[ [00000011]] TThhiiss aapppplliiccaattiioonn iiss aa ccoonnttiinnuuaattiioonn iinn ppaarrtt ooff UU..SS.. uuttiilliittyy aapppplliiccaattiioonn ooff 1122//776655,,112233 f fiilleedd AApprriill 2222,, 22001100 wwhhiicchh ccllaaiimmss pprriioorriittyy ttoo UU..SS.. pprroovviissiioonnaall aapppplliiccaattiioonnss hhaavviinngg sseerriiaall nnuummbbeerr 6611//117755,,770055 fifilleedd o onn M Maayy 55,, 22000099,, sseeririaall nnuummbbeerr 6611//117755,,883311 ffiilleedd oonn MMaayy 66,, 22000099,, sseerriiaall nnuummbbeerr 6611//117777,,115500 fifilleedd oonn MMaayy 1111,, 22000099,, sseerriiaall nnuummbbeerr 6611//226622,,998811 fifilleedd oonn NNoovveemmbbeerr 2200,, 22000099,, aanndd sseerriiaall nnuummbbeerr 6611//228899,,663333 fifilleedd oonn DDeecceemmbbeerr 2233,, 22000099.. TThhiiss aapppplliiccaattiioonn iiss aallssoo aa ccoonnttiinnuuaattiioonn-- iinn--ppaarrtt ooff UU..SS.. ppaatteenntt aapppplliiccaattiioonn sseerriiaall nnuummbbeerr 1122//115544,,889911 fifilleedd oonn MMaayy 2288,, 22000088,, wwhhiicchh ccllaaiimmss pprriioorriittyy ttoo UU..SS.. pprroovviissiioonnaall ppaatteenntt aapppplliiccaattiioonn wwiitthh sseerriiaall nnuummbbeerr 6600//993322770000 ffiilleedd oonn JJuunnee 11 ,, 22000077.. TThheessee aanndd aailll ootthheerr eexxttrriinnssiicc mmaatteerriiaallss ddiissccuusssseedd hheerreeiinn aarree iinnccoorrppoorraatteedd bbyy rreeffeerreennccee iinn tthheeiirr eennttiirreettyy.. WWhheerree aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn oorr uussee o off a a t teerrmm iinn aann iinnccoorrppoorraatteedd rreeffeerreennccee iiss iinnccoonnssiisstteenntt oorr ccoonnttrraarryy ttoo tthhee ddeefifinniittiioonn ooff tthhaatt tteerrmm pprroovviiddeedd hheerreeiinn,, tthhee ddeefifinniittiioonn ooff tthhaatt tteerrmm pprroovviiddeedd hheerreeiinn aapppplliieess aanndd tthhee ddeefifinniittiioonn ooff tthhaatt tteerrmm iinn tthhee rreeffeerreennccee ddooeess n noott aappppllyy..

FFJieelldd ooff tthhe IInnvveennttiioonn

[ [00000022]] TThhee fifieelldd ooff tthhee iinnvveennttiioonn iiss ddrraaiinnss..

[0003] Traditional urinals, sinks, and other drains lack any sort-of visual entertainment or other stimuli to capture the attention of a user of a drain.

[0004] In an attempt to entertain users while they are near the drain, businesses have utilized a television or other monitor typically disposed on a wall such that video or images ca be displayed to customers while they are near the drain. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6640356 to Hans discusses including an advertising display on an outer surface of a urinal. The Hans device can require replacement of the existing urinal housing, which can significantly add to the time and cost of installation. In addition, the Hans device draws a user's attention away from the drain, which can lead to spills and other messes being created about the urinal, sink or other drain housing.

[0005] To keep a user's attention on the drain, it is known to place a mat having a textual advertisement or a light over the drain. For example, U.S. Patent No, 6640350 to Deutsch discusses a urinal mat that contains a light and indicia. The Deutsch device disadvantageously overlays over an existing drain, which can lead to buildup of urine or debris and thereby create odors, and necessitate additional cleaning. The Deutsch device would also likely be

incompatible with waterless urinals because such devices require an uninterrupted surface to prevent urine buildup. [0006] Thus, there is still a need for a cartridge that can be disposed within a drain, which has a lighting system to capture a user's attention.

S mmary of the Invention

[0007] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods in which a cartridge is presented that is sized and dimensioned to be received with a drain. As used herein, the term "drain" means a fluid outlet such as that found in urinals, sinks, tubs, floor drains, or other drains through which fluid can flow. The cartridge can advantageously replace other waterless urinal cartridges including, for example, those having oil or other low-density sealants. The cartridge can include a valve system having one or more valves that advantageously eliminate the need for flushing water, while avoiding the problems associated with cartridges having low-density sealants. Advantageously, and in contrast to current waterless urinal cartridges having a low-density sealant, the cartridge can be used in urinals and other drains that utilize water to flush the drain, or chemicals to clean the drain housing and cartridge, without degradation of the valves or odor seal,

[0008] Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0009] Contemplated valves can be active or passive. Preferred active valves are electrically operated. As used herein, "electrically operated" is defined to mean electrically controlled or electrically assisted. Thus, for example, an electrically controlled valve includes for example a solenoid, and an electrically assisted valve includes, for example, skirt valves that can be assisted in opening by use of a vibrator, a motor to drive an air multiplier™ or traditional fan, or other electrical device, The motor could be used to power a fan that causes a negative pressure to develop beneath the valve system, and thereby drive an air flow through a cartridge toward the direction of a drain pipe to eliminate odors from escaping from the drain pipe. As used herein, the term "vibrator" is defined as any device tha causes a vibration within the cartridge including, for example, turbmes with offset weights, vibrating motors, and/or any combination(s) thereof.

[0010] Preferred passive valves are gravity flow valves. As used herein, "gravity flow valve" is defined as a valve in which the fluid flows through the valve primarily as a result of the force of gravity such as skirt and umbrella valves. Alternatively, the valve system could comprise a low density sealant having one or more fluids through which the urine or other fluids are filtered. An exemplar}' chemical system is described in U.S. Patent No. 6053197 to Gorges, and U.S. Patent Application No. 2008/0028504 to Higgins, et al. (publ. Feb. 2008). [0011] Contemplated cartridges have a housing, and preferably have an insert that is user- removable from the housing. The housing and the insert could be inner and outer chambers, upper and lower chambers, or left and right chambers, respectively, or other commercially suitable configurations). In some contemplated embodiments, the cartridge housing can comprise an upper housing. [0012] It is especially preferred that the one or more valves can be gravity flow valves configured to be biased in a closed position, and at least partially opened by a pressure of a fluid against a surface of the valve. Such valves advantageously can operate without electricity, and function to create a closed system, where the valves close automatically once the fluid passes by the valves. However, in other contemplated embodiments, at least one of the valves could be an electrically operated valve including, for example, by using a solenoid, a vibrator, or other commercially suitable devices. An exemplary discussion of a cartridge that utilizes a solenoid valve is discussed in U.S. Patent Appl. No. 2008/0295233 filed on May 28, 2008. The one or more valves can be used to regulate any commercially suitable fluid including, for example, water, urine, and combinations thereof. [0013] Preferred gravity flow valves can be skirt valves, which possess numerous advantages over known one way valves such as umbrella valves and duckbill valves. For example, the skirt valve can be mounted about a stem or post to create a 360 degree opening that is less likely to be jammed by solid items. In addition, the skirt valve typically lacks a spoke to hold the center of the valve in place, and therefore lacks the problems associated with the spokes catching foreign objects, Furthermore, the skirt valve can have a thicker first portion that is coupled to a stem or post of the cartridge, and a thinner second portion that allows for greater flexibility of the valve. In this manner, the skirt valve can be (I) much more rigid than an umbrella valve to (a) keep the valve closed when not in use and (b) prevent back pressure in the drain pipe from opening the valve, while (2 ) the ends of the skirt valve are flexible to allow for fluid flow.

[0014] The valves can have a flexible, synthetic membrane that opens when a pressure on an upper surface of the valve exceeds a predetermined threshold. This is beneficial because the valves can open when fluid is present on the surface of the valve, but otherwise remain closed. The valves advantageously allow urine or other fluid to pass through to a drain pipe while preventing potential sewer gas from permeating into a facility room or other environment. In addition, the valves can help prevent backflow in the drain pipe from causing damage, since the increased pressure downstream of the valves would force the valves closed and thereby prevent the backflow from exiting through the cartridge. In addition to skirt valves, it is contemplated that any commercially suitable valve(s) could be used including, for example, duck bill valves and umbrella valves, Alternatively, at least one valve could be a non-gravity flow valve including, for example, mechanical check valves and other one-way valves, ball valves, gate valves, and any other commercially suitable valve(s) and combinations) thereof.

[0015] In some contemplated embodiments, the one or more valves can be disposed within a user-removable insert of the cartridge. In this manner, a user can easily access the drain pipe coupled to the cartridge by simply removing the insert, such as to eliminate any blockages found therein. This allows for a plumber's snake or other tool to be ran through the cartridge without requiring removal of the cartridge itself, In addition, disposed the valves within the insert pro vides easy access for cleaning and maintenance of the val ves.

[0016] As a further protection against odors escaping from a drain pipe, the cartridge can be fluidly coupled to a P-trap or other fluid trap to provide an additional drain seal, in preferred embodiments, the fluid trap ca be at least partially disposed within the cartridge, In certain contempl ated embodiments, the fluid trap can be at least partially formed from insertion of the insert into the cartridge. [[00001177]] TToo pprreevveenntt uunnaauutthhoorriizzeedd rreemmoovvaall ooff tthhee ccaartrtrriiddggee oorr tthhee iinnsseerrtt,, tthhee ccaartrtrriiddggee ccoouulldd iinncclluuddee aa lloocckkiinngg mmeecchhaanniissmm aattttaacchheedd ttoo tthhee uunnddeerrssiiddee ooff aa ccoovveerr ttoo f foorrmm aa k keeyyhhoollee.. TThhee ccoovveerr ccaann hhaavvee aa pplluurraalliittyy ooff ooppeenniinnggss tthhrroouugghh wwhhiicchh fflluuiidd ccaann f fllooww.. TThhee lloocckkiinngg mmeecchhaanniissmm ccaann bbee ccoouupplleedd ttoo aatt lleeaasstt ttwwoo,, aanndd pprreeffeerraabbllyy ffoouurr,, lloocckkiinngg bbaarrss tthhaatt eeaacchh eennggaaggeess aann aappeerrttuurree wwiitthhiinn t thhee ccaartrtrriiddggee 55 wwaallll ttoo pprree vveenntt rreemmoo vvaall ooff tthhee ccoo vveerr.. SSpprriinnggss ccaann b bee ccoouupplleedd ttoo tthhee lloocckkiinngg mmeecchhaanniissmm iinn aa nnoorrmmaallllyy cclloosseedd//lloocckkeedd ppoossiittiioonn,, ssuucchh tthhaatt tthhee mmeecchhaanniissmm rreemmaaiinnss lloocckkeedd uunnttiill tthhee ffoorrccee ooff aa kkeeyy ttuurrnniinngg iinn tthhee kkeeyy hhoollee ddeefoforrmmss tthhee sspprriinnggss aanndd uunnlloocckkss tthhee lloocckkiinngg mmeecchhaanniissmm.. TThhee lloocckkiinngg mmeecchhaanniissmm ccoouulldd aalltteerrnnaattiivveellyy bbee ccoouupplleedd ttoo aa ddrraaiinn wwaallll rraatthheerr tthhaann tthhee ccaartrtrriiddggee.. PPrreeffeerraabbllyy,, tthhee ccoovveerr aanndd lloocckkiinngg mmeecchhaanniissmm aarree ccoommppoosseedd ooff ssttaaiinnlleessss sstteeeell,, aalltthhoouugghh ootthheerr mmeettaallss aanndd nnoonn-- 1100 mmeettaallss aarree aallssoo ccoonntteemmppllaatteedd..

[[00001188]] CCoonntteemmppllaatteedd lliigghhttiinngg ssyysstteemmss eemmiitt lliigghhtt uussiinngg oonnee oorr mmoorree lliigghhtt ssoouurrcceess.. TThhee lliigghhttiinngg ssyysstteemm ccaann bbee ddiissppoosseedd iinntteerrnnaallllyy oorr eexxtteerrnnaallllyy ttoo aa ccaarrttrriiddggee ssuucchh t thhaatt aa lliigghhtt iiss eemmiitttteedd ffrroomm tthhee ccaarrttrriiddggee.. FFoorr eexxaammppllee,, aa lliigghhttiinngg ssyysstteemm ccoouulldd bbee ddiissppoosseedd b beenneeaatthh tthhee ccaarrttrriiddggee mmaaddee ooff aa lluummiinneesscceenntt ppllaassttiicc oorr ootthheerr t trraannsslluucceenntt oorr ttrraannssppaarreenntt mmaatteerriiaall((ss)),, ssuucchh tthhaatt tthhee lliigghhtt eemmiitttteedd 1155 ffrroomm tthhee lliigghhttiinngg ssyysstteemm ccoouulldd bbee rraaddiiaatteedd tthhrroouugghh tthhee ccaarrttrriiddggee.. CCoonntteemmppllaatteedd lliigghhttiinngg ssyysstteemmss ccaann iinncclluuddee,, ffoorr eexxaammppllee,, lliigghhtt eemmiittttiinngg ddiiooddeess ((LLEEDDss)) oorr ootthheerr lliigghhtt ssoouurrcceess,, cchhaarraacctteerr ddiissppllaayyss,, aanndd ppiiccoo oorr ootthheerr pprroojjeeccttoorrss..

[[00001199]] VVaarriioouuss oobbjjeeccttss,, ffeeaattuurreess,, aassppeeccttss aanndd aaddvvaannttaaggeess ooff tthhee iinnvveennttiivvee ssuubbjjeecctt mmaatttteerr wwiillll bbeeccoommee mmoorree aappppaarreenntt ffrroomm tthhee ffoolllloowwiinngg ddeettaaiilleedd ddeessccrriippttiioonn ooff pprreeffeerrrreedd eemmbbooddiimmeennttss,, aalloonngg 2200 wwiitthh tthhee aaccccoommppaannyyiinngg ddrraawwiinngg ffiigguurreess iinn wwhhiicchh lliikkee nnuummeerraallss rreepprreesseenntt lliikkee ccoommppoonneennttss..

[0020] Fig. 1 A. is a vertical cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cartridge.

[0021] Fig. IB is a vertical cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 1A including valves and a drain pipe.

25 [0022] Fig. 2 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a cartridge.

[0023] Fig. 3A is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a cartridge. [0024] Fig. 3B is a vertical cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 3 A. [0025] Fig. 3C is an exploded view of the cartridge of Fig. 3 A.

[0026] Fig. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of still another embodiment of a cartridge.

[0027] Figs. 5A-5B are vertical cross-sectional views of a cartridge having a locking device.

[0028] Fig. 6 is a top perspective vie of an insert of a cartridge. [0029] Fig. 7 is a side perspective view of another embodiment of an insert of a cartridge.

[0030] Fig. 8A is a bottom perspective view of yet another embodiment of an insert of a cartridge.

[0031] Fig. 8 B is a vertical cross-sectional view of the insert of Fig. 8 A.

[0032] Fig. 8C is an exploded view of the insert of Fig. 8 A. [0033] Fig. 9 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a cartridge coupled to a drain pipe.

[0034] Fig. 10A is a vertical cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a cartridge coupled to a drain pipe.

[0035] Fig. 10B is an exploded view of the cartridge of Fig. 10A. [0036] Fig. 1 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cartridge having a vibrator.

[0037] Fig, 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cartridge having a rotor.

[0038] Fig, 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a cartridge.

[ 0039] Fig, 14 is a vertical cross-sectional view of still another alternative embodiment of a cartridge.

[0040] Figs. 15A-15B are vertical cross-sectional views of one embodiment of a cartridge disposed in a floor drain. [0041] Figs. 16A-16B are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of an embodiment of a skirt valve.

[0042] Fig. 16C is a cross-sectional view of the skirt, valve of Figs. 16A-16B.

[0043] Fig. 17A is a perspective view of a urinal ha ving a drain cartridge with a character display, and Fig. 17B is a close-up view of the drain cartridge of Fig. 1 7A.

[0044] Fig. 18 is a top view of an embodiment of a drain caitridge having a character display .

[0045] Fig. 19 is a horizontal cross-section of an embodiment of a drain cartridge having light emitters.

Detailed Description

[0046] In Figures 1A-1B, a cartridge 100 is shown that regulates a fluid flow and has a housing 102 that comprises an upper housing 104, a lower section 106, and bottom 108. The upper housing 104 can comprise inner and outer portions 1 10 and 1 1 1, respectively, although it is contemplated that the upper housing 104 can comprise a single piece. The upper housing 104 and t he lower section 106 of t he housing 102 can be fixedly coupled by one or more fastener(s) including, for example, adhesive or other glues, threads or other mechanical fasteners, and combination(s) thereof. Insert 126 can be at least partially disposed within the upper housing 104, and configured to be user-removable from the upper housing 104. Each of the upper housing 104, the insert 126, and the lower section 106 can be composed of any commercially suitable material(s) including, for example, plastics and other polycarbonates, metal, quartz, porcelain, and any combination (s) thereof.

[0047] Cartridge 100 is preferably sized and dimensioned to fit within a drain recess, including, for example, drains found in sinks, floor drains and male or female urinals. Although the cartridge 100 preferably has a horizontal cross-section that is cylindrical in shape, the shape of cartridge 100 can be varied to correspond to the drain's shape. Alternatively, an adapter (not shown) can be used to adapt the cartridge 100 to the drain's shape. The top of cartridge 100 can be tapered inwardly and downwardly to facilitate fluid flow to opening 122. [0048] Cartridge 100 can include an outwardly projecting flange 1 14 that can be used to allow the cartridge 100 to rest on a portion of a drain, Optionally, a pliable plastic or elastomeric seal ring 180 can be disposed about the cartridge 100 and underneath the flange 1 14 to create a fluid seal. Flange 114 can be composed of stainless steel or other metal or metal composites, or other commercially suitable materials or combination(s) thereof. An upper surface 1 15 of the cartridge 100 can rest upon flange 114, and include an O-ring 189 or other elastomeric seal ring to create a fluid seal between cartridge 100 and flange 114. The outer portion 111 can include a threaded portion 145 onto which a nut 144 or other securing means can be coupled to the cartridge 100, Thus, for example, the cartridge 100 could be inserted into a drain, and then the nut 144 can be tightened until cartridge 100 is secured in place with respect to the drain.

[0049] The insert 126 can include threads 127 that are configured to engage with threads 129 disposed on the inner portion 110 of upper housing 104, In this manner, the insert 126 can be removably threaded and thereby secured or removed from, the upper housing 104. However, other commercially suitable fasteners could be substituted for threads 127 and 129 such that the insert 126 can be removably inserted within upper housing 104. To ensure an effective seal is maintained between the upper housing 104 and insert 126, respectively, one or more O-rings 188 or other commercially suitable flexible seals can be disposed about insert 126. Alternatively, such flexible seal could be coupled to upper housing 104,

[0050] Although the insert 126 can be disposed in an approximately central location of the upper housing 104, the insert 126 can alternatively be disposed off-centered to provide space on upper surface 1 15 for a character display (not shown) that can display video, images, and/or text.

[0051 ] Cartridge 100 can include a valve system having at least one valve 136, and preferably includes first and second valves 136 and 138. Contrary to prior art systems having a single valve including, for example, U.S. Patent No. 6401266 to Mitchell et /.; U.S. Pat. Appl. No.

2006/0010565 to Cummings (publ. May 2006); U.S. Pat. Appl. No. 2006/0207005 to Janssen (publ. Sept. 2006); and WIPO Patent Appl, No. 2009/040524 to McAlpine (publ, April 2009), the present cartridge utilizes at least two valves and thereby provides additional protection against the escape of odors from a drain pipe. For example, even if the primary first valve 136 was somehow stuck open by a toothpick or other debris, the secondary valve 138 would still prevent odors from escaping the drain pipe.

[0052] Preferred valves comprise gravity flow valves that are biased closed such that the valves 136 and 138 are closed when not in use. Each of valves 136 and 138 can comprise a skirt valve, although other commercially suitable gravity flow valves could alternatively be used including, for example, umbrella valves, duck bill valves, and other flexible valves. An exemplary embodiment of a skirt valve is shown in Figures 16A-1 C. Skirt valves are defined to include a rim. extending from a core of the skirt, valve where the rim comprises a rigid portion with a flexible tip. At least one of the valves 136 and 138 could alternatively be a non-gravity flow valve including, for example, needle valves, ball valves, gate valves, poppet valves, plug valves, globe valves, butterfly valves, and diaphragm valves.

[0053] The valves 136 and 138 can have a flexible, synthetic membrane that can comprise any commercially suitable materials) including, for example, silicon fabric or other synthetic and/or flexible materials, or combinations thereof, which provide protection to the valves from significant damage or degradation by urine fluids and cleaning solvents. The valves thereby advantageously allow urine to pass through to the drain line without, allowing odors to permeate up from the drain line.

[0054] The second valve 138 can be disposed downstream of the first valve 136. In preferred embodiments, the first and second valves 136 and 138 are separated by a distance less than or equal to six inches, and more preferably, less than or equal to three inches, as shown in Figure 1 A. All commercially suitable configurations are contemplated for the first and second valves 136 and 138, and preferably, the valves 136 and 138 are biased to be convex in the upstream direction. Preferably, the first valve 136 is more rigid than the second valve 138.

[0055] The valves 136 and 138 are preferably disposed within insert 126, which advantageously allows the valves 136 and 138 to be removed for cleaning or replacement without necessitating removal of the cartridge 100, In this manner, an interior of the insert 126 can define a passageway configured to allow fluid to flow from the first valve 136 to the second valve 138. However, it is also contemplated that at least one of valves 136 and 138 could be disposed elsewhere within cartridge 100. It is especially preferred that the valves 136 and 138 can be disposed such that an end portion of each of valves 136 and 138 is seated beneath first and second sloped portions 194 and 196 of an interior of insert 126. In this manner, any backflow or pressure beneath the valves 136 and 138 will keep the valves 136 and 138 pressed against the wall of the insert 126, and thus the valves 136 and 138 can remain sealed. [0056] Each of valves 136 and 138 have a varying thickness along its respective radius, such that each of valves 136 and 138 is sufficiently thin at respective outer 5 mm edge intervals 137A and 139A to allow even small amounts of urine or wastewater to pass through valves 136 and 138, while retaining sufficient strength for durability at the inner portions 137B and 139B, respectively. In preferred embodiments, the outer 5 mm edge interval 137 A of the first (upper) valve 136 has a first average thickness that is less than 95% of a second average thickness of the outer 5 mm edge interval 139 A. of the second (lower) valve 138. It is also contemplated that the first average thickness of the outer edge interval could be less than 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, or 70% of the second average thickness of the second outer 5 mm edge interval 139A. It is further contemplated that the edge interval of the valve could be the outer 1 mm, 3 mm, 7mm, 10 mm, 15mm, 20 mm, and so forth, of the valve and will likely depend upon the size and dimension of the valve, and the fluid that the valve regulates. The width of the outer edge intervals 137A and 139A. will likely be proportional to the overall width of the valve.

[0057] As used herein, the term "outer 5 mm edge interval" means the portion extending from the outer edge of the valve inwards by a distance of 5 mm. For example, the outer 5 mm edge interval of a circular valve having a radius (r) of 20 mm is the outer 15 - 20 mm from a center of the circular valve, or an area represented by the formula: (π * r") - (π * (r - 5) ² ). In this example, the area would be approximately 549.8 mm. Similarly, the term "outer 1 mm edge interval" means the outer 1 mm edge portion extending about an exterior of the valve. One of ordinar skill in the art would of course understand that square, ovular, and other commercially suitable sizes and dimensions of valves could alternatively be used, and the outer x edge interval would still be applicable.

[0058] The thinner first valve 136 advantageously ensures that urine will easily flow past the first valve 136 and eliminate residual odors, while the thicker second valve 138 ensures that the second val ve will remain sealed even if there is backflow or back pressure downstream of the second valve 136. Each of the valves 136 and 138 can be anchored at a center portion of the valves 136 and 138 to a stem 130. In this manner, ribs are not needed to anchor the valves 136 and 138, and therefore solids such as cigarettes, chewing gum, and coins are less likely to clog the cartridge 100. [0059] Cartridge 100 can further include a fluid trap 118 that is fluidly coupled to cartridge 100. Preferably, the fluid trap 118 is at least partially disposed within the cartridge 100, and more preferably, in the lower section 106 as shown in Figures 1A-1B. The insert 126 can include an extended portion 128 that can be affixed to the insert 126, such that fluid trap 118 is created when the insert 126 is inserted within the cartridge 100. Alternatively, the insert 126 can comprise a single piece that includes extended portion 128. The fluid trap 118 can also be permanently formed within the cartridge 100 by the use of a baffle or wall-like structure, as shown in Figure 4. For configurations in which the insert 126 is removably threaded into the cartridge 100, the extended portion 128 is advantageous because the additional length assists in preventing cross-threading of the insert 126 when it is inserted into cartridge 100. [0060] Fluid trap 118 acts as a further barrier against odors emanating from the drain pipe in addition to first and second valves 136 and 138. Thus, cartridge 100 can have triple protection against odors. In addition, the fluid trap 118 can help prevent the possibility of backflow from the drain pipe exiting through cartridge 100 because any backflow would increase the pressure downstream of the valves 136 and 138 and thereby keeping them closed. This is particularly beneficial for urinals and floor drains, because these drains are disposed near or at ground level and are often the first drains to experience problems with backflow.

[0061 ] Fluid outlet 124 can be fluidly coupled to the fluid trap 1 1 8 m the lower section 106, such that excess fluid can exit the fluid trap 118 through a drain pipe 172. The drain pipe 172 can be removably coupled to the cartridge 100 using threads 125 or other commercially suitably fasteners. Alternatively, the drain pipe 172 could be permanently affixed to the cartridge 100. The drain pipe 172 can be coupled to the cartridge 100 in any viable location,

[0062] The insert 126 can have a stem 130 to which a cap 132 and valves 136 and 138 can be coupled. Alternatively, cap 132 can be coupled to the upper housing 104. Cap 132 preferably has a downwardly tapered outer perimeter that facilities fluid flow to opening 122, and can be sized and dimensioned to limit splash back of liquid hitting cap 132. In some contemplated embodiments, the cap 132 can have a tamper proof configuration to help prevent unauthorized removal of the insert 126 and cap 132.

[0063] As shown in Figure I B, the cartridge 100 can include an optional grate or other debris collecting screen member 134 having a plurality of holes such that screen member 134 can filter objects flowing through insert 126, and thereby limit the size of objects that can reach valves 136 and 138. The screen member 134 is preferably disposed between the cap 132 and the valves 136 and 138, although it is contemplated that the screen member 134 could be disposed outside of the insert 126 as well. Optionally, the screen member 134 can function as a tool to assist in removing the insert 126 from the upper housing 104.

[0064] An ultraviolet ("UV") light emitter 148 can be disposed within the cartridge 100.

Preferably, the UV light emitter 148 is disposed such that ultraviolet light can be radiated on at least a portion of cartridge 100, and more preferably, at least a portion of a fluid passageway within cartridge 100 to thereby help disinfect that portion. Although the UV light emitter 148 is shown disposed within cartridge 100, it is contemplated that the UV light emitter 148 might be disposed adjacent to the cartridge such as that shown in Figure I OA, Contemplated UV light emitters can emit UV light having a wavelength between 10 nm to 400 nm, more preferably between 100 to 300 nm, and most preferably between 220 to 270 nm.

[0065] In addition to the UV light, the cartridge 100 can include one or more light emitters 152 disposed to illuminate the cartridge 100, and preferably, a surrounding area of the cartridge 100. Preferred light emitters 152 comprise LEDs, although any commercially suitable light emitters could be used. Contemplated light emitters 152 can emit light with a different predominant wavelength from the other light emitters 152, and preferably the light emitters 152 each predominantly emits a wavelength of light that differs by at least 50 nm from the wavelength of light predominantly emitted by another of the light emitters 152. As used herein, the terms "predominant" and predominantly" refer to the peak intensity of a band of wavel engths emitted by a light source. Preferred colors include green or blue, though specific colors could be chosen to match the aesthetics of the environment where the cartridge 100 is placed. Emi tting distinct wavelengths of colors is advantageous as the color of light emitted by the light emitters 152 could be directed to change randomly, periodically, upon an external signal such as that of a remote computer, or upon the occ urrence of one or more triggering events including, for example, detection of users, fluids, music or other sounds, or any combinations thereof.

[0066] In some contemplated embodiments, the cartridge 100 can include a character display that can present text, pictures, video, or other media or combinations thereof, such as those shown in Figures 17A-18. Though the display is preferably composed of organic LEDs (OLEDs), all commercially suitable displays are contemplated. Thus, for example, it is contemplated that the cartridge 100 could display one or more phrases or sentences, whether scrolling or stationary, including for example, news, an establishment's specials, random facts, etc, In addition, the display could include a game that is played by a user. Such displays can preferably be disposed on an upper surface 1 15 of upper housing 104, or on cap 132.

[0067] Although the light emitters 152 are preferably disposed within upper housing 104, it is contemplated that the light emitters 152 could additionally or alternatively be disposed externally to the cartridge 100. For example, one or more light emitters 152 could be disposed beneath the cartridge 100 that is composed of a luminescent plastic or other translucent or transparent material(s), such that the light emitted from the light emitters 152 could be radiated through the cartridge 100.

[0068] The upper surface 1 15 can include a translucent or transparent portion 1 16 such that light from light emitters 152 can be radiated through transparent portion 116 and outside of cartridge 100. The translucent or transparent portion 1 16 can be fabricated from any commercially suitable material(s), and preferred materials include acrylic or other translucent or transparent plastics. Although transparent portion 116 can be sized and dimensioned to create a ring-shape about the opening 122, all configurations are contemplated.

[0069] The light emitters 152 can be disposed on, or otherwise coupled to, a controller board 1 0, which preferably has at least partial control over at least one of light emitters 152, UV light emitter 148, and any other electrical components of cartridge 100. The controller board 150 can be connected to the light emitters 152, UV light emitter 148, and other electrical components by a wireless connection such as WIFi, Bluetooth, infrared, or radio frequency, although wired connections are preferred. As needed, the cartridge 100 can include any necessary electronics, wiring, or circuitry to enable such wired or wireless connections with the controller board 150. In preferred embodiments, the controller board 150 has a donut-shaped horizontal cross-section, and is disposed within the upper housing 104, although the controller board 1 0 can have any commercially suitable size and dimension such that the controller board 150 can be disposed within the cartridge 100. Alternatively, the controller board 150 could be disposed externally to the cartridge in a separate housing, for example.

[0070] The controller board 150 can comprise circuitry, and in some embodiments can include a processor and memory to run and store software instructions, respectively, such that the UV light emitter 148, the light emitters 152, and/or other components of the cartridge 100 can be controlled. For example, the controller board 150 might activate the light emitters 152 and/or UV light emitter 148 at a predetermined interval (e.g., ever} _' minute, every hour, every day, etc.). More preferably, the controller board 150 could activate the light emitters 152 and/or UV light emitter 148 when the controller board 1 0 receives a signal from a sensor 153 that monitors for the presence of a person or fluid. Alternatively or additionally, the light emitters 152 and/or UV light emitter 148 could be activated for a continuous period such as during business hours, or for an amount of time after a user or fluid is no longer detected by a sensor 153.

[0071] It is contemplated that the controller board 150 can include electronics that allow the controller board 150 to receive control signals from a remote monitor or other device via Ethernet, USB, serial, IP over power line or other commercially suitable wired connections, Bluetooth, wireless USB, RF, IR, or other commercially suitable wireless connections, or combination! s) thereof. For example, the controller board 150 could receive control signals from a remote computer (not shown) that could thereby directly or indirectly activate the UV light emitter 148, light emitters 152, and/or other components of the cartridge 100. In embodiments of the cartridge 100 that include a display, the remote device could communicate with the controller board 1 0 to change a text or image that is shown on the display, or possibly change the color of light emitted by light emitters 152.

[0072] All commercially suitable sensors are contemplated including, for example, fluid sensors, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, optical sensors, capacitive sensors, proximity sensors, pressure sensors, inductive sensors, and/or combinations thereof. Although the sensor 153 is shown embedded into the translucent portion 116, the sensor 153 or an additional sensor could be located in any suitable location within the cartridge 100 provided the sensor can detect the presence of at least one of a fluid and a user. Alternatively, the sensor 153 could be disposed externally to the cartridge 100. Sensor 153 preferably communicates directly with the controller board 150, through indirect communication is also contemplated, such as by way of one or more intermediate components (not shown). Though preferred sensors 153 communicate over a wired connection, wireless connections are also contemplated.

[0073] Cartridge 100 can include a built-in power station 182 having a battery or coupled to a photovoltaic cell, or be coupled to a line voltage of other external power source shown in Figure 9. The cartridge 100 can alternatively be wirelessly coupled to an external power source using power station 182 that receives power through, for example, induction, WiTricity™, or other wireless power source(s). This advantageously allows the cartridge 100 to receive power without the need for new wiring, which can thereby reduce the time and cost of installation. Preferred photo voltaic cells are disposed on cap 132 or other object of manufacture, and can optionally be coupled to a batten' configured to store excess power from the cell to provide power when the cell lacks sufficient light to produce power.

[0074] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a cartridge 200. With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 2, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0075] In Figures 3A-3C, another embodiment of a cartridge 300 is shown that can be inserted into an existing drain housing 302 having an outlet pipe 372 and a drain outlet 373 that can be coupled to a drain pipe (not shown). The cartridge 300 can simply be inserted into the existing drain housing 302 and thereby replace a previously installed drain cartridge (not shown). In such embodiment, fluid can flow through opening 322 and through the insert 326 and pass by optional valves (not shown). The fluid can then exit cartridge 300 though opening 324, and into outlet pipe 372.

[0076] To prevent removal of the cartridge 300 from the existing drain housing 302, one or more barbs 374, and preferably at least 3 barbs 374 can be at least partially inserted into the cartridge 300. In this manner, should someone attempt to remove cartridge 300 from existing drain housing 302, the barbs 374 would dig into an inner portion of existing drain housing 302 and thereby inhibit removal of cartridge 300. Contemplated barbs 374 can be composed of stainless steel or any other commercially suitable material(s) such that the barbs 374 have sufficient strength to withstand an applied force of at least 10 N and resist removal of the cartridge 300. With respect to the remaining numerals in each of Figures 3A-3C, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0077] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of a cartridge 400 in which drain outlet 472 is disposed at a lower portion of lower section 406. The drain outlet 472 can be angled off normal with respect to the wall of lower section 406, Preferably, drain outlet 472 is angled to be three degrees off normal with respect to the wall of lower section 406, although other angles could be used to facilitate fluid flow from the lower section 406. The lower section 406 can include a baffle 466 or other dividing structure such that a fluid trap 118 can be created within the lower section 406. With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 4, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply. [0078] In another embodiment of a cartridge 500 shown in Figures 5A-5B, the cartridge 500 can have one or more barbs 574 that can be inserted into a wall 511 of cartridge housing 504, The barbs 574 can have first and second portions 575 and 577, respectively, with the first portion 575 being pivotable with respect to the second portion 577 as shown in Figure SB. The first portion 575 can include a pointed tip configured to dig into an inner portion of a drain housing shown in Figure 3B. The second portion 577 can include a raised tip 576 configured to dig into a portion of the wall 51 1 to prev ent remo val of the barb 574 from wall 51 1 .

[0079] The cartridge can also include a circular UV lamp 548, although other configurations of UV lamps are contemplated including, for example, LEDs that produce UV light. To enable UV lamp 548 to radiate UV light on an internal portion of the insert 526, the inner wall 510 of the housing 504, an optionally, the insert 526, can be composed of one or more translucent or transparent materials). With respect to the remaining numerals in Figures 5A-5B, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0080] In Figure 6, an embodiment of an insert 626 is shown that includes openings 622 disposed on a slanted upper surface 627 of insert 626. It is contemplated that the top 612 of insert 626 can be downwardly sloped to direct fluid toward openings 622, Figure 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an insert 726 that includes extended portion 728. With respect to the remaining numerals in each of Figures 6-7, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply. [0081] Figures 8A-8C illustrate yet another embodiment of an insert 826 that includes a rotor section 856 having blades 854 that can rotate with the rotor section 856. Preferably, the rotor section 856 is disposed downstream of valves 836 and 838, The rotor section 856 can be secured to a stem 830 of insert 826 using a screw or other commercially suitable fastener 858 such that the rotor section 856 can rotate about stem 830. Optionally, a bearing 862 can be inserted between the blades 854 and fastener 858. In addition, a bearing 863 can be inserted between the rotor section 856 and an outwardly protruding portion of stem 830. Rotor section 856 and blades 854 can be composed of any commercially suitable material(s) including, for example, cobalt or other metals, bimetals, strontium ferrite, plastics, composites, and/or any combinations ) thereof.

[0082] The rotor section 856 can include one or more magnets 860 that can interact with a magnetic coil disposed within a cartridge (not shown). In this instance, and where other upper limits are not expressly stated, the reader should infer a reasonable upper limit. In this instance, for example, a commercially reasonable upper limit is about eight. This is advantageous as the interaction between the coil and the magnets 860 can cause the rotor section 856 to rotate.

Alternatively, the rotor section 856 or blades 854 can be composed of magnetic or magnetizable material. An exemplary embodiment of a coil is shown in Figure 10A. It is also contemplated that a motor could be disposed within stem 830 or elsewhere within insert 826 to cause rotation of rotor section 856.

[0083] Rotation of the rotor section 856 can advantageously cause a negative pressure to develop beneath the valves 836 and 838, and thereby drive an air flow through the insert 826 toward the direction of a drain pipe (not shown) to further prevent odors from escaping from the drain pipe. In some contemplated embodiments, the rotor section 856 can include an offset weight, such that rotation of the rotor section 856 will cause a vibration of the stem 830 and thereby vibrate valves 836 and 838. [0084] The insert 826 can include a spacer 883 to which a cap can be coupled, The spacer 883 is beneficial in that it creates a defined space between a top 812 of insert 826 and a cap (not shown), such that fluid can flow into the insert 826 while restricting larger items from entering the insert 826. With respect to the remaining numerals in each of Figures 8A-8C, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0085] In Figure 9, an embodiment of a cartridge 900 is shown that is inserted into a drain housing 972. A plug 984 containing a UV lamp (not shown) can be coupled to the drain housing 972, A wire 992 can connect the plug 984 to a controller and/or power source disposed within cartridge 900, A second wire 990 can couple the cartridge 900 to an external power source, which advantageously allows electrical components of the cartridge 900 to be powered, while also providing a wired data connection via IP over power or other protocols. However, wireless power and data connections, including as those discussed above, are also contemplated.

[0086] The cartridge 900 can include a translucent portion 916 that can have a ring-shape, although other commercially suitable shapes are contemplated. The translucent portion 916 advantageously allows light from one or more light emitters (not shown) to radiate from the cartridge, The cartridge 900 can further include a cap 932 that can help direct fluid to opening 922 in cartridge 900, With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 9, the same

considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0087] In other contemplated embodiments shown in Figures 10A-10B, the cartridge 1000 can include blades 1054 that are coupled to the insert 1026 such that the blades 1054 can rotate about a stem 1030 of the insert 1026 similar to the rotation of a motor. Preferred blades 1054 are composed of magnetic or magnetizable materials. However, it is contemplated that the blades 1054 could be composed of a non-magnetic material and include a magnet disposed within the blades 1054. A magnetic coil 1061 can be disposed within housing 1002 such that the coil 1061 can interact with the magnetic blades or magnets to thereby cause the blades 1054 to rotate,

[0088] The cartridge 1000 can be coupled to a drain pipe 1072 such that fluid can flow through the cartridge 1000, exit through opening 1024, and flow into drain pipe 1072, The drain pipe 1072 can include a removable plug 1084 having a UV lamp 1048 disposed to irradiate UV light, and thereby help to disinfect, an interior of drain pipe 1072, A cable 1092 or other wiring can connect the UV lamp 1048 to a controller 1050 and/or power source (not shown). The cartridge can further include aperture 1091 through which a cable or other wiring (not shown) can be inserted to provide power and/or data to UV lamp 1048, light emitters 1052, and other electrical components of cartridge 1000. With respect to the remaining numerals in each of Figures 1ΘΑ- 10B, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure ί apply.

[0089] Figure 11 shows a cartridge 1 100 having a vibrator 1 160 disposed within a stem 1 130 of insert 1 126. Preferred vibrators 1 160 are magnetically operated, but can additionally or alteraatively be mechanically and/or electrically operated. The vibrator 1160 can vibrate at an ultrasonic or any other commercially suitable frequency. The vibrator 1 160 can be disposed anywhere in the cartridge 1 100, provided the vibrator 1 160 can assist in preventing or eliminating fluid build-up on the valves 1 136 and 1 138.

[0090] The cartridge can also include a controller board 1 150 configured to operate vibrator 1 160 at a predetermined interval (e.g., every minute, every hour, every day, etc.). In addition, the vibrator 1 160 could be operated when a sensor (not shown) detects the presence of a user. Alternatively or additionally, the vibrator 1 160 could be operated continuously while a user is detected, or for an amount of time once the user leaves. The cartridge 1 100 can further include apertures 1 191 and 1 195 through which wires can be inserted. With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 11, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply. [0091] In Figure 12, another embodiment of a cartridge 1200 is shown that has blades 1254 coupled to a stem 1230 of insert 1226 by a screw 1258 or other fastener, such that the blades 1254 can rotate about the stem 1230 of the insert 1226. Preferred blades 1254 are composed of magnetic or magnetizable materials, or otherwise include one or more magnets (not shown) such that the blades can be rotated using a magnetic coil 1261 disposed in the cartridge 1200. With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 12, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0092J Figure 13 illustrates a cartridge 1 300 in which a circuit board can be coupled to an inner wall 1310 of an upper housing 1304 using a screw 1358 or other commercially suitable fastener(s). With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 13, the same considerations for like components wit like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0093] Figure 14 illustrates a cartridge 1400 having a screen 1434 or other debris-collecting member can be disposed about a stem 1430 of the insert 1426 to pre vent larger items from flowing into the insert 1426. Because the insert 1426 can be quickly removed from the cartridge 1400 as needed, the screen 1434 and insert 1426 can easily be cleaned without removal of the cartridge 1400. The cartridge 1400 can have one or more barbs 1474 that are inserted into an outer wall 141 1 of cartridge 1400 to help prevent remo val of the cartridge 1400 from a drain housing (not shown). The inner 1410 and outer walls 1411 of the cartridge 1400 can be permanently affixed to one another to create a hermetically-sealed inner portion 1486 into which light emitters, a power supply, a controller and related circuitry, and other electrical components of the cartridge 1400 can be disposed. With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 14, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[0094] In Figures 15A-1SB, a floor drain 1500 is shown into which caitridge housing 1526 can be inserted. The floor drain 1500 can comprise a grate 1534 having a plurality of drain openings 1 22 through which water or other fluids can flow, and by which solid objects can be filtered from the fluid flow. The grate 1534 can include side 1512 that can be removably coupled to the drain housing 1 10 using respective threaded portions or other commercially suitable fasteners.

[0095] Cartridge housing 1 26 can include first and second gravity flow valves 1536 and 1538, respecti vely, that are preferably disposed about a stem 1530 of the cartridge housing 1526. In this manner, fluid can flow through openings 1522 into the cartridge housing 1526 and past first and second valves 1536 and 1 38, respectively. The fluid can then exit the cartridge housing 1526 through fluid outlet 1524.

[0096] As shown in Figure 15B, the floor drain 1500 can be disposed within a cement floor 1540, such that the grate 1534 can be Hush with floor tiles 1542. The housing 1510 of the floor drain 1500 can include an outwardly extending portion 1514 configured to maintain the position of the housing 1510 with respect to the cement 1540. It is contemplated that the stem 1530 ca be coupled directly to the grate 1534 such that the cartridge housing 1526 can be eliminated. [0097] Figures 16A-16C illustrate various views of a skirt valve 1600 that includes a core 1620, and an elongated rim 1610 that extends outwardly from the core 1620, Preierably, the rim 1610 is configured to have a downwardly-sloping surface as the rim 1610 extends from core 1620. In some contemplated embodiments, the core 1620 and the rim 1610 can be composed of a single piece, although the core 1620 and rim 1610 could alternatively be separate pieces that are coupled to create a seal therebetween. Although the skirt valve 1600 is shown to have a circular shape, all commercially suitable shapes are contemplated including, for example, a square shape, an ovular shape, an icosagon-shape, and a half-circle shape.

[0098] Preferably, the rim 1610 extends from the core 1620 in a 360 degree manner. As shown in Flgisre 16C, the rim 1610 can be tapered and include an inner portion 1612 and a outer edge interval 1614. In this manner, the inner portion 1612 can have a greater average thickness than the outer edge interval 1614, which gives the inner portion 1612 additional rigidity, while giving the outer edge interval 1614 greater flexibility than the inner portion 1612. Thus, unlike umbrella valves of the prior art, at least one-eighth, preferably one- third, more preferably at least one-half, and most preferably, at three three-fourths, of the rim 1610 can remain rigid, and provide sufficient strength such as to prevent backflow from flowing upstream through the valve 1600.

[0099] In an exemplar}' embodiment, the inner portion 1612 of the rim 1610 can have an average thickness of between 0,001 - 0.05 inches, more preferably of between .001 - .01 inches, and still more preferably of between 0.001 - 0.008 inches. Using the same example, the outer edge interval 1614 could have an average thickness that is less than 95%, more preferably 90%, 85%, 80%, or 75%, of the average thickness of the inner portion 1612. However, the specific average thicknesses of the inner portion 1612 and the outer edge interval 1614 will depend on the size and dimension of the skirt valve 1600, and the specific application, [00100] The core 1620 can advantageously include an opening 1630 such that the core 1620 can be mounted or other affixed to a stem of a cartridge or other valve housing. This

advantageously eliminates the need for spokes or other means that extend above the valve 1600, which are prone to collecting urine, hair and debris, [00101] Optionally, the skirt valve 1600 could include one or more ribs (not shown) extending from the core 1620 along a portion of the rim 1610 to provide additional support to the rim 1610. Preferably, the ribs are disposed on a lower (downstream) surface of the valve 1600. The addition of ribs is beneficial, especially where the skirt valve has a diameter or length of greater than three inches. For example, the skirt valve 1600 could include one or more ribs having a diameter of between 0.03 - 0.1 inches, and more preferably, of between 0.04 - 0.08 inches.

However, the specific thickness of the ribs will depend on the diameter or length of the skirt valve 1600, and the specific application. For example, the ribs might be thicker for a skirt valve having a greater diameter, and thinner for a skirt valve having a lesser diameter. [00102] In Figures 17A smd 17B, a cartridge 1700 is shown that is disposed within a urinal 1792, and that has a character display 1790 disposed beneath transparent portions 1716 of the cartridge 1700. The transparent portions 1716 advantageously allow the character display 1790 to be viewed while protecting the character display 1 790 from urine, water, and other fluids. The transparent portion 1716 can be fabrica ted from any commercially suitable materials), and preferred materials include acrylic or other transparent plastics. Although the transparent portion 1716 can be sized and dimensioned to create a domrt-shaped horizontal cross-section about the cap 1 732, the transparent portion 1716 could alternatively have a rectangular shape, a circular or ovular shape, or any other commercially-suitable configuration.

[00103] Alternatively, it is contemplated that cartridge 1700 could utilize a handheld or pico projector that can be disposed within cartridge 1700 to project on a ceramic urinal, for example. Alternatively, the projector could be disposed within the urinal itself and either project within the urinal or up against a wall.

[00104] It is contemplated that the character display 1790 could show video, pictures, scrolling text or other characters, or other media or combination(s) thereof. For example, the character display 1790 could display the scores of football games being played that day, or could display one or more specials of that establishment. In other contemplated embodiments, the character display 1790 could include a game that is played by a user. Although it is currently preferred that the character display 1790 comprise one or more organic LEDs (OLEDs), any commercially suitable dispiay(s) could be used. With respect to each of the remaining numerals in Figures 17A asid 17B, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply.

[00105] Figure 18 illustrates a cartridge 1800 having a character display 1890. The cap 1832 of the cartridge 1800 is disposed off-center, such that a larger square-shape character display 1890 can be used. The display 1890 is preferably disposed beneath a transparent portion 1816 of the housing 1802. In alternative embodiments, the display 1890 could be disposed on or within cap 1832.

[00106] Figure 19 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of an embodiment of a cartridge 1900 having five light emitters 1952. Preferably, at least one, and more preferably, each of the light emitters 1952 can emit light having a different predominant wavelength from the other light emitters 1952, and most preferably each light emitter 1952 predominantly emits a wavelength of light that differs by at least 50 nm from the wavelength of light predominantly emitted by the other light emitters 1952. In this manner, the cartridge 1900 can emit multiple colors of light, rather than a single color. The light emitters 1952 can be directed to change randomly, periodically, upon an external signal such as that of a remote computer (not shown), or upon the occurrence of one or more triggering events including, for example, detection of users, fluids, music or other sound, or any combinations thereof.

[00107] The light emitters 1952 can be coupled to a controller board 1950, which preferably has at least partial control over the light emitters 1952. The controller board 1950 can be connected to the light emitters 1952 by a wireless connection such as WIFl, Bluetooth, infrared, or radio frequency, although wired connections are preferred. In addition, the cartridge 1900 can include any necessary' electronics, wiring, or circuitry to enable such wired or wireless connections with the controller board 1950. In preferred embodiments, the controller board 1950 has a ring-shape, although the controller board 1950 can have any commercially-suitable size and dimension. Preferably, the controller board 1950 is disposed in a hermetically-sealed portion of the cartridge 1900, such that water or other fluids are prevented from contacting the controller board 1950. Alternatively, the controller board 1950 could be disposed externally to the cartridge 1900 in a separate housing, for example. With respect to the remaining numerals in Figure 19, the same considerations for like components with like numerals of Figure 1 apply. [00108] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating thai the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N. etc.