Automatic Toilet Seat-Cleaning System: Design and Implementation

During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, global awareness of infectious diseases increased markedly. Many infectious diseases are transmitted through direct or indirect contact with biological fluids containing pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. This risk is particularly pronounced in environments used by large numbers of unspecified individuals. Public restrooms, therefore, raise significant hygienic concerns, as toilet seats may serve as vectors for indirect transmission. To mitigate this risk, this study proposes a novel toilet seat equipped with an automatic cleaning function. Specifically, after use, the seat surface is automatically wiped by a cleaning cloth, eliminating the need for manual cleaning by staff. A fundamental operational concept is established, emphasizing the determination of an appropriate cleaning initiation timing that allows the cleaning sequence to be completed without compromising user convenience. Based on this concept, a belt–pulley type prototype is developed, and the effectiveness of the proposed cleaning sequence is verified. Subsequently, the prototype is further improved through the introduction of a flexible-rack mechanism. The control methodology, including the design of the electronic circuitry, is described in detail. Using the improved prototype, extensive simulations and experimental evaluations were conducted. The results showed that battery capacity declined at an approximately constant rate of 3% per 10 cycles, with about 70% remaining after 100 cycles. In addition, a single reciprocating cleaning cycle removed over 95% of artificially applied stains across the entire toilet seat. Additional evaluation results are presented in detail.