WO2007004169A1 - Disposal of human excreta - Google Patents

Abstract

A toilet pedestal (10) includes an upper opening (14) over which a user is seated in use and which is aligned with a lower opening (16) communicated with an underground pit. An inner wall of a bowl of the pedestal (10) leads into a peripheral channel (18) around the lower opening. The channel has a narrow opening which may be covered by a strainer to allow liquid to flow along the inner wall into the channel, but not to accept solids, which fall through the opening (16) into the pit. Thus, excreta collected in the pit are dry. Liquid (urine) is collected in the channel (18) and is conducted via an outlet duct (20, 26) to a disposal zone where it is released to the underground to provide liquid and nutrients to plants (30) .

Description

DISPOSAL OF HUMAN EXCRETA

THIS INVENTION relates to disposal of human excreta, and particularly to a toilet pedestal and method of disposing human excreta.

The inventor is aware that existing pit latrines tend to fill with human excreta, mainly urine, rendering the effective life of the pit latrine limited. Emptying of the pit latrine is often inconvenient or impractical, especially in rural areas. The inventor desires a low maintenance long lasting pit latrine.

According to a first aspect of this invention, there is provided a toilet pedestal having: an upper opening over which a person may be seated for use; a lower opening substantially aligned with the upper opening; and an upwardly open channel peripherally around the lower opening, the channel having an outlet opening.

In use, solid excreta may pass through the lower opening, for example into a pit. Urine, at least most of which tends to run down the inner sides of the toilet pedestal, may collect in the channel and be guided under gravity via the pedestal via an outlet opening.

Inner sides or a side wall of the toilet pedestal or a toilet bowl of the toilet pedestal below the upper opening may lead into the open channel so as to guide liquid running down the sides or side wall into the open channel.

In one kind of embodiment, the channel may be integral with the side wall, the channel extending along the inner periphery of the side wall. Instead, in another kind of embodiment, the channel may be separate from the side wall, a lower end of the toilet pedestal being aligned with the channel. Preferably, the channel may be formed in a collar rotatably receivable around the lower opening to adjust the orientation of the outlet opening.

The channel may have a grid or sieve over it, the grid or sieve allowing liquid to pass through, but not solids.

The channel may advantageously be inclined relative to the horizontal having the outlet opening at a lower portion thereof.

There may be a clearance space of about 2 mm between the inner walls of the toilet pedestal and inner walls of the channel.

The toilet pedestal may be provided as a toilet pedestal kit which includes: a toilet pedestal having an upper opening over which a person may be seated for use and a lower opening substantially aligned with the upper opening; and an open channel into which, or above which, a lower end of the toilet pedestal is receivable with clearance such that inner sides of the toilet pedestal below the upper opening lead into the open channel so as to guide liquid running down the sides into the open channel.

In accordance with a second aspect of this invention, there is provided a pit latrine which includes a toilet pedestal in accordance with the first aspect, the toilet pedestal being mounted over a pit such that the lower opening of the toilet pedestal is in communication with the pit.

The outlet opening of the channel may advantageously be oriented to direct urine and cleaning water to an ecologically acceptable or friendly disposal zone in the form of a planted area for use as a growing medium and fertiliser by plants. The plants are ideally of a variety which flourishes when fed with, or at least tolerates, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and/or minerals which are abundant in urine. Thus, the outlet opening may be in fluid flow communication with a manifold having a plurality of branches, the branches having outlets proximate the ecologically acceptable disposal zone.

By way of development, the pit latrine may include a distributor for distributing liquid in predetermined ratios, for example equally, to the respective branches.

Further by way of development, the pit latrine may include a liquid receptacle for receiving grey water and which is in flow communication with the manifold.

By way of another, advantageous development, the pit latrine may be provided with a hand wash basin having an outlet in flow communication with a side wall of the toilet pedestal leading to the channel. Said flow communication may be via a reservoir immediately downstream of the hand wash basin outlet for accumulating hand wash water, and having an outlet which is selectively openable and closeable. Grey water thus accumulated can then selectively be used to wash or clean the toilet bowl.

In accordance with a third aspect, there is provided a method of disposal of human excreta using a toilet pedestal, the method including the steps of: directing solid excreta through a lower opening of the toilet pedestal; guiding liquid excreta into an upwardly open channel peripherally around the lower opening; and directing the liquid excreta out of an outlet opening in the channel.

The method may include the step of directing the liquid excreta away from the toilet pedestal to an ecologically acceptable or friendly disposal zone, for example to a planted area for use as fertiliser by plants.

The invention will now be further described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings. In the drawings:

Figure 1 shows a three-dimensional partially cutaway view of an embodiment of a toilet pedestal, in accordance with the invention;

Figure 2 shows a three-dimensional partially cutaway view of another embodiment of a toilet pedestal, in accordance with the invention;

Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the toilet pedestal of Figure 1 mounted over a pit;

Figure 4 shows, in three-dimensional view, the embodiment of the pedestal of Figure 2 in conjunction with a liquid distribution system; Figure 5 corresponds to Figure 4, but shows, in part-sectional view, the pedestal within a toilet structure;

Figure 6 shows, in top plan view, another embodiment of a manifold and distribution system;

Figure 7 shows, in sectional side view, to a larger scale, the manifold and distribution systems of Figure 6;

Figure 8 corresponds to Figure 2, but shows, fragmentarily, a preferred embodiment;

Figure 9 shows, schematically, a hand wash basin facility which can be drained into a toilet bowl in accordance with this invention; Figure 10 shows, in schematic side view, fragmentarily, a distributor for liquid excreta in accordance with the invention;

Figure 11 shows, in three-dimensional view, combined distribution systems respectively for urine and for grey water in accordance with the invention; and Figure 12 shows, to a larger scale, shielding of a discharge opening against ingress of unwanted material.

Referring now to Figure 1 , reference numeral 10 generally indicates an embodiment of a toilet pedestal in accordance with the invention. The toilet pedestal includes a body 11 having a seat 12 which defines therein an upper opening 14. A pivotable ring seat and cover arrangement (not shown) may conveniently be mounted on the seat 12. The body 11 defines at its lower end a lower opening 16. The lower opening 16 is generally aligned with the upper opening 14. An inner wall or side wall 15 of the body 11 of the toilet pedestal 10 tapers downwardly and defines at its lower end a channel 18 which extends peripherally around the lower opening 16. The channel 18 is upwardly open, having a channel-shaped cross-sectional profile. The channel 18 is inclined relative to the horizontal. A lower portion of the channel 18 defines therein an outlet opening 20.

The channel has a grid or sieve 22 over it. The sieve 22 allows urine and other liquids such as cleaning water to pass though it, but not solid excreta. The sieve 22 is removable to facilitate cleaning of the toilet pedestal 10.

Referring now to Figure 2, reference numeral 110 generally indicates another embodiment of a toilet pedestal in accordance with the invention. The toilet pedestal includes a body 111 having a seat 112 which defines therein an upper opening 114. The body 111 of the toilet pedestal 110 defines at its lower end 119 a lower opening 116. The lower opening 116 is generally aligned with the upper opening 114.

Spaced from the lower end 119, there is provided a peripheral shoulder 111.1 which, in use, rests on a base 113 to support the pedestal 110.

The toilet pedestal 110 is a compound pedestal including also a diverter generally indicated by reference numeral 140. The diverter 140 is conveniently manufactured separate of and apart from the body 111 of the pedestal 110 and is assembled to the body 111. The diverter is generally annular and effectively extends the lower opening 116.

The diverter 140 comprises a short length of piping 142 which blends into a diverging peripheral skirt 144. The peripheral skirt 144 is not symmetrical, but is oblique relative to the horizontal. Along an outer edge of the peripheral skirt 144, an outer peripheral wall 146 rises to form inwardly of the outer peripheral wall 146 and outwardly of the pipe 142, an annular channel 118 having a bottom, formed by the diverging skirt 144 which is not horizontal. The skirt has a lower portion at one point on its periphery at which point it has an outlet 120 leading into an outlet duct 126. It is to be appreciated that the diverging skirt 144 itself at any angular position is oblique such that it slants downwardly from inside to outside and that the general slant toward the lower point at the outlet 120 is superimposed thereon. The duct 126, at the position of the outlet 120, is lower than the lowest point of the outlet 120 such that drainage is absolute.

Toward an upper end of the piping 142, there are provided outwardly extending, circumferentially spaced, ribs 148 provided to centralize the piping 142 in the outlet 116 in the lower end of the body 111 and to space the piping 142 at a predetermined annular spacing from the lower end portion of the body 111 within the lower opening 116. The spacing is such that liquid, such as urine and cleaning water, easily flows in-between the ribs 148 into the channel 118, but such that solid excreta and other solid objects, such as cigarette butts, will not be passed into the channel 118.

The diverter 140 is circumferentially secured to the lower portion of the body 111 by means of screw fasteners 150, or by any other convenient method.

In use, urine, wash water and other liquids which come into contact with the side wall 115, will flow under gravity along the side wall 115, into the narrow annular channel between the lower portion of the side wall 115 and the outer surface portion of the pipe 142, and into the channel 118, whereas solid excreta will fall under gravity via the lower opening 116 into the pit.

The toilet pedestals 10 and 110 find particular application for use as part of a pit latrine. Referring now to Figure 3, the toilet pedestal 10 of

Figure 1 is installed over a pit 24; however it is to be appreciated that the shown description would suit the toilet pedestals 110, 210 of Figures 2 and 8 equally well. The lower opening 16 is in communication with the pit 24. A pipe or conduit 26 is in fluid flow communication with the access opening 20 of the channel 18. The conduit 26 leads away from the pit 24. The conduit 26 leads to an ecologically acceptable or friendly disposal zone. In this example, the disposal zone is a planted area 28 containing plants 30 of a variety which flourishes when fed with phosphates and/or minerals which are abundant in urine. The conduit 26 branches into a manifold having a plurality of perforated branches (only one of which is shown at 31 , for clarity). The branches have outlets proximate the planted area 28. The branches are at a relatively high level such that roots of the plants grow underneath the branches and do not interfere with the branches or with the openings.

In use, a person sits on the toilet pedestal 10 and tends to his or her toiletry needs. Solid excreta leave the toilet pedestal 10 through the lower opening 16 in conventional fashion. The solid excreta are deposited into the pit 24.

Urine is generally excreted obliquely, by both males and females, and impinges on the side wall 15. Urine tends to run down the side wall 15 of the toilet pedestal 10, where it passes through the sieve 22 and is collected in the channel 18. The sieve 22 prevents solid excreta, toilet paper, cigarette butts, and the like, from entering the channel 18. If the sieve 22 gets clogged, it can be removed, cleaned, and replaced.

As the channel 18 is inclined, the urine collects at the lower portion of the channel 18, where, under the effect of gravity, the urine is directed through the outlet opening 20.

When the pedestal 10 is cleaned, cleaning water likewise collects in the channel and is directed out of the channel.

The liquid excreta are directed through the conduit 26 which leads the liquid excreta to the planted area 28. The manifold distributes the liquid excreta within the planted area 28. It is to be appreciated that the liquid excreta will be predominantly urine which is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and certain minerals. The plants 30 draw up the liquid excreta and use it as fertiliser.

The inventor believes that the invention as illustrated has a number of advantages.

First, it has the advantage of being an effective gender non-specific separator of liquid excreta and solid excreta.

Secondly, it has the advantage of extending the life of a pit latrine because liquid excreta are directed away from the pit. This results in the excreta being dumped in the pit being mostly solid with little moisture, allowing natural evaporation to leave the contents dry. This enhances biological breakdown of the dry excreta rendering the useful life of the pit virtually without limit. It has the advantage that a pit which is much smaller than conventional can be adequate.

A secondary advantage of having the pit dry, relates to hygiene. The lack of moisture is not conducive to proliferation of harmful bacteria - the

Applicant has found pit latrines in accordance with the invention to be largely free of bad odours and flies and other insects, which are positive symptoms of a healthy pit.

Thirdly, it has the advantage of directing the liquid excreta to a planted zone to dispose of the liquid excreta in an ecologically acceptable manner.

Fourthly, it promotes growing of vegetation in the planted zone. Vegetation is generally advantageous, and such plants can, at least potentially, be specifically advantageous. The Applicant has found that urine contains large amounts of beneficial nutrients for plants. Because the pit has a virtually limitless life, and the urine is beneficially used in the soil, such a latrine is to a large extent maintenance free and direct exposure by humans to raw sewerage is obviated.

With reference to Figure 4 of the drawings, the pedestal 110 of

Figure 2 is shown in three-dimensional view in conjunction with a manifold 133 leading to a plurality of branches 131 in communication with the outlet duct 126. The manifold system and branches are similar to those of Figure 3.

With reference to Figure 5, the pedestal 110 is shown in conjunction with a toilet structure generally indicated by reference numeral 160, comprising a building structure 162 having the base 113 in the form of a floor and which is constructed over a pit 124. The pedestal 110 is shown supported on the base 113. Figure 5 shows also, schematically, a hand washing facility, generally indicated by reference numeral 64, which is described with reference to Figure 9 below.

With reference to Figures 6 and 7, another embodiment of a distribution system is shown comprising a manifold 233 in the form of a circular distributor at an end of the outlet duct 226. The outlet duct 226 is curved at an outlet portion thereof to have a vertically downwardly directed outlet which is connected to a vertically upwardly directed flange 233.1 of the manifold 233 and which, at a lower end, supports an inverted cone or quasi cone generally indicated by reference numeral 233.2. Along its inclined upper surface, the cone 233.2 has a plurality of angularly arranged ridges 233.3 directing liquid received via the outlet duct 226 in preferred ratios in radially outwardly directed streams leading to the angularly spaced, radiating branches 231. It is to be appreciated that the distribution of the cone 233.2 provided by the ridges 233.3 need not be equal but can be in any ratio desired such as, appropriately, to feed shorter and longer branches 231 as desired.

In an embodiment as shown in Figure 6, the bend is obtained by means of a separate pipe bend through 90° having socketed ends. An upstream socket receives an end of the conduit 226. Such end terminates at a lower end thereof generally on a centre line of the down-stream socket of the bend. Advantageously, the end of the conduit 226 may be oblique, conveniently at about 45°, the oblique opening being directed at the outside of the bend, for example to prevent interference between the bend and the conduit end. Assuming that liquid flow in the conduit 226 is low both in volume and speed - it may frequently be merely a trickle - it will impinge on the apex of the distributor to ensure even distribution. If the volume flow is high, there will be a natural tendency to fill the conduit more evenly and to be distributed accordingly.

The Applicant suggests the construction of Figure 6 by way of example and stresses the principle of providing even distribution. It can be achieved in other ways as well or instead. One such other way is illustrated in Figure 10 and is described below.

Likewise, the conical distributor is shown by way of example. It need not be conical, it can merely be convex, even flat. However, a conical or near conical construction is preferred. It is to be appreciated that the position of the apex relative to the flow line of the liquid stream is important to ensure appropriate distribution. Instead, or in addition, other ways of distributing a liquid flow into separate streams in desired ratios may be employed.

Advantageously, the distributor may be provided on a relatively large base to facilitate positioning of the distributor in the soil.

The manifold or distribution systems illustrated in Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7 have the same advantages as the distribution system of Figure 3 and illustrate the versatility of the invention.

Figure 8 illustrates yet a further embodiment of a toilet pedestal in accordance with the invention. The toilet pedestal is indicated generally by reference numeral 210. It is, in many respects, similar to the toilet pedestals 10 of Figure 1 and 110 of Figure 2 and is not again described in detail. Like reference numerals are generally used to denote like components or features. The toilet bowl wall or side wall 215 is shown to converge to a point spaced above a level of the shoulder 211.1 which rests on the base 213 in use. From that point, the side wall 215 again diverges, but at a shallow angle, to the lower opening 216. Thus, generally, solids passing through the neck or choke would fall straight through via the central opening of the diverter 240 into the pit. In contrast, liquid running down the side wall 215, will retain contact with the side wall 215 beyond the neck or choke and will thus run directly via the annular opening between the inner periphery of the side wall 215 and the outer periphery of the short length of piping 242, into the channel 218 to be drained via the opening 220 which is at the lowest point of the peripheral channel 218.

By way of development, the diverter 240 is rotatably mounted relative to the toilet pedestal body 211 proximate the lower end 219 of the body 211.

In an embodiment which is not specifically illustrated, it is envisaged that opposing, slidingly abutting, peripheral shoulders will ensure retention of the diverter to the lower end of the body, while allowing relative rotation. By way of example, a peripheral groove in one of the components, and a corresponding peripheral shoulder in the other of the components may be provided. It is further envisaged that the diverter can be closed onto the body from the bottom via complemental slots in the shoulder and material defining the groove, bayonet mounting fashion. Naturally, any other effective and convenient method and construction can be used.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, an outer peripheral wall 246 of the diverter 240, at the peripheral outside of the channel 218, is elongated upwardly and is provided with an outwardly projecting peripheral flange 246.1 which rests on the base 213 and thus supports the diverter 240 on the base. The flange can be placed on the base in any desired orientation (corresponding to a desired orientation of the diverter 240 and a desired positioning of the outlet 220 of the channel 218), independently of the orientation of the body 211. In this manner, relative rotation between the body 211 and the diverter 240, prior to installation, is conveniently achieved.

It is, however, important to appreciate that it is advantageous that the diverter can rotate relative to the body 211 to allow the outlet 220 and the outlet duct or drain pipe 226 to be oriented appropriately to direct liquid in a desired direction toward the selected disposal zone, e.g. the planted area.

In a preferred embodiment, the toilet pedestal 210 may be in the form of a moulding, most preferably an injection moulding, of an appropriate synthetic polymeric material.

With reference to Figure 9, an advantageous accessory is generally indicated by reference numeral 64. In essence, the accessory 64 allows a user's hands to be washed after use of the toilet while allowing beneficial secondary use of the wash water or grey water. It is to be borne in mind that the toilet is intended, primarily, for rural areas, with central water collection points, rural areas with water points on the stand, for high density urban informal settlements and for formal housing.

Thus, the accessory 64 provides a relatively small water reservoir 66 provided at a high level and having an open top 66.1 at an upper end, and an openable and closeable outlet 66.2 at a lower end. The reservoir 66 is periodically charged with water via the open top when required. The outlet 66.2 is in line with a hand wash basin 68 having an outlet 68.2, which, in turn, is in flow communication with a ring distributor in the form of a peripheral pipe with peripherally spaced outlets underneath a seat of the toilet pedestal, the outlets being arranged to direct the grey water to run along sides 15, 115, 215 and thus to be re-claimed and re-used in accordance with the invention.

By way of further development, if desired, flow communication between the hand wash basin 68 and the ring distributor 70, may be provided via an intermediate reservoir for retaining grey water after hand washing. The intermediate reservoir can then selectively be emptied when the toilet bowl is to be washed, thus using the grey water also for that purpose.

It is a particular advantage of the accessory in the light of the awareness that washing of hands is very important from a hygiene point of view, most especially after use of a toilet. In other pit toilets known to the

Applicant, there is no facility for washing of hands. This accessory allows small, but yet effective, amounts of water to be available for washing of hands and then to re-use the water, optionally firstly to wash the toilet bowl, and in any case to rinse the inside of the toilet bowl, and, secondly, to be used as water for growth of plants in accordance with the invention. Thirdly it prevents pollution of underground water tables especially in high water table areas.

With reference to Figure 10, as indicated above, a structure alternative to the structures of Figures 6 and 7 is indicated generally by reference numeral 333 to distribute liquid such as urine and grey water in accordance with the invention. The distributor 333 comprises an inlet 333.1 which branches into two outlets 331 sloping downwardly from the junction. A levelling bar 333.2 is provided, conveniently underneath the branches 331 , and which is connected to the branches 331 by means of connectors 333.3, of specific lengths to accommodate the slopes in the branches 333.1. In use, the levelling bar 333.2 is levelled, for example by means of a spirit level, in a cavity or ditch in the ground to accommodate the distributor. When thus levelled, water received via the inlet 333.1 will be distributed equally into the branches 331. It is to be appreciated that secondary distributors and even tertiary and further distributors can be provided in the branches 331 further to expand the reticulation system.

A further embodiment of a liquid distribution system or reticulation system in accordance with the invention, and also such a system for grey water, are now described by way of example with reference to Figures 11 and 12. With reference to Figure 11 of the drawings, a combined distribution system in accordance with the invention is generally indicated by reference numeral 70. Broadly, the distribution system 70 comprises a distribution system for urine generally indicated by reference numeral 72 and which is generally in accordance with the distribution systems described above. It comprises further a distribution system in accordance with this invention, for grey water, generally indicated by reference numeral 74.

Broadly, the distribution system for urine 72 comprises a central manifold 76 to which urine is fed by means of a feed duct. A plurality of radially arranged distribution lines 31 extend radially from the manifold 76. In each distribution line 31 , there are provided longitudinally spaced discharge openings 31.1 discharging, or letting out, urine into soil. The urine distribution system 72 operates under gravity.

In accordance with the current invention, the grey water distribution system 74 comprises a manifold 78 at the bottom of an upright duct 80. From the manifold 78, distribution lines 82 radiate to cover an expanse adapted to receive the grey water in ecologically acceptable or ecologically friendly manner via a plurality of discharge openings or seep openings 82.1.

In use, grey water is charged at a charging station generally indicated by reference numeral 83 onto a sieve 86 positioned within a rimmed funnel 84 leading to the feed duct 80. Provision of a funnel, and more specifically a rimmed funnel, facilitates discharging the grey water, for example from a bucket or pail. The distribution system 74 operates under gravity.

The distribution systems 72 and 74 are shown in co-axial configuration, the one superimposed on the other. It may be possible to have a common manifold, common distribution lines and thus also common discharge openings for the two systems, i.e. to distribute both urine and grey water. It is envisaged that the distribution lines, and more specifically the discharge openings or seep openings, will be above, preferably well above, the level of a water table in soil within which the urine and grey water are released.

By way of development, with reference to Figure 12, a device 88 for shielding the discharge openings or seep openings of either or both of the distribution systems against ingress of unwanted matter such as soil, grit, granules and the like, thus to prevent clogging, is illustrated.

The device 88 is in the form of a relatively short stub of tubing or conduiting having an inside diameter or bore slightly larger than the outside diameter of the respective distribution line 31 , 82 for which it is intended. A pair of diametrically opposed openings 90 is provided through the walls of the stub 88 to allow the stub, transversely, to be threaded over the respective distribution line 31 , 82 until it is in register with a discharge opening 31.1 , 82.1. The stub 88 is transverse to the distribution line 31 , 82 and more specifically it is upright. It is to be appreciated that, although the stub has an open top 92, the presence of the portion of the distribution line within the stub prevents soil or grit from falling down and through the stub. The portion of the stub underneath the distribution line, and which surrounds the discharge opening, provides a partial enclosure or concavity for the discharge opening and prevents it from clogging and thus allows it to discharge or release its fluid into the soil via a lower open end 94.

The Applicant has found that it is or has become a common practice to pour grey water into a toilet to dispose of the grey water. This practice has disadvantages, for example that, in the case of a pit latrine, the pit fills up very quickly thus shortening the pit life span. Also, the chemical content of the grey water inhibits the decomposing processes in the pit and also the functioning of natural micro-organisms. In this regard, it is important to appreciate that the chemical and biological environment of the pit is crucial for its good operation and its longevity, and that upsetting the desired environment has grave consequences. Yet further, especially when the water table is shallow, filling the pit with excessive water results in faeces mixing with the water to form sewerage which constitutes a very high health risk when it pollutes the ground water and thus creates health threatening diseases. Yet further, as a result of improper functioning of the natural processes in the pit, anaerobic conditions are created which generate bad odours.

The above disadvantages result in limiting the life spans of pits, inhibiting operation of the pits, ground water becoming polluted and health threatening diseases becoming prevalent, all of which are conducive to bad health in a community.

In contrast, use of the grey water disposal method and device in accordance with the invention, prevents all of the above undesired disadvantages. For example, it serves as a viable alternative to pouring waste water into a pit or a pit latrine. The Applicant believes that with proper education, the practice of pouring grey water down a latrine can be stopped altogether. This then will prevent the life of the pit to be shortened, it will prevent inhibition of the decomposing process in the pit and it will prevent malfunctioning of natural micro-organisms. It will also prevent forming of and release of sewerage in the ground water.

Further, it is intended that both the urine and grey water disposal will take place relatively shallow but still underground, in the order of 300 mm to 500 mm under ground level. Thus, even in conditions where the water table is relatively high, say 1 m below ground level, ground water will not be polluted. It is to be appreciated that faeces, which will be dry, will now remain in the pit to be decomposed in the pit and will not be transported to the water in the water table.

Furthermore, because the pit is relatively dry, and virtually totally dry if it operates optionally in accordance with this invention, anaerobic conditions will not be created, bad odours will not be generated, the decomposing process in the pit will function properly and the micro-organisms will be allowed to function naturally.

It is to be appreciated that, having the funnel of the stand pipe elevated, it will prevent streams formed of rain and other surface water from flowing into the stand pipe. It is to be appreciated that even a large rainfall directly into the funnel will only marginally add to the water being drained via the distribution system. By having the funnel elevated, it will promote fast draining of water from the funnel into the down pipe. By having the funnel elevated, it will prevent babies, and toddlers and also animals from having access to the inside of the funnel to prevent them from coming into contact with the grey water, and also to prevent them from dropping foreign objects down the funnel (even though the sieve is in place).

The invention now makes it possible that dry sanitation can be applied also in high density urban areas as well as informal housing. It eliminates the handling of excreta by humans and completes the sanitation loop by providing ecological benefits that do not threaten human health or life and prevent ground water pollution. The invention provides a closed system whereby humans can wash their hands under running water. The invention thus achieves holistic sustainable hygiene solution preventing humans from health threatening diseases caused by poor sanitation.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A toilet pedestal having: an upper opening over which a person may be seated for use; a lower opening substantially aligned with the upper opening; and an upwardly open channel peripherally around the lower opening, the channel having an outlet opening.

2. A toilet pedestal as claimed in Claim 1 in which inner sides or a side wall of the toilet pedestal below the upper opening leads into the open channel so as to guide liquid running down the sides or side wall into the open channel.

3. A toilet pedestal as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, in which the channel is integral with the side wall, the channel extending along the inner periphery of the side wall.

4. A toilet pedestal as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, in which the channel is separate from the side wall, a lower end of the toilet pedestal being aligned with the channel.

5. A toilet pedestal as claimed in Claim 4 in which the channel is formed in a collar rotatably receivable around the lower opening to adjust the orientation of the outlet opening.

6. A toilet pedestal as claimed in any preceding Claim, in which the channel has a grid or sieve over it, the grid or sieve allowing liquid to pass through, but not solids.

7. A toilet pedestal as claimed in any preceding Claim, in which the channel is inclined relative to the horizontal having the outlet opening at a lower portion thereof.

8. A pit latrine which includes a toilet pedestal as claimed in any one of Claim 1 to Claim 7 inclusive, the toilet pedestal being mounted over a pit such that the lower opening of the toilet pedestal is in communication with the pit.

9. A pit latrine as claimed in Claim 8 in which the outlet opening of the channel is oriented to direct urine to an ecologically acceptable or friendly disposal zone in the form of a planted area for use as a growing medium and fertiliser by plants.

10. A pit latrine as claimed in Claim 9 in which the outlet opening is in fluid flow communication with a manifold having a plurality of branches, the branches having outlets proximate the ecologically acceptable disposal zone.

11. A pit latrine as claimed in Claim 10 which includes a distributor for distributing liquid in predetermined ratios, for example equally, to the respective branches.

12. A pit latrine as claimed in Claim 10 or Claim 11 which includes a liquid receptacle for receiving grey water and which is in flow communication with the manifold.

13. A pit latrine as claimed in any one of Claim 8 to Claim 12 inclusive, which includes a hand wash basin having an outlet in flow communication with a side wall of the toilet pedestal leading to the channel.

14. A pit latrine as claimed in Claim 13 in which said flow communication is via a reservoir immediately downstream of the hand wash basin outlet for accumulating hand wash water, and having an outlet which is selectively openable and closeable.

15. A method of disposal of human excreta using a toilet pedestal, the method including the steps of: directing solid excreta through a lower opening of the toilet pedestal; guiding liquid excreta into an upwardly open channel peripherally around the lower opening; and directing the liquid excreta out of an outlet opening in the channel.

16. A method as claimed in Claim 15 which includes the step of directing the liquid excreta away from the toilet pedestal to an ecologically acceptable or friendly disposal zone, for example to a planted area for use as fertiliser by plants.