US Patent 8407821 Intelligent flushing system

An intelligent flushing system uses odor sensors and cameras to monitor interior conditions of a plumbing product and detect wastes. Recognition of need to activate a flush mechanism is determined by a control unit in accordance with conditions and wastes detected through processed sensor data and camera captured images. Water conservation is achieved by performing diagnostic and preinstalled flush procedures with controlled flush volumes. Flush performance assessment results and related data are stored in a database for statistical analysis and fine-tuning computation for continuous operation betterment. An apparatus with control methods coordinate data and signal processing, flush activation, data storage and communication. All processed information may be transported between various individually operable intelligent flushing systems, information systems of the user, supplier and others via network connection.