AUTOMATIC FLUSH ACTUATION UNIT AND AUTOMATIC FLUSH DETECTION SENSORS

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a non-provisional of, and claims priority to, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/687,119, filed Aug. 26, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/572,456, filed Apr. 1, 2024, both of which prior applications are incorporated by reference herein and made part hereof.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to automatic flush actuation units for pressure-assisted flush tanks, and more specifically to an actuation unit having greater mounting versatility and/or a lower profile when installed, and low-power flush detection sensors for automatic flush actuation units.

BACKGROUND

Pressure assisted flushing systems for toilets use a pressure tank which may be positioned within the tank of the toilet. Water at line pressure flows into the pressure tank, such that the water within the tank is at line pressure. When the toilet is flushed and the flush valve within the pressure tank is operated, the water is forced from the pressure tank into the toilet bowl for rapid and complete flushing of its contents. Such systems also include an air inducer assembly, which draws air into the pressure tank to create an air head that is compressed, such that the compressed air provides the energy and pressure for discharging the water in the tank, and a flush cartridge that operates to open and close the discharge opening of the tank. Various different tank sizes and configurations may be used in pressure-assisted flushing systems, which may provide different flush volume capabilities. Some such systems include an automatic flush actuator, which uses an automated mechanism to actuate the flush cartridge to initiate the flush cycle. An automatic flush actuator may be activated by a manual input (e.g., a push button) and/or an electronic input (e.g., an infrared user sensor) that may be activated based on sensing user presence, hand gestures, etc. Examples of pressure-assisted flushing systems are available from Flushmate® of New Hudson, MI, which may include the INTELLI-Flush™ automatic flush actuator, as illustrated in FIGS. 21-25. Conventional flushing systems lack efficient methods of communicating between electronic inputs and associated components, causing inefficiencies in the use of the electronic inputs that can lead to higher energy consumption and reduced battery life.

The present disclosure is provided to address this need and other needs in existing automatic flush actuators. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Aspects of the disclosure relate to an automatic flush actuator configured for connection to a first pressure-assist flush tank having a first mounting structure and a second pressure assist flush tank having a second mounting structure different from the first flush tank. The automatic flush actuator includes a housing configured for connection to the first flush tank and the second flush tank, the housing having a first set of first mounting holes configured for connection to the first mounting structure of the first flush tank by receiving fasteners therethrough, and a second set of second mounting holes arranged differently from the first mounting holes and configured for connection to the second mounting structure of the second flush tank by receiving the fasteners therethrough, a motor supported by the housing, an actuator supported by the housing, and a gear assembly supported by the housing and coupled to the motor and the actuator. The actuator is selectively moveable to an actuation position where the actuator is configured to actuate a first flush valve of the first flush tank in the first mounting configuration, and to actuate a second flush valve of the second flush tank in the second mounting configuration. The gear assembly is configured to transfer power from the motor to the actuator to cause movement of the actuator to the actuation position.

According to one aspect, the housing further includes mounting projections extending downward from an underside of the housing, each of the mounting projections having one of the first mounting holes extending axially therethrough, wherein the mounting projections are configured to engage the first mounting structure of the first flush tank. In one configuration, each of the mounting projections has a plurality of fins extending outward around the respective mounting projection, wherein the plurality of fins have ends extending downward beyond a distal end of the respective mounting projection, and wherein each mounting projection is configured to engage the first mounting structure of the first flush tank by having a portion of the first mounting structure received between the ends of the plurality of fins. In one configuration, the housing further includes mounting recesses on the underside of the housing, the mounting recesses spaced from the mounting projections, each of the second mounting holes being open within one of the mounting recesses, wherein the mounting recesses are configured to receive portions of the second mounting structure of the second flush tank. In this configuration, each of the mounting recesses may be defined by a ridge extending around the respective second mounting hole on the underside of the housing.

According to another aspect, the housing further includes mounting recesses on the underside of the housing, each of the second mounting holes being open within one of the mounting recesses, wherein the mounting recesses are configured to receive portions of the second mounting structure of the second flush tank. In one configuration, each of the mounting recesses is defined by a ridge extending around the respective second mounting hole on the underside of the housing.

In a further configuration, the first mounting holes include four first mounting holes arranged in a first quadrilateral shape, and the second mounting holes include four second mounting holes arranged in a second quadrilateral shape that is different from the first quadrilateral shape.

In yet another configuration, the actuator includes a rotating cam that is selectively moveable by rotation between a retracted position and the actuation position, where the rotating cam has an engagement portion that extends out of the housing in the actuation position and is configured to engage the first flush valve, and wherein the rotating cam is biased to the retracted position.

Additional aspects of the disclosure relate to a pressure assist toilet flushing system including a flush tank defining an internal cavity with an inlet configured for intake of water into the internal cavity, an outlet configured for discharge of water from the internal cavity, and a flush valve configured to control discharge of water through the outlet, the flush valve having a plunger accessible on a top of the flush tank, the flush tank having a plurality of mounts arranged on the top of the flush tank around the plunger, and an automatic flush actuator. The automatic flush actuator includes a housing having a first set of first mounting holes and a second set of second mounting holes arranged differently from the first mounting holes, wherein the housing is mounted on the flush tank such that a plurality of fasteners are received in the first mounting holes and engage the mounts of the flush tank, and wherein the second mounting holes are configured for connection to another flush tank having a different mounting structure from the flush tank, a motor supported by the housing, and an actuator supported by the housing and operably coupled with the motor. The actuator is selectively moveable to an actuation position where the actuator is configured to engage the plunger of the flush valve.

According to one aspect, the actuator includes a rotating cam that is selectively moveable by rotation between a retracted position and the actuation position, where the rotating cam has an engagement portion that extends out of the housing in the actuation position to engage the plunger, and wherein the rotating cam is biased to the retracted position.

According to another aspect, the housing further includes mounting projections extending downward from an underside of the housing, each of the mounting projections having one of the first mounting holes extending axially therethrough, wherein the mounting projections are configured to engage the mounts of the flush tank. In one configuration, each of the mounting projections has a plurality of fins extending outward around the respective mounting projection, wherein the plurality of fins have ends extending downward beyond a distal end of the respective mounting projection, and wherein the mounting projections are configured to engage the mounts of the flush tank by having the mounts received between the ends of the plurality of fins.

According to a further aspect, the housing further includes mounting recesses on the underside of the housing, each of the first mounting holes being open within one of the mounting recesses, wherein the mounting recesses are configured to receive portions of the mounts of the flush tank. In one configuration, each of the mounting recesses is defined by a ridge extending around the respective first mounting hole on the underside of the housing.

According to yet another aspect, the first mounting holes include four first mounting holes arranged in a first quadrilateral shape, and the second mounting holes comprise four second mounting holes arranged in a second quadrilateral shape that is different from the first quadrilateral shape.

Further aspects of the disclosure relate to a method including sending, by an infrared sensor and using a first pulse mode, a first signal, determining, by the infrared sensor and based on sending the first signal, that an object is located within a threshold distance from the infrared sensor, activating, based on determining that the object is located within the threshold distance, a second pulse mode for the infrared sensor, sending, using the second pulse mode, a second signal from the infrared sensor, determining, based on sending the second signal, that an activation condition corresponding to the object is satisfied, sending, to a first device, a request to cause execution of a flushing function, and receiving, from the first device, a message confirming execution of the flushing function.

According to one aspect, determining that the object is located within the threshold distance includes detecting an amount of infrared light received, based on sending the first signal, by the infrared sensor, and determining whether the amount of infrared light satisfies a threshold amount of infrared light.

According to another aspect, the first pulse mode includes a single-pulse mode and the second pulse mode includes a multi-pulse mode.

According to a further aspect, the second signal includes at least one infrared pulse having a first width, and a plurality of infrared pulses having a second width.

According to yet another aspect, determining that the activation condition is satisfied includes determining that the object is located outside of the threshold distance.

According to an additional aspect, determining that the activation condition is satisfied includes determining that the object has moved within a predetermined range of motion relative to the infrared sensor.

According to another aspect, sending the request to cause execution of the flushing function comprises opening a communication window between the infrared sensor and the first device. In one configuration, the communication window is closed after receiving the message.

According to another aspect, the message includes an indication that the first device executed the flushing function.

According to another aspect, the message includes an indication of a battery level of the first device.

According to another aspect, activating the second pulse mode includes charging a capacitor for a predetermined period of time, determining a pulse sequence corresponding to the second pulse mode, and determining, for each pulse of a plurality of pulses in the pulse sequence, a pulse width.

According to another aspect, the predetermined amount of infrared light includes a predetermined number of watts.

According to another aspect, the method further includes deactivating, based on receiving the message, the second pulse mode, and reactivating the first pulse mode.

According to another aspect, the first signal includes a pulse wave transmitted approximately every second for a duration of approximately twenty-five microseconds.

According to another aspect, the second signal includes at least one pulse wave transmitted approximately every two hundred and fifty milliseconds for a duration of approximately one microsecond.

Other aspects of the disclosure relate to one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a sensor to perform a method as described herein.

Further aspects of the disclosure relate to a sensor including a transmitter, a receiver, one or more processors, and memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the sensor to perform actions. Such actions include sending, using a first pulse mode, a first signal; determining, based on sending the first signal, that an object is located within a threshold distance from the sensor; activating, based on determining that the object is located within the threshold distance, a second pulse mode for the sensor; sending, using the second pulse mode, a second signal; determining, based on sending the second signal, that an activation condition corresponding to the object is satisfied; sending, to a first device, a request to cause execution of a flushing function; and receiving, from the first device, a message confirming execution of the flushing function.

According to one aspect, the transmitter includes an infrared transmitter, and/or the receiver includes one or more photoreceptor cells.

According to another aspect, determining that the object is located within the threshold distance includes detecting an amount of infrared light received, based on sending the first signal, by the receiver, and determining whether the amount of infrared light satisfies a threshold amount of infrared light.

According to a further aspect, the first pulse mode includes a single-pulse mode and the second pulse mode includes a multi-pulse mode.

According to yet another aspect, the second signal includes at least one infrared pulse having a first width, and a plurality of infrared pulses having a second width.

According to a still further aspect, determining that the activation condition is satisfied includes determining that the object is located outside of the threshold distance.

According to an additional aspect, determining that the activation condition is satisfied includes determining that the object has moved within a predetermined range of motion relative to the sensor.

Still further aspects of the disclosure relate to a system that contains a sensor including a transmitter, a receiver, one or more processors, and memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the sensor perform actions. Such actions include sending, using a first pulse mode, a first signal; determining, based on sending the first signal, that an object is located within a threshold distance from the sensor; activating, based on determining that the object is located within the threshold distance, a second pulse mode for the sensor; sending, using the second pulse mode, a second signal; determining, based on sending the second signal, that an activation condition corresponding to the object is satisfied; sending a request to cause execution of a flushing function; and receiving a message confirming execution of the flushing function. The system also includes a first device configured to receive, from the sensor, the request to cause execution of the flushing function, and send, to the sensor, the message confirming execution of the flushing function.

According to one aspect, the transmitter includes an infrared transmitter, and/or the receiver includes one or more photoreceptor cells.

According to another aspect, determining that the object is located within the threshold distance includes detecting an amount of infrared light received, based on sending the first signal, by the receiver, and determining whether the amount of infrared light satisfies a threshold amount of infrared light.

According to a further aspect, the first pulse mode includes a single-pulse mode and the second pulse mode includes a multi-pulse mode.

According to yet another aspect, the second signal includes at least one infrared pulse having a first width, and a plurality of infrared pulses having a second width.

According to a still further aspect, determining that the activation condition is satisfied includes determining that the object is located outside of the threshold distance.

According to an additional aspect, determining that the activation condition is satisfied includes determining that the object has moved within a predetermined range of motion relative to the sensor.

Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To allow for a more full understanding of the present disclosure, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an assembly including a pressure-assisted flushing system configured for use with a toilet, with manual and electronic input devices, according to aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a magnified perspective view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a magnified rear perspective view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a cross-section view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a magnified cross-section view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 1, with an automatic flush actuator removed to show detail;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a pressure-assisted flushing system according to aspects of the disclosure, including the automatic flush actuator of FIGS. 1-7;

FIG. 10 is a magnified cross-section bottom perspective view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a magnified bottom rear perspective view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a cross-section view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a magnified cross-section view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 9, with an automatic flush actuator removed to show detail;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the automatic flush actuator of FIGS. 1 and 9;

FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the automatic flush actuator of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of the automatic flush actuator of FIG. 16, with a portion of a housing removed to show internal detail;

FIG. 19 is a bottom perspective view of an actuator member of the automatic flush actuator of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the actuator member of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a magnified perspective view of a portion of a prior art pressure-assisted flushing system;

FIG. 22 is a magnified rear perspective view of a portion of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of an automatic flush actuator of the pressure-assisted flushing system of FIG. 21, with a portion of a housing removed to show internal detail;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an actuator member of the automatic flush actuator of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of the actuator member of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is an example of an electronic input device for implementing improved automatic flush detection;

FIG. 27 is an example method of implementing improved automatic flush detection;

FIG. 28 is an example infrared pulse algorithm for improved automatic flush detection;

FIG. 29 is an example sensor asynchronous communication algorithm for improved automatic flush detection;

FIG. 30 is an example method of implementing a flush module for improved automatic flush detection; and

FIG. 31 is an example flush asynchronous communication algorithm for improved automatic flush detection.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail example embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. In the following description of various example structures according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example devices, systems, and environments in which aspects of the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts, example devices, systems, and environments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring initially to FIGS. 1-8, there is shown an example of a pressure assist toilet flushing system 10 that includes a tank 11 defining an internal cavity, with an inlet 12 and an outlet 13 for intake and discharge of water, and a flush valve 14 configured for selectively opening and closing a valve leading to outlet 13 to control discharge of water. The flush valve 14 may be in the form of a replaceable flush cartridge mounted within a receiver 15 in the tank 11, such that a portion of the flush cartridge is accessible outside the tank 11 and the flush valve 14 is positioned within the cavity to interact with an internal seal surface around the outlet 13. The flush valve 14 in FIGS. 1-8 has a plunger 25 that is depressed to open the flush valve 14, and the flush valve 14 may be positioned such that the plunger 25 is accessible through the top 26 of the tank 11, as shown in FIG. 8. In this configuration, the receiver 15 is open at the top 26 of the tank 11 and the flush valve 14 is sealed within the receiver 15, such as by threading and one or more gaskets, to seal the tank 11. The tank 11 may be constructed of a lower housing or base 16 forming a bottom portion of the tank 11, and an upper housing or cover 17 forming a top portion of the tank 11, such that the base 16 and the cover 17 combine to define the internal cavity. The cover 17 in FIGS. 1-8 includes the receiver 15, as well as a recess 29 positioned around the receiver 15, and the base 16 includes the outlet 13. The base 16 and the cover 17 may be made from plastic (including, e.g., fiber-reinforced plastic). The outlet 13 is typically connected to a toilet bowl (not shown), such that water discharged from the outlet 13 accomplishes flushing of the bowl. In one embodiment, the tank 11 may be configured as shown and described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0372742 A1, published May 20, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

The system 10 also includes an air inducer assembly 19 connected to the inlet 12 and to a water inlet conduit 18, which is configured to introduce liquid (e.g., water) and gas (e.g., air) into the tank 11. Air is drawn into and through the air inducer assembly 19 as the water passes through the air inducer assembly 19 from the water inlet conduit 18, e.g., by the Venturi effect, such that water and air pass through the inlet 12 into the tank 11. This pressurizes the tank 11, such that water can be forced into the toilet for improved flushing.

The combination of the tank 11, the flush valve 14, and the air inducer assembly 19 in FIGS. 1-8 may be configured for creating a flush volume of 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf) or 1.28 gpf. FIGS. 9-15 illustrate another embodiment of a system 10 that includes the same or similar features and components as the system in FIGS. 1-8, including a tank 11, a flush valve 14, and an air inducer assembly 19 that include the same or similar features to the corresponding components in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-8. The same reference numbers are used to refer to corresponding similar components in describing the embodiments of FIGS. 1-8 and 9-15. The tank 11 in FIGS. 9-15 has a peripheral shape and a size that are different from the embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, and may also include internal components that are differently configured. The combination of the tank 11, the flush valve 14, and the air inducer assembly 19 in FIGS. 9-15 may be configured for achieving a smaller flush volume than in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, for example a flush volume of 1.0 gpf.

The flush valve 14 may be actuated in a variety of different ways, including through use of mechanical means, electronic means, or a combination of the two, to push the plunger 25. Multiple actuation mechanisms may be used in some embodiments, including a mechanical actuator (e.g., a lever) and/or an electromechanical actuator (e.g., an electronically-actuated cam).

The systems 10 in FIGS. 1-8 and 9-15 use an automatic flush actuation unit or automatic flush actuator 30 that actuates the flush valve 14 to initiate the flush cycle. The system 10 as shown in FIGS. 1-8 also includes a manual input device 20 and an electronic input device 22 that are electronically connected to the automatic flush actuator 30 to transmit a signal to the automatic flush actuator 30 to actuate the flush valve 14, as shown in FIG. 1. The manual input device 20 is configured for mounting on the side of the toilet tank (not shown), e.g., in place of the actuation lever, and includes a button 21 that can be pushed by the user to activate the automatic flush actuator 30. The electronic input device 22 is configured for mounting on the wall above the toilet and includes a wall plate 23 and a sensor 24, which may be an infrared (IR) sensor or other user sensor. The electronic input device 22 may send a signal to activate the automatic flush actuator 30 based on sensing a user and/or an action of the user. For example, the electronic input device 22 may sense the presence of a user, the user stepping away from the toilet, a gesture (e.g., a hand wave) by the user, or other user action. Additionally, the logic determining when a user action may activate the automatic flush actuator 30 may be stored and processed at the automatic flush actuator 30 and/or at the electronic input device 22, or elsewhere. It is understood that the system 10 in FIGS. 9-15 may include the same or similar configuration, such as the use of the same or similar manual input device 20 and automatic flush actuator 30.

The automatic flush actuator 30 in FIGS. 1-8 is also illustrated in FIGS. 9-14 connected to a different tank 11, and is further illustrated without a tank 11 in FIGS. 16-20. The automatic flush actuator 30 includes a housing 31 configured to be mounted to the tank 11, which supports and/or encloses some or all of the functional components of the automatic flush actuator 30. The housing 31 includes a base 32 that is mounted to the tank 11 by fasteners (not shown) received through a set of first mounting holes 33 in the base 32 that extend into openings 28 in the tank 11. The first mounting holes 33 and/or the openings 28 may be threaded, such that fasteners in the form of screws may be used for mounting the housing 31 on the tank 11. The tank 11 in FIGS. 1-8 has mounts 27 in the form of posts extending upward from the top of the cover 17 of the tank 11, and the openings 28 are positioned on the mounts 27. In this configuration, the first mounting holes 33 are aligned with the mounts 27 and the openings 28, and four first mounting holes 33, four mounts 27, and four openings 28 are used. The first mounting holes 33, mounts 27, and openings 28 are all arranged in a quadrilateral arrangement. The mounts 27 in the tank 11 of FIGS. 1-8 are positioned around the receiver 15, such that the recess 29 is positioned between the mounts 27 and substantially within the quadrilateral defined by the mounts 27. In another embodiment, a different number of first mounting holes 33, mounts 27, and openings 28 may be used, and the number of the first mounting holes 33, mounts 27, and openings 28 may be the same. As described further herein, the housing 31 in FIGS. 1-7 also includes a set of second mounting holes 34 that are arranged differently from the set of first mounting holes 33.

The second mounting holes 34 are configured to permit the housing 31 to be mounted on a different tank 11, as also described herein and shown in FIGS. 9-15. The housing 31 of the automatic flush actuator 30 has a set of second mounting holes 34 in the base 32, such that the housing 31 is connectable to the tank 11 of FIGS. 9-15 by fasteners (not shown) received through the second mounting holes 34 that extend into openings 28 in the tank 11. The second mounting holes 34 and/or the openings 28 may be threaded, such that fasteners in the form of screws may be used for mounting the housing 31 on the tank 11 of FIGS. 9-15. The tank 11 in FIGS. 9-15 has mounts 27 in the form of posts extending upward from the top of the cover 17 of the tank 11, and the openings 28 are positioned on the mounts 27. In this configuration, the second mounting holes 34 are aligned with the mounts 27 and the openings 28, and four second mounting holes 34, four mounts 27, and four openings 28 are used. The second mounting holes 34, mounts 27, and openings 28 are all arranged in a quadrilateral arrangement. The mounts 27 in the tank 11 of FIGS. 9-15 are positioned around the receiver 15, such that the recess 29 is positioned between the mounts 27 and substantially within the quadrilateral defined by the mounts 27. In another embodiment, a different number of second mounting holes 34, mounts 27, and openings 28 may be used, and the number of the second mounting holes 34, mounts 27, and openings 28 may be the same. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-7, 9-14, and 16-21, the housing 31 includes four second mounting holes 34 that are all spaced from the first mounting holes 33, such that the second mounting holes 34 are arranged in a quadrilateral that is different in size and/or shape from the quadrilateral defined by the first mounting holes 33. In another embodiment, one or more of the second mounting holes 34 is spaced from one or more of the first mounting holes 33, and one or more of the first mounting holes 33 may also serve as a second mounting hole 34.

The housing 31 of the automatic flush actuator 30 in this embodiment includes mounting projections 35 on the underside of the base 32, which are configured for engaging the mounts 27 on the tank 11 when the automatic flush actuator 30 is mounted on the tank 11 of FIGS. 1-8. The mounting projections 35 may function as spacers in this configuration, to permit the housing 31 to be mounted at the proper height from the top 26 of the tank 11 to accommodate all components of the automatic flush actuator 30 and to place the automatic flush actuator 30 in the correct position to actuate the flush valve 14. The mounting projections 35 have fins 36 that extend along the outer periphery of the mounting projections 35 and extend beyond the distal ends of the mounting projections 35. In this configuration, each mount 27 is received between the ends of the fins 36 of the corresponding mounting projection 35, such that the inner edges of the fins 36 engage the outer periphery of the mount 27 to ensure that the mount 27 and the opening is in proper position relative to the mounting projection 35 and the second mounting holes. This can assist with both proper positioning for installation and stability once installed. The first mounting holes 33 extend axially through the mounting projections 35 and open at the distal end, such that fasteners (not shown) are inserted down through the mounting projections 35 and out of the distal ends of the mounting projections 35 to be received in the openings 28 in the tank 11. In another embodiment, the first mounting holes 33 may be provided with a different type of registration or support structure for the mounts 27, such as mounting recesses 37 similar to those discussed herein with respect to the mounts 27 of the tank 11 in FIGS. 9-15, with or without the use of mounting projections 35.

The housing 31 of the automatic flush actuator 30 in this embodiment includes mounting recesses 37 on the underside of the base 32, which are configured for engaging the mounts 27 on the tank 11 when the automatic flush actuator 30 is mounted on the tank 11 of FIGS. 9-15. The mounting recesses 37 are defined by obround ridges 38 surrounding the second mounting holes 34 on the underside of the housing 31. Similarly to the fins 36 on the mounting projections 35, the ridges 38 engage the sides of the mounts 27 when the distal ends of the mounts 27 are received in the recesses 37, to ensure that the mounts 27 and the openings 28 are in proper position relative to the second mounting holes 34. This can assist with both proper positioning for installation and stability once installed. The second mounting holes 34 extend through the base 32 and open within the recesses 37, such that fasteners (not shown) are inserted down through the second mounting holes 34 to be received in the openings 28 in the tank 11. In another embodiment, the second mounting holes 34 may be provided with a different type of registration or support structure for the mounts 27, such as mounting projections 35 and/or fins 36 similar to those discussed herein with respect to the tank 11 in FIGS. 1-7.

The base 32 in the housing 31 of the automatic flush actuator 30 in FIGS. 1-20 has a platform 39 that extends around portions of the housing 31 at approximately the same vertical level. As shown for example in FIGS. 16-17, the platform 39 has portions extending outward and forward at the front corners of the housing 31 and rearward at the rear corners of the housing 31, such that the top surface 40 and the bottom surface 41 of all portions of the platform 39 are at substantially the same vertical positions relative to the other portions of the housing 31. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20, the mounting holes 33, 34 extend through the platform 39, and the mounting projections 35 and the mounting recesses 37 are positioned on the bottom surface 41 of the platform 39. The housing 31 in this embodiment also includes a bulb 42 that protrudes below the base 32 (i.e., below the bottom surface 41 of the platform 39) and provides room for internal components of the automatic flush actuator 30 below the base 32, thereby reducing the height that the housing 31 must protrude above the top 26 of the tank 11 to accommodate all necessary components of the automatic flush actuator 30.

The housing 31 of the automatic flush actuator 30 of FIGS. 1-20 also includes a cover 43 connected to the base 32 to enclose an inner chamber 44 that contains electronic and mechanical components of the automatic flush actuator 30. In the configuration shown in FIGS. 16-18, the base 32 and the cover 43 are each formed of a single piece of injection-molded plastic (which may be fiber-reinforced in one embodiment), which are connected together by fasteners to form the housing 31. In another embodiment, one or both of the base 32 and the cover 43 may be formed of multiple pieces, and/or may be formed using a different technique. The cover 43 defines an uppermost surface 45 of the housing 31 in the configuration of FIGS. 16-18. The internal components of the automatic flush actuator 30 in FIGS. 1-20 include an electric motor 46, a controller 47 for controlling the electric motor 46, an actuator 50, and a gear assembly 60 mechanically and operably connecting the electric motor 46 to the actuator 50 to control the actuator 50. The electric motor 46 is connected to a power source (not shown), such as a battery pack that can be hung or otherwise placed within the toilet tank in which the tank 11 is positioned. The automatic flush actuator 30 may include one or more ports 48 for connection to the power source and/or one or more input devices (e.g., the manual input device 20 and/or the electronic input device 22), and the controller 47 may also be connected to the power source. In one embodiment, the controller 47 may be in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB), and may include components such as one or more processors, one or more memories, and one or more communication modules (e.g., a wired or wireless transmitter and/or receiver). The controller 47 is in electronic communication (wired or wireless) with the manual input device 20 and/or the electronic input device 22 to receive a signal to initiate the flush cycle.

The actuator 50 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 is shown alone in FIGS. 19-20, and is in the form of a rotating cam that rotates between a retracted position and an actuation position, in which the actuator 50 engages the plunger 25 of the flush valve 14. The actuator 50 has a pivot point 51 where the actuator 50 is pivotably fixed to the housing 31 and an engagement portion 52 that orbits around the pivot point 51 to extend out of the housing 31 and engage the plunger 25. In the actuation position, the engagement portion 52 engages the plunger 25 and depresses the plunger 25 to actuate the flush valve 14 and begin the flush cycle. The actuator 50 also has gear teeth 53 that are engaged by the gear assembly 60 to cause the actuator 50 to pivot, and a rotation stop 54 that engages portions of the housing 31 to limit the range of pivoting movement of the actuator 50. The automatic flush actuator 30 also includes a spring 55 that is connected to the housing 31 and the actuator 50 to bias the actuator toward the retracted position, such that the actuator 50 returns to the retracted position when the motor 46 is not powering the actuator 50 to rotate to the actuation position. While the actuation position of the actuator 50 is not illustrated in the drawings, one skilled in the art would clearly understand that the actuator 50 would pivot counterclockwise from the perspective shown in FIGS. 7 and 14 to move to the actuation position, and would pivot clockwise from this perspective to return to the retracted position.

The gear assembly 60 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 includes a plurality of gears that engage the motor 46 and the actuator 50 to transfer rotational motion from the motor 46 to the actuator 50, thereby permitting the motor 46 to power rotation of the actuator 50. The gear assembly 60 in this embodiment is illustrated in greatest detail in FIGS. 7, 14, and 18, and includes four gears, all but one of which has an input portion having a large diameter and an output portion having a relatively smaller diameter. The gears of the gear assembly 60 are all rotatably mounted on a lateral internal wall 65 that separates the motor 46 from the portion of the chamber 44 that includes the gear assembly 60 and the actuator 50. A first gear or powered gear 61 is directly connected to the motor 46 and receives rotational power from the motor 46. The first gear 61 engages a second gear 62 at an input portion 62A of the second gear 62, which has a larger diameter than an output portion 62B of the second gear 62. The output portion 62B of the second gear 62 engages a third gear 63 at an input portion 63A of the third gear 63, which has a larger diameter than an output portion 63B of the third gear 63. The output portion 63B of the third gear 63 engages a fourth gear 64 at an input portion 64A of the fourth gear 64, which has a larger diameter than an output portion 64B of the fourth gear 64. The output portion 64B of the fourth gear 64 engages the gear teeth 53 of the actuator 50. In this configuration, counterclockwise rotation of the first gear 61 (relative to the perspective of FIGS. 7, 14, and 18) causes clockwise rotation of the second gear 62, which causes counterclockwise rotation of the third gear 63, which causes clockwise rotation of the fourth gear 64, which causes the actuator 50 to pivot in the counterclockwise direction to the actuation position. The third gear 63 in this configuration is located substantially directly above the first gear 61. The configuration of the gear assembly 60 in this embodiment permits rotational power to be transferred laterally from the motor 46 to the actuator 50 while retaining a low vertical profile (i.e., height). In particular, the gear assembly 60 in this embodiment offers a reduced vertical profile relative to the gear assembly 160 in the prior art automatic flush actuator 130 shown in FIGS. 21-25 and discussed in greater detail herein.

FIGS. 21-25 illustrate a prior art automatic flush actuator 130 that is shown connected to the same tank 11 shown in FIGS. 1-8, and which is usable in connection with the tank 11 in FIGS. 9-15 as well. The automatic flush actuator 130 in FIGS. 21-25 is described only in relevant detail. The base 132 of the housing 131 of the automatic flush actuator 130 is configured for direct connection to the tank 11 in FIGS. 1-8, as shown in FIGS. 21-22, and mounting holes 133 are included for this purpose. The automatic flush actuator 130 in FIGS. 21-25 can also be connected to the tank 11 in FIGS. 9-15, but an additional adapter (not shown) is required. This adapter raises the height of the automatic flush actuator 130 relative to the tank 11, due to clearance issues. The configuration of the base 32 and the mounting holes 33, 34 of the housing 31 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20, as well as the contours of the lower surface of the housing 31, permit the automatic flush actuator 30 in FIGS. 1-20 to be easily mounted on the tank 11 of FIGS. 9-15 without the use of an adapter. Additionally, the automatic flush actuator 130 has a greater overall vertical height than the automatic flush actuator 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20. As a result of the increased height of the automatic flush actuator 130 and the use of the adapter for mounting, the profile height H of the automatic flush actuator 130 above the top 26 of the tank 11 is greater than that of the automatic flush actuator 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20. The measurement of this profile height H is illustrated in FIG. 3. The difference in profile height H above the top 26 of the tank 11 is particularly significant when the automatic flush actuator 130 is mounted on the tank 11 in FIGS. 9-15, due to the raised profile height proportion resulting from the use of the adapter. When installed in the tank 11 of FIGS. 9-15, the automatic flush actuator 30 of FIGS. 1-20 has a profile height H above the top of the tank 11 that is about 1.0 inch, while the automatic flush actuator 130 of FIGS. 21-25 has a profile height H above the top 26 of the tank 11 that is about 0.5 inch greater (i.e., 1.5 inch). The smaller profile height H provides greater versatility of use for the automatic flush actuator 30 in FIGS. 1-20, as the system 10 can be installed in toilet tanks having smaller heights.

The present disclosure also describes a sensor module that wirelessly regulates a gravity tank with a paired flush module, such as the one discussed above. The sensor module may be attached to a wall directly above a toilet tank. The flush module may reside inside the toilet tank. The flush module may be configured to initiate a flush, for example, by causing a lever inside the gravity tank to be depressed. The flush module may initiate the flush, for example, when the flush module receives a signal from the sensor module (e.g., via wireless communication). The flush module may acknowledge the signal by sending its battery status, for example, to the sensor module.

In operation, the sensor module may be used to scan for any person within range. When a person is detected, the sensor module may arm. Once the person walks out of range, the sensor module may transmit a signal to the flush module to perform a flush. In some examples, an immediate flush may occur based on a hand being waved directly in front of the sensor module.

The sensor module and the flush module may both be powered by batteries. The sensor module may comprise four AA batteries. The flush module may comprise four C batteries. The life expectancy of the batteries in the sensor module may be three years. The life expectancy of the batteries in the flush module may be two years. To conserve battery life, algorithms to support low power may be implemented. For example, an algorithm may be implemented to cause a sensor of the sensor module to detect near-distance hand waves and/or a target at a further distance range. Also or alternatively, an algorithm may be implemented to control a protocol used to exchange messages between the sensor module and the flush module. The algorithms may increase battery life by reducing power consumption. The algorithms may detect targets in short-distance or long-distance ranges of the sensor module.

The sensor module may, for example, implement an infrared (IR) sensor detection algorithm. The IR sensor detection algorithm may cause the sensor to scan continuously for incoming targets within a range. When armed, the sensor may scan for an object, near and/or within the range. The IR sensor detection algorithm may cause the sensor to activate an automatic toilet flush, such as the one described above, using an IR sensor that senses the presence of a person. The IR sensor may be connected to an electronic controller which receives presence status from the sensor and actuates a motor to flush water accordingly.

In operation, the sensor module may cause a sensor to scan for a target at a distance continuously every one second. When the sensor is armed during an in-range detection, the sensor may operate in dual modes. For example, the sensor module may cause the sensor to simultaneously scan for a near distance object (a wave only (WO) mode) and a further distance object (an object detection (OD) mode). In some examples, two separate IR thresholds may be used to determine an IR echo strength level during the scanning. For example, one IR threshold may be used to determine IR echo strength level to support a WO mode and a different IR threshold may be used to determine an IR echo strength level to support an OD mode. The near distance and/or the further distance, as described above, may be generated based on the amount of IR current provided by a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), along with the duration of an IR pulse transmitted by the sensor during scanning. The combination of the IR threshold, a DAC level and/or value, and duration of the transmitted IR pulses may be used to control the ideal distances for the OD mode and/or the WO mode during calibration. For example, an ideal distance for a WO mode may correspond to an IR pulse width of 0.5 to 1.5 microseconds, and a transmit frequency of between two hundred and three hundred milliseconds. An ideal distance for an OD mode may correspond to an IR pulse width of between twenty and thirty microseconds and a transmit frequency of one second. In some examples, the DAC level and/or value may be calibrated with a fixed threshold value for the OD mode. The OD mode may be calibrated to scan for targets within a set distance.

As described above, the sensor may operate in dual modes (e.g., OD mode and WO mode). The sensor may simultaneously scan and detect objects at two different distances. For example, the sensor may detect targets within a near distance (e.g., a hand wave) or a target entering or leaving a sensor range. The near distance may correspond to a WO mode and comprise a distance of approximately five inches. The sensor range may correspond to the OD mode and comprise a maximum distance of approximately thirty-two inches (e.g., between twenty-five and forty-five inches). The sensor may detect targets based on the strength of an IR signal and/or based on a scan frequency. The strength of the IR signal may be based on the length of the signal (e.g., a pulse width) and/or the amount of power charged in a capacitor to transmit the signal. For an OD signal, the length of the signal may be between twenty and thirty microseconds with a capacitor charged for approximately 1000 microseconds (e.g., 950-1050 microseconds). For a WO signal, the length of the signal may be between 0.5 and 1.5 microseconds with a capacitor charged for a duration of two hundred to three hundred microseconds. The scan frequency may be the number of times a signal is transmitted within one second to detect an object. An OD mode may scan for a target every one second. A WO mode may scan for a target periodically. For example, a scan may occur periodically, between two hundred and three hundred milliseconds.

In the OD mode, the sensor may initially transmit OD pulses (e.g., pulses having a width between twenty and thirty microseconds based on charging a capacitor of approximately 1000 microseconds) until an object is detected within a set range (e.g., between twenty-five and forty-five inches). Preferably, the set range may be approximately thirty-two inches. For example, an OD pulse may be transmitted every one second for a duration between twenty and thirty microseconds, based on charging a capacitor for a duration of approximately 1000 microseconds (e.g., 950-1050 microseconds). When the sensor is armed, the sensor may transmit a combination of OD and WO pulses until the sensor is disarmed, a target is no longer in range, and/or a hand wave is detected. For example, an OD pulse may be transmitted every one second for a duration of 25 microseconds and a WO pulse may be transmitted periodically, between every two hundred to three hundred milliseconds, for a duration of one microsecond. To transmit the OD pulse, a capacitor may be charged for a duration of approximately 1000 microseconds (e.g., 950-1050 microseconds). To transmit the WO pulse, the capacitor may be charged for a duration between two hundred to three hundred microseconds. When the sensor is set to WO mode, the sensor may transmit only WO pulses. For example, a WO pulse may be transmitted by the sensor every two hundred to three hundred milliseconds for a duration of, for example, 0.5 to 1.5 microseconds. To transmit the WO pulse, the capacitor may be charged for a duration of two hundred to three hundred microseconds.

The sensor module and the flush module, as described above, may exchange messages via wireless communication. The sensor module may transmit a flush request whenever a target is detected (e.g., using the algorithms described herein). In some examples, the sensor module may also query the status of the battery level of the flush module. The protocol used to exchange messages between the sensor module and the flush module may be asynchronous. The asynchronous protocol may limit the number of messages sent between the flush module and the sensor module, thus preserving battery life of both modules. The sensor module may initiate communication to the flush module when a flush request is transmitted. The flush module may, based on receiving the flush request, acknowledge the flush request by returning its battery status. The asynchronous protocol may allow a request and battery status information to be exchanged during a single event.

The sensor module may implement the asynchronous protocol as and/or using an asynchronous communication algorithm, as described herein. For example, during an idle period, the sensor module may wake up and poll for a target every one second (e.g., by transmitting IR signals, as described above). If no object is detected, the sensor module may enter a sleep mode. If an object is detected, the sensor module may enable a wireless protocol (e.g., MiWi from Microchip Technology) to transmit a flush message for three seconds continuously without sleeping. Transmitting the flush message for three second continuously without sleeping may provide time for the flush module to receive a message during a wake up period. After transmitting for three seconds, the sensor module may listen for incoming messages (e.g., from the flush module) for one second. During this period, the sensor module may receive a battery status message from the flush module. After completing implementation of the asynchronous communication algorithm, the sensor module may return to a sleep mode.

In some examples, the flush module may wake up every one second. The flush module may enable a wireless protocol (e.g., MiWi) upon waking up. The flush module may listen for any incoming flush messages for a duration of 20 milliseconds. The flush module may return to a sleep mode if no flush message is received within 20 milliseconds. The flush module may send an acknowledgement comprising a battery status message if the flush message is received. The flush module may transmit the acknowledgment to the sensor module after a flush start command is received. The flush module may continuously send the battery status for a period of four seconds. The flush module may disable MiWi and return to a sleep mode after the four seconds expires.

FIG. 26 shows an example of electronic input device 22, according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. As noted above, the electronic input device 22 may comprise a sensor 24. Sensor 24 may be an infrared (IR) sensor and/or any other suitable sensor. In some examples, sensor 24 may be a Sloan® G2 proximity sensor, and/or APDS-9960 device from Avago Technologies. Sensor 24 may comprise an IR transmitter 24A and an IR receiver 24B. IR transmitter 24A may be a low powered IR diode configured to emit (e.g., transmit, irradiate) IR light at a steady (e.g., constant, continuous) rate. In some examples, IR transmitter 24A comprises a plurality of LEDs configured to emit IR light at a particular intensity, frequency, and/or wavelength. IR receiver 24B may be and/or comprise one or more photoreceptor cells. The one or more photoreceptor cells may be configured to detect IR light transmitted by IR transmitter 24A.

In some examples, electronic input device 22 may additionally comprise a microcontroller including a processor 22A. Processor 22A may be any suitable processor configured to control operation of the electronic input device 22 and its associated components, including sensor 24. In this regard, processor 22A may include a single central processing unit (CPU), which may be a single-core or multi-core processor, or may include multiple CPUs. Additionally or alternatively, processor 22A may include a low-power processor and/or microcontroller, such as an Advanced RISC Machine (ARM) processor, an Atmel 8-bit AVR microcontroller, and/or any suitable field programmable array (FPGA) or application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Also or alternatively, in some examples, processor 22A may be configured to communicate with one or more devices using a short-range wireless communication protocol, such as a microchip wireless protocol (e.g., MiWi from Microchip Technology) Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, ANT, LoRa, or any equivalent thereof. Processor 22A and/or the associated components described herein may allow the electronic input device 22 to execute a series of computer-readable instructions to perform some or all of the processes described herein. In some examples, processor 22A may comprise an internal memory. The memory may be cache, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, or other memory technology. The memory may be configured to store the series of computer-readable instructions that cause processor 22A to perform some, or all, of the processes described herein. Processor 22A may be configured to determine if the light detected by IR receiver 24A is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., a predetermined number of watts). If so, processor 22A may determine that an object is proximately located near sensor 22A. Processor 22A may cause a signal to be sent (e.g., transmitted) to the automatic flush actuator 30 to cause the automatic flush actuator 30 to actuate the flush vale 14. If the detected light is below the threshold, processor 22A may determine that an object is not proximate to sensor 22A.

As described herein, the sensor 24 and/or the electronic input device 22 may be configured to communicate with the automatic flush actuator 30 to actuate the flush valve 14 in response to specific activation conditions (e.g., determining that an object is no longer located within a threshold distance of the sensor 24, determining that an object has moved outside of the range of an OD pulse, determining that an object has moved within a predetermined range of motion relative to the sensor 24, and/or other activation conditions, discussed in further detail below). The sensor 24 may detect the activation conditions by operating according to one or more algorithms configured to minimize energy consumption and extend battery life of the electronic input device 22. FIG. 27 depicts an example method of implementing improved automatic flush detection according to the one or more algorithms.

Referring to FIG. 27, at step 2702, the sensor 24 may effect a wake-up. For example, the sensor 24 may, based on internal instructions executed by the processor 22A, enter a scanning state where IR light is transmitted by the IR transmitter 24A from an idle state where no IR light is transmitted by the IR transmitter 24A. The sensor 24 may wake up, for example, at a predetermined interval of time (e.g., every 250 ms, and/or other intervals of time). In waking up, the sensor 24 may begin sending (e.g., transmitting) signals comprising one or more pulses of IR light via the IR transmitter 24A. The one or more pulses of IR light may correspond to a pulse mode. For example, the one or more IR pulses may correspond to an object detection (OD) pulse mode. The OD pulse mode may generate an IR pulse of a predetermined width or duration (e.g., twenty to thirty microseconds, preferably twenty-five microseconds, and/or other widths) configured to detect an object within a threshold distance (e.g., a number of millimeters, a number of inches, or the like) from the IR transmitter 24A. Additionally and/or alternatively, in some examples, the one or more IR pulses may correspond to a wave only (WO) pulse mode. The WO pulse mode may generate an IR pulse of a predetermined width or duration (e.g., 0.5 to 1.5 microseconds, preferably one microsecond, and/or other widths) configured to detect whether an object (e.g., a human hand) moved within a predetermined range of motion (e.g., within 1 to 10 inches, preferably 5 inches) of the sensor 24.

At step 2704, the sensor 24 may determine whether a target is detected. For example, the sensor 24 may determine whether an object is located within a threshold distance from the sensor 24. In some examples, the sensor 24 may determine whether the object is located within a threshold distance from the sensor 24 based on receiving a predetermined amount of IR light in response to sending the one or more pulses of IR light, at step 2702. As noted above, the OD pulse may be configured to detect an object within approximately 32 inches (e.g., between 25 and 45 inches) from the IR transmitter 24A. In determining whether the object is located within the threshold distance, the IR receiver 24B may receive light transmitted by the IR transmitter 24A. The sensor 24 may determine, based on the amount of light received by the IR receiver 24B, whether an object is within the threshold distance. For example, based on receiving an amount of IR light that meets or exceeds a predetermined number of watts, the sensor 24 may determine that an object is within the threshold distance of the sensor 24, indicating that a target is detected. Based on determining that a target is detected (e.g., that an object is within the threshold distance of the sensor 24), the sensor may proceed to step 2706 and initiate a multi-pulse mode. Based on determining that an object is not detected, the sensor may proceed to step 2708 to determine whether a wake-up mode is on a one second cycle without performing the functions recited at step 2706.

At step 2708, the sensor 24 may determine whether a wake-up protocol of the sensor 24 is on a predetermined cycle, for example, based on determining that a target is not detected. The sensor 24 may determine whether any instructions have been received from the processor 22A indicating the wake-up protocol is on a predetermined cycle. A wake-up protocol on a predetermined cycle may indicate the sensor 24 will send (e.g., transmit) IR pulses (e.g., OD pulses, WO pulses, and/or other pulses) to determine whether an object is located within a threshold distance of the sensor 24 during the predetermined cycle (e.g., every one second). Based on determining that the wake-up protocol of the sensor 24 is on a predetermined cycle, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2710 to initiate a single-pulse mode to determine whether a target is detected during the predetermined cycle. Based on determining that the wake-up protocol of the sensor 24 is not on a predetermined cycle the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2720 to enter sleep or idle mode without performing the functions recited at steps 2710-2718.

At step 2710, the sensor 24 may initiate (e.g., trigger, activate, and/or otherwise initiate) a single-pulse mode, for example, based on determining that the wake-up protocol is on a predetermined cycle. Initiating the single-pulse mode may comprise arming, reconfiguring and/or otherwise causing the sensor 24 to prepare to send signals comprising one or more IR pulses corresponding to a single pulse mode (e.g., OD mode, WO mode, and/or other pulse modes). Based on initiating the single-pulse mode, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2712, discussed in greater detail below.

When the sensor determines that a target is detected, the sensor 24 may initiate (e.g., trigger, activate, and/or otherwise initiate) a multi-pulse mode, at step 2706. Initiating the multi-pulse mode may comprise arming, reconfiguring and/or otherwise causing the sensor 24 to prepare to send signals comprising a plurality of IR pulses with two or more different sets of parameters. For example, the multi-pulse mode may comprise sending a combination of OD and wave only (WO) pulses, and/or other types of pulses, until sensor 24 is either disarmed or an activation condition corresponding to the object is satisfied. In the multi-pulse mode, the sensor 24 may be configured to send (e.g., transmit) OD pulses with a predetermined frequency (e.g., every 0.5 to 1.5 seconds, preferably every one second) for a predetermined duration (e.g., every twenty to thirty microseconds, preferably twenty-five microseconds). A WO pulse may correspond to a different predetermined frequency and/or a different predetermined duration than an OD pulse. For example, in the multi-pulse mode, the sensor 24 may be configured to additionally send (e.g., transmit) WO pulses with a second predetermined frequency (e.g., every two hundred to three hundred milliseconds, preferably every two hundred and fifty milliseconds) for a second predetermined duration (e.g., one pulse every microsecond). Based on initiating the multi-pulse mode, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2712 and execute an IR pulse algorithm without performing the functions recited at steps 2708-2710.

At step 2712, the sensor 24 may execute an IR pulse algorithm, for example, based on initiating the multi-pulse mode or based on initiating the single-pulse mode. In executing an IR pulse algorithm, the sensor 24 may prepare and send (e.g. transmit) signals comprising one or more IR pulses at predetermined frequencies in order to determine whether an activation condition for a flushing function (e.g., causing automatic flush actuator 30 to actuate the flush valve 14, and/or other functions) is satisfied. FIG. 28, discussed in greater detail below, describes an example of an IR pulse algorithm for improved automatic flush detection in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

At step 2714, the sensor 24 may determine whether an activation condition corresponding to an object has been detected. The determination of whether an activation condition has been detected may be based on executing the IR pulse algorithm. For example, the sensor 24 may determine, by analyzing an amount of IR light received by the IR receiver 24B in response to sending one or more pulses, whether the amount of IR light received by the IR receiver 24B meets or exceeds a predetermined amount of IR light (e.g., a predetermined number of watts). The amount of light received by the IR receiver 24B may indicate whether the activation condition is satisfied. In some examples, the activation condition may comprise determining that an object, previously detected within a threshold distance of the sensor, is no longer located within the threshold distance. The sensor 24 may determine whether a previously detected object has moved outside of a threshold range (e.g., 25 to 45 inches, preferably 32 inches) of the sensor 24, for example, based on the amount of light received by the IR receiver 24B. The sensor 24 may determine whether the previously detected object (e.g., a human body) has moved outside of the range of an OD pulse.

Additionally and/or alternatively, in some examples, the activation condition may comprise determining whether an object has moved within a predetermined range of motion relative to the sensor 24. The sensor 24 may determine whether an object has moved within a range of the sensor 24 shorter than the distance than the range of an OD pulse, for example, based on the amount of light received by the IR receiver 24B. For example, the sensor 24 may determine whether an object (e.g., a human hand) moved within a predetermined range of motion (e.g., within one to 10 inches, preferably 5 inches) of the sensor 24, for example, based on or in response to sending a WO pulse. In determining whether the activation condition has been detected, the sensor 24 may calculate, based on the amount of IR light received, an IR current. In these examples, the sensor 24 may determine a distance between the object and the sensor 24 based on a calculation comprising the IR current and the duration of the IR pulse sent during execution of the IR pulse algorithm. Based on determining that an activation condition has been detected, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2716 and execute a sensor asynchronous communication algorithm and cause execution of a flushing function (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 29, described below).

At step 2716, the sensor 24 may execute a sensor asynchronous communications algorithm, for example, based on determining that an activation condition has been detected. In particular, the sensor 24 may execute an algorithm configured to communicate with the automatic flush actuator 30 to perform a flushing function. FIG. 29, described in greater detail below, depicts an example of a sensor asynchronous communication algorithm for improved automatic flush detection in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

Based on determining that an activation condition has not been detected, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2718 and determine a pulse count. For example, the sensor 24 may determine whether a pulse count corresponding to a pulse sequence for a multi-pulse mode indicates the pulse sequence is complete. In some examples, a pulse count of zero may correspond to completion of a pulse sequence, indicating that all pulses in the pulse sequence have been sent. Based on determining that the pulse count indicates the pulse sequence is complete, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2720 and enter a sleep or idle mode. Based on determining that the pulse count indicates the pulse sequence is not complete, the sensor 24 may return to step 2712 and execute an additional iteration of the IR pulse algorithm. In these examples, the sensor 24 may thus complete execution of the multi-pulse mode by sending (e.g., transmitting) a multi-pulse signal comprising at least one OD pulse and a plurality of WO pulses by iterating through a loop comprising steps 2712-2718 until an activation condition has been detected and/or the pulse count indicates the pulse sequence is complete (e.g., the pulse count is equal to zero).

At step 2720, the sensor 24 may enter a sleep and/or idle mode, for example, based on executing the sensor asynchronous communications algorithm and/or based on determining the pulse count. For example, the sensor 24 may cease, terminate, and/or otherwise stop sending (e.g., transmitting) IR light from the IR transmitter 24A. In entering the sleep and/or idle mode, the sensor 24 may conserve energy and battery life by reducing or eliminating energy consumption until a wake-up function is initiated (e.g., as described at step 2702 herein), beginning a new iteration of the method of FIG. 27 as described herein.

As noted above, the sensor may execute an IR pulse algorithm in response to entering a multi-pulse or single-pulse mode. FIG. 28 shows an example of the IR pulse algorithm in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. At step 2802, the sensor 24 may be activated. For example, if the sensor is currently in an idle and/or sleep mode, the electronic input device 22 may turn on and/or otherwise activate the sensor 24. It should be understood that in some examples, the sensor 24 may already be activated prior to initiation of the IR pulse algorithm. In these examples, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2804 without needing to be activated or re-activated.

At step 2804, the sensor 24 may determine whether the sensor 24 initiated a multi-pulse mode. For example, the sensor 24 may determine whether a multi-pulse mode or a single-pulse mode was initiated prior to beginning the IR pulse algorithm (e.g., as described at steps 2706-2710 herein). Determining whether the sensor 24 is currently in a multi-pulse mode may comprise identifying instructions (e.g., from the processor 22A) that previously initiated a multi-pulse mode or a single-pulse mode. Based on determining that a multi-pulse mode is initiated, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2808 and determine a pulse sequence for the multi-pulse mode without performing the functions described at step 2806.

At step 2808, the sensor 24 may determine a pulse sequence, for example, based on or in response to determining that a multi-pulse mode was initiated. For example, the sensor 24 may determine a pulse sequence representing an order in which pulses of a first type (e.g., OD mode pulses) and pulses of a second type (e.g., WO mode pulses) should be sent (e.g., transmitted) from the IR transmitter 24A (e.g., as part of a signal to detect whether an activation condition corresponding to an object has been satisfied). In determining the pulse sequence, the sensor 24 may parse, poll, and/or otherwise read information (e.g., a table, or the like) stored in memory of the electronic input device 22 that comprises instructions for transmitting signals in a multi-pulse mode. The sensor 24 may use processor 22A to process the information. The sensor 24 may, based on reading the information, identify a specific order in which pulses of the multi-pulse mode should be sent (e.g., transmitted). In some examples, the order in which pulses may be sent may correspond to a cycle for each pulse type (e.g., every 0.5 to 1.5 seconds, preferably every one second for an OD pulse and every two hundred to three hundred milliseconds, preferably every two hundred and fifty milliseconds for a WO pulse) and/or a duration of each pulse type (e.g., twenty to thirty microseconds, preferably twenty five microseconds for an OD pulse, and every 0.5 to 1.5 microseconds, preferably one microsecond for a WO pulse). In some examples, the pulse sequence may comprise a pulse count. The pulse count may indicate a number of pulses to be sent (e.g., transmitted), for example, as part of a signal. For example, in the above example algorithm, the pulse count may be fourteen, as fourteen total pulses may be sent as part of the algorithm. Also or alternatively, in some examples, the pulse sequence may comprise distinct pulse counts for each type of pulse.

Based on or in response to determining that a multi-pulse mode has not been initiated, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2806 and identify a pulse type. In identifying the pulse type, the sensor 24 may identify a pulse type corresponding to the single-pulse mode that was initiated prior to beginning the IR pulse algorithm. For example, the sensor 24 may identify whether a WO mode or an OD mode was previously initiated. Identifying the pulse type may further comprise identifying one or more parameters of the pulse type. For example, based on identifying that a WO mode was previously initiated, the sensor 24 may identify, based on instructions, information, or the like stored in memory (e.g., of the electronic input device 22), a cycle for sending (e.g., transmitting) WO pulses (e.g., every two hundred to three hundred milliseconds, preferably every two hundred and fifty milliseconds), a duration of WO pulses (e.g., approximately one microsecond), and/or other parameters of the WO pulse type. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 24 may identify a cycle for sending (e.g., transmitting) OD pulses (e.g., approximately every one second), a duration of OD pulses (e.g., twenty to thirty microseconds, preferably twenty-five microseconds), and/or other parameters of the OD pulse type, for example, based on identifying that an OD mode was previously initiated. Based on identifying the pulse type, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2810 and determine whether an OD pulse is queued without performing the functions described at step 2808.

At step 2810, the sensor 24 may determine whether an OD pulse is queued, for example, based on identifying a pulse type and/or based on determining a pulse sequence. In determining whether an OD pulse is queued, the sensor 24 may determine whether an OD pulse was identified at step 2806. Based on determining that an OD pulse was identified at step 2806, the sensor 24 may determine that an OD pulse is queued. Additionally and/or alternatively, in determining whether an OD pulse is queued, the sensor 24 may determine which pulse type is scheduled to be sent (e.g., transmitted) next in the pulse sequence of step 2808. For example, the sensor 24 may determine a current pulse count of the pulse sequence. In some examples, the current pulse count may match a pulse count of the pulse sequence indicating that an OD pulse is queued. In other examples, the current pulse count may match a pulse count of the pulse sequence indicating that a WO pulse is queued. Based on determining that an OD pulse is queued, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2814 and prepare an OD pulse. Based on determining that an OD pulse is not queued, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2812 and prepare a WO pulse.

In response to determining that an OD pulse is not queued, the sensor 24 may prepare a WO pulse, in step 2812. In preparing the WO pulse, the sensor 24 may identify one or more parameters of the WO pulse. For example, the sensor 24 may identify a width or duration of the WO pulse (e.g., 0.5-1.5 microseconds, preferably 1 microsecond). Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 24 may identify an amount of time required to charge a capacitor to send (e.g., transmit) the WO pulse. In identifying the one or more parameters, the sensor 24 may cause the processor 22A to execute one or more instructions comprising parameters for pulses sent by the sensor 24. Based on preparing the WO pulse, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2816 and charge a capacitor without performing the functions described at step 2814.

In response to determining that an OD pulse is queued, the sensor 24 may prepare an OD pulse, in step 2814. In preparing the OD pulse, the sensor 24 may identify one or more parameters of the OD pulse. For example, the sensor 24 may identify a width or duration of the WO pulse (e.g., twenty to thirty microseconds, preferably twenty-five microseconds). Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 24 may identify an amount of time required to charge a capacitor to send (e.g., transmit) the OD pulse. In identifying the one or more parameters, the sensor 24 may cause the processor 22A to execute one or more instructions comprising parameters for pulses sent by the sensor 24.

At step 2816, the sensor 24 may charge a capacitor. In some examples, sending (e.g., transmitting) OD and/or WO pulses may require charging of a capacitor for a predetermined amount of time. For example, the electronic input device 22 and/or sensor 24 may charge a capacitor for a duration of 950-1050 microseconds, preferably 1000 microseconds, to transmit an OD pulse. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic input device 22 and/or sensor 24 may charge the capacitor for a duration of 200-300 microseconds, preferably 250 microseconds, to transmit a WO pulse.

At step 2818, the sensor 24 may send one or more IR pulses, for example, based on charging the capacitor. For example, the sensor 24 may cause the IR transmitter 24A to send (e.g., transmit) an IR pulse by emitting IR light from the diode at a steady rate. The sensor 24 may send (e.g., transmit) the IR pulse based on the amount of time the capacitor was charged and/or based on whether an OD pulse was queued. For example, the sensor 24 may, based on charging the capacitor for a duration of 950-1050 microseconds, preferably 1000 microseconds, send an OD pulse. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 24 may, based on charging the capacitor for a duration of 200-300 microseconds, preferably 250 microseconds, send a WO pulse. The sensor 24 may complete the IR pulse algorithm, for example, based on or in response to sending the IR pulse, and proceed to determine whether an activation condition for a flushing function has been activated as described herein.

FIG. 29 shows an example process of signaling a flushing mechanism in response to detecting an activation condition in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. At step 2902, the sensor 24 may open a communication window. For example, the sensor 24 may open a communication window with the automatic flush actuator 30. In some examples, opening the communication window may comprise establishing a connection (e.g., a wireless data connection, or the like) between the sensor 24 and one or more components of the automatic flush actuator 30. For example, the sensor 24 may establish a connection with a flush module component of the automatic flush actuator 30 comprising stored instructions, computer-executable logic, or the like. Also or alternatively, in some examples, the sensor 24 may open the communication window by enabling a short-range wireless protocol, such as microchip wireless protocol (e.g., MiWi from Microchip Technology, or the like), Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, ANT, LoRa, or any equivalent thereof. The communication window may, in some examples, be and/or correspond to a period of time during which messages may be sent (e.g., transmitted) between the sensor 24 and the automatic flush actuator 30. In some examples, the sensor 24 may maintain a persistent connection (e.g., a wireless data connection, or the like) between the sensor and the automatic flush actuator 30. In these examples, the communication window may already be open and the functions described herein at step 2902 may be skipped.

At step 2904, the sensor 24 may send (e.g., transmit) one or more signals. The one or more signals may comprise a flush request. For example, the sensor 24 may send one or more requests to cause execution of a flushing function to the automatic flush actuator 30. The flushing function may comprise instructing the automatic flush actuator 30 to actuate the flush valve 14. In some examples, the sensor 24 may send the flush request while the communication window is open.

At step 2906, the sensor 24 may determine whether a threshold transmit time has been met, for example, based on sending the one or more signals (e.g., flush requests). For example, the sensor asynchronous communications algorithm may comprise and/or correspond to instructions directing the sensor 24 to periodically and/or continuously or near-continuously send (e.g., transmit) the one or more signals for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., a number of seconds, such as one to five seconds, preferably three seconds). The sensor asynchronous communications algorithm may, for example, direct the sensor 24 to continuously or near-continuously send the one or more signals (e.g., flush requests) for three seconds without sleeping. In determining whether the threshold transmit time has been met, the sensor 24 may identify an elapsed time since the sensor 24 began sending the one or more signals (e.g., flush requests). If the elapsed time meets or exceeds the threshold transmit time, the sensor 24 may determine that the threshold transmit time has been met. Based on determining that the threshold transmit time has not been met, the sensor 24 may return to step 2904 and transmit a new flush request or continue to transmit the flush request. Based on determining that the threshold transmit time has been met, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2908 and monitor for a response.

At step 2908, the sensor 24 may monitor for a response. For example, the sensor 24 may monitor the open communication window to determine whether any message (e.g., response) has been received from the automatic flush actuator 30. In some examples, monitoring for a response may comprise polling the automatic flush actuator 30 for a response.

At step 2910, the sensor 24 may determine, based on monitoring for a response, whether a response was received. For example, the sensor 24 may determine whether a message confirming execution of the flushing function was received from the automatic flush actuator 30. In some examples, the message may comprise an indication that the automatic flush actuator 30 executed the flushing function (e.g., by actuating the flush valve 14). Additionally and/or alternatively, the message may comprise an indication of a battery level of an electronic component of the automatic flush actuator 30. It should be understood that, in some examples, the sensor 24 may perform step 2910 simultaneously or near-simultaneously with step 2908 such that the sensor 24 is continuously determining whether a response was received while monitoring for a response. Based on determining that a response was not received, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2912 and determine whether a threshold monitoring time has been met.

At step 2912, the sensor 24 may determine whether a threshold monitoring time has been met, for example, based on determining that a response was not received. For example, the sensor 24 may determine whether an amount of time spent monitoring for a response (e.g., as described at step 2908) meets or exceeds a threshold amount of time (e.g., a number of seconds, such as 0.5 to 1.5 seconds, preferably one second). Based on determining that the amount of time spent monitoring for a response meets or exceeds the threshold amount of time, the sensor 24 may determine that the threshold monitoring time has been met. Based on determining that the threshold monitoring time has been met, the sensor 24 may proceed to step 2914. Based on determining that the threshold monitoring time has not been met, the sensor 24 may return to step 2908 and continue to monitor for a response.

Based on or in response to determining that a response has been received and/or based on determining that a threshold monitoring time has been met, the sensor 24 may close the communication window, at step 2914. In some examples, the sensor 24 may close the communication window by entering a sleep or idle mode and ceasing to communicate with the automatic flush actuator 30 (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 27 at step 2720). In some examples, the sensor 24 may close the communication window by returning to an OD pulse mode and continuing to determine whether an object is detected. For example, the sensor 24 may return to a single-pulse mode by deactivating (e.g., based on receiving the response) a multi-pulse mode and initiating and/or reactivating a single-pulse mode (e.g., as described herein with respect to FIG. 27 and step 2710). In some examples, the sensor 24 may close the communication window by disabling a wireless protocol (e.g., MiWi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, ANT, LoRa, or any equivalent thereof). The sensor 24 may complete the sensor asynchronous communication algorithm, for example, based on closing the communication window, and proceed to enter a sleep or idle mode as described herein.

As described herein, the sensor 24 and/or the electronic input device 22 may cooperate with the automatic flush actuator 30 to implement improved automatic flush detection (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 27-29). The automatic flush actuator 30 may store and process instructions, computer-executable logic, comprising a flush module and/or algorithm configured to communicate with the sensor 24 and/or electronic input device 22. FIG. 30 is an example method of implementing a flush algorithm for improved automatic flush detection as described herein.

At step 3002, the automatic flush actuator 30 may effect a wake-up, for example, as part of initiating the flush algorithm. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may effect a wake-up after a predetermined period of time (e.g., 0.5 to 1.5 seconds, preferably one second) has passed. In effecting the wake-up, the automatic flush actuator 30 may power on and/or otherwise activate a means of communicating with other devices (e.g., the electronic input device 22 and/or sensor 24).

At step 3004, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether a cooldown mode is active. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether the automatic flush actuator 30 was placed in a cooldown mode after actuating the flush valve 14 by comparing a start time corresponding to actuating the flush valve 14 to a current time to determine whether a predetermined amount of time has passed. Based on determining that a cooldown mode is active, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3006 and process the cooldown.

At step 3006, the automatic flush actuator 30 may process the cooldown, for example, based on determining that a cooldown mode is active. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may remain in an idle or sleep state for a predetermined period of time (e.g., seconds, milliseconds, or any other period of time) to conserve energy, allow the tank 11 to refill with water, and/or otherwise process the cooldown. Based on processing the cooldown, the automatic flush actuator 30 may end the flush algorithm and return to an idle or sleep state as described at step 3016.

Based on or in response to determining that the cooldown mode is inactive, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3008 and initiate a flush asynchronous communication algorithm without performing the functions recited at step 3006. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may execute an algorithm configured to communicate with the sensor 24 to receive a request to execute a flushing function. As discussed in greater detail below, FIG. 31 shows an example of a flush asynchronous communication algorithm for improved automatic flush detection in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

At step 3010, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether a flush request was received during execution of the flush asynchronous communication algorithm. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether a flush request was received from the sensor 24. In some examples, step 3010 may be performed during execution of the flush asynchronous communication algorithm. For example, step 3010 may be performed immediately or near-immediately upon receiving the flush request (e.g., as described at step 3106 and/or before sending the acknowledgment at step 3110). Based on determining that a flush request was received during execution of the flush asynchronous communication algorithm, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3012 and process the flush request.

At step 3012, the automatic flush actuator 30 may process the flush request, for example, based on determining that a flush request was received during execution of the asynchronous communication algorithm. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may process the flush request by actuating the flush valve 14 as described herein. At step 3014 the automatic flush actuator 30 may process a cooldown, for example, based on processing the flush request. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may maintain a standby or idle state for a predetermined period of time to conserve battery life and/or allow water to refill the tank 11.

Based on or in response to determining that a flush request was not received during execution of the flush asynchronous communication algorithm, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3016 without performing the functions recited at steps 3012-3014. At step 3016, the automatic flush actuator 30 may enter a sleep or idle mode. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may cause a flush module (e.g., one or more electronic components of the automatic flush actuator 30 configured to affect the algorithms described herein) to enter a sleep or idle mode. In entering the sleep and/or idle mode, the automatic flush actuator 30 may conserve energy and battery life by reducing or eliminating energy consumption until a wake-up function is initiated (e.g., as described at step 3002 herein), beginning a new iteration of the method of FIG. 30 as described herein.

As noted above, the automatic flush actuator 30 may perform a flush asynchronous communication algorithm. FIG. 31 shows an example of the flush asynchronous communication algorithm in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. At step 3102, the automatic flush actuator 30 may open a communication window. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may enable a wireless protocol (e.g., MiWi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, ANT, LoRa, or any equivalent thereof) and/or otherwise establish a connection with the sensor 24 and/or the electronic input device 22. In some examples, opening the communication window may comprise opening the communication window cooperatively with the sensor 24 as part of a sensor asynchronous communication algorithm as described herein. For example, opening the communication window may be and/or comprise opening the communication window simultaneously or near-simultaneously with the functions recited at step 2902.

At step 3104, the automatic flush actuator 30 may monitor for a flush request. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may monitor an open communication window between the automatic flush actuator 30 and the sensor 24 to determine whether a request (e.g., a flush request, as described herein with respect to step 2904 and FIG. 29) has been sent by the sensor 24.

At step 3106, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether a flush request has been received by the automatic flush actuator 30. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether the sensor 24 sent (e.g., transmitted) a flush request for executing a flushing function (e.g., as described herein with respect to step 2904 and FIG. 29). It should be understood that, in some examples, the automatic flush actuator 30 may perform step 3106 simultaneously or near-simultaneously with step 3104 such that the automatic flush actuator 30 is continuously determining whether a request was received while monitoring for a request. Based on determining that a flush request was not received, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3108 and determine whether a threshold monitoring time has been met. Based on determining that a flush request was received, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3110 without performing the functions recited at step 3108.

At step 3108, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether a threshold monitoring time has been met, for example, based on determining that a flush request was not received. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether an amount of time spent monitoring for a request (e.g., as described at step 3104) meets or exceeds a threshold amount of time (e.g., a number of seconds, such as ten to thirty milliseconds, preferably twenty milliseconds). Based on determining that the amount of time spent monitoring for a request meets or exceeds the threshold amount of time, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine that the threshold monitoring time has been met. Based on determining that the threshold monitoring time has been met, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3114. Based on determining that the threshold monitoring time has not been met, the automatic flush actuator 30 may return to step 3106 and continue to monitor for a request.

At step 3110, the automatic flush actuator 30 may send (e.g., transmit) an acknowledgment (e.g., a message, or the like), for example, based on determining that a flush request was received. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may send an acknowledgment to the sensor 24 indicating that the flush request was fulfilled (e.g., based on actuating the flush valve 14, as described herein). In some examples, the acknowledgment may comprise an indication of the battery level of the automatic flush actuator 30 (e.g., of a battery pack of the electric motor 46).

At step 3112, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether a threshold acknowledgment time has been met. In some examples, the automatic flush actuator 30 may be configured to send the acknowledgment of step 3110 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., one to five seconds, preferably four seconds). In these examples, the automatic flush actuator 30 may determine whether the threshold acknowledgment time has been met by determining whether an amount of time that the automatic flush actuator 30 has been sending (e.g., transmitting) the acknowledgment (e.g., to the sensor 24) meets or exceeds the threshold acknowledgment time. Based on determining that the threshold acknowledgment time has not been met, the automatic flush actuator 30 may return to step 3110 and send a new acknowledgment and/or continue sending the acknowledgment.

Based on determining that the threshold acknowledgment time has been met, the automatic flush actuator 30 may proceed to step 3114. At step 3114, the automatic flush actuator 30 may close the communication window. For example, the automatic flush actuator 30 may disable a wireless protocol and/or component of the automatic flush actuator 30 configured to communicate with the sensor 24. In some examples, closing the communication window may comprise closing the communication window cooperatively with the sensor 24 as part of a sensor asynchronous communication algorithm as described herein. For example, closing the communication window may be and/or comprise closing the communication window simultaneously or near-simultaneously with the functions recited at step 2914. The automatic flush actuator 30 may complete the flush asynchronous communication algorithm, for example, based on closing the communication window, and proceed to complete the flush algorithm of FIG. 30.

As disclosed herein, the overall height of the automatic flush actuator 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 is smaller than that of the automatic flush actuator 130 of FIGS. 21-25. The configuration of the gear assembly 60 in the automatic flush actuator 30 of FIGS. 1-20 assists in reducing the height of the automatic flush actuator 30. The gear assembly 60 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-20 uses a greater number of gears (four) than the gear assembly 160 in FIGS. 21-25, which uses three gears. However, the arrangement of the gear assembly 60 permits the use of smaller diameter gears and reduces the overall height of the gear assembly 60 relative to the gear assembly 160 in the automatic flush actuator 130 of FIGS. 21-25. The actuator 150 of the automatic flush actuator 130 of FIGS. 21-25 is pivotably moved by the gear assembly 160, and the actuator 150 is shown alone in FIGS. 24-25.

Various embodiments of automatic flush actuation units and accessories therefor have been described herein, which include various components and features. In other embodiments, the automatic flush actuation units and accessories may be provided with any combination of such components and features. It is also understood that in other embodiments, the various devices, components, and features of the automatic flush actuation units and accessories described herein may be constructed with similar structural and functional elements having different configurations, including different ornamental appearances.

The various embodiments of the automatic flush actuator 30 disclosed herein provide benefits and advantages over existing flush actuators, including the automatic flush actuator 130 shown in FIGS. 21-25. As described herein, the automatic flush actuator 30 provides a more compact package that is more versatile in installation and provides greater versatility in use of the system 10 once the automatic flush actuator 130 is installed on the tank 11. The automatic flush actuator 30 of FIGS. 1-20 also provides effective operation of the automatic flush actuator 30 and effective actuation of the flush valve 14. Still other benefits and advantages are readily recognized by those skilled in the art.

Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. The terms “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “rear,” “proximal,” “distal,” and the like, as used herein, are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three dimensional orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of this invention, unless explicitly specified by the claims. When used in description of a method or process, the term “providing” (or variations thereof) as used herein means generally making an article available for further actions, and does not imply that the entity “providing” the article manufactured, assembled, or otherwise produced the article. The term “approximately” as used herein implies a variation of up to 10% of the nominal value modified by such term, or up to 10% of a midpoint value of a range modified by such term. “Integral joining technique,” as used herein, means a technique for joining two pieces so that the two pieces effectively become a single, integral piece, including, but not limited to, irreversible joining techniques such as welding, brazing, soldering, or the like, where separation of the joined pieces cannot be accomplished without structural damage thereto. Additionally, the term “plurality,” as used herein, indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number. Accordingly, while the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying claims.