A turf transport and presentation apparatus for pet toiletry

Abstract

A turf transport and presentation apparatus (10) for pet toiletry, the apparatus (10) including a first container portion (12A) and a second container portion (12B). Each of the first and the second container portions (12A, 12B) comprises a base (14A, 14B), a pair of opposing side walls (16A, 17A, 16B, 17B) upstanding from the base (14A, 14B) and an end wall (18A, 18B) extending between the side walls (16A, 17A, 16B, 17B) at or near an end of the base (14A, 14B). The first and second container portions (12A, 12B) are pivotally connected to each other so as to pivot between a first configuration in which the first and second container portions (12A, 12B) are closed together wherein the bases (14A, 14B), the side walls (16A, 17A, 16B, 17B) and the end walls (18A, 18B) define an enclosed cavity (11) for containing a sheet of turf (50) for storage and / or transport, and a second configuration in which the first and second container portions (12A, 12B) are opened apart, wherein the bases (14A, 14B) and the side walls (16A, 17A, 16B, 17B) and end walls (18A, 18B) form a tray (20) for presenting the sheet of turf (50) for use as a pet toilet. The end wall (18A, 18B) is configured to engage an end edge (52A, 52B) of the turf sheet (50) and to overlap at least part of a top surface (56) of the turf sheet (50) when the first and second container portions (12A, 12B) are in the second configuration.

Description

A TURF TRANSPORT AND PRESENTATION APPARATUS FOR PET TOILETRYTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for the presentation of turf, also known as sod, for pet toiletry. In preferred embodiments, the invention also provides an apparatus for the delivery and presentation of turf for pet toiletry.BACKGROUND

[0002] Domestic pets such as cats and dogs instinctively prefer to defecate or urinate on or near natural turf. However, many pet owners have limited time, space, environment and or location to provide their pets access to natural grass.

[0003] There are a variety of products available to people with such limitations, including absorbent pads and bulky mats with and without drainage solutions. Delivery and transportation of such products can be relatively cumbersome and costly for both vendors and consumers. Replacement and disposal of such products can be messy and inconvenient.

[0004] Furthermore, some pets may prefer or may be accustomed to excreting urine and / or faeces on natural turf and may be reluctant to do so on artificial absorbent pads or mats. However, some pet owners may reside in dwellings, such as apartments, that will not accommodate the permanent installation of natural turf due to space, drainage, natural light or other constraints.

[0005] There exist natural turf-based pet toilets. These pet toilets usually include a reusable container or tray for holding the turf. The turf must be replaced after a certain amount of time which requires the user to remove and dispose of the used turf and then put down new turf. In addition, the user also has to periodically clean and disinfect the reusable container or tray to prevent the build-up of dirt, odours and other contaminants. This maintenance and cleaning process can be time-consuming, messy and unpleasant.

[0006] There exist other turf-based pet toilets that are disposable. However, these disposable turf-based pet toilets often require preparation or assembly by the user before it can be used by a pet or before it can be disposed of. For example, some disposable turf pet toilets are delivered to a user with the turf rolled up or folded inside a package, requiring the user to unroll or lay the turf flat before it can be used. Other disposable turf-based pet toilets may come in a box with a lid, which requires the user to remove or cut out the lid before use. This also means that the reverse process has to be done before disposal of the product.

[0007] Furthermore, since the turf pet toilets in the market are usually just a layer of turf contained in a tray, the turf is therefore prone to being displaced from the tray or damaged by pets digging, clawing or chewing around the edges of the turf. This can be messy and laborious to clean up, and costly if the turf has to be constantly replaced.

[0008] Accordingly, a need exists for a natural turf-based pet toileting solution for pet owners residing in dwellings that cannot accommodate permanent installation of natural grass.

[0009] There also exists a need for a turf-based pet toilet that is fully disposable and does not require cleaning and / or maintenance. A need also exists for a fully disposable pet toilet that is convenient to transport and / or deploy, that requires little or no additional preparation before it can be used or disposed of, and which does not require the user to handle the turf.

[0010] A need also exists for a means for keeping the turf securely in place for presenting the turf that prevents a pet from digging, clawing or chewing around the edges of the turf.

[0011] Any reference in this specification to prior art, or matter which is said to be known, is not to be taken as an acknowledgement or admission that such prior art or matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of invention to which this specification relates.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In one aspect, the present invention provides a turf transport and presentation apparatus for pet toiletry, the apparatus including:a first container portion and a second container portion, each of the first and the second container portions comprising a base, a pair of opposing side walls upstanding from the base and an end wall extending between the side walls at or near an end of the base,wherein the first and second container portions are pivotally connected to each other so as to pivot between:a first configuration in which the first and second container portions are closed together wherein the bases, the side walls and the end walls define an enclosed cavity for containing a sheet of turf for storage and / or transport, and a second configuration in which the first and second container portions are opened apart, wherein the bases and the side walls and end walls form a tray for presenting the sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet; andwherein the end wall is configured to engage an end edge of the turf sheet and to overlap at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet when the first and second container portions are in the second configuration.

[0013] By engaging the end edges of the turf sheet and overlapping at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet, the end walls hold down and / or functions as a cover for the end edges of the turf sheet for preventing a pet from digging, clawing, or chewing at or lifting the end edges of the turf sheet. Another advantage is that where the end edges of the turf sheet are uneven, the end wall covers the uneven edges of the turf sheet, thus providing a more neat and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0014] Preferably, in the second configuration, each end wall has a portion which is configured to be oriented at an acute angle relative to the base, and having a free end extending away from a central joining portion of the first and second container portions.

[0015] In some embodiments, each end wall is pivotally connected relative to a respective base so as to be movable relative to a position in which the endwall slopes relative to a respective base inwardly towards the pivotal connection between the first and second container portions.

[0016] Preferably, each end wall is biased towards engagement with an end edge of the turf sheet.

[0017] Embodiments of the apparatus according to the invention is advantageous as it permits the end edges of the turf sheet to translate relative to each base, while the end wall panels continue to remain in engagement with the end edges and to overlap at least part of the top surface of the turf sheet, particularly when the first and second container portions are in the second (i.e. open) configuration.

[0018] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a first panel upstanding from each base at or near the end thereof and extending between the side walls, a second panel extending transversely from each first panel to be overlapping and spaced above a portion of the respective base, and each end wall including an end wall panel depending downwardly from a respective second panel.

[0019] Preferably, each end wall panel is pivotally connected to a respective second panel for permitting the end edge of the turf sheet to move relative to the base while remaining in engagement with the end wall panel.

[0020] Preferably, each second panel is connected to at least one of the side walls.

[0021] Preferably, each second panel is connected to at least one of the side walls by a tab extending from the side wall that is inserted in an opening through the second panel.

[0022] In some embodiments, the tab extends from an upper edge of the side wall and extends over a top surface of the second panel and is inserted in the opening from above.

[0023] Preferably, the first panel, the second panel, and the end wall panel are connected along fold lines which are folded to form box structures at each of the ends of the first and second container portions.

[0024] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a joining portion connecting the first and second container portions together, wherein the joining portion includes a panel connected with a lateral edge of the base of each of the container portions and intermediate wall portions connected with the walls of each of the container portions.

[0025] Preferably, the apparatus includes apertures through each of the first panels to form a pair of handles that are adapted to be gripped with one hand when the container portions are in the first configuration.

[0026] In some embodiments, the unitary planar base and the surrounding unitary upstanding wall define a tray in the second configuration.

[0027] Preferably, the first container portion, the second container portion and the joining portion define a clamshell container in the first configuration.

[0028] Preferably, the first container portion and the second container portion are releasably secured together in the first configuration.

[0029] In some embodiment, the material forming the container is cardboard and preferably includes a waterproof or water-resistant material or coating.

[0030] In another aspect, the present invention provides a container blank configured to form the turf transport and presentation apparatus according to any one of the embodiments described above.

[0031] In another aspect, the present invention provides a turf presentation apparatus for pet toiletry, the apparatus including:a base, a pair of opposing side walls upstanding from the base and at least one end wall extending between the side walls at an end of the base forming a tray for receiving and presenting a sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet; and wherein the end wall is configured to engage an end edge of the turf sheet and to overlap at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet. In contrast to theaforementioned aspect of the invention, in embodiments of this aspect of the invention, the apparatus is not limited to being formed from first and second container portions that are pivotally connected to each other.

[0032] Otherwise, however, preferred embodiments of this aspect of the invention include some or all features of embodiments of the aforementioned aspect of the invention. For example, the apparatus preferably includes an end wall at opposite ends of the base. Preferably, each end wall slopes relative to the respective base inwardly towards the opposite end of the base. Preferably, each end wall is pivotally connected relative to the respective base so as to be movable relative to a position in which the end wall slopes relative to the respective base inwardly towards the opposite end of the base. Preferably, each end wall is biased towards engagement with an end edge of the turf sheet received within the tray.

[0033] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a first panel upstanding from the base at or near each of the ends thereof and extending between the side walls, a second panel extending transversely from each first panel to be overlapping and spaced above a portion of the base, and each end wall including an end wall panel depending downwardly from a respective second panel. Preferably, each end wall panel is pivotally connected to a respective second panel for permitting the end edge of the turf sheet to move relative to the base while remaining in engagement with the end wall panel. Preferably, each second panel is connected to at least one of the side walls, preferably by a tab extending from the side wall that is inserted in an opening through the second panel. Preferably, the tab extends from an upper edge of the side wall and extends over a top surface of the second panel and is inserted in the opening from above. Preferably, the first panel, the second panel, and the end wall panel are connected along fold lines which are folded to form box structures at each of the ends of the base.

[0034] In another aspect, the present invention provides a container blank configured to form the turf presentation apparatus according to any one of the embodiments described above.

[0035] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a method of deploying a turf transport and presentation apparatus for pet toiletry, the method comprising:separating a first container portion from a second container portion; andmoving one of the first container portion or the second container portion in an arcuate motion to locate the respective first container portion or the second container portion into a common plane with the other of the first container portion or the second container portion.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to preferred embodiments illustrated in the accompanying figures, wherein:

[0037] Figure 1 illustrates a turf transport and presentation apparatus in a transportable configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The apparatus is in a first (i.e. closed) configuration and includes a first container portion and a second container portion each comprising a base, a pair of opposing side walls upstanding from the base and an end wall extending between the side walls and upstanding from the base at or near an end thereof;

[0038] Figure 2 is the apparatus of Figure 1 in a partially open configuration;

[0039] Figure 3 is the apparatus of Figure 1 in a second (i.e. open) configuration. The first container portion and the second container portion are opened apart, wherein the base, the side walls, and the end walls form a tray for presenting the turf sheet for use as a pet toilet;

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-section of the apparatus of Figure 1 taken along the A-A line depicted in Figure 3. The apparatus is in the second (i.e. open) configuration and includes a pair of opposite first panels upstanding from opposite ends of the bases of the first and second container portions, a second panel extending from each first panel and an end wall including an end wall panel depending downwardly from each second panel.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-section of the apparatus of Figure 1 taken along the A-A line depicted in Figure 3 in the second (i.e. open) configuration and containing a sheet of turf. Each of the end wall panels engage a respective end edge of the turf sheet and overlap at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet.

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-section of the apparatus of Figure 1 taken along the A-A line depicted in Figure 3, containing the turf sheet depicted in Figure 5 and in the first (i.e. closed) configuration. The end wall panels are movable relative to their associated bases to permit the ends of the turf sheet to move relative to the base.

[0043] Figure 7 illustrates a turf transport and presentation apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the invention including tabs extending from the side walls that are insertable in openings through the second panel for connecting the second panel to both of the side walls.

[0044] Figure 8 illustrates the apparatus of Figure 7, wherein the tabs are inserted in the openings through the second panel for connecting the second panel to the side walls.

[0045] Figure 9 illustrates a turf and transport presentation container blank in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046] The present invention is directed to a turf transport and presentation apparatus 10 for the delivery and presentation of turf for pet toiletry.

[0047] Referring to Figures 1 to 8, the apparatus 10 comprises a first container portion 12A and a second container portion 12B. In the preferred embodiment, the first container portion 12A and the second container portion 12B are substantially symmetrical.

[0048] Each of the container portions 12A, 12B comprise a base 14A, 14B. The base 14A, 14B illustrated in the Figures is preferably rectangular. However, in other embodiments, the base 14A, 14B can also be square.

[0049] Each of the container portions 12A, 12B also comprise a pair of opposing side walls 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B upstanding from each base 14A, 14B and an end wall 18A, 18B extending between the side walls 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B at or near an outward end 13A, 13B of each base 14A, 14B.

[0050] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are pivotally connected to each other along inward ends 15A, 15B of each base 14A, 14B, opposite to the outward ends 13A, 13B, so as to pivot between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration shown in Figures 1 and 6, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are closed together wherein the bases 14A, 14B, the side walls 16A, 16B, and the end walls 18A, 18B define an enclosed cavity 11 for containing a turf sheet for storage and / or transport. In Figure 2, the cavity 11 is shown to be partially closed. In the second configuration shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are opened apart, wherein the bases 14A, 14B, the side walls 16A, 16B, and the end walls 18A, 18B form a tray 20 for presenting the sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet.Joining portion

[0051] In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 further comprises a joining portion 60. The joining portion 60 is comprised of a panel 62 having a generally rectangular shape with opposing lateral side edges joined along fold lines 64A, 64B to the inward ends 15A, 15B of each base 14A, 14B. The joining portion 60 and the fold lines 64A, 64B thereby connect the first and second container portions 12A, 12B together and permit the pivotal movement of the first and second container portions 12A, 12B between the first and second configurations.

[0052] The joining portion 60 further includes intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B upstanding from laterally opposite ends of the panel 62. The intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B are located between the side walls 16A, 16B and lateral edges of the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B and adjoin the side walls 16A, 16B along vertical fold lines 68A, 68B. The intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B also include diagonal fold lines 69A, 69B extending from the junction betweenthe join lines 64A, 64B and each base 14A, 14B. The diagonal fold lines 69A, 69B extend diagonally inwardly towards each other and terminate at free upper edges of the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B. The fold lines 69A, 69B extend preferably at about 45 degrees from the vertical fold lines 68A, 68B.

[0053] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B, together with the joining portion 60, form the tray 20 for presenting the sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet.End wall

[0054] In preferred embodiments, when the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are in the second (i.e. open) configuration as illustrated in Figure 5, each end wall 18A, 18B is configured to engage an end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 and to overlap at least part of a top surface 56 of the turf sheet 50.

[0055] In use and when the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are in the second (i.e. open) configuration as in Figure 5, each end wall 18A, 18B is adapted to have a portion that is sloped or angularly inclined relative to a respective base 14A, 14B so as to engage the end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 and to overlap at least part of a top surface 56 of the turf sheet 50. For example, the end wall panels 36A, 36B of the end wall 18A, 18B can be oriented at an acute angle relative to the base 14A, 14B, and having free (distal) ends extending away from the central joining portion 60.

[0056] In an embodiment, each end wall 18A, 18B is fixed at the acute angle relative to their associated bases 14A, 14B. In another embodiment, each end wall 18A, 18B is pivotally movable relative to their associated bases 14A, 14B so as to be adapted to assume the acute angle relative to their associated bases 14A, 14B, as in the embodiments illustrated in the Figures which are described in further detail below. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, each end wall 18A, 18B is pivotally movable and a free end 19A, 19B thereof is biased in the inwards direction. In another embodiment, the end wall panels 36A, 36B are mounted to each base 14A, 14B on tracks and a biasing means,preferably a coil or leaf spring, is provided to bias the end wall panels 36A, 36B inwardly towards the edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50.

[0057] Referring to Figure 4, in an embodiment, the apparatus 10 includes an end wall structure comprised of a first panel 32A, 32B upstanding from each base 14A, 14B at the respective outward ends 13A, 13B thereof and extending between the side walls 16A, 16B, a second panel 34A, 34B extending transversely from each first panel 32A, 32B to be overlapping and spaced above a portion of the respective base 14A, 14B, and an end wall panel 36A, 36B each pivotally connected to and depending downwardly from a respective one of the second panels 34A, 34B. Each end wall panel 36A, 36B alone, or together with the other components of the end wall structure, namely the first panel 32A, 32B and the second panel 34A, 34B, comprises each of the end walls 18A, 18B of the apparatus 10.

[0058] As illustrated in the Figures and in particular Figures 4 and 9, the first panel 32A, 32B, the second panel 34A, 34B, and the end wall panel 36A, 36B are connected to each other along fold lines which, when folded, form boxshaped structures at each of the ends of the first and second container portions 12A, 12B.

[0059] As shown in Figures 4 and 9, each end wall panel 36A, 36B is pivotally connected along a fold line 38A, 38B to a respective one of the second panels 34A, 34B for permitting each end wall panel 36A, 36B to pivot between a substantially perpendicular angle, as shown in Figure 4, to an acute angle relative to an associated base 14A, 14B, as shown in Figure 5, and an even more acute angle as shown in Figure 6. In embodiments, the properties of the material from which the apparatus 10 is formed, preferably a cardboard material, causes the end wall panels 36A, 36B to be biased about the pivotal connection such that the free ends 19A, 19B of the end wall panels 36A, 36B are biased in the inwards direction. The pivotal connection, alone or in conjunction with the bias provided by the material properties of the apparatus, cause the end wall panels 36A, 36B to remain in engagement with the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 while also permitting the end edges 52A, 52B to move relative to each of the bases 14A, 14B. When the first and secondcontainer portions 12A, 12B are pivoted between the second (i.e. open) configuration and the first (i.e. closed) configuration while containing the turf sheet 50, the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 tend to translate outwardly relative to each base 14A, 14B as illustrated in Figures 5 and 6. The ability of the end wall panels 36A, 36B to pivot between the acute angle shown in Figure 5 and the even more acute angle shown in Figure 6 is advantageous as it permits the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 to translate relative to each base 14A, 14B, while the end wall panels 36A, 36B remain in engagement with the end edges 52A, 52B and overlap at least part of the top surface 56 of the turf sheet 50, particularly when the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are in the second (i.e. open) configuration.

[0060] Preferably, the end wall panels 36A, 36B depend downwardly at right angles from the second panels 34A, 34B when the apparatus 10 is empty, and at acute angles with the second panels 34A, 34B when the apparatus 10 contains a turf sheet.

[0061] Referring to Figure 5, in use, a turf sheet 50 is placed on the tray, defined by the bases 14A, 14B, the side walls 16A, 16B, and the end walls 18A, 18B, when the apparatus is in the second configuration. Since the end wall panel 36A, 36B is pivotally movable, the turf sheet 50 can be positioned such that an end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 is in engagement with each of the end wall panels 36A, 36B and the end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 may push the end wall panel 36A, 36B outwards towards the first panel 32A, 32B.

[0062] By engaging the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 and overlapping at least part of a top surface 56 of the turf sheet, the end walls 18A, 18B hold down and / or function as a cover for the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 for preventing a pet from digging, clawing, or chewing at or lifting the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50. Another advantage is that where the end edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 are uneven, the end walls 18A, 18B cover the uneven edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50, thus providing a more neat and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0063] In the embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 6, each end wall 18A, 18B is comprised of an end wall panel 36A, 36B that is pivotally connected to a respective second panel 34A, 34B, which allows the end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 to move relative to the base 14A, 14B while in engagement with the end wall panel 36A, 36B. However, in other embodiments, the end walls 18A, 18B may be pivotally connected directly or indirectly to the bases 14A, 14B at or near the outward ends 13A, 13B thereof. In such embodiments, a turf sheet 50 is used with a length shorter than the length of the tray 20 formed by the apparatus 10 in the second configuration between the first panels 32A, 32B and longer than the length between inward edges 39A, 39B of the second panels 34A, 34B, when extending transversely from each first panel 32A, 32B. As shown in Figure 5, this creates a gap 54A, 54B between the end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 and the first panel 32A, 32B when the apparatus is in the second configuration. This gap 54A, 54B allows for the end edge 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50 to translate outwards relative to each base 14A, 14B when the apparatus containing the turf sheet 50 is pivoted from the second configuration to the first configuration, as shown in Figure 6.

[0064] Furthermore, the end walls 18A, 18B are advantageous as they maintain the turf sheet 50 securely in place and hold the turf sheet 50 down when the apparatus is pivoted between and / or to the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0065] In another embodiment (not shown in the Figures), each end wall 18A, 18B is comprised of an end wall panel 36A, 36B that is adapted to translate inwardly and outwardly relative to each base 14A, 14B, preferably while being maintained at a fixed acute angle relative to the base 14A, 14B in an inwards direction. In an embodiment, the end wall panels 36A, 36B are mounted to each base 14A, 14B on tracks and a biasing means, preferably a coil or leaf spring, is provided to bias the end wall panels 36A, 36B inwardly towards the edges 52A, 52B of the turf sheet 50. In another embodiment (not shown in the Figures), each end wall 18A, 18B is comprised of an end wall panel 36A, 36B that is adapted to translate inwardly and outwardly relative to each base 14A,14B, preferably while being maintained at a varying acute angle relative to the base 14A, 14B in an inwards direction.Tab

[0066] In the embodiment of the apparatus 100 shown in Figures 7 and 8, each second panel 34A, 34B is connected to at least one of the side walls 16A, 16B.

[0067] For example, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, a tab 70 extends from the side walls 16A, 16B that is insertable in an opening 72 through the second panel 34A, 34B.

[0068] Preferably, the tab 70 extends from an upper edge of the side wall 16A, 16B and extends over a top surface 37A, 37B of the second panel 34A, 34B, and is inserted in the opening 72 from above.First and Second Configuration

[0069] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B pivot relative to the joining portion 60 about the join lines 64A, 64B, and the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B fold relative to the pair of opposing side walls along the join lines 68A, 68B and also fold along the diagonal fold lines 69A, 69B. The first and second container portions 12A, 12B thereby pivot relative to each other, by articulation, about the joining portion 60 and the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B thereof between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0070] The first and second container portions 12A, 12B come together in the first configuration in a clam-shell fashion, such that the upper free edges of the side walls 16A, 16B and the end walls 18A, 18B come together. In the first configuration, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B define an enclosed form of the cavity 11 as shown in Figure 1.

[0071] The first and second container portions 12A, 12B are pivotable about the joining portion 60 and the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B from the first configuration to the second configuration to form, together with the joiningportion, an open tray as illustrated in Figure 3. Accordingly, the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are openable and closable between the first and second configurations, with the first configuration being a closed configuration and the second configuration being an open configuration.

[0072] In the open configuration illustrated in Figure 3, the bases of the first and second container portions 12A, 12B and the panel 62 of the joining portion 60 together define a rectangular and planar base 80 of the tray 20. Furthermore, the side walls 16A, 16B, the end walls 18 and the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B together define a wall 82 extending around a perimeter of the planar base 80 and upstanding therefrom to define the tray 20. The tray 20 is comprised of the first container portion 12A, the joining portion 60 and the second container portion 12B in the second (i.e. open) configuration.

[0073] As illustrated in Figure 2, when the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B fold along the join lines 68A, 68B and the diagonal fold lines 69A. 69B, portions of the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B fold over each other to form gussets when the apparatus is in the second (i.e. closed) configuration. When the first and second container portions 12A, 12B are pivoted to the first (i.e. open) configuration, the folded over portions of the intermediate wall portions 66A, 66B open up to form a substantially planar wall member extending between and adjoining the side walls 16A, 16B to define the wall 82 extending around the perimeter of the planar base 80.Means to secure apparatus

[0074] In the first (i.e. closed) configuration, the container portions 12A, 12B are releasably secured in place relative to each other. In an embodiment, the container portions 12A, 12B are releasably secured together by adhesive, tape, seal or releasable pull tabs. Once the initial securing of the container portions 12 has been released or otherwise broken, the apparatus 10 may still be returned to a transportable configuration but may require new means to secure the container portions 12 in place relative to each other. Returning the container portions 12 into the transportable configuration may be beneficial when replacing and disposing of an old apparatus 10.Handle

[0075] Referring to Figures 1 to 8, the apparatus 10 further includes an aperture 90 through each one of the first panels of the container portions 12A, 12B for use as handholds when the apparatus is in the first (i.e. closed) configuration. When the apparatus 10 is in the first configuration, the apertures 90 are close enough such that they can be grasped in one hand to lift and otherwise handle the apparatus 10 during transport. When in the second (i.e. open) configuration, a user can grasp one or both of the apertures 90 to move the apparatus 10 to a desired location. The apertures are provided by partial cut-outs through the first panels that can be folded inwards to open up the apertures 90. In other embodiments, the apertures are provided by full cut-outs through the first panel that can be removed to form the handholds.

[0076] In one embodiment, the apertures 90 are provide by a group of three generally circular holes 91 A, 91 B, 91 C, such that two holes 91 A, 91 B are formed on a first panel 32A, for receiving two of a user’s fingers, and the third hole 91 C is located on the other panel 32B, for receiving the user’s thumb. This arrangement allows the user to pick up the apparatus like a ten pin bowling ball.

[0077] Besides functioning as a handhold, the aperture 90 through each one of the first panels 32A, 32B may also function as air flow holes. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 can also include other openings functioning as airflow holes when the apparatus is in the first configuration. For example, there may be openings through the side wall.

[0078] The airflow holes prevent or reduce accumulation of moisture inside the apparatus 10, when the apparatus containing the turf sheet is in the first configuration. This is advantageous since the turf may need to be refrigerated during storage and transport and the air flow holes prevent condensation from the turf from accumulating inside the apparatus which may ruin the grass.Blank

[0079] Preferably, the apparatus 10 is formed from a cardboard blank 200, an embodiment of which is illustrated in Figure 9, which includes the features ofthe apparatus 10, 100 described above with respect to the embodiments of Figures 1 to 8. Therefore, like reference numerals are used to identify like features.

[0080] Each side wall 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B upstanding from the base are each formed of first and second upstanding panels 201 , 202 joined along a first fold line 203. The first upstanding panel 201 adjoins the base 14A, 14B of a respective one of the container portions 12A, 12B along a second fold line 204. In some embodiments, a base panel 205 is adjoined to the second upstanding panel 202 along a third fold line 206.

[0081] In some embodiments, the tab 70 for connecting each second panel 34A, 34B to at least one of the side walls 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B is formed from a partial cutout through the second upstanding panel 202. Preferably, the tab 70 is connected to the side wall 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B along the first fold line 203.

[0082] The side walls 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B are formed from the blank 200 by pivoting the second upstanding panel 202 about the first fold line 203 and pivoting the first upstanding panel 201 about the second fold line 204. In some embodiments wherein the second upstanding panel 202 is adjoined to the base panel 205, the base panel 205 is folded along the third fold line 206 such that it is located in a plane substantially parallel with a plane of the base 14A, 14B of the respective container portions 12A, 12B.

[0083] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 8, the first panel 32A, 32B, the second panel 34A, 34B, and the end wall panel 36A, 36B are connected along fold lines which are folded to form box structures at each of the ends of the first and second container portions 12A and 12B. The first panel 32A, 32B adjoins the base 14A, 14B along a fourth fold line 208, the second panel adjoins the first panel along a fifth fold line 209, and the end wall panel 36A, 36B adjoins the second panel 34A, 34B along a sixth fold line 210. The box structure at each end of the first and second container portions 12A, 12B is formed by pivoting the first panel 32A, 32B about the fourth fold line 208, pivoting the second panel 34A, 34B about the fifth fold line 209, and pivoting the end wall panel 36A, 36B about the sixth fold line 210.

[0084] In some embodiments, the blank 200 further includes corner panels 212 adjoining the end edge of the first upstanding panel 201 and the lateral edge of the first panel 32A, 32B. Each corner panel 212 includes a diagonal fold line along the corner of the base 14A, 14B that fold inwardly when the first upstanding panel 201 and the first panel 32A, 32B are folded along the second fold line 204 and the fourth fold line 208.

[0085] In an embodiment, the cardboard blank 200 includes a waterproof or water-resistant coating on the surface that will become the inward facing surface of the apparatus 10, 100 defining the cavity 11. In some embodiments, the coating is preferably a paraffin wax, otherwise preferably a polymer such as polyethylene, or is preferably impregnated with a material that imparts a waterproof or water-resistant property to the cardboard. The waterproof or water-resistant properties of this embodiment reduce and / or eliminate absorption of fluid by the apparatus 10 from the turf 50.

[0086] The apparatus 10 may be constructed from a single piece of material. The single piece may comprise a number of fold lines, foldable perforations, or similar, for indicating where to be folded. Accordingly, the tray 20 and one or more wall portions may be assembled by a folding of the material in a predetermined order.

[0087] The apparatus 10 may comprise a material including, but not limited to, cardboard, plastics, pulp moulds, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) or other materials known in the art.

[0088] In another aspect, not shown in the figures, the present invention provides a turf presentation apparatus for pet toiletry. In contrast to the embodiments illustrated in the Figures and described above, in this aspect of the invention the apparatus is not limited to being formed from first and second container portions that are pivotally connected to each other. Instead, the apparatus includes a base, a pair of opposing side walls upstanding from the base and at least one end wall extending between the side walls at an end of the base forming a tray for receiving and presenting a sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet. The apparatus also includes at least one end wall configured toengage an end edge of the turf sheet and to overlap at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet.

[0089] Otherwise, embodiments of the apparatus according to this further aspect of the invention includes some or all features of embodiments of the aforementioned aspect of the invention. For example, the apparatus preferably includes an end wall at opposite ends of the base. Preferably, each end wall slopes relative to the respective base inwardly towards the opposite end of the base. Preferably, each end wall is pivotally connected relative to the respective base so as to be movable relative to a position in which the end wall slopes relative to the respective base inwardly towards the opposite end of the base. Preferably, each end wall is biased towards engagement with an end edge of the turf sheet received within the tray.

[0090] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a first panel upstanding from the base at or near each of the ends thereof and extending between the side walls, a second panel extending transversely from each first panel to be overlapping and spaced above a portion of the base, and each end wall including an end wall panel depending downwardly from a respective second panel. Preferably, each end wall panel is pivotally connected to a respective second panel for permitting the end edge of the turf sheet to move relative to the base while remaining in engagement with the end wall panel. Preferably, each second panel is connected to at least one of the side walls, preferably by a tab extending from the side wall that is inserted in an opening through the second panel. Preferably, the tab extends from an upper edge of the side wall and extends over a top surface of the second panel and is inserted in the opening from above. Preferably, the first panel, the second panel, and the end wall panel are connected along fold lines which are folded to form box structures at each of the ends of the base.Method

[0091] The method of deploying the apparatus 10, 100 will now be described with reference to the Figures generally.

[0092] When deploying the apparatus 10, 100 containing a sheet of turf 50 for presentation for pet toiletry, the user must first separate the container portions 12A, 12B. This may comprise cutting a piece of tape, pulling a releasable tab, applying sufficient pressure to break a temporary adhesive. Once separated, the user need only pivot one of the container portions 12A, 12B in an arcuate motion relative to the other one of the container portions 12A, 12B. Preferably, the apparatus 10 is deployed on a relatively flat surface. The user pivots one of the container portions 12A, 12B through an arcuate motion from the first (i.e. closed) configuration until each of the container portions 12A, 12B and the joining portion 60 are positioned in the same plane and flat, namely the second (i.e. open) configuration. In the open configuration, the apparatus 10 comprises the wall 82 extending around the perimeter of the planar base 80.

[0093] The method of deployment from the first configuration to the second configuration is seen in Figures 1 to 3.

[0094] After a certain time or when the turf sheet 50 reaches a certain condition, the user may reverse the process, placing the apparatus 10 back into the first configuration. From here, the user may grasp the apparatus 10 by the openings 90 and carry it away for disposal.

[0095] The invention has advantages with storage, transport, delivery, use and disposal of the apparatus 10. The configuration of the apparatus 10 allows a small footprint for transportation while retaining more than double the area of one of the container portions 12 for presenting as a pet toileting area.

[0096] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

[0097] The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

[0098] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and any variations thereof such as “comprises” or “comprising”, are to be interpreted in a non-exhaustive sense.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A turf transport and presentation apparatus for pet toiletry, the apparatus including:a first container portion and a second container portion, each of the first and the second container portions comprising a base, a pair of opposing side walls upstanding from the base and an end wall extending between the side walls at or near an end of the base,wherein the first and second container portions are pivotally connected to each other so as to pivot between:a first configuration in which the first and second container portions are closed together wherein the bases, the side walls and the end walls define an enclosed cavity for containing a sheet of turf for storage and / or transport, anda second configuration in which the first and second container portions are opened apart, wherein the bases and the side walls and end walls form a tray for presenting the sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet; andwherein the end wall is configured to engage an end edge of the turf sheet and to overlap at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet when the first and second container portions are in the second configuration.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein in the second configuration, each end wall has a portion which is configured to be oriented at an acute angle relative to the base, and having a free end extending away from a central joining portion of the first and second container portions.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each end wall is pivotally connected relative to a respective base so as to be movable relative to a position in which the end wall slopes relative to a respective base inwardly towards the pivotal connection between the first and second container portions.

4. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each end wall is biased towards engagement with an end edge of the turf sheet.

5. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, including a first panel upstanding from each base at or near the end thereof and extending between the side walls, a second panel extending transversely from each first panel to be overlapping and spaced above a portion of the respective base, and each end wall including an end wall panel depending downwardly from a respective second panel.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein each end wall panel is pivotally connected to a respective second panel for permitting the end edge of the turf sheet to move relative to the base while remaining in engagement with the end wall panel.

7. The apparatus of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein each second panel is connected to at least one of the side walls.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein each second panel is connected to at least one of the side walls by a tab extending from the side wall that is inserted in an opening through the second panel.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the tab extends from an upper edge of the side wall and extends over a top surface of the second panel and is inserted in the opening from above.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the first panel, the second panel, and the end wall panel are connected along fold lines which are folded to form box structures at each of the ends of the first and second container portions.

11. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, including a joining portion connecting the first and second container portions together, wherein the joining portion includes a panel connected with a lateral edge of the base of each of the container portions and intermediate wall portions connected with the walls of each of the container portions.

12. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, including apertures through each of the first panels to form a pair of handles that are adapted to be gripped with one hand when the container portions are in the first configuration.

13. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the unitary planar base and the surrounding unitary upstanding wall define a tray in the second configuration.

14. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first container portion, the second container portion and the joining portion define a clamshell container in the first configuration.

15. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first container portion and the second container portion are releasably secured together in the first configuration.

16. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the material forming the container is cardboard and preferably includes a waterproof or water-resistant material or coating.

17. A container blank configured to form the turf transport and presentation apparatus of any one of the preceding claims.

18. A turf presentation apparatus for pet toiletry, the apparatus including:a base, a pair of opposing side walls upstanding from the base and at least one end wall extending between the side walls at an end of the base forming a tray for receiving and presenting a sheet of turf for use as a pet toilet; andwherein the end wall is configured to engage an end edge of the turf sheet and to overlap at least part of a top surface of the turf sheet.

19. The turf presentation apparatus for pet toiletry of claim 18, including one of the end walls at each opposite end of the base, wherein each end wall panel is pivotally connected relative to the base so as to be movable relative to a position in which the end wall slopes relative to a respective base inwardly towards the opposite end of the base.

20. A method of deploying a turf transport and presentation apparatus for pet toiletry, the method comprising:separating a first container portion from a second container portion; and moving one of the first container portion or the second container portion in an arcuate motion to locate the respective first container portion or the second container portion into a common plane with the other of the first container portion or the second container portion.

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