Sanitary device for garbage can cover

Abstract

Systems and methods for disinfecting, cleaning, and deodorizing the interior of a trash can are provided. An apparatus is provided that includes a housing and an adjustable nozzle configured to dispense cleaning fluid into an interior of a garbage can. Further, the device includes a power source, such as a battery, and an electronic board capable of activating and deactivating the nozzle. The device may be mounted to an underside of a lid of a trash can, which allows solution to be injected downward into the interior of the trash can and into a bag contained therein. The adjustable nozzle can be adjusted to a plurality of different injection modes. When the solution of the device is exhausted, the solution can be replaced for further use of the device.

Description

[0001] Citation of Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 390,042, filed on July 18, 2022, entitled “Sanitary Device for Trash Can Lid,” the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated into this application by reference. Background of the Invention 1. Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates generally to trash cans, and more particularly to a sanitary device that can be mounted to a portion of a trash can, such as a lid, to improve disinfection, reduce bacteria and germ growth, and reduce odor within the trash can. More specifically, the present invention relates to a sanitary device, such as a disc, that mounts to the underside of the top lid of an outdoor trash can, the sanitary device being configured to periodically spray a disinfecting and / or scented mist to improve the odor of the interior of the trash can while killing germs, bacteria, and other microorganisms that may be present within the container.

[0005] 2. Discussion of related technologies

[0006] Despite efforts to keep the area in and around a trash can, rollover bin or other container clean, they inevitably get dirty. Outdoor trash cans and rollover bins are usually even worse than indoor trash cans in terms of their cleanliness and odor. Because they are located outdoors, users are unlikely to encounter problems with being dirty inside the bucket. For example, even when a trash bag from an indoor bucket breaks, the user still throws the broken bag directly into the outdoor trash can, causing the contents of the bag to fall out of the bag and into the bottom of the outdoor trash can. Similarly, animals that smell food or other waste can tear open the bag, causing the contents to fall out. In addition, because they are outside, the outdoor bucket is exposed to elements that can include warm temperatures and sunlight, which can cause increased diffusion of germs, bacteria, other microorganisms and related odors. Even when an "outdoor" trash can is located in a garage, it can still be affected by adverse factors, while also being closer to individuals and vehicles, garage refrigerators or freezers, etc. In addition, compared to indoor trash cans, outdoor trash cans and rollover bins are emptied on a less frequent basis, so that the filled trash bags can be kept in the bucket for days or even weeks. Additionally, certain waste materials are exclusively deposited in outdoor bins, including pet waste and other chemical materials. This makes the odors associated with outdoor trash cans and dumpsters generally worse than those of indoor trash cans. In addition to the discomfort associated with foul odors and large trash cans, there are also concerns about the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that are dangerous to people and animals living near the trash cans.

[0007] To remedy these problems, the user typically needs to open the trash can and manually spray the cleaning solution into the can. This is unattractive, time consuming, and easy to forget. In addition, some people hire steam cleaners on an annual or bi-annual basis to steam these cans. Although these cleanings are better than no cleaning, they are rare and therefore insufficient to fully resolve the underlying problem.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a device that helps minimize odors, and the growth and spread of germs, bacteria, and microorganisms located in trash cans, and more specifically, in outdoor trash cans or dumpsters. There is also a need for a device that periodically dispenses material to help reduce the growth and spread of odors, germs, bacteria, and microorganisms located in trash cans or dumpsters. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 285,760, filed on December 3, 2021, addresses many of these issues, and its contents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0009] Summary and Objectives of the Invention

[0010] In summary, the present invention relates to a disinfecting device for a trash can, a tumbler bin or other container (collectively referred to herein as a trash can). More specifically, the present invention relates to a disinfecting device comprising a housing containing a cleaning fluid and a sprayer associated with the housing that dispenses the cleaning fluid into the trash can.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, the sprayer can also include an adjustable nozzle with two or more different spray patterns. For example, the nozzle can have a wide spray pattern and a narrow spray pattern. In the wide spray pattern, a spray cone of about 70 degrees can be obtained, while in the narrow spray pattern, a spray cone of about 20 degrees can be obtained. In addition, the nozzle can include a third medium spray pattern, which has a spray cone of about 40 degrees.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present invention, the device may also include a container for accommodating cleaning fluid, wherein the adjustable nozzle has a base fixed to the container and a side plate rotatably connected to the base. The side plate can rotate about three positions with three spray modes relative to the base. In addition, the device may include a fin configured to fix the container relative to the housing. In addition, a delivery tube may be used with the container. The container may include a reservoir for accommodating cleaning fluid, wherein the reservoir is a substantially horizontally mounted reservoir, although the bottom wall of the reservoir is slightly tilted toward a low point. The tube extends downward from the adjustable nozzle to the bottom wall of the reservoir.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, the device includes a housing for containing a cleaning solution, and a sprayer contained in the housing, the sprayer being configured to distribute the cleaning solution to the interior of the trash can. As an example and not a limitation, the cleaning solution may be ZETRISIL manufactured by ESC Brands. The housing can be formed integrally with the cover, otherwise it can be a separate housing releasably mounted to the cover. The sprayer can be configured to spray the cleaning solution at predetermined intervals. For example, the sprayer can be configured to spray the solution once a day, or more or less frequently as needed. Otherwise, the sprayer can be configured to spray the cleaning solution upon receiving a manual or virtual command, such as by pressing a button or otherwise providing instructions for dispensing the solution. The disinfection device may also include an electronic board, and a battery connected to the electronic board and the sprayer. The electronic board may provide a command to the battery to activate the sprayer. In addition, the housing may include a plurality of compartments, which may contain one or more of the solution, the battery, and the electronic board. In addition, a container containing the solution may be removably inserted into one of the plurality of compartments. In other embodiments, a plastic container containing the solution may be removably inserted into one of the plurality of compartments. In addition, the sprayer may include a tube, at least one nozzle connected to the tube, and a valve associated with the nozzle. The valve can be opened to dispense the solution from the nozzle. The cleaning solution is configured to kill bacteria within the trash can, prevent exposure to microorganisms, and minimize odors within the trash can.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for using a disinfection device for a trash can comprises the following steps: mounting a housing to the interior of the trash can, spraying a solution from the housing to the interior of the trash can, and replacing the solution once the solution is exhausted. In addition, the adjustable nozzle can rotate between two or more positions relative to a container containing the solution. For example, the adjustable nozzle can have a first position, a second position, and a third position, wherein the solution is distributed in a spray cone of about 70 degrees, wherein the solution is distributed in a spray cone of about 40 degrees at the second position, and wherein the solution is distributed in a spray cone of about 20 degrees at the third position. The method may also comprise the following steps: disengaging a fin configured to fix the container and the nozzle relative to the housing, removing the container and the adjustable nozzle, replacing the container and the adjustable nozzle, and reengaging the fin to fix the replacement container and the adjustable nozzle. The method may also comprise the step of spraying the solution from the housing to the interior of the trash can approximately every 24 hours. The method may also comprise the step of spraying the solution from the housing when manually or virtually commanded. In addition, the method may comprise the step of mounting the housing to the underside of the lid of the trash can. Additionally, the method may include the steps of providing a signal from the electronics board, providing power from the battery, and actuating a valve to enable dispensing of the solution from the sprayer.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, a disinfection device for a trash can is provided, the disinfection device comprising a housing for accommodating cleaning fluid, at least one sprayer contained in the housing, the sprayer being configured to distribute the cleaning fluid to the trash can, and a power supply and an electronic board, the power supply and the electronic board being configured to enable and disable the at least one sprayer. In certain embodiments, the housing is formed in the lid of the trash can. In other embodiments, the housing is removably connected to the lid, for example, using a mounting member, a fastener or an adhesive. In addition, the device may include a liquid level sensor. In the case where the liquid level sensor does not detect that the housing is substantially horizontal, the sprayer may be disabled. Conversely, when the liquid level sensor detects that the housing is substantially horizontal, the sprayer may be enabled.

[0016] When considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings, these and other aspects and purposes of the present invention will be better recognized and understood. However, it should be understood that the following description, although showing a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is provided by way of illustration and not limitation. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention, and the present invention includes all such modifications.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] A clearer concept of the construction and operation of the typical mechanisms provided by the invention, as well as advantages and features of the invention, will become more apparent by referring to the exemplary and non-limiting embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the several views, and wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 A perspective view of a sanitation device for a trash can lid is shown mounted to the underside of the lid;

[0020] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a trash can along line 2-2, the trash can having a sanitary device mounted on the lid, and the sanitary device distributes cleaning liquid in the trash can;

[0021] Figure 3 A perspective view of a sanitary installation is shown;

[0022] Figure 4 A top view of a sanitary device is shown;

[0023] Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of a sanitary device is shown;

[0024] Figure 6 A perspective view of an adjustable dispenser for use with a sanitary fixture is shown;

[0025] Figure 7Shown is a view taken along line 7-7 Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an adjustable distributor;

[0026] Figure 8 A perspective view showing a bucket and an adjustable dispenser of a sanitary fixture;

[0027] Fig. 9 A side view of the barrel and adjustable dispenser is shown;

[0028] Fig.9A A side cross-sectional view showing the interior of the barrel and the adjustable dispenser;

[0029] Fig.10 A bottom plan view of a sanitary installation is shown;

[0030] Fig.11 A bottom isometric view of the sanitary fixture with the base removed is shown;

[0031] Fig.12 a bottom plan view showing the sanitary fixture with the base removed; and

[0032] Fig.13 An exploded perspective view of a mounting system for a plumbing fixture is shown.

[0033] In describing the preferred embodiments of the present invention shown in the accompanying drawings, specific terms will be used for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended that the present invention is limited to the specific terms so selected, and it should be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve similar purposes. For example, words such as connect, attach or the like are often used. They are not limited to direct connections, but include connections through other elements, where such connections are considered equivalent by those skilled in the art.

[0034] Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0035] The invention and its various features and advantageous details are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in the following description.

[0036] The present invention relates to a sanitary device, which can be located in a trash can to improve the condition inside the trash can and solve one or more common problems in the trash can, including but not limited to unfavorable odors, germs, bacteria and microorganisms. For example, the device can have one of many functions, including minimizing the growth and spread of bacteria and germs, minimizing the odor associated with the inside of the trash can, improving the disinfection conditions inside the trash can, reducing the exposure of microorganisms, etc. Although the following description and accompanying drawings show the device as a disc-shaped device that can be releasably mounted to the lower side of the lid of the trash can, the device can similarly have any desired shape or size. Alternatively, the device can be directly formed in the trash can. In addition, the following description specifically relates to outdoor trash cans, but the device can be similarly used with indoor trash cans, overturned trash cans and other containers for accommodating various different objects, all of which will be collectively referred to as trash cans in this article for ease of reference, and the objects include but are not limited to recyclable materials, yard waste, animal excrement or any other materials. In addition, the device is shown and described as being mounted to the lower side of the lid. While this configuration has many advantages, such as allowing gravity to assist in dispensing the cleaning and scenting materials contained within the device and not being easily dislodged when trash is inserted therein, the device may be similarly mounted elsewhere. In addition, while the present application is directed to a device for ejecting material, the present invention may be used in conjunction with a variety of compatible technologies related to the cleaning and sanitization of trash cans, including the disposable pads described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 496,920, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] The device 10 includes a housing 12 that is mountable relative to a trash can 14. Likewise, the device 10 may also be formed directly into the lid 16 of the trash can 14, thereby eliminating the need for mounting. The housing 12 shown is a two-piece structure having a top housing piece 12A and a bottom housing piece 12B. When assembled, the top housing piece 12A and the bottom housing piece 12B have locking features that cooperate to form a custom seal.

[0038] As mentioned above, the housing 12 is shown mounted to the lid 16 of the trash can 14, although it can also be similarly mounted elsewhere. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, more specifically, Fig.131, the mounting plate 11 is used in combination with the support plate 13, the bolts 15 and the screws 17. The support plate 13 can be located outside the lid 16 of the trash can 14, and the mounting plate 13 and the remaining components of the device 10 are located inside the trash can 14. The housing 12 can be twisted to lock in place relative to the lid 16. When the user needs to remove the housing 12, the fins 64 are compressed, and the housing 12 can then be twisted and removed. This configuration allows the device 10 to be securely and easily mounted to the lid 16. Of course, the device 10 can also be mounted to the lid 16 using the mounting plate 11 and the support plate 13 in combination with other mounting components, which will be further described below.

[0039] Alternatively, the housing 12 can be mounted to the trash can 14 using any number of other different mounting mechanisms, including, for example, high-strength adhesives, clips, hooks, straps, hook-and-loop VELCRO fasteners, and the like. In certain embodiments, a high-strength adhesive is preferred because it helps ensure that the housing 12 remains mounted despite the lid 16 being repeatedly opened and closed, and being knocked when the trash can 14 is emptied. In other embodiments, other means such as clips, hooks, straps, and hook-and-loop VELCRO fasteners may be preferred because it will allow the housing 12 to be removed from time to time as needed. The housing 12 can be removably mounted to the trash can 14, allowing it to be quickly and easily removed so that it can be mounted on another trash can, removed for cleaning purposes, and then remounted, removed, to be refilled with cleaning materials, or for any other desired reason.

[0040] Once installed, the housing 12 is secured to the trash can 14. For example, the mounting provides sufficient securement to the lid 16 so that the housing 12 remains in place despite repeated opening and closing of the lid 16, which is generally accomplished by sufficient force generated by the impact of the lid 16 due to gravity. Alternatively, a mounting plate can be secured to the lid 16, after which the housing 12 can be repeatedly installed and removed from the lid 16 to increase the ease with which additional solutions or batteries can be installed.

[0041] The housing 12 is shown in the shape of a disk, which is generally cylindrical, having a sidewall 18, a bottom side 20, and a top side 22. As shown, the top side 22 is formed in the mounting plate 11. As described above, the housing 12 can take any number of different shapes, although a simplified and streamlined housing is desired. The housing 12 includes at least one opening 25 formed therein. For example, one or more openings 25 can be formed in the sidewall 18 or the bottom side 20. With the housing 12 mounted to the cover 16, the opening 25 is oriented in a generally downward direction toward where the trash bag 24 is located. This allows the material contained within the housing 12 to be ejected outwardly, after which gravity assists in moving the material downward onto and around the bag 24, as will be further described below. A similar result would occur if the device 10 were formed directly into the cover 16.

[0042] The housing 12 is preferably made of a hard, durable material such as plastic. In addition, the housing 12 is preferably waterproof or substantially waterproof to maintain the operability of the electronic components contained within the housing 12. This can occur using gaskets to seal the electronic components. In this way, the device 10 can be used for an extended period of time and other components replaced if necessary.

[0043] The housing 12 may include one or more cavities 26 configured to hold a variety of components. For example, the housing 12 may have a single cavity that holds all of the internal components, which will be described further below. Otherwise, the housing 12 may have a separate cavity for each internal component. A cover 28 may be provided to secure the internal components within the cavity 26. In the case where the device 10 is formed directly in the cover 16, the cover 28 is removable to access the internal components because the remainder of the housing is formed with the cover 16.

[0044] The housing 12 may also include various light indicators that communicate with the user, such as a battery indicator light 19 that notifies the user when the battery level is low, and a spray indicator light 21 that notifies the user when the spray amount is low. The total number of sprays of the device 10, and once a predetermined number of sprays have been completed, the spray indicator light 21 is activated. In addition, a window 41 that allows the user to see the interior of the container and refill the container when it does not contain solution. In addition, a variety of indicators 29 can be provided, which display the amount of spray that will be dispensed each time the device 10 is activated. In addition, a fill sensor can be provided that monitors the height of the garbage bags 24 stacked in the garbage bin 14. For example, proximity sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and reflective sensors can be used. In the event that the bags 24 are stacked above the maximum height, the use of the device 10 will be temporarily terminated until the garbage bin 14 is emptied. In addition, various controls such as switches or buttons 23, 27 can be provided on the housing 12, such as a boost switch that provides additional sprays, a mode switch that changes the amount of sprays provided, an interval switch that enables the user to quickly and easily change the interval of spraying solution, and any other switches that customize the use of the device 10.

[0045] As for the internal components, the housing 12 contains a container 30, which contains a liquid or gaseous solution that can be sprayed into the interior of the trash can 14. The container 30 is Fig. 9 and 10 31 and 33. The container 30 is shown separately in FIG. 31. The container 30 has a bottle-shaped design including a neck 31 and a reservoir 33. The reservoir 33 has a bottom side 35. As shown, the bottom side 35 is oriented at a slight angle relative to the horizontal direction away from the neck. Due to this inclination of the bottom side 35, the liquid contained in the container automatically gathers toward the far edge 37 of the reservoir 33, which is the lowest point of the container 30, which makes it easier to collect the liquid and spray the liquid out of the reservoir 33 to maximize the use of the cleaning liquid before the reservoir 33 needs to be refilled. In addition, the end wall 39 of the container 30 can be similarly curved to facilitate pouring the liquid to the far edge 37. From Fig.9A It can be better seen in Fig.9A yes Fig. 9 , the tube 45 extends from the nozzle 38 toward the container 30. More specifically, the tube 45 initially extends substantially horizontally along the length of the nozzle 38 and a portion of the container 30, and then slopes downward toward the distal edge 37 of the reservoir 33. In this manner, the end 47 of the tube 45 is directed toward the location of the liquid pool at the distal edge 37 to maximize the amount of solution that the tube 45 can collect.

[0046] Additionally, the device 10 may include an adjustable nozzle 38 that is Figure 7 and 8 Shown separately in the Fig. 9 and 1030 in the container. The adjustable nozzle 38 can be moved between multiple positions to customize the operation of the device. More specifically, the adjustable nozzle 38 shown is configured to rotate between multiple positions to adjust the spray range from the nozzle 38. More specifically, the adjustable nozzle 38 can rotate between multiple positions to manipulate the spray radius of the solution sprayed from the nozzle 38. As shown, the adjustable nozzle 38 can move between three set values, although of course the nozzle 38 can also move only between two set values, or can move between more than three set values ​​as needed. As shown, the adjustable nozzle 38 includes a base 40 configured to be fixed to the neck 31 of the container 30, and a side plate 42 rotatably connected to the base 40. The base 40 includes a plurality of fluid channels 44, 46, 48 associated with various potential positions. In addition, the side plate 42 includes a separate channel 50, which provides a bridge with a selected channel 44, 46, 48. In addition, the side panel 42 may include an indicator 52 as indicated by the arrow, and the base 40 may include a plurality of indicators 54, 56 as indicated by the arrow (the third indicator will be located at Figure 7 The user may align the side panel 42 indicator with a desired base indicator 54, 56 that identifies the particular setting selected.

[0047] Additionally, associated sprayers 58, 60 are formed in the base 40 of the nozzle 38 adjacent the indicators 54, 56 (again, a third nozzle would be located Figure 7 38 and 39). Each sprayer 58, 60 is connected to the container 30 and is configured to deliver the solution from the container 30 to the trash can 14. A valve or other flow restriction device may be located within the nozzle 38 or the sprayer 58, 60. The solution is initially restricted from flowing out of the sprayer 58, 60. Thereafter, the valve may be opened to initiate the flow of the solution out of the sprayer 58, 60 and into the interior of the trash can 14. For example, the device 10 may be configured to open the valve and initiate the flow of the solution at predetermined intervals, such as once every 12 hours, once every 24 hours, once every 36 hours, or once every 48 hours. Of course, the intervals may be set as frequently or infrequently as desired. In addition, the device 10 may be set to a standby mode in situations where spraying is not required, such as if the user is on vacation and no trash bags will be deposited in the trash can 14 for an extended period of time.

[0048] In addition, the device 10 can be configured to spray the solution only when the lid 16 of the trash can 14 is closed, for example using the sensor 62. For example, the tilt sensor will detect whether the device 10 is oriented substantially horizontally (in this case, the lid 16 is closed), or whether the device 10 is oriented substantially vertically (in this case, the lid 16 is open). Other sensors, such as gyroscopes, can be used similarly. The opening of the valve can also or alternatively occur as needed, such as by pressing a button 27 or other actuator located on or adjacent to the device 10. In addition, the activation of the sprayers 58, 60 can occur through any type of remote communication. For example, the device 10 can be connected to a remote device, such as a smart phone, a tablet computer, a computer, etc., via a website, an application, etc. This will enable the user to monitor the device 10 away from the trash can 14, including the settings of the device, the level of the solution, the amount of charge in the battery, etc. Using the application or website, the user can start spraying in the same way as pressing the button 27. In addition, the user can change the settings remotely, for example, when the weather is warmer, when the contents of the trash can 14 are particularly prone to odor or bacteria, etc., increase the frequency of spraying. The application or website may also enable automatic ordering or replacement of solution or container 30 when the amount of solution in container 30 drops below a predetermined threshold. Other membership or subscription services may be provided through the website or application to enhance usability. Alternatively, various sensors or other monitoring devices may be installed in the device 10 or trash can 14. When the sensor or other monitoring device detects a given condition, the sprayer 58, 60 may be activated.

[0049] exist Fig.12 and 13 In another embodiment shown, the container 30 can selectively use a nozzle 38 in conjunction with a gear system 42 to dispense a solution. More specifically, the container 30 includes a nozzle 40 that can be compressed to eject material from the container 30 out of the container 30. As shown, the gear system 42 includes a plurality of gears 44 that rotate to actuate an actuator 35, which drives a pump head 37 to eject the solution out of the container 30. Of course, other nozzle compression systems can be similarly used, including rack and pinion systems, gear trains with extension arms, and crank sliders.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, by aligning the indicator 52 of the side panel 42 with the desired indicator of the base 40, the nozzle 38 can be moved between the minimum spray radius, the medium spray radius and the maximum spray radius. This will allow the user to adjust the spray radius based on the trash can 14 that the device 10 is being used with. For example, when the device 10 is used with a relatively small trash can 14, the minimum spray radius can be selected. If the device 10 is used with a relatively large trash can 14, the maximum spray radius can be selected. If the device 10 is used with a medium-sized trash can 14, the medium spray radius can be selected. This helps to ensure that enough spray is provided for a given trash can 14, without wasting by spraying more cleaning fluid than required for a given trash can 14.

[0051] By way of example and not limitation, the maximum spray radius may be between about 60 and 80 degrees, more preferably between about 65 and 75 degrees, and even more preferably between about 70 degrees. By way of example and not limitation, the medium spray radius may be between about 30 and 50 degrees, more preferably between about 35 and 45 degrees, and even more preferably between about 40 degrees. By way of example and not limitation, the minimum spray radius may be between about 10 and 30 degrees, more preferably between about 15 and 25 degrees, and even more preferably between about 20 degrees.

[0052] As shown, the container 30 and the nozzle 38 are mounted on the housing 12. More specifically, an opening 66 is formed in the housing 12 that is configured to receive the container 30 and the nozzle 38. Once the container 30 and the nozzle 38 are properly positioned, the twist tab 68 is rotated so that it fixes the container 30 relative to the housing 12. When the container 30 is empty and needs to be refilled or replaced, the twist tab 68 can be similarly rotated in the opposite direction. When the twist tab 68 is rotated to remove the container 30, the sensor that measures the contents of the replacement container 30 can be reset.

[0053] The liquid or gaseous solution used in the container 30 can be selected from solutions that can improve the interior of the trash can 14, for example, by deodorizing various odors contained in the trash can 14, or killing or neutralizing any germs, bacteria and microorganisms. By way of example and not limitation, a ZETRISIL cleaning solution can be used. A specific solution can also be selected based on the type of material most commonly contained in the trash can 14. For example, if a particular trash can 14 typically contains a particular material that is particularly susceptible to the growth of particular germs, bacteria and microorganisms, and a particular solution can be selected.

[0054] In addition, a plurality of containers may be included in the housing 12, which contain different solutions that may be sprayed separately, mixed, or sprayed simultaneously before spraying. For example, one container may contain a solution that deodorizes the trash can 14, while a second container may contain a solution that kills or neutralizes germs, bacteria, and microorganisms. When at least one container 30 runs out of solution, it can be removed and refilled, or removed and replaced with a new solution container. In addition, a sensor may indicate when the level of the solution is low and needs to be replaced. This may be communicated to the user, for example, using a signal light.

[0055] In addition, a level sensor component may be provided. The level sensor component may be used to detect how the housing 12 is oriented relative to the trash can 14, and more specifically, whether the housing 12 is oriented horizontally. In the event that the sensor does not detect that the housing 12 is in a horizontal state, such as when the lid 16 is in an open position, the sensor will inhibit activation of the sprayers 58, 60. This prevents the solution from spreading outside the trash can 14.

[0056] The next internal component is the power source 32. The power source 32 shown is a battery or multiple batteries, which are connected to a motor 33 or other actuating mechanism to drive the gear 44 of the gear system 42. Once power is supplied to the motor or other actuating mechanism, the valve can be opened or closed. In addition, an electronic board is provided to indicate the activation of the power source to open or close the valve.

[0057] In addition, a kit can be provided. For example, one or more housings can be provided, as well as replacement parts, such as replacement batteries, and bottles, containers or cans containing solutions. The kit can also have other components that help maintain the cleanliness of the trash can. For example, a disposable pad described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 496,920 can be inserted into the bottom of the trash can, which is included in the kit, which will help keep the bottom of the trash can clean by the pad and the top of the trash can clean by the device.

[0058] Although the above description provides a variety of potential uses for the device, it should be noted that there are actually countless uses for the present invention, all of which do not need to be described in detail here. For example, although the devices are described as being used with trash cans, more specifically, with outdoor trash cans, they can also be similarly used with other types of containers and devices. All of the disclosed embodiments can be implemented without undue experimentation.

[0059] Although the best mode of implementing the present invention contemplated by the inventor is disclosed above, the practice of the present invention is not limited thereto. Obviously, various additions, modifications and rearrangements may be made to the features of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, the various components do not need to be made of the disclosed materials, but may be made of almost any suitable material.

[0060] Furthermore, the individual components need not be formed in the disclosed shapes or assembled in the disclosed structures, but can be provided in almost any shape and assembled in almost any structure to improve the efficiency and function of the device. Furthermore, all disclosed features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined with the disclosed features of each other disclosed embodiment, or replace the disclosed features of each other disclosed embodiment, unless these features are mutually exclusive.

[0061] The appended claims are intended to cover all such additions, modifications and rearrangements. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are distinguished by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A disinfection device for a garbage can, comprising: a housing for containing a cleaning fluid; as well as A sprayer contained within the housing is configured to distribute the cleaning fluid into the trash can.

2. The disinfection device of claim 1, wherein the sprayer further comprises an adjustable nozzle configured to have at least two different spray patterns.

3. The disinfection device of claim 2, wherein the adjustable nozzle is configured to be adjustable between a wide spray pattern and a narrow spray pattern.

4. The disinfection device of claim 3, wherein the adjustable nozzle is configured to be adjustable between a first spray setting having a spray cone of approximately 70 degrees and a second spray setting having a spray cone of approximately 20 degrees.

5. The disinfection device of claim 4, wherein the adjustable nozzle is configured to be adjustable to a medium spray mode; and Wherein the adjustable nozzle is configured to be adjustable to a third spray setting having a spray cone of approximately 40 degrees.

6. The disinfection device according to claim 5, further comprising a container for containing the cleaning liquid; and The adjustable nozzle further comprises a base fixed to the container and a side plate rotatably connected to the base.

7. The disinfection device of claim 6, wherein the side plate is rotated relative to the base to approximately three positions having three spray modes.

8. The sterilizing device of claim 6, further comprising a tab configured to secure the container relative to the housing.

9. The disinfection device according to claim 6, further comprising a delivery tube; wherein the container further comprises a reservoir configured to contain the cleaning fluid; wherein the reservoir is a substantially horizontally mounted reservoir; wherein the reservoir further comprises a bottom wall that slopes toward a low point; Wherein a delivery tube extends downwardly from the adjustable nozzle to the bottom wall of the container.

10. The disinfection device according to claim 1, wherein the sprayer is configured to spray the cleaning liquid at predetermined intervals.

11. The disinfection device of claim 1, wherein the sprayer is configured to spray the cleaning fluid upon receiving a manual or remote virtual command.

12. The disinfecting device of claim 1, wherein the solution is configured to kill bacteria within the trash can to prevent exposure to microorganisms and minimize odor within the trash can.

13. The disinfection device of claim 1, further comprising a sensor configured to monitor the height of a plurality of trash bags contained in the trash can; Wherein if the plurality of garbage bags exceeds a predetermined height, the sprayer is temporarily disabled.

14. A method for using a disinfection device for a garbage can, comprising the steps of: Installing the housing inside the trash can; spraying a solution from the housing into the interior of the trash can based on one of a manual command, a timed interval command, or a remote command; and Once the solution is exhausted, the solution is replaced.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising the steps of: rotating the adjustable nozzle between two or more positions relative to a container containing the solution; as well as The adjustable nozzle and container are releasably mounted to the housing.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising the steps of: rotating the adjustable nozzle to a first position in which the solution is dispensed in a spray cone of approximately 70 degrees; rotating the adjustable nozzle to a second position in which the solution is dispensed in a spray cone of approximately 40 degrees; and The adjustable nozzle was rotated to a third position where the solution was dispensed in a spray cone of approximately 20 degrees.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising the steps of: disengaging a tab configured to secure the container and the adjustable nozzle relative to the housing; removing the container and the adjustable nozzle; Replacement containers and adjustable nozzles; as well as The tabs are reengaged to secure the refill container and the adjustable nozzle.

18. The method of claim 14, further comprising the steps of: determining the height of a plurality of trash bags contained within the trash can; and Temporarily disable spraying of solution until the trash can is emptied.

19. A disinfection device for a garbage can, comprising: a container for holding cleaning fluid; an adjustable nozzle including at least two sprayers, the adjustable nozzle having at least two different spray patterns and connected to the container; a housing configured to releasably receive the container and the adjustable nozzle; as well as a power supply and electronics board configured to enable and disable the at least one sprayer; The adjustable nozzle is configured to dispense the cleaning fluid into the trash can.

20. The disinfection device of claim 19, further comprising: a mounting member connected to the housing; as well as Liquid level sensor; wherein the housing is configured to releasably connect to the underside of a lid of the trash can; wherein when the level sensor does not detect that the housing is substantially level, the sprayer is disabled; and When the liquid level sensor detects that the housing is substantially level, the sprayer is activated.

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