US20120084909A1

US20120084909A1 - Toilet training devices for small children

Info

Publication number: US20120084909A1
Application number: US13/217,959
Authority: US
Inventors: Steven B. Dunn; Mark A. Hatherill; Mark G. Tebbe; Huisok Pyon; Thomas Birkert
Original assignee: Munchkin Inc
Current assignee: Munchkin Inc
Priority date: 2010-10-08
Filing date: 2011-08-25
Publication date: 2012-04-12

Abstract

A toilet training device includes an odor remediation system for absorbing or masking odors that may be created during toilet training. The odor remediation system may include a modular odor remediating insert that may be releasably positioned within a recess that is provided within the toilet training device. The odor remediating insert may include an odor absorbing substance such as sodium bicarbonate, an odor masking substance such as a fragrance or a combination of an odor absorbing substance and an odor masking substance. The toilet training device also includes a system for dispensing wipes that may utilize a recess that is defined in a side wall of the main body portion of the toilet training device. A wipes cartridge is designed so that it can be used to conveniently dispense wipes regardless of whether it is separated from the toilet training device or mounted within the recess of the toilet training device.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 12/901,466, filed on Oct. 8, 2010, the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to the field of children's educational and development devices. In particular the invention relates to toilet training devices for children. Certain aspects of the invention also have applicability for use in adult toilet seats.
2. Description of the Related Technology
One of the milestones that a child passes when growing older is becoming potty trained. Part of the process of potty training is learning how to use adult bathroom facilities. In order to assist a child in the learning process, a number of products have been developed to help encourage and assist a child in using adult toilet and other bathroom facilities. The assignee of this invention, Munchkin, Inc. has developed and sold a number of such products, one of which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,631,370 to Dunn et al.
Some types of toilet training devices are designed to be placed directly upon either the rim or seat of an adult toilet. Other types of such devices resemble a miniature adult toilet and have a collection chamber, sometimes having a collection bag or liner, defined therein for holding urine, feces and wipes.
When acclimating a small child to the use of an adult toilet or potty seat, it is desirable to place both the child and the caregiver at ease to the extent possible, and to make the child as comfortable as possible. A child who is transitioning away from diapers is often used to being wiped and cleaned with moist wipes. Toilet paper may feel uncomfortable for such a child, and this could potentially erode the child's enthusiasm for the toilet training process. A caregiver, however, may forget to pack wipes when traveling with a potty seat. Even in the home, packages of wipes may be misplaced. In addition, it is often difficult to position a package of wipes within easy reach of the child or the caregiver during toilet training. Accordingly, a toilet training device that would make it easier for a child or caregiver to conveniently access wipes while the child is on the potty seat would represent an improvement over conventional toilet training devices.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,779,489 to Finell discloses a step stool potty bench that has a plurality of storage areas that may be used for containing materials such as wipes, toilet paper or baby powder. However, this is not a practical solution for storing individual wipes, because they will lose their moistness within a short period of time. In addition, the storage compartments that are provided in the Finell potty bench are not of the proper size and shape to receive an entire container of wipes. Even if a container of wipes happened to have a size and shape permitting it to fit within one of the compartments, the dispensing opening would not necessarily be easily accessible to the child or the caregiver.
Odors can also be a concern during toilet training. Toilet training seats that have storage compartments for urine and feces can be a significant source of odor, particularly in instances when they are not immediately emptied of waste and cleaned by the caregiver. To the extent that odors can be minimized by absorption or masking, the toilet training process can be made more enjoyable for both the child and the caregiver. There are a number of examples of deodorizing systems for use with adult toilets, but these would not necessarily be appropriate for use with a toilet training system. A plethora of household devices for masking or absorbing odors also exist, but many of them are not readily transportable when traveling or safe to be within the reach of a small child.
A need exists for an improved toilet training device that provides convenient access to moist wipes for the child and the caregiver. A need also exists for an improved toilet training device that helps control odors in a manner that is convenient and safe for a small child.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved toilet training device that provides convenient access to moist wipes for both the child and the caregiver.
In a first aspect, the invention is directed to, a toilet seat lid according to a first aspect of the invention includes a seat having an opening defined therein; a main body portion; a recess defined in the main body portion for holding a package of wipes; and wipes package securing means for releasably positioning the package of wipes within the recess. In a second aspect, the invention is directed to a wipes cartridge including a container having a plurality of wipes disposed therein; and a substantially rigid frame attached to the container. The substantially rigid frame has first and second end portions and at least one of the first and second end portions and coupling means for releasably and securely positioning the wipes cartridge within a recess of a toilet training device.
These and various other advantages and features of novelty that characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, its advantages, and the objects obtained by its use, reference should be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof, and to the accompanying descriptive matter, in which there is illustrated and described a preferred embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet training device according to a first embodiment of the invention, shown in a first operative position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1, shown in a second operative position;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of an odor remediating insert used in the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along lines 7-7 in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a first diagrammatical depiction of a first process of using the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a second diagrammatical depiction of the first process of using the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a third diagrammatical depiction of the first process of using the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional fragmentary diagrammatical depiction of a portion of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a first diagrammatical depiction of a second process of using the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a second diagrammatical depiction of the second process of using the toilet training device;

FIG. 14 is a third diagrammatical depiction of the second process of using the toilet training device;

FIG. 15 is a fourth diagrammatical depiction of the second process of using the toilet training device;

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary diagrammatical depiction showing the insertion of a wipes cartridge into the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a wipes cartridge to be used with the toilet training device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatical depiction of one component of the wipes cartridge shown in FIG. 17 being removed by a consumer;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a toilet training device that is constructed according to a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 19, with an odor remediating insert positioned therein;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a toilet training device that is constructed according to a third embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the toilet training device shown in FIG. 21, with an odor remediating insert positioned therein;

FIG. 23 is a fragmentary depiction of a second embodiment of the wipes dispensing system from a first perspective showing a wipes cartridge receptacle of the toilet training device and corresponding position of a second embodiment of the wipes cartridge;

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary depiction of the second embodiment of the wipes dispensing system FIG. 23 from a second perspective;

FIG. 25 is a fragmentary cross-sectional depiction of the wipes cartridge receptacle of the toilet training device taken at the cross-sectional line A-A shown in FIGS. 24 and 26;

FIG. 26 is a fragmentary diagrammatical depiction of a second embodiment of the wipes dispensing system showing the insertion of a wipes cartridge into the toilet training device;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the wipes cartridge to be used with the toilet training device;

FIG. 28 is a diagrammatical depiction of one component of the wipes cartridge shown in FIG. 27 being removed by a consumer;

FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view of the inner face of the receptacle front wall;

FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of the inner face of the movable cover;

FIG. 31 is a first diagrammatical depiction of the process for inserting the wipes cartridge of FIG. 27 in a receptacle of a toilet training device;

FIG. 32 is a second diagrammatical depiction of the process for inserting the wipes cartridge of FIG. 27 in a receptacle of the toilet training device;

FIG. 33 is a third diagrammatical depiction of the process for inserting the wipes cartridge of FIG. 27 in a receptacle of the toilet training device; and

FIG. 34 is a fourth diagrammatical depiction of the process for inserting the wipes cartridge of FIG. 27 in a receptacle of the toilet training device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding structure throughout the views, and referring in particular to FIG. 1, a toilet training device 10 that is constructed according to a first, preferred embodiment of the invention includes a main body portion 12 and a seat assembly 14 having a removable seat 16 and a movable lid 18. A removable waste pan 17 is mounted within an interior space 15 that is defined within a substantially central region of main body portion 12.
The removable seat 16 has a central opening 20 defined therein, as is typical for a toilet seat or a toilet training device. A deflector 22 is preferably integrally molded into the removable seat 16 at a forward portion thereof for deflecting urine downwardly into the removable waste bin 17 that is removably positioned within the main body portion 12, best shown in FIG. 5.
Lid 18 is preferably pivotally mounted to the main body portion 12 by a hinge assembly 24, which guides the lid 18 between the open position shown in FIG. 1 and the closed position that is shown in FIG. 2. An odor remediation system 26 is advantageously provided within the toilet training device 10, preferably as part of the seat assembly 14. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the odor remediation system 26, which will be discussed in greater detail below, is provided within an underside of the movable lid 18. The odor remediation system 26 is preferably non-dispensing, meaning that it does not dispense any significant amount of powder or liquid into the toilet training device 10.
Lid 18 is also preferably constructed to be of sufficient strength so that the toilet training device 10 can be used as a step stool by a small child during toilet training or for other activities. As is best shown in FIGS. 2-4, an upper surface of the lid 18 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 34, which both reinforce the structural strength of the lid 18 and provide a nonslip surface for the child's feet when the toilet training device 10 is being used as a step stool.
Preferably, lid 18 is constructed to be of sufficient strength to support a top load weight that is substantially within a range of about 20 pounds to about 200 pounds. More preferably, lid 18 is constructed to be of sufficient strength to support a top load weight that is at substantially within a range of about 30 pounds to about 180 pounds. Most preferably, lid 18 is constructed to be of sufficient strength to support a top load weight that is substantially within a range of about 45 pounds to about 120 pounds.
The toilet training device 10 also preferably includes a wipes dispensing system 28, 328 for dispensing wipes during use of the toilet training device 10. The wipes dispensing system 28, 328 will be discussed in greater detail below.
The removable seat 16 is preferably fabricated from a plastic material such as polypropylene or polyethylene, and preferably includes a pair of handles 30, 32 that can be used by a small child during potty training or for a child or caregiver to remove the seat 16 from the main body portion 12. Removable seat 16 is also advantageously constructed so that it may be removed and placed directly on an adult toilet seat or a rim of an adult toilet for potty training.
The main body portion 12 of the toilet training device 10 is preferably provided with an integral handle 36 that is integral with the waste pan 17 for permitting a consumer to easily grasp and remove the waste pan 17 from the remainder of the main body portion 12 after the seat 16 has been removed from the main body portion 12.
In addition, at least one elastomeric support foot is preferably provided on a lower surface of the main body portion 12 for reducing the potential for slippage of the toilet training device 10 with respect to an underlying surface such as a tile floor during use. This is particularly important when the toilet training device 10 is being used as a step stool by a small child. In the preferred embodiment, the main body portion 12 is provided with a first elastomeric support foot 38 that is located at a frontal bottom portion of the main body portion 12, and a second elastomeric support foot 40 that is located at a rear bottom portion of the main body portion 12. The support feet 38, 40 are preferably fabricated from a resilient, high friction elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Referring now briefly to FIG. 5, the odor remediation system 26 preferably includes at least one odor remediating insert 42 that is constructed and arranged to be releasably positioned within a recess 44 that is defined in a lower surface of the lid 18. The odor remediating insert 42 is constructed to be releasably retained within the recess 44 by means of an interference fit that is created between the circumferential outer surface of the odor remediating insert 42 and the inner surfaces of the recess 44. As is best shown in FIG. 11, a pair of locking ribs 48 is preferably integrally molded into the surfaces of the lid 18 defining the recess 44 in order to lock the odor remediating insert 42 into the underside of the lid 18.
A finger access opening 50 is preferably defined in the lower surface of the lid 18 in communication with the recess 44 for permitting a consumer to use his or her finger in order to pry the odor remediating insert 42 out of the recess 44. We should consider specifying dimensional ranges for the recess 44 and the finger access opening 50.
In the preferred embodiment, the odor remediating insert 42 is substantially round or circular in shape as viewed in front and rear elevation and oblong in shape as viewed in side elevation, as a shown in FIG. 6. In other words, it has a puck-like or disc-like shape.
As FIGS. 6 and 7 show, the odor remediating insert 42 includes an upper portion 74 that has a plurality of ventilation slots or holes 76 defined therein, and a lower portion 78 that is secured to the upper portion 74 in a clamshell type assembly. An odor remediating substance 80 is provided within an interior space 81 that is defined by the interior surfaces of the upper and lower portions 74, 78. The odor remediating substance 80 preferably includes an odor absorbing substance such as sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda. Alternatively, the odor remediating substance 80 may include an odor masking substance such as a substance that emits a fragrance. The outer remediating substance 80 could also include both an odor absorbing substance and an odor masking substance, either as a mixture of the two substances or the positioning of two separate substances within the interior space 81 of the odor remediating insert 42.
In the most preferred embodiment, the odor remediating insert 42 includes a porous pouch 83, preferably fabricated from polyester, which contains a powdered air freshener composition. The air freshener composition includes sodium bicarbonate, a fragrance composition and SIPERNET 22, a carrier for the fragrance composition, which is commercially available from Insilco.
Referring again to FIG. 5, the recess 44 is preferably located substantially along a longitudinal axis 46 of the lid 18, which is coincident with the longitudinal axis of the toilet training assembly 10 when the lid 18 is in the closed position shown in FIG. 2. The recess 44 is also preferably substantially centered with respect to the underside of the lid 18. Because it is positioned on the underside of the lid 18, the recess 44 and the odor remediation insert 42 are positioned in communication with the interior of the main body portion 12, including the waste pan 17, when the lid 18 of the toilet training device 10 is closed. This maximizes the efficacy of the odor remediation system 26.
FIGS. 8-11 depict a method of installing an odor remediating insert 42 into a toilet training device 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. As FIG. 8 shows, a consumer will grasp the odor remediating insert 42 and press it into the recess 44 until it is locked into place by an interference fit caused by the elastic deformation of the raised ribs 48. As shown in FIG. 9, the odor remediating insert will remain secured to the lid 18 as the toilet training device is used by a small child, providing odor remediation by absorbing or masking odor, or both.
At some point in time, when the odor absorbing or masking substance 80 within the interior space 81 of the odor remediating insert 42 loses its effectiveness, the consumer will use his or her finger to pry the odor remediating insert 42 out of the recess 44, thus overcoming the interference fit that exists between the outer circumferential surface of the odor remediating insert 42 and the raised ribs 48. The consumer may obtain a replacement odor remediating insert 42 as a separate article of purchase from a retailer. Alternatively, the odor remediating insert 42 could be fabricated so that it is openable by a consumer, and replacement odor remediating pouches could be made available for purchase by the consumer.
The modular nature of the odor remediating insert 42 accordingly permits odor remediation within the toilet training device 10 to be continued indefinitely without needing to replace the entire toilet training device 10.
As shown in FIGS. 5, 12-13 and 23-34, the wipes dispensing system 28, 328 of the present invention includes a wipes cartridge 56, 356 removably positioned within a recess 58 of and inset with respect to an exterior surface of main body portion 12, forming a substantially enclosed receptacle for receiving wipes cartridge 56, 356. Wipes dispensing system 28, 328 is designed to conveniently position wipes cartridge 56, 356 within easy reach of a child seated on toilet training device 10 and allow a caregiver to easily access, remove and replace wipes cartridges 56, 356. It is further designed to secure and stably position wipes cartridge 56, 356 within recess 58. Recess 58 may be continuous with or separate from the interior space 15 for receiving removable waste pan 17.
In a first embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 12-18, the wipes dispensing system 28 preferably includes a wipes cartridge 56 having a substantially rigid frame 60, which is preferably fabricated from a plastic material such as polyethylene or polypropylene. A substantially rigid frame 60 is preferably attached to a flexible bag or container 66 that is fabricated from a waterproof or moisture impermeable material so that it can hold a plurality of moist wipes without them losing their moistness.
Preferably, the flexible container 66 is constructed to have a thickness that is sufficient to hold a plurality of wipes that is substantially within a range of about 10 wipes to about 120 wipes, more preferably substantially within a range of about 15 wipes to about 100 wipes, and most preferably within a range of about 20 wipes to about 80 wipes. The thickness of the flexible container 66 is preferably substantially within a range of about ⅜ of an inch to about 3 inches, more preferably substantially within a range of about 7/16 of an inch to about 2.5 inches and most preferably within a range of about ½″ to about 2.0 inches.
Wipes cartridge 56 is preferably constructed so that it can be used as a stand-alone wipes dispenser when it is not positioned within the toilet training assembly 10, such as when a child and his or her caregiver are traveling.
The substantially rigid frame 60 also preferably includes a lid 62 that is pivotally mounted to the remainder of the frame 60 by an integral hinge 64, as is best shown in FIGS. 5, 17 and 18. As FIGS. 17 and 18 show, the substantially rigid frame 60 defines a dispensing opening 98 through which a consumer may extract wipes from the wipes cartridge 56 when the lid 62 is in the open position. An adhesive cover 100, which may be mounted to either rigid frame 60 flexible bag or container 66, is preferably positioned to cover the dispensing opening 98 when the lid 62 is first opened by a consumer. As FIG. 18 shows, the adhesive cover 100 may be peeled back by a consumer in order to expose the dispensing opening 98. After withdrawing one or more wipes, the adhesive cover 100 may be returned to its original position in order to form a moisture barrier in order to prevent moisture loss from the wipes.
As FIG. 12 shows, the seat 16 must be removed in order to install or remove a wipes cartridge 56 into or out of the recess 58. After the seat 16 has been removed, a movable cover 70 that is hingedly mounted to the main body portion 12 is lifted upwardly by the consumer, exposing an upper portion of the recess 58. This is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 13.
Alternatively, the movable cover 70 may be mounted to the main body portion 12 so that it may be completely removed from the main body portion 12. For example, it could be mounted for insertion and removal with respect to the main body portion 12 with a sliding motion.
Once the movable cover 70 is pivotally retracted or slidably removed from main body portion 12, a wipes cartridge 56 may be installed into recess 58 by aligning the rigid frame 60 of the cartridge 56 with the guide structure 68 that is defined in the main body portion 12 within the recess 58 and, as FIG. 14 shows, pressing the wipes cartridge 56 down so that it slides downwardly into the recess 58 while constrained against outward movement by the guide structure 68.
Guide structure 68 may have a first plate member 67 and a first lip 69 inset with respect to a front portion of first plate member 67, wherein first lip 69 defines part of an access opening 357, the dimensions of which are smaller than rigid frame 60. First lip 69 has a U shaped configuration and is spaced apart from and defining a channel with a second alignment feature 86, described below, for receiving a lower portion of rigid frame 60. Second alignment feature 86 is preferably positioned parallel to and opposite of first lip 69 at a lower, central region of guide structure 68, wherein the second alignment feature 86 is oriented in the same plane as the exterior face of guide structure 68. When wipes cartridge 56 is inserted within recess 58, the sides and lower portion of the rear face of rigid frame 60 are aligned with and abut the outer surface of first lip 69 such that rigid frame 60 is stably positioned between first lip 69 and second alignment feature 86.
As best shown in FIGS. 13 and 16 a lower portion of the substantially rigid frame 60 is preferably provided with a first alignment feature 84 that is complementary with a second alignment feature 86 that is formed on guide structure 68, near the bottom of the recess 58. In addition, an upper portion of the substantially rigid frame 60 is preferably provided with a third alignment feature 87 that is complementary with a fourth alignment feature 88 that is defined on the movable cover 70. The first and second alignment features 84, 86 are constructed and arranged to fit snugly together and to align the frame 60 with respect to the recess 58, centering the frame 60 with respect to the recess 58. The third and fourth alignment features 87, 88 are constructed and arranged to fit snugly together and to align the frame 60 with respect to the movable cover 70.
In addition to aligning the wipes cartridge 56 with respect to the recess 58, the alignment features 84, 86, 87, 88 also function to help lock the wipes cartridge 56 into place with respect to the recess 58.
Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, in a preferred embodiment the first alignment feature 84 is embodied as a first concave recess 90 that is preferably of substantially constant curvature and that preferably has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within the range of about 0.25 inch to about 10 inches, more preferably substantially within a range of about 0.4 inch to about 5 inches and most preferably substantially within a range of about 0.6 inch to about 2.0 inches.
The first concave recess 90 preferably has a maximum depth as measured from its outermost surface that is substantially within a range of about 0.025 inch to about 1.0 inch, more preferably substantially within a range of about 0.05 inch to about 0.5 inch and most preferably substantially within a range of about 0.10 inch to about 0.25 inch.
The third alignment feature 87 is preferably embodied as a second concave recess 92 that is preferably a substantially constant curvature and that preferably is substantially identical in size and shape to the first concave recess 90.
Referring to FIGS. 5 and 12, the second alignment feature 86 is preferably embodied as a first curved convex projection 94, which is preferably complementary in shape with the first concave recess 90. The fourth alignment feature 88 is also preferably embodied as a second curved convex projection 96, which is preferably complementary in shape with the second concave recess 92. Preferably, the first curved convex projection 94 is identical in size and shape to the second curved convex projection 96.
Accordingly, each of the first and second curved convex projections 94, 96 preferably has a substantially constant curvature and preferably has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within the range of about 0.25 inch to about 10 inches, more preferably substantially within a range of about 0.4 inch to about 5 inches and most preferably substantially within a range of about 0.6 inch to about 2.0 inches.
In addition, each of the first and second curved convex projections 94, 96 preferably has a maximum extent of projection from base to tip that is substantially within a range of about 0.025 inch to about 1.0 inch, more preferably substantially within a range of about 0.05 inch to about 0.5 inch and most preferably substantially within a range of about 0.10 inch to about 0.25 inch.
The wipes cartridge 56 further preferably includes a generally convex, rounded upper end 104 and a generally convex rounded lower end 106. It further includes a substantially flat first side surface 108 and a substantially flat second side surface 110. The lid 62 is preferably attached to the substantially flat second side surface 110 by means of an integral hinge 64. A side surface 116 of the lid 62 that is distal from the hinge 64 preferably includes a locking tab 114 that is releasably engageable by a latch 112 when the lid is in the closed position.
A second wipes dispensing system 328 is shown in FIGS. 23-34. With the exception of guide structure 368, movable cover 370 and alignment features 384, 386, 387, 388, wipes dispensing system 328 has the same components, which are constructed from the same materials, arranged in the same manner, operate in the same fashion and have the same size, shape and configuration as the components of wipes dispensing system 28.
As shown in FIGS. 23-25, guide structure 368, movable cover 370 and main body portion 12 form a receptacle for receiving wipes cartridge 356 within recess 58. The receptacle is defined by an inner front wall 5 of guide structure 368, movable cover 370, main body 12 or combinations thereof. Main body 12 may have an inner rear wall 7, inner side walls 9 and an inner lower wall 11, that forms the receptacle with an inner upper wall 13 of movable cover 370 and an inner front wall 5 of guide structure 368. An exterior, front face of movable cover 370, guide structure 368 and optionally, a main body portion 12, form a front wall of the receptacle, wherein the receptacle front wall separates recess 58 from an adjoining space exterior of toilet training device 10. Additionally, guide structure 368 and a portion of movable cover 370 define an access opening 357 permitting access into recess 58. When wipes cartridge 356 is seated within recess 58, individual wipes may be removed from wipes cartridge 356 through access opening 357.
Guide structure 368 is connected to main body portion 12 and preferably has a U-shaped configuration, as shown in FIGS. 23-24. Furthermore, guide structure 368 has a first lip 369 that projects away from the recess 58 and forms an inner edge of guide structure 368. First lip 369 preferably has a substantially U shaped configuration and is connected to a substantially U shaped first plate member 367 of guide structure 368. First lip 369 and first plate member 367 form a continuous, uniform surface of the receptacle front wall. Additionally first plate member 367 may be contoured so as to have an outwardly flared curvature conforming to the lower, front face of rigid frame 360 to better secure wipes cartridge 356. One or more lips 369 may be formed along an edge of first plate member 367, preferably along a central region thereof. First lip 369 may be substantially coextensive with or formed along a discrete portion of first plate member 367.
As shown in FIG. 24, movable cover 370 similarly has a second plate member 371 and a second lip 373. Second lip 373 projects away from recess 58 and forms an inner edge of movable cover 370, defining an upper portion of access opening 357. Preferably, second plate member 371 and second lip 373 have a substantially U-shaped configuration and form a continuous, uniform surface of the receptacle front wall. Second plate member 371 is preferably contoured so as to have an outwardly flared curvature conforming to the upper, front face of rigid frame 360. One or more lips 373 may be formed along an edge of second plate member 371, preferably along a central region thereof. Second lip 373 may be substantially coextensive with or formed along a discrete portion of second plate member 371.
When removable cover 370 is coupled to main body portion 12, guide structure 368 engages and forms a continuous surface with movable cover 370, as shown in FIG. 24. The lower edges of second plate member 371 contact the upper edges of first plate member 367. In this position, guide structure 368 and the exterior face of movable cover 370 form a continuous, uniform surface of the receptacle front wall.
As shown in FIGS. 24-25, first and second lips 369 and 373 are separated and spaced apart from one another when movable cover 370 is coupled to main body portion 12. To accommodate the integral hinge 164 of wipes cartridge 156, the distance between lips 369, 373 is at least equal to the length of integral hinge 364. When wipes cartridge 156 is seated within recess 158, integral hinge 364 is positioned between lips 369, 373, thereby allowing lid 362 to freely opened and closed without being restricted by lips 369, 373.
Wipes cartridge 356 is adapted to be securely received within recess 58 so as to be restrained from passing through access opening 357. The coupling means of wipes cartridge 356, best shown in FIGS. 26-28, engages, is secured by and aligns with the wipes cartridge securing means of toilet training device 10, best shown in FIGS. 29-30, to align, secure and releasably position wipes cartridge 356 within the recess 58. The coupling means of wipes cartridge 356 includes first and third alignment features 384, 387, which protrude from the convex rounded upper and lower ends 304, 306 of rigid frame 360. Preferably, first and third alignment features 384, 387 are configured as oppositely curved, convex projections 391, 393. In one embodiment, first and second curved convex protections 391, 393 have a substantially semicircular or crescent shape. The depth, thickness and radius of curvature of these projections conform to and are sized to be securely received within the wipes cartridge securing means of toilet training device 10, namely first and second flanges 361, 379, in which are formed first and second grooves 365, 375, respectively; an inner face of the receptacle front wall and the second and fourth alignment members 386, 396, which form slots for securing rigid frame 360. In an exemplary embodiment, the maximum depth of each of the first and second curved concave projections 391, 393 is about 0.025 in to about 1.5 in, preferably, about 0.05 in to about 1 in, more preferably about 0.1 in to about 0.5 in, most preferably about 0.15 in to about 0.3 in. Additionally first and second curved concave projections 391, 393 each has a thickness of about 0.025 in to about 0.5 in, preferably, about 0.03 in to about 0.4 in, more preferably about 0.05 in to about 0.3 in, most preferably about 0.07 into about 0.2 in. Each of first and second curved concave projections 391, 393 preferably has a substantially constant curvature and an average radius of curvature that is substantially within the range of about 0.25 in to about 6 in, preferably, about 0.5 in to about 5 in, more preferably about 1 in to about 4 in, most preferably about 1.5 in to about 3 in. In one embodiment, curved convex projections 391, 393 may be symmetrical, having substantially the same size, shape, configuration and may also be symmetrically oriented on rigid frame 360.
During insertion movable cover 370 is removed from toilet training device 10 to position wipes cartridge 356 within recess 58, as shown in FIGS. 31-32. Wipes cartridge 356 is then slid into recess 58 until first alignment feature 384 engages and is positioned within first groove 365, defined within first flange 361. First groove 365 is preferably shaped and sized to compliment and correspond to first alignment member 384. In one embodiment, first groove 365 has a substantially curved, concave configuration, preferably a substantially semicircular or crescent shape. In an exemplary embodiment, the maximum depth of first groove 365 is about 0.25 in to about 1.3 in, preferably, about 0.05 in to about 1 in, more preferably about 0.1 in to about 0.5 in, most preferably about 0.15 in to about 0.3 in. The width of first groove 365 may be about 0.02 in to about 0.5 in, preferably, about 0.03 in to about 0.4 in, more preferably about 0.05 in to about 0.3 in, most preferably about 0.07 in to about 0.2 in. Preferably, first groove 365 has a substantially constant curvature and an average radius of curvature that is substantially within the range of about 0.75 in to about 6 in, preferably about 1 in to about 5 in, more preferably about 1 in to about 4 in, most preferably about 1.5 in to about 3 in.
First flange 361, in which first groove 365 is formed, is connected to an inner surface of guide structure 368 and/or inner front wall 5 of main body portion 12. As best shown in FIG. 29, first flange 361 is preferably a substantially U shaped ledge projecting into recess 58. The lower end of first flange 361 is spaced apart from and recessed with respect to a lower end of access opening 357. First flange 361 does not form a perimeter of or otherwise define access opening 357, but rather frames a portion of guide structure 368. In one embodiment, first flange 361 may be coextensive with guide member 368 or a portion thereof, such as first lip 369.
As shown in FIG. 29, wipes cartridge 356 is further secured within recess 58 by a second alignment feature 386 that is attached to a rear surface of first flange 365, an upper edge of first flange 365, an inner surface of guide structure 368, an inner surface of main body portion 12 or combinations thereof. Second alignment feature 386 functions to both guide wipes cartridge 356 into first groove 365 as well as constrain a lower portion of rigid frame 360 within recess 58.
As shown in FIGS. 25 and 29, second alignment feature 386 is recessed relative to, spaced apart from and does not form a perimeter of or otherwise define access opening 357. In one embodiment, second alignment feature 386 is configured as a tab that extends upward towards but preferably does not extend past the perimeter of access opening 357. A lower portion of rigid frame 360, including convex rounded lower end 306, may be secured within the slot defined by second alignment feature 386 and an inner face of the receptacle front wall, which may include the inner face of main body portion 12 and/or guide structure 368. The inner face of the receptacle front wall, preferably an inner face of a portion of guide structure 368 such as first plate member 367, abuts, constrains and prevents wipes cartridge 356 from passing through access opening 357. In one embodiment, one or both of the second alignment feature 386 and the inner face of the receptacle front wall may be inclined relative to one another so as to clamp a lower portion of rigid frame 360 therebetween. Thus positioned within first groove 365 and between second alignment feature 386 and the inner face of the receptacle front wall, a lower portion of wipes cartridge 356 is secured within toilet training device 10. First groove 365 and the slot formed between second alignment feature 386 and the inner face of the receptacle front wall compliment and correspond to the dimensions of first alignment feature 384 and the lower portion of rigid frame 360.
The wipes cartridge securing means of toilet training device 10 further includes a second flange 379 having a second groove 375 that is adapted for receiving third alignment member 387, as shown in FIG. 30. Second flange 379 and second groove 375 may have the same shape, size and configuration as that of first flange 361 and first groove 365. Second flange 379, which is connected to an inner surface of movable cover 370, and first flange 361 oppose one another and preferably are configured as oppositely curved, substantially U shaped ledges. When movable cover 370 is coupled to toilet training device 10, the distal ends of first and second flanges 365, 375 may be spaced apart from one another or may contact one another so as to form a continuous elliptical or circular ledge. Similar to first flange 361, an upper end of second flange 379 is recessed with respect to an upper end of access opening 357. Second flange 379 is spaced apart from and does not form a perimeter of or otherwise define accesses opening 357. Rather it frames a portion of movable cover 370 that defines access opening 357.
Additionally, a fourth alignment feature 388 is attached to a rear surface of second flange 379, a lower edge of second flange 379, an inner face of movable cover 370 or combinations thereof. As shown in FIG. 30, fourth alignment feature 388 has the same shape, size and configuration as that of second alignment feature 386. Fourth alignment feature 388 functions to guide wipes cartridge 356 into second groove 375 as well as constrain an upper portion of rigid frame 360 so as to secure wipes cartridge 356 within recess 58. Fourth alignment feature 388 is recessed relative to, spaced apart from and does not form a perimeter of or otherwise define access opening 357, as shown in FIGS. 25 and 30. In one embodiment, second alignment feature 386 is configured as a tab that extends down towards but preferably does not extend past the perimeter of access opening 357.
An upper portion of rigid frame 360, including convex rounded upper end 304, may be secured within the slot defined by fourth alignment feature 388 and an inner face of the receptacle front wall defined by movable cover 370. The inner face of movable cover 370 abuts, constrains and prevents wipes cartridge 356 from passing through access opening 357. In one embodiment, one or both of the fourth alignment feature 388 and the inner face of the receptacle front wall may be inclined relative to one another so as to clamp an upper portion of rigid frame 360 therebetween. Thus positioned within second groove 375 and between fourth alignment feature 388 and the inner face of the receptacle front wall, an upper portion of wipes cartridge 356 is secured within toilet training device 10. Second groove 375 and the slot formed between fourth alignment feature 388 and the inner face of the receptacle front wall compliment and correspond to the dimensions of third alignment feature 387 and the upper portion of rigid frame 360.
As shown in FIGS. 33-34, once the first alignment feature 384 of wipes cartridge 356 is slidably lowered into and properly seated within recess 58, the movable cover 370 may be slidably positioned over wipes cartridge 356, wherein second groove 375 receives and surrounds third alignment feature 387 and wherein the upper portion of rigid frame 360 is positioned between fourth alignment feature 388 and the inner front wall of movable cover 370. Thus situated, wipes cartridge 356 is securely retained within recess 58 by the wipes cartridge securing means of toilet training device 10.
As shown in FIG. 34, when wipes cartridge 356 is coupled to toilet training device 10, rigid frame 160 is pressed against an inner face of the receptacle front wall, and the flexible bag or container 166 is situated within recess 58 such that wipes cartridge 356 is secured entirely behind the receptacle front wall. First and second lips 169, 173 frame the lid 362 and integral hinge 364 such that lid 362 may be pivotally opened and closed through access opening 357 without obstruction. Preferably, no portion of rigid frame 60 directly contacts or engages the inner edge of guide structure 368 and movable cover 370 defining access opening 357.
A toilet training device 120 that is constructed according to a second embodiment of the invention is depicted in FIGS. 19 and 20. Toilet training device 120 includes a seat 122 that defines a longitudinal axis 124, as is shown in FIG. 19. A deflection shield 125 is positioned at the front of the seat 22. A pair of handles 126, 128 is fixed to side surfaces of the seat 122.
Toilet training device 120 further includes an odor remediation system 130 that includes a recess 132 that is defined in a rear portion of the seat 122. The recess 132 is partially defined by a concave side surface 134. An opening 136 is defined in the surface that forms the lower portion of the recess 132, and is in communication with the open space beneath the seat 122.
FIG. 20 depicts the toilet training device 120 with an odor remediation insert 138 positioned within the recess 132. The odor remediation insert 138 is preferably identical in size, shape and composition to the odor remediation insert 42 that has previously been described with respect to the first embodiment of the invention.
In order to install the odor remediation insert 138 within the recess 132, a consumer will press the odor remediation insert 138 downwardly into the recess 132 until the outer circumferential surface of the insert 138 is compressed in an interference fit by the concave side surface 134 of the recess 132. In order to remove the odor remediation insert 138 from the recess 132, the consumer will use his or her finger to press upwardly on the odor remediation insert 138 from below, through the opening 136. A raised rim 131 is provided along the outer perimeter of the recess 132 for securing the insert 138 in place.
A toilet training device 210 that is constructed according to a third embodiment of the invention is depicted in FIGS. 21 and 22. Toilet training device 210 preferably includes a soft seat cushion 212 that is mounted to a main body portion 218. A pair of handles 214, 216 is slightly mounted within sockets so as to be selectively extendable from the main body portion 218.
A pair of support feet 220, 222 is preferably mounted to a rear surface of the main body portion 218 for vertical storage when the device 210 is not in use. An odor remediation system 224 includes a mounting bracket 226 that is preferably integral with and spaced apart from the support feet 220, 222. Mounting bracket 226 is preferably fabricated from a substantially rigid plastic material such as polypropylene.
As FIG. 21 shows, the mounting bracket 226 includes an inner recess 228 that is partially defined by a curved inner surface 230, partially defined by a substantially flat rear surface 232 and partially defined by a curved front wall 234. At least one bump or projection 237 is provided on the inner surface 230 for creating an interference fit with the odor remediation insert 236 in order to releasably secure the odor remediation insert 236 within the mounting bracket 226. A finger hole 235 is also defined in a bottom portion of the curved surface 230 in order to help a user eject the odor remediation insert 236 from the bracket 226.
FIG. 22 depicts an odor remediation insert 236 positioned within the mounting bracket 226. Odor remediation insert 236 is preferably substantially identical in size, shape and construction to the odor remediation insert 42 that has been described with respect to the first embodiment.
In order to install the odor remediation insert 236 into the mounting bracket 226, a consumer will press the odor remediation insert 236 downwardly into the mounting bracket 226 so that the curved outer surface 238 conforms to the curved inner surface 230 that is defined within the mounting bracket 226. The odor remediation insert 236 in this position will further be constrained by the rear wall 232 and the front wall 234. To remove the odor remediation insert 236, the consumer will pinch the exposed upper portion of the odor remediation insert 236 with his or her fingers and pull it upwardly out of the mounting bracket 226.
It is to be understood, however, that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims

1. A toilet training device, comprising:

a seat having an opening defined therein;

a main body portion;

a recess defined in the main body portion for holding a package of wipes; and

wipes package securing means for releasably positioning the package of wipes within the recess.

2. A toilet training device according to claim 1, further comprising the package of wipes releasable mounted within the recess, wherein the package of wipes comprises coupling means for engaging the wipes package securing means.

3. A toilet training device according to claim 2, wherein the package of wipes comprises a substantially rigid frame and wherein the coupling means comprises a first alignment feature protruding from one end of the package of wipes.

4. A toilet training device according to claim 3, wherein the wipes package securing means comprises a second alignment feature that forms a slot with an inner face of a receptacle front wall, wherein the receptacle front wall separates the recess from an adjoining space exterior of the toilet training device.

5. A toilet training device according to claim 3, wherein the wipes package securing means comprises a first flange attached to an inner face of a receptacle front wall and wherein the flange comprises a groove for receiving the first alignment feature.

6. A toilet training device according to claim 4, wherein the wipes package securing means further comprises a first flange attached to an inner face of a receptacle front wall and wherein the flange comprises a groove for receiving the first alignment feature.

7. A toilet training device according to claim 6, wherein the second alignment feature is attached to the first flange so as to guide the first alignment feature into the groove.

8. A toilet training device according to claim 5, wherein the groove has a concave configuration.

9. A toilet training device according to claim 5, wherein the groove has a depth of about 0.025 inches to about 1.3 inches.

10. A toilet training device according to claim 5, wherein the groove has a width of about 0.02 inches to about 0.5 inches.

11. A toilet training device according to claim 5, wherein the groove has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within a range of about 0.75 inches to about 6 inches.

12. A toilet training device according to claim 4, wherein the package of wipes further comprises a third alignment feature protruding from a second end thereof.

13. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the wipes package securing means further comprises a fourth alignment feature that forms a slot with an inner face of the receptacle front wall for receiving the third alignment feature.

14. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the wipes package securing means comprises a second flange attached to an inner face of a receptacle front wall and wherein the flange comprises a second groove for receiving the third alignment feature.

15. A toilet training device according to claim 13, wherein the wipes package securing means comprises a second flange attached to an inner face of a receptacle front wall and wherein the flange comprises a second groove for receiving the third alignment feature.

16. A toilet training device according to claim 15, wherein the second alignment feature is attached to the first flange so as to guide the third alignment feature into the second groove.

17. A toilet training device according to claim 5, wherein the package of wipes further comprises a second flange attached to an inner face of a receptacle front wall and wherein the flange comprises a second groove for receiving another alignment feature of the package of wipes.

18. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the third alignment feature comprises a convex projection.

19. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the third alignment feature has a crescent configuration.

20. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the convex projection has a depth of about 0.025 inches to about 1.5 inches.

21. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the convex projection has a thickness of about 0.025 inches to about 0.5 inches.

22. A toilet training device according to claim 12, wherein the convex projection has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within a range of about 0.25 inches to about 6 inches.

23. A toilet training device according to claim 1, wherein the wipes package securing means comprises a guide structure for enabling a package of wipes to be slid in and out of the recess, wherein the guide structure comprises a first lip that projects away from the recess and forms an inner edge of the guide structure that defines in part a access opening into the recess.

24. A toilet training device according to claim 23, wherein the first lip has a substantially U shaped configuration.

25. A toilet training device according to claim 23, wherein the guide structure further comprises a plate member and wherein the lip is formed along an edge of the plate member such that the first lip is not coextensive with the plate member.

26. A toilet training device according to claim 1, further comprising a cover capable of being removably positioned relative to the main body portion to receive a wipes package within the recess and capable of covering at least a portion of the recess.

27. A toilet training device according to claim 26, wherein the wipes package securing means comprises a lip that projects away from the recess and forms an inner edge of the cover that defines in part an access opening into the recess.

28. A toilet training device according to claim 23, wherein the wipes package securing means further comprises a second lip formed on a cover for covering at least a portion of the recess, wherein the lip forms an edge of the cover that defines in part an access opening into the recess.

29. A toilet training device according to claim 28, wherein the first and second lips are spaced apart from one another when the cover is coupled to the main body portion.

30. A toilet training device according to claim 29, wherein the package of wipes further comprises a hinge for selectively opening and closing a lid of the package of wipes and wherein the hinge is positioned between the first and second lips when the package of wipes is positioned within the recess.

31. A wipes cartridge, comprising:

a container having a plurality of wipes disposed therein; and

a substantially rigid frame attached to the container, wherein said substantially rigid frame comprises:

first and second end portions; and

coupling means for releasably and securely positioning the wipes cartridge within a recess of a toilet training device.

32. A wipes cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the coupling means comprises at least one alignment feature protruding from one of the first and second end portions.

33. A wipes cartridge according to claim 32, wherein the alignment feature comprises a convex projection.

34. A wipes cartridge according to claim 32, wherein the coupling means comprises a first alignment feature comprising a curved convex projection protruding from the first end portion and a second alignment feature comprising a curved convex projection protruding from the second end portion.

35. A wipes cartridge according to claim 34, wherein the curved convex projections of the first and second alignment features are substantially the same size and shape.

36. A wipes cartridge according to claim 34, wherein the curved convex projections of the first and second alignment features are substantially symmetrical positioned with respect to one another.

37. A toilet training device according to claim 33, wherein the convex projection has a depth of about 0.025 inches to about 1.5 inches.

38. A toilet training device according to claim 33, wherein the convex projection has a depth of about 0.05 inches to about 1 inch.

39. A toilet training device according to claim 33, wherein the convex projection has a thickness of about 0.025 inches to about 0.5 inches.

40. A toilet training device according to claim 33, wherein the convex projection has a thickness of about 0.03 inches to about 0.4 inches.

41. A toilet training device according to claim 33, wherein the convex projection has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within a range of about 0.25 inches to about 6 inches.

42. A toilet training device according to claim 33, wherein the convex projection has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within a range of about 0.5 inches to about 5 inches.

43. A cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the container has a number of wipes stored therein that is substantially within a range of about 10 wipes to about 120 wipes.

44. A wipes cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the container has a number of wipes stored therein that is substantially within a range of about 15 wipes to about 100 wipes.

45. A wipes cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the substantially rigid frame has a dispensing opening defined therein.

46. A wipes cartridge according to claim 45, further comprising an adhesive cover removably covering and sealing the dispensing opening.

47. A wipes cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the container is fabricated from a flexible waterproof material.

48. A wipes cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the first end portion comprises a convex rounded surface.

49. A wipes cartridge according to claim 48, wherein the second end portion comprises an opposing convex rounded surface.

50. A wipes cartridge according to claim 46, further comprising a lid hingedly mounted to the rigid frame for permitting access to the dispensing opening.