ADVANCED SANITATION SYSTEM FOR PUBLIC TOILETS

Abstract

A smart sanitation system for public toilets that addresses water efficiency, sanitation, user comfort, and sustainability. The system incorporates sensors, microcontrollers, and machine learning algorithms to optimize water usage, enhance hygiene, and simplify maintenance. The system includes a processing unit, an infrared sensor, a motion sensor, a gas sensor, a ZigBee module, and a power source. The system may optionally include a global system for mobile communication (GSM) module, a touchless and pressure-sensitive user interface, a vacuum-assisted flushing mechanism, self-cleaning nozzles, a dual-flush mechanism, and a smart flush timing mechanism. The system provides several advantages, including water efficiency, improved cleanliness and sanitation, smart technology integration, sustainability, user comfort and convenience, and may contribute to a cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable environment.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to advanced sanitation system for public toilets.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Traditional flush systems often use more water than necessary, leading to significant water wastage, especially in high pack public restrooms. Public restrooms can become unhygienic quickly due to frequent use, leading to the spread of germs and unpleasant odors. Public restrooms often face challenges related to sanitation, water efficiency, and user experience. Flushing systems in public restrooms are subject to heavy use, leading to frequent breakdowns and requiring regular maintenance, which can be costly. This invention will definitely be a help to improve hygiene condition in India. It will create awareness among people in terms of "Toilet Management". The proposed system "Smart Flush" is based on IoT, smell sensor, IR sensor, motion sensor, RFID sensor. The smart toilet will take care of opening and closing of the toilet seat, the IR sensor tracks the dirt present on the toilet seat and raise an alarm, The cleanliness of the toilet will be improved by monitoring the sweeper's activity to maintain the hygiene of the toilet, it also will deal with water conservation.
US9526421B2- A method and system for wellness monitoring using one or more wellness indicator inputs and values is provided. One or more wellness indicator monitoring devices may be provided for measuring wellness indicator input. The wellness indicator monitoring devices may have one or more sensors and a microcontroller in communication with the one or more sensors. One or more servers may communicate with the one or more wellness indicator monitoring devices over a network. A processor may be configured to manipulate the wellness indicator input, and one or more output device may create a desired output based on the wellness indicator values.
RESEARCH GAP:
Dual-Flush Option: The system offers both low-volume and high-volume flush options, allowing users to conserve water by choosing the appropriate flush based on the type of waste.
Water Efficiency Regulator: Optimizes the amount of water used in each flush, leading to significant water savings, especially in high-traffic public areas.
JP6940877B2- The invention pertains to an advanced flushing system for Western-style toilets, designed to optimize water efficiency, enhance hygiene, and increase durability in public restrooms. The system features a dual-flush valve, high-pressure jet, self-cleaning nozzles, antimicrobial surfaces, and optional smart features to address common issues of water wastage, clogging, and maintenance in high-traffic environments.
RESEARCH GAP:
Surfaces treated with antimicrobial coatings help to maintain a higher level of cleanliness and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Odor Control System: Actively neutralizes odors, ensuring that the restroom remains pleasant for all users.
US8060952B2- An air purification system, specifically one designed to be utilized in conjunction with flush toilets. Two components of the current invention are rims and an exhaust system. Through an outlet on the toilet, the rim of the bowl is linked to the toilet vent. An auto sensor that recognizes when to activate and deactivate the exhaust system is incorporated into the current innovation. In order to eliminate undesirable odors from the restroom area and expel them via the roof via the vent pipe, the exhaust system of the current invention contains an electric fan box that is connected to the vent pipe.
RESEARCH GAP:
Easy-Access Panels: simplifies routine maintenance and reduces time by providing rapid and simple access to internal components.
Automatic Maintenance Alerts: Prevent serious issues from developing by informing maintenance staff of possible ones early on, enabling proactive repairs and reducing the need to close restrooms.
None of the prior art indicate above either alone or in combination with one another disclose what the present invention has disclosed. This invention relates to This invention relates to advanced sanitation system for public toilets.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
Several important problems with conventional flushing processes are addressed by the novel flushing system created especially for Western-style toilets in public restrooms. This technology offers a ground-breaking solution that improves hygiene and lowers operating costs in response to the increasing demands placed on public facilities for sustainability.
Efficiency of Water Water waste in public restrooms is one of the main issues. The enormous amounts of water that conventional toilets frequently use to flush their waste have a negative influence on the environment and raise utility costs. Users can choose the right flush volume according to their needs with this creative system's advanced water-saving features, which include dual-flush mechanisms and pressure-assisted flushing. The system optimizes water usage, helping facilities meet goals for sustainability while at the same time conserving this essential resource.
Dependability and Service Due to widespread use, maintenance issues with public restrooms are common. Service interruptions and unhygienic situations might result from clogs and breakdowns. The strong design of the new flushing system reduces the possibility of clogs, and its enhanced power is achieved via the use of advanced supplies and engineering. Moreover, it has self-cleaning features that lessen dust accumulation and so require less maintenance. Because of its dependability, restrooms are guaranteed to stay clean and operational even during busy times.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: GENERAL ARCHITECTURE FOR THE ADVANCED SANITATION SYSTEM
FIGURE 2: AUTOMATIC FLUSHER DEVICE FOR RURAL
FIGURE 3: AUTOMATIC FLUSHER DEVICE FOR URBAN
FIGURE 4: GATEWAY
FIGURE 5: ALGORITHM VIEW OF THE SYSTEM
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
Several important problems with conventional flushing processes are addressed by the novel flushing system created especially for Western-style toilets in public restrooms. This technology offers a ground-breaking solution that improves hygiene and lowers operating costs in response to the increasing demands placed on public facilities for sustainability.
Efficiency of Water waste in public restrooms is one of the main issues. The enormous amounts of water that conventional toilets frequently use to flush their waste have a negative influence on the environment and raise utility costs. Users can choose the right flush volume according to their needs with this creative system's advanced water-saving features, which include dual-flush mechanisms and pressure-assisted flushing. The system optimizes water usage, helping facilities meet goals for sustainability while at the same time conserving this essential resource.
Dependability and Service Due to widespread use, maintenance issues with public restrooms are common. Service interruptions and unhygienic situations might result from clogs and breakdowns. The strong design of the new flushing system reduces the possibility of clogs, and its enhanced power is achieved via the use of advanced supplies and engineering. Moreover, it has self-cleaning features that lessen dust accumulation and so require less maintenance. Because of its dependability, restrooms are guaranteed to stay clean and operational even during busy times.
User Interface In public restrooms, where quick and efficient sanitation is essential, user convenience is key. All users will have a flawless experience with this flushing system because to its user-friendly features, which include touchless operation and automated sensors. The system quickly removes waste while preserving a comfortable atmosphere. It does this by providing a strong but silent flush.
To improve the environment and public health, an advanced sanitation system combines modern technology with creative approaches. Particularly in highly populated places, traditional sanitation systems frequently fail to match the complexity of modern urban living, creating sanitation issues. Effective solutions are produced by an advanced system that makes use of smart technology, data analytics, and effective resource management. Smart toilets are outfitted with sensors and Internet of Things connectivity to track hygiene levels and usage trends. Water-saving features including self-cleaning mechanisms, adjustable water usage, and automatic flushing enhance user experience while reducing water waste. Modern sanitation systems use data analytics to forecast when maintenance is necessary. In order to prevent reactive repairs and minimize time and offer continuous operation, sensors detect possible problems in real time.
Human waste can be converted into biogas or other types of energy by integrating waste-to-energy technologies into advanced sanitation systems. In addition to reducing trash, this offers a sustainable energy source, supporting the ideas of the circular economy. These systems decrease dependence on fresh water sources by improving water efficiency through the use of rainwater gathering and greywater recycling. Innovative filtration and treatment techniques guarantee that recycled water satisfies non-potable use safety requirements.
Continuous monitoring and improvement of sanitation services are made possible by the integration of data gathering and analytics. Sanitation infrastructure mapping, service coverage evaluation, and improvement identification are all possible with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Modern sanitation systems offer a revolutionary way to manage human waste and promote public health. These systems, which address global issues including urbanization, resource scarcity, and pollution, not only improve sanitation services but also contribute to a sustainable future by adopting technology and innovative methods.
Efficiency, hygiene, and sustainability are the main goals of this innovative flushing system that was created particularly for Western-style toilets and suited for usage in public restrooms. The system's water-efficient design, which includes a dual-flush mechanism that gives users the choice to utilize a higher-water flush for solid waste or a lower-water flush for liquid waste, is a crucial component. This method significantly reduces water usage, particularly in public restrooms with heavy usage. By integrating motion sensors and touchless technology, the system reduces the risk of germ transmission by allowing users to flush without touching it. In order to avoid water waste or inadequate flushing, the system also has smart flush timing, which senses consumption and initiates the flush automatically.
By pushing waste down with the help of a vacuum and ensuring complete waste removal, a vacuum-assisted flushing mechanism further improves system efficiency while using less water. This innovative technology, which draws inspiration from aeroplane systems, is very good at saving water without sacrificing flush force. In order to maintain a hygienic atmosphere, the system has self-cleaning nozzles that spray cleaning solutions after every flush. To stop the formation of bacteria and odors, antibacterial materials are placed on the toilet bowl.
The intelligent monitoring features of the system can notify maintenance workers of problems such as leaks or clogs in public bathrooms that see a lot of foot traffic. The system continues for longer and has fewer issues thanks to this predictive maintenance. Quieter operation of the system is guaranteed by noise-reduction features including protected pipes and a specially constructed flush valve. By utilizing eco-friendly components and solar-powered sensors to lower its overall environmental impact, the flushing system also indicates sustainability.
This innovative, natural, and effective system offers a combination of comfort, hygiene, and resource efficiency, making it perfect for public toilets. Quiet flush technology minimizes noise, improving user comfort, and pressure-sensitive, touchless features make the product more accessible to people with disabilities. All things considered, the system provides a very effective, clean, and long-lasting option for managing public restrooms.
Using a combination of innovative sensors, microcontroller technology, and machine learning, the new flushing system is intended to improve toilet efficiency and user comfort. Different types of input sensors form the system's core. When users are detected by a motion sensor-which may be PIR or ultrasonic-the system can adjust the flush timing and save water. The temperature sensor keeps track of the restroom's temperature to improve user comfort, while the water flow sensor measures how much water is utilized during flush events to ensure effective consumption.
Additionally, an occupancy sensor tracks the duration of user presence to prevent unnecessary flushes when a user is still in the restroom.
The microcontroller, acts as the central controller, gathering data from all sensors and executing the machine learning model. This model, possibly a Random Forest Classifier, analyzes sensor data to classify the type of flush needed-half or full. For communication, the system employs either a Wi-Fi or LoRa module, allowing for remote monitoring and data transmission.
The IR sensor is used to detect the dirt present in the toilet. Here we nourish the image models into the sensor. It can perceive the dirt by comparing the images we feed into it, after using the toilet. If it can detect the dirt, it raises the alarm, and the users may get embraced and they clean it. This system can create the responsiveness among the people.
This Motion sensor can be used objects, distance, and other things with this motion sensor. To measure distance, position, and motion-sensitive items, a high-sensitivity module can be integrated with motion circuits using a microcontroller. Finding the distance between the transceiver and the water's surface will allow us to calculate the water depth. The ultrasonic pulse that the sensor will send and receive can be used to calculate the time it takes for the pulse to travel to and from the liquid.
GSM stands for Global System for Mobile communication. It establishes the mobile communication from one place to another place. GSM is mainly used for communicating and transferring message from one person to concerned organization. GSM alarm system built-in GSM communication module inside, work as a mobile handset. After purchased the GSM alarm system, people need to acquisition the SIM card, and select the mobile service package. GSM alarm system can program several phone numbers for alarm receiving. When any abnormal event happens, the system will response, then inform the owner via voice call and short message (SMS). GSM will check the messaging activities for sweepers and also need to check with their cleanliness duty for their work. The central component of the system is a processing unit that combines several sensors and connectivity modules to ensure efficient functioning. This unit serves as the system's central controller, analysing data from numerous sources to keep it operating. An important part of the system is the infrared sensor, which senses user presence and triggers hygienic functions like cleaning and flushing on its own without human assistance.
In addition the infrared sensor, the device also has a motion sensor that tracks activity inside the restroom to make sure it's being used effectively and to identify any unusual usage patterns that would point to a maintenance issue. A gas sensor is added to the system, which enhances its functionality by continuously monitoring the restroom's air quality. In order to keep people in a comfortable and secure atmosphere, this sensor can identify dangerous gasses or offensive smells, which can activate automatic airflow or air purification systems.
On the other hand, the ZigBee module makes it easier for devices to communicate locally, forming a network that can control several units throughout a building while using less energy. A dependable battery or another power source supplies the entire system, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in the case of power interruptions. The sanitation system offers a highly automated, hygienic, and effective solution for managing public restrooms by integrating these cutting-edge characteristics, maintaining a clean atmosphere and flawless operation while lowering the need for manual labor.
The advanced sanitation system uses artificial intelligence (AI) and sensors in an organized manner to provide predictive maintenance and efficient water use. Occupancy sensors are used to detect users, which sets off the system. Activating different sensors, such as motion, water level, and flow sensors, comes next after the person has been identified. These sensors gather data in real time, giving important insights into how the system functions.
After data collection, edge processing analyzes the data locally, enabling the system to make quick judgments without requiring cloud access. Immediate replies and a reduction in delay are made possible in large part by this local analysis. By using past data and current consumption trends to forecast the ideal flush volume, the AI system makes sure that every flush utilizes the least amount of water required.
Particularly in public restrooms with unpredictable traffic, this dynamic adjustment encourages water conservation. The system looks for any maintenance requirements after predicting the flush volume. When the AI detects a possible problem-like a sensor or flushing mechanism malfunction-it notifies the maintenance staff so they can take immediate action. The system continues to function normally if no maintenance is needed.
The flush control, which modifies the water flow based on the AI's predictions, must be turned on next. The utilization data is updated and kept on file in the cloud for later examination when the flush is finished. Continuous learning is made possible by this data, which the system to improve its performance over time. Finally, the process ends, completing a cycle of smart, AI-driven sanitation management.
It starts by analysing patterns in an advanced sanitation system outlines a clear and organized method to understand how restrooms are used, how water is consumed, and how sensors and maintenance can be improved. The process begins with data collection, which gathers important information such as restroom ID, the time of day, the number of users, the type of flush (full or half), the amount of water used, how long people occupy the restroom, the status of sensors, and the temperature. This data is crucial as it serves as the foundation for all the subsequent analyses.
Once the data is collected, the first area of analysis focuses on user behaviour patterns. This involves looking at peak usage times to find out when the restroom is most crowded. By understanding the times of day when the highest number of users are present, facilities can plan better for cleaning and maintenance. To find out how long people spend in the restroom, occupancy duration analysis is useful. When people spend a lot of time inside, there can be a delay in use or a demand for additional facilities. Additionally, knowing whether users prefer to utilize a full or half flush might be essential data for promoting water-saving habits.
Water usage trends are examined in the next section. This entails figuring out the average amount of water used by each user and examining the overall water use for every restroom. This information might help determine which restrooms might be overusing water and point out areas that need improvement. Evaluating the efficacy of various flush options is also crucial to promote more efficient water use.
The following part discusses sensor performance patterns, which include monitoring sensor failures and evaluating the impact of temperature on sensor dependability. This data is essential to guaranteeing the smooth operation of the system and the quick resolution of any problems.
The flowchart then discusses maintenance patterns. Based on past failure rates, it determines whether predictive maintenance is necessary and looks at how quickly sensors send out alarms. Problems can be avoided before they become serious by adopting a proactive stance.
Next, the study examines patterns in cleaning schedules. In order to enhance service quality, this entails comparing user input following cleaning and assessing how frequently restrooms.
Finally, by analyzing daily, weekly, and seasonal trends in restroom usage, analyzes temporal patterns. Having a deeper understanding of these cycles enables more effective scheduling of annual cleaning and maintenance. Practical suggestions for enhancing restroom management may result from the understandings obtained from this thorough investigation. This is achieved by focusing customer pleasure and effective resource management.
Advanced sanitation system can contribute to a cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable environment.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
Water Efficiency has the dual-flush mechanism, you may choose between flushing liquid waste with low water and solid waste with greater water, which significantly reduces down on water usage. High-traffic restrooms can save a significant amount of water by using vacuum assisted flushing technology, which consumes less water while maintaining efficient waste removal.
Cleanliness and Sanitation: Motion-sensor-enabled touchless flushing minimizes the necessity for physical contact and the spread of germs in public areas. Every time a flush is made, the self-cleaning nozzles release a stream of cleaning solution that keeps the toilet bowl hygienic and spotless. The toilet bowl's antibacterial covering improves cleanliness in crowded restrooms by preventing the growth of dangerous germs and odors.
Smart Technology Integration: By ensuring that the system flushes immediately after use, smart flush timing minimizes water use and prevents inappropriate flushing. In order to ensure prompt resolution and effective working, the monitoring system tracks problems such as leaks or excessive water usage and sends real-time alerts to maintenance teams.
Sustainability: By using less water, the system's low-flow flushing and water-saving technology make it less harmful to the environment. In order to meet public building sustainability goals, the system uses solar-powered sensors and eco-friendly components to reduce its overall carbon footprint.
Comfort and Convenience for Users: Quiet flush technology lowers noise, making using the restroom more comfortable-especially in public areas. The technology improves access in public restrooms by being simple to use for people with impairments thanks to its touchless and pressure-sensitive characteristics. It can raise people's awareness of the need for effective restroom management. It can stop a variety of infectious illnesses, including asthma, cholera, typhoid, malaria, and streptococcus. The "Swachhbharat" programme may benefit from it.
, Claims:1. An advanced sanitation system for public toilets comprising:
a processing unit;
an infrared sensor configured to detect user presence and trigger at least one of cleaning and flushing functions;
a motion sensor configured to monitor activity within the toilet;
a gas sensor configured to monitor air quality within the toilet;
a ZigBee module configured to enable local wireless communication between multiple smart sanitation systems; and
a power source configured to provide power to the processing unit, the infrared sensor, the motion sensor, the gas sensor, and the ZigBee module.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a global system for mobile communication (GSM) module configured to send and receive messages between a user and an alarm system.
3. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the GSM module is configured to monitor messaging activity of a user.
4. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a user interface configured to provide a touchless and pressure-sensitive user experience.
5. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a vacuum-assisted flushing mechanism configured to remove waste using a vacuum.
6. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising self-cleaning nozzles configured to apply a cleaning solution to the toilet bowl.
7. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a dual-flush mechanism configured to provide a user with a choice of a high-volume flush for solid waste and a low-volume flush for liquid waste.
8. The system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the dual-flush mechanism is configured to reduce water consumption.
9. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a smart flush timing mechanism configured to automatically initiate flushing after use.
10. A method of operating an advanced sanitation system for a public toilet comprising:
using an occupancy sensor to detect a user;
activating a plurality of sensors comprising at least one of a motion sensor, a water level sensor, and a flow sensor;
collecting data in real-time from the plurality of sensors;
locally analyzing the collected data using edge processing;
predicting a flush volume using artificial intelligence (AI) based on historical data and current consumption trends;
determining whether maintenance is needed based on the predicted flush volume;
sending a maintenance alert if maintenance is needed;
activating flush control if maintenance is not needed;
adjusting water flow based on the predicted flush volume;
updating utilization data;
storing the utilization data on a cloud; and
optimizing AI performance based on the stored utilization data.

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