Pad-type Absorbent Material Patents (Class 119/169)
  • Patent number: 8505486
    Abstract: A pet litter box (1) comprises a base element (10) having a support surface (11) for a pet, an absorbent mat (20) laid on the base element (10), and an open-top frame (30) removably mounted to the base element (10). The frame (30) has a bottom wall (31) associated with the base element (10) with the absorbent mat (20) thereon. The bottom wall (31) has an opening (32) in such position as to entirely overlap at least one portion (21) of the absorbent mat (20), and at least one side wall (35) that extends vertically from the bottom wall (31) to define an entrance (33) for a pet into such portion (21) of the absorbent mat (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Roger Trussardi
  • Patent number: 8468973
    Abstract: An excretion disposal sheet for pet animals that contains fragrance adapted to develop aroma effectively masking odor of excretion. The fragrance is in the form of a powder compound wherein the fragrance includes cyclodextrin and this particulate compound is sandwiched between an upper surface of a core material and a liquid-pervious sheet in the form of tissue paper overlying the upper surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Unicharm Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Sasano, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Patent number: 8464662
    Abstract: An apparatus that maintains housebreaking pads for a pet owner, automatically removing and sealing soiled pads and waste and replacing the soiled pad with a clean pad. The apparatus senses when a pet is using a housebreaking pad, and when the pet is finished, removes and seals the pad and the waste automatically, moving the pad into a repository for later disposal and replacing the soiled pad with a clean pad. The apparatus seals the waste and pad with plastic film having low vapor permeability for disposal on a once-daily or less frequent basis. The apparatus minimizes or eliminates odors associated with canine elimination by removing the pads immediately after elimination is completed, and sealing the waste. A control unit, triggered by a sensor, has a single cycle or a multiple cycle operation, operating a motor that rolls the soiled composite pad onto an arbor in the repository.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventors: Brett Shorenstein, David Shorenstein
  • Patent number: 8438994
    Abstract: A disposable litter device comprising a liner layer including closure means; litter; and a litter enclosure region about a portion of the liner layer, wherein the litter enclosure region includes a closure layer and the liner layer such that the litter is retained between the closure layer and the liner layer, and wherein the enclosure region includes opening means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Maureen Stratton
  • Publication number: 20130098302
    Abstract: The liquid-permeable panel is mounted on a portion of the system toilet for animals, and the 15-degree bending strength defined below is at least 0.2 N and no greater than 10 N. The 15-degree bending strength is the load that is applied at a velocity of 500 mm/min to the central section of the liquid-permeable panel from the direction perpendicular to a plan view using a round plunger having a diameter of 8 mm, while both sides in the Y-direction in a plan view of the liquid-permeable panel are being supported, that deforms the liquid-permeable panel into the shape of a concavity along the X-direction such that, in a cross section of said concavity, the angle (?) formed by a horizontal line that contains the bottommost point of said concavity and an oblique line linking the aforementioned bottommost point and either of the aforementioned both sides is 15 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayuki Matsuo, Tomoko Hirao
  • Publication number: 20130098301
    Abstract: Disclosed is a liquid-permeable panel that is of a system toilet for animals and that can prevent urine wetting resulting from torsion or folding over of a pee pad. The liquid-permeable panel covers the excrement containment section of the system toilet for animals. Of the aforementioned panel, the side-surface 1 cm compression deformation load, which is the load necessary for at least 1cm of torsion to arise with respect to load from the side-surface direction that is perpendicular to the direction of thickness of said panel, is at least 5 N and no greater than 20 N. Preferably, the liquid-permeable panel has a plurality of holes that penetrate said liquid-permeable panel in the direction of thickness, and has as a material corrugated cardboard wherein liquid goes through the aforementioned plurality of holes, passing through in the direction of thickness of the aforementioned liquid-permeable panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayuki Matsuo, Tomoko Hirao
  • Publication number: 20130092092
    Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable liquid-permeable panel that is for a system toilet for animals that, without using a particulate, resists foot wetting when the animal performs excretion and can suppress the incidence of odors even if excrement is present for a long period of time. The liquid-permeable panel used in the system toilet for animals is water-absorbent, liquid-permeable, and disposable, and is configured from paper containing aluminum sulfate. Preferably, the paper is acidic paper containing a sizing agent and aluminum sulfate. More preferably, the liquid-permeable panel has a plurality of holes that penetrate in the direction of thickness and is a corrugated cardboard wherein liquids go through the plurality of holes, passing through in the direction of thickness of the liquid-permeable panel. Excrement odor suppression is achieved by means of the chemical deodorizing ability that aluminum sulfate has.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayuki Matsuo, Tomoko Hirao
  • Patent number: 8336497
    Abstract: A small animal toilet pad that includes a base and one or more walls that extend upward from the base to protect floors, and adjacent walls, furniture and other objects from damage associated with animal and pet toilet habits. The base and wall(s) can be made from conventional liquid absorbent materials and can be in the form of woven or non-woven fabrics or webs, or laminated pads, mats sheets, etc. The base and/or wall(s) can include or contain stiffeners such as plastic panels, laminates or coatings, water proofed paper or cardboard panels, or similar reinforcing or stiffening elements whether as a continuous structure, grid, frame, etc. Alternatively, the wall(s) can be supported to adjacent structures by clips, hooks, ties, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Linda Joy van Zuilekom
  • Publication number: 20120312242
    Abstract: A portable pet urine reservoir is provided and can include a housing that defines a reservoir with a sloped basin with a plurality of protrusions upwardly emanating from the basin. The protrusions can be of different heights to allow a permeable pad disposed on top of the protrusions to lay approximately flat. An aperture disposed in the housing can also be provided through which collected urine in the reservoir can be emptied. Optionally, the aperture can comprise a valve. The portable pet urine reservoir can further include an additional reservoir, an additional basin, and an additional aperture. The portable pet urine reservoir can further include support structure, which upwardly extends from the additional basin In addition, a splash guard may be provided that fits into a gutter on the housing. Also, an optional cover can be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Kathleen T. Hillman
  • Patent number: 8316801
    Abstract: An automatic pet training pad having a training pad area, an absorbent pad bin and a waste collection bin. A roll of absorbent pad material extends from the absorbent pad bin, across the training pad area and into the waste collection bin. After a pet uses the training pad, a sensor activates a disposal cycle. The used absorbent pad material is withdrawn into the waste collection bin, rolled into a disposable waste pouch, and severed off from the clean absorbent pad material. The absorbent pad comprises an upper, fluid-absorbent layer and a lower, fluid-impervious layer bonded together in a continuous sheet. The absorbent pad material is further impregnated with an odor suppressing substance to control pet waste odor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: OurPet's Company
    Inventors: John R. Nottingham, John W. Nottingham, John W. Spirk, Michael O'Toole, Steven Tsengas
  • Patent number: 8276542
    Abstract: A two-layer bonded highloft nonwoven particle entrapment pad, for entrapping soils tracked by pets, comprises an open, porous, bonded highloft nonwoven top layer and an otherwise solid, impenetrable bottom layer or structure secured to its underside. The highloft top layer is manufactured from a synthetic material consisting of numerous matrices or cross-over connections which create open porous sieve-like varieties, wherein a web structure of the highloft layer comprises a distinct top, middle, and bottom that is capable of allowing the particles and the litter to enter and be entrapped therein via gravity when stepped upon. A sticky, tackified adhesive maintained on a complex of bonded fibers of the highloft, said adhesive increases its holding capacity as does mechanical abrasion to the top surface of the highloft nonwoven. The present bonded, highloft pad can be manufactured from a variety of densities, deniers and depths from an airlaid, a drylaid, or a wetlaid process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Inventor: Patrick Yananton
  • Publication number: 20120234253
    Abstract: A portable pet toilet comprising three layers; a surface layer designed such that a pet is encouraged to urinate upon it, a bottom layer (shield layer) designed to prevent urine from contaminating any floor material upon which it rests, and an intermediate layer designed to absorb and retain the amount of urine that can be expected to be excreted by the pet. The bottom layer is afforded with a means for securing the position of the other two layers while allowing all three layers to be formed into a compact roll to facilitate portability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Michele Malm, Peter J. Palmer, Theresa Marler
  • Patent number: 8225748
    Abstract: This invention is to be used primarily in the reception and disposal of urination from animals within a set area. It is comprised of a base tray, a vertical, hollow cylinder and absorbent pads designed and crafted to securely cover the exterior of the cylinder and tray. The absorbent pads are contained within the hollow cylinder and removed through an opening at the top of the cylinder. The vertical aspect of the invention attracts animals to urinate as per their instinct similar to an animal urinating on a bush or fire hydrant. The soiled absorbent pad is removed and another clean pad will take its place after being removed from the interior of the cylinder through the top opening in the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Jordy Crawford
  • Patent number: 8220622
    Abstract: A holder for an absorbent pad, the pad holder having two halves with a bottom wall section bounded by a hinged side and a plurality of wall-in sides, the hinged sides of the two halves cooperating to make the pad holder foldable for packaging, shipment and storage, at least one selectively releasable locking or latching mechanism to hold the pad holder in an unfolded position during use, and a plurality of spaced-apart, selectively releasable pad attachment devices, each preferably disposed in a corner wall section, to limit relative motion between the pad holder and an absorbent pad installed inside it without pressuring any portion of the absorbent pad against the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: The Bramton Company
    Inventors: Tony H. Lewis, Kathy Bassininski
  • Patent number: 8113146
    Abstract: A device for holding animal waste pads having raised peripheral sidewalls surrounding a base for containing a waste pad, and sidewall extensions attachable to the sidewalls to contain and direct an animal to an appropriate position in the use of the animal waste pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Four Paws Products, Ltd.
    Inventor: Barry Askinasi
  • Patent number: 8101815
    Abstract: A pet waste absorption sheet includes a liquid-impermeable backsheet, a liquid-permeable topsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. The topsheet is a resin film formed with a plurality of apertures for passage of liquid. The topsheet is bonded to the absorbent core through a hot-melt type adhesive. The hot-melt type adhesive is applied in a plurality of continuous lines including curved portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Shinya Kaneko, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Publication number: 20120006274
    Abstract: A portable, fully-disposable, pet toilet is comprised of a receptacle whose cavity is fitted with living grass, living sod (including washed or soil-free sod), or a grass-seed medium. The unit has a fitted, removable cover or fold-back lid to enable the convenient shipping and disposal of the unit in its entirety. The pet toilet is used by the pet for a set period of time, at which point it is completely disposed of and replaced with a new one.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew Craghan Feld
  • Publication number: 20120006275
    Abstract: A box for cat elimination use that simplifies clean-up, features only eco-friendly components, and is not expensive. The design includes 3 parts: box, trays and pad. The 12×18 wax coated cardboard box is sturdy and long lasting, and with proper use may not need replacing indefinitely. The waxed lift-out tray is a single design with handles on each short end, and is used on 2 levels inside the box: the lower lift-out tray (#1) is used to hold a reusable, washable, absorbent, compostable wool pad; the upper tray (#2) provides the animal's usage surface. The trays feature paw print-shaped die cuts, which allow excess fluid to flow from the top tray to the pad below. The trays are interchangeable; the bottom tray is used solely for the purpose of transporting the soiled pad from the box to the washing machine. The box should be used with paper-based litters, and may used with no litter if desired, once the animal learns to use the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Karen Brenner
  • Patent number: 8042489
    Abstract: The present invention provides an animal waste collection sheet effectively inhibiting the leakage of urine, the unclean appearance and the damp or chill surface without increasing the thickness and weight of the top sheet unnecessarily, thus improving the handling property thereof. For example, the animal waste collection sheet is planar and is consisted of a top sheet which is liquid permeable, a back sheet which is liquid impermeable and an absorbent sheet disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet. The top sheet is consisted of a non-woven fabric with convex and concave portions on the surface thereof. The top sheet is preferably a non-woven fabric alternately having a plurality of groove portions and a plurality of convex portions formed in a fixed direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Masayuki Takahashi, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Patent number: 8042490
    Abstract: The animal waste collection sheet is planar and is consisted of a top sheet which is liquid permeable, a back sheet which is liquid impermeable and an absorbent sheet disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet. The top sheet has a high fiber density region in a thickness direction thereof, with a fiber density higher than an average fiber density of the top sheet, at least in a part of a side facing the absorbent sheet. The average fiber density is preferably in the range of 0.005 to 0.20 g/cm3, and a fiber density of the high fiber density region is preferably in the range of 0.007 to 0.25 g/cm3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Masayuki Takahashi, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Patent number: 7975650
    Abstract: A liquid absorbent pad particularly useful for pet maintenance activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher Vicari, Emanuel Comitini
  • Patent number: 7958846
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic device and method for disposing of animal waste. The device and method utilizes an absorbent pad that is automatically advanced and seals upon itself with an adhesive and/or projections to prevent excrement and odors from exiting the roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: T.F.H. Publications, Inc.
    Inventors: Glen S. Axelrod, Barry Askinasi
  • Publication number: 20110100301
    Abstract: A pet litter box (1) comprises a base element (10) having a support surface (11) for a pet, an absorbent mat (20) laid on the base element (10), and an open-top frame (30) removably mounted to the base element (10). The frame (30) has a bottom wall (31) associated with the base element (10) with the absorbent mat (20) thereon. The bottom wall (31) has an opening (32) in such position as to entirely overlap at least one portion (21) of the absorbent mat (20), and at least one side wall (35) that extends vertically from the bottom wall (31) to define an entrance (33) for a pet into such portion (21) of the absorbent mat (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Roger Trussardi
  • Patent number: 7891320
    Abstract: A pet sheet 1 including a topsheet 2, a backsheet 3, an absorbent core 41 located between the sheets 2 and 3, and a compression molded product 5 of a ground material of plant origin located between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41. The compression molded product 5 is designed to swell and disintegrate upon water absorption. The compression molded product 5 is preferably designed to form a rewet barrier layer between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41 as a result of swelling and disintegration upon water absorption, the rewet barrier layer being formed of water-containing bulky material disintegrated from the compression molded product 5. The compression molded product preferably further contains inorganic powder, particularly zeolite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuya Otsuji, Yasuki Tsutsumi, Jun Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7874266
    Abstract: A waste absorbent material for the treatment of animal waste is provided which may comprise a non-woven pad or litter granules which include micronutrients which may stimulate specific microorganisms and reduce the gases produced by the aerobic and/or anaerobic decomposition of organic matter. The non-woven pad and/or litter may also comprise biodegradable fibers or biodegradable particulate and the micronutrients may be uniformly distributed over the pad surface or within the particulate and be incorporated at a selected thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: T.F.H. Publications, Inc.
    Inventor: Glen S. Axelrod
  • Patent number: 7833377
    Abstract: A process for preparing an animal incontinence device comprises: providing a base layer of tissue; applying a uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles to a major surface of the base layer of tissue; applying water to the base layer of tissue having the uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles thereon; applying a cover layer of tissue over the base layer of tissue having the uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles thereon, to form an absorbent layer assembly; passing the absorbent layer assembly between a heated nip roll and a laminating roll, to at least partially adhere together the cover layer of tissue, uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles, and base layer of tissue, to form an absorbent layer; inserting the absorbent layer intermediate a base layer of liquid-impervious polymer film and a top layer of porous, hydrophilic, woven or non-woven polymer fibers, to form an animal incontinence device assembly; and laminating together at least a portion of the animal inconti
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Principle Business Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew J Szypka
  • Publication number: 20100224133
    Abstract: An excrement disposal sheet that inhibits an unsanitary appearance thereof to thereby prevent any unnecessary replacement of excrement disposal sheet and thus allow the user to prolong the period of use of excrement disposal sheet; and an animal toilet utilizing the same. The excrement disposal sheet (1) is placed within a toilet vessel body adapted for animal incomings and outgoings for egestion of excrements at a location allowing absorption of animal excrements and at a location substantially free from animal load. The excrement disposal sheet (1) comprises a surface sheet (11), a backside sheet (12) and, interposed therebetween, an absorbent sheet (13). The absorbent sheet (13) has at least an absorbent layer of 100 to 600 g/m2 basis weight and, dispersed therein, a highly absorbent resin (133).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM PETCARE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenji Hiroshima, Takayuki Matsuo, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Publication number: 20100206238
    Abstract: A cat litter containment enclosure system with four walls that locates a litter container at an elevated level preferably on a shelf where a cat enters the enclosure from a port in a front panel and hops or jumps to a second level for access to a litter container. The enclosure can contain a second pad located on the second level near the litter container so that the cat's paws are cleaned as the cat exits the enclosure. The top and front panel of the enclosure can be hinged for easy access for cleaning and/or inspection. Translucent vent holes can also be supplied on the enclosure for air and light. The pet can enter either from the front, or in other embodiments from the side of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Pettys
  • Patent number: 7763338
    Abstract: A retaining apparatus for retaining a liquid-absorptive sheet includes a lower layer and an upper layer having substantially the same dimensions as the lower layer. Sandwiched between the two layers are first plurality of magnetic members arranged along the perimeter of the lower layer and a second plurality of magnetic members, opposite in polarity to said first plurality of magnetic members, arranged adjacent to the first plurality of magnetic members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Rick Olivadoti
  • Publication number: 20100175626
    Abstract: An animal waste pad device that dispenses waste pads from a roll of animal waste pads and holds the animal waste pads in place for use by an animal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: Four Paws Products, Ltd.
    Inventor: Barry Askinasi
  • Publication number: 20100170449
    Abstract: An animal litter box system that can be used for a long time about 3 to 10 days and can prevent the occurrence of undesirable odors is to be provided, particularly to provide a liquid-absorbing sheet used for the animal litter box system. A liquid-absorbing sheet used for an animal litter box is characterized by comprising an antimicrobial and bacteriostatic part having both an antimicrobial property and a bacteriostatic property; or both of an antimicrobial part having an antimicrobial property and a bacteriostatic part having a bacteriostatic property.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM PETCARE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayuki Matsuo, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Patent number: 7748348
    Abstract: A collapsible animal litter pan has polymeric surfaces that are immune to urine soaking. A plurality of hinges collapse and expand the litter pan. The litter pan has sidewalls that locate, receive and stabilize a urine absorption sheet. The urine absorption sheet has a liquid impervious bottom layer, a urine absorption layer composed of cotton, cellulose fluff pulp, commuted pulp, soft wood fine chips, or hydrophilic paper and combinations thereof, together with superabsorbent polymers and a top, liquid permeable, layer. The top and bottom layers are bonded to constrain the urine absorbent layer. An adhesive coating is applied to the bottom layer of the urine absorption sheet for temporarily adhering the sheet to the foldable litter pan for enhanced stability of the urine absorption sheet. Animal urine is substantially completely absorbed by the urine absorbent sheet, and the soiled sheet replaced with a fresh sheet without soiling the litter pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: I Did It, Inc.
    Inventor: Marni Markell Hurwitz
  • Publication number: 20100154716
    Abstract: An absorbent pad for pet crate liners includes a bottom layer of liquid-impermeable film; a middle layer of liquid absorbent material having a first predetermined thickness; a top, non-absorbent, flexible foam layer having a second predetermined thickness and a plurality of apertures; and an elastic band engaged with the peripheral edges of the bottom and top layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: TERESA A. SMITH
  • Publication number: 20100071628
    Abstract: A portable box-like carrier with an insert which holds absorbent pads that are easily found in any pet store and allows dogs to eliminate indoors inside a designated area and makes clean-up easy and sanitary. The waste box can be used as an easy solution to housebreak dogs and as a permanent indoor toilet fixture thereafter. The device eliminates the problems associated with other indoor housebreaking and dog waste disposal methods and brings the qualities of both a lifter box and absorbent pad into one product. The device is a portable, suitcase style box that can travel easily and uses a nesting insert that makes clean up more sanitary by keeping a portion of the absorbent pad from contamination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Killian Mathew Wells
  • Publication number: 20100064975
    Abstract: A device provides positive reinforcement and treats for a domesticated animal urinating in a predetermined location. The positive reinforcement includes a message from the owner. A treat is exposed after the owner's message is played to further reward the animal. Absorbent paper is used at the predetermined location for collecting the urine and activating the voice and treat bowl. After a preset time, the used absorbent paper is removed and new absorbent paper is provided automatically. Another version includes a device that uses a single sheet of absorbent paper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Perry D. McElroy, JR.
  • Patent number: 7654227
    Abstract: A layered pad comprising a bottom impervious layer, a top layer of a fibrous high loft non woven capable of entrapping small or large particles and preventing their scatter, optionally combined with a middle layer of fibers and super absorbent agent, wherein liquids pass through the top layer, become absorbed by the middle layer, and evaporate; and a method for manufacturing a non-woven pad layer having an at least partially open-ended configuration. The method of manufacturing the open-ended non-woven layer includes cutting at least one surface of the non-woven layer and then abrading the cut surface with an abrading tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Pat Yananton
  • Patent number: 7572864
    Abstract: The invention relates to absorbent, cross-linked polymers based on partially neutralized, monoethylenically unsaturated monomers that bear acidic groups. Said polymers exhibit improved properties with regard to their ability to transport liquids in a swollen state. The surface of the polymers is postreticulated, using a combination of an organic cross-linking compound, excluding polyols, and a cation that is in salt form in an aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Stockhausen GbmH
    Inventors: Richard Mertens, Harren Jōrg
  • Publication number: 20090151646
    Abstract: This invention is to be used primarily in the reception and disposal of urination from animals within a set area. It is comprised of a base tray, a vertical, hollow cylinder and absorbent pads designed and crafted to securely cover the exterior of the cylinder and tray. The absorbent pads are contained within the hollow cylinder and removed through an opening at the top of the cylinder. The vertical aspect of the invention attracts animals to urinate as per their instinct similar to an animal urinating on a bush or fire hydrant. The soiled absorbent pad is removed and another clean pad will take its place after being removed from the interior of the cylinder through the top opening in the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Jordy Crawford
  • Patent number: 7530326
    Abstract: An improved pet bed assembly includes a water resistant outer cover defining an enclosed space and a removable blanket that is removably attached to the exterior of the outer cover. The removable blanket is preferably constructed so as to be completely removable from the outer cover for washing and replacement and is further preferably constructed so as to be reversible, with an attachment mechanism that permits it to be secured to the outer cover with either surface facing the pet. An inner bed assembly is positioned within the enclosed space that preferably includes a perimeter bolster portion and an interior cushion portion. The perimeter bolster cushion has a greater height than the interior cushion portion and its uncompressed state and is less compressible than the interior cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven B. Dunn, Mark Hatherill
  • Publication number: 20090114161
    Abstract: A disposable animal waste collecting receiver may include a backing sheet, an absorbent sheet, and a flexible wall. The backing sheet may be composed of a flaccid and fluid impervious material. The absorbent sheet may be layered onto the backing sheet and is for soaking-up moisture in the animal waste product. The flexible wall may be lined around the periphery of the animal waste collecting receiver and is movable between an open position, where the flexible wall has an accordion-like fold, and a closed position, where the animal waste collecting receiver can be bundled to confine the animal waste product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Paul Carnahan, Kristy L. Carnahan
  • Publication number: 20090044756
    Abstract: A pet sheet 1 including a topsheet 2, a backsheet 3, an absorbent core 41 located between the sheets 2 and 3, and a compression molded product 5 of a ground material of plant origin located between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41. The compression molded product 5 is designed to swell and disintegrate upon water absorption. The compression molded product 5 is preferably designed to form a rewet barrier layer between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41 as a result of swelling and disintegration upon water absorption, the rewet barrier layer being formed of water-containing bulky material disintegrated from the compression molded product 5. The compression molded product preferably further contains inorganic powder, particularly zeolite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuya Otsuji, Yasuki Tsutsumi, Jun Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20080271679
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pet sheet including a backsheet, a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid absorbent layer which is smaller than the backsheet and disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. The backsheet extends beyond the liquid absorbent layer to provide side regions outside the liquid absorbent layer. A hydrophilic sheet is provided above the backsheet in the side regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: Unicharm Petcare corporation
    Inventors: Shinya KANEKO, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Publication number: 20080251026
    Abstract: A portable urination/defecation station for use by dogs, cats, and other pets, for urination/defecation comprising: a base tray, with two halves joined at the center with hinges, and a perimeter for holding artificial grass, or other material; locking snaps and a handle for portability. The station includes two additional hinges equal distance from the center line hinge; both sides of the base are pitched to draw urine, with an impressed pan at center of each pitched side, pans hold an absorbent material to contain liquid; the top edge of the perimeter walls are slotted for side panels with a close interference fit, base has an extruded hole at each corner of the perimeter to allow for tent structure; a circular protuberance placed near one corner of the base is for accessories to be affixed, a handle at one end for transportation, and non-sliding protuberances located at each outside corner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Mary Bell, Ghassan Khalil Elkhoury
  • Patent number: 7434539
    Abstract: A waste disposal system includes a receptacle with a base adapted to receive a waste tray assembly on a top panel thereof. The top panel includes an inlet drain opening. A discharge drain is provided in the receptacle base. The waste tray assembly can include natural or artificial turf, and is removable from the top panel. A cover can be mounted on the receptacle base and can be movable between open and closed positions. Alternatively, a lid can be provided for removably mounting on the receptacle base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Epic Pets Incorporated
    Inventor: Theodore R. Gloor
  • Publication number: 20080236504
    Abstract: A waste collection pad for use in training an animal, such as a domestic pet, to urinate or defecate in a predetermined location. The collection pad includes a support frame and a liquid retaining layer mounted above the support frame. The support frame provides structural rigidity to retain the pad in a flattened state. The collection pad is deformable from a first undeformed shape having a first size to a second deformed shape having a second size, smaller than the first size, for example, a more a convenient shape to facilitate handling. The support frame may comprise a perforated sheet having foldable seams allowing the collection pad to be folded. The collection pad may also be rolled into a cylindrical shape to facilitate handling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen Silverman
  • Patent number: 7380519
    Abstract: A pet litter box includes a litter container for storing liquid-passing litter and a liquid-absorbing sheet tray for holding a liquid-absorbing sheet. The front-back direction of the liquid-absorbing sheet can be changed without removing the liquid-absorbing sheet from the tray. The pet litter box includes a litter box main body having an opening from which pets enter. The litter box main body includes a litter container for storing liquid-passing litter formed of plural of granular materials provided therein, a liquid-absorbing sheet placed below the litter container for absorbing the liquid passing through the litter, and a liquid-absorbing sheet tray for holding the liquid-absorbing sheet. The liquid absorbing sheet tray can be withdrawn and removed from the front of the litter box main body and reversible in the front-back direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Petcare Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Ikegami, Takayuki Matsuo
  • Publication number: 20080072834
    Abstract: A urine pad has a hard upper layer, and a sensor positioned to sense urine deposited onto the pad. In preferred embodiments, the pad comprises at least bottom, intermediate, and top layers, where the bottom layer comprises a liquid impermeable material, structured to prevent passage of urine, the intermediate layer comprises a liquid absorbent material, and the top layer comprises a durable material that is sufficiently hard to resist chewing by a dog; and structured so that deposition of the urine on the top sheet will pass through to the intermediate layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Judith Makem
  • Patent number: 7249570
    Abstract: Apparatus 10 for a pet 12, 14 training pad having a plurality of material layers to retain fluids and solid material; while preventing passage therethrough. The top layer serves as the absorbent material 16 with the bottom layer 18 forming a fluid impermeable layer to prevent passage of liquids. The impermeable layer 18 extends over the periphery edge of the top absorbent layer forming a hem 26 that is colored green to simulate grass. On the underside of the bottom layer 18, a plurality of adhesive or frictional members 20 are fastened thereto that will prevent movement, in whole or in part, from the selective placement of the pad. Optionally, a fragrance layer 22 can be incorporated into the pad between the fluid impermeable base layer 18 and the top absorbent layer 16 to attract pets 12, 14 to the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Jermaine C Roberson
  • Patent number: 7128023
    Abstract: A pet toilet comprising a shallow tray 2, a plate-shaped urine absorbent mat 3 which is put in the tray 2, and a perforated film 4 which has a number of openings H and covers the entire upper surface of the absorbent mat 3 is disclosed. The openings H of the perforated film 4 have a sidewall extending from one side to the other side of the film. The perforated film 4 is fixed at such a position that at least the lower end of the sidewall of the openings H is in contact with the upper surface of the urine absorbent mat 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuya Otsuji, Yasuki Tsutsumi, Jun Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7007635
    Abstract: An apparatus for animal litter called a Cat Litter Pod. This apparatus features a bottom built-in liner, impervious to liquids; a top gauze-like, cheesecloth material to cover the litter granules; a way to join the top and bottom to provide an encasement space; and absorbent granules of various litter material inside the encasement. This litter pod provides convenience and portability to necessary sanitation devices for cats that are kept inside. Configured as a low profile and disposable this apparatus is particularly important to older or infirm cats that have problems with limited mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Virginia E. Kincaid