GB2452051A

GB2452051A - Combined pet carrier and litter tray.

Info

Publication number: GB2452051A
Application number: GB0716320A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Warwicker
Original assignee: IGLOO CATS Ltd
Current assignee: IGLOO CATS Ltd
Priority date: 2007-08-21
Filing date: 2007-08-21
Publication date: 2009-02-25
Also published as: WO2009024793A1; GB0716320D0

Abstract

A combined pet carrier/litter tray 110 has a base portion 112, a cover portion 114 and a latching mechanism 126 for securing the cover portion to the base portion so as to form a space for a pet therein. A door 122 having a lock 224 to confine a pet therein is provided. The combined pet carrier/litter tray has a handle 124 for carrying the combined pet carrier/litter tray with a pet confined in said space. The base portion can be provided with a liner and filtering means for removal or masking of pet odours.

Description

COMBINED PET CARRIER/LITTER TRAY This invention relates to a litter tray and in particular but not limited to an improved litter tray for a domestic cat.

Pet carriers generally comprise a closable enclosure that a pet is put inside for transit.

If a pet soils its pet carrier, the soil may slop around the enclosure during transit or may spill out of it. Soiling of pet carriers by pets in transit is not only unpleasant and unhygienic for the confined pet but also posses a health risk to persons coming into contact with the carrier and/or any spilt soil as it may carry a variety of bacteria or parasites, for example feline toxoplasmosis or toxacaria canis. Furthermore, the prolonged presence of pet soil in a pet carrier may case olfactory offence.

Pet litter trays generally comprise a pet litter containing tray designed to be located in a single location for use prior to disposal of the litter. Pet litter is generally employed to absorb moisture from faeces and urine, this reduces unpleasant odours such as ammonia and consequently makes the proximity of used litter more tolerable to humans. Pet litter comes in a variety of forms including: conventional litters comprising sand or clay; clumping litters comprising calcium bentonite, quartz, and/or diatomaceous earth; silica gel litters such as sodium silicate; and biodegradable litters such as recycled paper, wood shavings, corn cobs, dried orange peel, or wheat bran.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a litter tray for a pet comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray, in use, with a pet therein; wherein said litter tray comprises means for confining a pet in said space.

The combined litter tray and pet carrier removes the need for a pet owner to have two separate products which take up unnecessary space. Confining the animal in the litter tray has the advantage that the litter tray can be used as a combined litter tray and pet carrier for pets that are prone to attempt escape.

The securing means may be configured to take substantiaUy the full weight of the pet and base portion, during use as a pet carrier, without the base becoming fully or partially detached from said cover portion.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a litter tray for a pet comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray, in use, with a pet therein; wherein said securing means is configured to take substantially the full weight of the pet and base portion, during use as a pet carrier, without the base becoming fully or partially detached from said cover portion.

By allowing the securing means to take the full weight of the pet and tray the pet carrier need not have any additional means for supporting the pet and base. For example the cover need not be designed to engage with the base portion to support the weight of the pet. The cover and base portions may, nevertheless comprise interlocking portions which, in operation, support some of the pets weight.

The base portion is preferably configured to receive a fitted liner.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a litter tray for a pet comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray, in use, with a pet therein; wherein said base portion is configured to receive a fitted liner.

Providing a base portion configured for use with a conformal or fitted liner has the advantage that pet faeces, smelly litter or the like is unlikely to find its way between the liner and the tray thereby making cleaning more difficult.

The litter tray may comprise filtering means for removal or masking of pet odours, for adding an aroma to the space, and/or for adding an airborne medicament to said space. The filtering means may include, for example a deodorant, an anti-bacterial agent, a carbon filter, a substance for adding an associated aroma to the space and/or the like. The aromatic substance may comprise an essential oil, for example, one having an aroma for exerting a calming influence on said pet.

The filtering means preferably comprises a grille portion, for example, to allow ingress and egress of air into and out of the pet space to allow replacement and/or masking of pet odours. The filtering means may comprise part of the cover portion, for example at the top of the cover to advantageously allow rising smelly air (e.g. warmed be the presence of a pet) to exit with greater ease, and cooler external air to enter. The filtering means may nevertheless comprise part of said base portion, for example, near the source of greatest smell.

The securing means preferably comprises at least one, preferably at least two, and even more preferably at least three latch portions. The use of three latch portions has been found to provide unexpected additional strength over the use of two latch portions alone, especially if the latch portions are arranged around the periphery of the carrier, for example, on respective sides and at a front or back.

The (or at least one) latch portion may be mounted on the cover portion and/or the (or at (east one) latch portion may be mounted on said base portion. The latch portions may be completely detachable from both portions. The securing means may comprise at least two latch portions at least one of which is mounted on the base portion, and at least one of which is mounted on the cover portion.

The securing means may comprise a hinge portion (hingedly) connecting said base to said cover portion.

The or at least one handle portion is preferably located on the cover portion and may be located at the top of said cover portion (e.g. centrally at the top), possibly with the filter means around the periphery thereof. Having a handle at the top allows one handed carrying which is particularly beneficial for smaller, relatively light pets.

The or at (east one handle portion may be located on the base portion. Such location is beneficial for heavier pets, or for lifting the carrier to a greater height (e.g. to place it in a vehicle). In this regard two handle portions located symmetrically on the base are particularly advantageous though not essential.

The or at least one handle portion may be located on a side of said pet carrier, for example for use with another handle portion and/or another part of the camer in two handed operation.

The litter tray preferably comprises means for allowing a pet to enter and/or exit the space said pet carrier when said cover portion and base portion are secured to one another. The entry/exit means may comprise an opening in said cover and/or base portion and a flap, door or other means for closing said opening. The closure means may be configured for slidably closing said opening, for hingedly closing said opening, or the like. The closure means may comprise a grille or mesh (advantageously assisting in the evacuation of smelly air or the like).

The closure means may comprise a translucent or transparent material (advantageously allowing an owner to see inside and a pet to see out, whilst confining smells inside the tray/carrier). The closure means may comprise an opaque material (advantageously inhibiting heating of the pet space inside the litter under a greenhouse type effect). The closure means may comprise a first door or flap of translucent or transparent material, and a second door or flap of an opaque material, at least one of which may be replaceably removable. The closure means may itself be provided with filter means for removing pet odours.

The confining means may comprise a lock portion for locking said closure in a closed position.

The base portion is preferably generally elliptical, more preferably circular (at least in part) having a perimeter comprising at least one generally curved portion.

The base portion may have a perimeter comprising at least one generally flat portion configured to fit against a structural feature of a room, for example a wall, skirting board, and/or a pair of generally flat portions arranged for fitting against walls or skirting boards of a corner of a room. Where the base is configured to fit against a skirting board or wall, the cover portion may also be configured in a similar way, for example, with a curved portion configured to extend over the top of a skirting board from the base portion.

The base portion may be configured to be stackable with other similar base portions.

S

The base portion is preferably in the shape of a tray for receiving pet litter and in particular a predetermined quantity of pet litter to a desired depth. The predetermined depth may be marked internally or externally on the base.

The base portion may comprise an outwardly extending lip around at least part of its upper perimeter. The cover portion may similarly comprise an outwardly extending lip around at least part of its lower perimeter. The base portion and cover portion lips are preferably configured to abut one another (either directly or indirectly through a liner) at least in part. The securing means are preferably configured to secure said base and cover portions to one another by securing said abutting lips to one another.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a base portion for the litter tray according to any aspect.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a cover portion for the litter tray according to any aspect.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a liner configured for fitted (conformal) engagement with the base portion of the litter tray according to any aspect.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a pet carrier comprising a litter tray according to any aspect.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a pet carrier comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; means for allowing said pet carrier to be carried; wherein said base portion comprises a litter tray configured for receiving a fitted liner.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a pet carrier comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray, in use, with a pet therein; wherein said pet carrier comprises filter means for removal or masking of pet odours, for adding an aroma to the space, andlor for adding an airborne medicament to said space.

The pet carrier may comprise any preferable feature of the litter tray according to any other aspect.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a liner for a litter tray, said liner comprising a tray configured for fitted (conformal) engagement with the base portion of the litter tray according to any corresponding aspect.

The liner is preferably configured for fitted engagement with the base portion to within a tolerance of 10mm, more preferably within a tolerance of 5mm, 3mm or 1mm, and yet more preferably within a tolerance of 0.5 mm.

The liner is preferably of a substantially rigid construction. For example, the liner preferably has a generally elliptical, or circular, perimeter (at least in part) comprising at least one curved portion thereby enhancing rigidity for a given thickness of material.

The perimeter may compnse at least one flat portion configured for conformity with a feature of the base portion configured to fit against a structural feature of a room, for example a wall, skirting board, and/or a pair of generally flat portions arranged for fitting against walls or skirting boards.

The liner may be configured to be stackable with other similar liners, and more preferably stackable within the base portion.

The liner is preferably in the shape of a tray for receiving pet litter and in particular a predetermined quantity of pet litter to a desired depth. The predetermined depth may be marked internally or externally on the liner.

The liner preferably comprises an outwardly extending lip around at least part of its upper perimeter. The lip is preferably configured to be sandwiched between corresponding lips of said base and cover portions to secure said liner in said litter tray.

The liner may be impregnated with a substance such as a deodorant, an anti-bacterial agent, a substance for adding an associated aroma to the pet space, and or the like.

The liner may be made of moulded material for example recycled cardboard, paper, paper pulp, or the like for disposability, or plastic for reusability.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a liner for a litter tray, said liner comprising: a substantially rigid tray having a generally elliptical or circular perimeter comprising at least one curved portion, and at least one flat portion; wherein said tray has a height of between 50mm and 150mm for receiving litter to a predetermined depth.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a kit comprising a litter tray according to any litter tray aspect and a liner according to any liner aspect.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a kit comprising a pet carrier according to any pet carrier aspect and a liner according to any liner aspect.

The kit may be provided with a pad, which may conform to a floor of the liner/base portion for, for providing comfort to the pet and/or for soaking up wet waste without it soaking into the liner (especially beneficial for use with disposable liners).

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an example embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 2a shows a front view of an example embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 2b shows a side view of the combined pet carrier/litter tray of Figure 2a; Figure 2c shows a plan view of the combined pet carrier/litter tray of Figure 2a; Figure 3a shows a front view of a second example embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 3b shows a side view of the combined pet carrier/litter tray of Figure 3a; Figure 3c shows a plan view of the combined pet carrier/litter tray of Figure 3a; Figure 4a shows a plan view of an example base unit of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 4b shows a cross section through the base unit of figure 4a; Figure 4c shows a cross section through the base unit of figure 4a; Figure 4d shows a side view of the base unit of figure 4a; Figure 4e shows an end view of the base unit of figure 4a; Figure 4f shows an end view of the base unit of figure 4a; Figure 5a shows a plan view of an example removable litter tray of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 5b shows a cross section through the removable litter tray of figure 5a; Figure 5c shows a cross section through the removable litter tray of figure 5a; Figure 5d shows a side view of the removable litter tray of figure 5a; Figure 5e shows an end view of the removable litter tray of figure 5a; Figure 5f shows an end view of the removable litter tray of figure 5a; Figure 6a shows a plan view of an example lid of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 6b shows a side view of the lid of figure 6a; Figure 6c shows a front view of the lid of figure 6a; Figure 6d shows a rear view of the lid of figure 6a; Figure 7a shows a front view of an example door of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 7b shows a top view of the door of figure 7a; Figure 7c shows a cross section through the door of figure 7a; Figure 7d shows a side view of the door of figure 7a; Figure 7e shows a cross section through the door of figure 7a; Figure 8a shows a plan view of an example handle of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 8d shows a side view of the handle of figure 8a; Figure 8c shows an end view of the handle of figure 8a; Figure 8d shows a cross section through the handle of figure 8a; Figure 9a shows a plan view of an example grille of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 9b shows an end view of the grille of figure 9a; Figure 9c shows a front view of the grille of figure 9a; Figure 9d shows a cross section through the grille of figure 9a; Figure lOa shows a plan view of an example latching device of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure lOb shows a side view of the latching device of figure lOa; Figure 1 Oc shows a cross sectional view of the latching device of figure 1 Oa; Figure 1 Od shows a side view of the latching device of figure iDa; Figure 1 Oe shows a cross sectional view of the latching device of figure 1 Oa; Figure 1 la shows a plan view of an example door lock of the combined pet carrierllitter tray; Figure 1 lb shows a side view of the door lock of figure 1 la; Figure 1 ic shows a top view of the door lock of figure 11 a; Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the litter tray of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 1 3a shows an example foldable litter tray of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 13 b shows the litter tray of figure 1 3a in a semi-folded configuration; I0 Figure 1 3c shows the litter tray of figure 1 3a in a folded configuration; Figure 13d shows another example foldable litter tray of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; Figure 15 shows an alternative embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray; and Figure 15 shows another alternative embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray.

The term pet as employed herein should be taken to encompass not only domesticated animals, but also wild or semi-tame animals as may from time to time require transportation.

Figure 1 shows an example embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray described herein. The combined pet carrier/litter tray 110 comprises a base 112, a lid 114, a removable fitted liner 116 configured to receive litter materials 118, a door 122 to enable access to and egress from the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray by pets, a lock to retain the door in position not shown, a handle 124 and at least one latch devices 126. In figure 1 the removable fitted liner 116 comprises a removable insert 120 to retain the litter material 118 in the removable fitted liner 116 (this may also keep the litter material fresh), it will be appreciated, however, that the fitted liner 116 may be arranged in a number of different ways, for example an empty liner, without the removable insert 120.

Such an arrangement would provide a cost advantage and would allow a user to fill the inserts themselves with their own choice of litter.

Figures 2a, 2b and 2c show respectively front, side and plan views of an example embodiment of the combined pet carrier/litter tray. In this embodiment, the lid 114 features a recess configured to receive the handle 124. The lid 114 and handle 124 are complementarily shaped for fixed engagement with one another to enable carrying of the combined pet carrier/litter tray 110. The handle 124 is surrounded by a grille 212 that features apertures 214 to enable the passage of air from the interior of the lid to the surrounding environment. The apertures 214 form at least part of a conduit between the interior and exterior of the lid. In some permutations, the conduits may contain one or more filters (not shown), either wholly or partially occluding the conduits. The filters may serve to remove unpleasant odours, for example by means of a carbon filter, or to introduce pleasant odours to mask the underlying smell of the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray.

The lid 114 may further feature a porch 216 which may serve to increase the interior volume of the combined pet carrier/litter tray, or to protect the interior of the designed pet carrier/litter tray from environmental elements, for example rain or snow. The porch 216 may serve to direct odours to the filters and thereby reducing the olfactory impact of the combined pet carrier/litter tray. The porch 216 may further serve to facilitate the attachment of the door 122. For example, the door 122 may be swingedly attached to the lid 114 by means of a hinge 218 mounted on the porch 216. In the absence of porch 216, door 122 woutd hang down from the domed lid substantially reducing the interior volume of the combined pet carrier/litter tray.

The or each latch device 126 is configured to support the weight of a pet positioned within the combined pet carrier/litter tray when the combined pet carrier/litter tray is lifted by handle 124.

In the example of figures 2a, 2b and 2c two latch devices 126 are employed, disposed about lips 220, 222 respectively of the lid 114 and the base 112. In this example, the latch devices 126 are disposed diametrically on the sides of the combined pet carrier/litter tray. The latch devices 126 feature recesses 127 for receiving lips 120, 122 in a latched configuration as shown in figure 2a such that for each latch device 126, parts of the latch body are disposed on either side of lips 220, 222.

The combined litter tray/pet carrier of figures 2a, 2b and 2c further features a door lock 224 that is changeable between a first configuration in which door 122 is free to pivot about hinge 218 to enable a pet to enter and exit the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray, and a second configuration in which door 122 is substantiaUy inhibited from pivoting about hinge 218 to prevent the pet either entering or exiting the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray.

The combined pet carrier/litter tray may be configured to have any suitable dimensions dependent on the size of pet it is intended for. For example, the width 226 of the combined pet carrier/litter tray is preferably between 250mm and 750mm, more preferably between 400mm and 600mm, and yet more preferably around 500mm. The depth 228 of the combined pet camer/litter tray is preferably between 250mm and 750mm, more preferably between 400mm and 600mm, and yet more preferably around 500mm. The height 230 of the combined pet carrier/litter tray is preferably between 200mm and 650mm, more preferably between 350mm and 550mm, and yet more preferably around 450mm.

Figures 3a, 3b and 3c show another embodiment in which three latch devices 126 are arranged about lips 220, 222. When viewed in a plan view (figure 3c), the three latch devices 126a-c are arranged about the combined pet carrier/litter tray so that a first latch device 1 26a at the rear of the combined pet carner/litter tray is diametric to porch 216 and the two other latch devices 126b, 126c are each arranged so as to form angles of around 120 degrees as shown by the phantom lines of figure 3c. This configuration is particularly advantageous because when latches 126 are in a latched position about lips 220, 222 and a load, for example a pet, is positioned inside the combined pet carrier/litter tray and the ensemble is lifted by the handle 124, the weight of the base unit 112 and any load placed thereon is borne by the plurality of latches 126 pressing on the lips 220, 222 in a distributed manner with regards to handle 124. Accordingly, each latch device 126 is advantageously configured to bear an approximately equal load.

Figures 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e and 4f show respectively: a plan view of base unit 112; a cross-sectional profile along line E of figure 4a; a cross-sectional profile along tine 0 of figure 4a; a side view of the base unit 112 from B of figure 4a; an end view of the base unit 112 from side C figure 4a; and an end view of the base unit 112 from side A of figure 4a. As can be seen from the plan view of figure 4a, the base 112 has a shape including round or elliptical segments 410, and two flat areas 412 on the rear and front aspects of the base unit 112. The base unit 112 has a lower floor 416 which is substantially flat. The base unit 112 further comprises a generally vertically extending sidewall 418 and an upper lip 222.

The upper lip 222 surrounds the vertically extending sidewall 418 when observed in the plan view of figure 4a. Upper lip 222 (shown in figures 4b to 4f) is substantially parallel to the lower floor 416 of the base unit 112. When the base unit 112 is observed in a plan view as per figure 4a, sidewall 418 joins upper lip 222 to the lower floor 416 of the base unit 112 such that the upper lip 222 surrounds the sidewall 418 which itself surrounds the lower floor 416.

Advantageously, sidewall 418 is curved to direct any solids or liquids incident on its inner face to the lower floor 416. Furthermore, the absence of an angular junction between the sidewall 418 and lower floor 416 avoids localised concentration of any objects incident on sidewall 418 that have been directed to lower floor 416 by the force of gravity. As can be seen from figure 4e, the rear aspect of the base portion 112 features a substantiafly fiat area 420.

Substantially flat area 420 advantageously enables positioning of the combined pet carrier/litter tray close to flat objects, for example, walls or skirting boards.

Alternatively, substantially flat area 420 may be shaped to conform to features of the intended installation site of the combined pet carrier/litter tray, for example, corners, alcoves, or recesses. As can be seen from figure 4f, the front aspect of base 112 features a substantially flat portion 421. Advantageously, this may reduce the volume required when packing and/or distributing the combined pet carrier/litter tray and further facilitate storage when the combined pet carrier/litter tray is not in use. Substantially fiat portion 421 may be shaped to conform to the profile of the porch 216 of the lid 114 and/or to provide a threshold. The front aspect of the base unit 112 may further feature one or more protrusions 422 to which the locking device may be attached (or locked).

In one example, base unit 112 is configured to be stackable so that a plurality of base units may be stacked upon each other. Advantageously, stackable base units require less storage space which facilitates distribution and storage.

The base unit 112 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions depending on the size required for the combined litter tray/carrier. For example, the width of the base unit 112 (along line E of figure 4a) is preferably between 250mm and 750mm, more preferably between 400mm and 600mm, and yet more preferably around 500mm. Preferably, the depth of the base unit 112 (along lineD of figure 4a) is between 250mm and 750mm, more preferably it is between 400mm and 600mm, and yet more preferably it is around 500mm. Preferably the thickness of the base unit 112 is between 0.5mm and 5mm, more preferably it is between 1mm and 2mm, and yet more preferably it is around 1.5mm. The height 450 (as seen in figure 4d) of the base 112 is preferably between 50mm and 150mm, more preferably between 75mm and 125mm, and yet more preferably around 100mm.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the base unit 112 may be made from a variety of materials, including plastics, for example, polypropylene and that it may be manufactured in a number of manners, for example, injection moulding, blow moulding, or casting.

Figures 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e and 5f respectively show the removable fitted liner 116: in a plan view; in a cross section view along line E of figure 5a; in a cross section view along line D of figure 5a; in a side view from side B of figure 5a ; in an end view from end C of figure 5a; and in an end view from side A of figure 5a. The overall shape of the removable fitted liner 116 is such that it substantially conforms to base unit 112 such that it may be located within the base unit 112.

Like the base unit 112, the removable fitted liner 116 features an outer lip 510, a substantially flat portion 512 on the rear aspect of the removable litter tray, a substantially flat portion 514 on the front aspect of the removable litter tray and a substantially flat base floor 516 that, when viewed from the side as per figures 5d, 5e and 5f, is substantially parallel to lip 510. In operation, lip 510 may be pinched between upper and lower lip 220, 222 respectively of the lid 114 and the base 112. The pinching action, in addition to the conformity of the shape of the removable litter tray 112 to the base portion 112, ensures that, when subjected to the latching action of latching devices 126, removable fitted liner 116 is resiliently retained in the base unit 112.

The fitted liner 116 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions depending on the size of the base unit for which it is intended. For example, the width 524 of removable fitted liner 116 may be between 250mm and 750mm, more preferably between 400mm and 600mm, and yet more preferably around 500mm. Preferably, the depth 528 of the removable fitted liner 116 is in the range of 250mm to 750mm, more preferably, in the range of 400mm to 600mm, and yet more preferably around 500mm. The height 526 of removable fitted liner 116 is preferably in the range 50mm to 150mm, more preferably in the range 75mm to 120mm, and yet more preferably around 100mm. Preferably the thickness of removable fitted liner 116 is in the range 0.1mm to 2mm, more preferably in the range 0.25mm to 1.75mm, and yet more preferably in the range 0.5mm to 1.5mm. The removable fitted liner 116 is preferably configured to conform with the base unit 112 to a tolerance of within 15mm, more preferably to a tolerance within 10mm, yet more preferably within 5mm and most preferably within 0.5mm. The skilled person will however appreciate that the tolerance may vary from place to place on the removable fitted liner 116.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that removable fitted liner 116 may be made from a variety of materials, for example, plastics, pressed paper, paper pulp, In one embodiment, the removable fitted liner 116 may be a disposable litter tray, in which case it may be manufactured from a biodegradable material. As another possibility, the removable fitted liner 116 may be a reusable litter tray, in which case it may be manufactured from a resilient, reusable, cleanable material.

Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d respectively show an example lid 114: in a plan view; in a side view from side B of figure 6a; in a front view from side A of figure 6a; and in a rear view from side C of figure 6a. Lid 114 features a projecting porch 216 and a lip 220 that projects from the main body 610 of the lid 114 and which substantially circumscribes the main body 610. Lid 114 further comprises a first complementary recess 612 that is complementanly shaped to the handle 124.

First complementary recess 612 may feature at least one catch for retaining handle 124. As another possibility, handle 124 may feature at least one catch for retaining lid 114, or the handle 124 may be adhered to lid 114. Lid 114 further comprises a second recess 614 complementarily shaped to receive grille 214 and any associated filter devices. The second complementary recess 614 may further feature conduits (not shown) to enable the passage of air from the interior of lid 114 to the surrounding environment.

The lid 114 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions depending on the overall size required for the combined pet carrier/litter tray. For example, the width 616 of lid 114 is preferably between 250mm and 750mm. More preferably it is between 400mm and 600mm, and yet more preferably it is around 500mm.

Preferably the width 616 of lid 114 closely corresponds to the width of base unit 112. Preferably the depth 618 of lid 114 is in the range 250mm to 750mm, more preferably in the range of 400mm to 600mm, and yet more preferably around 500mm. Preferably the height 620 of lid 114 is in the range 150mm to 700mm, more preferably in the range 200mm to 500mm, and yet more preferably around 300mm. Preferably the thickness of lid 114 is in the range 0.1mm to 10mm, more preferably in the range 0.5mm to 2mm, and yet more preferably around 1.5mm.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that lid 114 may be made from a variety of materials, for example, plastics such as polypropylene. The person skilled in the art will further appreciate that lid 114 may be manufactured in a vanety of manners, for example, blow moulding, injection moulding or casting.

Figures 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d and 7e respectively show an example door 122: from a front view; from a top view along side A of figure 7a; from a cross-section of line DD of figure 7a; along a side view from side B of figure 7a; and in a cross-sectional view along line CC of figure 7a. Door 112 comprises a main body 710 and a pivot section 712. Pivot section 712 may further comprise one or more substantially circular protrusions or recesses 714, which, when used in conjunction with corresponding recesses or protrusions in lid 114, serve to rotatably attach door 122 to the porch section 216 of lid 114. As another possibility, pivot section 712 may feature a substantially cylindrical hole through which a pivoting axle may pass, and the porch section may include corresponding recesses for receiving either end of the axle. As shown in figure 7c, body section 710 may have a substantially u-shaped profile when observed in cross section. Advantageously the u-shaped profile of main body 710 may serve, when the door is in a locked position, to prevent pets taking advantage of any rotational play in the door to rotate the door and gain entrance to/exit from the combined pet carrier/litter tray.

The door 122 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions. For example, the height of 716 of door 122 is preferably in the range 150mm to 350mm, more preferably in the range of 200mm to 300mm, and yet more preferably around 240mm. Preferably the depth 718 of pivot section 712 is in the range of 5mm to 40mm, more preferably in the range of 20mm to 30mm, and yet more preferably around 25mm. Preferably the depth 720 of main body 710 is in the range 1mm to 25mm, more preferably in the range 10mm to 20mm, and yet more preferably around 15mm. Preferably the width 722 of main body 710 is in the range of 100mm to 300mm, more preferably in the range 150mm to 250mm, and yet more preferably around 200mm.

The person skilled in the art will understand that door 122 may be made from a variety of materials, for example clear ABS, polystyrene or TMstyrene" and that the choice of material for fabrication of door 112 may be determined according to not only strength properties of the material, but also according to the opacity of the material.

Advantageously, clear doors enable exterior observation of pets inside the combined pet carrier/litter tray when the door is closed. Advantageously, non-translucent door materials reduce the sensory exposure of pets confined in the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray, hence reducing stress levels.

In one example, door 122 comprises a pair of coaxially mounted pivoting doors.

The door to be fitted closest to the interior of combined pet carrier/litter tray is made of a translucent material to facilitate observation of the pet whilst the exterior door is made of a non-translucent material to reduce sensory exposure of the pet during transit. Coaxial mounting of two such doors enables lifting of the exterior door whilst retaining in position the interior door to enable the inspection of the pet whilst keeping it confined. Furthermore, the use of a translucent door in conjunction with a non-translucent door may prevent the greenhouse effect within the pet carrier thereby keeping the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray cool. As another possibility, the non-translucent door may be detachably mounted to enable the pet to observe their surroundings whilst in transit.

Figures 8a, 8b, 8ca and 8d respectively show: a plan view of handle 124; a side view of handle 124 from side B of figure 8a; an end view of handle 124 from side A of figure 8a; and a cross-section of handle 124 along line CC of figure 8a.

Handle 124 features a dish shaped section 810 that curves away from a grip 812 to provide a convex for fingers when the combined pet carrier/litter tray is being carried. Dish shaped portion 810 is shaped substantially to conform to recess 612 of lid 114. Handle 124 further features a rim 814 around the periphery of dish-shaped portion 810. Handle 124 may include features to enable it to be fixed to lid 114.

The handle 124 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions. For example, the length 816 of handle 124 is preferably in the range 100mm to 250mm, and more preferably around 190mm. Preferably the height 818 of handle 124 is in the range 40mm to 70mm, and more preferably around 50mm.

Preferably the width 820 of handle 124 is in the range 50mm to 250mm, more preferably in the range 75mm to 175mm, and yet more preferably around 125mm.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that handle 124 may be manufactured from a variety of materials, for example, polypropylene and that the handle may be manufactured in a number of manners, for example, blow moulding, injection moulding or casting.

Figures 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d respectively show grille 212: in a plan view, in a side view from side B of figure 9a, in a front view from side A of figure 9a, and in cross section of line CC of 9a. Grille 212 features at least one, but preferably a plurality of apertures 910 that form at least a part of a conduit between the interior of the combined pet carrier/litter tray and the exterior environment. Apertures 910 may be arranged to include filter material (not shown). As another possibility, the grille 212 may be arranged to be positioned over the filter material. Grille 212 is shaped substantially to conform to complementary recess 614 in lid 114.

The grille 212 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions for conformity with the handle. For example, grille 212 preferably has a width 912 in the range of 100mm to 300mm, more preferably in the range 200mm to 250mm, and yet more preferably around 220mm. Preferably grille 212 has a length 914 in the range 150mm to 350mm, more preferably in 200mm to 300mm, and yet more preferably around 260mm. Preferably, grille 212 has a height 916 in the range of 10mm to 30mm, more preferably in the range of 15mm to 25mm, and yet more preferably around 20mm.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that grille 212 may be manufactured from a number of materials, for example polypropylene, and that the manner of fabrication may be any of a variety known in the art, for example, blow moulding, injection moulding, or casting.

Figures lOa, lOb, lOc, lOd and lOe respectively show an example latching device 126: in a plan view; in a side view from side B of figure ba; in a cross section view lines CC of figure ba; from a side view from side A of figure bOa; and in a cross-sectional view along lines OD of figure lOa. In this embodiment, latch device 126 has a substantially elliptical shape when viewed from a plan view as per figure 4a. Device 126 comprises a recess 1010 that is complementarily shaped to the profile of lips 220 and 222 (and 510) when they are stacked in the order: base unit 112, removable fitted liner 116, and lid 114.

Latch device 126 further comprises a projection 1012 to facilitate locking/unlocking of the latch device.

A person skiled in the art will appreciate that alternative latch devices may be empolyed to achieve the functionality of the latch device described herein, for example, the latch device may be rotatable between a first engaged position and a second unengaged position. As another possibility the latch device 126 may snappily engage lips 220, 222.

The latch device 126 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions. For example, latch device 126 preferably has a height 1016 in the range 30mm to 110mm, more preferably in the range 60mm to 100mm, and yet more preferably around 80mm. Preferably latch device 126 has a width 1018 in the range 50mm to 150mm, more preferably in the range 80mm to 120mm, and yet more preferably around 110mm. Preferably latch device 126 has a depth 1020 in the range 5mm to 25mm, and more preferably around 19mm.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that latch device 126 may be manufactured from a variety of materials, for example, polypropylene, and that latch device 126 may be manufactured in a number of different ways, for example, injection moulding, blow moulding or casting.

Figures 11 a, 11 b and 11 c respectively show door lock 224: in a plan view; in a side view from side B of figure 11 a; and in a top view from side A of figure 11 a.

Door lock 224 comprises an actuating knob 1110 by which door lock 224 may be moved from a first position in which door 122 is unlocked and hence free to open and close to a second position in which door 122 is locked and hence inhibited from opening/closing. Door lock 224 further comprises a projecting body 1112 which, when door lock 224 is in the second position, engages with door 122 to inhibit motion thereof. Door lock 224 further comprises a projecting support 1114 which is shaped to pass through along a complementary shaped slot in base unit 112. Connected to projecting support 1114 is a back plate 1116 which is shaped to have a width greater than the complementary slot in base unit 112 in order to retain door lock 224 in the complementary slot whilst door lock 224 is in either the unlocked or locked positions.

A person skilled in the art will appreciate that alternative door locks may be empolyed to achieve the functionality of the door lock described herein, for example, the door lock may be rotatable between a first locked position and a second unlocked position. In other possibilities, the door lock may comprise a catch or hook or may snappily lock the door.

The door lock 224 may be configured to have any suitable dimensions. For example, door lock 224 preferably has a depth 1118 of between 11mm and 24mm, and more preferably around 18mm. Preferably door lock 224 has a width 1120 of between 15mm and 65mm, more preferably between 30mm and 40mm, and yet more preferably around 35mm. Preferably door lock 224 has a height of between 25mm and 75mm, more preferably between 40mm and 60mm, and yet more preferably around 50mm.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that door lock 224 may be manufactured from a variety of materials, for example, polypropylene and further that door lock 224 may be manufactured in a variety of different manners, for example, injection moulding, glow moulding, or casting.

Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the litter tray 1212. In this embodiment, litter tray 1210 features a recess 1214 that is complementanly shaped to receive solids tray 1212. Litter tray 1212 further comprises a pivoting lid 1216 that is operable to be moved between a first opened position and a second closed position recess 1214. Litter tray 1210 is configured to receive solids tray 1212 in recess 1214 when lid 1216 is in an open position. Lid 1216 may then be closed upon solids tray 1212 to retain the solids tray 1212 in place and to keep in any unpleasant odours. Optionally, solids tray 1212 may comprise a flexible lid 1218 that is movable between a first unsealed position and a second sealed position.

In operation, litter tray 1210 is installed in the combined pet carrier/litter tray and the pet transported therein. Whilst confined inside the combined per carrier/litter tray, the pet may micturate or defecate therein. In the case that the pet has deposited solid waste, the pivoting lid 1216 may be opened and the solid waste transferred to solids tray 1212. In the event that solids tray 1212 is not replete, pivoting lid 1216 may then be closed and the combined pet carrier/litter tray re-used. In the event that solids tray 1212 is replete, flexible lid 1218 may be moved to a sealing position and may be sealed by means of adhesive glue or folding and solids tray 1212 then disposed of.

As another possibility, the litter tray may contain a sealing device. Figure 1 3a shows a foldable ucIamshelIu litter tray 1310 that when in use is shaped substantially to conform to the base unit. However, once soiled litter tray 1310 is foldable, as shown in figure 13b and 13c. Furthermore, litter tray 1310 may comprise an adhesive strip 1312 around its periphery. When the litter tray 1310 is soiled and about to be folded over as shown in figure 13b, the adhesive strip 1312 may be exposed by removing backing tape 1314. Continued folding of the litter tray 1310 will result in contact of the adhesive strip with the other side of the litter tray. Strip 1312 may then act to seal the litter tray in a sealed configuration, as shown in figure 13c.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of means may be employed to seal a folding litter tray including an adhesive strip in combination with backing tape as commonly employed by envelopes, contact adhesive, or a foldable lip. As another possibility, a foldable aluminium foil lip as shown in figure 1 3d may be employed. Advantageously, sealable litter trays produce less mess and are more hygienic to dispose of.

Figure 14 shows a combined pet carrier/litter tray 1410 positioned in proximity to a skirting board 1412. This illustrates how the rear aspect of base unit 144 may be shaped to conform to the intended location of the combined pet carrier/litter tray.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in figure 15, the combined pet carrier/litter tray may instead of only employing latch devices, also feature a hinge between the base unit and the lid advantageously, this facilitates the replacement of the litter tray. As described previously, the latch is configured to hold the weight of a pet when the combined pet carrier/litter tray is lifted by the handle.

In another embodiment, the base unit 112 may be configured to enable stacking of a plurality of removable fitted liners 116 inside the base unit 112 whilst the removable lid 114 is attached. Advantageously this may allow a pet owner to transport their pet inside the combined pet carrier/titter tray, and if the journey were a long one, to replace the removable fitted liner 116 without the need to separately carry litter trays.

Claims

Claims A litter tray for a pet comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray with a pet therein; wherein said litter tray comprises means for confining a pet in said space.
2. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said securing means is configured to take substantially the full weight of the pet and base portion, during use as a pet carrier, without the base becoming fully or partially detached from said cover portion.
3. A litter tray for a pet comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray with a pet therein; wherein said securing means is configured to take substantially the full weight of the pet and base portion, during use as a pet carrier, without the base becoming fully or partially detached from said cover portion.
4. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion is configured to receive a fitted liner.
5. A litter tray for a pet comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray with a pet therein; wherein said base portion is configured to receive a fitted liner.
6. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim comprising filtering means for removal or masking of pet odours, for adding an aroma to the space, and/or for adding an airborne medicament to said space.
7. A litter tray as claimed in claim 6 wherein said filtering means comprises part of said cover portion.
8. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said securing means comprises at least one latch portion.
9. A litter tray as claimed in claim B wherein said securing means comprises at least three of said latch portions.
10. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said securing means comprises a hinge portion connecting said base to said cover portion.
11. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the or at least one handle portion is located on the cover portion.
12. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the or at least one handle portion is located on the base portion.
13. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim comprising means for allowing a pet to enter and/or exit the space said pet carrier when said cover portion and base portion are secured to one another.
14. A litter tray as claimed in claim 13 wherein said entry/exit means comprises an opening in said cover and/or base portion and a flap, door or other means for closing said opening.
15. A litter tray as claimed in claim 14 wherein said closure means comprises a grille or mesh.
16. A litter tray as claimed claim 14 or 15 wherein said closure means comprises a translucent or transparent material.
17. A litter tray as claimed in any of claims 14 to 16 wherein said closure means comprises an opaque material.
18. A litter tray as claimed in any of claims 14 to 17 wherein said closure means comprises a first door or flap of translucent or transparent material, and a second door or flap of an opaque material.
19. A litter tray as claimed in any of claims 14 to 18 wherein said closure means is provided with filter means for removing pet odours.
20. A litter tray as claimed in any of claims 14 to 19 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 1 wherein said confining means comprises a lock portion for locking said closure in a closed position.
21. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion has a perimeter comprising at least one curved portion.
22. A litter tray as claimed in claim 21 wherein the or each curved portion circumscribes at least part of a circle.
23. A litter tray as claimed in claim 21 or 22 wherein the or each curved portion circumscribes at least part of an ellipse.
24. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion has a perimeter comprising at least one portion configured to fit against a structural feature.
25. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion has a perimeter comprising at least one flat portion configured to fit against a wall.
26. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion has a perimeter comprising at least one portion configured to fit against a skirting board.
27. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion has a perimeter comprising at least two portions configured to fit against respective walls or skirting boards of a corner of a room.
28. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion is configured to be stackable with other similar base portions.
29. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion is in the shape of a tray for receiving pet litter.
30. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said base portion comprises an outwardly extending lip around at least part of its upper perimeter.
31. A litter tray as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said cover portion comprises an outwardly extending lip around at least part of its lower perimeter.
32. A litter tray as claimed in claim 31 when dependent on claim 30 wherein said base portion and cover portion lips are configured to abut one another either directly or indirectly through a liner, at least in part.
33. A litter tray as claimed in claim 32 wherein said securing means is configured to secure said base and cover portions to one another by securing said abutting lips to one another.
34. A base portion for a litter tray as claimed in any of claims 1 to 33.
35. A cover portion for a litter tray as claimed in any of claims 1 to 33.
36. A liner configured for fitted engagement with a base portion of a litter tray as claimed in any of claims 1 to 33.
37. A pet carrier comprising a litter tray as claimed in any of claims 1 to 33.
38. A pet carrier comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; means for allowing said pet carrier to be carried; wherein said base portion comprises a litter tray configured for receiving a fitted liner.
39. A pet carrier comprising: a base portion and a cover portion; means for securing said cover portion to said base portion to form a space for a pet therein; and at least one handle portion for carrying said litter tray with a pet therein; wherein said pet carrier comprises filter means for removal or masking of pet odours, for adding an aroma to the space, and/or for adding an airborne medicament to said space.
40. A pet carrier as claimed in 39 comprising any feature of the litter tray as claimed in any of claims 1 to 33.
41. A liner for a litter tray, said liner comprising a tray configured for fitted engagement with a base portion of said litter tray.
42. A liner as claimed in claim 36 or 41 configured for fitted engagement with the base portion to within a tolerance of 10mm.
43. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 42 wherein said liner is of substantially rigid construction.
44. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 43 having a perimeter comprising at least one curved portion configured to enhance said rigidity.
45. A liner as claimed in claim 44 wherein the or each curved portion circumscribes at least part of an ellipse.
46. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 45 wherein having a perimeter comprising at least one portion configured for conformity with a feature of said base portion configured to fit against a structural feature.
47. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 46 having a perimeter comprising at least one portion configured for conformity with a feature of said base portion configured to fit against a wall.
48. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 47 having a perimeter comprising at least one portion configured for conformity with a feature of said base portion configured to fit against a skirting board.
49. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 48 having a perimeter comprising at least two portions configured for conformity with corresponding features of said base portion configured to fit against respective walls or skirting boards of a corner of a room.
50. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 49 configured to be stackable with other similar liners.
51. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 50 in the shape of a tray for receiving pet litter to a predetermined depth.
52. A liner as claimed in any of claims 36 or 41 to 51 comprising an outwardly extending lip around at least part of its upper perimeter configured to be sandwiched between corresponding lips of said base and cover portions to secure said liner in said litter tray.
53. A liner for a litter tray, said liner comprising: a substantially rigid tray having a generally elliptical or circular perimeter comprising at least one curved portion, and at least one flat portion; wherein said tray has a height of between 50mm and 150mm for receiving litter to a predetermined depth.
54. A kit comprising a litter tray as claimed in any of claims 1 to 33 and a liner as claimed in any of claims 36, or 41 to 53.
55. A kit comprising a pet carrier as claimed in any of claims 37 to 40 and a liner as claimed in any of claims 36, or 41 to 53.
56. A litter tray as herein described with reference to the attached drawings.
57. A pet carrier as herein described with reference to the attached drawings.
58. A base portion for a litter tray/pet carrier as herein described with reference to the attached drawings.
59. A cover portion for a litter tray/pet carrier as herein described with reference to the attached drawings.
60. A liner for a litter tray/pet carrier as herein described with reference to the attached drawings.