WO2018009745A1

WO2018009745A1 - Waste disposal system having one or more covers

Info

Publication number: WO2018009745A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/041020
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander Chenvainu; Dylan Parker
Original assignee: Edgewell Personal Care Brands, Llc
Priority date: 2016-07-08
Filing date: 2017-07-07
Publication date: 2018-01-11
Also published as: MX2018011432A; CA3018198A1; CN109219567A; JP2019523194A; EP3481750A1

Abstract

A housing cover (70) for a waste disposal device (12), comprising a body having an upper end and a lower end, a longitudinal attachment feature generally perpendicular to the upper end and/or the lower end, the longitudinal attachment feature connecting the body to form the cover such that the cover is generally continuous, an upper end attachment feature positioned proximal to the upper end, a lower end attachment feature positioned proximal the lower end, an opening (92) positioned between the upper end and the lower end, the opening (92) permitting access to the waste disposal device (12), and an opening attachment feature positioned proximal the opening (92), wherein the body is a material that is stretchable.

Description

Waste Disposal System Having One or More Covers

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application daims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.

62/359,794, filed July 8, 2016, the entirety of which is incorporated herein.

Background of the Present Disclosure

[0002] Waste disposal systems including liner film for use therein, particularly for the use, collection and storage of storing human and animal waste such as diapers, wipes, hygiene products, and pet waste are known. Waste disposal systems include a waste disposal device for receiving and storing waste. Uner film is used in concert with such waste disposal devices.

[0003] Known liner film and/or cassettes having liner film assist with reduction of odor from the pail by at least partially containing waste materials within the liner film inside the waste disposal device. Known systems, however, do not necessarily assist in getting all waste material into the film and as such, certain waste materials may remain on the waste disposal device or on the cassette. In certain scenarios, waste materials can end-up on the exterior of the waste disposal device. It would be advantageous to have one or more covers that protect from and/or permit quick removal or control of waste material.

Summary of the Present Disclosure

[0004] A waste disposal system is provided. In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a waste disposal system has a waste storage device for receiving and storing waste. The waste disposal system has a length of liner film that is removably securable to the waste disposal device. The waste disposal system has a clamp structure that seals the waste into a storage portion of the waste disposal device. The waste disposal system has a receiving portion separated from the storage portion of the waste disposal device by the damp structure. The receiving portion of the waste disposal device houses at least a first open end of the length of liner material such that the liner material is positioned to receive waste including waste material.

[0005] In certain embodiments, the liner material is removably secured to the waste disposal device and more specifically, the receiving portion of the waste disposal device. The liner material optionally has a cassette that is attached to the liner material or stores the liner material such that the liner material is dispensed from the cassette. [0006] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, at least one housing cover is provided. The housing cover protects the exterior of the waste disposal device and optionally, protects aspects of the interior of the waste disposal device (i.e. the receiving portion and/or the storage portion). The housing cover has a body having has a length between an upper end and a lower end, and such length may be similar to or shorter than the length (or height of the waste disposal device). The upper end is optionally proximal the upper portion of the waste disposal device, but is not necessarily so. The lower end is optionally proximal the lower portion of the waste disposal device, but is not necessarily so. The housing cover (or body of the housing cover) has a middle region that is optionally proximal the middle region of the waste disposal device. The housing cover is configured to be adjacent the surface (or features of) the waste disposal device. Optionally, the housing cover has a length greater than the length of the waste disposal device. The housing cover has a first embodiment similar to a sock. The housing cover has a first free end and a second dosed end. The housing cover is applied to the waste disposal device from the bottom-up (i.e. the dosed end of the sock is on the bottom-side of the waste disposal device, and the open end of the sock is adjacent the upper end of the waste disposal device proximal the waste disposal device opening). The open end of the housing cover has an attachment feature. The attachment feature assists in keeping the cover about the waste disposal device. The attachment feature can be elastomeric or extensible to ensure the cover remains adjacent the exterior of the waste disposal device. The housing cover may be an entirely stretchable, elastomeric or extensible material. Elastomeric and extensible materials can exhibit such properties in two directions and/or in four or more directions. In some embodiments, the waste disposal device has a lip or a ledge permitting the attachment feature to rest and/or grab onto it thereby at least partially securing the cover to the waste disposal device. In other embodiments, the housing cover is secured to the waste disposal device by a lid, an inner lid, a bin a removal door, and/or a juncture between at least one moving part of the waste disposal device and a fixed portion of the waste disposal device, or a between to moving part of the waste disposal device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the housing cover has a first open end and a second open end. The second open end may be substantially opposite to the first open end. In this regard, the housing cover resembles a hollow cylinder, albeit the hollow cylinder could be imperfect and or deformable to fit a variety of shapes. The housing cover is attachable to the waste disposal device either top-down or bottom-up. The housing cover has a first attachment means about the first open end, and as second attachment means about the second end. The first attachment means and the second attachment means can be the same, similar and/or different [0008] In some embodiments, the waste disposal device may have multiple separable components, multiple movable components and/or combinations thereof. As such, the waste disposal device has static portions and movable portions, or said differently, one or more components, features and/or aspects of the waste disposal device are movable with respect to one or more components, features and/or aspects of the pail (i.e. described as "static"). For example, a waste disposal device has a lid covering an opening, where the lid is movable from a dosed position to an open position, and back to a closed position. The waste disposal device has a waste removal opening that is adjacent the lid, and/or about another portion of the waste disposal device such as the outer wall (i.e. a wall located towards a front side of the waste disposal device) and/or the bottom wall. The waste removal opening has a door and/or a removable bin. In these embodiments, a housing cover may be configured to have a first open end, a second open end, and optionally, a third opening other than the first open end and the second open end. In some embodiments, the third opening has a third attachment means to ensure the cover is secured about the waste disposal device such that the housing cover mitigates waste touching the exterior of the waste disposal device. In some embodiments, the third opening defines a port that resembles the entirety of the waste removal opening (i.e. such as the door or bin). In other embodiments, the third opening permits access to the waste removal opening, such that the door can be opened about a hinged region, the bin can be removed, either/or can be rotated or slid, etc . . .

[0009] Optionally, waste disposal devices may have one or more buttons, handles, knobs and/or pedals permitting the user to interact with the waste disposal device and accomplish certain actions. For instance, a handle may permit carrying of the waste disposal device and/or opening of the lid, the waste removal opening, etc... A button may permit interaction with the clamp structure, and/or removal of an inner lid and access to the cassette, opening of the lid, the waste removal opening, etc... A pedal may permit reduced use of hands by employing the use of a foot, where the pedal controls the lid and/or damp structure. In some embodiments, the housing cover coincides with such features but is configured such that the features can be actuated (i.e., the user can still interact with the handle, button or other feature to accomplish a task with the waste disposal device). In other embodiments, the housing cover has an "nth" opening that enables unfettered access with such features. In any of these embodiments, the housing cover may have one or more "nth" attachment features and/or seams to ensure the features can be actuated.

[0010] In yet further embodiments, various portions of the waste disposal device have additional covers. For instance, the lid, door and/or bin may have a separate cover. Covers of the present disclosure can be integrally formed from a single material, and/or can be multiple materials connected to each other. Covers may have one or more openings and/or seams to permit the waste disposal device to be assembled, interacted with, and/or disassembled. Covers may completely encompass all exterior and/or exposed surfaces of the waste disposal, or less than all of the exterior surfaces of the waste disposal device. For instance, the housing cover may protect a middle portion of the waste disposal device (i.e. not the uppermost portion and not the lowermost portion).

[0011] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, the receiving portion has a disposal cover. The disposal cover is positioned on and/or within the receiving portion such that one or more exposed waste disposal device and/or cassette surfaces lie beneath the disposal cover. The disposal cover, in this regard, helps maintain the one or more exposed waste disposal device and/or cassette surfaces from contamination by waste. Optionally, the disposal cover helps assist in directing waste materials into the liner material towards the damp structure and/or downward into the storage portion of the waste disposal device.

[0012] The disposal cover has a top side and a bottom side opposite the top side. The disposal cover has an outer periphery and an inner periphery. The inner periphery coincides with the waste disposal opening within the liner material (i.e. the channel where waste material is deposited). In some embodiments, the inner periphery coincides with the origination of the film as it relates to the cassette (i.e. the dispensing orifice on the cassette). In some embodiments, the disposal cover is sized to protect an inner lid feature that, in some embodiments, is shaped like a funnel. In some embodiments, the inner lid feature is situated to be in dose proximity to the cassette and/or liner material but provides a gap. In these embodiments, the disposal cover extends beyond the inner lid to cover the gap such that waste containing waste material does not get caught in such a gap.

[0013] The disposal cover may have one or more attachment features situated about is periphery. The attachment features may be stretchable, elastomeric or extensible such that a disposal cover may be attachable despite imperfect alignment to the receiving portion, and/or attachable to multiple differently configured, sized and/or shaped receiving portions. Optionally or alternatively, the disposal cover may have attachment features that are releasably securable to mating attachment features on the waste disposal device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the disposal cover can be fitted such that it has contours that follow the shape and form of the one or more exposed waste disposal device and/or cassette surfaces beneath the cover. The bottom side of the disposal cover has a tacky surface such that It sticks to the one or more exposed surfaces. In some embodiments, only portions of the bottom side are tacky. The cover is peelable such that, after the cover is at least partially applied to the one or more exposed waste disposal device and/or cassette surfaces, the user can remove the first cover.

[0015] Optionally, the disposal cover may have a removal tab to facilitate the removal of the disposal cover from the waste disposal device. [0016] In other embodiments, the disposal cover is applied to the one or more exposed waste disposal device and/or cassette surfaces and at least partially adheres to the one or more exposed surfaces. In some embodiments, the bottom side is completely coated with adhesive material. In some embodiments, only portions of the bottom side are coated with adhesive material, for instance, about the outer periphery of the cover, and/or the inner periphery. [0017] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, housing cover(s) and/or disposal cover(s) have a removal tab that is hidden from plain view and is releasably securable to attachment features on or in the waste disposal device. The attachment features on or in the waste disposal device are also hidden. Such attachment features on the cover and/or waste disposal device can include stitching, laces, buttons, zippers, hook and loop fasteners such as VELCRO, static, suction, snaps, clasps, latches, swedges, pins, staples, dips, etc....

[0018] In further embodiments, the housing cover and/or the disposal cover are aesthetically pleasing. In these embodiments, the cover(s) has a pattern, texture and/or is made from a material that is stylistically pleasing to other household accoutrements and decorations. For instance, the covers may have chevrons, stripes, plaid, polka dots, and combinations thereof. The covers can be water resistant and/or made from natural, organic, recycled and/or biodegradable materials.

Description of the Drawings

[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wasted disposal system embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic side view of a waste disposal system embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic front view of a waste disposal system embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic angled front view of a cover embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0023] FIG.5a is a diagrammatic front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG.5b is a diagrammatic angled front of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG.6a is a diagrammatic side view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG.6b is a diagrammatic side view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0027] FIG.6c is a diagrammatic top view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG.6d is a diagrammatic bottom view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG.6e is a diagrammatic back view of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6f is a diagrammatic front sectional view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0031] FIG. 7a is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG.7b is a diagrammatic back view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 7c is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0034] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 9a is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 9b is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 10a is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 10b is a diagrammatic front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 11a is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0040] FIG. lib is a diagrammatic angled back view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 12a Is a diagrammatic top view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 12b is a diagrammatic bottom view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 13a is a diagrammatic angled back view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0045] FIG. 14a is a detailed view of a portion of FIG. 14.

[0046] FIG. 15a is a diagrammatic front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure

[0047] FIG. 15b is a diagrammatic back view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 15c is a diagrammatic side view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 15d is a diagrammatic side view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0050] FIG. 16a is a diagrammatic side view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 16b is a diagrammatic side view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 16c is a diagrammatic back view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 16d is a diagrammatic front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 17a is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 17b is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 17c is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. [0057] FIG. 18a is a diagrammatic angled front view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 18b is a diagrammatic top view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 18c Is a diagrammatic angled top view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 18d is a diagrammatic angled top view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure.

Detailed Description of the Present Disclosure

[0061] A waste disposal system 10 is provided having a waste disposal device 12 (i.e. a pail) configured to receive a liner material 14. The waste disposal device 12 has a receiving portion 20 and a storage portion 18. The liner material 14 has a first open end 58 and a second end 60, where the second end 60 can be open or dosed. The first open end 58 and/or the second end 60 are doseable via a knot, clip or other known securing or sealing means. The liner material 14 is removably securable to the waste disposal device 12, and in many embodiments, to the receiving portion 20. The receiving portion 20 is configured to receive and secure the first open end 58 of the liner material 14, such that the liner material 14 is positioned within the receiving portion 20 and/or the storage portion 18 and is ready to receive waste.

[0062] The liner material 14 optionally has a cassette 22 assodated therewith. The cassette 22 is attached to the liner material 14 and/or is configured to at least partially store the liner material 14 within a volume 23 of the cassette 22. In embodiments where liner material 14 is at least partially stored within the volume 23, cassette 22 has a port 36 permitting the liner material 14 to be incrementally removed from the cassette 22. The port 36 can be positioned proximal the inner periphery 54, proximal the outer periphery 52, and/or towards a middle portion 53 between the inner periphery 54 and the outer periphery 52. Port 36 can be positioned along central opening 56b proximal the inner periphery 54.

[0063] The cassette 22 has an upper surface 48 generally opposite a lower surface 50.

[0064] The waste disposal system has a clamp structure 16. The damp structure 16 physically separates the receiving portion 20 from the storage portion 18, albeit the damp structure can be found in an upper portion 116, middle portion 114, and/or lower portion 118. In this manner, the damp structure can be a unitary piece with the receiving portion 20 or the storage portion 18, such that the storage portion 18 and the receiving portion 20 are separable from each other for, inter alia, assembly, storage, convenience, etc.... The clamp structure 16 is movable between open and dosed positions.

[0065] In some embodiments, the clamp structure 10 twists liner material 14 to create a seal. The damp structure 10 can be rotated, or be fixed such that another portion of the waste disposal device 12 moves. In some embodiments, the cassette 22 can be rotated with respect to the clamp structure 10. The upper portion 116 may be attachable to the lower portion 118 by a hinge 98 or other connection means. In some embodiments, the upper portionll6 is movable with respect to the lower portion 118 while maintaining a connection with the lower portionll8. [0066] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, at least one housing cover 70 is provided. The housing cover 70 helps to protect the exterior 72 of the waste disposal device 12. Optionally, the housing cover 70 helps protect aspects of the interior 73 of the waste disposal device 12. The housing cover 70 has a first embodiment similar to a sock in that it has a first free end 74 and second end 76 that is dosed. The first free end 74 and the second end 76 can be dosed by a knot dip or other sealing means. In sock-like fashion, the housing cover 70 is applied to waste disposal device bottom-up, along arrow 80, such that free end 70 is positioned around the periphery of the bottom 90 of waste disposal device and is brought upward around the outer wall 88 of the waste disposal device 88. In this fashion, second end 76 of housing cover 70 is positioned about the bottom 90 of waste disposal device. In embodiments where second end 76 is dosed, substantially all of bottom 90 is covered by housing cover 70. In embodiments where second end 76 is open, housing cover 70 is positioned proximal the joining of outer wall 88 and bottom 90.

[0067] In other embodiments, housing cover 70 is applied top-down to waste disposal device 12. In these embodiments, second end may 76 be open (at least initially prior to and during application to waste disposal device 12). In these embodiments where second end 76 is open, housing cover 70 resembles a hollow cylinder, albeit the hollow cylinder could be imperfect or deformable to fit a variety of shapes, including perfect cylinders and imperfect cylinders (i.e. waste disposal devices having a cross-sectional shape similar to a squirde, frusto-squirde, conic, frusto-conic, oval, frusto- oval, prismatic, shapes with roundels and/or fillets, etc....)

[0068] At least first open end 76 has one or more attachment features 62b. Optionally, additional openings 110 and/or second end 76 have one or more attachment features 62b. Attachment feature(s) 62b keep the housing cover 70 property positioned about the waste disposal device 12. In some embodiments, the housing cover acts as an attachment feature(s) 62b and is made of an elastomeric and/or extensible to assist in keeping the cover adjacent the exterior 72 of the waste disposal device 12. In other embodiments, the attachment feature 62b is made of a stretchable, elastomeric and/or extensible material.

[0069] The open end 76 and/or other openings 110 are optionally closeable, or in other words, the open end 76 has an attachment feature 62b that enables the housing cover 70 to at least partially attach to Itself. Such attachment features 62b include zippers, hook and loop closures such as VELCRO, laces, static, suction cups, buttons, clips, latches, swedges, pins staples, pinch closures, press-fit connections like those found on ZIPLOCK branded bags, semi-adhesive, resealable closures, and other similarly known fastening or dosing means. In certain embodiments, open end 76 or other openings 110 are closeable by attachment features 62b attaching to both the waste disposal device 12 and to the housing cover 70. In other embodiments, the aforementioned attachment features enable the housing cover 70 to attach to the waste disposal device 12.

[0070] The waste disposal device 12 has one or more attachment features 64b that correspond to and matlngry engage attachment features 62b. In some embodiments, attachment feature 64b is a lip or a ledge positioned such that attachment feature 62b rests and/or grabs onto it, thereby at least partially securing housing cover 70 to waste disposal device 12 (and covering waste disposal device 12). In some embodiments, attachment feature 62b is an elastomeric material attached to housing cover 70 by stitching 71 proximal the first open end 74 or other opening or end.

[0071] In some embodiments, housing cover 70 Is secured to waste disposal device 12 by a portion of the waste disposal device 12 such as the lid 82, inner lid 40, a bin 92b, door 92a, or other juncture between movable parts and/or a movable part and a fixed part of the waste disposal device 12. In such embodiments, seam(s) 112 is(are) at least partially obfuscated by such a portion of the waste disposal device 12. In other embodiments, seam(s) 112 is(are) at least partially obfuscated by being positioned on portions of cover not typically visible during use. For instance, seam(s) 112 Is(are) positioned along the bottom 90 and/or the back 87 of waste disposal device 12.

[0072] In some embodiments, waste disposal device 12 has one or more separable components and/or movable components. The waste disposal device 12 has a lid 82 covering an opening 83 in the receiving portion 20. The lid 82 is movable from a closed position, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, to an open position, as shown in FIG.3, and/or back to a closed position. The waste disposal device 12 has a waste removal opening 92 adjacent the lid, the outer wall 88, the bottom 90, the front 91, and/or combinations thereof. The waste removal opening 92 has a door 92a and/or a removable bin 92b. In these embodiments, the housing cover 70 is configured to have a first open end 74, a second end 76, and optionally, a third opening 94 proximal the waste removal opening 92. The third opening 94 is located other than where the first open end 74 and second end 76 are located. The third opening 94 has a third attachment means 96 to ensure cover is secured about the waste disposal device to mitigate against waste touching a portion of the waste disposal device 12. The third opening 94 and optionally third attachment means 96 permit and/or do not obstruct waste from being extricated via the waste removal opening 94 via door 94a and/or bin 94b. Door 94a and/or bin 94b can be opened about a hinge 98, where bin can be further removed, pivoted, slid, rotated, translated, etc....

[0073] Opening 92 includes one or more attachment features. For instance, opening may have an upper attachment feature 62b, a lower attachment feature 62b, and a middle attachment feature 62b. Such attachment features 62b define an opening that is optionally modifiable in size or shape, particularly in instances where the opening is a door 92a and/or a bin 92b. As such, in certain embodiments, the upper attachment feature 62b comprises two attachment features - one to the static portion of the waste disposal device 12 and the other to the movable portion (i.e. the door 92a and/or bin 92b). Similar can be said for the lower attachment feature 62b and/or middle attachment feature 62b. In an at-rest or perhaps closed configuration, the opening 92 appears small or slight and the cover is substantially continuous about the waste disposal device 12. In an open configuration, the opening 92 is larger (or greater than the opening 92 is in the closed configuration) and permits access to the pail. In either configuration, the housing cover 70 remains in-tact While this embodiment is given with respect to opening 92, the same is true for other openings as contemplated by the present disclosure.

[0074] Alternatively, the opening 92 has a single attachment feature 62b about a region of the opening 92, where the opening is relatively static or the opening is dynamic or movable. For instance, the opening 92 has an upper attachment feature 62b, a lower attachment feature 62b, and a middle attachment feature 62b. The upper attachment feature 62b and lower attachment feature 62b are each a single feature, while the middle attachment feature 62b includes two attachment features.

[0075] The waste disposal device 12 has one or more sensors, buttons, levers, handles, knobs and/or pedals permitting a user to interact with the waste disposal device to achieve certain functions or benefits. For instance, a handle 102 permits carrying of the waste disposal device, opening of the lid 82, opening inner lid 40, accessing the waste removal opening 92, and combinations thereof. A knob or button 100 also permits interaction with damp structure 10, releasing and moving lid 82, inner lid 40, and waste removal opening 92, and combinations thereof. A pedal or lever 104 permits reduced use of a user's hands by employing the use of a user's foot, where the pedal 104 controls the lid 82 and/or damp structure 10. In some embodiments, the housing cover 70 coincides with the aforementioned features but is configured such that these features are still movable and perform the intended task. In some embodiments, the housing cover 70 assists the clamp in moving to either or both of an open state or a closed state. For instance, the housing cover 70 may be a stretchable material that seeks to return the damp to a dosed position (after it is moved to an open position directly, i.e., by hand, or indirectly, i.e., by button or pedal, by a user). In other embodiments, the housing cover 70 has an attachment feature 62b that assists in moving the clamp structure 16 to an open position, i.e., by having an excess of springy material, or other mechanical means.

[0076] In some embodiments, the housing cover 70 has an "nth" opening 110 enabling unfettered access to such features. In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the housing cover 70 has one or more "nth" attachment features 111, seams 112 and/or stitching 115 to keep the housing cover 70 from substantially interfering with such features functionality.

[0077] In order to accommodate certain geometries of certain waste disposal devices, first open end 74, second end 76 and any other openings 110 can have varying sizes with respect to each other. In some embodiments, first open end 74 is larger than second end 76 to accommodate a waste disposal device 12 having an upper portion 116 having a periphery larger than the lower portion 118. In other embodiments, second end 76 is larger than first open end 74 to accommodate a waste disposal device 12 having a lower portion 118 having a periphery larger than the upper portion 116. In other embodiments, a middle portion 114 has the largest periphery and duly requires a third opening 94 to be larger than the first open end 74 and/or second end 76. [0078] In yet further embodiments, various portions of the waste disposal device 12 have separate and/or additional covers 69. The lid 82, door 92a and/or bin 92b have a cover 69. Covers 69 and 70 can be integrally formed from a single material and/or can be multiple materials connected to each other by attachment features 111 such as stitching, laces, buttons, zippers, hook and loop fasteners such as VELCRO, static, suction, snaps, dasps, latches, swedges, pins, staples, dips, pinch closures, press-fit connections like those found on ZIPLOCK branded bags, semi-adhesive, resealable dosures, and other similarly known fastening or closure means. Covers 69 and 70 may have one or more openings 110 and/or seams 112 to permit the waste disposal device 12 to be assembled, interacted with, and/or disassembled. For instance, upper portion 116 may be hingedly connected to lower portion of waste disposal device 118 and thus require assembly prior to or after attaching covers 69 and/or 70. In embodiments having portions requiring assembly, it may be preferable to have cover 69 or 70 having separate pieces that can be connected together, or to have a single piece with an opening 110 such that the cover 69 or 70 can be attached to a first portion of the waste disposal device 12 and thereafter (once the waste disposal device is at least partially assembled) attached to a second portion of the waste disposal device 12.

[0079] In some embodiments, overs 69 and/or 70 overlay substantially all exterior 72 and/or exposed surfaces of waste disposal device 12 (i.e. exposed surfaces being those that are not covered by liner material 14). In some embodiments, covers 69 and/or 70 overlay only some portions of the exterior 72 or exposed surfaces of waste disposal device 12.

[0080] In some embodiments, attachment feature(s) 62b located proximal first open end 74 is similar to attachment feature(s) 62b located proximal to second end 76. In some embodiments, housing cover 70 has vertical symmetry along the z axis, has horizontal symmetry along the x-y plane, or has reflective symmetry.

[0081] In some embodiments, attachment features 62(b) located proximal first open end 74 is distinct from attachment features 62(b) located proximal the second end 76. In these embodiments, distinction may assist the user in properly orienting housing cover 70 onto waste disposal device. In embodiments where housing cover 70 is generally cylindrical, distinction between the first open end 74 and second end 76 can assist in rotating use (i.e. one end or the other may be susceptible to wearing faster than the other).

[0082] In some embodiments stitching 71 and/or attachment feature 62b is parallel to the x-y plane. In other embodiments, stitching and/or attachment feature 62d is perpendicular to the x-y plane. Stitching can be fanciful (i.e. x's, chevron's, or other decorative patterns) or simple (i.e. stitching visibly forms a solid line or dashed line, linear, arcuate, or undulating).

[0083] Stitching 71 and/or attachment features 62b are adjacent the periphery of first open end 74. The stitching 71 and/or attachment features 62b are substantially continuous or can have gaps; such gaps can form a pattern and/or provide further extensibility in certain localized portions of housing cover 70 and also provide further strength in other portions of housing cover 70. Stitching 71 and/or attachment features 62b is located proximally to any opening 110 or open end (i.e. first open end 74 and/or second end 76) such that it is between about 0.001 inches and about 1 inches from any opening 110 or open end (i.e. first open end 74 and/or second end 76), or between about 0.001 inches and about 0.5 inches, or between about 0.001 inches and about 0.25 inches.

[0084] Stitching 71 and/or attachment features 62b are positioned proximally to any opening 110 located in the upper half of the entire length of the waste disposal device 12, within the upper third, and/or the upper quarter. In some embodiments, the opening 110 extends along a substantial portion of the width of the front 91 of the waste disposal device (i.e. to permit movement of a structure 16). As such, stitching 71 and/or attachment features 62b extend about the entirety of the width of the front 91 of waste disposal device 12, or less than the entirety of the width of the front 91, or greater than half of the width of the front 91. In some embodiments, the opening 110 is relatively small and provides access to a button or other interactive feature on the pail. In these embodiments, the stitching 71 and/or attachment features 62b extend about a smaller portion of the waste disposal device 12, for instance, extending over less than half of the height or width of the waste disposal device 12, or less than one third of the height or width, or less than a quarter, or less than one eighth.

[0085] As exemplified through various figures of the present disclosure, housing cover 70 has a first attachment feature 62b located about the periphery of the upper end of waste disposal device 12, thereby enabling the opening and closing of lid 82. The first attachment feature 62b is substantially parallel to the to the x-y plane. The first attachment feature 62b is substantially continuous about the entire periphery of the upper end of waste disposal device. The housing cover 70 has a second attachment feature 62b located about opening 110 permitting access to either or both of a damp structure 16 and waste removal opening 92 - door 92a and/or bin 92b (i.e. these openings 110 could be the same, adjacent and thus partially contiguous, and/or separate). In embodiments where the opening 92 permits movement of a clamp structure between open and closed positions, the housing cover 70 is suitably configured and thusry the second attachment feature 62b to permit free and unfettered movement of the clamp structure 16. [0086] In embodiments where the opening 92 is a door 92a and/or bin 92b, the housing cover 70 is able to bend about a hinge 98 or has a crease to permit easy access, or alternatively, does not have a hinge 98 or crease in order to keep a dean or continuous look about the cover (i.e. thusry hiding at least portions of the door 92a or bin 92b when it is in a dosed position). In yet further embodiments, the housing cover 70 is designed to bias the door 92a and/or bin 92b in opened and dosed positions. Such biasing can be achieved by having an extensible housing cover 70 that seeks to be in a smallest configuration (i.e. when the door 92a and/or bin 92b is fully open and the housing cover 70 is not substantially adjacent the surface of the door 92a and/or bin 92b) or when other mechanical forces assist in maintaining a condition (i.e. when the door 92a and/or bin 92b is dosed and the housing cover 70 is stretched to is normal covering state). Alternatively, mechanical means can be used to supplement opening or dosing, induding springs, ratchets, hinges, etc... The second attachment feature 62b is located about the periphery of such opening(s) 110. The second attachment feature has one or more portions that are substantially parallel to the x-y plane, and one or more portions that are substantially perpendicular to the x-y plane. [0087] The housing cover has a third attachment feature 62b located about the lower end of waste disposal device 12. The third attachment feature 62b enables the housing cover 70 to be correctly positioned on the waste disposal device 12 by either attaching to itself or attaching to the waste disposal device. The third attachment feature 62b is substantially parallel to the x-y plane. The third attachment feature 62b is substantially continuous about the entire periphery of the lower end of waste disposal device. One or more of the first second, and third attachment features 62b is(are) stitching 71. One or more of the first second, and third attachment features 62b is(are) located proximally to the end (i.e. upper or lower) or opening.

[0088] Covers 69 and/or 70 have patterns 120. Such patterns 120 include deviations in shape, color and/or material, thereby generating visual and tactile effects. In certain embodiments, patterns 120 have audible characteristics when touched by a user and/or a portion of the waste disposal device 12. Patterns 120 include the positioning of seams 112, openings 110, attachment features 111, as well as colors and materials.

[0089] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, the receiving portion 20 has a disposal cover 24. The disposal cover 24 has a top side 28 and a bottom side 30 generally opposite of the top side 28. The disposal cover has an outer periphery 32 and an inner periphery 34. Typically, the disposal cover outer periphery 32 is oriented towards the periphery of at least one of aspects of the receiving portion 20 and the outer periphery 52 of the cassette 22. Typically, the disposal cover inner periphery 34 is oriented towards the central opening 56 where waste is deposited into, through, and ultimately into the storage portion 18. For clarity, central opening 56 has features in the receiving portion 20 (having central opening 56a) and/or cassette 22 (having central opening 56b).

[0090] The disposal cover 24 assists in mitigating the amount of waste containing odrferous material that would normally touch exposed portions of the receiving portion 20 and/or cassette 22 that are not protected by liner material 14. Said differently, the disposal cover 24 is positioned within the receiving portion 20 to protect one or more exposed portions of the receiving portion 20 and/or cassette 22 such that the disposal cover 24 bottom side 30 is proximal and/or adjacent the exposed portions. The disposal cover top side 28 is positioned to create a barrier between waste awry of the central opening 56 and one or more of the aforementioned exposed surfaces. In some embodiments, disposal cover 24 assists in directing waste into central opening 56. [0091] In some embodiments, the inner periphery 34 of the disposal cover 24 is proximal the port 36 of cassette 22. In some embodiments, the disposal cover 24 inner periphery 34 Is adjacent and/or coincides with liner material 14 first open end 58. [0092] An inner lid 40 is provided and is connected to the receiving portion 40. Inner lid 40 has a hinge 98 enabling the inner lid 40 to rotate about the receiving portion 40. Inner lid 40 has a top surface 44 and a bottom surface 46 generally opposite of the top surface 44. Inner lid has an outer periphery 45 and an inner periphery 47. Inner lid 40 can have a variety of uses, including helping to secure liner material 14 and/or cassette 22 within the receiving portion 40, protecting receiving portion 40 from foreign matter, and/or assisting in directing waste into central opening 56. Inner lid 40 can be shaped like a funnel 38 to assist in directing waste into central opening. Additionally or alternatively, cassette 22 has an upper surface 48 shaped like a funnel 38 to further assist in directing waste into the central opening. [0093] In some embodiments, disposal cover 24 is configured to substantially cover the inner lid, and more specifically, substantially cover the top surface 44 of inner lid 40. In some embodiments, inner lid 40 and cassette 22 are not completely adjacent and thus form a gap 42 therebetween. Gap 42 is problematic in that it enables waste material being directed into central opening 56 to stray and errantly land within gap 42 (i.e. in the receiving portion 20 such as on cassette 22, particularly the upper surface 48, and on the inner lid 40, such as the bottom surface 46). In some such embodiments, disposal cover 24 extends beyond the inner periphery 45, extends beyond outer periphery 47, and/or extends beyond cassette upper surface 48 (perhaps proximal the cassette outer periphery 52 and/or cassette inner periphery).

[0094] In some embodiments, a gap 42 exists between cassette 22 and receiving portion 20. Gap 42 is between the outer periphery 52 and seat 17. Seat 17 is connectable to or integral with receiving portion 20. In such embodiments, disposal cover 24 extends between seat 17 and cassette 22, thereby covering gap 42. Disposal cover 24 attaches to cassette such that it Is proximal port 36. In some embodiments, cassette has attachment features 64c Attachment features 64c matingly engage disposal cover 24 to assist in covering exposed surfaces of the cassette, receiving portion 20 and/or seat 17. Attachment feature 64c is a tacky material, a clasp or other means of releasably (including mechanical and chemical means) securing with disposal cover 24 or attachment features 62a.

[0095] The disposal cover 24 has one or more attachment features 62a. Attachment features 62a are situated about the outer periphery 32, inner periphery 34 and/or along the bottom side 30. In some embodiments, attachment features 62 are elastomeric or extensible such that the disposal cover may be attachable despite imperfect alignment to the receiving portion 20 (and/or features within receiving portion 20 such as liner material 14, cassette 22, and/or inner lid 40) and/or are attachable to multiple configurations of receiving portions 20 of various shapes and sizes. Attachment features 62a may be releasably se curable to mating attachment features 64a on the waste disposal device 12, or more particularly, receiving portion 20.

[0096] In some embodiments, the disposal cover 24 has a tacky surface about its outer periphery 32, inner periphery 34 and/or along at least portions of bottom side 30. The tacky surface is an adhesive or other semi-stick material that allows for applying the disposal cover 24 directly to the desired exposed portions of receiving portion 20. The disposal cover 24 is peelable or removable such that the disposal cover can be removed for cleaning and/or replacement after it has been soiled.

[0097] Optionally, the disposal cover 24 and/or housing covers 69 and/or 70 may be equipped with a removal tab 68 (i.e., 68a for a disposal cover 24, 68b for a housing cover 70) to facilitate application of and/or removal from the waste disposal device 12. Removal tab 68a is sized, shaped and positioned to be grippable by a user's hand and facilitate application and/or removal. Removal tab 68a can be an opening 110 and/or an opening surrounding a feature of waste disposal device 12 (i.e. a lid 82, inner lid 40, button 110, handle 102, pedal 104, etc..)

[0098] In some embodiments, the cassette 22 has a surface or periphery (i.e. upper, lower, outer inner) having a two dimensional topography that may be linear, arcuate, undulating, stepped other geometric configuration and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the lower surface 50 is at least partially oblique with respect to the x-y plane. The cassette 22 can be a variety of cross- sectional shapes and configurations, including arcuate, polygonal, etc... As exemplified in FIGS. 18a-c, cassette 22 can have an ovoid, rhomboidal and/or triangular shape. As exemplified in FIG. 18b, cassette 22 has angle a and angle β, describing angular relationships between portions 55a, 55b, 55c and/or 55d the inner periphery 54 and/or outer periphery 52 (i.e., portions 57a, 57b, 57c, 57d). Angles a and β can be equal or unequal, and can create geometries ideal for increasing the central opening 56b, moving the largest dimensions of the central opening 56b towards the front-side of axis 140 or towards midline 142, and/or minimizing the overall outer periphery 52 of the cassette 22. In one embodiment, angle a is less than angle β. Angles a and B also apply to waste disposal device 12, receiving portion 20, any disposal cover 24 that are situated proximal outer periphery 52, inner periphery 54, portions 55a, 55b, 55c, 55d, portions 57a, 57b, 57c, 57d etc...

[0099] As exemplified in FIG. 18d, a disposal cover 24 is shown overlaying a funnel 38. Funnel 38 is optionally a portion of the inner lid 40 or upper surface 48 of cassette 22. Disposal cover 24 is transparent such that bottom side 30 having tacky surfaces 66 are visible, as referenced in FIG. 18d. Removal tab 68 is located such that disposal cover 24 can be easily placed and removed without interfering with tacky surfaces 66. [00100] Covers 24, 69 and/or 70 have a first pattern 120a and a second pattern 120b alternating along the z axis and/or in the x-y plane. In some embodiments, cover 69 has a first pattern 120a and cover 70 has a second pattern. In further embodiments, additional covers 69 have a third pattern 120c In other embodiments, cover 24, 69 and/or 70 has a first pattern 120a, a second pattern 120b, a third pattern 120c, and/or an nth pattern. In some embodiments, an nth cover has an nth pattern. Patterns 120 can have a common theme. For instance, patterns 120 can all include tessellations, insets/frames, mosaic, stencil, stripes, chevrons, fleur de lis, polka-dots, plaid, bricks, herringbone, caricatures, animal prints, cartoons, landscapes, etc... but vary in another aspect such as color, shade, hue, material, positioning of attachment mechanisms, magnitude and/or frequency of the aforementioned, etc...

[00101] In some embodiments, covers 24, 69 and/or 70 form a pattern in conjunction with portions of the waste disposal device that are exposed. In some embodiments, lid 82 and/or upper portion 116 are uncovered, middle portion 114 has cover 70 and/or coverts) 69, and lower portion 118 is uncovered; this provides a pattern 120 similar to a sandwich amongst covered and uncovered portions of the waste disposal device 12. In some embodiments, lid 82 is uncovered, exterior 72 is covered by cover 70 and/or coverts) 69, and waste removal opening 92 is uncovered; this provides contrast between covered and uncovered portions of the waste disposal device 12. In some embodiments, exterior 72 is covered by cover 70 and/or cover(s) 69, but openlng(s) 110 for one or more buttons 100, handles 102 and/or pedals 104 is(are) uncovered; this provides contrast between covered and uncovered portions of the waste disposal device 12.

[00102] Covers 24, 69 and/or 70 may have a material facilitating a transparent portion 133 such that a window 132 in the waste disposal device 12 is visible despite cover 24, 69 and/or 70 overlaying such window 132. In alternate embodiments, window 132 is visible through an opening 110.

[00103] Covers 24, 69 and/or 70 are made from known suitable materials, such as cotton, synthetic fibers, nylon, rayon, non-wovens, wovens, vinyl, plastics, films, shrink-wraps, recycled materials, natural, biodegradable materials, laminates and combinations thereof. Covers 69 and/or 70 can have coatings, additives or otherwise treated materials that are refreshable or that can be replenished, such as such as gels, carbon, baking soda, fragrance, or other additives such as antimicrobials, odor resistant materials, and or odor neutralizers. Covers 69 and/or 70 can have materials assisting in promoting water resistance, wrinkle resistance, tear-resistance, and/or stain resistance.

[00104] Additives and/or materials can be manufactured into covers 24, 69 and/or 70, can be post- processed and/or attached. In some additives are attached via a pack 130. Pack 130 is retained on or in waste disposal device 12 by connecting means 131 such that upon rotation of lid 82, inner lid 40, door 92a and/or bin 92b, pack 130 remains connected to the waste disposal device 12.

[00105] In some embodiments, covers 24, 69, and/or 70 have materials and/or additives that work in concert with materials or additives in components of the waste disposal system 10. For instance, cover 24 has material properties similar to liner material 14, such as oxygen transmission and/or water vapor transmission. Cover 70 may have a fragrance while waste disposal device has an odor neutralizing pack 130.

[00106] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments) disclosed as the best mode contemplated, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

What Is Claimed is:

1. A housing cover for a waste disposal device, comprising:

a body having an upper end and a lower end,

a longitudinal attachment feature generally perpendicular to the upper end and/or the lower end, the longitudinal attachment feature connecting the body to form the cover such that the cover is generally continuous;

an upper end attachment feature positioned proximal to the upper end;

a lower end attachment feature positioned proximal the lower end;

an opening positioned between the upper end and the lower end, the opening permitting access to the waste disposal device; and

an opening attachment feature positioned proximal the opening;

wherein the body is a material that is stretchable.

2. The housing cover according to claim 1, wherein the upper end attachment feature, the lower end attachment feature, and the opening attachment feature are stitching.

3. The housing cover according to claim 1, wherein the upper end attachment feature, the lower end attachment feature, and the opening are positioned between about 0.001 inches and about 1 inches from the upper end, the lower end, and the opening, respectively.

4. The housing cover according to claim 2, wherein the upper end attachment feature, the lower end attachment feature, and the opening are positioned between about 0.001 inches and about .5 inches from the upper end, the lower end, and the opening, respectively.

5. The housing cover according to claim 3, wherein the upper end attachment feature, the lower end attachment feature, and the opening are positioned between about 0.001 inches and about 0.25 inches from the upper end, the lower end, and the opening, respectively.

6. The housing cover according to daim 1, wherein the upper end attachment feature is

substantially continuous about an upper periphery of the housing cover.

7. The housing cover according to claim 1, wherein the lower end attachment feature is

substantially continuous about a lower periphery of the housing cover.

8. The housing cover according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal attachment feature is

substantially continuous along a length of the housing cover.

9. The housing cover according to daim 1, wherein the longitudinal attachment feature comprises one or more of stitching, laces, buttons, hook and loop fasteners, dasps, snaps, and zippers.

10. The housing cover according to daim 1, wherein the lower attachment feature forms a closed end of the housing cover.

11. The housing cover according to claim 1, wherein the lower attachment feature attaches to at least one of the housing cover and the waste disposal device.

12. The housing cover according to daim 1, wherein the opening is suitably sized and positioned to accommodate access to an interior of the waste storage device to remove waste.

13. The housing cover according to claim 12, wherein the opening includes a lower portion, a middle portion, and an upper portion, wherein the opening is modifiable between an at-rest and closed configuration where the cover is substantially continuous, and an open configuration where the opening is greater than in the closed state and permits access to the waste disposal device.

14. The housing cover according to claim 13, wherein the lower portion is generally parallel to the x- y plane, and the upper portion is generally parallel to the x-y plane.

15. The housing cover according to claim 14, wherein the upper portion comprises a bottom

attachment feature and an upper attachment feature, thereby securing the housing cover to a static portion of the waste disposal device and a movable portion of the waste disposal device.

16. The housing cover according to claim 13, wherein the middle portion is generally perpendicular to the x-y plane.

17. The housing cover according to daim 16, wherein the middle portion comprises a left side

attachment feature and a right side attachment feature, thereby securing the housing cover to a static portion of the waste disposal device.

18. The housing cover according to daim 17, wherein the middle portion also secures the housing cover to a movable portion of the waste disposal device.

19. The housing cover according to claim 1, wherein the opening is suitably sized and positioned to accommodate a damp mechanism to be moved between open and closed positions.

20. A housing cover 70 for a waste disposal device 12, comprising:

an upper end;

a lower end;

a longitudinal attachment feature generally perpendicular to the upper end and/or the lower end, the longitudinal attachment feature 62b connecting the body to form the cover such that the cover is generally continuous;

an upper end attachment feature 62b positioned proximal to the upper end;

a lower end attachment feature 62b positioned proximal the lower end;

an opening 92 positioned between the upper end and the lower end, the opening permitting access to the waste disposal device 12; and

an opening attachment feature 62b positioned proximal the opening 92;

wherein the housing cover is a material that is stretchable.

21. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end attachment feature 62b, the lower end attachment feature 62b, and the opening attachment feature 62b are stitching 71.

22. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end

attachment feature 62b, the lower end attachment feature 62b, and the opening 92 are positioned between about 0.001 inches and about 1 inches from the upper end, the lower end, and the opening 92, respectively.

23. The housing cover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end attachment feature 62b, the lower end attachment feature 62b, and the opening 92 are positioned between about 0.001 inches and about .5 inches from the upper end, the lower end, and the opening 92, respectively.

24. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end

attachment feature 62b, the lower end attachment feature 62b, and the opening 62b are positioned between about 0.001 inches and about 0.25 inches from the upper end, the lower end, and the opening 92, respectively.

25. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end

attachment feature 62b is substantially continuous about an upper periphery of the housing cover 70.

26. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lower end

attachment feature 62b is substantially continuous about a lower periphery of the housing cover 70.

27. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal

attachment feature 62b is substantially continuous along a length of the housing cover 70.

28. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal

attachment feature 62b comprises one or more of stitching, laces, buttons, hook and loop fasteners, clasps, snaps, and zippers.

29. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding daims, wherein the lower attachment feature 62b attaches to at least one of the housing cover 70 and the waste disposal device 12.

30. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the opening 92 includes a lower portion, a middle portion, and an upper portion, wherein the opening 92 is modifiable between an at-rest and closed configuration where the housing cover 70 is substantially continuous, and an open configuration where the opening 92 Is greater than in the closed state and permits access to the waste disposal device 12.

31. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lower portion is generally parallel to the x-y plane, and the upper portion is generally parallel to the x-y plane.

32. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper portion comprises a bottom attachment feature 62b and an upper attachment feature 62b, thereby securing the housing cover to a static portion of the waste disposal device 12 and a movable portion of the waste disposal device 12.

33. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the middle portion comprises a left side attachment feature 62b and a right side attachment feature 62b, thereby securing the housing cover 70 to a static portion of the waste disposal device 12.

34. The housing cover 70 according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the middle portion also secures the housing cover 70 to a movable portion of the waste disposal device 12.