Magnetic latch and handle for toilet seat

Abstract

The present invention relates to providing a more hygienic way of lifting one or both lids of a toilet seat. This is achieved through the use of a system of magnets to couple the two lids consisting of one magnet installed in both the top and bottom lid with the magnet in the top lid securely attached to a handle that is mounted on the topmost surface of the top lid where it can be manipulated by the user in order to disengage the magnets when lifting only the top lid is desired, or by simply pulling on when lifting both lids is necessary.

1 . A handle or lifting mechanism that is attached to the topside of the top lid of a toilet seat that is used to lift one or both lids of said toilet seat. 
     
     
         2 . The handle from  claim 1  wherein the portions of the handle on the topside of the top lid are mounted flush with the surrounding surfaces, and the portions of the mechanism in the bottom lid are embedded or enclosed in the top surface of the bottom lid, to allow for typical hygienic maintenance (cleaning) of the toilet seat. 
     
     
         3 . The handle from  claim 1  wherein the mechanism in the handle that engages the top and bottom lid of the toilet seat uses magnetism to create a bond that can be repeatedly broken without wearing out or breaking. 
     
     
         4 . The handle from  claim 3  wherein the mechanism protrudes through the bottom surface of the top lid in order to physically contact the top surface of the bottom lid in order to engage the corresponding parts. 
     
     
         5 . The handle from  claim 1  wherein the mechanism according to  claim 3  is covered by a bottom plate on the bottom side of the top lid to allow for vigorous cleaning of the surrounding surfaces. 
     
     
         6 . The handle from  claim 4  wherein all the parts or portions are fully exposed. 
     
     
         7 . The handle from  claims 1  and  4  whereas the user controls the function of the mechanism from the topside of the mechanism by way of twisting or lifting the handle on said mechanism in an effort to avoid contact with surfaces that may be contaminated from regular use of the toilet, such as the top and bottom surface of the bottom lid as well as the bottom surface of the top lid, being the places that users of the common toilet seat have to choose from when lifting the common toilet seat. 
     
     
         8 . The handle from  claims 1 ,  4 , and  5  wherein the mechanism that engages the top and bottom lid is not magnetic. 
     
     
         9 . The handle from  claim 6  wherein the mechanism that engages the top and bottom lid is mechanical. 
     
     
         10 . The handle from  claims 1  and  2  wherein the handle and mechanism are surface mounted on the outer surfaces of the top and bottom lid. 
     
     
         11 . The handle from  claim 1  wherein the handle and lifting mechanism are integrated into the production of the toilet seat in such a manner that some exterior parts (pull plate, fasteners, etc.) may become unnecessary.