Portable enclosure in particular for sanitary purposes

Abstract

A portable enclosure for sanitary purposes includes upper and lower retaining members and a plurality of support posts extending therebetween. A plurality of wall panels also extend between the respective retaining members. The side edges of the wall panels are received in grooves of the support posts and upper and lower edges of the wall panels are received in retaining means provided in the upper and/or lower retaining members. The retaining means are non-linear—preferably curved—ands preferably take the form of grooves in the surface of the retaining members. The wall panels thereby adopt a curved configuration which provides increased compressive strength.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of UK patent application number 0504167.8, filed 1 Mar. 2005.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a portable enclosure in particular for sanitary purposes. The present invention also provides a kit of parts for constructing such an enclosure. The portable enclosure according to the invention may be an enclosure such as a cubicle, cabin, cabana or the like for a portable toilet, wash-room, restroom, shower or the like.

2. Description of Related Art

Portable toilets or rest-rooms are often used to provide facilities where such facilities would otherwise be unavailable such as on building and construction sites and at concerts and sporting events. Portable toilets and similar portable enclosures therefore have to be able to be transported to sites where they are required and stored when not required for use.

Portable toilets and similar enclosures must have strength and durability to withstand day-to-day use, environmental factors such as adverse weather and to avoid damage in transit. Ideally, the portable enclosure should occupy a minimum volume when in transport or storage, to minimize transport and storage costs. The construction of the portable enclosure must be as simple as possible to facilitate assembly and disassembly, preferably with a minimum of component parts. Ideally a basic portable enclosure design should be adaptable to different requirements and configurations, depending on for example the particular facilities with which it is to be provided. These various requirements are often at odds with each other and prior art portable toilet enclosures often address adequately only one of the above problems.

Conventional portable toilet enclosures typically include walls comprising molded thermoplastic materials which are typically secured to thermoplastically molded base and roof structures. One of the walls typically includes a door frame with a door connected thereto to provide access to the interior of the enclosure. The resulting enclosure is difficult and time consuming to assemble requiring a number of complex fastenings and the major components are bulky and not easily stored.

Portable toilet enclosures are typically factory assembled and transported in an assembled condition to the site where they are to be used, or to a supplier's depot, for example. The portable toilet, when no longer required at the site, is picked up and transported on a vehicle whilst still assembled. The toilet is then stored in its assembled state when not in use.

Since many prior art portable toilet enclosures are relatively large in size, the number of assembled units that can be transported in a given load is limited. Thus, shipping costs of conventional types of portable toilet enclosures are often very high. These conventional portable toilet enclosures often cannot be moved manually, and require dedicated machinery to lift them into and out of the desired location.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The portable enclosure of the present invention seeks to alleviate or overcome the problems set out above. It is easily transportable and storable whilst also being strong and durable. The portable enclosure of the present invention also provides the advantage of being relatively quick and easy to assemble and disassemble and is also suitable for manual assembly.

The present invention provides an improved portable enclosure, in particular for sanitary purposes. The term “enclosure” may include; but is not limited to, cabins, cubicles, cabanas, chambers, portable toilets or other portable hygiene arrangements such as portable washrooms, rest rooms, showers and the like. The portable enclosures of the invention are primarily, but not exclusively, intended for use as portable toilets (lavatories, WCs etc). Such portable toilet enclosures may preferably also include washing facilities, at least for the hands, comprising a water supply and washbasin or the like.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a portable enclosure for sanitary purposes comprising:

i). upper and lower retaining members;

ii). a plurality of support posts extending between the retaining members and adapted to cooperate with said retaining members to maintain the retaining members in spaced apart relation; and

iii). a plurality of wall panels each comprising a web of plastic material,

wherein:

the upper and lower retaining members comprise post retaining formations which cooperate with respective upper and lower ends of the support posts to maintain the support posts in fixed relation to the retaining members; and

at least one of the upper and lower retaining members comprises wall panel retaining formations by means of which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are retained in fixed relation to the respective retaining member.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the wall panel retaining formations comprise non-linear concave formations in which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are received. Suitable concave formations are grooves or channels. Most preferably said wall panel retaining formations extend between the post retaining formations. Where the post receiving formations are recesses formed in the upper or lower retaining members respectively, the wall panel retaining formations may be in communication with said recesses.

Preferably, both the upper and lower retaining members comprise said wall panel retaining formations. In this way, the wall panels are retained in position at both the upper and lower edges.

In further preferred embodiments the support posts comprise wall panel retaining formations in which side edges of the wall panels are retained. Preferably the wall panel retaining formations of the support posts comprise longitudinally extending grooves formed in the support posts in which said side edges are retained.

In another preferred embodiment, the portable enclosure of the invention further comprises fastening means for said retaining members, and said support posts comprise internal bores whereby said fastening means cooperate with said internal bores to attach the support posts to said fastening members. The internal bores may, for example, be blind bores formed at the respective ends of the support posts. The blind bores may include an internal thread which engages a corresponding external thread of the fastening means. Alternatively, the fastening means may comprise self-tapping screws or bolts which engage the inner surfaces of the blind bores.

In a further preferred embodiment, the support posts comprise through bores and the enclosure further comprises fastening means including a through bolt passing through each respective bore by means of which fastening means the support posts and the upper and lower retaining members are attached. Thus the fastening means may comprise a through bolt having an external thread at one or both of its ends which cooperates with an internal thread of a suitable nut or the like. Where the through bolt has only one threaded end, the other end thereof may, for example, have an enlarged end portion to engage the retaining member. Constructions including a through bolt are especially advantageous in providing compressive strength to the portable enclosure.

In one embodiment, the through bolt comprises an eye at one end, wherein the eye facilitates lifting of the enclosure when assembled for use.

It is preferred that the fastening means, when fastened, place the wall panels in compression. This is easily achieved by means of the through bores and through bolts described above.

In another preferred arrangement, the portable enclosure further comprises at least one roof panel attached to an upper surface of the upper retaining member, preferably by said fastening means.

Most preferably, the portable enclosure further comprises an inner roof panel and an outer roof panel.

Preferably said at least one roof panel includes ventilation means.

For providing said ventilation means, preferably said inner and outer roof panels are maintained in spaced apart relation and ventilation means includes one or more apertures formed in said inner roof panel. In this way, an air flow path is provided from the interior of the enclosure through said apertures into the space between the inner and outer roof panels and thence to the exterior of the enclosure. In a preferred arrangement the roof panel is constructed as a means to prevent excessive heating of the enclosure by sunlight. In this respect, the gap between the inner an outer roof panels is effective and also the outer roof panel may be made reflective to some extent on its outer surface.

In a preferred construction of the invention, the wall panels are operatively deformed from a substantially planar configuration for retaining the upper and/or lower edges thereof in said wall panel retaining formations. Thus, the wall panels may be manufactured in an essentially planar configuration. This is cost effective and relatively simple. The wall panels are deformed into a curved configuration on assembly of the portable enclosure. Preferably, the wall panels are formed from a resilient material and are retained in their non-planar configuration by the wall panel retaining means.

In a particular embodiment, the portable enclosure further comprises at least one hinge unit and a door hingedly mounted on said hinge unit(s). The hinge units are mounted in either the upper retaining member or lower retaining member or both the upper and lower retaining members. In this way the door for the enclosure can be mounted without the need for a separate door frame. This further simplifies the construction of the enclosure and reduces manufacturing costs. The door may preferably be provided with locking means which cooperate with one of the support posts to lock the door.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of parts for assembling a portable enclosure for sanitary purposes comprising:

i) upper and lower retaining members;

ii) a plurality of support posts for extending in use between the retaining members and adapted, on assembly of the enclosure, to cooperate with the retaining members to maintain the retaining members in spaced apart relation; and;

iii) a plurality of substantially planar wall panels each comprising a web of plastic material,

wherein:

the upper and lower retaining means comprise post receiving formations which, on assembly of the enclosure, cooperate with respective upper and lower ends of the support posts to maintain the support posts in fixed relation to the retaining members; and at least one of the upper and lower retaining members comprises wall panel retaining formations by means of which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are in use retained in fixed relation to the respective retaining member.

In another preferred embodiment, the enclosure also comprises a separate floor panel which is retained by the lower retaining member. In another preferred arrangement, the lower retaining member may be provided with a pallet base, either integrally or as a separate component. The pallet base may comprise a series of ridges which enable the enclosure to be lifted while fully or partially assembled by known lifting means for example a fork-lift vehicle.

In some embodiments according to the invention it may be desirable for ease of manufacture for the upper and lower retaining members to be substantially similar. However, although this may be convenient, it is not essential.

In a preferred form, the portable enclosure of present invention may be used to enclose a single toilet unit, optionally also with hand-washing facilities. A portable enclosure of present invention may also be used to enclose a plurality of toilet units or shower facilities. The portable enclosure of the present invention may be provided with a waste storage tank. Alternatively, the enclosure may include means for connection an external waste storage or treatment system. The interior of the enclosure may be provided with a hot water tank facility, which is able to provide hot water to a user via a faucet (or tap) and sink, washbasin or shower unit.

The portable enclosure of the present invention has several advantages over the prior art. Because the wall panels are constructed as flat resilient panels they can be flat packed for transportation, so reducing the volume required. This allows many more units to be transported in a given volume (e.g. in a standard shipping container) in comparison to conventional portable toilet enclosures. Also, individual components of the enclosure are also more easily replaced if damaged.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one example of a portable enclosure of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the portable enclosure of FIG. 1, as assembled;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one alternative construction of a portable enclosure according to the invention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a portable enclosure similar to the enclosure of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another alternative construction of a portable enclosure according to the invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portable enclosure, excluding the panels, according to the invention.

FIG. 7a is a perspective view of one example of an upper retaining member according to the invention;

FIG. 7b is a perspective view of one example of a lower retaining member according to the invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-section through a part of an enclosure of the invention showing an example of a roof structure;

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-section through a part of an enclosure of the invention showing an alternative example of a roof structure;

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-section through a lower portion of an enclosure according to the invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-section through an alternative lower portion of an enclosure, according to the invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic cross section through a typical support post and a panel of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-section through a lower portion of an enclosure according to the invention showing an example of a lower retaining member when connected to a floor panel;

FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-section through an alternative support post and panel of the invention;

FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-section through an alternative lower portion of an enclosure, according to the invention;

FIG. 16a is a perspective view of a typical outer roof panel of an enclosure of the invention;

FIG. 16b is a perspective view of a typical inner roof panel of an enclosure of the invention;

FIG. 17 is a partially exploded view of a partially complete portable enclosure according to the invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an enclosure according to the invention illustrating typical air through flow paths;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a typical floor panel for an enclosure of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a typical pallet base for an enclosure of the invention;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the typical waste tank suitable for use with the enclosure of the present invention; and

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the waste tank of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23a is a front view of a door for an enclosure according to the invention;

FIG. 23b is a top view of a door for an enclosure according to the invention;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view through a support post, including a through bolt, for an enclosure according to the invention.

FIG. 25 is a partial front view of a door for an enclosure of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a schematic perspective view of a door hinge of a door for an enclosure according to the invention.

FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of a door hinge of a door for an enclosure according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of the words, for example “comprising” and “comprises”, mean “including but not limited to”, and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps.

Referring now, in particular to FIGS. 1 to 5, in which identical or similar components have been given like reference numbers, an enclosure 1 is illustrated which is primarily suitable for providing a portable (relocatable) toilet or, alternatively, a washroom or shower facility.

The enclosure 1 comprises a lower retaining member 5 and an upper retaining member 7. The enclosure 1 also comprises at least two support posts 9, 9′. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 the enclosure has four support posts 9. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 has six support posts 9. Other embodiments (not shown) may comprise a differing number of support posts. The enclosure according to the invention also comprises a plurality of panels 3 which form the walls of the enclosure 1. In preferred embodiments, an enclosure comprising n support posts 9, 9′ will comprise n-1 wall panels 3. Thus in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 there are three wall panels 3 and in FIGS. 3 and 4 there are five wall panels 3. As will be described below, this construction allows for the provision of an entry and exit door to the enclosure. In FIG. 1 ghost lines 3′ and arrows 3″ indicate the deformation of the wall panels 3 on assembly from an initial substantially planar configuration to a curved configuration.

The lower retaining member 5 preferably comprises upper and lower surfaces indicated generally at 5a and 5b respectively, outer side surfaces 21, 23, 25, 27 and inner side surfaces 22, 24, 26, 28 so that the lower retaining member defines an internal void 33 (see FIG. 7b). The inner side surfaces 22, 24, 26, 28 may together define an essentially circular shape, or a rounded square shape as shown in FIG. 7b, or any other suitable shape. The lower surface 5b may be substantially planar or include substantially planar regions on which the enclosure 1 can rest stably on a supporting surface such as the ground. The upper surface 5a may generally be shaped as desired (e.g. for aesthetic considerations) but must include a plurality of post retaining formations 17 for engaging and retaining the lower ends of the posts 9, 9′. Preferably the upper surface 5a comprises a number of bores or recesses 17 into which the lower end of the support posts 9, 9′ are inserted in use. As can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the recesses 17 preferably comprise a through bore with a shoulder 17s against which lower ends of the posts 9, 9′ lie. In the illustrated embodiments, the number of recesses 17 in the lower retaining member is equal to the number of support posts 9, 9′ making up the enclosure. In alternative embodiments, a greater number of recesses 17 may be provided to allow flexibility in the location of posts 9, 9′, for example to accommodate different sizes of panels 3. The lower ends of the support posts fit into the respective recesses 17 such that the support posts 9, 9′ are positioned substantially vertically upright during use.

In one particular arrangement, the lower and upper retaining members 5, 7 are of broadly similar size and shape, the upper retaining member 7 being arranged in use in a planar orientation opposite to that of the lower retaining member 5. The upper retaining member 7 comprises a plurality of post retaining formations 18 which correspond to the formations 17 of the upper retaining member 7. The post retaining formations are preferably recesses and all for accommodating upper ends of the support posts 9, 9′, and the upper ends of the support posts are located and retained in these recesses 18 in the assembled enclosure. The recesses 18 preferably comprise through bores, the upper open ends of which are shown at 31 in FIGS. 1 and 4 and 7a, 8 and 9, the bores 18 including a shoulder 18s against which the upper end of the respective support post 9, 9′ rests.

The shape of the lower and upper retaining members 5, 7 as defined by the external side surfaces may generally be selected as desired, for example, in accordance with aesthetic considerations. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2 5 and 7b the external side surfaces comprise two opposed curved sides 25 and 27 and two opposed straight sides 21 and 23. In the region of the straight side 21, the lower retaining member 5 may preferably be shaped to provide a step 29.

In alternative embodiments of the invention, the upper retaining member 7 and the lower retaining member 5 may differ in size and/or shape. For example, the outer perimeter of the lower and upper retaining members may be essentially circular. Alternatively, the retaining members 5, 7 may have an outer perimeter which is square or octagonal in shape, or approximately hexagonal, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Equally, the inner side surface of the retaining members 5, 7 may define a void which may be, for example, square, hexagonal or octagonal or irregular in shape.

As noted above, the enclosure 1 comprises at least one resilient panel 3. In the embodiment as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5, the enclosure comprises three resilient panels forming respectively three walls of the enclosure. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4 the enclosure 1 comprises five resilient panels forming respectively five walls of the enclosure. In other embodiments, the enclosure of the invention may comprise more or fewer panels than the embodiments illustrated. For example, one embodiment may comprise seven panels to provide an enclosure which is generally octagonal in shape.

For retaining the panels 3 in their position of use, the posts 9, 9′ are provided with wall panel retaining formations in the form of oppositely directed longitudinal grooves 55 (FIG. 12 and FIG. 14), preferably along the entire length thereof. Side edge portions of the panels 3 are received in and supported by the grooves 55 of the posts 9, 9′. In preferred embodiments, the grooves 55 are defined by opposed laterally extending flanges 61 in conjunction with flanges 57 depending from the main body of the posts 9, 9′. Clearly, the location of the recesses 17, 18 of the retaining members 5, 7 in which the posts 9, 9′ rest must be selected in relation to the width of the panels 3 such that the side edges of the panels are comfortably and securely retained in the grooves 55.

The lower retaining member 5 comprises means for retaining the panels in a substantially upright position during use. In the preferred embodiment as illustrated, the means for retaining the panels comprise a groove 13 formed in the upper surface of the lower retaining member 5 so that the lower edge 31 of the panel is received in use into the groove 13. The groove 13 most preferably intersects the post retaining recesses 17. In alternative embodiments, the lower retaining member may comprise, for example, a shoulder, against which the lower edge of the panels 3 rests. The groove 13 is non-linear, preferably being curved so that the panel 3 must adopt a correspondingly non-planar configuration in order to be seated in the groove 13. Similarly, where alternative retaining means for the panel are provided on the lower retaining member 5, these are also constructed so that the panel 3 must adopt a non-planar configuration. To allow them to adopt a curved configuration, the panels 3 are made from a resilient material which allows them to be deformed from their initially flat configuration. Manufacture of the panels 3 in an initially flat configuration has clear advantages for transport and storage of the panels 3.

The upper retaining member 7 comprises corresponding means for retaining the panels 3 in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper retaining member 7 has a groove (not shown) running therein on the lower (in use) surface 7b thereof which is essentially similar to the groove 13 of the lower retaining member 5 and which groove in the upper retaining member receives the upper edges of the panels 3. In alternative embodiments, the upper retaining member 7 may comprise, for example, a shoulder, against which the upper edge of the panels 3 rests.

Thus, when assembled, the panels 3 of the enclosure 1 of the invention are supported at all four side edges thereof by receiving the respective sides in appropriately formed grooves 13, 55 or other formations. The shape of the grooves 13 dictates that the panels 3 adopt a non-linear, preferably curved, configuration which enhances the ability of the panels to withstand vertical compressive forces in use. The panels 3 are also preferably formed with corrugations which further enhance the strength of the panels without significantly limiting their flexibility and resilience. The panels may be formed of any suitable plastics material as may easily be selected by a person skilled in the art.

Cross-sections of examples of a suitable support post are shown in FIGS. 12 and 14. The support posts 9, 9′ in this embodiment are conveniently formed as extruded plastic or metal (e.g. aluminum) sections and are preferably nominally the same length as the panels 3. Depending on the relative depths of the grooves 13 and the recesses 17, 18 the support posts 9, 9′ may be longer or shorter than the length of the panels 3. A bore 49 preferably runs longitudinally through the whole length of the post 9, 9′. In an alternative embodiment, the support post is provided with blind bores situated within its respective ends. Blind bores 49A are shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 8, 10 and 13. In one embodiment, the bore 49A accommodates thread cutting bolts 51, as shown in FIGS. 8, 10 and 13 for securing the posts 9, 9′ to the upper and lower retaining members 5, 7. Alternatively, however, as shown in FIGS. 9, 11, 14, 15 and 24, preferably a single through bolt 510 is provided which runs through a bore 49 along the entire length of the support post 9, 9′, to provide compressive strength to the enclosure. The through bolt is then provided with externally threaded portions at its respective ends to which a securing nut 100 is attached for securing the bolt to the respective upper and lower retaining members 7, 5. Alternatively, the through bolt 510 may have a threaded nut-receiving portion at one end only, in which case an enlarged end portion is provided at the other end of the bolt. In variations, the through bolt 510 may have internally threaded bores at its ends which receive corresponding externally threaded securing bolts.

As can be seen in FIG. 12, the support post 9 comprises cavities 55a which receive the side edges 3s of the panel 3. The cavity 55a has a narrow entrance 55b into which the edge 3s of the panel fits. The entrance 55b is defined by end portions 61a of a flange 61 and flanges 57. The support post 9 may desirably comprise an inner face 59 and an outer face 67 which are generally flat.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the support post 9′. The support post 9′ comprises alternative wall panel retaining formations. The support post 9′ is functionally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 but includes a dome-shaped wall 101 in section, which defines the external surface of the post 9′. The dome-shaped wall 101 may provide additional strength to the wall panel retaining formations of the support post 9′. Dome-shaped wall 101 is connected to opposed laterally extending flanges 61. The support post 9′ comprises cavities 55a which received the side edges 3s of the panel 3. The support post 9′ also comprises an inner face 590 which is generally flat.

Preferably, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5, one or more rails 63 are attached to the support posts, preferably after the panels 3 have been placed in position. The rail 63, which may be formed in sections, sits around the perimeter of the enclosure 1 and comprises several securing points, for example, screw holes by means of which the rail 63 is attached to the support posts 9 during assembly of the enclosure by screws or other equivalent fastening means. The rail 63 preferably comprises an extrusion plastic or other suitable material (for example, a metal or metallic material or a plastic/metal composite). In one particular embodiments (FIG. 17), the rail 63 is formed from three separate pieces that are fixed together to form a single rail. Different embodiments may have different numbers of sections forming the rail 63. The rail 63 can provide added strength and support to the enclosure structure and may also provide a handle or attachment point which can be used during assembly or to move the enclosure while in its assembled state.

In one embodiment of the upper retaining member 7 as illustrated in FIG. 8, the upper retaining member 7 has a ridge 15 defining an upwardly directed surface 15a to which a roof panel 35 for the enclosure is secured.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, in one embodiment, the lower retaining member 5 may have a generally similar shape to the upper retaining member 7 of FIG. 8 but inverted with respect to the upper retaining member 7 and consequently comprises a ridge 19 defining a surface 19a which is lowermost in use. The surface 19a contacts the ground when the enclosure is assembled and positioned in its use position.

The roof panel 35 has bores 37 through which fastening means 51 be passed in order to secure the roof panel to the upper retaining member 7. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 the same screw passes through the roof panel 35, and the upper retaining member 7 and into the bore 49A of the support post to secure all these components together. In the alternative embodiment where a single bolt 510 extends through the whole length of a bore 49 of the support post 9, 9′, this bolt may also be used to secure the roof panel 35 (FIG. 9). This embodiment is also shown in FIG. 24. These arrangements have the advantage of minimizing the number of components required to produce the enclosure 1 of the invention. However, in alternative arrangements the roof panel 35 may be secured to the upper retaining member 7 by dedicated fastening means such as screws which attach at points other than the bore 49 of the posts 9, 9′.

As shown in FIG. 24, the fastening means, in the illustrated embodiment is a through bolt 510 may further comprise a lifting eye 80 at one end. In particular embodiments, the lifting eye 80 is at an end of the fastening means which passes through the roof panel 35 and the upper retaining member 7. Preferably, the fastening means is a single bolt 510 which extends through the whole length of the bore 49 of the support post 9, 9′. The bolt 510 may secure the lower retaining member 5, the base panel 58′, the upper retaining member 7 and the roof panel 35, 64, 68 together. Each bore 49 of each support post 9, 9′ of the enclosure 1 may comprise a bolt 510 which extends the length of the bore 49. The provision of a single through bolt 510 in one or more than one of the support posts 9, 9′ which extends from the base panel 58′ to the roof panel 35 results in the panels of the enclosure being held in compression when the enclosure 1 is assembled, which imparts rigidity to the enclosure 1.

In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, 5, and 8, the roof panel 35 and the upper retaining member 7 are constructed to provide ventilation means for the enclosure 1. In particular, the roof panel 35 is provided with flat lands 70 in the area around the securing bores 37, the lands 70 having a lower surface 72. A radially inward part 72a of the surface 72 provides the only point of contact between the roof panel 35 and the ridge surface 15a on which the roof panel 35 rests in use. Thus a gap, indicated schematically by arrows “A” in FIG. 8 exists between the roof panel 35 and the ridge 15 (other than at parts 72a) which gap provides for the passage of air into and out of the enclosure 1.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 4, 6, 9, 16a, 16b, 17 and 18 the roof of the enclosure 1 comprises an inner roof panel 68 and an outer roof panel 64. Outer roof panel 64 is similar to roof panel 35 of FIG. 8 and is secured to upper retaining member 7 by suitable fastening means acting on lands 70, said lands 70 having a lower surface 72. The fastening means may preferably cooperate with bores 49, 49A of support posts 9, 9′. Inner roof panel 68 is disposed in use between the upper retaining member 7 and the outer roof panel 64 and is preferably secured by the same fastening means as the outer roof panel 64, the fastening means passing through bores 60 of the inner roof panel 68. In this case lower surfaces 72 of the outer panel 64 lie against a peripheral flange 69 of the inner roof panel 68. The inner and outer roof panels 68, 64 are mounted in spaced apart relation so that a gap is provided between the respective roof panels. Inner roof panel 68 preferably has a substantially gapless fit at its outer periphery against upper retaining means 7, which may be provided by the peripheral flange 69.

The inner roof panel 68 comprises one or more apertures 66 which provide ventilation means for the enclosure. In this embodiment, the fastening means may be a bolt 510 as described before. Thus, the inner roof panel 68 and outer roof panel 64 are secured together via a bolt 510 which also secures the upper retaining means 7, the lower retaining member 5 and the base panel 58′.

As illustrated in FIG. 19 and 20, the construction of the inner and outer roof panels 68, 64 of this embodiment provides ventilation for the enclosure 1 by allowing a flow of air through the enclosure 1 indicated by arrows B, C, D, E and F of FIG. 18. Relatively cooler air, indicated by arrows B enters a lower part of the enclosure 1, for example under door 11. The air becomes progressively warmer as it passes upwardly through the enclosure 1, indicated by arrows C₁, C₂ and C₃. As indicated by arrows E, the air passes through the apertures 66 into the space between the inner roof panel 68 and the outer roof panel 64 and thence out of the enclosure 1 as shown by arrows F. Assuming (as is usual) that there is movement of the ambient air outside the enclosure 1 (i.e. there is a wind or breeze) air also enters the gap between the respective roof panels 68, 64, indicated by arrows D, and leaves as indicated by arrows F. This air flow also assists in drawing air through the enclosure 1 (specifically through apertures 66).

The outer roof panel 64 may provide heat shielding means for the enclosure, such that the interior of the enclosure 1 is shielded from overhead heat from the sun and heat is deflected away from the main body of the enclosure 1. The gap between the respective roof panels 64, 68 also assists in minimizing the penetration of heat into the enclosure 1. The outer roof panel 64 may be made of a reflective material to reflect light from the sun away and therefore reduce the heat inside the enclosure.

For access to the enclosure 1 of the invention, a door 11 is provided disposed between two of the supporting posts 9, 9′. The door 11 is desirably formed as a plastics molding, (e.g. by vacuum forming) preferably comprising only a single skin. The door 11 is provided with hinges 41 which are mountable respectively in the lower and upper retaining means 5, 7. For example, the hinges may comprise a plate portion attached to the door 11 and an upwardly or downwardly directed cylindrical finger which is received in a bearing cup. The bearing cup is in turn mounted in a bore 40 of the respective upper or lower retaining member 7, 5. The fingers can rotate with respect to their bearing cup about a common nominally vertical axis so allowing the door to be opened and closed. The hinges may be of self-closing construction or separate means, such as a suitable spring, may be provided for urging the door 11 into a closed position.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 23, 26 and 27, the hinges do not comprise a plate portion attached to the door. Instead, the hinge 41 comprises a tube-like structure or rod-like structure which is situated in a through bore 84 accommodated in a longitudinal edge 86 of the door 11 which is generally upright during use. The longitudinal edge may have a curved surface, as shown in FIG. 26.

In the illustrated embodiment, the structure is a hollow tube 82 which sits inside the bore 84. In one embodiment, the door is provided with a through bore at each longitudinal edge. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the door 11 is provided with a through bore 84 at one longitudinal edge 86 whilst the opposing longitudinal edge is provided with a reinforcing plate 88. The reinforcing plate 88 may extend along substantially the entire longitudinal length of the door 11. In one embodiment (not shown), the reinforcing plate 88 is in the form of a hollow tube. The reinforcing plate 88 may be made from any material which would be apparent to the skilled person to be suitable to provide rigidity to the reinforcing plate 88. For example, the reinforcing plate may be constructed from, for example, metal such as steel or aluminum. The reinforcing plate may rest on a surface of the support post 9, 9′, as shown in FIG. 23b.

In particular embodiments, the hinge 41 comprises a bearing cup 90 mounted within a bore 92 of the respective upper retaining member 7 (not shown) or lower retaining member 5 (see FIG. 26). Each of the lower retaining member 5 and the upper retaining member 7 comprise a bore 92.

A hinge pin 94 is situated within the hinge tube 82 adjacent to each of the lower and upper retaining members 5, 7. The hinge pin 94 may be made from, for example, plastic, nylon or any other suitable material. The hinge pin 94 is accommodated within the tube 82 and also within the bearing cup 90 of each of the lower and upper retaining members. The bearing cup 90 may be tapered. In this instance, the bore is correspondingly tapered to ensure the bearing cup fits securely within the bore 92. The hinge pin 94 is preferably similarly tapered to ensure a secure fit within the bore 92 and the bearing cup 90. The bearing cup 90 may comprise a collar 96 at an end presented on the surface of the upper and lower retaining members respectively. The hinge pin 94 may comprise a corresponding collar 98 which abuts the bearing cup collar 96 and, in the case of the lower part of the enclosure, rests on it during use. An end of the hinge tube 82 abuts the collar 98 of the hinge pin 94. In these embodiments, one end of the hinge tube 82 abuts the collar of the hinge pin which is located in the lower retaining member 5 and the other end of the hinge tube 82 abuts the collar of the hinge pin which is located in the upper retaining member 7.

FIG. 26 shows the tube 82 extending only a short length along the through bore 84 of the door 11. This is for ease of reference and it will be appreciated that, in particular embodiments, the tube extends along substantially the full longitudinal length of the door panel. The hinge tube 82 in particular embodiments, therefore, extends substantially the full height of the door 11 of the portable enclosure 1.

In other embodiments, it is envisaged that the hinge tube 82 does not extend the full length of the through bore 84. In these embodiments, the enclosure may be supplied with an upper hinge tube and a lower hinge tube which are located in the through bore 84 of the door.

FIG. 25 shows the longitudinal edge 86 of the door 11. FIG. 25 omits the upper retaining member 7 and thus shows the upper bearing cup 90. In use, the upper bearing cup will be situated in a bore in the upper retaining member 7.

A rivet 102 or plurality of rivets are provided to fix the tube 82, the through bore 84, the longitudinal edge 86 of the door and the hinge pin 94 together, as shown in FIG. 26.

The door 11 may further comprise a locking system. In this embodiment, the locking system is a latch mechanism 62 which cooperates with an adjacent support post 9 to retain the door 11 in a closed condition.

The enclosure 1 of the invention most preferably also comprises a floor panel 45. The floor panel in this embodiment is typically approximately 10 to 20 mm, especially about 16 mm thick and made of a suitable plastic material or of any equivalent material, which is rigid and capable of bearing considerable weight without damage.

As shown in FIG. 13 and 19, for example, the floor panel 45 is shaped to have an extent at least equal to that of the internal void 33 as defined by the inner side edges of the lower retaining member 5. The lower retaining member 5 typically comprises a plurality of bores 46 located radially inwardly of the ridge 19 and which are adapted to accommodate fastening means 38 such as bolts or screws for securing the floor panel to the lower retaining member 5. As shown in FIG. 13, the floor panel has a rebate 47 around its outer edge to accommodate head portions of the fastening means 38.

As shown in FIG. 20, an additional pallet base panel 58 may be provided, which is attached to the floor panel 45 or to the lower retaining member 5 and is situated underneath the floor panel 45 during use. The pallet base panel 58 is of a corresponding peripheral shape to the floor panel 45. The pallet base panel 58 comprises ridges 48 on one of its surfaces 54. This surface can be considered as a lower surface of the pallet base panel since it contacts the ground once the enclosure has been assembled and is ready for use. The ridges 48 are dimensioned such that known lifting vehicles or machinery can lift and maneuver the enclosure 1 when fully or partially assembled.

FIGS. 11 and 15 show an alternative embodiment of the lower retaining member 5′. The lower retaining member 5′ has a floor panel 45′ which is integral with the lower retaining member rather than being separate. A pallet base panel 58′ may be provided, which is attached to the lower retaining member 5′ and situated underneath the lower retaining member 5′ during use.

The enclosure may also comprise a toilet facility 65, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The toilet facility 65 is disposed inside the enclosure 1 once assembled and rests on the floor panel 45. The toilet facility 65 may be formed from two separate components: a receptacle or tank 158 and a lid 156. The lid 156 may be front hinged (e.g. by hinges 157) to the receptacle 158. The lid has an opening 154 to allow the waste to enter the receptacle. The two-part construction of the toilet facility 65 allows the respective components 156, 158 to be stacked, so minimizing the space occupied by these components during transportation and storage. In an alternative embodiment, the toilet facility need not be hinged. In this embodiment, the two parts of the toilet facility may be riveted together such that the interior of the toilet facility cannot be easily accessed without removing the rivets.

It is envisaged that the enclosure may be fitted with other types of waste disposal arrangements, where available, as is generally known in the art. For example, the receptacle 158 may be connected to an existing sewage system if available.

The enclosure 1 of the invention is usually, though not essentially, initially transported in a disassembled state and assembled at the site of use or at a supplier's depot, for example. To assemble the enclosure of the invention, the support posts 9, 9′ are inserted into the recesses 17 of the lower retaining member 5. The panels 3 are then mounted so that their side edges are received in the grooves 55 of the support posts 9, 9′ and their lower edges are received in the grooves 13 of the lower retaining member 5. The shape of the grooves 13 requires the panels 3 to flex so that they form curved side walls. The flexed side walls 3 are more resistant to forces such as compressive forces than straight side walls. The upper retaining member 7 is then mounted so that the upper ends of the support posts 9, 9′ are received in the recesses 18 and the upper side edges of the panels 3 are received in the grooves 13 of the upper retaining member. The enclosure roof 35 (64, 68) may then be fitted to the upper retaining member. The whole structure is secured together using bolts or screws as described above. The order of assembly may differ from that outlined above in particular situations and embodiments. The door 11, support rail 63 and interior fittings are added at a convenient time in the assembly procedure.

The enclosure can be supplied with a variety of different interior components, depending on the user's requirements. For example, the enclosure may contain a single toilet facility or multiple toilet facilities with appropriate separating screens.

Washing facilities including, for example a sink or washbasin may be included. The sink may supply a user with hot and/ or cold water via a faucet, in which case fresh water storage means and water heating means may be required.

In a further alternative use, the enclosure may also accommodate a shower unit. Again, this embodiment may include its own water provision facility in the form of a water tank and water heater. Alternatively, the enclosure may comprise means to connect the enclosure to an existing permanent water supply on site.

The present invention provides several advantages over the prior art. The enclosure may be easily dismantled into its components parts and transported in a dismantled state. This has the advantage of enabling individual components to be stacked within a transport container, which thus allows a greater number of enclosures to be transported in a single container and reduces transport costs.

For example, it is envisaged that a plurality of floor panels 45 may be stacked vertically, one on top of the other and transported. Thus, in a standard transport container, which is approximately 2.7 m high, approximately 40 floor panels 45 may be stacked in a single column. A plurality of roof panels 35 or inner roof panels 68 may be stacked in columns in a transport container. Similarly, in a standard transport container 2.7 m in height, approximately 40 roof panels may be stacked in a single column. A similar principle applies to the pallet base panel and outer roof panel, wherein approximately 200 pallet base panels or outer roof panels may be stacked in a single column 2.7 m high. The ease with which the flat wall panels 3 and support posts 9, 9′ may be stacked is readily apparent.

The ease of stacking individual components of the enclosure enables between 140 and 170 enclosures to be transported in a single shipping container of standard size (12.06×2.34×2.69 m). The enclosure of the present invention may be transported in greater numbers than prior art enclosures, thus reducing transport costs and increasing speed of delivery. In particular embodiments, once assembled, the portable enclosure is between 1800 mm and 2000 mm in height. In one embodiment, the portable enclosure is between 1850 and 1900 mm in height. Specifically, the portable enclosure is approximately 1870 mm in height.

The preferred features of the invention are applicable to all aspects of the invention and may be used in any possible combination.

Claims

1. A portable enclosure for sanitary purposes comprising:

i) an upper retaining member and a lower retaining member;

ii) a plurality of support posts extending between the upper and lower retaining members and adapted to cooperate with said retaining members to maintain the retaining members in spaced apart relation; and

iii) a plurality of wall panels each comprising a web of plastic material,

wherein:

the upper and lower retaining members comprise post retaining formations which cooperate with respective upper and lower ends of the support posts to maintain the support posts in fixed relation to the retaining members; and

at least one of the upper and lower retaining members comprises wall panel retaining formations by means of which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are retained in fixed relation to the respective retaining member.

2. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein the wall panel retaining formations comprise non-linear concave formations in which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are received.

3. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 2 wherein said wall panel retaining formations extend between the post retaining formations.

4. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein both the upper and lower retaining members comprise said wall panel retaining formations.

5. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 2 wherein both the upper and lower retaining members comprise said wall panel retaining formations.

6. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein the support posts comprise wall panel retaining formations adapted to retain side edges of the wall panels.

7. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 6 wherein the wall panel retaining formations of the support posts comprise longitudinally extending grooves into which side edges of the wall panels are received.

8. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein the wall panel retaining formations comprise grooves formed in the surface of the respective upper and or lower retaining members.

9. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 further comprising fastening means for said retaining members, wherein said support posts comprise internal bores and said fastening means cooperate with said internal bores to attach the support posts to said fastening members.

10. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 9 wherein the internal bores are blind bores formed at the respective ends of the support posts.

11. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein said support posts comprise through bores and the enclosure further comprises fastening means including a through bolt passing through each respective bore by means of which fastening means the support posts and the upper and lower retaining members are attached.

12. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 11 wherein the fastening means, when fastened, place the wall panels in compression.

13. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 further comprising at least one roof panel attached to an upper surface of the upper retaining member.

14. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 9 further comprising at least one roof panel wherein said roof panel is attached to an upper surface of the retaining member by said fastening means.

15. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 11 further comprising at least one roof panel wherein said roof panel is attached to an upper surface of the retaining member by said fastening means.

16. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 13 further comprising an inner roof panel and an outer roof panel.

17. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 13 wherein said at least one roof panel includes ventilation means.

18. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 16 wherein said at least one roof panel includes ventilation means.

19. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 18 wherein said inner and outer roof panels are maintained in spaced apart relation and ventilation means includes one or more apertures formed in said inner roof panel.

20. A portable enclosure as claimed claim 1 wherein the wall panels are operatively deformed from a substantially plane configuration for retaining the upper and/or lower edges thereof in said wall panel retaining formations.

21. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 further comprising hinge units and a door hingedly mounted on said hinge units, said hinge units being mounted in said respective upper and lower retaining members.

22. A kit of parts for assembling a portable enclosure for sanitary purposes comprising:

i) upper and lower retaining members;

ii) a plurality of support posts for extending in use between the retaining members and adapted, on assembly of the enclosure, to cooperate with the retaining members to maintain the retaining members in spaced apart relation; and;

iii) a plurality of substantially planar wall panels each comprising a web of plastic material,

wherein:

the upper and lower retaining means comprise post receiving formations which, on assembly of the enclosure cooperate with respective upper and lower ends of the support posts to maintain the support posts in fixed relation to the retaining members; and

at least one of the upper and lower retaining members comprises wall panel retaining formations by means of which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are in use retained in fixed relation to the respective retaining member.