensors operable to detect angles, accelerometers, ultrasonic transducers, proximity sensors, capacitive sensors and the like, all of which may be attached or integrated within a single sensor unit 10.

[0056] In this respect, one or more sensor units 10 are operable to detect changes in use or contents in the bowl 12. Preferably, when sensor unit 10 detects a user within a predetermined range, sensor unit 10 begins detecting and evaluating the contents and changes in bowl 12. Conversely, when sensor unit 10 detects no user within a

predetermined range, sensor unit 10 periodically but continuously self- calibrates baseline conditions. According to an aspect, when sensor unit 10 has detected that seat 16 has been closed from a raised position, such detection would conclude the need for a flush is anticipated, thus satisfying one exemplary criteria for a user being within a predetermined range. According to an aspect, when sensor unit 10 has detected that lid 18 has been raised from a closed position, such detection would conclude the need for a flush is anticipated, thus satisfying one exemplary criteria for a user being within a predetermined range.

According to another exemplary aspect, when the sensor unit 10 has detected the occurrence of a flush, either manually or through touchless activation, such detection would conclude the need for a flush is anticipated, thus satisfying one exemplary criteria for a user being within a predetermined range.

[0057] The one or more sensor units 10 may comprise one or more optical sensors 33. The one or more optical sensors 33 may optionally one or more high definition cameras, low definition cameras, infrared sensors, or simple phototransistors operable to detect brightness of contents in the bowl 12 over a predetermined brightness range. The one or more sensor units 10 may further comprise one or more light sources 31. The one or more light sources 31 may optionally emit an infrared light, and may be one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) or the like. An infrared light source 31 may optionally provide a flash invisible to the human eye. An infrared light source 31 may also provide a relatively consistent light source irrespective of ambient light conditions. For example, an infrared light source 31 could create a relatively consistent lighting condition in bowl 12 regardless of whether a user is standing near, or sitting on touchless flush system 1. By way of another example, an infrared light source 31 could maintain a relatively consistent lighting condition in bowl 12 regardless of whether a bathroom light is on or off. An infrared light source 31 may also be operable to see through cleaning treatment in bowl 12, such as standard blue chemical bowl treatments.

[0058] The one or more sensor units 10 may additionally comprise one or more polarizing lenses 37. The one or more polarizing lenses may optionally cover the optical sensor 33 and/or the light source 31, or both. The one or more sensor units 10 may further comprise one or more light shields 36 operable to prevent bleed or saturation from the light source 31 to the optical sensor 33. The one or more polarizing lenses may optionally be mounted to the one or more light shields 36.

[0059] As discussed herein, brightness is understood as a relative expression of the intensity of the energy output of a visible light source. For example, with a white porcelain bowl 12 and clear water, liquid waste will add some subtle changes in brightness, but solid waste will result in relatively larger changes. As used herein, color is understood as a plurality of electromagnetic outputs varying in wavelength and power on a known spectrum observable by an optical sensor. As further used herein, color also refers to discrete values appended to their corresponding electromagnetic outputs as determined by an image processor of an optical sensor. For example, an optical sensor may detect the existence of a particular electromagnetic wavelength as corresponding to a known color. As used herein, edge detection is an image processing technique that detects boundaries between objects within images. Edge detection may measure discontinuities in brightness levels in images, or edge detection may measure discontinuities in color channels in images. Edge detection may additionally compare two images taken, for example, of the same subject, but separated by time. In this case, the edge detection may identify areas that haven't changed (indicating no motion) and likewise identify areas that have changed, indicating motion in a region of observation.

[0060] During auto-detection by touchless flush system 1, brightness values detected by sensor unit 10 in a middle area 13 (or area of interest) of bowl 12 may be analyzed and compared against brightness values detected at interior bowl sides 22 above the water line of bowl 12. Once a predetermined brightness differential (or range of differentials) is met, then a particular flush is auto-detected (e.g. a partial flush or full flush) as being suggested or necessary to properly dispose of waste contained in bowl 12. For example, if sensor unit 10 analyzes brightness in an area of interest 13 in bowl 12 and compares it with the brightness of interior bowl sides 22 and determines an existence of a relatively large disparity of brightness between the two locations, this may indicate that a full flush volume is needed for proper disposal of waste.

[0061] In some embodiments, sensor 10 is designed to comprise an integrated tilt sensor 32, wherein sensor 10 detects when toilet seat 16 is in a raised position such that any waste received by bowl 12 while seat 16 is in the raised position corresponds to a partial flush volume. By contrast, when toilet seat 16 is positioned in a lowered position in this embodiment, title sensor 32 of sensor 10 may be operable so that waste received in this configuration corresponds to waste requiring full flush volume for proper disposal.

[0062] In another embodiment where sensor 10 comprises an integrated tilt sensor 32, said tilt sensor 32 triggers an optical sensor 33 to initiate edge detection in bowl 12, upon the tilt sensor 31 detecting a lid 16 raising or lowering. Edge detection carried out by optical sensor 33 then compares brightness of values of contents located in a middle area 13 of bowl 12 with respect to the brightness values of interior bowl sides 22, and then determines the flush type associated with the contents in bowl 12. According to one embodiment, if the brightness differential detected falls within a first range of

predetermined brightness differentials, then a full flush is automatically triggered. According to another embodiment, if the brightness differential detected falls within a second range of predetermined brightness differentials, then a partial flush is automatically triggered.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the brightness differentials needed to trigger a full flush are larger than the differentials needed to trigger a partial flush.

[0063] According to one embodiment, a full or partial flush is not triggered until some additional event after sensor unit 10 has determined the appropriate flush volume. According to an aspect, the necessary flush volume as detected by sensor unit 10 is not automatically initiated until seat 16 is lowered. According to another aspect, the necessary flush volume as detected by sensor unit 10 is not automatically initiated until lid 18 is lowered. According to yet another aspect, the necessary flush volume as detected by sensor unit 10 is not automatically initiated until both seat 16 and lid 18 are lowered.

[0064] In another embodiment, when sensor 10 comprises an optical sensor 33 such as a camera, ambient light sensor, or phototransisotor, when seat 16 is oriented in a lowered position, a light source 31 of sensor unit 10 emits and infrared illumination or the like, so as to detect a predetermined change or shift (lightening or darkening) in ambient light caused by the user being seated versus when the user is standing. Depending on the brightness differential detected, according to one or more predetermined brightness differential ranges, the sensor unit 10 auto-instructs a flush controller to impart a partial flush or a full flush to dispose of waste in bowl 12. In this embodiment, a user standing up from the seated position causes the sensor 10 to automatically initiate the auto-detected flush. Preferably, optical sensor 33 of sensor unit 10 is operable to periodically sample observable characteristics of the contents in the bowl 12. It should be noted that sensor unit 10 may be designed so that auto-detection of content characteristics, such as brightness, color, or motion in an area of interest 13 of bowl 12 as compared to one or more reference locations 22, such as interior bowl sides above the water line, is carried out prior to the end of the event signaled by the user positioning toilet paper in bowl 12 (in order to avoid irregularities associated with brightness detection being obscured by toilet paper). It should also noted that subsequent to sensor unit 10 auto-detecting content characteristics in an area of interest 13 as compared to a reference location 22 of bowl 12, sensor unit 10 may be designed to delay instructing a flush controller to impart a flush so as to

accommodate a user positioning toilet paper in bowl 12. According to the foregoing embodiment, after the sensor unit 10 auto-detects content characteristics in an area of interest 13 as compared to a reference location 22 in bowl 12, the sensor unit 10 may be designed to thereafter anticipate brightness, color, or motion irregularities characteristic of a user's placement of toilet paper in bowl 12. The sensor unit 10 may optionally use the detection of these irregularities as confirmation that the touchless flush system 1 is still in use, and therefore delay the flush controller from imparting a flush until the sensor unit 10 further detects that the characteristics of an area of interest 13 of bowl 12 have ceased producing irregularities. In other words, the sensor unit 10 may be designed to detect the recognition of a user event as beginning by a change in content characteristics, confirmed by divergent content characteristics, and then concluded by detection of a static state, signaling the end of the user event.

[0065] In other embodiments, sensor unit 10 is designed so that instead of comparing the brightness of the area of interest 13 in bowl 12 with respect to interior bowl sides 22, the baseline brightness reading is calibrated based on brightness of bowl 12 in a partially empty state once the contents have been disposed of via partial or full flush. In this regard, sensor 10 is continuously calibrating based on brightness of bowl 12 since brightness of bowl 12 is subject to changing between flushes and use. In practice, sensor 10 may be programmed to auto-detect once the bowl 12 is empty after each flush. Optionally, sensor unit 10 may be configured so that if contents in an area of interest 13 are still detected after a flush has concluded, an alert is transmitted to the user by, for example, a flashing LED, a beeper emitting an audible sound, or a safety message being sent to the flush electronics 35 and/or wirelessly to a maintenance facility management (see FIG. 4). This is particularly advantageous in commercial applications or in a smart home where timely and efficient maintenance is required.

[0066] Turning to FIG. 2 is an exemplary depiction of bowl 12 when comprising contents that sensor unit 10 may detect in an area of interest 13 as having a relatively large brightness differential range 15 when compared to interior bowl sides 22. More specifically, sensor unit 10 would analyze brightness discontinuities as between an area of interest 13 and interior bowl sides 22. For purposes of illustration, the embodiment of FIG. 2 may show sensor unit 10 detecting a reference location with no waste, such as interior bowl sides 22, as having a pixel intensity at or near 205, which is a brightness value. Comparatively, sensor unit 10 may also detect an area of interest 13 having solid waste with pixel intensities as low as 48, which is also a brightness value. In this embodiment, the differential range of brightness values is 205-48= 157 pixel intensity. It is contemplated that a brightness differential range 15 of this magnitude will result in sensor unit 10 auto-detecting that a full flush is necessary to properly dispose of contents in the area of interest 13 of bowl 12 of FIG. 2.

[0067] By contrast, FIG. 3 is an exemplary depiction of bowl 12 when comprising contents that sensor unit 10 may detect in an area of interest 13 as having a relatively small brightness differential range 17 when compared to interior bowl sides 22. More specifically, sensor unit 10 would analyze brightness discontinuities as between an area of interest 13 and interior bowl sides 22. For purposes of illustration, the embodiment of FIG. 3 may show a sensor unit 10 detecting a reference location with no waste, such as interior bowl sides 22, as having a pixel intensity at or near 208, which is a brightness value. Comparatively, sensor unit 10 may also detect an area of interest 13 with only liquid waste as having pixel intensities as low as 180, which is also a brightness value. In this embodiment, the differential range of brightness values 208-180= 28 pixel intensity. It is contemplated that a brightness differential range 17 of this lesser magnitude will result in sensor unit 10 auto- detecting that a partial flush is necessary. According to an embodiment, it is contemplated that a brightness differential range of 20 or less will be auto-detected as not needing any flush.

[0068] In embodiments where sensor unit 10 comprises an optical sensor 33, sensor unit 10 may be configured with an edge detection algorithm operable to detect relatively sharp changes in image brightness in an area of interest 13 as compared to a baseline established by interior bowl sides 22, empty bowl 12 between flushes, or the like. Sharp changes may include deviations from calibrated values of empty tank 14. In exemplary embodiments, a predetermined brightness range threshold across bowl 12 would provide for detection of discontinuities on the surface of water in bowl 12 and/or any other relevant change in material properties in bowl 12 including differential in weight, consumed bowl 12 volume, temperature, or the like.

[0069] FIG. 4 depicts a top plan phantom view of the one or more exemplary sensors 10 comprised by touchless flush system 1, wherein sensor unit 10 may further comprise a light source 31, an optional tilt sensor 32, and an optical sensor 33. Sensor unit 10 may also comprise flush control electronics 35 operable to receive and process information from light source 31, tilt sensor 32, and optical sensor 33 in order to carry out the intended action (i.e. partial/full flush, activate deodorizer fan, and transmit an alert that contents have not been properly removed from bowl 12). According to one aspect, light source 31 may emit an infrared light. In an embodiment, light source 31 may be an LED. Further, light source may be an infrared LED, or IRLED. The optical sensor 33 may optionally be a high definition camera, a low definition camera, a simple photoresistor, an ambient light detector, or infrared photodetector. Sensor unit 10 may be comparatively small making it easy to install in existing toilet configurations, a fluid connectors, or the like. [0070] Tilt sensor 32 may be disposed in a center portion of the sensor unit 10 but may be also positioned in other locations as needed or preferred. Tilt sensor 32 may be comprised of a ball sensor, mercury switch, accelerometer or the like. In this respect, sensor 32 is designed to receive input from a user via seat 16 and/or lid 18 to indicate that seat 16 and/or lid 18 are in a raised or lowered position. In operation, and as more fully described in FIGS. 14-15, touchless flush system 1 cycles optical sensor 33 at a

predetermined sampling rate to engage and detect the contents in an area of interest 13 of bowl 12. The interval of time that sensor 33 is sampled may be 100 ms or it may be shorter or longer depending on design needs or preference. The interval may be established at the factory or it may be customizable by a user. The interval may be differential depending upon whether tilt sensor 32 detect that seat 16 or lid 18 are in a raised position. In an embodiment, the optical sensor 33 of sensor unit 10 increases the sample observation rate when the tilt sensor 32 senses that the seat 16 has been lowered from a raised position, or raised from a lowered position, as each of the foregoing changes in state are associated with anticipated use by a user. In an embodiment, the optical sensor 33 of sensor unit 10 decreases the sample observation rate when tilt sensor 32 detects that lid 18 is lowered form a raised position, as the change in state is typical of a user's conclusion of use. In an embodiment, the optical sensor 33 of sensor unit 10 increases the sample observation rate when tilt sensor 32 detects that lid 18 is raised from a lowered position, as the change in state is typical of a user's impending use.

[0071] The initial ambient light reading detected by optical sensor 33 may functions as a baseline. Once the light source 31 is activated (optionally an IRLED), optical sensor 33 actively measures whether a predetermined range of brightness is exceeded in bowl 12. If optical sensor 33 determines that a predetermined brightness range threshold associated with either a partial or full flush volume is met or exceeded, then touchless flush system 1 determines that contents in bowl 12 should be properly disposed of and touchless flush system 1 automatically initiates the appropriate flush. In some embodiments, this may cause touchless flush system 1 to flush a toilet, open/close a valve, or otherwise send water to dispose of waste.

[0072] In order to detect brightness range 15 or 17 associated with interior bowl sides 22 and ambient light detection, sensor unit 10 may optionally be designed with cameras 33 capable of shooting video or still images, color, or black and white. Sensor unit 10 may also comprise a camera 33 with infrared lighting from the light source 31, may be a low resolution camera 33 or may include a plurality of optic sensors 33. Sensor unit 10 may likewise comprise a plurality of directional infrared emitters and/or responders as well as one or more infrared lasers disposed in a plurality or by steering. Optionally, sensor unit 10 may be a thermal sensor (not depicted).

[0073] Presence of waste in an area of interest 13 of bowl 12 may be detected through ultrasonic transducers, active and/or passive infrared sensors, radar, or the like. It is contemplated that the herein described systems 1 are not so limited to toilet

configurations and in fact may be applied towards fluid connectors and may integrated into existing tanks that are filled and require flushing and/or periodic cleaning.

[0074] Turning to FIG. 5 is an embodiment of sensor unit 10 with a polarized lens 37 and a light shield 36 between a light source 31, such as an IRLED, and an optical sensor 33, such as a phototransistor. The use of a IRLED and phototransistor significantly decrease the cost and complexity of sensor 10 of touchless flush system 1, without unacceptable degradation in accuracy. In an embodiment, the polarizing lens 57 filters certain unwanted light wavelengths from being emitted by the light source 31. According to an aspect, the polarizing lens filters certain unwanted light wavelengths from being detected by the optical sensor 33. Specifically, the polarizing lens 57 operative to filter stray angle lights. This increases the accuracy and precision of the optical sensor 33 because the brightness, color, or motion detected by the optical sensor 33 will not be influenced by conditions beyond the specific reference location to which optical sensor 33 is intended to observe.

[0075] Turning to FIG. 6 is an embodiment of a toilet comprising touchless flush system 1 with the seat 16 down in ghost, to reveal an exemplary sensor unit 10 attached to the bottom of a toilet seat 16. Directional arrows show optional directions of observation carried out by sensor unit 10. In this embodiment, sensor unit 10 may detect brightness and color differentials as between an area of interest 13 and interior bowl sides 22 from the bottom of seat 16 when in the lowered position.

[0076] Turning to FIG. 7 is an embodiment of a toilet comprising touchless flush system 1 with the seat 16 in the raised position and sensor unit 10 mounted on the underside of the seat 16. Additionally depicted in this embodiment one or more capacitive sensors 40 housed in the seat 16. According to one embodiment, the capacitive sensor electronics may be housed in the seat footings are beneath the seat 16. According to another embodiment, the capacitive sensors are integrated into the main portion of the seat 40. Capacitive sensors 40 are operable to sense the capacitance from contact or proximity of a human body. In one embodiment, one or more capacitive sensors 40 identify the presence or absence of a seated user independently from the seat 16 or lid 19 position detected by tilt sensor 32. The detection of a seated user (eg. prolonged human capacitance) by one or more capacitive sensors 40 then can auto instruct the touchless flush system 1 that a full flush is anticipated. The detection of a standing user (eg. short human capacitance caused by a user raising the seat from a lowered position) may optionally auto instruct the touchless flush system 1 that a partial flush is anticipated. In one embodiment, detection of a user by one or more capacitive sensors 40 can auto-instruct the one or more optical sensors 33 of sensor unit 10 to increase the sample observation rate. In another embodiment, detection of the absence of a user by one or more capacitive sensors 40 can auto-instruct the one or more optical sensors 33 of sensor unit 10 to decrease the sample observation rate.

[0077] Turning to FIG. 8 is an embodiment of a toilet comprising touchless flush system 1 with a seat 16 in the lowered position, sensor unit 10 mounted beneath seat 14 and the hardware of one or more capacitive sensor units 40 housed beneath the seat. In this embodiment, sensor unit 10 may detect brightness and color differentials as between an area of interest 13 and interior bowl sides 22 from the bottom of seat 16 when in the lowered position.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 9-13, in certain embodiments, when sensor unit 10 auto- detects that a full flush volume is necessary to dispose of waste in bowl 12, a deodorizer unit 50 is activated. The deodorizer unit 50 may be a fragrance emitter, a water cleanser, fan, vent, or other article which is operable to neutralize or lessen the perception of foul odors associated with the excretion.

[0079] In an embodiment, as seen in FIG. 9, the deodorizer 50 may be a cleansing unit, such as a Fluidmaster^® Flush 'n Sparkle™ cleansing kit mounted in the tank. Upon detecting the need for a full flush, touchless flush system 1 may optionally direct water treated by the cleansing kit to be emptied from the tank 14 to bowl 12 to deodorize the area of bowl 12.

[0080] According to one aspect, the deodorizer unit 50 may comprise a fan and may be irremovably attached to touchless flush system 1, integrally formed thereto, or wirelessly connected to system 1 and located within a predetermined range of system 1. In this respect, deodorizer unit 50 may be directly or wirelessly connected to touchless flush system 1. Turning to FIG. 10, optionally, the deodorizer unit 50 may be a vent 52 positioned on the bottom of the toilet seat with fluid lines 54 operable to extract fumes from the bowl to an activated carbon filter 53 located under, adjacent to, or otherwise in communication with the tank. A fan 51 may be in communication with the vent. Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 11, the fan 51 of deodorizer 50 may be in the tank 14 and the activated charcoal filter may be below tank 14, but in fluid communication with the fan 51 and a valve 52 in bowl 12. In other embodiments, as seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the deodorizer unit 50 may be designed to operate with rim wash-down apertures 55 of the toilet bowl to actively vent fumes of the bowl into the tank through an overflow tube 54 disposed in the toilet tank 14. Referring to FIG. 12 in this embodiment, the fan 51 may be located at or near the hinge of seat 16 which is operably connected to the rim wash-down apertures 55 of bowl 12 via fluid line 55, creating a vacuum to remove odor from the bowl 12 and route it to an activated charcoal air filter 53, which in the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, is located inside the tank 14. Referring to FIG. 13, in this embodiment, a fan 51 and corresponding filter 53 may be positioned within the tank.

[0081] Turning to FIG. 14 is an embodiment of a method 100 for determining the need for a full or partial flush by the touchless flush system 1 of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the method 100 for selecting a flush volume comprises the steps of: a starting step 102 of continuous detection resulting in an occupant conclusion 104 of either "yes" 106 or "no" 108; a step of instructing an optical sensor 33 of sensor unit 10 to detect bowl contents at a slower sample rate 112 if the occupant conclusion 104 is "no" 108; and a step of auto-calibrating a new baseline 114 for sensor unit 10; the method 100 further comprising a step of instructing optical sensor 33 of sensor unit 10 to detect bowl contents at a faster sample rate 110 if the occupant conclusion 104 is "yes" 106; a step of

determining the characteristic differentials in a bowl 12, resulting in an offset conclusion 114 of either "Yes" 118 (large offset conclusion) or "No" 120 (small offset conclusion); a further step of setting up a full flush routine 122 if the offset conclusion 114 is "yes" 118; and a further step of setting up a partial flush routine 124 if the offset conclusion 114 is "no" 116. [0082] Turning to FIG. 15 is an embodiment of a method 100 for determining the need for a full or partial flush by the touchless flush system 1 as described above, however according to this embodiment, the method 100 further includes a step of additionally setting up a deodorizer routine 126 if the content differential offset conclusion 114 is "yes" 118

[0083] Many alterations and modifications may be made by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments disclosed and described herein. Therefore, it is understood that the illustrated and described embodiments have been set forth only for the purposes of examples and that they are not to be taken as limiting the embodiments as defined by the following claims. For example, notwithstanding the fact that the elements of a claim are set forth below in a certain combination, it must be expressly understood that the embodiments include other combinations of fewer, more or different elements, which are disclosed above even when not initially claimed in such combinations.

[0084] The definitions of the words or elements of the following claims are, therefore, defined in this specification to not only include the combination of elements which are literally set forth. It is also contemplated that an equivalent substitution of two or more elements may be made for any one of the elements in the claims below or that a single element may be substituted for two or more elements in a claim. Although elements may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, it is to be expressly understood that one or more elements from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination and that the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination(s).

[0085] Insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalently within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements. The claims are thus to be understood to include what is specifically illustrated and described above, what is conceptually equivalent, what can be obviously substituted and also what incorporates the essential idea of the em bodiments.

[0086] What has been described above includes examples of one or more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the aforementioned

embodiments, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of various embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the described embodiments are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term "includes" is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as

"comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A touchless flush system, comprising:

a toilet bowl;

a flush controller operatively connected to the toilet bowl;

a sensor unit operatively connected to the flush controller, the sensor unit being operable to detect changes within the toilet bowl;

wherein the sensor unit detects changes in properties of the toilet bowl with respect to contents present therein, wherein if a detected change in properties satisfies a first predetermined threshold, the flush controller causes a flush volume to be delivered to the toilet bowl.

2. The system according to Claim 1, the sensor unit being operable to detect brightness in the toilet bowl, wherein the sensor unit detects a brightness of contents within the toilet bowl and detects a brightness of one or more reference locations present on or in the toilet bowl; and wherein if a difference between the brightness of the contents and the reference location satisfies a first predetermined range, the sensor unit communicates with the flush controller to effect a flush volume to be delivered to the toilet bowl.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the sensor unit comprises an optical sensor and a light source that illuminates the contents within the toilet bowl.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more reference locations of the toilet bowl detected by the sensor unit are the interior bowl sides above a water line.

5. The system according to claim 2, wherein if the difference between the brightness of the contents and the reference location satisfied a second predetermined range, the flush controller causes a partial flush volume to be delivered to the toilet bowl, the flush volume associated with the first predetermined range being a full flush volume.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the first predetermined range is greater than the second predetermined range.

7. The system according to claim 5, further comprising a seat hingedly connected to an upper portion of the toilet bowl, wherein the sensor unit is removably connected to or integrally formed with a lower side of the seat.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the sensor unit further comprises a tilt sensor operable to detect when the seat is in or approaching a raised position or a lowered position, wherein if the seat is in the raised position, the sensor unit causes the flush controller to deliver a partial flush volume to the toilet bowl.

9. The system according to claim 7, wherein the sensor unit further comprises a tilt sensor operable to detect when the seat is in or approaching a raised position or a lowered position, wherein the sensor unit automatically detects whether the first or second predetermined threshold is met or exceeded once the tilt sensor detects that the seat is in the lowered position.

10. The system according to claim 7, the sensor unit further comprising an optical sensor operable to detect a predetermined change in ambient light darkening or brightening.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein a user sitting on the seat and then leaving the seat causes either the full or partial flush volume to be delivered to the toilet bowl depending on whether the first or second predetermined threshold is met or exceeded.

12. The system according to claim 2, wherein the sensor unit detects a brightness of the one or more reference locations of the bowl after delivery of the flush volume.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein if the sensor unit detects that a portion of the contents remain positioned in the bowl after delivery of the flush volume, the flush controller transmits an alert message.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the alert message is transmitted by a flashing LED, an audible sound emitted by a beeper, a legible message, radiofrequency, or by being wirelessly transmitted across a network to an external device or maintenance service.

15. The system according to claim 5, further comprising a deodorizer unit, wherein if the first predetermined range is satisfied, the deodorizer unit is activated.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the deodorizer unit comprises a fan or ventilation system.

17. The system according to claim 5, wherein the first predetermined range is any pixel intensity greater than 100 pixels or greater than 150 pixels, and wherein the second predetermined range is any pixel intensity less than 50 pixels.

18. The system according to claim 8, wherein the tilt sensor is one or more ball sensors, mercury switches, or accelerometers.

19. The system according to Claim 1, wherein the changes in properties of the toilet bowl detected by the sensor unit relate to a surface of contents within the bowl, temperature within the bowl, and/or weight differential of contents in the bowl.

20. The system according to Claim 2, wherein the sensor unit further comprises an optical sensor, a light source, a light shield between the optical sensor and light source, and one or more polarizing lenses.

21. The system according to Claim 20, wherein the optical sensor is a

phototransistor.

22. The system according to Claim 20, wherein the optical sensor is a single pixel- line camera

23. The system according to Claim 20, wherein the light source emits light in the form of an infrared strobe when the sensor unit is detecting changes in the bowl.

24. The system according to Claim 7, further comprising one or more capacitive sensors operable to detect a user, wherein said one or more capacitive sensors are located in the seat.

25. A method of automatically detecting the need for a flush, comprising:

conducting a first measurement of a toilet bowl using a sensor unit;

conducting a second measurement of the toilet bowl using the sensor unit after a change in a content of, or addition of a content to, the toilet bowl; and

comparing the second measurement with the first measurement, wherein if a first predetermined range is satisfied between the first and second measurements, a first volume is delivered to the toilet bowl.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the sensor unit comprises an optical sensor that measures brightness, and wherein the first and second measurements are brightness detected by the optical sensor of the sensor unit.

27. The method according to claim 25, wherein if a second predetermined range is satisfied, a second flush volume is delivered to the bowl, the first flush volume being a full flush volume and the second flush volume being a partial flush volume.

28. The method according to claim 25, wherein the measurements detected by the sensor unit are directed towards surface conditions or properties of the toilet bowl with respect to contents therein.

29. A method for determining the need for a flush volume, comprising:

a starting step of continuous detection resulting in an occupant conclusion of either "yes" or "no";

a step of instructing an optical sensor of to detect a bowl contents at a slower sample rate if the occupant conclusion is "no" and not imparting a flush;

a step of instructing the optical sensor to detect the bowl contents at a faster sample rate if the occupant conclusion 104 is "yes"

a step of determining one or more characteristic differentials in a bowl, resulting in an offset conclusion of either "yes" or "no";

a step of setting up a full flush routine if the offset conclusion "yes" 118; or a step of setting up a partial flush routine if the offset conclusion 114 is "no".

30. The nnethod according to claim 29, further comprising a step of auto- calibrating a new baseline for the sensor unit if the occupant conclusion is "no."

31. The method according to claim 29, further comprising a step of setting up a deodorizer routine if the content differential offset conclusion is "yes."