WASTE COLLECTION BAG

Disclosed are example embodiments of a waste collection bag. The waste collection bag includes a body with an opening at one end. The waste collection bag also includes a plurality of compartments formed within said body. Each compartment is sized and shaped to receive a user's finger(s), thereby defining separate finger areas within the bag to facilitate gripping and manipulation of the bag. The compartments are formed by a sealed area extending partway up from a closed edge opposite the opening.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates generally to the field of waste collection devices, and specifically and not by way of limitation; some embodiments are related to a bag designed for the sanitary collection and disposal of pet waste.

BACKGROUND

The collection and disposal of pet waste, for example, dog feces, presents a significant issue for pet owners and communities. It's not just about cleanliness but also environmental health. Traditional approaches to managing pet waste involve tools and methods like plastic bags, scoopers, or other instruments designed for waste collection. These are the most accessible and widely used methods due to their simplicity and direct approach to solving the problem.

Plastic bags are commonly used because they are readily available, inexpensive, and may be easily carried and disposed of. Pet owners typically use them to pick up waste during walks, which helps to maintain the cleanliness of public spaces such as parks, sidewalks, and community areas. However, traditional dog waste bags often present challenges in grip and maneuverability, making picking up after pets less efficient and more cumbersome for the user.

On the other hand, Scoopers offer a more hands-off approach to waste collection, allowing pet owners to pick up waste without directly touching it. They can be particularly useful for individuals who are squeamish about the task or for collecting waste from multiple pets at once. Scoopers can be made from various materials, including metal and plastic, and some are designed with features like long handles for ease of use and less bending over. Despite the utility of these methods, scoopers come with their own challenges, especially in terms of grip and efficiency in different environmental conditions. For instance, scoopers might not work as effectively as bags on uneven surfaces or in grassy areas where waste can be more challenging to pick up cleanly.

In light of these limitations, there is a need for more innovative solutions for pet waste disposal.

SUMMARY

In one example implementation, an embodiment includes a waste collection bag and its manufacturing methods designed to improve the efficiency and hygiene of pet waste management. The innovative bag features multiple finger compartments for enhanced grip and control, created by sealed areas within the bag's body.

Disclosed are example embodiments of a waste collection bag. The waste collection bag includes a body having an opening at one end. The waste collection bag also includes a plurality of compartments formed within said body, each compartment being sized and shaped to receive a user's finger, thereby defining separate finger areas within the bag to facilitate gripping and manipulation of the bag. The compartments are formed by a sealed area extending partway up from a closed edge opposite of the opening.

Disclosed are example embodiments of a method of manufacturing a waste collection bag. The method includes forming a bag body with an open end and a closed end. The method also includes creating at least two sealed areas within the bag body extending partway up from a closed edge opposite of the opening to form at least two separate compartments within the bag for receiving fingers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the ongoing quest to enhance the practicality and sanitation of pet waste management, this disclosure presents innovative embodiments of a waste collection bag and its manufacturing method. These embodiments introduce a sophisticated design that significantly improves user experience in pet waste collection. The waste collection bag, characterized by its unique structure, includes a body with an opening at one end and, more notably, features a plurality of internal compartments. Each compartment may be sized and shaped to accommodate a user's fingers, creating distinct finger areas within the bag (e.g., one embodiment may have one central partition to create two compartments. The user may place two fingers in each compartment.). This arrangement may facilitate an improved grip and manipulation of the bag, making waste collection more efficient and hygienic. As described herein, the compartments may be formed by sealed areas that extend partway up from a closed edge opposite the bag's opening.

Additionally, this disclosure outlines a method for manufacturing such a waste collection bag, emphasizing creating at least two sealed areas within the bag body. These areas may form separate compartments central to the bag's enhanced functionality. Some embodiments may address these issues by introducing a plastic bag design incorporating multiple finger compartments. This design may enhance the user's grip and control when picking up dog waste, providing a more sanitary and efficient means of disposal.

In some embodiments, the bag can be constructed from a variety of materials, catering to different preferences for durability, biodegradability, and tactile feel. Possible materials include but are not limited to, traditional plastics (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, or any other suitable plastic material) for durability and moisture resistance, biodegradable plastics (e.g., polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)) for environmentally conscious consumers, offering the same utility while ensuring the bag breaks down in a reasonable timeframe, compostable materials (e.g., corn starch-based compounds) that decompose in composting conditions, further reducing environmental impact, or recycled materials to support sustainability efforts, utilizing post-consumer or post-industrial plastics in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, an innovation lies in the bag's design, featuring a sealed area part way up from one edge, e.g., perpendicular to the edge, to create two or more separate finger compartments. It will be understood that some embodiments may have more than two compartments. For example, three compartments may be formed, four compartments may be formed, e.g., one for each finger, five compartments may be formed, e.g., one for each finger and one for the thumb. A thumb compartment may be formed off a side at right angles to the other compartments. It will be further understood that even more compartments may be formed to allow users flexibility in finger/thumb placement, e.g., to the middle or to one side, for example. In some aspects, this design may offer several benefits.

One aspect may have an improved grip. The separate finger compartments may allow users to insert one or more of their fingers into individual sections, enhancing grip and control over the bag. This finger placement may be beneficial in adverse conditions, such as wet or slippery surfaces, ensuring a secure waste collection.

One aspect may provide for enhanced sanitation. By providing a better way to pick up waste, the design may minimize the user's contact with the waste, improving the sanitary conditions of the task.

One aspect may provide for adaptability. The finger compartments may accommodate various hand sizes, with the potential for multiple sizes of bags to cater to a broader audience of users, e.g., a wide variety of hand sizes.

One aspect may provide ease of use. The design may simplify the process of waste collection, making the process of waste collection more efficient and less unpleasant for the user. The distinct finger compartments also aid in opening the bag, reducing the time and effort needed to prepare the bag for use.

In addition to the previously described materials and structural design, some embodiments may be further characterized by sealing mechanisms designed to secure the bag's contents after use. These mechanisms may ensure that the waste can be contained until it can be appropriately disposed of, thereby enhancing the sanitary benefits of some embodiments.

Some embodiments may include a drawstring closure system. The drawstring may be integrated around the opening perimeter of the bag, allowing users to close and seal the bag quickly after collecting the pet waste. This feature may provide a secure seal to prevent spillage and contain odors effectively. In some aspects, the drawstring may also allow the bag to be closed and re-opened to add additional pet waste.

The drawstring may also facilitate the bag's carrying to a disposal point, as the drawstring can be tightened and knotted, creating a handle. Including a drawstring may enhance the utility and convenience of the bag, making it an all-in-one solution for pet waste collection and disposal.

Another embodiment features two handles located at the top sides of the bag. These handles may be pulled apart to open the bag quickly and provide a means to carry the bag once the waste is collected.

Additionally, the handles may be designed to be tied together to seal the bag securely. This method of sealing may be particularly user-friendly, as this method of sealing may allow for a simple and effective closure without the need for additional sealing mechanisms. For example, the handles may be reinforced to ensure that the handles withstand the weight of the bag's contents without tearing, providing a robust solution for transporting pet waste.

The finger compartments, drawstring, handles, or some combination of these may be designed to work in concert to provide an optimal user experience. For example, the finger compartments may allow for precise control and sanitary pick-up of waste, while the drawstring and handles may offer convenient sealing and carrying options.

The bag's design may also consider ease of manufacturing, which may ensure that adding drawstring and handles does not significantly complicate the production process. This consideration may help keep the waste bag affordable while maximizing the waste bag's utility and user-friendliness.

Referring now to the figures, multiple embodiments will be discussed.

FIGS. 1A-1B to 6A-1B: Embodiment with No Drawstring

FIGS. 1A-1B are diagrams illustrating main views of flat bags 100, 150 in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. These figures illustrates the design of the flat waste collection bag, highlighting the waste bag's body with an opening at one end and the innovative feature of multiple internal compartments for finger placement, aiming to improve grip and manipulation during waste collection.

The waste collection bags, featuring an innovative structure, may be designed specifically for pet waste management. The illustrated waste bags have a main body with an opening at one end for waste collection. The internal compartments may be designed to accommodate each finger separately and set these waste collection bags apart, enhancing the user's ability to grip and manipulate the bags precisely. These finger compartments are created by sealed areas that extend partway up from the bag's closed edge opposite the opening. This design focuses solely on improving the handling and control during waste collection, offering a simple, practical approach to maintaining hygiene and efficiency in pet waste disposal. The design of bag 100 features a central line in the middle of the bag. In contrast, the design of bag 150 may be stronger and less prone to tearing. Bag 150 may incorporate a U-shaped structure that redistributes tension when stretched, significantly enhancing durability and resistance to tearing.

FIGS. 2A-2B are diagrams illustrating main views of the flat bags with example measurements in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. It provides detailed dimensions of an example waste bag, offering a quantitative understanding of one example waste bag's size and how the waste bags may be designed to accommodate various hand sizes, enhancing user experience in pet waste collection.

More specifically, the diagrams of FIGS. 2A-2B presents detailed views of flat waste collection bags, complete with example measurements that exemplify one specific size configuration within the broader range of the waste collection bags designs. This depiction illustrates not just a singular, fixed design, but rather illustrates the versatility and adaptability of the waste bag concept to meet diverse user needs. The provided measurements serve as a reference point, emphasizing that the design can be tailored to accommodate hands of various sizes, thereby enhancing the usability and accessibility of the bags for a wide demographic of users.

Recognizing that hand sizes vary significantly across individuals, the design's adaptability is a feature that may allow for the creation of multiple versions of the bag, each differing in dimensions. This flexibility ensures that users can find a bag that comfortably fits their hand, enabling efficient and hygienic waste collection without compromising on ease of use or control. By offering a variety of sizes, the design may cater to the ergonomic needs of different users, ensuring that the act of pet waste collection is as comfortable and effective as possible for everyone, or at least many different users.

This approach underscores the thoughtful consideration behind the waste bag's design, aiming not only to improve pet waste management practices but also to do so in a manner that is inclusive and considerate of the diverse needs of the user base. The diagram, with its example measurements, thus represents just one possibility within a comprehensive range of sizes designed to bring efficiency, hygiene, and comfort to the task of pet waste collection for all users.

FIGS. 3A-3B are diagrams illustrating side views of the flat bags in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. This view offers insight into the bag's thin profile, emphasizing the sealed areas that form the finger compartments, that may provide for the bag's functionality and grip.

FIGS. 4A-4B are diagrams illustrating top views of the flat bags in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. The top view focuses on the bag's opening, also illustrating how the internal compartmentalization that may facilitate easy access and efficient waste collection.

FIGS. 5A-5B are diagrams illustrating bottom views of the flat bags in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. The diagrams of FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate the sealed bottom edge, as well as internal aspects of the bags such as the internal compartmentalization that may facilitate easy access and efficient waste collection; e.g., the bags may be clear plastic allowing the internal features to be seen. The view in FIGS. 5A-5B provides perspective on how the bottom design contributes to the bag's overall functionality and secure waste containment.

FIGS. 6A-6B are diagrams illustrating dorsal views of the flat bags in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. This illustrates the back side of the example bags, emphasizing any design features or structural elements that contribute to the bag's functionality, including how it enhances grip and user experience.

FIGS. 7A-7B to 12A-12B: Embodiment with One Side Drawstring

FIGS. 7A-7B are diagrams illustrating main views of bags 700, 750 with a one-side drawstring in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. FIGS. 7A-7B introduce the inclusion of a drawstring closure system around the bag's opening, highlighting how this design provides a secure seal and enhances the bag's utility for pet waste collection and disposal.

The waste collection bags of FIGS. 7A-7B also include the innovative structure of FIGS. 1A and/or 1B, which may be designed specifically for pet waste management, as discussed above. The illustrated waste bags have a main body with an opening at one end for waste collection. The internal compartments may be designed to accommodate each finger separately and set these waste collection bags apart, enhancing the user's ability to grip and manipulate the bags precisely. These finger compartments are created by sealed areas that extend partway up from the bags' closed edge opposite the opening. This design focuses on improving the handling and control during waste collection, offering a simple, practical approach to maintaining hygiene and efficiency in pet waste disposal. The waste collection bags of FIGS. 7A-7B include a drawstring closure system around the bags' opening. The design of bag 700 features a central line in the middle of the bag. In contrast, the design of bag 750 may be stronger and less prone to tearing. Bag 150 may incorporate a U-shaped structure that redistributes tension when stretched, significantly enhancing durability and resistance to tearing

FIGS. 8A-8B are diagrams illustrating the main views of the bags with one side drawstring with example measurements in accordance with the waste collection bags of the instant application. This figure details the bag's dimensions and the drawstring length, emphasizing the functionality and convenience the drawstring adds to the waste collection process.

As discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A-2B, recognizing that hand sizes vary significantly across individuals, the design of FIGS. 8A-8B, respectively, may include adaptability, which is a feature that may allow for the creation of multiple versions of the bags, each differing in dimensions. This flexibility ensures that users can find a bag that comfortably fits their hand, enabling efficient and hygienic waste collection without compromising on ease of use or control. By offering a variety of sizes, the design may cater to the ergonomic needs of different users, ensuring that the act of pet waste collection is as comfortable and effective as possible for everyone, or at least many different users.

FIGS. 9A-9B are diagrams illustrating a side view of the bags with one side drawstring in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. The figures illustrate how the drawstring mechanism affects the bag's profile, underlining the ease of closing and sealing the bags after use.

FIGS. 10A-10B are diagrams illustrating top views of the bags with one side drawstring in accordance with Some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. This view focuses on how the drawstring facilitates carrying the bags to a disposal point, making waste collection more convenient.

FIGS. 11A-11B are diagrams illustrating bottom views of the bags in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. The diagram of FIGS. 11A-11B illustrates the sealed bottom edge, as well as internal aspects of the bag such as the internal compartmentalization that may facilitate easy access and efficient waste collection, e.g., the bags may be clear plastic allowing the internal features to be seen. The view in FIGS. 11A-11B provides perspective on how the bottom design contributes to the bag's overall functionality and secure waste containment.

FIGS. 12A-12B are diagrams illustrating dorsal views of the bags with one side drawstring in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. This illustrates the backside features with the drawstring in place, emphasizing the drawstring's role in enhancing the bags' practicality for pet waste management.

FIGS. 13A-13B to 18A-18B: Embodiment with Two Side Drawstrings

FIGS. 13A-13B are diagrams illustrating main views of bags 1300, 1350 with two side drawstrings in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. This introduces an advanced design where two side drawstrings enhance the bag's sealing and carrying capabilities, illustrating a sophisticated approach to pet waste disposal that prioritizes user convenience and security.

The waste collection bags of FIGS. 13A-13B also includes the innovative structure of FIGS. 1A-1B and 7A-7B, which may be designed specifically for pet waste management as discussed above. The illustrated waste bags have a main body with an opening at one end for waste collection. The internal compartments may be designed to accommodate each finger separately and set these waste collection bags apart, enhancing the user's ability to grip and manipulate the bag precisely. These finger compartments are created by sealed areas that extend partway up from the bag's closed edge opposite the opening. These designs focus on improving the handling and control during waste collection, offering a simple, practical approach to maintaining hygiene and efficiency in pet waste disposal. The waste collection bags of FIGS. 7A-7B include a drawstring closure system around the bags' opening. The design of bag 1300 features a central line in the middle of the bag. In contrast, the design of bag 150 may be stronger and less prone to tearing. Bag 1350 may incorporate a U-shaped structure that redistributes tension when stretched, significantly enhancing durability and resistance to tearing

FIGS. 14A-14B are diagrams illustrating main views of the bags with two side drawstrings with example measurements in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. These figures provide detailed dimensions for the bag, including the placement and functionality of two drawstrings.

As discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A-2B and 8A-8B, recognizing that hand sizes vary significantly across individuals, the designs of FIGS. 8A-8B include adaptability, which is a feature that may allow for the creation of multiple versions of the bag, each differing in dimensions. This flexibility may help ensure that users can find a bag that comfortably fits their hand, enabling efficient and hygienic waste collection without compromising on ease of use or control.

FIGS. 15A-15B are diagrams illustrating a side view of the bags with two side drawstrings in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. These views highlight the functionality of having two drawstrings, illustrating how they contribute to a more versatile and secure sealing mechanism. The side views allows us to appreciate the dual drawstring design's impact on the bags' usability, facilitating easier closure and enhancing the bags' overall practicality for pet waste collection.

FIGS. 16A-16B are diagrams illustrating top views of the bags with two side drawstrings in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. From this perspective, the top views demonstrate how the two drawstrings are integrated around the bags' opening. This not only improves the ease of sealing and carrying the bag but also ensures that users can effectively manage pet waste with increased control and convenience, minimizing spillage and odor escape.

FIGS. 17A-17B is a diagram illustrating bottom views of the bags with two side drawstrings in accordance with some example embodiments of the waste collection bags of the instant application. The bottom views may reveal how the presence of two drawstrings affects the bag's design from below, potentially offering insights into how this feature enhances the structural integrity and functionality of the bag. This could include details on how the drawstrings contribute to the bag's ability to securely contain pet waste until it can be properly disposed of, thereby aligning with the goals of sanitation and efficiency.

FIGS. 18A-18B are diagrams illustrating dorsal view of the bags with two side drawstrings in accordance with the waste collection bags of the instant application. These dorsal views allow us to see the back side of the bag, focusing on how the two drawstrings integrate with the bag's overall design. It might highlight the ergonomic consideration of the drawstrings, ensuring that they do not only function effectively for sealing and carrying but also blend seamlessly with the bag's aesthetic and functional design elements, further emphasizing the innovation and thoughtfulness behind this pet waste collection solution.

The waste collection bags described offer a significant improvement over traditional plastic bags for several reasons, especially in terms of usability and efficiency in picking up dog waste. Firstly, the design with a plurality of compartments for individual fingers dramatically enhances grip and control. This allows for more precise manipulation of the bag, making it easier to pick up waste from various surfaces and in different environmental conditions. The separate finger areas ensure that the user can apply a more targeted pressure and movement, reducing the likelihood of spillage or incomplete collection.

Additionally, the sealed area extending partway up from the closed edge opposite of the opening helps maintain the structural integrity of the bag, ensuring that each compartment is securely enclosed and that the waste is safely contained once collected. This design feature minimizes the risk of tears or breaches in the bag, which can be a common issue with standard plastic bags, especially when dealing with sharp or rough waste materials.

Furthermore, this innovative design could potentially offer a more hygienic and tactilely comfortable experience for the user, as it reduces direct contact with the waste by providing a more controlled and distanced handling. By enhancing the user's ability to effectively collect waste without fear of the bag ripping or losing grip, this bag represents a significant step forward in pet waste management solutions.

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method 1900 of manufacturing a waste collection bag, in accordance with the systems and methods described herein. The method 1900 includes forming a bag body with an open end and a closed end (1902). The method 1900 also includes creating at least two sealed areas within the bag body extending partway up from a closed edge opposite the open end to form at least two separate compartments within the waste collection bag for receiving fingers (1904). Optionally, the method 1900 may further include integrating a drawstring (or two draw strings) around a perimeter of the open end for sealing the waste collection bag (1906). Optionally, the method 1900 may further include forming the bag with two handles at top sides of the waste collection bag for facilitating opening, closing, and carrying of the waste collection bag (1908).

As discussed above, the method 1900 includes forming a bag body with an open end and a closed end (1902). The initial step in manufacturing a waste collection bag involves forming the bag body, which includes an open end for inserting waste and a closed end to contain the waste. This foundational process sets the structural basis for the bag, determining its overall size and shape. The material selection, whether biodegradable, compostable, or traditional plastic, may also be decided at this stage, ensuring that the bag meets specific environmental and/or durability requirements.

The method 1900 also includes creating at least two sealed areas within the bag body extending partway up from a closed edge opposite the open end to form at least two separate compartments within the waste collection bag for receiving fingers (1904). For example, following the formation of the bag body, the next step may involve creating at least two sealed areas within the bag body. These areas extend partway up from the closed edge opposite the open end, effectively forming separate compartments designed to accommodate the user's fingers. This innovative feature enhances the bag's functionality by improving grip and control, making it easier for users to pick up and handle pet waste. The process may use sealing techniques to ensure the compartments are securely formed without compromising the bag's integrity. It will be understood that some embodiments may have more than two compartments. For example, three compartments may be formed, four compartments may be formed, e.g., one for each finger, five compartments may be formed, e.g., one for each finger and one for the thumb. A thumb compartment may be formed off a side at right angles to the other compartments. It will be further understood that even more compartments may be formed to allow users flexibility in finger/thumb placement, e.g., to the middle or to one side, for example.

Optionally, the method 1900 may further include integrating a drawstring around a perimeter of the open end for sealing the waste collection bag (1906). The manufacturing process may include integrating a drawstring around the perimeter of the bag's open end. This addition allows for easy and secure sealing of the bag after waste collection, effectively containing the waste and any associated odors. The drawstring also enhances the bag's convenience, providing a simple mechanism for users to close the bag tightly with minimal effort. This step involves attaching the drawstring in a way that it remains durable and functional throughout the bag's use.

Optionally, the method 1900 may further include forming the bag with two handles at top sides of the waste collection bag for facilitating opening, closing, and carrying of the waste collection bag (1908). The manufacturing process may include the addition of two handles at the top sides of the waste collection bag. These handles facilitate easier opening, closing, and carrying of the bag, contributing to an overall more user-friendly design. The handles are designed to be sturdy, ensuring they can support the weight of the bag's contents without tearing. This step requires careful design and integration to make sure the handles are both practical and durable, enhancing the bag's utility for users.

These figures are provided to illustrate and explain the concepts of the invention. It should be noted that they are not exhaustive and other configurations and embodiments are possible within the scope of the invention.

The foregoing description of the embodiments of the present invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the present invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims of this application. As will be understood by those familiar with the art, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Likewise, the particular naming and division of the modules, routines, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects are not mandatory or significant, and the mechanisms that implement the present invention or its features may have different names, divisions and/or formats.

Furthermore, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, the modules, routines, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects of the present invention can be implemented as software, hardware, firmware or any combination of the three. Also, wherever a component, an example of which is a module, of the present invention is implemented as software, the component can be implemented as a standalone program, as part of a larger program, as a plurality of separate programs, as a statically or dynamically linked library, as a kernel loadable module, as a device driver, and/or in every and any other way known now or in the future to those of ordinary skill in the art of computer programming.

Additionally, the present invention is in no way limited to implementation in any specific programming language, or for any specific operating system or environment. Accordingly, the disclosure of the present invention is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the present invention, which is set forth in the following claims.