AU2022321657B2 - Toilet having a specific inner bowl shape - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a toilet the inner bowl shape of which has a first flow path (10) that moves circularly all around a water level (8) and has a descending course and is terminated by a leading-edge structure (18), the leading-edge structure (18) diverting part of the flush water flow towards inwards to a center region of the water level (8).

Description

Toilet with specific inner bowl shape

The present invention relates to a water closet (toilet) with a particular configuration 5 of the internal shape of the toilet bowl. 1005973266

Background 2022321657

Toilets have been known for a long time and are characterised by flushing the inside of the bowl with water. The water can, for example, be fed to an inlet opening to the 10 bowl with a certain downward gradient or with the help of pipe pressure via a flush valve and a flush pipe. In conventional toilets, the water is distributed around the upper edge of the bowl via a so-called classic flush rim in the form of a ring shower and flows downwards through a large number of inlet openings in order to flow downwards along the inside of the bowl to a drain opening. As an alternative to this, 15 various forms of a water flow circulating in the inner bowl shape for rinsing are known and widely used. For this purpose, the rinsing water is guided into the bowl via at least one inlet opening with a largely tangential inlet direction and flows therein in a combination of a circulating and a downward movement.

20 EP 2 604 761 B1 describes such a case in which the inner shape of the bowl is asymmetrical. A flow path defined between an outer concave edge and an inner convex edge adjoins the rinsing water inlet opening, which on the one hand circu- lates around the drain opening and on the other hand slopes down during this cir- culation in order to favour the described combination of a circulating and descending 25 rinsing water flow and to bring the rinsing water to the drain opening with a relatively large amount of "momentum".

In addition, reference can be made to EP 3 412 840 B1, in which a further second flow path is provided over a limited angular area (defined in plan view of the bowl 30 opening), with which the risk of splashing out can be minimised, in particular with an undercut-free upper inner edge of the bowl.

Reference to any prior art in the specification is not an acknowledgement or sug- gestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any juris- 35 diction or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be combined with any other piece of prior art by a skilled person in the art.

On this basis, the present invention preferably provides a toilet with a further opti- mised inner bowl shape, or at least provides a useful alternative to the prior art.

Summary 5 An aspect of the present invention provides a toilet with a bowl which has a bowl 1005973266

opening facing upwards and an inlet opening for flushing water to enter the bowl, and an inner bowl shape with a flow path defined between an outer first concave 2022321657

edge and an inner first convex edge, wherein the bowl has a drain with a drain opening and an odour trap and 10 wherein the first flow path circulates around the drain opening and drops as it circu- lates, wherein the first flow path is adjacent at its lower end to an incident flow step, which incident flow step is defined between a part of the first concave edge and a second convex edge on a side of the incident flow step facing away from the first flow path 15 and rises from the first concave edge to the second convex edge, wherein the incident flow step is designed to divert flushing water into the drain opening wherein an end of the incident flow step proximal to a water surface in the drain opening is directed, in projection from above, onto an outer edge of the water sur- 20 face in a front two-thirds region of the outer edge.

The inner bowl shape of the toilet according to the disclosure has a ("first") flow path defined analogously to the cited prior art. The outer "first" concave edge and the inner "first" convex edge are also defined in the present case as lines of extreme 25 curvature values (maxima and minima, depending on the concavity or convexity) occurring in vertical sectional planes from the outside to the inside (towards the cen- tre of the water surface in the drain opening). From these extreme values, extreme value lines or edges then result from the variety of possible vertical sections. In other words, the edges are lines of greatest curvature in relation to the profile shape of 30 the inner bowl shape (viewed from the outside inwards).

The corresponding first flow path has a circulating shape, wherein the term "circu- lating" refers to the drain opening, specifically the water surface therein. As in the cited prior art, the first flow path drops during circulation. This drop means that the

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shapeof shape of the the flow flow path path supports supports or, or, in in other other words, words, accommodates accommodates thethe downward downward

tendency tendency ofof thewater the water flow, flow, which which is in is in any any case case unavoidable unavoidable due todue to gravity gravity and and also also desirablefor desirable for the theflushing flushingeffect. effect.InInparticular, particular, this this means means that that a lower a lower and and a higher a higher

side of side of the the first first flow flow path path can bedistinguished can be distinguishedin in relationtotoa avertical relation verticalplane plane dividing dividing

the centre the centreofofthe thetoilet toiletinto into aaleft left and andright righthalf half(which (whichalso also divides divides the the user, user, so so to to speak,ininthe speak, thecentre centrewhen when hesitting he is is sitting on on thethe toilet,and toilet, and which which is vertical is vertical on on the the wallwall

in the in the state state mounted mounted on on thethe wall). wall).

In In this this sense, thefirst sense, the first flow flow path hasaalower path has lowerendend at at thethe lower lower part, part, wherein wherein the pre- the pre-

sent invention sent inventionproposes proposes a so-called a so-called incident incident flowflow step step adjoining adjoining this lower this lower end. end. This This is, as is, as the theembodiment example embodiment example shows, shows, to to a certain a certain extenta a"barrier" extent "barrier" occurring occurring at at the lower the lowerend endof of the the firstflow first flowpath, path,wherein, wherein, in in order order to distinguish to distinguish it from it from the the con-con-

cave and cave andconvex convexedges edges addressed addressed above, above, the the term term "edge" "edge" is not is not used used here. here.

This barrier This barrieror orincident flow incident step flow is defined step between is defined a convex between a convexedge edgeand and aa concave concave

edge,wherein edge, whereinthethe concave concave edge edge is the is theconcave first first concave edge delimiting edge delimiting the first the flow first flow path to path to the theoutside outsideininany any case case where where the first the first flowflow path path andincident and the the incident flow flow step step adjoin one adjoin oneanother, another, while while thethe "second" "second" convex convex edge edge also also defining defining the incident the incident flow flow step is step is accordingly locatedonon accordingly located the the side side of of thethe incident incident flow flow step step facing facing away away from from the the

first flow path. first flow path.

Accordingly, the Accordingly, the incident incident flow flow step step can can also also be be described with regard described with regard to to an an outer outer convexedge convex edgeand andananinner innerconcave concave edge edge (in(incontrast contrastto to the the outer outer concave and inner concave and inner convexedge convex edge of the of the flowflow path). path). The incident The incident flow(in flow step step the(in the of sense sense of the barrier) the barrier)

rises from rises fromthe theconcave concave to the to the convex convex edge. edge. It is designed It is designed to deflect to deflect flushing flushing water water flowing ononthe flowing thefirst firstflow flowpath. path.Accordingly, Accordingly, as explained as explained in detail in more more below, detail below, the the incident flow incident flow step stepextends extends from from the the outside outside inwards inwards towards towards theopening. the drain drain opening.

Thealignment The alignmentof of thethe incident incident flow flow step step with with the the drain drain opening, opening, specifically specifically the water the water

surfaceininit, surface it, refers refers to to the theview viewfrom from above, above, i.e. i.e. a vertical a vertical projection projection from above. from above.

Accordingly,there Accordingly, there is is anan endend of the of the incident incident flow flow step step that that is is proximal proximal to the to the water water surface. This surface. This proximal end, again proximal end, again in in aa projection projection from above, should from above, shouldbebedirected directed

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towardsanan towards outer outer edge edge of water of the the water surface surface in a two-thirds in a front front two-thirds area ofarea of the the same. same. "In front" "In front" means means atatthe thefront frontfrom fromthe theuser's user'spoint pointofofview, view,i.e. i.e. in in front front of of aa user user stand- stand-

ing in ing in front front of of aa toilet toilet or or adjacent adjacent totothe theknees knees of aofuser a user sitting sitting on toilet. on the the toilet. ThisThis

usually means usually means that that thethe "front" "front" is is directed directed away away from from the on the wall wall or on in or in front front of which of which

the toilet is or is to be installed. the toilet is or is to be installed.

"Directed" means "Directed" that the means that the proximal proximal end end meets meetsthe theouter outeredge edgeofofthe thewater watersurface surface or, ifif the or, the incident flow step incident flow stepextends extends beyond beyond the outer the outer edge, intersects edge, intersects it the it or, if or, if the incident flow incident flowstep stepends ends before before it, it, that that an an extension extension of proximal of the the proximal endthe end meets meets the

edge. edge.

The water The watersurface, surface, on on the the other other hand, hand, should should not not be be understood to mean understood to that there mean that there mustactually must actuallybebewater waterin in thedrain the drain opening. opening. Rather, Rather, a toilet a toilet with with thethe usual usual odour odour trap trap

is designed is in such designed in such aa way waythat thataacertain certain (maximum) (maximum) water water level level isispresent presentininthe the

drain opening drain opening when when installed installed in the in the "resting "resting position", position", i.e.i.e. without without a flow a flow of flushing of flushing

water. This water. Thisdoes doesnot notinclude include possible possible evaporation evaporation losses, losses, whichwhich cantolead can lead to a slightly a slightly

lowerwater lower waterlevel. level.Typically, Typically,the thewater water level level is determined is determined by anby an overflow overflow edge on edge on the other the otherside sideofofthe theodour odour trap,i.e. trap, i.e.on onthe theside sidefacing facing the the sewage sewage system. system.

Particularly preferably,the Particularly preferably, theabove above statements statements applyapply nottoonly not only the to the two-thirds front front two-thirds areaof area of the the water watersurface, surface,butbut also also to to the the fronthalf front halfand, and, particularlypreferably, particularly preferably, even even

to the to the front front third. third.InInthe theembodiment example, embodiment example, the the point point of impact of impact of the of the incident incident flow flow

step is step is on the outer on the outeredge, edge,approximately approximately at aat a division division ratio ratio of 3:1, of 3:1, i.e.onon i.e. the the edge edge of of the front the front quarter. quarter.

The conceivable The conceivablecase casethat thatthe the incident incident flow flow step step ends ends above the outer above the outer edge edgeof of the the watersurface water surface and and no longer no longer reaches reaches it (which it (which is not is not preferable, preferable, but possible) but possible) has has just also just beenconsidered. also been considered.In In this this case, case, thethe endend of the of the incident incident flowflow step step proximal proximal to to the edge the (in projection edge (in projectionfrom fromabove) above) should should be be considered extendedin considered extended in the the sense of sense of

its local its local direction direction in in the the context of the context of thepresent present definitions.InInthethe definitions. same same sense, sense, one one canconsider can considerthethe likewise likewise conceivable, conceivable, albeit albeit not preferred, not preferred, case case in in the which which the inci- inci- dent flow dent flow step, step, in incontrast contrasttotothe embodiment the example,isis not embodiment example, not bounded boundedbybysuch such a a

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lowerconcave lower concave edge, edge, which which is a is a direct direct continuation continuation ofouter of the the outer concave concave edge of edge the of the first flow first flow path path (i.e. (i.e.the the "first" "first"concave concave edge). Even edge). Even then, then, oneone can can imagine imagine an an inter- inter- mediateportion mediate portion between between anofend an end theof the incident incident flowdistal flow step step from distalthefrom theendouter outer end of the of watersurface the water surfaceandand thethe outer outer concave concave edge edge of the of theflow first first path, flow path, as it in as it were were in

extensionofofthe extension thedistal distalend end(with (withitsitslocal localdirection directionininvertical vertical projection). projection). To Tosimplify simplify the terminology the and explanation, terminology and explanation, the the lower lower concave concaveedge edgeofofthe theincident incident flow flow step step shouldalso should alsobebeconsidered consideredthe the "first"concave "first" concave edgeedge in such in such cases, cases, even though even though there there maybebe may a gap a gap between between it andit the andouter the outer concaveconcave edge edge of the of the first flow first path.flow path. In this In this sense,the sense, thefirst first flow flowpath path"ends" "ends" at at thethe incident incident flowflow stepstep or incident or the the incident flow flow step step

formsthe forms thelower lowerendend of of thethe flow flow path. path.

Thedescribed The described alignment alignment of proximal of the the proximal end of end of the incident the incident flow stepflow step to the to the front front two-thirds area two-thirds areaserves servesto to align align the the part part of of the the rinsing rinsing water water deflected deflected by the by the incident incident

flow step flow step in in such suchaaway way thatititdoes that doesnot notarrive arriveatatthe thedrain drainopening, opening, or or more more precisely precisely

the water the watersurface surface only only at at thethe very very "rear" "rear" (in(in thethe sense sense defined defined above). above). On theOn the other other hand,another hand, another part part of of the the flushing flushing water water thatthat has has flown flown alongalong the first the first flowflow path path or inor in its vicinity its vicinity(in (inparticular particularslightly slightlyoutside outside on a steeper on a steeperwall wallsection section beyond beyond the first the first

concave concave edge) edge) can can passpass beyond beyond the incident the incident flow flow step step instead instead of along of flowing flowing it along to it to the drain the drain opening. opening.This Thispart partthen then arrives arrives at at the the drain drain opening opening further further rear. rear. Simplified, Simplified,

onecan one cantherefore therefore imagine imagine at least at least two two parts parts of the of the flushing flushing water water flow,flow, one one of of which which

is directed is slightly further directed slightly further forwards intothe forwards into thedrain drainopening opening by the by the incident incident flow flow step step thanthe than theother. other.

Asalready As alreadyexplained explained in the in the already already cited cited prior prior art,art, in particular in particular in the in the earlier earlier patent patent

EP EP 22604 604761761 B1,B1, the the first first flow flow path path serves serves a vortex-like a vortex-like andtheonone and on thehand onerotat- hand rotat- ing, on ing, on the the other other hand descendingflush hand descending flushwater waterflow flowinto into the the drain drain opening, opening, which which accordinglyalso accordingly alsoleads leadsto to a a rotatingand, rotating and, in in thesense the sense of the of the cited cited prior prior art,preferably art, preferably "momentum "momentum full" full" flush flush water water flowflow in the in the drain drain opening. opening. However, However, it can that it can happen happen that floating objects, floating for example objects, for toiletpaper, example toilet paper,collect collectininthe the"eye" "eye" of of such such a rotating a rotating flow flow

andare and arenot notflushed flushed outout very very quickly quickly orall or at at despite all despite the extremely the extremely efficient efficient (espe-(espe-

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cially with cially with regard to faeces) regard to faeces)flush flushwater waterflow. flow.IfIf aapart part of of the the flush flush water waterflow, flow,deviat- deviat- ing from ing fromthis this rotating rotatingflow, flow,is is directed directedfurther furtherforwards forwards into into thethe drain drain opening, opening, such such

phenomena phenomena cancan be be reduced reduced or prevented. or prevented.

This problem This problem isisalready already dealt dealt with with in in thestate the stateofofthe theart artUSUS 2014/0289947 2014/0289947 A1, A1, where where the rinsing the rinsing water waterflow flowisistotobe bedivided dividedinto intotwo two partialflows partial flows by by twotwo openings, openings, one one of of whichflows which flowsisisstronger strongerandand is be is to to be partially partially thrown thrown back back by a relatively by a relatively deep deep rear rear surface(reference surface (reference42 42 in Figure in Figure 12),12), so that so that three three partial partial flows flows are created are created at the at the end. One end. One partialflow partial flowshould should impact impact on described on the the described rear surface, rear surface, not in not in the the sense sense

of deflection of in another deflection in anotherdirection, direction,but butininthe thesense sense of of mixing mixing distributed distributed in many in many di- di- rections. This rections. Thisisis intended intendedtotodestroy destroy thethe vortex vortex in the in the drain drain opening opening and achieve and achieve a a velocity distribution velocity distribution in in the drain opening the drain opening that that is is asas statisticallyuniform statistically uniformas as possible. possible.

Theconcept The conceptis is therefore therefore in in thethe direction direction of of a quasi-chaotic a quasi-chaotic disturbance disturbance of theof the rotat- rotat-

ing rinse ing rinse water waterflow flowshortly shortlybefore before the the drain drain opening. opening.

Instead, thepresent Instead, the presentinvention invention takes takes the the approach approach of pursuing of pursuing the concept the concept of main- of main-

taining as taining as much "momentum" much "momentum" as as possible possible inside inside thethe bowl bowl while while disturbingthe disturbing theflow flow as little as little asaspossible possible and maintaining and maintaining the the "momentum". "momentum".

Accordingtotoa apreferred According preferred embodiment, embodiment, the angle the angle of incidence of incidence of the proximal of the proximal end of end of the incident the incidentflow flowstep stepororits its extension extensionon on thethe outer outer edgeedge of water of the the water surface surface is not is not too small, too small,namely namelyat at least least 30°,30°, preferably preferably at least at least 40°, 40°, 50°,or60° 50°, 60° evenor70°. evenThe70°. The incident flow incident flow step stepisis therefore thereforepreferably preferably not not tangential tangential to to thethe outer outer edge edge in order in order to to further promote further promotethethe effectdescribed. effect described.

Preferably, theincident Preferably, the incidentflow flowstep step has has a certain a certain minimum minimum height height of, forof, for example, example, 10 10 mm,preferably mm, preferably even evenat at least least 12 12 mm or14 mm or 14mm. mm.Conversely, Conversely, theheight the heightisis preferably preferably less than less than 30 30 mm, 28mm, mm, 28 mm,2626 mmmm or even or even 24 mm. 24 mm. In embodiment In the the embodiment example, example, the the value is value is approximately approximately 20 20 mm. mm.

The incident The incident flow flow step step should should of of course coursenot nothave havethe thespecified specifiedminimum minimum heights heights

along its entire length, but at least at its highest point. along its entire length, but at least at its highest point.

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A curved A curvedshape shape of the of the incident incident flow flow step step is preferred, is also also preferred, whereinwherein this be this should should be concave fromthe concave from theperspective perspectiveofofthe thewater waterflowing flowingalong alongthethefirst first flow flow path. path. This This refers firstly totothe refers firstly the fact fact that that ititshould should be concave be concave in in thissense this sense at least at least in sections in sections

andpreferably and preferablyatatleast leastfor forthe themost most part part (i.e.asasseen (i.e. seen from from above), above), particularly particularly pref-pref-

erably not erably notconvex convexin in sections sections and and particularly particularly preferably preferably concave concave throughout. throughout. Pref- Pref- erably, the erably, the concave concave arcarc shape shape covers covers an overall an overall angle angle of at 30°, of at least leastpreferably 30°, preferably at at least 40° or least 40° or even evenatatleast least50°50° or or 60°. 60°. In In thethe embodiment embodiment example, example, it is almost it is almost 90°. 90°. Thedefinition The definitionofofthe thedistal distal end endofofthe theincident incident flow flow step step is is discussed discussed further further below. below.

This and This andthe theproximal proximal endend are are decisive decisive for angle for the the angle feature. feature.

It It has alreadybeen has already been explained explained aboveabove that athat a portion portion of the of the rinsing rinsing water water that that is not is not

divertedby diverted bythe theincident incidentflow flowstep step cancan pass pass beyond beyond the incident the incident flowand flow step step and enter enter the drain the drainopening openingin in a different a different form form and, and, in particular, in particular, further further rear. rear. In this In this context, context,

the area the area"on "onthe theother other side", side", so so to to speak, speak, of the of the incident incident flowflow step step is preferably is preferably de- de- signed as signed as aa further further flow flowpath, path,namely namely as as aa second flow path. second flow path. The edgesdelimiting The edges delimiting this second this flow path second flow are, on path are, on the the one hand, the one hand, the second secondconvex convex edge edge already already dis- dis-

cussedin cussed in connection connectionwith with the the incident incident flow flow step step and, and, on on the the other otherhand, hand, aa second second

concave concave edge edge on the on the sideside of the of the second second flow facing flow path path facing away away from thefrom the incident incident flow flow

step. Preferably, step. Preferably,this this flow flow path pathininthis this form formthen thenextends extends directly directly in in the the vicinityofofthe vicinity the water surface water surface or or leads leads into into itit(depending (depending on on whether whether aa convex convexextreme extremevalue value line line

still occurs still occurs above thewater above the watersurface). surface).

Similar to the Similar to thefirst first flow path, this flow path, this second second flow flow path path forms forms a favourable a favourable area ofarea the of the

bowl's inner bowl's innershape shapeforfor the the generally generally desired desired rotating rotating and and descending descending flow of flow of rinsing rinsing

water. Accordingly, water. Accordingly, the the second secondflow flowpath pathpreferably preferablyalso alsoslopes slopesdownwards, downwards, alt-alt-

houghitittypically hough typically extends extendsless less farfar than than thethe firstflow first flowpath path in in terms terms of the of the circumfer- circumfer-

enceofofthe ence thedrain drainopening openingandand the the water water surface surface therein therein and therefore and therefore typically typically also also accountsforforless accounts lessheight height difference. difference.

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The second The secondflow flowpath pathdescribed describedshould shouldnot notbebeconfused confused with with thesecond the second flow flow path path

referred to referred to as assuch suchininEPEP 3 412 3 412 840 840 B1. AB1. A further further flow according flow path path according to this to this docu- docu- mentalso ment also exists exists in in the thepresent present embodiment example embodiment example andand it itisisalso also aa preferred preferred de- de- sign feature sign featureofofthe theinvention inventionin in the the present present context. context. However, However, it is discussed it is discussed here here

subordinatelybecause subordinately because it is it is less less connected connected to incident to the the incident flow flow step step than than the second the second

flow path, flow path, and andisisaccordingly accordingly also also referred referred to as to as the the "third" "third" flow flow path. path. In the In the present present

context, the context, thethird third flow flowpath pathhas hasthethe same same function function and as and shape shape ascited in the in the cited docu- docu- ment,sosothat ment, thatreference referencecancan be made be made to it to forit details. for details.

In In contrast to this contrast to this third third flow path(e.g. flow path (e.g. according accordingto to thethe embodiment embodiment example), example), the the secondflow second flow path path preferably preferably has has at at least least and particularly and particularly preferably preferably exactly exactly three three pointedends pointed ends(again (again in in projection projection from from above), above), wherein, wherein, as already as already discussed discussed above, above, alternatively aa convex alternatively convexedge edge proximal proximal to the to the water water surface surface or theor the water water surfacesurface itself itself formaaaboundary form form boundary boundary line. line. line. For For For illustration,reference illustration, illustration, reference reference is is is made made made to to the to the the figures figures figures of of the of the the embod- embod- embod-

iment example. iment example.There Thereitit can canalso alsobe beseen seenthat thatthe thethird third flow flow path path has exactly two has exactly two

pointedends pointed ends and, and, taking taking intointo account account the height the height dimension dimension (i.e. (i.e. not notinonly only in vertical vertical

projection), neither projection), neither adjoins adjoinsthe thewater water surface surface nor comes nor comes particularly particularly close close to to it. In it. In particular, particular, the the third third flow flow path hasa astep path has stepbelow below it and, it and, in in thethe embodiment, embodiment, between between

it and it and the the second flowpath, second flow path, which which could could be defined be defined analogously analogously to the to the incident incident flow flow

step. This step step. This stephas hasa asignificantly significantlygreater greaterheight height than than thethe incident incident flowflow step, step, namely namely

in the in the embodiment about6060mmmm embodiment about (and (and preferably preferably atat least40 least 40mm, mm, preferablyatatleast preferably least 45 mm 45 or 50 mm or 50 mm). mm).

In In addition, addition, the the second flowpath second flow path is is relativelywide relatively wide(and (and thethe third third relativelynarrow, relatively narrow, in in

eachcase each caseinin thevertical the verticalprojection), projection),namely namelyat at least least 30 30 mm mm in a in a direction direction transverse transverse

to the longitudinal direction of the toilet, i.e. in its width direction, preferably even at at to the longitudinal direction of the toilet, i.e. in its width direction, preferably even at

least 35 least 35 mm or 40 mm or 40 mm mm (inthe (in the embodiment embodiment example example it is4545mm). it is mm).

Asalready As alreadyexplained, explained, thethe firstflow first flow path path extends extends around around the opening, the drain drain opening, specifi-specifi-

cally the cally watersurface. the water surface.If Ifthis thiswater water surface surface withwith a longitudinal a longitudinal central central axis axis in thein the direction from direction fromfront front to to back (aspreviously back (as previouslydefined) defined) andand with with a transverse a transverse central central axis axis

dividing it dividing it centrally centrally perpendicular toitit defines perpendicular to defines aacrossing crossingpoint pointofofthe theaxes axes andand thusthus

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a centre a centre point, point, aa quantitative quantitativeminimum statementononthe minimum statement thecirculation circulation can can be bemade made starting from starting fromthis thiscentre centrepoint. point.ForFor this this purpose, purpose, the first the first flowflow path path can can be be repre- repre- sented sented bybya a centre centre linebetween line between the first the first convex convex andfirst and the the first concave concave edge edge (in ver-(in ver-

tical projection). tical projection). The respectiveconnecting The respective connecting lines lines between between pointspoints on the on the centre centre line line

andthe and thecentre centrepoint pointjust justdefined defined then then preferably preferably cover cover at least at least 160°,160°, 170°, 170°, 180°, 180°, or or even 190°. even 190°.

It Ithas has already beenexplained already been explained above above that that the drop the drop in theinfirst the first flowflow path path during during circu-circu-

lation lation makes lation makes itit possible makes it possibleto possible totodistinguish distinguishaa alower distinguish lower lower side side side from from from a a higher a higher higher sideside side of of the of the the first first first flow flow flow

path. path. In this path. In In this sense, this sense, "circulation"also sense, "circulation" "circulation" alsomeans also means means thatthat that the the the rinsing rinsing rinsing water, water, water, insofar insofar insofar as itas as it it fol- fol- fol-

lowsthe lows thefirst first flow flowpath, path,ultimately ultimatelyloses loses height, height, whereby whereby local deviations local deviations are not are not necessarilyexcluded. necessarily excluded. Preferably, Preferably, however, however, the first the first flowflow path path should should descend descend mon- mon- otonically (in otonically (in the the mathematical mathematical sense, sense, i.e. without i.e. without a riseain rise in between), between), preferably preferably

strictly monotonically strictly (i.e. also monotonically (i.e. withouthorizontal also without horizontalintermediate intermediate areas). areas). For For this this pur- pur-

pose,the pose, thecentre centreline linejust justdefined definedshould should be be usedused as a as a reference reference line. line.

Thegeometric The geometric features features of the of the inner inner bowl bowl shapeshape described described so preferably so far are far are preferably re- re- alised in alised in an an integral integral design, design,for forexample examplein ainone-piece a one-piece plastic plastic moulded moulded part orpart ce- or ce- ramic part. Accordingly, ramic part. Accordingly,thethe bowl bowl preferably preferably has has a one-piece a one-piece innershape inner bowl bowlcon- shape con-

taining the taining the first firstflow path flow pathand and the the incident incidentflow flowstep stepbelow below its itsbowl bowl opening. Of opening. Of

course,aaseparate course, separate supply supply lineline can can be connected be connected to the to theopening inlet inlet opening of the of the rinsing rinsing water. However, water. additional separate However, additional separateelements elements provided provided in in theinner the innershape shape of of thethe

bowlare bowl areexcluded, excluded,forfor example example an attached an attached incident incident flowthat flow step step is that is on glued glued as a on as a separatepart. separate part.Instead, Instead,thethe incident incident flow flow step step should should be moulded be moulded into theinto the bowl ma-bowl ma-

terial itself in this design. terial itself in this design.

Accordingtotoa afurther According furtherpreferred preferred variant, variant, an an endend of the of the incident incident flowflow stepstep distal distal to the to the

watersurface water surfaceis is toto bebe orientated orientated and and arranged arranged such such that an that an extension extension line line of this of this distal end distal withthe end with thelocal localdirection direction(in (inprojection projectionfrom from above) above) meets meets the upper the upper edge edge

of the of the inner bowlshape inner bowl shapein in the the fronthalf front halfofofthe thelatter, latter, preferably preferablyeven evenin in itsfront its frontthird third or or evenits or even even itsfront its frontquarter. front quarter.Accordingly, quarter. Accordingly, Accordingly, the the the incident incident incident flow flow flow step step step startsstarts starts reasonably reasonably reasonably far far far forwardand forward andhashas a small a small or or disappearing disappearing angleangle to thetosteep the steep wallfrom wall area areawhich fromthe which the

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incident flow incident flow step stepemerges, emerges, whereby whereby the deflection the deflection function function of theofincident the incident flow flow step step canbe can berealised realisedparticularly particularlywell. well.InIn the thedesign designexample, example, thisthis transition transition into into thethe steep steep

wall area wall areaisis tangential. tangential.

It It is is also also preferable thatthe preferable that thewater water surface surface lieslies in the in the rear rear two thirds two thirds of theofbowl the bowl opening(in opening (invertical verticalprojection) projection)ininrelation relationtotothe thelongitudinal longitudinaldirection direction (from (from front front to to

back), preferably back), preferablyininthe therear rearhalf halfasasininthe theembodiment. embodiment. For purpose, For this this purpose, the longi- the longi-

tudinal axes tudinal axes (of (ofthe thewater watersurface surfaceon onthe theone one hand hand and of the and of the bowl bowl opening on the opening on the other) are other) are used usedasas a reference. a reference.

Thedistal The distal end endofofthe theincident incidentflow flowstep stepisisdefined definedby by thethe foremost foremost end end of second of the the second flow path flow pathinin cases casesininwhich which thethe first first concave concave edge edge delimiting delimiting the incident the incident flow flow step step merges continuously merges continuously intointo the the areaarea in which in which it only it only delimits delimits the first the first flowflow pathpath on the on the the outside, see outside, see the the embodiment. Duetotothe embodiment. Due theseamless seamless transitionof transition of the the concave edge, concave edge,

the separation the separationofofthe thesecond second convex convex edge, edge, which delimits which delimits the incident the incident flow stepflow on step on the one the onehand hand and and thethe second second flow flow path path on theon the other, other, must must be usedbe forused for the definition. the definition.

If If there there is is no suchseamless no such seamless transition transition of the of the concave concave edge, edge, i.e. if i.e. if itpossible it is is possible to to distinguish between distinguish between thethe firstconcave first concave edge edge as boundary as the the boundary of the of the flow first first flow path path and and as the as the boundary boundaryof of thethe incident incident flowflow step, step, the the front front end end of first of the the first concave concave edge edge in in

the area the areaofofthe theincident incidentflow flowstep stepisistotobebeunderstood understood as the as the distal distal end.end. The embod- The embod-

imentillustrates iment illustrates this this connection. connection.

In In addition, addition, the the incident incidentflow flowstep step should should preferably preferably achieve achieve aa certain certain minimum minimum steepness,namely steepness, namely a rise a rise angle angle relative relative to horizontal to the the horizontal of at of at least least 75°, preferably 75°, preferably

at least at 80° or least 80° oreven even85°. 85°. This This is is achieved achieved between between the twothe two limiting limiting edges, edges, i.e. be- i.e. be- tweenthe tween the second secondconvex convex edge edge andand thethe firstconcave first concaveedge. edge.

Many previously Many previously known known toilettoilet bowlsbowls with awith a circulating circulating flow offlow of flushing flushing water water use a use a plurality of plurality of inlet inletopenings for the openings for the flushing water,for flushing water, for example example thethe US US document document cited cited

at the at beginning.InIncontrast, the beginning. contrast,thethe present present invention invention preferably preferably utilises utilises only only a single a single

inlet opening inlet for flushing opening for flushingwater, water,atatleast leastupstream upstream of the of the water water surface. surface. The favour- The favour- able internal shape of the bowl nevertheless permits a cleaning-efficient rinsing ac- 04 Jul 2025 tion that covers the entire bowl and, in accordance with the invention, also entrains objects floating in the inner region of the water surface.

5 In the latter case, the third flow path mentioned above can also be designed to run 1005973266

completely around the drain opening, i.e. continuously. This helps to distribute the rinsing water over the entire inner area of the bowl in the case of particularly small 2022321657

amounts of rinsing water.

10 The first flow path preferably adjoins the inlet opening in the sense that it is flowed through by the rinsing water entering from it and this rinsing water is further distrib- uted. This does not necessarily mean that the entire rinsing water flows along the first flow path; rather, a portion will regularly flow further outwards, i.e. outside the first concave edge and, due to the speed, in a steeper area of the bowl wall, and a 15 further portion will also flow further inwards via the first convex edge.

By way of clarification and for avoidance of doubt, as used herein and except where the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" and variations of the term, such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude further 20 additions, components, integers or steps.

Brief description of the Figures In the following, the invention is explained in more detail by means of an exemplary embodiment, wherein the individual features may also be essential to the invention 25 in other combinations within the scope of the claims.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a toilet seat according to the invention; Figure 2 also, but from a different perspective; Figure 3 shows a longitudinal sectional view of the toilet with auxiliary lines; 30 Figure 4 shows a top view as in Figure 4, but with different lines to illustrate the concave and convex edges; Figure 5 shows a variant of Figure 6 to illustrate an angle; Figure 6 shows a variant of Figure 6 with additional lines to illustrate an aspect ratio at the edge of the water surface;

Figure 7 shows a perspective view analogous to Figure 1 to illustrate two heights 04 Jul 2025

and Figure 8 shows a photographic representation of a real water flow in the embodi- ment in a perspective corresponding to Figures 4-6. 5 Detailed description of the embodiments 1005973266

Figure 1 shows a toilet 1, specifically a ceramic toilet body, with a toilet bowl 2 clearly recognisable at the front left. 2022321657

10 The following refers to the inner shape of the bowl. Reference is made to the state of the art EP 3 444 408 B1 for the connection sockets for rinsing water and waste water recognisable on the right in Figure 1 and also in the other figures; the type of connections is not important for the following.

15 Figures 1-3 show the inside shape of the bowl in shades of grey, the other figures in lines.

Figure 3 shows the toilet 1 in longitudinal section. In particular, a relatively steep wall area 3 of the inner bowl shape on the left can be seen, which, apart from a few 20 details to be explained later, runs around the bowl as shown in Figures 1 and 2 and defines the upper edge 4 of the inner bowl shape at the top.

In addition, a classic odour trap 5 in the form of a knee can be seen, which is to be connected to the wastewater pipe on the right with a connection piece 6, wherein 25 an edge area 7, which can be seen shortly upstream of it at the bottom, defines the water level and surface 8 drawn further to the left. In this respect, reference can be made to the water surface 8 regardless of whether there is actually water in the odour trap 5. It results from the geometry itself when the right-hand surface of the toilet in Figure 4 is aligned vertically and the upper side is correspondingly aligned 30 horizontally, i.e. in the installation position. Above the water surface 8, there is still a circumferentially steep area of the bowl inner shape for a certain height as the entrance area of the drain opening 9.

To the left of this and as an intermediate area between the entrance area of the 35 drain opening 9 just described and the steep wall section 3 also already mentioned is the first flow path 10 already discussed in the description, here in its foremost (in relation to the longitudinal direction of the TOILET) area in longitudinal section. It is

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limited on limited on both sides by both sides by points points of of strongest strongest curvature curvaturemarked marked with with X markings, X markings,

namelyonon namely the the leftwith left withconcave concave curvature curvature and and on onright the the right with convex with convex curvature. curvature. In In this form, this form, any number any number of of vertical vertical sectional sectional planes planes can can be imagined be imagined throughthrough the cen-the cen- tre of tre of the the water water surface (seeFigures surface (see Figures 5 to7),7),resulting 5 to resultingininlines lines from fromthe thepoints pointsmarked marked

with the with the X markings. These X markings. Theseextreme extreme value value lines lines are are drawn drawn in in Figure Figure 5-7, 5-7, namely namely

dotted. dotted.

Theseare These area afirst first (outer) (outer) concave concave edge edge 11the 11 of of the firstflow first flowpath path 10, 10, a firstinner a first innerconvex convex edge12 edge 12ofof the the first first flow flowpath path10, 10,a asecond second convex convex edge 13of edge 13 of aa second secondflow flowpath path

14, 14, which will be which will be explained explained in inmore more detail detaillater, andand later, a second a secondconcave concave edge 15 of edge 15 of the second the second flow flow path path 14.14. Figure Figure 4 also 4 also showsshows a centre a centre line 16 line 16 first of the of theflow firstpath flow path 10, 10, namely namely aa line line (seen (seen from from above) above) centred centred between the edges between the edges1111and and1212defining defining the first flow path 10. the first flow path 10.

Figure 3,ononthe Figure 3, theother other hand, hand, shows shows a series a series of non-dotted of non-dotted auxiliary auxiliary linesthe lines (from (from the CAD CAD program) program) thatthat separate separate different different surface surface areas areas with different with different shapes, shapes, for for exam- exam- ple largely ple largely cylindrical cylindrical shapes, asininthe shapes, as thesteep steepwall wallarea area3,3, from from those those that that areare curved curved

in section in (as below), section (as below),etc. etc. These These auxiliarylines auxiliary linesare arenot nottotobebeconfused confused withwith the the dash- dash-

dottededges dotted edgesin in Figures Figures 4 to 4 to 6, 6, butbut in in combination combination with with Figure Figure 1 they1 make theyitmake it easier easier

to visualise to the geometry. visualise the geometry.

Figures 2,4-6 Figures 2, 4-6also alsoshow show an inlet an inlet opening opening 17 for17 thefor the flushing flushing water, water, which iswhich con- is con-

nected in nected in an unrecognisablemanner an unrecognisable mannerto to theflushing the flushingwater waterconnection connectionpiece piece18. 18.InIn the case the caseofofa aflush flushwith with thethe toilet1 1 toilet connected, connected, flushing flushing waterwater flows flows from from this this inlet inlet

opening1717 opening intothethe into toiletbowl toilet bowl2 2ininananapproximately approximately tangential tangential (in perspective (in perspective from from above)and above) and otherwise otherwise approximately approximately horizontal horizontal main main flow flow direction. direction. It is evident It is evident that that the flushing the flushingwater waterhits hitsthe thelargest largestarea area of of thethe firstflow first flowpath path 10 10 (Figure (Figure 5), 5), which which in in this sense this connects sense connects to to thethe inlet inlet opening opening 17. 17. Onother On the the other hand, hand, part ofpart the of the flow first first flow path 1010also path also exists exists in in an an anti-clockwise anti-clockwise direction direction next next to the to the opening inlet inlet opening 17 (in 17 (in

projection from projection fromabove), above),so so it it isisnot notimmediately immediately caught caught byincoming by the the incoming flush flush water. water. Strictly Strictly speaking, this area speaking, this areabegins beginsat at thethe rear, rear, where where the first the first flowflow pathpath disappears disappears

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as shown as shown in in thethe figures, figures, i.e.approximately i.e. approximately at the at the intersection intersection of vertical of the the vertical part part of of the axes the axescross crossdrawn drawn in the in the water water surface surface 8 in 8 in Figures Figures 4 and 4 5 and 5 to define to define its centre. its centre.

From thisstart, From this start,the thefirst first flow flowpath path1010 decends decends continuously continuously and strictly and strictly monoton- monoton-

ically, ininparticular ically, particularwith withits centre its centreline line16, 16,and and in indoing doing so (againwith so (again withthe thecentre centreline line 16 asaareference) 16 as reference)extends extends around around the water the water surface surface 8. Due 8. toDue to theasymptotic the quasi quasi asymptotic narrowingofofthe narrowing thefirst firstflow flowpath path1010 at at itsitsbeginning beginning in the in the rearrear areaarea mentioned, mentioned, one one couldactually could actuallyuse usethethe rearmost rearmost point point of the of the inner inner shapeshape of theof theasbowl bowl the as the starting starting

point in point in aa mathematical sense, mathematical sense, which which leads leads to antoangle an angle of circulation of this this circulation around around the the

watersurface water surface8 8(based (based on the on the centre centre pointpoint drawndrawn therein therein and defined and defined from thefrom cen- the cen- tre line tre line 16) 16) of of a a good 230°.If, good 230°. If, due duetotothe theinitially initially barely perceptibleexistence barely perceptible existenceof of thethe first flow first flow path path 10, 10, it itisisallowed allowed to to start start there there "later" "later" (clockwise) with aa clearly (clockwise) with clearly recog- recog- nisablewidth nisable widthatat30° 30°(relative (relativeto to the the vertical vertical line line through the water through the watersurface surface8 8 inin Figure Figure

5), this 5), this still stillresults in in results anan angle angleofofaround around 200°. 200°.

The outer The outer concave concaveedge, edge, the the so-calledfirst so-called first concave concaveedge edge11, 11,extends extends during during thethe

describedcirculation described circulationofofthe thefirst first flow flow path path1010approximately approximately at the at the lower lower edge edge of theof the already mentioned already mentionedsteep steepwall wallarea area3 3ofofthe the inner inner bowl bowlshape, shape,compare compare e.g. e.g. thethe X X markingonon marking the the leftinin Figure left Figure33and andalso also ofof course course Figure Figure 4. This 4. This applies applies starting starting fromfrom

"behind" clockwise "behind" clockwise to to "below" "below"and anda a little further. little further. Then it extends Then it continuously, extends continuously,

curved and curved andconcave concavefurther furtherinwards, inwards,wherein whereinadditional additionalstructures structures are are created created be- be- tweenit tween tween itit and andthe and thesteep the steep steep wall wall wall area area area 3 3 shown 3 as as as shown shown in in Figure in Figure Figure 5. 5.concerns 5. This This This concerns concerns the the the already already already mentionedsecond mentioned second convex convex edge edge 13 13 andand the the second second concave concave edge edge 15a and 15 and a second second

flow path flow path1414defined defined between between these. these. This This is is illustrated illustrated more more clearly clearly in Figure in Figure 1, ac- 1, ac-

cording to cording to which which aa step, step, namely namelythe theincident incident flow flow step step 18, 18, branches branchesoff off from fromthis this steepwall steep wallarea area3 3atatthe thepoint pointwhere where thethe firstconcave first concave edgeedge 11 leaves 11 leaves the wall the steep steep wall area3. area 3. This Thisincident incidentflow flowstep step1818extends extends further further inwards inwards in ain a concave concave arcends arc and and ends into the into the inlet inlet area area of of the the drain opening,slightly drain opening, slightlyabove abovethethe water water surface surface 8.partic- 8. In In partic- ular, the incident flow step 18 starts relatively far forward, i.e. far in the front half of ular, the incident flow step 18 starts relatively far forward, i.e. far in the front half of

the bowl the bowlopening opening2, 2, as as Figures Figures 4-6 4-6 show. show. (In Figure (In Figure 4-6,centre 4-6, the the centre line between line between the the edges11 edges 11and and13 13is is drawn drawnsolid solid and and numbered numbered 1818 because because it itrepresents representsthe theincident incident flow step). flow step).

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Figure Figure 11clearly clearlyshows shows that that thethe incident incident flow flow step step 18, 18, so speak, so to to speak, displaces displaces the first the first

flow path flow path1010a alittle little in in height, height, wherein its qualitative wherein its qualitative shape shapethereafter, thereafter,i.e. i.e.according according to Figure to Figure 44in in aa clockwise clockwisedirection direction beyond beyond the the incident incident flow flow step step 18, continues 18, continues in a in a

similar way similar way as, as, for forexample, example, in inthe thetwo twoEP EP documents cited at documents cited at the the beginning. beginning. How- How-

ever, since ever, since the the flow flow path path isisdefined definedas asbeing beingbetween between an outer concave an outer edgeand concave edge and an inner an innerconvex convex edge, edge, it is it is logical logical to to consider consider the the first first flow flow path path 10being 10 as as being termi-termi-

natedbybythe nated theshape shape of the of the first first concave concave edge edge 11 running 11 running inwards inwards as of as a result a result the of the incident flow incident flow step step18; 18;hence hence the the clearly clearly inwardly inwardly bending bending course course of theline of the centre centre line

16 in Figure 16 in 4. Figure 4.

In In this thissense, sense,the thesecond second convex convex edge 13and edge 13 andthe thesecond secondconcave concave edge edge 15 define 15 define

a second a flow path second flow path 14 14 between betweenthem, them,wherein wherein in inFigure Figure4 4the thesecond second convex convex edge edge

13 bendsjust 13 bends just before before the the edge edgeof of the the drain drain opening becausethe opening because thestrongest strongestconvex convex

curvatures occur curvatures occur there. there. At At the the same sametime, time,the thesecond second concave concave edgeedge 15 forms 15 forms a a continuationofofthe continuation thefirst first concave concave edge edge 11a in 11 in a certain certain sense, sense, apartthe apart from from the height height offset caused offset caused byby the the incident incident flow flow step step 18, 18, see see Figures Figures 1 and 14-6. andThe 4-6. The flow second second flow path 14 path 14thus thushas hasa a pointed pointed endend at the at the front front and and rear, rear, seenseen from from above,above, and a further and a further

cornerapproximately corner approximately in the in the centre. centre.

Incidentally, the second Incidentally, the second flow flow path path 14significantly 14 is is significantly wider wider than than the third the third flow path flow path

19, 19, namely approximately4545mm. namely approximately mm. This This referstotothe refers thetransverse transversedirection direction as as shown shown

in Figures in 4-6, i.e. Figures 4-6, i.e. to to the the widest point at widest point at the inner corner the inner cornerofofthe thesecond second flow flow path path 14. 14.

It It is iseasy easy to to imagine from imagine from thethe figures figures that that the the rinsing rinsing water water flowing flowing out ofout theofinlet the inlet opening1717 opening initially flows initially flowsclockwise clockwiseforfor thethe most most part part via first via the the first flowflow pathpath 10 10 and and also slightly also slightly outside outsideofofitit due duetotothethe centrifugal centrifugal force, force, the the rinsing rinsing water water flow flow then then entersthe enters thearea areaof of thethe incident incident flowflow step step 18, of 18, part part it of is it is directed directed inwards inwards by the by the incident flow incident flow step step1818approximately approximately to the to the centre centre of the of the water water surface surface 8 and 8another and another

part continues part atleast continues at leastapproximately approximatelythethe original original circulating circulating flow flow beyond beyond the the incident incident

flow step flow step 18 18via viathe thesecond second flow flow path path 14. 14. The The latter latter part, part, apart apart fromfrom the the incident incident flow flow

step 18 step 18(up (uptotothis this and andfrom from thisagain), this again),drops drops in in height height viavia thethe second second flow flow path path 14. 14.

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In In this thisrespect, respect, ititensures ensures a a sweeping, rotatingrinsing sweeping, rotating rinsingwater water flow flow inin thedrain the drainopening opening as well, as well, as as already alreadydescribed describedin in thethe cited cited prior prior art,wherein art, whereinthethe incident incident flowflow stepstep 18 18 additionally directs additionally directs part part of of the the flow flow approximately approximately into into thethe eyeeye of the of the rotating rotating flowflow in in the drain the drain opening. opening.

Figure 8 shows Figure 8 showsthe thewater waterflow flowjust justdescribed describedwith witha aphoto photoofofa areal-life real-life example example

similar to similar to the other figures. the other figures. The Theperspective perspective corresponds corresponds to thetotop theview topinview in Figures Figures

4-6. The 4-6. Thewater waterisiscoloured, coloured, which which explains explains the the darkdark tint,tint, especially especially in the in the lower lower area. area.

For the rest, For the rest, please pleaserefer refertotothe theexplanation explanation just just given given above. above.

In In particular, particular,the embodiment the also shows embodiment also showsa athird third flow flow path path 19, 19, which which has hasalready already beenmentioned been mentionedin in abstractterms abstract terms above, above, clearly clearly above above and,and, whenwhen viewed viewed from from above,slightly above, slightlyoffset offsetininaaclockwise clockwise direction direction relative relative to the to the incident incident flow flow step step 18. 18. Reference canbebemade Reference can made to the to the second second EP document EP document cited cited at the at the beginning beginning with with

regard regard toto this this third third flow flow path path 19,which 19, in in which it is dealt it is dealt with inwith in detail. detail. Essentially, Essentially, it keeps it keeps

a part a part of of the the circulating circulating flushing flushing water waterflow, flow,which which initiallyruns initially runsoutside outside the the firstflow first flow path 10 path 10and anddue due to to thethe centrifugal centrifugal force force on on the the steep steep wallwall areaarea 3, at3,a at a certain certain height. height.

Onthe On the one onehand, hand,this this part part is is somewhat preventedfrom somewhat prevented fromdescending descending tootoo much, much, es- es-

pecially after pecially after itithas has flowed throughthe flowed through thelower lower area area of the of the inner inner bowlbowl shapeshape in Figure in Figure

4 and 4 andthe theradii radii of of curvature curvaturerelevant relevantforforthe thecentrifugal centrifugalforce forceincrease. increase. This This prevents prevents

flushing water flushing from splashing water from splashing out out of of the the bowl bowlopening opening2 2asas a resultofofcollisions a result collisions betweenthe between theflushing flushing water waterdescending descendingin in thisway this wayand, and, forexample, for example,thethe second second

flow path flow 14. On path 14. Onthe theother otherhand, hand,after afterpassing passingthrough throughthe therearmost rearmost part part (topinin (top

Figure 4) of Figure 4) of the the bowl bowlopening opening2, 2, such such a part a part of the of the flushing flushing water water flowflow heldheld at the at the top top

is transferred is via the transferred via the third third flow flow path 19toto the path 19 theinitial initial area area of of the the first firstflow flowpath path10 10 and and

also wets also wetsthis. this.

Figure Figure 5 5 shows twodashed shows two dashed lines2020and lines and21. 21.Line Line2020isis aa tangent tangent to to the the outer outer edge edge

of the of the water surface8 8and water surface and line2121 line is is anan extension extension of the of the proximal proximal end end of ofincident the the incident

flow step flow step 18 up to 18 up to this this edge. edge. Both Both lines lines 20 20 and and 21 meetat 21 meet at an an angle angleof of just just under under

90°, wherein 90°, whereinline line2121 is is directed directed approximately approximately towards towards the centre the centre of thesur- of the water water sur- face 8. face 8. The Thepoint pointofofintersection intersection of of line2121 line with with thethe edge edge of water of water surface surface 8, as 8, as far far

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as the as thelongitudinal longitudinaldirection directionfrom from front front to back to back is concerned, is concerned, is clearly is clearly within within the the foremostthird foremost thirdofofthe thecentre centre longitudinal longitudinal axisaxis of water of water surface surface 8, namely 8, namely approxi- approxi- matelyatatthree mately threequarters quarters (and (and thusthus divides divides this this centre centre longitudinal longitudinal axis axis in in a ratio a ratio of of 3:1), 3:1), as shown as shown in in Figure Figure 6. this 6. In In this respect, respect, the part the part of flushing of the the flushing water water flow de- flow de-

flected by flected by the theincident incidentflow flowstep step18, 18,although although it it isisaimed aimed approximately approximately in centre in the the centre of the of the water surface8,8,isis not water surface notdeflected deflectedtoo toostrongly stronglyfrom from thethe original original main main flowflow direc- direc-

tion of the flushing water flow and can thus still retain a substantial part of the original tion of the flushing water flow and can thus still retain a substantial part of the original

"momentum" "momentum" (i.e. (i.e. thethe kinetic kinetic energy energy andmomentum). and the the momentum). In this it In this context, context, is also it is also advantageousthat advantageous thatthe thedrain drainopening openingand and thus thus the the water water surface surface 8 are 8 are clearlyar- clearly ar-

rangedininthe ranged therear reararea areaof of the the bowl bowl opening opening 2. 2.

Figures Figures 55and and 6 also 6 also show show thatthat the the direction direction of line of the the line 21, 21, i.e. i.e. the the local local direction direction of of

the incident the incident flow flow step step1818atatits its inner inner end, end,is is rotated rotated by byalmost almost90° 90° relativetotothe relative thelocal local direction of direction of the the incident incidentflow flowstep step1818 at at itsitsouter outer end, end, i.e.relative i.e. relativetotothethe part part of of the the

incident flow incident flow step step 18 18 where it disappears where it disappears on the outside on the outside or or merges into the merges into the steep steep

wall area wall 3 (in area 3 (in Figures Figures 4 4 and and 55 where wherethe theedges edges13 13 andand 15 meet). 15 meet). In its In its curved curved

shape,the shape, theincident incidentflow flowstep step 18 18 thus thus spans spans a substantial a substantial angular angular area, area, whereinwherein this this is very is very favourable forthe favourable for theflow flowdue dueto to itsconcave, its concave, rounded rounded shape. shape.

Finally, Finally, two vertical heights two vertical heights2222 andand 23 shown 23 are are shown in 7Figure in Figure 7 for illustration for illustration and and comparison. comparison. TheThe height height 22the 22 is is vertical the vertical offset offset between between the concave the first first concave edge 11 edge 11 andthe and thesecond second convex convex edgeedge 13thus 13 and andtothus to a certain a certain extentextent the height the height of the of the incident incident

flow step flow step18, 18,while whilethe theheight height 23 23 is is thethe vertical vertical offset offset between between the second the second concaveconcave

edge1515andand edge thethe inner inner convex convex edge edge of the of theflow third thirdpath flow path 19, i.e.19, the i.e. the of height height the of the

third flow third path1919above flow path above the the second second flow14. flow path path The14. Theislatter latter is significantly significantly larger larger and is and is about 60 mm about 60 mm compared compared to about to about 20for 20 mm mmthe forformer. the former. In Figure In Figure 7, these 7, these

heights are heights are drawn without the drawn without the (dash-dotted) (dash-dotted) edges shownininFigures edges shown Figures4-6; 4-6; however, however, they refer they refer to to these, these,in in particular particular with with the the numerical numerical values values just just indicated. indicated.

Between Between thethe twotwo edges edges 1113, 11 and andthe 13,incident the incident flowreaches flow step step reaches a slope a ofslope of approx- approx-

imately90° imately 90°totothe thehorizontal. horizontal.

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In In the the form shown,thethe form shown, entiretoilet entire toiletbody body1 1isisaaone-piece one-piece ceramic ceramic part, part, which which applies applies

in particular in particular to to the the complete innerbowl complete inner bowl shape. shape.

This can This can also also be be seen seeninin Figure Figure 8, 8, which which also also shows showsthe thedetails details described describedabove, above,

albeit not albeit with the not with the same same clarityasas clarity the the linedrawings line drawings due due to photographic to the the photographic repre- repre- sentation. sentation.

Claims (10)

1. Toilet with a bowl, which has a bowl opening facing upwards and an inlet open- 1005973266

ing for flushing water to enter the bowl, and an inner bowl shape with a first 5 flow path defined between an outer first concave edge and an inner first con- vex edge, 2022321657

wherein the bowl has a drain with a drain opening and an odour trap and wherein the first flow path circulates around the drain opening and drops as it circulates, 10 wherein the first flow path is adjacent at its lower end to an incident flow step, which incident flow step is defined between a part of the first concave edge and a second convex edge on a side of the incident flow step facing away from the first flow path and rises from the first concave edge to the second convex edge, 15 wherein the incident flow step is designed to divert flushing water into the drain opening, wherein an end of the incident flow step proximal to a water surface in the drain opening is directed, in projection from above, onto an outer edge of the water surface in a front two-thirds region of the outer edge. 20

2. Toilet according to claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the incident flow step forms an angle of at least 30° with the outer edge.

3. Toilet according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the incident flow step is at least par- 25 tially at least 10 mm high between the first concave edge and the second con- vex edge .

4. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the incident flow step reaches an angle of ascent to the horizontal of at least 75° between the 30 first concave edge and the second convex edge .

5. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the incident flow step is arcuate, preferably concave, as seen from the first flow path. 1005973266

6. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims, including a second flow 5 path on a side of the incident flow step opposite to the first flow path, which second flow path is defined between the second convex edge and a second 2022321657

concave edge.

7. Toilet according to claim 6, wherein the second flow path has at least three 10 corners, and preferably exactly three corners, as projected from above.

8. Toilet according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the second flow path is at least 30 mm wide in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction of the toilet from front to back. 15 9. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first flow path cir- culates around an angle of at least 160° defined based on a centre of the water surface.

20 10. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first flow path de- scends monotonically, preferably strictly monotonically, as it circulates around the drain opening.

11. The toilet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bowl com- 25 prises a one-piece inner bowl shape containing the first flow path and the inci- dent flow step below the bowl opening.

12. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the incident flow step is aligned and arranged at an end distal to the water surface in the drain 30 opening such that an extension line of this distal end in projection from above meets the upper edge of the bowl inner shape in its front half.

13. Toilet according to one of the preceding claims with exactly one inlet open- ing for flushing water. 1005973266

14. Toilet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first flow 5 path adjoins the inlet opening in order to be flowed upon by the entering flush- ing water. 2022321657

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