Urinals

Manly Origins
First patented in 1866 by Andrew Rankin, the urinal was originally designed as a fixed, stand-up toilet for male urination. It had several advantages that made it an instant success. First, it improved public sanitary conditions by eliminating the splashing contaminants that accompany male urination. Second, it reduced the amount of time and number of toilets needed in public facilities. And third, urinals use less water and are more efficient than conventional toilets.

Modern Changes
Today’s urinals, as with most inventions, have evolved improvements to keep pace with modern changes. In addition to traditional urinals, waterless urinals, as well as portable urinals designed for both sexes have become commonplace. Below are listed the differences and benefits of these three main types.

Three Types

Traditional Urinals - These incorporate a flushing system that utilizes water for the sanitizing rinse and odor removal. A number of flushing mechanisms are used to wash fluids into the sewer plumbing system. Some of these include automatic infrared sensors, voice activation, and timed interval flushing, as well as traditional manual operations.

Waterless Urinals - As the name implies, these systems use no water. Although there are several different designs, most utilize a cartridge insert filled with a chemical sealant that allows urine to pass through, but then traps it below, preventing odors from being released. The system can save upwards of 15,000 gallons of water per urinal per year. Other methods use a mechanical system to trap the odor.

Portable Urinals - Comprised of a small lightweight container, these urinals are designed for traveling and other situations where access to toilet facilities is limited. These portable units can be purchased in models suited for either males or females. They are also practical for sick or elderly patients who have difficulty walking. It's well to keep in mind also that portable urinals can be life savers when traveling in third world countries. In many of these locations, communal, germ infested urinals consist of no more than a hole in the floor, and in some places men and women share the same facilities.