WO2024249760A1

WO2024249760A1 - Bidet with hot water supply from sink

Info

Publication number: WO2024249760A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/031864
Authority: WO
Inventors: Zachary Robert Sweitzer
Original assignee: AS America Inc
Current assignee: AS America Inc
Priority date: 2023-06-01
Filing date: 2024-05-31
Publication date: 2024-12-05
Anticipated expiration: 2025-12-01

Abstract

Provided herein are bidets that are configured to receive water from a hot water supply and water from a cold water supply, use the water to heat a toilet seat, and dispense the water from a nozzle. Also included herein are heated toilet seats, bidets using water directly from a hot water supply without using a heater, and methods for operating the above systems. The bidets disclosed herein can include water flow paths inside the toilet seat that are used to heat the toilet seat. Water heats the toilet seat via conduction as it flows through the water flow paths of the toilet seat. Upon leaving the water flow paths of toilet seat, the water exits the bidet through a nozzle. In some embodiments, the bidets provided herein may be battery- powered.

Description

BIDET WITH HOT WATER SUPPLY FROM SINK

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/470,266, titled “BIDET WITH HOT WATER SUPPLY FROM SINK” and filed on June 1, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to bidets, and in particular, to bidets receiving hot water from a hot water supply and cold water from a cold water supply, using the water to heat a toilet seat, and dispensing the water from a nozzle.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional bidets are personal hygiene plumbing fixtures that are installed on or near a toilet. Conventional bidets typically comprise multiple components, including, but not limited to, a nozzle for spraying water onto a user, an inlet conduit for transporting water to the nozzle, a control device for adjusting the nozzle, and a toilet seat. The water source for conventional bidets is typically cold water from the toilet’s water supply.

[0004] In order to provide advanced functionality — such as adjustable toilet seat temperature, adjustable water temperature, adjustable water pressure, adjustable nozzle location, etc. — conventional bidets often require electric power. In addition to the bidet components listed above, conventional bidets typically include an electric water heater for heating cold water from the toilet’s water supply, a hot water tank for storing it as hot water, and an electric toilet seat heater.

SUMMARY

[0005] Provided herein are bidets that are configured to receive water from a hot water supply and water from a cold water supply, use the water to heat a toilet seat, and dispense the water from a nozzle. Also included herein are heated toilet seats, bidets using water directly from a hot water supply without using a heater, and methods for operating the above systems. The bidets disclosed herein can include water flow paths inside the toilet seat that are used to heat the toilet seat. Water heats the toilet seat via conduction as it flows through the water flow paths of the toilet seat. Upon leaving the water flow paths of toilet seat, the water exits the bidet through a nozzle. In some embodiments, the bidets provided herein may be battery-powered.

[0006] Conventional bidets, such as those described above, typically require electric power to provide advanced functionality, such as adjustable toilet seat temperature and adjustable water temperature. To adjust toilet seat temperature, conventional bidets typically require an electric toilet seat heater. Likewise, to adjust water temperature, conventional bidets typically require an electric water heater for heating cold water from the toilet’s water supply. To maintain a constant supply of hot water, the electric water heater typically must be “ON” at all times. Thus, the heating functionalities consume large amounts of electric power, which may be undesirable to cost-conscious or environmentally conscious users.

[0007] Accordingly, unlike the conventional bidets described above, the bidets disclosed herein include non-electric bidets that are configured to receive water from a hot water supply and water from a cold water supply, use the water to heat the toilet seat, and dispense the water from a nozzle. The bidets disclosed herein include water flow paths inside the toilet seat. Consequently, water heats the toilet seat via conduction as it flows through the water flow paths, eliminating the need for a dedicated electric toilet seat heater. Furthermore, upon leaving the water flow paths of toilet seat, the water exits the bidet through a nozzle, eliminating the need for a dedicated electric water heater. Thus, by using water from an existing plumbing system, the bidets disclosed herein avoid using electric power, saving energy compared to conventional bidets and also reducing the risk of electrical malfunctions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the bidets disclosed herein may comprise a first inlet conduit for transporting hot water from a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit for transporting cold water from a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, a mixing valve motor, a temperature sensor, a controller, a user interface, and a battery; a toilet seat comprising water flow paths inside the toilet seat; and a nozzle assembly comprising a nozzle, a nozzle motor, and a solenoid valve. The first and second inlet conduits may transport hot water from a sink’s water supply and cold water from a toilet’s water supply, respectively, to the mixing valve. Once the water is mixed to a desired temperature, as set by the user interface and measured by the temperature sensor, the mixing valve motor may open the mixing valve. The mixed water may exit the mixing valve and enter the water flow paths of the toilet seat, heating the toilet seat via conduction. Finally, the nozzle assembly may dispense the mixed water onto the user and/or into the toilet bowl.

[0009] According to some embodiments, a bidet assembly is provided herein, comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, wherein the mixing valve is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit and the second inlet conduit; water flow paths configured to receive water, wherein the water flow paths are located inside a toilet seat and are positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the mixing valve; and a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat, wherein the nozzle assembly is fluidically coupled to the water flow paths, and wherein the bidet assembly is configured to receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve to form mixed water, receive the mixed water from the mixing valve at the water flow paths, and dispense the mixed water from the water flow paths out of the nozzle assembly.

[0010] In some embodiments, the hot water supply originates from a sink.

[0011] In some embodiments, the cold water supply originates from a toilet.

[0012] In some embodiments, the mixing valve is an electromechanical valve.

[0013] In some embodiments the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of water decreases and the mixing valve is closed, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of water increases and the mixing valve is opened.

[0014] In some embodiments, the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of hot water decreases relative to a flow rate of cold water, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of hot water increases relative to the flow rate of cold water.

[0015] In some embodiments, the control device comprises a sensor positioned downstream of and proximate to the mixing valve.

[0016] In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure water temperature.

[0017] In some embodiments, the control device comprises a controller configured to receive one or more electronic signals from a user input or a sensor and to send one or more electronic signals to a motor.

[0018] In some embodiments, the one or more electronic signals comprise one or more of an activation signal, a toilet seat temperature signal, a water temperature signal, a water pressure signal, or a nozzle position signal.

[0019] In some embodiments, the control device comprises a user interface with one or more of a knob, dial, button, or other adjustable feature configured to adjust one or more of a toilet seat temperature, a water temperature, a water pressure, or a nozzle position according to a user input.

[0020] In some embodiments, the user interface is configured to display information associated with one or more of the seat temperature, the water temperature, the water pressure, or the nozzle position.

[0021] In some embodiments, the control device comprises a battery.

[0022] In some embodiments, water flow paths diverge downstream of the mixing valve and converge upstream of the nozzle assembly, such that a volume of water exiting the mixing valve equals a volume of water entering the nozzle assembly.

[0023] In some embodiments, the water flow paths spiral around the circumference of the toilet seat without diverging.

[0024] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water onto a user or into a toilet bowl. [0025] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle valve positioned upstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzle.

[0026] In some embodiments, the nozzle valve is an electromechanical valve.

[0027] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles upward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles downward relative to the toilet bowl.

[0028] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles leftward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles rightward relative to the toilet bowl.

[0029] According to some embodiments, a bidet assembly is provided herein, comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, wherein the mixing valve is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit and the second inlet conduit; and a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat, and wherein the bidet assembly is configured to receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve to form mixed water, and dispense the mixed water out of the nozzle assembly.

[0030] According to some embodiments, a toilet seat is provided herein, comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; water flow paths configured to receive water, wherein the water flow paths are located inside the toilet seat and are positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit; and an outlet conduit configured to dispense water into a toilet bowl, wherein the outlet conduit is located at an edge of the toilet seat and is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the water flow paths.

[0031] In some embodiments, the toilet seat comprises a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply. [0032] In some embodiments, the water flow paths diverge downstream of the first inlet conduit and converge upstream of the outlet conduit, such that a volume of water exiting the first inlet conduit equals a volume of water entering the outlet conduit.

[0033] In some embodiments, the outlet conduit comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water into a toilet bowl.

[0034] According to some embodiments, a method for operating a bidet assembly is provided herein, the method comprising: receiving hot water from the hot water supply at a first inlet conduit; receiving cold water from the cold water supply at a second inlet conduit; mixing the hot water and the cold water at a mixing valve to form mixed water; activating a bidet assembly comprising a water flow path within a toilet seat upon detecting a presence of a user; receiving the mixed water from the mixing valve at the water flow path of the bidet assembly, wherein the mixed water is configured to heat the toilet seat; and dispensing the mixed water from the water flow path out of a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat, wherein the nozzle assembly is configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat.

[0035] In some embodiments, activating a bidet assembly comprises dispensing stale water from the water flow paths out of the nozzle assembly and into a toilet bowl.

[0036] In some embodiments, detecting a presence of a user comprises using a sensor to sense the presence of the user.

[0037] In some embodiments, detecting a presence of a user comprises the user providing a user input to the control device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a top-down view of a bidet, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Provided herein are bidets that are configured to receive water from a hot water supply and water from a cold water supply, use the water to heat a toilet seat, and dispense the water from a nozzle. Also included herein are heated toilet seats, bidets using water directly from a hot water supply without using a heater, and methods for operating the above systems. The bidets disclosed herein can include water flow paths inside the toilet seat that are used to heat the toilet seat. Water heats the toilet seat via conduction as it flows through the water flow paths of the toilet seat. Upon leaving the water flow paths of toilet seat, the water exits the bidet through a nozzle. In some embodiments, the bidets provided herein may be battery-powered.

[0041] As described above, conventional bidets typically require electric power to provide advanced functionality, such as adjustable toilet seat temperature and adjustable water temperature. To adjust toilet seat temperature, conventional bidets typically require an electric toilet seat heater. Likewise, to adjust water temperature, conventional bidets typically require an electric water heater for heating cold water from the toilet’s water supply. To maintain a constant supply of hot water, the electric water heater typically must be “ON” at all times. Thus, the heating functionalities consume large amounts of electric power, which may be undesirable to cost-conscious or environmentally conscious users.

[0042] Conversely, the bidets disclosed herein include non-electric bidets that are configured to receive water from a hot water supply and water from a cold water supply, use the water to heat the toilet seat, and dispense the water from a nozzle. The bidets disclosed herein include water flow paths inside the toilet seat. Consequently, water heats the toilet seat via conduction as it flows through the water flow paths, eliminating the need for a dedicated electric toilet seat heater. Furthermore, upon leaving the water flow paths of toilet seat, the water exits the bidet through a nozzle, eliminating the need for a dedicated electric water heater. Thus, by using water from an existing plumbing system, the bidets disclosed herein avoid using electric power, saving energy compared to conventional bidets and also reducing the risk of electrical malfunctions.

[0043] FIG. 1 illustrates a top-down view of a bidet 100, according to some embodiments. As shown, the bidet 100 is positioned above a toilet bowl 150. The bidet 100 includes a first inlet conduit 102 for transporting hot water from a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit 104 for transporting cold water from a cold water supply; a control device 106 comprising a mixing valve 108, a mixing valve motor 110, a temperature sensor 112, a controller, a user interface 116, and a battery; a toilet seat 120 comprising water flow paths 122 inside the toilet seat 120; and a nozzle assembly 124 comprising nozzles 126, a nozzle motor, and a nozzle valve 130.

[0044] The bidet 100 may be configured to operate in various ways, including, but not limited to, the configurations described herein. In some embodiments, by using the user interface 116, a user may set a desired water temperature. In some embodiments, to activate the bidet 100, the user may push a button, switch, or another adjustable feature located on the user interface 116 (and/or the user may select a virtual button or other affordance displayed on a digital graphical user interface of user interface 116), which may cause bidet 100 to allow water to flow along one or more fluidically coupled components of the bidet 100. Alternatively, in some embodiments, water may automatically be allowed to flow along one or more fluidically coupled components of the bidet 100 when the user’s presence is detected by a presence sensor. After water flow is allowed, the first inlet conduit 102 and second inlet conduit 104 may transport hot water from a sink’s water supply and cold water from a toilet’s water supply, respectively, to the mixing valve 108. The mixing valve motor 110 may adjust the mixing valve 108 to adjust the ratio of hot water to cold water flowing through the fluidically connected components of bidet 100. In some embodiments, initially, more hot water than cold water may flow through the bidet 100. The hot water may flow through the fluidically coupled components of the bidet 100 to heat the water up to a desired water temperature, as set by the user interface 116 and measured by the temperature sensor 112. The temperature sensor 112 may send, to the controller, an electronic signal containing a temperature measurement of the water. Based on the temperature measurement, the controller may then send an appropriate electronic signal to the mixing valve motor 110 to reach the desired water temperature. In some embodiments, water may be flowing when adjusting or correcting the temperature of the water. In some embodiments, once the desired water temperature is reached, the mixing valve motor 110 may maintain the desired water temperature by adjusting the mixing valve 108 to adjust the ratio of hot water to cold water. Water that has been mixed by the mixing valve 108 may hereinafter be referred to as “mixed water” throughout this disclosure. The mixed water may exit the mixing valve 108 and enter the water flow paths 122 of the toilet seat 120, heating the toilet seat 120 via conduction. Finally, the nozzle assembly 124 may dispense the mixed water onto the user and/or into the toilet bowl 150. Each component of the bidet 100 is described in detail below.

[0045] In some embodiments, first inlet conduit 102 includes a hose, pipe, tubing, or adapter through which hot water flows into the mixing valve 108 of the control device 106, to which the first inlet conduit 102 is fluidically coupled. The first inlet conduit 102 transports hot water from and is fluidically coupled to a hot water supply. In some preferred embodiments, the hot water supply may originate from a sink. If the access point of the sink’s hot water supply is surrounded by a cabinet or other fixture, the first inlet conduit 102 may extend through a modified hole in the side of the cabinet or other fixture to couple to the hot water supply. Alternatively, if the access point of the sink’s hot water supply is readily accessible, the first inlet conduit 102 may directly couple to the hot water supply with no modifications needed. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the hot water supply may originate from a shower, tub, washbasin, or other built-in hot water plumbing feature in the vicinity of the toilet bowl 150. When running between the bidet 100 and the hot water supply, the first inlet conduit 102 may be concealed by a fixture such that it is not readily visible. For example, in some embodiments, the first inlet conduit 102 may run along a bathroom wall, walls, and/or floor inside a hollow molding and/or baseplate. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first inlet conduit 102 may be fixed along a bathroom wall, walls, and/or floor such that the first inlet conduit 102 is readily visible but not readily moved. In some embodiments, the first inlet conduit 102 may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The material of first inlet conduit 102 may be, for example, and without limitations, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) or other plastics, rubber, metal, etc. The first inlet conduit 102 may be rigid, flexible, or a combination of the two in different areas.

[0046] In some embodiments, second inlet conduit 104 includes a hose, pipe, tubing, or adapter through which cold water flows into the mixing valve 108 of the control device 106, to which the second inlet conduit 104 is fluidically coupled. The first inlet conduit 104 transports cold water from and is fluidically coupled to a cold water supply. In some preferred embodiments, the cold water supply may originate from a toilet. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cold water supply may originate from a sink, shower, tub, washbasin, or other built-in hot water plumbing feature in the vicinity of the toilet bowl 150. When running between the bidet 100 and the cold water supply, the second inlet conduit 104 may be concealed by a fixture such that it is not readily visible. For example, in some embodiments, the second inlet conduit 104 may run along a bathroom wall, walls, and/or floor inside a hollow molding and/or baseplate. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the second inlet conduit 104 may be fixed along a bathroom wall, walls, and/or floor such that the second inlet conduit 104 is readily visible but not readily moved. In some embodiments, the second inlet conduit 104 may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The material of second inlet conduit 104 may be, for example, and without limitations, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) or other plastics, rubber, metal, etc. The second inlet conduit 104 may be rigid, flexible, or a combination of the two in different areas.

[0047] In some embodiments, control device 106 includes a device for controlling the functionality of the bidet 100. In some embodiments, control device 106 comprises a mixing valve 108, a mixing valve motor 110, a temperature sensor 112, a controller, a user interface 116, and/or a battery. Mixing valve 108 may be positioned downstream of both the first inlet conduit 102 and the second inlet conduit 104, but upstream of the water flow paths 122. The temperature sensor 112 may be positioned downstream of and proximate to the mixing valve 108 and electronically coupled to the controller. Mixing valve motor 110 may be mounted to the mixing valve 108 and electronically coupled to the controller. User interface 116 may be positioned on a panel on the exterior of the control device 106 and be electronically coupled to the controller. In some embodiments, control device 106 may be configured to control various features — such as toilet seat temperature, water temperature, water pressure, nozzle location, etc. — of the bidet 100.

[0048] In some embodiments, mixing valve 108 mixes hot water from the first inlet conduit 102 with cold water from the second inlet conduit 104 to produce mixed water at a desired temperature. The mixing valve 108 is positioned downstream of and is fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit 102 and second inlet conduit 104. In some embodiments, the mixing valve motor 110 may adjust the mixing valve 108 to proportionally adjust the flow rate of the hot water from the first inlet conduit 102 and the flow rate of the cold water from the second inlet conduit 104. The mixing valve motor 110 may adjust the ratio of hot water to cold water flowing through the fluidically connected components of bidet 100. In some embodiments, the desired temperature of the mixed water in the mixing valve 108 may be set by the user interface 116 and measured by the temperature sensor 112. In some embodiments, mixing valve 108 may be a dynamic mixing valve. In some embodiments, mixing valve 108 may be an electromechanical valve (e.g., a solenoid valve), a manual valve, a piston valve, or a thermostatic valve. For example, in an embodiment, the mixing valve 108 may be a manual valve associated with a user-operable handle, knob, or another adjustable feature that is configured to turn water flow ON or OFF and/or configured to set a desired water temperature. In some embodiments, the mixing valve 108 may be two separate valves. For example, in some embodiments, the mixing valve 108 may comprise two separate electromechanical valves (e.g., solenoid valves): one configured to control the flow of hot water and another configured to control the flow of cold water.

[0049] In some embodiments, mixing valve motor 110 includes a motor which drives the movement of the mixing valve 108. The activation and movement of mixing valve motor 110 may be determined by the controller, to which the mixing valve motor 110 is electronically coupled. In some embodiments, the mixing valve motor 110 may be mounted to the mixing valve 108 such that when the mixing valve motor 110 rotates in a first direction, the mixed water in mixing valve 108 is blocked from flowing downstream, and such that when the mixing valve motor 110 rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the mixed water is allowed to flow downstream. In some embodiments, the mixing valve motor 110 may be mounted to the mixing valve 108 such that when the mixing valve motor 110 rotates in a first direction, the flow rate of water into the mixing valve 108 decreases and/or the mixing valve 108 is closed, and such that when the mixing valve motor 110 rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the flow rate of water into the mixing valve 108 increases and/or the mixing valve 108 is opened. In such embodiments, when the mixing valve motor 110 rotates in a first direction, the flow rate of hot water from the first inlet conduit 102 may proportionally decrease relative to the flow rate of cold water from the second inlet conduit 104 into the mixing valve 108, and when the mixing valve motor 110 rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the flow rate of hot water may proportionally increase relative to the flow rate of cold water. The mixing valve motor 110 may be a stepper motor, a DC motor, a servo motor, or another motor compatible with the battery.

[0050] In some embodiments, temperature sensor 112 includes a sensor for measuring the temperature of the mixed water flowing within a mixing chamber of the mixing valve 108 and/or flowing out of the mixing valve 108. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 112 may be positioned downstream of and proximate to the mixing valve 108. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 112 may be electronically coupled to the controller. The temperature sensor 112 may send, to the controller, an electronic signal containing a temperature measurement of the mixed water. Based on the temperature measurement, the controller may then send an appropriate electronic signal to the mixing valve motor 110 to adjust or correct the desired temperature of the mixed water. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 112 may be electronically coupled to the user interface 116 such that the user interface displays the water temperature as measured by the temperature sensor 112. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 112 may be a thermocouple.

[0051] In some embodiments, the controller includes a microcontroller, PCB, or other electronic component to control various features of the bidet 100. The controller may send and/or receive electronic signals to control the activation and movement of mixing valve motor 110 and/or nozzle motor. In some embodiments, the controller may be electronically coupled to a knob, dial, button, or another adjustable feature on the user interface 116 to adjust toilet seat temperature, water temperature, water pressure, nozzle location, etc. In some embodiments, the controller may instruct the mixing valve motor 110 to rotate to a certain position associated with a desired toilet seat temperature or water temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may instruct the mixing valve motor 110 to rotate to a certain position associated with a desired water pressure. In some embodiments, the controller may instruct the nozzle motor to rotate to a certain position associated with a desired nozzle location. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to receive one or more electronic signals from temperature sensor 112.

[0052] In some embodiments, user interface 116 includes a panel comprising one or more knobs, dials, buttons, or other user input devices. In some embodiments, user interface 116 may comprise a display configured to display a graphical user interface and to accept user inputs via interaction with the displayed graphical user interface. In some embodiments, the user interface 116 may be electronically coupled to the controller. The user interface 116 may be configured to turn the bidet 100 on/off and to adjust the toilet seat temperature, water temperature, water pressure, nozzle location, etc. of the bidet 100. In some embodiments, the user interface 116 may include a display capable of displaying the water temperature as set by the user, the toilet seat temperature as set by the user, and/or the water temperature as measured by the temperature sensor 112. [0053] In some embodiments, the battery includes a power source for the bidet 100. In some embodiments, the battery may be electronically coupled to the controller. The battery may be removeable, rechargeable, and/or replaceable.

[0054] In some embodiments, toilet seat 120 includes a heatable seat configured to be positioned on and retrofittable with an existing toilet bowl 150. Toilet seat 120 comprises internal water flow paths 122. The toilet seat 120 can take on any shape or material characteristics of conventional toilet seats to ensure that it is retrofittable with existing toilets. In some embodiments, the shape of the toilet seat 120 may be a round or oblong disk matching the shape of the rim of the toilet bowl 150. In some embodiments, the material of the toilet seat 120 may be a plastic or ceramic material suitable for conductive heating. For example, in some preferred embodiments, the thermal conductivity between the water flow paths 122 and the top surface of the toilet seat 120 is maximized by selecting a suitable material (e.g., a material having a sufficiently high thermal conductivity) for the toilet seat 120. In some embodiments, the toilet seat 120 may be secured to the toilet bowl 150 by one or more hinges, allowing for the toilet seat 120 to be raised or lowered. In some embodiments, toilet seat 120 may be retrofittable with an existing toilet lid.

[0055] In some embodiments, water flow paths 122 include hollow channels inside the toilet seat 120 which direct water flowing from the mixing valve 108 toward the nozzle assembly 124. The water flow paths 122 may be located beneath the top surface of the toilet seat 120. In some embodiments, the water flow paths 122 may be partially or fully lined with one or more materials suitable for conductive heating (e.g., materials having a sufficiently high thermal conductivity). For example, in some preferred embodiments, the thermal conductivity between the water flow paths 122 and the top surface of the toilet seat 120 is maximized by selecting a suitable material for the lining of the water flow paths 122. The shapes and positions of the water flow paths 122 may include but are not limited to the embodiments described herein. For example, in some preferred embodiments, the thermal conductivity between the water flow paths 122 and the top surface of the toilet seat 120 is maximized by selecting a suitable shape and position of the water flow paths 122. In some embodiments, water flow paths 122 may be positioned such that the paths circle along the circumference of the toilet seat 120, evenly spaced between the inner edge and the outer edge of the toilet seat 120, wherein the inner edge of the toilet seat 120 is the edge closest to the interior of the toilet bowl 150, and wherein the outer edge of the toilet seat 120 is the edge closest to the exterior of the toilet bowl 150. In such embodiments, the water flow paths 122 may diverge downstream of the mixing valve 108 and converge again upstream of the nozzle assembly 124, such that the volume of water is the same at both locations. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the water flow paths 122 may spiral around the circumference of the toilet seat 120 without diverging.

[0056] In some embodiments, nozzle assembly 124 includes an assembly for adjusting the nozzles 126. Nozzle assembly 124 comprises nozzles 126, nozzle motor, and nozzle valve 130. In some embodiments, nozzle valve 130 of the nozzle assembly 124 may be positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the water flow paths 122. In some embodiments, nozzles 126 may be positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzle valve 130. In some embodiments, the nozzle motor may be mounted to the nozzles 126. The nozzle assembly 124 may be located at or near an edge of the toilet seat 120 and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat 120. For example, in some embodiments, the nozzle assembly 124 may be located at or near a rear edge of the toilet seat 120 such that when the user is seated on the toilet seat 120, the nozzle assembly 124 is behind the user’s back. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the nozzle assembly 124 may be located at or near a side edge or a front edge of the toilet seat 120.

[0057] In some embodiments, nozzles 126 include one or more nozzles for dispensing water onto the user and/or into a toilet bowl 150. The nozzles 126 may be positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzle valve 130. In some embodiments, the nozzles 126 may be positioned downstream of each and every other component of the bidet 100. In some embodiments, nozzles 126 may include only one nozzle. Alternatively in some embodiments, nozzles 126 may include multiple nozzles. Depending on the configuration of the bidet 100, in some embodiments, water may flow through and/or over the nozzles 126. In some embodiments, the nozzles 126 may be any type of nozzle compatible with bidets or shower toilets.

[0058] In some embodiments, the nozzle motor includes a motor which drives the angle adjustment of the nozzles 126. The activation and movement of the nozzle motor may be determined by the controller, to which the nozzle motor is electronically coupled. In some embodiments, the nozzle motor may be mounted to the nozzles 126 such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzles 126 angle upward relative to the toilet bowl 150, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the nozzles 126 angle downward. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the nozzle motor may be mounted to the nozzles 126 such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzles 126 angle leftward relative to the toilet bowl 150, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the nozzles 126 angle rightward. The nozzle motor may be a stepper motor, a DC motor, a servo motor, or another motor compatible with the battery. In some embodiments, each of nozzles 126 may be independently controlled by one or more nozzle motor, allowing each of nozzles 126 to be independently angled in a desired direction as selected on the user interface 116 of control device 106.

[0059] In some embodiments, nozzle valve 130 controls water flow to the nozzles 126. Nozzle valve 130 is positioned upstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzles 126. In some embodiments, the nozzle valve 130 may be an electromechanical valve (e.g., a solenoid valve). In some embodiments, the nozzle valve 130 may be any type of valve compatible with bidets or shower toilets.

[0060] Provided below are methods for operating the bidet 100.

[0061] In some embodiments, the bidet 100 may be operated with both the bidet functionalities and the toilet seat heating functionalities provided above. In such embodiments, the bidet 100 may receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit 102 and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit 104, activate the bidet 100 upon detecting the presence of a user, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve 108 to form mixed water, receive the mixed water at the water flow paths 122, and dispense the mixed water out of the nozzles 126 of the nozzle assembly 124. Activation of the bidet 100 upon detecting the presence of a user may occur in various ways. In some embodiments, the user’s presence may be detected by a sensor such as a proximity sensor, a presence sensor, a motion sensor, a voice activation sensor, etc. In some embodiments, the user’s presence may be detected once a user provides a user input to the user interface 116.

[0062] At some point prior to dispensing the mixed water out of the nozzles 126 (e.g., normal operation of the bidet 100), the bidet 100 may purge stale water (e.g., water that may not be of a desired temperature) from the nozzle assembly 124 directly into the toilet bowl 150 and not onto the user. Before, during, or after purging the stale water, the nozzles 126 may move to a nozzle position specified by the user interface 116. In some embodiments, purging the stale water may involve dispensing stale water over the nozzles 126 to clean an exterior surface of the nozzles 126. In some embodiments, purging the stale water may involve dispensing stale water through the nozzles 126 to clean an interior surface of the nozzles 126. In some embodiments, the stale water may be purged while mixed water is being heated up or cooled down to the desired water temperature, as specified by the user interface 116. In some embodiments, the flow rate of stale water during purging may be relatively low compared to the flow rate of water during normal operation of bidet 100. For example, to conserve water, the nozzle valve 130 may adjust the flow of stale water to a trickle for a predetermined period of time, e.g., when performing an initial nozzle cleaning immediately after activating the bidet 100. In some embodiments, the flow rate of stale water during purging may be relatively high compared to the flow rate of water during normal operation of bidet 100.

[0063] In some embodiments, as mixed water is being heated up or cooled down to the desired water temperature, the mixed water may flow over or through the nozzles 126, at a relatively high flow rate, and once the desired water temperature is reached, the controller may then instruct the nozzle valve 130 to slow the flow rate of water (e.g., to a trickle), thereby conserving water and/or maintaining the desired water temperature. The user may then specify, using the user interface 116, a desired water flow rate and resume normal operation of the bidet 100, and the mixed water may already be at the desired water temperature. The above-described purging operation (e.g., expelling mixed water over and/or through the nozzles at a trickle flow) may also be used when the heated toilet seat 120 is operated without using the bidet functionalities of bidet 100, as described below.

[0064] In some embodiments, the bidet 100 may be operated without using any of the toilet seat heating functionalities of toilet seat 120. In such embodiments, the bidet 100 may receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit 102 and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit 104, activate the bidet 100 upon detecting the presence of a user, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve 108 to form mixed water, and dispense the mixed water out of the nozzles 126 of the nozzle assembly 124. The mixing valve 108 may be fluidically connected to the nozzle assembly 124 without passing through the water flow paths 122. In some embodiments, the toilet seat 120 may not contain any water flow paths 122. In such embodiments, the bidet 100 may comprise a bypass valve, such that mixed water flows from the mixing valve 108, through the bypass valve, and to the nozzles 126 without passing through the toilet seat 120.

[0065] In some embodiments, the toilet seat 120 may be operated without using any of the bidet functionalities of bidet 100. In such embodiments, the bidet 100 may receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit 102 and/or cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit 104, receive the hot water and/or the cold water at the water flow paths 122, and dispense the hot water and/or the cold water from an outlet conduit positioned such that water exiting the outlet conduit will flow into the toilet bowl 150. In some embodiments, the outlet conduit may be a nozzle such as nozzles 126. In some embodiments, the hot water and/or the cold water may flow over or through the nozzles 126 into the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, the water may be received by a bypass valve instead of (or in addition to) the water flow paths 122, such that the water may be directed from the bypass valve into the toilet bowl without flowing through the water flow paths 122.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0066] Embodiments disclosed herein may include:

[0067] Embodiment 1. A bidet assembly comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, wherein the mixing valve is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit and the second inlet conduit; water flow paths configured to receive water, wherein the water flow paths are located inside a toilet seat and are positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the mixing valve; and a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat, wherein the nozzle assembly is fluidically coupled to the water flow paths, and wherein the bidet assembly is configured to receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve to form mixed water, receive the mixed water from the mixing valve at the water flow paths, and dispense the mixed water from the water flow paths out of the nozzle assembly. [0068] Embodiment 2. The bidet assembly of embodiment 1, wherein the hot water supply originates from a sink.

[0069] Embodiment 3. The bidet assembly of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the cold water supply originates from a toilet.

[0070] Embodiment 4. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-3, wherein the mixing valve is an electromechanical valve.

[0071] Embodiment 5. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of water decreases and the mixing valve is closed, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of water increases and the mixing valve is opened.

[0072] Embodiment 6. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of hot water decreases relative to a flow rate of cold water, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of hot water increases relative to the flow rate of cold water.

[0073] Embodiment 7. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-6, wherein the control device comprises a sensor positioned downstream of and proximate to the mixing valve.

[0074] Embodiment 8. The bidet assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the sensor is configured to measure water temperature.

[0075] Embodiment 9. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-8, wherein the control device comprises a controller configured to receive one or more electronic signals from a user input or a sensor and to send one or more electronic signals to a motor.

[0076] Embodiment 10. The bidet assembly of embodiment 9, wherein the one or more electronic signals comprise one or more of an activation signal, a toilet seat temperature signal, a water temperature signal, a water pressure signal, or a nozzle position signal. [0077] Embodiment 11. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-10, wherein the control device comprises a user interface with one or more of a knob, dial, button, or other adjustable feature configured to adjust one or more of a toilet seat temperature, a water temperature, a water pressure, or a nozzle position according to a user input.

[0078] Embodiment 12. The bidet assembly of embodiment 11, wherein the user interface is configured to display information associated with one or more of the seat temperature, the water temperature, the water pressure, or the nozzle position.

[0079] Embodiment 13. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-12, wherein the control device comprises a battery.

[0080] Embodiment 14. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-13, wherein the water flow paths diverge downstream of the mixing valve and converge upstream of the nozzle assembly, such that a volume of water exiting the mixing valve equals a volume of water entering the nozzle assembly.

[0081] Embodiment 15. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-14, wherein the water flow paths spiral around the circumference of the toilet seat without diverging.

[0082] Embodiment 16. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 1-15, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water onto a user or into a toilet bowl.

[0083] Embodiment 17. The bidet assembly of embodiment 16, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle valve positioned upstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzle.

[0084] Embodiment 18. The bidet assembly of embodiment 17, wherein the nozzle valve is an electromechanical valve.

[0085] Embodiment 19. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 16-18, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles upward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles downward relative to the toilet bowl. [0086] Embodiment 20. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 16-19, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles leftward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles rightward relative to the toilet bowl.

[0087] Embodiment 21. A bidet assembly comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, wherein the mixing valve is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit and the second inlet conduit; and a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat, and wherein the bidet assembly is configured to receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve to form mixed water, and dispense the mixed water out of the nozzle assembly.

[0088] Embodiment 22. The bidet assembly of embodiment 21, wherein the hot water supply originates from a sink.

[0089] Embodiment 23. The bidet assembly of embodiment 21 or embodiment 22, wherein the cold water supply originates from a toilet.

[0090] Embodiment 24. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-23, wherein the mixing valve is an electromechanical valve.

[0091] Embodiment 25. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-24, wherein the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of water decreases and the mixing valve is closed, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of water increases and the mixing valve is opened.

[0092] Embodiment 26. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-25, wherein the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of hot water decreases relative to a flow rate of cold water, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of hot water increases relative to the flow rate of cold water.

[0093] Embodiment 27. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-26, wherein the control device comprises a sensor positioned downstream of and proximate to the mixing valve.

[0094] Embodiment 28. The bidet assembly of embodiment 27, wherein the sensor is configured to measure water temperature.

[0095] Embodiment 29. The bidet assembly of embodiment any of embodiments 21-28, wherein the control device comprises a controller configured to receive one or more electronic signals from a user input or a sensor and to send one or more electronic signals to a motor.

[0096] Embodiment 30. The bidet assembly of embodiment 29, wherein the one or more electronic signals comprise one or more of an activation signal, a water temperature signal, a water pressure signal, or a nozzle position signal.

[0097] Embodiment 31. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-30, wherein the control device comprises a user interface with one or more of a knob, dial, button, or other adjustable feature configured to adjust one or more of a water temperature, a water pressure, or a nozzle position according to a user input.

[0098] Embodiment 32. The bidet assembly of embodiment 31, wherein the user interface is configured to display information associated with one or more of the seat temperature, the water temperature, the water pressure, or the nozzle position.

[0099] Embodiment 33. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-32, wherein the control device comprises a battery.

[0100] Embodiment 34. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 21-33, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water onto a user or into a toilet bowl. [0101] Embodiment 35. The bidet assembly of embodiment 34, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle valve positioned upstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzle.

[0102] Embodiment 36. The bidet assembly of embodiment 35, wherein the nozzle valve is an electromechanical valve.

[0103] Embodiment 37. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 34-36, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles upward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles downward relative to the toilet bowl.

[0104] Embodiment 38. The bidet assembly of any of embodiments 34-37, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles leftward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles rightward relative to the toilet bowl.

[0105] Embodiment 39. A toilet seat comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; water flow paths configured to receive water, wherein the water flow paths are located inside the toilet seat and are positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit; and an outlet conduit configured to dispense water into a toilet bowl, wherein the outlet conduit is located at an edge of the toilet seat and is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the water flow paths.

[0106] Embodiment 40. The toilet seat of embodiment 39, wherein the toilet seat comprises a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply.

[0107] Embodiment 41. The toilet seat of embodiment 40, wherein the cold water supply originates from a toilet.

[0108] Embodiment 42. The toilet seat of any of embodiments 39-41, wherein the hot water supply originates from a sink. [0109] Embodiment 43. The toilet seat of any of embodiments 39-42, wherein the water flow paths diverge downstream of the first inlet conduit and converge upstream of the outlet conduit, such that a volume of water exiting the first inlet conduit equals a volume of water entering the outlet conduit.

[0110] Embodiment 44. The toilet seat of any of embodiments 39-43, wherein the water flow paths spiral around the circumference of the toilet seat without diverging.

[OHl] Embodiment 45. The toilet seat of any of embodiments 39-44, wherein the outlet conduit comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water into a toilet bowl.

[0112] Embodiment 46. A method for operating a bidet assembly, the method comprising: receiving hot water from the hot water supply at a first inlet conduit; receiving cold water from the cold water supply at a second inlet conduit; mixing the hot water and the cold water at a mixing valve to form mixed water; activating a bidet assembly comprising a water flow path within a toilet seat upon detecting a presence of a user; receiving the mixed water from the mixing valve at the water flow path of the bidet assembly, wherein the mixed water is configured to heat the toilet seat; and dispensing the mixed water from the water flow path out of a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat, wherein the nozzle assembly is configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat.

[0113] Embodiment 47. The method of embodiment 46, wherein activating a bidet assembly comprises dispensing stale water from the water flow paths out of the nozzle assembly and into a toilet bowl.

[0114] Embodiment 48. The method of embodiment 46 or 47, wherein detecting a presence of a user comprises using a sensor to sense the presence of the user.

[0115] Embodiment 49. The method of any of embodiments 46-48, wherein detecting a presence of a user comprises the user providing a user input to the control device.

[0116] The foregoing description, for the purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the techniques and their practical applications. Others skilled in the art are thereby enabled to best utilize the techniques and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0117] Although the disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying figures, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the disclosure and examples as defined by the claims. Finally, the entire disclosure of the patents and publications referred to in this application are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A bidet assembly comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, wherein the mixing valve is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit and the second inlet conduit; water flow paths configured to receive water, wherein the water flow paths are located inside a toilet seat and are positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the mixing valve; and a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat, wherein the nozzle assembly is fluidically coupled to the water flow paths, and wherein the bidet assembly is configured to receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve to form mixed water, receive the mixed water from the mixing valve at the water flow paths, and dispense the mixed water from the water flow paths out of the nozzle assembly.

2. The bidet assembly of claim 1, wherein the hot water supply originates from a sink.

3. The bidet assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the cold water supply originates from a toilet.

4. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-3, wherein the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of water decreases and the mixing valve is closed, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of water increases and the mixing valve is opened.

5. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-4, wherein the control device comprises a mixing valve motor coupled to the mixing valve such that, at the mixing valve, when the mixing valve motor rotates in a first direction, a flow rate of hot water decreases relative to a flow rate of cold water, and such that when the mixing valve motor rotates in a second direction, the flow rate of hot water increases relative to the flow rate of cold water.

6. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-5, wherein the control device comprises a sensor positioned downstream of and proximate to the mixing valve, and wherein the sensor is configured to measure water temperature.

7. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-6, wherein the control device comprises a controller configured to receive one or more electronic signals from a user input or a sensor and to send one or more electronic signals to a motor.

8. The bidet assembly of claim 7, wherein the one or more electronic signals comprise one or more of an activation signal, a toilet seat temperature signal, a water temperature signal, a water pressure signal, or a nozzle position signal.

9. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-8, wherein the control device comprises a user interface with one or more of a knob, dial, button, or other adjustable feature configured to adjust one or more of a toilet seat temperature, a water temperature, a water pressure, or a nozzle position according to a user input.

10. The bidet assembly of claim 9, wherein the user interface is configured to display information associated with one or more of the seat temperature, the water temperature, the water pressure, or the nozzle position.

11. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-10, wherein the water flow paths diverge downstream of the mixing valve and converge upstream of the nozzle assembly, such that a volume of water exiting the mixing valve equals a volume of water entering the nozzle assembly.

12. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-11, wherein the water flow paths spiral around the circumference of the toilet seat without diverging.

13. The bidet assembly of any of claims 1-12, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water onto a user or into a toilet bowl.

14. The bidet assembly of claim 13, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle valve positioned upstream of and fluidically coupled to the nozzle, and wherein the nozzle valve is an electromechanical valve.

15. The bidet assembly of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles upward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles downward relative to the toilet bowl.

16. The bidet assembly of any of claims 13-15, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle motor coupled to the nozzle such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a first direction, the nozzle angles leftward relative to the toilet bowl, and such that when the nozzle motor rotates in a second direction, the nozzle angles rightward relative to the toilet bowl.

17. A bidet assembly comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply; a control device comprising a mixing valve, wherein the mixing valve is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit and the second inlet conduit; and a nozzle assembly located at an edge of the toilet seat and configured to dispense water onto a user when the user is seated on the toilet seat, and wherein the bidet assembly is configured to receive hot water from the hot water supply at the first inlet conduit and cold water from the cold water supply at the second inlet conduit, mix the hot water and the cold water at the mixing valve to form mixed water, and dispense the mixed water out of the nozzle assembly.

18. A toilet seat comprising: a first inlet conduit configured to couple to a hot water supply; water flow paths configured to receive water, wherein the water flow paths are located inside the toilet seat and are positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the first inlet conduit; and an outlet conduit configured to dispense water into a toilet bowl, wherein the outlet conduit is located at an edge of the toilet seat and is positioned downstream of and fluidically coupled to the water flow paths.

19. The toilet seat of claim 18, wherein the toilet seat comprises a second inlet conduit configured to couple to a cold water supply.

20. The toilet seat of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the outlet conduit comprises a nozzle configured to dispense water into a toilet bowl.