Abstract:
A mobile sanitary urinal apparatus for truck drivers or others who do not have access to restroom facilities while traveling comprising a removable accumulation vessel mounted to interior or exterior of a motor vehicle is herein disclosed. The urinal is designed to be discretely used in the passenger compartment of tractor-trailer rigs, although it can be used discretely in almost any vehicle. It comprises a catheter-type receiver which attaches to plumbing thereby functioning as a urinal to receive urine from a user and directing it through the hose to a retention container. It is envisioned that the retention container would be emptied into a sanitary collection station or normal restroom when feasible. The urinal can be cleaned periodically using a provided sanitation kit with a flushing bulb and liquid cleanser that would be flushed through the system cleaning the valves, hoses, and container.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention was first described in and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent No. 60/937,472 filed on Jun. 29, 2007, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a urinal and, more particularly, to a mobile sanitary urinal for enabling OTR (over-the-road) drivers to relieve themselves in the comfort and convenience of a portable device, said mobile sanitary urinal capable of holding an amount of liquid therein for subsequent removal and further comprising a sanitation kit for cleansing said mobile sanitary urinal. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The number and frequency of public restrooms in our country are reducing every day for a variety of reasons. This fact poses a special problem for those who make their living on the road such as long haul truck drivers. Without restrooms in place, they perform their bodily functions on the sides of roads or in empty containers that end up discarded on the roadside, neither of which is sanitary or acceptable solution. The lack of public restrooms poses a problem particularly for those suffering from incontinence, weak bladders or frequent urination. Finally, those taking long car trips with male children are faced with the same problems. Accordingly, there exists a need for a means by which those who do not have easy access to public restrooms can be afforded a solution that allows them to urinate. The development of the invention herein described provides this solution. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 467,338 issued to Rehrig discloses an ornamental design for a portable urinal. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve nor does the cited patent appear to be similar in appearance to the instant invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 464,729 issued to Rehrig disclose an ornamental design for a portable urinal. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve, and a mounting bracket nor does the cited patent appear to be similar in appearance to the instant invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 354,122 issued to Carlier discloses an ornamental design for a mobile urinal unit. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal with a fluid vessel, plumbing components and a mounting bracket nor does the cited patent appear to be similar in appearance to the instant invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,904,621 issued to Otto and Otto discloses a urine collection device to receive urine from a user for transport via plumbing to a reservoir. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve and a mounting bracket. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,857,137 issued to Otto and Otto discloses a urine collection device that is mountable on a wheeled pole. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve and a mounting bracket for mounting the apparatus to a vehicle. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,684,414 issued to Rehrig discloses a portable urinal that appears to be a receiver connected to a reservoir bag. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve and a mounting bracket for vehicles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,021,531 issued to Kirko discloses a portable unisex urinal that appears to be funnel shaped receiver attached to a container. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve and a mounting bracket for vehicles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,894,608 issued to Birbara discloses a portable system for the collection of urine that uses fans and suction in the collection of urine from a user. This patent does not appear to disclose a non-mechanized method of collecting urine from a user in a motor vehicle nor does the patent appear to disclose a fluid vessel with baffles and a handle or the plumbing configuration of the instant invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,443 issued to Waugh discloses a portable automobile urinal which appears to be an elevated container with flushing solution, a bowl and a receptacle container. This patent does not appear to disclose an apparatus that does not require an elevated container nor does it appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve and a mounting bracket for vehicles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,655,229 issued to Horn discloses a portable urinal device for bedside and travel use that appears to be a receiver and a container. This patent does not appear to disclose a mobile sanitary urinal that possesses a sanitation pack, a fluid vessel with internal baffles and a handle, plumbing components including a float valve and an in-line valve and a mounting bracket for vehicles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,551,097 issued to Short appears to disclose a mechanized compact urinal system. This patent does not appear to disclose a non-mechanized method of collecting urine from a user in a motor vehicle nor does the patent appear to disclose a fluid vessel with baffles and a handle, the plumbing configuration of the instant invention and a sanitation pack. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, it has been observed that there is a need for a mobile sanitary urinal. 
     It is an object of the present invention to describe an apparatus and a method for a mobile sanitary urinal which provides a sanitary and convenient means for motor vehicle operators or other users to urinate who do not have access to restroom facilities while traveling. The apparatus will provide a means for convenient urination for a wide variety of applications such as, but not limited to, long-haul truck drivers, small-craft airplane pilots, racecar drivers, and normal motorists. 
     Another object of the mobile sanitary urinal is to provide removable attachable utilization of the mobile sanitary urinal to the interior or exterior of a vehicle. 
     A further object of the mobile sanitary urinal is to provide a means to transport urine from a user to a fluid vessel located a distance away from the user. 
     Yet another object of the mobile sanitary urinal is a mounting bracket conformable to many different makes, models and types of vehicles. 
     Yet a further object of the mobile sanitary urinal possesses a sanitation pack that provides the user a packaged cleaning and sanitizing means using established antiseptic methods. 
     An aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal comprises: a catheter-type receiver, a valve, plumbing components, a fluid vessel, a mounting bracket and a sanitation pack. The catheter-type receiver comprises a standard commercially available catheter device made of flexible latex providing an expected receiving orifice such that it conforms thereto a penis of the user. 
     Another aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal comprises plumbing components further comprising a valve, a first hose, a second hose and a hose connector cap. The catheter-type receiver comprises a nipple providing normal friction attachment to the second hose. The second hose is envisioned to be a commercially available hospital-grade product made of flexible and chemical resistant latex, or equivalent material. The second hose provides a fluid control means via an in-line valve located in close proximity to the receiver. The valve comprises an in-line installation between the second and first hoses. The valve allows one-handed operation by the user and is envisioned to be made of materials such as plastic, stainless steel, or the like. The second and first hoses in-turn provide a fluid communication means to a flow of urine/liquid waste from said receiver to a removably attachable hose connector cap located upon the fluid vessel. The first vent cap and internal float valve, provide both a ventilation means and a containment means thereby preventing accidental spilling of urine/liquid waste due to violent motion or due to urine/liquid waste exceeding a capacity of the fluid vessel. 
     A further aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal comprises a hose connector cap that further comprises a tethered vessel cap to be utilized during removal of the first hose and a threaded hose connector providing removable attachment to the fluid vessel along an upper surface. The fluid vessel provides an internal volume of approximately one (1) to three (3) quarts being sufficient to sustain several uses of the apparatus by a user during an extended period of travel. The fluid vessel is envisioned to be made of a transparent or translucent chemically resistant plastic such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or the like. The fluid vessel is further envisioned to be provided in a variety of shapes and sizes to allow for various mounting configurations on a vehicle. The fluid vessel further comprises a pair of handles, a plurality of internal baffles, a first vent cap, and a fluid level indicator. The handles provide easy manipulation of the apparatus via opposing molded depressions located along side surfaces of the fluid vessel. The fluid level indicator comprises a plurality of molded-in protruding graduated lines along one (1) or more side surfaces of the fluid vessel providing a user a quick visual indication of an amount of fluid contents collected therein. The first vent cap and internal float valve provide both a ventilation means and a containment means thereby preventing accidental spilling of urine/liquid waste due to violent motion or due to urine/liquid waste exceeding a capacity of the fluid vessel. 
     Yet another aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal comprises baffles which are a plurality of internal parallel vertical panels which extend between opposing side wall portions of the fluid vessel being suspended approximately two (2) inches above a floor portion of the fluid vessel. Said baffles provide effective arresting of excessive fluid movement within the fluid vessel during rough travel. 
     Still another aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal comprises a mounting bracket that provides secure removable attachment of the fluid vessel to the vehicle either internally or externally. The mounting bracket comprises a “U”-shaped sheet metal structure including particular features to clamp and captivate the fluid vessel in a stationary manner. The mounting bracket comprises an upper horizontal member, a lower horizontal member, and a connecting vertical rear member. The upper member holds the fluid vessel in a stationary manner against the opposing parallel lower member portion of the mounting bracket. The upper member further comprises an appropriately sized and shaped clearance slot at an intermediate position to permit the hose connector cap portion to protrude upwardly and slide out of the mounting bracket during removal of the fluid vessel. The lower member further comprises a pair of retaining curbs along outer edges of the lower member portion providing additional lateral stability to the fluid vessel. The mounting bracket provides an additional holding means via a plurality of hook-and-loop strips located along inner surfaces of the vertical rear member of the mounting bracket and located in corresponding positions upon the fluid vessel. The mounting bracket further comprises a plurality of equally-spaced mounting apertures providing a mounting means to the vehicle structure, along a variety of interior and exterior locations. 
     Yet a further aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal is a sanitary pack further comprising a common cardboard box-like package with a plurality of receivers in packaging, a plurality of moist-wipes, a flushing bulb, and a container with liquid disinfectant. The wipes provide a normal sanitation means to the user&#39;s person as well as the components of the apparatus. The wipes are common commercially available packaged moist-wipes. The flushing bulb comprises a spherically-shaped flexible rubber bulb providing a means to manually flush all internal and external surfaces of the mobile sanitary urinal as needed using a common liquid disinfectant. During disinfecting, the liquid disinfectant is introduced directly into the receiver or second hose portion passing through and disinfecting the entire fluid path and fluid vessel. 
     Another aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal is the hose connector cap portion that provides sealed removable attachment of the first hose to the fluid vessel. The hose connector cap comprises a captured first tether strap, a vessel cap, a threaded hose connector, and a flange. The hose connector and hose connector cap provide sealing and attaching features and functions similar to fittings used on common portable plastic gasoline containers. The first hose comprises an integral flange along a bottom edge region. The vessel cap provides a closure means to the fluid vessel during temporary or permanent removal of the first hose. 
     Still another aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal is a vent connector portion comprising a vent connector, a second tether strap, a first vent cap, a float valve, and a float. The float valve provides containment of the liquid waste during periods of rough travel or in such cases as the internal volume of the fluid vessel is exceeded. In such instances, a float valve is lifted due to buoyancy, blocking a flow of urine/liquid waste from the fluid vessel. The first vent cap comprises a cylindrical closure device having an integral circular vented region along a top surface. The first vent cap is attached thereto the vent connector and may be easily removed for cleaning. 
     Yet still another aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal is a valve that provides manual control of contained urine/liquid waste to prevent leakage and to provide containment of odors from the mobile sanitary urinal. The valve comprises a common shuttle-spool type valve with a pair of push-pull knobs arranged in-line between the first and second hoses by integral barbed male connectors molded into a housing portion of the valve. 
     An aspect of the mobile sanitary urinal, in an alternate embodiment comprises an alternate ventilation configuration with an alternate remote flange-mounted comprising a third hose and a mountable flange in lieu of the previously described float valve. Upon installation to a vehicle, the third hose and mountable flange provide effective redirection and removal of offensive odors emitted from the apparatus. The third hose is removably attached to the fluid vessel by a second vent cap. During emptying of the apparatus, the second vent cap enables a user to easily remove the third hose and remove the fluid vessel from the mounting bracket. The third hose extends a variable distance from the second vent cap subsequently passing down through the flange envisioned to be permanently mounted above a pre-drilled hose aperture in an external panel of the vehicle. The flange comprises a disc-shaped plastic or stainless steel plate having a centrally located circular aperture and is affixed to, for example, a vehicle floor. The flange further provides an aesthetic appearance and a flush mounting means to interior portions of the vehicle. 
     A method for installing and utilizing the mobile sanitary urinal may be achieved by performing the following steps: locating a secure and convenient location for the apparatus along interior or exterior portions of the vehicle; installing the mounting bracket thereto the vehicle using the mounting apertures and provided fastener assemblies; inserting the fluid vessel therein the mounting bracket; securing said fluid vessel to the mounting bracket using the hook-and-loop strips; threadingly attaching the first hose and hose connector cap to the hose connector; routing the first hose to a convenient location within the vehicle; attaching the valve and receiver portion to the second hose; utilizing the apparatus as needed by opening the valve; relieving oneself by directing urine/liquid waste into the receiver, through the second hose, and subsequently into the fluid vessel; closing the valve once the flow of urine is stopped; obtaining the sanitation pack; cleaning oneself and the apparatus as required, using the wipes; emptying the fluid vessel after several usages in a restroom or other appropriate waste dumping facility; periodically disinfecting the apparatus; charging the flushing bulb with liquid disinfectant; opening the valve; inserting the flushing bulb into the receiver and/or second hose; flushing all interior portions of the apparatus thoroughly with said liquid disinfectant; cleaning exterior surfaces of the apparatus as required using the wipes and/or the liquid disinfectant; and, benefiting from a convenient and sanitary means to urinate during travel using the present invention. 
     A method of installing and utilizing the alternate ventilation configuration may be achieved by performing the following additional steps: inserting the third hose into the second vent cap; threadingly attaching the second vent cap to the fluid vessel; pre-drilling a hose aperture at a desired location therein the vehicle with which to insert the third hose; mounting the flange thereto the vehicle being centered thereupon the pre-drilled hose aperture using the provided fastener assemblies; routing the third hose from the fluid vessel thereto the flange; inserting an end portion of the third hose therein the flange; utilizing the apparatus for urination as described above; and; benefiting from reduced odors emitted from the apparatus using the alternate vent arrangement. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of the mobile sanitary urinal and method of use thereof  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a fluid vessel portion  20  of the mobile sanitary urinal and method of use thereof  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a side perspective view of the remote mounting bracket portion  40  of the mobile sanitary urinal and method of use thereof  10 , according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded view of the sanitary pack  30  portion of the mobile sanitary urinal and method of use thereof  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5   a  is a close-up view of a hose connector cap portion  61 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5   b  is a close-up view of a vent connector portion  50 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5   c  is a close-up view of a valve portion  63 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the mobile sanitary urinal and method of use thereof  10  depicting an alternate ventilation configuration, according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
     
         
         
           
               10  mobile sanitary urinal 
               20  fluid vessel 
               21  first tether strap 
               22  vessel cap 
               25  handle 
               26  level indicator 
               29  baffle 
               30  sanitation pack 
               31  plurality of wipes 
               32  flushing bulb 
               33  liquid disinfectant 
               34  receiver packaging 
               35  hose connector 
               36  package 
               37  liquid disinfectant container 
               40  mounting bracket 
               41  hook-and-loop strips 
               42  upper member 
               43  clearance slot 
               44  lower member 
               45  retaining curb 
               46  rear member 
               47  mounting apertures 
               50  vent connector 
               51  second tether strap 
               52  first vent cap 
               54  float valve 
               55  float 
               60  hose connector 
               61  hose connector cap 
               62  first hose 
               63  valve 
               64  knob 
               65  barbed fitting 
               66  second hose 
               67  receiver 
               68  flange 
               70  fastening assembly 
               80  second vent cap 
               81  third hose 
               82  mounting flange 
               83  third tether strap 
               100  vehicle 
               105  urine/liquid waste 
               110  pre-drilled aperture 
           
         
       
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 5   c  and in terms of an alternate embodiment as depicted within  FIG. 6 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention, and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
     The present invention describes an apparatus and method for a mobile sanitary urinal (herein described as the “apparatus”)  10 , which provides a sanitary and convenient means for motor vehicle operators or other users to urinate who do not have access to restroom facilities while traveling. The apparatus  10  comprises a catheter-type receiver  67 , fluid plumbing, a fluid vessel  20 , and a sanitation pack  30 . The apparatus  10  is envisioned to provide a means for convenient urination for a wide variety of applications such as, but not limited to, long-haul truck drivers, small-craft airplane pilots, racecar drivers, and normal motorists. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a side view of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a receiver  67 , a valve  63 , a first hose  62 , a second hose  66 , a fluid vessel  20 , and a mounting bracket  40 . The apparatus  10  provides mobile and removably attachable utilization of a fluid vessel  20  and associated plumbing thereto interior or exterior vehicle structures  100 . The apparatus  10  provides particular fluid plumbing components to transport urine  105  therefrom a user thereto the fluid vessel  20  being located at some distance therefrom. Said plumbing components include a receiver  67 , a valve  63 , a first hose  62 , a second hose  66 , and a hose connector cap  61 . The receiver  67  comprises a standard commercially available catheter device made of flexible latex providing an expected receiving orifice such that it conforms thereto a penis of the user. The receiver  67  comprises a nipple providing normal friction attachment thereto the second hose  66 . The second hose  66  is envisioned to be a commercially available hospital-grade product made of flexible and chemical resistant latex, or equivalent material. The second hose  66  provides a fluid control means via an in-line valve  63  being located in close proximity thereto the receiver  67 . The valve  63  comprises an in-line installation therebetween the second  66  and first  62  hoses. The valve  63  allows one-handed operation by the user and is envisioned to be made of materials such as plastic, stainless steel, or the like. The second  66  and first  62  hoses in-turn provides a fluid communication means thereto a flow of urine/liquid waste  105  therefrom said receiver  67  thereto a removably attachable hose connector cap  61  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a perspective view of a fluid vessel portion  20  of the mobile sanitary urinal and method of use thereof  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The hose connector cap  61  provides connection of the first hose  62  thereto the fluid vessel  20  further comprising a tethered vessel cap  22  to be utilized during removal of the first hose  62  therefrom, and a threaded hose connector  60  providing removable attachment thereto the fluid vessel  20  along an upper surface thereof (see  FIG. 5   a ). The fluid vessel  20  provides an internal volume of approximately one (1) to three (3) quarts being sufficient to sustain several uses of the apparatus  10  by a user during an extended period of travel. The fluid vessel  20  is envisioned to be made of a transparent or translucent chemically resistant plastic such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or the like. The fluid vessel  20  is further envisioned to be provided in a variety of shapes and sizes to allow for various mounting configurations on a vehicle  100 . The fluid vessel  20  further comprises several enhancements including a pair of handles  25 , a plurality of internal baffles  29 , a first vent cap  52 , and a fluid level indicator  26 . The handles  25  provide easy manipulation of the apparatus  10  via opposing molded depressions located along side surfaces of the fluid vessel  20 . The first vent cap  52  and internal float valve  54  (see  FIG. 5   b ), provide both a ventilation means and a containment means thereby preventing accidental spilling of urine/liquid waste  105  due to violent motion or due to urine/liquid waste  105  exceeding a capacity of the fluid vessel  20 . The baffles  29  comprise a plurality of internal parallel vertical panels which extend between opposing side wall portions of the fluid vessel  20  being suspended approximately two (2) inches above a floor portion of the fluid vessel  20 . Said baffles  29  provide effective arresting of excessive fluid movement therewithin the fluid vessel  20  during rough travel. The fluid level indicator  26  comprises a plurality of molded-in protruding graduated lines along one (1) or more side surfaces of the fluid vessel  20  providing a user a quick visual indication of an amount of fluid contents collected therein. The mounting bracket  40  provides secure removable attachment of the fluid vessel  20  thereto the vehicle  100  being affixed thereto internal or external surfaces thereof (see  FIG. 3 ). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a side perspective view of the remote mounting bracket portion  40  of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The mounting bracket  40  comprises a “U”-shaped sheet metal structure including particular features to clamp and captivate the fluid vessel  20  in a stationary manner. The mounting bracket  40  comprises an upper horizontal member  42 , a lower horizontal member  44 , and a connecting vertical rear member  46 . The mounting bracket  40  comprises a single-piece formed metal shape envisioned to be made using tempered corrosion-resistant metal such as stainless steel, plated carbon steel, or the like being fabricated using common industrial processes such as stamping, cutting, bending, welding, and the like. The upper member  42  extends over and against a top surface of the fluid vessel  20 , thereby exerting a downward clamping force upon said fluid vessel  20  to hold it in a stationary manner thereagainst the opposing parallel lower member portion  44  of the mounting bracket  40 . The upper member  42  further comprises an appropriately sized and shaped clearance slot  43  at an intermediate position so as to allow the aforementioned hose connector cap portion  61  to protrude upwardly and slide out of the mounting bracket  40  during removal of said fluid vessel  20  therefrom. The lower member  44  further comprises a pair of retaining curbs  45  being approximately one (1) inch high and formed at right angles along outer edges of the lower member portion  44 , thereby providing additional lateral stability thereto the fluid vessel  20  when inserted therein. The mounting bracket  40  provides an additional holding means via a plurality of hook-and-loop strips  41  being located along inner surfaces of the vertical rear member  46  of the mounting bracket  40  and also located in corresponding positions upon the fluid vessel  20 . Said hook-and-loop strips  41  are envisioned being affixed thereto mating surfaces using a common adhesive backing. During insertion of the fluid vessel  20  therein the mounting bracket  40 , contact therebetween opposing hook-and-loop strips  41  provides expected holding adhesion therebetween. The mounting bracket  40  further comprises a plurality of equally-spaced mounting apertures  47  providing a mounting means thereto the vehicle structure  100  using a plurality of common corrosion-resistant fastening assemblies  70 , along a variety of interior and exterior locations based upon particular vehicle features  100  as well as a user&#39;s preference. The mounting bracket  40  is envisioned to be provided in a variety of sizes and configurations for mounting the apparatus  10  in various internal and external locations on various makes and model vehicles  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , an exploded view of the sanitary pack  30  portion of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The sanitation pack  30  provides a user a packaged cleaning and sanitizing means allowing application thereto oneself as well as the apparatus  10  using established antiseptic methods and commonly available materials. The sanitation pack  30  comprises a common cardboard box-like package  36  comprising a plurality of receivers  67  therein packaging  34 , a plurality of moist-wipes  31 , a flushing bulb  32 , and a container  37  comprising liquid disinfectant  33 . The wipes  31  provide a normal sanitation means to the user&#39;s person as well as the components of the apparatus  10 , as required. The wipes  31  are envisioned to be common commercially available packaged moist-wipes being readily available in a market. The flushing bulb  32  comprises a spherically-shaped flexible rubber bulb providing a means to manually flush all internal and external surfaces of the apparatus  10  as needed using a common liquid disinfectant  33  dispensed therein from said container  37 . During disinfecting, the liquid disinfectant  33  is introduced directly into the receiver  67  or second hose portion  62  of the apparatus  10  subsequently passing therethrough and disinfecting the entire fluid path and fluid vessel  20 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5   a , a close-up view of a hose connector cap portion  61 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The hose connector cap  61  provides sealed removable attachment of the first hose  62  thereto the fluid vessel  20 . The hose connector cap  61  comprises a captured first tether strap  21 , a vessel cap  22 , a threaded hose connector  60 , and a flange  68 . The hose connector  60  and hose connector cap  61  provide sealing and attaching features and functions similar to fittings used on common portable plastic gasoline containers. The first hose  62  comprises an integral flange  68  along a bottom edge region. In use, the flange  68  is compressed therebetween the hose connector cap  61  and the hose connector  60  to seal in urine/liquid waste  105 . The vessel cap  22  provides a closure means thereto the fluid vessel  20  during temporary or permanent removal of the first hose  62  therefrom the apparatus  10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5   b , a close-up view of a vent connector portion  50 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a vent connector  50 , a second tether strap  51 , a first vent cap  52 , a float valve  54 , and a float  55 . The vent valve  54  provides containment of the urine/liquid waste  105  during periods of rough travel or in such cases as the internal volume of the fluid vessel  20  is exceeded. In such instances, a float valve  54  is lifted due to buoyancy, thereby sealing against an internal seat to block a flow of urine/liquid waste  105  therefrom the fluid vessel  20 . During use, the tethered first vent  52  is normally installed thereupon the vent connector  50 ; however, said first vent cap  52  is illustrated here being detached for illustration purposes. The first vent cap  52  comprises a cylindrical closure device having an integral circular vented region along a top surface. The first vent cap  52  is threadingly attached thereto the vent connector  50  and may be easily removed for cleaning. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5   c , a close-up view of the valve  63 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The valve  63  provides manual control of contained urine/liquid waste  105  to prevent leakage as well as providing containment of fumes and odors therefrom the apparatus  10 . The valve  63  comprises a common shuttle-spool type valve comprising a pair of push-pull knobs  64  and being arranged in an in-line fashion therebetween the first  62  and second  66  hoses via integral barbed male connectors  65  molded thereinto a housing portion of the valve  63 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a side view of the mobile sanitary urinal for male truck drivers  10  depicting an alternate ventilation configuration, according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  is illustrated here utilizing an alternate remote flange-mounted embodiment comprising a third hose  81  and a mountable flange  82  in lieu of the previously described float valve  54 . When installed therein a vehicle  100 , the third hose  81  and mountable flange  82  provide effective redirection and removal of offensive odors emitted therefrom the apparatus  10 . The third hose  81  is removably attached thereto the fluid vessel  20  via a second vent cap  80 . The second vent cap  80  is envisioned to be similar thereto the aforementioned hose connector cap  61  by providing similar hose sealing functions. During emptying of the apparatus  10 , the second vent cap  80  enables a user to easily remove the third hose  81  and remove the fluid vessel  20  therefrom the mounting bracket  40 . The third hose  81  comprises similar materials as the first hose  62  and extends a variable distance therefrom the second vent cap  80  subsequently passing down through the flange  82  envisioned to be permanently mounted above a pre-drilled hose aperture  110  therein an external panel of the vehicle  100  using a pair of fastening assemblies  70 . The flange  82  comprises a disc-shaped plastic or stainless steel plate having a centrally located circular aperture which provides a sliding fit thereto the third hose  81  and is affixed thereto, for example, a vehicle floor  100  using said fastening assemblies  70 . The flange  82  provides an aesthetic appearance and a flush mounting means thereto interior portions of the vehicle  100 . 
     Alternately the apparatus  10  may be utilized to collect liquid waste other than urine  34  for subsequent removal. 
     It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the apparatus  10 , it would be installed as indicated in  FIG. 1 . 
     The method of installing and utilizing the apparatus  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: locating a secure and convenient location for the apparatus  10  along interior or exterior portions of the vehicle  100 ; installing the mounting bracket  40  thereto the vehicle  100  using the mounting apertures  47  and provided fastener assemblies  70 ; inserting the fluid vessel  20  therein the mounting bracket  40 ; securing said fluid vessel  20  thereto the mounting bracket  40  using the hook-and-loop strips  41 ; threadingly attaching the first hose  62  and hose connector cap  61  thereto the hose connector  60 ; routing the second hose  66  thereto a convenient location therewithin the vehicle  100 ; attaching the valve  63  and receiver portion  67  thereto the second hose  66 ; utilizing the apparatus  10  as needed by opening the valve  63 ; relieving oneself by directing urine/liquid waste  105  thereinto the receiver  67 , through the second hose  66 , and subsequently into the fluid vessel  20 ; closing the valve  63  once the flow of urine  105  is stopped; obtaining the sanitation pack  30 ; cleaning oneself and the apparatus  10  as required, using the wipes  31 ; emptying the fluid vessel  20  after several usages in a restroom or other appropriate waste dumping facility; periodically disinfecting the apparatus  10 ; charging the flushing bulb  32  with liquid disinfectant  33 ; opening the valve  63 ; inserting the flushing bulb  32  thereinto the receiver  67  and/or second hose  66 ; flushing all interior portions of the apparatus  10  thoroughly with said liquid disinfectant  33 ; cleaning exterior surfaces of the apparatus  10  as required using the wipes  31  and/or the liquid disinfectant  33 ; and, benefiting from a convenient and sanitary means to urinate during travel using the present invention  10 . 
     The method of installing and utilizing the alternate ventilation configuration may be achieved by performing the following additional steps: inserting the third hose  81  thereinto the second vent cap  80 ; threadingly attaching the second vent cap  80  thereto the fluid vessel  20 ; pre-drilling a hose aperture  110  at a desired location therein the vehicle  100  with which to insert the third hose  81 ; mounting the flange  82  thereto the vehicle  100  being centered thereupon the pre-drilled hose aperture  110  using the provided fastener assemblies  70 ; routing the third hose  81  therefrom the fluid vessel  20  thereto the flange  82 ; inserting an end portion of the third hose  81  therein the flange  82 ; utilizing the apparatus  10  for urination as described above; and; benefiting from reduced odors emitted therefrom the apparatus  10  using the alternate vent arrangement. 
     The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.