Eco-Friendly Portable Toilet System with Magnetic Pegs for Secure Bag Placement

Abstract

A portable toilet system for outdoor use includes a plurality of pegs and a biodegradable bag liner. Each peg features a stake with a pointed end for ground insertion and a peg body with a horizontal recess to secure the bag liner. The peg body has two magnets adjacent to the recess and a removable slider with a magnet that can couple to either magnet on the peg body, allowing for adjustable bag liner securement. The biodegradable bag liner is configured to be held open by the pegs, providing a convenient and environmentally friendly solution for managing human waste during outdoor activities. The system ensures secure placement and easy adjustment of the bag liner, enhancing user convenience and environmental safety.

Claims

1. A portable toilet system for outdoor use, comprising: a plurality of pegs, each peg comprising: a stake having a pointed end for insertion into the ground and an opposite end connected to a peg body; the peg body having a horizontal recess for receiving and securing a portion of a biodegradable bag liner; a removable slider configured to engage with the peg body, wherein the slider includes a magnet; the peg body including two magnets positioned adjacent to the horizontal recess, allowing the removable slider to be coupled to either of the two magnets to adjust its position; wherein the slider, when coupled to a magnet, secures the biodegradable bag liner within the horizontal recess; and a biodegradable bag liner configured to be secured by the plurality of pegs.

2. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the removable slider further comprises a toothed edge configured to trap the biodegradable bag liner against the horizontal recess.

3. The portable toilet system of claim 2, wherein the horizontal recess in the peg body includes a toothed edge corresponding to the toothed edge of the removable slider.

4. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the removable slider further comprises a ridged protrusion to facilitate gripping and sliding relative to the horizontal recess.

5. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the peg body further comprises interlocking protrusions and grooves configured to connect multiple pegs together.

6. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable bag liner is made of a compostable polymer blend comprising polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT).

7. The portable toilet system of claim 1, further comprising a compressed tablet configured to be placed inside the biodegradable bag liner, wherein the tablet comprises a mixture of lime, sawdust, and wood ash.

8. The portable toilet system of claim 7, wherein the compressed tablet further comprises activated charcoal to enhance odor control.

9. The portable toilet system of claim 7, wherein the compressed tablet further comprises microorganisms such as Bacillus subtilis to accelerate the decomposition of human waste.

10. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein each peg further comprises an additional recess configured to house the slider when not in use.

11. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the peg body is constructed from a biodegradable plastic material comprising polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).

12. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the stake of each peg is made of stainless steel to provide corrosion resistance.

13. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the peg body is constructed from a durable, lightweight plastic material comprising acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

14. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable bag liner includes additives such as calcium carbonate to enhance its strength and puncture resistance.

15. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the peg body further includes an anti-slip coating comprising thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) to improve stability in various soil conditions.

16. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the magnets in the peg body and removable slider are neodymium magnets.

17. The portable toilet system of claim 7, wherein the compressed tablet further comprises organic fibers such as hemp to improve its structural integrity.

18. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable bag liner includes a layer treated with a biodegradable antimicrobial agent such as chitosan.

19. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the horizontal recess of the peg body and the removable slider are configured with snap-fit features to enhance the securing of the biodegradable bag liner.

20. The portable toilet system of claim 1, wherein the peg body is colored with non-toxic, biodegradable dyes to enhance visibility in outdoor settings.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0031] FIG. 1A illustrates an example configuration of the peg with the slider inserted into the cavity above the horizontal recess.

[0032] FIG. 1B illustrates an example configuration of the peg without the slider inserted into the cavity above the horizontal recess.

[0033] FIG. 2A illustrates an example configuration of the slider on its own.

[0034] FIG. 2B illustrates an example cross-sectional side view of the peg highlighting the positions of the upper and lower magnets within the cavity of the peg.

[0035] FIG. 3A illustrates an example side view of the peg with the stake inserted into the ground near the edge of a hole, with the slider in the lower position securing the liner.

[0036] FIG. 3B illustrates an example side view of the peg with the stake inserted into the ground near the edge of a hole, with the slider in the upper position releasing the liner.

[0037] FIG. 4A illustrates an example configuration of the system with four pegs securing the edges of the liner stretched open across the top of the hole, with a compressed tablet visible in the center.

[0038] FIG. 4B illustrates an example configuration of the system with the sliders in the upper position, releasing the edges of the liner, which is tied in a neat bag with human waste and the compressed tablet inside.

[0039] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures and the detailed description to indicate like elements. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the above figures are examples and that other architectures, modes of operation, orders of operation, and elements/functions can be provided and implemented without departing from the characteristics and features of the invention, as set forth in the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0040] The following is a detailed description of exemplary embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalent; it is limited only by the claims.

[0041] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention has not been described in detail so that the invention is not unnecessarily obscured.

Definitions

[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0043] As used herein, the term and/or includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0044] As used herein, the singular forms a, an, and the are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0045] It will be further understood that the terms comprises and/or comprising, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0046] When a feature or element is described as being on or directly on another feature or element, there may or may not be intervening features or elements present. Similarly, when a feature or element is described as being connected, attached, or coupled to another feature or element, there may or may not be intervening features or elements present. The features and elements described with respect to one embodiment can be applied to other embodiments.

[0047] The use of spatial terms, such as under, below, lower, over, upper, etc., is used for ease of explanation to describe the relationship between elements when the apparatus is in its proper orientation.

[0048] The terms first, second, and the like are used to distinguish different elements or features, but these elements or features should not be limited by these terms. A first element or feature described can be referred to as a second element or feature and vice versa without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0049] The term peg body refers to the main structural component of each peg in the system, which houses the horizontal recess and the magnets. The peg body may be constructed from various materials, including but not limited to, durable plastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), biodegradable plastics like polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), or other suitable materials. In one example implementation, the peg body is made from a biodegradable plastic to enhance environmental sustainability.

[0050] The term horizontal recess refers to the groove or slot in the peg body designed to receive and secure a portion of the biodegradable bag liner. This recess may have various configurations, including a smooth or toothed edge to provide additional grip. In one example implementation, the horizontal recess includes a toothed edge that corresponds to the toothed edge of the removable slider, ensuring a secure hold of the bag liner.

[0051] The term removable slider refers to the adjustable component that engages with the peg body to secure the biodegradable bag liner. The slider includes a magnet and may have additional features such as a toothed edge and a ridged protrusion for easy adjustment. In one example implementation, the removable slider is constructed from a durable plastic material and includes a magnet made of neodymium to provide a strong magnetic connection.

[0052] The term biodegradable bag liner refers to a compostable or decomposable bag designed to contain human waste. This bag may be made from various compostable polymer blends, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), or other suitable materials. In one example implementation, the biodegradable bag liner includes additives like calcium carbonate to enhance its strength and puncture resistance.

[0053] The term compressed tablet refers to a compacted mixture placed inside the biodegradable bag liner to aid in odor control and decomposition of the waste. The tablet may comprise various materials, including lime, sawdust, wood ash, activated charcoal, and microorganisms such as Bacillus subtilis. In one example implementation, the compressed tablet includes organic fibers like hemp to improve its structural integrity and effectiveness.

[0054] The stake of each peg may be constructed from materials such as stainless steel to provide corrosion resistance, or from other suitable metals or composites that ensure durability and longevity. Alternative attachment mechanisms for securing the biodegradable bag liner to the pegs may include snap-fit features, interlocking protrusions and grooves, or other mechanical fastening methods.

[0055] The peg body may also include an anti-slip coating comprising thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or similar materials to enhance stability in various soil conditions. The peg body and other components may be colored with non-toxic, biodegradable dyes to enhance visibility in outdoor settings.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0056] The present invention relates to a portable, eco-friendly toilet system designed specifically for outdoor use, such as wild camping and other similar activities. This invention addresses significant shortcomings in existing methods of human waste disposal, which often pose environmental risks and lack user convenience. Traditional approaches, such as digging catholes, fail to adequately contain harmful pathogens and bacteria, leading to potential soil and water contamination. Other portable toilet solutions are typically cumbersome, non-biodegradable, and rely on chemical treatments that introduce additional environmental hazards.

[0057] The invention described herein offers a comprehensive solution by incorporating a biodegradable bag liner held securely in place by a set of specially designed pegs. Each peg consists of a stake for ground insertion, a peg body with a horizontal recess, and a removable slider equipped with a magnet. This system ensures that the bag liner remains open and stable during use, preventing spillage and making the process more sanitary and convenient. The biodegradable bag liner effectively contains human waste, allowing it to decompose safely over time without releasing harmful substances into the environment.

[0058] One of the key benefits of this invention is its portability and ease of use. The pegs are lightweight and can be easily assembled and disassembled, making the system ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and eco-friendly method for waste disposal. The use of biodegradable materials for the bag liner and, in some embodiments, for the pegs themselves, ensures that the entire system minimizes environmental impact.

[0059] In addition to the structural components, the invention also includes a compressed tablet made of materials such as lime, sawdust, and wood ash. This tablet aids in odor control, neutralizes toxicity, and accelerates the decomposition process. The combination of these elements provides a hygienic, environmentally safe, and user-friendly solution for managing human waste in outdoor settings.

[0060] This invention overcomes the limitations of prior art by offering a system that is not only effective in containing and managing waste but also environmentally responsible. By using biodegradable materials and providing a stable, easy-to-use mechanism for securing the waste bag, the invention significantly reduces the risk of contamination and aligns with sustainable practices sought by modern outdoor enthusiasts.

[0061] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate isometric perspective views of an example configuration of the peg of the present invention, showcasing the peg both with and without the slider inserted into the cavity above the horizontal recess.

[0062] In FIG. 1A, the peg is shown with the slider inserted. The peg includes a pointed stake 100 designed for anchoring into the ground, ensuring stability during use. Attached to the stake 100 is the peg body 102, which features a horizontal recess 104 for receiving a portion of the biodegradable bag liner. Adjacent to this horizontal recess 104 is a second recess 106 where the slider 108 can be inserted snugly.

[0063] The slider 108 includes a magnet 110 that is coupled to one of two magnets integrated in the peg body 102, specifically an upper magnet 112 and a lower magnet 114. These magnets 112 and 114 are positioned adjacent to the horizontal recess 104, allowing the slider 108 to be adjusted to either an upper or lower position. When the slider 108 is coupled to the lower magnet 114, its toothed edge 116 traps a portion of the biodegradable bag liner against the toothed edge 118 of the horizontal recess 104. This securement ensures that the bag liner remains open and stable during use.

[0064] The slider 108 also includes a ridged protrusion 120, providing an easier grip for the user to slide the slider 108 up and down relative to the horizontal recess 104. This ergonomic feature enhances the usability of the system, allowing for quick and secure adjustments.

[0065] FIG. 1B shows the peg without the slider inserted, highlighting the detailed structure of the peg body 102. The pointed stake 100 remains clearly visible, along with the horizontal recess 104 and the second recess 106 designed to receive the slider 108. The upper magnet 112 and lower magnet 114 are depicted within the second recess 106, indicating their positions relative to the horizontal recess 104. The toothed edge 118 of the horizontal recess 104 is also evident, demonstrating its role in securely holding the biodegradable bag liner.

[0066] Additionally, the peg body 102 may include interlocking protrusions and grooves 122, which allow multiple pegs to be attached to each other. This feature is particularly useful when securing the biodegradable bag liner in place with several pegs, ensuring a stable and interconnected setup.

[0067] FIG. 2A shows an isometric perspective view of the slider 108 on its own. The slider 108 includes a magnet 110, which is designed to couple with the upper magnet 112 or the lower magnet 114 within the peg body 102. The slider 108 features a toothed edge 116 that, when engaged with the lower magnet 114, traps the biodegradable bag liner against the toothed edge 118 of the horizontal recess 104. The ridged protrusion 120 on the slider 108 provides an ergonomic grip, facilitating easy adjustment of the slider's position along the horizontal recess 104. This view clearly demonstrates the design elements that ensure the secure placement and ease of use of the slider 108 within the peg body 102.

[0068] FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the peg 102 on its own, highlighting the positions of the upper magnet 112 and the lower magnet 114 within the second recess 106. The pointed stake 100 is shown extending downward, ready for insertion into the ground. The cross-sectional view emphasizes the placement of the upper magnet 112 and lower magnet 114, showing their placement within the second recess 106. This configuration allows the slider 108 to move between the upper and lower positions, securing the bag liner as needed.

[0069] FIG. 3A shows a side view of the peg with the stake 100 inserted into the ground near the edge of a hole. The peg body 102 is positioned such that the horizontal recess 104 receives a portion of the biodegradable bag liner 200. The slider 108 is shown in place within the second recess 106 of the peg body 102. In this configuration, the magnet 110 of the slider 108 is aligned with the lower magnet 114 of the peg body 102. This alignment causes the toothed edge 116 of the slider 108 to trap the edge of the biodegradable bag liner 200 against the toothed edge 118 of the horizontal recess 104, securing the liner firmly in place. This setup ensures that the liner remains open and stable, preventing spillage and facilitating easy use.

[0070] FIG. 3B illustrates a similar side view of the peg with the stake 100 inserted into the ground near the edge of a hole with the biodegradable bag liner 200. However, in this view, the slider 108 has been moved so that its magnet 110 is now aligned with the upper magnet 112 of the peg body 102. This adjustment releases the edge of the biodegradable bag liner 200 from between the toothed edge 116 of the slider 108 and the toothed edge 118 of the horizontal recess 104. With the slider 108 in this upper position, the liner 200 is no longer secured, allowing for adjustments or removal as necessary.

[0071] FIG. 4A shows the system as a whole, with a set of four pegs staked at positions around the circumference of a hole in the ground. The pegs, each comprising the stake 100 and peg body 102 with the horizontal recess 104, are positioned to hold the biodegradable bag liner 200 open across the top of the hole. The sliders 108 of all four pegs are in the closed position, with their magnets 110 aligned with the lower magnets 114 in the peg bodies 102. This alignment causes the toothed edges 116 of the sliders 108 to clamp the edges of the biodegradable bag liner 200 against the toothed edges 118 of the horizontal recesses 104, stretching the liner open securely. A compressed tablet 300, formulated to accelerate biodegradation, is visible in the center of the liner, ready to aid in the decomposition of human waste placed in the liner.

[0072] FIG. 4B illustrates the system after use, showing the sliders 108 of the four pegs in the upper position. In this configuration, the magnets 110 of the sliders 108 are aligned with the upper magnets 112 in the peg bodies 102, releasing the edges of the biodegradable bag liner 200. The liner 200 is now tied into a neat bag containing human waste and the compressed tablet 300, and is placed back into the hole. The zoomed out view clearly shows the practical application and convenience of the system, demonstrating how it securely holds the liner open during use and then allows for easy closure and disposal afterward.

CONCLUSION

[0073] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0074] The disclosed embodiments are illustrative, not restrictive. While specific configurations of the portable toilet system of the invention have been described in a specific manner referring to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the present invention can be applied to a wide variety of solutions which fit within the scope and spirit of the claims. There are many alternative ways of implementing the invention.

[0075] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention herein described are merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Reference herein to details of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claims, which themselves recite those features regarded as essential to the invention.