US20240287777A1

US20240287777A1 - Baby bidet and bottom cleanser

Info

Publication number: US20240287777A1
Application number: US18/584,544
Authority: US
Inventors: Zachary Robert Sweitzer
Original assignee: AS America Inc
Current assignee: AS America Inc
Priority date: 2023-02-24
Filing date: 2024-02-22
Publication date: 2024-08-29

Abstract

A baby bidet system may include a receptacle with a drainage opening, a drainage conduit fluidically coupled to the drainage opening, a mounting member attached to the receptacle and configured to couple the receptacle to a wall, and a toilet seat cover configured to cover a toilet seat and a toilet bowl. The toilet seat cover may have a trapdoor configured be opened by an outlet of the drainage conduit. The receptacle may be movable between a first and a second position. In the first position, the receptacle may extend outward away from the wall and over the toilet seat cover, and the drainage conduit may extend through the trap door in the toilet seat cover. In the second position, the receptacle may extend along the wall, and the drainage conduit may be aligned with the underside of the receptacle.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/448,083, filed Feb. 24, 2023, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to bidets, specifically bidets for cleaning babies.

BACKGROUND

Between birth and completion of potty training, a baby may use thousands of diapers. Diapers, which can cost hundreds of dollars per month, impose a considerable financial burden on many parents. On top of the cost of the diapers, parents also need to purchase disposable wet wipes for use in cleaning their baby whenever the baby soils a diaper. Since each cleaning session can require several wipes, the cost of the wipes can quickly add up.
Along with their expense, wet wipes (and diapers) are a notable environmental pollutant. Many wet wipes contain plastics that do not readily break down in landfills. Thus, wet wipes required for just a single baby can cause a significant environmental impact. Furthermore, wet wipes are inefficient tools for cleaning a soiled baby. Even when many wipes are used, a baby may not be completely cleansed, which can lead to discomfort or infection. Moreover, used wet wipes may contaminate the hands of the person changing the baby's diaper or the surface upon which the baby is being changed. Caregivers must, as a result, spend a substantial amount of time disinfecting themselves and the changing surface in addition to the time spend changing the baby in order to preserve desired levels of cleanliness.

SUMMARY

Provided are bidet systems for cleaning babies. The bidet systems described herein may allow caregivers to easily wash and rinse a baby whenever the baby requires a diaper change, which may significantly reduce the caregiver's reliance on disposable wet wipes. This reduced reliance on wet wipes may, in turn, decrease the financial and environmental burdens imposed by wet wipes. The economic and environmental advantages of the described bidet systems may increase for families with multiple children, as a bidet system installed for one child may be stored and reused for any subsequent children.
When in use, the described bidet systems may be configured to drain into an existing toilet. Unlike wet wipes, which must be thrown away and may quickly build up in a trash can, the toilet can transport waste from the bidet directly into a sewage system. As such, caregivers using a bidet system provided herein may deal with fewer odors and less garbage than parents using wipes. The bidet systems may include an ergonomic receptacle that cradles the baby while the baby is being changed. In some examples, the receptacle may be formed from an anti-microbial material to reduce the risk of infection spreading from the bidet to the baby or to a caregiver changing the baby. An anti-microbial material may also reduce the time and effort needed to sanitize the bidet following its use. Additionally, the bidet systems may have a spraying nozzle that is configured to use water from an existing water supply (e.g., a water supply for a bathroom faucet or a shower) or from a water supply included in the bidet system to allow parents to thoroughly rinse their baby. The spraying member can be configured to dispense foaming soap, which may remove more waste than can be removed by water alone and may help to maintain the baby's hygiene and comfort.
When not in use, receptacles of the bidet systems may be configured to be compactly stored in a location that is accessible but does not excessively encroach upon the existing space in which the bidet system is being used (e.g., a bathroom). Further, the overall dexterity of a caregiver who is changing a baby on their own may be limited, as one hand is usually used to hold their baby; accordingly, the provided bidet systems may be configured to be moved between a storage configuration and an in-use configurations using only a single free hand. For example, a receptacle of a bidet system may be mounted to a wall adjacent to a toilet by a hinge and may be configured to unfold to a position directly above the toilet when the user presses a button. Alternatively, the receptacle may be configured to be manually lifted from a wall mount and placed atop a specialized toilet seat. The receptacle may be lightweight to allow for easy maneuverability and may be configured to be affixed to the wall mount and the toilet seat using a single, uncomplicated movement.
A first baby bidet system may comprise a receptacle comprising a drainage opening, a drainage conduit fluidically coupled to the drainage opening, a toilet seat cover configured to mechanically couple to a toilet to cover a toilet seat and a toilet bowl of the toilet, the toilet seat cover comprising a trapdoor configured to receive and be opened by an outlet of the drainage conduit, and a mounting member mechanically coupled to the receptacle and configured to mechanically couple the receptacle to a wall. The receptacle may be configured to move between a first position and a second position with respect to the wall and the toilet, wherein, in the first position, the receptacle extends outward in a direction away from the wall and over the toilet seat cover, and the drainage conduit extends between the drainage opening and the toilet bowl through the trap door in the toilet seat cover, and in the second position, the receptacle extends along the wall, and the drainage conduit is aligned with an underside portion of the receptacle.
In some embodiments of the first system, an outer surface of the receptacle comprises an anti-microbial material.
In some embodiments of the first system, the anti-microbial material comprises an anti-microbial plastic.
In some embodiments of the first system, the receptacle is defined by a first region comprising a head cradle, a second region comprising a leg cradle and the drainage outlet, and a central region positioned between the first region and the second region, wherein a first edge and a second edge of the central region form walls to contain water and waste in the receptacle.
In some embodiments of the first system, the second region is vertically offset from the first region such that, when the receptacle is in the first position, water and waste are directed through the drainage outlet.
In some embodiments, the first system comprises a spray nozzle comprising a water conduit configured to fluidically couple to a water supply and one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the water conduit.
In some embodiments of the first system, the spray nozzle comprises a soap chamber for storing soap, a mixing chamber fluidically coupled to the water conduit and the soap chamber, one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the mixing chamber, and a first user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to mix with the soap from the soap chamber in the mixing chamber and to cause said mixture of water and soap to exit the one or more fluid outlets.
In some embodiments of the first system, the spray nozzle comprises a second user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to exit the one or more fluid outlets in one or more spray patterns.
In some embodiments of the first system, the spray nozzle comprises a thermostatic valve fluidically coupled to the water conduit and configured to fluidically coupled to the water supply, and a third user control configured to control the thermostatic valve in order to control a temperature of water that exits the one or more fluid outlets.
In some embodiments of the first system, the mounting member comprises a hinge configured to allow the receptacle to rotate relative to the wall.
In some embodiments, the first system comprises a locking mechanism configured to hold the receptacle in the second position.
In some embodiments of the first system, the receptacle is configured to be moved between the first position and the second position by a user using at most one hand.
In some embodiments of the first system, the underside portion of the receptacle comprises a cavity configured to receive the drainage outlet when the receptacle is in the second position.
In some embodiments of the first system, the drainage outlet is mechanically coupled to the receptacle by a four-bar linkage.
In some embodiments of the first system, when the receptacle is in the second position, the fluidic coupling between the drainage outlet and the drainage conduit is configured to break.
A second baby bidet system may comprise a receptacle comprising a drainage opening, a wall connector configured to be affixed to a wall, a toilet seat connector configured removably couple to a toilet seat of a toilet, and a coupler affixed to the receptacle and configured to mechanically couple to the wall connector and the toilet seat connector, wherein when the coupler is coupled to the toilet seat connector, the receptacle is positioned on top of the toilet seat such that the drainage opening is fluidically coupled to a toilet bowl of the toilet, and when the coupler is coupled to the wall connector, the receptacle is disposed against the wall.
In some embodiments of the second system, an outer surface of the receptacle comprises an anti-microbial material.
In some embodiments of the second system, the anti-microbial material comprises an anti-microbial plastic.
In some embodiments of the second system, the receptacle is defined by a first region comprising a head cradle, a second region comprising a leg cradle and the drainage outlet, and a central region positioned between the first region and the second region, wherein a first edge and a second edge of the central region form walls to contain water and waste in the receptacle.
In some embodiments of the second system, the second region is vertically offset from the first region such that, when the receptacle is in the first position, water and waste are directed through the drainage outlet.
In some embodiments, the second system comprises a spray nozzle comprising a water conduit configured to fluidically couple to a water supply and one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the water conduit.
In some embodiments of the second system, the spray nozzle comprises a soap chamber for storing soap, a mixing chamber fluidically coupled to the water conduit and the soap chamber, one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the mixing chamber, and a first user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to mix with the soap from the soap chamber in the mixing chamber and to cause said mixture of water and soap to exit the one or more fluid outlets.
In some embodiments of the second system, the spraying member comprises a second user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to exit the one or more fluid outlets in one or more spray patterns.
In some embodiments of the second system, the spraying member comprises a thermostatic valve fluidically coupled to the water conduit and configured to fluidically coupled to the water supply and a third user control configured to control the thermostatic valve in order to control a temperature of water that exits the one or more fluid outlets.
In some embodiments of the second system, the coupler comprises a rotatable handle positioned within a bottom portion of the receptacle and a shank comprising a plurality of helical fins, the toilet seat connector comprises a first socket configured to receive the shank, and the wall connector comprises a second socket configured to receive the shank. When the shank is positioned in the first socket or the second socket, rotating the coupler in a first direction using the handle may cause the helical fins to engage with the socket, and rotating the coupler in a second direction using the handle may cause the helical fins to disengage with the socket.
In some embodiments, the second system comprises a drainage conduit comprising an upstream end that is fluidically coupled to the drainage opening and a downstream end configured to be positioned within the toilet bowl of the toilet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The following figures show various bidet systems and components of systems for cleaning babies during diaper changes.

FIG. 1A shows a side view of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 1B shows a side view of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 4 shows a receptacle of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 5A shows a side view of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 5B shows a side view of a bidet system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 6A shows a front view of a handle in a receptacle for rotating a coupler for coupling the receptacle to a toilet seat or to a wall, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 6B shows a side view of a receptacle with a coupler for coupling the receptacle to a toilet seat or to a wall, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 6C shows a front view of a connector for coupling a receptacle to a toilet seat or to a wall, according to some embodiments; and

FIG. 7 shows a spraying nozzle for a bidet system, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As discussed, caregivers conventionally use disposable wet wipes to clean their babies during diaper changes. Thoroughly cleaning a baby with wet wipes can be time-consuming and typically requires numerous wipes. As a result, the number of wipes consumed by a single family can quickly build up, potentially causing significant financial and environmental issues. In many cases, wet wipes may not completely cleanse the baby, leading to discomfort or infection. Moreover, soiled wipes may be a vector for bacteria and viruses and may emit unpleasant odors as they accumulate in trash cans. Reduced reliance on wet wipes may, therefore, reduce overall levels of environmental pollution while providing parents and their babies with considerable economic and health benefits.
The provided baby bidet systems may, in many cases, substantially lower or eliminate the need for wet wipes in the home. As described above, the bidet systems may include a receptacle for supporting the baby during diaper changes. When a bidet system is in use, the receptacle may be configured to be positioned above an existing toilet. The receptacle may have an ergonomic shape that comfortably cradles the baby's body and directs waste removed from the baby's body through a drainage opening. In some examples, the receptacle may be formed from an anti-microbial material that prevents harmful microbes from building up on the receptacle's surface.
To allow for compact but accessible storage, the receptacle may be configured to attach to a wall at a location near the toilet into which the bidet drains. In some embodiments, the receptacle can be attached to a wall adjacent to the toilet by a hinge-like mechanism. When the bidet system is not in use, the receptacle may be folded against the wall so that it does not obstruct the space around the toilet (which, in many homes, may be quite limited). When a caregiver needs to change their baby's diaper, they may cause the receptacle to unfold away from the wall and over the toilet bowl, for example by pressing a button. Once the receptacle is unfolded, the baby may be placed within the receptacle for cleaning. Alternatively, the receptacle may be configured to be removably attached to the wall using a detachable connector. To move the receptacle into position for use, the caregiver may lift the receptacle away from the wall and connect it to a toilet seat using the same connection that attaches the receptacle to the wall. In other embodiments, the bidet system may be configured to be free-standing. A plurality of wheeled legs may be affixed to an underside of the receptacle to allow the receptacle to be easily maneuvered from a storage location (e.g., a closet) to a working location (e.g., above a toilet).
When a bidet system is in its in-use configuration, the drainage opening in the receptacle may be positioned above the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, waste from the receptacle may drain directly into the toilet bowl. In other embodiments, the bidet system may include a drainage conduit that is connected to the drainage opening of the receptacle as well as a specialized toilet seat cover comprising a trap door configured to receive an end portion of the drainage conduit. The drainage conduit may be configured to automatically unfold when the receptacle is positioned above the toilet bowl such that it passes through the trap door in the toilet seat cover and connects the drainage opening of the receptacle to the toilet bowl. This may ensure that the flow of waste from the receptacle to the toilet is controlled and may prevent splashing when the waste enters the toilet bowl.
The provided bidet systems may be configured to allow parents to thoroughly wash their babies during diaper changes. To facilitate this, the bidet systems may include a spraying nozzle that is configured to connect to an existing water supply or to a water supply included in the bidet system. To maximize the baby's comfort, the spraying nozzle may have a temperature control that allows users to adjust the temperature of the water they are using to clean their baby. The spraying nozzle may be capable of dispensing water in a plurality of spray patterns, which may help users adapt the spray to best suit their needs. In some embodiments, to expedite the cleaning process, the spraying nozzle can be configured to dispense foaming soap in addition to water.
Side views of an exemplary bidet system 100 are shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. As shown, one end of a receptacle 102 of bidet system 100 may be mechanically coupled to a wall 126 above a toilet 106 by a mounting member 122. Mounting member 122 may be configured to be permanently or semi-permanently affixed to the wall, for example using one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, nails, bolts, etc.), one or more hooks, an adhesive, or a combination thereof. Mounting member 122 may be configured to allow receptacle 102 to move between a first position (shown in FIG. 1A) and a second position (shown in FIG. 1B) with respect to wall 126 and toilet 106, for instance by forming a hinge about which receptacle 102 can pivot.
The height at which receptacle 102 is mounted to wall 126 by mounting member 122 may depend on a variety of factors, including the dimensions of the room in which bidet system 100 is installed, the height(s) of the user(s) utilizing bidet system 100, and the form factor of toilet 106. Users may have some freedom to choose where along wall 126 to mount receptacle 102 to ensure that receptacle 102 is easily accessible. In some embodiments, mounting member 122 may be positioned along wall 126 at about 6 inches, about 12 inches, about 18 inches, about 24 inches, about 30 inches, or about 36 inches above the highest point of a toilet tank 112 of toilet 106 (or, if toilet 106 is tankless, above the highest point of toilet 106). In some embodiments, mounting member 122 may be positioned along wall 126 at less than or equal to 60 inches, 54 inches, 48 inches, 42 inches, 36 inches, or 30 inches above the highest point of toilet tank 112. In some embodiments, mounting member 122 may be positioned along wall 126 at least 4 inches, at least 6 inches, at least 8 inches, at least 12 inches, at least 16 inches, or at least 20 inches above the highest point of toilet tank 112. In some embodiments, mounting member 122 may be positioned along wall 126 at 1-6 inches, 6-12 inches, 12-24 inches, 24-36 inches, or 4-60 inches above the highest point of toilet tank 112.
The first position of receptacle 102 (FIG. 1A) may be the position occupied by receptacle 102 when bidet system 100 is in use (i.e., an in-use position or configuration). In some embodiments in the first position, receptacle 102 may extend (approximately) horizontally outward from wall 126 so that it is disposed above a toilet bowl 110 of toilet 106. In some embodiments, in the first position, receptacle 102 may be positioned directly on top of a toilet seat of toilet 106.
In some embodiments, in the first position, receptacle 102 may be positioned at a working height configured to ensure easy accessibility. For example, a working height of receptacle 102 may be between a waist height and a mid-chest height of an average adult. In some embodiments, a working height of receptacle 102 may be about 16 inches, about 20 inches, about 24 inches, about 28 inches, about 32 inches, about 36 inches, about 40 inches, about 44 inches, about 48 inches, about 52 inches, about 56 inches, or about 60 inches above a floor. In some embodiments, a working height of receptacle 102 may be less than or equal to 72 inches, 68 inches, 64 inches, 60 inches, 56 inches, 52 inches, or 50 inches above a floor. In some embodiments, a working height of receptacle 102 may be greater than or equal to 12 inches, 16 inches, 20 inches, 24 inches, or 28 inches above a floor. In some embodiments, a working height of receptacle 102 may be between 12-72 inches, 16-64 inches, 20-56 inches, or 24-50 inches above a floor.
In the first position, receptacle 102 may be configured to support a baby. The baby may be placed in receptacle such that the baby's head is positioned proximal to wall 126 and the baby's feet are positioned distally to wall 126. Receptacle 102 may extend away from wall 126 at an incline relative to a horizontal plane in order to guide liquid and solid waste toward a drainage opening at a distal region of receptacle 102. This incline may prevent waste from gathering around the child's body to help keep the child clean. In some embodiments, bidet system 100 may include a waterproof fabric hood configured to cover the lower half of the baby's body in order to shield the baby from splashes of contaminated fluid. To prevent injury to the baby, bidet system 100 may include a restraint system. The restraint system may comprise a seat belt or a bar configured to prevent the baby from rolling or slipping out of receptacle 102. In some embodiments, the restraint system may include a splash guard configured to shield the baby's face from contaminated liquid. The splash guard and the restraints may be formed from or coated in an anti-microbial material to inhibit the growth of harmful microbes.
Bidet system 100 may comprise a drainage conduit 104 that is fluidically coupled to a drainage opening positioned in an end portion of receptacle 102 at an upstream end 104 a and is configured to fluidically couple to toilet bowl 110 at a downstream end 104 b.
Drainage conduit 104 may be a pipe (e.g., a metal pipe or a PVC pipe) or a hose. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 may comprise or may be coated with an anti-microbial material configured to prevent microbe buildup along the inner surface of drainage conduit 104. Alternatively, in some embodiments, bidet system 100 may not include drainage conduit 104; in such cases, waste and water may flow through a drainage opening in receptacle 102 and fall into toilet bowl 110. In these embodiments, bidet system 100 may include one or more removable panels configured to be positioned around toilet bowl 110 to prevent splashing due to falling waste.
In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 can have a diameter of about 1 inch, about 2 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, about 5 inches, about 6 inches, about 7 inches, about 8 inches, about 9 inches, or about 10 inches. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 can have a diameter less than or equal to 12 inches, 10 inches, 8 inches, 6 inches, or 4 inches. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 can have a diameter greater than or equal to 0.5 inches, 1 inch, 3 inches, 5 inches, or 7 inches. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 can have a diameter between 0.5-12 inches, 0.5-1.5 inches, between 1.5-3 inches, or between 3-5 inches.
The position along wall 126 at which mounting member 122 is configured to be affixed may determine the distance between the drainage opening in receptacle 102 and toilet bowl 110 when receptacle 102 is in the first position. Thus, the length of drainage conduit 104 may depend upon the position of mounting member 122 along wall 126. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 may be about 6 inches, about 12 inches, about 18 inches, about 24 inches, about 30 inches, or about 36 inches in length. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 may be less than 66 inches, 60 inches, 54 inches, 48 inches, 42 inches, or 36 inches in length. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 may be at least 6 inches, at least 8 inches, at least 12 inches, at least 16 inches, at least 20 inches, or at least 24 inches in length. In some embodiments, drainage conduit 104 may be between 6-12 inches, 12-18 inches, 18-24 inches, 24-30 inches, 30-36 inches, or 6-66 inches in length.
Bidet system 100 may include a toilet seat cover 108 comprising a trap door that is configured to receive and be opened by downstream end 104 b of drainage conduit 104. Toilet seat cover 108 may be configured to attach to the rim of toilet bowl 110 of existing toilet 106. When receptacle 102 is moved into the first position and toilet seat cover 108 is closed, drainage conduit 104 may pass through the trap door in toilet seat cover 108 and enter toilet bowl 110. This may ensure that waste from receptacle 102 drains directly into toilet bowl 110 and may protect the toilet seat and other nearby objects from splashing when waste enters toilet bowl 110.
To allow users to clean and rinse their babies, bidet system 100 may include a spray nozzle 114. In some embodiments, spray nozzle 114 may comprise a water conduit 116 that is configured to fluidically couple to an existing water supply. For example, water conduit 116 may be configured to fluidically couple to a pipe or a hose that supplies water to toilet 106 (e.g., the water supply that refills toilet tank 112 after toilet 106 is flushed), to a showerhead, to a pipe that supplies water to a showerhead, to a faucet, or to a pipe or a hose that supplies water to a faucet. In other embodiments, bidet system 100 may include a water supply (e.g., a refillable tank) to which spray nozzle 114 is configured to fluidically connect. For ease of maneuverability of spray nozzle 114, water conduit 116 may be a flexible hose with a length sufficient to extend above receptacle 102 when receptacle 102 is in the first position.
Spray nozzle 114 may comprise a plurality of fluid outlets 118. When bidet system 100 is in use, spray nozzle 114 may direct water received from the water supply by water conduit 116 through fluid outlets 118. In some embodiments, spray nozzle 114 may be configured to output a fluid 120, which may comprise soap, water, or a combination thereof (e.g., a foaming soap), through one or more of the plurality of fluid outlets 118. The soap mixture 120 may clean the baby more extensively that water alone, which may increase the baby's comfort in between diaper changes.
The second position of receptacle 102 (FIG. 1B) may be the position occupied by receptacle 102 when bidet system 100 is not in use. In the second position, receptacle 102 may folded upwards away from toilet bowl 110 so that it is disposed along wall 126. When receptacle 102 is moved from the first position to the second position, drainage conduit 104 may move inward toward the underside of receptacle 102. In the second position, the drainage opening of receptacle 102 may be positioned (approximately) vertically above the portion of receptacle 102 that is coupled to mounting member 122, which may prevent leftover moisture from dripping out of receptacle 102. To prevent moisture that has collected within drainage conduit 104 from dripping when bidet system 100 is not in use, downstream end 104 b of drainage conduit 104 may be plugged with a drain stopper.
In some embodiments, bidet system 100 may include a spray nozzle support 124 configured to hold spray nozzle 114 when spray nozzle 114 is not in use. Spray nozzle support 124 may be a hook, a mount, or a basket that is configured to receive spray nozzle 114. In some embodiments, support 124 may be configured to be affixed to an existing surface, for example a side wall of toilet tank 112 or wall 126.
Bidet system 100 may be configured to be moved between its in-use configuration and its storage configuration without requiring significant effort from the user. Specifically, bidet system 100 may be configured such that receptacle 102 can be moved between the first position and the second position by a user who has only a single free hand (assuming, for example, that the user's other hand is holding the baby). In some embodiments, receptacle 102 may be caused to move between the first and second positions when a user engages a user control 128.
In some embodiments, user control 128 may be a push button, a switch, a knob, or a touch sensor positioned on receptacle 102 or mounting member 122 or, in some embodiments, on a remote device (e.g., a remote control for bidet system 100, or a smart phone configured to wirelessly communicate with a control system in bidet system 100). User control 128 may be configured to automatically engage a deployment mechanism that causes receptacle to move about mounting member 122. In other embodiments, user control 128 may be a handle that allows a user to manually maneuver receptacle 102 between the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, directly pulling or pushing receptacle 102 or drainage conduit 104 may allow users to manually maneuver receptacle 102 between the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, receptacle 102 may be configured to release from the second position when a user pushes on receptacle 102 (e.g., bidet system 100 may comprise a resilient member or a detent mechanism configured to release upon application of a force to receptacle 102 in an appropriate direction).
Bidet system 100 may include a damper or a speed limiter configured to control and constrain a speed at which receptacle 102 is lowered from the second (stored) position to the first (working) position. The damper or speed limiter may reduce strain on mounting member 122, thereby increasing the safety and lifetime of bidet system 100.
FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of bidet system 100 with receptacle 102 in the second (i.e., storage) position. As shown, in the second position, receptacle 102 may fold upward so that an inner portion 102 a of receptacle 102 is disposed along a wall (e.g., wall 126 behind toilet 106 shown in FIG. 1 ). An outer portion 102 b of receptacle 102 may include a cavity 130 configured to receive drainage conduit 104 when bidet system 100 is not in use. In addition to reducing the overall footprint of receptacle 102 when bidet system 100 is not in use, cavity 130 may allow drainage conduit 104 to fold toward receptacle 102 by an amount sufficient to break the fluidic coupling between drainage conduit 104 and the drainage opening 132 of receptacle 102. This may allow moisture to evaporate from drainage conduit 104 and prevent excess moisture from leaking out of drainage opening 132.
In other embodiments, when drainage conduit 104 is folded into cavity 130, the fluidic coupling between drainage conduit 104 and drainage opening 132 may not break. In such cases, bidet system may include a drip catch positioned below the downstream end 104 b of drainage conduit 104 that is configured to prevent contaminated water from dripping out of drainage conduit 104 when bidet system 100 is not in use. The drip catch may have a surface area sufficient to promote evaporation of water that it collects when bidet system 100 is not in use. To inhibit the growth of microbes, the drip catch may be formed from or coated in an anti-microbial material or substance.
Alternatively, the downstream end 104 b of drainage conduit 104 may include a spring-loaded cap that is configured to automatically close when drainage conduit 104 folds into cavity 130. Toilet seat 108 may include a cam or a tab configured to open the cap when drainage conduit 104 is unfolded (i.e., when bidet system 100 is in the working position). Like the drip catch, the spring-loaded cap may be formed from or coated in an anti-microbial material or substance.
In some embodiments, bidet system 100 may include a flexible coupling (e.g., a rubber tube) that connects drainage conduit 104 to receptacle 102. The flexible coupling may be configured to articulate as receptacle 102 is unfolded (e.g., as receptacle 102 is moved from the second position to the first position).
In some embodiments, bidet system 100 may comprise a locking mechanism or detent 134 configured to hold receptacle 102 in the second position. Locking mechanism or detent 134 may be distributed between receptacle 102 and mounting member 122. For example, the side walls of receptacle 102 may comprise one or more pins or bolts that extend outward in a direction away from the center of receptacle 102, while mounting member 122 may comprise one or more holes, hooked portions, or divots configured to receive said pins or bolts when receptacle 102 is in the second position. The pins/bolts and the holes/hooked portions/divots may together constitute locking mechanism or detent 134. In other examples, locking mechanism or detent 134 may be or may comprise a magnetic detent, an actuator (e.g., a(n) spring-loaded, hydraulic-loaded, electronic-motorized, or pneumatic actuator), a hook-and-loop system. In some embodiments, gravity may be leveraged to hold bidet system 100 in the second position.
A perspective view of bidet system 100 with receptacle 102 in the first (i.e., in-use) position is shown in FIG. 3 . In the first position, receptacle 102 may extend outward from mounting member 122 such that inner portion 102 a of receptacle 102 is positioned directly above toilet bowl 110 and is oriented directly upwards (e.g., toward the ceiling of the room in which bidet system 100 is installed). This may allow inner portion 102 a of receptacle 102 to receive and fully support the baby that is being changed.
When receptacle 102 is moved from the second position to the first position, drainage conduit 104 may unfold away from an outer portion 102 b of receptacle 102 until it is in an upright position. Drainage conduit 104 may be mechanically coupled to receptacle 102 by a four-bar linkage 136 that automatically positions drainage conduit 104 in toilet bowl 110 through a trap door 138 in toilet seat lid 108. Trap door 138 may be an opening or a cover in toilet seat lid 108 configured to be pushed open by conduit 104. In some embodiments, trap door 138 may comprise a spring mechanism configured to return trap door 138 to a closed position when drainage conduit 104 is removed. As previously explained, trap door 138 may allow toilet bowl 110 to remain covered while bidet system 100 is in use in order to protect against splashing from toilet bowl 110.
FIG. 4 shows a close-up view of receptacle 102 in the first (e.g., in-use) position. Receptacle 102 may be defined by a proximal region 140, a distal region 142, and a region 144. Proximal region 140 may be mechanically coupled to mounting member 122 and may be configured to cradle the head of a baby that is placed within receptacle 102 to be cleaned. Distal region 142 may be a region that is positioned farthest from mounting member 122. Distal region 142 may comprise drainage opening 132 and may be configured to cradle the legs of a baby that is placed within receptacle 102 to be cleaned. Central region 144 may be positioned between proximal region 140 and distal region 142. A first edge 146 a and a second edge 146 b of central region 144 may form may comprise a pair of side walls. The side walls may slope upward and outward in opposite directions to form the interior basin of receptacle 102 and to contain water and waste within receptacle 102.
In some embodiments, an outer surface of receptacle 102 (along with other components of bidet system 100 such as drainage conduit 104 and toilet seat lid 108) may be formed from or be coated with an anti-microbial material. The anti-microbial material may be configured to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that may pose risks to human health. In some embodiments, the anti-microbial material may have a sanitation efficacy of up to 99% in a twenty-four-hour period. In some embodiments, the anti-microbial material may have a sanitation efficacy of up to 99% in less than twenty-four hours. In some embodiments, the anti-microbial material may have a sanitation efficacy greater than or equal to 99% in greater than, less than, or equal to twenty-four hours. The anti-microbial material may, for example, comprise a plastic that has been embedded with an anti-microbial material, a thermoplastic blended (e.g., uniformly blended) with an antimicrobial additive, a thermoplastic having a coating of an antimicrobial additive, and/or, a thermoplastic having a coating comprising an antimicrobial additive. In some embodiments, thermoplastics used to form one or more components of bidet system 100 may include polyolefins, polyesters, polyamides, polystyrenes, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polycarbonates, polyacetals, or blends or copolymers thereof. In some embodiments, antimicrobial additives may include silver compounds, copper compounds, zinc compounds, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, receptacle 102 may be formed using plastic injection molding, 3D printing, or vacuum forming techniques. In some embodiments, various other manufacturing methods may be used to produce receptacle 102.
Mounting member 122 may comprise a bearing that passes through a bore in the first region 140 of receptacle 102. Moving receptacle 102 between the first position and the second position may involve rotating receptacle about the bearing toward the wall to which it is mounted or away from the wall to which it is mounted in a hinge-like motion.
When receptacle 102 is in the first position, distal region 142 may be vertically offset from proximal region 140 so that waste and water are caused to flow away from first region 140 and toward drainage opening 132 in second region 142. Central region 144 may, as a result, form an incline that connects first region 140 to second region 142. In some embodiments, when receptacle 102 is in the first position, the uppermost point of proximal region 140 may be vertically offset the lowermost point of distal region 142 by about 1 inch, about 2 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, about 5 inches, or about 6 inches. In some embodiments, when receptacle 102 is in the first position, the uppermost point of proximal region 140 may be vertically offset the lowermost point of distal region 142 by less than or equal to 12 inches, 11 inches, 10 inches, 9 inches, 8 inches, 7 inches, 6 inches, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, when receptacle 102 is in the first position, the uppermost point of proximal region 140 may be vertically offset the lowermost point of distal region 142 by at least 0.5 inches, at least 1 inch, at least 2 inches, at least 3 inches, at least 4 inches, or at least 5 inches. In some embodiments, when receptacle 102 is in the first position, the uppermost point of proximal region 140 may be vertically offset the lowermost point of distal region 142 by 0.5-2.5 inches, 2.5-4.5 inches, 4.5-6.5 inches, 6.5-7.5 inches, 7.5-8.5 inches, or 0.5-12 inches.
Receptacle 102 and mounting member 122 may be configured to support a wide range of weights. This may allow parents to continue using bidet system 100 as their babies grow. High weight tolerance may also allow receptacle 102 to withstand unexpected forces without collapsing or detaching from the wall to which it is mounted. For example, receptacle 102 may be capable of withstanding caregivers leaning on or pressing down upon receptacle 102. In some embodiments, receptacle 102 and mounting member 122 may be configured to support between 10-20 pounds, 20-30 pounds, 30-40 pounds, 40-50 pounds, 50-60 pounds, 60-70 pounds, 70-80 pounds, 80-90 pounds, 90-100 pounds, 100-110 pounds, 110-120 pounds, 120-130 pounds, 130-140 pounds, 140-150 pounds, 150-160 pounds, 160-170 pounds, 170-180 pounds, 180-190 pounds, 190-200 pounds, 200-210 pounds, 210-220 pounds, 220-230 pounds, 230-240 pounds, or 240-250 pounds. In some embodiments, receptacle 102 and mounting member 122 may be configured to support at least 15 pounds, at least 30 pounds, at least 45 pounds, at least 60 pounds, at least 75 pounds, at least 90 pounds, at least 105 pounds, at least 120 pounds, at least 135 pounds, at least 150 pounds, at least 165 pounds, at least 180 pounds, at least 195 pounds, at least 200 pounds, at least 210 pounds, at least 225 pounds, at least 240 pounds, at least 255 pounds, at least 270 pounds, at least 285 pounds, or at least 300 pounds.
Similarly, receptacle 102 may be configured to accommodate babies of a variety of heights. The heights that receptacle 102 is able to accommodate may depend on the length of receptacle 102. In some embodiments, a length of receptacle 124 (measured from an edge of proximal region 140 to an edge of distal region 142) may be about 20 inches, about 22 inches, about 24 inches, about 26 inches, about 28 inches, about 30 inches, about 32 inches, about 34 inches, or about 36 inches. In some embodiments, a length of receptacle 124 (measured from an edge of proximal region 140 to an edge of distal region 142) may be less than or equal to 48 inches, 42 inches, 36 inches, 30 inches, or 24 inches. In some embodiments, a length of receptacle 124 (measured from an edge of proximal region 140 to an edge of distal region 142) may be greater than or equal to 12 inches, 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches, or 36 inches. In some embodiments, a length of receptacle 124 (measured from an edge of proximal region 140 to an edge of distal region 142) may be between 12-24 inches, 24-36 inches, 36-42 inches, 42-48 inches, or 12-48 inches.
Side views of a second exemplary bidet system 500 are shown in FIGS. 5A-5B. Like bidet system 100, bidet system 500 may comprise a receptacle 502, a drainage conduit 504, and a water conduit 516. Receptacle 502 may include one or more features of receptacle 102 shown in FIGS. 1-4 . However, instead of being attached to a wall like receptacle 102, receptacle 502 may be configured to be moved between a first position (as shown in FIG. 5A) and a second position (as shown in FIG. 5B) by selectively connecting receptacle 502 to a toilet seat connector 508 or a wall connector 522.
The first position of receptacle 502 (FIG. 5A) may be the position occupied by receptacle 502 when bidet system 500 is in use. Receptacle 502 may be mechanically coupled to toilet 506 directly above a toilet bowl 510 by toilet seat connector 508. In some embodiments, toilet seat connector 508 may be removably coupled to a toilet seat of toilet 506. Users of bidet system 500 may attach toilet seat connector 508 to the toilet seat prior to using bidet system 500 to clean their baby and may remove toilet seat connector 508 after they are finished using bidet system 500. In other embodiments, toilet seat connector 508 may be permanently installed on a toilet seat of toilet 506 (e.g., in place of a toilet seat lid) or may be a component of a toilet seat lid.
An upstream end 504 a of drainage conduit 504 may be fluidically coupled to a drainage opening in receptacle 502, while a downstream end 504 b of drainage conduit 504 may be positioned within toilet bowl 510. Like drainage conduit 104 of bidet system 100, drainage conduit 504 may receive waste that drains from receptacle 502 and may direct said waste into toilet bowl 510 for disposal. Drainage conduit 504 may share one or more features with drainage conduit 104, including diameter and length.
Water conduit 516 may be configured to fluidically couple to an existing water supply, for example a pipe that supplies water to toilet 506 (e.g., the water supply that refills toilet tank 512 after toilet 506 is flushed), a showerhead, a pipe that supplies water to a showerhead, a faucet, or a pipe or hose that supplies water to a faucet. Water conduit 516 may form a fluid pathway between the water supply and a water inlet in receptacle 502 to provide users with clean water with which to rinse their baby. In some embodiments, water flow through water conduit 516 may be controlled by a valve. In some embodiments, rather than being fluidically coupled to a water inlet in receptacle 502, water conduit 516 may be a component a spray nozzle similar to spray nozzle 114 of bidet system 100.
The second position of receptacle 502 (as shown in FIG. 5B) may be the position occupied by receptacle 502 when bidet system 500 is not in use. In the second position, receptacle 502 may be mechanically coupled to a wall adjacent to toilet 506 by a wall connector 522. Wall connector 522 and toilet seat connector 508 may utilize the same coupling mechanism to connect to receptacle 502. In other words, receptacle 502 may include a single coupler that is configured to mechanically couple to both wall connector 522 and toilet seat connector 508.
When receptacle 502 is connected to wall connector 522, receptacle 522 may be disposed along the wall such that an underside portion of receptacle 502 is substantially aligned with the wall. Drainage conduit 504 may remain connected to receptacle 502 and toilet bowl 510 when receptacle is connected to wall connector 522. Water conduit 516 may remain connected to receptacle 502 and toilet bowl 510, as well.
Moving receptacle 502 between the first position and the second position may require manually lifting receptacle 502. As such, receptacle 502 may be formed from a lightweight material that may allow receptacle 502 to be easily lifted, possibly by a user using only a single hand. In some embodiments, receptacle 502 may weigh about 0.5 lbs, about 1 lb, about 2 lbs, about 3 lbs, about 4 lbs, about 5 lbs, about 6 lbs, about 7 lbs, about 8 lbs, about 9 lbs, or about 10 lbs. In some embodiments, receptacle 502 may weigh less than or equal to 12 lbs, 11 lbs, 10 lbs, 9 lbs, or 8 lbs. In some embodiments, receptacle 502 may weigh at least 0.1 lbs, 0.3 lbs, 0.6 lbs, 0.9 lbs, 1 lb, 2 lbs, or 3 lbs. In some embodiments, receptacle 502 may weigh between 0.1-1 lb, 1-3 lbs, 3-5 lbs, or 5-7 lbs.
FIGS. 6A-6C show various views of receptacle 502 and a connector 508/522 for connecting receptacle 502 to a wall or to a toilet seat. Specifically, FIG. 6A shows a top view of an interior portion of receptacle 502. A centroid handle 528 may be disposed in a bottom portion of receptacle 502 proximal to a fluid inlet 518 (which may be fluidically coupled to water conduit 516) and a drainage opening 532 (which may be fluidically coupled to drainage conduit 504). Rotating centroid handle 528 may rotate a coupler 548 that extends outward from an underside portion of receptacle 502, as depicted in the side view of receptacle 502 shown in FIG. 6B. Coupler 548 may be a cylindrical shank comprising a plurality of fins 550 that wrap around the shank in a helical pattern. Connector 508/522, a top view of which is shown in FIG. 6C, may comprise a socket 534 configured to receive coupler 548. When coupler 548 is positioned within socket 534 and handle 528 is rotated in a first direction, fins 550 may engage with socket 534 and receptacle 502 may be fastened to connector 508/522. When coupler 548 is positioned within socket 534 and handle 528 is rotated in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, fins 550 may disengage with socket 534 and receptacle 502 may be removed from connector 508/522.
In some embodiments, a bidet system such as bidet system 100 or bidet system 500 may include one or more wheeled legs attached (or configured to be attached) to an underside of the receptacle. The wheeled legs may provide an alternative mode of moving the bidet system from a storage configuration to a working configuration. Rather than unfolding or removing the receptacle from a wall, the receptacle may be pushed to a desired location using the wheeled legs. In some embodiments, the wheeled legs may be configured to fold upward (i.e., away from a floor and toward the underside of the receptacle) so that receptacle may be stored. Alternatively, the wheeled legs may be configured to collapse toward one another while maintaining contact between the wheels and the floor.
FIG. 7 shows an exemplary spray nozzle 714 for a bidet system. In some embodiments, spray nozzle 114 shown in FIGS. 1A-1B may include one or more features of spray nozzle 714. In some embodiments, bidet system 500 may comprise a spray nozzle such as spray nozzle 714.
As shown, spray nozzle 714 may comprise a water conduit 716. Water conduit 716 may be configured to fluidically couple to an existing water supply, such as a water supply for a toilet, a shower, or a faucet. Water conduit 716 may be fluidically coupled to a mixing chamber 752 within a spray head 760 of nozzle 714. Chamber 752 may, in turn, be fluidically coupled to a plurality of fluid outlets 718 which may be disposed on a face 762 of spray head 760. Users may operate one or more of a plurality of spray controls 754 to cause water from the water supply to pass into water conduit 716, out of water conduit 716 and into chamber 752, and out of chamber 752 through one or more of fluid outlets 718. Optionally, the plurality of spray controls 754 may comprise a control configured to cause water to exit fluid outlets 718 in one or more predefined spray patterns.
In some embodiments, spray head 760 may comprise a second chamber 756 configured to contain a volume of liquid soap. The plurality of spray controls 754 may comprise a control configured to cause soap chamber 756 to fluidically couple to mixing chamber 752. When soap chamber 756 is caused to fluidically couple to mixing chamber 752, a portion of the volume of liquid soap in soap chamber 756 may be injected into mixing chamber 752, where it may mix with water flowing into mixing chamber 752 from water conduit 716. This soap and water mixture may then be caused to exit one or more of fluid outlets 718, where it may be used by a user to clean a baby. To shield caretakers from fluid splashes, spray nozzle 714 may include a splash guard positioned near or around fluid outlets 718.
In some embodiments, spray nozzle 714 may comprise or may be configured to couple to a thermostatic valve 758. The plurality of spray controls 754 may comprise a control configured to control thermostatic valve 758 in order to control the temperature of the water that exits fluid outlets 718. Controlling the temperature of the water used to rinse their babies may allow users to maintain their babies' comfort during the cleaning process.
In some embodiments, a mechanical debris remover 766 may be disposed on an outer surface of spray nozzle 714. Mechanical debris remover 766 may comprise a brush (e.g., a collection of soft silicone bristles), a cloth, or a sponge configured to assist in the removal of debris from the bidet system or from the child. In some embodiments, one or more components of mechanical debris remover 766 may be removable and/or replaceable. For example, mechanical debris remover 766 may comprise a clamp configured to hold a removable wash cloth, wipe, brush, or sponge.
The foregoing description, for the purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments and/or examples. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the techniques and their practical applications. Others skilled in the art are thereby enabled to best utilize the techniques and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
Although the disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying figures, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the disclosure and examples as defined by the claims. Finally, the entire disclosure of the patents and publications referred to in this application are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Any of the systems, methods, techniques, and/or features disclosed herein may be combined, in whole or in part, with any other systems, methods, techniques, and/or features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A baby bidet system comprising:

a receptacle comprising a drainage opening;

a drainage conduit fluidically coupled to the drainage opening;

a toilet seat cover configured to mechanically couple to a toilet to cover a toilet seat and a toilet bowl of the toilet, the toilet seat cover comprising a trapdoor configured to receive and be opened by an outlet of the drainage conduit;

a mounting member mechanically coupled to the receptacle and configured to mechanically couple the receptacle to a wall;

wherein the receptacle is configured to move between a first position and a second position with respect to the wall and the toilet, wherein:

in the first position, the receptacle extends outward in a direction away from the wall and over the toilet seat cover, and the drainage conduit extends between the drainage opening and the toilet bowl through the trap door in the toilet seat cover; and

in the second position, the receptacle extends along the wall, and the drainage conduit is aligned with an underside portion of the receptacle.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein an outer surface of the receptacle comprises an anti-microbial material.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is defined by a first region comprising a head cradle, a second region comprising a leg cradle and the drainage outlet, and a central region positioned between the first region and the second region, wherein a first edge and a second edge of the central region form walls to contain water and waste in the receptacle.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the second region is vertically offset from the first region such that, when the receptacle is in the first position, water and waste are directed through the drainage outlet.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a spray nozzle comprising:

a water conduit configured to fluidically couple to a water supply and one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the water conduit,

a soap chamber for storing soap,

a mixing chamber fluidically coupled to the water conduit and the soap chamber,

one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the mixing chamber, and

a first user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to mix with the soap from the soap chamber and to cause said mixture of water and soap to exit the one or more fluid outlets.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the spray nozzle further comprises a second user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to exit the one or more fluid outlets in one or more spray patterns.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein the spray nozzle further comprises:

a thermostatic valve fluidically coupled to the water conduit and configured to fluidically coupled to the water supply;

a third user control configured to control the thermostatic valve in order to control a temperature of water that exits the one or more fluid outlets.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to hold the receptacle in the second position.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is configured to be moved between the first position and the second position by a user using at most one hand.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the underside portion of the receptacle comprises a cavity configured to receive the drainage outlet when the receptacle is in the second position.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the drainage outlet is mechanically coupled to the receptacle by a four-bar linkage.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein, when the receptacle is in the second position, the fluidic coupling between the drainage outlet and the drainage conduit is configured to break.

13. A baby bidet system comprising:

a receptacle comprising a drainage opening;

a wall connector configured to be affixed to a wall;

a toilet seat connector configured removably couple to a toilet seat of a toilet;

a coupler affixed to the receptacle and configured to mechanically couple to the wall connector and the toilet seat connector, wherein:

when the coupler is coupled to the toilet seat connector, the receptacle is positioned on top of the toilet seat such that the drainage opening is fluidically coupled to a toilet bowl of the toilet; and

when the coupler is coupled to the wall connector, the receptacle is disposed against the wall.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein an outer surface of the receptacle comprises an anti-microbial material.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the receptacle is defined by a first region comprising a head cradle, a second region comprising a leg cradle and the drainage outlet, and a central region positioned between the first region and the second region, wherein a first edge and a second edge of the central region form walls to contain water and waste in the receptacle.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the second region is vertically offset from the first region such that, when the receptacle is in the first position, water and waste are directed through the drainage outlet.

17. The system of claim 13, further comprising a spray nozzle comprising:

a soap chamber for storing soap,

a mixing chamber fluidically coupled to the water conduit and the soap chamber,

one or more fluid outlets fluidically coupled to the mixing chamber, and

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the spraying member further comprises a second user control configured to cause water received from the water supply to exit the one or more fluid outlets in one or more spray patterns.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the spraying member comprises:

20. The system of claim 13, wherein:

the coupler comprises a rotatable handle positioned within a bottom portion of the receptacle and a shank comprising a plurality of helical fins;

the toilet seat connector comprises a first socket configured to receive the shank;

the wall connector comprises a second socket configured to receive the shank;

wherein, when the shank is positioned in the first socket or the second socket, rotating the coupler in a first direction using the handle causes the helical fins to engage with the socket, and rotating the coupler in a second direction using the handle causes the helical fins to disengage with the socket.