U.S. patent application number 12/194727 was filed with the patent office on 2009-02-12 for systems and methods for providing a portable toilet system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Global Sanitation Solutions, Inc.. Invention is credited to Stephen Biesinger, Charles W. Kallmann, Kenneth S. Marsh, Kevin Torsak, Edward T. Woodruff.
Application Number | 20090038066 12/194727 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40345100 |
Filed Date | 2009-02-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090038066 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kallmann; Charles W. ; et
al. |
February 12, 2009 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A PORTABLE TOILET SYSTEM
Abstract
Systems and methods for providing a portable toilet system. The
system may include a portable toilet used in combination with a
container and a privacy screen. Various components of the system
may further be made of biodegradable materials to facilitate
disposal of the system following use. The container of the system
may be combined with a bioactive agent to disinfect microorganisms
present within the system. The systems and methods of the present
invention further provide a byproduct that may be used to enrich
soil.
Inventors: |
Kallmann; Charles W.;
(Provo, UT) ; Biesinger; Stephen; (Provo, UT)
; Torsak; Kevin; (Payson, UT) ; Woodruff; Edward
T.; (Brooksville, FL) ; Marsh; Kenneth S.;
(Seneca, SC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
David B. Tingey
1800 Eagle Gate Tower, 60 East South Temple
Salt Lake City
UT
84145
US
|
Assignee: |
Global Sanitation Solutions,
Inc.
|
Family ID: |
40345100 |
Appl. No.: |
12/194727 |
Filed: |
August 20, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12062475 |
Apr 3, 2008 |
|
|
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12194727 |
|
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60922068 |
Apr 4, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/479 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02A 50/30 20180101;
A47K 11/02 20130101; Y02A 50/454 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
4/479 |
International
Class: |
A47K 11/02 20060101
A47K011/02 |
Claims
1. A portable toilet system, comprising: a portable toilet having a
folding structure including a front wall and a rear wall, the front
and rear wall being parallel to one another and spaced apart, the
portable toilet further including a first and second side wall
being parallel and to one another and perpendicular to the front
and rear walls, the first and second side being connected to and
interposed between the front and rear walls to define an interior
bowl with an open bottom and top, wherein each of the sides
includes means to enable the sides to angle inwardly near their
middle to form two spaced apart integral support pillars, and
wherein the front wall includes an interior panel and an exterior
panel, the interior panel having a tab and the exterior panel
having a hole adapted to interlockably receive the tab, the
portable toilet further including an interlockable interior seat
panel and an interlockable exterior seat panel providing openings
aligned to provide a toilet seat and an integral cover for the seat
panels; a container positioned adjacent to the portable toilet to
collect an excrement sample; and a privacy screen placed adjacent
to the portable toilet to provide a visual barrier between the
portable toilet and an onlooker.
2. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the portable
toilet comprises a corrugated paperboard material having a polymer
coating to substantially seal the corrugated paperboard
material.
3. The portable toilet system of claim 2, wherein the polymer
coating provides a moisture barrier to the corrugated paperboard
material.
4. The portable toilet system of claim 2, wherein the polymer
coating is biodegradable.
5. The portable toilet system of claim 2, wherein the polymer
coating provides flame resistance to the corrugated paperboard
material.
6. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the container
comprises a biopolymer material.
7. The portable toilet system of claim 6, wherein the container
further comprises a bioactive agent.
8. The portable toilet system of claim 7, wherein the container
further comprises an oxidizing agent.
9. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the privacy
screen comprises a substantially opaque material that is supported
by a frame structure, the privacy screen having a width and a
height sufficient to shield a user while using the portable
toilet.
10. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the components
of the system comprise a kit.
11. A portable toilet system, comprising: a portable toilet having
a folding structure including a front wall and a rear wall, the
front and rear wall being parallel to one another and spaced apart,
the portable toilet further including a first and second side wall
being parallel and to one another and perpendicular to the front
and rear walls, the first and second side being connected to and
interposed between the front and rear walls to define an interior
bowl with an open bottom and top, wherein each of the sides
includes means to enable the sides to angle inwardly near their
middle to form two spaced apart integral support pillars, and
wherein the front wall includes an interior panel and an exterior
panel, the interior panel having a tab and the exterior panel
having a hole adapted to interlockably receive the tab, the
portable toilet further including an interlockable interior seat
panel and an interlockable exterior seat panel providing openings
aligned to provide a toilet seat and an integral cover for the seat
panels; a polymer coating substantially covering portions of the
folding structure; a container positioned adjacent to the portable
toilet to collect an excrement sample; and a privacy screen placed
adjacent to the portable toilet to provide a visual barrier between
the portable toilet and an onlooker.
12. The portable toilet system of claim 11, wherein the polymer
coating is selected from the group consisting of a water repellant
polymer, a flame retardant polymer, a spectra-coat polymer, a
plasma-polymer, a biodegradable polymer, and combinations
thereof.
13. The portable toilet system of claim 11, wherein the interior
bowl further comprising a mating surface for coupling to a portion
of the container, the container being supported by the mating
surface in a position adjacent to the interior bowl of the portable
toilet.
14. The portable toilet system of claim 11, wherein the container
comprises a plurality of biopolymer sheets, each biopolymer sheet
being attached to another biopolymer sheet at a perimeter edge, and
a lumen being interposed between opposing biopolymer sheets, each
lumen being occupied with a disinfectant component selected from
the group consisting of a bioactive agent, an oxidizing agent,
water, and air.
15. The portable toilet system of claim 11, wherein the privacy
screen is biodegradable.
16. A method for providing a portable toilet system, the method
comprising: providing a portable toilet, the portable toilet having
a folding structure including a front wall and a rear wall, the
front and rear wall being parallel to one another and spaced apart,
the portable toilet further including a first and second side wall
being parallel and to one another and perpendicular to the front
and rear walls, the first and second side being connected to and
interposed between the front and rear walls to define an interior
bowl with an open bottom and top, wherein each of the sides
includes means to enable the sides to angle inwardly near their
middle to form two spaced apart integral support pillars, and
wherein the front wall includes an interior panel and an exterior
panel, the interior panel having a tab and the exterior panel
having a hole adapted to interlockably receive the tab, the
portable toilet further including an interlockable interior seat
panel and an interlockable exterior seat panel providing openings
aligned to provide a toilet seat and an integral cover for the seat
panels; providing a container, the container being positioned
adjacent to the portable toilet to collect an excrement sample; and
providing a privacy screen, the privacy screen being positioned
adjacent to the portable toilet to provide a visual barrier between
the portable toilet and an onlooker.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of coupling
the container to the interior bowl of the portable toilet.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein the portable toilet comprises a
corrugated polymer material.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the portable toilet comprises a
polymer coating.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein the container and the privacy
screen comprise a biodegradable material.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/062,475 filed Apr. 3, 2008, entitled SYSTEMS AND
METHODS FOR PROVIDING CONTROL AND DISPOSAL OF HUMAN WASTE
MATERIALS, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/922,068 filed Apr. 4, 2007, entitled
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING CONTROL AND DISPOSAL OF HUMAN
WASTE MATERIALS, and also claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent application Ser. No. 61/081,347 filed Jul. 16, 2008,
entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A PORTABLE TOILET, each
of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present disclosure relates to waste management and waste
disinfection. More particularly, the present disclosure pertains to
systems and methods for disinfecting excrement, including systems
and methods for recycling excrement into a usable product. The
present invention further relates to providing a portable toilet
system for use in waste management and waste disinfection.
[0004] 2. Background and Related Art
[0005] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, toilets
have evolved considerably since their introduction. Although
various different designs are currently being used, most toilets
share several features and functions. For example, conventional
toilets generally include a permanently mounted bowl that is filled
with water. The bowl is supported by a frame with a seat and an
integral reservoir. The reservoir contains the necessary amount of
water to "flush" the toilet after use. The frame is generally
positioned over a drain through which the flushed wastewater with
entrained contents are conducted. The drain connects to an
appropriate sewer connection or septic to channel the wastewater
away from the structure and to an appropriate receptacle. Further,
most toilets are typically housed in an enclosure to give the user
privacy.
[0006] One of the problems associated with remote locations and
undeveloped countries are the lack of plumbing and sophisticated
sewage systems required to utilize a conventional toilet. The
result is that human waste is improperly controlled leading to
illness, disease and death. Additionally, improperly controlled
human waste can adversely affect environmental conditions,
including polluting drinking water and disturbing natural
habitats.
[0007] Current technologies are available to deodorize human
excrement. Such technologies are used in the camper, aircraft, bus,
and portable toilet industries. While such technologies currently
exist to deodorize human excrement, there is a need to control the
spread of harmful pathogens contained in both human and non-human
excrement.
[0008] Thus, while conventional deodorizing and toilet techniques
currently exist, challenges still exist. Accordingly, it would be
an improvement in the art to augment or even replace current
techniques with other techniques.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention addresses the above-referenced needs
in the art. Specifically, the present invention relates to a
portable toilet system for managing waste and providing waste
disinfection. More particularly, at least some embodiments of the
present invention pertain to systems and methods for collecting and
disinfecting excrement, including systems and methods for recycling
excrement into a usable product.
[0010] In some implementations of the present invention a portable
toilet system includes a portable toilet, a container and a privacy
screen. In some implementations of the current invention, the
portable toilet is lightweight and capable of being carried by a
backpacker during transportation to campsites or other remote
locales. In some implementations the toilet is comprised of an
environmentally safe, biodegradable, corrugated paperboard and glue
that permits the entire device to be incinerated or burned if
desirable. Additionally, in some embodiments the material of the
portable toilet is treated with a polymer or wax coating to provide
a moisture barrier to the device.
[0011] In one embodiment, the toilet is formed from corrugated
paperboard to be compact and light-weight. The resulting unitary
structure may be easily and quickly assembled, resulting in an
assembled structure that is strong and rigid but lightweight. The
invention may then be easily deposited in an appropriate waste
receptacle and/or incinerated in a campfire and/or buried beneath
the surface for disposal after use. In another embodiment, the
toilet is comprised of a corrugated polymer material that is
lightweight, rigid and reusable.
[0012] In particular, the invention includes an interlockable
structure of die-cut paperboard. The unitary structure includes a
series of abutting sections that may be arranged to form four walls
that define an internal bowl. The walls and bowl are covered by an
upper section formed from additional abutting sections.
[0013] The abutting wall sections include interlockable interior
and exterior front panels, a rear panel and two angled side panels.
The panels are aligned in abutting configuration in the following
order: interior front panel, first side panel, rear panel, second
side panel and exterior front panel.
[0014] The multiple component upper section includes an
interlockable interior seat panel, an interlockable exterior seat
panel, and a selectively displaceable covering seat panel. The
interior seat panel abuts the top of the rear panel. The exterior
seat panel abuts the top of the exterior front panel. The covering
seat panel abuts a side of the exterior seat panel.
[0015] Appropriate perforations are defined between adjacent panels
to enable the abutting panels to be appropriately folded for both
storage and assembly. Perforations also bisect each side panel
along its longitudinal axis to enable the sides to angle inwardly
to form two spaced apart internal pillars beneath the seat panels.
Two spaced apart holes and corresponding locking tabs in the front
exterior panel and front interior panel respectively permit the
interlocking of these two panels. In some embodiments, additional
tabs are included to permit compatible engagement of the container
with the portable toilet.
[0016] In one embodiment, the invention may be easily and compactly
folded for storage. In particular, the invention may be
conveniently stored in this compacted configuration in conventional
shrink wrap packaging. The folded configuration may also be further
bound with an encircling cord or rope or the like to retain this
shape.
[0017] During deployment, the structure is removed from the
packaging and the retaining cord is removed, permitting the folded
configuration to expand in an accordion-like fashion into a
preliminary operative configuration. The user may quickly finalize
assemble of the operative configuration for the structure by
interlocking the support members. In one embodiment, the support
members include the interior and exterior front panels and the
interior seat panel. In one embodiment, the assembled structure
will support at least three hundred pounds of weight.
[0018] When assembled, the structure that may be conveniently
deployed as a stool in a conventional manner or advantageously used
as a toilet. When used as a toilet, the internal bowl can employ a
container to receive wastes, such as a biopolymer material. In
another embodiment, the portable toilet is place directly on top
of, or adjacent to the biopolymer material to collect the waste
material. After use, the user may simply remove the receptacle and
dispose of it appropriately. Another receptacle can then be
inserted into the bowl to use the toilet again. In one embodiment
the receptacle is formed of a biodegradable, leakproof biopolymer
material. In another embodiment the receptacle is formed from
plastic or another leakproof material. In another embodiment, the
portable toilet is used without an internal receptacle.
[0019] Since the bottom of the structure's internal bowl is open,
waste can be directly deposited on the ground or into an open pit
beneath the structure. When used as an open pit toilet, the user
preferably excavates a hole beneath the toilet for the retention of
waste. After use, the toilet can be alternatively moved to a nearby
location for continued use with the filled hole covered or the
structure may be disposed in the pit or otherwise disposed of as
well (i.e., incinerated or the like). In another embodiment, the
open pit is first lined with a biodegradable, leakproof biopolymer
material and then used to collect the waste material. In yet
another embodiment, the deposited excrement is subsequently removed
from the open pit and placed into a container or biopolymer
material.
[0020] In another embodiment, appropriate paper for sanitary
purposes is included inside the shrink-wrap packaging for the
invention. In yet another embodiment, the shrink-wrap packaging may
also be used as a receptacle for waste. In this manner, the user
wastes no material when using the invention.
[0021] At least some implementations of the present invention take
place in association with human and/or animal excrement. More
specifically, at least some implementations of the present
invention take place in association with a system and method for
disposing, decomposing, and disinfecting an excrement sample
collected with the portable toilet system. In further
implementations, the container generally includes a biopolymer
material that is configured or arranged to receive an excrement
sample. For example, in some implementations, the container is a
bag. Additionally, in some implementations, the container is flat
sheet. In still further implementations, the portable toilet is
used without a container.
[0022] In some implementations, the container is directly attached
to the portable toilet such that an excrement sample from the user
is directly received by the container. Alternatively, in some
implementations, the portable toilet is used without a container
and an excrement sample is transferred to the container following
disposal.
[0023] In some implementations, the container further contains a
bioactive agent for decomposing the excrement sample. The bioactive
agent generally includes a microorganism, or mixed culture of
microorganisms capable of digesting and decomposing the various
components of the excrement sample. In some implementations, the
bioactive agent further includes a non-microorganistic entity, such
as an enzyme. In some implementations the bioactive agent is
provided in a powdered form, while in other implementations the
bioactive agent is provided in a liquid form. The bioactive agent
may also be lyophilized and vacuum sealed to preserve the
bioactivity of the agent. In some implementations, the bioactive
agent is applied to the container prior to collecting the excrement
sample. In other implementations, the bioactive agent is applied
directly to the excrement sample following collection of the
excrement in the container.
[0024] The container may further include a chemical oxidant
component and/or chemical agents to generate oxidizing components.
In some implementations, a chemical oxidant component is included
in the system to provide oxygen to the aerobic bioactive agent.
Additionally, in some implementations, a byproduct of the chemical
oxidant is used to disinfect the bioactive agent and any other
microorganism within the system.
[0025] The container may further include multiple compartments
containing various components of the system. For example, in some
implementations, a first compartment is provided to contain the
excrement sample and the bioactive agent. In some implementations,
a second compartment is provided to contain the chemical oxidant
and/or oxidant generator. The compartments of the container may
further include means for allowing the transfer of oxygen from one
compartment to another compartment. In some implementations, a
third compartment is provided to contain a second bioactive agent
of the system.
[0026] The compartments of the container may further include
biopolymer materials having various biodegradation properties. For
example, in some implementations, a first material having a first
biodegradation rate is positioned between the first compartment and
the second compartment. Furthermore, a second material having a
second biodegradation rate is provided to contain the first and
second compartments, where the second biodegradation rate is slower
that the first biodegradation rate. As such, upon biodegradation of
the first material, the contents of the first compartment and the
second compartment are combined and contained within the second
material. In some implementations, a third material having a third
biodegradation rate is positioned between a second bioactive agent
and the other components of the system. Differential degradation
rates may be obtained through alternate structures of biopolymers
as well as by lamination or coextrusion of biopolymers.
[0027] In some implementations of the present method, a first step
is to collect an excrement sample. In some implementations, other
steps include treating the excrement with a bioactive agent,
providing oxygen to the bioactive agent, disinfecting the bioactive
agent and pathogens of the system with a disinfecting agent, and
disposing the byproduct of the system. In some implementations,
another step includes treating the unmetabolized excrement sample
with a second bioactive agent.
[0028] In some implementations of the present method for
manufacturing the container, a first step is to select a raw
material or materials for the container. In some implementations,
other steps of manufacture include extruding, coextruding and/or
laminating the raw materials, providing a label to the extruded
materials, forming the container from the extruded materials,
loading the various compartments of the container, and sealing the
container.
[0029] In some embodiments of the present invention, the portable
toilet and the container are further used in conjunction with a
privacy screen. The privacy screen generally includes a plurality
of linked panels that enclose the portable toilet and the user. In
one embodiment, the privacy screen is made of corrugated
paperboard. In another embodiment, the privacy screen is
constructed of a translucent or opaque material that substantially
encloses the toilet to provide privacy to the user.
[0030] While the methods and processes of the present invention
have proven to be particularly useful in the area of waste
management and treatment, those skilled in the art can appreciate
that the methods and processes can be used in a variety of
different applications for collecting, managing and disinfecting
excrement.
[0031] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will be set forth or will become more apparent in the
description that follows and in the appended claims. The features
and advantages may be realized and obtained by means of the
instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the
appended claims. Furthermore, the features and advantages of the
invention may be learned by the practice of the invention or will
be obvious from the description, as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] In order that the manner in which the above recited and
other features and advantages of the present invention are
obtained, a more particular description of the invention will be
rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are
illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that the
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention
and are not, therefore, to be considered as limiting the scope of
the invention, the present invention will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an implementation
of the portable toilet system;
[0034] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an implementation of
the portable toilet in accordance with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the present invention
during conversion into an operative configuration with the top
panels open and without a disposable container in the internal
bowl;
[0036] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the present invention
in a storage configuration before conversion into an operative
configuration;
[0037] FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of an embodiment in
accordance with the present invention in an initial configuration
before folding into the storage configuration;
[0038] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of FIG. 2;
[0039] FIG. 7 is a side elevational view generally from the left of
FIG. 2;
[0040] FIG. 8 is a top elevational view thereof;
[0041] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view taken generally from the
right of FIG. 2;
[0042] FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view thereof;
[0043] FIG. 11 is a rear elevational view thereof;
[0044] FIG. 12 illustrates a representative flow diagram attending
to the collecting, decomposing, disinfecting, and disposing of an
excrement sample;
[0045] FIG. 13A illustrates a plan view of a representative
embodiment of a decomposition container;
[0046] FIG. 13B illustrates a cross-sectional end view of a
representative embodiment of a decomposition container;
[0047] FIG. 13C illustrates a cross-sectional end view of a
representative embodiment of a decomposition container;
[0048] FIG. 14A illustrates a partially cross-sectioned perspective
view of a representative embodiment of a decomposition
container;
[0049] FIG. 14B illustrates a partially cross-sectioned perspective
view of a representative embodiment of a decomposition container
having separate packets; and
[0050] FIG. 15 illustrates a representative flow diagram detailing
the steps for manufacturing the decomposition container.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0051] The presently preferred embodiments of the present invention
will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like
reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar
elements. It will be readily understood that the components of the
present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the
figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed
description, as represented in the figures, is not intended to
limit the scope of the invention as claimed, but is merely
representative of presently preferred embodiments of the
invention.
[0052] As provided herein, the present disclosure relates to waste
management and waste disinfection. More particularly, the present
disclosure pertains to systems and methods for disinfecting
excrement, including systems and methods for collecting and
recycling excrement into a usable product.
[0053] Referring now to FIG. 1, a representative portable toilet
system 10 is shown. The portable toilet system 10 generally
comprises a plurality of components, including a portable toilet
12, a container 40, and a privacy screen 60. Ideally, the portable
toilet 12 is comprised of an environmentally safe, biodegradable,
corrugated paperboard and glue that permit the entire device to be
incinerated or buried if desirable. Additionally, the portable
toilet 12 is generally lightweight and capable of being easily
carrier or transported to campsites or remote locales.
[0054] Referring now generally to FIGS. 2-4 and 6-10, each
embodiment and implementation of the current invention comprises a
unitary cut-out 32 that is easily and quickly folded to provide a
stable, unitary structure 160. The resulting structure 160 is
strong and rigid while remaining lightweight. Where the material of
the portable toilet 12 is corrugated paperboard, the device 160 may
be easily deposited in an appropriate waste receptacle or
incinerated in a campfire or buried beneath the surface for
disposal following use. However, where the material of the portable
toilet is corrugated polymer, such as polyethylene, or where the
material is coated paperboard, the device 160 may be repeatedly
used or may be recycled, as desired.
[0055] In some embodiments of the current invention, the corrugated
paper board is further treated with a topical coating to protect
and seal the paperboard against moisture and other liquid
containing materials. As such, the topical coating prevents
deterioration and weakening of the portable toilet 12. For example,
in one embodiment the entire exterior surface of the portable
toilet 12 is treated with a polymer coating to provide a water
barrier for the material of the toilet 12. In another embodiment,
the entire exterior surface of the toilet 12 is treated with a
plasma-polymer coating to substantially seal the material of the
toilet 12. In another embodiment, portions of the toilet 12 that
are susceptible to moisture penetration are treated with a polymer
or plasma-polymer coating to seal and protect the susceptible
portions. In another embodiment, the exterior surface of the toilet
12 is treated with a wax to provide a moisture barrier. In yet
another embodiment, the exterior surface of the toilet 12 is
treated with a spectra-coat coating material. Yet still in some
embodiments, the material of the portable toilet 12 is impregnated
with a polymer material, thereby infusing the polymer within the
paperboard material of the toilet 12. For example, in one
embodiment the paperboard material of the portable toilet 12 is
soaked in a polymer material and allowed to dry.
[0056] In some implementations of the present invention, the
polymer, plasma polymer, and wax coating are biodegradable
biopolymers. The biodegradable polymer may include any
biodegradable polymer or resin known in the art. Examples of
biodegradable polymer coatings include natural orientated
biodegradable polymers, chemically synthesized biodegradable
polymers and other types of biodegradable polymers.
[0057] Examples of natural oriented biodegradable polymers include
chitin-chitosan, alginic acid, gluten, collagen, polyaminoacid,
bacteria cellulose, pullulan, curdlan, polysaccharide by-product
and the like. These may be used singly, or in combination of two or
more. Examples of the chemically synthesized biodegradable polymers
include aliphatic polyester, aliphatic aromatic polyester,
polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyurethane (PU), a blended resin of
synthesized biodegradable polymer and natural orientated
biodegradable polymer, and the like.
[0058] Examples of aliphatic polyester are polyhydroxybutyrate
(PHB) (--OCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 CO--) n , polycaprolacton (PCL)
[C6H10O2]n, polybutylene succinate (PBS) (--COCH2CH2COO(CH2)4O--)n
, polybutylene succinate/adipate (PBSA) (--O(CH2)4OCO(CH2)aCO--)n
(where, a=2, 4), polyethylene succinate (PES)
(--O(CH2)4OCO(CH2)2CO--)n, polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid
(PLA) [C3H4O2]n, derivatives thereof, copolymers of monomers
thereof, and the like.
[0059] An example of the blended polymer of synthesized
biodegradable polymer and natural orientated biodegradable polymer
is a polymer having starch as a base material.
[0060] Examples of other types of biodegradable polymers include
aliphatic polyester-carbonate copolymer, aliphatic
polyester-polyamide copolymer, and the like.
[0061] In some implementations of the current invention, chemically
systemized polymers may be preferred. Of these, aliphatic polyester
may be more preferable in terms of excellent molding workability,
thermal resistance, impact resistance and the like thereof.
Furthermore, polyesters having hydroxycarboxylic acid as a monomer
unit may be even more preferable, and polylactic acid is
particularly preferably thereamong.
[0062] Examples of polyester having hydroxycarboxylic acid as a
monomer unit are polymers of oxy acid such as lactic acid, malic
acid, glycolic acid and the like, copolymers thereof, and the
like.
[0063] The manufacturing method of the polyester having
hydroxycarboxylic acid as a monomer unit is not particularly
limited and can be selected depending on the intended purpose.
Examples thereof include a lactide method in which ring-opening
polymerization is carried out between lactide of cyclic diester and
corresponding lactones, lactic acid direct dehydration condensation
method, and the like. In addition, as a catalyst used during
manufacturing procedure, tin, antimony, zinc, titanium, iron, an
aluminum compound and the like may be included as examples. These
may be used singly, or in combination of two or more. Of these, tin
and an aluminum compound are preferable, and octyltin acid,
aluminum acetyl acetate are particularly preferable.
[0064] In the case that two or more types of biodegradable polymers
are contained in the present invention, a combination of polylactic
acid and one of polycaprolacton, polyhydroxybutyrate and
polybutylene succinate, may be preferable.
[0065] In yet another embodiment, the coating material is a
composite material created from a plurality of components. For
example, in one embodiment the coating material is a composite
material comprising a biopolymer and an inorganic filler or fibrous
reinforcement to improve the strength, water resistance, or fire
resistance of the composite material. The composite may include a
diverse range of components to achieve a desired physical property.
For example, components may include aluminum hydroxide, aluminum,
calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, kaolin, mica, molybdenum
disulfide, talc, montmorillonite, graphite, carbon black, metal
oxides such as magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, silica oxide, and
the like.
[0066] In some implementations of the current invention, a
nanocomposite is dispersed within the coating material to provide a
nano-modified composite coating material. In this embodiment, the
nano-modified composite material demonstrates improved mechanical
performance and functionality, for example to create better barrier
properties against moisture, improve fire resistance, block heat,
or dissipate electrical charge. In some embodiments, the
nano-modified coating further protects the material of the toilet
12 against heat and light, such as by providing UV protection. In
one embodiment the biopolymer material is combined with a metal
hydroxide to provide flame resistance without the use of toxic
halogen or phosphorus-type flame retardants. In another embodiment,
at least one of a silicone compound, a metal salt, a metal salt
hydroxide, and a phosphorus compound is combined with a biopolymer
to provide flame resistance to the coating. In another embodiment,
multiple components are combined with the biopolymer to provide
flame resistance.
[0067] In some implementations of the current invention, the toilet
is formed from corrugated polymer, such as corrugated polyethylene.
In these embodiments, an additional coating is not necessary to
protect the material from moisture.
[0068] With continued reference to FIGS. 2-4 and 6-10, the cut-out
32 includes a series of abutting sections 34, 36, 38, 140, 42, 44,
46 and 48, as shown in FIG. 5. The interlockable interior and
exterior front panels 34, 36, a rear panel 38 and two angled side
panels 140, 42 are preferably abutting linearly. Thus, the interior
front panel 34 is against the first side panel 140 and the side
panel 140 is against the rear panel 38 and the rear panel 38 is
against the second side panel 42 and the side panel 42 is against
the exterior front panel 36. The interlockable interior seat panel
44, an interlockable exterior seat panel 46 and a selectively
displaceable covering seat panel 48 are also preferably aligned
linearly, although not abutting. The interior seat panel 44 abuts
the top of the rear panel 38. The exterior seat panel 46 abuts the
top of the exterior front panel 36. The covering seat panel 48
abuts a side of the exterior seat panel 46.
[0069] Appropriate perforations 33, 35, 37, 39, 45, 47 and 49 are
defined between adjacent panels 34, 36, 38, 44, 46 and 48 to enable
the abutting panels to be appropriately folded for both storage and
assembly. Perforation 33 is defined between the front panel 34 and
the side panel 140. Perforation 35 is defined between the side
panel 140 and the rear panel 38. Perforation 37 is defined between
the rear panel 38 and the side panel 42. Perforation 39 is defined
between the front panel 36 and the side panel 42. Perforation 45 is
defined between the rear panel 38 and the interior seat panel 44.
Perforation 47 is defined between the front panel 36 and the
exterior seat panel 46. Perforation 49 is defined between the
exterior seat panel 46 and the covering seat panel 48.
[0070] Two more perforations 41 and 43 also bisect each side panel
140 and 42 along its longitudinal axis. The perforations 41, 43 to
enable the sides 140, 42 to angle inwardly to form two spaced apart
internal pillars beneath the seat panels 44, 46 and 48.
[0071] During the assembly of structure 160, several sections (the
interlockable interior and exterior front panels 34, 36, a rear
panel 38 and two angled side panels 140, 42) are arranged to form
four walls 62, 64, 66 and 68 (i.e., front, two sides and a rear)
that define an internal bowl 70. The walls 62, 64, 66, 68 and bowl
70 are covered by a seat section 80 formed from the other sections
44, 46, 48.
[0072] The front panels 34 and 36 are interlocked after the walls
have been aligned to maintain the assembled structure 160. The
exterior front panel 36 defines two spaced apart holes 52 while the
interior front panel 34 defines corresponding locking tabs 54. The
tabs 54 are realigned and inserted through holes 52 to couple the
front panels 34, 36. The interior seat panel 44 is also interlocked
with the exterior front panel 36 to secure the seat 80 to the wall
section. Protruding tabs 56 are inserted into appropriate slots 58
on the exterior front panel 36 to couple the seat thereto.
Additional protruding tabs 20 are inserted into appropriate slots
22 on the interior seat panel 44 to couple the seat thereto.
[0073] In one embodiment, the invention may be easily and compactly
folded for storage, as seen best in FIG. 4. In particular, the
invention may be conveniently stored in this compacted
configuration in conventional shrink wrap packaging. The folded
configuration may also be further bound with an encircling cord or
rope or the like to retain this shape.
[0074] During deployment, the folded cut-out 32 (i.e., structure
160), is removed from the packaging and the retaining cord is
removed, permitting the folded configuration to expand in an
accordion-like fashion, as indicated by arrow 105 in FIG. 3, into a
preliminary operative configuration as shown by the phantom lines
in FIG. 4. As can best be seen by referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the
user may quickly transform the portable toilet 12 from its compact,
stored configuration as shown in FIG. 4, into the operative
configurations shown in FIGS. 1-3.
[0075] The user may then finish the conversion from the initial
deployment shown in FIG. 3 to the final configuration shown in FIG.
2 by quickly folding the top 80 into place. The user first moves
panel 44 as indicated by arrow 110 into a position on top of side
panels 140 and 42 so that tabs 56 can be inserted into holes 58.
Next, the user moves panel 46 upward as indicated by arrow 115 so
that lid 48 can be opened as indicated by arrow 120. The exterior
seat panel 46 is then folded on top of panel 44 as indicated by
arrow 125 so that tabs 20 can be inserted into holes 22. The tabs
20, 54 and 56 are inserted through holes 22, 52 and 58
respectively. In particular, the side panels 140 and 42 form
supporting pillars 141 and 143 along perforation lines 41 and 43
respectively beneath top 80.
[0076] The user may quickly finalize assemble of the operative
configuration for the structure 160 by interlocking the support
members. In an exemplary embodiment, the support members include
the interior and exterior front panels, side panels and the seat
panels. Ideally, the assembled structure 160 will support at least
three hundred pounds of weight.
[0077] When assembled, the structure 160 may be conveniently
deployed as a stool in a conventional manner or advantageously used
as a toilet, as shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 6-11, by opening or closing
lid 48 as indicated by arrow 100. When used as a toilet, the
internal bowl 70 can employ a container 40 to receive wastes,
discussed in detail below. After use, the user may simply remove
the container 40 and dispose of it appropriately. Another container
can then be inserted into the bowl 70 to use the structure 160 as a
toilet again. The container 40 can be formed from plastic or
another leakproof material. Additionally, in one embodiment the
container 40 comprises a biodegradable polymer material, such as a
polyhydroxyalkonoate, discussed in detail below.
[0078] In some embodiments, the structure 160 is used as a toilet,
as shown in FIGS. 3, 7 and 9, without the internal container 40.
Since the bottom of the structure's internal bowl 70 is open, waste
can be directly deposited on the ground 20 or into an open pit 13
beneath the structure, as shown in phantom in FIG. 1. When used in
this fashion, the user preferably excavates a hole beneath the
toilet for the retention of waste. After use, the toilet can be
alternatively moved to a nearby location for continued use with the
filled hole covered or the structure may be disposed in the pit or
otherwise disposed of as desired, for example by incineration.
[0079] An appropriate paper dispenser 95 for may also be included
with the invention. In another exemplary embodiment, the
shrink-wrap packaging itself can also be used as a receptacle for
waste. In this manner, the user wastes no material when using the
invention.
[0080] Referring again to FIG. 1, the portable toilet system 10 may
also include a container 40. The container 40 generally comprises a
leakproof, biopolymer material that collects and holds an excrement
sample. In one embodiment, the container 40 is configured to
partially cover and insert within the internal bowl portion of the
portable toilet 12, as shown in FIG. 1. In another embodiment, the
container comprises a planar sheet 40a of biopolymer material that
is interposed between the portable toilet 12 and the ground. In
another embodiment, an open pit 13 is provided directly under the
portable toilet 12 whereby a portion of the planar sheet 40a lines
the open pit 13 to collect the excrement. Finally, in yet another
embodiment the container 40c comprises a section of biopolymer
material that is interposed between the interior seat panel 44 and
the external seat panel 46. As such, the container 40c is
positioned to collect excrement thereby preventing the excrement
from contacting the surface upon which the portable toilet 12 is
supported. Thus, a combination of the portable toilet 12 and the
container 40 provide a convenient device 160 whereby waste material
is collected and managed.
[0081] Once an excrement sample is collected in the container 40,
the user may desire to safely dispose of the excrement to prevent
the spread of disease, undesirable pollution, or wildlife
contamination. In one embodiment, the container 40 is configured to
collect and disinfect a collected excrement sample. Referring now
to FIG. 12, a representative method for disinfecting an excrement
sample is provided. An excrement sample generally includes waste
products of metabolism and other non-useful materials.
Specifically, excretory products include urine and feces, but may
also include blood, vomit, mucus, and other forms of bodily
discharge. Urine and feces is generally composed of unmetabolized
food, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and cellulose, as
well as water, bacteria, salts, bile, indole, and skatole.
Additional components may include blood, mucus, and any variety of
pathogens, including viruses, parasites, harmful bacteria, and
fungi. All living creatures produce excrement in one form or
another. The present method is directed toward disinfecting human
excrement samples, but may also be used for disinfecting excrement
samples of other species. For example, the present method may
effectively be used to disinfect an excrement sample of a dog, a
cat, a horse, a cow, a pig, a chicken, or any other excrement
producing species.
[0082] The first step 82 of the method is to collect the excrement
sample. As previously discussed, the excrement sample is collected
in a decomposition container 40. The decomposition container 40 may
include any device capable of containing the excrement sample and
the other components of the disinfection system, as described in
detail below. In one embodiment, a decomposition container 102
comprises multiple layers of biopolymer sheets as illustrated in
FIGS. 13A-13C.
[0083] Referring now to FIG. 13A, a representative perspective top
view of the decomposition container 102 is illustrated. The
decomposition container 102 is generally planar having a generally
rectangle shape. However, other planar shapes may effectively be
used. For example, the decomposition container 102 may include a
round or rectangular shape. An upper surface 103 of the
decomposition container 102 is positioned to receive the excrement
sample. The upper surface 103 comprises the upward facing surface
of the top layer 104 of the decomposition container 102. The
material and characteristics of the top layer 104 will be discussed
in detail below.
[0084] The decomposition container 102 further comprises a means
106 for enclosing the excrement sample within the container 102.
The means 106 may include any method sufficient to retain the
excrement. For example, the means 106 may include a drawstring 108,
as illustrated. The top layer 104 may be modified to include a
channel 111 within which the drawstring 108 may be located. The
channel 111 may be provided by folding a portion of the top layer
104 back onto itself. A section of the folded portion of the top
layer 104 may then be attached to the upper surface 103 of the top
layer 104 by an appropriate method.
[0085] For example, the folded portion of the top layer 104 may be
secured with an adhesive, or may be secured by melting together a
portion of the two adjacent surfaces. Where a drawstring 108 is
selected as the means 106, an opening 112 may be provided in the
channel 111 to permit the user the access and actuate the
drawstring 108 for securing the excrement. Alternatively, two or
more openings may be provided to facilitate closing the container
102. The means 106 may also include an adhesive, a mating channel
closure, and any other appropriate method for securing the
excrement sample. Alternatively, the channel 111 may be provided by
folding and attaching a portion of a separate layer onto the top
layer 104 of the decomposition container 102, as shown in FIG.
13B.
[0086] The excrement may be collected in the decomposition
container 102 either directly from a user, or by transferring the
excrement from a primary location to the decomposition container
102. To facilitate the collection of the excrement, the
decomposition container 102 may be positioned proximal to the user
during elimination of the excrement. For example, where the
excrement is eliminated into a portable toilet, the decomposition
container 102 may be positioned within the bowl of the toilet
directly beneath the seating surface of the toilet. As such, the
excrement may be collected directly into the decomposition
container 102. Alternatively, where the excrement is initially
deposited outside the decomposition container 102, the excrement
may be collected and deposited into the decomposition container 102
by any appropriate means.
[0087] Referring now to FIG. 13B, a representative cross-sectional
end view of the decomposition container 102 is illustrated. The
decomposition container 102 comprises a top layer 104 and a bottom
layer 114. The top layer 104 comprises a first material 150, and
the bottom layer 114 comprises a second material 152. In one
embodiment, the first and second materials 150 and 152 include a
polymer, or biopolymer capable of performing according to the
embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, the
polymer material of the first and second materials 150 and 152
includes a polyhydroxyalkonate (PHA).
[0088] PHAs are linear, biodegradable polyesters of various
hydroxyalkonates. PHAs are most commonly synthesized and
intracellularly accumulated by numerous microorganisms as energy
reserve material. The mechanical properties of PHAs are highly
dependent on the constituting monomer units and molecular weight.
More than 150 different monomer units have been identified as the
constituents of PHAs. These monomers can be combined to produce
materials with extremely different properties.
[0089] PHAs are biopolymers chains comprising variations of the
monomer unit as shown in diagram 1. The R group of the monomer may
be substituted by a wide range of organic molecules. For example, R
can be substituted with hydrogen or hydrocarbon chains of up to
around C13 in length, and n can range from 1 to 3, or more.
Therefore, when R is a methyl group and n=1, the polymer is
poly-(3-hydroxybutyric acid) (PHB). Alternatively, when R is a
methyl group and n=0, the polymer is polylactic acid (PLA), and
when R is a hydrogen atom and n=4, the polymer is polycaprolactone.
PHAs can include any number of monomers and commonly range from 100
to 30,000 monomers in length with molecular weight ranging from
about 500 Daltons (Da) to over 1,000,000 Da.
##STR00001##
[0090] As with other polymers, PHA materials may be extruded into
final product shape, dimension, and thickness. In one embodiment,
the PHA material is extruded into a sheet having a diameter from
about 0.01 millimeters to about 1.50 millimeters. Additionally, in
one embodiment a PHA material is selected and extruded to include
plurality of microscopic pores. In another embodiment, a first PHA
material is provided with a first biodegradation rate, and a second
PHA material is provided with a second biodegradation rate. In yet
another embodiment, a third PHA material is provided with a third
biodegradation rate.
[0091] Referring again to FIG. 12, following the first step 82 of
collecting the excrement sample on the upper surface 103 of the
decomposition container 102, the next step 84 includes treating the
excrement with a bioactive agent. Generally, the bioactive agent is
any culture or mixed culture of microorganisms capable of digesting
the various components of the excrement. For example, the bioactive
agent may include one or more microorganisms or components to
include enzymes such as lipases, proteases and amylases, capable of
digesting, or breaking-down the excrement into its basic chemical
components. In one embodiment, the bioactive agent includes a
microorganism that can digest the protein components of the
excrement into small peptides and individual amino acids. In
another embodiment, the bioactive agent includes a microorganism
that can digest the lipid or fat components of the excrement into
glycerol and fatty acids. In another embodiment, the bioactive
agent includes a microorganism that can digest the carbohydrate
components of the excrement into small organic molecules and
individual elements of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. In another
embodiment, the bioactive agent includes a microorganism that can
digest the cellulose components of the excrement into small organic
molecules and individual elements of carbon, hydrogen, and
oxygen.
[0092] In yet another embodiment, the bioactive agent is a mixed
culture including several microorganisms. For example, the
bioactive agent may include bacterial microorganisms with
extracellular enzymes. These enzymes, as well as free enzymes,
include cellulase, protease, lipase, and amylase.
[0093] Referring again to FIG. 13B, the upper surface 103 of the
top layer 104 may include a bioactive agent. For example, in one
embodiment, the upper surface 103 of the top layer 104 is
pretreated or pre-coated with the bioactive agent 121. In this
embodiment, the bioactive agent 121 is either pre-applied to the
upper surface 103 during manufacturing of the first material, or is
applied during the assembly, or packaging of the decomposition
container. In another embodiment, the bioactive agent 121 is
applied to the upper surface 103 of the top layer 104 subsequent to
manufacturing and packaging of the decomposition container 102. In
this embodiment, the bioactive agent 121 may be applied either
prior to the step 82 of collecting the excrement, or following the
step 82 of collecting the excrement.
[0094] The bioactive agent 121 may be applied in a liquid form, a
powder form, or a combination thereof. For example, a liquid
preparation of the bioactive agent 121 may be prepared and stored
in a spray bottle whereby a user applies the bioactive agent 121
via the spray bottle. Alternatively, a powder preparation of the
bioactive agent 121 may be prepared and stored in a container. The
container may be configured to include a plurality of holes at one
end such that by inverting the container and shaking and/or
squeezing the container, the powder preparation may be applied to
the decomposition container. In either embodiment, the bioactive
agent 121 is deposited such that the bioactive agent 121 contacts
the excrement.
[0095] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13B, the third step 86 is to
provide oxygen to the bioactive agent 121. Decomposition of the
excrement is accomplished by providing O.sub.2 to the aerobic
bioactive agent 121 to convert excrement to CO.sub.2 and water, as
well as provide new cell mass. In environmental chemistry, the
Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) is a measure of the amount of
oxygen that bacteria will consume while decomposing organic matter
under aerobic conditions. Biochemical oxygen demand may be
determined by incubating the bioactive agent 121 and a portion of
an excrement sample, in a sealed sample of water for five days and
measuring the loss of oxygen from the beginning to the end of the
test. The aerobic bioactive agent 121 feeds on the excrement sample
within the sample of water while metabolizing the dissolved oxygen
in the water sample. Dilutions of the bioactive agent 121 must be
made prior to running the test to ensure that the bioactive agent
121 does not deplete the available oxygen before the end of the
test. Results of the test are reported in milligrams of oxygen.
[0096] In one embodiment, a BOD of approximately 300 mg is required
to decompose an average human excrement sample. Therefore, the
bioactive agent 121 must be supplied with at least 300 mg of oxygen
per excrement sample. Where the excrement and bioactive agent 121
are exposed to ambient air 124, the water from the excrement, the
oxygen dissolved within the excrement, and the oxygen from the
ambient air 124 may be sufficient to allow the bioactive agent 121
to decompose the excrement sample. However, optimal decomposition
is obtained by providing additional O.sub.2 to the system, for
example, by providing O.sub.2 from an oxidizing agent. Therefore,
when the drawstring 108 is actuated, the excrement and bioactive
agent 121 are enclosed within the decomposition container 102, and
the bioactive agent 121 may become starved for oxygen. As such, the
bioactive agent 121 may become inactive and unable to digest the
excrement. Therefore, it may be necessary to supplement the oxygen
supply of the enclosed decomposition container 102 by using
chemical oxidants.
[0097] In one embodiment, a chemical oxidant 130 is provided within
a lumen 132 of the decomposition container 102. The lumen 132 is
defined as the space between top and bottom layers 104 and 114,
wherein the lumen 132 is enclosed by one or more sealed junctions
134 between the top and bottom layers 104 and 114 of the
decomposition container 102. The chemical oxidant 130 may include
any chemical or combination of chemicals that produces oxygen when
exposed to water, air, and/or a catalyst.
[0098] For example, in one embodiment the chemical oxidant 130
comprises sodium percarbonate. When exposed to water, the sodium
percarbonate dissociates to form sodium carbonate and hydrogen
peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide dissociates to water and O2 in the
presence of a catalyst, for example a catalyst being potassium
iodide (KI) or catalase. The produced oxygen is then released from
this reaction into the lumen 132. As sodium percarbonate is the
salt of a strong base and a weak acid, aqueous solutions of sodium
percarbonate are quite alkaline with pH greater than 11. As such,
dissociated sodium percarbonate provides alkaline hydrogen peroxide
solutions which are known as strong oxidizing agents. Therefore, it
is imperative that first material 150 provide separation between
the oxidizing agents and the bioactive agent 121. For example, if
the oxidizing agent contacts the bioactive agent, the bioactive
agent will be killed. One of skill in the art will appreciate that
other chemical or combinations of chemicals may be effectively used
within the lumen 132 to accomplish the purposes of this
invention.
[0099] The excrement and bioactive agent 121 are deposited on the
upper surface 103 of the top layer 104 and, as such, occupy a first
compartment 161 of the decomposition chamber 100. The first
compartment 161 is separated from the lumen 132, or second
compartment 162 of the decomposition chamber 100 by the top layer
104. The top layer 104 is comprised of a first material 150. The
first material 150 is selected so as to accommodate a relationship
between the bioactive agent 121 and the chemical oxidant 130.
[0100] For example, in one embodiment a first material 150 is
selected to permit water from the first compartment 161 to pass
through the first material 150 to the second compartment 162. As
such, the water from the first compartment 161 may activate the
chemical oxidant 130 of the second compartment 162. In this same
embodiment, the first material 150 is further configured to permit
oxygen, generated by the activated chemical oxidant 130, to pass
through the first material 150 into the first compartment 161. As
such, the oxygen from the second compartment 162 is made available
to the bioactive agent 121 of the first compartment 161. The first
material 150 is further selected to comprise plurality of one-way
pores thus permitting the passage of a fluid from the first
compartment 161 to the second compartment 162. Furthermore, the
one-way pores prevent a disinfectant product of the second
compartment 162 from passing into the first compartment 161 to
disinfect the bioactive agent 121. The one-way pores may include
any device or feature that limits movement of liquid or air to one
direction. For example, in one embodiment the one-way pore is a
one-way valve.
[0101] In one embodiment, a first material 150 is configured to
include one or more one-way valves 170. The one-way valve 170 is
provided to allow oxygen from the activated chemical oxidant 130 to
pass through the first material 150 into the first compartment 161.
The one-way valve 170 is configured to provide oxygen exchange from
the second compartment 162 to the first compartment 161 while
preventing a disinfectant product of the chemical oxidant 130 from
passing into the first compartment 161. The first material 150 may
further comprise plurality of one-way pores to permit passage of
water from the first compartment 161 to the second compartment 162,
as previously discussed. As such, water is made available to
activate the chemical oxidant 130 of the second compartment 162. In
another embodiment, a breakable vial 180 containing water 182 and
one or more catalysts 184 is enclosed within the second compartment
162. The breakable vial 180 is crushed to release the water 182 and
catalyst 184 into the chemical oxidant 130. As such, the released
water 182 activates the chemical oxidant 130 to produce oxygen.
Additionally, the one-way valve 170 may be used to provide water to
the chemical oxidant 130. In this embodiment, the breakable vial
180 may include only a catalyst 184. Alternatively, the vial 180
may be omitted and the catalyst 184 added to the chemical oxidant
130. As such, the chemical oxidant 130 and the catalyst 184 are
activated by the water as introduced via the one-way valve 170.
[0102] As previously discussed, the first material 150 is further
selected to be biodegradable. The biodegradation rate of the first
material 150 is selected based on the ability of the bioactive
agent 121 to decompose the excrement sample. For example, in one
embodiment the first material 150 is selected to biodegrade
subsequent to the bioactive agent's 120 complete digestion of the
excrement sample. In another embodiment, the first material 150
biodegrades 15 days after being exposed to the excrement and the
bioactive agent 121. In another embodiment, the first material 150
biodegrades 3 to 4 days after being exposed to the excrement and
the bioactive agent 121.
[0103] The first material 150 is further selected to biodegrade
prior to the biodegradation of the second material 152. In one
embodiment, the second material 152 is selected to biodegrade 3
months following the biodegradation of the first material 150. In
another embodiment, the second material 152 is selected to
biodegrade 1 week following the biodegradation of the first
material 150.
[0104] Referring again to FIGS. 12 and 13B, the fourth step 88 is
to disinfect the bioactive agent and pathogens of the system with a
disinfecting agent. One of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the bioactive agent and the pathogens of the
present system are collectively classified as microorganisms,
however it is understood that pathogens also include viruses. One
of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that
additional pathogens and bacteria may be introduced into the
present system independent of the disclosed components or steps of
the present invention. For example, additional bacteria and
pathogens may be introduced into the present system by an insect or
an animal coming in contact with the system. Therefore, it is
anticipated that the disinfecting agent of the present system will
disinfect all pathogens present within the system.
[0105] Oxidizing agents are commonly used as disinfecting agents to
kill or disinfect microorganisms. Oxidizing agents, such as
chlorine, act by oxidizing the cell membrane of microorganisms,
which results in a loss of structure and leads to cell lysis and
death. A large number of disinfectants operate in this way.
Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used as a disinfectant, or
disinfecting agent. When hydrogen peroxide comes into contact with
the catalase enzyme of a microorganism, the peroxide compound is
broken down into a water molecule and a hydroxyl free radical
molecule. The hydroxyl free radical thereafter oxidizes the
membrane of the microorganism resulting in cellular death.
Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, an oxidizing
agent is provided that causes cellular death upon contact of the
oxidizing agent with a microorganism of the system. In another
embodiment, a chemical reaction of the oxidizing agent and water
provides a disinfecting agent that causes cellular death upon
contact of the disinfecting agent with a microorganism of the
system. Alternatively, exothermic heat created by the bioactivity
of the bioactive agent may also provide disinfecting temperatures,
thereby eliminating the need to destroy the pathogens by another
means.
[0106] As previously discussed, a first material 150 is selected to
comprise a first biodegradation rate. Upon biodegradation of the
first material 150, the contents of the first and second
compartments 161 and 162 are combined. As such, the excrement
byproducts, the pathogens, and the bioactive agent become exposed
to the chemical oxidant 130 and/or disinfecting byproducts of the
chemical oxidant 130. At this point, the disinfecting agent of the
chemical oxidant 130 disrupt the cellular walls of the pathogens
and bioactive agent 121 resulting in complete disinfection of all
pathogens present within the system. As previously discussed, the
second material 152 is selected to comprise a rate of
biodegradation that is slower than the biodegradation rate of the
first material 150.
[0107] Additionally, the biodegradation rate of the second material
152 is selected to be slower than the time needed for the
disinfecting agent to disinfect the microorganisms of the system.
For example, in one embodiment the process of decomposition
requires approximately, 3 to 4 days, and the process of
disinfecting the microorganisms of the system requires
approximately less than 1 day. Therefore, in this embodiment, the
second material is selected to biodegrade no less than
approximately 5 days following collection of the excrement sample.
In another embodiment, the second material 152 is selected to
biodegrade no less than approximately 1 day after the disinfection
of the microorganisms of the system. In yet another embodiment, the
second material 152 is selected to biodegrade at a period of time
subsequent to the disinfection of the microorganisms of the
system.
[0108] Referring again to FIG. 12, the last step 90 of the method
is to dispose of the byproduct materials of the excrement sample,
the bioactive agent, the pathogens, and the chemical oxidant 130.
At this step 18 in the process, the excrement sample has previously
been decomposed by the bioactive agent and the pathogens of the
system. As such, the processed excrement sample generally comprises
only small and simple chemical components or breakdown products of
the original excrement. Additionally, the oxidizing agent 130 of
the second compartment 162, and the contents of the first
compartment 161 have been commingled resulting in the disinfection
of the microorganisms within the system. Therefore, the byproduct
of the system, termed humus, comprises decomposed organic material
containing dead organisms and high molecular carbohydrates that are
unable to be decomposed by enzymes.
[0109] Having been disinfected of harmful pathogens, the humus of
the system may be disposed in any manner useful to the user. For
example, the rich organic content of the humus may be useful as
mulch, compost, or fertilizer. Additionally, the humus may be used
as a landfill material. For example, in one embodiment the humus
and the second material 152 are together buried underground. As
such, the humus and the second material 152 further decompose and
assimilate into the surrounding environment. In another embodiment,
the humus and the second material 152 are used to fertilize a crop.
In another embodiment, the humus and the second material 152 are
deposited into a landfill.
[0110] Referring now to FIG. 13C, a representative cross-sectional
end view of a decomposition container 200 is illustrated. In this
embodiment 200, a third material 154 is selected and interposed
between the first material 150 and the second material 152. The
third material generally comprises a biopolymer material similar to
that of the first and second material 150 and 152. The third
material 154 is further selected to comprise a biodegradation rate
that is faster than the biodegradation rate of the second material
152, and slower than the biodegradation rate of the first material
150. For example, in one embodiment the third material 154
biodegrades subsequent to the biodegradation of the first material
150, and prior to the biodegradation of the second material
152.
[0111] The third material 154 is positioned between the top layer
104 and the bottom layer 114, thereby forming a middle layer 144 of
the decomposition container 200. The space between the top layer
104 and the middle layer 144 provides a third compartment 164 of
the container 200, wherein the third compartment 164 is enclosed by
one or more sealed junctions 134 between the middle layer 144, the
top layer 104, and the bottom layer 114. In one embodiment, a
second bioactive agent 190 is provided within the third compartment
164 of the decomposition container 200. The second bioactive agent
190 may include any microorganism capable of digesting
unmetabolized products of the decomposed excrement sample. In one
embodiment, the metabolic activity of second bioactive agent 190 is
greater than the metabolic activity of a pathogen within the
system. Alternatively, the metabolic activity of the second
bioactive agent 190 may be equal to, or less than the metabolic
activity of the pathogen. For example, in another embodiment, the
metabolic activity of the second bioactive agent 190 is less than
the metabolic activity of the pathogen, and thus the second
bioactive agent 190 is provided in large quantities. As such, the
large quantity of the second bioactive agent 190 comprises a
cumulative metabolic activity greater than the metabolic activity
of the pathogen.
[0112] The second bioactive agent 190 prevents a pathogen from
metabolizing, and therefore surviving on any unmetabolized
components of the excrement sample. For example, in one embodiment
a bioactive agent 121 is provided to digest an excrement sample. In
this embodiment, the bioactive agent 121 is unable to fully digest
one or more component of the excrement sample and therefore leaves
a portion of the excrement sample. As such, a pathogen of the
excrement sample is able to survive by digesting the unmetabolized
portion of the excrement sample. In this embodiment, the second
bioactive agent 190 is provided to metabolize the remaining
excrement sample, thereby depriving the pathogen of the food
source. Therefore, following the biodegradation of the first
material 150, the residual excrement sample, the pathogens, and the
bioactive agent 121 are combined into the third compartment 164.
Once combined, the second bioactive agent 190 begins metabolizing
the unmetabolized food source of the pathogens and the first
bioactive agent 121. As such, the excrement sample becomes
completely digested and decomposed thereby depriving the
microorganisms of any energy source within the decomposition
container 200.
[0113] The third material 154 of the decomposition container 200 is
selected to biodegrade subsequent to the biodegradation of the
first material 150 and prior to the biodegradation of the second
material 152. The first and third materials 150 and 154 may further
comprise a plurality of pores to permit passage of water through
the first and third materials 150 and 154. For example, in one
embodiment water from the excrement sample of the first compartment
161 passes through pores of the first material 150 and into the
third compartment 164. In another embodiment, water from the third
compartment 164 passes through pores of the third material 154 and
into the second compartment 162. Alternatively, the third material
154 is impermeable to water and, therefore, the second compartment
162 comprises a breakable vial 180 having water 182. In another
embodiment, the first and third materials 150 and 154 further
comprise one or more one-way valves 170. As such, oxygen from the
second compartment 162 may pass through the one-way valve 170 into
the third compartment 164. Additionally, oxygen from the third
compartment 164 may pass though the one-way valve 170 into the
first compartment 161.
[0114] Upon biodegradation of the third material 154, the bioactive
agent 121, the excrement sample, the second bioactive agent 190,
and pathogens of the third compartment are combined with a chemical
oxidant 130 within the second compartment 162. As previously
discussed, oxygen radicals of the chemical oxidant 130 oxidize the
cellular membranes of the microorganisms resulting in complete
disinfection of all pathogens within the decomposition container
200.
[0115] Referring now to FIG. 14A, a representative partially
cross-sectioned perspective view of a decomposition container 300
is illustrated. The decomposition container 300 generally resembles
a bag, wherein the container 300 comprises an outer covering 302,
an inner compartment 310, and an opening 320. The container 300
further includes an inner surface 306 comprising a first material
150. The first material 150 includes properties and characteristics
similar to those of the first material 150 discussed in connection
with decomposition containers 102 and 200, above. The first
material 150 is positioned within the outer covering 302 so as to
line the interior of the decomposition container 300. The upper
edge 352 of the first material 150 is sealed against an inner
surface 304 of the outer covering 302. As such, a lumen or second
compartment 312 is provided between the first material 150 and the
outer covering 302. The outer covering 302 comprises a second
material 152 having properties and characteristics similar to those
of the second material 152 discussed in connection with
decomposition containers 100 and 200, above.
[0116] The second compartment 312 is sealed at the upper edge 352.
As such, the contents of the inner compartment 310 are separated
from the contents of the second compartment 312. Therefore, in one
embodiment the inner compartment 310 contains a bioactive agent 121
and the second compartment 312 contains a chemical oxidant 130. The
characteristics of the bioactive agent 121 and the chemical oxidant
130 are similar to those of the bioactive agent 121 and the
chemical oxidant 130 discussed in connection with decomposition
containers 102 and 200, above. The bioactive agent 121 may either
be pre-applied to the inner surface 306 of the container 300, or
may be applied through the opening 320 following collection of an
excrement sample.
[0117] The decomposition container 300 is utilized to collect an
excrement sample. The excrement sample is inserted into the
container 300 through the opening 320. The volume and geometry of
the decomposition container 300 may be modified to accommodate any
use of the bag. For example, in one embodiment the volume and
geometry of the container 300 is configured to accommodate a single
excrement sample. In another embodiment, the container 300 is
configured to accommodate multiple excrement samples. In another
embodiment, the geometry of the container 300 is configured to
include a flat bottom such that the container 300 may support
itself in an upright and opened position directly beneath the
internal bowl 70 of the portable toilet 12. In another embodiment,
a portion of the outer covering 302 is lengthened to provide
addition material with which to cover the external seat portion 44
of the toilet 12, wherein the remainder of the container 300 is
positioned within the internal bowl 70 of the toilet 12. One of
skill in the art will appreciate that other modifications can be
made to the container 300 to further achieve successful coupling of
the container 300 with the portable toilet 12, as described
above.
[0118] Once the excrement sample has been collected, the excrement
is then treated with a bioactive agent 121. As previously
discussed, the bioactive agent 121 may be pre-deposited, or
pre-applied to the inner surface 306 of the container 300. As such,
the excrement sample is disposed on top of the bioactive agent 121.
Alternatively, the excrement sample is first collected and then a
bioactive agent 121 is applied through the opening 320 of the
container 300 to the outer surface of the excrement. In either
embodiment, the bioactive agent 121 is made available to interact
with the excrement sample.
[0119] Once the desired volume of excrement sample is collected,
the container 300 is closed and sealed. In one embodiment, the
inner surface 304 of the outer covering 302 is configured to
include a closure device 326. In one embodiment the closure device
326 is an adhesive strip. In another embodiment the closure device
326 is a mating channel closure. In another embodiment the closure
device 326 is a drawstring. In another embodiment, the closure
device 326 comprises two or more drawstrings to facilitate making a
dam for collecting the excrement from a flat sheet. As such, the
closure device 326 eliminates the need for rigid support over that
of the single drawstring approach.
[0120] The process of decomposition is similar to the decomposition
process discussed in connection with FIGS. 12-13C, above. The
bioactive agent 121 and the excrement sample may either be
conjoined or admixed. The bioactive agent 121 is conjoined with the
excrement sample by bringing the two components into contact with
one another. Alternatively, the bioactive agent 121 and the
excrement sample are admixed by physically manipulating the
components to form a relatively homogenous mixture. The admixing
may be accomplished either by directly contacting the components of
the mixture with a paddle or a stick, or by indirectly contacting
the components via the outer surface of the decomposition container
300. However, optimal admixing may be accomplished via a tool, such
as a paddle.
[0121] Upon biodegradation of the first material 150, the contents
of the inner compartment 310 combine with the chemical oxidant 130
of the second compartment 312. As such, free radicals of the
chemical oxidant 130 disinfect the microorganisms of the system, as
previously discussed above.
[0122] Referring now to FIG. 14B, a representative partially
cross-sectioned perspective view of a decomposition container 400
is shown. The decomposition container 400 generally resembles a
bag, wherein the container 400 comprises an outer surface 402, an
inner surface 404, an inner compartment 410, and an opening 420.
The container 400 is comprised of a second material 152 having
properties similar to the second material 152 previously discussed
in detail. The container 400 further comprises a first packet 430.
The first packet 430 generally comprises a sealed container having
a lumen or first compartment 432, the first packet 430 being
comprised of a first material 150. The first material 150 includes
properties and characteristics similar to the first material 150
previously discussed in detail.
[0123] The first packet 430 contains a chemical oxidant 130. The
chemical oxidant 130 is provided to supply oxygen to a bioactive
agent 121 within the container 400. The characteristics and
properties of the bioactive agent 121 and the chemical oxidant 130
are similar to those of the agent 120 and oxidant 130 discusses in
connection with the decomposition containers 102, 200, and 300,
above. The first packet 430 may be further modified to include a
one-way valve 170. The one-way valve 170 is provided to release
oxygen from the first compartment 432 of the packet 430.
Additionally, a breakable vial 180 may be included in the first
compartment 432 to provide water 182 to the chemical oxidant 130,
as previously discussed.
[0124] The decomposition container 400 is utilized to collect an
excrement sample. The excrement sample is inserted into the
container 400 through the opening 420. The volume and geometry of
the decomposition container 400 may be modified to accommodate any
use of the container 400. For example, in one embodiment the volume
and geometry of the container 400 is configured to accommodate a
single excrement sample. In another embodiment, the container 400
is configured to accommodate multiple excrement samples. In another
embodiment, the geometry of the container 400 is configured to
include a flat bottom such that the container 400 may support
itself in an upright and opened position directly beneath the
internal bowl 70 of the portable toilet 12. In another embodiment,
a portion of the outer covering 402 is lengthened to provide
addition material with which to cover the external seat portion 44
of the toilet 12, wherein the remainder of the container 300 is
positioned within the internal bowl 70 of the toilet 12. One of
skill in the art will appreciate that other modifications can be
made to the container 400 to further achieve successful coupling of
the container 400 with the portable toilet 12, as described
above.
[0125] Once the excrement sample has been collected, the excrement
is then treated with a bioactive agent 121. The bioactive agent 121
may either be pre-deposited, or pre-applied to the inner surface
404 of the container 400, or may be applied directly to the outer
surface of the collected excrement sample. In either embodiment,
the bioactive agent 121 is made available to interact with the
excrement sample.
[0126] Once the desired volume of excrement is collected, the
container 1400 is closed and sealed. In one embodiment, an upper
edge 1406 of the inner surface 1404 is configured to include a
closure device 426. In one embodiment, the closure device 426 is an
adhesive strip. In another embodiment the closure device 426 is a
mating channel closure. In another embodiment the closure device
426 is a drawstring.
[0127] The process of decomposition is similar to the decomposition
process discussed in connection with the disclosure above. The
bioactive agent 121 and the excrement sample may either be
conjoined or admixed, as described above. Following complete
decomposition of the excrement sample, the first material 150 of
the first packet 430 biodegrades and the contents of the first
packet 430 combine with the contents of the inner compartment 410.
The microorganisms of the inner compartment 410 are then
disinfected by the free radicals of the chemical oxidant 130, as
previously discussed.
[0128] In another embodiment, a second packet 440 is added to the
inner compartment 410 of the decomposition container 400. In this
embodiment, the second packet 440 contains a second bioactive agent
190. The second bioactive agent 190 is provided to ensure that any
unmetabolized excrement is metabolized, thereby depriving any
pathogen of nutrients within the system. The characteristics and
properties of the second bioactive agent 190 are similar to those
of the second bioactive agent 190 previously discussed.
[0129] The second packet 440 comprises a third material 154. The
third material 154 is selected to biodegrade prior to the
biodegradation of the first material 150 of the first packet 430.
Furthermore, the first material is selected to biodegrade
subsequent to the biodegradation of the third material 154, and
prior to the biodegradation of the second material 152. Specifics
regarding the material properties and characteristics may be found
in connection with the previous discussion regarding the first,
second, and third material 150, 152, and 154, above.
[0130] Therefore, following decomposition of the excrement sample
by the bioactive agent 121, the third material 154 of the second
packet 440 biodegrades and the second bioactive agent 190 is
combined with the contents of the inner compartment 410. Once the
second bioactive agent 190 metabolizes the unmetabolized components
of the excrement sample, the first material 150 of the first packet
430 biodegrades and the contents of the first packet 430 are
combined with the contents of the inner compartment 410. As such,
the free radicals of the chemical oxidant 130 disinfect the
microorganisms of the container 400, in accordance with the
previous discussion.
[0131] One of skill in the art will appreciate that any embodiment
of the present invention may include any of the presently disclosed
features, functions, or elements and remain within the scope of the
invention. Additionally, one of skill in the art will appreciate
that the bioactive agent of the present invention may be expanded
to include an enzyme, or other non-microorganistic entities to aid
in decomposing the excrement sample.
[0132] Furthermore, the bioactive agent of the present invention
may be embodied in any variety of forms. For example, in one
embodiment, the bioactive agent is lyophilized, or otherwise
preserved to prevent premature metabolic, or biological activity.
In another embodiment, the bioactive agent is vacuum sealed to
protect the agent against exposure to moisture and oxygen in the
ambient air.
[0133] In another embodiment, the bioactive agent is combined with
a filler and/or an excipient to form a pill or cake. In this
embodiment, the bioactive agent is then flushed or otherwise
introduced into a sewer system to decompose excrement therein. In
another embodiment, the bioactive agent is introduced into a septic
system. In another embodiment, the bioactive agent is introduced to
excrement during the chemical treatment of the excrement by a water
treatment plant. Alternatively, a filler may be used to introduce
the bioactive agent into the decomposition container, as discussed
above.
[0134] In another embodiment, an envisioned product starts with an
O.sub.2 oxidizer generator positioned on the bottom of the product.
The next layer up includes a bioactive agent. Excrement is then
collected on top of the bioactive agent. Additionally, another bag
of oxidizer is provided on top of the excrement; however this
oxidizer has no contact with any catalyst of the system. Rather,
the top or second oxidizer produces hydrogen peroxide that is used
to disinfect the excrement. This is accomplished due to weight of
hydrogen peroxide being heavier than air; therefore the hydrogen
peroxide will not leak off into the air. Furthermore, each of the
aforementioned components may be contained in materials having
varying rates of biodegradation so as to regulate the exposure of
each component to other components of the system or product.
[0135] Referring now to FIG. 15, a representative flow chart is
shown for manufacturing the decomposition container of the present
invention. The process of manufacturing the container may be
accomplished as individual steps, or may be automated into a
continuous process. Prior to manufacturing the container, the first
step 21 is to select the raw material of the decomposition
container. As previously discussed, the material of the
decomposition container includes a biodegradable biopolymer
comprising hydroxyalkonate monomers. The hydroxyalkonate monomers
may be selected and combined in any order necessary to accomplish
the needs of the material. For example, in one embodiment a single
monomer is selected and synthesized to provide a homogenous
biopolymer material. In another embodiment, two or more monomers
are selected and synthesized to provided a heterogeneous biopolymer
material.
[0136] The polymer material may be synthesized by any method or
technique known in the art of polymer science.
[0137] The first step 23 to manufacture the container is to extrude
the synthesized material into sheets or tubes for the container.
Extrusion is the process of compacting and melting the selected
biopolymer material and forcing it through an orifice in a
continuous fashion. In the present method, the orifice comprises a
die, or other shaping device for molding the melted biopolymer
material into a sheet material.
[0138] The extruded sheets are then trimmed or otherwise prepared
to be processed into the final decomposition container. In one
embodiment, the extruded sheet material is labeled or printed 25
prior to being assembled as a decomposition container. The label or
printed information may include instructions, information regarding
the source of the container, and artwork.
[0139] The step 27 of assembling the decomposition container
largely depends upon the final embodiment of the container. For
example, each component of the various embodiments requires
different offline operations. For example, where the oxidizing
agent is supplied in a separate container, the oxidizer container
is first formed on conventional converting machinery. The film is
then oriented vertically and filled with the chemical oxidant.
Following this step, the top of the container is sealed and the
container is cut to the necessary length.
[0140] In another line the breakable vial or a biodegradable bag
for containing the water and catalysts is made on a converting
line. The vial or bag is then oriented vertically and filled with
aqueous KI, catalase enzyme, and/or water. Following this step, the
container is sealed and cut to length.
[0141] Still another converting line provides the bioactive agent,
where the bioactive agent is contained within a lumen of the
system. Again, these bags are created, oriented vertically and
filled with the bioactive agent. The bags are then sealed and cut
to the appropriate dimensions. Where the decomposition container
102 is the container shown in FIG. 13A, there are several off line
operations that need to be performed.
[0142] The material for each container is unrolled and fed to a
printing station that provides all the labeling. From here the film
goes to the next station that applies adhesive in the machine and
cross machine directions. The next station lays down the oxidizing
agent bag. Next, adhesive is placed on the upper part of this bag.
Following this step the bioactive agent bag is positioned on top of
the oxidizing agent bag. As the line moves forward, the bag sheet
is cut to length and stacked up for further processing. Offline,
the drawstring assembly is made on automatic equipment. The
resultant product is a flexible tube of material containing a
drawstring.
[0143] The bag assemblies are loaded into an automated machine that
places a rigid, yet flexible channel around the sheet. Next, the
drawstring assembly is positioned on the sheet. Then the hem is
formed to seal the sheet. The product is then released from the
machine and packaged for shipment.
[0144] The final product provides an apparatus with a bottom
portion that is impervious, and a top layer that is microporous for
vapor transmission only. The bottom of the bioactive agent bag is
microporous such that oxygen from the chemical oxidant bag can be
accessed by the bioactive agent. However, one of skill in the art
will appreciate that various methods may alternative designs may be
incorporated to accomplish the purpose of the present invention.
For example, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the
portable toilet 12 and the container 102, 200, 300 or 400 may be
modified to enhance compatibility when used in a portable toilet
system 10, as described above.
[0145] Referring again to FIG. 1, the portable toilet system 10 may
further include a privacy screen 60. The privacy screen 60
generally comprises a plurality of hinged dividers that surround
the portable toilet 12 to provide privacy to a user thereon. The
privacy screen 60 may comprise any material that is lightweight,
portable and not transparent. For example, in one embodiment the
privacy screen 60 comprises a cloth or canvass material that is
supported by a frame structure 262. In one embodiment, the frame
structure 262 comprises a plurality of wood pieces that frame the
outer diameter of each section of the privacy screen 60. In another
embodiment, the frame structure 262 comprises a plurality of tubing
pieces, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or aluminum, that frame
the outer diameter of each section of the privacy screen 60. In yet
another embodiment, the privacy screen is constructed of
biodegradable materials, such as corrugated paperboard. In each
embodiment, the privacy screen 60 is provided to substantially
surround the portable toilet 12 to provide privacy to the user.
While the privacy screen 60 generally surrounds the portable toilet
12 and user, in some implementations of the present invention, the
privacy screen 60 is combined with natural surrounding to provide
adequate privacy to a user. For example, in one embodiment the
privacy screen 60 comprises a single panel 68 of sufficient width
and height to provide privacy to one side of the portable toilet 12
and user. In this embodiment, the single panel 68 is supported
against the natural surroundings of the portable toilet 12 to
provide privacy to the user. In another embodiment, the single
panel 68 further includes a pair of feet 64 whereby the feet 64 are
set perpendicularly to the plane of the panel 68 thereby supporting
the single panel 68 in an upright position without the aid of the
natural surroundings. Thus, in some embodiments of the present
invention the single panel 68 is interposed between the portable
toilet 12 and an onlooker to provide privacy to a user thereon.
[0146] Thus, as discussed herein, embodiments of the present
invention relate to a portable toilet system for managing waste and
providing waste disinfection. More particularly, at least some
embodiments of the present invention pertain to systems and methods
for collecting and disinfecting excrement, including systems and
methods for recycling excrement into a usable product.
[0147] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *