WO2008030997A2

WO2008030997A2 - Diaper pail

Info

Publication number: WO2008030997A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/077812
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chris Blouin; Kyle Nanna; Ryan Shafer; Mike Baird; Bryan Hotaling; James Ormond
Original assignee: The First Years Inc.
Priority date: 2006-09-08
Filing date: 2007-09-07
Publication date: 2008-03-13
Also published as: WO2008030997A3

Abstract

A diaper pail includes a container defining an interior compartment and an opening communicating with the interior compartment. A cover module is coupled to the container for enclosing the interior compartment and providing access to the interior compartment. The diaper pail also includes an odor elimination system positioned proximate the interior compartment, and including a filter for neutralizing odorous air and a fan positioned to draw the odorous air through the filter and deliver neutralized air into the container.

Description

DIAPER PAIL

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present invention relates to a diaper pail for disposing of diapers, and in particular, a diaper pail adapted for neutralizing odors within the container.

[0002] Diaper pails are known for disposing of soiled diapers and a variety of such diaper pails are available in the marketplace. Many diaper pails include a lid that is pivotally mounted to the pail and is opened to deposit a diaper. A liner or bag stored in the diaper pail receives the diapers and holds the diapers until the liner is full. Once full, an open end of the liner is twisted or knotted closed and the full liner is disposed. The soiled diapers are contained in the liner create an unpleasant odor and the diaper pails trap odors within the pail that worsens as more diapers are added to the pail. The odors escape every time the lid is opened to deposit another diaper.

[0003] Improvements to diaper pails have been developed that include special liners or bags that are automatically twisted closed or sealed by the diaper pail. In one version, when the bag is filled the diaper pail automatically twists an open end of the bag closed prior to removal from the pail. In another version, the diaper pail includes a mechanism for twisting the liner closed after each soiled diaper is deposited into the pail. Such designs are susceptible to breaking due to the number of moving parts associated with the twisting mechanisms. Further, such diaper pails have higher operating costs because specially manufactured liners are required.

SUMMARY

[0004] In one embodiment, the invention provides a diaper pail comprising a container defining an interior compartment and an opening communicating with the interior compartment, and a cover module coupled to the container for enclosing the interior compartment and providing access to the interior compartment. The diaper pail also comprises an odor elimination system positioned proximate the interior compartment, the odor elimination system including a filter for neutralizing odorous air and a fan positioned to draw odorous air through the filter and deliver neutralized air into the container.

[0005] In another embodiment, the invention provides a diaper pail comprising a container defining an interior compartment and a cover module coupled to the container for enclosing the interior compartment. The cover module is openable relative to the container for providing access to the interior compartment, and the cover module includes a body defining an opening for communicating with the interior compartment of the container and a lid coupled to the body for providing access to at least the opening. The diaper pail also includes an odor elimination system contained within the cover module, the odor elimination system including a filter for neutralizing odorous air and a fan positioned to draw the odorous air through the filter and deliver neutralized air to the container,, wherein the fan cycles on intermittently .

[0006] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a diaper pail according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0008] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the diaper pail with an open lid revealing components of a cover module.

[0009] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a bucket of the diaper pail.

[0010] Fig. 4A illustrates the cover module with the lid in a closed position.

[0011] Fig. 4B illustrates the cover module with the lid in an open position.

[0012] Fig. 4C is an exploded view of the cover module.

[0013] Fig. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the Hd of the cover module for the diaper pail.

[0014] Figs. 6A and 6B illustrate a module portion of the cover module.

[0015] Figs. 7A and 7B illustrate a bottom portion of the cover module.

[0016] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a plunger of the lid.

[0017] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a bag retainer for the cover module. [0018] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a cover for a front panel of the cover module.

[0019] Fig. 1 1 is a top view of a filter cover for a filter compartment of the cover module.

[0020] Fig. 12 illustrates a battery cover for a left battery compartment of the cover module, whereby the battery cover for a right battery compartment is a mirror image.

[0021] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a bracket for supporting a pair of crimp arms within the cover module.

[0022] Figs. 14A and 14B illustrate the crimp arms for use with the cover module.

[0023] Figs. 15 A, 15B and 15C illustrate a link arm, a pivot arm and a spring release, respectively, for coupling the lid to the crimp arms of the cover module.

[0024] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a strap for preventing over-rotation of the cover module with respect to the bucket of the diaper pail.

[0025] Figs. 17A andl7B illustrate a sequence of operation for attaching the cover module to the bucket, according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0026] Figs. 18A and 18B illustrate a sequence of operation for installing a bag in the diaper pail, according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0027] Figs. 19A-19E illustrate the control module and linkage mechanism as the Hd is moved between various positions.

[0028] Fig. 20 illustrates a circuit diagram for the diaper pail and odor elimination system according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0029] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Figs. 1 and 2 illustrate a diaper pail 10 according to one embodiment of the invention for disposing and storing soiled diapers within a bag 14, or liner, (Fig. 18B) until a filled bag is finally disposed. The diaper pail 10 includes an odor elimination system 18 (Fig. 2) for neutralizing unpleasant odors from the soiled diapers. The diaper pail 10 uses standard, commercially available garbage bags (e.g., 13 gallon kitchen garbage bags). Also, the diaper pail 10 is configured to facilitate one-handed operation by a user and does not require a user to push or plunge soiled diapers into the bag 14.

[0031] The diaper pail 10 includes a bucket 22 (Fig. 3) having an upper end and a cover module 26 (Figs. 4A-4C) pivotably hinged to the upper end of the bucket 22. The bucket 22 defines an inner compartment 30 for receiving the bag 14 and, as discussed below, the cover module 26 retains and supports an open end 14A of the bag 14 for depositing soiled diapers into the bag 14. Referring to Fig. 2, the diaper pail 10 also includes an opening 34 for providing access to the bucket 22, a pair of crimper arms 38 A, 38B positioned within the opening 34 for holding a portion of the bag 14 adjacent the open end 14A, a bag rim 42 for wrapping upper edges of the bag 14 thereabout, and a bag retainer 46 for retaining and securing the bag 14 about the bag rim 42. The arms 38A, 38B hold the bag 14 closed to help prevent unpleasant odors from escaping the diaper pail 10. The diaper pail 10 also includes the odor elimination system 18, which works in conjunction with the crimper arms 38 to neutralize odors within the bucket 22 from the soiled diapers. The odor elimination system 18 includes a fan 50 and a filter 54 housed in a filter compartment 58 (Fig. 6A) of the cover module 26 and covered by a filter cover 62. The fan 50 circulates odorous air to the filter 54, which eliminates odorous compounds by adsorption.

[0032] The cover module 26 includes a lid 66 pivotably coupled to a module portion 70 of the cover module 26. The lid 66 is pivotable between a closed position (Figs. 1 and 4A), a first open position, and a second open position (Figs. 2 and 4B) to deposit a diaper in the opening 34 of the diaper pail 10. A lower surface 66A of the lid 66 includes a plunger 74 for assisting with disposal of the diaper. To gain access to the bucket 22 of the diaper pail 10, the cover module 26 is pivoted between a closed position (Fig. 1) and an open position (Fig. 17C). A latch mechanism 78 (Fig. 2) locks the cover module 26 in the closed position and is released to allow the cover module 26 to pivot to the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch mechanism 78 is child-resistant. A front panel 82 of the cover module 26 includes a power button 86 for turning the odor elimination system 16 on and off, and a status indicator 90 (e.g., LED or light) for displaying a status of the diaper pail 10.

[0033] Referring to Fig. 3, the bucket 22 of the diaper pail 10 is generally U-shaped and includes a bottom wall 94, a peripheral wall 98, and the upper end 102 defining an opening to the inner compartment 30. A rear edge 102 A of the upper end 102 includes hinges 106 for pivotably coupling the cover module 26 to the bucket 22, and a forward edge 102 of the upper end 10 includes a hook 1 10 configured for engaging the latch mechanism 78 of the cover module 26 to secure the cover module 26 in the closed position. A rear portion 98A of the bucket wall 98 includes a wall portion 98B offset inwardly from the bucket wall 98. A top edge 98C of the wall portion 98B includes a notch 98D for receiving a strap 1 14 (Fig. 16) that extends between the bucket 22 and the cover module 26 to prevent over-rotation of the cover module 26 relative to the bucket 22.

[0034] Fig. 4C illustrates an exploded view of the cover module 26. The cover module 26 includes the Hd 66 (Fig. 5), a module portion 70 (Figs. 6A and 6B), and a bottom portion 118 (Figs. 7A and 7B). The module portion 70 and the bottom portion 118 are coupled together to form a body of the cover module 26, and the lid 66 is pivotably coupled to the module portion 70 to provide access to the diaper pail opening 34. A lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70 defines a slot 122 (Fig. 6B) for slidably engaging the upper end 102 of the bucket 22 to couple the cover module 26 to the bucket 22. Further, a rear edge 7OB of the module portion 70 includes slots 126 for receiving the hinges 106 of the bucket 22 to thereby pivotably couple the cover module 26 to the bucket 22. In one embodiment, fasteners are used to retain the hinges within the slots. In the illustrated embodiment, and as will be discussed with respect to Figs. 17A and 17B, one end of the strap 114 (Fig. 16) is coupled to an aperture 130 in the bottom portion of the cover module 26 and an opposite end is coupled to the notch 98D in the bucket 22 to prevent over-rotation of the cover module 26 relative to the bucket 22.

[0035] Referring to Fig. 5, the lid 66 is generally U-shaped to complement the shape of the bucket 22. A rear edge 66B of the lid 66 includes hinges 134 for pivotably coupling the lid 66 to slots 138 along the rear edge 7OB of the module portion 70, whereby the slots 138 receive the hinges 134 of the lid 66. In one embodiment, fasteners are used to retain the hinges within the slots. The lid 66 is pivotable between the closed position (Figs. 1 and 4A), a first open position (Fig. 19B), and a second open position (Figs. 2, 4B and 19C) when a user manually lifts the lid 66 from the cover module 26. Linkage mechanisms 142 (Figs. 15A-15C and 19A- 19E) provides a hinge between the lid 66 and the module portion 70, as well as provides a link between the lid 66 and the crimp arms 38 A, 38B. As the lid 66 is closed, the linkage mechanisms 142 open the crimp arms 38 A, 38B as the Hd 66 moves between the first open position and the closed position. When the lid 66 reaches the closed position, the crimp arms 38 A, 38B snap back to the closed position.

[0036] Each linkage mechanism 142 includes a link arm 146 (Fig. 15A), a pivot arm 150 (Fig. 15B), a spring release 154 (Fig. 15C), a rocker arm 158 (Fig. 19A), and springs 162, 166 (Fig. 19A). A first end 146 A of the link arm 146 is coupled to a bracket 170 defined by the lower surface 66A of the lid 66, for example by a fastener 146C. The link arm 146 extends through an opening 174 in the upper surface 7OC of the module portion 70 to a lower cavity 178 defined by the module portion 70. The opening 174 is positioned between the filter compartment 58 and one of two battery compartments 182A, 182B of the module portion 70. A second end 146B of the link arm 146 is coupled to a first end 150A of the respective pivot arm 150, for example by a fastener 150C (Fig. 4C). The pivot arm 150 includes a central aperture 150D for pivotally coupling the pivot arm 150 to the module portion 70 between outer walls of the filter compartment 58 and the respective battery compartment 182A, 182B. A fastener 150E (Fig. 4C) couples the pivot arm 150 to the module portion 70 at the central aperture 150D such that the fastener 150E defines a pivot point for the arm 150 as the lid 66 moves between the closed position and the open positions.

[0037] A second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 is slidingly coupled to the spring release 154 at a slot 184 defined by the spring release 154 such that the second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 slides within the slot 184 as the Hd 66 is moved between the closed position and the open positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 184 is positioned at a first end 154A of the spring release 154. A second end 154B of the spring release 154 is coupled to a central portion 158A the rocker arm 158 and the spring 162 is coupled between a central portion 154C of the spring release 154 and the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70. Each rocker arm 158 includes a first end 158B pivotally coupled to a boss 188 extending from the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70 to define a pivot point for the arm 158, and a second end 158C coupled to the adjacent crimp arm 38A, 38B. The rocker arm 158 pivots about the pivot point 158C as the Hd 66 moves from the first open position to the closed position to move the crimp arms 38A, 38B to the open position. The spring 166 is coupled between the rocker arm 158 and the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70. The springs 162, 166 force the crimp arms 38A, 38B back to the close position once the lid 66 is closed.

[0038] Referring to Figs. 6A-6B and Figs. 7A-7B, both the module portion 70 and the bottom portion 1 18 of the cover module 26 define an opening 34A, 34B for depositing a diaper in the bucket 22. When the cover module 26 is assembled, the openings 34A, 34B are aligned to define the diaper pail opening 34. The module portion 70 includes the rim 42 that extends upwardly from the upper surface 7OC of the module portion 70 and surrounds a periphery of the opening 34A, and a recessed area 192 surrounds the rim 42. As discussed below, the open end 14A of a bag 14 is wrapped around the rim 42 and held in place by the bag retainer 46 (Fig. 9).

[0039] The bag retainer 46 includes a peripheral wall 196 having the same general shape as the rim 42 and the diaper pail opening 34. The wall 196 is sized to fit around the rim 42. An upper edge 46A of the bag retainer 46 defines a generally L-shaped flange 200 that extends outwardly from the upper edge 46 A. When a lower edge 46B of the wall 196 is placed around the rim 42 and in the recessed area 192 of the module portion 70, the flange 200 engages an upper edge 42 A of the rim 42 to hold the bag 14 in place between the module portion 70 and the bag retainer 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 200 defines handles 200A for lifting the bag retainer 46 out of position.

[0040] The lower surface 66A of the lid 66 includes a raised portion 204 for receiving the plunger 74 (Fig. 8). The plunger 74 includes an open first end 74A having a generally rectangular shape that complements the shape of the raised portion 204 on the lid 66, and a closed second end 74B that defines a pushing portion of the plunger 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the plunger 74 has a pyramid-like shape, although it should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that in further embodiments the plunger 74 may have other shapes to facilitate pushing a diaper through the diaper pail opening 34. To couple the plunger 74 to the lid, the open end 74A of the plunger 74 is received by the raised portion 204 and a friction fit couples the plunger 74 to the lid 66. The raised portion 204 is positioned such that when the lid 66 is in the closed position, the plunger 74 is.positioned within the diaper pail opening 34 of the cover module 26.

[0041] The cover module 26 includes the pair of crimp arms 38A, 38B (Figs. 2, 14A-14B and 17B) positioned within the diaper pail opening 34. The crimp arms 38A, 38B are pivotably anchored between the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70 and an upper surface 1 18 A of the body portion 1 18 to extend across the opening 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the crimp arms 38A, 38B are pivotally coupled to a projection 208 extending from the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70. The arms 38 A, 38B are coupled to the projection 208 in a scissor-type relationship such that the arms 38 A, 38B are movable between a closed position (Figs. 2, 17B and 18A) and an open position (Fig. 19E). A generally arc-shaped bracket 212 (Figs. 13 and 19B- 19E) coupled to the lower surface 70A of the module portion 70 and positioned proximate a forward edge 34C of the opening 34 defines tracks to prevent the crimp arms 38 A, 38B from over-rotation in the open position.

[0042] Fig. 14A illustrates the first crimp arm 38A and Fig. 14B illustrates the second crimp arm 38B. The crimp arms 38A, 38B are generally L-shaped and have the same general shape. Each arm 38 A, 38B includes a first portion 216 defining an anchor end 216A and a second portion 220 extending generally perpendicularly from the first portion 216 and defining a free end 220A. The anchor end 216A of the first arm 34A includes a first projection 216B extending outwardly from the arm 38A. The first projection 216B is sized to be received by the slot 184 in the second end 158C of the respective rocker arm 158. In the illustrated embodiment, a fastener 216D slidingly couples the first arm 38A to the rocker arm 158 at the first projection 216B. The anchor end 216A of the first arm 38A also includes a second projection 216C extending outwardly from the arm 38A, wherein the second projection 216C includes an opening. The projection 216C has a first diameter and the opening is sized for surrounding the projection 208 on the module portion 70.

[0043] The anchor end 216A of the second arm 38B includes a first projection 216E extending outwardly from the arm 38B. The first projection 216E is sized to be received by the slot 184 in the second end 158C of the respective rocker arm 158, and in the illustrated embodiment, a fastener 216G slidingly couples the second arm 38B to the rocker arm 158 at the first projection 216E. The anchor end 216A of the second arm 38B also includes a second projection 216F extending outwardly from the arm 38B, wherein the second projection 216F includes an opening. The opening has a second diameter larger than a diameter of the second projection 216D of the first arm 38A, and sized to surround the second projection 216D of the first arm 38A. Referring to Fig. 17B a fastener 208A pivotally couples the crimp arms 38 A, 38B to the cover module 26. [0044] Referring to Figs. 13 and 19B-19E, the bracket 212 defines tracks for guiding the free ends 220A of the crimp arms 38 A, 38B as the arms move between the closed position and the open position. The first arm 38A is positioned to travel in a track 212A defined by a lower surface of the bracket 212, and the second arm 38B is positioned to travel in a track 212B defined by an upper surface of the bracket 212. Each track 212A, 212B includes stop mechanisms 212C for preventing the respective crimp arm 38 A, 38B from over-rotation. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop mechanisms are formed from rubber to reduce noise when the crimp arms 38A, 38B contact the stop mechanisms.

[0045] When the crimp arms 38 A, 38B are assembled, the crimp arms 38 A, 38B are held in the closed position to grasp the open end 14A of the bag 14 therebetween. The arms 38 A, 38B may be pivoted apart manually by a user or automatically by the linkage mechanisms 142 as the lid 66 of the cover module 26 is closed.

[0046] The cover module 26 includes the front panel 82 that includes controls for the diaper pail 10. A forward portion 70D of the module portion 70 defines a compartment for housing a circuit board 224 and other electrical components of the diaper pail 10, and the front panel 82 encloses the compartment 70D. Referring to Figs. 1 and 10, the front panel 82 has a generally-arc shape to complement the shape of the forward portion 7OD of the module portion. The panel 82 includes an outer surface 228, an inner surface 232, an upper surface 236, and a pair of ends 240. The upper surface 236 further defines the recessed area 192 adjacent the rim 42 when attached to the module portion 70. The panel 82 includes a first aperture 82A for receiving the power button 86 and a second aperture 82B for receiving the status indicator 90, whereby both apertures 82A, 82B are positioned generally along a centerline of the outer surface 228 of the panel 82.

[0047] The inner surface 232 of the panel 82 includes a plurality of bosses 232A with apertures. Four central bosses 232A are used for coupling the circuit board 224 to the panel 82, and two outer bosses 232A are used for coupling the panel 82 to the module portion 70. In one embodiment, fasteners 232B are used to couple the circuit board 224 to the panel 82 and couple the panel 82 to the module portion 70. The panel 82 also includes openings 244 positioned between the apertures 82A, 82B and the ends 240 of the panel 82, whereby the openings 244 permit air to circulate through the forward portion 70D. [0048] The diaper pail 10 includes the odor elimination system 18 for neutralizing odors within the diaper pail 10. The odor elimination system 18 includes the fan 50 and the odor neutralizing filter 54 housed within the cover module 26 of the diaper pail 10. When the diaper pail 10 is powered on, the fan 50 cycles intermittently for a predetermined period of time to draw air through the filter 54 and into the bucket 22 (i.e., outside the bag 14). In one embodiment of the invention, the filter 54 is a carbon filter that includes an activated carbon therein for neutralizing odorous compounds in diaper waste and removing unpleasant smells. Examples of the type of carbon used in the filter 54 include granular activated carbon CR1220-PA and CR1220-KOH provided by Carbon Resources (Oceanside, CA), although other known activated carbons or materials for neutralizing odors may be used.

[0049] The module portion 70 defines the filter compartment 58 positioned proximate the rear edge 7OB of the module portion 70. The compartment 58 is recessed from the upper surface 7OC of the module portion 70 and includes a ledge 248 and fan housing 252. The ledge 248 defines a surface for supporting the filter 54 within the filter compartment 58. The ledge 248 is recessed from the upper surface 70C of the module portion 70, but is raised from the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70. The ledge 248 is positioned adjacent a forward end of the compartment 58 and extends to about a midpoint of the compartment 58. The fan housing 252 is positioned adjacent the ledge 248 and includes an opening (not shown) aligned with a conduit 256 of the bottom portion 118 (Fig. 7). In the illustrated embodiment, the fan 50 of the odor elimination system 16 is positioned within the fan housing 252 to draw air through the filter 54.

[0050] The bottom portion 118 of the cover module 26 includes a conduit 256 formed therein for transmitting air from the filter compartment 58 to the bucket 22 (via the fan housing 252). The conduit 256 includes an open, first end 256A at the lower surface 118B of the bottom portion 1 18 and an open, second end 256B. When the module portion 70 and the bottom portion 1 18 are assembled, the second end 256B of the conduit 256 is aligned with the fan housing 252 of the module portion 70 to transmit air from the filter compartment 58. The fan 50 facilitates circulation of air from the filter compartment 58 to the bucket 22.

[0051] Referring to Figs. 2, 4C and 11, the cover module 26 includes a cover 260 to enclose the filter compartment 58. The cover 260 includes vent openings 260A to allow neutralized air to exit from the filter compartment 58. The filter compartment 58 includes an upper ledge 58A that extends about a periphery of the filter compartment 58 to support the cover 260. A rear edge 260B of the cover 260 includes projections 260C for placement in slots 58B positioned along the rear edge 7OB of the module portion 70 and adjacent the filter compartment 58. A forward edge 260D of the cover 260 includes a hook 260E for engaging a latch positioned proximate the filter compartment 58. To attach the cover 260, the projections 260C are placed in the slots 58B and the cover 260 is lowered until the hook 260E engages the latch.

[0052] Referring to Figs. 6A-6B, the module portion 70 includes vent openings 264 to further facilitate the circulation and venting of air through the diaper pail 10.

[0053] A user activates the odor elimination system 18 by pressing the power button 86 provided in the front panel 82 of the cover module 26. In the illustrated embodiment, power is supplied to the diaper pail 10 by batteries, as is known in the art. The batteries are stored in battery compartments 182A, 182B positioned on opposite sides of the filter compartment 58. Each battery compartment 182A, 182B includes a cover 268 (Fig. 12) for enclosing the respective compartment 182A, 182B. The cover 268 for enclosing compartment 182B is shown in Fig. 12, whereby the cover for compartment 182A is similar to and a mirror image of the cover 268. Each battery compartment 182 A, 182B includes an upper ledge 272 that extends about a periphery of the compartment 182A, 182B to support the cover 268. The battery covers 268 include a similar projection and hook arrangement discussed above with respect to the filter compartment 58 to couple the covers 268 to the module portion 70. It should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that in a further embodiment fewer or more batteries may be required to operate the diaper pail 10, and thereby fewer or more battery compartments would be necessary. In a further embodiment, the battery compartments may be positioned elsewhere in the cover module 26.

[0054] The diaper pail 10 includes two shut-off switches 276, 280 (Fig. 4C) to turn off the odor elimination system 18 when either the lid 66 is opened or the cover module 26 is open. Both switches 276, 280 are electrically connected to the circuit board 224. The first shut-off switch 276 is coupled to the lower surface 7OA of the module portion 70 such that an actuation member 276A of the switch 276 passes through an opening 284 in the module portion 70. The lower surface 66A of the lid 66 includes a projection 288 that extends outwardly therefrom. When the lid 66 is in the closed position, the projection 288 is aligned with the opening 284 to actuate the actuation member 276A of the switch 276. When the lid 66 is opened, the projection 288 releases the actuation member 276A to open the switch 276 and temporarily shut-off power to the odor elimination system 18.

[0055] A second shut-off switch 280 is mounted in the bottom portion 1 18 of the cover module 26 such that an actuation member 280A passes through an opening 292 in a rear wall 1 18C of the bottom portion 1 18.

[0056] When the cover module 26 is in the closed position, the actuation member 280A of the switch 280 contacts the rear wall 98A of the bucket 22. When the cover module 26 is opened, the actuation member 280A comes out of contact with the wall 98 A to open the switch 280 and temporarily shut-off power to the odor elimination system 18.

[0057] Fig. 17A illustrates a process for pivotally coupling the cover module 26 to the bucket 22, according to one embodiment of the invention. A user holds the cover module 26 while guiding the hinges 106 on the bucket 22 into slots 126 on the module portion 70. Once the hinges 106 engage the slots 126, the user lifts the cover module 26 relative to the bucket 22 to attach the strap 114. Prior to coupling the cover module 26 to the bucket 22, one end of the strap 114 is secured to the aperture 130 in the bottom portion 118 of the cover module 26 (Fig. 17B). The user then attaches the opposite end of the strap 114 to the notch 98D in the wall portion 98B of the bucket 22. The strap 114 prevents over-rotation of the cover module 26 when it is opened and lifted relative to the bucket 22.

[0058] Figs. 18A-18B facilitate illustration of a sequence of operation for installing the bag 14 in the diaper pail 10, according to one embodiment of the invention. To install the bag 14, the lid 66 is moved to either the first open position or the second open position (Fig. 18A) with the crimp arms 38A, 38B in the closed position and the bag retainer 46 is removed from the rim 42 of the cover module 26. A user manually separates the crimp arms 38 A, 38B to move the arms 38 A, 38B to the open position and overcome the spring bias of the linkage mechanisms 142. The bag 14 is slid through a gap 296 formed between the crimp arms 38A, 38B closed end first. Next, the user releases the latch 78 between the cover module 26 and the bucket 22 and moves the cover module 26 to the open position. The user supports the cover module 26 in the open position while pulling the bag 14 through the crimp arms 38 A, 38B. In the illustrated embodiment, approximately 5-6 inches of the open end 14A of the bag 14 remains above the rim 42. [0059] Once a sufficient length of bag 14 remains above the rim 42, a user closes the cover module 26 and engages the latch mechanism 78 between the cover module 26 and the bucket 22. The open edges of the bag 14 are wrapped about the rim 42 and tucked into the recessed area 192 defined between the rim 42 and the upper surface 7OC of the module portion 70 such that the rim 42 is covered, as shown in Fig. 18F. The user fits the bag retainer 46 over the rim 42 by placing a lower edge 46B into the recessed area 192. The retainer 46 is pressed into position such that the rim 42 is covered by the retainer 46 to secure the bag 14 in place.

[0060] Figs. 19A-19E facilitate illustration of operation of the linkage mechanisms 142 as the lid 66 of the cover module 26 is moved between various positions, which will be discussed prior to discussion of depositing a diaper into the diaper pail 10. Fig. 19A illustrates positioning of the linkage mechanisms 142 when the lid 66 is in the closed position and the crimp arms 38 A, 38B are in the closed position. The second end 150B of each pivot arm 150 is positioned at a first end 184A of the spring release slots 184, whereby the rocker arms 158 are positioned in a first, neutral position and the crimp arms 38A, 38B remain in the closed position. Referring to Fig. 19B, as the lid 66 is pivoted by a user to the first open position, each pivot arm 150 rotates about the respective pivot point 150E and the second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 slides within the spring release slot 184. The Hd 66 stops in the first open position when the second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 reaches a first notch 184B in the spring release slot 184. The pivot arm fastener 150C slides into and rests within the notch 184B to hold the lid 66 in the first open position. The spring release 154 includes an insert 154D positioned proximate the notch 184B, which facilitates noise reduction in the diaper pail as the arm 150 is seated in the notch 184B. During movement of the pivot arm 150 from the first end 184A of the slot 84 to the notch 184B, the rocker arms 158 do not pivot and the crimp arms 38 A, 38B remain in the closed position. In the first open position, the lid 66 is rotated approximately 30° to approximately 80° from the closed position.

[0061] A diaper may be deposited in the diaper pail opening 34 at this time, or the lid 66 may be further pivoted to the second open position (Fig. 19C). As the lid 66 is pivoted to the second open position, each pivot arm 150 continues to rotate about the respective pivot point 150E. The second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 slides within the spring release slot 184 between the notch 184B and a second notch 184C, whereby the lid 66 stops in the second open position when the second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 reaches the second notch 184C. During movement of the pivot arm 150 from the first notch 184B to the second notch 184C, the rocker arms 158 do not pivot and the crimp arms 38A, 38B remain in the closed position.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 66 may freely move between the first open position and the second open position (i.e., the pivot arm 150 may move between the first notch 184B and the second notch 184C). The linkage mechanisms 142 are configured such that when the lid 66 is moved from the first open position to the closed position, the crimp arms 38A, 38B open to allow a deposited diaper to drop into the bag 14 within the bucket 22. Referring to Figs. 19D and 19E, as the lid 66 moves to the closed position, each pivot arm 150 rotates about the respective pivot point 150E while the second end 150B of the pivot arm 150 remains in the first notch 184B. User force pulls the spring releases 154 towards a rear edge 7OB of the module portion 70 such that the rocker arms 158 pivot to a second position. Rotation of the rocker arms 158 pulls the crimp arms 38A, 38B away from one another and pivots the arms 38 A, 38B to the open position.

[0063] While the lid 66 moves to the closed position, the springs 162, 166 provide a counter-force to the lid 66 to prevent the lid 66 from closing. Once the pivot arms 150 have rotated sufficiently to release the second end 150B of the arms 150 from the first notches 184B, the spring force is overcome. The rockers arms 158 then pivot back to the neutral position, such that the crimp arms 38 A, 38B pivot back to the closed position to close the bag 14. The pivot arms 150 also rotate back to a home position whereby the second ends 150B of the arms 150 are positioned at the first end 184A of the spring release slot 184. The lid 66 then drops back to the closed position.

[0064] With the lid 66 in either the first open position or the second open position (Figs. 2 and 18B), a user deposits the diaper 300 into the diaper pail opening 34 such that the diaper 300 rests on the crimp arms 38A, 38B. When the crimp arms 38A, 38B are in the closed position, the arms 38A, 38B hold the bag 14 closed. Referring to Figs. 19D and 19E, as the lid 66 is pivoted past the first open position to the closed position, the crimp arms 38 A, 38B open to open the bag 14 and allow the diaper 300 to drop into the bag 14. The plunger 74 coupled to the lower surface 66A of the lid 66 (Fig. 2) helps push the diaper 300 into the bag 14. When the lid 66 reaches the closed position, the crimps arms 38 A, 38B snap back to the closed position. [0065] Once the bag 14 is filled or ready for disposal, a user opens the lid 66 and removes the bag retainer 46 (Fig. 18B). The user ties a knot in the open end 14A of the bag 14 to seal the bag 14. Next, the user releases the latch 78 between the cover module 26 and the bucket 22 and moves the cover module 26 to the open position (Fig. 17B). While supporting the cover module 26, the user pulls the knotted end from between the crimp arms 38 A, 38B and removes the bag 14 from the bucket 22.

[0066] The diaper pail 10 includes the odor elimination system 18 to neutralize odor within the bucket 22 from odorous diapers. The odor elimination system 18 is activated by pressing the power button 86 on. In one embodiment, when the odor elimination system 18 is on, the status indicator 90 blinks. During operation, the fan 50 cycles on to draw odorous air from within the cover module 26 to the filter compartment 58. The air circulates through the filter 54, which neutralizes the odor and eliminates unpleasant smells. The neutralized air exits the filter compartment 58 through the conduit 256 and re-enters the bucket 22. Odorous air exits the bucket 22 through the vent openings 264 to the cover module 26, whereby the air is drawn by the fan 50 into the filter compartment 58 through the openings 260A. In one embodiment, the status indicator 90 glows steadily while the fan 50 is cycling.

[0067] When the odor elimination system 18 is powered on, the fan 50 cycles on intermittently. In the illustrated embodiment, the fan 50 cycles for about 30 seconds six times an hour. It should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that the odor elimination system 18 may be configured to cycle on fewer or more times an hour for shorter or longer periods of time. The odor elimination system 18 is also configured to cycle on when the lid 66 is opened and closed. The odor elimination system 18 will not operate when the lid 66 or the cover module 26 is opened because the first or second shut-off switch 276, 280 disrupts power to the system 18. The power button 86 may be pressed off to turn off power to the diaper pail 10 and the odor elimination system 18.

[0068] It should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art that the crimp arms 38 A, 38B also prevent odors from escaping the bag 14 by holding the open end 14A of the bag 14 closed. In one embodiment, the status indicator 90 dims when battery power is low and is off when the batteries are dead.

[0069] Fig. 20 illustrates an electrical logic and circuit diagram for the diaper pail 10, and in particular the odor elimination system 18. [00701 The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation upon the concepts and principles of the present invention. As such, it will be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that various changes in the elements and their configuration and arrangement are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A diaper pail comprising: a container defining an interior compartment and an opening communicating with the interior compartment; a cover module coupled to the container for enclosing the interior compartment and providing access to the interior compartment; and an odor elimination system positioned proximate to the interior compartment, the odor elimination system comprising, a filter for neutralizing odorous air, and a fan positioned to draw the odorous air through the filter and deliver neutralized air into the container.

2. The diaper pail of claim 1 wherein the filter is a carbon filter.

3. The diaper pail of claim 1 wherein the odor elimination system is positioned within the cover module, the cover module including a filter compartment for containing the filter and a conduit connecting the filter compartment and the interior compartment of the container, wherein the conduit delivers the neutralized air to the interior compartment.

4. The diaper pail of claim 1, and further comprising at least one vent in the cover module, the at least one vent communicating with the interior compartment to transmit odorous air to the filter.

5. The diaper pail of 1 wherein when the odor elimination system is powered on, the fan cycles on intermittently.

6. The diaper pail of claim 5 wherein the fan cycles on approximately six times per hour.

7. The diaper pail of claim 5 wherein when the fan cycles on, the fan operates for approximately 30 seconds.

8. The diaper pail of claim 1 wherein the cover module includes a lid to allow a user to deposit items into the container.

9. The diaper pail of claim 8 wherein after the lid is opened, upon closing the lid the fan cycles on for a predetermined period of time.

10. The diaper pail of claim 8, and further comprising a shut-off switch for turning off the odor elimination system when the lid is open.

1 1. The diaper pail of claim 1 , and further comprising a shut-off switch for turning off the odor elimination system when the cover module is open.

12. A diaper pail comprising: a container defining an interior compartment; a cover module coupled to the container for enclosing the interior compartment, the cover module openable relative to the container for providing access to the interior compartment, wherein the cover module includes a body defining an opening for communicating with the interior compartment of the container and a lid coupled to the body for providing access to at least the opening; and an odor elimination system contained within the cover module, the odor elimination system comprising, a filter for neutralizing odorous air, and a fan positioned to draw the odorous air through the filter and deliver neutralized air to the container, wherein the fan cycles on intermittently.

13. The diaper pail of claim 12 wherein the module portion includes a filter compartment for containing the filter and a conduit connecting the filter compartment and the interior compartment of the container, wherein the conduit delivers the neutralized air to the interior compartment.

14. The diaper pail of claim 13 wherein the fan is positioned between the filter compartment and the interior compartment.

15. The diaper pail of claim 12, and further comprising at least one vent in the module portion, the at least one vent communicating with the interior compartment to transmit odorous air to the filter.

16. The diaper pail of claim 12 wherein the fan cycles on approximately six times per hour.

17. The diaper pail of claim 12 wherein the when the fan cycles on for approximately 30 seconds.

18. The diaper pail of claim 12 wherein after the lid is opened, the fan cycles on for a predetermined period of time when the lid is closed.

19. The diaper pail of claim 12, and further comprising a shut-off switch for turning off the odor elimination system when the lid is open.

20. The diaper pail of claim 12, and further comprising a shut-off switch for turning off the odor elimination system when the cover module is open.