Container for waste or similar

Abstract

Container (1) for waste or similar, comprising: - a container body (2) with an entry mouth (3), said container body (2) comprising a bottom wall (2a) at the bottom which is surrounded by at least one lateral wall (2b) which superiorly delimits said entry mouth (3), - a lid (4) which is articulated to the container body (2) to close the entry mouth (3), - a handle (6) which is associated in an oscillating manner to the container body (2) at two opposite joints, and comprises at least three grasping zones (70', 70", 70"'), said three grasping zones comprising a central grasping zone (70') interposed between two lateral grasping zones (70", 70"'), and wherein each grasping zone (70', 70", 70"') comprises a corresponding enlarged cross-section and a corresponding wavy profile configured to accommodate the fingers of the hand of an operator and / or user, - one lower grip (20', 20", 20"') which is obtained externally on the bottom wall (2a) of the container body (2).

Description

[0001] CONTAINER FOR WASTE OR SIMILAR.

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a container for the collection of waste or similar. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] There are currently known waste containers, especially for waste sorting, which consist of a container body having an entry mouth at the top, which can be closed with a lid.

[0005] To facilitate the transport of such containers, the container body is normally associated with a handle which is hinged, to its longitudinal ends, to two zones opposite to each other of the container body, placed in proximity of the edge of the entry mouth.

[0006] Always at the longitudinal ends of the handle are also provided lid locking means, commonly called anti-stray, which are activated or deactivated by swinging the handle around its hinge axis, for thus avoiding accidental opening of the lid.

[0007] Such locking devices are typically made by means of a movable retaining member which is integrally fixed to the handle and which is rotatably mounted to the container body.

[0008] The well-known containers, although satisfactory in many aspects, do not facilitate the work of waste collectors who, in their daily collection activities, must lift and empty numerous waste containers.

[0009] In particular, a drawback of known containers is that the manual grip by an operator to lift and hold the container is particularly distant from the body, thus requiring intense biomechanical efforts to compensate for the leverage on the arms.

[0010] Another drawback of known containers is that the handle breaks easily, especially when the container is picked up and lifted repeatedly.

[0011] Furthermore, the handles of popular containers are particularly uncomfortable if held repeatedly and can generate localized pressure points, causing discomfort or pain when the container, with its contents, reaches a significant weight.

[0012] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The object of the invention is to propose a container for waste or similar which allows to overcome, at least in part, the drawbacks of the known solutions.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to improve the health and safety of waste collectors who empty waste containers.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to improve the daily collection activities carried out by specialized collection operators.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is highly ergonomic and that, in particular, allows for a reduction in the biomechanical overload of waste collectors who, in their daily activities, have to lift and empty a plurality of waste containers.

[0017] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is highly ergonomic, easy and quick to lift and empty, even in the case of repeated uses, including those wherein the container supports a significant load for the operator.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container wherein the handle can remain stably in a vertical upright position above the entry mouth.

[0019] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container wherein the handle can remain stably in a vertical upright position and, at the same time, allows a particularly gradual and soft tactile (haptic) perception in the oscillation of the handle from said vertical upright position.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to add additional functionality to waste containers.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that transmits information regarding its status (for example, whether the container is emptied or needs to be emptied).

[0022] Another object of the invention is to improve usability for users when placing waste inside the container.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is easy to use, both for users and for waste collectors specialized in collection.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that can be produced simply, quickly and at low cost.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is an improvement and / or alternative to traditional solutions.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container with an alternative characterization, both in functional and implementation terms, compared to traditional ones.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that can be mass- produced quickly and efficiently.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that allows for obtaining a pleasant overall aesthetic effect and that gives the observer the sensation of being in front of a high quality product, both aesthetically and functionally.

[0029] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is particularly reliable and safe.

[0030] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is robust and durable. Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container wherein the bag placed inside can be easily turned inside out without the risk that it could interfere with the means for locking the lid and / or the handle in the vertical position.

[0031] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is highly eco- friendly.

[0032] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that can be made, at least partially, with recycled materials.

[0033] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is mostly or completely recyclable.

[0034] Another object of the invention is to propose a waste container that is stackable and transportable.

[0035] Another object of the invention is to propose a covering element that is of high standards, particularly from a functional and ergonomic point of view, and at the same time of accessible cost, thus allowing the possibility of its diffusion on a large scale. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0036] All the objects mentioned herein, considered either individually or in any combination thereof, and others which will result from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a waste container or the like according to claim 1.

[0037] In particular, the present invention relates to a container for waste or similar, comprising:

[0038] - a container body with an entry mouth, the container body comprising a bottom wall at the bottom which is surrounded by at least one lateral wall which delimits the entry mouth at the top,

[0039] - a lid which is articulated to the container body to close the entry mouth,

[0040] - a handle which is associated in an oscillating manner to the container body at two opposing joints, and wherein the container comprises at least one lower grip which is obtained externally on the bottom wall of the container body, and wherein the handle comprises at least three grip zones, which include a central zone interposed between two lateral zones.

[0041] The present invention also relates to a container for waste or similar, comprising:

[0042] - a container body with an entry mouth, said container body comprising a bottom wall at the bottom which is surrounded by at least one lateral wall which delimits said entry mouth at the top,

[0043] - a lid that is articulated to the container body to close the entry mouth, - a handle that is associated in an oscillating manner with the container body at two opposing joints,

[0044] - locking means which are provided at or near at least one joint of the handle to the container body, which are activated / deactivated by oscillating the handle relative to the container body, and which are configured to lock, when activated, the handle relative to the container body in a condition wherein a central portion of said handle is located above the entry mouth of the container body, preferably to lock the handle in a condition wherein it is arranged above and perpendicular to the entry mouth of the container body, and therefore to the lid.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0046] The present invention is further clarified hereinafter in some of its preferred embodiments reported for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:

[0047] Figure 1A shows a first perspective view from above of the container according to the invention with the lid in the closed lowered condition and the handle in the upright vertical position,

[0048] Figure 1 B shows the container of Fig. 1A in a different perspective view from above,

[0049] Figure 1 C shows the container of Fig. 1A in a perspective view from below,

[0050] Figure 2 shows the container of Fig. 1A in an exploded perspective view,

[0051] Figure 3A shows a bottom view of the container according to the invention,

[0052] Figure 3B shows a top view of the container according to the invention with the lid and handle omitted,

[0053] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the handle of the container according to the invention,

[0054] Figure 4B shows a different perspective view of the handle of Fig. 4A,

[0055] Figure 4C shows a front view of the handle of Fig. 4A,

[0056] Figure 4D shows a top view of the handle of Fig. 4A,

[0057] Figure 4E shows a side view of the handle of Fig. 4A,

[0058] Figure 5A shows a top perspective view of the container body only, i.e. of the container according to the invention with the lid and handle omitted,

[0059] Figure 5B shows a side view of the container body of Fig. 5A,

[0060] Figure 5C shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 5A,

[0061] Figure 5D shows a detail of the V-V section of Fig. 5B,

[0062] Figure 5E shows a top perspective view of the detail in Fig. 5C, Figure 6A shows a front view of the handle of the container according to the invention,

[0063] Figure 6B shows section VI - VI of Fig. 6A,

[0064] Figure 6C shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 6B,

[0065] Figure 7A shows in a first perspective view from above the container according to the invention in a deactivated configuration of the locking means (corresponding to a configuration suitable for disposal) wherein the handle is lowered at the rear and wherein the lid, shown in the lowered condition, can be rotated at the rear and thus be raised with respect to the container body in order to dispose of the waste inside the container body itself,

[0066] Figure 7B shows the container in the configuration of Fig. 7A in a different perspective view,

[0067] Figure 7C shows a side view with a portion of the handle partially sectioned of the container in the configuration shown in Fig. 7A,

[0068] Figure 7D shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 7C,

[0069] Figure 7E shows an enlarged detail of section VII - VII of Fig. 7C,

[0070] Figure 8A shows in a first perspective view from above the container according to the invention in an activated configuration of the locking means (corresponding to a configuration suitable for delivery and collection by specialized operators) wherein the handle is stably erected in a vertical position above the entry mouth of the container body,

[0071] Figure 8B shows the container in the configuration of Fig. 8A in a different perspective view,

[0072] Figure 8C shows a side view, with a portion of the handle partially sectioned, of the container in the configuration of Fig. 8A,

[0073] Figure 8D shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 8C,

[0074] Figure 8E shows an enlarged detail of section VIII - VIII of Fig. 8C,

[0075] Figure 9A shows in a first perspective view from above the container according to the invention in a further activated configuration of the locking means (corresponding to an anti-stray closing configuration) wherein the handle is lowered at the front and wherein the lid, shown in the lowered condition, cannot be rotated rearwards and, therefore, in this way it cannot be raised with respect to the container body,

[0076] Figure 9B shows the container in the configuration of Fig. 9A in a different perspective view, Figure 9C shows a side view, with a portion of the handle partially sectioned, of the container in the configuration of Fig. 9A,

[0077] Figure 9D shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 9C,

[0078] Figure 9E shows an enlarged detail of section 1X1 - 1X1 of Fig. 9C,

[0079] Figure 10A shows a side view of a container body of an alternative embodiment of the container according to the invention,

[0080] Figure 10B shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 10A,

[0081] Figure 10C shows a detail of section X-X1 of Fig. 10A.

[0082] Figure 11A shows a front view of a handle, of an alternative embodiment of the container according to the invention, and which can be articulated at its ends to the container body of Fig. 10A,

[0083] Figure 11 B shows section XI - XI of Fig. 11 A,

[0084] Figure 12A shows a side view, with a portion of the handle partially sectioned, of an embodiment of the container according to the invention in a deactivated configuration of the locking means (corresponding to a configuration suitable for disposal) wherein the handle is lowered at the rear and wherein the lid, shown in the lowered condition, can be rotated at the rear and thus be raised with respect to the container body in order to dispose of the waste inside the container body itself,

[0085] Figure 12B shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 12A,

[0086] Figure 12C shows an enlarged detail of section XII - XII of Fig. 12A,

[0087] Figure 13A shows a side view, with a portion of the handle partially sectioned, of an embodiment of the container according to the invention in an activated configuration of the locking means (corresponding to a configuration suitable for delivery and collection by specialized operators) wherein the handle is stably erected in a vertical position above the entry mouth of the container body,

[0088] Figure 13B shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 13A,

[0089] Figure 13C shows an enlarged detail of section XI 11 - XI 11 of Fig. 13A,

[0090] Figure 14A shows a side view, with a portion of the handle partially sectioned, of an embodiment of the container according to the invention in a further activated configuration of the locking means (corresponding to an antistray closing configuration) wherein the handle is lowered at the front and wherein the lid, shown in the lowered condition, cannot be rotated rearwards and, therefore, in this way it cannot be raised with respect to the container body, Figure 14B shows an enlarged detail of Fig. 14A,

[0091] Figure 14C shows an enlarged detail of section XIV - XIV of Fig. 14A.

[0092] Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a construction variant of the container handle according to the invention,

[0093] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of another construction variant of the container handle according to the invention,

[0094] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a construction variant of the container body according to the invention.

[0095] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0096] As can be seen from the figures, the container for waste or similar, according to the invention, indicated as a whole with the reference number 1 , comprises a container body 2 which is provided at the top with an entry mouth 3.

[0097] Conveniently, the container 1 also comprises a lid 4 which is articulated to the container body 2 to close the entry mouth 3.

[0098] The container 1 also comprises a handle 6 which is associated in an oscillating manner to the container body 2 at two opposite joints.

[0099] The container body 2 comprises a bottom wall 2a which is surrounded by at least one lateral wall 2b which superiorly delimits said entry mouth 3. The bottom wall 2a faces the entry mouth 3 and is spaced from the latter by said at least one lateral wall 2b. Conveniently, the entry mouth 3 is delimited by the upper edge 3a of said at least one lateral wall 2b of the container body 2.

[0100] Preferably, the container body 2 can have the shape substantially of a rectangular parallelepiped or in any case of a truncated pyramid with the larger base facing upwards, wherein the lower face is defined by the bottom wall 2a, the four lateral faces are defined respectively by four lateral walls 2b (i.e. a rear wall 2b', a front wall 2b" and two side walls 2b'") and wherein the upper face is open thus defining said entry mouth 3.

[0101] Preferably, the shape of the container body 2 is truncated-pyramidal with a larger base (at which the entry mouth is defined) that is arranged upwards. Advantageously, this allows one container body to be stacked inside the other, thus facilitating transport, in particular by reducing the overall dimensions.

[0102] Appropriately, the container body 2 extends:

[0103] - in height along a direction X1 corresponding to the spacing direction of the entry mouth 3 with respect to the bottom wall 2a of the container body itself,

[0104] - in width along a direction Y1 perpendicular to the direction X1 , and - in depth along a Z1 direction perpendicular to both the X1 and Y1 directions.

[0105] Conveniently, the lid 4 is articulated to the container body 2 so that it can rotate with respect to the latter around a rotation axis 40 which extends parallel to the direction Y1.

[0106] Furthermore, for ease of description, with “front” area / part of the container 1 it is intended a zone / part which, along a direction parallel to Z1 , is furthest away or is the most distal to the joint of the lid 4 to the container body 2, while the “rear” zone / part of the container 1 means a zone / part which, along a direction parallel to Z1 , is closer to or in any case located at the joint of the lid 4 to the container body 2. In particular, the container body 2 may comprise a rear lateral wall 2b' which is positioned at, preferably lower, than the joint of the lid 4 to the container body 2 and which substantially faces, along a direction parallel to X1 , the front lateral wall 2b". Conveniently, the container body 2 comprises two side walls 2b'" which substantially face along a direction parallel to Y1.

[0107] Conveniently, the container 1 can be used by inserting a waste collection bag (not illustrated) inside the container body 2, which, with a portion thereof, can be turned outwards, along the edge 3a of the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, so as to be able to keep the mouth of the bag open. Conveniently, the container 1 can also be used without a bag or with a closed bag which is then inserted inside the container body 2.

[0108] Conveniently, the bottom wall 2a substantially extends mainly along the directions parallel to Y1 and Z1 , while each lateral wall 2b branches off from the bottom wall 2a extending in height substantially along a direction parallel to X1 or slightly inclined with respect to X1. Correspondingly, the entry mouth 3 substantially extends along directions parallel to Y1 and Z1.

[0109] Preferably, the bottom wall 2a has substantially the shape of a quadrilateral with right angles, more preferably it has substantially the shape of a square.

[0110] Preferably, the container body 2 comprises four lateral walls 2b, two of which face each other along a direction parallel to Y1 while the other two face each other along a direction parallel to Z1.

[0111] In particular, the lid 4 comprises a wall that substantially extends mainly along directions parallel to Y 1 and Z1 .

[0112] Preferably, the lid 4 is articulated to the container body 2 by means of an articulation joint which is configured so as to be able to make the lid 4 pass from a lowered condition of closure of the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, thus preventing access from the outside to said entry mouth 3, to a raised condition of opening, thus allowing access from the outside to said entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and vice versa. Preferably, the articulation joint is configured to allow rotation of the lid 4 with respect to the container body 2 around the axis of rotation which extends parallel to the direction Y1.

[0113] More preferably, the articulation joint is positioned externally with respect to the plan dimensions (i.e. along directions parallel to Y1 and Z1) of the lid 4 and the container body 2.

[0114] Preferably, the container body 2 comprises, at its rear upper edge, a grab 50. More preferably, the lid 4 is articulated to the container body 2 at the grab 50. For example, the grab 50 comprises two fins 53 fixed to (or in proximity to) the rear upper edge of the container body 2 and which, protruding rearwards towards the outside, support a grab body 54 (which is intended and configured to be gripped by the hand of a user / operator) so as to distance it from said rear upper edge and thus allow the insertion of the fingers of the user / operator who then grips the grab body; the lid 4 comprises two further protruding fins 55, each of which is configured to rotatably engage with a corresponding fin 53 fixed to the container body 2.

[0115] Preferably, the articulation joint of the lid 4 to the container body 2 can comprise a grab 50 which is associated with the container body 2, however - in a possible variant not illustrated in the figures - it could be associated with the lid 4.

[0116] Advantageously, the container 1 comprises at least one grip and / or grip zone that is configured to occupy most of the palm or fingers of a hand, and / or is provided with at least one seat shaped to receive a hand or a part thereof. Preferably, therefore, the grips and / or grip zones of the container 1 are portions shaped differently from the surrounding portions, thus improving the grip of the container with one or more hands by the operator and / or user.

[0117] The container 1 comprises at least one lower grip 20', 20" and / or 20"' which is obtained externally on the bottom wall 2a and, in particular, is obtained on the face of the bottom wall 2a facing outwards. Advantageously, therefore, said at least one lower grip 20', 20" and / or 20'" is integrated on the bottom of the container body 1.

[0118] Preferably, the container 1 comprises three lower grips, respectively 20', 20" and 20'", which are obtained externally on the bottom wall 2a. In more detail, at the rear zone of the bottom wall 2a, a central lower grip 20' is provided which is interposed between two lateral lower grips 20" and 20'".

[0119] Preferably, the central lower grip 20' comprises a depressed portion 21 of the bottom wall 2a, depressed portion 21 which goes inwards with respect to the remaining portion of the bottom wall 2a. More preferably, the depressed portion 21 recesses inward from the remaining portion of the bottom wall 2a (and is thus spaced from the ground) by approximately 20 - 40 mm, for example approximately 35 mm and this is advantageous as it prevents or reduces the accumulation of dirt in the central lower grip 20' when the container is placed on the ground, thus maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of said grip.

[0120] Preferably, the depressed portion 21 is obtained in a rear zone of the bottom wall 2a and is arranged substantially centrally along a direction parallel to Y1.

[0121] Preferably, the depressed portion 21 is delimited posteriorly by a rear small wall 22 which thus conveniently facilitates gripping. Preferably, the rear small wall 22 has a thickness of approximately 1 - 4 mm, more preferably approximately 1.5 - 2.5 mm, ideally approximately 1.7 - 2 mm. This configuration allows for an increase in the structural rigidity of the wall, improving the ability to withstand the loads transmitted during the grip and giving the user a perception of greater solidity and resistance.

[0122] Preferably, ribs 29 are provided on the small lateral walls of the depressed portion 21 , which are spaced apart from each other to accommodate the fingers of the operator or user. Preferably, the ribs are positioned at a distance from each other of about 10 - 30 mm, more preferably about 12 - 25 mm, ideally about 15 - 20 mm, and for example it can be about 17 mm.

[0123] Preferably, the depressed portion 21 has a width extension (i.e. along a direction parallel to Y1) that is greater than approximately 6 cm, for example it may be approximately 12 cm, to thus allow an easy grip by hand.

[0124] Preferably, each of the two lateral grips 20" and 20"' is defined by a corresponding rear rounded edge of the bottom wall 2a. In particular, the rear rounded edge is shaped to come into contact with the palm of the hand while the fingertips enter inside the depressed portion 21. Preferably, therefore, the point closest to the central grip 20' where each rear rounded edge joins the bottom wall 2a is at a distance from the central grip 20' itself of approximately 30 - 70 mm, more preferably approximately 35 - 60 mm, ideally approximately 40 - 55 mm, and for example may be approximately 50 mm. Advantageously, this facilitates a firmer and more comfortable grip, and at the same time allows for smoother and safer movements when lifting and emptying the container. In particular, the rounded configuration of the edges defining the lateral grips 20" and 20'" is configured to allow a comfortable support of the palm of the hand, without overloading the wrist and fingers, while the other hand manages the handle 6. Preferably, each of the two lateral grips 20" and 20'" protrudes lower than the bottom wall 2a. In more detail, suitably, the radius of curvature of the rear rounded edges can be smaller than that of an arch ideally tangent to all the bottom wall 2a and the rear lateral walls 2b' and the lateral side walls 2b'". In this way, the curve defined by the rounded edges is more pronounced and covers a greater circumferential angle to connect the aforementioned walls. Preferably, each rounded edge has a radius of curvature of approximately 20 - 50 mm, more preferably approximately 25 - 45 mm, ideally approximately 30 - 40 mm, and for example may be approximately 30 mm. In other words, the grip of a rounded edge thus shaped is substantially analogous to that of a tennis ball placed in the palm of the hand. Advantageously, this conformation of the lateral grips 20" and 20"' allows a complete rotation of the edge on the operator's hand, even on a plane substantially parallel to the bottom wall 2a, without generating pain or discomfort. Furthermore, the presence of the rounded edge allows a more pronounced tactile perception when the fingers are inserted into the central lower grip 20', transmitting a sensation of greater safety and stability of the grip. Additionally, the protrusion of the lateral grips 20" and 20'" acts as a support in the event of accidental slipping of the fingers from the central grip 20', providing a recovery grip and helping to reduce the risk of damage to the container 1 and / or injury to the operator. In this configuration, an enlargement of the grip angles of the lateral grips 20" and 20'" is also achieved, with a consequent improvement in the handling and overall comfort of the container.

[0125] Conveniently, the portions of the side lateral walls 2b'" and the rear lateral wall 2b' may be slightly recessed inwards (particularly with respect to the surrounding parts) at the rounded edges defined as the lateral grips 20" and 20'".

[0126] Conveniently, the portion of the rear lateral wall 2b' above the central grip 20' may be slightly recessed inwards (particularly in relation to the surrounding parts).

[0127] In particular, the central lower grip 20' defined by the depressed portion 21 and the two lateral grips 20" and 20'", which are defined by the rear rounded edges of the bottom wall 2a, allow to maximize the operational efficiency and ergonomics, in particular by facilitating the lifting and emptying of the container and also by reducing the effort. In more detail, this configuration of the bottom wall 2a with the lower grips 20', 20" and 20'" is particularly advantageous from an ergonomic point of view as it allows to significantly reduce the length of the lever arms, thus reducing the corresponding angular momentum, and therefore the effort required in the final phase of emptying the container and, at the same time, ensures that the operator can keep the container in close contact with his body; furthermore, at the same time, advantageously, the fact that the lateral grips 20" and 20'" are defined by corresponding rounded edges allows to eliminate the risk of scratches or injuries. Furthermore, the rounded shape of the lateral grips 20" and 20'" makes the emptying movement of the container 1 smoother, simplifying the operation and further reducing the effort required.

[0128] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment not illustrated in the figures, the container 1 may comprise only the central lower grip 20'. Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the container 1 may comprise only the lateral lower grips 20" and 20"'.

[0129] The handle 6 comprises at least three grasping zones and, in particular, a central grasping zone 70' which is interposed between two lateral grasping zones 70" and 70'". Preferably, each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'" extends longitudinally for a length of approximately 70 - 140 mm, more preferably approximately 80 - 130 mm, ideally approximately 90 - 120 mm (for example it can be approximately 90 mm), so that it can be grasped with the entire width of the hand.

[0130] Conveniently, each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'" comprises a corresponding wavy profile, for example with appropriate curvatures and bosses, which is configured to accommodate the fingers (at least two fingers) of the hand of an operator / user. Preferably, the valleys of the wavy profile define recesses for the fingers of an operator's hand, separated by the crests of the same wavy profile, promoting a firm and intuitive grip during the handling of the container 1. More preferably, each valley of the profile defines a recess for a corresponding finger of an operator's hand. Ideally, the crests of the wavy profile are at a distance from each other of about 20 - 40 mm, more preferably of about 25 - 35 mm, ideally of about 20 - 30 mm, and for example it can be of about 25 mm. Conveniently, the profiles of the respective grasping zones 70', 70" and 70'" can be configured to receive at least two fingers, preferably to receive all four fingers of the hand except the thumb, which is instead intended to be positioned on the opposite side of the corresponding grasping zone.

[0131] Advantageously, the profile of the grasping zones of the handle makes the grip intuitively repeatable and comfortable.

[0132] The handle 6 is shaped so as to comprise:

[0133] - two external lateral sections 60 which extend longitudinally along a direction parallel to a direction X2, said two external lateral sections 60 are parallel to each other and face along a direction parallel to Y2 which is perpendicular to X2,

[0134] - a central section 61 which is interposed between the two external lateral sections 60 and which extends longitudinally along a direction which is substantially parallel to Y2,

[0135] - two corner connecting sections 62 which are arranged on the two opposite sides of the central section 61 to connect the latter with the respective external lateral sections 60. In essence, the handle 6 has two external lateral sections 60 which are connected to the opposite sides of the central section 61 through respective corner connecting sections 62.

[0136] Preferably, the handle 6 is articulated (i.e. it is rotatably mounted) on the container body 2 at two opposite joints so as to make the handle oscillate around an articulation axis 64 which passes through said two joints. Conveniently, the articulation axis 64 extends parallel to the direction Y2. Conveniently, the direction Y2 corresponds to a substantially horizontal direction.

[0137] More preferably, the handle 6 comprises two longitudinal ends 6a, 6b - corresponding to the ends of the two external lateral sections 60 - which are articulated (i.e. rotatably mounted) at respective mutually opposite zones of the container body 2 (preferably in proximity to the entry mouth 3) so as to make the handle oscillate around the articulation axis 64.

[0138] Preferably, the handle 6 is configured so that, in the upright and vertical condition of the handle itself, the distance of its central section 61 from the bottom wall 2a of the container body 2 is approximately 60 - 70 cm, for example approximately 65 cm.

[0139] Preferably, the two external lateral sections 60 are substantially straight and, at the respective articulation ends 6a and 6b, are articulated respectively to two mutually opposite areas of the external surface of the container body 2, in particular to the external surface of the mutually facing side lateral walls 2b'" of the container body 2.

[0140] Preferably, the two corner connecting sections 62 are substantially curved. Preferably, the two corner connecting sections 62 are inclined with respect to the central section 61. Preferably, the two corner connecting sections 62 have a radius of curvature of approximately 40 - 100 mm, more preferably approximately 50 - 90 mm, ideally approximately 60 - 80 mm, and may for example be approximately 70 mm.

[0141] Preferably, the central grasping zone 70' is defined on the central section 61 of the handle 6, while each of the two lateral grasping zones 70" and 70'" is defined on a respective corner connection section 62.

[0142] Preferably, at each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'", the handle 6 has a substantially rounded cross-section, more preferably it is substantially circular. Preferably, at each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'", the handle 6 can have a crosssection (or thickness) of greater area than the cross-section (or thickness) of the external lateral sections 60. In essence, each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'" comprises a corresponding thickened cross-section and preferably has a substantially rounded shape. Preferably, at each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70"', the handle 6 has a crosssection such that it can be inscribed in a circle with a diameter of approximately 30 - 50 mm, more preferably approximately 40 - 45 mm, for example it may be approximately 44 - 45 mm.

[0143] Conveniently, each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'" comprises a corresponding enlarged cross-section. Preferably, each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'" has a larger cross-section than the remaining areas of the handle 6. Preferably, at each grasping zone 70', 70", 70'", the handle 6 comprises a cross-section wherein one or both dimensions are larger than the corresponding dimension of the cross-section of the external lateral sections 60 and / or of the sections interposed between the central grasping zone 70' and the lateral grasping zones 70" and 70'". Preferably, at each grasping zone 70', 70" and 70'", the handle has a cross-section wherein a first dimension S1 of said cross-section is between about 15 and 35 mm, more preferably between about 22 and 32 mm, and wherein the other dimension S2 (which is perpendicular to the first dimension S1) of said cross-section is between about 15 and 35 mm, more preferably between about 22 and 32 mm.

[0144] Advantageously, this allows for a more even distribution of pressure on the operator's palm and fingers, reducing or eliminating the sensation of cutting that can arise when lifting heavy loads or in the case of repeated grips with handles that are too thin or have sharp edges. Advantageously, the thickening of the cross-section of the handle 6 leads to an increase in the breaking load of the same, improving the durability and resistance of the container 1. In particular, this gives the handle adequate strength, preventing unwanted breakages in the case of repeated grips outside the dedicated grip zones.

[0145] Advantageously, therefore, the shape of the handle 6 is optimized to allow a comfortable and effective grasping of the handle itself not only in its central section 61 , but also at two respective corner connection sections 62 which are arranged laterally (and therefore are off-centre) with respect to the central section. In particular, the comfortable grasping of the handle 6 in a lateral or in any case off-centre position is particularly advantageous in the final phase of emptying the container 1 wherein the operator has to lift and tilt the container 1 to proceed with unloading the contents. The corner connection sections 62 which are equipped with respective grasping zones 70" and 70'", appropriately configured from an ergonomic point of view, allow a safe and natural support for the hands, thus allowing a uniform distribution of force and reducing the workload on the operator's wrist. Advantageously, the shape of the handle 6, with its rounded grasping zones 70', 70" and 70'" that adapt to the hand, ensures a secure and comfortable grip that facilitates the lifting and emptying movements of the container 1 , minimizing physical effort. Preferably, the enlarged cross-section of the grasping zones 70', 70" and 70"' allows for an enlargement of the contact surface between the handle and the user's fingers, in particular in the valleys of the wavy profile, which can thus accommodate larger sections of the fingers. At the same time, the wavy profile allows for an increase in the mechanical resistance of the handle; in particular, the crests of the wavy profile allow for an increase in the moment of inertia and, consequently, increases the resistance to bending, and furthermore the wavy profile allows for a better distribution of the loads, especially compared to a profile with a flat geometry.

[0146] Preferably, the handle 6 comprises - along its longitudinal extension that goes from one articulation end 6a to the other articulation end 6b - a plurality of cavities 65 that are open towards the outside and that extend inside the cross-section / thickness of the handle 6. Advantageously, this allows to increase the adherence in the grip of the handle 6, preventing slipping even in humid conditions or with sweaty hands, thus strengthening the feeling of control and safety in the use of the container 1. Advantageously, furthermore, the cavities 65 give the handle 6 greater elasticity, reducing the risk of breakage in the event of stress; in particular, the presence of the cavities 65 allows to increase the resistance to bending, to contain the weight and to obtain a handle structure characterized by greater stability.

[0147] Conveniently, in a possible and preferred embodiment, the handle 6 may comprise two faces substantially facing each other. Preferably, the handle 6 comprises on each of the two faces a plurality of cavities 65 which alternate, along the longitudinal extension of the handle itself, with closed / covered portions 66. More preferably, the cavities 65 of each face are open towards the outside, extend towards the inside of the cross-section of the handle 6 and are closed at the other face by a corresponding closed / covered portion 66. Conveniently, the cavities 65 may be provided with holes for the escape of rainwater or other liquids, thus avoiding their accumulation inside the cavities.

[0148] Advantageously, the three lower grips 20', 20" and 20'" on the bottom wall 2a and the three grasping zones 70', 70" and 70'" on the handle 6 work synergistically to allow for fluid movement and reduce physical effort during the emptying phase of the container 1 . In particular, the combination of the three lower grips 20', 20" and 20'" on the bottom wall 2a with the three grasping zones 70', 70" and 70'" on the handle 6 facilitate a balanced and ergonomic interaction with the container 1 , allowing operators (and, where necessary, users) to adopt a correct posture and minimize the risk of fatigue or injury, thus improving operational efficiency and comfort during the emptying process. In more detail, the combination of the three lower grips 20', 20" and 20"' obtained on the bottom wall 2a with the three grasping zones 70', 70" and 70'" provided on the handle 6 allow to reduce the distances between the container and the body, shorten the levers and thus reduce the biomechanical effort of the operator's musculoskeletal system.

[0149] The container 1 also comprises locking means 7, provided at or near at least one of the two joints of the handle 6 to the container body 2, and configured to lock the handle 6 with respect to the container body 2 in a condition wherein its central section 61 is located above the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and therefore above the lid 4, and preferably to lock the handle 6 in a condition wherein it is arranged upright and vertical, i.e. wherein it is substantially arranged above and perpendicularly with respect to the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and therefore with respect to the lid 4.

[0150] At at least one joint of the handle 6 on the container body 2, said locking means 7 are provided, which are preferably also configured to lock the lid 4 in the closed condition of the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, thus preventing the lifting of the lid 4 when they are activated.

[0151] In essence, preferably, the same locking means 7 are configured to removably lock the lid 4 in the closed condition and also to removably lock the handle 6 in a condition wherein it is arranged above and perpendicularly to the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and therefore to the lid 4.

[0152] Preferably, the locking means 7 are configured to assume:

[0153] - a deactivated configuration (see fig. 7A - 7E and fig. 12A - 12C) wherein the handle 6 is lowered with respect to the lid 4 and wherein the lid 4 can be lifted with respect to the container body 2,

[0154] - an activated configuration (see fig. 8A - 8E and fig. 13A - 13C) wherein the handle 6 is blocked above and perpendicular to the lid 4 and wherein, preferably, the lifting of the lid 4 with respect to the container body 2 is also blocked,

[0155] - a further activated configuration (see fig. 9A - 9E and fig. 14A - 14C) wherein the handle 6 is lowered with respect to the lid 4 and wherein the lifting of the lid 4 with respect to the container body 2 is blocked.

[0156] The locking means 7 can be activated / deactivated - and in particular they switch between said deactivated configuration, said activated configuration and said further activated configuration - by means of an oscillation of the handle 6 with respect to the container body 2, in particular by means of an oscillation around the articulation axis 64. Preferably (but not necessarily), removable locking means 7 can be provided at both longitudinal ends 6a, 6b of the handle 6, as shown in the embodiment illustrated in the figures.

[0157] Preferably, a space 8 is interposed between the locking means 7 and the container body 2, wherein the folded portion of the bag can be inserted. This space 8 can be created by providing, at the locking means 7, a recess 9 and a trough 10 of the edge 3a of the entry mouth 3 with respect to the position of the locking means 7 and with respect to the remaining part of the same edge 3a.

[0158] Preferably, the locking means 7 comprise a rotating member 15 which is integral with the handle 6 and which is rotatably mounted on the container body 2. Conveniently, this rotating member 15 supports, in particular, engagement means which are able to cooperate with a corresponding abutment portion 12 carried by the lid 4, to thus achieve the locking of the lid 4 in the closed condition of the entry mouth 3.

[0159] Preferably, the abutment portion 12 of the lid 4 can be made from a fin protruding laterally outwards with respect to the periphery of the lid 4.

[0160] Conveniently, the rotating member 15 of the handle 6 can be inserted at least partially inside a casing 13, which is preferably defined integrally with the container body 2. Advantageously, this allows to exclude contact between the turned-up portion of the bag and the rotating member 15 of the locking means 7, thus avoiding jamming of the locking means 7 or breakage of the bag.

[0161] Advantageously, the casing 13 can comprise a slot 14 at the top which defines a support or engagement seat for the corresponding abutment portion 12 of the lid 4, thus allowing not only the locking of the lid 4 by the locking means 7 but also ensuring the correct centering of the lid 4 in the lowered closed condition with respect to the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2.

[0162] Preferably, the rotating member 15 has a laminar extension and comprises a discoidal portion 15c with an appendix 15d. More preferably, the appendix 15d is defined by a tapered extension that extends radially outwards from the discoidal portion 15c. For example, the rotating member 15 has a shape substantially similar to that of a drop.

[0163] One face of the rotating member 15 is rotatably coupled, around its axis, to the container body 2, for example, by means of an axial pin 15a (which is preferably positioned at the centre of the discoidal portion 15c) which can be engaged in a rotation seat 15b, defined on the container body 2. On its opposite face, the rotating member 15 is fixed to the handle 6, preferably it is fixed to a corresponding longitudinal end 6a, 6b of the handle itself. Preferably, the casing 13 can extend to cover at least laterally the discoidal portion 15c of the rotating member 15. Advantageously, the protective casing 13 avoids any possible contact between the folded portion of the bag and the relative rotating members 15 of the handle 6, completely eliminating the risk of interference between the locking means 7 and the bag.

[0164] Preferably, the casing 13 comprises an external small wall 13a with a substantially circular extension, which externally surrounds the rotation seat 15b and is appropriately spaced radially from the latter. The external small wall 13a is interrupted at the slot 14, so as to allow the corresponding abutment portion 12 to enter the casing 13 when the lid 4 is placed in the closed condition. Preferably, the casing 13 may comprise an annular separation portion 13c which is interposed between the rotating member 15 and the space 8, to avoid the possibility of contact between the folded portion of the bag positioned in the space 8 and the part of the disk 15 facing the container body 2.

[0165] Preferably, around the rotation seat 15b defined on the container body 2, a further small wall 13b can be formed, for example of a trapezoidal shape, which is arranged inside the external small wall 13a. Advantageously, the external small wall 13a and the further small wall 13b extend outwards, with respect to the remaining surrounding surface, so as to define corresponding contact / contact zones for the internal face of the rotating member 15 when the axial pin 15a is inserted into the rotation seat 15b.

[0166] An engagement projection 16 is provided, on the face of the rotating member 15 facing the container body 2 and close to the periphery of the discoidal portion 15c, which, by means of a rotation of the handle 6, can be brought, with the lid 4 in the closed condition of the entry mouth 3, into a position superimposed to the corresponding abutment portion 12 of the lid 4, so as to thus lock the latter, preventing the possibility of it being lifted with respect to the container body 2.

[0167] Preferably, at least two different engagement projections 16 can be provided on the discoidal portion 15c of the rotating member 15, angularly spaced from each other around the axis of the rotating member 15, so as to obtain at least two distinct angular positions of the handle 6 wherein the abutment portion 12 of the lid 4 is blocked by the respective engagement projections 16.

[0168] Preferably, an engagement projection 16 of the rotating member 15 comprises a projection 16a which - when the projection itself is brought into a position superimposed on the abutment portion 12 of the lid 4 - is configured to engage in a corresponding notch which is obtained on said abutment portion 12 of the lid 4. The rotating member 15 of the handle 6 comprises a protrusion 80 which is configured to engage in a seat 30 which is formed in the container body 2 to thereby stably lock the handle 6 in a condition wherein its central portion 61 is located above the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and therefore above the lid 4, and preferably to lock the handle 6 in a condition wherein it is arranged upright and vertical, i.e. wherein it is arranged substantially above and perpendicular to the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and therefore to the lid 4.

[0169] Conveniently, the protrusion 80 can engage, at least in part, by interference and / or in a form fit and / or by interlocking and / or snapping into the seat 30 obtained in the container body 2.

[0170] Preferably, the engagement of the protrusion 80 in the seat 30 obtained in the container body 2 is an elastic mechanical engagement. In particular, the protrusion 80 can engage in the seat 30 obtained in the container body 2 following an elastic deformation. Preferably, said elastic deformation mainly or only affects the area of the container body 2 wherein the seat 30 is obtained and / or the seat itself.

[0171] Preferably, the seat 30 is obtained on the container body 2 in an area of the latter configured in such a way as to present an elastic yielding suitable for causing the deformation of said area and then stably engaging, following its elastic return, the protrusion 80 in the seat 30. In particular, during the movement of the handle 6 to cause the insertion of the protrusion 80 in the seat 30, it is the area surrounding said seat that (at least mainly) is initially subjected by the action of the protrusion itself to an elastic deformation; then, when the protrusion 80 enters entirely and is thus received in the seat 30, the corresponding area wherein said seat is obtained returns - thanks to its elasticity - to its original configuration thus stably engaging the protrusion 80 inside the seat 30.

[0172] More preferably, the elastic yielding of the area wherein the seat 30 is obtained is such that the tactile (haptic) perception of the engagement and disengagement of the protrusion 80 in / from the seat 30 is particularly gradual and soft, thus reducing the perception of a click. Advantageously, the elasticity of the seat 30 allows for more fluid movements of the handle and, consequently, of the operator who holds it, facilitating lifting and handling operations and helping to dampen the impulses transmitted to the operator's arms.

[0173] Preferably, the seat 30 for engaging the protrusion 80 of the rotating member 15 of the handle 6 is formed in the container body 2 below the rotation seat 15b.

[0174] Preferably, the seat 30 for engaging the protrusion 80 is configured (particularly in terms of shape and dimensions) to accommodate, at least partially, in a shape relationship the protrusion 80. Conveniently, the seat 30 may comprise a recess or nook with a concavity facing downwards or may comprise a hole, which may be blind or through, of a circular, oval or other geometric shape.

[0175] Conveniently, the seat 30 is obtained on the container body 2 in proximity of the hinge of the handle 6 to the container body 2 and, preferably, in proximity of the rotation seat 15b wherein the axial pin 15a of the rotating member 15 is rotatably engaged. More preferably, the seat 30 is positioned below the rotation seat 15b.

[0176] Conveniently, the protrusion 80 protrudes from the internal face of the rotating member 15, that is, it protrudes from the face of the latter that faces the container body 2. Conveniently, the protrusion 80 can be shaped in various ways.

[0177] Preferably, the protrusion 80 is arranged on the internal face of the rotating member 15 in a position that is substantially diametrically opposite (in particular considering the axial pin 15a as the centre) with respect to at least one engagement projection 16 which is configured for / is intended to block the lid 4 in the closed condition of the entry mouth 3. Preferably, the protrusion 80 is arranged on the internal face of the rotating member 15 in a position that is substantially diametrically opposed (in particular considering the axial pin 15a as the centre) with respect to the longitudinal extension direction, a direction that is parallel to X2, of the external lateral sections 60 of the handle 6. Preferably, at least one engagement projection 16, the axial pin 15a and the protrusion 80 are substantially aligned with each other along at least one direction parallel to the direction X2 corresponding to the longitudinal extension of the external lateral sections 60 of the handle 6. Advantageously, therefore, when the protrusion 80 is engaged in the seat 30, thus blocking the handle 6 in a substantially upright position above the entry mouth 3, at least one engagement projection 16 is superimposed on the abutment portion 2 of the lid 4 positioned on the entry mouth 3, thus preventing the lid 4 from lifting with respect to the container body 2.

[0178] Advantageously, the other engagement projection 16 is located in an angularly spaced position (in particular at an angle less than 180°) both with respect to the first engagement projection 16 and with respect to the protrusion 80, thus overlapping the abutment portion 12 of the lid 4 when the locking means are in said further activated configuration.

[0179] Conveniently, the protrusion 80 is positioned on the face of the rotating member 15 at the appendix 15d.

[0180] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the protrusion 80 may comprise a head 80' which is substantially rounded with a thinner oblong section. Conveniently, in such an embodiment, the seat 30 comprises a recess 30' facing downwards and shaped to accommodate the rounded head 80' of the protrusion 80. Conveniently, the recess 30' is obtained on the casing 13 and, in particular, on the external wall 13a of the casing. Preferably, in such a case, in the area of the external small wall 13a which has the recess 30' a cut 81 is also obtained to thus provide an appropriate elastic yielding suitable for allowing the elastic mechanical engagement of the rounded head 80' in said recess 30'. In particular, advantageously, the cut 81 makes the movement of the handle fluid and gradual during the engagement of the protrusion 80 in the recess 30'.

[0181] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the protrusion 80 may comprise a peg section 80" (or equivalent), for example of a substantially cylindrical shape. Conveniently, in this embodiment, the seat 30 comprises a hole 30" of a substantially circular shape which is shaped for the insertion of the peg section 80" of the protrusion 80. Conveniently, the hole 30" is obtained on a raised portion 82 which is arranged externally and below the casing 13. Preferably, in this case, the substantially curved shape of the raised portion 82 wherein the hole 30" is obtained provides an appropriate elastic yielding suitable for allowing the elastic mechanical engagement of the peg section 80" in said hole 30".

[0182] The use of the waste container according to the invention is as follows.

[0183] With the handle 6 positioned in such a way that the locking means 7 are in the deactivated configuration, i.e. wherein the engagement projections 16 are not located at the slots 14 (for example with the handle 6 rotated rearwards so that its central section 61 is substantially in contact with or in any case close to the rear lateral wall 2b' of the container body 2), the lid 4 can be lifted by the user to access the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2 and thus dispose of the waste inside the container body itself (preferably inside the bag which is inserted inside the container body 2 and has its upper portion turned towards the outside of the container body itself, astride the edge 3a of the entry mouth 3).

[0184] With the handle 6 always positioned so that the engagement projections 16 do not correspond to the slots 14, the lid 4 can be lowered into the closed condition by inserting its abutment portions 12 into the corresponding slots 14.

[0185] By rotating the handle 6, the locking means 7 can be brought into said additional activated condition, for example the handle can be rotated forwards so that its central portion 61 is substantially in contact with or in any case close to the front lateral wall 2b" of the container body 2. In particular, with this rotation of the handle 6, the first engagement projections 16 present on each of the rotating members 15 are brought at the slots 14, to obtain, thanks to the overlapping of the first engagement projections 16 on the abutment portions 12, the retention of the latter in the slots 14 and the consequent locking of the lid 4 in the lowered closed condition.

[0186] Furthermore, when the handle 6 is rotated so as to bring its central section 61 above the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, and therefore above the lid 4, and preferably so that the handle itself is arranged upright and vertical above the lid 4 which in the lowered condition closes the entry mouth 3 of the container body 2, the locking means 7 are brought into said activated configuration. In more detail, in this configuration, the protrusions 80 present on each of the rotating elements 15 engage - preferably elastically - inside the respective seats 30 obtained in the container body 2, thus blocking and stabilizing the handle 6 in this condition. Preferably, furthermore, in this condition, second (additional) engagement projections 16 of the rotating elements 15 are superimposed on the abutment portions 12 of the lid 4, thus retaining them inside the respective slots 14 obtained in the container body 2 with the consequent locking of the lid 4 in the lowered closed condition.

[0187] The locking means 7 ensure that, once positioned on the ground, the handle 6 of the container 1 remains in a vertical position, eliminating the need for additional interventions to keep it raised. This is advantageous as it allows the container 1 to be prepared for collection efficiently and safely. Advantageously, locking and stabilizing the handle 6 in a vertical upright position above the lid 4 facilitates the lifting and emptying of the container itself by specialized collection operators; in particular, this helps to reduce the biomechanical overload of the operator's musculoskeletal system, as it eliminates the need to bend or make unnatural wrist movements to grasp the handle itself.

[0188] Advantageously, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 15), the container 2 comprises reflective devices, preferably retroreflectors 90, which can be associated - preferably in a removable manner - with the central section 61 of the handle 6. Conveniently, the two opposite faces of the central section 61 of the handle 6 can be associated with two corresponding retroreflectors 90, which can preferably be different from each other (for example one white and the other red). Advantageously, this allows to significantly improve the visibility of the container 1 , in particular when the handle 6 is in an upright and vertical condition (this is useful in areas where collection takes place in conditions of reduced brightness, thus reducing the risk that some containers are not collected) and also establishes a visual code to indicate the emptying status of the container 1 , making it easier for operators and users to understand whether it has already been emptied or is still waiting; this allows operators, during the subsequent collection phase, to quickly identify any container not yet handled, thanks to the signalling of a retroreflector 90 (for example the red one), and intervene accordingly.

[0189] Optionally, in a possible embodiment, the reflective devices - in particular the retroreflectors - can also be mounted on the lateral walls of the container body.

[0190] Preferably, graphic elements - such as arrows 94 - may be provided on the lateral walls 2b of the container body 2, in particular in proximity of the handle 6, and / or on the handle itself, to substantially generate a visual guide that invites the vertical orientation of the handle itself.

[0191] Advantageously, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 17), housings 51 can be obtained in the grab 50, in a position visible during normal use of the container 1 , for the removable insertion of corresponding tiles 92. Conveniently, the various tiles 92 can be different from each other in terms of characters, symbols, colours or other aesthetic elements to thus allow, once inserted in the housings 51 , the customisation and identification of the container 1 , as well as to allow the transmission of messages from the user to the operators, and / or vice versa.

[0192] Advantageously, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 16), corresponding inserts 93 can be removably associated with the handle 6, for example by interlocking them. Conveniently, the various inserts 93 can be different from each other in terms of characters, symbols, colours or other distinctive aesthetic elements to thus allow, once associated with the handle 6, the customisation and identification of the container 1 , as well as to allow the transmission of messages from the user to the operators, and / or vice versa.

[0193] Preferably, the container body 2, the lid 4 and the handle 6 are made entirely of plastic, preferably they are made entirely of recycled plastic.

[0194] Preferably, the shape of the bottom wall 2a of the container body 2 of a first container 1 , in particular of the external / lower surface of said bottom wall, is such as to allow stable superposition on a lid 4 of another container 1. Conveniently, for this purpose, the shape of the bottom wall 2a of the container body 2 of a first container 1 , in particular of the external / lower surface of said bottom wall, is complementary to the shape of the lid 4, and in particular of the upper surface of said lid 4. Advantageously, this allows the superposition of two containers when the lid of the underlying container is in a lowered condition.

[0195] From what has been said it is clear that the container according to the invention is particularly advantageous and is able to fully fulfil the intended purposes.

[0196] All features of the solution that have been presented or illustrated here as advantageous, preferable, suitable or similar may be omitted or replaced by equivalent features. The features specifically mentioned in relation to general aspects or specific embodiments may also be present in other embodiments or replace other features of such embodiments. The present invention has been illustrated and described in some of its preferred embodiments, but it is understood that executive variations may be made to them in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention. The materials used and / or the dimensions and / or the conformations may be appropriately varied according to the needs. Furthermore, each detail may be replaced with other elements that are technically equivalent.

Claims

C L A I M S1 . Container (1 ) for waste or similar, comprising:- a container body (2) with an entry mouth (3), said container body (2) comprising a bottom wall (2a) at the bottom which is surrounded by at least one lateral wall (2b) which superiorly delimits said entry mouth (3),- a lid (4) which is articulated to the container body (2) to close the entry mouth (3),- a handle (6) which is associated in an oscillating manner to the container body (2) at two opposite joints, characterized in that:- said container (1 ) comprises at least one lower grip (20', 20", 20"') which is obtained externally on the bottom wall (2a) of the container body (2),- said handle (6) comprises at least three grasping zones (70', 70", 70'"), said three grasping zones comprising a central grasping zone (70') interposed between two lateral grasping zones (70", 70'"), and wherein each grasping zone (70', 70", 70'") comprises a corresponding enlarged cross-section and a corresponding wavy profile configured to accommodate the fingers of the hand of an operator and / or user.

2. Container according to claim 1 , comprising two lower grips (20", 20'") each defined by a corresponding rear rounded edge of the bottom wall (2a).

3. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising three lower grips (20', 20", 20'") obtained externally on the bottom wall (2a) of the container body (2) and at the rear area of said bottom wall (2a), said three lower grips comprising a central lower grip (20') which is interposed between two lateral lower grips (20", 20'").

4. Container according to the preceding claim, wherein said central lower grip (20') comprises a depressed portion (21) which goes inwards with respect to the remaining part of the bottom wall (2a).

5. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein:- the handle (6) is shaped so as to include two external lateral sections (60) which are connected to the opposite sides of a central section (61) through respective corner connecting sections (62),- the central grasping zone (70') is defined on the central section (61) of the handle (6), while each of the two lateral grasping zones (70", 70'") is defined on a respective corner connection section (62).

6. Container according to the preceding claim, wherein:- said two external lateral sections (60) extend longitudinally along a direction parallel to a direction X2, said two external lateral sections (60) are parallel to each other and face along a direction parallel to Y2 which is perpendicular to X2,- said central section (61) extends longitudinally along a direction parallel to Y2.

7. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each grasping zone (70', 70", 70"') of the handle (6) has a larger cross-section and a substantially rounded shape.

8. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (6) comprises, along its longitudinal extension that goes from an articulation end (6a) to another articulation end (6b) to the container body (2), a plurality of cavities (65) that are open towards the outside and that extend inside the cross-section of the handle (6).

9. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that:- the container body (2) comprises, at its rear upper edge, a grab (50),- the lid (4) is articulated to the container body (2) at the grab (50).

10. Container according to the preceding claim, wherein the grab (50) comprises two fins (53) and wherein the lid (4) comprises two further protruding fins (55), each of which is configured to rotatably engage a corresponding fin (53) fixed to the container body (2).

11. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said depressed portion (21) is delimited posteriorly by a rear small wall (22) to facilitate its grip.

12. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein ribs (29) spaced apart to receive the fingers of the operator or user are obtained on the lateral walls of said depressed portion (21).

13. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said depressed portion (21) has a width extension that is greater than approximately 6 cm.

14. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the rounded rear edge of the bottom wall (2a), which defines a corresponding lateral grip (20", 20'"), is shaped to come into contact with the palm of the hand while the fingertips enter inside the depressed portion (21).

15. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each of the two lateral grips (20", 20'") protrudes downwards from the bottom wall (2a).

16. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (6) is configured so that, in the upright and vertical condition of the handle itself, thedistance of its central section (61 ) from the bottom wall (2a) of the container body (2) is approximately 60 - 70 cm, preferably approximately 65 cm.

17. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each grasping zone (70', 70", 70"') of the handle (6) has a substantially rounded crosssection, preferably substantially circular.

18. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (6) comprises a plurality of cavities (65) which alternate, along the longitudinal extension of the handle itself, with closed / covered portions (66) and wherein said cavities (65) are open towards the outside, extend towards the inside of the crosssection of the handle (6) and are closed on the other face by a corresponding closed / covered portion (66).

19. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the shape of the bottom wall (2a) of the container body (2) of the container (1 ), in particular of the external / lower surface of said bottom wall (2a), is complementary to the shape of the lid (4), and in particular to the upper surface of said lid (4).

20. Container according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising locking means (7), provided at or near at least one joint of the handle (6) to the container body (2), configured to lock the handle (6) with respect to the container body (2) in a condition wherein a central section (61 ) of said handle (6) is located above the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), preferably to lock the handle (6) in a condition wherein it is arranged above and perpendicularly with respect to the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), and therefore with respect to the lid (4).21 . Container (1 ) for waste or similar, comprising:- a container body (2) with an entry mouth (3), said container body (2) comprising a bottom wall (2a) at the bottom which is surrounded by at least one lateral wall (2b) which superiorly delimits said entry mouth (3),- a lid (4) which is articulated to the container body (2) to close the entry mouth (3),- a handle (6) which is associated in an oscillating manner to the container body (2) at two opposite joints, and characterised in that it includes locking means (7) which:- are provided at or near at least one joint of the handle (6) to the container body (2),- can be activated / deactivated by oscillating the handle (6) with respect to the container body (2),- are configured to lock, when activated, the handle (6) with respect to the container body (2) in a condition wherein a central section (61 ) of said handle (6) is located above the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), preferably to lock the handle(6) in a condition wherein it is arranged above and perpendicularly with respect to the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), and therefore with respect to the lid (4).

22. Container according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein said locking means (7) can be activated / deactivated by oscillating the handle (6) with respect to the container body (2).

23. Container according to one or more of claims 20 to 22, wherein said locking means (7), provided at or near at least one joint of the handle (6) to the container body (2), are also configured to lock the lid (4) in the closed condition of the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), thus preventing the lifting of the lid (4) when activated.

24. Container according to one or more of claims 20 to 23, wherein said locking means(7) are configured to assume:- a deactivated configuration wherein the handle (6) is lowered with respect to the lid (4) and wherein the lid (4) can be lifted with respect to the container body (2),- an activated configuration wherein the handle (6) is blocked above and perpendicular to the lid (4) and wherein, preferably, the lifting of the lid (4) relative to the container body (2) is also blocked,- a further activated configuration wherein the handle (6) is lowered with respect to the lid (4) and wherein the lifting of the lid (4) with respect to the container body (2) is blocked.

25. Container according to one or more of claims 20 to 24, wherein:- the locking means (7) comprise a rotating member (15) which is integral with the handle (6) and which is rotatably mounted on the container body (2),- the rotating member (15) of the locking means (7) comprises a protrusion (80) which is configured to engage in a seat (30) which is obtained in the container body (2) to thus stably lock the handle (6) in said condition wherein a central section (61) of said handle (6) is located above the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), preferably to lock the handle (6) in a condition wherein it is arranged above and perpendicularly to the entry mouth (3) of the container body (2), and therefore to the lid (4).

26. Container according to the preceding claim, wherein the engagement of the protrusion (80) of the rotating member (15) in the seat (30) obtained in the container body (2) is an elastic mechanical engagement.

27. Container according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the seat (30) for the engagement of the protrusion (80) is configured to accommodate, at least partially, the protrusion (80) in a form fit.

28. Container according to one or more of claims 25 to 27, wherein:- said protrusion (80) comprises a head (80') which is substantially rounded with a thinner oblong portion,- said seat (30) comprises a recess (30') facing downwards and shaped to accommodate the rounded head (80') of the protrusion (80).

29. Container according to one or more of claims 25 to 27, wherein:- said protrusion (80) includes a peg section (80"),- said seat (30) comprises a hole (30") of substantially circular shape which is shaped for the insertion of the peg section (80") of the protrusion (80).

30. Container according to one or more of claims 25 to 29, wherein on the face of the rotating member (15) facing the container body (2), they are provided:- said protrusion (80),- an axial pin (15a) that can be engaged in a rotation seat (15b) defined on the container body (2), or vice versa- at least one engagement projection (16) which, when the lid (4) is in the closed condition of the entry mouth (3), is superimposed on a corresponding abutment portion (12) of the lid (4), so as to operate the locking of the latter, thus preventing the possibility of lifting it with respect to the container body (2).

31. Container according to one or more of claims 25 to 30, wherein the protrusion (80) is arranged on the face of the rotating member (15) facing the container body (2) in a position that is substantially diametrically opposite to at least one engagement projection (16) which is configured to interact with a abutment portion (12) of the lid (4), thus blocking the lid (4) in the closed condition of the entry mouth (3).

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