Excretion container, pet toilet system, and sand disposal method

Abstract

To dispose of sand easily and properly. [Solution] The excretion container 2 is an excretion container that stores sand and receives urine excreted by pets, and has a bottom surface 21 that is approximately rectangular in plan view, a first side wall 221 and a second side wall 222 that face each other and are formed along the Y direction, and a third side wall 223 and a fourth side wall 224 that face each other and are formed along the X direction, and a sand guide wall 23 that guides sand to a predetermined position, and the sand guide wall 23 is formed along at least one of the first side wall 221 to the fourth side wall 224, which is used as a reference wall.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an excrement container for a pet toilet, a pet toilet system, and a method for disposing of sand. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an animal litter box that includes a liquid passage section (excretion container) with multiple openings that allow urine to pass downward, and an absorber installation section in which an absorber is installed that absorbs urine that has passed through the liquid passage section, and in which multiple granular materials (sand) are placed on the liquid passage section, wherein the openings have a longitudinal direction and a width direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and the maximum width of the through holes in the width direction is 2.5 mm or less. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-67386 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] With pet toilets like those described above, when disposing of the sand in the waste container, the sand cannot be properly guided, resulting in the sand scattering in unintended places (places other than the trash can).

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned situation, and aims to provide an excrement container for a pet toilet, a pet system toilet, and a method for disposing of sand that allow for easy and appropriate disposal of sand. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An excretion container according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is an excretion container that stores sand and receives urine excreted by pets, and comprises a bottom surface portion that is approximately rectangular in plan view, first and second side walls that face each other and are formed along the longitudinal direction of the bottom surface portion, third and fourth side walls that face each other and are formed along the short direction, and a sand guide wall that guides sand to a predetermined position, and the sand guide wall is formed along at least one of the first to fourth side walls that serves as a reference wall.

[0007] In one embodiment of the excretion container of the present disclosure, a sand guide wall is formed along at least one of the side walls (reference walls) to guide sand to a predetermined position. With this configuration, when disposing of sand, it is possible to properly guide (collect) the sand to the predetermined position. This prevents the sand from scattering in unintended places when disposing of the sand, making it easy and proper to dispose of the sand.

[0008] The sand guide wall may be formed continuously with the base wall. By forming the sand guide wall in this manner, it is possible to prevent the pet's excretion space from becoming small.

[0009] The sand guide wall may be formed at a distance from the reference wall. By forming the sand guide wall in this manner, the area of ​​sand, i.e., the area contaminated by urine, can be limited to an inner area spaced from the reference wall.

[0010] The sand guide wall may extend along the base wall and reach the side wall adjacent to the base wall. By extending the sand guide wall to the end of the base wall in this way, a wide range of sand can be appropriately guided to a predetermined position.

[0011] The sand guide wall may have a first guide wall formed along one of the first to fourth side walls, with two adjacent side walls serving as reference walls, and a second guide wall formed along the other reference wall. With this configuration, the first guide wall and the second guide wall can guide sand to a location where the first guide wall and the second guide wall are continuous, thereby more effectively preventing sand from scattering in unintended places.

[0012] The excretion container may further include a sand disposal section, which is a recess formed in a corner where one reference wall and the other reference wall are continuous, and which discharges sand guided by the first guide wall and the second guide wall to the outside. With this configuration, the sand guided by the first guide wall and the second guide wall is collected in the sand disposal section, which is a recess formed in the corner, and discharged from the sand disposal section to the outside. In this way, the sand is discharged centrally from the sand disposal section, which is a recess, so that the sand can be disposed of accurately in a short time when disposing of the sand in a specific targeted location, such as a trash can.

[0013] The bottom surface portion may have a slatted portion having a plurality of through holes formed therein and in which sand is placed, and a sloped portion extending obliquely upward from the slatted portion toward the sand guide wall, and the sand guide wall may have a rising portion continuing from the sloped portion and extending upward, and a top surface portion continuing from the rising portion and extending toward the reference wall to form the top surface of the sand guide wall. With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately form a wall portion that blocks sand from falling out when guiding sand, and to form a handle portion when guiding sand.

[0014] The height of the top surface may be lower than the height of the upper surface of the reference wall. This makes it possible to prevent sand from falling out even if it reaches the top surface. Furthermore, by making the height of the top surface higher than the upper surface of the reference wall, fingers placed on the top surface can be hooked onto the reference wall, making it easier to hold.

[0015] The height of the top surface portion may be the same as the height of the upper surface of the reference wall. With this configuration, it is possible to improve ease of manufacturing by achieving a simple shape without any irregularities.

[0016] The height of the top surface may be equal to or greater than the height of the surface of the slatted portion, thereby preventing the sand from spilling over the guide wall when the sand is guided by the sand guide wall.

[0017] The height of the top surface may be 1 / 4D or more, where D is the height of the top surface of the reference wall relative to the surface of the slatted section. This makes it possible to prevent the sand from jumping over the guide wall when guiding the sand using the sand guide wall.

[0018] The height of the top surface portion may vary depending on the region, thereby allowing the sand guide wall to have an appropriate height required for each region.

[0019] The height of the top surface may be gradually decreased toward a predetermined position. This allows the guide wall to be gradually decreased toward the destination (predetermined position) of the sand. For example, when tilting the excretion container to guide the sand, the height of the portion of the guide wall where the sand first collects can be increased to prevent the sand from scattering outside, while the height of the portion of the guide wall near the area (predetermined position) where the sand is finally discharged outside can be decreased to prevent too much sand from collecting in the area where the sand is finally discharged outside.

[0020] The width of the top surface, which is the direction toward the reference wall, may be longer than the width of the reference wall, thereby increasing the width of the handle and making it easier to grip the waste container.

[0021] The portion where the rising portion and the top surface portion are connected may be rounded, which makes it easier to grip the top surface portion and the rising portion.

[0022] The angle of inclination of the top surface toward the reference wall with respect to the horizontal direction may be between 10° and 80°. A tilt angle of 10° or more can prevent water from remaining on the top surface when drying the excrement container. A tilt angle of 80° or less can prevent water from remaining on the top surface when drying the excrement container by tilting it 90° upright.

[0023] The portion where the sloped portion and the rising portion are continuous may form an obtuse angle. With this configuration, the rising portion can be easily gripped.

[0024] The areas where the slatted portion and the sloped portion join, the areas where the sloped portion and the rising portion join, and the areas where the rising portion and the top surface join may all form obtuse angles. This configuration allows for proper guidance of the sand and improves grip.

[0025] The inclination angle of the sloped surface and the inclination angle of the top surface may both be 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent water from remaining in the excreta container when drying it.

[0026] The length of the sand guiding wall along the reference wall may be 1 / 6 or more of the length of the reference wall. With this configuration, the sand can be appropriately guided.

[0027] The slatted portion may be provided at a position offset in one longitudinal direction from the center of the bottom surface. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to provide the slatted portion on one longitudinal side and configure the opposite side for sand disposal, thereby enabling more appropriate disposal of sand.

[0028] A pet toilet system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the above-described excretion container, a tray disposed below the excretion container and containing an absorbent sheet that absorbs liquid that has permeated the excretion container, a lower container that holds the tray and defines a lower space between the tray and the excretion container, and an upper container disposed above the excretion container and defines an upper space between the tray and the excretion container. This configuration allows for easy and appropriate disposal of sand in the pet toilet system.

[0029] A sand disposal method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the steps of: holding the excretion container containing sand; tilting the excretion container so that the sand is guided along the sand guide wall to a predetermined position; and discharging the sand from the predetermined position to the outside. This sand disposal method allows the sand to be appropriately guided (collected) to the predetermined position when discarding the sand. This prevents the sand from scattering in unintended places when discarding the sand, making it easy and appropriate to discard the sand. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an excrement container for a pet toilet, a pet system toilet, and a method for disposing of sand, which allow for easy and appropriate disposal of sand. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the pet toilet system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an excrement container included in the pet toilet system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the waste container. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the waste container. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the waste container. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the waste container. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of region VII shown in FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an image of the sand discarding method. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of region XII shown in FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII shown in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of region XIV shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the suppression of urine pooling in the configuration according to this embodiment compared to a comparative example. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of the area XVI-XVI shown in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the back side of the slatted portion. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an end view of the slat section. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the back side of the slatted portion. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX-XX shown in FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the angle of the sand guiding wall according to the modified example. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a plan view showing a sand guide wall according to a modified example. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a plan view showing a sand guide wall according to a modified example. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a plan view showing a sand guide wall according to a modified example. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram schematically showing a sand guide wall according to a modified example. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a plan view showing an excrement container according to a modified example. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a bottom view showing an excrement container according to a modified example. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a cut in an excretion container according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] An excretion container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted. The drawings are schematic, and the dimensional ratios may differ from those of the actual product. Note that in this embodiment, an example of an excretion container will be described as "an excretion container that divides the internal space of a pet system toilet into upper and lower sections and receives urine excreted by a pet," but is not limited to this. In other words, the excretion container is not limited to being one component of a pet system toilet, and may be configured to receive urine excreted by a pet in, for example, a single-layer toilet (specifically, a toilet that uses clumping sand, etc.).

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pet system toilet 1 according to this embodiment. The pet system toilet 1 according to this embodiment is, for example, a system toilet for the excretion of pet cats. The pet system toilet 1 may be, for example, a system toilet suitable for keeping multiple large cats, with an excretion space approximately twice that of a typical system toilet. Specifically, the pet system toilet 1 may have a longitudinal length of approximately 70 cm, a lateral length of approximately 47 cm, and a height of approximately 28 cm. In the following description, the longitudinal direction may be referred to as the Y direction, the lateral direction as the X direction, and the height direction as the Z direction. Note that the pet system toilet 1 may also be a system toilet for the excretion of pets other than cats.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 1, the pet toilet system 1 includes an excretion container 2, a lower container 3, an upper container 4, and a tray 5. In the following, in the Z direction (height direction), the direction of the upper container 4 as seen from the lower container 3 may be referred to as "up," and the direction of the lower container 3 as seen from the upper container 4 may be referred to as "down." Additionally, in the X direction (short side direction), the direction toward the opening 40 of the front wall portion 41 as seen from the rear wall portion 42 of the upper container 4 may be referred to as "front," and the direction toward the rear wall portion 42 as seen from the opening 40 may be referred to as "rear."

[0035] The excretion container 2 is a container that contains sand (not shown) that functions as litter and collects urine excreted by pets. The excretion container 2 also functions as a partition that divides the internal space of the pet system toilet 1 into an upper space (the space divided by the excretion container 2 and the upper container 4) and a lower space (the space divided by the excretion container 2 and the lower container 3). The excretion container 2 has a liquid-permeable bottom surface 21 and wall surfaces 22. Sand is a granular material that can absorb or pass through liquids such as urine. For example, the sand may be made of bentonite or water-repellent coated wood or paper that can cover feces and absorb liquid, or zeolite, silica gel, minerals, etc. that have deodorizing properties and are molded into approximately spherical shapes with a diameter of about 2 mm to 15 mm. Known sand may be used. Note that hardening sand may also be used. The sand is placed on the bottom surface 21. The excrement excreted by the pet passes through the sand, passes through the gaps in the bottom surface portion 21, which is composed of slat-like bars, and falls into the lower container 3 (more specifically, the tray 5 held by the lower container 3) located below the excrement container 2. The excrement container 2 is made of, for example, but is not limited to, a resin such as plastic. Details of the excrement container 2 will be described later.

[0036] The tray 5 is disposed below the waste container 2 and contains an absorbent sheet (not shown) that absorbs liquid (excrement) that has permeated the bottom surface 21. The tray 5 is formed with a tray handle 51 that allows the user to pull it out with their hands. The tray handle 51 may be formed not only on the front side of the tray 5 but also on the rear side. In this case, the tray 5 is symmetrical from front to back. Since the tray 5 is symmetrical from front to back and has the tray handle 51 on both the front and rear sides, the tray 5 can be pulled out via the tray handle 51 even when the tray 5 is reversed. The area of ​​the absorbent sheet that absorbs liquid is determined to some extent, but by reversing the tray 5, the orientation of the absorbent sheet can be changed, allowing the absorbent sheet to absorb liquid in an area different from the area that has already absorbed liquid. By reversing the tray 5 in this way, one absorbent sheet can be used to its full potential. The tray 5 is formed smaller than the lower container 3 so that it can be accommodated inside the lower container 3 and swing. 1, the tray 5 is accommodated in an area of ​​the lower container that is offset to one side in the Y direction. In this embodiment, the tray 5 is pulled out horizontally, but is not limited to this and may be pulled out obliquely upward, for example.

[0037] The lower container 3 is a container that holds the tray 5 and defines a lower space between it and the excreta container 2. The lower container 3 houses the tray 5 therein so that it can be pulled out and swung. The lower container 3 is configured to include a bottom surface 31 and wall surfaces 32, 33, 34, and 35. The bottom surface 31 is the portion that faces the installation surface on which the pet system toilet 1 is installed. The bottom surface 31 is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0038] The wall surface 32 is a portion formed to rise upward from the front end of the bottom surface portion 31. An opening 320 for pulling out the tray 5 is formed in the wall surface 32. The wall surface 33 is a portion formed to rise upward from the rear end of the bottom surface portion 31. The wall surfaces 34 and 35 are portions formed to rise upward from both ends of the bottom surface portion 31 in the Y direction. A recess 400 is formed in the lower part of the center of the wall surfaces 34 and 35 in the X direction to be gripped when carrying the device. The wall surfaces 32, 33, 34, and 35 are formed continuously, and the entire periphery of the bottom surface portion 31 is surrounded by the wall surfaces 32, 33, 34, and 35. The wall surfaces 22 (more specifically, a first side wall 221, a second side wall 222, a third side wall 223, and a fourth side wall 224 (see FIG. 2) described below) of the excrement container 2 are fitted to the upper ends of the wall surfaces 32, 33, 34, and 35. The upper container 4 is attached so as to cover the upper ends of the wall surfaces 32, 33, 34, and 35.

[0039] The upper container 4 is a container that is disposed above the excretion container 2 and defines an upper section between it and the excretion container 2. The upper container 4 has an opening 40 through which pets can enter and exit. As shown in FIG. 1, the upper container 4 includes a front wall 41, a rear wall 42, and a pair of side walls 43, 44. In this embodiment, the front wall 41, the rear wall 42, and the pair of side walls 43, 44 are integrally (continuously) formed. The upper container 4 does not have a bottom surface, and is open in the vertical direction.

[0040] The front wall 41 is attached to the wall surface 32 of the lower container 3 and is formed to rise upward. An opening 40 for pets to enter and exit is formed in a predetermined position in the Y direction on the front wall 41. As will be described later, a slatted portion 210 is provided in a position offset in one direction in the Y direction from the center of the bottom surface 21 of the excreta container 2. The slatted portion 210 has a plurality of through-holes formed therein, and sand (litter) is placed in the slatted portion 210. By forming the opening 40 on the front wall 41 on the opposite side (opposite side in the Y direction) from the offset position of the slatted portion 210, a structure can be created in which sand is collected on the far side as viewed from the pet entrance (opening 40), and the pet can be naturally guided to the far side.

[0041] The rear wall 42 is attached to the wall surface 33 of the lower container 3 and is formed to rise upward. The side wall 43 is attached to the wall surface 34 and is formed to rise upward. The side wall 44 is attached to the wall surface 35 and is formed to rise upward.

[0042] Next, an example of the excretion container 2 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the excretion container 2 included in the pet system toilet 1. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the excretion container 2. FIG. 4 is a front view of the excretion container 2. FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views of the excretion container 2. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of region VII shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 7, the excretion container 2 includes a bottom surface 21, a wall surface 22, a sand guide wall 23, and a sand disposal section 24. Note that the sand guide wall 23 and the sand disposal section 24 do not necessarily have to be provided. That is, the excretion container 2 may include all of the above-described components, or may include the bottom surface 21, the wall surface 22, and the sand guide wall 23 but not the sand disposal section 24, or may include the bottom surface 21, the wall surface 22, and the sand disposal section 24 but not the sand guide wall 23, or may include the bottom surface 21 and the wall surface 22 but not the sand guide wall 23 and the sand disposal section 24.

[0044] The wall surface 22 is a portion formed to rise upward from the periphery of the bottom surface portion 21. The wall surface 22 has a first side wall 221 and a second side wall 222 formed along the Y direction and facing each other, and a third side wall 223 and a fourth side wall 224 formed along the X direction and facing each other. The first side wall 221 is fitted to the upper end of the wall surface 32 (see FIG. 1) of the lower container 3. The second side wall 222 is fitted to the upper end of the wall surface 33 (see FIG. 1) of the lower container 3. The third side wall 223 is fitted to the upper end of the wall surface 34 (see FIG. 1) of the lower container 3. The fourth side wall 224 is fitted to the upper end of the wall surface 35 (see FIG. 1) of the lower container 3.

[0045] The bottom surface portion 21 is a plate-like member that is generally rectangular in plan view. The bottom surface portion 21 has a slat portion 210 and an inclined surface portion 211.

[0046] The slat portion 210 is a portion in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand (litter) is placed. In the slat portion 210, crosspieces are formed in a slat-like shape, and regular gaps (through holes 215) are formed between the crosspieces. As shown in FIG. 2 , the slat portion 210 is partitioned into a generally rectangular shape in a plan view, and has a first side 216 facing the first side wall 221, a second side 217 facing the second side wall 222, a third side 218 facing the third side wall 223, and a fourth side 219 facing the fourth side wall 224. The slat portion 210 is provided at a position offset in one direction in the Y direction from the center of the bottom surface portion 21; specifically, it is provided at a position offset in a direction approaching the fourth side wall 224. Details of the slat portion 210 will be described later.

[0047] The inclined surface portion 211 is a portion extending obliquely upward from the slat portion 210 toward the wall surface 22. The inclined surface portion 211 includes a first portion 211a extending obliquely upward from the first side 216 of the slat portion 210 toward the first side wall 221, a second portion 211b extending obliquely upward from the second side 217 toward the second side wall 222, a third portion 211c extending obliquely upward from the third side 218 toward the third side wall 223, and a fourth portion 211d extending obliquely upward from the fourth side 219 toward the fourth side wall 224. The first portion 211a is a inclined surface portion extending obliquely upward from the slat portion 210 toward a first guide wall 231 (described later). The third portion 211c is a inclined surface portion extending obliquely upward from the slat portion 210 toward a second guide wall 232 (described later). The bending strength of the first portion 211a to the fourth portion 211d may be equal to or less than the bending strength of the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232, which will be described later.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 2, linear first streaks 211w are formed at the boundary between the first portion 211a and the third portion 211c (at the connection between adjacent slopes). Linear second streaks 211x are formed at the boundary between the second portion 211b and the third portion 211c (at the connection between adjacent slopes). Linear third streaks 211y are formed at the boundary between the first portion 211a and the fourth portion 211d (at the connection between adjacent slopes). Linear fourth streaks 211z are formed at the boundary between the second portion 211b and the fourth portion 211d (at the connection between adjacent slopes). The second streaks 211x, the third streaks 211y, and the fourth streaks 211z generally extend toward the corners where the side walls join (the intersections of the side walls). That is, the second streaks 211x extend toward the location where the second side wall 222 and the third side wall 223 are connected, the third streaks 211y extend toward the location where the first side wall 221 and the fourth side wall 224 are connected, and the fourth streaks 211z extend toward the location where the second side wall 222 and the fourth side wall 224 are connected. In contrast, the first streaks 211w are formed so as to be shifted toward the first side wall 221 from the location where the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 are connected.

[0049] The sand guide wall 23 is a wall that guides sand (litter) to a predetermined position. "Guiding" here means guiding sand in a desired direction as it moves in response to an operation by the pet owner (such as tilting the excrement container 2) when discarding the sand in the excrement container 2. The sand guide wall 23 is formed along at least one of the first to fourth side walls 221 to 224, which serves as a reference wall. The sand guide wall 23 is formed along two adjacent side walls of the first to fourth side walls 221 to 224, the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 in this case, which serve as reference walls. The sand guide wall 23 has a first guide wall 231 formed to extend in the Y direction along the first side wall 221, which is one of the reference walls, and a second guide wall 232 formed to extend in the X direction along the third side wall 223, which is the other reference wall. The first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 are provided so as to sandwich the sand discarding section 24 therebetween.

[0050] The first guide wall 231 is formed continuously with the first side wall 221, which is a reference wall. The first guide wall 231 extends (continuously) along the first side wall 221 and in the Y direction to the fourth side wall 224 adjacent to the first side wall 221. The first guide wall 231 does not extend to the third side wall 223 adjacent to the first side wall 221, but extends to a point continuous with the sand discarding section 24 formed at the corner where the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 are continuous. With this configuration, the sand guided by the first guide wall 231 can be guided to the sand discarding section 24. That is, the first guide wall 231 guides the sand present in and around the slatted section 210 to the sand discarding section 24. The length of the first guide wall 231 along the first side wall 221 is not limited to the above and may be any length, for example, 1 / 6 or more of the length of the first side wall 221.

[0051] The first guide wall 231 has a rising portion 231a that is continuous with the first portion 211a and extends upward, and a top surface portion 231b that is continuous with the rising portion 231a and extends toward the first side wall 221, which is a reference wall, and forms the top surface of the first guide wall 231. The portion where the rising portion 231a and the top surface portion 231b are continuous is rounded. The rising portion 231a is provided at an angle at its tip in the Y direction that is continuous with the sand discarding portion 24 so as to approach the first side wall 221 as it approaches the sand discarding portion 24. This allows the sand guided by the first guide wall 231 to be smoothly guided to the sand discarding portion 24. The first guide wall 231 may intersect with the first streak 211w at its tip in the Y direction. The width of the top surface portion 231b, which is the length toward the first side wall 221 (length in the X direction), may be longer than the width of the first side wall 221 (length in the X direction).

[0052] The second guide wall 232 is formed continuously with the third side wall 223, which is a reference wall. The second guide wall 232 extends (continuously) along the third side wall 223 and extends in the X direction to the second side wall 222 adjacent to the third side wall 223. The second guide wall 232 does not extend to the first side wall 221 adjacent to the third side wall 223, but extends to a point continuous with the sand discarding section 24 formed at the corner where the third side wall 223 and the first side wall 221 are continuous. With this configuration, the sand guided by the second guide wall 232 can be guided to the sand discarding section 24. That is, the second guide wall 232 guides the sand present in and around the slatted section 210 to the sand discarding section 24. The length of the second guide wall 232 along the third side wall 223 is not limited to the above and may be any length, for example, 1 / 6 or more of the length of the third side wall 223.

[0053] The second guide wall 232 has a rising portion 232a that is continuous with the third portion 211c and extends upward, and a top surface portion 232b that is continuous with the rising portion 232a and extends toward the third side wall 223, which is the reference wall, and forms the top surface of the second guide wall 232. The portion where the rising portion 232a and the top surface portion 232b are continuous is rounded. The rising portion 232a is provided at an angle at its tip (front end) in the X direction that is continuous with the sand discarding portion 24, so as to approach the third side wall 223 as it approaches the sand discarding portion 24. This allows the sand guided by the second guide wall 232 to be smoothly guided to the sand discarding portion 24. The width of the top surface portion 232b, which is the length toward the third side wall 223 (length in the Y direction), may be longer than the width (length in the Y direction) of the third side wall 223.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, the height of the top surface 232b is lower than the height of the upper surface of the third side wall 223, which is the reference wall. The height of the top surface 232b may be equal to the height of the upper surface of the third side wall 223, which is the reference wall. The height of the top surface 232b is equal to or higher than the height of the surface of the slatted portion 210. The height of the top surface 232b may be equal to or higher than ¼D, where D is the height of the upper surface of the third side wall 223 relative to the surface of the slatted portion 210. The height of the top surface 232b relative to the portion of the third portion 211c continuous with the rising portion 232a may be equal to or higher than 2 mm and may be approximately 20 mm to 70 mm. The width (length in the Y direction) of the top surface 232b may be equal to or higher than 2 mm and may be approximately 20 mm to 50 mm.

[0055] The inclination angle of the top surface portion 232b toward the third side wall 223 may be 10° or more and 80° or less, relative to the horizontal direction. The inclination angle of the third portion 211c, which is an inclined surface, and the inclination angle of the top surface portion 232b, which is an inclined surface, may both be 10° or more, relative to the horizontal direction. The portion where the third portion 211c, which is an inclined surface, and the rising portion 232a are connected may form an obtuse angle. Specifically, the inclination angle of the rising portion 232a relative to the third portion 211c may be approximately 90° to 170°, or approximately 110° to 150°. The portion where the slat portion 210 and the third portion 211c are connected, the portion where the third portion 211c and the rising portion 232a are connected, and the portion where the rising portion 232a and the top surface portion 232b are connected may all form an obtuse angle. The height, width, and angle of the second guide wall 232 have been described with reference to Figure 8, but the height, width, and angle of the first guide wall 231 may also be similar to the height, width, and angle of the second guide wall 232.

[0056] Returning to FIG. 2, the sand discarding section 24 is a recess formed in a portion of the first to fourth side walls 221 to 224, and is a portion that collects sand (litter) and discharges it to the outside. The sand discarding section 24 is formed in a corner where two adjacent side walls among the first to fourth side walls 221 to 224 are continuous. In the configuration according to this embodiment, the sand discarding section 24 is formed in a corner where the adjacent first and third side walls 221 and 223 are continuous, as shown in FIG. 7. In this manner, the sand discarding section 24 may be formed in a corner on the opposite side in the Y direction from the direction in which the slatted section 210 is offset. In this case, the slatted section 210 is provided at a position offset in one direction in the Y direction from the center of the bottom surface section 21. When the area of ​​the bottom surface section 21 is divided into three equal parts in the Y direction, the slatted section 210 is provided in a different area from the sand discarding section 24. As a variant, the slat section 210 may be located at a position offset in one direction in the Y direction from the center of the bottom surface section 21, and may be located in the same area as the sand disposal section 24 when the area of ​​the bottom surface section 21 in the Y direction is divided into three equal parts.

[0057] The configuration of the sloped surface portion 211 associated with the sand discarding section 24 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 9. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section taken along line IX-IX in FIG. 7. The sloped surface portion 211 includes the third portion 211c (first sloped surface portion), the fifth portion 211e (second sloped surface portion), and the sixth portion 211f (third sloped surface portion) as components associated with the sand discarding section 24. As described above, the third portion 211c is continuous with the third side 218 of the slat portion 210 and extends obliquely upward toward the third side wall 223 and toward the sand discarding section 24. The portion of the third portion 211c that is continuous with the third side 218 of the slat portion 210 is formed at an obtuse angle with respect to the third side 218.

[0058] The fifth portion 211e is continuous with the end of the third portion 211c facing the sand discarding portion 24 and extends obliquely upward toward the sand discarding portion 24, with the portion continuous with the third portion 211c forming an obtuse angle with respect to the third portion 211c. The angle of inclination of the fifth portion 211e relative to the horizontal direction is greater than the angle of inclination of the third portion 211c.

[0059] The sixth portion 211f is continuous with the end of the fifth portion 211e facing the sand-discarding portion 24 and extends obliquely upward toward the sand-discarding portion 24, with the portion continuous with the fifth portion 211e forming an obtuse angle with respect to the fifth portion 211e. The angle of inclination of the sixth portion 211f relative to the horizontal direction is smaller than the angle of inclination of the fifth portion 211e.

[0060] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a working image of a sand disposal method for disposing of sand in the excretion container 2. In this sand disposal method, first, the excretion container 2 containing sand (not shown) is held (excretion container holding step). Next, the excretion container 2 is tilted so that the slatted section 210 and the sand around it are guided to a predetermined position along the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 (excretion container tilting step). In the excretion container tilting step, the excretion container 2 may be tilted so that the sand moves toward the sand disposal section 24. In the excretion container tilting step, the excretion container 2 may be tilted so that the sand is gathered toward the first side wall 221 along the first streaks 211w. Finally, the sand is discharged to the outside from a predetermined position (e.g., the sand disposal section 24) (excretion container discharging step). In the discharge process, the sand gathered toward the first side wall 221 may be discharged to the outside. When sand is discharged from the sand discarding section 24, as described above, the inclination angle of the fifth section 211e (second inclined surface section) is greater than the inclination angle of the third section 211c (first inclined surface section), so the sand that is vigorously guided by the third section 211c can be gradually decelerated by the fifth section 211e. This makes it possible to appropriately prevent the sand from suddenly flowing into the sand discarding section and clogging it, and to prevent the sand from scattering. Furthermore, because the inclination angle of the sixth section 211f (third inclined surface section) is smaller than the inclination angle of the fifth section 211e (second inclined surface section), the sand that has once been decelerated by the fifth section 211e can be accelerated again by the sixth section 211f, so that the sand can be quickly discharged from the sand discarding section 24 without stagnation.

[0061] Next, the details of the slat portion 210 will be described with reference to FIG. 2 and FIGS. 11 to 20. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section taken along line XI-XI in FIG. 2. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of region XII in FIG. 11. As shown in FIG. 2, in the slat portion 210, a plurality of crosspieces are formed in the X direction (short side direction) and the Y direction (longitudinal direction), with regular gaps (through holes 215) formed between the crosspieces. As is clear from the cross section line XI-XI in FIG. 2, FIG. 11 shows a plurality of through holes 215 and a plurality of crosspieces 250 arranged in the X direction (short side direction). The bottom surface portion 21 has the slat portion 210 having a plurality of through holes 215 arranged in the X direction and a plurality of crosspieces 250 respectively provided between adjacent through holes 215. In this case, each crosspiece 250 extends in the Y direction (longitudinal direction). 2, the bottom surface portion 21 has a slope portion 211 (guide portion) provided around the slat portion 210 so as to surround the slat portion 210. As shown in Fig. 11, in the X direction, a first portion 211a of the slope portion 211 is provided in front of the slat portion 210, and a second portion 211b of the slope portion 211 is provided behind the slat portion 210.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 12 , the first portion 211a of the inclined surface portion 211, which serves as a guide portion, is inclined downward toward the outermost through-hole 215 of the slat portion 210. When installed horizontally, the height of the lower end 211u of the first portion 211a is higher than the height of the surface 250a of the crosspiece 250 (specifically, the highest portion of the surface 250a). When set horizontally, there is no horizontal portion between the lower end 211u of the first portion 211a, which serves as a guide portion, and the outermost through-hole 215. The slat portion 210 further has an inclined portion 260 that is inclined downward from the lower end 211u of the first portion 211a, which serves as a guide portion, toward the outermost through-hole 215. The inclination angle of the inclined portion 260 is greater than the inclination angle of the first portion 211a, which serves as a guide portion.

[0063] 12, in a horizontally installed state, the height of the surfaces 250a of the multiple crosspieces 250 may be higher as the crosspieces 250 are arranged on the outer side in the X direction and lower as the crosspieces 250 are arranged on the inner side (center). The crosspieces 250 may have a convex shape at the center in the X direction.

[0064] The through-hole 215 is formed so that its shape widens downward in the Z direction. The through-hole 215 is formed so that its shape widens from at least a middle portion toward the bottom in the Z direction, and may be formed so that its shape widens from the top to the bottom as shown in FIG.

[0065] 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. 2. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of region XIV in FIG. 13. As is clear from section line XIII-XIII in FIG. 2, FIG. 13 shows a plurality of through holes 215 and a plurality of crosspieces 270 arranged in the Y direction (longitudinal direction). The bottom surface portion 21 has a slat portion 210 having a plurality of through holes 215 arranged in the Y direction and a plurality of crosspieces 270 provided between adjacent through holes 215. In this case, each crosspiece 270 extends in the X direction (transverse direction). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, the bottom surface portion 21 has an inclined surface portion 211 (guide portion) provided around the slat portion 210 so as to surround the slat portion 210. As shown in FIG. 13, in the Y direction, a third portion 211c of the sloped surface portion 211 is provided on one side of the slat portion 210, and a fourth portion 211d of the sloped surface portion 211 is provided on the other side of the slat portion 210.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 14 , the third portion 211c of the sloped surface portion 211, which serves as a guide portion, is inclined downward toward the outermost through-hole 215 of the slat portion 210. When installed horizontally, the height of the lower end 211v of the third portion 211c is higher than the height of the surface 270a of the crosspiece 270 (specifically, the highest portion of the surface 270a). When set horizontally, there is no horizontal portion between the lower end 211v of the third portion 211c, which serves as a guide portion, and the outermost through-hole 215. The slat portion 210 further has an inclined portion 280 that inclines downward from the lower end 211v of the third portion 211c, which serves as a guide portion, toward the outermost through-hole 215. The inclination angle of the inclined portion 280 is greater than the inclination angle of the third portion 211c, which serves as a guide portion. The crosspiece 270 may have a convex central portion in the Y direction.

[0067] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the suppression of urine pooling in the configuration according to this embodiment compared to a comparative example. In the configuration of the comparative example shown in FIG. 15(a), the tip of the guide portion 501, which slopes downward toward the through-hole 215, is continuous with the horizontal portion 502. In this case, urine UR that passes through the guide portion 501 accumulates in the horizontal portion 502, which can cause problems with urine pooling and urinary stones. In contrast, in the configuration according to this embodiment shown in FIG. 15(b), there is no horizontal portion between the lower end of the guide portion 300, which slopes downward toward the through-hole 215, and the through-hole 215. This prevents urine pooling and urinary stones from forming. Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 15(b) differs from the first portion 211a and the third portion 211c described above in that the lower end of the guide portion 300 is directly continuous with the through-hole 215.

[0068] FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of region XVI shown in FIG. 3, i.e., a partial enlarged view of the back (bottom) side of the slat unit 210. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 16, the slat unit 210 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the back side. The slat unit 210 has a crosspiece 200 in which a plurality of crosspieces 250 (first crosspieces) extending in the Y direction (longitudinal direction) and a plurality of crosspieces 270 extending in the X direction (transverse direction) are arranged in a lattice pattern, and a plurality of through holes 215 formed so as to be surrounded by the crosspieces 250, 270. Here, crosspieces 250E, which are crosspieces 250 at both ends in the X direction, are formed thinner in the X direction than the other crosspieces 250. Specifically, the X direction thickness of crosspieces 250E, which are crosspieces 250 at both ends in the X direction, may be approximately 0.1 to 0.9 times the X direction thickness of the other crosspieces 250. For example, the thickness in the X direction of the crosspieces 250E, which are the crosspieces 250 at both ends in the X direction, may be about 1.0 to 1.6 mm, and the thickness in the X direction of the other crosspieces 250 may be about 1.5 to 2.5 mm.

[0069] Furthermore, crosspieces 270E, which are crosspieces 270 at both ends in the Y direction, are formed to have a thinner thickness in the Y direction than the other crosspieces 270. Specifically, the thickness in the Y direction of crosspieces 270E, which are crosspieces 270 at both ends in the Y direction, may be approximately 0.1 to 0.9 times the thickness in the Y direction of the other crosspieces 270. For example, the thickness in the Y direction of crosspieces 270E, which are crosspieces 270 at both ends in the Y direction, may be approximately 1.0 to 1.6 mm, and the thickness in the Y direction of the other crosspieces 270 may be approximately 1.5 to 2.5 mm.

[0070] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the back surface of the slat unit 210 as viewed from above in the X direction. Fig. 18 is an end view of the slat unit 210 (as viewed from the X direction). As shown in Figs. 17 and 18, the back surface of the crosspiece 250 (first crosspiece) has different protrusion amounts in the Y direction between regions (the height varies depending on the region). The back surface of the crosspiece 250 is formed in an arch shape along the Y direction so that the protrusion amount increases as it approaches a first intersection 291 where the crosspiece 250 intersects with one of the crosspieces 270 (second crosspieces) and decreases as it moves away from the first intersection 291.

[0071] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the back surface side of the slat section 210 as seen from above in the Y direction. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section taken along line XX-XX shown in Fig. 19. As shown in Figs. 19 and 20, the back surface of the crosspiece 270 (second crosspiece) has different protrusion amounts in each region in the X direction (the height varies depending on the region). The back surface of the crosspiece 270 is formed in an arch shape along the X direction so that the protrusion amount increases as it approaches a second intersection 292 where the crosspiece 270 intersects with one of the crosspieces 250 (first crosspieces) and decreases as it moves away from the second intersection 292.

[0072] Next, the effects of the excreta container 2, the pet toilet system 1, and the sand disposal method according to this embodiment will be described.

[0073] The excretion container 2 of this embodiment is an excretion container that stores sand and receives urine excreted by pets, and includes a bottom surface portion 21 that is approximately rectangular in plan view, a first side wall 221 and a second side wall 222 that are opposed to each other and formed along the Y direction, a third side wall 223 and a fourth side wall 224 that are opposed to each other and formed along the X direction, and a sand guide wall 23 that guides sand to a predetermined position, and the sand guide wall 23 is formed along at least one of the first side wall 221 to the fourth side wall 224, which is used as a reference wall.

[0074] In the excrement container 2 according to this embodiment, a sand guide wall 23 is formed along at least one of the side walls (reference wall) to guide sand to a predetermined position. With this configuration, when disposing of sand, it is possible to properly guide (collect) the sand to a predetermined position. This prevents the sand from scattering in unintended places when disposing of sand, making it easy and proper to dispose of the sand.

[0075] The sand guide wall 23 may be formed continuously with the base wall. By forming the sand guide wall 23 in this manner, it is possible to prevent the pet excretion space from becoming small.

[0076] The sand guide wall 23 may be formed at a distance from the reference wall. By forming the sand guide wall 23 in this manner, the sand area, i.e., the area contaminated by urine, can be limited to an inner area spaced apart from the reference wall.

[0077] The sand guide wall 23 may extend along the base wall and reach the side wall adjacent to the base wall. By extending the sand guide wall 23 to the end of the base wall in this way, a wide range of sand can be appropriately guided to a predetermined position.

[0078] The sand guide wall 23 may have a first guide wall 231 formed along one of the first to fourth side walls 221 to 224, with two adjacent side walls serving as reference walls, and a second guide wall 232 formed along the other reference wall. According to this configuration, the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 can guide sand to a location where the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 are continuous, and it is possible to more effectively prevent sand from scattering in unintended places.

[0079] The excreta container 2 may further include a sand disposal unit 24, which is a recess formed in a corner where one reference wall and the other reference wall are continuous, and which discharges sand guided by the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 to the outside. According to this configuration, the sand guided by the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 is collected in the sand disposal unit 24, which is a recess formed in the corner, and is discharged from the sand disposal unit 24 to the outside. In this way, the sand is discharged in a unified manner from the sand disposal unit 24, which is a recess, so that the work can be performed accurately in a short time when disposing of sand in a specific targeted location, such as a trash can.

[0080] The bottom surface portion 21 has a slatted portion 210 in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand is placed, and an inclined surface portion 211 extending obliquely upward from the slatted portion 210 toward the sand guiding wall 23. The sand guiding wall 23 may have rising portions 231a, 232a that are continuous with the inclined surface portion 211 and extend upward, and top surface portions 231b, 232b that are continuous with the rising portions 231a, 232a and extend toward the reference wall, forming the top surface of the sand guiding wall 23. With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately form a wall portion that blocks sand from falling out when guiding the sand, and also to form a handle portion that can be used when guiding the sand.

[0081] The height of the top surfaces 231b, 232b may be lower than the height of the upper surface of the reference wall. This makes it possible to prevent sand from falling out even if it reaches the top surfaces 231b, 232b by the reference wall. Furthermore, by making the height of the top surfaces 231b, 232b higher than the upper surface of the reference wall, fingers placed on the top surfaces 231b, 232b can be hooked onto the reference wall, making it easier to hold.

[0082] The height of the top surface portions 231b and 232b may be the same as the height of the upper surface of the reference wall. With this configuration, it is possible to improve ease of manufacture by achieving a simple shape without any irregularities.

[0083] The height of the top surface portions 231b, 232b may be equal to or greater than the height of the surface of the slatted portion 210. This makes it possible to prevent the sand from jumping over the sand guiding wall 23 and flying out when the sand is guided by the sand guiding wall 23.

[0084] The height of the top surface portions 231b, 232b may be equal to or greater than ¼D, where D is the height of the upper surface of the reference wall relative to the surface of the slatted portion 210. This makes it possible to prevent the sand from jumping over the sand guiding wall 23 when guiding the sand by the sand guiding wall 23.

[0085] The width of the top surfaces 231b and 232b in the direction toward the reference wall may be longer than the width of the reference wall, thereby increasing the width of the handle and making it easier to grip the excrement container 2.

[0086] The portions where the rising portions 231a, 232a and the top surface portions 231b, 232b are connected may be rounded, which makes it easier to grip the top surface portions 231b, 232b and the rising portions 231a, 232a.

[0087] The inclination angle of the top surfaces 231b, 232b toward the reference wall with respect to the horizontal direction may be 10° or more and 80° or less. A tilt angle of 10° or more can prevent water from remaining on the top surfaces 231b, 232b when drying the excreta receptacle 2. A tilt angle of 80° or less can prevent water from remaining on the top surfaces 231b, 232b when drying the excreta receptacle 2 tilted 90° upright.

[0088] The portion where the sloped surface 211 and the rising portions 231a, 232a are continuous may form an obtuse angle. With this configuration, the rising portions 231a, 232a can be easily gripped.

[0089] The area where the slatted portion 210 and the sloped portion 211 are connected, the area where the sloped portion 211 and the rising portions 231a, 232a are connected, and the area where the rising portions 231a, 232a and the top surface portions 231b, 232b are connected may all form an obtuse angle. This configuration allows the sand to be properly guided and improves gripping ability.

[0090] The inclination angle of the slope 211 and the inclination angles of the top surfaces 231b, 232b may be 10° or more relative to the horizontal. With this configuration, water can be prevented from remaining when drying the excreta container 2.

[0091] The length of the sand guiding wall 23 along the reference wall may be 1 / 6 or more of the length of the reference wall. With this configuration, the sand can be appropriately guided.

[0092] The slatted portion 210 may be provided at a position offset in one longitudinal direction from the center of the bottom surface portion 21. With such a configuration, for example, it becomes possible to provide the slatted portion 210 on one side in the longitudinal direction and configure the opposite side for discarding sand, thereby enabling more appropriate disposal of sand.

[0093] The excretion container 2 of this embodiment is an excretion container that stores sand and receives urine excreted by pets, and is equipped with a bottom surface portion 21 that is approximately rectangular in plan view, a first side wall 221 and a second side wall 222 that are opposed to each other and formed along the longitudinal direction (Y direction) of the bottom surface portion 21, a third side wall 223 and a fourth side wall 224 that are opposed to each other and formed along the lateral direction (X direction), and a sand disposal portion 24 that is a recess formed in part of the first side wall 221 to the fourth side wall 224 and that discharges sand to the outside.

[0094] In the excrement container 2 according to this embodiment, a recess is formed in a portion of the side wall, and this recess functions as a sand disposal section 24 for discharging sand to the outside. With this configuration, sand guided along the side wall is collected in the recessed sand disposal section 24 and discharged to the outside from the sand disposal section 24. In this way, by discharging sand centrally from the recessed sand disposal section 24, it is possible to dispose of sand in a specific targeted location, such as a trash can, accurately and in a short time. As described above, the excrement container 2 according to this embodiment allows sand to be disposed of quickly and appropriately.

[0095] The sand discarding section 24 may be formed at a corner where two adjacent side walls, among the first side wall 221 to the fourth side wall 224, are continuous. With this configuration, by tilting the excrement container 2 so that the corner where the sand discarding section 24 is formed is facing downward, the sand guided by the two adjacent side walls can be easily collected in the sand discarding section 24. This allows the sand to be disposed of quickly and appropriately.

[0096] The bottom surface portion 21 has a slat portion 210 in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand is placed. The slat portion 210 is provided at a position offset in one direction in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) from the center of the bottom surface portion 21, and the sand discarding portion 24 may be formed at a corner in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) opposite to the direction in which the slat portion 210 is offset. With this configuration, the slat portion 210 and the sand discarding portion 24 are provided at a sufficient distance from each other. This increases the distance that the slat portion 210 and the sand around it travel to the sand discarding portion 24, preventing a large amount of sand from flowing into the sand discarding portion 24 all at once.

[0097] The excrement container 2 further includes a sand guide wall 23 formed along at least one of the first side wall 221 to the fourth side wall 224, which serves as a reference wall, and the bottom surface portion 21 has a slatted portion 210 in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand is placed, and the sand guide wall 23 may guide sand present in the slatted portion 210 and its surroundings to the sand discarding portion 24. With this configuration, when disposing of sand, the sand can be appropriately guided (collected) to the sand discarding portion 24. This prevents the sand from scattering in unintended places when disposing of the sand, making it easy and appropriate to discard the sand.

[0098] The bottom surface portion 21 may have a slat portion 210 in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand is placed, and a third portion 211c (first slope portion) that is continuous with the slat portion 210 and extends obliquely upward toward the sand discarding portion 24, with the portion that continues with the slat portion 210 being formed at an obtuse angle with respect to the slat portion 210. With this configuration, the sand can be guided forcefully to the sand discarding portion 24, and the sand can be disposed of quickly and appropriately.

[0099] The bottom surface portion 21 further includes a fifth portion 211e (second slope portion) that is continuous with the end of the third portion 211c (first slope portion) facing the sand discarding portion 24 and extends obliquely upward toward the sand discarding portion 24. The fifth portion 211e (second slope portion) is continuous with the third portion 211c (first slope portion) and is formed at an obtuse angle with respect to the third portion 211c. The slope angle of the fifth portion 211e may be greater than the slope angle of the third portion 211c relative to the horizontal direction. This configuration allows the sand that is vigorously guided by the third portion 211c (first slope portion) to be gradually decelerated by the fifth portion 211e (second slope portion). This appropriately prevents sand from flowing into the sand discarding portion 24 at once, causing clogging and scattering.

[0100] The bottom surface portion 21 further has a sixth portion 211f (third slope portion) that is continuous with the end of the fifth portion 211e (second slope portion) facing the sand discarding portion 24 and extends obliquely upward toward the sand discarding portion 24, and the portion that is continuous with the fifth portion 211e is formed at an obtuse angle with respect to the fifth portion 211e, and the slope angle of the sixth portion 211f may be smaller than the slope angle of the fifth portion 211e with respect to the horizontal direction. With this configuration, the sand that has been decelerated once by the fifth portion 211e can be accelerated again by the sixth portion 211f, and the sand can be quickly discharged from the sand discarding portion 24 without stagnation.

[0101] The bottom surface portion 21 further has a slat portion 210 in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand is placed, and the slat portion 210 is provided at a position offset in one direction in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) from the center of the bottom surface portion 21, and may be provided in the same area as the sand discarding portion 24 when the area of ​​the bottom surface portion 21 is divided into three equal parts in the Y direction. With this configuration, the distance from the slat portion 210 to the sand discarding portion 24 is short, so that sand can be discarded quickly.

[0102] The bottom surface portion 21 further has a slat portion 210 in which a plurality of through holes 215 are formed and in which sand is placed, and the slat portion 210 is provided at a position offset in one direction in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) from the center of the bottom surface portion 21, and may be provided in an area different from the sand discarding portion 24 when the area of ​​the bottom surface portion 21 is divided into three equal parts in the Y direction. With this configuration, the distance that the slat portion 210 and the sand around it travel to the sand discarding portion 24 can be increased, and it is possible to prevent a large amount of sand from flowing into the sand discarding portion 24 all at once.

[0103] The excretion container 2 according to this embodiment is an excretion container that stores sand and receives urine excreted by pets, and includes a bottom surface portion 21 that is generally rectangular in plan view, a first side wall 221 and a second side wall 222 that are formed along the longitudinal direction (Y direction) of the bottom surface portion 21 and that face each other, and a third side wall 223 and a fourth side wall 224 that are formed along the lateral direction (X direction) and that face each other, and the bottom surface portion 21 has a plurality of through holes 215 formed therein and sand is placed therein, and includes a slat portion 210 that is generally rectangular in plan view and that is partitioned by a first side 216 that faces the first side wall 221, a second side 217 that faces the second side wall 222, a third side 218 that faces the third side wall 223, and a fourth side 219 that faces the fourth side wall 224, and a slat portion 210 ... The insulating film 211 has a first portion 211a extending diagonally upward, a second portion 211b extending diagonally upward from the second side 217 toward the second side wall 222, a third portion 211c extending diagonally upward from the third side 218 toward the third side wall 223, and having a straight first streak 211w formed at the boundary with the first portion 211a and a straight second streak 211x formed at the boundary with the second portion 211b, and a fourth portion 211d extending diagonally upward from the fourth side 219 toward the fourth side wall 224, and having a straight third streak 211y formed at the boundary with the first portion 211a and a straight fourth streak 211z formed at the boundary with the second portion 211b, and the first streak 211w may be formed offset toward the first side wall 221 from the point where the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 are continuous.

[0104] In the excrement container 2 according to this embodiment, the first ribs 211w are formed so as to be offset toward the first side wall 221, which is the longer side. When disposing of sand in an excrement container 2 having a bottom surface 21 that is generally rectangular in plan view, it is conceivable to hold the longer side and tilt the excrement container 2 so as to push the sand toward the longer side. In this regard, because the first ribs 211w are formed so as to be offset toward the first side wall 221, which is the longer side, the sand can be easily and appropriately pushed toward the first side wall 221, which is the longer side, along the first ribs 211w. This allows for easy and appropriate disposal of sand.

[0105] The slat portion 210 may be provided at a position shifted in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) from the center of the bottom surface portion 21 toward the fourth side wall 224. By forming the first ridges 211w long, the sand around the slat portion 210 can be more appropriately (with sufficient area and time) moved toward the first side wall 221, which is the long side.

[0106] The excreta container 2 may further include a first guide wall 231 formed along the first side wall 221 and intersecting the first streak 211w at its tip. With this configuration, the sand guided along the first streak 211w can be appropriately guided by the first guide wall 231. This prevents the sand from scattering in unintended places when the sand is disposed of, making it easy and appropriate to dispose of the sand.

[0107] The excrement container 2 may further include a second guide wall 232 formed along the third side wall 223, and the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 may be arranged to sandwich the sand disposal section 24. With this configuration, the sand guided by the first guide wall 231 and the second guide wall 232 is collected in the sand disposal section 24, which is a recess formed in the corner, and is discharged from the sand disposal section 24 to the outside. In this way, the sand is discharged in a unified manner from the sand disposal section 24, which is a recess, so that the sand can be disposed of accurately in a short time when disposing of it in a specific targeted location, such as a trash can.

[0108] The bending strength of the first portion 211a to the fourth portion 211d may be equal to or less than the bending strength of the first guide wall 231. With this configuration, the excreta container can be made more flexible.

[0109] The excretion container 2 according to this embodiment is an excretion container having a bottom surface 21 that is approximately rectangular in plan view and that receives urine excreted by pets. The bottom surface 21 has a slatted portion 210 having a plurality of through holes 215 aligned in the short side direction (X direction) and a plurality of crosspieces 250 provided between adjacent through holes 215, and a first portion 211a and a second portion 211b that function as guide portions provided around the slatted portion 210 so as to surround the slatted portion 210. The first portion 211a and the second portion 211b are inclined downward toward the outermost through hole 215 in the X direction of the slatted portion 210, and when placed horizontally, the height of the lower ends 211u of the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b is higher than the height of the surfaces 250a of the crosspieces 250.

[0110] In the excretion container 2 according to this embodiment, the height of the lower ends 211u of the first and second portions 211a and 211b, which function as guide portions inclined downward toward the through-holes 215 at the outermost ends of the slatted portion 210, is configured to be higher than the height of the surfaces 250a of the crosspieces 250 of the slatted portion 210. With this configuration, because the first and second portions 211a and 211b are inclined, urine that has flowed down the first and second portions 211a and 211b easily reaches the through-holes 215 at the outermost ends. Furthermore, because the height of the lower ends 211u of the first and second portions 211a and 211b is higher than the height of the surfaces 250a of the crosspieces 250, urine that has flowed down the first and second portions 211a and 211b can appropriately reach the through-holes 215. As described above, the excretion container 2 according to this embodiment can appropriately guide urine to the through-holes 215, thereby preventing urine from pooling and suppressing urine odor. Furthermore, the excretion container 2 of this embodiment can suppress the formation of urinary stones caused by urine accumulation. By suppressing the formation of urinary stones, it is possible to prevent the appearance from being deteriorated due to the formation of urinary stones and reduce the burden of removing the urinary stones.

[0111] In a state where the container is installed horizontally, there does not need to be a horizontal portion between the lower ends 211u of the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b and the outermost through-holes 215. With this configuration, there is no portion (horizontal portion) where urine that has passed through the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b accumulates, so that it is possible to more appropriately prevent urine pooling and the formation of urinary stones caused by urine pooling.

[0112] The slatted portion 210 further has an inclined portion 260 that is inclined downward from the lower end 211u of the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b toward the outermost through-hole 215, and the inclination angle of the inclined portion 260 may be larger than the inclination angle of the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b. With this configuration, urine that has passed through the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b is further accelerated by the inclined portion 260, which has a larger inclination angle, before reaching the through-hole 215, thereby more appropriately suppressing the formation of urine pools and urinary stones caused by urine pools.

[0113] The lower ends 211u of the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b may be continuous with the outermost through-hole 215. By directly connecting the lower ends 211u of the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b to the through-hole 215, urine can be sent from the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b to the through-hole 215 without an intervening portion where urine can accumulate. This makes it possible to more appropriately prevent urine accumulation and the formation of urinary stones due to urine accumulation.

[0114] In a horizontally installed state, the height of the surfaces 250a of the multiple crosspieces 250 may be higher for the crosspieces 250 located on the outer side in the short-side direction (X direction) and lower for the crosspieces 250 located in the center in the X direction. With this configuration, the outer crosspieces 250 closer to the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b are higher and the inner crosspieces 250 farther from the first portion 211a and the second portion 211b are lower, so that urine that reaches the inside can reliably reach the through-hole 215. In other words, the occurrence of urine pooling and the formation of urinary stones due to urine pooling can be more appropriately suppressed.

[0115] The crosspiece 250 may have a convex shape at the center in the short-side direction (X direction). This configuration improves urine drainage at the crosspiece 250, thereby more appropriately suppressing the occurrence of urine pooling and the formation of urinary stones caused by urine pooling.

[0116] The through-hole 215 may be formed so that the hole shape widens from the middle to the bottom in the vertical direction. With this configuration, the crosspiece 250 can be more efficiently drained of urine, thereby more appropriately suppressing the occurrence of urine pooling and the formation of urinary stones caused by urine pooling.

[0117] The height of the rear surface of the crosspiece 250 may vary depending on the region. With this configuration, urine that reaches the rear surface of the crosspiece 250 is more easily drained, thereby more appropriately suppressing the formation of urine pools and urinary stones caused by urine pools.

[0118] The excretion container 2 according to this embodiment is an excretion container having a bottom surface 21 for receiving urine excreted by a pet, and the bottom surface 21 has a slat portion 210 that is approximately rectangular when viewed from the back side, and the slat portion 210 has a slat portion 200 in which a plurality of slats 250 (first slats) extending in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) and a plurality of slats 270 (second slats) extending in the lateral direction (X direction) are arranged in a lattice pattern, and a plurality of through holes 215 formed so as to be surrounded by each slat 250, 270, and the slats 250E at both ends in the lateral direction (X direction) may be formed to be thinner in the X direction than the other slats 250.

[0119] In the excretion container 2 according to this embodiment, the thickness of the crosspieces 250E at both ends in the X direction of the slatted portion 210 is thinner than that of the other crosspieces 250. The crosspieces 250 other than those at both ends in the X direction are adjacent to the adjacent crosspieces 250 on both sides via the crosspieces 270, which facilitates urine collection and makes it easier for urine that has reached a certain weight to fall. On the other hand, the crosspieces 250E at both ends in the X direction are adjacent to only one crosspiece 250, which makes it difficult for urine to collect. This makes it easier for urine to pool and form urinary stones. In this regard, the crosspieces 250E at both ends in the X direction are thinner than the other crosspieces 250, which facilitates urine to fall. Therefore, urine can be appropriately caused to fall even on the crosspieces 250E at both ends in the X direction, where urine is relatively difficult to collect. This appropriately prevents urine from pooling and forming urinary stones at the crosspieces 250E at both ends in the X direction.

[0120] The crosspieces 270E at both ends in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) may be formed to be thinner in the Y direction than the other crosspieces 270. With this configuration, the crosspieces 270E at both ends in the Y direction are thinner than the other crosspieces 270, which makes it easier for urine to fall, and therefore urine can fall appropriately even on the crosspieces 270 at both ends in the Y direction where urine is relatively difficult to collect. This makes it possible to appropriately prevent urine from pooling at the crosspieces 270 at both ends in the Y direction and causing urinary stones.

[0121] The rear surface of the crosspiece 250 may have different protrusion amounts in the Y direction between the respective regions. In this way, by having the protrusion amounts of the rear surface of the crosspiece 250 differ between the respective regions in the Y direction, urine is collected in the areas with larger protrusion amounts, which encourages the urine to fall, and appropriately suppresses the formation of urinary stones.

[0122] The back surface of the crosspiece 250 may be formed in an arch shape along the Y direction so that the amount of protrusion increases as it approaches a first intersection 291 where the crosspiece 250 intersects with one of the crosspieces 270, and decreases as it moves away from the first intersection 291. In this way, by increasing the amount of protrusion at the intersection where urine is particularly likely to collect, it is possible to more appropriately encourage urine to fall and appropriately prevent the formation of urinary stones.

[0123] The rear surface of the crosspiece 270 may have different protrusion amounts in the X direction between the respective regions. In this way, by having the protrusion amounts of the rear surface of the crosspiece 270 differ between the respective regions in the X direction, urine is collected in the areas with larger protrusion amounts, which encourages urine to fall, and can appropriately suppress the formation of urinary stones.

[0124] The back surface of the crosspiece 270 may be formed in an arch shape along the X direction so that the amount of protrusion increases as it approaches a second intersection 292 where the crosspiece 270 intersects with one of the crosspieces 250, and decreases as it moves away from the second intersection 292. In this way, by increasing the amount of protrusion at the intersection where urine is particularly likely to collect, it is possible to more appropriately encourage urine to fall and appropriately prevent the formation of urinary stones.

[0125] The pet toilet system 1 according to this embodiment includes the excreta container 2 described above, a tray 5 that is placed below the excreta container 2 and contains an absorbent sheet that absorbs liquid that has permeated the excreta container 2, a lower container 3 that holds the tray 5 and defines a lower space between it and the excreta container 2, and an upper container 4 that is placed above the excreta container 2 and defines an upper space between it and the excreta container 2. This configuration allows for easy and appropriate disposal of sand in the pet toilet system 1.

[0126] The sand disposal method according to this embodiment includes the steps of holding the excretion container 2 containing sand, tilting the excretion container 2 so that the sand is guided to a predetermined position along the sand guide wall 23, and discharging the sand from the predetermined position to the outside. This sand disposal method allows the sand to be appropriately guided (collected) to a predetermined position when discarding the sand. This prevents the sand from scattering in unintended places when discarding the sand, making it easy and appropriate to discard the sand.

[0127] The sand disposal method according to this embodiment includes the steps of holding the excretion container 2 containing sand, tilting the excretion container 2 so that the sand moves toward the sand disposal unit 24, and discharging the sand from the sand disposal unit 24. According to this sand disposal method, sand is discharged centrally from the recessed sand disposal unit 24, allowing for accurate disposal of sand in a specific target location, such as a trash can, in a short period of time. As described above, the sand disposal method according to this embodiment allows for quick and appropriate disposal of sand.

[0128] The sand disposal method according to this embodiment includes the steps of holding the excretion container 2 containing sand, tilting the excretion container 2 so that the sand is pushed toward the first side wall 221 along the first ribs 211w, and discharging the sand pushed toward the first side wall 221 to the outside. This sand disposal method allows for easy and appropriate disposal of sand.

[0129] The present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0130] For example, the angles of the sloped portions, rising portions, and top surface portions that make up the sand guide wall can take various patterns as shown in Figure 21. Figure 21(a) assumes the use of hardening sand, for example, and employs a horizontal portion 601 instead of the sloped portions, with rising portions 602 provided perpendicularly from the horizontal portion 601, and top surface portion 603 provided from rising portion 602 at an angle of, for example, 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction. In Figure 21(b), sloped portion 604 is provided at an inclination angle of 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction, rising portion 605 is provided at an inclination angle of 90° or more (for example, 100°) with respect to sloped portion 604, and top surface portion 606 is provided from rising portion 605 at an angle of, for example, 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction. 21(c), inclined surface portion 607 is provided at an inclination angle of 80° with respect to the horizontal direction, rising portion 608 is provided in the vertical direction from inclined surface portion 607, and top surface portion 609 is provided from rising portion 608 at an angle of, for example, 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction. In FIG. 21(d), inclined surface portion 610 is provided at an inclination angle of 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction, rising portion 611 is provided at an inclination angle of 110° with respect to inclined surface portion 610, and top surface portion 612 is provided from rising portion 611 at an angle of, for example, 10° or more with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0131] 22 to 24, the sand guide wall may be formed at a distance from the reference wall. By forming the sand guide wall in this manner, the sand area, i.e., the area contaminated by urine, can be limited to an inner area spaced apart from the reference wall. In FIG. 22, a first guide wall 731 is provided at a distance from the first side wall 221, which is the reference wall, and a second guide wall 732 is provided at a distance from the third side wall 223, which is the reference wall. Both the first guide wall 731 and the second guide wall 732 are provided linearly so as to approach the side wall (the first side wall 221 or the third side wall 223) as they approach the corner where the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 intersect. In FIG. 23, a first guide wall 741 is provided at a distance from the first side wall 221, which is the reference wall, and a second guide wall 742 is provided at a distance from the third side wall 223, which is the reference wall. Both the first guide wall 741 and the second guide wall 742 are curved (so that the R becomes steeper) so as to approach the side wall (first side wall 221 or third side wall 223) as they approach the corner where the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 intersect. In FIG. 24 , the first guide wall 751 is provided at a distance from the first side wall 221, which is the reference wall, and the second guide wall 732 is provided at a distance from the third side wall 223, which is the reference wall. The second guide wall 732 has the same configuration as in FIG. 23 above. The first guide wall 751 is provided linearly so as to move away from the first side wall 221 as it approaches the corner where the first side wall 221 and the third side wall 223 intersect.

[0132] The height of the top surface of the sand guide wall may vary depending on the region. This allows the sand guide wall to have an appropriate height for each region. The height of the top surface may gradually decrease toward a predetermined position (e.g., a sand disposal area, etc.). This allows, for example, when tilting the excretion container to guide sand, to increase the height of the portion of the guide wall where sand first collects to prevent the sand from scattering to the outside, while decreasing the height of the portion of the guide wall near the area where the sand is finally discharged to the outside (the predetermined position) to prevent too much sand from collecting in the area. Figure 25 is a diagram schematically showing the change in height of the top surface of the sand guide wall. In the examples shown in Figures 25(a) to 25(c), the right side of the figure is the "predetermined position" (e.g., a sand disposal area), and the height of the top surface gradually decreases toward the predetermined position. In the example of Figure 25(a), the height of the top surface 801 decreases linearly toward the predetermined position. The top surface 802 in FIG. 25(b) and the top surface 803 in FIG. 25(c) decrease in height in a curved manner toward a predetermined position. The height of the top surface may also gradually increase toward a predetermined position (such as a sand disposal section). This configuration may be employed, for example, when the sand guide wall is provided in an inner area spaced apart from the reference wall. A low wall is preferable in the area where sand first collects, as it does not interfere with the pet's excretion space. Furthermore, by increasing the height of the wall toward the sand disposal section, it is possible to prevent the sand from spilling even when the sand accumulates and increases in height.

[0133] 26, cuts may be formed along each of the first streak 211w, second streak 211x, third streak 211y, and fourth streak 211z. This configuration allows for more appropriate guidance of sand along each streak.

[0134] 27, a plurality of grooves serving as folding starting points may be formed on the back surface of the bottom surface portion 21. This configuration can improve the ease of bending of the excreta container 2. Specifically, a back surface first crease 811w may be formed at a position corresponding to the back surface of the first crease 211w, a back surface second crease 811x may be formed at a position corresponding to the back surface of the second crease 211x, a back surface third crease 811y may be formed at a position corresponding to the back surface of the third crease 211y, and a back surface fourth crease 811z may be formed at a position corresponding to the back surface of the fourth crease 211z. In addition, cuts may be formed along each of the back surface first crease 811w to the back surface fourth crease 811z. This configuration can further improve the ease of bending of the excreta container 2.

[0135] FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating examples of notches on the front and back of the bottom surface portion 21. In the examples shown in FIGS. 28(a) to 28(d), notches are made only on the back surface. In the example shown in FIG. 28(d), the shape of the notches on the back surface is in the same direction as the desired folding direction on the front surface, making it extremely easy to bend. In the examples shown in FIGS. 28(e) to 28(h), notches are made on both the front and back surfaces. In the example shown in FIG. 28(h), the notches on the front and back are in the same direction, making it extremely easy to bend. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 1...Pet ​​system toilet, 2...Excrement container, 3...Lower container, 4...Upper container, 5...Tray, 21...Bottom portion, 23...Sand guide wall, 24...Sand disposal portion, 210...Slat portion, 211...Sloped portion (guide portion), 215...Through hole, 221...First side wall, 222...Second side wall, 223...Third side wall, 224...Fourth side wall, 231...First guide wall, 232...Second guide wall, 231a, 232a...Rising portion, 231b, 232b...Top surface portion.

Claims

1. An excrement container for storing sand and receiving urine excreted by a pet, A bottom surface portion that is generally rectangular in plan view; a first side wall and a second side wall that are opposed to each other and that are formed along a longitudinal direction of the bottom surface portion, and a third side wall and a fourth side wall that are opposed to each other and that are formed along a lateral direction of the bottom surface portion; a sand guide wall that guides the sand to a predetermined position; The sand guide wall is formed along at least one of the first side wall to the fourth side wall, which serves as a reference wall; The bottom surface portion has a slat portion in which a plurality of through holes are formed and in which the sand is arranged, The sand guide wall has a rising portion that is continuous with the bottom portion and extends upward, and a top surface portion that is continuous with the rising portion and extends toward the reference wall, forming the top surface of the sand guide wall, an excretion container.

2. The waste container according to claim 1 , wherein the sand guide wall is formed continuously with the reference wall.

3. The waste container according to claim 1 , wherein the sand guide wall is formed at a distance from the reference wall.

4. The waste receptacle of claim 1 , wherein the sand guide wall extends along the reference wall and extends to the side wall adjacent to the reference wall.

5. The excretion container according to claim 1, wherein the sand guide wall has a first guide wall formed along one of the first to fourth side walls, with two adjacent side walls serving as the reference walls, and a second guide wall formed along the other reference wall.

6. The excretion container according to claim 5, further comprising a sand disposal section, which is a recess formed at a corner where the one reference wall and the other reference wall are continuous, and which discharges the sand guided by the first guide wall and the second guide wall to the outside.

7. The waste container according to claim 1 , wherein the height of the top surface is lower than the height of the upper surface of the reference wall.

8. The waste container according to claim 1 , wherein the height of the top surface is the same as the height of the upper surface of the reference wall.

9. The excrement container according to claim 1 , wherein the height of the top surface is equal to or greater than the height of the surface of the slatted portion.

10. The excrement container according to claim 9, wherein the height of the top surface portion is equal to or greater than ¼D, where D is the height of the upper surface of the reference wall relative to the surface of the slatted portion.

11. The waste container according to claim 1 , wherein the height of the top surface varies depending on the region.

12. The waste container according to claim 11, wherein the height of the top surface portion gradually decreases toward the predetermined position.

13. The excrement container according to claim 1 , wherein a length of the top surface portion in a width direction toward the reference wall is longer than a length of the reference wall in the width direction.

14. The excrement container according to claim 1 , wherein the portion where the rising portion and the top surface portion are connected is rounded.

15. The excrement container according to claim 1 , wherein the inclination angle of the top surface portion toward the reference wall with respect to the horizontal direction is between 10° and 80°.

16. The excrement container according to claim 1 , wherein the length of the sand guide wall along the reference wall is at least 1 / 6 of the length of the reference wall.

17. The waste container according to claim 1 , wherein the slatted portion is provided at a position offset in one direction in the longitudinal direction from the center of the bottom surface portion.

18. The excretion container according to any one of claims 1 to 17; a tray disposed below the waste container and containing an absorbent sheet for absorbing liquid that has permeated the waste container; a lower container that holds the tray and defines a lower space between the tray and the excretion container; The pet toilet system includes an upper container disposed above the excretion container and defining an upper space between the upper container and the excretion container.

19. The waste container according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising: a step of holding the waste container containing sand; tilting the waste container so that sand is guided along the sand guide wall to the predetermined position; and a step of discharging the sand from the predetermined position to the outside.

Images