WO2023218222A1

WO2023218222A1 - Implementations for retrofit bidet for a toilet

Info

Publication number: WO2023218222A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/054272
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yuji Nakayama; Dan Luo
Original assignee: Water X Technologies Corporation
Priority date: 2022-05-09
Filing date: 2022-05-09
Publication date: 2023-11-16

Abstract

A retrofit bidet for a toilet includes a base plate configured for being mounted on a toilet bowl of the toilet, an air blower mounted on the base plate and a nozzle housing mounted on the base plate. The air blower includes an air blower outlet through which air generated by the air blower is expelled. The air blower outlet is positioned to be centrally aligned with a center line extending from a rear side to a front side of said toilet bowl and centered along a width of the toilet bowl and/or a width of an opening defined by a bidet seat positioned on the toilet bowl. The nozzle housing is positioned on one side of the blower and includes a nozzle tube configured to extended from said base plate to an operating position and retract toward said base plate while not in use.

Description

IMPLEMENTATIONS FOR RETROFIT BIDET FOR A TOILET

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a bidet for a toilet and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a bidet for a toilet that includes an air blower for drying and is removably attached to the toilet bowl.

Bidets for toilets allow a person to wash the anus and genitals after using the toilet. Some bidets additionally include an air blower to dry the washed area after the cleaning. In this manner a person may practice improved hygiene by not touching the area of anus and genitals when using the toilet. The addition of the air blower also provides an environmentally friendly function in that toilet paper may not be required. Bidets for toilets are known to have a control panel on the side of the toilet or remote control with which a person can control the washing and drying operation of the bidet.

Some bidets are provided as a unit that can be removably attached to existing toilet bowls which are coupled to toilet seats. These retrofit bidets can be added to existing toilets and also enable easy replacement of parts in the bidet or the entire bidets when necessary.

U.S. Patent No. 10100504 entitled “Bidet Apparatus,” discloses a bidet apparatus attached to a toilet seat that includes a nozzle with a discharge outlet formed at one end of the nozzle and a blower. The blower is disclosed to include a branch duct to guide air to the discharge outlet. In the apparatus disclosed, the nozzle is centrally positioned with respect to the bidet seat and the blower is on one side of the nozzle offset from the center.

European Publication No. 2314776 entitled “Sanitary washing device provided with drying mechanism” discloses a bidet attached to a toilet seat including a water nozzle and an air blower. The disclosed bidet includes a water nozzle centrally positioned with respect to the bidet seat and an air blower at the bottom of the nozzle to which a heater is connected for heating the air used for drying.

Chinese Utility Model No. ZL202120063378.1 entitled “Bidet for a Toilet” discloses a bidet for a toilet including a base plate configured for being mounted on a toilet bowl of the toilet, an air blower mounted on the base plate and a nozzle mounted on the base plate. The air blower includes an air blower outlet through which air generated by the air blower is expelled. The air blower outlet is positioned to be centrally aligned with a center line extending from a rear side to a front side of said toilet bowl and centered along a width of the toilet bowl and/or a width of an opening defined by a bidet seat positioned on the toilet bowl. The nozzle includes a distal nozzle end configured to extended from said base plate to an operating position and retract toward said base plate while not in use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of some example embodiments there is provided a retrofit bidet for a toilet with the potential of an improved cleaning and/or drying capability. Retrofit bidets are attached to toilet seats and can be added to existing toilets and can also be replaced without requiring changes to the fixed toilet bowl. The present inventors have found that since retrofit bidets have limited space the choice is usually between providing effective cleansing and effective drying of the area to be cleaned of a user. The present inventors have found that the drying step is often skipped by users or shortened due to the inefficiency of the drying process provided by known retrofit bidets. One source of the inefficiency is the time it takes to dry the washed area due to the ineffective direction of the blower. In some of the retrofit bidets, the drying process may take about 5 minutes or more to completely dry the washed area.

Chinese Utility Model No. ZL202120063378.1 relates to a retrofit bidet including a base plate configured for being mounted on a toilet bowl of the toilet, an air blower mounted on the base plate and a nozzle mounted on the base plate. The air blower includes an air blower outlet through which air generated by the air blower is expelled. The air blower outlet is positioned to be centrally aligned with a center line extending from a rear side to a front side of said toilet bowl and centered along a width of the toilet bowl and/or a width of an opening defined by a bidet seat positioned on the toilet bowl. The nozzle includes a distal nozzle end configured to extended from said base plate to an operating position and retract toward said base plate while not in use.

The present application relates to implementations to retrofit bidets for potentially improving the functioning of the drying and/or cleaning function in a relative small and compact retrofit bidet.

According to an aspect of some example embodiments, the retrofit bidet as described herein potentially provides more efficient drying that is both faster and more uniformly distributed as opposed to conventionally known retrofit bidets. According to an aspect of some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the retrofit bidet as described herein potentially provides effective cleansing of anus and genitals that is efficiently aimed to the anus and genitals. According to some example embodiments, the potential improved efficiency is based on an improved arrangement of parts in the retrofit bidet and takes into consideration the limited footprint available in retrofit bidets for toilets. According to some example embodiments, a toilet, e.g. a standard toilet may be retrofitted with the bidet as described herein. In some example embodiments, a bidet seat may be replaceably connected to the bidet with a hinged connection.

According to a first aspect of some embodiments of the invention there is provided a retrofit bidet for a toilet having a toilet bowl and a toilet seat, the toilet comprising a center line extending between a rear side and a front side of said toilet bowl and centered along a width of said toilet bowl and/or centered along a width of an opening defined by the toilet seat, the bidet comprising: a base plate configured for being mounted on a toilet bowl of the toilet; an air blower configured for generating a flow of air, said air blower mounted on said base plate and including an air blower duct ending in an air blower outlet through which said flow of air is expelled, wherein said air blower outlet is positioned to be centrally aligned with the center line; a nozzle mounted on said base plate, wherein said nozzle comprises a nozzle outer housing and a nozzle inner housing configured to extend from said outer housing to an operating position to intersect said centerline and retract toward said inner housing while not in use; a toilet seat for being mounted on the base plate, wherein said air blower duct comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, wherein the first side is positioned next to the nozzle and is not parallel to said centerline.

In some embodiments, said blower duct is narrower than said blower outlet. In some embodiments, said second side of said blower duct is not parallel to said first side of the blower duct. In some embodiments, said blower duct has a tapered shape being narrower at the side of the duct attached to a blower motor and wider at a side of the duct of the blower outlet.

In some embodiments, the outer shape of the blower duct is not symmetrical.

In some embodiments, at least a bottom portion of said air blower outlet extends below an upper surface of said toilet bowl when said base plate is mounted on said toilet bowl.

In some embodiments, a bottom surface of said air blower duct has a curved section followed by an upward facing section.

In some embodiments, said nozzle is angled into said toilet bowl.

In some embodiments, said nozzle inner housing extends below a height of said blower outlet at said operating position.

In some embodiments, said air blower is configured for blowing one or more jets of warm air.

In some embodiments, said nozzle and/or said air blower is mounted on an upper facing surface of said base plate. In some embodiments, said nozzle and/or said air blower is mounted on bottom facing surface of said base plate.

In some embodiments, said air blower includes a shutter configured for covering an air passage opening through said air blower and wherein said shutter is mounted within said air blower distal from said air blower outlet.

In some embodiments, said air blower outlet is configured to direct air into said toilet bowl with an upward tilt.

In some embodiments, the bidet is configured to be removably connected to said toilet bowl.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings (including images). With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

FIGS. 1A and IB are respectively a simplified drawing of a nozzle and air blower arrangement in optional configuration bidets for a toilet;

FIGS. 2A-2F are respectively simplified drawings showing two example air blowers that are centrally positioned in a bidet for a toilet and a schematic depiction of a drying process with the bidet, both in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIGS. 3 A -3E are perspective views of an example base plate of the bidet installed on a toilet, the base plate shown with its mechanical components, both in accordance with some example embodiments; FIGS. 3F and 3G are cross sectional views of the bidet cut between the nozzle and blower, showing the nozzle in the bidet without the blower in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3H is a perspective view of an example inner housing of a water nozzle in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are two example arrangements for an air blower and nozzle on a base plate of a bidet before extension of the nozzle, both in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIGS. 4C and 4D are two example arrangements for an air blower and nozzle on a base plate of a bidet after extension of the nozzle, both in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIGS. 5 A and 5B are simplified drawings of two example shutters for an air blower in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a simplified perspective view of a bidet installed on a toilet, shown with the nozzle extended to an operating position in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIGS. 7A-7D are simplified views of a mounting bracket and the mounting of a bidet to a toilet in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 8 A and 8B are simplified views of a bidet in accordance with some example embodiments of a second aspect of the invention;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are simplified views of a bidet in accordance with some example embodiments of a third aspect of the invention;

Figs. 10A and B are simplified drawings of a blower duct and nozzle in accordance with some embodiments of a fourth aspect of the invention;

FIGS. 11A-11D are respectively before and after photographs depicting a drying process of an example bidet for a toilet in accordance with some example embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a retrofit bidet for a toilet and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a retrofit bidet for a toilet that includes an air blower for drying.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. According to some example embodiments, the retrofit bidet for a toilet includes a water nozzle positioned next to the air blower and configured to be extended so as to intersect a water outlet with a center line extending from a rear side to a front side of said toilet bowl and centered along a width of the toilet bowl and/or a width of an opening defined by a bidet seat positioned on the toilet bowl at a distance from the toilet rim. In some example embodiment, the water nozzle includes an outer nozzle housing and an inner nozzle housing. In some example embodiments, the inner housing is configured to be retracted in the outer housing in the bidet so that at least a portion of the inner housing does not extend into the seat opening while not in use and to extend to its operational position to intersect the center line for actuating the washing. In some embodiments, the inner nozzle housing houses two nozzle tubes which end in two nozzle outlets in the inner housing, each adapted to be operated separately according to the user’s preference. The nozzle outlets are adapted to intersect the centerline in the nozzle’s operating position where one of the nozzle outlets is adapted to reach female genitals of a user, and the other outlet is adapted to reach the user’s anus.

In some embodiments, the nozzle is angled into the toilet bowl so that water ejecting the water outlets will be aimed up onto the area to be cleaned. Optionally, the nozzle is angled such that the outer housing is positioned higher than the toilet rim and the inner housing in the nozzle’s extended positioned is positioned lower than the toilet rim.

Optionally, the nozzle in the present invention is positioned next to the air blower and is angled with respect to the centerline so that the inner housing intersects the center line. Optionally, the nozzle is positioned on one side of the bidet and the nozzle in its extended position reaches the centerline of the bidet seat opening.

According to some example embodiments, the retrofit bidet for a toilet includes an air blower for drying with an air blower outlet that is configured to be aligned with a center line of an opening of the seat of the bidet. As used herein, an air blower outlet aligned with a centerline of a seat opening refers to a center longitudinal axis of the air blower outlet corresponding to the center longitudinal axis of the seat opening. Optionally, a center line refers to a center longitudinal axis extending from a rear side to a front side of the toilet bowl and centered along a width of the toilet bowl and/or a width of an opening defined by a bidet seat positioned on the toilet bowl. Optionally, the center line is generally parallel to an upper surface of the toilet bowl rim. In some embodiments, the center line is also centered with a drain hole in the toilet bowl. The centerline as referred herein can be at any height from the upper surface of the toilet seat to the drain hole in the toilet bowl. The inventors of the present application have found that the positioning of the water nozzle aside of the air blower in retrofit bidets involves a number of challenges. Cleansing is potentially improved when the outlets of the water nozzle reach the center line when extended and activated so that water can be ejected up onto the area to be cleaned. In addition, the drying function is potentially improved when the air blower outlet is centered with the center line of the toilet bowl, and further by providing a blower outlet wide enough so as to potentially enable uniform and distributed air to be released from the air blower onto the area to be dried. Additional potential improvement of the drying function may be provided by a short distance between the blower outlet and the area to be dried.

The inventors of the present application have found that generally, the area to be cleaned consists of the anus and/or genitals of the user and is positioned at an area of about 10-25mm in width and 25-35mm in length with a centerline corresponding to the centerline of the seat opening, for example an area of about 15mm in width and 30mm in length. The area to be cleaned, also referred herein as the washed area, is generally positioned between the height of the upper surface of the toilet rim and about 10mm below the rim of the toilet bowl, for example about 4-6mm or 5mm below the rim of the toilet bowl. The area to be dried, as referred herein consists of the cleaned area and optionally some of its surroundings, for example an area of about 35-60mm in width and about the length of the seat opening.

The inventors have found that a potential benefit of improved drying may be provided by an outlet of the blower outlet being wide enough to cover an area wider than the washed area.

Alternatively or additionally, a potential benefit of improved drying is provided in some embodiments by positioning the blower outlet close to the area to be dried. In some embodiments, the blower outlet is less than 80mm away from the area to be dried and/or the user’s anus. Optionally, the blower outlet is less than 75mm away from the area to be dried and/or the user’s anus in use. Optionally, the blower outlet is less than 70mm away from the area to be dried and/or the user’s anus in use. Optionally the distance between the blower outlet and the area to be dried is such that the air expelled from the outlet reaches the area to be dried at a speed of between 10- 20m/s, such as 15m/s or more.

In some embodiments, the blower outlet extends out of the bidet and into the toilet bowl, thereby potentially enabling the outlet to be positioned closer to the area to be dried.

Alternatively or additionally potential benefit of improved drying is provided in some embodiments by a width of the blower outlet being wide enough to cover the area to be cleaned and/or the area to be dried. In some embodiments of the invention, the width of the blower outlet is between 35mm-60mm. for example between 35mm-45mm, so as to cover the area to be dried in an efficient manner, optionally, the width of the blower outlet is about 40mm or more.

Alternatively or additionally, a potential benefit of improved drying is provided in some embodiments of the invention by the air expelled from the air blower outlet along the center line to reach the area to be dried. In some embodiments, the air blower outlet aligned with the center line also includes an air blower outlet that is slightly offset from the center line e.g., 0-20 mm offset from the center line and/or that directs air that is slightly offset from the center line e.g., 0-20 mm offset from the center line.

In some embodiments of the invention, the blower outlet has a symmetrical shape, such as an ellipse rectangle or other symmetrical shape assisting in formal distribution of air expelled from the outlet.

Embodiments of the present invention provide several options for positioning the nozzle aside the air blower in a retrofit bidet such that the blower outlet is aligned at the centerline of the seat opening and the nozzle is positioned to extend to its operating position intersecting the centerline and providing a potential benefit of improved cleansing, optionally without reducing the efficiency of the drying function.

Optionally, in one or more of the aspects defined below, the height of the retrofit bidet does not extend 150mm, optionally the height of the bidet is 140mm, 130mm or less.

A first aspect of some exemplary embodiments of the invention, relates to a blower having a blower outlet duct ending in a blower outlet having a first and second side, the first and second side being opposite to each other. According to embodiments of the first aspect, the shape of the blower outlet potentially enables positioning of the nozzle aside the first or second side of the blower and providing a potential benefit of improved cleansing without reducing the efficiency of drying. According to embodiments of the first aspect, the nozzle is positioned aside the first side of the blower duct and the first side of the duct is not parallel to the centerline of the toilet bowl. Optionally, the first side of the duct is deviated from the outlet opening. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the shape and position of the duct potentially enables the outer housing of the nozzle to be positioned next to the duct in a position where the first side of the duct would be without the deviation. Such positioning potentially enables the inner housing of the nozzle to extend into the toilet bowl intersecting the center line of the toilet bowl such that the nozzle outlets are aimed to eject water upwards to the area to be cleaned.

In some embodiments of the first aspect, two opposing sides of the duct are not parallel to each other such that an intersection of the duct does not form a round circle. Optionally, the side of the duct next to the water nozzle forms a narrow angle with the blower outlet opening. Optionally, the side of the duct next to the water nozzle forms an angle of between 5-12° with the centerline of the toilet bowl, for example and angle of about 7, 8 or 9°.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the blower duct is at an angle from the blower outlet opening such that a center longitudinal axis of the duct does not correspond to the center longitudinal axis of the outlet.

Optionally, according to the first aspect of the invention, the width of the blower duct is narrower than the width of the blower outlet. Optionally, the blower duct is tapered being wider at the side attached to the outlet and narrower at the side facing the blower motor. The width of the blower outlet is optionally between 35mm-60mm, for example between 40mm-50mm or about 40mm, and the blower duct at the side facing the blower motor may have a width of between 30- 40mm, for example 32mm, 31mm, 30mm or less.

Alternatively, the width of the blower duct and the blower outlet do not necessarily differ in width, rather the blower duct is positioned diagonally with respect to the centerline of the toilet seat thereby enabling the nozzle to be positioned aside of the duct.

In embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the nozzle and/or nozzle housing intersect a center line of the toilet bowl in its extended operating position.

The inventors of the present application have found that a potential benefit of improved cleansing is provided by positioning the nozzle of the bidet to intersect the centerline of the toilet seat when extended even if positioned on a side of the air blower.

Optionally, in some embodiments of the first aspect the extending nozzle is angled into the toilet bowl such that the extended portion is lower than the blower outlet thereby enabling the nozzle to pass below the blower outlet when extended.

A second aspect of some exemplary embodiments of the invention relates to a blower outlet and/or duct having a cut-off portion on one side of the blower opening enabling the nozzle outer and/or inner housing to be positioned within the cut-off portion. Optionally, a portion of the inner housing is positioned within the cut-off portion when extended to its operating position.

In some embodiments of the second aspect, reducing effectiveness of the blower by cut-off portion may be avoided by closing the cut-off portion with a shutter when the blower is functioning and the nozzle is retracted into the outer housing. In other embodiments, the outer housing of the nozzle is positioned such as to block air from exiting the cut-off portion in the nozzle outlet.

Optionally, the shutter and/or outer nozzle housing are positioned in the cut-off portion such that the outlet with the blocked portion forms a symmetrical shape, for example an ellipse.

A third aspect of embodiments of the invention relate to a blower duct which does not extend to the rim of the toilet bowl such that the blower outlet is positioned at a distance from the toilet rim. Optionally, the blower outlet is positioned about 30-50mm from the toilet rim, such as about 35, 40 or 45mm from the rim. The space between the blower outlet and the toilet rim potentially enables the inner housing of the nozzle positioned next to the air blower to be angled and extend into the toilet bowl to intersect a center line of the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, the blower of some embodiments of the third aspect is actuated at a speed of 20m/s or more so that air expelled from the blower outlet will reach the area to be dried efficiently.

A fourth aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a nozzle position aside an air blower duct and opening and being angled into the toilet bowl such that when extended the inner nozzle housing will pass below the outlet opening. Optionally, the air blower duct of the fourth embodiment is symmetrical and/or corresponds to the blower outlet. In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the blower duct and outlet are similar to the duct and outlet shown in in Chinese Utility Model No. ZL202120063378.1. In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the nozzle may be longer than nozzles in the first, second and third aspects of the invention described above. For example, the outer housing of the nozzle in the fourth aspect may be between 130- 150mm, for example 135, 140, 145mm or more. The inner housing is optionally shorter than the outer housing and may be about 90-110mm long. In some embodiments, the bidet according to the fourth aspect is higher than bidets of the first, second and third aspect thereby enabling the longer nozzle to be positioned therein at an angle into the toilet bowl. For example, the bidet of the fourth aspect may have a height of between 130-170mm, such as 150, 155 or 160mm. In other embodiments of the fourth aspect, the nozzle of the fourth aspect may include an intermediate housing which will potentially enable telescopic extension of the nozzle when activated without requiring a higher bidet. In these embodiments, the nozzle may be thicker and the height of the bidet may be 140, 130mm or less.

The present inventors have found that the drying effect of the air blower is potentially significantly and even dramatically improved based on its positioning as described in one or more of the aspects above without intervening with the efficiency of the cleaning function. Furthermore, the present inventors have found that the positioning as described in one or more of the aspects above potentially enables a reduced height of the retrofit bidet. For example, the bidet of the first, second and third aspect may have a height of 130mm or less.

In addition, the drying as described herein provides more uniformly distributed air flow across the anus and genitals of the person using the toilet so that substantially all areas are heated or dried at a same rate and time. Based on the achieved uniform distribution and shortened duration required for drying, stronger and/or warmer jets of air may be used for drying that may further shorten the time required for drying. In some example embodiments, drying of the anus and genitals may be completed in less than one minute, e.g. in 20 seconds to 2 minutes or in 30 seconds as compared to approximately 5 minutes as needed in conventional retrofit bidets with noncentered positioning of the blower. This is a significant potential improvement that may encourage use of the drying step and may also avoid the tendency of people to supplement drying with toilet paper.

The first, second, third and fourth aspects of the invention differ in the shape of the blower duct and/or outlet as defined above. Unless otherwise defined, all components and described operation of the bidet described herein can be used with any of the aspects of the invention and are not limited to a specific shape of the blower and/or nozzle.

According to some example embodiments of the aspects of the invention, each of the nozzle and the air blower is mounted on a base plate of the bidet retrofit assembly and the base plate is mounted on a rim of a toilet bowl on the rear side of the bowl. Optionally, a mounting bracket is provided between the base plate and the toilet bowl.

Optionally, a portion of the base plate extends past the rim and over an open volume of the toilet bowl. For example, the base plate may extend about 25-55mm over the toilet bowl, such as about 30-50mm or about 40mm over the toilet rim.

Optionally, each of the nozzle and the air blower may be mounted on either an upper surface of the base plate or a lower surface of the base plate (facing the volume of the toilet bowl). In some example embodiments, the air blower is mounted on the base plate so that its outlet duct extends below an upper surface of the toilet bowl. In some example embodiments, a toilet seat is attached to an upper surface of the bidet assembly.

According to some example embodiments, the air blower duct has an upward tilt towards the outlet so as to blow air upwards towards the anus and genitals of the user. Optionally, the outlet forms an angle of between 5-15°, for example an angle of 8, 9 or 10° with the center line of the toilet bowl.

In some embodiments, the lower portion of the outlet duct extends below the height of the toilet rim, for example up to 15mm below the toilet rim, such as 5, 6 or 7mm below the toilet rim. In some embodiments, the outlet duct of the air blower is curved so as to direct the air exiting from the blower outlet upwards. Optionally, the curve of the outlet duct forms an angle of between 4-14 ⁰ with the center line of the toilet bowl, such as an angle of 8, 9 or 10°.

Optionally, the base plate includes a water inlet port through which water is received. Optionally, a water heater is mounted on the base plate for heating the water provided to the nozzle prior to use. In some example embodiments, the water heater is mounted on the base plate on one side of the air blower and the nozzle is positioned on an opposite side of the air blower. Optionally, the water inlet is on a same side as the water heater. Water received through the water inlet may be provided to the water heater for heating and the water may them be directed to the nozzle for washing. Optionally, a water pipe extends above, under or behind the air blower to provide flow communication between the water heater and the nozzle.

In some example embodiments, the base plate additionally supports a printed circuit board (PCB) configured to actuate and/or control operation of the bidet. In some example embodiments, a control panel extending from the base plate includes selection buttons with which a person using the bidet may control its operation.

Optionally, the base plate additionally supports a deodorizer for absorbing scent. Optionally, one or more of the PCB and the deodorizer is mounted on the base plate on a side opposite a side occupied by the water heater, e.g. on the side of the nozzle when the nozzle is positioned on one side of the air blower.

Optionally, the base plate is covered with a bidet cover. Optionally, a bidet seat is connected with a hinge connection to the base plate or the bidet cover. Optionally, the connection of the bidet cover and seat include a damper for quite closing thereof.

For purposes of better understanding some embodiments of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-10B and the examples shown in FIG. 11A-11D, reference is first made to the construction and operation of a bidet for a toilet as for example described in Chinese Utility Model No. ZL202120063378.1. Fig. 1A illustrates a bidet 910 mounted on a toilet bowl 20. The bidet includes an air blower 990 and a nozzle 980 both mounted on base plate 910. Blower 990 includes a blower outlet duct 996 and blower outlet 995 and is mounted on the base plate 910 so that air blower outlet 195 is substantially aligned with center line 10 of bidet 100, e.g. centered along a width of the opening of the bidet seat. Bidet 910 further includes a nozzle 980 positioned on one side of air blower 990. Nozzle 980 is positioned at an angle that provides for extending a distal nozzle end 985 in a direction toward center line 10 as shown in Fig. IB.

As shown, outlet duct 995 follows straight from outlet 995 and has a uniform shape along its length. The inventors of the present application have found that a number of possible changes to blowers and nozzles known in the art, such as blowers and nozzles described in Chinese Utility Model No. ZL202120063378.1 can raise the efficiency of drying and cleaning function of the bidet as further described herein.

Reference is now made to Figs. 2A-2F showing two example air blowers that are centrally positioned in a retrofit bidet for a toilet and a schematic depiction of a drying process with the bidet, both in accordance with some example embodiments of the first aspect of the invention. According to some example embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, there is provided a retrofit bidet 100 including an air blower 190. Air blower 190 includes an outlet duct 196 which ends in a blower outlet 195. According to some example embodiments, air blower outlet 195 is aligned with center line 10 and air flow 25 is expelled from air blower outlet 195 in a direction along center line 10. Since center line 10 is in some embodiments substantially aligned with intergluteal cleft 510 of a person sitting on toilet 50, air flow 25 may directly reach the anus and genitals without obstruction from one of buttocks 502 and 504. Once air flow 25 is expelled from air blower outlet 195 it may be uniformly distributed around intergluteal cleft 510 to efficiently and quickly dry water droplets 15 sprayed onto the anus and genitals with a nozzle of bidet 100. The air expelled can therefore dry the entire cleaned area, for example, an area of between about 10-25mm in width and 25-35mm in length around the anus and genitals of the user, such as an area of 15mm in width and 30mm in length.

Fig. 2D is a cross-section of the air blower and seat shown in Fig. 2A along line A-A. Bidet 100 includes a base plate 110 which is mounted on a rim of a toilet bowl on the rear side of the bowl. In some example embodiments, base plate 110 supports and/or houses components of bidet 100, e.g. mechanical components as also shown in Figs. 4A-4D.

Optionally, the bottom surface of outlet duct 196 extends beyond an upper surface 22 of the toilet bowl, for example between 5-15mm below upper surface 22, such as 8, 9 or 10mm below upper surface 22. In some embodiments, outlet duct 196 includes a curved section 193 into the toilet bowl followed by an upward tilting section 194 as also shown in the enlarged section of Fig. 2E. This shape of the duct causes the blower outlet to expel air with an upward tilt towards the buttocks potentially resulting in more efficient drying. In some embodiments, the cleaned area is about between 3-8mm below the toilet seat, for example about 4-6mm or 5mm below the toilet seat. The upward tilt of the duct potentially enables the air to be expelled upwards and focus on the washed area.

In some embodiments, the upward tilt of the duct forms an angle a with center line 10, as shown in Fig. 2E for example. In some embodiments, a is between 5-15°, optionally about 8, 9 or 10°.

In some embodiments, the distance between outlet 195 and the cleaned area is less than 85mm, optionally less than 80mm or 75mm potentially enabling expelled air to dry the cleaned area without being faded.

Fig. 2D further depicts an optional heater 191 for heating the air expelled by the blower and a motor 198 for operating the air blower 190. Motor 198 is preferable a high-speed motor that expels air at a high speed for efficient drying of the washed area. For example, motor 198 may be an AC motor which optionally spins at up to 110,000rpm, such as Dyson digital motor V9. The air optionally expels out of outlet 195 in a speed of 15m/s or more. In addition, duct 196 is optionally closed so that no air can escape out of the duct other than through outlet 195. In some embodiments, the bidet further includes a filter 199 for incoming air.

In some exemplary embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, at least one side of outlet duct 196 deviates from outlet 195 and is not parallel to center line 10. For example, as shown, duct 196 includes two opposing sides, 121 and 122. Side 121 is shown with a deviation from center line 10. Optionally, deviated side 121 forms an angle P (Fig. 2A) of between 5-12° with the axis of the duct, for example and angle of about 7, 8 or 9°.

In some embodiments of the invention, the shape of outlet duct 196 is not symmetrical. Fig. 2F illustrates a cross section of outlet duct 196 along lines B and C in Fig. 2A and illustrate a crosssection that is not circle or oval but rather has deviated portions along it circumference.

The outlet duct is optionally between 2-4mm long, such as between 2.5-3mm. Optionally, the width of outlet duct 196 is narrower than the width of outlet 195. Optionally, blower duct 196 is tapered being wider at the side attached to outlet 195 and narrower at the side facing blower motor 198. The width of the blower outlet is optionally between 35mm-60mm, for example between 40mm-50mm or about 40mm, and the blower duct at the side facing the blower motor may have a width of between 30-40mm, for example 32mm, 31mm, 30mm or less

According to a first aspect of the invention, deviated side 121 potentially enables positioning of a water nozzle close to the blower outlet as further shown and described in Figs. 3A- G and 4A-D.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, outlet 195 has a symmetrical shape for even distribution of the air expelled from the outlet. In some embodiments, the width of outlet is made to cover the cleaned area. Optionally, the width of the outlet is larger than the width of the cleaned area. In some embodiments, the width of outlet 195 is between 35 -60mm, for example between 30-50mm or 35-45mm thereby potentially efficiently dry the cleaned area. Optionally, the width of outlet 195 is about 40mm or more.

According to some example embodiments, bidet 100 includes a cover 115 to cover the components mounted on base plate 110. Optionally, a bidet seat 55 may be connected with a hinged connection to cover 115 or base plate 110. In some embodiments, the bidet cover and toilet seat are connected to the bidet using dampers as shown in Fig. 2D for quite closing thereof.

Optionally, a fan 192 may direct heat through air blower 190 and heater 191 may be positioned laterally as shown and heat the air directed into air blower 190. In other example embodiments, air blower 190 extends to an opposite side of bidet 100 (to the left side) or to both sides (right and left). FIGS. 3 A and FIG. 3B are two perspective views of an example base plate of the bidet installed on a toilet, the base plate shown with its mechanical components, both in accordance with some example embodiments. Fig. 3C is an upper view of the example base plate. Figs. 3D and 3E are closer views of the bidet and toilet shown in Fig. 3C. Figs. 3F and 3G are cross sectional views of the bidet cut between the nozzle and blower, showing the nozzle in the bidet without the blower in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

Figs. 4A and 4C illustrate a base plate according to an embodiment of the invention without toilet bowl or seat before extension of the nozzle and Figs. 4B and 4D show the same after extension of the nozzle.

In some example embodiments, base plate 110 supports and/or houses components of bidet 100, e.g. mechanical components. According to some example embodiments, an air blower 190 and a nozzle outer housing 180 of bidet 100 are both mounted on base plate 110.

According to some example embodiments, base plate 110 of bidet 100 is mounted on a rim of toilet bowl 20 on the rear side of toilet bowl 20. Optionally, base plate 110 extends past the rim of toilet bowl 20 and over the open volume of toilet bowl 20. Optionally, the base plate extends between 25-55mm past the toilet rim, such as between 30-50mm, for example, 35, 40 or 45mm past the rim.

Base plate 110 may include a surface 310 that sits flat on the rim of toilet bowl 20 and may also include a surface 312 partially covering the toilet opening 52, for example as shown in Figs. 3F and 3G. Front surface 314 is optionally shaped matching the ring of the toilet bowl thereby enabling the sides of the base plate to be longer than the portion covering the toilet opening, for example as shown in Fig. 3D.

In some example embodiments, air blower duct 196 is positioned on lower surface 312 of the base plate thereby extending laterally into the toilet bowl for example as shown in FIG. 2B. The lower positioning of the blower duct and outlet potentially enable the air expelled from blower outlet 195 in an upward direction to reach the area to be dried which is generally at or below the toilet seat.

Nozzle outer housing 180 optionally includes a nozzle inner housing 184 and one or two nozzle outlets 185 at its end through which water is expelled. Optionally, nozzle inner housing 184 is telescopically received within nozzle outer housing 180 for operation. Nozzle inner housing is optionally shorter than nozzle outer housing.

The nozzle optionally includes one or more nozzle outlets 185. Optionally, nozzle outlets 185 consist of two nozzle outlets 181 and 186. In some exemplary embodiments, inner housing 184 includes two water channels 1811 and 1861 ending in two nozzle outlets 181 and 186, each connected by a corresponding tubes to a water reservoir. When inner housing 184 extends out of outer housing 180, outlet 186 is adapted to reach the female genitals while outlet 181 is adapted to reach the anus.

As illustrated, nozzle is angled into the toilet bowl such that inner housing 184 extends into the toilet bowl and the water is expelled upwards through outlets 185 towards the area to be cleaned.

In some embodiments, nozzle housing further includes an inlet 183 for receiving washing liquid to wash the nozzle tube 184 and outlet 185 after use. Washing inlet 183 is shown close to the air blower but can also be positioned on the opposite side of nozzle housing in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

According to some example embodiments, air blower 190 is mounted on base plate 110 so that air blower outlet 195 is substantially aligned with center line 10 of bidet 100, e.g. centered along a width of opening 11 of bidet seat 55 (FIG. 2A or FIG. 2B). In some example embodiments, air blower 190 is configured to direct air jets through air blower outlet 195. In some example embodiments, air blower outlet 195 is mounted to extend below base plate 110, e.g. mounted in a cutout formed in base plate 110. Air blower outlet optionally has a symmetric shape so that air will expel evenly out of the outlet without being focused to a specific direction.

In some embodiments, the air blower includes as air blower duct 196 ending in air blower outlet 195 as described with respect to Fig. 2D above. Optionally and optionally, the air jetted from air blower outlet 195 is air that has been warmed. Optionally, air blower 190 is configured to suction air from the room, warm the air and jet the air out from air blower outlet 195.

In some example embodiments, nozzle outer housing 180 is positioned on one side of air blower 190. As shown, nozzle housing 180 is optionally positioned close to duct 196 in a position that would collide with deviated side 121 of the blower duct 196 if side 121 would be parallel to center line 10. Optionally, nozzle 180 is positioned at an angle within the toilet bowl that provides for extending inner housing 184 with distal nozzle outlets 181 and 186 in a direction toward center line 10. Optionally, an edge of inner housing 184 is configured to extend past center line 10, e.g. just past center line 10 so that the water outlets of distal nozzle outlet 185 are centered with respect to center line 10.

In some embodiments, nozzle housing 180 is also angled downwards so that distal nozzle outlet 185 extends lower into toilet bowl 20. Optionally, inner housing 184 is angled downwards so as to pass below blower outlet 195. Optionally and optionally, distal nozzle outlet 185 is extended outwardly toward center line 10 to perform washing and then is retracted into nozzle housing 180 in bidet 100 after washing. Optionally, inner housing 184 with distal nozzle outlet 185 is retracted into bidet 100 during operation of air blower 190. Extension and retraction of distal nozzle outlet 185 may for example be based on telescopic movement of distal nozzle outlet 185 into and out of nozzle outer housing 180.

In some example embodiments, a water heater 187 is also mounted on base plate 110. Optionally, a water inlet port 182 on a same side of base plate 110 including water heater 187 provides receiving water into bidet 100 and the water received is provided to water heater 187. In some example embodiments (not shown), water heater 187 is mounted on base plate 110 on one side of air blower 190 and nozzle housing 180 is mounted on an opposite side of air blower 190. Such arrangement may provide better utilization of space in the retrofit bidet. Optionally, a water pipe from water heater 187 extends over air blower 190 and connected to nozzle housing 180.

Both nozzle housing 180 and air blower 190 are shown to be mounted on an upper facing surface of base plate 110. In some example embodiments, one or more of nozzle housing 180 and air blower 190 may be mounted on a bottom facing surface of base plate 110 facing the volume of toilet bowl 20. Mounting one or more of the components on the bottom facing surface of the base plate may reduce the thickness of the retrofit bidet as the components can extend into the toilet bowl.

In some example embodiments, base plate 110 may additionally support a PCB 111 configured to actuate and/or control operation of the bidet. In some example embodiments, a control panel 130 extending from the base plate includes selection buttons with which a person using the bidet may control its operation during use of the toilet. For example, the user may select washing of the female genitals or anus, through outlets 181 and or 186. Generally, the same drying function is used for both types of washing and is also activated using control panel 130. In some embodiments, washing and drying are separately activated. In other embodiments, the control panel includes an option of washing immediately followed by drying.

In some embodiments, base plate further supports a deodorizer 112. Deodorizer 112 may be selectively controlled to absorb odor during or after the person uses the toilet, optiomally activated by charcoal. Optionally, PCB 111 and deodorizer 112 may be mounted on same side as nozzle housing 180. Alternatively, one or both of PCB 111 and deodorizer 112 are positioned on the opposite side so as to maximize space utilization.

According to some example embodiments, bidet 100 includes a cover 115 to cover the components mounted on base plate 110. Optionally and optionally, a bidet seat 55 may be connected with a hinged connection to cover 115 or base plate 110. Optionally, one or more of the hinged connections include dampers for quite closing of the cover and/or seat. FIGS. 5 A and 5B are simplified drawings of two example shutters for an air blower in accordance with some example embodiments. According to some example embodiments, air blower 190 may include a shutter 197 configured to covering an air channel of air blower 190 while not in use so that dirt and water is prevented from penetrating into air blower 190. Shutter 197 may be mounted on an outer edge of air blower outlet 195 as shown in FIG. 5 A and/or may be mounted internally as shown in FIG. 5B. Optionally, shutter 197 is a passive shutter that is supported with a hinge connection. Flow 25 may be configured to rotate shutter 197 to an open position. While air blowerl90 is not operated, shutter 197 will close based on gravitational pull.

Optionally, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 5A shutter corresponds to the end of base plate 110 potentially avoiding debris to be entered into the blower duct and outlet.

FIG. 6 is a simplified perspective view of a bidet installed on a toilet, shown with the nozzle extended to an operating position in accordance with some example embodiments. As shown, in the operating position inner housing 184 is extending downwards into the toilet bowl and intersects centerline 10 such that water exited through outlets 185 reaches the area to be washed. At least a part of inner housing 184 passes below blower outlet 195 when extended to the operating position.

According to some example embodiments, a toilet 50 may be retrofitted with a bidet 100. Bidet seat 55 may be connected to bidet 100 with a hinged connection, optionally with a damper. Bidet seat 55 may be connected to bidet cover 115 or to bidet base plate 110. According to some example embodiments, air blower outlet 195 is exposed through bidet 100 and is centrally positioned, e.g. centrally aligned with center line 10.

In some embodiments, base plate 100 is attached to toilet bowl 20 using a mounting bracket, as shown in Figs. 7A-7D. Fig. 7A illustrates an exemplary mounting bracket 710 according to some embodiments of the invention which is screwed onto toilet bowl 20 using holes 720 generally provided for attachment of toilet seats. Fig. 7B shows mounting bracket 710 having two generally longer portions 712. Fig. 7C illustrates the bottom side of base plate 110 having an indent 730 matching the shape of mounting bracket 710. Fig. 7D shows mounting bracket 710 attached to base plate 110. The attachment of mounting bracket 710 to base plate 110 is optionally by sliding of the base plate on to the mounting bracket which is screwed to the toilet bowl such that mounting bracket 710 is received in matching indent 730. Optionally, other attachments means such as glue or screws can also be used.

Figs. 8-10 illustrate retrofit bidets according to some embodiments of second, third and fourth aspects of the invention. The aspects of the invention differ in the shape and/or design of the blower duct and/or outlet only as described below. Unless otherwise defined, all other features of the invention described for the first aspect above apply for the second, third and fourth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 8A is a simplified drawing of a blower duct and opening in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the second aspect of the invention. A blower duct 810 is shown having a cut-off portion 812 on one side of the blower duct. The opening extends from an end portion of the duct till the blower outlet 814. Figs. 8B illustrates a nozzle outer housing 820 and a nozzle inner housing 822 in operating position when the nozzle inner housing extends out of nozzle outer housing 820. As shown in Fig. 8B, cut-off portion 812 potentially enables nozzle inner housing to extend out of outer housing 820 without colliding with the blower duct. In some embodiments, housings 820 and 822 correspond to housings 180 and 184 described above.

In some embodiments, reducing effectiveness of the blower by cut-off portion 812, is potentially avoided by closing cut-off portion 812 of blower with a shutter when the blower is functioning and the nozzle is retracted into the outer housing (not shown). Alternatively, the outer housing of the nozzle is positioned such as to block air from exiting the cut-off portion in the nozzle outlet.

Even distribution of air from the blower outlet is potentially assured by positioning the shutter and/or outer nozzle housing in the cut-off portion such that the outlet with the blocked portion forms a symmetrical shape, for example and ellipse.

Figs. 9 A is a simplified upper view of a blower duct in accordance with some embodiments of a third aspect of the invention. Fig. 9B is a cross-section along line A-A in Fig. 9A. As shown, blower duct 930 does not extend to the rim of the toilet bowl, rather blower outlet 940 is positioned before the end of base plate 950. This structure potentially enables inner housing 960 of the water nozzle not to collude with the dryer duct and outlet when extended. The shorter length of the blower duct potentially enables the inner housing of the nozzle to extend to a position where the outlet would be if extended to the rim.

In some embodiments, the motor of the blower of the third aspect of the invention is stronger than the motor of the first aspect described above thereby compensate for the larger distance between the blower outlet and the area to be dried. For example, the blower may be actuated at a speed of at least 20m/s so as to reach the area to be dried efficiently. The nozzle is optionally similar to the nozzle described with respect to the first aspect of the invention above.

Figs. 10A and B are simplified drawings of a blower duct and nozzle in accordance with some embodiments of a fourth aspect of the invention. Fig. 10A illustrates the nozzle in retracted configuration and Fig. 10B illustrates the nozzle in extended configuration. As shown, nozzle 970 is positioned aside an air blower duct and opening and being angled into the toilet bowl such that when extended the inner nozzle housing will pass below the outlet opening. Nozzles according to this aspect may be longer than nozzles in the first, second and third aspects of the invention described above. For example, the outer housing of the nozzle in the fourth aspect may be between 130-150mm, for example 135, 140, 145mm or more. The inner housing is optionally shorter than the outer housing and may be about 90-110mm long.

In some embodiments, the bidet according to the fourth aspect is higher than bidets of the first, second and third aspect thereby potentially enable the longer nozzle to be positioned therein at an angle from the toilet bowl. For example, the bidet of the fourth aspect may have a height of between 130-170mm, such as 150, 155 or 160mm. In other embodiments (not shown), the nozzle of the fourth aspect may include an intermediate housing which will potentially enable telescopic extension of the nozzle when activated without requiring a higher bidet. In these embodiments, the nozzle may be thicker and the height of the bidet may be 140, 130mm or less.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below find experimental support in the following example.

EXAMPLES

Reference is now made to the following examples, which together with the above descriptions illustrate some embodiments of the invention in a non-limiting fashion.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A and 11B respectively showing before and after photographs depicting a drying process of a known bidet for a toilet where the blower is not positioned along a centerline of the toilet bowl. FIGS. 11A and 1 IB show a layer of material with a wet spot 750 shown as a dark blotch. The layer of material was positioned on a buttocks shaped structure positioned on a toilet including bidet 900 as described in reference to FIGS. 1A and IB. After 30 seconds of drying with air blower 920, blotch 750 can be seen as only partially dried.

FIGS. 11C and 11D are respectively before and after photographs depicting a drying process of an example bidet for a toilet in accordance with some example embodiments. FIGS. 7C and 7D also show a layer of material with a wet spot 750 shown as a dark blotch. The layer of material was positioned on a buttocks shaped structure positioned on a toilet including bidet 100 as described in reference to FIGS. 3 A and 3B. After 30 seconds of drying with air blower 190 of bidet 100, blotch 750 disappeared, e.g. is completely dried. Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

It is the intent of the applicant that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is/are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its/their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A retrofit bidet for a toilet having a toilet bowl and a toilet seat, the toilet comprising a center line extending between a rear side and a front side of said toilet bowl and centered along a width of said toilet bowl and/or centered along a width of an opening defined by the toilet seat, the bidet comprising: a base plate configured for being mounted on a toilet bowl of the toilet; an air blower configured for generating a flow of air, said air blower mounted on said base plate and including an air blower duct ending in an air blower outlet through which said flow of air is expelled, wherein said air blower outlet is positioned to be centrally aligned with the center line; a nozzle mounted on said base plate, wherein said nozzle comprises a nozzle outer housing and a nozzle inner housing configured to extend from said outer housing to an operating position to intersect said centerline and retract toward said inner housing while not in use; a toilet seat for being mounted on the base plate, wherein said air blower duct comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, wherein the first side is positioned next to the nozzle and is not parallel to said centerline.

2. The bidet of claim 1, wherein said blower duct is narrower than said blower outlet.

3. The bidet of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said second side of said blower duct is not parallel to said first side of the blower duct.

4. The bidet of any of claims 1-3 wherein said blower duct has a tapered shape being narrower at the side of the duct attached to a blower motor and wider at a side of the duct of the blower outlet.

5. The bidet according to any of claims 1-4, where the outer shape of the blower duct is not symmetrical.

6. The bidet of any of claims 1-5, wherein at least a bottom portion of said air blower outlet extends below an upper surface of said toilet bowl when said base plate is mounted on said toilet bowl.

7. The bidet of any of claims 1-6, wherein a bottom surface of said air blower duct has a curved section followed by an upward facing section.

8. The bidet of any of claims 1-7, wherein said nozzle is angled into said toilet bowl.

9. The bidet of any one of claims 1-8, wherein said nozzle inner housing extends below a height of said blower outlet at said operating position.

10. The bidet of any one of claims 1-9, wherein said air blower is configured for blowing one or more jets of warm air.

11. The bidet of any one of claims 1-10, wherein said nozzle and/or said air blower is mounted on an upper facing surface of said base plate.

12. The bidet of any one of claims 1-10, wherein said nozzle and/or said air blower is mounted on bottom facing surface of said base plate.

13. The bidet of any one of claims 1-12, wherein said air blower includes a shutter configured for covering an air passage opening through said air blower and wherein said shutter is mounted within said air blower distal from said air blower outlet.

14. The bidet of any one of claims 1-13, wherein said air blower outlet is configured to direct air into said toilet bowl with an upward tilt.

15. The bidet of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the bidet is configured to be removably connected to said toilet bowl.