TW202033147A - Multi-function fixture for a lavatory system - Google Patents

Abstract

A systems and methods for a multi-function lavatory fixture are disclosed. The lavatory fixture includes a first and second leg, where a first end of each leg is configured to be mounted to a deck and a second end of each leg is located over a basin of the lavatory fixture. A connecting section extends between the second ends of each leg and includes outlets to dispense water and soap to wash a user's hands. The fixture also includes indicators located proximate each of the outlets to indicate to the user the location of each outlet. A sensor located near each outlet identifies the presence of a user's hands near the outlet and dispenses water and soap, accordingly. A controller within the lavatory fixture receives inputs from each sensor and activates the appropriate pump or valve to deliver the desired product at the appropriate outlet.

Description

Multifunctional toilet device for toilet system

This application is a continuation-in-part application of US Patent Application No. 16/057,220 filed on August 7, 2018, and claims priority. The U.S. Patent Application No. 16/057,220 was filed on June 8, 2016, and part of the U.S. Patent No. 10,041,236 published on August 7, 2018, is a continuation application and claims its priority. The entire contents of these two applications are incorporated herein by reference.

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 29/593,674 filed on February 10, 2017, and claims priority, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. .

The present invention generally relates to the field of toilet systems, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a toilet system with a fixture. In particular, a preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a multifunctional toilet device for a toilet system, where a user receives soap and water to wash his hands, and the multifunctional toilet device provides airflow for drying after washing hands.

As those skilled in the art know, washrooms have traditionally included separate soap dispensers, sinks with faucets, and hand dryers or towel rails. The soap dispenser may be located between the sinks or in a convenient location for multiple sinks. When the user uses the soap liquid, the excess soap liquid may drip from the soap dispenser. If the user puts his hand under the faucet in advance, wet his hand first, and when the soap is applied, water will drip from the user's hand. If the soap dispenser is not above the sink, the excess soap and/or water will drip on the countertop of the sink or on the floor, and the location of the drip depends on the location of the soap dispenser . In addition, when the user moves between the sink and the dryer or towel rack, the excess water drips from the user’s hand onto the sink countertop or onto the floor. The location of the drip depends on the dryer. Location of dryer or towel rack. It is necessary to move between positions when washing hands, which leads to undesirable confusion in the bathroom.

In order to reduce confusion, it is well known that a soap dispenser can be added next to the faucet, and both are located above the same sink. However, this still requires the user to move to a hand dryer or towel rail. Recently, a toilet system including a drying station has been developed, which is also located above the sink. In this way, the entire process of washing and drying the user's hands can be completed without leaving the sink.

However, so far, compared with the existing toilet system, the above-mentioned positions need to provide more space for each user. Adding a drying station may require a larger sink. In addition, the soap dispenser, faucet, and hand dryer produce three devices. These three devices must be installed on the countertop of the toilet system and arranged around the sink. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a multifunctional toilet device for the toilet system, which can integrate each distribution function, and it can be realized without providing additional space for each user.

The present invention is directed to a multifunctional toilet device for a toilet system, which incorporates every distribution function required by a user to wash hands, and each user does not need additional space. Therefore, the main purpose of the present invention is to provide a multifunctional toilet device that distributes soap and water to users. Another object of the present invention is to provide a user with a visual indicator to guide the user to each distribution area on the multifunctional toilet as needed to receive soap and water. Another object of the present invention is to provide a multi-functional toilet device, which can be installed in the space of an existing hand-washing station. Another object of the present invention is to provide a multifunctional toilet device that has one or more of the above-mentioned features, but uses minimal equipment for relatively simple manufacturing, assembly and maintenance.

The multifunctional toilet device includes a first support post and a second support post, wherein the first end of each support post is configured to be installed on the upper surface of the countertop of the multifunctional toilet device. The support columns extend upward from the countertop and extend forward toward the sink, so that the second end of each support column is located above the sink of the multifunctional toilet. A connecting portion extends between the second ends of each support column and is located above the sink of the multifunctional toilet. The connecting part includes an outlet for distributing soap and water for the user to wash hands. The multifunctional toilet device further includes an indicator close to each outlet to indicate the location of each outlet to the user and/or guide the user to the outlet during hand washing. At least one sensor located near each outlet recognizes that the user's hand is near the outlet, and dispenses soap or water accordingly. The controller in the multifunctional toilet device receives the input from each sensor, and activates the corresponding pump, valve, etc., so as to deliver the required product at the appropriate outlet.

According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above-mentioned objects are achieved by providing a toilet system including a sink and a multifunctional toilet. The multifunctional toilet device extends above the wash basin and is used for distributing soap and water. The device includes a first support column, a second support column spaced apart from the first support column, and a connecting part for connecting the first support column and the second support column. There is a first passage in the first support column, and a second passage in the second support column. The first pipe carries water through the first or second channel, and the second pipe carries soap through the first or second channel. The connecting part includes a first outlet for distributing water and a second outlet for distributing soap.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the multifunctional toilet device is a single casting, the first support column includes a first base, the second support column includes a second base, the first base and The second bases are all set to be connected to the sink. The toilet system includes a countertop surrounding at least a part of the sink, and the countertop has a first hole for accommodating a part of the first base and a second hole for accommodating a part of the second base.

According to other aspects of the present invention, an aerator may be installed near the first outlet. The aerator is provided with an inlet for the first pipe to increase the water vortex. The connecting portion includes an upper surface and a lower surface, and the aerator is almost flush with the lower surface of the connecting portion.

According to other aspects of the present invention, the toilet system includes at least one sensor near the first outlet in the connecting part, and at least one sensor near the second outlet in the connecting part. Further, the lower surface of the connecting portion includes a translucent material, so that the sensor can sense through the translucent material. The toilet system further includes a first indicator identifying the first outlet and a second indicator identifying the second outlet. The control circuit enables each indicator of the first indicator and the second indicator to remind the user where the hand should be placed.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a multifunctional toilet device for a toilet system is disclosed. The multifunctional toilet device for a toilet system has a countertop and a sink located in the countertop. The multifunctional toilet device for toilet system includes a first support column, a second support column and a connecting part. The first support column has a first end, a second end, and a first passage extending between the first end and the second end of the first support column. Similarly, the second support column has a first end, a second end, and a second passage extending between the first end and the second end of the second support column. The connecting portion extends between the first support column and the second support column, and includes a soap outlet and a water outlet. The multifunctional toilet device for toilet system includes a first pipe and a second pipe, and the first pipe carries water through the first support column or the second support column and is transported to the water outlet on the connection part; The second pipe carries the soap liquid through the first supporting column or the second supporting column, and is transported to the soap liquid outlet on the connecting part.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the connecting portion has a first end and a second end. The first end of the connecting portion is connected with the second end of the first supporting column, and the second end of the connecting portion is connected with the second end of the second supporting column. The first end of the first support column includes a first mounting surface, and the first mounting surface is configured to be mounted on the table top. The first mounting surface further includes an opening passing through and communicating with the first passage. Similarly, the first end of the second support column includes a second mounting surface mounted on the countertop, and the second mounting surface also includes an opening penetrating through it and communicating with the second channel.

According to another aspect of the present invention, at least one sensor is close to the water outlet, and at least one sensor is close to the soap outlet. The at least one sensor close to the water outlet is configured to send a signal to the control circuit to dispense water from the water outlet; the at least one sensor close to the soap liquid outlet is configured to send a signal to the control circuit from The soap outlet dispenses soap. Further, the first pipe penetrates the first channel, and the second pipe penetrates the second channel.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a multifunctional toilet device for a hand washing station includes a first support column and a second support column, the support column being substantially r-shaped. The substantially r-shaped first support column includes a first end, a second end, and a first channel passing through the first support column. The substantially r-shaped second support column is separated from the first support column, and the second support column includes a first end, a second end, and a second channel passing through the second support column. The multifunctional toilet device for a washbasin also includes a connecting part having a first end, a second end and a plurality of outlets. The first end of the connecting portion is connected with the second end of the first supporting column, and the second end of the connecting portion is connected with the second end of the second supporting column.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a first outlet of the plurality of outlets is close to the first end of the connecting portion, and a second outlet of the plurality of outlets is close to the second end of the connecting portion. The first pipe is fluidly coupled to the soap pump and extends through the first channel to the first outlet, and the second pipe is fluidly coupled to the water valve and extends through the second channel to the second outlet.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the first indicator is close to the first outlet, and the second indicator is close to the second outlet. Similarly, at least one sensor is close to the first outlet, and at least one sensor is close to the second outlet.

The above and other aspects and objectives of the present invention will be better accepted and understood in combination with the following description and drawing considerations. However, it should be understood that, although the following description shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is given by way of illustration and not limitation. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, many changes and modifications can be made within its scope, and the present invention includes all such modifications.

With reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in the following description, each feature and advantageous details of the present invention will be explained more fully.

Throughout the specification, various terms indicating directions, such as left and right, front and back, top and bottom, top and bottom, etc., may be used. These directions are not intended to limit, but to describe the relationship between the components in the diagram. Unless mutually exclusive, it should be conceived that the positions of these components can be reversed, for example, a component can be turned upside down or upside down without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring first to Figure 1, a lavatory system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The toilet system 10 includes a deck 12, which is arranged to be installed on a wall. Referring to FIG. 5 at the same time, the wall mounts 21 are fixed on the wall, and the countertop 12 is fixed on the wall mounts 21. The countertop 12 has an upper surface 14 and an outer edge 16, and the outer edge 16 extends downward from the upper surface 14 and surrounds the countertop 12. A basin 20 is located inside the countertop 12. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the countertop 12 and the sink 20 can be integrally formed as a single component. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the sink 20 can be installed on the countertop 12. For further consideration, the toilet system 10 may be independent, supported by the floor, and not installed on the wall. In addition to including the wall mount 21, a support frame (not shown in the figure) can extend upward from the floor or other surfaces, and install the toilet system 10 on the surface of the support frame.

The sink 20 is a recessed area below the upper surface 14 of the countertop 12 and is configured to accommodate products distributed to the toilet system. According to the illustrated embodiment, the sink 20 includes a first side wall 22 (see FIG. 3 at the same time) and a second side wall 24, wherein the second side wall 24 is opposite to the first side wall 22. Each of the second side wall 24 and the first side wall 22 is perpendicular to the wall where the toilet system 10 is installed, and is far away from the wall. The sink 20 also includes a third side wall 26 extending downward from the upper edge. The third side wall 26 is connected to the upper surface 14 of the countertop 12 along the rear of the sink 20 and is located between the first side wall 22 and the second side wall 24 extend. Referring to FIG. 5 at the same time, the third side wall 26 extends downward, and its lower end partially forms a drainage pipe 62 at the bottom of the sink 20. The sink 20 also includes a fourth side wall 28 extending downward from the upper edge. The fourth side wall 28 is connected to the upper surface 14 of the countertop 12 along the front of the sink 20, and is also connected to the first side wall 22 and the second side wall 24. Extend between. The fourth side wall 28 of the hand basin 20 slopes inwardly and downwardly from the front edge of the hand basin 20 to the front edge of the drainage pipe 62. Although the hand basin 20 has been described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiment, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can understand that the hand basin 20 can adopt various shapes without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The toilet system 10 includes a housing 40 that is located below the countertop 12 and extends around the lower portion of the toilet system 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing 40 includes a first side 42 and a second side 44, wherein the second side 42 is opposite to the first side 44. The rear edges of the first side 42 and the second side 44 are both adjacent to the wall where the toilet system 10 is installed. Both the first side 42 and the second side 44 extend forward and are perpendicular to the wall. The front surface 46 of the housing 40 extends downward and extends rearward from the lower surface 15 of the countertop 12. The front surface 46 extends to the height of the first side 42 and the second side 44. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first side 42, the second side 44 and the front surface 46 all extend to the floor. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the first side 42, the second side 44 and the front surface 46 all extend to a certain height above the floor. The front surface 46 is inclined rearward from the ground direction adjacent to the lower surface 15 of the countertop 12. It should be understood that if the housing does not extend to the floor, the housing 40 includes a bottom surface (not shown in the figure). Optionally, the housing may open on the bottom defined by the first side 42, the second side 44, the front surface 46 and the outer edge of the wall on which the toilet system 10 is installed. The housing 40 encloses the components of the toilet system 10 located under the countertop 12 to protect these components and provide an aesthetic appearance for the toilet system 10. Although the housing 40 has been described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiment, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can understand that the housing 40 may adopt various shapes without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The toilet system 10 also includes a drain system 60 that extends longitudinally across the width of the sink 20. Referring to FIGS. 18 to 21 at the same time, the drainage system 60 includes a drain channel 62 and a drain cap 70. According to the illustrated embodiment, the drainage pipe 62 is substantially U-shaped. The drainage pipe 62 includes a rear wall 63 and a front wall 64 extending in the width direction of the wash basin 20. The rear wall 63 of the drainage pipe 62 may be coplanar with the third side wall 26 of the sink 20 and form a continuous surface. Optionally, the drainage pipe 62 is offset from the third side wall 26 of the sink 20 to form a channel on the lower surface (not shown) of the sink 20. The drainage pipe 62 includes a lower surface 65 which also extends in the width direction of the sink 20 between the rear wall 63 and the front wall 64. The opening 66 in the lower surface 65 of the drain pipe 62 allows the waste water in the sink 20 to be discharged into a drain pipe 90 (as shown in FIG. 5). The outer edge of the drain 66 includes a pair of grooves 68, one of the grooves 68 is located behind the drain 66, and the other groove 68 is located in front of the drain 66. Each groove 68 is configured to receive a protrusion 76 at the drain cover 70, as discussed in more detail below.

The drain pipe cover 70 is detachably installed in the drain system 60. The drain cover 70 includes a front surface 72, a rear surface 74 and an upper surface 73, wherein the upper surface 73 spans between the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74, and the front surface 72, the rear surface 74 and the upper surface 73 are all along the drainage pipe The width of 62 extends. Both the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 have protrusions 76, and the protrusions 76 extend downward from the respective surfaces. The protrusion 76 includes a first surface 77 and a second surface 78. The first surface 77 is substantially coplanar with the corresponding front surface 72 or the rear surface 74 and protrudes downward; the second surface 78 is substantially perpendicular to the first surface 77 and Protruding outward. Preferably, the drain pipe cover 70 and the protrusion 76 are made of sheet material, such as stainless steel. The thickness of the sheet material provides sufficient rigidity so that the drain pipe cover 70 can maintain its desired shape when removed from the drain pipe 62. However, the width of each protrusion 76 and the thickness of the sheet material used for the drain cover 70 enable the protrusion 76 to deflect inwardly when a force is applied. This force is, for example, a force that may be applied when the drain pipe cover 70 is inserted into the drain pipe. When the drain pipe cover 70 is inserted into the drain pipe, each protrusion 76 is deflected inward, and each protrusion 76 is inserted through the groove 68 at the edge of the drain 66. The height of the first surface 77 of the protrusion 76 is equal to or greater than the thickness of the lower surface 65 of the drainage pipe 62. In this way, when the drainage pipe cover 70 is continuously inserted, the protrusion 76 extends through the lower surface 65. The material from which the protrusion 76 is made is elastic, and once the protrusion 76 has completely passed through the opening 66 in the drainage pipe 62, it will return to its original position. The second surface 78 of each protrusion 76 extends below the lower surface 65 of the drainage pipe, so that the drainage pipe cover 70 is always kept in the drainage pipe 62. Pressure is applied to each protrusion 76 to bias the protrusion 76 inward again by a sufficient distance, so that the second surface 78 moves from below the lower surface 65 and the edge of the opening 66 of the drain pipe 62, thereby causing the drain pipe cover 70 to move. Remove from the drainage pipe 62.

Further consideration, the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 of the drain pipe cover 70 each include a series of bumpers 75, which are attached to the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 and run along the drain pipe. The cover 70 is arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction. The buffer 75 is assembled between the front surface 72 of the drain pipe cover 70 and the front wall 64 of the drain pipe 62 and at the same time between the rear surface 74 of the drain pipe cover 70 and the rear wall 63 of the drain pipe 62. The bumper 75 defines a press fit between the surfaces and helps the drainage pipe cover 70 to align with the drainage pipe 62. In addition, since the drain pipe cover 70 is preferably made of metal material, such as stainless steel, and the sink 20 and the drain pipe 62 are preferably made of synthetic resin material, stone or a combination of materials, when the drain pipe cover 70 is inserted or removed from the drain pipe At this time, the buffer 75 helps prevent the drain pipe cover 70 from damaging the drain pipe 62.

Further, the upper surface 73 of the drain pipe cover 70 may be configured to guide the direction of the air flow distributed from the device 100. As will be discussed in more detail below, the multifunctional toilet device 100 can effectively distribute the airflow into the wash basin 20 after the user washes his hands to dry the user's hands. With further reference to Figs. 32 to 37, the direction of airflow is indicated by arrows in Figs. 32 to 37. The air flows downward from the multifunctional toilet device 100 and first hits the fourth side wall 48 of the sink 20, and the fourth side wall 48 slopes downwards to the rear of the sink 20. The airflow flows to the drainage duct 62 approximately along the slope of the fourth side wall 48.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the drain pipe cover 70 may be arranged to guide the air flow toward the third side wall 26 of the sink 20. Referring to FIG. 22, the front surface 72 of the drain pipe cover 70 may be longer than the rear surface 74. Therefore, the upper surface 73 slopes downward from the front wall 64 to the rear wall 63 of the drainage duct 62. The first angle α is defined as the angle between the rear surface 74 of the drain pipe cover 70 and the upper surface 73, and the first angle α is an obtuse angle. The second angle β is defined as the angle between the front surface 72 of the drain pipe cover 70 and the upper surface 73, and the second angle β is an acute angle. As shown in FIG. 22, the drain pipe cover 70 can be arranged such that its upper surface 73 is coplanar with the fourth side wall 28 of the sink 20. Air continues to flow from the fourth side wall 28 of the hand basin along the upper surface 73 of the drain pipe cover 70 until it intersects the third side wall 26 of the hand basin 20. Then, the air deflects left and right along the third side wall 26 of the sink 20 and the upper surface 73 of the drain cover 70 to flow toward the first side wall 22 and the second side wall 24 of the sink 20.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the drain pipe cover 70 may be configured to guide the airflow to flow upward along the third side wall 26 of the sink 20. Referring to FIG. 23, the front surface 72 of the drain pipe cover 70 is shorter than the rear surface 74. Therefore, the upper surface 73 is inclined upward from the front wall 64 to the rear wall 63 of the drainage duct 62. The first angle α is defined as the angle between the rear surface 74 of the drain pipe cover 70 and the upper surface 73, and the first angle α is an acute angle. The second angle β is defined as the included angle between the front surface 72 of the drain pipe cover 70 and the upper surface 73, and the second angle β is an obtuse angle. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the drain pipe cover 70 is arranged such that the upward angle of its upper surface 73 is similar to the downward angle of the fourth side wall 28 of the sink 20. When the air continues to flow from the fourth side wall 28 of the sink to the upper surface 73 of the drain cover 70, the air is deflected upward. When the airflow intersects the third side wall 26 of the sink 20, the air further deflects left and right along the third side wall 26 of the sink. Therefore, compared to the flow along the upper surface 73 of the drain pipe cover 70 described above (Figure 22), the airflow flows along the third side wall 26 in a substantially upward and outward manner, as shown in Figure 34B, toward the second sink of the sink. A side wall 22 and a second side wall 24.

Next, referring to Figs. 24 to 27, another embodiment of the drainage system 60 is shown. In this embodiment, the depth of the drainage pipe 62 is increased. The front wall 64 and the rear wall 63 are tapered inwardly toward the drain pipe 62 so that when the drain pipe cover 70 is inserted into the drain pipe 62, the upper surface 73 of the drain pipe cover 70 is aligned in the aforementioned manner. Optionally, a number of protrusions 76 may be molded along the front wall 64 and the rear wall 63, wherein the front wall 64 and the rear wall 63 may respectively support the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 of the drain cover 70.

A drain plate 80 is inserted into the drain pipe 62 to divide the drain pipe 62 into two chambers. The upper chamber 81 is defined as the space between the drain pipe cover 70 and the drain plate 80, and the lower chamber 83 is defined as the space between the drain plate 80 and the lower surface 65 of the drain pipe 62. Several support members 82 are integrally formed in the front wall 64 and the rear wall 63 of the drainage pipe 62 to support the drainage plate 80. Each support 82 extends from the lower surface 65 of the drainage pipe 62 and extends to a part of the height of the drainage pipe 62. Each support member 82 protrudes a short distance from the rear wall 64 and the front wall 63 into the drainage pipe 62. This short distance can support the drainage plate 80 while allowing water to flow along the drainage pipe 62. The width of the drainage plate 80 is approximately equal to the channel width at the top of the support 82 so that the drainage plate 80 can be placed in the channel and rest on each support 82.

Further, the drainage plate 80 includes a number of openings 84 arranged at intervals along its longitudinal direction, so that water flows from the upper chamber 81 to the lower chamber 83. According to the embodiment of the drawings, each opening 84 is located at the outer edge of the drainage plate 80 and extends longitudinally along the drainage plate 80. The openings 84 and the supporting members 82 are alternately spaced so that water can flow out from the upper chamber 81 through the opening 84, flow between adjacent supporting members 82, and flow into the lower chamber 83.

The lower chamber 83 is in fluid communication with the drain port 66. Therefore, when water is distributed to the sink 20, it flows to the drainage pipe 62 along the fourth side wall 28 of the sink 20. Water flows along each edge of the drain pipe cover 70 and enters the upper chamber 81, while other debris is discharged from the drain pipe 62 by the drain pipe cover 70. Then, the water flows to the drain port 66 along the upper surface 73 of the drain plate 80. When water flows along the upper surface 73 of the drainage plate 80, it falls into the lower chamber 83 through one of the openings 84. Once in the lower chamber 83, the water will flow to the drain 66 and out from the sink 20 to the drain 90.

Next, referring to Figs. 28 to 31, another embodiment of the drainage system 60 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the drainage system 60 also includes two chambers for guiding water to the drainage port 66. The first chamber (referred to as the upper chamber 81) is defined by the drainage pipe 62 and the drainage pipe cover 70, and is basically the same as discussed above in conjunction with FIGS. 18-22. The second chamber (referred to as the lower chamber 83) is integrally formed in the lower surface of the sink 20. According to the illustrated embodiment, the pipe 89 is integrally formed along the rear and the lower part of the sink 20. It should be conceivable that the pipe 89 is located under the drainage pipe 62 and is overmolded so that it is integrally formed with the sink 20. Preferably, the second housing element can be fixed at the bottom of the sink 20 and fixed along the length of the drainage pipe 62. The second housing element may be arranged to support the pipe 89 located below the drainage pipe 62 as described above.

Regardless of whether the pipe 89 is integrally formed or separately installed under the sink 20, an opening 84 is formed through the lower surface 65 of the drain pipe 62 and enters the pipe 89. For example, the opening 84 may be formed by drilling through the lower surface 65 and extending into the pipe 89. The opening 84 establishes fluid communication between the first chamber (referred to as the upper chamber 81) and the second chamber (referred to as the lower chamber 83). Therefore, when water is distributed to the sink 20, it flows to the drainage pipe 62 along the fourth side wall 28 of the sink 20. The water flows along each edge of the drain pipe cover 70 and enters the first chamber (referred to as the upper chamber 81), and other sundries are discharged from the drain pipe 62 by the drain pipe cover 70. Then, the water flows to the drain 66 along the lower surface 65 of the first chamber (referred to as the upper chamber 81). When water flows along the lower surface 65 of the first chamber (referred to as the upper chamber 81), part of the water falls into the second chamber (referred to as the lower chamber 83) through one of the openings 84. Part of the water in the second chamber (referred to as the lower chamber 83) also flows to the drain 66. Regardless of whether it flows in the first chamber (referred to as the upper chamber 81) or the second chamber (referred to as the lower chamber 83), the water reaches the drain 66 and flows out from the sink 20 to the drain 90.

Although the drainage pipe 62 and the drainage pipe cover 70 are described in detail in conjunction with the embodiment of the drawings, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can understand that the drainage pipe 62 and the drainage pipe cover 70 can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. Different shapes are adopted in which the drain pipe cover 70 and the drain pipe 62 remain complementary for insertion and removal.

Next, referring to FIGS. 35 to 37, the sink 20 may be further configured to recirculate at least a part of the air flow distributed from the multifunctional toilet device 100. In addition to directing the airflow to the sides or rear of the sink 20, the sink 20 may also include a ridge 27 protruding above the sink 20 to collect part of the airflow. The ridge 27 may extend around the first side wall 22, the second side wall 24, or the third side wall 26 of the sink 20 to capture air flowing at the side or behind the sink 20. Optionally, a channel 29 may be formed on the rear side of the wash basin 20, and the channel 29 guides the air flow back to the outside of the wash basin 20 under the countertop 12. The air flow may be directed to a return duct 33 which in turn provides air to the inlet of the fan 210. Preferably, a filter 354 is included between the return duct 33 and the inlet of the fan 210 to remove water, soap, dirt and other dirt from the air flow before the air returns to the fan 210.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the sink 20 includes an opening on the side. The opening may include several louvers 31 to prevent the water dispensed from the multifunctional toilet device 100 from entering it. Air flows flowing upwards on both sides can enter the opening. Similar to the embodiment including the ridge 27, a channel 29 may be provided at the rear of the sink 20 to guide the air flow back to the fan 210.

The toilet system 10 also includes a multifunctional toilet device 100, which is located at each washstand used in the toilet system 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, the toilet system 10 includes two sinks. It should be conceivable that the toilet system 10 may be provided with a separate sink and only one device 100, or alternatively, the toilet system 10 may be provided with three or more sinks, each of which has a separate device 100 . The width of the toilet system will vary according to the number of existing sinks.

Next, referring to Figures 6 to 10, a multifunctional toilet device 100 for the toilet system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The multifunctional toilet device 100 includes a pair of support columns 110 (as shown in Figure 11). Viewed from the front, the first support column 110a is located on the right side of the multifunctional toilet device 100, and the second support column 110b is located on the left side of the multifunctional toilet device 100. The first supporting column 110a and the second supporting column 110b are mirror-symmetrical about the central axis 101 of the multifunctional toilet device 100. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, the single support column 110 will be discussed in detail, and its content will also apply to the first support column 110a and the second support column 110b. Similarly, the first end 112 and the second end of the support column 110 114, the mounting surface 113, the bent portion 115, and the base 130, the contents of which will also apply to the first end 112a, the second end 114a, the mounting surface 113a, the bent portion 115a, the base 130a and the first support column 110a The first end 112b, the second end 114b, the mounting surface 113b, the bent portion 115b, and the base 130b of the second support column 110b.

According to the embodiment of the drawings (as shown in Figures 11 to 13), the support column 110 has a first end 112 and a second end 114. The first end 112 is mounted on the countertop 12, and the second end 114 extends over the sink. 20 above. The mounting surface 113 on the first end 112 of the supporting column 110 is engaged with the upper surface 14 of the table top 12. The support column 110 includes a substantially rectangular cross-section whose size decreases between the first end 112 and the second end 114 of the support column 110. When installed on the table top 12, the support column 110 extends upward from the table top 12 while tilting forward. Viewed from the side, the support column 110 is roughly r-shaped. The support column 110 extends upward from the countertop 12 and extends forward to the sink 20. After extending a certain height H, the supporting column 110 has a bent portion 115 so that it protrudes a certain length L on a substantially horizontal plane until the second end 114 of the supporting column 110 is located above the sink 20.

Referring to FIG. 11 at the same time, the first end 112 of each support column 110 is configured to be installed on the table top 12. The opening 111 extends through the mounting surface 113 and communicates with the channel 120 in the support column 110. A base 130 is accommodated in the opening 111, and the base 130 fixes the multifunctional toilet device 100 to the countertop 12. The base 130 also includes a channel 139 extending therethrough, and the channel 139 is in fluid communication with the channel 120 in the support column 110. According to the embodiment of the drawings, the base 130 includes a first end 132 and a second end 134, the first end 132 is configured to be inserted into the supporting column 110, and the second end 134 is configured to be inserted into the opening of the countertop 12. The opening 111 in the support column 110 includes an internal thread, and the inner edge of the thread is matched with the external thread of the first end 132 of the base 130. Therefore, the base 130 is rotatably inserted into the opening 111, so that the screw is engaged, and the base 130 is reliably fixed on the support column 110. It should be conceivable that the base 130 may be fixed on the support column 110 in other ways, for example, by snap-fitting or other suitable fixing methods. According to another embodiment, the base 130 and the support column 110 are integrally formed, so that a part of the support column 110 extends through the opening to fix the multifunctional toilet device 100 to the countertop 12. The second cross section 136 of the base 130 is longitudinally displaced along the base 130 so that it is arranged to be at least partially located under the table 12. The second cross section 136 includes an external thread for receiving a nut 135, and the upper surface 137 of the nut 135 is configured to be engaged with the lower surface of the countertop 12. In order to fix the multifunctional toilet device 100 on the countertop 12, the base 130 is fixed on each support column 110 and inserted through the opening in the countertop 12. The nut 135 is screwed on the base from below the countertop, so that the upper surface 137 of the nut 135 and the mounting surface 113 of the support column 110 are engaged with the opposite surface of the countertop 12 and fix the multifunctional toilet device 100 on the countertop 12.

The connecting portion 140 extends between the second ends 114 of each support column 110. The connecting portion 140 has a first end 142 and a second end 144. The first end 142 of the connecting portion 140 is connected to the second end 114a of the first supporting column 110a, and the second end 144 of the connecting portion 140 is connected to the second supporting column 110b. The second end 114b. The cross section of the first end 142 of the connecting portion 140 is the same as the cross section of the second end 114a of the first supporting column 110a, and the cross section of the second end 144 of the connecting portion 140 is the same as the second end 114b of the second supporting column 110b. The cross section is the same. Therefore, when the multifunctional toilet device 100 transitions between each support column 110 and the connecting portion 140, it appears as a continuous component. In addition, it should be conceivable that at least a part of the first support column 110a, the second support column 110b, and the connecting portion 140 may be cast or otherwise manufactured as a whole. Therefore, although the end of the support column 110 and the end of the connecting portion 140 are defined, the position of the end is only for illustrative purposes, and it can be along the support column or the connecting portion 140 without departing from the scope of the present invention.的axial movement.

The connection part 140 includes a plurality of outlets for distributing products on the sink 20 of the toilet system 10. The first outlet 160 is used to distribute soap, the second outlet 180 is used to distribute water, and the third outlet 200 is used to distribute air. The first outlet 160, the second outlet 180, and the third outlet 200 are arranged at intervals along the connecting portion 140, so that the user is between the first outlet 160, the second outlet 180, and the third outlet 200 along the connecting portion 140 during hand washing. mobile. Each support column 110 includes a channel 120 positioned inside it for conveying product to one of the outlets (first outlet 160, second outlet 180, third outlet 200). The soap and water can be transported to their respective outlets through pipes that extend upward from under the countertop 12 through the channels 120 in the support columns 110. The passage 120 in the support column 110 is configured as a ventilation pipe to at least partially convey air from the blower located under the countertop 12 to the air outlet. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16 at the same time, an exemplary cross-sectional view of the channel 120 in each support column 110 is shown. The channel 120b in the second support column 110b has the largest cross-sectional area and provides space for the soap liquid-carrying pipe 162 and the water-carrying pipe 182 to pass through the channel 120b. The channel 120a in the first support column 110a has a cross-sectional area closely corresponding to the channel 139 in the base 130a. By making the cross-sectional area of the channel 120a in the support column 110a correspond to the cross-sectional area of the channel 139 in the base 130a, when air enters the support column 110a from the base 130a, the turbulence of the airflow is reduced. Then, the channel 120a of the support column 110 forms a pipe through which air is transported to the air outlet 200.

The connecting part 140 also includes an indicator for the user to recognize the position of each outlet. According to the embodiment of the drawings (refer to FIG. 6 and FIG. 14), the opening 103 is located at the front edge of the connecting portion 140, and an indicator can be displayed across the opening 103. LED305 (such as multi-color light-emitting diodes), or red-green-blue LED array (see Figure 17), is located behind each opening 103. It should be conceived that each opening 103 may have a lens or a translucent material, instead of preventing soap, water, dirt or other contaminants from entering the opening of the multifunctional toilet device 100. The LED305 can emit different colors according to the operation or blinking to attract the user's attention to the corresponding position. Optionally, a larger display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), can provide the user with graphics or other visual indications to illustrate the purpose of each outlet located by the indicator.

The soap distribution system includes a soap tank, a soap pump, and a pipe connecting the soap pump to the soap outlet 160. The reservoir 310 and the pump 316 are shown in the form of a block diagram in FIG. 17. The soap tank 310 includes a level detection switch 312, such as a float switch, which generates a level detection signal 314 corresponding to the remaining amount in the soap tank 310 and provides it to the control Circuit (control circuit) 302. The soap pump 316 is activated by one or more sensors 301 in the multifunctional toilet device 100, and the sensors detect the presence of the user's hand through the soap outlet 160. The soap pump 316 draws the soap from the soap tank 310 and delivers it to the pipe 162, which is connected between the soap pump 316 and the soap outlet 160. The pipe extends in the channel 120 in the first support column 110 a or the second support column 110 b and enters the connecting portion 140 in the multifunctional toilet device 100. In the connecting part 140, the pipe 162 is installed on the nozzle 164, and the nozzle 164 extends through the outlet 160. The soap is discharged from the nozzle 164 through the outlet 160 to the user's hand.

The water distribution system includes one or more water inlet pipes 322, one or more valves (water valves) 320, and one or more water outlet pipes 324 connected to the water supply system to supply water to the water outlet 180. The water inlet pipe 322 may be connected to a cold water source, a hot water source or a mixed water source, where the mixed water source includes a mixture of hot water and cold water. The present invention hopes to provide users with water at a comfortable temperature. Therefore, a mixing valve may be provided in front of the water inlet pipe 322, which mixes the hot and cold water in proportion to provide water of an ideal temperature. Optionally, the valve 320 may be a mixing valve, including a water inlet pipe 322 from a cold water source and a water inlet pipe 322 from a hot water source. The control signal 326 from the control circuit 302 can control the valve 320 not only to open or close, but also to mix the cold and hot water in a proportional manner to provide water of an ideal temperature. The water outlet pipe 324 extending from the valve 320 is connected to the water outlet 180 through the second pipe 182. An aerator 400 may be provided in the water outlet 180, the aerator 400 includes a water inlet 402, and a water outlet pipe 324 extending from the valve 320 is connected to the water inlet 402.

Next, referring to FIGS. 38 to 43, an embodiment of an aerator 400 is illustrated. The aerator 400 includes an upper housing 410 and a lower housing 450. According to the embodiment of the drawings (as shown in FIGS. 38 to 43), the upper housing 410 is integrally formed with a removable plate 190, and the movable plate 190 can be inserted into the connecting portion 140 of the multifunctional toilet device 100 Open the bottom surface and remove it from it. The upper housing 410 includes two substantially cylindrical chambers. An intake chamber 420 is formed in the upper part of the upper housing 410. The first wall section 412 of the upper housing 410 extends downward from the upper surface 411 of the upper housing 410. The first wall section 412 is connected to the upper surface 411 at a substantially curved edge that extends along the outer circumference of the upper housing 410. The intake chamber 420 has a first diameter defined by the inner edge of the first wall section 412. An outlet chamber 430 is formed in the lower part of the upper housing 410. The second wall section 414 extends downward from the first wall section 412 to the lower edge 416 of the upper housing 410. The diameter of the second wall section 414 is greater than the diameter of the first wall section 412, and the substantially curved edge connects the first wall section 412 and the second wall section 414. The lower surface of the upper housing 410 is generally open, and the lower edge 416 defines a substantially circular opening into which the lower housing 450 can be inserted. The inner surface 415 of the second wall section 414 is threaded and engages with matching threads on the outer peripheral surface 460 of the lower housing 450. According to other embodiments of the present invention, it should be conceived that the lower housing 450 can be fixed to the upper housing 410 by other methods, including, for example, by snap fit, cam lock, pin, screw, or other suitable fasteners.

The water inlet 402 extends outward from the first wall section 412 and defines a fluid communication path between the second pipe 182 through which water flows and the air inlet chamber 420. The water inlet 402 is generally cylindrical and includes a channel 404 extending axially through the water inlet 402. The second pipe 182 can be press-fitted on the first end 401 of the water inlet 402, and the second end 403 of the water inlet 402 and the first wall section 412 are integrally formed. Preferably, the second end 403 of the water inlet 402 is connected to one side of the upper housing 410. The water flowing through the second pipe 182 enters the channel 404 and flows out along the inner edge of the first wall section 412. The water is supplied with sufficient pressure so that the water rotates inside the intake chamber 420 along the inner edge of the first wall section 412.

The lower case 450 is a substantially cylindrical disk, and is configured to be inserted into the upper case 410. As mentioned above, the outer peripheral surface 460 of the lower housing 450 is threaded so that the lower housing 450 can rotatably engage with the complementary threaded inner surface 415 of the upper housing 410. The disc includes an upper surface 462 and a lower surface 464 opposite to the upper surface 462. A plurality of channels 470 extend between the upper surface 462 and the lower surface 464. The upper surface 462 slopes upward from the outer edge to its center, forming a generally conical surface. A plurality of nozzles 480 protrude downward from the lower surface 464. One of the channels 470 extends through each nozzle 480, and the nozzle 480 defines a water outlet 180 for the multifunctional toilet device 100. Since water enters the intake chamber 420 along the inner edge and rotates around the chamber, the water can fill the chamber more evenly than when it enters the chamber at the center and hits the opposite surface of the chamber. Then, the water flows out of the intake chamber 420 through each nozzle 480 at a substantially uniform pressure and flow rate.

Although the aerator 400 has been described according to the embodiment of the drawings, it should be conceived that other elements may be used to form the aerator 400 without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the aerator 400 may be formed of a single housing, that is, the upper housing 410 and the lower housing 450 are integrally formed, and fixedly or movably installed in the connecting portion 140 of the multifunctional toilet device 100.

The air distribution system includes a fan 210 located below the countertop 12, and the fan 210 is used to deliver air to the air outlet 200. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the fan 210 includes a centrifugal fan driven by a motor. The motor can run at variable speeds to adjust the airflow rate provided by the fan. The fan 210 sucks in air through an air inlet, which is located in the housing 40 below the countertop 12. A filter 354 may be provided at the air inlet to capture pollutants present in the air before it enters the air inlet of the fan 210. At the same time, referring to FIG. 5, an air duct 215 connects the outlet of the fan 210 to the channel 139 in the base 130, and the channel 139 is connected to the channel 120 in the support column 110 of the multifunctional toilet device 100.

Referring to FIG. 10, FIG. 14, and FIG. 16, the passage 120 is a continuation of the air duct 215 between the fan 210 and the air outlet 200. The surface of the channel 120 is preferably smooth to minimize the turbulence of the air flow through the channel. A boss (or boss, boss) 122 may be provided between the opposite surfaces of the channel 120 to improve the rigidity of the multifunctional toilet device 100. The boss portion 122 includes a front end 123 that first receives the airflow and a rear end 125 that receives the airflow last. The boss portion 122 widens toward the middle and narrows toward both ends. In this way, the front end 123 and the rear end 125 are preferably narrow and circular in order to minimize the interference of the air flow through the channel 120.

An inner wall 124 is provided outside the air outlet 200 to terminate the passage 120 and separate the air passage from other internal areas of the multifunctional toilet device 100. The inner wall 124 is substantially perpendicular to and intersects the airflow passing through the channel, so that when the airflow impacts the inner wall 124, the airflow can be balanced on the surface of the inner wall 124 through pressure impact. The air outlet 200 is located on the lower surface of the multifunctional toilet device 100, and the lower surface is located in front of the inner wall 124 with respect to the direction of the airflow. The air outlet 200 includes a nozzle 202, and a grid (or grid) 204 is provided in the nozzle (refer to Figure 11 and Figure 14). Each element of the grid 204 is located on a substantially vertical plane to guide the air flow downward from the nozzle 202. Therefore, the airflow is usually ninety degrees downwards and flows out of the air outlet 200 after impacting the inner wall 124. Therefore, the air guide tube 215 extending from the fan 210, the base 130 and the channels 139 and 120 in the support column 110 transport air to the air outlet 200 to dry the user's hands.

The control signal 352 is transmitted between the fan 210 and the control circuit 302. The control signal 352 includes, for example, a start command, a stop command, a speed command, or a combination thereof to control the operation of the fan 210. It is also possible to transmit a feedback signal from the fan 210 to the control circuit 302, the feedback signal corresponding to the operation of the fan or the state of the filter. Although not shown, it is conceivable that the system for distributing air may include heaters arranged along the air flow path to increase the temperature of the air before it is delivered to the user's hands.

In operation, a control system 300 is provided for managing the operation of the toilet system 10. Referring to FIG. 17, the control system 300 includes a control circuit 302 installed on the toilet system 10. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control circuit 302 is provided on a circuit board, and the circuit board is installed in the housing under the countertop 12 and in the housing 40 of the toilet system 10 to protect the control circuit 302 from being damaged. Water splashed. Optionally, the control circuit 302 can be sealed to provide further protection from moisture in the toilet system. The control circuit 302 includes a memory 306 configured to store instruction parameters of the toilet system 10 and instructions executed on the processor 304 to control the operation of the toilet system 10. It should be appreciated that the memory 306 may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination thereof, and may be a single device or multiple devices. The processor 304 is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 306 to implement the required operations of the toilet system 10. It should be appreciated that the processor 304 may be a single device or multiple devices. The control circuit 302 also includes other analog and/or digital devices to receive feedback signals from the sensors, send control signals to the actuators, and manage other related control functions understood by those skilled in the art. Considering further, the control circuit 302 may be completely located on a single circuit board and in a single housing, or alternatively, parts of the control circuit 302 may be distributed around the toilet system 10 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The control circuit 302 receives the feedback signal 303 from the sensor 301 of the multifunctional toilet device 100 to instruct the user's hand to wash and/or dry near the multifunctional toilet device 100. According to the embodiment shown in the figure (as shown in Figure 17), the multifunctional toilet device 100 is provided with four sensors 301 to control the delivery of soap, water and air in the device 100. According to another embodiment, it should be conceived that three sensors 301 may be provided, one of which is located close to each outlet. According to another embodiment, more than four sensors 301 may be provided. It should be thought that each sensor 301 is located in the device connection part 140 and above the lower wall of the connection part 140. A part of the lower wall surface includes an opening 103 (refer to FIG. 2) through which the sensor 301 can send signals, such as radio frequency (RF) or infrared signals. The signal is reflected by the user's hand and received by the sensor 301 to detect the presence of the user's hand. If a line-of-sight sensor is used, it is conceivable that a part of the lower housing can be made of a translucent material as an alternative to the opening so that the transmitted sensing signal can pass through. Optionally, a lens can be inserted into the opening 103 to allow the emission signal to pass through and prevent water, soap, dirt or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor 301 can emit a signal that can pass through the housing of the connecting portion 140. For example, a magnetic field can be generated and the disturbance of the magnetic field caused by the presence of the user's hand can be detected. There are other sensing technologies, for example, the capacitive sensing of the user's hand can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

More sensors 301 than exits are provided, so that the control circuit 302 can determine the position and/or direction information of the user's hand approaching, rather than just the information approaching a certain exit. According to the illustrated embodiment, two internal sensors 301 are located on both sides of the water outlet 180 (refer to Figure 14). When the user's hand approaches the water outlet 180 after receiving the soap liquid, the internal sensor 301 on the same side of the water outlet 180 as the soap liquid outlet 160 is first activated. If the user's hand approaches the water outlet 180 from the hand-drying side of the multifunctional toilet device 100, another internal sensor 301 is activated first. When the user's hand is under the water outlet 180, the two internal sensors 301 are both used to detect the hand. The control circuit 302 can generate different control signals in response to the sequence in which the internal sensors are activated.

Let us first look at the control of the soap system. At least one sensor 301 is located near the soap outlet 160 to detect the user's hand located below the outlet 160. When the user's hand is below the soap outlet 160, the sensor 301 generates a feedback signal 303 to the control circuit 302 to indicate the presence of the hand. In response to the received feedback signal 303, the control circuit 302 flashes or changes the color of the LED 305 for the soap outlet 160 to remind the user that a hand is detected at the soap outlet 160. The control circuit 302 can also generate a control signal 318 to the soap pump 316 to activate the soap pump 316 to dispense soap. The soap pump 316 can run for a preset time or perform one or more fixed pump cycles to suck the soap from the soap tank 310 and transport it upwards to the nozzle 164 through the soap pipe 162, and is distributed by the nozzle 164 The user's hand. Further considering, the sensor 301 close to the soap outlet 160 may be arranged to detect the user's hand only within a short distance below the multifunctional toilet device 100. For example, the user's hand may need to be within three inches or two inches of the sensor 301 to be detected. Preferably, the detection distance is set in the sensor 301, and can be set to be smaller than the detection distance of the water outlet, as will be discussed in more detail below.

The control circuit 302 may also be configured to interlock the soap dispenser according to other actions at the multifunctional toilet device 100. For example, if a hand dryer is activated, it is desirable to avoid dispensing soap so that the soap is not blown around the sink. Additionally, users may need to be required to remove their hands before dispensing additional soap. This makes it possible to avoid continuing to dispense the soap if the user leaves his hands under the soap outlet 160 for a long time, or for example, if foreign objects fall into the hand basin 20 under the multifunctional toilet device 100 near the soap outlet 160.

A liquid level detection switch 312, such as a float switch, can be provided in the soap pool. When the soap level is low and needs to be filled, the level detection switch 312 generates a feedback signal 314 to the control signal. The control circuit 302 can activate the LED 305 near the soap outlet 160 by indicating that the liquid level is low. For example, the control circuit 302 can blink the LED 305 or change the color of the LED to red, indicating that the liquid level is low.

Next, look at the control of the water distribution system. At least one sensor 301 is located near the water outlet 180 to detect the user's hand located below the outlet 180. When the user's hand is under the water outlet 180, the sensor 301 generates a feedback signal 303 to the control circuit 302 to indicate the presence of the hand. In response to the received feedback signal 303, the control circuit 302 blinks or changes the color of the LED 305 for the water outlet 180 to remind the user that a hand is detected at the water outlet 180. The control circuit 302 can also generate a control signal 326 to the valve 320 to activate the valve 320 to dispense water. The valve 320 may be energized to open for a preset period of time, or may remain open when the user's hand is detected under the water outlet 180.

Considering further, the sensor 301 close to the water outlet 180 can be set to detect the user's hand in a distance below the multifunctional toilet device 100, which is equal to the height of the multifunctional toilet device 100 higher than the sink 20. Thus, the user's hand can be detected at any height between the water outlet 180 and the sink 20. Preferably, the detection distance is set in the sensor 301, and can be set to be greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. Users are required to place their hands closer to the soap outlet to receive the soap instead of receiving water, which will help to avoid wrong dispensing of the soap. For example, when a user washes soap on his hands under the water outlet 180, the hand, arm, or a part of it may move under the soap outlet 160. However, users usually place their hands at a distance below the water outlet 180 to avoid splashing or spraying of water from their hands, or to avoid contact with the multifunctional toilet device 100 when washing their hands. Generally, the distance for the user to place the hand is greater than the detection distance set by the sensor 301 near the soap outlet. Therefore, when the outlet 180 is used, even if a part of the user's hand or arm moves under the sensor 301 for soap, no extra soap is dispensed.

The control circuit 302 may also be configured as interlocks when water is dispensed from the multifunctional toilet device 100. For example, if the hand dryer is activated, it is desirable to avoid water coming out so that the water is not blown around the sink. In addition, it may be necessary to ask the user to remove their hands from under the water outlet 180 and stop the water before distributing air. It is also possible to set the longest duration, during which time the water outlet 180 can discharge water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert his hand from under the water outlet 180. This arrangement makes it possible to prevent the user from continuing to discharge water if the user leaves his hands under the water outlet 180 for a long time, or for example, if foreign objects fall into the wash basin 20 under the multifunctional toilet device 100 near the water outlet 180.

Next, looking at the control of the air system, at least one sensor 301 is located near the air outlet 200 to detect the user's hand below the outlet 200. When the user's hand is under the air outlet 200, the sensor 301 generates a feedback signal 303 to the control circuit to indicate the presence of the hand. In response to the received feedback signal 303, the control circuit 302 flashes or changes the color of the LED 305 for the air outlet 200 to prompt the user that the air outlet 200 detects a hand. The control circuit 302 can also generate a control signal 352 to the fan 210 to start the fan 210 to distribute air. The fan 210 may be energized for a preset period of time, or may remain energized when the user's hand is detected under the air outlet 200.

The sensor 301 close to the air outlet 200 may be arranged to detect the user's hand in a distance below the multifunctional toilet device 100, the distance being equal to the height of the multifunctional toilet device 100 higher than the sink 20. Therefore, the user's hand can be detected at any height between the air outlet 200 and the sink 20. Preferably, the detection distance can be set in the sensor 301 and can be set to be greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. The motor of the fan 210 may be set to operate at a variable speed. It should be thought that when setting or resetting the toilet system, a certain speed is selected, and every time the sensor 301 detects that the user's hand is under the air outlet 200, the motor runs at that speed. According to an aspect of the present invention, the motor speed can be selected so that the user's hands are dried in a desired time. The selected speed can vary, for example, as a function of the size of the multifunctional toilet 100, the volume of air delivered by the device, or the presence of a heater in the airflow. According to another aspect of the present invention, the motor speed can be selected so that when the user's hand is in the airflow, the motor and the airflow produce acceptable noise.

The control circuit 302 may also be configured to interlock when air is distributed from the multifunctional toilet device 100. For example, if the hand dryer is activated, it is desirable to avoid water coming out so that the water is not blown around the sink. In addition, the user may be required to remove his hand from under the air outlet 200 and stop distributing air before the water is discharged. It is also possible to set a maximum duration, during which time the air outlet 200 can distribute air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert his hand from under the air outlet 200. This arrangement makes it possible to avoid continuing to distribute air if the user keeps his hands under the air outlet 200 for a long time, or for example, if foreign objects fall into the wash basin 20 under the multifunctional toilet device 100 close to the air outlet 200.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the toilet system 10 may include one or more sensors 370 (eg, approach sensors). Each sensor 370 may be installed on the inner surface of the housing 40 and aligned with one of the multifunctional toilet devices 100. The housing 40 includes an opening 371 through which the sensor can send signals, such as radio frequency (RF) or infrared signals. When the user approaches the toilet system 10, the user reflects a signal, and the sensor 370 receives the signal to detect the approach of the user. If a visual sensor is used, it should be conceivable that a part of the housing 40 may be made of a translucent material to allow the transmitted sensing signal to pass. Optionally, a lens can be inserted into the opening 371 to allow the emitted signal to pass through, while preventing water, soap, dirt or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor 370 can emit a signal that can pass through the housing 40. For example, a magnetic field can be generated, and magnetic field disturbances caused by the presence of a user can be detected.

Each sensor 370 generates a feedback signal 372 to the control circuit 302. The control circuit 302 can use the proximity signal 372, for example, to make the toilet system 10 out of the energy-saving state, or to prepare the toilet system 10 for use. In the energy-saving state, a part of the control circuit 302 can be powered off. When the proximity signal 372 is detected, the toilet system 10 can energize the entire control circuit 302 when it is expected to be used. Similarly, if there is a heater, the control circuit 302 can energize the heater to start heating the air delivered to the user. According to another example, the visual indicator 305 on the multifunctional toilet device 100 may be energized in response to the received proximity signal 372. Other measures may be taken to respond to the proximity signal 372 of the control circuit 302, so as to enhance the user's hand washing experience.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the toilet system 10 may be configured to use the sensor 301 in the multifunctional toilet device 100. At present, the setting of the toilet system 10 is performed by dip switches, rotary switches or similar switches. These switches are located inside or near the housing of the control circuit 302, and are accommodated under the countertop 12 and the toilet. Inside the housing 40 of the system 10. To change operations, such as the motor speed of the fan 210, the amount of soap dispensed, the duration of water flow, etc., it is necessary to disassemble the housing 40 and use the switch under the countertop 12. The toilet system 10 of the present invention provides its setting through the sensor 301 above the countertop without disassembling the housing 40.

The user can enter the setting mode of the toilet system 10 by inserting hands under the sensor 301 in a preset order. The selection sequence is to avoid accidentally entering the setting mode during normal operation of the toilet system 10. For example, you need to place your right hand under the first sensor and your left hand under the second sensor, where the right hand is placed before the left hand, and the time difference is less than one second. Then hold your hands under the sensor for at least ten seconds. According to another example, it is necessary to activate each sensor 301 in the order from left to right or from right to left multiple times, and then keep one hand under one sensor 301 for a preset time. Other sequences may also be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Once the toilet system 10 enters the setting mode, each visual indicator 305 can provide the user with an indication of the setting mode. For example, the indicator 305 may be changed to a specific color specifying the setting mode.

Then, the user continues to set up the toilet system 10 by further placing his hands under the different sensors 301. The user can first select the system to be set up, that is, whether the user wants to set up a soap distribution system, a water distribution system or an air distribution system. A specific system can be selected by inserting the user's hand under the sensor 301 near the respective outlet. For example, in order to set up the water distribution system, the user can insert one hand under the sensor 301 near the water outlet 180; to set up the air distribution system, the user can insert one hand to the sensor near the air outlet 200 301 below. The visual indicator near the selected system remains in the color recognition setting mode and starts to flash to indicate that the specific system has been selected. Optionally, the toilet system 10 includes a preset number of parameters set by a sensor 301, and the user can increase or decrease each parameter by inserting a hand under a sensor 301. The parameter can be identified by briefly starting the device to be set or flashing the parameter number on the visual indicator.

Once the system or specific parameters are selected, the user will insert his hand under a sensor 301 again. It should be thought that the first sensor 301 can be used to select the parameter to be set, and the second sensor 301 can be used to change the setting of the parameter. Preferably, the parameters have a predefined set of settings. For example, the motor of a fan may have low, medium, and high speed settings. Each time the user inserts his hand under the second sensor 301, the parameter will increase or decrease to the next setting. The toilet system 10 can briefly activate the motor so that the user can observe the airflow generated by the selected motor speed and determine the desired setting.

Referring now to FIGS. 44 to 54, according to another embodiment of the present invention, a multifunctional faucet or multifunctional toilet device 500 suitable for a toilet system is shown. The multifunctional toilet device 500 includes a single support column 510. From the front, as shown in FIG. 45, the support column 510 is located on the right side of the multifunctional toilet 500. In other embodiments of the present invention, the support column 510 may be located on both sides of the multifunctional toilet device 500 or anywhere between the two sides of the multifunctional toilet device 500.

The support column 510 has a first end 512 and a second end 514. The first end 512 is configured to be installed on the countertop 12, and the second end 514 extends above the sink 20. The first end 512 includes a mounting surface 513 configured to be engaged with the upper surface 14 of the table top 12. As shown in the side views of FIGS. 47 and 48, the support column 510 includes a vertical portion 510a and an inclined portion 510b. When the supporting column 510 is installed on the table 12, the vertical portion 510a of the supporting column 510 extends upward for a length H in a substantially vertical direction. The support column 510 transitions from the vertical portion 510a to the inclined portion 510b at the bent portion 515, wherein the bent portion 515 causes the support column 510 to extend a length L from the vertical portion 510a at a certain angle until the second end 514 of the support column 510 is located Above the position. That is, the inclined portion 510b of the support column 510 extends outward and upward from the vertical portion 510a. In a representative embodiment of the present invention, the inclined portion 510b of the support column 510 extends from the vertical portion 510a along an angle of 14 degrees with the horizontal direction. In other embodiments of the present invention, the inclined portion 510b may extend at any angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

As described above, the first end 512 of the support column 510 is configured to be installed on the table top 12. The first opening 511a and the second opening 511b extend through the mounting surface 513 and communicate with the first channel 520a and the second channel 520b in the support column 510, respectively. In a representative embodiment of the present invention, the first opening 511a and the second opening 511b are aligned side by side. The first base 530a is received in the first opening 511a and fixes the multifunctional toilet device 500 to the countertop 12. In addition, the second base 530b is accommodated in the second opening 511b and is also used to fix the multifunctional toilet device 500 to the countertop 12. The first base 530a and the second base 530b further include a first channel 539a and a second channel 539b. The first channel 539a and the second channel 539b respectively penetrate the first base 530a and the second base 530b, and are respectively connected to the support column 510 The first passage 520a and the second passage 520b are in fluid communication. As shown in FIG. 51, each base 530 includes a first end 532 and a second end 534. The first end 532 is configured to be inserted into the support column 510, and the second end 534 is configured to be inserted into the opening of the table 12. The openings 511a and 511b in the support column 510 each include a threaded inner edge, and the threaded inner edge fits with the threaded outer circumference of the first end 532 of the first base 530a and the second base 530b, respectively. In this way, each base 530 is rotatably inserted into the respective opening 511 so as to be screwed, and each base 530 is reliably retained in the support column 510.

Optionally, it should be conceivable that each base 530 can be fixed on the support column 510 by snap fit or other suitable fixing methods. According to another embodiment, each base 530 is integrally formed with the support column 510 so that a part of the support column 510 extends through the opening to fix the multifunctional toilet device 500 on the countertop 12. The second part 536 of each base 530 is longitudinally displaced along each base 530 so that it is arranged to be at least partially located under the table 12. The second part 536 includes a threaded outer surface to accommodate the nut 535. The nut 535 is arranged to be engaged with the mounting plate 537, and the mounting plate 537 is engaged with the lower surface of the table top 12. The mounting plate 537 extends laterally and is arranged between the nut 535 and the mounting surface 513 of the support column 510. The mounting plate 537 includes a first hole 539a and a second hole 539b, and the first hole 539a and the second hole 539b are configured to receive the first base 530a and the second base 530b, respectively. In order to fix the multifunctional toilet device 500 on the countertop 12, each base 530 is attached to the supporting column 510 and inserted through the opening of the countertop 12. The nut 535 is screwed on the at least one base 530 from below the countertop, so that the mounting plate 537 and the mounting surface 513 of the support column 510 are engaged with the opposite surface of the countertop 12, and the multifunctional toilet device 500 is fixed on the countertop 12. Although the representative embodiment of the present invention describes that the nut 535 is screwed to the second base 530b, it should be conceived that in other embodiments of the present invention, the nut 535 may be screwed to the first base 530b, or at the same time. To the first base 5301 and the second base 530b.

The extension portion 540 is perpendicular to the support column 510 and extends horizontally from the second end 514 of the support column 510. Specifically, the extension portion 540 has a first end 542 and a second end 544, the first end 542 of the extension portion 540 is connected to the second end 514 of the support column 510, and the second end 544 cantilever extends from the support column 510. The width of the first end 542 of the extension 540 is the same as the width of the second end 514 of the support column 510. In this way, when the multifunctional toilet device 500 is converted from the support column 510 to the extension 540, it appears as a continuous component. It is also foreseen that at least a part of the support column 510 and the extension part 540 may be cast or otherwise manufactured as one part. Therefore, although the first end 512, the second end 514 of the support column 510, and the first end 542 of the extension 540 are distinguished, the position of the end is only for illustration, and it can be used along the support without departing from the scope of the present invention. The post 510 or the extension 540 moves axially.

The extension 540 includes a plurality of outlets for distributing products above the sink 20 of the toilet system 10. The first outlet 560 is used to distribute soap, the second outlet 580 is used to distribute water, and the third outlet 600 is used to distribute air. The first outlet 560, the second outlet 580, and the third outlet 600 are arranged at intervals along the extension portion 540, so that the user's hand moves along the extension portion 540 at the outlets (the first outlet 560, the second outlet 580, and the third outlet during the cleaning process). 600) to move between. The channel 520 of the support column 510 includes a first channel 520a and a second channel 520b defined inside the support column for conveying the product to one of the outlets. The soap and water can be transported through pipes that extend from under the countertop 12 through the first channel 520a of the support column 510. The second channel 520b is configured as an air guide tube, which at least partially conveys air from the blower located under the countertop 12 to the air outlet 600.

Referring to FIGS. 53 and 54, an exemplary cross-sectional view of the support column 510 is drawn to further illustrate the first channel 520a and the second channel 520b. The size of the cross-sectional area of the first passage 520a can provide a space for the soap-carrying pipe 562 and the water-carrying pipe 582 to pass through the passage 520a. Similarly, the channel 539 in the aforementioned base 530 includes a first channel 539a and a second channel 539b. The first channel 539a is aligned with the first channel 520a of the support column 510, and the second channel 539b is aligned with the second channel 520b of the support column 510. . The second passage 520b has a cross-sectional area corresponding to the second passage 539b, so as to reduce airflow turbulence when the air flows from the base 530 to the support column 510. Then, the second passage 520b forms a pipe through which the air is transported to the air outlet 600.

The extension 540 may also include indicators to allow the user to identify the location of each exit. According to a representative embodiment, the opening 503 is arranged along the front edge of the extension 540, and the indicator can be displayed through the opening. LED705 (such as multi-color light-emitting diodes) or a red-green-blue LED array (see Figure 54 and Figure 55) are located at the back of each opening 503. It should be thought that each opening may include a lens or a translucent material, instead of preventing soap, water, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the opening of the multifunctional toilet 500. The LED705 can emit different colors or flicker according to the operation to attract the user's attention to the corresponding position. Optionally, a larger display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), can provide the user with graphics or other visual indications to illustrate the purpose of each outlet located by the indicator.

The soap dispensing system includes a soap tank 710, a soap pump 716, and a pipe 562 connecting the soap pump 716 to the soap outlet 160. The soap tank 710 and the soap pump 716 are shown in the form of a block diagram in FIG. 55. The soap tank 710 includes a liquid level detection switch 712, such as a float switch, which generates a liquid level detection signal 714 corresponding to the remaining amount in the soap tank 710 and provides it to the control circuit 702. The soap pump 716 is activated by one or more sensors 701 located in the multifunctional toilet device 500, and the sensor 701 detects whether the user's hand near the soap outlet 560 is present. The soap pump 716 draws the soap from the soap tank 710 and delivers it to a pipe 562, and the pipe 562 fluidly communicates the soap pump 716 with the soap outlet 560. The pipe 562 extends in the first channel 520 a and enters the extension 540 of the multifunctional toilet device 500. In the extension 540, the pipe 562 is installed on the nozzle 564, and the nozzle 564 extends through the outlet 560. The soap is discharged from the nozzle 564 through the outlet 560 to the user's hand.

The water distribution system includes one or more water inlet pipes 722, one or more valves 720, and one or more water outlet pipes 724 connected to a water supply system to supply water to the water outlet 580. The water inlet pipe 722 may be connected to a cold water source, a hot water source, or a mixed water source, where the mixed water source includes a mixture of hot water and cold water. Since it is desired to provide users with water of a comfortable temperature, a mixing valve can be provided before the water inlet pipe 722, which mixes the hot and cold water in proportion to provide water of the ideal temperature. Optionally, the valve 720 may be a mixing valve, including a water inlet pipe 722 from a cold water source and a water inlet pipe 722 from a hot water source. The control signal 726 from the control circuit 702 can control the valve 720 not only to open or close, but also to mix cold and hot water in a proportional manner to provide water of a desired temperature. The water outlet pipe 724 extending from the valve 720 is connected to the water outlet 580 through a pipe 582. Further, an aerator 800 may be provided in the water outlet 580, the aerator 800 includes a water inlet 802, and a water outlet pipe 724 extending from the valve 720 is connected to the water inlet 802 through a pipe 582. The aerator 800 can be configured to be similar to the aerator 400 shown in FIGS. 38 to 43 described above.

The air distribution system includes a fan 610 located under the countertop 12, and the fan 610 is used to deliver air to the air outlet 600. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the fan 610 includes a centrifugal fan driven by a motor. The motor can operate at variable speeds to adjust the air flow rate provided by the fan 610. The fan 610 sucks in air through an air inlet, which is located in the housing 40 under the countertop 12. A filter 754 may be provided at the air inlet to capture pollutants existing in the air before it enters the air inlet of the fan 610. The air guide pipe 615 connects the outlet of the fan 610 to the second channel 539b in the base 530, and the second channel 539b is connected to the second channel 520b in the supporting column 510 of the multifunctional toilet device 500.

Referring to FIG. 51, FIG. 53, and FIG. 54, the second passage 520b is a continuation of the air duct 615 between the fan 610 and the air outlet 600. The surface of the second channel 520b is preferably smooth to minimize the turbulence of the airflow passing through the second channel 520b and separate it from the first channel 520a. A boss portion 522 may be provided between the opposite surfaces of the channel 520b to improve the rigidity of the multifunctional toilet device 500. The boss portion 522 includes a front end 523 that first receives the airflow and a rear end 525 that receives the airflow last (refer to FIG. 52). The boss 522 widens toward the middle and narrows toward both ends. In this way, the front end 523 and the rear end 525 are preferably narrow and round to minimize the interference of the air flow through the second passage 520b.

An inner wall 524 is provided outside the air outlet 600 to block the second channel 520b, and the second channel 520b is separated from the first channel 520a by the supporting column 510. The inner wall 524 is formed to guide the airflow through the second channel 520b, so that when the airflow impacts the inner wall 524, the airflow can be equalized on the surface of the inner wall 524 through pressure impact. The air outlet 600 includes a nozzle 602 and a grid 604 defined in the nozzle 602. Each element of the grid 604 is located on a substantially vertical plane, so that after the air flow hits the inner wall 124, the air is guided to flow downward and out of the air outlet 600. Therefore, the air guide tube 615 extending from the fan, the base 530a, and the first channels 539a, 520a in the supporting column 510 convey air to the air outlet 600 to dry the user's hands.

The control signal 752 passes between the fan 610 and the control circuit 702. The control signal 752 includes a start command, a stop command, a speed command or any combination thereof to control the operation of the fan 610. In addition, a feedback signal corresponding to the operation of the fan 610 or the state of the filter 754 can be provided from the fan 610 to the control circuit 702. Although not shown, it is conceivable that the air distribution system may include heaters arranged along the air flow path to increase the temperature of the air before it is delivered to the user's hands.

In operation, a control system 700 is provided for managing the operation of the multifunctional toilet device 500 and the toilet system 10. Referring to FIG. 55, the control system 700 includes a control circuit 702 installed on the toilet system 10. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control circuit 702 is provided on a circuit board, which is installed in the housing under the countertop 12 and in the housing 40 of the toilet system 10 to protect the control circuit 702 from being damaged. Water splashed. Optionally, the control circuit 702 can be sealed to provide further protection from moisture in the toilet system. The control circuit 702 includes a memory 706 configured to store instruction parameters of the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 and instructions executed on the processor 704 to control the operation of the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500. The memory 706 may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination thereof, and may be one or more devices. The processor 704 is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 706 to implement predetermined operations on the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500. It should be appreciated that the processor 704 may be one or more devices. The control circuit 702 may also include other analog and/or digital devices to receive feedback signals from the sensors, send control signals to the actuators, and manage other related control functions understood by those skilled in the art. Further considering, the control circuit 702 may be completely located on a single circuit board and in a single housing, or alternatively, parts of the control circuit 702 may be distributed around the toilet system 10 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The control circuit 702 receives the feedback signal 703 from the sensor 701 of the multifunctional toilet device 500 to instruct the user's hand to wash and/or dry near the multifunctional toilet device 500. As shown in FIG. 55, the multifunctional toilet 500 has four sensors 701 to control the delivery of soap, water and air in the multifunctional toilet 500. In other embodiments of the present invention, it should be conceived that three sensors 701 may be provided, where each sensor 701 is close to each outlet. In other embodiments, more than four sensors 701 may be provided. It should be thought that each sensor 701 is located in the extension 540 of the multifunctional toilet 500 and above the lower wall of the extension 540. A part of the lower wall includes an opening 503 through which the sensor can send signals, such as radio frequency (RF) or infrared signals. The signal is reflected by the user's hand and received by the sensor 701 to detect the presence of the user's hand. If a visual sensor is used, it is conceivable that a part of the lower housing can be made of a translucent material as an alternative to the opening so that the emitted sensing signal can pass through. Optionally, a lens can be inserted into the opening 503 to allow the emission signal to pass through and prevent water, soap, dirt or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor 701 can emit a signal that can pass through the housing of the extension 540. For example, a magnetic field can be generated, and magnetic field disturbances caused by the presence of the user's hand can be detected. There are other sensing technologies, for example, the capacitive sensing of the user's hand can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

More sensors 701 than exits are provided, so that the control circuit 702 can determine the position and/or direction information of the user's hand approaching, not just the information approaching a certain exit. As shown in the representative embodiment of the present invention, two internal sensors 701 are located on both sides of the water outlet 580. When the user's hand approaches the water outlet 580 after receiving the soap liquid, the internal sensor 701 located on the same side of the water outlet 580 as the soap liquid outlet 560 is first activated. If the user's hand approaches the water outlet 580 from the hand-drying side of the multifunctional toilet device 500, another internal sensor 701 is activated first. When the user's hand is under the water outlet 580, the two internal sensors 701 are both used to detect the hand. The control circuit 702 can generate different control signals in response to the activation sequence of the internal sensor 701.

Let's first look at the control of the soap system. At least one sensor 701 is located near the soap outlet 560 to detect the user's hand under the outlet 560. When the user's hand is below the soap outlet 560, the sensor 701 generates a feedback signal 703 to the control circuit 702 to indicate the presence of the hand. In response to the received feedback signal 703, the control circuit 702 flashes or changes the color of the LED 705 for the soap outlet 560 through the signal 707 to remind the user that the soap outlet 560 detects a hand. The control circuit 702 can also generate a control signal 718 to the soap pump 716 to dispense soap. The soap pump 716 can run for a preset time or perform one or more fixed pump loops to suck the soap from the soap tank 710, and send it up to the soap nozzle 564 through the soap pipe 562, and the nozzle 564 is allocated to the user's hand. The sensor 701 close to the soap outlet 560 may be arranged to detect the user's hand only within a short distance below the multifunctional toilet 500. For example, the user's hand may need to be within three inches or two inches of the sensor 701 to be detected. Preferably, the detection distance is set in the sensor 701 and can be set to be smaller than the detection distance of the water outlet 580, as will be discussed in more detail below.

The control circuit 702 may also be configured to interlock with the soap outlet 560 according to other actions at the multifunctional toilet 500. For example, if the hand dryer is activated, it is desirable to avoid dispensing soap so that the soap is not blown around the sink 20. In addition, it may be necessary to require users to remove their hands before dispensing additional soap. This makes it possible to avoid continuing to dispense the soap if the user keeps his hands under the soap outlet 560 for a long time, or if, for example, foreign matter falls into the hand basin 20 under the multifunctional toilet device 500 near the soap outlet 560.

A liquid level detection switch 712, such as a float switch, can be provided in the soap pool 710. When the soap level is low and needs to be filled, the level detection switch 712 generates a level detection signal 714 to the control circuit 702. The control circuit 702 can activate the LED 305 near the soap outlet 560 by indicating that the liquid level is low. For example, the control circuit 702 can blink the LED 705 or change the color of the LED 705 to red, indicating that the liquid level is low.

Next, looking at the control of the water distribution system, at least one sensor 701 is located near the water outlet 580 to detect the user's hand located below the water outlet 580. When the user's hand is under the water outlet 580, the sensor 701 generates a feedback signal 703 to the control circuit 702 to indicate the presence of the hand. In response to the received feedback signal 703, the control circuit 702 flashes or changes the color of the LED 705 for the water outlet 580 to prompt the user that the water outlet 580 detects a hand. The control circuit 702 can also generate a control signal 726 to the valve 720 to activate the valve 720 to discharge water. The valve 720 can be energized and opened for a preset period of time, or can be kept open when the user's hand is detected under the water outlet 580.

The sensor 701 close to the water outlet 580 can be set to detect the user's hand at a distance below the multifunctional toilet device 500, the distance equal to the height of the multifunctional toilet device 500 higher than the hand basin 20. Thus, the user's hand can be detected at any height between the water outlet 580 and the sink 20. Preferably, the detection distance can be set, and can be set to be greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet 560. Requiring the user to place his hand closer to the soap outlet to receive the soap than when receiving water will help avoid wrong dispensing of the soap. For example, when the user washes the soap liquid on his hand under the water outlet 580, the hand, arm or a part of it may move under the soap liquid outlet 560. However, users usually place their hands a certain distance below the water outlet 580 to avoid splashing or spraying of water from their hands, or to avoid contact with the multifunctional toilet device 500 during washing. Generally, the distance for the user to place the hand is greater than the distance for detection set by the sensor 701 near the soap outlet 560. Therefore, when the water outlet 580 is used, even if a part of the user's hand or arm moves under the sensor 701 for the soap outlet 560, no extra soap is dispensed.

The control circuit 702 can also be configured to provide an interlock when the multifunctional toilet device 500 dispenses water. For example, if the hand dryer is activated, it is desirable to avoid water coming out so that the water is not blown around the sink 20. In addition, it may be necessary to ask the user to remove their hands from under the water outlet 580 and stop the water before distributing air. It is also possible to set a maximum duration, during which time the water outlet 580 can dispense water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert his hand from under the water outlet 580. This arrangement makes it possible to prevent the user from continuing to dispense water if the user leaves his hand under the water outlet 580 for a long time, or, for example, if a foreign object falls into the wash basin 20 under the multifunctional toilet device 500 near the water outlet 580.

Next, look at the control of the air system. At least one sensor 701 is located near the air outlet 600 to detect the user's hand under the air outlet 600. When the user's hand is under the air outlet 600, the sensor 701 generates a feedback signal 703 to the control circuit 702 to indicate the presence of the hand. In response to the received feedback signal 703, the control circuit 702 flashes or changes the color of the LED 305 for the air outlet 600 to prompt the user to detect a hand at the air outlet 600. The control circuit 702 can also generate a control signal 752 to the fan 610 to activate the fan 610 to distribute air. The fan 610 may be energized for a preset period of time, or may remain energized when the user's hand is detected under the air outlet 600.

The sensor 701 near the air outlet 600 may be set to detect the user's hand in a distance below the multifunctional toilet device 500, the distance being equal to the height of the multifunctional toilet device 500 higher than the hand basin 20. Therefore, the user's hand can be detected at any height between the air outlet 600 and the sink 20. Preferably, the detection distance can be set, and can be set to be greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet 560. The motor of the fan 610 may be set to operate at a variable speed. When setting or resetting the toilet system 10, a certain speed can be selected, and every time the sensor 701 detects that the user's hand is under the air outlet 600, the motor runs at that speed. According to an aspect of the present invention, the motor speed can be selected so that the user's hands are dried in a desired time. The selected speed may vary, for example, as a function of the size of the multifunctional toilet 500, the volume of air delivered by the multifunctional toilet 500, or the presence of a heater in the airflow. According to another aspect of the present invention, the motor speed can be selected so that when the user's hand is in the airflow, the motor and the airflow produce acceptable noise.

The control circuit 302 may also be configured to provide an interlock when distributing air from the multifunctional toilet 500. For example, if the hand dryer is activated, it is desirable to avoid dispensing water so that the water is not blown around the sink. In addition, the user may be required to remove their hands from under the air outlet 600 and stop dispensing air before dispensing water. The longest duration can also be set, during which time the air outlet 600 can distribute air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert his hand from under the air outlet 600. This arrangement makes it possible to avoid continuing to distribute air if the user keeps his hands under the air outlet 600 for a long time, or for example, if foreign objects fall into the wash basin 20 under the multifunctional toilet device 500 near the air outlet 600.

As shown in FIG. 55, the toilet system 10 may include one or more sensors 770 (eg, approach sensors). Each sensor 70 can be installed on the inner surface of the housing 40 and kept aligned with one of the multifunctional toilet devices 500. The housing 40 may include an opening 771 through which the sensor can transmit signals, such as radio frequency (RF) or infrared signals. When the user approaches the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500, the user reflects the signal, and the sensor 770 receives the signal to detect the approach of the user. If a visual sensor is used, it should be conceivable that a part of the housing 40 may be made of a translucent material to allow the transmitted sensing signal to pass. Optionally, a lens can be inserted into the opening 771 to allow the emitted signal to pass through while preventing water, soap, dirt or other contaminants from entering the opening. Optionally, the sensor 770 can emit a signal that can pass through the housing 40. For example, a magnetic field can be generated, and magnetic field disturbances caused by the presence of a user can be detected.

Each sensor 770 generates a feedback signal 772 to the control circuit 702. For example, the control circuit 702 can use the proximity signal 772 to make the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 out of the energy-saving state, or prepare the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 for use. In the energy-saving state, a part of the control circuit 702 can be powered off. When the proximity signal 772 is detected, the toilet system 10 and the multi-function toilet device 500 can power up the entire control circuit 702 in the intended use. Similarly, if there is a heater, the control circuit 702 can energize the heater to start heating the air delivered to the user. According to another example, the visual indicator 705 on the multifunctional toilet device 500 may be energized in response to the received proximity signal 772. Other measures can be taken to respond to the proximity signal 772 of the control circuit 702, thereby enhancing the user's hand washing experience.

Considering further, the user can enter the setting mode of the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 by inserting a hand under the sensor 701 in a preset order. The order of selection is to avoid accidentally entering the setting mode during normal operation of the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500. For example, you need to place your right hand under the first sensor and your left hand under the second sensor, where the right hand is placed before the left hand, and the time difference is less than one second. Then hold under the two-hand sensor for at least ten seconds. According to another example, it is necessary to activate each sensor 701 in order from left to right or from right to left multiple times in succession, and then keep one hand under one sensor 701 for a preset time. Other sequences may also be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Once the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 enter the setting mode, each visual indicator 705 can provide the user with an indication of the setting mode. For example, the indicator 705 may be changed to a specific color specifying the setting mode.

Then, the user continues to configure the toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 by placing his hands under the different sensors 701. The user can first select the system to be set up, that is, whether the user wants to set up a soap distribution system, a water distribution system or an air distribution system. A specific system can be selected by inserting the user's hand under the sensor 701 near the respective outlet. For example, in order to set up a water distribution system, the user may insert his hand under the sensor 701 near the water outlet 580; to set up an air distribution system, the user may insert his hand under the sensor 701 near the air outlet 600. The visual indicator 705 near the selected system maintains the color recognition setting mode and starts to flash to indicate that the specific system has been selected. Optionally, the toilet system 10 includes a preset number of parameters set by the sensor 701, and the user can increase or decrease each parameter by inserting a hand under one of the sensors 701. The parameter can be identified by briefly starting the device to be set or flashing the parameter number on the visual indicator.

Once the system or specific parameters are selected, the user will insert his hand under one of the sensors 701 again. It should be thought that the first sensor 701 can be used to select the parameter to be set, and the second sensor 701 can be used to change the parameter setting. Preferably, the parameters have a predefined set of settings. For example, the motor of a fan may have low, medium, and high speed settings. Each time the user inserts his hand under the second sensor 701, the parameter will increase or decrease to the next setting. The toilet system 10 and the multifunctional toilet device 500 can briefly activate the motor so that the user can observe the air flow generated by the selected motor speed and determine the desired setting.

Although the above content discloses the best mode contemplated by the inventor to implement the present invention, the practice of the present invention is not limited to this. This shows that various additions, modifications and rearrangements can be made to the features of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the basic inventive concept.

In addition, the components do not need to be formed in the disclosed shape, nor need to be assembled in the disclosed configuration, but can be set in almost any shape and assembled in any configuration. Further, unless mutually exclusive, all the disclosed features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined or substituted for the disclosed features of other disclosed embodiments.

The scope of the attached patent application covers all such additions, modifications and rearrangements. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are distinguished by the appended claims.

10: Toilet system 12: Countertop 14: upper surface 15: lower surface 16: outer edge 20: sink 21: Wall mount 22: first side wall 24: second side wall 26: third side wall 27: ridge 28: Fourth side wall 29: Channel 31: grille 33: return pipeline 40: shell 42: first side 44: second side 46: front surface 60: Drainage system 62: Drainage pipe 63: back wall 64: front wall 65: lower surface 66: Drain 68: Groove 70: Drain pipe cover 72: front surface 73: upper surface 74: rear surface 75: Buffer 76: protrusion 77: First Surface 78: second surface 80: Drain board 81: Upper chamber 82: Support 83: Lower chamber 84: opening 89: pipe 90: Drain pipe 100,500: Multifunctional toilet 101: central axis 103: opening 110,510: support column 110a: The first support column 110b: second support column 111: open 112, 112a, 112b, 512: first end 114, 114a, 114b, 514: second end 113, 113a, 113b, 513: mounting surface 115, 115a, 115b: bending part 120, 120a: channel 122,522: boss 123,523: front end 124,524: inner wall 125,525: backend 130, 130a, 130b, 530: base 132: first end 134: second end 135: Nut 136: Second Section 137: upper surface 139: Channel 140: connecting part 142: first end 144: second end 160: first exit 162: pipe 164: Nozzle 180: second exit 182: pipe 190: removable plate 200: third exit 202,602: nozzle 204,604: Grid 210,610: Fan 215,615: air duct 300, 700: control system 301, 701: Sensor 302, 702: control circuit 303, 703: feedback signal 304,704: Processor 305,705: LED 306,706: Memory 307,707: control signal 310,710: soap pool 312,712: Liquid level detection switch 314,714: Liquid level detection signal 316,716: soap pump 318,718: Control signal 320,720: Valve 322,722: Inlet pipe 324,724: Outlet line 326,726: Control signal 352,752: Control signal 354,754: filter 370,770: Sensor 371,771: opening 372,772: Proximity signal 400,800: Aerator 401: first end 402,802: water inlet 403: second end 404: Channel 410: Upper shell 411: upper surface 412: first wall section 414: second wall section 415: inner surface 416: bottom edge 420: intake chamber 430: Exhaust Chamber 450: lower shell 460: Outer peripheral surface 462: upper surface 464: lower surface 470: Channel 480: nozzle 503: open 510a: vertical part 510b: Inclined part 511,511a,511b: opening 515: bend 520: Channel 520a: first channel 520b: second channel 530a: The first base 530b: second base 532: first end 534: second end 535: Nut 536: Part Two 537: mounting plate 539: Channel 539a: first channel 539b: second channel 540: Extension 542: first end 544: second end 560: first exit 562,582: pipeline 564: Nozzle 580: Second Exit 600: third exit H: height L: length α: first angle β: second angle

By referring to the exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the following drawings, the clear concepts that constitute the advantages and features of the present invention and the clear concepts of the structure and operation of the typical structure provided by the present invention will become more obvious. The embodiments constitute a part of this specification, wherein the same element symbols in each view indicate the same components.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a toilet system including a multifunctional toilet device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a front view of the toilet system of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a top view of the toilet system of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a side view of the toilet system of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the toilet system along line 5-5 in Figure 3;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a multifunctional toilet device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 7 is a front view of the multifunctional toilet device of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a bottom view of the multifunctional toilet device of Figure 6;

Figure 9 is a right side view of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 6;

Figure 10 is a left side view of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 6;

Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunctional toilet device along line 11-11 in Figure 7;

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunctional toilet device taken along line 12-12 in Figure 7;

Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunctional toilet device along line 13-13 in Figure 7;

Figure 14 is a partial plan view of the upper surface of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 6 removed;

Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a supporting column of the multifunctional toilet device along line 15-15 in Figure 7;

Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of a supporting column of the multifunctional toilet device along line 16-16 in Figure 7;

Figure 17 is a block diagram showing the control system of the toilet system in Figure 1;

Figure 18 is a partial perspective view of the drainage pipe used in the toilet system of Figure 1;

Figure 19 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of the drain pipe cover used in the washing system of Figure 1;

Figure 20 is a top view of the drainage pipe used in the toilet system of Figure 1;

Figure 21 is a top view of the drain pipe cover of Figure 19;

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of a sink, a drain pipe, and a drain pipe cover for a toilet system according to another embodiment of the drain pipe cover;

Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of a sink, a drain pipe, and a drain pipe cover for a toilet system according to another embodiment of the drain pipe cover;

Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of a hand basin, a drain pipe, and a drain pipe cover for a toilet system according to another embodiment of the drain pipe;

Figure 25 is a front cross-sectional view of the sink, drain pipe and drain pipe cover of Figure 24;

Figure 26 is a top cross-sectional view of the wash basin and drainage pipe of Figure 24;

Figure 27 is a side sectional view of the sink, drain pipe and drain pipe cover of Figure 24;

Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of a hand basin, a drain pipe and a drain pipe cover for a toilet system according to another embodiment of the drain pipe;

Figure 29 is a front sectional view of the sink, drain pipe and drain pipe cover of Figure 28;

Figure 30 is a top cross-sectional view of the sink and drain pipe of Figure 28;

Figure 31 is a side sectional view of the sink, drain pipe and drain pipe cover of Figure 28;

Figure 32 is a partial flow diagram of air distributed from the device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 33A is a partial flow diagram of air distributed from the device through the drain pipe cover in Figure 22;

Figure 33B is a partial flow diagram of the air in the sink using the drain pipe cover of Figure 22;

Figure 34A is a partial flow diagram of air distributed from the device through the drain pipe cover in Figure 23;

Figure 34B is a partial flow diagram of the air in the sink using the drain pipe cover of Figure 23;

Figure 35 is a partial flow diagram of air backflow in the sink according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 36 is a partial flow diagram of air backflow in the sink according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 37 is a flow diagram showing the flow of air from the device, in the sink, and back to the fan, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an aerator used in a toilet system device;

Figure 39 is a top view of the aerator of Figure 38;

Figure 40 is a side view of the aerator of Figure 38 from a perspective;

Figure 41 is a side view of the aerator of Figure 38 from another perspective;

Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view of the aerator in Figure 38 along the line 42-42 in Figure 40;

Figure 43 is a cross-sectional view of the aerator in Figure 38 along line 43-43 in Figure 40;

Figure 44 is a perspective view of a multifunctional toilet device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 45 is a front view of the multifunctional toilet device of Figure 44;

Figure 46 is a bottom view of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 44;

Figure 47 is a right side view of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 44;

Figure 48 is a left side view of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 44;

Figure 49 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunctional toilet device taken along line 49-49 in Figure 45;

Figure 50 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunctional toilet device taken along line 50-50 in Figure 45;

Figure 51 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunctional toilet device taken along line 51-51 in Figure 45;

Figure 52 is a partial top view of the multifunctional toilet device in Figure 44 with the upper surface removed;

Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of the support column of the multifunctional toilet device taken along line 53-53 in Figure 45;

Figure 54 is another cross-sectional view of the support column of the multifunctional toilet device taken along line 54-54 in Figure 45;

Fig. 55 is a block diagram showing a control system of a toilet system incorporating the multifunctional toilet device of Fig. 44.

In describing the preferred embodiments of the present invention shown in the drawings, specific terminology will be used for clarity. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific terms selected, and it should be understood that each specific term includes all equivalent technologies that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar purpose. For example, connection, attachment or similar terms are often used. These connections are not limited to direct connections, but also include connections through other components deemed equivalent by those skilled in the art.

10: Toilet system

12: Countertop

14: upper surface

16: outer edge

20: sink

24: second side wall

26: third side wall

28: Fourth side wall

40: shell

42: first side

44: second side

46: front surface

60: Drainage system

100: Multifunctional toilet

Claims (20)

A toilet system including: A sink A multifunctional toilet device extends above the sink, the multifunctional toilet device is used to distribute soap, water and air, and the multifunctional toilet device has: A support column, in which a first channel and a second channel are formed; An extension part extending from the support column; A first pipe and a second pipe, wherein the first pipe is used to carry water, the second pipe is used to carry soap, and the first pipe and the second pipe extend through the first passage and the second pipe One of the two channels, and the air is transmitted through the other of the first channel and the second channel; A first outlet, arranged along the extension, for distributing the water; A second outlet, arranged along the extension, for distributing the soap; and A third outlet is provided along the extension for distributing the air. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the multifunctional toilet device is a single casting, and the support column further includes a base, and the base is configured to be connected to the sink. The toilet system as described in claim 2, further including: A countertop has a flat upper surface, the upper surface surrounds at least a part of the sink, the countertop includes a hole, the upper surface forms the hole, and the hole is used to accommodate the base. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the multifunctional toilet device further includes an aerator, and the aerator is installed near the first outlet. The toilet system according to claim 4, wherein the aerator includes an inlet for the first pipe, and the inlet is used for increasing the swirling flow of water. The toilet system according to claim 4, wherein the extension portion includes an upper surface and a lower surface, and the aerator is substantially flush with the lower surface of the extension portion. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the device further comprises: At least one first sensor arranged in the extension part and close to the first outlet; At least one second sensor arranged in the extension part and close to the second outlet; and At least one third sensor is arranged in the extension part and close to the third outlet. The toilet system according to claim 7, wherein at least a part of the lower surface of the extension part is a translucent material, so that the sensor can sense through the lower surface of the extension part. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the device further comprises: A first indicator, identifying the first exit; A second indicator, identifying the second exit; A third indicator, identifying the third exit; and A control circuit, the control circuit is arranged to make the first indicator, the second indicator and the third indicator display a position where a user places the user's hand; The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the support column includes an inner wall that separates the first channel from the second channel, and the air is used to guide the air through the second channel to the third outlet . A multifunctional toilet device for a toilet system includes a countertop and a sink on the countertop. The multifunctional toilet device for a toilet system includes: A support column includes a first end, a second end, a first channel, and a second channel, wherein the first channel extends between the first end and the second end, and the second channel is Extending between the first end and the second end; An extension portion extending from the second end of the support column, the extension portion including a soap outlet, a water outlet and an air outlet; A first pipe, conveying water to the water outlet on the extension part through the first channel; A second pipe through which the soap is delivered to the soap outlet on the extension part; and Wherein, air is delivered to the air outlet on the extension part through the second channel. The multifunctional toilet device for toilet system according to claim 11, wherein the extension portion includes a first end and a second end, and the first end of the extension portion is in contact with the second end of the support column . The multifunctional toilet device for toilet system according to claim 11, wherein the first end of the support column includes a mounting surface configured to be mounted on the countertop, the mounting surface includes an opening, the The opening penetrates the mounting surface and communicates with the first channel and the second channel. The multifunctional toilet device for toilet system as described in claim 11 further includes: At least one first sensor, close to the water outlet; At least one second sensor, close to the soap outlet; and At least one third sensor, close to the air outlet; Wherein, the at least one first sensor is configured to send a signal to a control circuit to dispense water from the water outlet; Wherein, the at least one second sensor is configured to send a signal to the control circuit to dispense soap from the soap outlet; and Wherein, the at least one third sensor is configured to send a signal to the control circuit to distribute air from the air outlet. . A multifunctional toilet device for a hand washing station. The multifunctional toilet device for a hand washing station includes: An inclined support column, the support column includes a first end, a second end, a first channel extending through the first support column, and a second channel extending through the second support column; An extension portion, including a first end, a second end and a plurality of outlets, the first end of the extension portion is connected to the second end of the support column; A first pipe extending through the first channel to a second outlet of each of the outlets, the first pipe being fluidly coupled to a soap pump; A second pipe extending through the first channel to a third outlet of each of the outlets, the second pipe being fluidly coupled to a valve; Wherein, the second channel is fluidly coupled to a blower. The multifunctional toilet device for a washbasin as described in claim 16, further including: An aerator installed near the first outlet, the aerator including an inlet for the second pipe, the inlet increasing the swirling flow of water received from the valve. According to the multifunctional toilet device for a washbasin according to claim 17, the extension includes an upper surface and a lower surface, and the aerator is substantially flush with the lower surface of the extension. The multifunctional toilet device for a washbasin as described in claim 16, further including: A first indicator, close to the first exit; A second indicator close to the second exit; and A third indicator, close to the third exit. The multifunctional toilet device for a washbasin as described in claim 16, further including: At least one first sensor, close to the first outlet; At least one second sensor, close to the second outlet; and At least one third sensor, close to the third outlet;

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