US20020194670A1

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Info

Publication number: US20020194670A1
Application number: US10/164,907
Authority: US
Inventors: Amin Hashemi
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2000-12-20
Filing date: 2002-06-07
Publication date: 2002-12-26

Abstract

An odor evacuation and mitigation system for a bathroom space including a central evacuation fan system, an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet bowl, an automatic flushing system, and a steam and moisture ventilation system. The fan system includes an enclosure having a motor and fan therein and connected to an exhaust hose for expelling odors. The odor evacuation system for a toilet includes a flush valve in communication with a pipe, connected to an external suction device for removal of odors, through an overflow pipe and an evacuation pipe. The automatic flushing system includes a sensor connected to a servomotor for rotation of an actuation lever connected to a flush valve. The steam ventilation system includes a manifold body disposed over a shower enclosure and having a grille through which air flows into the manifold body and outward through an externally extending hose.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PCT AND U.S. APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part application of co-pending PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US01/50232, filed Dec. 20, 2001, and designating the United States, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/742,771, filed Dec. 20, 2000.[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention[0002]

The present invention relates generally to room ventilation systems.[0003]

2. Background Art[0004]

Various types of toilet assemblies having an odor mitigation system are known in the art. An efficient way for odor removal from a water closet is by drawing odorous air from the toilet bowl through the flush rim. Ventilation systems utilizing this air passage have been disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,703,010, 4,165,544, 4,583,250, 4,989,276, 5,321,856, and 5,617,590.[0005]

The system described in the '010 patent includes a suction means in air communication with the airspace between the water within the water tank and the lid of the tank. The suction device is capable of withdrawing the odorous air that moves from the toilet rim through an overflow pipe into the airspace, and subsequently disposing it away from the water closet through an exhaust pipe. Withdrawing the air from the airspace in a tightly closed water tank may create suction pressure especially when the toilet is flushed. Thus, the '010 system requires a regulating valve to reduce suction in the water tank.[0006]

Similarly, the flush toilet exhaust systems disclosed in the '856 and '590 patents are also designed to withdraw the odorous air from the airspace above the water level inside the water tank. These systems include a sealing means ('856 patent) or a flexible strip ('590 patent) that can be installed at the upper edge of the water tank. The sealing means of the '856 patent is a hollow strip being in air communication with a hose connector and a blower. The sealing means defines holes facing the interior of the water tank for receiving the odorous air from the airspace. After the odorous air enters the sealing means, it is pulled into the hose connector for remote exhaust. The flexible strip of the '590 patent seals the lid of the tank to create an airtight space from which the odorous air is withdrawn. Both systems require a vent device to reduce the problem of undesirable suction when the toilet is flushed.[0007]

Unlike the patents described earlier, the '544 patent describes a system that is designed to withdraw the odorous air from the upper end of the overflow pipe. This system includes a hollow, open bottom, vertical sleeve that is positioned over the upper end of the overflow pipe. The lower end of the sleeve terminates below the water level in the water tank so that a water seal is achieved to provide closed communication between the overflow passageway and the sleeve. The system also includes a means for creating low air pressure connected to the sleeve so that odorous air is drawn from the sleeve for remote exhaust. The inefficiency in withdrawing the odorous air from the sleeve into the exhaust pipe can be a drawback with this system, because only low air pressure can be applied so that the water within the sleeve is not also withdrawn.[0008]

The '250 patent discloses a self-contained system for removal of foul air from above the overflow pipe. This system comprises a powered exhaust fan attached directly above the overflow pipe, twin charcoal filters for filtering the air, and a modified overflow pipe that retains the function of the conventional overflow pipe and also allows for the recycling of previously filtered air. A drawback in this system rests on the efficiency of the system, which in turn, is limited by the volume of odorous air that can be filtered through the system. In addition, like other charcoal filter, the filter of this invention will require replacement periodically.[0009]

Yet another system disclosed in the '276 patent shows a toilet system that includes vent channels formed along the base and the back inside of the water tank. The system also includes a vent adapter mounted inside of the passage that directs the flow of ventilating air along the vent channels to an exhaust fan to the outside atmosphere. One drawback of this system is the requirement of a specially designed toilet bowl and water tank.[0010]

Similar to the ventilated toilet systems, several patents have disclosed different types of toilet systems that include automatic flushing mechanisms. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,831,670, and 5,369,816 disclose toilet systems having a weight activated flushing mechanism. This type of mechanism includes an electric motor that is activated by the weight of the user sitting on and then leaving the seat. When the motor is activated, the tripping mechanism trips the flush valve open to allow the water to flush. A major drawback for the weight activating flushing mechanism is that it does not operate when the user does not sit down on the seat. Therefore, when people who normally do not sit down on the seat for a urinal purpose use the toilet, the toilet will need to be flushed manually.[0011]

A different flushing mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,384. This mechanism comprises a motion-sensing device positioned in the water tank and aligned with a window in the toilet cover when the cover is in a raised position. The motion-sensing device is operatively connected to a motor that drives an L-shaped lever that is connected to a flapper valve. The flushing system operates when the motion-sensing device is activated when the user uses the toilet and then moves away from the toilet. The motion sensing device charges electric current to the motor which drives the lever upward such that the flapper is lifted to open the valve for the water to flush.[0012]

A similar flushing system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,141,091. This system comprises three functional blocks: an input sensor or switch, a logic control circuit and an Electro-mechanically operated liquid dispenser or flusher. The whole assembly, which is attached to the inner side of the water tank, is hermetically sealed in order to protect the actuator against moisture and possible corrosion. The movable end of the plunger is with a chain or wire connected to the flush handle and drain valve. In the flushing system of '384 and '091 patents, most of the components have to be fitted inside the water tank. Possible concerns of these systems are in the limitation of fitting all the parts into an existing toilet system and the need to modify the water tank and the toilet lid for positioning the motion-sensing device.[0013]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to address the unresolved detriments of prior ventilation systems, the present invention contemplates a ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a room in a building by withdrawing air from a location removed from the ceiling. In a bathroom, the location may be a toilet bowl. In a kitchen, the location may be a cooking appliance. In a work space, the location may be a work bench.[0014]

In one embodiment of the present invention, a ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet bowl comprises a ventilation pipe having a lower end open into the discharge conduit and an upper end connectable to a flexible air conduit. The flexible air conduit is connectable to a first end of a suction hose providing passageway for air communication between the ventilation pipe and the suction hose. The second end of the suction hose is connected to a suction device, which may operate continuously or by a switch.[0015]

In one feature of the invention, the flexible air conduit defines a substantially flat rectangular accordion hose being expandable and contractible. The accordion hose defines a first end and a second end, with the first end having a first flat end being positioned between the tank and the lid. The first flat end has a head defining a round terminal end snugly connectable to the upper end of the ventilation pipe. The second end is connectable to the first end of the suction hose.[0016]

The accordion hose can be threaded through a hole in a bathroom wall into an inner space of the wall. The accordion hose may be bendable within the inner space to be flexibly connected to the suction hose.[0017]

The ventilation apparatus may include a wall bracket that can be affixed to the wall. The bracket defines a substantially rectangular plate having a recess end defining a space that is flanked by a first corner edge and a second corner edge. The space is aligned to the hole in the bathroom wall such that the accordion hose is threaded through the space between the first and the second corner edges of the bracket into the hole of the bathroom wall to be connected to the suction hose.[0018]

The ventilation apparatus may include an elbow adapter defining a vertical arm connectable to the upper end of the ventilation pipe, and a horizontal arm connectable to the round terminal end of the flexible air conduit. The elbow adapter further defines an air channel in air communication with the ventilation pipe and the passageway of the flexible air conduit. Further, the elbow adapter can be horizontally swiveling such that the horizontal arm can be variably oriented for connection to the round terminal end of the flexible air conduit.[0019]

Additionally, the ventilation apparatus further comprises a draining device having an inlet end for receiving overflow water and an outlet end open into the discharge conduit.[0020]

In one embodiment, the draining device includes a first tube and a second tube, one connected to each side of the ventilation pipe. Each tube has an inlet end disposed under the water level in the tank, and an outlet end connected to a tubular connector for connecting the tubes to the ventilation pipe. The tubular connector in one aspect has four connecting ends. First and second connecting ends are each attached to the outlet end of one of the two tubes. A third connecting end is attached to the upper end of the ventilation pipe and a fourth connecting end is attached to the first end of the hose. The connecting outlet ends and the tubular connector are positioned above the water level in the tank. The tubes are in communication with the tubular connector, the ventilation pipe, and the discharge conduit.[0021]

In a stationary mode, each tube of the draining device maintains the same water level as that outside the tube. In a draining mode, when excess water rises above the level of the tubular connector, there is an increased water pressure that pushes the excess water into the tube through the inlet end such that the water moves out at the outlet end, passing the tubular connector into the ventilation pipe and drains into the discharge conduit.[0022]

In another embodiment, the ventilation apparatus comprises a draining device having an upside-down U-shaped hollow tube. The tube has a first leg defining an inlet end disposed under the water in the tank for receiving the overflow water, and a second leg defining an outlet end being open directly to the conduit. The tube has a bend portion disposed above the water level in the tank. In a non-draining mode, the first leg of the hollow tube maintains the same water level as that in the tank. In a draining mode, when there is excess water above the level of the bend portion, the increased water pressure inside the tank pushes the excess water into the first leg, through the inlet end such that the water moves through the bend portion to the second leg and out the outlet end into the conduit.[0023]

Another embodiment of the ventilation apparatus is provided for eliminating odor from a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe, a discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, the discharge conduit and the rim, and a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the discharge conduit. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the passageway comprises a support member defining a hollow cylinder disposed around the overflow pipe. The hollow cylinder defines a bottom end and a top end. The top end defines a groove having a plurality of stop pins disposed spatially and perpendicularly across the groove creating a plurality of gaps for water and air communication. The support member defines at least one bore for receiving a securing means for tightening the support member to the overflow pipe. The securing means may include a plastic thumbscrew.[0024]

Further, in this embodiment, the ventilation apparatus may include a draining member including an elbow-shaped hollow tube having a first arm connected to a second arm. The first arm snugly fits in the groove of the support member such that the second arm is parallel to the support member. The first arm defines a side opening aligned to the plurality of gaps of the support member, a vent hole disposed oppositely to the side opening, and an outlet end. The second arm defines an inlet end having a plurality of apertures for receiving water from the tank.[0025]

In addition, the ventilation apparatus may further include a suction hose having a first end connectable to the outlet end of the first arm, and a suction device connectable to a second end of the suction hose. The suction device may operate continuously or by a switch control.[0026]

The ventilation apparatus may include a flexible air conduit, which defines a substantially flat rectangular accordion hose that is expandable and contractible. The accordion hose has a first flat end disposed at a first end of the accordion hose. The first flat end is positioned between the tank and the lid. The first flat end has a head defining a round terminal end connectable to the outlet end of the first arm. A second end of the accordion hose is connectable to the first end of the suction hose. The flexible air conduit defines a passageway in air communication with the suction hose, the first arm, and the overflow pipe.[0027]

Another embodiment of the ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a standard flush toilet bowl comprises a suction hose having a first end and a second end, the second end connected to a suction device. The first end of the suction hose is connectable to a connecting end of an air conduit. The air conduit has an air inlet end open into an airspace above the water level in the tank. The air conduit may be substantially flat and elbow-shaped. The air conduit is disposed between the tank and the lid such that the lid can be tightly sealed above the air conduit and around the tank.[0028]

The ventilation apparatus may also include an elbow adapter defining a vertical arm and a horizontal arm. The vertical arm has an inlet opening for fitting over the upper end of the overflow pipe. The horizontal arm has an outlet end disposed within the airspace above the water level and pointing in the direction of the air inlet end of the air conduit. The elbow adapter further defines a channel in air communication with the overflow pipe and the airspace.[0029]

In yet another embodiment, the ventilation apparatus comprises a ventilation pipe, a hose, a suction device, a draining device, and a vacuum ring that is positioned around the discharge conduit and below the flush valve. The vacuum ring defines a plurality of openings for air communication with the discharge conduit. In this embodiment, the ventilation pipe has a lower end open into the vacuum ring, and an upper end connected to a first end of the hose. A second end of the hose is connected to the suction device. The suction device provides sufficient suction to pull air from the bowl, through the passageway, into the vacuum ring passing the ventilation pipe, and the hose to be discharged at a distant location.[0030]

In this embodiment, the draining device has an upside down U-shaped hollow tube. The tube has a first leg having an inlet end disposed under the water in the tank for receiving the overflow water, and a second leg having an outlet end being connected directly to the conduit. The tube has a bend portion disposed above the water in the tank. In a non-draining mode, the first leg of the hollow tube maintains the same water level as that in the tank. In a draining mode, there is an increased water pressure inside the tank that pushes the excess water into the first leg through the inlet end such that the water moves through the bend portion to the second leg and out the outlet end into the discharge conduit.[0031]

Alternatively, the draining device includes a U-shaped-hollow tube which defines a hook-shaped tube and an L-shaped tube. The hook-shaped tube defines a first leg having an inlet end facing the bottom of the sink, and a bend portion having a hook end. The L-shaped tube defines a second leg having a top end connected to the hook end of the bend portion, and a base having the outlet end open into the discharged conduit. The top end of the second leg can be connected to the hook end of the bend portion by a lock mechanism or a tight swivel.[0032]

In the embodiments described above, the upper end of the ventilation pipe may flexibly extend through an opening in the back, side, or lid of the tank to be connected to the first end of the hose. The hose may extend substantially behind the wall of the toilet room. In addition, the suction device may include any fan such as an exhaust fan or a vent fan. The suction device may also include any kind of vacuum system such as a vacuum pump.[0033]

In one embodiment of the present invention, the ventilation apparatus includes an air conduit connected to a ventilation pipe at one end and to a hose at the other end. The air conduit may include a male air conduit and a female air conduit. The male air conduit defines a ventilation pipe-connecting end that can be tightly connectable to a ventilation pipe by a locking mechanism or a tight swivel, and a first flat portion defining a first flat end that extends outside the water tank through a space between the tank and the lid. The space can be an existing space in certain type of tanks or can be created by the placement of the first flat portion between the tank and the lid.[0034]

Furthermore, the female air conduit defines a hose connecting end that can be tightly connected to the hose and a second flat portion defining a second flat end. The hose connecting end can be connected to the hose by a locking mechanism or by a tight swivel. The second flat end has an opening that is slightly larger than the outer perimeter of the first flat end of the male air conduit. The first flat end may be snugly inserted into the opening of the second flat end.[0035]

In one embodiment, the hose and a substantial portion of the female air conduit are positioned behind the wall of the water closet. The second flat end of the female air conduit may extend from behind the wall through a hole in the wall of the water closet to be connected to the first end of the male air conduit. The hole may be shaped and sized to allow the second flat end to be snugly inserted therethrough.[0036]

In this embodiment, the ventilation apparatus may further include a wall bracket affixed on the wall behind the tank. The wall bracket defines a slot, which is shaped and sized to allow the second flat end of the female air conduit to be snugly inserted therethrough. The slot is placed in alignment with the hole. The first flat end of the male air conduit is inserted into the opening of the second flat end, preferably passing the slot into the wall area. Additionally, the wall bracket may define a lower flange and an upper flange for pressing the flat ends tightly together and to minimize any air leakage. Alternatively, the perimeter of the slot can be sealed with any suitable caulking material.[0037]

Optionally, the air conduit may be a one-piece elbow shaped unit that defines a hose connecting end connectable to a hose, and a flat portion disposed between the tank and the lid. The flat portion defines an inlet end open into an airspace between the water level and the lid of the tank. The inlet end receives the odorous air that moves from the bowl into the airspace in the tank through an overflow pipe. The air moves passing the air conduit into the hose to be discharged.[0038]

In another embodiment, a toilet system comprises a toilet bowl with a rim, a water tank with a top, an overflow pipe having a lower end open in to a discharged conduit, and an upper end for receiving overflow water. The ventilation apparatus includes a cylinder disposed around the overflow pipe forming an annular space around the overflow pipe. The cylinder defines a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the cylinder is disposed under the water, but slightly above the bottom of the tank to allow the water to flow from the tank into the annular space. The ventilation apparatus further includes a plug and a hose. The plug defines a pipe-connecting end snugly fitted onto the upper end of the overflow pipe, and a hose-connecting end snugly fitted onto a first end of the hose. The plug further defines a plurality of holes for water communication between the annular space and the overflow pipe, and for air communication between the overflow pipe and the hose. The bottom end of the cylinder may be fastened on to the overflow pipe and the top end of the cylinder may be fastened and sealed onto the first end of the hose. A second end of the hose is connected to a suction device.[0039]

In another aspect, the present invention contemplates a hose box for shielding a ventilation hose. The box is used in a situation in which the hose has to be extended outside the wall into the bathroom and reenter the ceiling when the space inside the wall does not allow the ventilation hose to be threaded therethrough. The hose box comprises a back wall, a top wall, a first side wall, or second side wall, and a front cover. The back wall defines a top end, a bottom end, and a first hole sized to receive the ventilation hose therethrough. The back wall is attachable to the bathroom wall over an inlet opening, which is also sized to receive the hose. The first hole is in alignment with the inlet opening. The top wall defines a first end or bottom end, and a second hole sized to receive the hose. The top wall is attachable to the ceiling of the bathroom. The second hole is in alignment with an outlet opening in the ceiling. The first end of the back wall is attached to the first end of the top wall at a right angle. The second end of the back wall and the second end of the top wall each defines at least one supporting ledge.[0040]

Furthermore, the first side wall and the second side wall are right-angled triangular. Each side wall is attached to each side of the back wall and the top wall forming an open box. Moreover, the front cover is sized to fit between the ledge of the back wall and the ledge of the top wall.[0041]

Another aspect of the present invention includes a hose box kit for shielding a suction hose in a situation in which the suction hose cannot be threaded around the corner between the wall and the ceiling. The hose box kit has a template member including a back plate attached to a top plate at a right angle. The back plate defines a plurality of holes for receiving a plurality of fasteners for fastening the back plate to a bathroom wall close to the ceiling. Likewise, the top plate defines a plurality of holes for receiving a plurality of fasteners for fastening the top plate to the ceiling. The back plate further defines a first opening aligned to an inlet opening in the bathroom wall where the suction hose is threaded outside the wall into the hose box kit. The top plate defines a second opening for guiding the suction hose into an outlet opening in the ceiling. Both the back plate and the top plate have a plurality of latches.[0042]

The hose box kit may further comprise a corner cover member defining a front plate connected at a right angle to a first side plate and a second side plate. The front plate is substantially rectangular, whereas the first side plate and the second side plate are triangular. The first side plate and the second side plate defines a plurality of locking latches matable to the plurality of latches of the back plate and the top plate such that the corner cover member can be securely locked onto the template member, forming a triangular hose box.[0043]

In addition, the present invention further includes a toilet system comprising an automatic flushing mechanism. The toilet system includes a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl and a water tank, a discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank and the discharge conduit. The system also includes a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit and a flapper for opening and closing the flush valve to allow the water to move from the tank to the passageway into the bowl.[0044]

Another embodiment of the flushing mechanism comprises a lever, a motion device, and a sensing device. The lever can include an L-shaped bar member, an attachment member, a cable member, and a flapper cord. The bar member preferably defines a long arm connected to a first end of the flapper cord, and a short arm pivotably connected to the attachment member. The short arm defines a first bore. The attachment member has a first end attachable to the water tank, and a second end defining a second bore being in alignment with the first bore. The cable member defines a first end portion and a second end, the first end portion being threaded through the second bore and the first bore, and slidingly secured to the short arm of the bar member. The second end of the cable member is connectable to the motion device. The flapper cord has the second end attached to the flapper.[0045]

The lever has a rest position and a flushing position. In the rest position, the long arm of the lever points downward to relax the flapper cord, and thus allows the flapper to close the flush valve. In the flushing position, the long arm moves upward such that the flapper cord pulls on the flapper causing the flapper to move upward and open the flush valve to allow the water to flush. After the water flushes, the long arm of the lever returns to the rest position.[0046]

In this embodiment, the sensing device which is operatively connected to the motion device, and is capable of detecting the presence or movement of a toilet user. The motion device can include a movable elongated shaft that has a cable end connected to the second end of the cable member. When the sensing device is activated, it can actuate the motion of the shaft such that it pulls on the cable member and thus lifts the long arm of the bar member upward in the flushing position. After the flush, the shaft of the motion device moves back to its original position and the cable member is relaxed. Consequently, the long arm of the bar member points downward so that the flapper cord is relaxed and the flapper sits back to close the valve. The sensing device can be a motion detector, which is activated by user movement in the target area. Alternatively, the sensing device can be a noise-activated device. The sensing device can generate an electrical signal that operates the motion device. Preferably, both the sensing device and the motion device are affixed to a wall of the toilet room such that the sensing device can detect the movement of the user.[0047]

In another embodiment of the present invention the automatic flushing mechanism comprises a sensing device capable of detecting the presence of a toilet user, a motion device being activatable by the sensing device and connected to a rotational lever for effectuating flushing. The rotational lever comprises a disk, a long bar, a short bar, and a cable member. The disk has a center, which is rotatably attached to a wall of the water tank. A proximal end of the long bar is attached at a first position on a first surface of the disk at a first position, and a distal end of the long bar is attached to a flapper cord connected to the flapper. The long bar is preferably weighted. A proximal end of the short bar is attached to a second position of a second surface of the disk, and a distal end of the short bar is attached to the cable member. The center is disposed linearly between the first position and the second position. Further, the cable member defines a first end and a second end, the first end is secured to the distal end of the short bar, and the second end being connectable to a motion device.[0048]

The sensing device can be affixed to a wall of the toilet room such that it can detect a user. The sensing device may be a motion detector that can be automatically activated by the movement of the user. The sensing device is connected to the motion device and activates the motion device electrically. Moreover, the motion device is affixed to a wall of the toilet room. Preferably, the motion device includes a solenoid for activating the flush mechanism.[0049]

When the motion device is activated, it causes the cable member to pull on the short arm such that the short arm moves downwardly. At the same time the disk is rotated in a first direction such that the first position on the disk where the long bar is attached rotates upwardly while pulling the flapper up to open the flush valve. As a result, the water moves from the water tank into the discharge conduit. When the motion device relaxes the cable member, the disk rotates in an opposite direction such that the first position with the long bar moves rotatably downward to relax the flapper cord such that the flapper sits back on the flush valve.[0050]

Another aspect of the present invention contemplates a fan system for ventilating bathroom air and steam. The fan system is capable of receiving odorous air or steam from two or more locations in a bathroom to be discharged at an outside location. The fan system may be retrofitted in an existing exhaust system of a building.[0051]

The fan system comprises a fan box having a cavity defining a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment defines a plurality of first inlet openings for receiving air or steam from a first location. The second compartment defines a plurality of second inlet openings for receiving air or steam from a different second location. The fan box includes an outlet opening in air communication with the first and the second compartments. The outlet opening is connected to an exhaust hose leading to an outside location.[0052]

The fan box has four side walls hingedly attached to a top wall such that one or more of the side walls are pivotable towards the cavity of the fan box. The fan box defines an open bottom side for receiving a first fan and a second fan. The first inlet openings and the second inlet openings are disposed on one or more side walls, whereas the outlet opening is disposed on one of the side walls.[0053]

The first fan is disposed within the first compartment, and the second fan is disposed within the second compartment. The first fan operates to pull air from the first location through one or more of the first inlet openings into the fan box, while the second fan operates to pull air from the second location through one or more of the second inlet openings into the fan box. Both the first fan and the second fan drive air out of the fan box through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for discharging at an outside location.[0054]

In one embodiment, one of the first inlet openings is connected to a ventilation tubing for ventilating air from a bathing facility, and one of the second inlet openings is connected to a suction hose of a ventilation apparatus for ventilating odor from a toilet. The bathing facility can be a shower stall or an enclosed bathtub.[0055]

The fan system may further comprise a first inlet adapter attachable to one of the first inlet openings, a second inlet adapter attachable to one of the second inlet openings, and an outlet adapter attachable to the outlet opening. The first inlet adapter has a first circular lip connectable to the ventilation tubing. The second inlet adapter has a second circular lip connectable to a suction hose, and the outlet adapter has a third circular lip for connecting to the exhaust hose.[0056]

Moreover, the ventilation tubing has a connecting end and an intake end. The connecting end is connected to the first inlet adapter, and the intake end being in air communication with the bathing facility. The intake end includes an intake housing, which defines a base having an intake opening. The intake housing may be a dome. Furthermore, the intake housing has a removable intake grille that covers the intake opening. The intake grille receives air and steam from the bathing facility.[0057]

In an embodiment, the fan system for ventilating bathroom air includes a shroud unit defining a first shroud for retaining a first fan in a first compartment, and a second shroud for retaining a second fan in a second compartment. The first shroud has a first tract opening and the second shroud has a second tract opening. Both the first and the second tract openings are in air communication with the outlet opening and an exhaust hose. The fan box may include a first electrical outlet for supplying electricity to operate the first and the second fans. The electrical outlet may be connected to a switch that can be operated by a user.[0058]

Additionally, the fan system further comprises a cover plate for keeping the first fan and the second fan in place within the fan box, the cover plate being secured to the bottom side of the fan box. The fan system may include a grille plate attachable to the cover plate for a decorative purpose. Alternatively, the grille plate may define an insert slot for receiving a grille insert that can be replaced by an optional light unit for lighting the bathroom. The grille plate includes one or more grille plate fasteners for fastening the grille plate to the cover plate.[0059]

The optional light unit includes a reflector plate, a light bulb, a second electrical outlet for supplying electricity to the light bulb, and a shield for protecting the light bulb. The reflector plate can fit into the insert slot and can be secured to the grille plate. The light bulb includes a socket secured to the reflector plate. The socket has a connecting plug for inserting into the second electrical outlet. The second electrical outlet may be connected to a second switch that can be operated by a user. Optionally, the second electrical outlet may be electrically connected to the first electrical outlet, and both outlets are connected to a switch that a user can operate. In this way, the user can turn on the fans and the light at the same time.[0060]

In an embodiment, the fan box is a stacked fan box, which defines a first compartment stacking above a second compartment. The fan system further comprises a stacking shroud unit, which is insertable into the stacked fan box. The stacking shroud unit defines a first shroud and a second shroud. The first shroud includes a first platform having a first cavity for receiving and holding a first fan within the first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Likewise, the second shroud includes a second platform having a second cavity for receiving and holding a second fan within the second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Both the first and the second tract openings are in air communication with the outlet opening and the exhaust hose.[0061]

In another alternative embodiment, the fan box is a side-by-side fan box having a cavity defining a first compartment disposed on the same plane as a second compartment. In this embodiment, the fan system further includes a side-by-side shroud unit defining a left shroud and a right shroud. The left shroud includes a first platform having a first cavity for receiving and holding a first fan within the first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Likewise, the right shroud includes a second platform having a second cavity for receiving and holding a second fan within the second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing the air movement towards the outlet opening. Both the first and the second tract openings are in air communication with an outlet opening and an exhaust hose. The first platform and the second platform may be made from a single piece material.[0062]

In another embodiment, the fan system for ventilating air from a plurality of locations in a building comprises a fan box having a plurality of compartments. Each compartment defines an inlet opening for receiving air from one of the plurality of locations. The fan box further comprises an outlet opening in air communication with said plurality of compartments. The outlet opening is connected to and in air communication with an exhaust hose.[0063]

Additionally, the fan system in this embodiment further comprises a plurality of fans, each being disposed within each of the plurality of compartments, whereby the plurality of fans pulls air from the plurality of locations through each of the inlet openings into each of the plurality of compartments. The plurality of fans is capable of driving air out of the plurality of compartments through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for releasing to an outside location.[0064]

Moreover, the fan system may further include a hanger unit attachable to the fan box for hanging the fan box to a beam or any suitable structure. The hanger unit includes a hanger plate fastened to the top wall of the fan box. The hanger unit further includes a plurality of hanger arms, each defining a top end connected to a side end in a substantially right angle. The top end is slidably attached to the hanger plate such that the top end adjustably extends out from each side walls of the fan box. The side end has an elongated slot for receiving a plurality of hanger fasteners for securing the fan system to a beam or any suitable structure.[0065]

In another embodiment, a fan system for ventilating air from at least one interior location is provided. The fan system includes a fan enclosure having a compartment and the fan enclosure including an inlet opening and an outlet connected to an exhaust hose with the inlet opening being disposed at a level lower than the ceiling in the interior location. A motor is disposed in the compartment and a fan is disposed within the compartment and in electrical communication with the motor, the fan has a vacuum side and a blower side. When the vacuum side of the fan operates to pull air from the location through the inlet opening into the fan enclosure, the blower side of the fan drives air out of the fan enclosure through the outlet into the exhaust hose for discharging at an exterior location.[0066]

The room associated with the ventilation system of this embodiment further includes a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub, and a shower and tub combination, the ventilation system characterized by a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to the manifold body and visible from within the enclosure, the diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a conduit extending from the manifold body to the fan enclosure compartment.[0067]

In a further aspect, the present invention provides an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a rim thereof, the rim having a plurality of holes therein for flow of water from the tank to the bowl. The odor evacuation system is characterized by a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in flow communication with the flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in flow communication with the overflow pipe, a pipe in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank, and a suction device disposed externally of the toilet and having an activated state and a non-activated state. When the suction device is in its activated state, air within the toilet bowl and rim is removed to the suction device through the flush valve, overflow pipe, evacuation pipe, and externally extending pipe, and odors are removed from the bowl and rim. When the suction device is in its non-activated state, no odors are removed.[0068]

A further embodiment of the present invention provides an automatic flushing system for a toilet having a toilet bowl and a toilet tank with a flush valve, the flush valve including a flapper, a flapper clip and a flapper chain connecting the flapper clip and the flapper, and an actuation lever attached to the flapper clip and having a flush position and a null position. The automatic flushing system is characterized by a sensing device located externally of the toilet and having a sensing range, a motor in electrical communication with the sensing device and operatively connected to the actuation lever. When the sensing device detects an object in its the sensing range, the actuation lever is in its the null position, whereas upon detection by the sensing device that an object has left the sensing device sensing range, the actuation lever is urged into its the flush position by the motor.[0069]

In another embodiment, an odor evacuation and mitigation system for a bathroom having at least one of a toilet and a shower enclosure is provided, including an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a rim thereof, the rim having a plurality of holes therein for flow of water from the tank to the bowl. The odor evacuation system has a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in flow communication with the flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in flow communication with the overflow pipe, a pipe in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank, and a suction device disposed externally of the toilet and having an activated state and a non-activated state. When the suction device is in its activated state, air within the toilet bowl and rim is removed to the suction device through the flush valve, overflow pipe, evacuation pipe, and externally extending pipe, and odors are removed from the bowl and rim. The bathroom further includes a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub, and a shower and tub combination, the ventilation system characterized by a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to the manifold body and visible from within the enclosure, the diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a conduit extending from the manifold body to the fan enclosure compartment. The odor evacuation and mitigation system is characterized by a central evacuation fan system, including a fan box having a compartment with the compartment with the fan box including an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and at least one auxiliary opening, an exhaust hose being connected to the outlet opening and at least one conduit being connected to the auxiliary opening. A fan is disposed within the compartment, wherein when the fan operates to pull air from the location through the inlet opening into the fan enclosure and through an auxiliary opening via a conduit, the fan drives air out of the fan enclosure through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for discharging at an exterior location.[0070]

In another form of the present invention, a method of installation of an odor evacuation and mitigation system is characterized by inserting a fan box of a central evacuation fan into a ceiling one of prior to and after installation of drywall on the ceiling, threading a pipe into the fan box and connecting it thereto, connecting an external hose to an outside location and to the fan box, and placing a cover on the fan box.[0071]

It is one object of the present invention to provide a toilet system having a ventilation apparatus for removing odorous air from the toilet bowl without creating negative pressure in the water tank. Another objective is to provide an automatic flushing mechanism that can be retrofitted to a traditional flush toilet system. In addition, a further objective is to provide a fan system that can efficiently drive the odorous air or steam from the bathroom for discharging outside.[0072]

Significant benefits are achieved by features of the invention that permit removing of odorous air directly from the air passageway in the toilet bowl into the ventilation pipe, and fitting of the lever in the water tank while having the automatic motion device affixed on the wall. Further benefits are achieved by the fan system capable of receiving air or steam from a plurality of locations and discharging it outside through an exhaust hose. These and other objects and benefits of the invention will be made clear upon consideration of the following written description and accompanying figures.[0073]

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The above mentioned and other features and objects of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:[0074]

FIG. 1 is a perspective partial sectional view of a toilet system having a water tank fitted with a ventilation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.[0075]

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a ventilation apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention.[0076]

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the ventilation apparatus according to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1.[0077]

FIG. 4 is a top view of the ventilation apparatus according to further embodiment of the present invention.[0078]

FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view of the ventilation apparatus according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4.[0079]

FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the ventilation apparatus depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5.[0080]

FIG. 7 is a front partial sectional view of a toilet system with the water tank fitted with a flushing mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.[0081]

FIG. 8 is a front view of the lever of the flushing mechanism illustrated in FIG. 7, with the lever in the non-operative position.[0082]

FIG. 9 is a front view of the lever shown in FIG. 8, with the lever in the flushing position.[0083]

FIG. 10 is a side view of the lever of the embodiment shown in FIGS.[0084]7-9.

FIG. 11 is a front partial sectional view of a toilet system with the water tank fitted with a ventilation apparatus of the embodiment of FIGS.[0085]4-6, and the flushing mechanism of the embodiment of FIGS.7-10.

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of an aspect of the U-shaped hollow tube depicted in FIGS.[0086]4-6.

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of a male air conduit and a female air conduit in one embodiment of the ventilation apparatus.[0087]

FIG. 14 is a front view of a male air conduit as shown in FIG. 13.[0088]

FIG. 15 is a front view of a wall bracket.[0089]

FIG. 16 is a front partial sectional view of another embodiment of a ventilation apparatus.[0090]

FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of a plug.[0091]

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.[0092]

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a hose box for shielding a suction hose according to one aspect of the invention.[0093]

FIG. 20 is a side view of a hose box according to the embodiment in FIG. 19.[0094]

FIG. 21 is a front view of a back wall of a hose box according to the embodiment in FIGS.[0095]19-20.

FIG. 22 is a top view of a flexible air conduit according to an embodiment of the present invention.[0096]

FIG. 23 is a side view of the flexible air conduit as shown in FIG. 22.[0097]

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible air conduit shown in FIG. 23, taken along line[0098]24-24 as viewed in the direction of the arrows.

FIG. 25 is a front view of a head of a first flat end of the flexible air conduit of FIGS.[0099]22-23.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the flexible air conduit according to the embodiment shown in FIGS.[0100]22-25.

FIG. 27 is a front view of another wall bracket.[0101]

FIG. 28 is a side view of the wall bracket shown in FIG. 27.[0102]

FIG. 29 is a front view of yet another wall bracket for use with the present invention.[0103]

FIG. 30 is a side view of the wall bracket shown in FIG. 29.[0104]

FIG. 31 is a side view of an elbow adapter for use with one embodiment of the present invention.[0105]

FIG. 32 is a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of a ventilation apparatus.[0106]

FIG. 33 is a rear view of the alternative embodiment of a ventilation apparatus as shown in FIG. 32.[0107]

FIG. 34 is a top elevational view of the alternative embodiment of a ventilation apparatus as shown in FIGS.[0108]32-33.

FIG. 35 is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the ventilation apparatus as shown in FIGS.[0109]32-34.

FIG. 36 is a top perspective view of a hose box kit.[0110]

FIG. 37 is a side view of a template member of the hose box kit shown in FIG. 36.[0111]

FIG. 38 is a top perspective view of the template member shown in FIG. 37.[0112]

FIG. 39 is a front view of the template member shown in FIGS.[0113]37-38.

FIG. 40 is a side view of a corner cover member of the hose box kit shown in FIG. 36.[0114]

FIG. 41 is a side perspective view of corner cover member as shown in FIG. 40.[0115]

FIG. 42 is a side elevational view of a rotational lever of an automatic flushing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.[0116]

FIG. 43 is another side elevational view of the rotational lever shown in FIG. 42.[0117]

FIG. 44 is a side view of the rotational lever shown in FIGS.[0118]42-43.

FIG. 45 is a side elevational view of a fan system according to one embodiment of the invention.[0119]

FIG. 46 is an exploded view of a fan system according to an embodiment of the present invention.[0120]

FIG. 47 is a side perspective view of a fan box according to another embodiment of the invention.[0121]

FIG. 47A is another side perspective view of the fan box shown in FIG. 47.[0122]

FIG. 48 is a side perspective view of a shroud unit.[0123]

FIG. 49 is a top perspective view of an intake housing.[0124]

FIG. 50 is a side view of the intake housing shown in FIG. 49.[0125]

FIG. 51 is a top elevational view of an intake grille of the intake housing shown in FIGS.[0126]49-50.

FIG. 52 is a top elevational view of a grille plate according to one embodiment of the invention.[0127]

FIG. 52A is a top elevational view of a grille insert for use with the present invention.[0128]

FIG. 53 is a side view of a light bulb according to one embodiment of the invention.[0129]

FIG. 54 is a top perspective view of a fan according to another embodiment.[0130]

FIG. 55 is a side elevational view of a shroud unit according to another embodiment.[0131]

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a commercial flush toilet with a ventilation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.[0132]

FIG. 57 is an exploded view of a fan system according to another embodiment.[0133]

FIG. 58 is an exploded view of a grille for the fan system of FIG. 57 in accordance with another embodiment.[0134]

FIG. 59 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a toilet tank having an automatic flushing system and ventilation system according to another embodiment.[0135]

FIG. 60 is a partial exploded view of the automatic flushing system of FIG. 59.[0136]

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a shower enclosure including a ventilation system for removal of steam and moisture according to another embodiment.[0137]

FIG. 62 is an exploded view of the ventilation system of FIG. 61.[0138]

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to better illustrate and explain the present invention. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate embodiments of the invention, in several forms, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.[0139]

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same.[0140]

As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention contemplates[0141]

ventilation apparatus

10 for eliminating odor from traditionalflush toilet11.Toilet11 generally includestoilet bowl12 withrim13 defining a plurality ofholes13A,water tank14 with lid6,discharge conduit15 connectingbowl12 andtank14, andpassageway16 providing communication betweentank14,discharge conduit15, and rim13.Toilet11 includesflush valve17 disposed abovedischarge conduit15,flush valve17 havingflapper18 for opening and closingpassageway16 to allow movement of water fromtank14 intodischarge conduit15, water inconduit15 is distributed alongpassageway16 withinrim13 and intobowl12 through the plurality ofholes13A.

According to one aspect of the present invention,[0142]

ventilation apparatus

20 hasventilation pipe21, as shown in FIG. 2, havinglower end22 andupper end23,lower end22 being open intodischarge conduit24.Ventilation apparatus20 includessuction hose25 having first end26 andsecond end27,first end26 being connected toupper end23 of theventilation pipe21. Thesuction hose25 is in fluid communication with theventilation pipe21.Second end27 ofsuction hose25 is connected tosuction device28.Suction device28 is capable of pulling air frombowl12 throughpassageway16 intoventilation pipe21 and subsequently intosuction hose25 to be discharged at a remote location, preferably outside the building.Upper end23 ofventilation pipe21 may extend throughopening149 in back9 (see FIG. 1), or on side8 oftank14 or on top7 of lid6 (FIG. 7) for connecting tofirst end26 ofsuction hose25.Suction hose25 may be substantially hidden in the wall of the toilet room.Suction device28 may be an exhaust fan, a vent fan or any suitable vacuum system or system for drawing air.

[0143]

Ventilation apparatus

20 further include drainingdevice31, which includes at least one conduit for receiving and draining overflow water. As illustrated in FIG. 3, another feature ofventilation apparatus30 incorporates drainingdevice31 having first elongatedhollow tube32 and second elongatedhollow tube33. Each of

tubes

32 and33 has

inlet end

34 and35 below the normal water level in the tank for receiving overflow water. In addition, each of

tubes

32 and33 has

outlet end

36 and37 connected totubular connector38 for connecting

tubes

32 and33 toventilation pipe39. Outlet ends36 and37 andtubular connector38 are positioned above the normal water level intank14.

In one embodiment,[0144]

tubular connector

38 has four connecting ends. First connectingend41 and second connectingend42 are attached to one of outlet ends36 and37 of

tubes

32 and33. Third connectingend43 is attached overupper end44 ofventilation pipe39. Fourth connectingend45 ofconnector38 is attached tofirst end46 ofsuction hose47. Thus,

tubes

32 and33 are in fluid communication withtubular connector38,ventilation pipe39, and dischargeconduit40.Suction hose47 is in fluid communication withtubular connector38,ventilation pipe39, and dischargeconduit40. Air movement is in the direction indicated by the solid arrows A shown in FIG. 3.

In a non-draining mode,[0145]

tubes

32 and33 retain water at the same level as the water level intank14

outside tubes

32 and33 due to the water pressure insidewater tank14. In a draining mode, when there is excess water that rises above the level oftubular connector38, increased water pressure insidetank14 pushes excess water into

tubes

32 and33 through inlet ends34 and35 such that water moves further out of

tubes

32 and33 at outlet ends36 and37. The overflow water then passes throughtubular connector38 intoventilation pipe39 and drains throughlower end48 ofventilation pipe39 that is open intodischarge conduit40 belowflapper49. Water movement is in the direction indicated by the broken arrows w in FIG. 3.

It is contemplated that[0146]

ventilation apparatus

20 of the present invention is sized to fit in a water tank of a traditional flush toilet system without much modification.Ventilation apparatus20 replaces the overflow pipe in the traditional system to facilitate both the ventilation of the odorous air and the draining of overflow water. As shown in FIG. 1,ventilation apparatus20 of the present invention can be fitted sealingly ontodischarge conduit15. Also as shown in FIG. 1, opening149 may be cut through a wall oftank14 or lid6 (FIG. 7) to allowventilation pipe151 to extend outside the tank and be connected tovacuum hose150.

In yet another embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS.[0147]4-6,ventilation apparatus50 includes drainingdevice51 that has upside-down U-shapedhollow tube52.Tube52 hasfirst leg53 having inlet end54 for receiving overflow water disposed below the normal water level intank14, andsecond leg55 having outlet end56 being connected directly to dischargeconduit58.Tube52 hasbend portion57 disposed above the normal water level in the tank.

Alternatively, draining[0148]

device

31, as depicted in FIG. 12, comprises U-shaped-hollow tube200, which includes hook-shapedtube201 and L-shapedtube206. Hook-shapedtube201 definesfirst leg202 having inlet end210 facing bottom5 oftank14, andbend portion203 having hook end207. L-shapedtube206 definessecond leg204 havingtop end209 connected to hookend207 ofbend portion203, andbase205 having outlet end208 open into discharge conduit (not shown).Top end209 ofsecond leg204 may be connected to hookend207 ofbend portion203 by a lock mechanism or a tight swivel.

Turning again to FIGS.[0149]4-6, in a non-draining mode,first leg53 ofhollow tube52 maintains a comparable water level as the normal water level intank14. In a draining mode, when there is excess water above the level ofbend portion57, increased water pressure insidetank14 pushes excess water intofirst leg53, throughinlet end54 such that the water moves throughbend portion57 tosecond leg55 and throughoutlet end56 intodischarge conduit58.

[0150]

Inlet end

54 is positioned close to bottom5 oftank14 in order to maximize water pressure atinlet end54 to push water insidehollow tube52.Inlet end54 offirst leg53 may be between ½″ and ¾″ above bottom S oftank14.Inlet54 end may define a plurality ofopenings59 to increase water movement fromtank14 intotube52 for draining. Eachopening59 may be about ¼″ in diameter.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS.[0151]4-6,ventilation apparatus20 for eliminating the odor fromtoilet bowl50 may includevacuum ring60 disposed arounddischarge conduit58 and belowflush valve61,vacuum ring60 definescircular tube60A having a plurality of openings for fluid communication withdischarge conduit58.Circular tube60A may be of any suitable diameter, for example about three-quarters of an inch in diameter.Ventilation apparatus20 further comprisesventilation pipe63 havinglower end64 andupper end65.Lower end64 is open intovacuum ring60 whileupper end65 is connected to one end ofsuction hose25. Second end ofsuction hose25 is connected tosuction device28 as previously described, which is capable of pulling air frombowl12 throughpassageway16 intoventilation pipe21 and subsequently intosuction hose25 to be discharged at a remote location.

In another embodiment,[0152]

ventilation apparatus

230 depicted partially in FIG. 13 may includeair conduit230A connectingupper end247 ofventilation pipe231 andfirst end248 ofsuction hose242.Air conduit230A may includemale air conduit232 andfemale air conduit240.Male air conduit232 defines ventilationpipe connecting end233 andflat portion234, which defines firstflat end238. Pipe-connectingend233 can be tightly connectable to theupper end247 of theventilation pipe231 by locking mechanism or a tight swivel.Male air conduit232 defines a gradually increasing width from the pipe-connectingend233 to firstflat portion234. (See FIG. 14). Firstflat portion234 maintains a uniform width, for example about three inches. In addition, firstflat portion234 extendsoutside water tank236 throughspace235 betweentank236 andlid237. The thickness of firstflat portion234 betweentank236 andlid237 is about ¼ inch.Male air conduit232 definespassageway246 in fluid communication withventilation pipe231.Space235 can be an existing space in certain type of tanks or can be created by the placement of firstflat portion234 betweentank236 andlid237.

Furthermore,[0153]

female air conduit

240 defines hose-connectingend241 and secondflat portion243 defining secondflat end244. Hose-connectingend241 may be connected tofirst end248 ofsuction hose242 by a locking mechanism or by a tight swivel.Female air conduit240 defines a gradually increasing width from hose-connectingend241 to secondflat portion243.Flat portion243 defines a uniform width, for example about three inches. In addition,female air conduit240 defines a passageway in fluid communication withsuction hose242. Secondflat end244 defines opening245 that is slightly larger than outer perimeter of firstflat end238 ofmale air conduit232. Firstflat end238 may be snugly inserted into opening245 of secondflat end244.

One arrangement of the invention involves[0154]

suction hose

242 andfemale air conduit240 being positioned behind wall W of water closet WC. It is also preferable that secondflat end244 offemale air conduit240 extends from behind wall W through hole H into water closet WC to be connected to firstflat end238 ofmale air conduit232. Hole H is shaped and sized to allow secondflat end244 to be snugly inserted therethrough. Alternatively, hole H may be shaped and sized to allow firstflat end238 to be snugly inserted therethrough to be connected to secondflat end244 behind wall W.Male air conduit232 may be made of substantially rigid material to support the weight oflid237, whereas,female air conduit240 may be made of a more flexible material.

As shown in FIG. 13, once[0155]

male air conduit

232 is connected toventilation pipe231,female air conduit240 is connected tosuction hose242, andmale air conduit232 is connected tofemale air conduit240, so that odorous air may be drawn fromventilation pipe231 intosuction hose242 to be discharged as described herein above.

[0156]

Ventilation apparatus

230 may further include wall bracket250 (shown in FIG. 15) affixed on wall W behindtank236 as shown in FIG. 13.Wall bracket250 definesslot251, which is shaped and sized to allow secondflat end244 offemale air conduit240 to be snugly inserted therethrough. Secondflat end244 may slightly extend fromslot251 to receive firstflat end238 ofmale air conduit232. First flat end is inserted into opening245 of secondflat end244, which may extend further throughslot245 into wall W. Additionally,wall bracket250 can definelower flange252 andupper flange253 for holding the flat ends tightly together and to minimize any air leakage. Preferably,

flanges

252 and253 are in the form of a rubber or flexible plastic strip. Alternatively, slot250 may be sealed with any suitable caulking material.

Referring now to FIGS.[0157]22-26, in an alternative embodiment,flexible air conduit320 defines substantially flatrectangular accordion hose321, which includespassageway329, cross-section (24-24) of which has an elongated oval shape as shown in FIG. 24.Accordion hose321 defines a series of alternatingridges324 andvalleys325 that are horizontally contractible and expandable. Preferably,accordion hose321 is made of a flexible and bendable material such as plastic or rubber.

[0158]

Flexible air conduit

320 includes firstflat end322 disposed at a first end ofaccordion hose321. Firstflat end322 may be slightly flatter than theaccordion hose321 in order to fit in aspace335 betweenlid330 andwater tank331 as shown in FIG. 26. Firstflat end322 has head328 (see FIG. 25) defining roundterminal end326 matable toupper end332 ofventilation pipe333 of toilet system as shown in FIG. 26.Flexible air conduit320 further includessecond end327 disposed atsecond end322 ofaccordion hose321.Second end327 is snugly connectable to suction hose334 (as shown in FIG. 26), which is connected to a suction device (not shown).

Referring now to FIG. 26,[0159]

flexible air conduit

320 is connected betweenupper end332 ofventilation pipe333 at the round terminal end.Flexible air conduit320 extends horizontally withinspace335 betweenlid330 andtank331 to bathroom wall W behindtank331.Flexible air conduit320 may be contracted or expanded such that it can be threaded through hole H in wall W and bent upwardly to be connected tosuction hose334.

[0160]

Flexible air conduit

320, likeair conduit230A may be used in conjunction withwall bracket250 shown in FIG. 15 in a similar way as what has been shown in FIG. 13 and as described herein above. In addition,alternative wall bracket350 shown in FIGS.27-28 may also be used with eitherair conduit230,flexible air conduit320, or elbow shapedair conduit281 shown in FIG. 18.Alternative wall bracket350 includes substantiallyrectangular plate351 having one ormore bores352 for receivingfasteners352A such as nails or screws forfastening plate351 to wall W of the bathroom.Plate351 hasrecess end353 flanked byfirst corner edge355 andsecond corner edge356. The width of therecess end353 between thefirst corner edge355 andsecond corner edge356 substantially matches the width ofair conduit358. As shown in FIG. 28,bracket350 can be affixed to wall W withfastener352A, such thatrecess end353 is aligned to hole H in wall W sized to receiveair conduit358 therethrough.Air conduit358 is positioned atrecess end353 betweenfirst corner edge355 andsecond corner edge356, through hole H into inner wall space I to be connected to suction hose (not shown).

Another[0161]

wall bracket

360 as shown in FIGS.29-30 may be included in the embodiments shown in FIGS.1-6,11, and16.Wall bracket360 defines substantially rectangular plate361 having one ormore bores363 for receivingfasteners363A such as nails or screws for fastening plate361 to wall W of the bathroom. Plate361 hasround slot364 for receivingcylindrical suction hose365.Round slot364 is aligned to hole H in wall W sized to receivesuction hose365 therethrough. It is contemplated thatsuction hose365 defines corrugatedouter surface367 consisting of a series of alternatingridges368 and valleys369. As illustrated in FIG. 30, whenbracket360 is affixed to wall W byfasteners363A,suction hose365 may be forced throughround slot364 and hole H into inner wall space I to be connected to suction device (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment,round slot364 and hole H are positioned between tworidges368 ofcorrugated surface367 ofsuction hose365, and holdsuction hose365 in place without sliding in or out of wall W.

In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a toilet system comprises a[0162]

ventilation apparatus

260 shown in FIGS.16-17.Ventilation apparatus260 fits in a toilet system that includestoilet bowl12 withrim13 defining a plurality ofholes13A,water tank14 with a lid6,overflow pipe261 connecting to discharge conduit, which connectsbowl13 andtank14.Ventilation apparatus260 comprisescylinder262, plug263,suction hose264, and suction device (not shown).Cylinder262 is slightly larger and longer thanoverflow pipe261.Cylinder262 hastop end265 coveringfirst end266 ofhose264, andbottom end267 disposed under the water intank14. Thecylinder262 is disposed overoverflow pipe261 such that annular space s is formed betweenoutside wall268 ofoverflow pipe261 and insidewall269 ofcylinder262.Plug263 defines pipe-connectingend270 snugly fitted onto upper end261 A ofoverflow pipe261, and hose-connectingend271 snugly fitted ontofirst end266 ofhose264. Plug263 also defines a plurality ofholes272 for providing fluid communication between annular space s and the overflow pipe261 (see arrow w), and fluid communication between theventilation pipe261 and hose264 (see arrow A).Bottom end267 ofcylinder262 is disposed slightly above the bottom of the tank (not shown) to allow water to flow into space s (see arrow w).Lower end267 ofcylinder262 may be fastened ontooverflow pipe261 andtop end265 ofcylinder262 may be fastened tohose264.Second end274 ofhose264 is connected to suction device (not shown).

In one aspect of the above embodiment, plug[0163]263 can be of any shape as long as it fitsfirst end266 of thehose264 and top end261 A ofoverflow pipe261, and includes a plurality ofholes272. Plug263 may be spherical, like a whiffle ball (as shown in FIG. 17), or cylindrical, like a hollow disk.

In the embodiment depicted in FIGS.[0164]16, ventilation occurs when odorous air is drawn (see arrow A) from the toilet bowl (not shown) through the discharge conduit (not shown). The air then moves from the discharge conduit intooverflow pipe261, passingplug263 intohose264, to be discharged at a remote location. On the other hand, when there is excess water, the excess water flows into annular space s betweenoverflow pipe261 andcylinder262 from the bottom of the tank. Water in annular space s is pushed towards the plurality ofholes272 onplug263, and drained intooverflow pipe261, to be discharged into the discharge conduit (not shown).

It is contemplated that in the embodiments described above (FIGS.[0165]1-6,11,13,16, and22-26), the ventilation apparatus may include elbow adapter340 (shown in FIG. 31.).Elbow adapter340 definesvertical arm341 andhorizontal arm342. In the embodiments shown in FIGS.1-6,11, and16, one ofvertical arm341 andhorizontal arm342 may be connected to a ventilation pipe of the present invention (such as21 of FIG. 1), and the other arm may be connectable to a suction hose (such as25 of FIG. 1). In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13 and 22-26, one ofvertical arm341 andhorizontal arm342 may be connected to a ventilation pipe of the present invention (such as21 of FIG. 1), and the other arm may be connected to an air conduit (such as230A of FIG. 13).Elbow adapter340 further defines inlet opening343 disposed at end341A ofvertical arm341 and outlet opening344 disposed at end341B ofhorizontal arm342. Air channel345 is disposed between inlet opening andoutlet opening344.

[0166]

Elbow adapter

340 may be snugly or swivelingly connected toventilation pipe21.Vertical arm341 orhorizontal arm342 may be positioned such that inlet opening343 ofvertical arm341 or outlet opening344 ofhorizontal arm342 points toward the back of the water tank. Further, the other arm may be connected tosuction hose25 orair conduit230A such that suction hose, or air conduit,25,230A is extended outside the water tank, such as horizontally within a space between the lid and the tank.

Turning now to FIGS.[0167]32-35, an alternative embodiment of theventilation apparatus370 also fits in a toilet system that includes a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe (not shown) connecting to a discharge conduit (not shown), which connects the bowl and the tank (not shown).Ventilation apparatus370 comprisessupport member371 and drainingmember372.Support member371 defineshollow cylinder373 having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the overflow pipe so thathollow cylinder373 may be placed substantially over the overflow pipe.Hollow cylinder373 definestop end374 andbottom end375.Top end374 definesgroove376 for receiving drainingmember372.Groove376 has a plurality of stop pins377 disposed spatially and perpendicularly acrossgroove376 creating a plurality ofgaps378 for fluid communication. Whensupport member371 is placed over the overflow pipe, stop pins377 rest on the top end of the overflow pipe (not shown), and in the exemplary embodiment, eachstop pin377 is a rod having a diameter of about ⅛ inch.Support member371 further defines one ormore bores379 for receiving one or more securing means380 for tighteningsupport member371 to the overflow pipe. In the exemplary embodiment,support member371 defines two threadedbores379, while securing means380 are plastic thumbscrews.

Draining[0168]

member

372 includes elbow-shapedhollow tube381 definingfirst arm382 andsecond arm383 connected to each other atbend portion390.First arm382 snugly fits ingroove376 ofsupport member371 such thatsecond arm373 is parallel tohollow tube373 ofsupport member371.First arm382 includesoutlet end384 connectable to and being in fluid communication with suction hose (not shown), or an air conduit (shown as230A in FIGS. 13 and 22-26).Outer perimeter390 ofoutlet end384 may be threaded for securing the suction hose or an air conduit thereon.First arm382 definesside opening389 aligning to the plurality ofgaps378 between stop pins377 ofsupport member371.First arm382 further definesvent hole387 disposed onopposite side387A ofside opening389.Vent hole387 functions to relieve the vacuum pressure that may occur when water is flushed.Second arm383 definesinlet end385 having a plurality ofapertures386 in water communication with the tank. In the exemplary embodiment, the plurality of holes includes 16 holes, each having a diameter of ¼ inch.

[0169]

Ventilation apparatus

370 with drainingmember372 snugly placed ingroove376 of supportingmember371 may be fitted in a water tank by placinghollow cylinder373 over the existing overflow pipe. Securing means380 may be threaded throughbores379 and pressed against the overflow pipe to keep thesupport member371 secured to the overflow pipe. In the final position,inlet end385 ofsecond arm383 is disposed under the water, slightly above the bottom of the tank (not shown). When the water tank is being filled, water moves from the tank intosecond arm383 through the plurality ofapertures386 ofsecond arm383. Once the water level in the tank reaches the standard level, the water level insecond arm383 stays belowbend portion390 of elbow-shapedhollow tube381. In the draining mode, in which there is excess of water in the tank, water pressure increases such that water is pushed through the plurality ofapertures386 intosecond arm383. Water subsequently moves passingbend portion390 intofirst arm382 and then throughside opening389 and the plurality ofgaps378 into the overflow pipe to be drained into the toilet bowl through the discharge conduit (not shown).

In addition,[0170]

outlet end

384 is connected to the suction hose, which in turn is connected to a suction device such as an exhaust fan (not shown). When the suction device is operating, the odorous air from the toilet bowl is drawn into the overflow pipe, passing the plurality ofgaps378 andside opening389 intofirst arm382 of drainingmember372. Subsequently, odorous air passes throughoutlet end384 into the suction hose to be discharged in a remote location. The suction device may operate continuously or may be operable by means of a switch control (not shown) that can be turned on and off by a user.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 18,[0171]

ventilation apparatus

280 is connected toairtight water tank285 withlid286.Ventilation apparatus280 comprises elbow-shapedair conduit281 that defineshose connecting end282 andair inlet end283.Air conduit281 may extend substantially behind the wall to be connected tohose288, andhose288 is connected to a suction device (not shown).Air inlet end283 is inserted through space sp betweenwater tank285 andlid286.Lid286 is tightly sealed totank285 to create an airtight tank.

[0172]

Air conduit

281 is substantially flat, in the exemplary embodiment having a width of about three inches and a thickness of about ¼ inch.Air conduit281 further definespassageway287 providing fluid communication between airspace sp above the water level in the tank andhose288.

In this embodiment, the odorous air (see arrow A) moves from the toilet bowl (not shown) into[0173]

overflow pipe

289 and is released into airspace sp above the water. The odorous air within the airspace is simultaneously drawn intoair inlet end283 ofair conduit281, passing throughpassageway287 and intohose288 to be discharged elsewhere.

It is contemplated that in this embodiment, the ventilation apparatus may include elbow adapter[0174]340 (as shown in FIG. 31).Elbow adapter340 may be swiveling such thathorizontal arm341 is positioned to point towardair inlet end283. In this way, odorous air from the toilet bowl may be specifically directed from overflow pipe to theair conduit281.

Another aspect of the present invention contemplates[0175]

hose box

300 as shown in FIGS.19-21.Box300 may be used to hide from view suction hose v that extends outside a bathroom wall to the ceiling in order to bypass any difficult corner between the wall and the ceiling.Box300 comprisesback wall301 andtop wall302. Backwall301 definestop end303,bottom end304, andfirst hole305 suitable for receiving hose v.Top wall302 definesfirst end306,second end307,second hole308 suitable for receiving hose v. Top end303 ofback wall301 is attached tofirst end306 of top wall at a right angle r.Bottom end304 ofback wall301 defines at least one supportingledge309, andsecond end307 oftop wall302 defines at least one supportingledge310.

[0176]

Hose box

300 further comprisesfirst side wall311, andsecond side wall312, each being a right triangle. Each offirst side wall311 andsecond side wall312 is attached to each side ofback wall301 andtop wall302 forming an open triangular box (see FIG. 19).

Additionally,[0177]

hose box

300 comprisesfront cover313 sized to fit on supportingledge310 oftop wall302 andledge309 ofback wall301.Box300 is affixed to a bathroom wall such thatback wall301 is against the bathroom wall andtop wall302 is against the ceiling. The bathroom wall defines an inlet opening (not shown) in alignment withfirst hole305 ofback wall301. In addition, the ceiling defines an outlet opening (not shown) in alignment withsecond hole308.

[0178]

Hose shielding box

300 may be used in a situation in which suction hose v has to be threaded outside the bathroom wall to avoid any sharp corner between the wall and the ceiling, or to traverse the wall framing. Hose v can be inserted through the inlet opening of the wall in tobox300 throughfirst hole305 and outsidebox300 throughsecond hole308 and back up into the ceiling through the outlet opening.

Referring now to FIGS.[0179]36-41,hose box kit400 is provided as an alternative tohose box300 shown in FIGS.19-21.Hose box kit400 comprisestemplate member401 andcorner cover member402.Template member401 defines backplate403 connected totop plate404 at right angle r.Back plate403 has first opening405 sized to receive a suction hose (not shown).Top plate404 hassecond opening406 also sized to receive the suction hose.Template member401 may be made of a one-piece material such as a plastic or aluminum sheet that is bent into a right angle.Back plate403 andtop plate404 have a plurality ofholes407 for receiving fasteners such as nails, screws or bolts for attachingtemplate member401 to a corner between a wall and the ceiling.Back plate403 is attachable to the wall andtop plate404 is attachable to the ceiling. Bothback plate403 andtop plate404 define a plurality oflatches408 capable of receiving and lockingcorner cover member402 thereon.

[0180]

Corner cover member

402 definesfront plate410 connected tofirst side plate411 andsecond side plate412.Front plate410 is substantially rectangular, whilefirst side plate411 andsecond side plate412 are triangular as shown in FIG. 40.First side plate411 andsecond side plate412 define a plurality of locking latches413 that may be snapped against the plurality oflatches408 oftemplate member401 and thus can lockcorner cover member402 ontemplate member401.

Similar to[0181]

hose box

300,hose box kit400 may be used in a situation in which the suction hose has to be threaded outside the bathroom wall to negotiate a tight corner between the wall and the ceiling.Template member401 may be affixed to the bathroom wall such thatback plate403 rests against the bathroom wall andtop plate404 rests against the ceiling. The bathroom wall defines an inlet opening (not shown) being in alignment withfirst opening405 oftemplate member401. The ceiling defines an outlet opening (not shown) being in alignment tosecond opening406 oftemplate member401. The suction hose can be inserted through the inlet opening of the wall, throughfirst opening405 oftemplate member401, throughsecond opening406 oftemplate member401, and through the outlet opening into the ceiling. Thencorner cover member402 is snapped ontotemplate member401 such that the protruding hose is hidden withinhose box kit400.

Although the snap locking mechanism works well for the attachment of[0182]

corner cover member

402 totemplate member401, other types of attachment may also be used. For example, thecorner cover member402 may be nailed or screwed ontotemplate member401.

Another aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS.[0183]7-10. A toilet system comprisesautomatic flushing mechanism69 for a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl and a water tank, a discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, and the discharge conduit, a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the passageway.automatic flushing mechanism69 compriseslever70 which includes L-shapedbar member71,attachment member72,cable member73, andflapper cord74. Bar member defineslong arm75 connected toflapper cord74 which is connected toflapper76, andshort arm77 having first bore78 (see FIG. 8).Attachment member72 is pivotably connected toshort arm77.Attachment member72 andshort arm77 ofbar member71 may be pivotably secured together by a two-headedpin86.Attachment member72 hasfirst end79 connectable to or supported on the water tank, andsecond end80 defining second bore81 in alignment withfirst bore78.

Cable member defines[0184]

first end

82 andsecond end83,first end82 is threaded throughsecond bore81 and first bore78, and is slidingly secured toshort arm77 ofbar member71.Second end83 is connectable toautomatic motion device84.Lever70 may assume a rest position as shown in FIG. 8 and a flushing position as shown in FIG. 9. In the rest position FIG. 8,long arm75 ofbar member71 points downward to relaxflapper cord74, and allowflapper76 to close flush valve85 (see FIG. 7). In the flushing position FIG. 9,long arm75 ofbar member71 moves upward such thatflapper cord74 pulls onflapper76 causingflapper76 to move upward to open flush valve85 (see FIG. 7) and allow water to flush. After the flushing is complete,long arm75 ofbar member71 returns to the rest position.Flapper cord74 is for connectinglong arm75 toflapper76 and may be a metal chain, a rubber string, or other suitable material such as durable nylon cord.Bar member71 andattachment member72 may be made of any suitable material such as metal or durable plastic.

Returning to FIG. 7, the present invention further contemplates a toilet system having[0185]

flushing mechanism

69 that includeslever70 of the present invention connected tomotion device84 that is operatively connected to sensingdevice88. As described above,second end83 ofcable member73 is connectedmotion device84.Motion device84 may have a movableelongated shaft86 that hascable end87 connected tosecond end83 ofcable member73.

Sensing[0186]

device

88 is operatively connected tomotion device84.Sensing device88 is capable of detecting the presence or movement of a toilet user. When sensingdevice88 is activated, it can actuatemotion device84 to pull oncable member73. In the illustrated embodiment,shaft86 retracts to pullcable member73.Cable member73 subsequently slides backward so thatfirst end82 pulls onshort arm77 towardattachment member72 and thus liftslong arm75 ofbar member71 upward in the flushing position.Long arm75 pulls onflapper cord74 and thus liftsflapper76 to openflush valve85. Water then moves fromtank90 throughflush valve85 intodischarge conduit15 oftoilet bowl12. After the flushing is completed, the shaft ofmotion device84 moves back to its original position and the cable member is relaxed. Consequently,long arm75 of bar member points downward so thatflapper cord74 is relaxed andflapper76 re-seats to closeflush valve85.Long arm75 may haveweight75A in it to facilitate its downward movement.

As shown in FIG. 7,[0187]

automatic flushing mechanism

69 may be installed onto a traditional flush toilet that has a manual flushing mechanism. The original flush lever can be retained or removed. As shown in FIG. 1,manual flushing mechanism140 comprisesmanual lever141 that hasend142 attached to stem143 of flushinghandle144, andsecond end145 havingflapper line146 attached toflapper18. Flushinghandle144 is pivotably disposed onwall147 oftank14.Stem143 of flushinghandle144 is inserted through wall bore148 to be attached tomanual lever141.Manual mechanism140 can be connected toflapper76 byline146 to serve as a “fail safe” mechanism shouldautomatic system69 fail to operate.

Return again to FIG. 7, to install[0188]

automatic flushing mechanism

69,attachment member72 is hung on a rim of the tank or secured to a side of the tank by a fastener such as a set screw or a bolt.Second end83 ofcable member73 is threaded throughbore89 defined on a wall oftank91 to be connected toelongated shaft86 ofmotion device84. Lastly,flapper cord74 is connected toflapper76. If the manual flushing mechanism is removed prior to the installation ofautomatic flushing mechanism69, bore89 can be the same bore that holds the flushing handle for the manual flushing mechanism. If the manual flushing mechanism is not removed, bore89 is separate from the bore that holds the flushing handle for the manual flushing mechanism.Flapper76 may be connected to bothflapper cord74 of the present invention andflapper line46 of the manual flushing mechanism. In this way, the flapper can optionally be lifted open or closed by eitherautomatic flushing mechanism69 or the manual flushing mechanism.

Further, both sensing[0189]

device

88 andmotion device84 in the exemplary embodiment are affixed to a wall of the toilet room such thatsensing device88 may detect the movement of the user.Sensing device88 may be a motion detector, which is activated by the user present in the target area, or the user leaving the area. Alternatively,sensing device88 can be a noise-activated device or a heat sensing apparatus. Sensing device may generate an electrical signal that activatesmotion device84.Motion device84 may be a solenoid, havingshaft86 suspended in a movable manner within a magnetic coil. If the coil is energized by the application of electrical current,shaft86 will move according to the polarity and current through the coil, and will operate on lever for opening or closing theflush valve17.Motion device84 may include a time delay control that allowsshaft86 to move back to its original position only after flushing is complete.Device84 may be spring biased to returnshaft88 to its neutral position.

Referring now to FIGS.[0190]42-44, alever500 is an alternative configuration of thelever70 shown in FIGS.7-8. Thelever500 comprises along bar501, adisk502, ashort bar503, aflapper cord504, and acable member505. The long bar has adistal end506 attached to a flapper cord507 that is connected to aflapper508. Aproximal end509 of thelong bar501 is attached to afirst surface510 of thedisk502 at a first position A having a distance D1 away from a center C. Aproximal end511 of theshort bar503 is attached to asecond surface512 of thedisk502 at a second position B that lies linearly to the first position A and the center C. The distance D2 between the first position A and the center C should be the same as the distance D1 between the second position B and the center C.

As shown in FIG. 44,[0191]

lever

500 may be installed insidewater tank516 by fastening center C ofdisk502 totank516 withfastener517 such thatdisk502 is rotatable around axis x.Fastener517 may have a hook end (not shown) for fastening to rim516A oftank516. In addition,distal end513 ofshort bar503 extendsoutside tank516 through slot opening518 to be connected tocable member505, which can be connected to a motion device (not shown), as described above.Slot opening518 may be rectangular or curved to accommodate the rotational movement ofshort bar503.

In a non-flushing position depicted in FIG. 42,[0192]

disk

502 situates such that first position A lies below second position B and center C, resulting inlong bar501 being closer to the bottom oftank516. In this position,flapper cord504 relaxes, whileflapper508 sits on the flush valve (not shown). In a flushing position depicted in FIG. 43, when the motion device is activated,cable member505 pulls onshort bar503 causingdisk502 to rotate in direction a. Consequently,long arm501 is lifted in direction u such thatflapper cord504 pullsflapper508 off the flush valve (not shown) so that water can flush into the toilet bowl (not shown).

In another feature of the invention shown in FIG. 11,[0193]

toilet system

100 comprises a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl (not shown) andwater tank101,discharge conduit102 connecting the bowl andtank101, a passageway103A providing communication betweentank101, anddischarge conduit102,flush valve103 disposed abovedischarge conduit102,flush valve103 hasflapper104 for opening and closing the passageway103A to allow the movement of water fromtank101 to the passageway103A.Toilet system100 further comprisesventilation apparatus105 which includesventilation pipe106 havinglower end110 open intodischarge conduit102 andupper end111 connected tofirst end112 ofhose107,vacuum ring108 positioned arounddischarge conduit102 belowflush valve103, and drainingdevice120. Opening121 may be situated in the back on the side, or on the lid to receiveupper end111 ofventilation pipe106 that extends outside the tank to be connected tofirst end112 ofhose107, which may be disposed behindwall122 of the room.

Ventilation apparatus includes[0194]

suction device

109, which is connected tosecond end113 ofhose107.Suction device109 may be positioned at a distant location, providing thatsuction device109 has sufficient suction force to pull the air from the toilet bowl into the passageway103A and further intoventilation pipe106 andhose107 to be discharged at a distant location, such as outside the building. Drainingdevice120 includes an upside down U-shapehollow tube123 having inlet end124 and outlet end125 as previously shown in FIGS.4-6, and as described herein above. Alternatively, drainingdevice120 may include two elongated hollow tubes connected to the ventilation pipe by a tubular connector as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.Toilet system100 as shown in FIG. 11 further comprisesautomatic flushing mechanism130.Flushing mechanism130 includeslever131,sensing device133, andmotion device132.Lever131 includes a bar member, an attachment member, a cable member, and a flapper cord, as shown in FIGS.710 and as described herein above.

Referring now to FIGS.[0195]45-53, a further aspect of the present invention includesfan system700 for ventilating bathroom air.Fan system700 is capable of receiving odorous air or steam from two or more locations in a bathroom to be discharged at an outside location.

[0196]

Fan system

700 shown in FIGS.45-47 comprisesfan box701, which can be of any suitable size or shape. In the exemplary embodiment,fan box701 is a hollow rectangular box definingtop wall741, and fourside walls740. As shown in FIG. 47A, one or more of fourside walls740 is attached totop wall741 byhinge741 A. Hingedside walls740 may be pivoted towards the inside offan box701. This feature allows thefan box701 to be connected to other components of thefan system700 described herein below, afterfan box701 has been installed within the space above the ceiling through an opening in the ceiling (not shown).Fan box701 definesbottom side745 substantially aligned to the plane of the ceiling.

[0197]

Fan box

701 further definescavity701 A formingfirst compartment702 andsecond compartment703, as depicted in FIGS.46-47.First compartment702 defines a plurality offirst inlet openings704 for receiving air from at least one location in the bathroom, andsecond compartment703 defines a plurality ofsecond inlet openings705 for receiving air from at least one other location. Each of the plurality offirst inlet openings704 andsecond inlet openings705 is disposed on each ofside walls740, while outlet opening is disposed on one ofside walls740.

[0198]

Fan box

701 may include a plurality ofcaps706 for closing each of the plurality offirst inlet openings704 and the plurality ofsecond inlet openings705 when not in use for receiving air or steam.

[0199]

Side walls

740 andtop wall741 may have a plurality of retainingbrackets740A for attachingfan box701 to beams or any suitable roof or ceiling structures. Retainingbrackets740A define bores for receiving any suitable fasteners such as threaded screws, bolts or nails for securingfan box701 to the beams, or other roof or ceiling structures (not shown).

Referring back to FIGS.[0200]45-47,fan system700 may includehanger unit790 attachable tofan box701 for hangingfan box701 to a beam.Hanger unit790 includes ofhanger plate791 secured totop wall741 offan box701, and a plurality ofhanger arms792, each definingtop end793 andside end794.Top end793 of each of the plurality ofhanger arms792 is slidably attached tohanger plate791, such thattop end793 adjustably extends away fromside walls740 offan box701 to reach a beam or other suitable structure. Side end794 of each of the plurality ofhanger arms792 defines elongatedslot795 for receiving a plurality of hanger fastener (not shown) forfastening fan system700 to a beam or any suitable structure.

[0201]

Fan system

700 further comprisesfirst fan710 disposed withinfirst compartment702,second fan711 disposed withinsecond compartment703, andexhaust hose712 connected tooutlet opening709.First fan710 is capable of pulling air from the first location through one of the plurality offirst inlet openings704 intofan box701. Similarly,second fan711 operates to pull air from the second location through one of the plurality ofsecond inlet openings705 intofan box701. Bothfirst fan710 andsecond fan711 drive the air out offan box701 through outlet opening709 intoexhaust hose712 for releasing at an outside location.

In another feature, also depicted in FIGS.[0202]45-51, one of the plurality ofsecond inlet openings705 is connected to suction hose713 ofventilation apparatus714 for ventilating odorous air from a toilet (not shown). In addition, one of the plurality offirst inlet openings704 may be connected toventilation tubing715 for ventilating air from a bathing facility (not shown), such as a shower stall or an enclosed bathtub.

As shown in FIGS.[0203]45-46,fan system700 may further comprisefirst adapter716 attachable to one of the plurality offirst inlet openings704,second adapter717 attachable to one of the plurality ofsecond inlet openings705, andoutlet adapter718 attachable tooutlet opening709.First adapter716 has firstcircular lip716A for connecting toventilation tubing715. Similarly,second adapter717 has secondcircular lip717A for connecting to suction hose713 ofventilation apparatus714. Likewise,outlet adapter718 has thirdcircular lip718A for connecting to exhausthose712.Fan system700 may include a plurality of tubing clamps726 for securing the tubing or hoses to respective adapters.

As demonstrated in FIG. 45,[0204]

ventilation tubing

715 defines connectingend719 andintake end720.Connecting end719 is snugly connected tosecond inlet adapter716, andintake end720 being in fluid communication with the bathing facility.Intake end720 includesintake housing721, which hasbase724 definingintake opening722 for receiving air from the bathing facility, andorifice723 for connecting to intake end720 ofventilation tubing715.Intake housing721 may have a domeshape (see FIGS. 45 and 49-50).Intake housing721 includes a ceiling fastener (not shown) forfastening intake housing721 to the inner side of the ceiling (not shown) above the bathing facility.Intake opening722 is aligned to a hole (not shown) in the ceiling to allow air or steam within the bathing facility to move intointake housing721.

[0205]

Intake housing

721 is adapted to include intake grille725 (shown in FIG. 51), which defines a plurality ofgaps725A for receiving the air or steam from the bathing facility (shown in FIG. 51).Intake grille725 fits overintake opening722 such thatintake grille725 is situated substantially on the same plane as the ceiling within the bathing facility.Intake grille725 may includegrille fastener725B forfastening intake grille725 tobase724 ofintake housing721, other known methods of attachment may be used forintake grille725 to fit overintake opening722.

In one embodiment of the invention, as further illustrated in FIGS. 46 and 48,[0206]

fan box

701 is a stacked fan box definingfirst compartment702 disposed abovesecond compartment703. Fan system further includes stackingshroud unit729, which containsfirst shroud730 stacking abovesecond shroud731. Stackingshroud unit729 may includepartition738 betweenfirst shroud730 andsecond shroud731.First shroud730 includes first platform736 havingfirst cavity736A for receiving and supportingfirst fan710.First shroud730 further includes first substantiallycircular wall737 having first tract opening732 for directing the air movement towards outlet opening709 offirst compartment702. Likewise,second shroud731 includessecond platform742 havingsecond cavity742A for receivingsecond fan711.Second shroud731 further includes second substantiallycircular wall739 having second tract opening733 for directing the air movement towards outlet opening709 ofsecond compartment703. Bothfirst tract opening732 and second tract opening733 are in fluid communications withoutlet opening709 andexhaust hose712.

Moreover,[0207]

fan box

701 may include a first electrical outlet (not shown) for supplying electricity to operatefirst fan710 andsecond fan711 andelectrical shield727 for blocking the moisture from steam to reach the electrical outlet. The electrical outlet may be electrically connected to a switch (not shown) that a user can operate. Alternatively,first fan710 andsecond fan711 may be set to operate continuously or upon activation by a sensor.

Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 46,[0208]

fan system

700 further comprisescover plate755 attachable tobottom side745 offan box701.Cover plate755 may include a cover plate fastener (not shown) for fasteningcover plate755 tobottom side745 offan box701.

[0209]

Fan system

700 may include agrille plate760 attachable to coverplate755, and the opening in the ceiling (not shown), in whichfan box701 is installed therethrough.Grille plate760 may include one or moregrille plate fasteners761 for fastening thegrille plate760 to coverplate755.Grille plate760 may have any decorative design.

Alternatively,[0210]

grille plate

760 shown in FIGS.52-52A may defineremovable grille insert765 attached to insertslot762 disposed in the middle ofgrille plate760.Grille insert765 may be replaceable by optionallight unit770 for lighting the bathroom.

Optional[0211]

light unit

770 shown in FIGS. 46 and 52 includes aluminum lightbulb reflector plate771, which may fit intoinsert slot762 and may be secured togrille plate760.Light unit770 further includeslight bulb772 and shield780 for protectinglight bulb772. It is contemplated the light unit may include more than onelight bulb772.

As shown in FIGS. 46 and 52,[0212]

light bulb

772 includessocket773 secured to aluminum lightbulb reflector plate771.Socket773 has connectingplug774 for inserting into a second electrical outlet (not shown) for supplying electricity tolight bulb772.Shield780 may be secured to aluminum lightbulb reflector plate771, orgrille plate760. It is contemplated thatshield780 may be of any suitable shape and any decorative design.

It is further contemplated that the second electrical outlet may be connected to a second switch (not shown) that a user can operate. Optionally, the second electrical outlet may be electrically connected to the first electrical outlet, and both outlets are connected to a switch that a user can operate. In such case, the user may operate the fans at the same time the user turns on[0213]

light bulb

772.

In an alternative embodiment, fan system[0214]799 for ventilating bathroom air comprises fan box800 (see FIG. 54) being substantially flat and rectangular, having fourside walls801 attached totop wall802. In this embodiment, at least oneside wall801 is attached totop wall802 by a plurality ofhinges810 such that one ormore side walls801 may be pushed toward the inside offan box800 during the installation of the components described herein below.Fan box800 includes a plurality of retainingbrackets803 for attachingfan box800 to a beam or any other suitable structures in the space above the ceiling.Fan box800 comprisesfirst compartment805 disposed on the same plane assecond compartment806.First compartment805 defines a plurality offirst intake openings807 for receiving air from one or more locations. Similarly,second compartment806 defines a plurality ofsecond inlet openings808 for receiving air from one or more locations.Fan box800 further defines outlet opening809 being in fluid communication with bothfirst compartment805 andsecond compartment806.Outlet opening809 is connectable to an exhaust hose (not shown). The operation and additional elements of fan system799 are similar to that offan system700.

In this alternative embodiment fan system[0215]799 further comprises a side-by-side shroud unit820 as illustrated in FIG. 55. Side-by-side shroud unit820 defines leftshroud821 for retaining a first fan (not shown), andright shroud822 for retaining a second fan (not shown).Left shroud821 includesfirst platform823 definingfirst cavity823A, and first substantiallycircular wall824 definingfirst tract opening824.Right shroud822 includessecond platform830 definingfirst cavity830A, and first substantiallycircular wall831 definingfirst tract opening832.First platform823 andsecond platform830 may be made from a single piece material into asingle platform834.

Side-by-[0216]

side shroud unit

820 may be inserted and retained withinfan box800 such that leftshroud821 is disposed withinfirst compartment805, andright shroud822 is disposed withinsecond compartment806. Furthermore, the plurality offirst inlet openings807 is in fluid communication withfirst cavity823A, and plurality ofsecond inlet openings808 is in fluid communication withsecond cavity830A. Fan system799 may include a plurality of caps (not shown) for closing any of the plurality offirst inlet openings807 andsecond inlet openings808 that are not in use.

The first fan (not shown) may be inserted through[0217]

first cavity

823A and secured ontofirst platform823 with a plurality of first fan fasteners (not shown). Likewise, the second fan may be inserted throughsecond cavity830A and secured ontosecond platform830 with a plurality of first fan fasteners (not shown). It is contemplated that fan system799 having side-by-side fan box800 may be connected to the components offan box701 as described herein above.

In an operating mode, the first fan and the second fan pull air into[0218]

fan box

800 through any of the plurality offirst openings807 and any of the plurality ofsecond openings808. Air moves throughfirst cavity823A andsecond cavity830A along first substantiallycircular wall821 towards first tract opening824 tooutlet opening809, and along second substantiallycircular wall831 towards second tract opening832 tooutlet opening809. Air is then pushed through outlet opening809 into the exhaust hose (not shown) to be discharged at an outside location.

In another embodiment, the fan system for ventilating air from a plurality of locations in a building (not shown) comprises a fan box having a plurality of compartments. Each compartment defines an inlet opening for receiving air from one of the plurality of locations. The fan box further comprises an outlet opening in air communication with said plurality of compartments. The outlet opening is connected to and is in air communication with an exhaust hose.[0219]

Furthermore, the fan system of this embodiment comprises a plurality of fans, each being disposed within each of the plurality of compartments, whereby the plurality of fans pulls air from the plurality of locations through each of the inlet openings into each of the plurality of compartments. The plurality of fans is capable of driving air out of the plurality of compartments through the outlet opening into the exhaust hose for releasing to an outside location.[0220]

In another embodiment, the present invention contemplates[0221]

ventilation apparatus

900 for eliminating odor from a commercial flush toilet. As shown in FIG. 56,commercial toilet911 generally includestoilet bowl912 withrim913 defining a plurality ofholes913A, anddischarge conduit915 connectingbowl912 to water supply WS. This embodiment is suitable for locations that lack a tank for providing discharge water for the toilet system.

[0222]

Ventilation apparatus

900 includesair conduit930 havingfirst end930A and second end930B, first and second ends930A,930B being in fluid communication.First end930A ofair conduit930 is connected to dischargeconduit915 byvacuum connector960 andfastener950.Vacuum connector960 has a plurality ofair holes960A, which communicate air betweentoilet bowl912 andair conduit930. Second end930B ofair conduit930 is connected to and is in air communication withhose925.Hose925 is connected to a suction device (not shown in FIG. 56, but generally such as shown at28 in FIG. 3) capable of pulling air throughhose925,air conduit930,vacuum connector960,discharge conduit915, and ultimately,toilet bowl912. Second end930B ofair conduit930 can further includevalve970 regulating air pressure in the air conduit.

Another embodiment of the fan system,[0223]

fan system

1000, similar to that shown in FIG. 46, is shown in FIG. 57 as havingenclosure1002, shown in a square configuration, withaccess openings1004. Onesuch access opening1004 is reserved for connection to outlet1016 andexhaust hose1006 while theother access openings1004 may be used for connection to other systems such as, for example, other ventilation systems or automatic flush systems viaaccess plates1005.Enclosure1002 definessingle compartment1008 within which is disposed singleelectric motor1010 and two

impellers

1012 and1014, one beingblower side impeller1012 and the other beingvacuum side impeller1014.Vacuum side impeller1014 is used to pull the odorous air intoenclosure1002 whileblower side impeller1012 propels the odorous air through outlet1016 intohose1006 for removal to a remote location (typically outside of the room in which fan system is installed).

Impellers

1012 and1014 andmotor1010 are maintained withinhousing1018 with

impellers

1012 and1014 are separated bypanel1020 inserted therebetween to ensure that there is no disruption of one operation by the other device. In addition toaccess openings1004 inenclosure1002,open bottom side1022 thereof is structured for engagement withgrille1024 which may be visible to an observer from belowfan system1000.

[0224]

Grille system

1024 forfan system1000 is shown in FIG. 58 as having three portions: firstaccess shield portion1026,insert portion1028, andcircular cover1030.Access shield portion1026 includes a plurality ofopenings1032 which provide inlets for air, typically room air, to be ventilated from the bathroom or other room location.Insert portion1028, which locks intoopening1027 viatabs1029, provides a cover plate for a lamp unit, such aslamp unit770 of FIG. 46, which is disposed withinenclosure1002 offan system1000;insert portion1028 further providescircular opening1034 for mounting a bulb or a lamp unit (not shown). Circular insert or cover1030 seals opening1034 through locking engagement with the edges ofopening1034 when no light is installed, and a suitable bulb or lamp unit may have a similar engagement withopening1034. Referring again to FIG. 57, the structure offan system1000 is in many ways similar tofan system700, but notably different is the structure ofenclosure1002 definingsingle compartment1008 having onlysingle motor1010 and only oneblower side impeller1012 and onevacuum side impeller1014.

[0225]

Ventilation system

1036 is configured for removal of odors and the like from within the wash down holes underneath the rim of a toilet bowl as shown in FIG. 59.Ventilation system1036 may be fitted to an already existing toilet, such astoilet911 of FIG. 56 or a toilet includingtoilet tank1038 shown in dashed lines, or may be provided before the toilet is installed in its desired location.Ventilation system1036 includesflexible hose1040 connected to a externally located fan system, such asfan system1000 shown in FIG. 57, which provides vacuum suction to remove odors and other bacteria from the wash down holes underneath the toilet rim.End1042 ofhose1040 opposite the connection to the fan system is connected tofirst end1044 offemale adapter1046 inserted intoopening1048 inbottom wall1039 oftoilet tank1038. Even if the toilet is fully installed, a suitable hole may be cut inbottom wall1039 such that thatfemale adapter1046 is inserted andventilation system1036 attached and installed. The other end, orsecond end1050, offemale adapter1046 is connected tolower end1053 ofevacuation pipe1052 disposed completely withintoilet tank1038.Upper end1055 ofevacuation pipe1052 is connected tooverflow pipe1054 by a plurality of 90°

elbows

1056 and1058 and small adapter1060 (shown as a length of pipe), between

elbows

1056 and1058.Overflow pipe1054 is in fluid communication with flush valve1062, disposedproximate bottom wall1039 oftoilet tank1038, throughflush pipe1064.Overflow pipe1054,flush pipe1064, and flush valve1062 may be already existing components in the toilet.

In operation, when vacuum suction is produced by externally located[0226]

fan system

1000, for example, any odors and/or bacteria residing in the wash down holes of the toilet rim are sucked intoventilation system1000 through flush valve1062,overflow pipe1054,

elbows

1056 and1058 andadapter1060,evacuation pipe1052, and then throughhose1040 located externally oftoilet tank1038. Whenfan system1000, such as that shown in FIG. 57, is used thenvacuum side impeller1014 provides the necessary vacuum suction for actuation of the ventilation system.

In FIG. 60,[0227]

automatic flush system

1066 is shown as being mounted toreplacement overflow pipe1068 having bracket1070 thereon.Replacement overflow pipe1068 may be placed over a portion of existingoverflow pipe1054, or may be structured such thatentire overflow pipe1054 is replaced.Automatic flush system1066 includessmall servo motor1072 disposed withinrectangular enclosure1074, which is then mounted to servo bracket1070 provided onreplacement overflow pipe1068. Pivotably mounted on the exterior ofenclosure1074 and in electrical operative engagement withservomotor1072 isactuation lever1076. The opposite end ofactuation lever1076 is connected toflapper clip1078 and throughflapper clip1078 toflapper chain1080, which is further connected toflapper1082 of flush valve1062, as in known toilet systems.Actuation lever1076 is movable between a null, or rest, position in which flush valve1062 is closed and no flushing occurs and a flush position, in which flush valve1062 opens and the toilet is flushed. In electrical communication with the servomotor is sensingdevice1084 disposed externally of the toilet and which is used to detect whether an object is within the sensing range for determination of actuation ofautomatic flush system1066.

When sensing[0228]

device

1084 detects that an object is within the sensing range,automatic flush system1066 is not actuated, oractuation lever1076 is in its null position. The sensing range of thesensing device1084 will be determined by whethersensing device1084 is an optical sensor which would have a sensing range of the area around the toilet, a weight sensor which would sense if a person was seated upon the toilet, a mechanical or magnetic sensor which would determine if the toilet lid has been lifted and/or replaced. In the embodiment described hereinbelow,sensing device1084 is an optical sensor and thus senses whether an object, more specifically a person, is within the area of the toilet. Alternatively,sensing device1084 may be positioned such that the object being sensed is the toilet lid and whether the toilet lid is in a raised or a lowered position. Oncesensing device1084 detects that the object has moved away from its sensing range,servo motor1072 is actuated and causesactuation lever1076 to rotate from the null position to a flush position, thereby movingflapper clip1078 andflapper chain1080 to raiseflapper1082 and allow the flush of the toilet to occur.Flapper1082 will then remain open for a predetermined time period, such as, for example approximately ten seconds, to accommodate the flush, and once the predetermined time period has elapsed,servo motor1072 will then resetactuation lever1076 to its null position, thereby closing flush valve1062.Automatic flush system1066 may be used in conjunction withfan system1000 of FIG. 57, in whichcase sensing device1084 would also send a signal tofan system1000 to cause the fan to run for another predetermined time period, such as, for example, approximately 90 seconds, after actuation ofautomatic flush system1066 for removal of any odors within thesystem1066.

[0229]

Automatic flush system

1066 may also include a manual override device associated withsensing device1084 such that the manual override may be flipped, or switched, so that the fan will continue to run for a time period longer than the predetermined time period described above, yet still allowstoilet1038 to be flushed automatically through the operation ofsystem1066. In order to preventtoilet1038 from overflowing, an overflow sensor may be incorporated withinsensing device1084 such that if an overflow condition is sensed,actuation lever1076 is moved to its null position andtoilet1038 is unable to be flushed until the overflow condition is corrected. In a similar manner,automatic flushing system1066 may include an on-off capability whereinactuation lever1076 is moved to its null position to prevent flushing of the toilet at certain times, such as, for example, when one is cleaningtoilet1038 or immediately after a power outage.Flapper chain1080 may be equipped with an adjustable ball weight to ensure thatflapper1082 moves rapidly to its closed position and thereby conserve water during the toilet flushing, or the predetermined time period for flushing, as described above, may be adjusted to likewise reduce the amount of water utilized during flushing.

[0230]

Ventilation system

1086 includesenclosure1088 for a wash basin, such as a shower, a tub, or a shower and tub combination, as shown in FIG. 61, and includessystem1090 for removing steam or moisture fromenclosure1088; however, only grille1092 (FIG. 62) ofventilation system1086 would be visible to a person standing withinenclosure1088.Ventilation system1086, as shown in FIG. 62, includesmanifold body1094 mounted above shower ortub enclosure1088 in the ceiling and concealed from view withdiffuser grille1092 being detachably mounted thereto.Manifold body1094 is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes at least oneaccess plate1096 for connection of hose orpipe1098 thereto. Whenventilation system1086 is to be installed,access plate1096 is removed and one end of hose orpipe1098 attached to accessplate1096 while the other end of hose orpipe1096 is connected to suction device1100 (FIG. 61), or a remote location, for removal of the steam or moisture.Access plate1096 is then inserted intoopening1095 inbody1094 and secured allowingpipe1098 to be connected tobody1094. Diffuser grille includes a plurality ofinlet openings1104 and a set of spring ortension clips1102 formed near the circumference thereof for mounting tomanifold body1094, the use ofsuch clips1102 enables quick installation ofdiffuser grille1092 since one need only to placediffuser grille1092 and insertclips1102 and allowclips1102 to “snap” into a locking position.Inlet openings1104 are provided such that any steam or moisture produced will be evacuated throughinlet openings1104 and intomanifold body1094 from which the steam and moisture will pass through the hose tosuction device1100 or remote location.Ventilation system1086 is particularly adapted to be used in conjunction withfan system1000 of FIG. 57 to facilitate the suction of the steam or moisture throughventilation system1086 for expulsion to another location.

Although[0231]

systems

1000,1036,1066, and1086 have been described individually, it is to be noted that the systems may be combined into one larger system for removal of odorous air and bacteria from an entire bathroom area. As stated previously,fan ventilation system1000 shown in FIG. 57 includesaccess openings1004 with removable panels which allow for connection to other systems.Fan ventilation system1000 may be simultaneously connected totoilet ventilation system1036 andflush system1066 of FIGS. 59 and 60 and showerenclosure ventilation system1086 of FIGS. 61 and 62. Thus, the separate systems may be integrated to support odor removal and mitigation from the toilet bowl, from the area above and surrounding the toilet and wash basin and from within the shower enclosure. Similarly,fan ventilation system1000 may be connected to several air removal systems in kitchens, nurseries, work areas, or other locations requiring ventilation. Furthermore, singleelectric motor1010 ofsystem1000, and

impellers

1012 and1014, are sized such that all odor removal functions, i.e. creation of vacuum suction to pull the odors from the different areas, may be performed bymotor1010 and

impellers

1012 and1014 to further support the integration of

systems

1000,1036,1066, and1086.

The systems described above are not only capable of being integrated, but provide easier installation methods. With[0232]

ventilation system

1000 of FIG. 57, an installer would first fastenaccess plates1005, without any openings, to accessopenings1004 which will be facing the joists or equivalent structures, which depending upon the location within the home will be either ceiling or floor joists,place enclosure1002 between the joists, andsecure enclosure1002 to the joists. Then an installer would attach the necessary conduits to accessplates1005 having the correctly sized apertures and secure the conduits andaccess plates1005. Then electrical connections would be made andmotor1010 and

impellers

1012 and1014 would be inserted intoenclosure1002 and connected electrically. Lastly,grille1024 would be placed over openbottom side1022 of theenclosure1002.

For shower[0233]

enclosure ventilation system

1086 of FIG. 61,hose1098 is connected to centralfan ventilation system1000 and inserted between joists to a location overshower enclosure1088.Manifold body1094 is placed and secured between two joists with the opening oriented towardcentral ventilation system1000.Hose1098 is then pulled through the opening andaccess plate1096 is attached tohose1098 and placed within the opening wherebyhose1098 is securely fixed tobody1094. Lastly,grille1092 is placed over bottom1097 (FIG. 62) ofmanifold body1094.

With toilet odor evacuation and[0234]

mitigation system

1036, the toilet tank is emptied andhole1048 drilled in the bottom of the tank, thenfemale adapter1046 is inserted tohole1048 andpipe1052, and

elbows

1056 and1058, andadapter1060 connected.Replacement overflow pipe1068 with servo bracket1070 placed overoverflow pipe1054 prior to the connection of

elbows

1056 and1058 and the existing small fill tube is then inserted intoelbow1058 connected tooverflow pipe1068.Next hose1040 is connected toadapter1046 disposed inhole1048 in the bottom of the tank and fed into a hole drilled in the drywall and between studs and joists tocentral ventilation system1000.Automatic flushing system1066 may be installed simultaneously with toiletodor evacuation system1036. A hole may be drilled in the drywall near the back of the tank andelectrical gang box1083 may be inserted in the wall above the tank. Alternatively,electrical gang box1083 may be inserted in another suitable location wherein sensingdevice1084 may sense whether a person is within the vicinity of the toilet.Sensing device1084 havingcable connection1085 forservo motor1072 may be inserted intogang box1083 andcable1085 threaded between the studs and through the hole that was drilled.Servo motor1072 may be placed and secured to bracket1070 onoverflow pipe1068, andactuator lever1076 connected toflapper chain1080.Cable1085 may then be connected toservo motor1072 by threading it into the toilet tank andservo cover1074 placed overentire servo motor1072 for protection. Once all steps have been completed, the entire bathroom odor evacuation system may be installed and operational. Thus, the installation may be done quickly and even in those cases where it is being used as a remodeling replacement being retrofit into a finished bathroom.

While this invention has been described as having exemplary structures, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.[0235]

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A fan system for ventilating air from at least one interior location in a room characterized by: a fan enclosure having a compartment, said fan enclosure including an inlet opening and an outlet; said inlet opening being disposed at a level lower than a ceiling in the interior location; a motor disposed within said compartment; a fan disposed within said compartment and drivingly connected to said motor, said fan having a vacuum side and a blower side; and an exhaust conduit connected to said outlet, said vacuum side of said fan oriented to pull air from the location through said inlet opening into said fan enclosure, and said blower side of said fan oriented to drive air out of said fan enclosure through said outlet into said exhaust hose for discharge at an exterior location.

2. The fan system for ventilating air ofclaim 1 further characterized by a grille detachably fixed to said fan enclosure, said grille being disposed below said inlet opening and defining a plurality of openings for receiving air from the location.

3. The fan system for ventilating air ofclaim 2 characterized in that said grille defines at least one void, said grille further includes at least one detachable insert piece, said insert piece defining a cover for at least a portion of said void.

4. The fan system for ventilating air ofclaim 1 wherein the room includes a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub and a shower and tub combination, said ventilation system characterized by a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to said manifold body and visible from the enclosure, said diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a conduit extending from said manifold body to said fan enclosure compartment.

5. The fan system for ventilating air ofclaim 4 further characterized in that said manifold body includes a removable access plate, said plate protecting said manifold body during installation thereof.

6. An odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl, the toilet bowl including a rim thereof, the rim having a plurality of holes therein for flow of water from the tank to the bowl, the odor evacuation system characterized by a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in fluid communication with said flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in fluid communication with said overflow pipe, a pipe in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank, and a suction device disposed externally of the toilet and having an activated state and a non-activated state, said suction device is disposed such that in said activated state, air within the toilet bowl and rim is removed to said suction device through said flush valve, overflow pipe, evacuation pipe, and externally extending pipe, to remove odors from the bowl and rim.

7. An automatic flushing system for a toilet having a toilet bowl and a toilet tank with a flush valve, the flush valve including a flapper, a flapper clip and a flapper chain connecting the flapper clip and the flapper, an actuation lever attached to said flapper clip, said actuation lever having a flush position and a null position, said automatic flushing system characterized by a sensing device located externally of the toilet and having a sensing range, a motor in electrical communication with said sensing device, and a motor operatively connected to said actuation lever, wherein when said sensing device detects an object in its said sensing range, said actuation lever is in its said null position and upon detection by said sensing device that an object has left said sensing device sensing range, said actuation lever is urged into its said flush position by said motor.

8. An odor evacuation and mitigation system for a bathroom having at least one of a toilet and a shower enclosure, including an odor evacuation system for a toilet having a toilet tank and a toilet bowl including a flush valve in communication with the rim, an overflow pipe in flow communication with said flush valve, an evacuation pipe attached to and in flow communication with said overflow pipe, a conduit in flow communication with the evacuation pipe and extending externally of the toilet tank; and a ventilation system for removing steam and moisture from a bathroom including an enclosure for one of a shower, a tub, and a shower and tub combination, said ventilation system including a manifold body mounted above the enclosure, a diffuser grille detachably mounted to said manifold body and visible from the enclosure, said diffuser grille having a plurality of inlet openings, and a hose extending from said manifold body to and external location, said system characterized by a central evacuation fan system including a fan box having a compartment, said fan box including an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and at least one auxiliary opening, an exhaust hose connected to said outlet opening, at least one conduit connected to said auxiliary opening and a fan disposed in said compartment, wherein when air is drawn into said compartment through said inlet opening and said auxiliary opening thorough said conduit, said fan blowing said air through said outlet opening into said exhaust hose and to an external location.

9. The odor evacuation and mitigation system ofclaim 8 further characterized by a sensing device located externally of the toilet and having a sensing range, a motor in electrical communication with said sensing device, and an actuation lever operatively connected to said motor and attached to the flapper clip, said actuation lever having a flush position and a null position, wherein when said sensing device detects an object in its said sensing range, said actuation lever is in its said null position and upon detection by said sensing device that an object has left said sensing device sensing range, said actuation lever is urged into its said flush position by said motor.

10. A method of installation of an odor evacuation and mitigation system characterized by inserting a fan box of a central evacuation fan into a ceiling one of prior to installation of drywall and after installation of drywall on the ceiling; threading a conduit into the fan box and connecting it thereto; connecting an external hose to an outside location and to the fan box; and placing a cover on the fan box.

11. The method ofclaim 10 further characterized by inserting an enclosure for a steam ventilation system into a ceiling over a shower enclosure; and threading a pipe from the enclosure into the fan box and connecting it thereto.

12. The method ofclaim 10 further characterized by installing an odor evacuation system in a toilet and an externally extending pipe from the toilet; and pulling the externally extending pipe and connecting it to the fan box.

13. A ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe having a lower end connected to a discharge conduit and an upper end for receiving the overflow water, the discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, the discharge conduit and the rim, a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the discharge conduit and the passageway; the ventilation system characterized by a suction device; said hose having a first end and a second end, said second end connected to said suction device; a cylinder sized to fit over the overflow pipe, said cylinder defining a top end and a bottom end, said cylinder being disposed over the overflow pipe with said bottom end slightly above the bottom of the tank creating an annular space between the overflow pipe and said cylinder for water communication from the tank, said cylinder defining a plurality of bores for receiving a plurality of fasteners for securing said cylinder to the overflow pipe.

14. The ventilation apparatus ofclaim 13 characterized by a plug snugly fitted between said first end of said hose and said upper end of the overflow pipe, said plug defining a plurality of holes for providing air communication between said overflow pipe and said hose, and providing water communication between said annular space s and said overflow pipe.

15. A ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet bowl of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, a water tank with a lid, an overflow pipe having a lower end open into a discharge conduit and an upper end for receiving overflow water, the discharge conduit connecting the bowl and the tank, a passageway providing communication between the tank, the discharge conduit and the rim, a flush valve disposed above the discharge conduit, the flush valve having a flapper for opening and closing the passageway to allow the movement of water from the tank to the discharge conduit and the passageway; the ventilation apparatus characterized by a suction hose and a suction device, said suction hose having a first end and a second end, said second end connected to said suction device; an air conduit having a hose connecting end connectable to said suction hose, and an air inlet end open into an airspace above the water level in the tank, said air conduit being substantially flat and elbow-shaped, said air conduit being disposed between the tank and the lid such that the lid can be tightly sealed above said air conduit and around the tank; and an elbow adapter having a vertical arm, and a horizontal arm, said vertical arm defining an inlet opening for fitting over the upper end of the overflow pipe, said horizontal arm defining an outlet end disposed above the water level and facing said air inlet end of said air conduit, said elbow adapter defining a channel in air communication with the overflow pipe and said airspace.

16. A fan system for ventilating bathroom air from two locations in a bathroom characterized by: a fan box having a cavity defining a first compartment and a second compartment, said first compartment defining a plurality of first inlet openings for receiving air from a first location, and a second compartment defining a plurality of second inlet openings for receiving air from a second location, said fan box including an outlet opening in air communication with said first and said second compartments; a first fan disposed within said first compartment; a second fan disposed within said second compartment; and an exhaust hose connected to said outlet opening, thus when said first fan operates to pull air from the first location through one of said first inlet openings into said fan box, and said second fan operates to pull air from the second location through one of said second inlet openings into said fan box, and when said first fan and said second fan drive air out of said fan box through said outlet opening into said exhaust hose for discharging at an outside location.

17. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 16 characterized in that said fan box includes at least one side wall hingedly attached to a top wall such that said side wall is pivotable towards said cavity of said fan box.

18. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 16 characterized in that one of said first inlet openings is connected to a ventilation tubing for ventilating air and steam from a bathing facility, and one of said second inlet openings is connected to a suction hose of a ventilation apparatus for ventilating odor from a toilet.

19. The fan system for ventilating bathroom ofclaim 16 characterized by a first inlet adapter attachable to one of said first inlet openings, said first inlet adapter having a first circular lip for connecting to said ventilation tubing; a second inlet adapter attachable to one of said second inlet openings, said second inlet adapter having a second circular lip for connecting to said suction hose; and an outlet adapter attachable to said outlet opening, said outlet adapter having a third circular lip for connecting to said exhaust hose.

20. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 19 characterized in that said ventilation tubing has a connecting end and an intake end, said connecting end being connected to said second inlet adapter, and said intake end being in air communication with said bathing facility.

21. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 20 characterized in that said intake end includes an intake housing defining a base having an intake opening for receiving air from said bathing facility.

22. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 21 characterized in that said intake housing is a dome.

23. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 22 characterized in that said intake end includes an intake grill for receiving air and steam from said bathing facility snugly fitted over said intake opening.

24. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 16 characterized in that a first shroud for retaining said first fan in said first compartment, and a second shroud for retaining said second fan in said second compartment, said first shroud having a first tract opening and said second shroud having a second tract opening, both said first and said second tract openings being in air communication with said outlet opening and said exhaust hose.

25. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 24 characterized in that said fan box further includes a first electrical outlet for supplying electricity to operate said first and said second fans.

26. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 25 characterized in that said fan box further includes an electrical shield for blocking the steam from interfering with the first electrical outlet, said electrical shield being disposed within said cavity of said fan box, and between said electrical outlet and said first fan and said second fan.

27. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 26 characterized in that said electrical outlet is connected to a switch.

28. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 26 characterized by a cover plate for keeping said first fan and said second fan in place within said fan box, said cover plate being secured to a bottom side of said fan box.

29. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 28 characterized in that said cover plate includes a cover plate fastener for securing said cover plate to the bottom side of said fan box.

30. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 28 further characterized by a grill plate attachable to said cover plate, said grill plate having grill plate at least one fastener for fastening said grill plate to said cover plate.

31. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 30 characterized in that wherein said grill plate defines an insert slot disposed in the middle of said grill plate, and a removable grill insert attachable within said insert slot.

32. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 31 characterized in that said grill plate includes a light unit attachable within said insert slot.

33. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 32 characterized in that said light unit includes an aluminum light bulb reflector plate fitted into said insert slot, a light bulb secured to said reflector plate, said light bulb having a socket connecting to a plug electrically connectable to a second electrical outlet, and a shield for protecting said light bulb secured to said grill plate.

34. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 33 characterized in that said second electrical outlet is connected to a second switch.

35. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 33 characterized in that said second electrical outlet is electrically connected to said first electrical outlet.

36. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 16 characterized in that said fan box is a stacked fan box having said first compartment disposed above said second compartment within said cavity of said stacked fan box.

37. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 36 characterized by a stacking shroud unit insertable through said bottom side and including, a first shroud having a first platform defining a first cavity for receiving and holding said first fan within said first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing air and steam movement towards said outlet opening; and a second shroud having a second platform defining a second cavity for receiving and holding said second fan within said second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing air movement towards said outlet opening.

38. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 16 characterized in that said fan box is a side-by-side fan box having said first compartment disposed on the same plane as said second compartment.

39. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 38 characterized in that said fan box further includes a side-by-side shroud unit having: a left shroud having a first platform defining a first cavity for receiving and holding said first fan within said first compartment, and a first substantially circular wall having a first tract opening for directing air and steam movement towards said outlet opening; and a right shroud having a second platform defining a second cavity for receiving and holding said second fan within said second compartment, and a second substantially circular wall having a second tract opening for directing air movement towards said outlet opening.

40. The fan system for ventilating bathroom air ofclaim 16 characterized in that the fan system includes: a hanger unit attachable to said fan box for hanging said fan box to a beam or any suitable structure, said hanger unit including a hanger plate fastened to said top wall of said fan box, and a plurality of hanger arms, each defining a top end connected to a side end in a substantially right angle, said top end being slidably attached to said hanger plate such that said top end adjustably extending out from each of said side walls of said fan box, each of said side end has an elongated slot for receiving a plurality of hanger fasteners for securing said fan box to a beam or any suitable structure.

41. A fan system for ventilating air from a plurality of locations in a building characterized by: a fan box having a cavity defining a plurality of compartments, each defining an inlet opening for receiving air from one of said plurality of locations, and an outlet opening connected to an exhaust hose; and a plurality of fans, each being disposed within each of said plurality of compartments, thus when said plurality of fans pulls air or steam from said plurality of locations through said inlet opening into each of said plurality of compartments, and when said plurality of fans drives air or steam out of said compartments through said outlet opening into said exhaust hose for releasing to an outside location.

42. A ventilation apparatus for eliminating the odor from a toilet of the type having a toilet bowl with a rim defining a plurality of holes, and a discharge conduit in air communication with and connecting the bowl and a water supply characterized by: an air conduit having a first end and a second end, said air conduit having an air channel connecting said first and second ends; a vacuum connector connecting said first end of said air conduit to the discharge conduit, said vacuum connector defining a plurality of air holes in air communication with said air conduit and the discharge conduit; a suction device; and a suction hose connected at one end to said second end of said air conduit, and connected at an opposite end to said suction device.