Patent Publication Number: US-2020290798-A1

Title: Receptacle and its method of manufacture

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     See Application Data Sheet. 
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable. 
     THE NAMES OF PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT 
     Not applicable. 
     INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC OR AS A TEXT FILE VIA THE OFFICE ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM (EFS-WEB) 
     Not applicable. 
     STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR A JOINT INVENTOR 
     Not applicable. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates to a receptacle and its method of manufacture. In particular, this invention relates to a waste receptacle that has few component parts and, as such, can be manufactured quickly and easily. This invention is particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to the temporary storage of domestic and household waste in a number of aesthetically pleasing and hygienic arrangements. This invention can be configured with one or more separate sections or collection compartments which enables refuse to be sorted into waste intended for landfill and recyclables. 
     2. Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed Under 37 CFR 1.97 and 37 CFR 1.98. 
     Waste receptacles for temporarily storing and containing domestic refuse have been known for many years. There are a plethora of waste receptacles or refuse bins available in the marketplace that each have the same general design. Prior art refuse bins are generally formed as an open receptacle from a hard plastics material and having a lip around which a refuse bag can be secured, and usually a separate or hinged lid to close the open receptacle to prevent or reduce odours. Alternatively, refuse bins can be formed from sheet metal, usually stainless steel, which is rolled or shaped using conventional workshop techniques to form an outer structural wall into which a removable plastics liner or polythene refuse bag can be retained. 
     These known refuse bins have not coped well with the relatively recent restrictions imposed upon householders that domestic refuse has to be separated into different streams, i.e. waste intended for landfill and recyclables, for collection. Most domestic kitchen environments will now often contain two or more waste receptacles. Prior art waste receptacles of this type can occupy a considerable amount of floor space in a room that is commonly held to be getting smaller in new build developments and conversions. It is likely that the householder will be required in future to separate refuse into further different streams to prevent other recyclables from entering landfill, and this problem of a lack of floor space will be further exasperated. 
     In order to address this problem there are several proprietary dual or twin receptacle refuse bins are available in the marketplace, and other recycling refuse bins or cabinets have been developed. Such known recycling refuse bins can take various forms in order to save space, but are often difficult to use, cumbersome to empty and have limited capacities. The vast majority of these known recycling refuse bins are formed having a sheet metal outer structural wall into which a removable compartmentalised plastics liner, or separate liners, are retained. 
     This construction leads however to small gaps or openings between the compartmentalised plastics liner, or separate liners, and the structural outer wall in which they are seated. These gaps can be difficult to clean, and can lead to a build up of refuse, dirt and grime which is both unhygienic and can be a source of odour. It is often difficult to access one of the two compartments without disturbing or opening the other, which can lead to cross contamination of refuse. 
     These bins are also time-consuming to manufacture, having many component parts, and hence are expensive to produce. Having an outer wall formed from sheet metal generally limits the geometric shape of the waste collector to circular or rectangular arrangements. Outer metal wall bins are subjected to careless handling and consequent damage, which can be unsightly. 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a receptacle and its method of manufacture which overcomes or reduces the drawbacks associated with known products of this type. The present invention provides a waste receptacle having a unitary construction, with an outer aesthetic body integrally moulded with one or more inner waste collection compartments. Each of the inner waste collection compartments having a greater taper angle than known waste receptacles to aid refuse bag removal, and is closed off with a lid. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a waste receptacle that is quick and easy to manufacture from few component parts and which leads to an aesthetically pleasing and durable product. Sharp edges and gaps are eliminated to facilitate cleaning and to reduce the risk of damage or entrapment of the refuse bag in use. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a waste receptacle having two or more inner waste collection compartments which enables the householder to sort refuse into waste intended for landfill and recyclables. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a waste receptacle having inner waste collection compartments that are tapered inside a stable unitary body that facilitates ease of emptying the refuse bag. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is described herein and in the claims. 
     According to the present invention there is provided a receptacle comprising an outer body, one end of the outer body forming a base, the other end of the outer body forming a rim extending inwardly from the periphery of the outer body, and at least one inner waste containing compartment extending inwardly and downwardly from the rim, wherein the outer body, rim and at least one inner waste containing compartment being integrally formed. 
     An advantage of the present invention is that it can be quickly and easily manufactured from few component parts and which leads to an aesthetically pleasing and durable waste receptacle. Such an integrally moulded receptacle eliminates tight corners and gaps and hence improves hygiene and significantly reduces the risk of damaging the refuse bag in use. 
     Preferably, the body is formed as a generally hollow cylindrical or trilobular-shaped body. 
     Further preferably, one end of the body comprises a substantially flat continuous cross section which forms a base. 
     In use, the other end of the body may be formed as a substantially flat continuous annular or trilobular-shaped rim which extends inwardly around the periphery of the body. 
     Preferably, the rim defines an opening through which refuse is placed into the inner waste collection compartment in use. 
     Further preferably, the opening in the body is closed off by a removable hinged lid. 
     In use, the inner waste collection compartment may be enveloped inside the body. 
     Preferably, the inner waste collection compartment is formed coaxially with the body. 
     Further preferably, the body, rim and inner waste collection compartment are seamlessly moulded. 
     In use, the inner waste collection compartment may extend inwardly from the rim along an inclined shoulder which transitions to a tapered side wall that gradually narrows to a radiused corner forming a substantially flat-bottomed base. 
     Preferably, the shape of the rim, inclined shoulder, tapered side wall and radiused corner are each profiled so as to reduce the risk of damaging a refuse bag in use. 
     Further preferably, the removable hinged lid is integrally formed with a refuse bag retaining collar. 
     In use, the inner waste collection compartment may be convergent with the body. 
     Preferably, the inner waste containing compartment is formed having a generally frustoconical shape. 
     Further preferably, the angle formed by the intersection of the tapered side wall and the body is between around 2° to 8°. 
     In use, the angle formed by the intersection of the tapered side wall and the body may be around 5°. 
     Preferably, the capacity of the inner waste containing compartment is between around 15 litres to 45 litres. 
     Further preferably, the capacity of the inner waste containing compartment is around 30 litres. 
     In use, the height of the receptacle may be around 672 mm; the internal diameter of the rim may be around 340 mm; and the diameter of the generally flat-bottomed base may be around 305 mm. 
     Preferably, the seamless moulding of the body, rim and inner waste collection compartment prevents the build-up or ingress of refuse, dirt and/or bacteria. 
     Further preferably, the hinged lid and retaining collar is removable for cleaning and/or is dishwasher safe. 
     In use, the receptacle may be formed using injection moulding tools and/or processes. 
     Preferably, the hinged lid and retaining collar is formed using injection moulding tools and/or processes. 
     Further preferably, the receptacle and/or the hinged lid and retaining collar is formed from homo- or copolymer polypropylene. 
     In use, the receptacle and/or the hinged lid and retaining collar may be formed from a synthetic plastics material and/or a thermoplastic and/or thermoset material and/or from a blend of recycled polymers from both postindustrial and domestic waste streams. 
     Preferably, the blend of recycled polymers is around 50% of the plastics material. 
     Further preferably, the receptacle and/or the hinged lid and retaining collar is formed via injection moulding and/or blow moulding and/or vacuum forming and/or rotational moulding and/or compression moulding and/or rim moulding and/or power impression moulding and/or any form of plastics manufacture. 
     In use, the outer surface of the body and/or rim and/or the hinged lid and retaining collar may comprise a low VDI (Vereines Deutscher Ingenieure) textured finish. 
     Preferably, the low VDI (Vereines Deutscher Ingenieure) textured finish is between around 12 to 45 on the VDI scale. 
     Further preferably, the internal bore of the inner waste collection compartment comprises a highly polished surface finish. 
     In use, the highly polished surface finish may be less than around 12 on the VDI scale. 
     Preferably, the generally flat-bottomed base comprises one or more openings for receiving one or more removable drainage plugs. 
     Further preferably, the removable drainage plugs allow for ease of cleaning in use and/or enable air displaced in the inner waste collection compartment to be vented when changing the refuse bag in use. 
     In use, the removable drainage plugs are provided as push-fit caps. 
     Preferably, the receptacle further comprises a base plate to be retained inside the base of the body. 
     Further preferably, the base plate comprises a plurality of projections which meet with corresponding apertures disposed in the substantially flat-bottomed base. 
     In use, the base plate may further comprise one or more finger apertures or slots to facilitate removal and subsequent reattachment of the base plate to the base of the body. 
     Preferably, the base plate is releasably secured to the base of the body using a fastener selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: circumferential screw thread, bayonet attachment, threaded fastener and clip. 
     Further preferably, the refuse bag retaining collar comprises a tapered flat ring or collar which is complementary in shape to the inner waste collection compartment. 
     In use, the refuse bag retaining collar may be engageable inside the shoulder of the inner waste collection compartment to secure the refuse bag in use. 
     Preferably, the refuse bag retaining collar comprises at least two finger grips to aid removal of the retaining collar from the receptacle in use. 
     Further preferably, the refuse bag retaining collar comprises a plurality of protrusions disposed around the outer circumference of the retaining collar, the protrusions being engageable with a complementary plurality of cut-out sections in-moulded around the inclined shoulder of the inner waste collection compartment. 
     In use, the refuse bag retaining collar may comprise a continuous or semi-continuous lip formed around the periphery of the retaining collar which abuts against the lid in a closed configuration. 
     Preferably, the refuse bag retaining collar is pivotally connected to the lid by hinge means, the hinge means enabling damped pivotal or rotational movement of the lid from the closed configuration to an open configuration when a lid release catch is depressed. 
     Further preferably, the hinge means enables the speed of the pivotal or rotational movement to be adjusted and/or controlled. 
     In use, the hinge means may be selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: torsional spring arrangement, rotational coupling, rolling bearing, hinge, pivot and mechanical linkage. 
     Preferably, the receptacle further comprises one or more horizontal slots in-moulded around the inclined shoulder of the inner waste collection compartment. 
     Further preferably, the one or more horizontal slots forming at least one pocket into which any excess refuse bag material can be gathered to ensure that the refuse bag is form fitting in use. 
     In use, the one or more horizontal slots may be dimensioned to act as carry handles. 
     Preferably, the receptacle further comprises a removable activated carbon filter cassette securable inside a complementary shaped retaining means formed under the hinged lid. 
     Further preferably, the removable activated carbon filter cassette is accessed through the lid of the receptacle. 
     In use, the removable activated carbon filter cassette may be formed as sealed unit having apertures which vent an activated carbon ingredient to atmosphere. 
     Preferably, the body defines two separate and adjacent inner waste collection compartments. 
     Further preferably, the body is formed having a cross section that is selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: oval, parabolic, circular, ellipsoidal, square and rectangular. 
     In use, each of the inner waste collection compartments may be circular and/or trilobular and/or rectangular and/or square in cross section, and each of the inner waste collection compartments being enveloped inside the body. 
     Preferably, the rim separates the adjacent inner waste collection compartments and has an aesthetically pleasing swept profile. 
     Further preferably, the capacity of each the two inner waste containing compartment is around 30 litres, and forming a receptacle having a total capacity of around 60 litres. 
     In use, each of the two inner waste containing compartments may be circular in cross section, the height of the receptacle may be around 672 mm; the internal diameter of the annular rim may be around 340 mm; and the diameter of the generally flat-bottomed base may be around 305 mm. 
     Preferably, each of the two inner waste containing compartments are trilobular in cross section, the height of the receptacle is around 672 mm; the internal width of the trilobular aperture formed in the rim is around 333 mm; the internal length of the trilobular aperture formed in the rim is around 289 mm; the width of the radiused corner and substantially flat-bottomed trilobular base is around 226 mm; and the length of the radiused corner and substantially flat-bottomed trilobular base is around 190 mm. 
     Further preferably, the hinged lid is colour coded to signify the refuse material to be placed therein. 
     Also according to the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a receptacle, comprising the steps of: 
     supplying a polymer into a moulding tool which defines a body having at least one inner waste containing compartment, the moulding tool including a textured surface finish on the outer surface of the body and a polished surface finish on the inner surface of the at least one inner waste collection compartment; and 
     ejecting the moulded receptacle from the moulding tool. 
     Preferably, the polymer includes a blend of recycled polymers from both postindustrial and domestic waste streams. 
     Further preferably, the method further comprises the step of admixing an antimicrobial additive with the polymer. 
     It is believed that a receptacle and its method of manufacture in accordance with the present invention at least addresses the problems outlined above. 
     It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that variations of the present invention are possible and it is intended that the present invention may be used other than as specifically described herein. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view from the side and above of the receptacle in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows a cutaway sectional view from the side of the receptacle of  FIG. 1  along the line A to A′. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates the cutaway sectional view of  FIG. 2  and showing further detail of a base plate to increase the rigidity of the receptacle in use. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view from the side and above of the receptacle of  FIG. 1  and showing further detail of how a refuse bag is retained inside the inner waste collection compartment using an integral bag retaining collar and hinged closure lid. 
         FIG. 5  shows an exploded perspective view from the side and above of the receptacle of  FIG. 1  and showing further detail of the integral bag retaining collar and hinged closure lid. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of a section under the hinged closure lid of the receptacle of  FIG. 5  and showing further detail of an in-moulded activated carbon filter to reduce odours in use. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view from the side and above of a second embodiment of the present invention which is configured having two adjacent inner waste collection compartments which make it is easy for the householder to sort recyclables from their domestic waste. 
         FIG. 8  shows a cutaway sectional view from the side and above of the dual recycling receptacle shown in  FIG. 7  along the line B to B′. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view from above of the dual recycling receptacle of  FIG. 7  and showing the tapered inner waste collection compartments that allows ease of removal of the refuse bag in use. 
         FIG. 10  is a top plan view from above of the dual recycling receptacle of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 11  shows a perspective view from the side and above of a third embodiment of the present invention which is which is configured having two adjacent inner waste collection compartments, each compartment having a trilobular cross section. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a perspective view from above of the dual recycling receptacle of  FIG. 11  and showing both of the closure lids removed from the inner waste collection compartments to reveal horizontal slots into which any excess refuse bag material can be gathered to ensure that the refuse bag is form fitting in use. 
         FIG. 13  is a top plan view from above of the dual recycling receptacle of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view from the side and above of the receptacle of  FIG. 1  and showing further detail of the bag retaining collar and closure lid. 
         FIG. 15  shows a perspective view from the rear side and below of the receptacle shown in  FIG. 14  and illustrates that the base section of the inner compartment can include a plurality of supporting feet. 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a perspective view from the rear side and below of the bag retaining collar which includes a plurality of engagement features for location and securement of the collar inside the inner compartment when in use. 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view from the side and above of the open waste receptacle without the integral bag retaining collar and hinged closure lid in place, and shows further detail of the slots that are in-moulded inside the rim and into which any excess refuse bag can be “tucked in” or “tucked away” before the retaining collar is located in position. 
         FIGS. 18 and 19  show an exploded perspective view and an assembled perspective view, respectively, of the bag retaining collar and hinged closure lid and illustrates how the damped hinged lid is opened and closed via a touch lid catch mechanism. 
         FIG. 20  shows a cutaway sectional view of the integral bag retaining collar and hinged closure lid along the line A to A′ of  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention has adopted the approach of utilising a waste receptacle having a unitary construction with an outer aesthetic body integrally moulded with one or more inner waste collection compartments. Each of the inner waste collection compartments having a greater taper angle than known waste receptacles to aid refuse bag removal, and is closed off with a lid. Advantageously, the present invention provides a waste receptacle that is quick and easy to manufacture from few component parts and which leads to an aesthetically pleasing and durable product. Further advantageously, sharp edges and gaps are eliminated to facilitate cleaning and to reduce the risk of damage or entrapment of the refuse bag in use. Further advantageously, the present invention provides a waste receptacle having two or more inner waste collection compartments and which enables the householder to sort refuse into waste intended for landfill and recyclables. Further advantageously, the present invention provides a waste receptacle having inner waste collection compartments that are tapered inside a stable unitary body that facilitates ease of emptying the refuse bag. 
     Referring now to the drawings, a waste receptacle  10  according to the present invention is shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . Specifically, the receptacle  10  is formed as a generally hollow cylindrical or trilobular body  12 . One end of the body  12  has a substantially flat continuous cross section which forms a base  14 . The other end of the body  12  is formed as a substantially flat continuous annular or trilobular rim  16  which extends inwardly around the periphery of the body  12 . The rim  16  defines an opening through which refuse is placed into an inner waste collection compartment  20  formed coaxially inside the outer body  12 . The opening in the body  12  can be closed off by a removable hinged lid  18 , further detail of which is illustrated in  FIG. 5 . The cylindrical or trilobular body  12 , rim  16  and inner waste collection compartment  20  are all seamlessly moulded having a unitary construction that leads to the advantageous effects of the invention. 
       FIG. 2  shows the receptacle  10  of  FIG. 1  in a cutaway section along the line A to A′. The unitary construction of the outer body  12 , rim  16  and inner waste collection compartment  20  are evident from the cross sectional view shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     The inner waste collection compartment  20 , which is enveloped coaxially inside the outer body  12 , extends from the rim  16  along an inclined shoulder  22  which then defines a tapered side wall  24  that gradually narrows to a substantially flat-bottomed base  28 . The substantially flat-bottomed base  28  meets with the tapered side wall  24  via radiused corner  26 . 
     The profile of the shoulder  22 , tapered side wall  24  and radiused corner  26  are designed so as to reduce the risk of tearing a refuse bag (not shown in  FIG. 2  for clarity) in use. The inner waste collection compartment  20  is convergent with the outer body  12  and is formed having a generally frustoconical shape tapering to the generally flat-bottomed base  28 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the angle formed by the intersection of the tapered side wall  24  and the body  12 , and denoted as angle α in  FIG. 2 , is around 5°. This is in no way intended to be limiting as any number of different taper angles are envisaged. The taper angle formed by the intersection of the tapered side wall  24  and the body  12  can be in the region of 2° to 8°. 
       FIG. 2  shows a waste receptacle  10  having a 30 litre capacity, although this is in no way intended to be limiting as the receptacle  10  can be dimensioned in any number of capacities, from as small as 15 litres to a large capacity 45 litre refuse bin. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 2 , the unitary construction of the body  12 , rim  16  and inner waste collection compartment  20  ensures that there are no gaps, joins or fasteners which might otherwise permit the build-up or ingress of refuse, dirt or bacteria. The receptacle  10  of the present invention is easy to clean, and the lid  18  can be completely removed for cleaning, for example, in a dishwasher. The present invention therefore is very hygienic in use, minimising the transfer of germs and bacteria which could otherwise be detrimental to health. By moulding the inner waste collection compartment  20  and outer body  12  as one piece vastly reduces the number of component parts and minimises the risk of inherent component damage when removing the refuse bag (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) to change it. 
     In order to further diminish the risk of cross-infection or the transfer of germs and bacteria by touch, it is envisaged that an antimicrobial additive, such as silver ions, could be admixed with the injection moulding polymer forming the moulded receptacle  10  and/or the hinged lid  18  and/or retaining collar  40 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, for a 30 litre refuse bin, the height of the waste receptacle  10  is around 672 mm. The internal diameter of the rim  16  is 340 mm, and the diameter of the generally flat-bottomed base  28  is 305 mm. 
     The waste receptacle  10  of the present invention is formed using injection moulding. In a preferred embodiment, the receptacle  10  is formed from homo- or copolymer polypropylene, although the skilled person will appreciate that the waste receptacle  10  can be formed from a number of synthetic plastics material such as a thermoplastic or thermoset material, or any other suitable first or second generation plastics material. The above list is in no way intended to be limiting and exhaustive. 
     The skilled person will appreciate that certain components or sections could be manufactured with the use of both injection moulded components and rotational components, or compression moulded or blow moulded parts, if so required. Different variations or densities of materials could also be provided. Manufacturing some or all of the components of the waste receptacle  10  using injection moulding will allow for a relatively thin wall thickness and a generally low product weight which provides a high structural rigidity and durability. The manufacture of the receptacle  10  resists dents and dints in use, and provides an outer surface that is fingerprint resistant. 
     The receptacle  10  can be further manufactured using other techniques such as blow moulding, vacuum forming, rotational moulding, compression moulding, rim moulding, power impression moulding or any form of plastics manufacture. The receptacle  10  can be manufactured from a blend of recycled polymers from both postindustrial and domestic waste streams. In a preferred embodiment, the receptacle  10  can be manufactured having up to 50% by weight recycled polymer relative to the total polymer content. The amount of recycled polymer can be as high as 75% by weight relative to the total polymer content, or even 100% by weight recycled polymer relative to the total polymer content. 
     In a preferred embodiment, to obtain a fingerprint resistant outer surface finish on the outer surface of the body  12 , rim  16  and/or removable hinged lid  18 , the injection moulding tool includes a low VDI (Vereines Deutscher Ingenieure) textured finish. The textured surface finish on the outer surface of the body  12 , rim  16  and/or removable hinged lid  18  is preferably in the region of 12 to 45 on the German VDI scale of surface textures. 
     The internal bore of the inner waste collection compartment  20  is however moulded with a highly polished surface to reduce friction and to reduce the risk of damage to the refuse bag (not shown in  FIG. 2  for clarity) in use. The internal bore of the inner waste collection compartment  20  is manufactured having a surface finish preferably less than around 12 on the German VDI scale of surface textures. 
     Whilst not shown in  FIG. 2  for reasons of clarity, the generally flat-bottomed base  28  includes one or more drainage plugs which can be removed from their respective openings (not shown) in the flat-bottomed base  28 . The drainage plugs allow for ease of cleaning in use and also aid with venting of the air displaced in the inner waste collection compartment  20  when changing the refuse bag (not shown in  FIG. 2  for clarity) in use. Further detail of these features is shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
     The waste receptacle  10  of the present invention offers the additional advantage that at the end of the product&#39;s usable life, the few separate components forming the receptacle  10  can be easily disassembled and separated for recycling and/or reuse. 
     Whilst  FIG. 2  shows the design of the receptacle  10  having an open base  14 , it is possible to further increase the rigidity of the receptacle by including a separate base plate  30  that can be retained inside the open base  14 . Further detail of this is shown in  FIG. 3  which shows a cutaway section of the receptacle  10  meeting with the separate base plate  30 .  FIG. 3  shows that a number of apertures  32  in the substantially flat-bottomed base  28  meet with corresponding projections  34  in the separate base plate  30 . Alternatively, a plurality of snap-fit indents can be disposed around the inner periphery of the base  14  of the outer body  12 . The plurality of snap-fit indents meet with, and attach to, a corresponding plurality of snap-fit protrusions or protuberances disposed on the base plate  30 . One or more finger apertures or slots  36  are provided in the base plate to facilitate removal and subsequent reattachment of the base plate  30  to the base  14  of the outer body  12 . 
     Whilst the apertures  32  and complementary protuberances  34  described herein in relation to  FIG. 3  are used to remove or attach the base plate  30  in use, the skilled person will appreciate that any form of fastening or attachment is possible, including, for example, circumferential screw thread, bayonet attachment, securement by separate threaded fasteners, clips and other means etc. The above list is in no way intended to be limiting and exhaustive. 
       FIG. 4  shows an exploded view of the waste receptacle  10  of  FIG. 1 , but showing further detail of how a refuse bag  38  is retained therein. In particular,  FIG. 4  shows that a complementary shaped removable tapered retaining ring  40  is used to secure the refuse bag  38  safely in position around the shoulder  22  of the inner waste collection compartment  20 . The tapered retaining ring  40  is very generally configured as a flat ring or collar which is trilobular or circular in cross section and complementary in shape to the inner waste collection compartment  20 . In the embodiment described and shown in  FIGS. 1 to 3 and 11 to 13 , the tapered retaining ring  40  is trilobular in cross section. 
     The tapered retaining ring  40  includes at least two finger grips  42  to aid removal from the waste receptacle  10 . A plurality of V-shaped protrusions  44  are disposed around the outer circumference of the retaining ring  40  which locate simply within a plurality of V-shaped cut-out sections  52  which are in-moulded around the inclined shoulder  22  towards the top of the inner waste collection compartment  20 , as best shown in  FIG. 12 . Although the protrusions  44  on the retaining ring  40 , and complementary cut-out sections  52  that are in-moulded at the top of the inner waste collection compartment  20 , are shown as V-shaped in  FIGS. 5 and 12 , this is in no way intended to be limiting as these engagement features can be implemented in any number of complementary geometric shapes or forms. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 5 , the hinged closure lid  18  is integrally formed with the retaining ring  40 , which includes a hinge block  46  and lid release catch  48 . The hinge block  46  provides a damped rotational movement when the lid release catch  48  is depressed. The hinge block  46  allows the lid  18  to be positioned in a fully opened 90° vertical position and also the speed of the opening motion can be fully adjusted. In use, the lid  18  closes against a continuous lip  50  formed around the periphery of the retaining ring  40 . As with the receptacle  10 , the lid  18  and retaining ring  40  of the present invention are also formed using injection moulding. 
     The skilled person will appreciate that the operation of the closure lid  18  can alternatively be controlled using a foot pedal mechanism and linkage (not shown). 
     The damped rotational movement provided by hinge block  46  is achieved using a torsional spring configuration. 
     The shape and smooth surface of the tapered inner waste collection compartment  20  allows for ease of evacuation of the filled refuse bag  38  that is held by the retaining ring  40 . By having a generally frustoconical shape, the refuse bag  38  can be easily removed, and all tight corners are eliminated from around the rim  16 , shoulder  22 , tapered side wall  24  and radiused corner  26 , which significantly reduces the risk of damaging the refuse bag  38 . 
     The present invention can be used with any suitable proprietary refuse bag  38  available in the marketplace. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a section under the hinged closure lid  18  of the receptacle  10  of  FIG. 5 , and shows how an activated carbon filter cassette  54  can be used reduce odours in use. The separate activated carbon cassette  54  is held in place inside a complementary shaped pocket  56  formed under the closure lid  18 . The activated carbon cassette  54  is formed as sealed unit with apertures  58  which vent the activated carbon ingredient to atmosphere. Changing the cassette  54  is simply achieved by opening the closure lid  18  and removing and discarding the used cassette  54  and then inserting a new cassette inside the complementary shaped pocket  56  or other releasable securement means. 
       FIGS. 7 to 10  shows a second embodiment of the receptacle  10 . The construction of the second embodiment is very similar to that of the first embodiment and corresponding features have been given the same reference numerals. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the waste receptacle  10  is configured to provide two or more inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  and which enable the householder to sort refuse into two or more different streams of waste, e.g. waste intended for landfill and recyclables. As best shown in  FIG. 10 , the outer footprint of the body  12  forming the dual recycling receptacle  10  is oval or parabolic in shape. This is in no way intended to be limiting as the dual recycling receptacle  10  can be implemented in any number of ellipsoidal, rectangular or curved geometric shapes. 
     As with the first embodiment of the invention, the inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  are both circular in cross section and are enveloped inside the outer body  12 . Each of the inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  extends from the rim  16  situated around the upper surface of the body  12 , and each inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  is formed as an inclined shoulder  22   a,    22   b  which then defines a tapered side wall  24   a,    24   b  that gradually narrows to a substantially flat-bottomed base  28   a,    28   b.  The substantially flat-bottomed base  28   a,    28   b  meets with the tapered side wall  24   a,    24   b  via radiused corner  26   a,    26   b.    
     As shown most clearly in  FIG. 9 , the rim  16 , which divides up the adjacent inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  also has an aesthetically pleasing swept profile  60 . 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 7 to 10  shows a shows a dual recycling receptacle  10  having a large 60 litre capacity, and formed having two 30 litre inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b.  The height of the dual recycling receptacle  10  is around 672 mm. The internal diameter of the rim  16 , and shown as diameter ∅C in  FIG. 10 , is 340 mm, and the diameter of the generally flat-bottomed base  28   a,    28   b,  and shown as diameter ∅D in  FIG. 10 , is 305 mm. Whilst  FIGS. 7 to 10  show a dual recycling receptacle  10  having a 60 litre capacity, this is in no way intended to be limiting as the receptacle  10  can be dimensioned in any number of sizes and capacities. 
       FIG. 7  shows further detail of a feature that can be used on each of the three embodiments of the invention. In particular, the lids  18   a,    18   b  removably attached to outer body  12  can have a colour coding signifying the refuse material to be placed therein. Multiple colours are envisaged, including yellow, red, blue, green and mixtures and shades thereof. 
       FIGS. 8 and 9  also show further detail of a feature that can be used on each of the three embodiments of the invention, and wherein the generally flat-bottomed base  28   a,    28   b  includes one or more drainage plugs  62  which can be removed from their respective openings  64  in the flat-bottomed base  28   a,    28   b.  The drainage plugs  62  allow for ease of cleaning in use and can also aid with venting of the air displaced in the inner waste collection compartment  20   a,    20   b  when changing the refuse bag (not shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9  for clarity) in use. The drainage plugs  62  are provided as push-fit caps that can be retained inside openings  64 . 
       FIGS. 11 to 13  shows a third embodiment of the receptacle  10 . The construction of the third embodiment is very similar to that of the second embodiment and corresponding features have been given the same reference numerals. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the dual recycling receptacle  10  is configured to provide two or more inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  which are trilobular in cross section for storing two or more different streams of waste. Such a configuration maximises the storage capacity of the two compartments  20   a,    20   b  enveloped in the outer body  12 . In particular, and as best illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the trilobular design lessens the overall footprint of the dual recycling receptacle  10  whilst minimising any tight angles or corners formed around the rim  16 , or the shoulder  22   a,    22   b,  tapered side wall  24   a,    24   b  and radiused corner  26   a,    26   b  and so as to reduce the risk of tearing a refuse bag  38  (not shown in  FIGS. 11 to 13  for clarity) in use. 
       FIG. 12  shows further detail of further features that are common to each of the three embodiments of the invention. In particular,  FIG. 12  shows how the detachable lid  18   a,    18   b  and tapered retaining ring  40  locate simply within a plurality of V-shaped cut-out sections  52  which are in-moulded around the inclined shoulder  22   a,    22   b  towards the top of the inner waste collection compartment  20   a,    20   b.  It is the interference fit between the tapered retaining ring  40  and the shoulder  22   a,    22   b  that generates enough purchase to hold the refuse bag  38  (not shown in  FIG. 12  for clarity) safely in position. 
       FIG. 12  also shows that one or more horizontal slots  66  are in-moulded around the inclined shoulder  22   a,    22   b  towards the top of the inner waste collection compartment  20   a,    20   b.  These slots  66  form receptacles or pockets into which any excess refuse bag  38  can be “tucked in” before the tapered retaining ring  40  is located in position. These horizontal slots  66  also serve as carry handles when moving the receptacle  10  for cleaning or reposition. 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11 to 13  shows a shows a dual recycling receptacle  10  having a large 60 litre capacity, and formed having two 30 litre inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b.  The height of the dual recycling receptacle  10  is around 672 mm. The internal width of the trilobular aperture formed in the rim  16 , and shown as line E in  FIG. 13 , is 333 mm. The internal length of the trilobular aperture formed in the rim  16 , and shown as line F in  FIG. 13 , is 289 mm. The width of the trilobular base plate  28   a,    28   b  and radiused corner  26   a,    26   b,  and shown as line G in  FIG. 13 , is 226 mm. The length of the trilobular base plate  28   a,    28   b  and radiused corner  26   a,    26   b,  and shown as line H in  FIG. 13 , is 190 mm. Whilst  FIGS. 11 to 13  show a dual recycling receptacle  10  having a 60 litre capacity, this is in no way intended to be limiting as the receptacle  10  can be dimensioned in any number of sizes and capacities. 
     The third embodiment of the invention, as depicted in  FIGS. 11 to 13 , which utilises inner waste collection compartments  20   a,    20   b  which are trilobular in cross section for storing different streams of waste can be further adapted to exploit the storage capacity of the two compartments  20   a,    20   b  enveloped in the outer body  12 . In this configuration, an additional plastics liner (not shown in  FIGS. 11 to 13 ) can be placed within the receptacle  10 , where the two trilobular compartments  20   a,    20   b  would meet back-to-back. This creates a large area of free space to both sides of the two compartments  20   a,    20   b,  generally situated where the swept profile  60  is shown in  FIG. 13 . A further advantage of such configuration is that a pocket can be in-moulded in the top surface of the receptacle  10  to accommodate a roll of refuse bags. 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  illustrate further features of the trilobular-shaped waste receptacle  10 .  FIGS. 14 and 15  show that the hinged lid  18 , on its underside surface facing the inner compartment  20 , includes a series of in-moulded strengthening ribs  68  to prevent deflection or distortion of the lid  18  when it is touched or pressed to open it, as described below in relation to  FIGS. 18 and 19 . The strengthening ribs  68  consist of a pattern of crossed lines on the underside of the lid  18 , and are formed with the sides of the shaped pocket  56  for receiving the activated charcoal cassette  54 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 14 , access to the cassette  54  is via a hinged lid  70  which includes a series of openings  72 . The lid  70  is then released by urging a biased catch  74  in and out of opening  88 , as best shown in  FIG. 18 . 
       FIG. 15  also shows that, in this embodiment, the receptacle  10  can be open at its base  14 , instead of requiring a separate base plate  30 . In this embodiment, a plurality of feet  76  extend downwardly from the base section  28  of the inner compartment  20  to provide stable frictional support when the waste receptacle  10  is placed on a surface. The feet  76  can also include a rubberised area  78  to aid friction and stability when in use. 
       FIGS. 16 and 17  show further detail of how the retaining collar  40  is received inside the shoulder  22  of the inner compartment  20  to retain or trap the refuse bag (not shown) when in use. As shown in  FIG. 16 , disposed around the outer periphery of the tapered retaining collar  40 , are a series of retention features  44 . These retention features  44  are shaped like an inverted tab  80  and which may also include a downwardly and outwardly projecting lip  82 . Each of the tabs  80  disposed around the collar  40  is dimensioned such that they are receivable inside the plurality of in-moulded slots  66  which are positioned inside the shoulder  22  of the inner compartment  20 , as shown in  FIG. 17 . The inclusion of these retention features  80 ,  82  being useful for ease of emptying and replacement of the refuse bag (not shown), when the receptacle  10  is in use. 
     The skilled person will appreciate that the unitary construction, or integral forming, of the outer body  12 , rim  16  and inner waste collection compartment  20  ensures structural stability for receiving the retaining collar  40  when in use. The unitary construction also serves to ensure that sharp edges and gaps are eliminated with the purpose of reducing the risk of damage or entrapment of the refuse bag when in use. 
     The unitary construction of the outer body  12 , rim  16  and tapered inner waste containing compartment  20  interacting with the slots  66  and retention features  80 ,  82  on the retaining collar  40  provides a receptacle  10  this is able to maintain a form fitting refuse bag at all points where the bag contacts the receptacle  10 , and all of which contribute to the ability of the receptacle  10  to prevent a critical failure of the bag by reducing the risk of damage when emptying or replacing the bag. When replacing a refuse bag, the in-moulded slots  66  not only allow excess refuse bag material to be gathered and tucked away, but also act to hold the opening or mouth of the refuse bag in the region of the shoulder  22  until it is more securely clamped in position by the engagement of the retention tabs  80  on the collar  40 . 
       FIGS. 18 and 19  show further detail of how the lid  18  is receivable inside the hinge block  46  formed at the proximal end of the retaining collar  40 . The proximal end of the lid  18  is formed as a rounded section  84  which is capable of rotation inside an aperture  86  formed in the retaining collar  40 . An opening  90  is formed inside the rounded section  84  at the proximal end of the lid  18  which is capable of receiving a torsion hinge damper  92 . One end of the helical torsion spring  92  is connected or abuts to the lid  18  and the other end is connected or abuts to the collar  40 . To allow rotational movement of the lid  18 , the spring  92  rotates about an axle  94  and bush  96 . The damping effect of the spring  92  can be altered by torsion adjusters  98  positioned at both ends of the spring  92 . Rotation of the adjusters  98  compresses or extends the spring  92  to alter the bending movement. 
       FIG. 19  also shows that the shape of the hinge block  46  and the complementary rounded section  84  permits the lid  18  to be positioned in a fully opened, generally 90° vertical position, to facilitate filling of the receptacle  10 . In addition, when the integral lid  18  and collar  40  are to be removed to empty the refuse bag (not shown) the user simply grasps the vertically positioned lid  18  and pulls upwards to completely remove the lid  18  and collar  40  to gain unhindered access to the refuse bag. 
       FIGS. 18 and 19  also show details of the touch lid catch mechanism  100 ,  102  of the present invention. As shown, one part of the catch mechanism, is a striker or projection  100  which is projects from the inside rim of the collar  40 . The second part of the catch mechanism is a spring-loaded pair of arms  102  which are biased closed and can be urged apart to release the striker  100  only when the striker  100  is forced upwards between the arms  102 , as occurs in use when the lid is pressed or touched. The second part of the catch  102  is retained inside an in-moulded housing  104  on the underside of the distal end of the lid  18 . Further detail of the integral retaining collar  40  and lid  18 , when in a closed position, is shown in  FIG. 20 , which is generally along the line A to A′, as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Various additions and alternations may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although particular embodiments refer to manufacturing the present invention using various injection moulding techniques and having various dimensions this is in no way intended to be limiting as, in use, the present invention can be manufactured using many fabrication techniques and dimensioned in many different sizes. It will be understood that features described in relation to any particular embodiment can be featured in combination with other embodiments.