Self-cleaning litter box
US6082302A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 17, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 4, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 17, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01K1/0114
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-cleaning litter box for cats employs a comb drive to drive a comb through litter to remove waste from the litter. A sensor for detecting the presence of an obstruction is coupled to the comb drive and stops the comb drive upon detecting an obstruction. A manual mode selector switch and an actuating switch are provided to manually activate the cleaning of the litter box at a time deemed appropriate by the cat owner. A foot pedal unit may be provided for semi-automatic use. A removable tray for cat litter may be provided. The tray may be disposable. A pivotable ramp facilitates ingress to, and egress from, the litter box. The ramp may be carpeted. A tray receives the litter box and a hood encloses the litter box to provide privacy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.