FLUSH ARCHITECTURE SANITATION PLATFORM

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of, claims priority to and the benefits of, U.S. application Ser. No. 18/636,491, titled TOILET BOWL CLEANING CUP SYSTEM and filed Apr. 16, 2024, which is herein incorporated by this reference in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to a flush architecture sanitation platform, and more particularly, to a toilet bowl cleaning cup system that keeps the cleaning substance away from the tank parts.

BACKGROUND

Toilets need to be cleaned often, but people do not like to manually clean toilets. Many chemicals, devices and systems exist to clean toilets such as, for example, liquid sprays, tank tablets, push on gel tabs for the bowl, hanging tabs on the bowl lid, brushes and disposable sponges. However, people may not want to use cleaning products that are dispersed directly into the bowl since those products may be unsightly and people do not want such chemicals near their bodies. Other cleaning systems exist that work in the tank, but such tank cleaning systems include chemicals that interface with the tank parts. The chemicals that are dispersed in the tank may damage or degrade the tank parts over time. As such, a need exists for a self-cleaning toilet bowl system with the cleaning substance placed in the tank, but the chemicals go directly into the bowl and do not interact with the tank parts.

As set forth in FIG. 1, one type of toilet device (having a flapper device) operates by pushing on a handle 105 that opens a plug 110 (or flapper) in a tank 115. The opening of the plug 110 allows the water to flow out of the tank 115 and into the bowl to help wash down the dirty water out of the bowl and into the sanitation lines. The float rod 120 goes down when the water leaves the tank 115, so the downward movement of the float rod 120 opens the valve to allow clean water to enter into the tank 115. The clean water also travels through a fill tube 125 and into the overflow pipe 130 to partially fill the bowl with clean water. As the tank 115 fills, the float rod 120 rises with the water. When the water reaches the optimum level, the float rod 120 closes the valve and restricts additional water flowing into the tank 115. If water continues to flow into the tank 115, the water level may rise above the top opening of the overflow pipe 130. The water that rises in the tank 115 above the top opening of the overflow pipe 130 enters the overflow pipe 130, then exits the overflow pipe 130 and into the bowl.

As set forth in FIG. 2, another type of toilet device may include a cylindrical plug or cannister such as, the Series 3200 (model number 1187574) toilet device manufactured by Kohler. This type of toilet operates by pushing on a handle 205 that pulls up on a cannister 210 (or cylindrical plug) in a tank 215. The lifting of the cannister 210 allows the water to flow out of the tank 215 and into the bowl to help wash down the dirty water out of the bowl and into the sanitation lines. The float rod 220 goes down when the water leaves the tank 215, so the downward movement of the float rod 220 opens the valve to allow clean water to enter into the tank 215. The clean water also travels through a fill tube 225 and into the overflow pipe 230 (fill tube 225 may be removably connected to overflow pipe 230) to partially fill the bowl with clean water. Cannister 210 may serve as overflow pipe 230, overflow pipe 230 may be part of cannister 210 or overflow pipe 230 may include a separate pipe within cannister 210 (that extends for at least a portion of the length of cannister 210). As the tank 215 fills, the float rod 220 rises with the water. Overflow pipe 230 may act as an alignment device for cannister 210, and may also disconnect from cannister 210. When the water reaches the optimum level, the float rod 220 closes the valve and restricts additional water flowing into the tank 215. If water continues to flow into the tank 215, the water level may rise above the top opening of the overflow pipe 230. The water that rises in the tank 215 above the top opening of the overflow pipe 230 enters the overflow pipe 230, then exits the overflow pipe 230 and into the bowl.

SUMMARY

Systems and methods are disclosed for an improved toilet bowl cleaning cup system. In various embodiments, the system may comprise an overflow pipe within a tank, a holding device configured to interface with the overflow pipe, and an inlet pipe comprising a first end and a second end. The first end may be configured to interface with a fill tube. The second end may be configured to interface with the holding device. A first portion of the inlet pipe may extend along a first direction. A second portion of the inlet pipe may extend at an angle between about 60 degrees and about 120 degrees from the first direction.

In various embodiments, the angle may be about 90 degrees. The system may further include a baffle disposed within the inlet pipe. The baffle may include a plate including a plurality of apertures. The plurality of apertures may be evenly distributed within the plate. The holding device may include a cover. The cover may be configured to seal the holding device. The cover may be configured to interface with the inlet pipe. The holding device may further include a divider. The divider may be configured to separate the holding device into a first reservoir and a second reservoir. The divider may include an aperture. The aperture may be configured to be disposed about a lower end of the holding device.

In various embodiments, the cover may include a flow controller. The flow controller may be configured to selectively provide the fill water to only the first reservoir, only the second reservoir, or both the first reservoir and the second reservoir. The flow control may include a slide control or a turn control to selectively provide the fill water.

In various embodiments, the holding device may further include an inner cylinder over a hole in the holding device. A first geometric shape of the inner cylinder may be similar to a second geometric shape of the overflow pipe. The holding device may further include a check valve within the inner cylinder. The check valve may be configured to remain at least partially open. The inlet pipe may include a check valve. The first portion of the inlet pipe may have a greater diameter than the fill tube.

The improved toilet bowl cleaning cup system may further comprise, in various embodiments, an overflow pipe within a tank, a dosing pipe within the tank, and a holding device configured to interface with the dosing pipe. The holding device may be configured to receive fill water. The holding device may be configured to retain a cleaning substance. The holding device may be configured to allow the fill water to flow over the cleaning substance and into the dosing pipe. The dosing pipe may be configured to provide fill water to the overflow pipe.

In various embodiments, the overflow pipe may include an overflow pipe first end, an overflow pipe second end, and an overflow pipe body therebetween. The dosing pipe may include a dosing pipe first end, a dosing pipe second end, and a dosing pipe body therebetween. The dosing pipe first end may be disposed within the holding device. The dosing pipe second end may be fluidly coupled to the overflow pipe body. The dosing pipe body may include an aperture.

The improved toilet bowl cleaning cup system may further comprise, in various embodiments, an overflow pipe within a tank, a dosing pipe within the tank, and a holding device configured to interface with the dosing pipe. The holding device may be configured to receive fill water. The holding device may be configured to retain a cleaning substance. The holding device may be configured to allow the fill water to flow over the cleaning substance and into the dosing pipe. The overflow pipe may be configured to provide water from the tank to a bowl.

In various embodiments, the system may further include an outer pipe. The outer pipe may include the overflow pipe, the dosing pipe, and a divider disposed between the overflow pipe and the dosing pipe. The holding device may further include an inner cylinder over a hole in the holding device. A first geometric shape of the inner cylinder may be similar to a second geometric shape of the dosing pipe.

In various embodiments, the overflow pipe and the dosing pipe may be fluidly separated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals depict like elements, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary toilet bowl cleaning cup system having the toilet bowl cleaning cup mounted on the overflow pipe of a flapper assembly, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary toilet bowl cleaning cup system having the toilet bowl cleaning device integrated with the overflow pipe of a cannister assembly, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary cam lock arrangement between the holding device and an overflow pipe, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary toilet bowl cleaning cup system having an inlet pipe, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary toilet bowl cleaning cup system having an inlet pipe and a holding device mounted on an overflow pipe, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary baffle, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 7A illustrates an exemplary slide control assembly for a flow controller, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 7B illustrates an exemplary turn control assembly for a flow controller, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of an exemplary holding device including a divider, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary holding device having a lower recess, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate exemplary overflow pipe and dosing pipe arrangements, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary overflow pipe and dosing pipe arrangement having an aperture, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary separated overflow pipe and dosing pipe arrangement having an air gap, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary overflow pipe that receives a dosing pipe, along with an air gap in the dosing pipe, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 14A illustrates a top view of an exemplary first shape of an overflow pipe and dosing pipe arrangement, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 14B illustrates a top view of an exemplary second shape of an overflow pipe and dosing pipe arrangement, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 14C illustrates a top view of an exemplary overflow pipe, dosing pipe and flapper arrangement, in accordance with various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In various embodiments, as set forth in FIG. 1, the flapper system may include a holding device 135 in the tank 115 that is configured to allow fill water from a fill tube 125 to interact or mix with a cleaning substance 150, then flow into the bowl. The holding device 135 may be any shape, size or material. For example, the holding device 135 may be in the form of a cup. In various embodiments, the cup should be limited in size so as to fit within the tank and below the cover of the tank. The holding device 135 may include internal ledges, flares or side internal projections to hold the clip that secures the fill tube 125 onto the holding device 135. In this way, the clip may be affixed to the inside of the holding device 135 to avoid interaction with outside components.

The holding device 135 may include a hole 155 on the bottom of the holding device 135, wherein the hole 155 is at least partially aligned with, and/or interfaces with, the top of the overflow pipe 130. The bottom of the overflow pipe 130 may include cam locks to support the overflow pipe 130. In various embodiments, the bottom of the holding device 135 may include an inner cylinder over the hole 155 and emanating out of the hole 155. In various embodiments, the top of the overflow pipe 130 may extend through the hole 155 of the holding device 135 and into the holding device 135, such that the top portion of the overflow pipe 130 forms a similar configuration as the inner cylinder. The water is retained in the holding device 135 (soaking in the cleaning solution), until the water level reaches over the top of the inner cylinder. The inner cylinder may be any size, shape or material. The inner cylinder may have a diameter similar to the diameter of the hole 155 and may have a height of about 1 inch. The bottom of the holding device 135 may include one or more ridges next to or around the hole 155 such that the ridge may abut the top of the overflow pipe 130. Such a ridge allows the cup to be above the top of the overflow pipe 130. The ridge may be about ⅛ inch such that the bottom of the hole 155 is about ⅛ inch above the top of the overflow pipe 130. The hole 155 in the bottom of the holding device 135 allows the fill water to flow out of the bottom of the holding device 135 and into the overflow pipe 130. In various embodiments, the hole 155 may be located in any portion of the holding device 135. For example, the hole 155 may be on the side of the holding device 135 and allow the fill water to flow out of the side of the holding device 135 and into the top or side of the overflow pipe 130.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, in various embodiments, the overflow pipe 130 may incorporate the holding device 135 as part of an integral unit. As such, the overflow pipe 130 and holding device 135 may be created together in the same molding process such that the overflow pipe 130 and holding device 135 are integral components. In various embodiments, the holding device 135 may be secured to, integrated with and/or attached to the overflow pipe 130. The attachment between the holding device 135 and overflow pipe 130 may include, for example, a cam lock, screw on and/or push on. FIG. 3 is an exemplary cam lock arrangement that may be used to connect the holding device 135 to the overflow pipe 130. The cam lock arrangement may include an extra connector to facilitate the cam lock arrangement on the holding device 135 and/or overflow pipe 130. The bottom of the holding device 135 and/or the top of overflow pipe 130 may include a threaded surface. For example, the outside of the bottom of the holding device 135 may include threads and the inside of the top of the overflow pipe 130 may include inside threads, such that the holding device 135 may screw into the overflow pipe 130. The push on arrangement may include an extra connector to facilitate the push on arrangement on the holding device 135 and/or overflow pipe 130.

The system may include a screen over the top entrance of the overflow pipe 130. The screen may prevent portions of the cleaning substance 150 from entering the overflow pipe 130. The screen may prevent portions of the cleaning substance 150 from at least partially blocking the overflow pipe 130.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, in various embodiments, the interaction or mixing with the cleaning substance 150 may include the fill water going onto, over and/or through a cleaning substance 150, or the cleaning substance 150 being added to the fill water. The cleaning substance 150 may be in the form of a powder, gel, liquid, tablet, pod or any other form that may be placed, added or loaded into the holding device 135. The cleaning substance 150 may be configured in any shape. For example, the cleaning substance 150 may be a rectangle or a round shape. The cleaning substance 150 shape may match the shape of the holding device 135. The cleaning substance 150 may be placed directly into the holding device 135, which avoids the expense and hassle of finding and using proprietary cleaning cartridges.

Because the holding device 135 may be configured to interface with the opening of the overflow pipe 130, the holding device 135 does not need to attach to the side of the tank 115. The holding device 135 may include a cover over the top of the holding device 135. The cover may be a removable cover, a hinged cover or a sliding cover. The fill water exits a hole 155 in the holding device 135 and runs into the opening of the overflow pipe 130. The holding device 135 may have an attachment mechanism that may simply slide within or around the existing overflow pipe 130, so the holding device 135 may be easily installed by the homeowner. Because the cleaning agent (or the fill water with the cleaning agent) does not interface with any of the existing components (tubes, washers, flappers, etc.) in the tank 115, the system reduces damage to the components and tubes in the tank 115. This reduces the need for plumbing repairs. The holding device 135 may be comprised of any material such as, for example, plastic, rubber, metal, wood, composite or any other substance that is configured to hold a cleaning substance 150.

In various embodiments, the holding device 135 may include a bottom and a side wall around the bottom. The side wall may be any height. For example, the side wall may extend about ⅜ inch above the bottom of the holding device 135. The bottom of the holding device 135 may include a ring portion (surrounding the overflow pipe 130) that comprises any container that holds, stores or retains the cleaning substance 150. The holding device 135 may include a recessed portion or container to hold the cleaning substance 150. The recessed portion may allow the water to soak in the cleaning substance 150 until a sufficient amount of water is in the ring potion of the holding device 135 to exceed the recessed portion and overflow into the overflow pipe 130. The system may comprise any of the features set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 11,821,189 issued on Nov. 21, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

The method may comprise removing the fill tube 125 from the overflow pipe 130. Inserting or attaching the holding device 135 to the overflow pipe 130. The cleaning substance 150 is placed into the holding device 135. The fill tube 125 may be placed into or attached to the holding device 135. The fill tube 125 may be attached to the holding device 135 with the same clip that was used to attach the fill tube 125 to the overflow pipe 130.

In various embodiments, as set forth in FIG. 2, the cannister system may include a holding device 235 in the tank 215 that is configured to allow fill water from a fill tube 225 to interact or mix with a cleaning substance 250, then flow into the bowl. The holding device 235 may be any shape, size or material. For example, the holding device 235 may be in the form of a cup. In various embodiments, the holding device 235 should be limited in size so as to fit within the tank and below the cover of the tank. Moreover, in various embodiments, the holding device 235 should have an outer circumference or width that is smaller than the inner circumference of the cannister, such that the cannister may lift up and translate over the cup. For similar reasons, the holding device 235 may include internal ledges, flares or side internal projections to hold the clip that secures the fill tube 225 onto the holding device 235. In this way, the clip may be affixed to the inside of the holding device 235 to avoid interaction with the cannister or other outside components. Fill tube 225 may be temporarily removed from overflow pipe 230 in order to install holding device 235, then an end of fill tube 225 put into holding device 235 or reattached to overflow pipe 230 and/or inner cylinder.

The holding device 235 may include a hole 255 on the bottom of the holding device 135, wherein the hole 255 is at least partially aligned with, and/or interfaces with, the top of the overflow pipe 230. In various embodiments, the bottom of the holding device 235 may include an inner cylinder over the hole 255 and emanating out of the hole 255. In various embodiments, the top of the overflow pipe 230 may extend through the hole 255 of the holding device 235 and into the holding device 235, such that the top portion of the overflow pipe 230 forms a similar configuration as the inner cylinder. The water is retained in the holding device 235 (soaking in the cleaning solution), until the water level reaches over the top of the inner cylinder. The inner cylinder may be any size, shape or material. For example, the inner cylinder may be a rounded or squared shape. The inner cylinder may have a diameter similar to the diameter of the hole 255 and may have a height of about 1 inch. The bottom of the holding device 235 may include one or more ridges next to or around the hole 255 such that the ridge may abut the top of the overflow pipe 230. Such a ridge allows the cup to be above the top of the overflow pipe 230. The ridge may be about ⅛ inch such that the bottom of the hole 255 is about ⅛ inch above the top of the overflow pipe 230. The hole 255 in the bottom of the holding device 235 allows the fill water to flow out of the bottom of the holding device 235 and into the overflow pipe 230. In various embodiments, the hole 255 may be located in any portion of the holding device 235. For example, the hole 255 may be on the side of the holding device 235 and allow the fill water to flow out of the side of the holding device 235 and into the top or side of the overflow pipe 230.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, in various embodiments, the overflow pipe 230 may incorporate the holding device 235 as part of an integral unit. As such, the overflow pipe 230 and holding device 235 may be created together in the same molding process. In various embodiments, the holding device 235 may be secured to, integrated with and/or attached to the overflow pipe 230. The attachment between the holding device 235 and overflow pipe 230 may include, for example, a cam lock, screw on and/or push on. FIG. 3 shows an exemplary cam lock arrangement between the holding device 235 and overflow pipe 230. The cam lock arrangement may include an extra connector to facilitate the cam lock arrangement on the holding device 235 and/or overflow pipe 230. The bottom of the holding device 235 and/or the top of overflow pipe 230 may include a threaded surface. For example, the outside of the bottom of the holding device 235 may include threads and the inside of the top of the overflow pipe 230 may include inside threads, such that the holding device 235 may screw into the overflow pipe 230. The push on arrangement may include an extra connector to facilitate the push on arrangement on the holding device 235 and/or overflow pipe 230.

The system may include a screen over the top entrance of the overflow pipe 230. The screen may prevent portions of the cleaning substance 250 from entering the overflow pipe 230. The screen may prevent portions of the cleaning substance 250 from at least partially blocking the overflow pipe 230.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, in various embodiments, the interaction or mixing with the cleaning substance 250 may include the fill water going onto, over and/or through a cleaning substance 250, or the cleaning substance 250 being added to the fill water. The cleaning substance 250 may be in the form of a powder, gel, liquid, tablet, pod or any other form that may be placed, added or loaded into the holding device 235. The cleaning substance 250 may be configured in any shape. For example, the cleaning substance 250 may be a rectangle or a round shape. The cleaning substance 250 shape may match the shape of the holding device 235. The cleaning substance 250 may be placed directly into the holding device 235, which avoids the expense and hassle of finding and using proprietary cleaning cartridges.

Because the holding device 235 may be configured to interface with the opening of the overflow pipe 230, the holding device 235 does not need to attach to the side of the tank 215. The holding device 235 may include a cover over the top of the holding device 235. The cover may be a removable cover, a hinged cover or a sliding cover. Moreover, in various embodiments, the cover of the holding device 235 should have an outer circumference or width that is smaller than the inner circumference of the cannister, such that the cannister may lift up and translate over the cover. The fill water exits a hole 255 in the holding device 235 and runs into the opening of the overflow pipe 230. The holding device 235 may have an attachment mechanism that may simply slide within or around the existing overflow pipe 230, so the holding device 235 may be easily installed by the homeowner. Because the cleaning agent (or the fill water with the cleaning agent) does not interface with any of the existing components (tubes, washers, flappers, etc) in the tank 215, the system reduces damage to the components and tubes in the tank 215. This reduces the need for plumbing repairs. The holding device 235 may be comprised of any material such as, for example, plastic, rubber, metal, wood, composite or any other substance that is configured to hold a cleaning substance 250.

In various embodiments, the holding device 235 may include a bottom and a side wall around the bottom. The side wall may be any height. For example, the side wall may extend about ⅜ inch above the bottom of the holding device 235. The bottom of the holding device 235 may include a ring portion 240 (surrounding the overflow pipe 230) that comprises any container that holds, stores or retains the cleaning substance 250. The holding device 235 may include a recessed portion or container to hold the cleaning substance 250. The recessed portion may allow the water to soak in the cleaning substance 250 until a sufficient amount of water is in the ring potion of the holding device 235 to exceed the recessed portion and overflow into the overflow pipe 230.

The method may comprise removing the fill tube 225 from the overflow pipe 230. Inserting or attaching the holding device 235 to the overflow pipe 230. The cleaning substance 250 is placed into the holding device 235. The fill tube 225 may be placed into or attached to the holding device 235 such that the attachment of the fill tube 225 does not interfere with the translation of the cannister. The fill tube 225 may be attached to the holding device 235 with the same clip that was used to attach the fill tube 225 to the overflow pipe 230.

With reference to FIG. 4, an exemplary toilet bowl cleaning cup system 400 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. System 400 may include a holding device 401, an inlet pipe 410, a cover 420, a baffle 430, a flow controller 440, an inner cylinder 450, an overflow pipe 460, and/or a controller 470. The holding device 401 may be configured to retain a cleaning substance 405, as described above. System 400 may be implemented with the flapper assembly described with respect to FIG. 1, the cannister assembly described with respect to FIG. 2, and/or any other suitable or desired toilet assembly now existing or developed in the future.

In various embodiments, the inlet pipe 410 may include a first end 412, a first portion 413, a second end 414, a second portion 415, and/or a check valve 416. The first end 412 may be configured to interface with a fill tube (i.e., fill tube 125). For example, the first end 412 may be configured to couple to a fill tube and receive fluid from the fill tube. The fill tube may be, for example, a ¼ inch diameter fill tube. The first portion 413 may extend along a first direction D1, for example from the first end towards the second portion 415. The first portion 413 may have a greater diameter than the fill tube. By incorporating a greater diameter, a turbulence of the fill water (e.g., flowing from the fill tube into the inlet pipe 410) may be reduced. For example, the first portion 413 may have a diameter L1. L1 may be between about ⅜ inch and about ⅝ inch. The second portion 415 may extend along a second direction D2, for example from the first portion 413 towards the second end 414. An angle A between the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 may be between about 60 and 120 degrees. For example, the angle A may be about 90 degrees.

The check valve 416 may be disposed within the first portion 413. The check valve 416 may be configured to allow fill water to flow only from the fill tube towards the holding device 401 (i.e., fill water may be prevent from flowing from holding device 401 towards the fill tube). In this manner, a backflow of the fill water may be reduced or prevented.

In various embodiments, the cover 420 may be configured to partially and/or completely seal the holding device 401 (i.e., from the tank). By incorporating a cover, off-gassing of the cleaning substance 405 into the tank may be reduced and/or prevented. The cover 420 may be configured to couple the holding device 401 in any suitable manner. For example, the cover 420 may couple (or rotatably couple) to the holding device 401 by being screwed onto the holding device 401, by a push fit onto holding device 401, or by an external fastener. The cover 420 may include the flow controller 440, as described in more detail below.

In various embodiments, the baffle 430 may be disposed between the second end 414 of the inlet pipe 410 and the cover 420. The baffle 430 may be configured to provide a more even fill water flow distribution into the holding device 401 and/or to the flow controller 440. The baffle 430 may be the same as or similar to the baffle 600, described in more detail below. The baffle 430 may be any suitable size and/or shape. The baffle 430 may be formed of any suitable material.

In various embodiments, the flow controller 440 may be disposed within the cover 420. The flow controller 440 may be configured to selectively direct a flow of the fill water into the holding device 401 into bypass tube 442, inlet tube 444, or both. The flow controller 440 may have a control assembly configured to allow a user to select a flow path for the fill water, described in more detail below. Although illustrated as including one inlet tube 444, the holding device 401 may include any suitable number of inlet tubes 444. For example, in various embodiments, a holding device may include a first reservoir and a second reservoir separated by a divider. The holding device may include two inlet tubes 444, each of the inlet tubes 444 configured to provide fill water to a respective one of the first reservoir or the second reservoir. In various embodiments, two inlet tubes 444 may be configured to provide fill water to both the first reservoir or the second reservoir.

In various embodiments, the bottom of the holding device 401 may include an inner cylinder 450 over the hole 452. The inner cylinder 450 may extend out of a hole 452. In various embodiments, the top of the overflow pipe 460 may extend through the hole 452 of the holding device 401 and into the holding device 401, such that the top portion of the overflow pipe 460 forms a similar configuration as the inner cylinder 450. The fill water may be retained in the holding device 401 (i.e., soaking in the cleaning substance 405), until the fill water level reaches over the top of the inner cylinder 450. The inner cylinder 450 may be any size, shape or material. The inner cylinder 450 may have a diameter similar to the diameter of the hole 452. The inner cylinder 450 may have a height of about 1 inch. In various embodiments, a first geometric shape of the inner cylinder 450 may be the same as or similar to a second geometric shape of the overflow pipe 460. In various embodiments, a first geometric shape of the inner cylinder 450 may be the same as or similar to a second geometric shape of a portion of the overflow pipe 460. The inner cylinder 450 may include a check valve 454. The check valve 454 may be configured to remain partially open and/or may have a slit opening. In this manner, pressure relief from off-gassing within the holding device 401 (e.g., from the cleaning substance 405) may be provided (i.e., through the inner cylinder 450 and/or the overflow pipe 460.

In various embodiments, a controller 470 may be physically, electronically, mechanically and/or communicatively coupled to the system 400 and/or its components. The controller 470 may use wired or wireless communication. The controller 470 may communicate with and obtain information from the components based on sensors, integrated circuits, microprocessors and/or the like associated with the various components. The sensors can include a flow meter, a non-contact ultrasonic sensor, a radar level transmitter, a load cell (i.e., a weight sensor), a scale, a guided wave radar sensor, a submersible hydrostatic pressure sensor, a non-contact capacitive sensor, a laser time-of-flight sensor, or any other suitable or desired sensor. The controller 470 may be configured to allow a user to interact and/or control components of system 400. For example, the controller 470 may be configured to allow a user to (i.e., remotely) select a configuration of the flow controller 440. The controller 470 may be configured to receive data about the levels of the cleaning substance 405 and provide an alert when a level of the cleaning substance 405 is below a predefined threshold, such as for example 20 percent, 10 percent, 5 percent, 1 percent, or any suitable threshold. The controller 470 may include a network adapter. The network adapter may be configured to connect system 400 and/or controller 470 to a computer network by wireless communication (e.g., a wireless network adapter). The controller 470 may record the number of flushes of the system 400, and may be configured to provide a maintenance alert based on, for example, a predefined number of flushes since prior maintenance was performed.

With reference to FIG. 5, an exemplary toilet bowl cleaning cup system 500 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The system 500 may include a holding device 501, an inlet pipe 510, a cover 520, a baffle 530, a flow controller 540, an inner cylinder 550, an overflow pipe 560, and/or a seal 570. The holding device 501 may be mounted to the overflow pipe 560. The holding device 501 may be sized to accommodate multiple cleaning substances, such as for example 2 cleaning substances, 3 cleaning substances, 4 cleaning substances, or more. The inlet pipe 510, cover 520, baffle 530, and flow controller 540 may be the same as or similar to inlet pipe 410, cover 420, baffle 430, and flow controller 440, described above. System 500 may be implemented with the flapper assembly described with respect to FIG. 1, the cannister assembly described with respect to FIG. 2, and/or any other suitable or desired toilet assembly.

In various embodiments, a hole 552 may be on the side of the holding device 501 and may allow the fill water to flow out of the side of the holding device 501 and into the top and/or side of the overflow pipe 560, through the inner cylinder 550. The inner cylinder 550 may include a check valve 554. The check valve 554 may be the same as or similar to the check valve 454.

In various embodiments, a seal 570 may be disposed between the inner cylinder 550 and the overflow pipe 560. The seal 570 may be any suitable seal. For example, the seal 570 may be a (e.g., rubber) O-ring seal, a mechanical seal formed by complimentary geometric shapes, and/or any other seal.

With reference to FIG. 6, an exemplary baffle 600 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The baffle 600 may be formed of any suitable material. The baffle may be the same as or similar to baffle 430, described above. The baffle 600 may include a plurality of apertures 602. The plurality of apertures 602 may be evenly distributed within the baffle 600. The plurality of apertures 602 may allow a fluid (e.g., fill water) to pass through the baffle 600. The baffle 600 may provide for an even fill water flow distribution (i.e., into a holding device and/or to a flow controller, as described above). The baffle 600 may be formed of any material. The baffle 600 may be any suitable size and/or shape. The plurality of apertures 602 may be any suitable size and/or shape.

With reference to FIG. 7A, an exemplary slide control assembly 700 for a flow controller, in accordance with various embodiments. Slide control assembly 700 may be configured to control any flow controller described herein. Slide control assembly 700 may be configured to selectably slide along arrow B. In this manner, slide control assembly 700 may be disposed to partially or completely block inlet hole 702 or inlet hole 704. Each of inlet hole 702 and inlet hole 704 may be configured to accommodate 100% of the fill water flow (i.e., from a fill tube). Inlet hole 702 may be configured to provide fill water to a first reservoir, described in more detail below. Inlet hole 704 may be configured to provide fill water to a second reservoir, described in more detail below. In various embodiments, inlet hole 702 or inlet hole 704 may be configured as a bypass hole. The bypass hole may be configured to provide fill water directly through an inner cylinder, thereby bypassing the holding device and/or the cleaning substance. In this manner, a user may select a portion of or all of the fill water to bypass the cleaning substance, thereby reducing a usage rate of the cleaning substance and/or extending the useful life of the cleaning substance.

With reference to FIG. 7B, an exemplary turn control assembly 710 for a flow controller, in accordance with various embodiments. Turn control assembly 710 may be configured to control any flow controller described herein. Turn control assembly 710 may be configured to selectively pivot along arrow B. In this manner, turn control assembly 710 may be disposed to partially or completely block inlet hole 712 or inlet hole 714. Inlet hole 712 and inlet hole 714 may be the same as or similar to inlet hole 702 and inlet hole 714, described above.

With reference to FIG. 8, a top view of an exemplary holding device 800 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The holding device 800 may include an inner cylinder 810, a divider 820, a first reservoir 830, and/or a second reservoir 840. The inner cylinder 810 may be the same as or similar to inner cylinder 450, described above.

The divider 820 may be disposed about the inner cylinder 810. The divider 820 may be formed as a unitary material or may be formed of multiple pieces of material joined together. The divider 820 may be any suitable size, shape, and material. The divider 820 may be configured to separate the holding device 800 into a first reservoir 830 and a second reservoir 840. In various embodiments, a cleaning substance may be disposed within the first reservoir 830. The second reservoir 840 may be empty and/or may contain a color substance and/or a fragrance substance. In this manner, a dosing of the cleaning substance (e.g., to a bowl) may be controlled and/or limited. Further, a color substance and/or fragrance substance may desirably be provided to the bowl (i.e., with the cleaning substance). The divider 820 may be removable from the holding device.

The divider 820 may include an aperture 850. The aperture 850 may include a valve, a slidable door, or any other suitable device for selectively blocking aperture 850. The aperture 850 may be configured to provide a bottom-up fill (i.e., with fill water) of the first reservoir 830 via the second reservoir 840. For example, a flow controller may selectably by configured to provide fill water only to the second reservoir 840. The aperture 850 may be open. A cleaning substance may be disposed within the first reservoir 830. In this manner, fill water may be provided to the second reservoir 840, through the aperture 850, and to a lower end of first reservoir 830. In this manner, the first reservoir 830 may be filled (i.e., with fill water) from the bottom-up, which may provide for an even distribution of the cleaning substance within the fill water.

With reference to FIG. 9, an exemplary holding device 900 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The holding device 900 may include a cleaning substance 905, an inner cylinder 910, a recess 920, and a protrusion 922. The cleaning substance 905 and the inner cylinder 910 may be the same as or similar to the cleaning substance 405 and the inner cylinder 450, described above. The inner cylinder 910 may extend into the recess 920. The recess 920 may be configured to receive a portion of a cannister (e.g., cannister 210). The protrusion 922 may be configured to extend into a cannister (e.g., cannister 210). In this manner, holding device 900 may be installed into the cannister opening. The inner cylinder 910 may couple an overflow pipe (e.g., overflow pipe 230) within the cannister. The recess 920 may have a height H1. Height H1 may be about 1 inch or more.

With reference to FIGS. 10A-10C, exemplary overflow pipe and dosing pipe arrangements 1000, 1030, 1060 are illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. As used herein in any of the embodiments, the overflow pipe and the dosing pipe may be the same pipe, different pipes or pipes that fit together. Overflow pipe may refer to the pipe that brings un-treated water from the tank into the bowl. In various embodiments including a cannister, the overflow pipe may be incorporated into the cannister. Dosing pipe may refer to the pipe that brings treated water from the tank into the bowl. The dosing pipe may send the treated water into the overflow pipe, such that the overflow pipe brings the treated water into the bowl.

The exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangements 1000, 1030, 1060 may be used with any system described herein. Exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangements 1000, 1030, 1060, and/or any suitable overflow and dosing pipe arrangement may be retrofit onto existing systems. For example, an existing overflow pipe may be cut. The overflow and dosing pipe arrangement may be installed over the existing overflow pipe. A seal may be provided between the overflow and dosing pipe arrangement and the existing overflow pipe. The seal may be an (e.g., rubber) O-ring seal, a push-fit seal, or any other suitable seal and/or connector.

Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1000 may include an overflow pipe 1002 and a dosing pipe 1004. The overflow pipe 1002 may include an overflow pipe first end 1010, an overflow pipe second end 1012, and an overflow pipe body 1014 therebetween. The dosing pipe 1004 may include a dosing pipe first end 1020, a dosing pipe second end 1022, and a dosing pipe body 1024 therebetween. The dosing pipe first end 1020 may be disposed within a holding device (i.e., any holding device described herein). The dosing pipe second end 1022 may be fluidly coupled to the overflow pipe body 1014. In this manner, fill water received at the dosing pipe first end 1020 (i.e., from a holding device) may be provided through the overflow pipe second end 1012 and to a bowl. Further, the overflow pipe first end 1010 is fully open (e.g., is not partially blocked by the dosing pipe 1004. In this manner, the maximum overflow protection of the overflow pipe 1002 may be maintained.

Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1030 may include an overflow pipe 1032 and a dosing pipe 1034. The overflow pipe 1032 may include an overflow pipe first end 1040, an overflow pipe second end 1042, and an overflow pipe body 1044 therebetween. The dosing pipe 1034 may include a dosing pipe first end 1050, a dosing pipe second end 1052, and a dosing pipe body 1054 therebetween. The dosing pipe first end 1050 may be disposed within a holding device (i.e., any holding device described herein). The overflow pipe 1032 and the dosing pipe 1034 may be disposed within an outer pipe 1036 and may be separated by a divider 1038. In this manner, the overflow pipe first end 1040 is fully open (e.g., is not partially blocked by the dosing pipe 1034. In this manner, the maximum overflow protection of the overflow pipe 1032 may be maintained.

Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1060 may include an overflow pipe 1062 and a dosing pipe 1064. The overflow pipe 1062 may include an overflow pipe first end 1070, an overflow pipe second end 1072, and an overflow pipe body 1074 therebetween. The dosing pipe 1064 may include a dosing pipe first end 1080, a dosing pipe second end 1082, and a dosing pipe body 1084 therebetween. The dosing pipe first end 1080 may be disposed within a holding device (i.e., any holding device described herein). The overflow pipe 1062 and the dosing pipe 1064 may be fluidly and/or physically separated. In this manner, the maximum overflow protection of the overflow pipe 1062 may be maintained.

With reference to FIG. 11, an exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1100 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1100 may be similar to overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1000. Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1100 may include an overflow pipe first end 1102, an overflow pipe second end 1104, an overflow pipe body 1106 therebetween, a dosing pipe first end 1110, a dosing pipe second end 1112, a dosing pipe body 1114 therebetween, and/or an aperture 1120. The overflow pipe first end 1102, overflow pipe second end 1104, overflow pipe body 1106, dosing pipe first end 1110, dosing pipe second end 1112, and dosing pipe body 1114 may be the same as or similar to overflow pipe first end 1010, overflow pipe second end 1012, overflow pipe body 1014, dosing pipe first end 1020, dosing pipe second end 1022, and dosing pipe body 1024, described above.

The aperture 1120 may be configured as an air gap within the dosing pipe body 1114. For example, the aperture 1120 may include a hole within the dosing pipe body 1114 such that an interior of the dosing pipe body 1114 is in fluid communication with an exterior of the dosing pipe body 1114 (e.g., with the tank). In this manner, a siphon of water (i.e., from the bowl up the dosing pipe body 1114 may be prevented. The aperture 1120 may have a height H2 of 1 inch or more.

With reference to FIG. 12, an exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1200 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1200 may be similar to overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1060. Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1200 may include an overflow pipe first end 1202, an overflow pipe second end 1204, an overflow pipe body 1206 therebetween, a dosing pipe first end 1210, a dosing pipe second end 1212, a dosing pipe body 1214 therebetween, and/or an aperture 1220. The overflow pipe first end 1202, overflow pipe second end 1204, overflow pipe body 1206, dosing pipe first end 1210, dosing pipe second end 1212, and dosing pipe body 1214 may be the same as or similar to overflow pipe first end 1070, overflow pipe second end 1072, overflow pipe body 1074, dosing pipe first end 1080, dosing pipe second end 1082, and dosing pipe body 1084, described above. The aperture 1220 may be the same as or similar to aperture 1120, described above. The aperture 1220 may be disposed (e.g., vertically) above the overflow pipe first end 1202.

With reference to FIG. 13, an exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1300 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1300 may include an overflow pipe first end 1310, an overflow pipe second end 1312, an overflow pipe body 1314 therebetween, a dosing pipe first end 1320, a dosing pipe second end 1322, a dosing pipe body 1324 therebetween, and/or an aperture 1330. The overflow pipe first end 1310, overflow pipe second end 1312, overflow pipe body 1314, dosing pipe first end 1320, dosing pipe second end 1322, and dosing pipe body 1324 may be the same as or similar to overflow pipe first end 1010, overflow pipe second end 1012, overflow pipe body 1014, dosing pipe first end 1020, dosing pipe second end 1022, and dosing pipe body 1024, described above. The aperture 1330 may be the same as or similar to aperture 1120, described above. The aperture 1330 may be disposed (e.g., vertically) above the overflow pipe first end 1310. The dosing pipe second end 1322 may be configured to provide a fluid directly to the overflow pipe first end 1310. Stated another way, the dosing pipe and the overflow pipe may form a single continuous pipe. The aperture 1330 may be disposed (e.g., vertically) above a water level 1340 within the tank.

With reference to FIG. 14A, a top view of an exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1400 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1400 may include an outer pipe 1401, an overflow pipe 1410, a dosing pipe 1420, and/or a divider 1430. Overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1400 may be similar to overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1030. In various embodiments, a first geometric shape of the dosing pipe 1420 may be similar to a second geometric shape of a portion of the overflow pipe 1410. In this manner, a mechanical fit may be formed between the dosing pipe 1420 and the overflow pipe 1410. In various embodiments, the overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1400 may be maintained until the overflow pipe 1410 and the dosing pipe 1420 reach a flush valve. In various embodiments, the overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1400 may be modified along the overflow pipe 1410 and dosing pipe 1420 to fluidly join the overflow pipe 1410 and the dosing pipe 1420 prior to reaching a flush valve.

With reference to FIG. 14B, a top view of an exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1440 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1440 may include an overflow pipe 1450, a dosing pipe 1460, and/or a divider 1430. In various embodiments, a first geometric shape of the dosing pipe 1460 may be similar to a second geometric shape of a portion of the overflow pipe 1450. In this manner, a mechanical fit may be formed between the dosing pipe 1460 and the overflow pipe 1450. In various embodiments, the overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1440 may be maintained until the overflow pipe 1450 and the dosing pipe 1460 reach a flush valve. In various embodiments, the overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1440 may be modified along the overflow pipe 1450 and dosing pipe 1460 to fluidly join the overflow pipe 1450 and the dosing pipe 1560 prior to reaching a flush valve.

With reference to FIG. 14C, a top view of an exemplary overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1470 is illustrated, in accordance with various embodiments. The overflow and dosing pipe arrangement 1470 may include an overflow pipe 1480 and a dosing pipe 1490. The overflow pipe 1480 and the dosing pipe 1490 may be fluidly and/or physically separated. The overflow pipe 1480 and the dosing pipe 1490 may both be fluidly coupled to a flush valve 1471. In this manner, overflow water (i.e., from the overflow pipe 1480) and fill water (i.e., from the dosing pipe 1490) may be provided to the bowl (i.e., via the flush valve 1471). The flush valve 1471 may be a flapper, a disc, or any other suitable flush valve.

The detailed description of various embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which show various embodiments by way of illustration. While these various embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented. Moreover, any of the functions or steps may be outsourced to or performed by one or more third parties. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component may include a singular embodiment. Although specific advantages have been enumerated herein, various embodiments may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages.

In the detailed description herein, references to “various embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the disclosure. The scope of the disclosure is accordingly limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, where a phrase similar to ‘at least one of A, B, and C’ or ‘at least one of A, B, or C’ is used in the claims or specification, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Although the disclosure includes a method, it is contemplated that it may be embodied as computer program instructions on a tangible computer-readable carrier, such as a magnetic or optical memory or a magnetic or optical disk. All structural, chemical, and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described various embodiments that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the present disclosure, for it to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or “step for”. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.