RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/320, 141, filed March 15, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/320,087, filedMarch 15, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to plumbing fixtures, and in particular to plumbing fixture auxiliary ports.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Plumbing fixtures are connected to plumbing systems to deliver and drain fluids. For example, plumbing fixtures may deliver potable water and drain waste water.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate similar elements. It should be noted that different references to “an” or “one” embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references mean at least one.

[0005] FIGS. 1 A-F illustrate components of plumbing fixture systems, according to certain embodiments.

[0006] FIGS. 2A-B illustrate components of plumbing fixture systems, according to certain embodiments.

[0007] FIGS. 3 A-N illustrate components of plumbing fixture systems, according to certain embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 4A illustrates a flow diagram of a method associated with using an auxiliary port to adjust liquid level in a plumbing fixture tank, according to certain embodiments. [0009] FIG. 4B illustrates a flow diagram of a method associated with using an accumulator in a plumbing fixture system, according to certain embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system, according to certain embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Embodiments described herein are related to auxiliary ports for plumbing fixtures (e.g., fill valve for plumbing fixture with auxiliary flow port) and accumulators for plumbing fixtures (e.g., bell siphon flush valve fluidly coupled to an accumulator, fill valve assembly fluidly coupled to an accumulator).

[0012] Plumbing fixtures are connected to plumbing systems (e.g., water piping, sewer piping, etc.) to deliver and drain fluids (e.g., deliver potable water and drain waste water). Plumbing fixtures include bathtubs, bidets, channel drains, drinking fountains, hose bibs, sinks (e.g., mop sinks, janitor sinks, kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, etc.), showers, urinals, toilets (e.g., water closets), etc.

[0013] Some plumbing fixtures include a fill valve to provide water to the plumbing fixture and/or a flush valve to drain fluids from the plumbing fixture. For example, a fill valve fills a tank of a plumbing fixture with water and a flush valve separates the liquid in the tank from a bowl of the plumbing fixture. Upon actuation of the flush valve, the liquid from the tank enters the bowl to cause a flushing operation.

[0014] Excessive consumption of potable water remains a dilemma for water agencies, commercial building owners, homeowners, residents, architects, engineers, and plumbing fixture manufacturers. Increased usage and waste have negatively affected the amount and quality of suitable water. In response to this global dilemma, many local and federal authorities and voluntary programs have enacted regulations that reduce the water demand required plumbing fixtures. In the United States, for instance, government agencies that regulate water usage have gradually reduced the threshold for fresh water use in toilets, from 7 gallons/flush (prior to the 1950s) to 5.5 gallons/flush (by the end of the 1960s) to 3.5 gallons/flush (in the 1980s). The National Energy Policy Act of 1995 now mandates that toilets sold in the United States can only use 1.6 gallons/flush (6 liters/flush). High-efficiency toilets that use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less can be certified under the U. S.

Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) WaterSense® program. Othertypes of plumbing fixtures, such as urinals, have corresponding water usage regulations.

[0015] Different plumbing fixtures have different performance. For example, a flush-toilet may be rated by a Maximum Performance (MaP) score. The low end of MaP scores is 250 (250 grams of simulated fecal matter) and a high end of MaP scores is 1000. The higher the MaP score, the higher the probability that the toilet removes all waste with a single flush, does not plug, does not harbor odor, and is easy to keep clean. [0016] Plumbing fixtures are supplied water by municipal utility companies, wells, pumps, etc. The pressure of the supplied water varies greatly depending on the municipal utility company, the region, the elevation, the pump capacity, the well capacity, the building, the room, the time of day, the time of the year, etc. Plumbing fixtures include additional components (e.g., baffle system, vacuum breaker, restrictor, etc.) that further decrease the flow rate and pressure of the water supplied.

[0017] Conventionally, plumbing fixtures may either have a higher water usage and higher performance or lower water usage and lower performance. For example, some conventional toilets that have a low gpf have a low MaP score. Conventionally, low pressure or variations in pressure of water supplied to plumbing fixtures (e.g., higher-efficiency plumbing fixtures) can cause the plumbing fixtures to not function properly. Use of conventional plumbing fixtures that have low gpf, have low MaP scores, require higher pressure from the local water supply, and/or require constant pressure from the local water supply can lead to multiple flushes per use (e.g., water inefficiency), increased maintenance and replacement of plumbing fixtures, decreased sanitation, etc.

[0018] Some conventional flush valves of plumbing fixtures use a flapper to separate the fluid in the tank from the bowl. Conventionally, the flapper is mechanically connected (e.g., via a chain) to a lever. Actuation of the lever causes the flapper to be mechanically opened (e.g., lifted by the chain). Conventionally, a flapper has a flapper seal below the water line that may be prone to leaking due to wear and exposure to chemicals. Conventionally, flappers may be a leading cause of leaking or running of toilets (e.g., liquid from the tank constantly runs into the bowl). This causes plumbing fixtures to use more water and to have lower performance.

[0019] The devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure provide plumbing fixtures with auxiliary ports and/or accumulators.

[0020] A plumbing fixture system includes a plumbing fixture bowl, a plumbing fixture tank coupled to the plumbing fixture bowl, and a fill valve assembly (e.g., including an auxiliary port) disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. The plumbing fixture tank is configured to house liquid (e.g., water, water and cleaning solution, etc.). The plumbing fixture tank is configured to provide at least a portion of the liquid to the plumbing fixture bowl to flush the plumbing fixture bowl.

[0021] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port is configured to modify a level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank. In some embodiments, a fill valve assembly is disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. The fill valve assembly includes a fill valve inlet, a fill valve outlet, one or more components (e.g., baffle system, vacuum breaker, restrictor, etc.), and an auxiliary port. Liquid flow through the fill valve assembly may enter the fill valve outlet and a first portion of the liquid flow may pass through the components and then exit the fill valve outlet at a first flow rate (e.g., about 0.4 to 2.5 liters/minute, about 3 to 11 liters per minute, about 1 to 3 gallons per minute). A second portion of the liquid flow may exit the fill valve assembly via the auxiliary port at a second flow rate (e.g., about 5 to about 14 liters per minute, about 7 to 22 liters per minute, about 2 to about 6 gallons per minute) without passing through the components. The second portion of the liquid flowthrough the auxiliary port may be used to modify a level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank (e.g., cause a flushing operation, cause a siphon flow of a siphon flush valve).

[0022] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port modifies the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank by providing liquid flow to a hydraulic cylinder, spray nozzle of a siphonic flush valve, to an expandable bladder, to a reservoir, to a hydraulic piston, accumulator, and/or the like. The auxiliary port may be used to provide a flapperless flush valve.

[0023] In some embodiments, the plumbing fixture system further includes an accumulator. In some embodiments, the accumulator forms a first interior volume that houses gas (e.g., air) and forms a second interior volume that is configured to receive first liquid flow to compress the gas in the first interior volume. In some embodiments, a first conduit of a first diameter provides first liquid flow (e.g., from a fill valve assembly) to the accumulator and a second conduit of a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter provides second liquid flow from the accumulator (e.g., to a siphon flush valve assembly). The first diameter may be about 0.375 inches or less and the second diametermay be about 0.5 inches or greater.

[0024] The accumulator receives the first liquid flow at a first flow rate (e.g., building water pressure), compresses gas within the accumulator, and provides the second fluid flow at a second flow rate (e.g., pressurized by the compressed gas) that is greater than the first flow rate. The second flow rate may also be more constant (e.g., less variations in flow rate) compared to the first flow rate (e.g., less variations than the building water supply). The higher flow rate and more constant flow rate provided by the accumulator can be used for different applications, such as spraying in the siphon flush valve assembly to initiate a siphon flow to provide a flushing operation. The accumulator may be used to initiate the siphon flow at low building water pressure values, at varying building water pressure values, etc.

[0025] The systems, devices, and methods of the present disclosure have advantages over conventional solutions. In some embodiments, the higher flow rate provided by the auxiliary port and/or accumulator of the present disclosure provides a plumbing fixture that has a lower water usage (e.g., lower gpf) and higher performance (e.g., higher MaP) compared to conventional systems. In some embodiments, the auxiliary port and/or accumulator of the present disclosure is used to provide a flapperless plumbing fixture which avoids malfunctioning, such as leaking and running, of conventional flapper plumbing fixtures. In some embodiments, the auxiliary port and/or accumulator of the present disclosure allows the present disclosure to evacuate a plumbing fixture with less flushes (e.g., one flush) per use (e.g., water efficiency), decreased maintenance and decreased replacement of plumbing fixtures, increased sanitation, etc. compared to conventional solutions.

[0026] Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure describe use of an auxiliary port of a fill valve assembly and/or accumulator fluidly coupled to a fill valve assembly, in some embodiments, an auxiliary port and/or accumulator may be separate from the fill valve assembly (e.g., a separate inlet from the water supply).

[0027] Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure describe plumbing fixture systems that use the auxiliary port to adjust liquid level in the tank of the plumbing fixture, in some embodiments, plumbing fixture systems of the present disclosure may use auxiliary ports to perform other purposes (e.g., provide liquid to the rim, cleaning system, etc.).

[0028] Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure describe use of an accumulator to provide liquid flow to a spray nozzle of a siphon flush valve assembly, in some embodiments, an accumulator may be used to perform other purposes (e.g., provide liquid to the rim, cleaning system, etc.).

[0029] FIGS. 1 A-F illustrate components of systems 100 (e.g., plumbing fixture systems, tank assemblies), according to certain embodiments.

[0030] System 100 includes a tank 143 (e.g., plumbing fixture tank) and a tanklid 150. Tank 143 forms a tank outlet 113. System 100 may include a fill valve assembly 107, a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve), a solenoid valve 105, a user interface 162, and a conduit 106 (e.g., first conduit 106), second conduit 132, a controller 164, an accumulator 130, and/or the like. In some embodiments, solenoid valve 105 is placed above the water level W. In some embodiments, solenoid valve 105 is disposed underwater level W oris at least partially submerged in liquid 122 (e.g., a waterproofed solenoid valve 105). Tank 143 houses liquid 122 (e.g., water) andincludes gas 124 (e.g., air, air at atmospheric pressure) above liquid 122.

[0031] In some embodiments, system 100 includes an auxiliary port 120 that provides liquid flow. In some embodiments, auxiliary port 120 provides liquid flow at about 5 to about 14 liters per minute. In some embodiments, auxiliary port 120 provides liquid flow at about? to about 22 liters per minute (e.g., about 2 to 6 gallons per minute). In some embodiments, auxiliary port 120 provides liquid flowto solenoid valve 105. In some embodiments, the auxiliary port 120 is inside tank 143. In some embodiments, the auxiliary port 120 is outside of tank 143.

[0032] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port 120 is separate from the fill valve assembly 107. For example, a first supply line provides liquid flowto the accumulator 130 and a second supply line provides liquid flow to the fill valve assembly 107, where the first supply line and the second supply line are not fluidly connected within the tank 143.

[0033] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port 120 is part of the fill valve assembly 107. The fill valve assembly 107 may include fill valve inlet 142 (e.g., connected to a fourth conduit from outside tank 143), one or more components 112, fill valve outlet 114, float component 116, and/or auxiliary port 120. In some embodiments, liquid is supplied to the fill valve assembly 107 via inlet 142 (e.g., via a fourth conduit from outside tank 143). First conduit 106 and fourth conduit may be fluidly connected via fill valve assembly 107 or via a separate T-connection outside of tank 143.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1 A and FIG. IE, responsive to the float component 116 being in (e.g., floating to) a first position (e.g., upper position responsive to water level W in tank 143 meeting a threshold level), the fill valve assembly 107 does not provide liquid flow to the fill valve outlet 114. As shown in FIG. IB and FIG. IF, responsive to the float component 116 beingin (e.g., floatingto, loweringto) a second position (e.g., lower position responsive to water level W in tank 143 being below a threshold level), the fill valve assembly 107 provides liquid flow to the fill valve outlet 114 (e.g., and to plumbing fixture bowl of the system 100). The liquid flow enters the inlet 142 (e.g., via a fourth conduitfrom outside tank 143), passes through components 112, and exits via fill valve outlet 114. In some embodiments, the liquid flow travels up the fill valve assembly 107 towards float component 116 and travels back down the fill valve assembly 107 to the fill valve outlet 114. In some embodiments, the components 112 include one or more of baffle system, vacuum breaker, restrictor, etc. In some embodiments, the fluid flow that exits the fill valve outlet 114 is at about 0.4 to about 2.5 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the fluid flow that exits the fill valve outlet 114 is at about 3 to about 11 liters per minute (e.g., about 1 to 3 gallons per minute).

[0035] Responsive to the solenoid valve 105 (e.g., fluidly coupled to auxiliary port 120) being in a closed position (e.g., as controlled by controller 164), solenoid valve 105 prevents liquid flow from exiting the fill valve assembly 107 via auxiliary port 120. Responsive to the solenoid valve 105 being in an open position (e.g., as controlled by controller 164), liquid flow enters inlet 142 (e.g., via a fourth conduit from outside tank 143) and exits the fill valve assembly 107 via auxiliary port 120. In some embodiments, auxiliary port 120 is coupled to solenoid valve 105 via conduit 106. In some embodiments, auxiliary port 120 is coupled to accumulator 130 via first conduit 106 and accumulator 130 is coupled to solenoid valve 105 via second conduit 132. The liquid flow from inlet 142 to auxiliary port 120 does not pass through components 112. In some embodiments, the liquid flow rate provided by auxiliary port 120 is about 5 to about 14 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the liquid flow rate provided by auxiliary port 120 is about 7 to about 22 liters per minute (e.g., about 2 to 6 gallons per minute). The liquid flow through auxiliary port 120 may be used to adjust the water level W of liquid 122 in tank 143.

[0036] Fill valve outlet 114 of the fill valve assembly 107 to fill the tank 143 with fluid may be positioned above (e.g., just above) the auxiliary port 120 along the shaft of fill valve assembly 107 so that the auxiliary port 120 and solenoid valve 105 are underpressure (e.g., always under pressure) and can operate independently of the float component 116 of the fill valve assembly 107.

[0037] Tank 143 includes liquid 122 and a water level W. In some embodiments, conduit 106 is configured to fluidly couple auxiliary port 120 with solenoid valve 105. System 100 may be positioned on a deck of a plumbing fixture (e.g., of a plumbing fixture bowl).

[0038] In some embodiments, system 100 is fully electronic, with the solenoid valve 105 and the flush valve assembly 101 being operated electronically via controller 164. In some embodiments, system is partially manual and partially electronic, where the flush valve assembly 101 is operated manually (e.g., via user interface 162 of a lever) and the solenoid valve 105 is operated electronically. For example, a sensor may provide sensor data (e.g., indicative that the flush valve assembly 101 has been manually operated) to the controller 164 and the controller 164 may send a signal to actuate the solenoid valve 105. In some embodiments, system 100 is fully manual. A manual valve may be located at solenoid valve 105. Actuation of user interface 162 of a lever may cause flush valve assembly 101 to be actuated and may open manual valve (e.g., at the location of solenoid valve 105). In some embodiments, system 100 may include a manual offset timer that causes flush valve assembly 101 or manual valve to be actuated a predetermined amount of time after the other responsive to the lever of user interface 162 being actuated. [0039] A control system may include one or more of solenoid valve 105, user interface 162 (e.g., one or more sensors, button, etc.), controller 164, power source (e.g., battery), etc. In some embodiments, control system includes a metering valve (e.g., coupled to a fully manual handle/valve arrangement). The metering valve may be a manual valve configured to open on manual actuation (e.g., of a lever, button, etc.) and close after a predetermined amount of time. In some embodiments, control system includes a solenoid valve 105 (e.g., coupled to a controller 164. The controller 164 may cause the solenoid valve 105 to open and then to close after a predetermined amount of time. At least a portion of control system may be disposed in tank 143 and/or coupled to tank 143. Controller 164 is in electrical communication with a power source (e.g., battery, etc.), with a user interface 162 (e.g., user input, user input device), and with a solenoid valve 105 (e.g., solenoid valve). Electrical communication between power controller 164, user interface 162, and/or solenoid valve 105 may be wired or wireless.

[0040] Controller 164 may cause actuation of solenoid valve 105 to provide liquid flow: through auxiliary port 120; to accumulator 130; and/or from accumulator 130. In some embodiments, the liquid flow through auxiliary port 120 and/or from accumulator 130 causes a siphon flow of a portion of liquid 122 through the flush valve assembly 101 into the plumbing fixture bowl (e.g., by raising the water level W, by causing a negative pressure in the flush valve assembly 101, etc.). As the water level W lowers by the liquid 122 flowing into bowl, fill valve assembly 107 starts providing liquid flow (e.g., into tank 143 and/or bowl). In some embodiments, an opening of a flush valve assembly 101 and opening of a solenoid valve 105 to direct fluid through auxiliary port 120 may be simultaneous or one may open before or after the other.

[0041] Water level W of FIG. 1 A and FIG. IE represent a toilet water tank level prior to initiation of a flush cycle (between flush cycles), according to an embodiment. The system 100 may be capable of providing a high energy flush with reduced flush water volumes (e.g., low volume and/or high-efficiency toilet having a higher energy flush and a more powerful siphon).

[0042] System 100 may use three systems that work together to perform the flushing action: a bowl siphon; a flush mechanism; and a refill mechanism. Working in concert, the three systems allow for and complete a flush cycle of the plumbing fixture. The tank 143 (e.g., positioned over the back of bowl) contains liquid 122 that is used to initiate siphoning from the bowl to sewer piping (e.g., a sewage line), afterwhich liquid 122 (e.g., fresh water) refills the bowl. User interface 162 may receive user input (e.g., manipulation of a flush lever on the outside of the tank 143 that is connected to controller 164, actuating a button on the tank lid 150 or proximate tank 143, actuating a sensor proximate tank 143). Sensor may include one or more of an infrared (IR) sensor, capacitive sensor, or other motion or presence sensor. User input may be “touchless” with a sensor configured to recognize a user gesture. Upon receiving user input, the solenoid valve 105 may be actuated to cause a siphon flow of a portion of liquid 122 from the tank 143 to the bowl to initiate a flush cycle (e.g., toilet flush cycle).

[0043] The liquid 122 may flow directly into the bowl and disperse into a bowl rim. The liquid 122 may release into the bowl rim quickly, with flow from the tank 143 into the bowl lasting about 2 to about 4 seconds. The liquid 122 may flow from the rim, down a channel within the sides of the bowl and into a large hole at the bottom of the plumbing fixture (e.g., siphon jet) which releases liquid into an adjoining siphon tube to initiate a siphon action. The siphon action of the bowl draws liquid 122 and waste out of the bowl and into the siphon tube. Waste and liquid 122 continue through the siphon tube and through the trapway and is released into the sewer piping (e.g., waste water line). Once water level W of liquid 122 in tank 143 is below a threshold level, liquid 122 stops flowing through flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., flush valve assembly 101 closes the tank outlet 113) and a floating mechanism (e.g., coupled to fill valve assembly 107) that is has now dropped in the tank 143 initiates opening of a fill valve assembly 107. The fill valve assembly 107 provides liquid 122 (e.g., fresh water) to both the tank 143 and the bowl through separate flows. The tank 143 fills with water to a high enough level to cause the float to rise, thus shutting off the fill valve assembly 107. At this point, the cycle is complete.

[0044] A flush cycle is completed upon re-filling the tank 143 and one or more traps (e.g., sump trap and/or lower trap) coupled to the bowl.

[0045] In some embodiments, a system 100 (e.g., tank assembly) may be configured for an operator to choose (e.g., via user interface 162) for instance a “full flush” of about 1.6 gallons (about 6 liters) of water to eliminate solid waste or a “partial flush” (short flush) of a lower volume or water, for example about 1 .1 gallons (about 4 liters), for the removal of liquid waste. In some embodiments, a system 100 (e.g., tank assembly) may be configured for an operator to choose (e.g., via user interface 162) for instance a “full flush” of about 0.8 gallons of water to eliminate solid waste or a “partial flush” (short flush) of a lower volume or water, for the removal ofliquid waste. A choice of flush volume may depend on a valve open time of flush valve assembly 101. [0046] In some embodiments, a flush valve assembly 101 may be coupled to an overflow tube. In some embodiments, an overflow tube may be coupled to a tapered section of flush valve assembly 101. An overflow tube may be in flow communication with the valve body of the flush valve assembly 101. In some embodiments, a fill valve assembly 107 may be configured to provide fresh flush water to a bowl via an overflow tube after a flush has been performed. In other embodiments, a flush valve assembly 101 comprises no overflow tube. In some embodiments, bowl refill is accomplished via directing a certain amount of refill water through a jet outlet into the sump area towards the end of a flush cycle. In some embodiments, a fill valve assembly 107 may not be present. A bowl water seal may be formed via timing and water flow from the tank after the siphon has been broken. In some embodiments, there is no jet outlet to aid in siphon formation (e.g., just a small hole in the jet outlet location from which water flows from tank to provide bowl water seal).

[0047] Suitable flush valve assemblies are shown in US8079095, according to some embodiments. The relevant portions of US8079095 are incorporated by reference.

[0048] FIGS. 1C-D illustrate components of systems 100 (e.g., plumbing fixture systems, tank assemblies) including a siphon valve assembly, according to certain embodiments. FIG. IC is a top view of system 100. FIG. ID is a cross-sectional front view of system 100. [0049] In some embodiments, flush valve assembly 101 is a siphon valve assembly that includes a core structure 102 (e.g., tubular core) and a head structure 103. In some embodiments, flush valve assembly 101 is configured to be automatically electrically initiated via presence sensor 104. Responsive to receiving sensor data from sensor 104, controller detects presence and subsequent absence of a user and causes solenoid valve 105 to open, causing fluid flowfrom conduit 106 (e.g., first pressure line) coupled to auxiliary port 120 (e.g., of fill valve assembly 107), through conduit 108 (e.g., second pressure line) to a spray initiator (not visible) coupled to spray fitting 109 in head structure 103 and into core structure 102 to initiate a siphon. Upon initiation of a siphon, flush water will exit core structure 102 through tank outlet 113 to a bowl of the plumbing fixture. Sensor 104 is in electronic communication with one or more batteries in battery housing 110 and electrical wires 111.FIGS. 1E-F illustrate components of systems 100 (e.g., plumbing fixture systems, tank assemblies), according to certain embodiments.

[0050] System 100 includes a tank 143 (e.g., plumbing fixture tank) and a tank lid 150. Tank 143 forms a tank outlet 113. System 100 may include a fill valve assembly 107, a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve), an accumulator 130, a user interface 162, and a first conduit 106, a second conduit 132, and/or a controller 164.

[0051] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is a housing that forms an interior volume. A gas 124 (e.g., air) is disposed in the interior volume.

[0052] First conduit 106 (e.g., conduit 106) is coupled to the housing of accumulator 130 to provide liquid 122 (e.g., water) into the accumulator 130 to compress the gas 124 within the accumulator 130. In some embodiments, first conduit 106 is coupled to a bottom wall of the accumulator 130 (e.g., provides liquid 122 through the bottom wall). In some embodiments, first conduit 106 is coupled to a lower portion of a side wall of the accumulator 130 (e.g., provides liquid 122 through the side wall). In some embodiments, first conduit 106 is coupled to an upper wall or an upper portion of a side wall of the accumulator 130 (e.g., provides liquid 122 through the upper wall or an upper portion of a side wall). In some embodiments, first conduit 106 is coupled to an upper wall or an upper portion of a side wall of the accumulator 130 and a conduit (e.g., straw) provides the liquid from the opening in the upper wall or upper portion of the side wall to a lower portion of the interior volume of the accumulator.

[0053] Second conduit 132 is coupled to housing of accumulator 130 to receive liquid 122 (e.g., pressurized water) from the accumulator 130. The liquid 122 received via second conduit 132 is pressurized by the compressed gas 124 in the accumulator 130. Second conduit 132 is coupled to the bottom wall or a lower portion of a side wall of the accumulator 130.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first conduit 106 is connected (e.g., fluidly coupled, provides liquid into accumulator 130 via a first opening formed by a wall of the accumulator 130) to the accumulator 130 at a first location and the second conduit 132 is connected (e.g., fluidly coupled, receives liquid 122 from accumulator 130 via a second opening formed by a wall of the accumulator 130) to the accumulator 130 at a second location.

[0055] In some embodiments, first conduit 106 of a first diameter provides first liquid flow to accumulator 130 and second conduit 132 of a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter provides second fluid flow from the accumulator 130 (e.g., to flush valve assembly 101 and/or one or more components). In some embodiments, the first diameter is about 0.375 inches or less and the second diameteris about 0.5 inches or greater. In some embodiments, the smaller diameter of first conduit 106 and the larger diameter of second conduit 132 causes Venturi effect to pull liquid 122 from the accumulator 130 responsive to liquid 122 flowing from first conduit 106 to second conduit 132.

[0056] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 receives a first flow rate (e.g., via a smaller diameter first conduit 106 from the fill valve assembly 107) of the first liquid flow and the accumulator 130 provides (e.g., via larger diameter second conduit 132 to flush valve assembly 101) a second flow rate of a second liquid flow that is greater than the first flow rate. In some embodiments, the second flow rate from the accumulator 130 is more constant than the first flow rate to the accumulator 130.

[0057] In some embodiments, second conduit 132 is connected to a bottom wall of the accumulator 130 and first conduit 106 is connected to the second conduit 132. For example, a larger diameter second conduit 132 may connect to the bottom wall of the accumulator 130 and a smaller diameter first conduit 106 may connect to a side wall of second conduit 132.

[0058] The accumulator 130 may form a first interior volume that houses a gas 124 (e.g., air at atmospheric pressure, pressurized air, etc.). The accumulator 130 may form a second interior volume that is configured to receive the first liquid flow to compress the gas in the first interior volume. The first interior volume may be separated from the second interior volume by one or more of a piston, diaphragm, or a bladder.

[0059] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 generates additional flow (e.g., gpm) at lower supply pressure to a sprayer nozzle allowing siphon flowto start. In some embodiments, the accumulator 130 is located between the inlet valve supply and the solenoid valve or manual activation trigger. Connection between components (e.g., first conduit 106, second conduit 132, etc.) may be via flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid lines. The line size for the outlet of the accumulator 130 is greater than the inlet to the accumulator 130 to provide for greater flow (e.g., gpm) (e.g., to spray nozzle).

[0060] In some embodiments, the first conduit 106 connects the auxiliary port 120 to the accumulator 130. In some embodiments, second conduit 132 connects the accumulator 130 to a solenoid valve 105 (e.g., see FIGS. 3M-N). Fill valve outlet 114 of the fill valve assembly 107 to fill the tank 143 with fluid may be positioned above (e.g., just above) the auxiliary port 120 along the shaft of fill valve assembly 107 so that the auxiliary port 120 (e.g., and accumulator 130 and solenoid valve 105 of FIGS. 3M-N) are under pressure (e.g, always under pressure) and can operate independently of the float component 116 of the fill valve assembly 107. [0061] FIGS. 2A-B illustrate components of systems 100 (e.g., plumbing fixture systems, tank assemblies), according to certain embodiments. FIG. 2 A illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a flush valve assembly 101. FIG. 2B illustrates a front view of a flush valve assembly 101.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 2A, flush valve assembly 101 has a core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core) and a head structure 202. Spray initiator 203 is disposed in head structure 202. Spray initiator 203 may have a substantially constant diameter portion and an outwardly tapered portion. The outwardly tapered portion maybe substantially cone-shaped and configured for water to discharge from spray initiator 203 in a substantially cone shape 204 into core structure 201 and onto the interior wall of core structure 201. An outwardly tapered portion may have an angle of spray between about 50 degrees and about 120 degrees. A surrounding fluid of a tank 143 (e.g., toilet tank) may have a water level W between weir 205 and flush valve inlet 206. Upon initiation of a siphon, surrounding fluid will enter inlet 206, pass over weir 205, through core structure 201 and to a bowl via outlet 207 to initiate a flush. As a surrounding fluid level drops, the siphon will break when air enters inlet 206 and a flush will stop. In some embodiments, core structure 201 comprises a first substantially tubular section 208, a tapered section209, and a second substantially tubular section210. An upper portion of the first substantially tubular section 208 curves outward atthe weir 205 and extends longitudinally downward from the weir 205. In this manner, head structure 202 and an upper portion of core structure 201 may be substantially concentric. Head structure 202 may include a concave section 211 surrounding spray initiator 203 and a fluid supply line (e.g., fluid supply line 212 orthird conduit 108). A core structure201 may include a flange

213 extending outwardly from an outer surface of a tubular core and align a siphon flush valve with a tank opening (e.g., tank outlet 113) and maintain a siphon flush valve therein. [0063] In some embodiments, splines 214 are disposed in head structure 202. Head structure 202 may be a dome or cap shape. An opening in head structure 202 may be fitted with a spray fitting that couples to spray initiator 203. Head structure 202 may include splines

214 that extend from an inner surface of head structure 202. In some embodiments, head structure 202 has four splines 214, less than four splines 214, or more than four splines 214. Splines 214 may locate and hold head structure 202 in place on an upper portion of the core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core). In some embodiments, splines 214 are configured to rest on upper portion of core structure 201 . In some embodiments, splines 214 are configured to provide a friction fit with an upper portion of core structure 201. In some embodiments, splines 214 are configured to be secured with one or more connection types (e.g., adhesion, fastener, etc.).

[0064] Splines 214 may be generally L-shaped. Splines 214 may extend from a top inner surface and inner wall surface. Splines 214 may be coupled to a top inner surface and inner wall surface of head structure 202. Splines 214 may be molded or formed with head structure 202. In some embodiments, splines 214 are formed separately and coupled to head structure 202, for example, by gluing or fastening. Splines 214 maybe full length, extending along the entire length of head structure 202 or splines 214 may be partial length, extending along a portion of the length of head structure 202. Splines 214 may centrally locate head structure 202 on a core structure 201. Splines 214 may extend to top of head structure 202 and may aid in determining a vertical position. Splines 214 may create a radially and vertically extending space (a flow path) between upper portion of a core structure 201 and an inner surface of head structure 202. A radially and vertically extending space may be an annular space. An annular space between upper portion of a core structure 201 and an inner surface of head structure 202 may be configured for water to flow into a flush valve assembly 101, through a flush valve inlet 206, over a weir 205, and into a bore of a core structure 201 . A configuration of splines 214 may vary depending upon the desire annular space and flow path.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 2B, flush valve assembly 101 may be a non-concentric siphon flush valve. Flush valve assembly 101 may include a spray initiator 203 that has a supply connection 220 located at a top of a core structure 201. Spray initiator 203 may be the same or similar as any of the initiators previously described. Core structure 201 may be the same or similar as any cores previously described. Core structure 201 may have a varied diameter bore. Core structure 201 may have a diverging bore. In flush valve assembly 101, head structure 202 may take a form of two inlet pipes 222 arranged symmetrically about core structure 201. Each inlet pipe 222 may have a flush valve inlet 206 (e.g., flared inlet). Flush valve inlets 206 (e.g., flared inlets) may allow increased and improved flow into flush valve assembly 101. Each inlet pipe 222 may include a weir 205. Flush valve assembly 101 may operate in the same or similar manner as the previously described flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon valves). Fluid flow enters flush valve assembly 101 through flush valve inlet 206. Surrounding tank fluid may flowfrom flush valve inlet 206, over weirs 205, through bore of core structure 201, and out a siphon flush valve outlet 207. Tank fluid may flow through flush valve inlets 206 simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. Tank fluid may flow uniformly through both inlet pipes 222. In other embodiments, a head may comprise a plurality of inlets or inlet pipes, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more inlet pipes 222. [0066] A spray initiator 203 may be a sprayer, spray initiator, and/or a nozzle. A spray initiator 203 may be secured within a head opening via adhesion, friction fit, press fit, threads, glue, overmolding, screw threads, bayonet threads, or other types. A spray initiator 203 may be formed as a unitary, single body or may be formed from a plurality of parts coupled together. A spray initiator 203 may have a substantially cylindrical outer surface with a bore therethrough. A spray initiator 203 may be tubular in shape. A spray initiator 203 may have a flange configured to secure to a lower surface of head structure 202.

[0067] System 100 may be a plumbing fixture, such as a toilet. A toilet may be a gravity- fed toilet, a tankless toilet, a wall hung toilet, a one-piece toilet, a two-piece toilet, a pressurized toilet, a commercial toilet, a residential toilet, a hands-free toilet, a sensor actuated toilet, a manual toilet, etc. An actuator may be manual, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, or hydro-mechanical. An actuatormay be associated with abattery. A supply valve maybe associated with an infrared sensor (IR sensor), logic circuit and/or printed circuit board (PCB). During operation, an IR sensor may be activated by a user (e.g., the IR sensor senses when the user moves from a sensor path). An IR sensor may communicate this to a controller which sends a signal to the solenoid to open thus admitting water through a siphon flush valve fluid supply line. A solenoid maybe programmed to open for a predetermined time or to be opened and closed, respectively, based on signals from a controller.

[0068] Core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core) may have a choke point at a transition from a first substantially tubular section 208 to a tapered section 209. A choke point may be configured to improve flow dynamics and efficiencies. A choke point may improve flow dynamics and efficiencies, for example, due to a divergence of a tubular core bore of the core structure 201. A divergence of a core bore may be caused by the diameter of bore tapering inwardly and subsequently tapering outwardly. A divergence of a bore may be where a bore extends (or alternatively tapers inwardly) from a first diameter at a top of first substantially tubular section 208 to a choke point and subsequently tapers outwardly during a tapered section 209 to an inner diameter of a second substantially tubular section 210. A divergence of a bore may increase the velocity or speed of a fluid flowing through a siphon flush valve as compared to a straight bore. An increased velocity of a fluid flowmay increase the rate of discharge of fluid from a toilet tank to a toilet bowl, thus enhancing efficiency and performance of a toilet. A core structure 201 may be substantially tubular. A first substantially tubular section 208, a tapered section 209, and a second substantially tubular section 210 may be coupled or integrally formed. [0069] A tapered section 209 may taper outwardly from a first diameter D 1 of a first substantially tubular section 208 to a second diameter D2 of a second substantially tubular section 210. A second diameter D2 may be larger than first diameter DI . Atapered section 209 may taper both internally (e.g., the bore of a tapered section 209 may taper outward) and externally (e.g., the outer surface of a tapered section 209 may taper outward). A core structure 201 may include a flange 213 extending outwardly from an outer surface of core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core). Flange 213 may be located at a lower end of a tapered section 209 and/or at an upper end of a second substantially tubular section 210. Flange 213 may align a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) with a tank outlet 113 (e.g., tank opening) and maintain a siphon flush valve therein. Enhanced flow, as previously described, may be achieved from a first substantially tubular section 208 and a tapered section 209 due to the expanding bore diameter. An enhanced flow may be divergent flow where under full flow conditions, flow transitions from a choke point gradually diverging outward. This may create flow separation thus increasing a flow velocity through a choke point. A change in diameter may benefit or aid in establishing siphon flow during an initial or transient phase (e.g., during initiation of a siphon flow in a siphon flush valve). Various configurations may be contemplated in accordance with the invention to increase flow velocity and volume. This may also reduce the amount of time and/or flow needed to establish a siphon flow.

[0070] A flush valve inlet 206 (e.g., siphon flush valve inlet) and a fluid flow path may be substantially annular. A flow path may be defined between an inner surface of a head structure 202 and an outer surface of a core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core). A flow path may be defined from a structure of a head structure 202 and a core structure 201, embodiments of which are described herein. A flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) may have an internal cavity defined by a tubular bore and a flow path. A flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) may have a longitudinal axis L. A head structure 202, spray initiator 203, and/or core structure 201 maybe aligned along the longitudinal axis L. A head structure 202 and core structure 201 may be concentric about the longitudinal axis L. Where head structure 202 and core structure 201 are not circular in cross-section, head structure 202 and core structure 201 may still be aligned with center points along the longitudinal axis. A head structure 202 may be wider and/or have a larger diameter than a core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core) such that flush valve inlet 206 (e.g., siphon flush valve inlet) and/or a flow path is defined therebetween. An area defined by a space between a flush valve inlet 206 (e.g., siphon flush valve inlet) and an upper portion of a core structure 201 may be greater than or equal to the area defined by a spacebetween a head apex of the head structure 202 and a weir 205. A space between a head apex and a weir 205 may be greater than or equal to the area defined by a top of bore. A spray initiator 203 may be located such that a spray pattern emitted from initiator contacts the bore at or lower than a weir 205. [0071] A starting surrounding water level W may be at a higher vertical position than a flush valve inlet 206 (e.g., siphon flush valve inlet). A starting water level W may be higher than a flush valve inlet 206 to ensure no air exists at a flush valve inlet 206 (e.g., a water seal is present) and to ensure a siphon may be initiated when a flush cycle is started. A starting water level W may be at or near the top of a weir 205. A water level lower than the top of a weir 205 may require a greater pressure differential to initiate siphon flow. A water level higher than the top of a weir may provide for water to spill over and provide a “run on” condition. Surrounding water in a toilet tank which at a starting water level W may be water at atmospheric pressure. In an initial condition, surrounding fluid, such as water, maybe supplied through a fluid supply line (e.g., third conduit 108 or fluid supply line 212, siphon flush valve fluid supply line). Water may be pressurized water and may be admitted through a solenoid valve 105 that is opened with an actuator. Water may exit a fluid supply line (e.g., third conduit 108 or fluid supply line 212, siphon flush valve fluid supply line) and discharge into a bore through a spray initiator 203. Water may exit initiator in a cone pattern. Cone pattern may be substantially cone-shaped, such as, a full cone, a hollow cone, or a square cone shape. A tapered portion of a bore of an initiator may be configured for water to exit a spray initiator 203 in cone pattern. That is, since a tapered portion of a bore has a conical shape, water which exits this portion may also take on a conical shape. Discharge of water in a cone pattern into a tubular bore may create a negative pressure differential. A pressure differential may be suchthatthe pressure within a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) is lower than the pressure in a tank 143 (e.g., toilet tank). A starting surrounding water level W in a tank 143 may have an initial condition at atmospheric pressure. Water that flows out of a spray initiator 203 may be at a higher pressure than the atmospheric pressure of starting surrounding water level. This may create a reduced pressure at a weir 205 and flush valve inlet 206. A reduced pressure within flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) induces a siphon effect, pulling water from starting surrounding water into a flush valve inlet 206, through a flow path, over a weir 205, into a tubular bore and out a flush valve outlet 207 (e.g., flush valve outlet 207 may be assembled concentrically to tank outlet 113).

[0072] Once a siphon effect has been initiated, the pressurized water from fluid supply line (e.g., third conduit 108 or fluid supply line 212, siphon flush valve fluid supply line) may be stopped. Pressurized water may be stopped by closing a valve (e.g., solenoid valve 105). So long as no air is provided to an interior of a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve), water may continue to empty from a tank 143 to a toilet bowl for flushing of a plumbing fixture (e.g., toilet). As water approaches an ending water level, the water level may no longer completely cover a flush valve inlet 206. Accordingly, air may be permitted to enter flush valve inlet 206 and become entrained with flow of water through the flush valve assembly 101. With air entering the flush valve inlet 206, the siphon effect through flush valve assembly 101 is stopped and a flush is stopped.

[0073] A height of starting surrounding water level and a height of ending surrounding water level may be selected such that the volume therebetween effectively flushes a plumbing fixture (e.g., toilet). A height between starting surrounding water level and ending surrounding water level may be optimized for a predetermined discharge volume. A fill valve assembly 107 may be controlled to refill a tank 143 (e.g., toilettank) to the starting water level. A flush valve inlet 206 may be placed at a height corresponding to a desired ending water level. A system 100 thus may be configured for a fixed flush volume discharge.

[0074] Various parameters may be customized or altered in the operation of a toilet and/or flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve). Such parameters include dimensions and parameters (e.g. diameters, lengths, shape, orientation, etc.) of a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve), height of the weir 205, fluid pressure from the main plumbing source, fluid pressure in a fluid supply line (e.g., third conduit 108 or fluid supply line 212), dimensions and parameters (e.g. diameters, lengths, shape, orientation, etc.) of the spray initiator 203 , size and orientation of a flush valve inlet 206, duration of the initiator discharging fluid, activation time of an actuator, solenoid valve 105, and/or spray initiator 203, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) with the previously described parameters, may have the following parameters to achieve a siphon flush effect to discharge fluid from a tank 143 to a toilet bowl. A solenoid valve 105 may be open for about 2.5 seconds at about 40 psi and above to initiate siphon flow. Refilling or resealing of a toilet bowl may be achieved by increasing a duration (“ON” time) to dispense additional water for this purpose. Refilling or resealing may be an amount of water needed to refill a toilet bowl to a level to provide a water seal to prevent sewer gasses from traveling through a trapway and up through a bowl. An actuator, solenoid valve 105, and spray initiator 203 may be dual purpose in function; one, to initiate siphon action, and two, to refill a water seal in a toilet bowl after a flush cycle, if the timing is configured to allow this added function. A divergent flow pattern may be used to form a seal between a nozzle and a valve core inside diameter perimeter. Another seal may be created by a starting water level which is at or near a weir height of weir 205. As water is flowing through a sprayer (e.g., spray initiator 203) contacting a core inner perimeter wall and flowing downward, it creates a negative pressure or vacuum to cause atmospheric pressure acting on a free surface to push cistern water up and over the weir 205 and thusly establishing gravity siphon flow. Other flow patterns are contemplated. For example, if, a straight flow column were large enough to contact a core inner perimeter wall, it may generate siphon flow.

[0075] A head structure 202 may have an outer surface having a substantially cylindrical or tubular shape. An outer surface may curve radially outward at a lower end. A lower end may create a concave surface in an outer surface. A lower end may be radiused or profiled to improve flow dynamics and efficiencies. A radiused or profiled lower end may improve flow dynamics by reducing energy losses. An outer surface may extend longitudinally upward from a lower end to an upper end. At an upper end, an outer surface may curve at a curved portion upward from an outer end to an apex and then downward toward a head opening. A head opening may have a substantially cylindrical shape. In a lateral view, a head may appear “donut” shaped.

[0076] A flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) may taper outwardly at the top. A full round feature may form an effective siphon with sprayer technology alone. An outward taper profile, under dynamic flow conditions, at an initial or transient flow stage (air and water) may follow the profile shape, first spilling over at the weir 205, secondly following the taper downward and thirdly, following vertically downward. As flow, for example, the flow velocity, increases, the flow will separate from the boundary wall at the taper to the vertically downward transition resulting in convergent flow stream toward a center of the valve. As the valve is of substantially circular design in cross-section, the resulting annular flow will meet in the bore of a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) and effectuate a seal to allow a pressure differential to form as water flows downward through a bore of a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., through the down leg portion), thus aiding a siphon effect to develop in the flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve). A previously described action, combined with a previously mentioned spray initiator 203, may be configured for a siphon to form and transition to full siphon (no air) more quickly than a full round weir feature. Other profile shapes may be provided for improving efficiencies.

[0077] An upper portion of a core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core) may have an outwardly and downwardly extending shape. An upper portion may include a wall which extends and/or curves from weir 205 outward and downward to a lower surface. A lower surface may be curved or turned inward toward the core from the wall. A weir may be a profiled or radiused throat to provide a flow path with improved flow dynamics and efficiencies. An upper portion may form a gap between an exterior surface of a core and a wall of an upper portion. A gap may be substantially annular. A weir 205 may align with a center of a curved portion of a head structure 202. In this manner, when assembled, a head structure 202 and an upper portion of a core structure 201 may be substantially concentric. A relationship between a head structure 202 and an upper portion of core structure 201 may provide a flush valve inlet 206 and a flow path for fluid, such as water, to flow from an exterior of a flush valve assembly 101 through a tubular bore. A flush valve inlet 206 and flow path may be annular. An outward curve of a lower surface of a core structure 201 and an outward curve of a lower end of a head structure 202 may provide an enlarged flush valve inlet 206. This may improve flow dynamics and efficiencies.

[0078] In some embodiments, a head structure 202 and core structure 201 (e.g., tubular core) may have shapes other than cylindrical, for instance ovular. A width of a head structure 202 and a core structure 201 may be smaller than a length of the head structure 202 and the core structure 201 . An oval or elliptical shape of a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) may allow flush valve assembly 101 to be accommodated in more tanks 143 (e.g., toilet tanks) as tanks 143 are generally more wide than deep. Although a circular and elliptical siphon flush valve are described, a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) may be other shapes.

[0079] Although flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) of the present disclosure are depicted and described as substantially concentrically arranged flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves), other shapes and arrangements are possible. A substantially concentric siphon flush valve may allow for uniform flow from the tank 143 into a siphon flush valve. Uniform flow may improve the efficiency and rate of flow in a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve). Other contemplated shapes and arrangements (e.g., non-concentric arrangements) may also exhibit uniform flowfromthe tank 143 into a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve).

[0080] A system 100 (e.g., toilet system) may include a control assembly (e.g., controller 164). A control assembly maybe coupled to a tank 143. A control assembly may be coupled to an exterior of the tank 143. A control assembly may be coupled to an interior of the tank 143 within a waterproof compartment or container. A control assembly may include one or more of a sensor, a battery, wiring, or a printed circuit board controller (e.g., controller 164). A sensor may be an infrared sensor (IR sensor) for detecting the presence and/or absence of a user at system 100 (e.g., toilet). A control assembly may be associated with solenoid valve 105. Alternatively, a sensor may be omitted and a system 100 may be actuated by manual flush handle or button actuator. A solenoid valve 105 is controllable between an open position and a closed position. In an open position, a solenoid valve 105 may admit fluid from a first supply line (e.g., second conduit 132 coupled to accumulator 130, conduit 106 coupled to auxiliary port 120, first siphon flush valve supply line) to a second supply line (e.g., third conduit 108, fluid supply line 212, conduit 108 (e.g., second pressure line), second siphon flush valve supply line). A second supply line may be the same as fluid supply line (e.g., third conduit 108 or fluid supply line 212). A second supply line may supply water to a spray initiator 203. In a closed position, a solenoid valve 105 may prevent flow between a second supply line and a first supply line. Alternatively, a solenoid valve 105 may be replaced with a metering valve or hydro-mechanical valve. Hydro-mechanical and/or metering valves may use line pressure and/or springs to temporarily open the valve. A printed circuit board may send and receive signals from sensor to and from a solenoid valve 105. A battery may be a battery pack and may supply power to the various electric components. A control assembly may be mounted on a mounting board.

[0081] A tee may allow a water source for an initiator to be tapped prior to a fill valve assembly 107. A pressure for a spray initiator 203 may be determined by a building infrastructure, typically between about 20 psi and about 120 psi. A lower pressure may equate to a lower spray volume and lower pressure generation in a flush valve assembly 101, thus resulting in a lower efficiency siphon flush valve. Spray initiators 203 of the present disclose may form a pattern, annular in form, from the center of an initiator head diverging toward and making contact with the bore of the core structure 201.

[0082] In some embodiments, system 100 may include a vacuum breaker, which may be used to allow a flush valve assembly 101 to be code compliant. A vacuum breaker may be positioned upstream (prior to) a spray initiator 203.

[0083] Divergent spray angles ranging from about 50 degrees to about 120 degrees may be provided. A spray pattern may be solid or hollowin form and may be cone, square, pyramid, or oval, etc. in shape. Spray initiators 203 may be singular or plurality part construction. A spray initiator 203 may be fixed permanently or made for ease of removal for maintenance. A spray initiator 203 may be fixed by overmolding, glue, interference fit, screw, or bayonet thread. In some embodiments, a connection between a spray initiator 203 and a head structure 202 (e.g., siphon flush valve head) may be sealed (e.g., leak -free). [0084] In some embodiments, flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) of the present disclosure allow for a flapperless flush system. In some embodiments, flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) of the present disclose allow for a system 100 which does not leak due to worn, chemically degraded, damaged, etc. flapper seals. In some embodiments, flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) of the present disclosure allow for a flush valve assembly 101 with no moving parts, reducing the likelihood of damage, failure, and/or need for repair. A concentric design of the head structure 202 with respect to the core structure 201 allows for higher flow throughput in a compact structure. [0085] In some embodiments, flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) of the present disclosure may be combined with a bidet and/or a tankless toilet. In some embodiments, flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) of the present disclosure may work with one-piece and two-piece toilets having a water tank reservoir. For a one-piece toilet, a flush valve assembly 101 (e.g., siphon flush valve) may have a base fixation type that may differ from the two-piece toilet (e.g., the threaded spud with nut). In some embodiments, flush valve assemblies 101 (e.g., siphon flush valves) ofthe present disclose may be provided to a toilet having a remote tank or cistern. For example, a tank or cistern hidden in a wall. In this example, additional water conduits may be used.

[0086] FIGS. 3 A-N illustrate components of systems 100 (e.g., plumbing fixture systems, tank assemblies), accordingto certain embodiments. FIGS. 3 A-N illustrate auxiliary port 120 being fluidly coupled to different components to adjust a water level W in the tank 143.

[0087] FIGS. 3 A-B illustrate systems 100 that include an auxiliary port 120 fluidly coupled to a spray initiator 203 (e.g., spray nozzle). As illustrated in FIG. 3 A, the water level W is above the flush valve inlet 206 and belowthe weir 205 (e.g., see FIGS. 2A-B). Controller 164 (e.g., responsive to user input or sensor data via user interface 162) actuates solenoid valve 105 to provide liquid flow (e.g., about 5 to 14 liters per minute, about ? to 22 liters per minute, about 2 to about 6 gallons per minute) from auxiliary port 120, through conduit 106, through solenoid valve 105, through conduit 108, andthrough spray initiator 203 (e.g., spray nozzle, spray device) into a core structure 201 of the flush valve assembly 101 to cause a negative pressure between the liquid 122 between the head structure 202 and core structure 201 and the spray from spray initiator 203 (e.g., cause pressure differential within the flush valve assembly 101). This causes the liquid 122 between the head structure 202 and the core structure 201 to rise above the weir 205 and fall through the core structure 201 , through the tank outlet 113, and into the bowl to cause a siphon flow (e.g., initiation of siphon flow). This establishes a siphon flow of water for discharge into the toilet bowl for cleaning the bowl and removing waste. Once full siphon flow is established through the valve, the pressurized water may be turned off.

[0088] As the tank water discharges (e.g., siphon flow of liquid coming from tank 143, between the space between head structure 202 and core structure 201, over the weir 205, and to the tank outlet 113), the tank water level goes down to an ending water level generally at the bottom of the head structure 202 thereby allowing air to enter into the head and a siphon flow is stopped as illustrated in FIG. 3B (e.g., termination of siphon flow). In some embodiments, the solenoid valve 105 is open (e.g., provides spray through spray initiator 203) until the siphon flow starts. In some embodiments, the solenoid valve 105 is open during the siphon flow. In some embodiments, the solenoid valve 105 is open after the siphon flow. In some embodiments, the solenoid valve 105 is open for a predetermined amount of time. In some embodiments, the flush valve assembly 101 of FIGS. 3 A-B is flapperless. A fill valve may be provided and configured to refill the toilet tank to allow subsequent repeat flush cycles.

[0089] FIGS. 3C-D illustrate systems 100 thatinclude an auxiliary port 120 fluidly coupled to a hydraulic cylinder 310. Hydraulic cylinder 310 may include a housing 312 and a piston 314 disposed within the housing 312. The flush valve assembly 101 may include a closure component 318 that is connected to piston 314 via a connector 316.

[0090] Responsive to user input or sensor data via user interface 162, controller 164 may actuate solenoid valve 105 to an open position to provide liquid flow from auxiliary port 120, through conduit 106, through solenoid valve 105, through conduit 108, andto housing 312. The liquid flow may cause the piston 314 to rise within the housing 312, which causes closure component s 18 to rise and allow liquid 122 to leave tank 143 to enter the bowl of the plumbing fixture. FIG. 3 C illustrates the hydraulic cylinder 310 without providing liquid flow through auxiliary port 120. FIG. 3D illustrates hydraulic cylinder 310 after providing liquid flow through auxiliary port 120 which causes the piston 314 to rise which opens the closure component s 18.

[0091] In some embodiments, the hydraulic cylinder 310 is located to the side of the flush valve assembly 101. In some embodiments, the hydraulic cylinder 310 is concentric to (e.g., around, within, etc.) the hydraulic cylinder 310. In some embodiments, the closure component s 18 is part of a flush valve tower (e.g., canister flush valve). In some embodiments, the closure component 318 is a flapper.

[0092] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port 120 provides liquid flow to a bottom portion of the hydraulic cylinder 310 to cause the piston 314 to rise. In some embodiments, the auxiliary port 120 provides liquid flow to an inlet on an upper portion of the hydraulic cylinder 310 to cause the piston 314 to rise via Venturi effect.

[0093] A flush valve assembly 101 may include a flush valve body extending from a flush valve inlet to a flush valve outlet (e.g., tank outlet 113). In a closed position, closure component 318 (e.g., a valve cover) is positioned with a seal seated on and enclosing tank outlet 113. In some embodiments, a seal may comprise an elastomer or other flexible polymer, for example flexible silicone or polyvinyl chloride. In some embodiments, closure component 318 is connected to connector 316 (e.g., a chain) to lift the closure component 318 to open the flush valve assembly 101.

[0094] In some embodiments, a flush valve body may include a radiused (rounded) fluid inlet. In some embodiments, a radiused flush valve inlet may have an outer diameter of from any of about 3.7 inches, about 3.8 inches, about 4.0 inches, about 4.2 inches, about 4.4 inches, or about 4.6 inches, to any of about 4.8 inches, about 5.0 inches, about 5.2 inches, about 5.4 inches, or more. In some embodiments, a radiused flush valve inlet may have an inner diameter of from any of about 2.6 inches, about 2.8 inches, about 3.0 inches, or about 3.2 inches, to any of about 3.4 inches, about 3.6 inches, about 3.8 inches, about 4.0 inches, or more.

[0095] In some embodiments, a flush valve body may include an annular base section having a fluid outlet. In some embodiments, an annular base section and fluid outlet may have an inner diameter of from any of about 2.4 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 2.6 inches, about 2.7 inches, about 2.8 inches, or about 2.9 inches, to any of about 3.0 inches, about 3.1 inches, about 3.2 inches, about 3.3 inches, about 3.4 inches, about 3.5 inches, about 3.6 inches, about 3.7 inches, about 3.8 inches, about 3.9 inches, about 4.0 inches, or more.

[0096] In some embodiments, a flush valve body may have a tapered portion, wherein a flush valve body inner diameter gradually decreases. In some embodiments, a flush valve body may include a tapered portion wherein the flush valve body inner diameter gradually decreases from a radiused fluid inlet to an annular base portion.

[0097] FIGS. 3E-F illustrate systems 100 that include an auxiliary port 120 fluidly coupled to a reservoir 320.

[0098] Controller 164 may actuate solenoid valve 105 (e.g., subsequent to performing a flushing operation) to an open position to provide liquid flow from auxiliary port 120, through conduit 106, through solenoid valve 105, and through conduit 108 to at least partially fill reservoir 320. The reservoir 320 may be disposed above the water level W. [0099] Responsive to user input or sensor data via user interface 162, controller 164 may cause the liquid from the reservoir 320 to be released into the liquid 122 below the reservoir 320 to cause the water level W to rise to initiate a siphon flush. FIG. 3E illustrates prior to the siphon flush and FIG. 3F illustrates after the siphon flush.

[00100] FIGS. 3 G-H illustrate systems 100 that include an auxiliary port 120 fluidly coupled to a hydraulic piston 330. Hydraulic piston 330 may include a housing 332 and a piston 334 disposed in the housing 332.

[00101] Responsive to user input or sensor data via user interface 162, controller 164 may actuate solenoid valve 105 to an open position to provide liquid flow from auxiliary port 120, through conduit 106, through solenoid valve 105, through conduit 108, and to move piston 334 within housing 332. Moving of the piston 334 within the housing 332 causes liquid flow out of the housing 332 which raises the water level W in the tank 143 which initiates a siphon flush. FIG. 3 G illustrates prior to the siphon flush and FIG. 3H illustrates after the siphon flush.

[00102] The housing 332 may include a first housing portion that has a smaller diameter and a second housing portion that has a larger diameter. The piston 334 may include a first piston portion that has a smaller diameter configured to fit inside of the first housing portion. The piston 334 may include a second piston portion that has a larger diameter configured to fit inside of the second housing portion. The first and second portions of the piston 334 may be coupled to each other. The first and second portions of the piston 334 may be integral to each other. The conduit 108 may provide liquid flow into the first housing portion to push against the first piston portion so that a smaller amount of liquid can cause a larger amount of liquid to exit the housing 332 to raise the water level W.

[00103] FIGS. 3I-J illustrate systems 100 that include an auxiliary port 120 fluidly coupled to an expandable bladder 340 (e.g., balloon, expandable component, etc.).

[00104] Responsive to user input or sensor data via user interface 162, controller 164 may actuate solenoid valve 105 to an open position to provide liquid flow from auxiliary port 120, through conduit 106, through solenoid valve 105, through conduit 108, and into expandable bladder 340. Liquid flow into the expandable bladder 340 causes the expandable bladder 340 to expand and raises the water level W in the tank 143 which initiates a siphon flush. FIG. 31 illustrates prior to the siphon flush and FIG. 3 J illustrates after the siphon flush.

[00105] FIGS. 3K-L illustrate systems 100 that include an auxiliary port 120. The auxiliary port 120 is coupled to a conduit that is coupled to a solenoid valve 105. The solenoid valve 105 is coupled to a conduit 108. In some embodiments, the conduit 108 forms an outlet above the water level W. The spacing between the outlet of conduit 108 and the water level W may be a critical air gap. In some embodiments, the outlet of conduit 108 is disposed underwater level W.

[00106] Responsive to user input or sensor data via user interface 162, controller 164 may actuate solenoid valve 105 to an open position to provide liquid flow from auxiliary port 120, through conduit 106, through solenoid valve 105, and through conduit 108 to the tank 143 to cause the water level W to rise. The rising water level W causes a siphon flush to initiate. FIG. 3K illustrates prior to the siphon flush and FIG. 3L illustrates after the siphon flush.

[00107] FIGS. 3M-N illustrate components of systems 100 (e.g., plumbing fixture systems, tank assemblies) including a siphon valve assembly, accordingto certain embodiments. FIG. 3M illustrates system 100 before providing a siphon flow (e.g., between flushing operations) and FIG. 3N illustrates system 100 after providing a siphon flow.

[00108] In some embodiments, flush valve assembly 101 is a siphon valve assembly that includes a core structure 102 (e.g., tubular core) and a head structure 103. In some embodiments, flush valve assembly 101 is configured to be automatically electrically initiated via presence sensor 104. Responsive to receiving sensor data from sensor 104, controller detects presence and subsequent absence of a user and causes solenoid valve 105 to open, causing fluid flow from accumulator 130, through second conduit 132, through solenoid valve 105, through third conduit 108 and to spray nozzle (e.g., spray initiator) coupled to spray fitting 109 in head structure 103 and into core structure 102 to initiate a siphon flow. The gas 124 that has been compressed in accumulator 130 pressurizes the liquid 122 that flows out of the accumulator 130 to provide a flow rate that meets a threshold flow rate into the siphon flush valve assembly 101 to initiate the siphon flow. As liquid 122 flows out of accumulator 130, liquid flows from auxiliary port 120 (e.g., of fill valve assembly 107, separate from fill valve assembly 107), through first conduit 106, and into the accumulator 130.

[00109] Upon initiation of a siphon, flush water will exit core structure 102 through tank outlet 113 to a bowl of the plumbing fixture. Sensor 104 is in electronic communication with one or more batteries in battery housing 110 and electrical wires.

[00110] As illustrated in FIG. 3M, the gas 124 is compressed (e.g., an air charge) in accumulator 130 prior to actuating solenoid valve 105 to an open position. As illustrated in FIG. 3N, the gas 124 is not compressed (e.g., no air charge) in accumulator 130 after actuating the solenoid valve 105 to an open position for a threshold amount of time. [00111] In some embodiments, one or more accumulators 130 are disposed in the tank 143. In some embodiments, the accumulator 130 is disposed outside of the tank 143 (e.g., in the chinaware of the plumbing fixture system, in the wall, attached to an outer surface of the plumbing fixture system, etc.).

[00112] In some embodiments, the accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to one or more components. In some embodiments, the accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to one or more components to adjust a water level W in the tank 143. In some embodiments, the accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to one or more components to initiate a siphon flow.

[00113] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic cylinder. Hydraulic cylinder may include a housing and a piston disposed within the housing. The flush valve assembly 101 may include a closure component that is connected to piston via a connector. Liquid flow from accumulator to the hydraulic cylinder may lift the closer component to cause a flushing operation.

[00114] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The accumulator 130 may fill (e.g., with pressurized liquid from the accumulator 130) the reservoir with liquid. Responsive to user input or sensor data, controller may cause the reservoir to release the liquid into the tank 143 to raise the water level W to cause a siphon flow.

[00115] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic piston that includes a housing and a piston disposed in the housing. Responsive to user input or sensor data, controller may move (e.g., with pressurized liquid from the accumulator 130) the piston to push liquid out of the housing to raise the water level W to cause a siphon flow.

[00116] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to an expandable bladder (e.g., balloon, expandable component, etc.). Responsive to user input or sensor data, controller may provide fluid flow from the accumulator 130 into the expandable bladder to raise the water level W in the tank 143 to cause a siphon flow.

[00117] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to a conduit that forms an outlet above the water level W. The spacing between the outlet of third conduit 108 and the water level W may be a critical air gap. In some embodiments, the outlet of third conduit 108 is disposed under water level W. Responsive to user input or sensor data, controller may provide fluid flow from the accumulator 130 through the conduit to raise the water level W in the tank 143 to cause a siphon flow.

[00118] In some embodiments, accumulator 130 is fluidly coupled to a rim of the bowl of the plumbing fixture system (e.g., to clean the rim). [00119] FIGS. 4 A-B illustrate flow diagrams of methods 400 A-B associated with adjusting liquid level in a plumbing fixture tank, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 4 A illustrates a flow diagram of a method 400A associated with using an auxiliary port to adjust liquid level in a plumbing fixture tank, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 4B illustrates a flow diagram of a method 400B associated with using an accumulator in a plumbing fixture system, according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, method 400 A and/or method 400B is performed by processing logic that includes hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, processing device, etc.), software (such as instructions run on a processing device, a general purpose computer system, or a dedicated machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a non- transitory machine-readable storage medium stores instructions that when executed by a processing device, cause the processing device to perform one or more of method 400 A and/or method 400B. In some embodiments, any of the methods described herein are performed by a server, by a client device, and/or a controller (e.g., controller 164 of one or more of FIGS. 1 A-B, 1E-F, or FIGS. 3A-N).

[00120] For simplicity of explanation, methods 400A-B are depicted and described as a series of operations. However, operations in accordance with this disclosure can occur in various orders and/or concurrently and with other operations not presented and described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement methods 400 A-B in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that methods 400 A-B could alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events. [00121] Referring to FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, at block 402 the processing logic receives user input associated with flushing a plumbing fixture. In some embodiments, the plumbing fixture is a toilet (e.g., tank toilet, tankless toilet) or a urinal.

[00122] In some embodiments, the user input is via actuation of a lever or a button coupled to the plumbing fixture or proximate the plumbing fixture. In some embodiments, the user input is received via a motion sensor (e.g., detecting motion of a user proximate the plumbing fixture, such as a user moving away from the plumbing fixture). In some embodiments, the user input is via a schedule (e.g., flush the plumbing fixture every threshold amount of time, such as every five minutes). In some embodiments, the user input is received from a client device via a network. In some embodiments, user input indicates a type of flush (e.g., higher gpf flush or lower gpf flush). [00123] At block 404, the processing logic actuates a device (e.g., solenoid valve, metering valve) to cause liquid flow through an auxiliary port disposed in a plumbing fixture tank to modify a level of liquid in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00124] In some embodiments, the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to a spray nozzle (e.g., spray initiator, spray device, etc.O to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank (e.g., see FIGS. 3A-B).

[00125] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic cylinder to cause the hydraulic cylinder to open a flush valve to cause a flushing operation (e.g., see FIGS. 3C-D).

[00126] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to a reservoir to fill the reservoir, and wherein the reservoir is to be actuated to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank (e.g., see FIGS. 3E-F).

[00127] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic piston disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. Actuation, via the auxiliary port, of the hydraulic piston causes a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank (e.g., see FIGS. 3G-H).

[00128] In some embodiments, the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to an expandable bladder to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank (e g., see FIGS. 3I-J).

[00129] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port is configured to modify the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank by increasing the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a siphonic actuation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a flushing operation (e.g., see FIGS. 3K-L).

[00130] In some embodiments, the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to an accumulator to modify the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank (e.g., see FIGS. 3M-N). In some embodiments, a fill valveprovides liquid into tank 143 and/or bowl responsiveto block 404. In some embodiments, the processing logic causes fill valve assembly to provide liquid into tank and/or bowl. In some embodiments, water level of the tank lowering (e.g., responsiveto block 404), causes fill valve to provide liquid into the tank and/or bowl.

[00131] At block 406, the processing logic causes (e.g., via the device of block 404) prevention of the liquid flowthrough the auxiliary port. In some embodiments, the processing logic actuates the solenoid valve (e.g., closes solenoid valve) to prevent the liquid flow through the auxiliary port. In some embodiments, the processing logic closes the solenoid valve a predetermined amount of time after opening the solenoid valve. In some embodiments, the processing logic closes the solenoid valve based on sensor data. In some embodiments, a metering valve causes the prevention of the liquid flow a predetermined amount of time after the actuation of the metering valve. FIG. 4B illustrates a flow diagram of a method 400B associated with using an accumulator in a plumbing fixture system, according to certain embodiments.

[00132] Referring to FIG. 4B, in some embodiments, at block 412 the processing logic receives user input associated with flushing a plumbing fixture. In some embodiments, the plumbing fixture is a toilet (e.g., tank toilet, tankless toilet) or a urinal.

[00133] In some embodiments, the user input is via actuation of a lever or a button coupled to the plumbing fixture or proximate the plumbing fixture. In some embodiments, the user input is received via a motion sensor (e.g., detecting motion of a user proximate the plumbing fixture, such as a user moving away from the plumbing fixture). In some embodiments, the user input is via a schedule (e.g., flush the plumbing fixture every threshold amount of time, such as every five minutes). In some embodiments, the user input is received from a client device via a network. In some embodiments, user input indicates a type of flush (e.g., higher gpf flush or lower gpf flush).

[00134] At block 414, the processing logic actuates a solenoid valve to cause first liquid flow to an accumulator and second fluid flow from the accumulator. In some embodiments, the first fluid flow is from an auxiliary port of a fill valve assembly and the second fluid flow is to a siphon flush valve assembly to initiate a siphon flowto cause a flushing operation. [00135] In some embodiments, the accumulator is fluidly coupled to a spray nozzle (e.g., spray initiator, spray device, etc.) to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank (e.g., see FIGS. 2A-B and 3M-N).

[00136] In some embodiments, the accumulator is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic cylinder to cause the hydraulic cylinder to open a flush valve to cause a flushing operation. In some embodiments, the accumulator is fluidly coupled to a reservoir to fill the reservoir, and wherein the reservoir is to be actuated to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. In some embodiments, the accumulator is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic piston disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. Actuation, via the accumulator, of the hydraulic piston causes a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. In some embodiments, the accumulator is fluidly coupled to an expandable bladder to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. In some embodiments, the accumulator is configured to modify the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank by increasing the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a siphonic actuation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a flushing operation.

[00137] In some embodiments, a fill valve provides liquid into tank and/or bowl responsive to block 414. In some embodiments, the processing logic causes fill valve assembly to provide liquid into tank and/or bowl. In some embodiments, water level of the tank lowering (e.g., responsive to block 414), causes fill valve to provide liquid into the tank and/or bowl. [00138] At block 416, the processing logic actuates the solenoid valve (e.g., closes solenoid valve) to prevent the liquid flow from the accumulator (e.g., which compresses the gas in the accumulator). In some embodiments, the processing logic closes the solenoid valve a predetermined amount of time after opening the solenoid valve. In some embodiments, the processing logic closes the solenoid valve based on sensor data.

[00139] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 500, accordingto certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the computer system 500 is a controller 164 of one or more of FIGS. 1 A-B or FIGS. 3A-N.

[00140] In some embodiments, computer system 500 is connected (e.g., via a network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet) to other computer systems. In some embodiments, computer system 500 operates in the capacity of a server or a client computer in a client-server environment, or as a peer computer in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. In some embodiments, computer system 500 is provided by a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a Set-Top Box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a web appliance, a server, a network router, switch orbridge, or any device capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that device. Further, the term "computer" shall include any collection of computers that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methods described herein.

[00141] In a further aspect, the computer system 500 includes a processing device 502, a volatile memory 504 (e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM)), a non-volatile memory 506 (e.g., Read-Only Memory (ROM) or Electrically -Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM)), and a data storage device 516, which communicate with each other via a bus 508.

[00142] In some embodiments, processing device 502 is provided by one or more processors such as a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) microprocessor, a Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) microprocessor, a Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), or a network processor).

[00143] In some embodiments, computer system 500 further includes a network interface device 522 (e.g., coupled to network 574). In some embodiments, computer system 500 also includes a video display unit 510 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)), an alphanumeric input device 512 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 514 (e.g., a mouse), and a signal generation device 520.

[00144] In some implementations, data storage device 516 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 524 on which store instructions 526 encoding any one or more of the methods or functions described herein, including instructions for implementing methods described herein.

[00145] In some embodiments, instructions 526 also reside, completely or partially, within volatile memory 504 and/or within processing device 502 during execution thereof by computer system 500, hence, in some embodiments, volatile memory 504 and processing device 502 also constitute machine-readable storage media.

[00146] While computer-readable storage medium 524 is shown in the illustrative examples as a single medium, the term "computer-readable storage medium" shall include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of executable instructions. The term "computer-readable storage medium" shall also include any tangible medium that is capable of storing or encoding a set of instructions for execution by a computer that cause the computer to perform any one or more of the methods described herein. The term "computer- readable storage medium" shall include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical media, and magnetic media.

[00147] In some embodiments, the methods, components, and features described herein are implemented by discrete hardware components or are integrated in the functionality of other hardware components such as ASICs, FPGAs, DSPs or similar devices. In some embodiments, the methods, components, and features are implemented by firmware modules or functional circuitry within hardware devices. In some embodiments, the methods, components, and features are implemented in any combination of hardware devices and computer program components, or in computer programs.

[00148] Unless specifically stated otherwise, terms such as “receiving,” “causing,”

“actuating,” “providing,” “obtaining,” “determining,” “transmitting,” or the like, refer to actions and processes performed or implemented by computer systems that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices. In some embodiments, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. as used herein are meant as labels to distinguish among different elements and do not have an ordinal meaning according to their numerical designation.

[00149] Examples described herein also relate to an apparatus for performing the methods described herein. In some embodiments, this apparatus is specially constructed for performing the methods described herein or includes a general purpose computer system selectively programmed by a computer program stored in the computer system. Such a computer program is stored in a computer-readable tangible storage medium.

[00150] Some of the methods and illustrative examples described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. In some embodiments, various general- purpose systems are used in accordance with the teachings described herein. In some embodiments, a more specialized apparatus is constructed to perform methods described herein and/or each of their individual functions, routines, subroutines, or operations. Examples of the structure for a variety of these systems are set forth in the description above. [00151] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Although the present disclosure has been described with references to specific illustrative examples and implementations, it will be recognized that the present disclosure is not limited to the examples and implementations described. The scope of the disclosure should be determined with reference to the following claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which the claims are entitled.

[00152] The preceding description sets forth numerous specific details such as examples of specific systems, components, methods, and so forth in order to provide a good understanding of several embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that at least some embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components or methods are not described in detail or are presented in simple block diagram format in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Thus, the specific details set forth are merely exemplary. Particular implementations may vary from these exemplary details and still be contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure. [00153] The terms “over,” “under,” “between,” “disposed on,” and “on” as used herein refer to a relative position of one material layer or component with respect to other layers or components. For example, one layer disposed on, over, or under another layer may be directly in contact with the other layer or may have one or more intervening layers. Moreover, one layer disposed between two layers may be directly in contact with the two layers or may have one or more intervening layers. Similarly, unless explicitly stated otherwise, one feature disposed between two features may be in direct contact with the adjacent features or may have one or more intervening layers.

[00154] The words “example” or “exemplary” are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “example’ or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the words “example” or “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion.

[00155] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or “some embodiments” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or “in some embodiments” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. In addition, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X includes A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X includes A; X includes B; or X includes both A and B, then “X includes A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. as used herein are meant as labels to distinguish among different elements and can not necessarily have an ordinal meaning according to their numerical designation. When the term “about,” “substantially,” or “approximately” is used herein, this is intended to mean that the nominal value presented is precise within ± 10%. [00156] Although the operations of the methods herein are shown and described in a particular order, the order of operations of each method may be altered so that certain operations may be performed in an inverse order so that certain operations may be performed, at least in part, concurrently with other operations. In another embodiment, instructions or sub-operations of distinct operations may be in an intermittent and/or alternating manner. [00157] Following are some non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure.

[00158] In a first embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture system comprising: a plumbing fixture bowl; a plumbing fixture tank coupled to the plumbing fixture bowl, wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to house liquid, and wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to provide at least a portion of the liquid to the plumbing fixture bowl to flush the plumbing fixture bowl; and a fill valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein the fill valve assembly comprises an auxiliary port, wherein the auxiliary port is configured to modify a level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank. In a second embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture system according to embodiment 1, wherein: the fill valve assembly further comprises a fill valve outlet that is configured to provide a first liquid flow; and the auxiliary port is configured to provide a second liquid flow that is greater than the first liquid flow.

[00159] In a third embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first liquid flow is about 3 to about 11 liters per minute and the second liquid flow is about 7 to about 22 liters per minute.

[00160] In a fourth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first liquid flow passes through a baffle system and vacuum breaker before exiting the fill valve outlet, and wherein the second liquid flow exits the auxiliary port without passing through the baffle system and without passing through the vacuum breaker.

[00161] In a fifth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic cylinder to cause the hydraulic cylinder to open a flush valve to cause a flushing operation. [00162] In a sixth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to a spray nozzle to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00163] In a seventh embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to an expandable bladder to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00164] In an eighth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to a reservoir to fill the reservoir, and wherein the reservoir is to be actuated to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00165] In a ninth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is fluidly coupled to a hydraulic piston disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein actuation, via the auxiliary port, of the hydraulic piston causes a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00166] In a tenth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a metering valve configured to provide flow through the auxiliary port for a predetermined amount of time.

[00167] In an eleventh embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is configured to modify the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank by increasing the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a siphonic actuation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a flushing operation.

[00168] In a twelfth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising an accumulator configured to receive first liquid flow from the fill valve assembly to compress a gas within the accumulator.

[00169] In a thirteenth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: a first conduit of a first diameter provides the first liquid flow from the fill valve assembly to the accumulator; a second conduit of a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter provides second liquid flow from the accumulator; the first diameter is about 0.375 inches or less; and the second diameter is about 0.5 inches or greater.

[00170] In a fourteenth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the accumulator forms a first interior volume that houses the gas; the accumulator forms a second interior volume that is configured to receive the first liquid flowto compress the gas in the first interior volume; and the first interior volume is separated from the second interior volume by one or more of a piston, diaphragm, orbladder.

[00171] In a fifteenth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the fill valve assembly provides a first flow rate of the first liquid flow to the accumulator; the accumulator is configured to provide a second flow rate of a second liquid flow that is greater than the first flow rate; and the second flow rate from the accumulator is more constant than the first flow rate to the accumulator.

[00172] In a sixteenth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising: a siphon flush valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank; and a solenoid valve configured to provide second liquid flow from the accumulator to the siphon flush valve assembly to initiate a siphon flow.

[00173] In a seventeenth embodiment, disclosed is a flush valve assembly of a plumbing fixture system, the flush valve assembly comprising: a shaft that houses one or more components; an inlet configured to provide liquid to the shaft; a fill valve outlet, wherein at least a first portion of the liquid is to flow through the one or more components to exit via the fill valve outlet at a first flow rate; and an auxiliary port, wherein at least a second portion of the liquid is to exit the auxiliary port to modify a liquid level in a plumbing fixture tank, and wherein the at least a second portion of the liquid is configured to exit the auxiliary port at a second flow rate that is greater than the first flow rate without passing through the one or more components.

[00174] In an eighteenth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to embodiment 17, wherein the auxiliary portis configured to fluidly couple to one or more of a hydraulic cylinder, a spray nozzle, an expandable bladder, a reservoir, a hydraulic piston, or an accumulator.

[00175] In a nineteenth embodiment, disclosed is a control system comprising: a user interface configured to receive user input associated with flushing a plumbing fixture; and a controller configured to: receive the user input; and responsive to the user input, actuate a device to cause first liquid flow through an auxiliary port disposed in a plumbing fixture tank to modify a level of liquid in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein a fill valve assembly is disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, and wherein the fill valve assembly comprises the auxiliary port.

[00176] In a twentieth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to embodiment 19, wherein the device is a metering valve that is configured to stop the first liquid flow through the auxiliary port a predetermined amount of time after causing the first liquid flow based on a metering valve.

[00177] In a twenty -first embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture system comprising: a plumbing fixture bowl; a plumbing fixture tank coupled to the plumbing fixture bowl, wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to house liquid, and wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to provide at least a portion of the liquid to the plumbing fixture bowl to flush the plumbing fixture bowl; and an auxiliary port disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein the auxiliary port is configured to modify a level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00178] In a twenty-second embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to embodiment 21 further comprising a fill valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein the fill valve assembly comprises a fill valve outlet and the auxiliary port, and wherein the fill valve outlet is configured to provide a first liquid flow and the auxiliary port is configured to provide a second liquid flow that is greater than the first liquid flow.

[00179] In a twenty -third embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first liquid flow is about 3 to about 11 liters per minute and the second liquid flow is about 7 to about 22 liters per minute.

[00180] In a twenty -fourth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first liquid flow passes through a baffle system and vacuum breaker before exiting the fill valve outlet, and wherein the second liquid flow exits the auxiliary port without passing through the baffle system and without passing through the vacuum breaker.

[00181] In a twenty -fifth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to a hydraulic cylinder to cause the hydraulic cylinder to open a flush valve to cause a flushing operation.

[00182] In a twenty-sixth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to a spray nozzle to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00183] In a twenty-seventh embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to an expandable bladder to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00184] In a twenty -eighth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to a reservoir to fill the reservoir, and wherein the reservoir is to be actuated to cause a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank. [00185] In a twenty -ninth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary portis fluidly coupled to a hydraulic piston disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein actuation, via the auxiliary port, of the hydraulic piston causes a siphonic operation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00186] In a thirtieth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments further comprising a metering valve configured to provide flow through the auxiliary port for a predetermined amount of time.

[00187] In a thirty -first embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is configured to modify the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank by increasing the level of the liquid in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a siphonic actuation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a flushing operation.

[00188] In a thirty-second embodiment, disclosed is a flush valve assembly of a plumbing fixture system, the flush valve assembly comprising: a shaft that houses one or more components; an inlet configured to provide liquid to the shaft; a fill valve outlet, wherein at least a first portion of the liquid is to flow through the one or more components to exit via the fill valve outlet at a first flow rate; and an auxiliary port, wherein at least a second portion of the liquid is to exit the auxiliary port to modify a liquid level in a plumbing fixture tank, and wherein the at least a second portion of the liquid is configured to exit the auxiliary port at a second flow rate that is greater than the first flow rate without passing through the one or more components.

[00189] In a thirty -third embodiment, disclosed is a flush valve assembly according to embodiment 32, wherein the one or more components comprise a baffle system and a vacuum port.

[00190] In a thirty -fourth embodiment, disclosed is a flush valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first flow rate is about 3 to about 11 liters per minute, and wherein the second liquid flow is about 7 to about 22 liters per minute. [00191] In a thirty -fifth embodiment, disclosed is a flush valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is configured to fluidly couple to one or more of a hydraulic cylinder, a spray nozzle, an expandable bladder, a reservoir, or a hydraulic piston. [00192] In a thirty-sixth embodiment, disclosed is a flush valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the auxiliary port is configured to modify the liquid level in the plumbing fixture tank by increasing the liquid level in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a siphonic actuation of a siphonic flush valve disposed in the plumbing fixture tank to cause a flushing operation.

[00193] In a thirty -seventh embodiment, disclosed is a control system comprising: a user interface configured to receive user input associated with flushing a plumbing fixture; and a controller configured to: receive the user input; and responsive to the user input, actuate a device to cause first liquid flow through an auxiliary port disposed in a plumbing fixture tank to modify a level of liquid in the plumbing fixture tank.

[00194] In a thirty -eighth embodiment, disclosed is a control system according to embodiment 37, wherein the device is a metering valve that is configured to stop the first liquid flow through the auxiliary port a predetermined amount of time after causing the first liquid flow based on a metering valve.

[00195] In a thirty -nineth embodiment, disclosed is a control system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein a fill valve assembly is disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein the fill valve assembly comprises a fill valve outlet and the auxiliary port, and wherein the fill valve outlet is configured to provide a first liquid flow and the auxiliary portis configured to provide a second liquid flow that is greater than the first liquid flow.

[00196] In a fortieth embodiment, disclosed is a control system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first liquid flow is about 3 to about 11 liters per minute and the second liquid flow is about 7 to about 22 liters per minute. In a forty-first embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture system comprising: a plumbing fixture bowl; a plumbing fixture tank coupled to the plumbing fixture bowl, wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to house liquid, and wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to provide at least a portion of the liquid to the plumbing fixture bowl to flush the plumbing fixture bowl; a fill valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank; and an accumulator configured to receive first liquid flow from the fill valve assembly to compress a gas within the accumulator.

[00197] In a forty-second embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to embodiment 41 , wherein a first conduit of a first diameter provides the first liquid flow from the fill valve assembly to the accumulator, and wherein a second conduit of a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter provides second liquid flow from the accumulator.

[00198] In a forty -third embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first diameter is about 0.375 inches or less, and wherein the second diameter is about 0.5 inches or greater.

[00199] In a forty -fourth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the accumulator forms a first interior volume that houses the gas, and wherein the accumulator forms a second interior volume that is configured to receive the first liquid flowto compress the gas in the first interior volume.

[00200] In a forty -fifth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first interior volume is separated from the second interior volume by one or more of a piston, diaphragm, orbladder.

[00201] In a forty-sixth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the fill valve assembly provides a first flow rate of the first liquid flowto the accumulator, and wherein the accumulator is configured to provide a second flow rate of a second liquid flow that is greater than the first flow rate. [00202] In a forty-seventh embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second flow rate from the accumulator is more constant than the first flow rate to the accumulator.

[00203] In a forty-eighth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments further comprising: a siphon flush valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank; and a solenoid valve configured to provide second liquid flow from the accumulator to the siphon flush valve assembly to initiate a siphon flow.

[00204] In a forty -ninth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture system comprising: a plumbing fixture bowl; a plumbing fixture tank coupled to the plumbing fixture bowl, wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to house liquid, and wherein the plumbing fixture tank is configured to provide at least a portion of the liquid to the plumbing fixture bowl to flush the plumbing fixture bowl; a siphon flush valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank; and an accumulator configured to receive first liquid flow and to provide second liquid flow, wherein the accumulator is configured to provide the second liquid flow to the siphon flush valve assembly to initiate a siphon flow.

[00205] In a fiftieth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to embodiment 49, wherein a first conduit of a first diameter provides the first liquid flow to the accumulator, and wherein a second conduit of a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter provides the second liquid flow from the accumulator to the siphon flush valve assembly.

[00206] In a fifty -first embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first diameter is about 0.375 inches or less, and wherein the second diameter is about 0.5 inches or greater.

[00207] In a fifty-second embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the accumulator forms a first interior volume that houses a gas, and wherein the accumulator forms a second interior volume that is configured to receive the first liquid flowto compress the gas in the first interior volume.

[00208] In a fifty -third embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first interior volume is separated from the second interior volume by one or more of a piston, diaphragm, orbladder.

[00209] In a fifty -fourth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the accumulator is configured to receive a first flow rate of the first liquid flow, and wherein the accumulator is configured to provide a second flow rate of the second liquid flow that is greater than the first flow rate.

[00210] In a fifty -fifth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second flow rate from the accumulator is more constant than the first flow rate to the accumulator.

[00211] In a fifty-sixth embodiment, disclosed is a plumbing fixture assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments further comprising: a fill valve assembly disposed in the plumbing fixture tank, wherein a first supply line is to provide the first liquid flow to the accumulator, wherein a second supply line is to provide the second liquid flow from the accumulator, wherein a third supply line is to provide a third liquid flow to the fill valve assembly, and wherein the first supply line and the third supply line are not fluidly connected within the plumbing fixture tank.

[00212] In a fifty-seventh embodiment, disclosed is a control system comprising: a user interface configured to receive user input associated with flushing a plumbing fixture; and a controller configured to: receive the user input; and responsive to the user input, actuate a solenoid to cause first liquid flow to an accumulator and second liquid flow from the accumulator to a siphon flush valve assembly to initiate a siphon flowto flush the plumbing fixture, wherein the second liquid flow is at a higher flow rate than the first liquid flow. [00213] In a fifty-eighth embodiment, disclosed is a control system according to embodiment 57, wherein the first liquid flow is from a fill valve assembly to the accumulator, and wherein the second liquid flow is from the accumulator to a spray nozzle disposed of the siphon flush valve assembly.

[00214] In a fifty -nineth embodiment, disclosed is a control system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein a first conduit of a first diameter provides the first liquid flow to the accumulator, and wherein a second conduit of a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter provides the second liquid flow from the accumulator to the siphon flush valve assembly.

[00215] In a sixtieth embodiment, disclosed is a control system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the accumulator forms a first interior volume that houses a gas, and wherein the accumulator forms a second interior volume that is configured to receive the first liquid flow to compress the gas in the first interior volume.

[00216] Although the foregoing description is directed to embodiments of the invention, it is noted that other variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Moreover, features described in connection with one embodiment of the invention may be used in conjunction with other embodiments, even if not explicitly stated above.

[00217] The term “adjacent” may mean “near” or “close-by” or “next to.”

[00218] The term “coupled” means that an element is “attached to” or “associated with” another element. Coupled may mean directly coupled or coupled through one or more other elements. An element may be coupled to an element through two or more other elements in a sequential manner or a non-sequential manner. The term “via” in reference to “via an element” may mean “through” or “by” an element. Coupled or “associated with” may also mean elements not directly or indirectly attached, but that they “go together” in that one may function together with the other.

[00219] The term “flow communication” means for example configured for liquid or gas flow there through and may be synonymous with “fluidly coupled”. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” indicate a direction of gas or liquid flow, that is, gas or fluid will flow from upstream to downstream.

[00220] The term “towards” in reference to a of point of attachment, may mean at exactly that location or point or, alternatively, may mean closer to that point than to another distinct point, for example “towards a center” means closer to a center than to an edge. [00221] The term “like” means similar and not necessarily exactly like. For instance, “ringlike” means generally shaped like a ring, but not necessarily perfectly circular.

[00222] The articles "a" and "an" herein refer to one or to more than one (e.g. at least one) of the grammatical object. Any ranges cited herein are inclusive. The term "about" used throughout is used to describe and account for small fluctuations. For instance, "about" may mean the numeric value maybe modified by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, ±10% or more. All numeric values are modified by the term "about" whether or not explicitly indicated. Numeric values modified by the term "about" include the specific identified value. For example, "about 5.0" includes 5.0.

[00223] The term “substantially” is similar to “about” in that the defined term may vary from for example by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, ±10% or more of the definition; for example the term “substantially perpendicular” may mean the 90° perpendicular angle may mean“about 90°”. The term “generally” may be equivalent to “substantially”.

[00224] Features described in connection with one embodiment of the disclosure may be used in conjunction with other embodiments, even if not explicitly stated.

[00225] Embodiments of the disclosure include any and all parts and/or portions of the embodiments, claims, description and figures. Embodiments of the disclosure also include any and all combinations and/or sub -combinations of embodiments.

[00226] It is understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. The scope of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[00227] All U.S. patent applications, published patent applications and patents referred to herein are hereby incorporated by reference.