Waste containers with bag trapping structure

Waste container includes a base defining a waste-receiving compartment, and an insert supported on the base and adapted to engage a peripheral edge of a bag that extends into the compartment while maintaining an opening of the bag unobstructed. The insert has at least one bag-engagement edge and possibly up to four such edges. A movable closure component has a first engagement position in which the closure component engages with the insert to press the bag when present against the at least one bag-engagement edge of the insert, and a second non-engagement position in which the closure component is separated from the at least one bag-engagement edge of the insert. A lid is preferably attached to the base and movable between a first, closed position covering the opening of the bag and a second, open position in which it does not obstruct the opening of the bag.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to waste disposal device that may be used for any type of waste, including but not limited to, cat litter, medical waste from hospitals, doctors' offices, home health care personnel and facilities, nursing homes, biohazard laboratories, diapers, general household waste, disposables and the like, and include structure that securely retains or traps a bag so that the bag does not fall into the waste receptacle when waste is inserted.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Waste disposal devices are common in hospitals, doctors' offices, kitchens and other household locations and other locations where waste is generated and must be disposed of in a sanitary manner. Waste disposal devices are also often used to dispose of household waste, cat litter and other pet waste. If the waste emits odors, the waste disposal device should also contain odors emanating from the waste.

Some of these waste disposal devices include a base defining a waste-receiving compartment and a lid pivotally connected to the base. When the lid is opened, a bag becomes visible and waste is inserted into an opening of the bag. The bag often passes through a membrane that requires force to insert the waste, and also serves to close the bag above the waste providing a barrier to waste and odor outflow. In some waste disposal devices, the bag is actually part of an accordion-folded length of flexible tubing that is housed in a cartridge.

Further, some of these waste disposal devices include a step or foot pedal assembly to complement or replace the manual opening and closing of the lid. The foot pedal assembly includes a depressible foot pedal and a spring, and is arranged to cause both opening of the lid when the foot pedal is depressed and closure of the lid when the pressing force is removed. The spring is moved against its bias upon depression of the foot pedal and returns to its original state when the pressing force is removed to thereby cause closure of the lid and rotation of the twisting mechanism.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is to provide a new and improved waste container.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new and improved bag securing, trapping or closing assembly or component for a waste container.

A waste container in accordance with the invention includes a base defining a waste-receiving compartment, an insert supported on the base and adapted to engage a peripheral edge of a bag that extends into the compartment while maintaining an opening of the bag unobstructed, the insert having at least one bag-engagement edge, and a movable closure component having a first engagement position in which the closure component engages with the insert to press the bag when present against the at least one bag-engagement edge of the insert, and a second non-engagement position in which the closure component is separated from the at least one bag-engagement edge of the insert. A lid is preferably attached to the base and movable between a first, closed position covering the opening of the bag and a second, open position in which it does not obstruct the opening of the bag.

The insert may include an inner wall, and as such, the bag that is draped over the inner wall and connected to the insert. In this case, the at least one bag-engagement edge consists of only one bag-engagement edge on a radially outward facing surface of the inner wall. The closure component is configured to engage with the insert to press the bag against only the one bag-engagement edge of the insert. The closure component may thus have an annular part having an “L”-shaped cross-section. The insert may further include an outer wall, a bottom wall extending between lower edge regions of the inner wall and the outer wall, and a support lip extending radially outward from an upper edge region of the outer wall. The insert is supported on the support by the support lip. The bag is attached to the radially outward facing surface of the inner wall.

The closure component may be attached to the base so that it would not be removable from the container when the insert is removed, or attached to the insert in which case it would be removed from the container when the insert is removed. In the latter case, the insert and closure component form a unit. In either case, the closure component may not be attached to the insert when in the non-engagement position.

The closure component may include structure to facilitate its lifting upward, e.g., a tab, in which case, a retainer may be arranged on the insert to engage with the tab and retain the tab in the engagement position.

The insert may include an inner wall, a ledge extending radially inward from an upper edge of the inner wall and an annular wall extending downward from an inner edge of the ledge. The closure component is attached to the insert and includes an annular portion having a U-shaped cross-section defining a channel, and is positioned in the engagement position such that the inner wall, the ledge and the annular wall are received in the channel to provide three bag-engagement surfaces. The inner wall of the insert may include detents on an outer surface.

To provide four bag-engagement surfaces, the closure component includes an extension portion that extends between the annular portion and an attachment location at which the closure component is attached to the base or to the insert. The extension portion has a lower edge or surface that presses a portion of the bag when present.

The insert may include an annular disc and a separate wall portion having an inner wall, a ledge extending radially inward from an upper edge of the inner wall and an annular wall extending downward from an inner edge of the ledge. The closure component includes an annular portion having a U-shaped cross-section defining a channel, and is positioned in the engagement position such that the inner wall, the ledge and the annular wall are received in the channel and three bag-engagement surfaces are provided. The wall portion optionally includes an attachment structure to attach the wall position to the annular disc.

In another embodiment, the insert includes a bottom wall, an outer wall extending upward from a radially outer edge of the bottom wall and an inner wall extending upward from a radially inner edge of the bottom wall. The inner wall has a larger height than the outer wall. An attachment structure attaches the closure component to the insert, and is arranged on the bottom wall.

In another embodiment, the insert includes an inner wall, a ledge extending radially inward from an upper edge of the inner wall and an annular wall extending downward from an inner edge of the ledge. The closure component includes an annular portion having a U-shaped cross-section defining a channel, and is positioned in the engagement position such that the inner wall, the ledge and the annular wall are received in the channel and three bag-engagement surfaces are provided. A gasket is optionally arranged in the channel to increase gripping of the bag when present. The gasket may be annular and arranged against a transverse wall of the annular portion defining a bottom of the channel.

In some embodiments, by grasping the tab and rotating the closure component, the bag is rotated to form a twist in or untwist in the bag.

Another embodiment of a waste container in accordance with the invention includes a base defining a waste-receiving compartment, and a bag support on the base and that includes an annular rim. The rim is adapted to engage a peripheral edge of a bag around an opening of the bag while maintaining the opening of the bag unobstructed with the bag extending into the compartment. The bag is not fixed to the bag support. A closure component selectively cooperates with the rim to press the bag when present against the bag support when the closure component cooperates with the rim such that the bag is fixed to the bag support only when the closure component cooperates with the bag support. An upper region of the bag is positionable around the rim and the bag is separable from the rim when the closure component does not cooperate with the bag support.

An embodiment of a bag trapping assembly for a waste container in accordance with the invention includes a first, supporting part including a disc portion defining an aperture that has a rim, and a bag passing through the aperture and having its open end above the disc portion and its sealed end below the disc. The open end of the bag overlies the rim. The bag is not fixed to the first part. A second, trapping part component selectively cooperates with the rim to press the bag against the rim when the second part cooperates with the rim such that the bag is fixed to the bag support only when the second part cooperates with the rim. An upper region of the bag is positionable around the rim and the bag is separable from the rim when the second part does not cooperate with the rim.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements, a first embodiment of a waste container in accordance with the invention is shown inFIGS. 1-6and is designated generally as10. Container10includes a base12defining a waste-receiving compartment14and an opening16communicating with the waste-receiving compartment14(seeFIGS. 4 and 5). A lid18is movably attached to the base12and moves between a first position covering the opening16, i.e., prevents insertion of waste into the waste-receiving compartment14(seeFIG. 4) and a second position in which it does not obstruct the opening16, i.e., enables insertion of waste (seeFIG. 2).

The lid18may be pivotally mounted to a rear, upper edge of the base12by any type of pivotal mounting mechanism20. Generally, the pivotal mounting mechanism20would include one or more parts on the base12and one or more cooperating parts on the lid18. Instead of a pivotal mounting mechanism, another type of mechanism that enables the lid18to move while mounted to the base12between a closed position shown inFIG. 1and an open position shown inFIG. 2may be used in the invention, including any known to those skilled in the art of waste containers. Such a mechanism will be referred to herein as a lid mounting mechanism or lid mounting means.

Container10also includes a depressible pedal22that is coupled to the lid18and controls movement of the lid18between the closed position shown inFIG. 1and the open position shown inFIG. 2. As shown, pedal22is a foot pedal having a first, undepressed state shown inFIG. 1wherein it is slightly elevated from a plane defined by the lower surface of the base to enable depression thereof. When depressed into the state shown inFIG. 2, the coupling between the foot pedal22and the lid18causes the lid18to open. When pressure on the foot pedal22is released, the lid18closes. This coupling between the foot pedal22and the lid18to convert depression of the foot pedal22into opening movement of the lid18may be any coupling used in containers known to those skilled in the art. A portion of this coupling mechanism, also potentially referred to as coupling means herein, is shown at24inFIGS. 2 and 3, and includes a horizontal actuating member26shown inFIG. 4. The coupling mechanism may be as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,393,489 (Stravitz), incorporated by reference herein.

Base12includes a body28and an upper compartment closure component, or closure component30pivotally attached to the body28. To this end, a pivotal attachment mechanism or pivotal attachment means is arranged along a rear edge of the base12and includes one or more parts arranged on the closure component30and one or more complementary parts arranged on the body20. For example, the pivotal attachment means may comprise two hinges32as shown inFIGS. 3 and 6, with one part of each hinge32being situated on or attached to the body28and the other, complementary part of each hinge32being situated on or attached to the closure component30to enable the closure component30to pivot about an axis substantially perpendicular to a vertical axis of the container10. Other mechanisms and means that enable pivotal movement of one part relative to another may be used in the invention.

Closure component30includes a support portion34that generally has the same cross-sectional shape as the cross-sectional shape of the container10parallel to a surface on which the container10rests. Support portion34defines the opening16of the container10. Closure component30also optionally includes or retains a membrane36that is situated in the opening16and may be releasably or permanently attached to the support portion34.

Membrane36includes a plurality of slots38between fingers40of the membrane36, and specifically six slots38(seeFIGS. 3 and 26). The slots38provide the membrane36with flexibility to enable insertion of waste into a bag42that overlies the membrane36with a portion of the bag42being passed through a central opening44of the membrane36.

More specifically, the bag42overlies the membrane36to define a bag aperture42A which forms at the central opening44of the membrane36(seeFIG. 2). This bag aperture42A is exposed when the lid18is pivoted upward relative to the base12, e.g., by depressing the foot pedal22(seeFIG. 6). The bag aperture42A is covered when the lid18is closed, i.e., upon releasing pressure on the foot pedal22, and may also be closed by means of a waste treatment component60or110, described more fully below, when such a waste treatment component is present.

The membrane36may be formed and constructed in different ways and is not limited to the presence of six fingers40separated by six slots38as in the illustrated embodiment (seeFIG. 26). The material of the fingers40may be selected to be flexible so that they flex downward in a direction away from the center when a person pushes waste through the central region of the membrane36. The material of the fingers40should also be resilient so that the fingers40return to their initial form after the person has removed their hand from engagement with the membrane36, or the inserted waste has been pushed downward through the membrane36and is no longer in engagement therewith.

For example, the membrane36may be made of silicone or another rubbery material. It may also be made of a flexible synthetic material which flexes under pressure and returns when pressure is removed. The edges of the fingers40which are expected to engage the bag42may be provided with a friction-enhancing material to increase the contact force between the fingers40and the bag42.

Furthermore, the membrane36is preferably molded in a resilient substrate that can be adjusted for proper rigidity depending on the application. Polypropylene is one such material. The membrane36can also be reinforced with some ribbing to give it strength to return substantially to its relaxed shape. The membrane opening44,44A and44B of membranes36,36A and36B, respectively, shown inFIGS. 26-28may have smaller apertures for specific applications, for example, when not using the waste treatment component60,110to seal off the bag opening42A that aligns with the membrane opening44,44A,44B.

Membrane36may be formed integral with the support portion34to provide a unitary closure component30or separate therefrom and then attached thereto. For example, as shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, the membrane36includes an upwardly facing channel86defined between two walls46(see also,FIGS. 26-28) and the support portion34includes two support walls48separated by a channel50(see also,FIG. 14), all of which are dimensioned such that one wall46of the membrane36securely fits into the channel50of the support portion34and one wall48of the support portion34securely fits into the channel44of the membrane36.

The support portion34also includes a wall52that projects from a planar portion54and over which the bag42is placed (seeFIGS. 4 and 5).

The body28of the base12includes a closure component support portion56that includes an inwardly projecting lip88on which a peripheral edge of the planar portion54of the support portion34rests when the closure component30is in its use position (shown inFIGS. 4 and 5). Closure component support portion56may be formed integral with a remaining portion of the body28or separate therefrom and then attached thereto. In the latter case, the closure component support portion56may be formed with a channel98that receives a rim at the upper edge of the remaining portion of the body28(seeFIG. 5). Also, closure component support portion56includes a peripheral wall80that has one or more cut-out portions82(seeFIGS. 2 and 3). The purpose of the cut-out portion(s)82is to facilitate lifting of the support portion34, causing it to pivot relative to the body28of the base12and thereby enable access to a bag of waste in the compartment14.

Another element of the container10is a hoop58that secures the bag42to the closure component30. Hoop58has the same shape as the projecting wall52of the support portion34of the closure component30and is dimensioned relative thereto, i.e., with its inner circumference slightly larger than the outer circumference of the projecting wall52, to provide a tight fit of the bag42therebetween (seeFIGS. 4 and 5). This tight fit secures the bag42to the container10and should prevent unintentional release of the bag42from engagement with the container10. The hoop58may be retained when not in use on the underside of the lid18, e.g., by providing a securing or attachment mechanism such as clamps, on the underside of the lid18. This should prevent loss of the hoop58, yet ensure that the hoop58is readily available when it is desired to use it (note that the waste container58may be used with or without the hoop58). As an alternative, the hoop58may be attached to the closure component30, as described below with reference toFIG. 30.

Container10also includes a waste treatment component60that is positioned on the underside of the lid18(seeFIGS. 2-6 and 23). Waste treatment component60includes a base62having an attachment portion64at an upper end and a conduit portion66at a lower end (seeFIGS. 5 and 23). Attachment portion64may comprise an enlarged rim that is designed to be positioned between projections68,70on the underside of the lid18. Projections68are designed to be positioned radially outward of the attachment portion64(as shown inFIG. 2) and projections70are designed to be positioned radially inward of the attachment portion64(as shown inFIG. 5), when the attachment portion64is engaged with the lid18. In this manner, the attachment portion64is snapped onto the lid18, although other mechanisms and means for removably securing the base62to the lid18are encompassed within the scope of the invention. Projections68,70are flexible and each includes a ramped portion that facilitates insertion of the waste treatment component60into engagement with the projections68,70. Removal of the waste treatment component60from the lid18involves flexing one or more of the projections68outward and pulling the waste treatment component60away from the lid18.

Also, attachment portion64includes apertures72that are preferably equal in number to the projections68and have the same circumferential spacing as the projections68. In this manner, the waste treatment component60may be rotated to a position in which the projections68cover the apertures72, and thereby prevent release of deodorant, air freshener, air purifier, or disinfectant from an interior cavity74of the waste treatment component60to the space between the bag42and the lid18, or allow for release of deodorant or disinfectant from the interior cavity74of the waste treatment component60to the space between the bag42and the lid18. Rotation of the waste treatment component60can be effected manually depending on whether the user of the container10determines that there is a need to address unpleasant smells and odors between the bag42and the lid18or disinfect this area. Rotation of waste treatment component60therefore controls the degree to which deodorant or disinfectant is released into the space between the lid18and bag42.

The base62tapers in a downward direction toward the bottom of the base12of the container10, and preferably is provided with a vertical height such that is slightly presses against the bag42at a location at or around where the bag42contacts the membrane36(seeFIGS. 4 and 5). The outer surface of the base62has staggered edges that assist in scraping clean bag42when the lid18is closed. The outer surface of the base62may be provided with a smooth tapering edge, or any other form or type of edge instead of the staggered edge. Otherwise, the base62is preferably formed such that when the lid18is closed, it forms a seal against the bag42around the bag opening42A. Thus, the base62has a peripheral wall extending from a lower wall around the periphery of the lower wall.

In a preferred embodiment, the waste treatment component60is dimensioned so that when the lid18is closed, the waste treatment component60presses the membrane36slightly inward causing it to flex. This flexure serves to provide a seal to the bag42, i.e., that portion of the bag42containing waste in the compartment14is sealed by the pressure contact between the membrane36and the waste treatment component60. One of the seal's purposes is to minimize or prevent the backdraft of odor, airborne bacteria and/or fungus from escaping the waste contained inside the waste containing bag42.

The waste treatment component60may house one or more of a deodorant, a disinfectant, an air freshener, an air purifier, a compound that neutralizes odor, a compound that neutralizes bacteria, and a compound that neutralizes fungus. These compounds may be solid, liquid or in powder form.

Conduit portion66is formed as the bottom of the base62and includes a plurality of apertures84through which deodorant or disinfectant from the interior cavity74of the waste treatment component60is released to the interior of the bag42(seeFIG. 23). Apertures84are formed in the lower wall of the base62. However, this release is again controlled by the user by attaching a rotatable member76to the base62to selectively cover or expose the apertures84(seeFIG. 23). This attachment may be a snap-on type of attachment, or similar. Rotatable member76includes apertures78that either align with apertures84on the conduit portion66or solid portions of the conduit portion66(seeFIG. 5whereon two apertures84align with two respective apertures66while other aperture84align with a solid portion of the conduit portion66). Rotation of member76therefore controls the degree to which deodorant or disinfectant is released into the bag42.

Member76may be positioned to facilitate pushing of waste through the central opening44of the membrane. To this end, the waste treatment component mounting mechanism, i.e., projections68,70, are preferably positioned to align the member76with the central opening44of the membrane36. Thus, during use of the container10, any waste that is lodged in the bag42around the central opening44of the membrane36should be pushed by waste treatment component36into the portion of the bag42in the compartment14when the lid18is closed. In addition or alternatively, the member76will abut against the bag42around the opening42A and seal the bag opening42A, i.e., at least partly press against and/or make contact with the bag42. The waste treatment component60therefore performs bag sealing, waste insertion and waste treatment.

Instead of a removal mounting mechanism for the waste treatment component60, a waste treatment component may be permanently attached to the underside of the lid18. It could thus be formed integral with the lid18and configured to allow for insertion of a new deodorant, disinfectant, etc., e.g., with a removable cartridge, access door, and the like.

Different constructions of a waste treatment component60are envisioned. In one embodiment, the waste treatment component60is a disposable, single-use deodorizer and/or disinfectant and must be replaced by a completely new deodorizer and/or disinfectant once the deodorant and/or disinfectant in the interior cavity74is used up. In another embodiment, the waste treatment component60is designed for multiple uses and allows for insertion of blocks or pellets of deodorant or disinfectant into the interior cavity74upon disengagement of the waste treatment component60from the lid18.

Waste treatment component60may also be considered a canister. The canister may be made with two interior cavities, one including a disinfectant and one including a deodorant. The cavity including the disinfectant may communicate with the apertures72in the attachment portion64. The cavity including the deodorant may communication with the apertures84in the conduit portion66.

In use, the container10is placed into a use state by obtaining a bag42, lifting the lid18into the state shown inFIG. 3, pushing the bag42through the central opening44of the membrane36into the compartment14and placing the upper flange of the bag42over the projecting wall52of the support portion34of the closure component30. Then, the hoop58is placed around the projecting wall52to sandwich part of the bag42between the hoop58and the projecting wall52(providing the container10with the state shown inFIG. 2). The bag42may optionally be tied at its open end by ties or a drawstring102(seeFIG. 3), although such tying may usually occur when the full bag42is removed from the container10. The container10is ready for use.

For use, the lid18is opened by depressing the foot pedal22and waste is then pressed against the bag42in that portion overlying the membrane36until the waste is pressed past the membrane36into the compartment14(seeFIG. 4in which the bag42in the compartment14may contain one or more waste insertions). The lid18is then closed, e.g., by releasing pressure on the foot pedal22. As desired, the rotatable member76and base62are manipulated to cause release of deodorant or disinfectant from the interior cavity74of the waste treatment component60into the bag42and/or into the space between the bag42and the lid18.

Referring now toFIGS. 20-22, when the bag42is full and it is desired to remove the bag42from the container10(as shown inFIG. 20), the lid18is lifted up by depressing the foot pedal22, the hoop58is lifted up (FIG. 21) and the flange of the bag42inserted through the central opening44of the membrane36(see the arrows inFIG. 21which represent this movement). The closure component30is lifted up (seeFIG. 22) and then the flange of the bag42is tied or otherwise closed, e.g., with a drawstring or a bag tie known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, the flange of the bag42is tied or otherwise closed before the closure component30is lifted up (in the position shown inFIG. 21). The full bag42is then lifted out of the compartment14(seeFIG. 22) and the closure component30then moved back into engagement with the base12and readied for insertion of a new bag42.

FIGS. 7 and 8show another embodiment of container10with a different membrane36A (also shown inFIG. 27). Membrane36A has six curved slots38A leading from the central opening44A. Otherwise, the container with membrane36A is used in the same manner as container10and membrane36A may have the same characteristic and properties as membrane36.

FIGS. 9-11show another embodiment of container10wherein a door90is formed in the body28of the base12. Door90is provided with a conventional attachment mechanism to enable it to be opened by pulling on a handle92and closed as desired, e.g., one or more hinges situated on the interior of the container10. Door90also includes a window94that preferably extends vertically as shown to enable easy viewing of the condition of the bag42in the compartment14vis-à-vis its state of fullness. The window94is made of a clear or transparent material, e.g., plastic. By providing the window94, a user has the option to view whether the bag42is full or not and based thereon, determine when it is appropriate to remove the bag42and replace it with a new bag42.

The container shown inFIGS. 9-11also includes a membrane36B differing from membranes36and36A (see alsoFIG. 28). Membrane36B has slots38B that extend from the central opening44B to almost the periphery of the membrane36B and also supplemental slots96B that extend radially inward from the periphery of the membrane36B close to but separated from the central opening44B. Supplemental slots96B provide the membrane36B with additional flexibility. Also, supplemental slots96B may not extend fully through the thickness of the membrane36B, i.e., have a height less than the height of the membrane36B.

Otherwise, the container with membrane36B is used in the same manner as container10with either of membranes36,36A, and membrane36B may have the same characteristic and properties as membrane36.

FIGS. 12-14show another embodiment of container10wherein the closure component30does not retain a membrane, i.e., it is used without a membrane, and the container includes an optional side door90as shown inFIGS. 9-11. By virtue of the possible use of the container10without a membrane, the membrane is considered an optional feature. It may be attached to the closure component30when the user seeks to use the container for waste that is more easily insertable into the container with a membrane, yet then removed from the closure component30when the user seeks to use the container for waste that is more easily insertable into the container without a membrane.

In this embodiment, the base62of the waste treatment component60may be positioned such that the projections68on the underside of the lid18occlude the apertures72since there would be two sets of passages for deodorant or disinfectant to pass from the interior cavity74of the waste treatment component60to the bag42, i.e., either through apertures72or through aligning apertures78,84.

The bag42of waste is removed from the compartment14either in the same manner as described above, i.e., through the top of the compartment14when the closure component is pivoted relative to the base28, or simply by opening the door90to access the compartment14.

FIGS. 15-17show another embodiment of container10wherein the closure component30does not retain a membrane and is used without a hoop. The bag42may be placed through the opening16which is defined by the closure component30and then the flange of the bag42folded back on itself and around the support portion34of the closure component30(aside from the locations at which the hinges32are present (seeFIG. 15wherein the hinges32are visible when the bag42is in its use state). The bag42is thus secured between the inwardly projecting lip58of the closure component support portion56and the support portion34of the closure component30(seeFIGS. 16 and 17).

In use, the container appears as shown inFIG. 15. The bag42is pressed downward into the compartment14until it is tightly drawn over the closure component30.

Removal of the bag42when full is achieved, when the lid18is open, by lifting the front side of the closure component30upward relative to the hinged rear side to remove the flange of one part of the bag42from its securing between the closure component30and the closure component support portion56(seeFIG. 17). The released flange of the bag42may then be inserted through the opening16and the closure component30removed to enable the flange of the bag42to be closed and lifted out of the compartment14.

FIGS. 18 and 19show another embodiment of container10wherein the closure component30retains a membrane36but is used without a hoop. As in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 15-17, the closure component30is pivotally attached to the base12of the container10via hinges32(seeFIG. 18). For use, the bag42may be placed through the central opening44of the membrane36and then the flange of the bag42folded back on itself and around the support portion34of the closure component30. The bag42and the closure component30are then placed on the closure component support portion56such that the bag42is secured between the inwardly projecting lip58of the closure component support portion56and the support portion34of the closure component30(seeFIG. 19).

In use, the container appears as shown inFIG. 18and is used in a similar manner as the container shown inFIGS. 15-17.

Referring now toFIGS. 24 and 25, another embodiment of a waste treatment component that may be used in any of the embodiments disclosed herein is designated generally as110and includes a base112having an attachment portion114at an upper end and a conduit portion116at a lower end. Attachment portion114may comprise an enlarged rim that is designed to be positioned between projections68,70on the underside of the lid18(seeFIG. 25). Waste treatment component110may have features that are the same as or similar to those in waste treatment component60, and vice versa, to the extent possible.

Also, attachment portion114includes apertures118that are preferably equal in number to the projections68and have the same circumferential spacing as the projections68. In this manner, the waste treatment component110may be rotated to a position in which the projections68cover the apertures118, and thereby prevent release of deodorant or disinfectant from an interior cavity of the waste treatment component110to the space between the bag42and the lid18, or allow for release of deodorant or disinfectant from the interior cavity of the waste treatment component110to the space between the bag42and the lid18(this latter position being shown inFIG. 24). Rotation of the waste treatment component110can be effected manually depending on whether the user of the container10determines that there is a need to address unpleasant smells and odors between the bag42and the lid18or disinfect this area (or to neutralize bacteria, fungus, etc. or whatever treatment is being effected by the material in the waste treatment component110). Rotation of waste treatment component110therefore controls the degree to which deodorant, disinfectant, air freshener, air purifier, antibacterial material, etc. is dispensed, released, distributed or disseminated into the space between the lid18and bag42.

In contrast to the waste treatment component60, in waste treatment component110, the apertures118have a generally oval shape instead of a circular shape of apertures72(compareFIGS. 23 and 25). An oval shape for the apertures118generally allows for more deodorant, disinfectant or other waste treatment material in gaseous or powdered form, to pass therethrough.

Conduit portion116is formed as the bottom of the base112and includes a plurality of apertures120on a side face or surface through which deodorant or disinfectant from the interior cavity of the waste treatment component110is released to the interior of the bag42(seeFIGS. 24 and 25). This is in contrast to waste treatment component60wherein the conduit portion66includes apertures84on a bottom surface (seeFIG. 23). In further contrast, apertures120are oval shape as opposed to circular apertures84(seeFIG. 25). Otherwise, waste treatment component110also includes a lower solid (lacking apertures) wall and a peripheral wall extending to one side of and from the lower wall. The interior cavity of the waste treatment component110is formed on one side of the lower wall and another cavity or compartment is formed on the opposite side of the lower wall (which is also receivable of waste treatment material (seeFIG. 32).

Release of deodorant or disinfectant is controlled by the user by a rotatable member122attached to the base112to selectively cover or expose the apertures120(seeFIGS. 24 and 25). Rotatable member122includes oval-shaped apertures124that selectively align with apertures120on the conduit portion116and/or solid portions of the conduit portion116. There may be an equal number of apertures124as apertures120and they may have the same spacing to provide a relative positioning between the member122and the base112in which all of apertures120align with a respective aperture124(maximum outflow of waste treatment material) and a relative positioning between the member122and the base112in which all of apertures120are occluded by a solid portion of the member122(minimum or no outflow of waste treatment material).

One or more click stops may also be integrated into the waste treatment component110to guide the alignment of the apertures124relative to apertures120. One embodiment includes four click stop detents that go from full opening (superimpose one over the other) to full closing.

Rotation of member122therefore controls the degree to which deodorant, disinfectant or other waste treatment material is released into the bag42from waste treatment component110.

Member122may be provided with a bull nose or rounded face, or rounded portion that is opposite to the lower wall of the base112, to facilitate pushing of waste through the bag aperture42A. To this end, the waste treatment component mounting mechanism, i.e., projections68,70, are preferably positioned to align the member122with the central opening44of the membrane36. Thus, during use of the container10, any waste that is lodged in the bag42around the central opening44of the membrane36should be pushed by waste treatment component110into the portion of the bag42in the compartment14when the lid18is closed.

The presence of the bull nose on member122also improves the ability to clean the member122since it will likely come into contact with waste and be dirtied thereby during use of the container10.

Instead of a removal mounting mechanism for the waste treatment component110, a waste treatment component may be permanently attached to the underside of the lid18.

Different constructions of a waste treatment component110are envisioned, in a similar manner as described above for waste treatment component60.

Referring now toFIG. 30, in this embodiment of a waste container, designated generally as128, a hoop130is pivotally attached to the support portion34of the closure component30by a pivotal support mechanism, also referred to as pivotal mounting means. More specifically, the hoop130includes a substantially circular portion132and a flange134projecting outward from the circular portion132, i.e., in a direction toward the rear side of the container as shown inFIG. 30. Two mounting projections136are arranged on the upper surface of the support portion34. One or more pins (not shown) are then used to connect the flange134to the projections136to facilitate pivotal movement of the hoop132about a pivot axis defined by the pin(s).

This pivotal mounting of the hoop to the support portion34, or more generally to the closure component30, may be applied in any of the embodiments of a waste container disclosed herein.

It is possible to remove the hoop132from the projections136and store the hoop132on the underside of the lid18, as described above. Thus, the waste container128may be used with or without the hoop132. For example, different uses may be optimal for different sizes of the bag42. For use with a relatively smaller bag, the hoop132would be installed and the bag secured between the hoop132and the projecting wall58. For a relatively larger bag, the hoop132would be removed and the bag secured between the closure component30and the body28, as described above.

Referring now toFIG. 31, another variation of the closure component30that may be applied to any of the embodiments of the waste container disclosed herein is to provide a single hinge138at the rear of the waste container. This single hinge138replaces the pair of spaced apart hinges32in some of the embodiments disclosed above. By providing a single hinge138, instead of a pair of hinges32, an advantage obtained when the bag42is installed is that the bag42may be more securely attached to the waste container10generally and more specifically to the closure component30. Moreover, in this embodiment, the only pivotal connection between the body28and the closure component30is the single hinge138, one part of which is connected to the body28and another, complementary part of which is connected to the closure component30.

In the illustrated embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the container taken in a horizontal plane when the container rests on a horizontal surface has a generally D-shape, i.e., may be referred to as a D-shaped container. The foot pedal22is situated at a central region of the curved edge of the D-shape and the lid mounting means are situated along the straight edge of the D-shape. The lid18therefore pivots about a horizontal axis extending in a direction substantially parallel to the straight edge of the container10.

The waste containers in accordance with the invention optionally include a membrane which may be any of those shown inFIGS. 26-28. Each membrane36,36A,36B may be used in any of the embodiments described herein, when a membrane is used (since some embodiments of the waste container described herein do not include a membrane). Alternatively, other membranes, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,215,089 (Stravitz) and U.S. Pat. No. 8,266,871 (Stravitz), both of which are incorporated by reference herein, may be used in the invention.

An advantage of the embodiments of the waste container described herein is that an inner liner for the base12is not required. Rather, the bag42serves as the liner for the base12and prevents waste from coming into contact with the inner surfaces of the body28of the base12.

The type of bag42used in the containers disclosed herein may be any type of bag known to those in the waste disposal art. Any type of commercial garbage bag may be used. Deodorizing garbage bags may be used, e.g., a bag made of 7 layer EVOH and serves as an oxygen barrier. For some uses of the container10, e.g., for cat litter and medical waste, it is preferable that the bag42not touch the bottom of the compartment14to allow for a cleaner funnel for gravity related substrates. This will insure a better tapered opening to receive the waste, especially as the bag42takes on weight from accumulating waste.

On the other hand, for waste that is urged into the bag aperture42A, such as for example diapers, the bag can be longer to rest on the bottom of the compartment14or just touch the bottom, or be shorter than the bottom. The funneling (directing) and hands-free operations that are more necessary in cat litter and medical waste applications, are less prevalent for diaper disposal which requires urging or forced insertion of the waste through the bag aperture42A and the central opening44of the membrane36into the portion of the bag42in the compartment14.

If the bag42has a drawstring, the drawstring may be accessed and pulled to close the bag42, either before or after the bag42is removed from engagement with the closure component30or membrane36. In the former case, the pulled drawstring may be tied and then pushed into the compartment14so that when the closure component30is lifted up, the bag42is already closed. Alternatively, when a door90is provided, the door90may be opened to access and remove the closed bag42.

The containers described above are not limited to use for any particular type of waste. The containers may be used for cat litter, diapers for children or adults, kitchen products, bathroom waste, medical waste, general waste and the like.

For medical use, it is possible to use the container in a hands-free mode whereby the user with medical waste uses their foot to open the lid18by depressing the foot pedal22and then drops the medical waste into the bag aperture42A or along the portion of the bag42that overlies the funnel-shaped membrane36. By the effect of gravity, the waste falls through the bag aperture42A into the portion of the bag42in the compartment14. For bio-hazardous waste, a red-colored bag42may be used. The lid18remains open as long as the user keeps their foot on the foot pedal22. When pressure on the foot pedal22is released, the lid18closes and the waste treatment component60,110forms a comfortable, temporary seal keeping bacteria and fungus and smell from migrating upward from the waste in the bag42in the compartment14.

This should prevent potentially harmful airborne fungus and bacteria from finding their way up to the inside top and edges of the lid18, and thus prevent the release of these organisms to enter the room in which the container is situated and find their way up through vents in hospitals and nursing homes and doctor's offices, etc.

Thus, the waste treatment components60,110when used in the container10in accordance with the invention provide three important functions, control of odor below the lid18(i.e., in the space between the lid18and the portion of the bag42that overlies the membrane36), control of odor below the membrane36(inside the portion of the bag42in the compartment14in which waste is retained), and seal in offensive and potentially harmful odor when the lid18is closed. This combination of three features renders the container10including the waste treatment component60,110extremely useful for all types of waste as described above.

An important feature of the invention that arises from the fact that the membrane36does not rotate relative to the base, as is common in some prior art waste disposal devices (e.g., in the U.S. patents mentioned above). Since the membrane36does not rotate, there is no restriction or limitation on the size and shape of the membrane36, which are often present when a membrane has to rotate for operation of a waste disposal device.

Referring toFIG. 32, another embodiment of a waste treatment component140in accordance with the invention is shown. Waste treatment component140includes components similar to waste treatment component110, namely the base112and a rotatable member142that is similar to rotatable member122except that it includes apertures144in a portion opposite to the lower wall of the base112. Rotatable member142is attached to the base112to at least partly cover the lower end of the base112, e.g., partly or completely cover the lower wall of the base112.

A gel bar146or other form of deodorant or disinfectant may be optionally positioned in the space between the conduit portion116of the base112and the rotatable member142, and thus the apertures144facilitate enable release of the deodorant or disinfectant for gel bar146. This space defines a second or additional compartment receivable of waste treatment material, whose dispersal is effected via the pattern of apertures144in the portion of the member142that is opposite (faces) the solid lower wall of the base112. The solid lower wall of the base112therefore separates two waste treatment material-receivable compartments, i.e., has one compartment formed on one side and another compartment formed on the other, opposite side.

Waste treatment component140can be a stand-alone unit, and to this end, includes a cover148that covers the open upper end of the base112. Thus, there is a lower, solid wall, a peripheral wall extending to one side of and from the lower wall (both defined by the base112) and an upper wall defined by the cover148that removably engages with the base112. Cover148includes the projections68,70shown inFIG. 23(the purpose, function and location of which are described above). Cover148is provided with an attachment device (not shown) to attach the cover148, and thus the waste treatment component140when the base112is attached to the cover148, to for example, the underside of a lid of a waste container. Since this embodiment is not required to be used for a waste container, the waste treatment component140can also be considered a deodorant or disinfectant and attached to other surfaces, whether a vertical surface in a closet or on a wall or a horizontal surface such as a ceiling or floor. The attachment device may be adhesive tape, hook and loop fasteners and the like.

Another advantage of this embodiment is that it is possible to place different compounds in the base112and between the base112and the rotatable member142. Distribution of each compound is independent, i.e., distribution of the material of the gel bar146is through the apertures144, and distribution of the compounds in the base112is through the aligning apertures120,124and selectively closed apertures118. Alternatively, a compound may be placed only in the upper compartment defined by the base112, as described above, without use of the gel bar146Alternatively, it is possible to cause mixture of two compounds, with the compound in the upper compartment defined by the base112passing into the compartment defined between the base112and the rotatable member142through apertures (e.g., like apertures84defined in the bottom of the base112as shown inFIG. 23), mixing therewith and then being dispensed through apertures144. Click stops150are formed in the rim152to control rotation of the member142.

Referring now toFIGS. 33-36, other embodiments of the invention use a component similar to the hoop58to secure an upper portion of a bag to prevent rotation of the top of the bag. These embodiments may be used in a variety of different waste containers and the arrangement of the bag securing assemblies or components is not limited to any specific waste container. For example, the waste container may be a basic waste container with a lid that closes or opens the opening into the bag. The bag may or may not rotate. The bag is preferably secured against falling into the waste-receiving space of the waste container.

The waste container may be one that has a rotation mechanism operative against a portion of the bag above the bottom or a hanging portion of the bag. With this type of waste container, the bag is prevented from rotating at its upper region when a lower portion of the bag is being operatively rotated by the rotation mechanism, thereby enabling formation of a twist in the bag or the bag to be untwisted, depending on the direction of rotation and the configuration of the rotation mechanism. Advantages of the twist to prevent egress of odor and bacteria are known to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and disclosed in patents mentioned above.

Another possible waste container that may utilize the bag securing assembly or component of the invention is one in which the bag securing assembly or component itself is rotated to cause the formation of a twist in the bag, or to untwist the bag, again depending on the direction of rotation and the configuration of the rotation mechanism. In this case, the waste is held against rotation while the upper region of the bag is rotated.

Thus, in general, the bag securing assembly and component embodiments described below may be used in various waste containers, or waste disposal devices.

In a first one of these embodiments, the waste container200receives an insert202to which a bag204is attached, and also includes a base196and a lid198operative and having structure as described in any of the embodiments herein. The insert202rests on a support206in the waste container200. The insert202may have a form similar to the form of cartridges conventionally used in waste disposal devices. However, the insert202differs from cartridges in that it does not include pleated tubing. Rather, the insert202has a single bag204attached to it. This attachment may be by means of adhesive or other comparable attachment structure. Alternatively, the bag204may be wrapped around the insert204, or part thereof, and then trapped so as to be prevented from being dragged into the waste container.

In one particular embodiment, a bag will be slipped through the opening defined by the insert, and/or through an optional membrane194(seeFIG. 35), and while empty, wrapped around the insert204or part thereof sufficiently such that the bag is then trapped at or against at least one bag-engagement surface (such as at a top edge of the insert over which the bag204is draped). This trapping technique, or a comparable attachment mechanism, functions to attach the bag204around its periphery to an annular surface of the insert202, possibly a radially outward facing surface of an inner wall of the insert202.

For example, as shown inFIG. 36, the insert202includes a vertically oriented outer peripheral, circular wall208, a vertically oriented inner peripheral, circular wall210, a horizontal annular bottom wall212extending between lower edge regions of the outer wall208and the inner wall210, and a support flange or lip214extending radially outward from an upper edge region of the outer wall208. The insert202is supported on the support206by the support lip214that rests on the support206of the waste container200, whether in contact therewith or with an interposition.

The bag204may be trapped against or attached to the radially outward facing surface of the inner wall210so that the bag204passes over the upper edge of the inner wall210and then into the interior waste-receiving space of the container200(seeFIG. 33). A bag-engagement surface is thus formed by the inner wall210at or around its top edge, and on the radially outward facing surface and on the radially inward facing surface.

To maintain the upper region of the bag204fixed against rotation and prevented from being dragged down into the waste container when waste is introduced, a closure component216may be pivotally attached to the waste container200, e.g., to the support206of the waste container200. Closure component216includes a horizontal annular disc portion218and a vertically oriented rim220extending downward from the inner edge of the disc portion218(seeFIG. 36) to provide the closure component216with an “L”-shaped cross-section. The rim220serves to engage the bag204securely at at least one edge. It is possible that engagement here can be on up to three sides of the bag, i.e., the top, side and bottom edge, if the rim220has a channel accommodating the top edge of the insert204.

In the embodiment with only a single bag-engagement surface being provided, the location of the rim220is coordinated to the dimensions of the insert202to cause the rim220to fit slightly inward of the inner wall210with the result that the bag204is sandwiched with tight fit between the rim220and the inner wall210(seeFIG. 35). This tight fit, e.g., with the rim exerting outward pressure toward the inner wall210and thus pressing the bag204against the outer surface of the inner wall210, prevents movement of the upper region of the bag204, e.g., in the event of rotation of a lower region of the bag or waste therein. While not shown, it is possible for the rim220to engage the inner wall210on the inner portion of the inner wall210. Here engagement can be in up to two places, namely, with the rim220exerting inward pressure toward the inner wall210and thus pressing the bag204against the inner surface of the inner wall210, and also with the horizontal portion218of the closure component216pressing against the top edge of the insert210.

In the illustrated embodiment, by virtue of the “L”-shaped cross-section of the closure component and the design to provide the rim220inward of the inner wall210of the insert202, causes engagement between the closure component216when in an engagement position and the insert202at only a single bag-engagement surface, i.e., the radially inward facing surface of the rim220presses the bag204against the radially outward facing surface of the inner wall210. As mentioned above, it is also possible to provide an embodiment, although not shown, in which the radially outward facing surface of the rim220presses the bag204against the radially inward facing surface of the inner wall210. In this case, the bag would be trapped equally as well, although you are closing the opening being provided by the bag204by a wall thickness of the rim220. One advantage here might be that the upper area of the bag is being protected from possibly stretching or even tearing, since it is under the rim220.

The structure222that pivotally attaches the disc portion218to the support206may be any known pivotal attachment structure.

FIGS. 37-39show another embodiment wherein a waste container224includes a support226having recesses228and that is designed to receive an insert230. Insert230includes an annular disc232and projections234projecting from an outer peripheral edge thereof, the projections234being received in the recesses228. To this end, the projections234preferably have a shape, size and position to enable them to fit into the one or more recesses228. By providing recesses228on the waste container224and projections234on the insert230, rotation of the insert230relative to the waste container224is prevented. This rotation may arise if the waste container224is provided with a rotation mechanism to rotate the waste or bag in order to form a twist. However, if the waste container does not include a rotation mechanism, then the recesses228and projections234on the insert230are unnecessary, and a comfortable interference fit may be provided between the insert230and the waste container224. Moreover, the projections234could be inward recesses if the waste container has inwardly oriented projections. Instead of multiple projections234, a single projection234may be provided. Also, anti-rotation of the insert230may be provided by suitable shaping of the annular disc in an alternative shape to generally round, e.g., square-shaped.

Annular disc232also includes a vertically oriented inner peripheral, circular wall236, a horizontal ledge238extending radially inward from the upper edge of the inner wall236and a small vertically oriented annular wall240extending from the inner edge of the ledge238(seeFIG. 39). The ledge238and annular wall240may be omitted and an annular disc provided with only the inner wall236.

Insert230also includes a closure component242that is pivotally connected to an upper surface of the annular disc232by an attachment structure244known to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Closure component242serves to fix the bag204to the inner wall236, ledge238and annular wall240, providing three bag-engagement surfaces. To this end, the closure component242includes an annular portion246having a U-shape cross-section (seeFIG. 38). The cross-section includes a vertically oriented outer wall248, a vertically oriented inner wall250and a horizontal transverse wall252which together define a channel254oriented downward. When engaged with the annular disc232, the outer wall248surrounds and presses the bag204against the inner wall236of the annular disc232(a first bag-engagement surface), the inner wall250is inward of and presses the bag204against the annular wall240of the annular disc232(a second bag-engagement surface) and the transverse wall252presses the bag204against the ledge238(a third bag-engagement surface, as shown inFIG. 39.

It is possible for the closure component242to have an “L”-shaped cross-section, and designed to overlie the inner wall236with slight clearance to thereby provide a two bag-engagement surface embodiment, i.e., along the top of the inner wall236and along its radially inward facing surface which would be pressed by the top of the closure component and the radially outward facing surface of the rim of the downwardly facing rim of the closure component.

With this construction of the annular disc232and the closure component242, the bag204can be secured by the closure component242to the annular disc232with three bag-engagement surfaces. Alternatively, if the closure component is “L”-shaped, the bag204would be secured by the closure component242to the annular disc232with two bag-engagement surfaces.

Closure component242also includes a tab256, e.g., opposite the pivotal attachment point, to facilitate easy lifting of the closure component242. Instead of a tab256, a small raised rib may be provided, which is pinched to lift it along with the closure component242. Generally, the tab256represents means for enabling lifting of the closure component.

In use, a bag may be obtained and inserted into the opening defined by the insert230into the waste-receiving compartment of the waste container224while the closure component242is pivoted into an upper, non-engagement position. An upper edge region of the bag204is held, and placed around the inner wall236, overlying the ledge238. The closure component242is then pivoted onto the annular disc232to cause the bag204to enter into the channel254and be pressed by the outer wall248, inner wall250and transverse wall252against opposite portions of the annular disc232. The bag204is thus secured in placed with the closure component242in an engagement position with the annular disc232.

When the bag204is full of waste and it is desired to remove the bag204, the closure component242is pivoted upward by grasping the tab256and lifting it upward, the open end of the bag204may be sealed, tied or clasped close and urged or inserted through the opening into the waste container with the bag204being removed from the waste container224through a front or side door. The insert230could also be designed to pivot upward to expose the interior of the waste container and then allow for removal of the bag204full of waste.

This embodiment also includes an optional membrane194below the insert230, which membrane may be as disclosed above.

FIG. 40shows a variant of the insert, designated insert230A wherein the insert is made of two parts. Insert230A includes an annular disc232with optional projections234, and a separate wall portion270that has the inner wall236, ledge238and annular wall240(see alsoFIG. 47). Moreover, the wall portion270includes an attachment structure272to enable the wall portion270to be attached to an inner edge of the disc232. The attachment structure272may be an indentation that snap-fits to the inner edge of the disc portion270, or is attached thereto by an interference fit, or by threads.

FIG. 41shows a variant of the insert230A, designated230B, wherein elongate detents or ridges258are formed on the outer surface of the inner wall236of the wall portion270. These detents258aid in the engagement of the closure component242with the annular disc232. Detents may be provided on any of the inserts or closure components disclosed herein.

FIG. 42shows an embodiment wherein the closure component242is attached to the support226of the waste container224by an attachment structure260, instead of being attached to the annular disc232.

FIG. 43shows an embodiment wherein an optional retainer262is arranged on the annular disc232and engages with the tab256on the closure component242to prevent inadvertent disengagement of the closure component242from the annular disc232. Retainer262may be provided in any embodiment disclosed herein wherein there is a tab256. The retainer262is shown mounted on the upper surface of the annular disc232. Alternatively, it may be integrated into the annular disc232, or it may be arranged on or integrated with the support226of the waste container224or with another part of the waste container224.

The primary change in use of this embodiment is only that when engaging the closure component242with the annular disc232, the tab256is pressed downward against the angled surface264of the retainer262to cause the retainer262to flex rearward slightly and allow the tab256to be pressed into a position below the lip266when the tab256returns to its initial position. The tab256could be rounded to make it easier to snap in and out without having to move the retainer262out of the way first. A half round profile for the tab256would allow you to lift the tab256and therefore urge the retainer262to spring away. Release of the tab256when seeking to disengage the closure component242from the annular disc232entails flexing the flange268of the retainer262rearward to allow the tab256to be released from its position below the lip266.

FIG. 44shows a variant wherein the closure component242provides four bag-engagement surfaces. In this embodiment, an extension portion270of the closure component242, that extends between the annular portion246and the attachment structure244, has a lower edge or surface that presses a portion204A of the bag204that rests on the annular disc232. This excess portion of the bag204is draped over the insert230and size-permitting, can be pressed against the annular disc232by the extension portion270. In the same manner, if the closure component242were “L” shaped and provided two bag-engagement surfaces, then when the extension portion270presses the bag204against the annular disc232, there would be three bag-engagement surfaces of the closure component242.

FIGS. 45-48show an embodiment wherein a closure component242A is not pivotally attached to the waste container224or to the insert232. Rather, the closure component242A is free standing. Otherwise, closure component242A has the same or similar structure and features as closure component242.

This embodiment also shows an alternative insert, designated230C. Insert230C includes an annular disc232with optional projections234, and a separate wall portion270that has the inner wall236, ledge238and annular wall240. Moreover, the wall portion270includes an attachment structure272to enable the wall portion270to be attached to an inner edge of the disc232. The attachment structure272may be an indentation that snap-fits to the inner edge of the disc portion270, or is attached thereto by an interference fit, or by threads.

FIGS. 49-51show another embodiment of a bag securing assembly280including an insert282that rests on a support in a waste container and a closure component284attached to the insert282. The insert282is circular and has a bottom wall286, an outer annular wall288extending upward from a radially outer edge of the annular wall286and an inner annular wall290extending upward from a radially inner edge of the annular wall286. Inner wall290has a larger height than the outer wall288.

An attachment structure292is arranged on the upper surface of the bottom wall286and pivotally supports the closure component284(seeFIGS. 49 and 50). The closure component284may have the same structure and features as closure components disclosed elsewhere herein, and when in an engaged position, fits the bag204into its channel to thereby secure the bag204against rotation.

Bag securing assembly280is used in the same manner as the other bag securing assemblies disclosed herein. To wit, the insert282is placed onto a support of a waste container, a bag204is inserted through the opening defined by the insert282into the waste-receiving compartment defined by the waste container with an upper edge region remaining above the insert282, and with the closure component284in a non-engagement position. This upper edge region is then extended over the inner wall290and pulled downward toward the bottom wall286. The closure component284is then pivoted downward, e.g., by pressing the tab256, to cause the bag204to be pressed into the channel254and against the inner wall290by the closure component284.

Removal of the bag204is facilitated by lifting the closure component284out of engagement with the insert282thereby releasing the upper edge region of the bag204, and allowing it to be tied and the bag removed from the waste container in a manner described above.

As shown inFIG. 51, the attachment structure292is not required and may be eliminated. In this embodiment, the closure component284is not connected to the insert282when in its disengagement position.

Referring finally toFIGS. 52-55, in this embodiment, the bag securing assembly also allows the bag to be rotated. The bag securing assembly300includes an insert302with an annular disc304having projections306, and a closure component308that is not attached to the insert302. The annular disc304also includes an inner peripheral, circular wall310, a ledge312extending radially inward from the upper edge of the inner wall310and a small downwardly directed annular wall314extending from the inner edge of the ledge312(seeFIG. 55).

The closure component308includes an annular portion316having a U-shape cross-section (seeFIG. 55). The cross-section includes an outer wall318, an inner wall320and a transverse wall322which together define a channel324oriented downward. When engaged with the annular disc304, the outer wall318surrounds and presses the bag204against the inner wall310of the annular disc304, the inner wall320is inward of and presses the bag204against the annular wall314of the annular disc192and the transverse wall322presses the bag204against the ledge312(seeFIG. 55). This thus provides three bag-engagement surfaces or points of pressure of the closure component308against the insert302.

FIG. 55also shows a gasket326arranged in the channel324. The closure component308may be over-molded or in-molded with this gasket326, e.g., with the gasket326generally being considered a rubberized or plasticized gasket-like material. A benefit of the gasket326is that it can reduce the slippage of the bag204and allows rotational movement of the closure component308to cause rotation of the bag204. (The gasket326may be provided in other closure components having a channel as disclosed herein.)

As shown, the gasket326is on the underside of the transverse wall322. However, a gasket may additionally or alternatively be provided on the inner side of the outer wall318and/or on the inner side of the inner wall320defining the channel324.

In this embodiment, the bag204is rotated by rotating the closure component308. For example, the closure component308may be in an initial position as shown inFIG. 52, the position of the tab256indicates this position. Then, by rotating the closure component308clockwise to the position shown inFIG. 53or counterclockwise to the position shown inFIG. 54, e.g., by grasping the tab256, a twist is formed in the bag204(assuming the waste in the bag is held against rotation, the relative movement of the upper region of the bag204relative to the waste held stationary causes formation of a twist). This clockwise rotation would be effected after insertion of a waste object into the bag204.

To open the bag to prepare for insertion of waste, the closure component308is rotated counterclockwise from the position shown inFIG. 53to the position shown inFIG. 52and clockwise from the position shown inFIG. 54to the position shown inFIG. 52, to untwist the previously formed twist (assuming the waste in the bag is held against rotation, the relative movement of the upper region of the bag204relative to the waste held stationary causes the previously formed twist to untwist). The waste is then inserted and thereafter, the closure component308is again rotated clockwise. The reverse rotational movement may be provided, i.e., clockwise to untwist the bag and counterclockwise to form a twist in the bag.

When it is desired to remove the bag204of waste, it is often desirable to avoid exposure to offensive odors as the bag is lifted and a knot is tied at the end. By twisting the upper region of the open bag to form a twist with the closure component308, upward draft of odors from the waste below is prevented. After removal of the closure component308, it is possible to tie a knot above the temporary twist and have a better chance to keep the offensive odor or bacteria contained. Thus, a temporary knot or twist may be formed by using the least amount of the open bag. Actually, the twist material is likely to come from the bag below fractionally, since the upper region is secured by the closure component308.

The embodiments inFIGS. 33-55generally represent a bag securing assembly for use in any number of different types of waste disposal devices or waste containers, and that has a first part, a base or bag support, having a rim over which a bag is draped and a second part, a trapping, closure or securing component, that selectively traps or secures the bag to the base to prevent relative movement between the secured part of the bag and the base when engaging therewith. The base may be movable relative to the waste container or fixed in position, e.g., via projections on the base. The base may be a unitary component or have two parts that are connected together. The trapping component may be pivotally attached to the base or to the waste container.

The trapping component is configured to trap the bag against the base in a variety of different ways. In a first manner, the trapping component traps the bag only at the top edge of the bag, e.g., by pressing the part of the bag overlying a top edge of the base against the top edge of the base. This pressure prevents the bag from being drawn down into the waste-receiving compartment of the waste disposal device as the bag fills with waste.

In another configuration, the trapping component traps the bag on the top and at least one side edge (the outside or inside edge) thus adding an additional level of surface engagement which makes the bag even more secure. To this end, the trapping component may have an annular portion that has a T-shaped or L-shaped cross-section (to provide one or two sides or surfaces of engagement against the bag), or a U-shaped cross-section (to provide three sides or surfaces of engagement against the bag), In the latter case, the channel of the annular portion defining the U-shaped may be tapered to accommodate a potentially required draft required to pull the trapping component out of an injection molding device (which is the preferred process). This three-surface engagement of the trapping component with the bag serves to envelop the bag that increases the force preventing the bag from being dragging down into the waste-receiving compartment of the waste disposal device as the bag fills with waste.

When the trapping component is not attached to the base or to the waste disposal device, it may be in the form of a free standing (non-pivotable) pinch ring. Such a pinch ring may be configured to trap the bag with an interference engagement like a hoop (as disclosed above, e.g., inFIG. 30). A free-standing, non-pivotable hoop may also be provided with inner or outer wall engagements (detents) for improving securing of the bag. Alternatively, the “L”, “T” or “U”-shaped channel trapping component may be configured to provide an interference fit.

Preferably, the trapping component has a tab that eases removal of the trapping component when the bag is full and must be changed. Multiple tabs may be provided. The tab also may aid in pressing the trapping component against the base. The trapping component may also be considered as a pivotable pinch ring that is connected to either the waste disposal device or be part of the base. The tab in this embodiment will assist in securing a new bag, as well as enable quick release of the trapping component from the base for bag removal.

Another engagement that should trap the bag utilizes the pivotable point and an opposing end point to trap the pinch ring in at least two points (preferably at opposing ends). One end of the pinch ring may thus be trapped by a retainer situated opposite the location at which the pinch ring is pivotally attached to the base or waste disposal device. A quick release of the tab is accomplished by moving the tab release end, which may be flexible, whereby the pivotable pinch ring can either be released or if cocked at a slight angle it may spring up. For springing up or be released, it is preferable, although not inoperative, for the pinch ring to be free of detents that might impede its release. A two-part entrapment is sufficient to keep the bag from creeping as long as engagement is a secure fit.

It is, in some embodiments, to configure the trapping component to further engage with a bag along that portion of the trapping component extending between an annular part that overlies a top edge of the base and an attachment portion. This extension portion may press the bag since its bottom edge can rest on an excess portion of the bag that is draped over the top edge of the base. This thus provides four points of pressure of the trapping component against the base. If the bag is not draped sufficiently over the top edge of the base, yet the annular part of the trapping component has a “U”-shaped channel, then there would only be three points of pressure of the trapping component against the base. Similarly, for a “T”-shaped channel, there would only be two points of pressure of the trapping component against the base, and for an “L”-shaped channel, then there would only be one point of pressure of the trapping component against the base.

If the bag is shorter than the inner length of the waste disposal device and hangs, as in a conventional waste disposal device that forms twists in the hanging portion of the bag, securing the bag at the upper region from being dragged down by weight is critical. Whereas, in other conventional waste disposal device, it is preferable that the bag have slack. Yet, this too requires that the upper region holding the bag be secure. For conventional waste pails for general use in households, offices, etc., it is preferable for the bag to be substantially the same interior volume or larger than the interior volume of the waste disposal device.

In some embodiments, it is possible to provide drop-in inserts to retrofit existing pails with conventional inner liners that require lifting up the liner and wrapping a substantially larger bag opening to struggle to wrap it outside the upper region of the insert (e.g., the embodiment shown inFIGS. 33-36wherein the base has the same form as a conventional liner support). Often, this requires more than one attempt to accomplish the task. An insert such as shown inFIGS. 33-36should provide a more manageable fitted bag and at the same time eliminate the redundant inner liner. The inner liner can here be looked at as substantially a pail within a pail. A sturdy, tear resistant bag will accomplish the same task. An inner liner will often need to be thoroughly washed.

As shown inFIGS. 47 and 48, the base may be made of multiple parts, e.g., two parts, instead of having a unitary or integral construction as in other disclosed embodiments. When having a unitary construction, the base may be provided with an attachment structure to enable attachment of the trapping component to the base, or without such an attachment structure, e.g., when the trapping component is attached to the waste disposal device. When having a multi-part construction, an inner insert may fit interchangeably in conventional waste disposal device, such as waste disposal device sold by Munchkin Inc. The insert may be configured to fit the inner opening of a foldable header of the Munchkin waste disposal device. Different size inner inserts may be provided with different height to accommodate different pail designs.

It is also possible to configure the bag securing assembly as a retrofit for other existing waste disposal devices, such as the Playtex Diaper Genie™, the Munchkin Arm & Hammer™, the Munchkin, and other pails of other manufacturers. Whereas Diaper Genie™ has a cartridge of continuous tubing in its operation, one such design using the invention mimics the outer dimensions and would fit into the Diaper Genie™ pail and would not interrupt the current functionality of the way the pail works. An advantage of the bag securing assembly of the invention is there would be no more need to cut the continuous tubing. There would have fewer odors from inner open bags that need tying and contain strong odor when doing so.

To tie a full bag, the bag securing assembly may include a tie string, or a press and seal end, or be configured to allow tying of the top of the bag. An inner cutting blade built into the Diaper Genie™ pails is not needed. Since over time, the blade dulls and is not changeable and cutting can become an unpleasant struggling task in lengthening the time to cut the bag and tie a knot on the filled bag with dirty smelly diapers, this issue is avoided with the invention. Another issue avoided is that when starting a new bag in the Diaper Genie™, one needs to tie a new knot on the open flexible tubing and then drag it down for the bag to begin the filling cycle again. The required time to accomplish this cumbersome task is far longer than utilizing a single bag that is already sealed at the bottom and quickly mounted in the upper open region as in the invention.

Another advantage is, whereas in the Diaper Genie™ cartridge, you never know when it is empty until you discover, often, there is not enough left to make one last bag. Also, tying a Diaper Genie inner tubing to form a knot on the lower region for waste containment requires quite a bit more bag than a simple seal which has no waste. The upper region will also require tying two more knots after cutting the bag with the built in inserted blade: one for the bag to be removed and the other to start a new bag. Over the length of the entire tubing contained in the Diaper Genie™ refill canister, one can assume that several usable lengths of tubing are sacrificed by the consumer's liberal use of tying knots. Liberal or conservative, you use accumulated lengths of tubing that add to costs and shorten the cycle of usability in a cartridge. There are several companies offering replacement cartridges for the Diaper Genie™ system(s). Target and Munchkin are two that are offering cartridges. While they may have cartridges at somewhat lower prices, they nevertheless suffer with the same wasteful and expensive characteristics. The consumer pays dearly for convenience.

It is possible to retrofit the invention to work with the Munchkin Arm & Hammer, or Munchkin Diaper pails by either replacing their current bag that is welded to an expensive foldable polypropylene injection molded header which folds to a handle for removal of the bag. The current bag is generally considered to be a single use bag which is pleated and adds yet more expense for production and to the end user. The invention can either utilize the polypropylene ring (after removing the pleated bag) and insert an inner ring insert that will permanently engage the inner ridge of the Munchkin Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail™ opening. This inner ring can now accept a single use bag, one that would cost far less than a complicated bag with costly header. It is possible, and for convenience, to replace Munchkin's pivotable foldable polypropylene header which is welded to a folded and pleated bag with a one piece unit with a potentially built-in pivotable pinch ring which will now accept single use bags for far less than existing diaper pail refills. These refills can cost many dollars for a box containing just a few bags. By using an insert and closure component according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, a suitable product is provided and at the same time, a non-biodegradable carbon footprint is reduced.

The bag securing assembly may be used with or without the membranes as in some of the embodiments disclosed above. It may be used with any conventional waste disposal device. The shape of the bag securing assembly may be conformed to the shape of existing or newly designed waste disposal devices. Also, any inner liners of such existing waste disposal devices are rendered unnecessary.