WO2024097268A1

WO2024097268A1 - Siphon flush valve

Info

Publication number: WO2024097268A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/036555
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert M. Jensen; Zachary Robert SWEITZER
Original assignee: As America, Inc.
Priority date: 2022-11-02
Filing date: 2023-11-01
Publication date: 2024-05-10

Abstract

A siphon valve assembly for a toilet water tank, comprising a head, a primer, a siphon tube positioned within the primer, and a check valve assembly. A primer is configured to be lifted about the head to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the primer, over a weir, and through the siphon tube to a toilet bowl. Alternatively, a check valve assembly is configured to lift within the primer to initiate a siphon flow of water. In another embodiment, a siphon tube may have an up-leg and a down-leg with a primer positioned about the up-leg.

Description

Siphon Flush Valve

The disclosure relates to a siphon flush valve for use in a toilet water tank. In particular, the disclosure is directed to a flapper-less siphon valve for use in a toilet water tank.

Background

Tank-type toilets are widely used in both residential and commercial settings. Tank-type toilets generally comprise flush systems having a water fill valve and a flush valve with a flapper to regulate flush water flow to a toilet bowl. A flapper type flush valve comprises a flapper seal below a water line that may be prone to leaking due to wear and/or exposure to minerals, etc. Toilet flappers may be a leading cause of leaking or “running” toilets. There is a need for improved flush valve technology for use in a toilet water tank. In particular, there is a need for a reliable “flapper-less” flush valve for use in a toilet water tank.

Summary

Accordingly, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a head; and a primer surrounding the siphon tube, wherein the siphon tube comprises an upper end and a lower end, the head surrounds the siphon tube upper end, a siphon valve inlet comprises a head lower end, the siphon tube upper end comprises a weir, the siphon tube lower end comprises a siphon valve outlet, and the primer is configured to lift about the siphon tube and head during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon valve inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water in a siphon flow path through the siphon valve inlet, over the weir, and out the siphon valve outlet.

In some embodiments, a primer comprises a lower end base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, and the primer lower end base comprises a check valve, for example a diaphragm valve.

Also disclosed is a siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a head; a primer surrounding the siphon tube; and a check valve assembly positioned in the primer, wherein the siphon tube comprises an upper end and a lower end, the head surrounds the siphon tube upper end, a siphon valve inlet comprises a head lower end, the siphon tube upper end comprises a weir, the siphon tube lower end comprises a siphon valve outlet, and the check valve assembly is configured to lift about the siphon tube within the primer during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon valve inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the siphon valve inlet, over the weir, and out the siphon valve outlet.

Also disclosed is a siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a primer; and a check valve assembly, wherein the siphon tube comprises a weir, a siphon tube inlet, and a siphon tube outlet, the primer is positioned about the siphon tube inlet, the primer comprises a rod positioned in a primer interior, the check valve assembly is positioned about the rod, the check valve assembly is configured to lift about the rod within the primer during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon tube inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the siphon tube inlet, over the weir, and out the siphon tube outlet.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The disclosure described herein is illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the accompanying figures. For simplicity and clarity of illustration, features illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some features may be exaggerated relative to other features for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference labels have been repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B provide views of a toilet tank assembly, according to some embodiments. Fig. 1C, Fig. 1 D, Fig. 1 E, Fig. 1 F, and Fig. 1G show cross-section views of a siphon flush valve assembly at different stages during a flush cycle, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 1H shows various components of a siphon flush valve assembly, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 2A provides a cross-section view of a siphon flush valve assembly, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2B shows a view of an underside of a siphon head, according to an embodiment. Fig. 3A provides a view of a toilet tank assembly, according to an embodiment. Fig. 3B and Fig. 3C provide cross-section views of a siphon flush valve assembly, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 3D shows a siphon check valve assembly, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 3E and Fig. 3F provide views of a siphon flush valve assembly, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 4A provides a view of a toilet tank assembly, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 4B shows a siphon tube, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 5 shows a check valve assembly and check valve assembly components, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 6 provides a view of a check valve assembly, according to some embodiments. Fig. 7 provides a view of a check valve assembly, according to some embodiments. Fig. 8 shows views of a check valve assembly, according to some embodiments. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B provide partial views of siphon valve assembly, according to some embodiments.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B provide views of toilet tank assembly 100, according to some embodiments. Toilet tank 101 is “see-through” to show components positioned therein. Tank assembly 100 is configured to be positioned on a deck of a toilet bowl (not shown). Tank assembly 100 comprises refill valve (tank refill assembly) 102, siphon flush valve assembly 103, and manual actuator assembly 104 positioned therein. Manual actuator assembly 104 comprises handle 105 coupled to an exterior of tank 101 and to lever 106, which is coupled to chain 107. Chain 107 is coupled to primer 108 and is configured to lift primer 108 about siphon head 109 to initiate a flush cycle. Siphon tube 110 comprises flush valve outlet 111, configured to deliver flush water to a toilet bowl. Also visible is annular base stop feature 112. Fig. 1A shows siphon valve assembly 103 in a “rest” position, between flush cycles, with primer 108 in a lower “rest” position. Fig. 1B shows siphon valve assembly 103 during a flush cycle with primer 108 in a lifted position. Manual actuator assembly 104 is operated to lift primer 108 to initiate a flush.

Fig. 1C provides a cross-section view of flush valve assembly 103 in a rest position between flush cycles, according to an embodiment. Siphon head 109 comprises centrally positioned downward protrusion 116, extending downward into siphon tube 110. Downward protrusion 116 provides a smooth annular flow path FP, and may comprise a conical shape. Siphon head 109 is positioned on siphon tube 110 with splines 115. Assembly 103 may for example comprise 3 or 4 splines 115. Siphon tube 110 comprises annular weir 113. Siphon tube 110 comprises annular inlet stop 121 positioned about it. Primer container 108 is positioned about siphon tube 110 and contains toilet tank water. Primer container bottom end, or annular base, 138 is open to a toilet tank and comprises annular diaphragm 114d positioned on a top surface of base 138. Base 138 and diaphragm 114d together may be considered as check valve assembly 114. A tank water level W/L between flush cycles may be positioned at a level of weir 113. Diaphragm 114d in a rest position is configured to seal primer annular base 138 and to prevent water from escaping cup 108.

Fig. 1D shows a cross-section view of siphon valve assembly 103 as primer container 108 is lifted about siphon tube 110 to initiate a flush. Primer 108 is configured to be lifted with manual flush actuator assembly 104 of Fig. 1A. In other embodiments, a primer may be configured to be lifted with an automatic or electronic flush actuator assembly. As primer 108 is lifted, toilet tank water in cup 108 is forced over weir 113 and diaphragm 114d is lifted, initiating siphon flow of tank water over weir 113, through tube 110, and through outlet 111 to a toilet bowl. Toilet tank water is configured to enter siphon tube 110 by passing through annular primer lower end base 138 past diaphragm 114d, entering siphon tube inlet 117, passing over weir 113, and entering tube 110 along flow path FP. Inlet 117 comprises outwardly extending, radiused (curved) lip 122 of siphon head 109 and annular inlet stop 121. Annular inlet stop 121 may be configured to prevent diaphragm 114d from blocking flow path FP. Annular inlet stop 121 also comprises a shape to mirror that of lip 122 to form a smooth flow path towards weir 113. Annular inlet stop 121 comprises upper inlet radiused lip portion 1211 and downward extension stop portion 121s. Together, radiused portion 122 of siphon head 109 and radiused portion 1211 of inlet stop 121 form annular radiused inlet 117.

Fig. 1E shows a cross-section of siphon valve assembly 103 as tank water level W/L falls to a level of siphon tube inlet 117, allowing air to enter tube 110. As air enters flow path FP, a siphon flow of water will be broken, and siphon flow of flush water through tube 110 is stopped. Diaphragm 114d will now return to a rest, sealing position.

Fig. 1F and Fig. 1G show a cross-section view of siphon valve assembly 103 as primer 108 returns to its rest position and diaphragm returns to a rest, sealing position on primer base 138. Primer 108 may be configured to return to a rest positon by gravity and/or with a spring assist (not shown). Fill valve assembly 102 will now be triggered to dispense water to re-fill a toilet tank, and water level W/L will rise. Water level W/L is configured to rise to about a level of weir 113.

Fig. 1H provides views of components of siphon valve assembly 103, according to some embodiments. The top, left drawing shows siphon tube 110, showing annular weir 113 and flush valve outlet 111. Also shown is annular inlet stop 121 , comprising upper inlet lip portion 1211 and extension stop portion 121s. Siphon tube 110 comprises portion 127 extending outward and downward from weir 113. The top, center drawing shows diaphragm 114d, according to an embodiment. Diaphragm 114d is segmented, comprising a plurality of segments 114s. The drawing top center shows a pen partially lifting a segment 114s. Segments 114s may aid in allowing diaphragm to rise and re-seat in primer 108 to form a seal. The drawing at right shows a bottom view of siphon valve assembly 103, according to some embodiments. Diaphragm 114d is seated on a top surface of annular primer base 138, forming a seal over openings 119. The bottom, left figure shows primer 108, according to an embodiment. Primer base 138 contains a plurality of openings 119 to allow water to pass through as diaphragm 114d is lifted during a flush cycle. Primer 108 also comprises opening 120 configured to receive siphon tube 110. The bottom, center drawing shows siphon head 109, according to an embodiment. Siphon head 109 comprises central downward protrusion 116 and valve inlet 117.

Fig. 2A provides a cross-section view of siphon valve assembly 203, according to an embodiment. Assembly 203 comprises primer container 108 containing segmented diaphragm 114d positioned on annular primer base 138. Siphon valve assembly 203 is at rest between flush cycles. Assembly 203 also comprises siphon tube 110 having annular weir 113. Siphon head 209 is concentrically positioned on and coupled to siphon tube 110 with a plurality of splines 215. In assembly 203, downward protrusion 216 comprises centrally positioned opening 226 fluidly coupled to inlet tube 225. Inlet tube 225 is configured to provide for a refill valve assembly (refill valve assembly 102) to pass water through in order to provide a sanitary water seal in a toilet bowl towards the end of a flush cycle. Refill valve 102 may pass water to protrusion 216 with a tube (not shown) fluidly coupled to refill valve 102. In other embodiments, there may be a separate assembly configured for a refill tube to provide a sanitary water seal towards the end of a flush cycle. In yet other embodiments, a sanitary seal may be formed towards the end of a flush cycle via a water channel fluidly coupled to a small hole in a toilet bowl sump area to provide water to a toilet bowl. Siphon head 209 comprises symmetric annular inlet 217 comprising annular inlet stop 121 and outwardly extending lip 222.

Fig. 2B provides an underside view of siphon head 209, according to an embodiment. Shown are outwardly extending lip 222 and opening 226. Siphon head 209 is coupled to splines 215, configured to couple to siphon tube 110. Splines 215 are configured to symmetrically, concentrically position siphon head 209 on siphon tube 110.

Fig. 3A shows toilet tank assembly 300, according to some embodiments. T oilet tank assembly comprises refill valve assembly 102 and siphon valve assembly 303 positioned in tank 301 . Siphon valve assembly 303 is “integrated”, meaning siphon head 309 and primer 308 may be a single integrated part. In some embodiments, “integrated” may mean not necessarily a single part, but an assembly of parts that do not move relative to one another during operation. Visible is slotted opening (slot) 335 positioned vertically on primer 308. Slot 335 provides flow communication between an interior space of tank 301 and an interior space of primer 308. Also visible is tab 336, which is part of a check valve assembly positioned in primer 308.

Fig. 3B and Fig. 3C show tank assembly 300 in cross-section, with siphon valve assembly 303 also in cross-section, according to some embodiments. Shown are refill valve assembly 102 and siphon valve assembly 303 positioned in toilet tank 301. Siphon valve assembly 303 comprises siphon head 309 coupled to primer 308 and having splines 315 positioned therein. Head 309 surrounds and is positioned about an upper end of siphon tube 310. Assembly 303 comprises annular weir 313, downward protrusion 316, siphon tube 310, annular base stop 312, and annular inlet 317. Primer 308 surrounds and is positioned about siphon tube 310. Positioned in primer 308 (in primer 308 interior) is check valve assembly 314. Primer 308 comprises slotted opening 335.

Fig. 3B shows siphon valve assembly 303 in a rest position between flush cycles. Fig. 3C shows siphon valve assembly 303 as valve assembly 314 is lifted to initiate a siphon flow over weir 313 during a flush cycle. It is seen that, in contrast to Fig. 1C through Fig. 1G, that primer container 308 does not move during a flush, but that check valve assembly 314 itself is lifted (and subsequently returned to a lower rest position). Siphon valve assembly 303 comprises lift mechanism 337 positioned at an exterior of primer 308. Lift mechanism 337 may be configured to be coupled to tab 336 seen in Fig. 3A. As lift mechanism 337 is lifted by manual or electronic means, check valve assembly 314 is lifted, pushing water over weir 313 and starting a siphon flow of water through siphon tube 310 and outlet 311 to a toilet bowl. As tank water level drops to a top of slot 335, air will enter assembly 303, breaking the siphon flow. Check valve assembly 314 is configured to then return to a rest, sealing position.

Fig. 3D provides different views of check valve assembly 314, according to some embodiments. Assembly 314 comprises four equally spaced tabs 336 positioned about annular base 338. Base 338 comprises a plurality of openings 319 and central opening 320 configured to receive siphon tube 310. Openings 319 are configured to be enclosed by a plurality of individual (independent) segments 314s. Independent segments 314s may be rigid, flexible, or semi-flexible. Independent segments 314s may comprise a feature to snap-fit onto ribs 339 and to allow for rotational movement of segments 314s. Segments, or “paddles” 314s may be coupled along one edge to base 338 with a pivotal hinge. In other embodiments, annular base 338 may be fitted with a diaphragm as in Fig. 1H. Primer may comprise four equally spaced slots 335 about its circumference, each slot configured to receive a tab 336. Each tab 336 may be coupled to a lift mechanism 337. Lift mechanism 337 is configured to lift check valve assembly 314 by tabs 336 in slots 335 and to again allow it to return to a lowered, rest position. Tabs 336 are configured to lift within and relative to slots 335. In some embodiments, a primer may have for example 1 , 2, 3, or 4 slotted openings, and a check valve base may comprise a corresponding 1 , 2, 3, or 4 tabs to couple to a lift mechanism. Segments 314s are positioned on or coupled to base 338.

Fig. 3E provides a view of siphon valve assembly 303, according to some embodiments. Siphon head 309 and primer portion 308 are a single integrated part, and do not move relative to each other. Primer portion 308 comprises 4 equally spaced, vertically positioned slots 335. Visible also is downward protrusion 316. Siphon tube 310 is configured to be positioned inside of head 309/primer 308. Portion 327 extends outward and downward from weir 313. Siphon tube 310 comprises annular inlet stop 321 positioned about it. Check valve assembly 314 comprises base 338 having 4 equally spaced extending tabs 336. Check valve assembly 314 also comprises independent segments 314s shown in a closed position on base 338 and nested on each other, with one higher edge positioned above another segment lower edge so as to have a “fan-like” construction. Segments 314s may comprise a hinge, for instance a pin/slot type hinge, a piano hinge or a living plastic hinge along a lower edge. A hinge (not visible) is configured such that each segment 314s may rotate along a lower edge to open upward during a flush cycle, and return to a closed position at an end of a flush cycle.

Fig. 3F show views of siphon valve assembly 303 in a closed (pre-flush) position (left) and in an open (during flush) position (right). Lift mechanism 337 comprises arms 340 coupled to extending tabs 336. As lift mechanism 337 is lifted, tabs 336 are moved upward in vertical slots 335, thereby lifting valve assembly 314 (not visible). As valve assembly 314 is lifted within portion 308, water within portion 308 is pushed over weir 313, and check valve segments 314s will rotate and lift, allowing surrounding tank water to pass through check valve 314, over weir 313, and through tube 310 to initiate a siphon flow to a toilet bowl. As surrounding tank water falls to at or below a top of slots 335, air may enter, thereby breaking the siphon flow and stopping flush water from being delivered to a toilet bowl. Valve segments 314s will re-seat on annular base 338 and valve assembly 314 will be returned to a lowered, rest position at or towards the end of a flush cycle. Segments 314s may are configured to at least partially lift off base 338 during a flush cycle to allow surrounding toilet tank water to flow through check valve assembly 314.

Fig. 4A provides a view of toilet assembly 400, according to an embodiment. Tank 401 comprises refill valve assembly 102 and siphon valve assembly 403 positioned therein. Siphon valve assembly 403 comprises “integrated” primer container 408 and siphon tube 410. Siphon tube 410 comprises weir 413 and outlet 411. A central area of primer container 408 is shown “see-through”, providing a view of central rod 445. Primer 408 may comprise 4 slotted openings 435 (not shown) positioned equally about it as in Fig. 3A. Each slot may be configured to receive a tab 336 of assembly 314, wherein central opening 320 is positioned about rod 445. A lift mechanism 337 may be positioned about primer 408 and coupled to taps 336. Lift mechanism 337 may be configured to lift check valve assembly 314 to initiate a siphon flow over weir 413 and out outlet 411. In some embodiments, a rod (e.g. 445) or a siphon tube (e.g. 110 or 310) may have a spring positioned about it and configured to aid in returning a primer or a check valve assembly to a lower rest position. Siphon tube 410 comprises a 180 degree turn from up-leg 446 to down-leg 447 for form weir 413. Fig. 4B shows a siphon tube 410, according to an embodiment. Visible are annular radiused siphon tube inlet 417, up-leg 446, down-leg 447, weir 413, and outlet 411. Fig. 5 provides a view of check valve assembly 514 and components thereof, according to some embodiments. The bottom illustration shows annular base 538, comprising a plurality of openings 519 and center opening 520, configured to receive a siphon tube. The middle, right illustration shows segmented diaphragm 514d comprising a plurality of diaphragm segments 514s. Diaphragm 514d may comprise a thin layer elastomer material. Diaphragm 514d will be positioned on base 538, and sealing ring 550 (middle, left) is positioned on top of diaphragm 514d. Base 538 and sealing ring 550 may comprise a thermoplastic, for example an engineering thermoplastic. The top illustration shows check valve assembly 514, with sealing ring 550 positioned on diaphragm 514d, positioned on annular base 538. Diaphragm segments 514s are shown in an open positon during a flush cycle. As assembly 514 is lifted, flexible segments 514s will lift, allowing surrounding tank water to pass through check valve assembly 514, through an inlet, over a weir, and through a siphon tube to a toilet bowl. In a rest positon between flush cycles, segments 514s are configured to lay flat on base 538 to prevent surrounding toilet tank water to pass through. Assembly 514 may be lifted within a head/primer, or may be lifted as a part of primer as a primer is lifted about a head.

Fig. 6 shows check valve assembly 614, according to an embodiment. Check valve assembly 614 comprises first disc 614a and second disc 614b. Both annular discs 614a and 614b comprise alternating solid segments 614s and openings 619, and comprise a center opening 620 configured to receive a siphon tube. In a closed position, annular discs 614a and 614b are “stacked” or coupled together, and solid segments 614s of discs 614a and 614b are aligned with openings 619, so as not to allow surrounding toilet tank water to pass through between flush cycles. As assembly 614 is lifted by second disc 614b to initiate a flush cycle, water flow will lift disc 614a from disc 614b, allowing surrounding toilet tank water to pass through during a siphon flow. Assembly 614 may be lifted within a primer or may be lifted as part of a primer as a primer is lifted about a head.

Fig. 7 shows check valve assembly 714 (top) and annular base 738 (bottom), according to some embodiments. Rigid base 738 comprises central opening 720 configured to receive a siphon tube. Rigid base 738 comprises a plurality of openings 719, each configured to receive a commercial check valve 755, for instance a NEOPERL check valve. Assembly 714 comprises an array of check valves 755 positioned in base openings 719. A plurality of check valves 755 will be configured to open as base 738 is lifted to initiate a siphon flow of water, and to remain closed between flush cycles when base 738 is at a rest position. Fig. 8 shows check valve assembly 814 and components thereof, according to some embodiments. Check valve assembly 814 comprises annular base 838, having central opening 820 configured to receive a siphon tube, and a plurality of openings 819. Base 838 is configured to couple to hinges at hinge points 865, for instance a pin/slot hinge. Top right illustration shows check valve assembly 814, with valve outer segments 814so and valve inner segments 814si positioned on a top of base 838. Segments 814so and 814si are coupled to base 838 at hinge points 865. Lower left illustration provides a view of an 814so segment and an 814si segment pair. The lower right illustration shows a pair of segments 814so and 814si moving from a horizontal closed position to a rotated, vertical, open position. As check valve assembly 814 is lifted within a primer, or as a primer containing check valve assembly is lifted about a head, segments 814so and 814si will lift about hinge points 865, allowing siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through base 838, over a weir, and through a siphon tube.

Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B show views of integrated siphon valve assembly 903, according to some embodiments. Siphon valve assembly 903 is similar to siphon valve assembly 303, comprising siphon head 309 coupled to primer 308. Vertical slot 335 is configured to receive a tab 336 (not shown), configured to couple to a lift mechanism like 337 to lift a check valve assembly within primer 308 to initiate a siphon flush cycle. Siphon valve assembly 903 comprises adjustable “gate” or “window” 975 positioned at an upper end of slot 335. Gate 975 is shown in a closed position in Fig. 9A and in an open position in Fig. 9B. Gate 975 is configured to provide for a variable flush water volume depending on its position. A gate may be aligned with a vertical slot as shown, and alternatively may be positioned independent from a slot.

In a gate closed position, air will enter assembly 903 and break a siphon when a surrounding toilet tank water level falls to the lower end of the gate and air enters slot 335 during a flush cycle, providing for a “full flush”. In a gate open position, air will enter assembly 903 when surrounding toilet tank water level falls to the lower end of the open gate, thereby breaking a siphon earlier to provide for a lower water flush volume or “short flush”. In some embodiments, a full flush may be accomplished when a user pushes and releases a handle coupled to a lift mechanism; a short flush may be accomplished when a user pushes and holds down a handle, thereby forcing a gate to an open position. A gate may be returned to a closed position for instance with a spring or other mechanism towards the end of a flush cycle. In another embodiment, a lift mechanism may be coupled to a dual direction handle or trip lever to provide for a full flush or a short flush. In other embodiments, a gate position may be configured to only be manually adjustable by a user to set a flush volume. A flush valve assembly may comprise a single gate, or may comprise a plurality of (two or more) gates.

The check valve assemblies as shown and described herein may be employed in either or both embodiments wherein a primer is lifted about a head to initiate a siphon, or wherein a primer and head are integrated and a check valve assembly itself is lifted within the primer.

In some embodiments, a siphon valve assembly may comprise a siphon tube, a head, and a primer, or “primer cup” positioned about the siphon tube, wherein the primer is configured to lift about the siphon tube and head to cause water contained in the primer to enter a siphon valve inlet to initiate a siphon flow of water through the siphon tube and into a toilet bowl to flush the bowl. A flush cycle may be initiated when a person actuates a manual or an electronic actuator to lift the primer.

In some embodiments, each of the siphon tube, the head, and the primer comprise substantially cylinder-shaped portions. A primer may have a greater inner diameter than a head, and a head may have a greater inner diameter than a siphon tube.

Lifting of a primer upon initiating a flush cycle may cause water to enter a siphon valve inlet, and cause water to pass over siphon tube weir, thereby starting a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the siphon valve inlet, over the weir, downward through the siphon tube, and out the outlet to a toilet bowl.

In some embodiments, a primer lower end, or bottom surface, or base, may comprise a central opening configured to receive and move about a siphon tube. A primer base may comprise at least one opening, for example a plurality of openings, to provide flow communication between an interior of a toilet tank and an interior of the primer. In some embodiments a primer base may comprise a diaphragm positioned thereon. Upon lifting primer, a diaphragm may be configured to at least partially lift off a top surface of a primer base, to allow surrounding toilet tank water to enter the primer, enter the siphon valve inlet, and pass over the weir in a siphon flow. A siphon flow may continue until a toilet tank water level drops to a level wherein air may enter the siphon valve inlet, thereby breaking the siphon flow and ending flush water flow to a toilet bowl. A flush cycle will end upon the toilet bowl sump area being refilled with water to re-form a sanitary water seal.

In some embodiments, a diaphragm may be flexible or partly flexible, for example a diaphragm may comprise an elastomer material. In other embodiments, a diaphragm may comprise a rigid material, for example a rigid thermoplastic. A diaphragm may comprise an annular ring-like shape, with a center opening configured such that a siphon valve inlet will not be enclosed and blocked by the diaphragm. In some embodiments, a diaphragm may be segmented, wherein sections of the diaphragm are partially connected or are totally independent. A segmented diaphragm may allow for portions of the diaphragm to lift independently of other portions.

A diaphragm, a segmented diaphragm, or independent segments may be directly molded onto a check valve assembly base. In some embodiments, a diaphragm or diaphragm segments may be coupled to a base and comprise a thermoplastic “living hinge”, allowing a diaphragm or diaphragm segments to lift from a base and to return to a sealing position. In other embodiments, a diaphragm, segmented diaphragm, or independent valve segments may comprise a rigid material, and may be coupled to a base via a pin or hinge, for example a piano hinge. Flexible materials comprise for example silicone. Semi-flexible materials may comprise HDPE (high density polyethylene). Rigid materials may comprise engineering thermoplastics such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) or POM (polyoxymethylene).

In some embodiments, a check valve or a check valve assembly may comprise a diaphragm, a segmented diaphragm, or independent valve segments as described herein. In other embodiments, a check valve or a check valve assembly may comprise other types of valves, for example a ball check valve.

A siphon valve inlet may comprise a lower end of the head. In some embodiments, a lower end of a head may comprise an outwardly radiused (curved) portion, or “lip”. In some embodiments, a siphon flush valve assembly may comprise an inlet stop feature. In inlet stop feature may comprise an annular, tubular portion configured to be positioned over a siphon tube. An inlet stop feature may also comprise an upper radius, or curved portion, configured to be associated with and mirror a head outwardly curved portion. Together, a siphon valve inlet may comprise an annular radiused inlet, comprising a head lower end radiused portion and an inlet stop feature radiused portion. An inlet stop feature tubular, or downward extension portion, may be configured to provide a stop to a lifting primer, such that a siphon valve inlet may not be blocked by a diaphragm.

Between flush cycles, a primer may be configured to be in a lower, rest position, and a diaphragm may be configured to rest on and seal a primer base. Surrounding toilet tank water then may be prevented from inadvertently entering a primer and initiating a siphon.

In some embodiments, a siphon tube may comprise a lower annular base stop feature, configured to provide a stop for the primer at its lower rest position between flush cycles. A primer will be configured to be lifted during a flush cycle, and return to a lower rest position towards an end of a flush cycle.

In some embodiments, a siphon valve head may comprise a downward, centrally- located protrusion. A downward protrusion may (or not) extend into a siphon tube beyond a weir. A head downward protrusion may help provide a smooth, annular siphon flow path for water passing over a weir. In some embodiments, a siphon tube may extend outward and vertically downward from a weir. In other embodiments, a siphon tube may extend inward and downward from a weir. In some embodiments, a head may be positioned about a siphon tube outward, downward extension.

In some embodiments, a head downward protrusion may comprise an opening, for example a central opening, fluidly coupled to a tube, wherein the tube is in flow communication with a toilet bowl. A toilet tank refill valve may be positioned in a toilet tank and configured to refill the toilet tank with water upon a refill valve float falling during a flush. A toilet tank refill valve may also comprise a tube configured to deliver water to a toilet bowl to re-form a sump area sanitary seal towards an end of a flush cycle. In some embodiments, a refill valve tube may be configured to deliver water to a head downward protrusion, and through a fluidly coupled tube into a toilet bowl to refill the bowl sump area to re-form the sanitary water seal.

In some embodiments, a head may be positioned on a siphon tube with a plurality of splines, for example, 2, 3, 4, or more splines. A spline may comprise a general “L” shape. Splines may be positioned symmetrically about an annular siphon valve assembly inlet. In some embodiments, a primer may be coupled to a manual or an electronic flush actuator assembly. For example, a flush actuator assembly may comprise a manual flush handle, a lever, and a chain coupled together, wherein the chain may be coupled to a primer. Upon actuation of the handle, a lever will lift, lifting a chain, thereby lifting a primer to start a flush cycle. In other embodiments, a lever and/or chain may be associated with an electric motor. Actuation of a button or lever associated with an electric motor may cause the lever and/or chain to lift, thereby causing a primer coupled to the lever and/or chain to lift to initiate a flush cycle.

In some embodiments, once a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through a primer, through a siphon valve inlet, over a weir, through the siphon tube, and out a siphon valve outlet to a toilet bowl is underway, it will continue until air enters the siphon valve inlet to break the siphon. Air may be configured to enter a siphon valve inlet as a water level of toilet tank water drops to a level of the inlet, thereby allowing air to enter. Air may enter through a space or gap between the siphon valve inlet and a primer inner surface.

In other embodiments, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly, comprising a siphon tube, a head, a primer surrounding the siphon tube, and a check valve assembly positioned in the primer. In this embodiment, a head and primer may be “integrated”, meaning they may be a single unitary molded part. A term “integrated” head and primer may mean that during a flush cycle, the primer does not move. Rather, the primer comprises a check valve assembly which is configured to be lifted and returned to a lower rest position during a flush cycle.

In this embodiment, a check valve assembly may be similar to a first embodiment described above, but with a base having a diaphragm positioned thereon and configured to be lifted and lowered during a flush cycle. A diaphragm check valve assembly therefore may comprise a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior space and a toilet tank interior space, and a diaphragm positioned on a base top surface. A diaphragm may be configured to sit on and seal the base openings when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles, and configured to at least partially lift off the base when the check valve assembly is lifted during a flush cycle.

A diaphragm may be flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid and may be segmented as described above. According to this embodiment, a primer may comprise one or more vertically arranged, slotted openings, configured to receive an extension of a check valve assembly base. A diaphragm base extension may for instance be a tab configured to fit into a slot and to move within a slot as described in the above figures. In some embodiments a diaphragm base extension, for example a tab, may be configured to couple to a manual or electronic lift mechanism. A lift mechanism may be configured to lift the check valve assembly by lifting the base relative to one or more slots or slotted openings.

One or more slot openings positioned in the primer may be configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior space and a toilet tank interior space. As a check valve assembly is lifted, primer water will enter a siphon valve assembly inlet and pass over a weir to initiate a siphon. Surrounding toilet tank water will pass through the primer, through the flush valve inlet, over the weir, through a siphon tube, and through a siphon tube outlet to a toilet bowl to flush the bowl. As a toilet tank water level drops to below a top of one or more slot openings, air will enter the primer and enter the flush valve inlet, thereby stopping or “breaking” the siphon flow of water. The check valve assembly may then be allowed to return to a lower rest position for a subsequent flush cycle. In this embodiment, there may be no gap between a flush valve inlet and a primer to allow air to enter to break a siphon. The embodiment of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 comprises a small space or gap between a flush valve inlet and a primer inner surface so that air may enter to break a siphon. The embodiment of Fig. 3 may comprise no space or gap between a flush valve inlet and a primer inner surface.

A siphon tube may comprise a lower annular base stop feature positioned about the siphon tube, configured to provide a stop position for a lower rest position of a check valve assembly between flush cycles.

A siphon tube may comprise an annular inlet stop positioned about it, configured to prevent a diaphragm or other check valve or other check valve components from blocking a siphon flow path as outlined above. An annular inlet stop may have a radiused portion and an annular downward extension portion positioned about the siphon tube. A siphon tube inlet may comprise a head lower end radiused portion and an annular inlet stop radiused portion to form a radiused annular siphon valve inlet.

A siphon head may comprise a downward protrusion as above. A head downward protrusion may be configured to provide a smooth, annular siphon flow path. A head downward protrusion may extend beyond a weir into a siphon tube. Alternatively, a head downward protrusion may not extend downward beyond a weir. A downward protrusion may again comprise an opening configured to be fluidly coupled to a tube. A tube may be positioned at an interior of a siphon tube, and configured so that a refill valve may pass water through towards an end of a flush cycle to re-form a toilet bowl sanitary seal.

A siphon tube may extend outward and downward from a weir. A siphon valve assembly head may be positioned about a siphon tube downward extension. In other embodiments, a siphon tube may extend inward and downward from a weir. In yet other embodiments, a siphon tube may comprise a weir that extends outward or inward from a siphon tube upper end, and not extend downward.

A head may be positioned on a siphon tube upper end with a plurality of splines, for example 2, 3, 4, or more splines. A check valve assembly may be configured to be lifted within a primer with a lift mechanism coupled to a portion of a check valve assembly base extending through one or more primer slot openings. In some embodiments, a lift mechanism may include a cylinder-shaped part coupled to extending tabs of a check valve assembly base, and surrounding a head and primer. A lift mechanism may be configured to be lifted by manual or electronic means. A lift mechanism may be coupled to a lever or chain of a manual or electronic flush actuator assembly.

A siphon head, a siphon tube, and a primer may each comprise a cylinder-shaped portion. In some embodiments, a primer may have a larger diameter than a head. In other embodiments, a primer may have a same diameter as a head, or a smaller diameter than a head.

In still another embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly comprising an “integrated” siphon tube and primer, wherein the siphon tube comprises an up-leg and a downleg, the up-leg and down-leg comprising a 180 degree bend to form a weir. An up-leg lower end may comprise a siphon valve inlet. A siphon valve inlet may be radiused as described above.

Positioned about a siphon valve assembly up-leg and inlet is a primer. A primer may have a central rod or tube, wherein a diaphragm assembly having a central opening is positioned about the rod or tube. A diaphragm assembly may comprise a base and a diaphragm positioned on a top surface of the base as outlined above. A primer may comprise one or more slot openings configured to receive an extension part of a check valve assembly base. A check valve assembly may be configured to be lifted about the rod or tube, relative to the one or more slot openings. Lifting of the check valve assembly may cause water to pass over the weir to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the primer, up the siphon tube up-leg, over the weir, down the siphon tube down-leg, and out a siphon tube outlet to a toilet bowl to flush the bowl. As a toilet tank water level drops to a level of the slot openings, air will enter and break the siphon flow. A check valve assembly may then return to a lower rest position to end a flush cycle. Other features of this embodiment, not containing a head, are as described above.

In some embodiments, a siphon tube, a head, and a primer may comprise a thermoplastic polymer. In some embodiments, one or more of a siphon tube, a head, and a primer may comprise an engineering thermoplastic. A thermoplastic may include an injection molded thermoplastic. Thermoplastics include for example polyamides, polyesters, polycarbonates, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, and polyacetals. Polyamides include nylon and polyphthalamide (PPA). Polyacetals include polyoxymethylene (POM).

Following are some non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure.

In a first embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a head; and a primer surrounding the siphon tube, wherein the siphon tube comprises an upper end and a lower end, the head is positioned about (surrounds) the siphon tube upper end, a siphon valve inlet comprises a head lower end, the siphon tube upper end comprises a weir, the siphon tube lower end comprises a siphon valve outlet, and the primer is configured to lift about the siphon tube and head during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon valve inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water in a siphon flow path through the siphon valve inlet, over the weir, and out the siphon valve outlet.

In a second embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to the first embodiment, wherein the primer comprises a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, and the primer base comprises a check valve assembly. In a third embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 2, wherein the check valve comprises a diaphragm, wherein the diaphragm is flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid. In a fourth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 2 or 3, comprising a segmented diaphragm. In a fifth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 3 or 4, wherein the diaphragm is configured to sit on and seal a base top surface when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles, and the diaphragm is configured to at least partially lift off the base top surface when the primer is lifted during a flush cycle.

In a sixth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon tube comprises an annular base stop configured to be adjacent to a primer base when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles.

In a seventh embodiment disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of embodiments 3 to 6, wherein the siphon tube comprises an annular inlet stop positioned about it, and the annular inlet stop is configured to prevent the diaphragm from blocking the siphon flow path. In an eighth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 7, wherein the annular inlet stop comprises a radiused portion and a downward extension stop portion, and the downward extension stop portion is positioned about the siphon tube. In a ninth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 7 or 8, wherein the head lower end comprises a radiused portion, the annular inlet stop comprises a radiused portion, the siphon valve inlet comprises the head lower end radiused portion and the annular inlet stop radiused portion, and the siphon valve inlet comprises an annular radiused inlet.

In a tenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the head comprises a centrally located, downward protrusion. In an eleventh embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 10, wherein the downward protrusion extends downward beyond the weir into the siphon tube. In a twelfth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 10 or 11 , wherein the downward protrusion comprises an opening fluidly coupled to an inlet tube, and the inlet tube is configured to receive water from a refill valve and to deliver the water to a sump area of a toilet bowl to provide a sanitary water seal towards an end of the flush cycle. In a thirteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon tube extends outward and downward from the weir, and the head is positioned about the siphon tube downward extension. In a fourteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the head is coupled to the siphon tube with a plurality of splines.

In a fifteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments comprising a manual or an electronic flush actuator assembly. In a sixteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 15, wherein the flush actuator assembly comprises a lift mechanism coupled to the primer.

In a seventeenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon tube, the head, and the primer each comprise at least a portion having cylindrical shape. In an eighteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 17, wherein the primer cylindrical portion comprises a greater diameter than the head cylindrical portion, thereby allowing the primer to lift about the head during the flush cycle.

In a nineteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon flow is configured to continue until a water level of the surrounding toilet tank water falls to a position wherein air enters the siphon valve inlet to break the siphon flow.

In a twentieth embodiment, disclosed is a toilet tank assembly comprising a toilet water tank and the siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon valve assembly is positioned in the toilet water tank.

Also disclosed is another set of embodiments as follows. In a first embodiment of this set of embodiments, disclosed is siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a head; a primer surrounding the siphon tube; and a check valve assembly positioned in the primer, wherein the siphon tube comprises an upper end and a lower end, the head surrounds the siphon tube upper end, a siphon valve inlet comprises a head lower end, the siphon tube upper end comprises a weir, the siphon tube lower end comprises a siphon valve outlet, and the check valve assembly is configured to lift about the siphon tube within the primer during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon valve inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the check valve assembly, through the siphon valve inlet, over the weir, and out the siphon valve outlet.

In a second embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 1 , wherein the check valve assembly comprises a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, the check valve assembly comprises a diaphragm configured to sit on and seal the base when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles, and the diaphragm is configured to at least partially lift off the base when the check valve assembly is lifted during a flush cycle. In a third embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 2, wherein the diaphragm is flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid. In a fourth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 2 or 3, wherein the diaphragm is segmented.

In a fifth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the primer comprises one or more vertical slot openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior. In a sixth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 5, wherein the check valve assembly base comprises one or more tabs configured to be received by the one or more vertical slot openings, and the one or more tabs are configured to lift relative to the vertical slot openings to lift the check valve assembly during the flush cycle. In a seventh embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 6, wherein between flush cycles, the one or more tabs are positioned at or near a lower end of the vertical slot openings.

In an eighth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of embodiments 2 to 7, wherein the siphon tube comprises an annular base stop configured to be adjacent to the base when the siphon valve assembly is in the rest position between flush cycles. In a ninth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of embodiments 2 to 8, wherein the siphon tube comprises an annular inlet stop positioned about it, and the annular inlet stop is configured to prevent the diaphragm from blocking the siphon flow path. In a tenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 9, wherein the annular inlet stop comprises a radiused portion and a downward extension stop portion, and the downward extension stop portion is positioned about the siphon tube. In an eleventh embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 9 or 10, wherein the head lower end comprises a radiused portion, the annular inlet stop comprises a radiused portion, the siphon valve inlet comprises the head lower end radiused portion and the annular inlet stop radiused portion, and the siphon valve inlet comprises an annular radiused inlet.

In a twelfth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the head comprises a centrally located, downward protrusion. In a thirteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 12, wherein the downward protrusion extends downward beyond the weir into the siphon tube. In a fourteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 12 or 13, wherein the downward protrusion comprises an opening fluidly coupled to an inlet tube, and the inlet tube is configured to receive water from a refill valve and to deliver the water to a sump area of a toilet bowl to provide a sanitary water seal towards an end of the flush cycle.

In a fifteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon tube extends outward and downward from the weir, and the head is positioned about the siphon tube downward extension. In a sixteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the head is coupled to the siphon tube with a plurality of splines.

In a seventeenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments comprising a manual or an electronic flush actuator assembly. In an eighteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 17, wherein the flush actuator assembly comprises a lift mechanism coupled to the check valve assembly. In a nineteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 18, wherein the check valve assembly base comprises one or more tabs configured to couple to the lift mechanism.

In a twentieth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon tube, the head, and the primer each comprise at least a portion having cylindrical shape. In a twenty-first embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 20, wherein the primer cylindrical portion comprises a greater diameter than the head cylindrical portion.

In a twenty-second embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon flow is configured to continue until a water level of the surrounding toilet tank water falls to a position wherein air enters the siphon valve inlet to break the siphon flow. In a twenty-third embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 22, wherein the primer comprises one or more vertical slot openings, and air is configured to enter the one or more slot openings to break the siphon flow.

In a twenty-fourth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon valve assembly is configured to provide for an adjustable or variable flush water volume during a flush cycle. In a twenty-fifth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 24, wherein the head and/or the primer comprise one or more adjustable gates or windows configured to provide for the adjustable or variable flush water volume, depending on a position (e.g. vertical position) of the gate or window. In a twenty-sixth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 24 or 25, wherein a lift mechanism is configured to selectively adjust a position of the gates or windows, or wherein the position of the gates or windows is configured to be manually adjusted by a user.

In a twenty-seventh embodiment, disclosed is a toilet tank assembly, comprising a toilet water tank and the siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon valve assembly is positioned in the toilet water tank.

Also disclosed is another set of embodiments as follows. In a first embodiment of this set, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a primer; and a check valve assembly, wherein the siphon tube comprises a weir, a siphon tube inlet, and a siphon tube outlet, the primer is positioned about the siphon tube inlet, the primer comprises a rod positioned in a primer interior, the check valve assembly is positioned about the rod, the check valve assembly is configured to lift about the rod within the primer during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon tube inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the check valve assembly, through the siphon tube inlet, over the weir, through the siphon tube, and out the siphon tube outlet.

In a second embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 1 , wherein the check valve assembly comprises a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, the check valve assembly comprises a diaphragm configured to sit on and seal the base when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles, and the diaphragm is configured to at least partially lift off the base when the check valve assembly is lifted during a flush cycle.

In a third embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 2, wherein the diaphragm is flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid. In a fourth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 2 or 3, wherein the diaphragm is segmented.

In a fifth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of embodiments 2 to 4, wherein the primer comprises one or more vertical slot openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior. In a sixth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 5, wherein the check valve assembly base comprises one or more tabs configured to be received by the one or more vertical slot openings, and the one or more tabs are configured to lift relative to the vertical slot openings to lift the check valve assembly during the flush cycle. In a seventh embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 6, wherein between flush cycles, the one or more tabs are positioned at or near a lower end of the vertical slot openings.

In an eighth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of embodiments 2 to 7, wherein the rod comprises an annular base stop configured to be adjacent to the base when the siphon valve assembly is in the rest position between flush cycles.

In a ninth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of embodiments 2 to 8, wherein the siphon tube comprises an about 180 degree bend to form the weir. In a tenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon valve inlet comprises an annular radiused inlet. In an eleventh embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments comprising a manual or an electronic flush actuator assembly. In a twelfth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 11, wherein the flush actuator assembly comprises a lift mechanism coupled to the check valve assembly. In a thirteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 12, wherein the check valve assembly base comprises one or more tabs configured to couple to the lift mechanism.

In a fourteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon tube and the primer each comprise at least a portion having cylindrical shape. In a fifteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 14, wherein the primer cylindrical portion comprises a greater diameter than the siphon tube cylindrical portion.

In a sixteenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon flow is configured to continue until a water level of the surrounding toilet tank water falls to a position wherein air enters the siphon valve inlet to break the siphon flow. In a seventeenth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 16, wherein the primer comprises one or more vertical slot openings, and air is configured to enter the one or more slot openings to break the siphon flow.

In an eighteenth embodiment, disclosed is a toilet tank assembly, comprising a toilet water tank and the siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the siphon valve assembly is positioned in the toilet water tank.

Also disclosed is another set of embodiments as follows. In a first embodiment of this further set of embodiments, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments of prior sets, wherein a check valve assembly comprises a diaphragm positioned on a base having a plurality of openings, wherein in a closed position, the diaphragm is positioned on and enclose the base openings, and in an open position, the diaphragm is at least partially lifted off the base, allowing fluid flow through the check valve assembly, or a segmented diaphragm positioned on a base having a plurality of openings, wherein in a closed position, the diaphragm segments are positioned on and enclose the base openings, and in an open position, the diaphragm segments are at least partially lifted from the base, allowing fluid flow through the check valve assembly, or a segmented diaphragm positioned on a base having a plurality of openings and an annular sealing ring positioned on the diaphragm, wherein in a closed position, the diaphragm segments are positioned on and enclose the base openings, and in an open position, the diaphragm segments are at least partially lifted from the base, allowing fluid flow through the check valve assembly, or a base having a plurality of openings, and independent valve segments positioned on the base, wherein in a closed position, the independent segments enclose the base openings, and in an open position, the independent segments are configured to at least partially lift off of, e.g. , rotate relative to the base openings to allow fluid flow through the check valve assembly, or a first disc and a second disc, each disc having alternating solid and open sections, wherein in a closed position, the discs are coupled and the solid sections are aligned with and enclose the open sections, and in an open position, the first disc and the second disc are separated, allowing fluid flow through the check valve assembly (through the first disc and the second disc), or a base having a plurality of openings and a plurality of individual check valves positioned in the base openings, wherein in a closed position, the plurality of individual check valves do not allow fluid flow therethrough, and in an open position, the plurality of individual check valves allow for fluid flow therethrough, or a base having a plurality of openings and a plurality of independent inner valve segments and a plurality of independent outer valve segments, the inner valve segments and outer valve segments forming pairs of inner and outer segments, wherein in a closed position, the plurality of inner valve segments and outer valve segments enclose the base openings, and in an open position, each pair of inner and outer segments are configured to rotate relative to the base and towards each other to allow fluid flow through the check valve assembly.

In a second embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiment 1 , wherein the diaphragm or segmented diaphragm comprise a flexible elastomer. In a third embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the base comprises a rigid thermoplastic. In a fourth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sealing ring comprises a rigid thermoplastic. In a fifth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the independent valve segments comprise a flexible, partially-flexible, or rigid thermoplastic. In a sixth embodiment, disclosed is a siphon valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first disc and the second disc comprise a flexible, partially-flexible, or rigid thermoplastic. The term “flow communication” or “fluid communication” means for example configured for liquid or gas flow therethrough and may be synonymous with “fluidly coupled”. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” indicate a direction of gas or fluid flow, that is, gas or fluid will flow from upstream to downstream.

Likewise, “electrical communication” may mean “electrically coupled”. Electrical communication may be via wired connection or may be wireless.

The terms “coupled” or “connected” may mean that an element is “attached to” or “associated with” another element. Coupled or connected may mean directly coupled or coupled through one or more other elements. An element may be coupled to an element through two or more other elements in a sequential manner or a non-sequential manner. The term “via” in reference to “via an element” may mean “through” or “by” an element. Coupled or connected or “associated with” may also mean elements not directly or indirectly attached, but that they “go together” in that one may function together with the other.

The term “towards” in reference to a of point of attachment, may mean at exactly that location or point or, alternatively, may mean closer to that point than to another distinct point, for example “towards a center” means closer to a center than to an edge.

The term “like” means similar and not necessarily exactly like. For instance “ring-like” means generally shaped like a ring, but not necessarily perfectly circular.

The articles "a" and "an" herein refer to one or to more than one (e.g. at least one) of the grammatical object. Any ranges cited herein are inclusive. The term "about" used throughout is used to describe and account for small fluctuations. For instance, "about" may mean the numeric value may be modified by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, or ±10%. All numeric values are modified by the term "about" whether or not explicitly indicated. Numeric values modified by the term "about" include the specific identified value. For example "about 5.0" includes 5.0.

The term “substantially” is similar to “about” in that the defined term may vary from for example by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, or ±10% of the definition; for example the term “substantially perpendicular” may mean the 90° perpendicular angle may mean “about 90°”. The term “generally” may be equivalent to “substantially”.

Features described in connection with one embodiment of the disclosure may be used in conjunction with other embodiments, even if not explicitly stated.

Embodiments of the disclosure include any and all parts and/or portions of the embodiments, claims, description and figures. Embodiments of the disclosure also include any and all combinations and/or sub-combinations of embodiments.

T1

Claims

1. A siphon valve assembly comprising a siphon tube; a head; a primer surrounding the siphon tube; and a check valve assembly positioned in the primer, wherein the siphon tube comprises an upper end and a lower end, the head surrounds the siphon tube upper end, a siphon valve inlet comprises a head lower end, the siphon tube upper end comprises a weir, the siphon tube lower end comprises a siphon valve outlet, and the check valve assembly is configured to lift about the siphon tube within the primer during a flush cycle to cause water contained in the primer to enter the siphon valve inlet to initiate a siphon flow of surrounding toilet tank water through the check valve assembly, through the siphon valve inlet, over the weir, through the siphon tube, and out the siphon valve outlet.

2. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein the check valve assembly comprises a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, the check valve assembly comprises a diaphragm configured to sit on and seal the base when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles, and the diaphragm is configured to at least partially lift off the base during the flush cycle to allow for toilet tank water flow through the check valve assembly.

3. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein the diaphragm is segmented.

4. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein the check valve assembly comprises a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, the check valve assembly comprises one or more independent valve segments positioned on the base, the independent valve segments are configured to enclose the base openings when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles, and the independent valve segments are configured to at least partially lift off the base during the flush cycle to allow for toilet tank water flow through the check valve assembly.

5. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein the primer comprises one or more vertical slot openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior.

6. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 5, wherein the check valve assembly comprises a base having one or more openings configured to provide flow communication between a primer interior and a toilet tank interior, the check valve assembly base comprises one or more tabs configured to be received by the one or more vertical slot openings, and the one or more tabs are configured to lift relative to the vertical slot openings to lift the check valve assembly during the flush cycle.

7. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 6, wherein the siphon tube comprises an annular base stop configured to be adjacent to the base when the siphon valve assembly is in a rest position between flush cycles.

8. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the siphon tube comprises an annular inlet stop positioned about it, the annular inlet stop configured to prevent the check valve assembly from blocking the siphon flow path during the flush cycle.

9. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 8, wherein the head lower end comprises a radiused portion, the annular inlet stop comprises a radiused portion, the siphon valve inlet comprises the head lower end radiused portion and the annular inlet stop radiused portion, and the siphon valve inlet comprises an annular radiused inlet.

10. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the head comprises a centrally located, downward protrusion.

11. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 10, wherein the downward protrusion comprises an opening fluidly coupled to an inlet tube, and the inlet tube is configured to receive water from a refill valve and to deliver the water to a sump area of a toilet bowl to provide a sanitary water seal towards an end of the flush cycle.

12. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the siphon tube extends outward and downward from the weir, and the head is positioned about the siphon tube downward extension.

13. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 comprising a manual or an electronic flush actuator assembly, wherein the flush actuator assembly comprises a lift mechanism coupled to the check valve assembly, the lift mechanism configured to lift the check valve assembly within the primer.

14. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the siphon tube, the head, and the primer each comprise at least a portion having cylindrical shape, and wherein the primer cylindrical portion comprises a greater inner diameter than the head cylindrical portion.

15. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the siphon flow is configured to continue until a water level of the surrounding toilet tank water falls to a position wherein air enters the siphon valve inlet to break the siphon flow.

16. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 15, wherein the primer comprises one or more vertical slot openings, and air is configured to enter the one or more slot openings to break the siphon flow.

17. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the siphon valve assembly is configured to provide for a variable flush water volume.

18. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 17, wherein the head and/or primer comprise one or more adjustable gates, and wherein the variable flush water volume depends on a vertical position of the one or more gates.

19. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 18, wherein a lift mechanism is configured to selectively adjust the vertical gate position.

20. The siphon valve assembly according to claim 18, wherein the vertical gate position is configured to be manually adjusted by a user.