Anteneh Gashaw
The Weight Activated Automatic Squat Toilet Cover is a passive mechanical system designed for squat and pit toilets. The device automatically opens the toilet opening when a user steps onto the foot platform and closes it once the user steps away. The mechanism operates purely through body weight, using a simple lever linkage system and return spring, so it requires no electricity, sensors or manual handling.
By keeping the toilet opening closed when not in use, the system helps reduce odor emissions, prevents flies and insects from entering the pit, and improves overall sanitation conditions. Because users do not need to touch a lid, the design also reduces contamination and improves hygiene in shared facilities.
The mechanism is engineered for high use community environments, such as public toilets, schools, markets, and rural sanitation facilities. Its simple mechanical structure allows for low manufacturing cost, minimal maintenance, and reliable operation even in locations with limited infrastructure.
The system can be integrated into standard squat toilet platforms or pit latrine structures commonly used in developing regions, providing a practical improvement to conventional sanitation systems such as the Ventilated Improved Pit Latrine.
The result is a durable, hands-free sanitation solution that improves hygiene, reduces odor and insect exposure, and operates entirely without external power.
Squat hole cover, Foot pedal toilet lid and Automatic toilet lid (electric sensor) DO EXIST BUT NOT IN A Weight-activated squat hole cover type.
To build the simplest form of prototype, I had an inspiration to use Pedal Bin for opening and closing the squat toilet cover lid by integrating 3 spring load system (2 springs for the squatting footrest and 1 spring for standing urinals footrest). The spring systems will be connected with each other by connecting plates or rod structure in order to push the lever of the Pedal Bin to activate the lid opening.
The following pictures illustrates the description for the above
Gaurav Ghorpade
Alvaro Villoslada
Supplyframe DesignLab
Images have obvious signs of AI generation. Idea is iffy as it is set up, because you aren't squatting from that far in front, the opening platforms should be on the sides and it should slide backward.