Portable Shower and Toilet Device

Abstract

A portable shower and toilet device is provided. The device is comprised of a portable shower and toilet device designed to provide a hygienic and multifunctional solution for personal care needs during travel or outdoor activities. The device comprises a compact, collapsible body equipped with a pop-up mechanism powered by solar-charged batteries to create a standing-height interior space for activities such as showering, changing, or using the toilet. It features a removable, spill-proof toilet with multiple waste management options, a liquid waste jug, and moisture-neutralizing powders. The shower system integrates an electric pump, an adjustable showerhead, sloped flooring for drainage, and a grey water collection tank with a garden hose attachment. Additional features include towel and hand sanitizer dispensers, an air conditioning unit for climate control, LED lighting, and a towable design with secure hitches and lockable wheels for mobility.

Claims

1. A portable shower and toilet device comprising: a body comprised of an interior space and a roof movable via a pop-up mechanism; a battery configured to power the pop-up mechanism; a solar panel configured to supply energy to the battery; a shower assembly positioned within the interior space, the shower assembly comprised of a water pump, a water tank, a flexible shower hose, and an adjustable showerhead; a removable toilet positioned within the interior space; and an adjustable hitch coupled to the body for attachment to a vehicle.

2. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 1, wherein the pop-up mechanism is comprised of a hydraulic actuator, a gas-assisted mechanism, or an electric actuator.

3. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 1, wherein the solar panel is secured to the body via a repositionable mount.

4. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 1, wherein the interior space is comprised of a drain connected to a grey water collection tank.

5. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 1, wherein the removable toilet is comprised of an integrated handle.

6. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 1, wherein the removable toilet is comprised of a lid and a locking mechanism.

7. A portable shower and toilet device comprising: a body comprised of an interior space and a roof movable via a pop-up mechanism; a battery configured to power the pop-up mechanism; a wheel comprised of a first locking mechanism; a solar panel configured to supply energy to the battery; a shower assembly positioned within the interior space, the shower assembly comprised of a water pump, a water tank, a flexible shower hose, and an adjustable showerhead; a removable toilet positioned within the interior space; and an adjustable hitch coupled to the body for attachment to a vehicle.

8. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7, wherein the adjustable hitch is comprised of a second locking mechanism.

9. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7, wherein the removable toilet is comprised of a composting toilet, an incinerator toilet, or a dry-flush toilet.

10. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7 further comprised of a liquid waste jug.

11. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7 further comprised of a moisture-neutralizing powder.

12. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7 further comprised of a paper towel dispenser.

13. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7 further comprised of a hand sanitizer dispenser.

14. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 7 further comprised of an AC unit.

15. A portable shower and toilet device comprising: a body comprised of an interior space comprised of an LED light and a roof movable via a pop-up mechanism; a battery configured to power the pop-up mechanism; an AC unit; a wheel comprised of a first locking mechanism; a solar panel configured to supply energy to the battery; a shower assembly positioned within the interior space, the shower assembly comprised of a water pump, a water tank, a flexible shower hose, and an adjustable showerhead; a removable toilet positioned within the interior space; and an adjustable hitch coupled to the body for attachment to a vehicle.

16. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 15, wherein the LED light can be controlled by a button positioned in the interior space.

17. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 15, wherein the AC unit provides heating and cooling.

18. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 15, wherein a temperature of the AC unit can be configured via a control panel positioned within the interior space.

19. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 15, wherein the water pump is comprised of an electric water pump.

20. The portable shower and toilet device of claim 15, wherein the adjustable showerhead is comprised of a plurality of spray patterns.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a portable shower and toilet device of the present invention with the roof raised in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a portable shower and toilet device of the present invention with the roof lowered in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an interior space of one potential embodiment of a portable shower and toilet device of the present invention with the roof raised in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0022] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for the portable shower and toilet device that provides a private and sanitary portable restroom and shower solution for travelers. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for the portable shower and toilet device that incorporates features such as a water pump, solar-powered air conditioning, and internal lighting for enhanced convenience. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for the portable shower and toilet device that offers portability through a hitch attachment and wheels for easy transport behind any compatible vehicle.

[0023] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a portable shower and toilet device. The portable shower and toilet device is a multifunctional system tailored to meet personal care needs during travel or outdoor activities. It combines the features of a portable bathroom and shower, offering a compact and transportable design that prioritizes convenience, hygiene, and versatility.

[0024] The device comprises a body with a roof operated by a pop-up mechanism powered by a battery charged through integrated solar panels. This mechanism allows the body to shift between a low-profile configuration for portability and reduced wind resistance and an expanded standing-height interior space for user comfort. The interior provides adequate space for activities such as showering, changing clothes, or using the toilet.

[0025] An adjustable hitch with a locking mechanism, such as a quick-release coupler or pin-lock system, ensures secure attachment to a vehicle. Supporting wheels equipped with braking systems, including manual drum brakes or spring-loaded locks, provide stability and prevent unintentional movement, even on sloped surfaces.

[0026] The interior contains a removable toilet designed for portability and straightforward maintenance. Made from durable, easy-to-clean materials, the toilet includes integrated handles and a locking lid to prevent spillage or odors during transport. Various waste management options, such as composting, incinerator, or dry-flush systems, accommodate different needs. Additional features include a liquid waste jug and a compartment for moisture-neutralizing powders or granules to manage odors effectively.

[0027] The interior is also equipped with at least one towel dispenser, available in manual or automatic configurations, and a hand sanitizer dispenser, which may feature touch-free operation. Climate control is provided by a compact air conditioning unit offering heating and cooling, managed through a control panel, and powered by the integrated battery. LED lighting ensures adequate illumination in low-light conditions and is controlled via dedicated buttons or panels.

[0028] The shower system operates through an electric water pump that supplies water from a built-in tank to a flexible, kink-resistant hose connected to an adjustable showerhead offering multiple spray patterns. A sloped interior floor directs water to a drain that channels it to a grey water tank. The tank has a garden hose attachment enabling easy drainage.

[0029] High-efficiency monocrystalline solar panels on repositionable mounts generate reliable energy stored in a lithium-ion battery. This energy powers critical components, including the pop-up mechanism, lighting, air conditioning, and water systems, ensuring functionality across diverse environments.

[0030] The portable shower and toilet device delivers a practical and innovative solution for travelers, integrating a portable toilet, hygiene dispensers, solar-powered air conditioning, and internal lighting. With its wheels and hitch for vehicle attachment, the device seamlessly balances cleanliness, functionality, and mobility, meeting travelers'hygiene and comfort needs effectively.

[0031] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a portable shower and toilet device 100 of the present invention with the roof 104 raised in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The portable shower and toilet device 100 is a multifunctional device designed to provide a hygienic and convenient solution for personal care needs during travel or outdoor activities. More specifically, the device 100 combines the functionality of both a portable bathroom and a portable shower.

[0032] The device 100 is comprised of a body 102 that houses the bathroom and shower components. The body 102 includes a roof 104 that can be raised (as seen in FIG. 1) and lowered (as seen in FIG. 2) via a pop-up mechanism 106, which may be manual or powered in the form of a hydraulic, gas-assisted, or electric actuator. The mechanism 106 is powered by a battery 108, which receives energy from at least one solar panel 110 mounted on the exterior surface of the body 102. The pop-up mechanism 106 allows the body 102 to partially collapse into a compact, low-profile form during transport, reducing wind resistance and improving portability. When in use, the mechanism 106 extends a portion of the body 102, which includes the roof 104, upward to create a standing-height interior space 112, enabling users to perform tasks such as showering, changing clothes, or using the toilet comfortably within said interior space 112. The body 102 is also comprised of at least one door 170 of any style with at least one locking mechanism 172 which may be any interior or exterior door lock of any style.

[0033] The device 100 is further comprised of an adjustable hitch 114 that allows secure attachment to a vehicle such that the device 100 can be transported while suspended from the hitch 114. The hitch 114 includes a locking mechanism 116, such as, but not limited to, a quick-release coupler or a pin-lock system. Additionally, the device 100 is supported by at least one folding wheel 118, which may be of any type suitable such as pneumatic, solid rubber, or polyurethane-coated steel wheels. The wheel 118 is further equipped with at least one locking mechanism 120, such as a manual brake in the form of a lever-activated drum brake or an automatic locking system in the form of a spring-loaded mechanism, to prevent unintended movement when the device 100 is parked and detached from the hitch 114, even on inclined surfaces. The device 100 may be used in a free-standing position while unattached to a vehicle trailer hitch or may be used while attached to the hitch in one embodiment.

[0034] The device 100 is comprised of a removable toilet 122 positioned within the interior space 112 of the body 102, as seen in FIG. 3. The toilet 122 is designed to be portable to provide flexibility for external use or easier maintenance. The removable toilet 122 features a body 124 constructed from high-density polyethylene or similar materials for durability and ease of cleaning. Integrated handles 126 are included on the body 124 for easy portability. The body 124 is also comprised of a lid 128 equipped with a secure locking mechanism 130, such as a latch or compression seal, to prevent spillage or odor release during transport. The toilet 122 may be in the form of various waste collection system toilets, such as, but not limited to, a composting toilet, an incinerator toilet, or a dry-flush toilet, to suit different usage scenarios. The device 100 also includes a liquid waste jug 132 specifically designed for collecting urine. An additional storage compartment 133 within the interior space 112 provides access to moisture-neutralizing powders or granules 134. These materials 134 can be placed in the toilet 122 after use to manage odors and aid in waste handling.

[0035] The interior space 112 is further comprised of at least one paper towel dispenser 136 as seen in FIG. 3, which may be a manual pull dispenser, a touch-free automatic dispenser, or other configurations to suit user preferences and towel types and may also dispense toilet paper. At least one hand sanitizer dispenser 138 is also included and may be a manual pump or a motion-sensor-operated dispenser for touch-free use. To maintain a comfortable environment, the device 100 is equipped with a compact air conditioning unit 140 that provides heating and cooling, which may be thermoelectric, compressor-based, or a hybrid system. The temperature of the unit 140 is controlled via at least one control panel 142 and is powered by the integrated battery 108. For illumination, at least one LED light 144 is strategically positioned within the interior space 112, providing sufficient brightness for nighttime or low-light conditions. The light 144 can be operated through at least one button/control 146.

[0036] The device 100 is powered by an integrated solar panel 110 mounted on the exterior surface via at least one repositionable mount 111, such as, but not limited to, a tilt-adjustable bracket or a sliding track mount. The panel 110 is comprised of high-efficiency monocrystalline cells to generate reliable energy. Excess energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery 108, which powers the various electrical components, including the pop-up mechanism 106, lighting 144, air conditioning unit 140, and other systems. In one embodiment, the device 100 has no solar panel 110 and only has a lithium-ion battery 108 that is replaceable/rechargeable.

[0037] The shower functionality of the device 100 is supported by an electric water pump 148, which pumps water from a built-in water tank 150 to a flexible, kink-resistant shower hose 152, as seen in FIG. 3. The shower hose 152 is connected to an adjustable showerhead 154 that offers multiple spray patterns for user customization. The interior floor 156 is sloped to direct water toward a built-in drain 158, which is connected to an integrated grey water collection tank 160. Additionally, a universal garden hose drain attachment 162 allows for efficient drainage of the grey water tank 160 into approved disposal areas.

[0038] The device 100 may also be comprised of a water bladder 180. The bladder 180 is preferably black in color and is positioned on the exterior of the body 102 such that the sun heats the water inside the bladder 180, wherein said heated water is then supplied to the shower hose 152. In a different embodiment, the bladder 180 may be heated by at least one heating element 182 powered by the battery 108.

[0039] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein portable shower and toilet device and device are interchangeable and refer to the portable shower and toilet device 100 of the present invention.

[0040] Notwithstanding the foregoing, the portable shower and toilet device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the portable shower and toilet device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the portable shower and toilet device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the portable shower and toilet device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the portable shower and toilet device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0041] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0042] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term includes is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term comprising as comprising is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.