WO2010070352A1 - Pet sanitary apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to training domestic pets and, in particular, to a cat tray apparatus facilitating repeat use, high absorption and tidiness. A porous layer having a structure adapted to restrict dislodgement of material of the layer and, optionally, a separate absorbent layer are provided for placement in a tray. The tray is preferably formed from water resistant cardboard and all the components together with a scoop and disposal bags can be provided in a kit with a carry case.

Description

PET SANITARY APPARATUS

The present invention relates to training domestic pets and in particular to a cat tray apparatus facilitating repeat use, high absorption, and tidiness.

In many homes, various animals such as cats, dogs, and/or other animals are commonly kept as domestic pets which are predominantly looked after indoors. For reasons of good order and hygiene, it is usual for young pets to be trained or "housebroken". To assist with training young cats and dogs in particular, litter trays are used which typically comprise a plastic container or tray into which litter in the form of loose granules is introduced to receive pet waste, such as urine and faecal material. The granules are scattered to provide a rough covering over the base of the tray. Granules can be moisture absorbent in certain cases, such that moisture from the pet waste can be absorbed by the litter granules.

Although widely used, there are numerous drawbacks associated with such litter trays. One problem is that when the tray is used by a cat or dog, the litter may be moved around in the tray. As a result, the litter can become unevenly distributed in the tray. If the tray is then re-used, there may not be sufficient litter in a particular area for the litter to absorb moisture. In addition, the litter may be tipped out of the tray by the cat or dog, for example if the litter is caught in their paws or perhaps pushed over the side of the tray, creating unwanted mess on the floor.

A further drawback is that used litter granules which are saturated with moisture need to be removed. An unpleasant odour may also be emitted from used granules.

To maintain and keep the tray fresh and in working order, litter may need to be replaced, and re-spread across the tray base quite regularly. This can be time consuming and costly.

According to a first aspect of the invention therefore, there is provided a pet sanitary apparatus for training a domestic pet, the apparatus comprising: means for absorbing moisture from pet waste, said means comprising a porous layer; and a tray adapted to receive the porous layer; wherein the porous layer defines a structure adapted to restrict dislodgement of material of the layer.

The structure assists to keep the layer intact and to reduce movement and scattering of constituents when the apparatus is used by a domestic pet, for example, a cat, puppy, or other pet.

The structure may be a strengthened and/or hardened portion of the porous layer. The structure may be a surface configured to support a domestic pet. The surface may be a planar surface. The surface and/or layer may extend from a first side of the tray to a second opposing side of the tray. The surface and/or porous layer may be continuous.

The structure may be a porous membrane, for example being provided with holes and/or pathways, for transmission of liquid therethrough.

The structure may include particles bonded together to form a surface of consolidated particles.

The porous layer may be adapted to absorb, contain, store and/or hold moisture, and/or may be adapted to permit transmission, passage, percolation and/or diffusion of moisture therethrough. In this way, moisture absorbed through the surface helps to keep the surface dry and suitable for repeated use.

The porous layer may include porous materials. The porous materials may be natural materials. Alternatively or in addition, the porous layer may comprise a synthetic material.

Preferably, the apparatus is adapted to be readily disposed of after a period of use, thus, it may have the nature of a disposable product.

Preferably, the apparatus is formed from environmentally friendly materials, such as materials that readily decompose in the natural environment, and/or which are recyclable materials. Accordingly, the environmental impact of the apparatus is reduced or even minimal. The means for absorbing pet waste may comprise an absorbent layer. The absorbent layer may comprise solid materials selected from one or more of the group comprising: sawdust, fibrous particles; clay particles; newspaper fibres, charcoal; sand; odour neutralisers; and disinfectant.

The absorbed layer may be adapted to release a surfactant, in use, upon contact with moisture. The surfactant may be a wetting agent, for example, a soil wetting agent. The absorbent layer may include granules incorporating a wetting agent. The granules are adapted to permit leaching and/or release of the wetting agent from the granule upon contact with moisture to facilitate it being absorbed into the layer. The release may be a gradual release to facilitate longer term performance.

The porous layer may comprise solid materials selected from one or more of the group comprising: sawdust; fibrous particles; clay particles; newspaper fibres; charcoal; sand; odour neutralisers; and disinfectant.

The porous layer may be formed from a dried mixture of the solid materials and a papier mache solution.

The means for absorbing moisture from pet waste may include a plurality of absorbent and/or porous layers.

Preferably, the tray is constructed from a foldable sheet of cardboard. The cardboard may comprise corrugated cardboard. The tray may be seam-free in use, for preventing liquid and/or moisture from leaking through the cardboard tray. The sheet of cardboard may be water resistant, for example, by applying a waterproof varnish or glaze to a surface of the cardboard.

More specifically, the layer may comprise natural constituent materials. In turn, such materials may emit natural odours. The tray may be formed from a recyclable cardboard material.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a pet sanitary kit, the kit comprising a pet sanitary apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention; and one or more of: a scoop for manually removing pet waste; a pet waste bag for containing and disposing of manually removed pet waste; a carry case for the pet sanitary apparatus; a disposal bag for containing and disposing of the pet sanitary apparatus and; a floor mat for locating the pet sanitary apparatus thereon to protect against spillage from the pet sanitary apparatus.

This may facilitate improved tidiness, cleanliness and convenience of use.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a pet sanitary apparatus, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) forming a porous layer for absorbing moisture from pet waste;

(b) creating a surface structure in the porous layer which is resistant to dislodgement of material of the layer; and

(c) receiving the porous layer in a tray.

The method may include pre-mixing solid materials into a solution to form a wet mixture. The method may include mixing solids and a papier mache solution. The wet mixture may comprise 50% solids and 50% solution. The method may include adding an adhesive to the mixture for facilitating bonding of particles to form the porous layer and/or the surface structure.

Step method may include expelling liquid from the wet mixture for allowing the solid materials to bond sufficiently to form the porous layer and/or the surface structure. The step of expelling liquid may further include disposing the liquid by pumping it out of the mixture. The method may include pressing the liquid, for example, using a press or push surface with holes provided through the surface, thereby allowing fluid being expelled to pass through the holes and accumulate in different region to facilitate expulsion of fluid from the mixture. The method may include drying the mixture to facilitate removal of moisture and liquid. Drying the mixture may include heating the layer. The step of heating the layer may include placing the layer in an oven to warm it up.

The step (c) may include shaping the porous layer to fit the tray. The step (c) may include sizing and fitting the layer to the tray. The method may include forming an absorbent layer to facilitate absorbing moisture. The step of forming an absorbent layer may include mixing solids into a solution to form a wet mixture. The step of forming an absorbent layer may include drying the wet mixture.

The method may include forming the absorbent layer from different materials and/or a different proportion of materials compared with those used to form the porous layer.

The method may include constructing the tray by folding a continuous sheet material, for example, cardboard or the like. The method may include forming a scoop and scoop disposal bags for removal of pet waste. The method may include forming a floor mat for receiving the pet sanitary apparatus. The method may include packing the pet sanitary apparatus in a sleeve and/or an attache case. The method may include shaping a cardboard sheet to form the sleeve and/or attache case.

Further method steps may be defined with reference to features of the first and second aspects of the invention where appropriate.

There will now be described, by way of example only, embodiments of the invention with reference to the following drawings, of which:

Figure 1 is a perspective representation of a single layer pet sanitary apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional representation of a two-layer pet sanitary apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional representation of a three-layer pet sanitary apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 shows a tray for a pet sanitary apparatus of Figures 1 , 2 and/or 3 in its unfolded configuration;

Figure 5 shows a pet waste scoop and disposal bag forming part of the pet sanitary kit according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 6 shows a disposal bag for the pet sanitary apparatus of Figures 1 to 3 and forming part of a pet sanitary kit according to an embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 7 shows a carry case for a pet sanitary kit according to an embodiment of the invention.

With reference firstly to Figure 1 , there is shown generally a pet sanitary apparatus 10 for training a pet. The apparatus 10 includes a tray 14 which contains a layer 16 of consolidated particulate material (constituting a "porous layer") defining an upper surface 16u. The consolidated nature of the material forming the layer gives rise to upper surface 16u of the layer, and in this example the layer as a whole, a "crusty" or hardened structure (constituting a "surface structure"), where the particles making up the layer are held together. This structure of the upper surface 16u keeps particles of the layer 16 in place and the surface intact so that a pet using the surface for training purposes would not be able to readily dislodge and displace material away from the surface 16u. The layer is porous so that moisture from the pet waste is drawn through the upper surface 16u into the layer where it is absorbed (constituting means for absorbing moisture from pet waste) keeping the surface clean for repeat use.

The tray has lips 12p which extend upward of the surface 16u to facilitate containing pet waste and any other material in the tray and its area of use 16a. The tray helps to contain moisture, should for any reason liquid leak through to the bottom of the layer 16. In Figure 1 , the apparatus 10 is also provided with a mat 14 on which the tray rests. The mat is designed to catch any material that may be pushed out of the tray when it is used to provide extra protection of interior floors and furnishings when training a pet.

In the above-described example, the layer as a whole forms a single layer consolidated table which rests in the tray 12. The consolidated layer is created by drying a wet mixture of 50% by volume solid materials and 50% by volume papier mache solution. In Figure 1 , the solid materials consist of sand and compost in a 4 to 1 by volume ratio. The papier mache solution consists of 1 % newsprint and 99% by volume tap water. Fibres from the newsprint help to bind the constituents upon being dried. The mixture is pressed and dried to expel fluid to create the porous layer. The pressing and drying processes may help to control level of consolidation and porosity of the layer. The dried layer also includes clay wetting granules which incorporate a wetting agent. The wetting agent is leached out of the granule by moisture and acts to help the moisture to absorb into the layer.

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the water-to-newsprint percentage ratios of the papier mache solution could be different. For example, the paper mache solution may contain 5% w/w newspaper particles and 95% water. In other cases, the papier mache solution may contain 50% w/w of newspaper particles.

Turning now to Figure 2, there is shown a similar pet sanitary apparatus 1 10, but with two layers contained in the tray for absorbing moisture 1 16k, 1 161. The upper layer

1 16k has a similar constituency to the layer 16 described above with reference to Figure

1 , although it is designed in terms of thickness and porosity to permit moisture to pass through the layer and into the bottom layer 1 161.

The bottom layer 1 161 is a super-absorbent layer. This layer is also created from a mixture of 50% by volume solid materials and 50% by volume papier mache solution. In this case however, the solids include large particle sawdust mixed with clay in a ratio of 4 to 1 .

With further reference to Figure 3, a pet sanitary apparatus 210, has three layers received in the tray for absorbing moisture 216k, 2161, 216j. The upper layer 216k and bottom layer 2161 have a similar constituency to respective layers 1 16k, 1 161 described above. The third, middle layer 216j is located intermediate of the upper and lower layers. The layered structure is again formed from a wet mixture of 50% by volume solids and 50% by volume papier mache solution. The solids include equal amounts by volume of clay, sand and compost. The solids also contain charcoal fragments constituting 10% by volume of the solid materials of the middle layer. The charcoal functions to remove odour from the liquid. This occurs through a chemical reaction of carbon with odour-producing constituents of the absorbed liquid. The charcoal also neutralises toxins so that if toxins are present in the waste, they will be absorbed into the charcoal.

The bottom layer in this instance is also provided with an antibacterial agent to disinfect the liquid absorbed into the layered structure. The antibacterial agent is injected to the layer once it is hardened. Thus, the different layers in this embodiment perform different functions on the liquid, namely: removing moisture from the upper surface 216u via the porous layer 216k; deodorising the liquid in layer 216j; and absorbing and disinfecting it in layer 2161. In this way, the apparatus can be used repeatedly in homes safely and conveniently.

The apparatus described above are generally made by first thoroughly mixing together the solids and the papier mache solution, forming a slurry mixture. The solution contains particles which can act as an adhesive. The ingredients are added gradually to a mixing container to ensure good mixing, but are typically added in no particular order.

The mixture then undergoes a drying process to form the layered structure. First, some pressure is applied to the mixture from above, by pushing a press into the wet mixture. On pushing the press into the mixture, liquid is displaced, and escapes through expulsion pathways defined by the press, typically defined between the edge of the container and a side surface of the press, or through holes provided through a leading push surface of the press. The expelled liquid thereby separates from the solids and is forced up above the solids toward the surface of the mixture so that it can be siphoned off or pumped away and discarded.

The mixture is then heated to remove any excess liquid, and dry out the solids further. The container may be placed in an oven heating it up to around 100 to 200⁰C. As a result of the pressing and heating steps, the solids consolidate or bond together as adhesive particles of the liquid solution are able to bond with the solids. The process results in a dry artificially produced "turf" of natural consolidated particles, which is then shaped to size and fitted to a tray. Porosity of the layers may be controlled by the degree of pressing and heating of the layers.

The above described apparatus is constructed from natural, biodegradable materials to help reduce the impact on the environment when the apparatus is finally disposed of. The constituent materials of the layers comprise natural particles or fibres.

The mat 18 referred to in Figure 1 specifically, is formed from a thick paper. The tray is formed from a cardboard sheet, and is waterproofed to protect and prevent leakage through the cardboard in the event that any moisture penetrates through the layers and into contact with the cardboard surfaces. It will be appreciated that in embodiments of the invention, synthetic particles may be included in the layers. Figure 4 shows the cardboard sheet 12s used to form the tray 12. The tray walls 12w are folded inward along fold lines 12f according to arrows 12a. The corner portions 12c are urged and folded outward according to arrows 12d. This results in folding of the corner portions 12c about the lines 12g to form a triangular tab outside the tray edge, which is then pushed against and bonded to an outer surface of the tray walls 12w (not shown). In this way, the tray is formed from a continuous rectangular section of cardboard. This benefits containment of materials in the tray, as it eliminates any need to break the sheet surface.

In an embodiment, the apparatus described above may be provided as part of a kit including extra items as shown with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 shows a scoop 40 and complementary paper disposal bags 42 for clearing up and containing the pet waste for disposal. This facilitates cleanliness and hygienic handling of the pet sanitary apparatus and pet waste. Figure 6 shows a large paper disposal bag 52 sized to receive the apparatus as a whole, including other components of the kit, to facilitate tidy disposal of the apparatus when finally to be disposed.

In another embodiment, the apparatus described above may be carried in an attache case 60 as shown in Figure 7. The attache case 60 is also formed from sheet cardboard which wraps around the apparatus and is fastened shut by a tongued tab 62a engaging in corresponding slots 62b near the top portion of the case. The case is provided with a handle 64 for conveniently carrying the apparatus.

In this embodiment, the attache case contains the apparatus 10, together with the mat 14 and disposal bag 52 which are stored flat against the base of the apparatus tray 12, between the tray base and an inner front surface 6Of of the attache case 60. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the scoop 40 and bags 42 could also be stored flat within the case 60.

The presently described pet sanitary apparatus provides a number of advantages. In particular, the removal of pet waste moisture from the surface and absorbing the moisture within a consolidated layer is beneficial as it keeps the upper surface of the layer clean, and suitable for repeat use. The consolidated nature of the layer surface structure prevents dislodgement of particles when used by pets, further facilitating repeat use and reducing mess. The natural materials from which the apparatus is formed provides it with a low impact on the environment. Extra features such as scoops and disposal bags provide a convenient kit with everything needed to keep the apparatus clean during use and facilitate clean and tidy disposal of the apparatus.

Various improvements and modifications may be made within the scope of the invention herein described. In particular, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the ratios of constituent particles making up the layers of the apparatus may be different whilst providing similar effects with regard to removal and absorption of moisture. Further, the order of the layers described with reference to Figures 2 and 3 may be varied according to requirements.

Alternative embodiments are possible to increase the usefulness of the invention. For example, many households may already have conventional litter trays generally used with loose litter material. Accordingly, it is envisaged that the one or more layers of the pet sanitary apparatus could be supplied separately from the tray and sized or shaped for fitment into a conventional, generally plastics material, litter tray. A range of sizes would allow use with most common standard type of litter trays.

As an extension of the above embodiment the various component parts of the system could be supplied separately to further enhance the flexibility of the system.

Claims

1 . A pet sanitary apparatus for training a domestic pet, the apparatus comprising: means for absorbing moisture from pet waste, said means comprising a porous layer; and a tray adapted to receive the porous layer; wherein the porous layer defines a structure adapted to restrict dislodgement of material of the layer.

2. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the structure may be a strengthened and/or hardened portion of the porous layer.

3. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the strengthened and/or hardened portion of the porous layer extends continuously from a first side of the tray to a second opposing side of the tray.

4. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structure may be a porous membrane for transmission of liquid therethrough.

5. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structure may include particles bonded together to form a surface of consolidated particles.

6. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the porous layer may be adapted to absorb, contain, store and/or hold moisture, and/or may be adapted to permit transmission, passage, percolation and/or diffusion of moisture therethrough.

7. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the means for absorbing pet waste further comprises an absorbent layer.

8. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the absorbent layer may comprise solid materials selected from one or more of the group comprising: sawdust, fibrous particles; clay particles; newspaper fibres, charcoal; sand; odour neutralisers; and disinfectant.

9. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 7 or 8, wherein the absorbent layer may be adapted to release a surfactant, in use, upon contact with moisture.

10. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the surfactant is a wetting agent.

1 1. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein the absorbent layer may include granules incorporating the wetting agent.

12. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the porous layer may comprise solid materials selected from one or more of the group comprising: sawdust; fibrous particles; clay particles; newspaper fibres; charcoal; sand; odour neutralisers; and disinfectant.

13. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the porous layer may be formed from a dried mixture of the solid materials and a papier mache solution.

14. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the means for absorbing moisture from pet waste may include a plurality of absorbent and/or porous layers.

15. Pet sanitary apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tray is constructed from a foldable sheet of water resistant cardboard.

16. A pet sanitary kit, comprising a pet sanitary apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims and one or more of: a scoop for manually removing pet waste; a pet waste bag for containing and disposing of manually removed pet waste; a carry case for the pet sanitary apparatus; a disposal bag for containing and disposing of the pet sanitary apparatus; and a floor mat for locating the pet sanitary apparatus thereon to protect against spillage from the pet sanitary apparatus.

17. A method of manufacturing a pet sanitary apparatus, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) forming a porous layer for absorbing moisture from pet waste;

(b) creating a surface structure in the porous layer which is resistant to dislodgement of material of the layer; and

(c) receiving the porous layer in a tray.