Self-cleaning litter box
US6951190B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 21, 2003 |
| Grant date | Oct 4, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 21, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01K1/0114
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-cleaning litter box having a base, a litter pan, an upper hood and a lower hood. A rake is used to sweep litter clumps disposed in the litter pan and into a waste box. The rake is inserted and removed without the use of tools in order to clean or replace the rake. Liners inside the litter pan and waste box allow for easy cleaning. In addition, the liners are used to protect against pitting and other potential damage. Sensors detect the presence of a cat inside the litter pan. Upon exit, an actuator receives an output signal for actuating the drive assembly. After a predetermined time delay after receipt of the output signal, the raking cycle commences. The actuator includes a switch to allow the pet owner to vary the length of the pre-determined time delay.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.