Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02791742 2014-04-14 WASTE DISPOSAL APPARATUS This is a divisional of Canadian Patent Application No. 2,579,281, filed September 2, 2005, which claims priority to U.S. Application Nos. 10/932,426 filed September 2, 2004, 10,932,425 filed September 2, 2004, 10/932,421 filed September 2, 2004 and 10/932,625 filed September 2, 2004. FIELD OF INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to waste disposal devices using packs of flexible tubing, and more particularly, to improved health care apparatus for the sanitary and odorless packaging and disposal of diapers and similar or related waste, medical waste, industrial waste and any other waste wherein sanitary and substantially odorless disposal is desired. [0002] The present invention also relates to replaceable cartridges of tubing for a waste disposal device and rotation mechanisms for rotating such a tubing cartridge, some of which provide for automatic rotation of the tubing cartridge. [0003] The present invention also relates to waste disposal devices using packs of flexible tubing and including a compacting mechanism which compacts the waste. [0004] More specifically, the present invention is related to a waste disposal device including an external actuation mechanism to operate a cartridge. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0005] In households having an infant or very young child wearing disposable diapers, a diaper pail is usually placed in the bathroom or nursery for the receipt and disposal of soiled diapers. [0006] One prior art construction of a diaper pail comprises a large garbage can-like container which receives a plastic bag. The bag is inserted into the interior of the container, with the upper portion thereof being folded over a top rim of the container to maintain the bag in engagement therewith. A cover member is attached to the container and is movable between a closed position in which the cover member is situated over 1 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 . . = 1;::. WO 2006/029038 WITUS2005/031445 the top rim of the container to cover the open end of the bag, and an open position in = .= which theopen end of the bag is uncovered and thereby enables the placement of a = soiled diaper into the bag. A foot pedal is provided and coupled to the cover member to I .= enable the cover member to be moved from the dosed position to the open position by depressing the foot pedal. 1000.71 Another prior art diaper pail is said under the trademark "Diaper Genie". Diaper 1 pails of the Diaper Genie.TM. type are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,869,049 (Richards et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 5,590,512 (Richards at al.), .U.S. Pat No. 5,813,200 (Jacoby at al.), U.S. Pat No. 6,128,890 (Firth) and U.S. Pat No. 6,170,240 (Jacoby et al.). [0008] The diaper pails shown in these patents generally comprise a container formed .= with an internal ring-shaped flange. A tubular core or cartridge rests on the flange and houses a continuous length of flexible, substantially non-resilient plastic tubing. A twist rim is rotatably coupled to the cartridge such that rotation of the twist rim causes twisting of the tubing. Means are provided to hold a diaper stationary when the twist rim rotates to twist the tubing and seal an end of the diaper to form a twisted closure. A cover is removably attached to the container and includes a lid. To prepare the diaper pail for use, the cover is removed, an end of the tubing is removed from the cartridge and pulled upward and tied Into a knot. The knotted end is then placed into the container = over an annular flange to form a waste insertion reservoir or chamber bounded by the tubing. The cover is re-attached to the container and the diaper pail is ready for use. In use, a soiled diaper Is Inserted into the waste insertion reservoir bounded by the tubing and the twist rim is then manually rotated as the diaper is held stationary to cause the diaper to be encapsulated In the tubing by the formation of a twist in the tubing above = the diaper. Rotation of the twist rim also causes an additional amount of tubing to be removed from the cartridge and be pushed into the waste insertion reservoir to prepare it for a subsequent insertion of a diaper. The subsequent insertion of another diaper into the waste insertion reservoir causes the previously encapsulated diaper to pass into the hollow interior of the container. A series of connected, closed and encapsulated waste = packages is created and the encapsulation process can be continued until the tubing is CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 20061029033 PCT/US2005/0.31445 exhausted or the container is full. When the container is full but tubing remains, the uppermost package is severed above its upper twisted closure, the severed end of the tubing is tied into a knot and an access door pivotally connected to the bottom end of = the container is opened for the removal of the packages. [0009] A major inconvenience of diaper pails of the "Diaper Genie".TM. type is that it is necessary to manually tie both ends of the tubing to use the diaper pail. That is, initially, upon insertion of a new cartridge, an end of the tubing is removed from the cartridge and must be tied into a knot, the knotted end then being pushed into the container to form the waste insertion chamber. Thereafter, when the container is fall but tubing remains in the cartridge, the tubing is severed at a location above the upper twisted = closure of the uppermost encapsulated waste package and the severed end of the = tubing must be tied into a knot to prevent the series of waste packages from unwinding. The free end of the tubing remaining In the cartridge Is again tied into a knot and pushed into the container to enable another series of encapsulated waste packages to be formed. [0010] The necessary, multiple tyings of the tubing is bothersome and moreover, when the knots are not made sufficiently strong, unpleasant odors emanating from the waste packages can escape through the knots. [0011] Another problem with diaper pails of the "Diaper Genie".TM. type is that cutting ihe tubing is difficult and requires the use of a manually operable cutting instrument. This cutting instrument does not enable easy cutting of the tubing. [0012] Yet another problem with diaper pails of the "Diaper Genie.TM. type is that the series of waste packages are removed from the diaper pail through an acrPss door pivotally connected to the bottom end of the container. The series of waste packages has been found to be difficult to handle during transfer to a waste receptacle such as a trash bag. Cleaning of the device is also difficult. 3 .= CA 02791742 2016-10-07 55410-56D1 [0013] Still another problem with known diaper pails and other waste pails is that the person inserting a diaper or other waste material (such as medical waste) into the pail may not remember to rotate the twist rim after insertion of a soiled diaper or other waste. In this case, the waste is not encapsulated by the tubing and malodorous vapors or other potentially hazardous contaminants can escape from the pail. Although this would not prevent future use of the pail as the twist rim could be rotated before the next insertion of waste, it would likely result in the release of odors or other potentially hazardous contaminants. A waste pail which provides for automatic formation of a twist above a waste item after insertion of the waste into the pail is therefore desirable. [0014] Another problem with known diaper and waste pails is that because the diaper or waste pail comes into contact with the series of waste packages, it is liable to become dirty and cleaning of the pail is cumbersome as the access door must be opened, the pail turned over and then the inside surfaces cleaned. A diaper or waste pail which affords easier cleaning for the surfaces which come into contact with the series of waste packages is therefore desirable. SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0014a] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for a waste disposal device having a housing, said housing having a base and a sidewall defining a waste chamber for receiving waste and having an opening for receipt of the cartridge positioned therein, comprising: a mechanism for scoring a flexible tubing in variable lengths as needed, wherein a cartridge body having a lower surface and an area for receipt of a length of said flexible tubing that is foldingly stacked in said cartridge body, and wherein the said cartridge body permits dispensing of said flexible tubing to a determined length with a portion of said flexible tubing extending into said housing to receive said waste; wherein said cartridge body comprises a cylindrical wall, a lower wall, an inner wall and an upper wall which together define a cavity for receiving said flexible tubing; wherein said inner wall comprises an annular flange over which said tubing passes through an opening into a said waste insertion chamber housing of said waste disposal device. 4 CA 02791742 2016-10-07 55410-56D1 [0014b] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for a waste disposal device comprising: a housing having a base and a sidewall defining a waste chamber for receiving waste, said housing having an opening; a cartridge positioned in said opening, said cartridge having a cylindrical wall, a lower wall, an inner wall, and an -- upper wall defining a ring shaped cavity, said inner wall having an annular flange and a lower surface that has a plurality of serrations; and a flexible tubing foldingly stacked in said ring shaped cavity, said flexible tubing passes over said plurality of serrations on said annular flange from said ring shaped cavity to score a portion of said flexible tubing, said flexible tubing is scored and severed upon rotatably downward movement of said cartridge; -- wherein a cartridge body comprises a cylindrical wall, a lower wall, an inner wall and an upper wall which together define a cavity for receiving said flexible tubing; wherein said inner wall comprises an annular flange over which said tubing passes through an opening into a said waste insertion chamber housing of said waste disposal device. [00146] According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cutting -- and removal system for storing waste, comprising: a waste storage receptacle having a body having a wall, a collar, a lid; a storage film cartridge positioned in said collar, said cartridge having a length of flexible tubing extending through an inner wall defining a central core; a movable door that in a first position mates with said wall to close a side opening in said wall and in a second position provides access to said side opening in said wall; said -- movable door forming a portion of a hamper so that said hamper is pivotal with said movable door through said side opening; said movable door comprising a closure mechanism to secure access to said movable door when said movable door is in said first position; a flexible tubing sealing device for sealing said film of said cartridge when said film is dispensed from said cartridge; and a cutting device comprising a blade; wherein said -- flexible tubing is positioned within said receptacle such that it extends past said cutting device and into said hamper; wherein said blade is positioned at a point above an uppermost waste package when said receptacle is full in order to sever said flexible tubing from said cartridge; wherein said cartridge comprises a body comprising a cylindrical wall, a lower wall, an inner wall and an upper wall which together define a cavity for receiving -- said flexible tubing; wherein said inner wall comprises an annular flange over which said flexible tubing pushes through an opening into said hamper. 4a CA 02791742 2016-10-07 55410-56D1 [0014d] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cutting and removal system for storing waste, comprising: a waste storage receptacle having a body having a wall, a collar, a lid; a storage film cartridge positioned in said collar, said cartridge having a length of flexible tubing extending through an inner wall defining a central core; a movable door that in a first position mates with said wall to close a side opening and in a second position provides access to said side opening in said wall; said movable door comprising a closure mechanism comprising a u- shaped latch to secure access to said movable door when said movable door is in a first position, said u-shaped latch mating with a projection on said body; a flexible tubing sealing device for sealing said film of said cartridge when said film is dispensed from said cartridge; and a cutting device comprising a blade; wherein said flexible tubing is positioned within said receptacle such that it extends past said cutting device; wherein said blade is positioned below said flexible tubing sealing device when said receptacle is full in order to sever said flexible tubing from said cartridge; wherein said cartridge comprises a body comprising a cylindrical wall, a lower wall, an inner wall and an upper wall which together define a cavity for receiving said flexible tubing; wherein said inner wall comprises an annular flange over which said flexible tubing pushes through an opening into a hamper. [0014e] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cutting and removal system for storing waste, comprising: a waste storage receptacle having a body having a wall, a collar, a lid; a storage film cartridge positioned in said collar, said cartridge having a length of flexible tubing extending through an inner wall defining a central core; a movable door that in a first position mates with said wall to close a side opening in said wall and in a second position provides access to said side opening in said wall; said movable door forming a portion of a hamper so that said hamper is pivotal with said movable door through said side opening; said movable door comprising a closure mechanism to secure access to said movable door when said movable door is in said first position; a flexible tubing sealing device for sealing said film of said cartridge when said film is dispensed from said cartridge; and a cutting device comprising a blade; wherein said flexible tubing is positioned within said receptacle such that it extends past said cutting device and into said hamper; wherein said blade is positioned at a point 4b CA 02791742 2016-10-07 55410-56D1 above an uppermost waste package when said receptacle is full in order to sever said flexible tubing from said cartridge; wherein said cartridge comprises an outer wall, said outer wall and said inner wall joined by a bottom wall thereby housing said flexible tubing for dispensing said flexible tubing from said cartridge through said central core. [0014f] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cutting and removal system for storing waste, comprising: a waste storage receptacle having a body having a wall, a collar, a lid; a storage film cartridge positioned in said collar, said cartridge having a length of flexible tubing extending through an inner wall defining a central core; a movable door that in a first position mates with said wall to close a side opening and in a second position provides access to said side opening in said wall; said movable door comprising a closure mechanism comprising a u-shaped latch to secure access to said movable door when said movable door is in a first position, said u-shaped latch mating with a projection on said body; a flexible tubing sealing device for sealing said film of said cartridge when said film is dispensed from said cartridge; and a cutting device comprising a blade; wherein said flexible tubing is positioned within said receptacle such that it extends past said cutting device; wherein said blade is positioned below said flexible tubing sealing device when said receptacle is full in order to sever said flexible tubing from said cartridge; wherein said cartridge comprises an outer wall, said outer wall and said inner wall joined by a bottom wall thereby housing said flexible tubing for dispensing said flexible tubing from said cartridge through said central core. [0015] An embodiment of the present invention involves a waste disposal device including a cartridge movable by rollers. The waste disposal device comprises a rotation mechanism for rotating the rotatable cartridge. The cylindrically shaped waste disposal device has an inner wall. The rotatable cartridge comprises a cylindrical shape having an outside wall. The rotation mechanism comprises at least two opposingly aligned movable rollers that extend between the inner and outer wall. The rollers are engagingly configured to cause the cartridge to rotate upon activation of the rotation mechanism. [0016] An embodiment of the present invention involves an integrated cutting system for a waste disposal device comprising a waste storage receptacle and a film cutting and sealing device. The waste storage receptacle has a body, a collar a lid, and a storage 4c CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 20061029038 PC=52005/031445 film cartridge adapted to be positioned in the collar. The cartridge has a continuous length of storage film. The integrated cutting system further includes an activation mechanism operatively configured to alternatively engage a cutting device or a film sea brig device capable of twistably sealing the film of the cartridge when the film is dispensed from the cartridge. A selection mechanism is arranged to control the = activation mechanism to either engage the cutting device while deactivating the film sealing device, or to engage the film sealing device while deactivating the cutting device. The cutting device comprises a blade positioned to sever the film from the cartridge, = 1 [00171 An aspect of the embodiment involves a container defined by a circumferential wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, a top surface and a bottom surface. The container has an actuation mechanism capable of moving from a first position to a second position, and is accessible from the outer surface of the.container. A cartridge is operatively configured to interact with the actuation mechanism, such that when the actuation mechanism is moved in respect to the first and second position the cartridge is rotated. [00181 An embodiment of the present invention involves a waste disposal device comprising a container with a movable door. The embodiment further involves an insertable or removable hamper or pail within the container and accessible through the moving door. [00191 An embodiment of the present invention involves a waste disposal device including a turntable for twisting flexible tubing dispensed from a cartridge. The cartridge comprises a rigid body formed by a central tubular core open at fop and bottom. A surrounding casing wall is positioned to provide a space between the tubular core and the casing wail and a base wall joining a lower end of the surrounding casing wall to the lower end of said tubular core. A length of flexible tubing is packed profusely in a tightly layered mass in the space to constitute a pack surrounding the tubular core positioned in a housing within the waste disposal device. A turntable mechanism is CA 02791742 2011-11-25 4:- = k, = WO 2006/029038 PCT/IIS2005/031443 = positioned interior to the cartridge housing comprising a support flange. The turntable mechanism is operatively configured to allow for rotation of the flexible tubing dispensed from the cartridge when said flexible tubing contains waste material [0020] An embodiment of the present invention involves a waste disposal device including a sensing mechanism for delaying rotation of a cartridge. The waste disposal device comprises a container defining a waste chamber for receiving encapsulated waste. A lid is coupled to the device and is capable of moving between an open and .= dosed position on the container. A rotatable cartridge contains a length of flexible = tubing. A rotation mechanism is operatively configured to engage a rotatable cartridge. A sensing mechanism is arranged to allow for delay in rotation of the cartridge until the lid assumes the closed position. [00211 An embodiment of the present invention involves a waste disposal device including a mechanism for scoring flexible tubing dispensed from a cartridge. The waste disposal device comprises a container housing a length of flexible tubing foldingly stacked therein and configured to permit dispensing of the flexible tubing to a predetermined length. The flexible tubing is scored periodically at predetermined intervals for ease of tearing during disposal of waste packages placed in the flexible tubing. [0022] An embodiment of the present invention provides new and improved waste disposal devices, in particular for use in the disposal of disposable diapers, medical wastes and industrial waste. = [0023] Another aspect of an embodiment provides improved waste disposal devices for the medical and health case industries for use in, for example, hospitals, doctors' offices, operating rooms, nursing homes, out-patient care and the home health care industry for disposal of non "sharps" including adult diapers, bloody/soiled bandages, dressings, disposable bibs, "chucks and clothing, medical gloves and dialysis machine = filters and other disposal medical waste. 6 = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = = WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 = [002.41 Yet another aspect of an embodiment provides new and improved waste disposal devices which use flexible tubing to dispose of waste packages. 10025] Still another aspect of an embodiment provides new and improved waste disposal devices In which encapsulation of waste packages occurs automatically upon closing a cover of the device or depressing a foot pedal. [0026] Yet another aspect of an embodiment provides new and improved waste disposal devices in which waste products are encapsulated and compacted. [0027)Yet another aspect of an embodiment provides new and improved waste disposal devices in which tying of flexible tubing used to dispose of waste packages is unnecessary. [00281 Still another aspect of an embodiment provides a new and improved waste disposal device which effectively contains and prevents the release of odors from waste packages. [00291801 another aspect of an embodiment"provides new and improved cartridges for waste disposal devices which retain flexible tubing. 100301Yet another aspect of an embodiment provides new and improved waste disposal devices in which a series of encapsulated waste packages are formed and can be removed from the device in an easy and expeditious manner. [00311Another embodiment provides new and improved diaper pails which alleviate a problem in known diaper pails, namely the need to remember to rotate a twist rim on a diaper pail after insertion of a soiled diaper in order to encapsulate the diaper. 10032] Yet another embodiment provides an automatic twist mechanism for a diaper (or 7 .= CA 02791742 2011-11-25 I WO 2006/0291138 PCTM52005/031445 other waste) pail which eliminates problems associated with the required manual twisting of a twist rim in order to encapsulate a soiled diaper or other waste product_ 10033] In an aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a waste disposal device - in accordance with the invention generally includes a container defining a waste receiving ch.amber and a cartridge arranged in the container and containing a length of flexible tubing for encapsulating waste packages after placement of a waste package in the container, with the encapsulated waste packages being retained in the waste receiving chamber. A lid is coupled to the container and is movable between an open position in which the waste receiving chamber is accessible and a dosed position in which the waste receiving chamber is covered. A retention mechanism is arranged in the container to hold the waste package. [0034] In another aspect of an embodiment, a rotation mechanism is provided to cause relative rotation between the cartridge and the retention mechanism in order to cause a twist to be formed above a waste package when the waste package is being held by the retention mechanism and thereby encapsulate the waste package in the tubing. That is, either the cartridge is rotated while the retention mechanism is stationary or the retention mechanism is rotated while the cartridge is stationary. [0035] In an aspect of art embodiment, encapsulation of the waste package prevents the release of odors horn the waste package and thus, the invention provides a convenient and sanitary disposal of the waste packages. Once encapsulated, the waste package is urged further into the container upon a subsequent insertion of another waste package. A series of encapsulated waste packages is thus created in the waste receiving chamber of the container, each package contained within a portion of the tubing and sealed at each end by the twisting process. However, the front end of the tubing is not sealed by the twisting process and must be closed by another method, possibly as disclosed below. [0036] in another aspect of an embodiment, the cartridge can also be rotated upon .= CA 02791742 2011-11-25 1,1 WO 2006/029038 PCT/ErS20051031415 rotation of the retention mechanism, although this would require some additional operation in order to form a twist in the tubing and encapsulation of the waste packages. 10037] The rotation mechanism may take many forms. In some embodiments, the rotation mechanism is actuated automatically by pressing or depressing a foot pedal, pushbutton or the like. in the alternative, the rotation mechanism may be actuated = automatically based on closing and/or opening of the lid. In this manner, one does not = need to remember to turn a twist rim, as in conventional waste disposal devices of a similar type, in order to cause a waste package to be encapsulated. 100381 An exemplifying embodiment of a retention mechanism includes a frame defining a waste passage through which the waste package passes and resilient springs connected to the frame and extending inward into the waste passage to engage with and hold the waste package. The frame may be fixed to the container in embodiments wherein the cartridge is being rotated and the retention mechanism is stationary. In embodiments wherein the retention mechanism is rotated and the cartridge stationary, the retention mechanism can additionally include a support flange connected to the frame for supporting the cartridge and an annular ring connected to the support flange and including a gear rim or other toothed structure. The retention mechanism is rotatably supported on the container by, for example, a flange an which the annular ring rests. The gear rim is designed to be rotated by the rotation mechanism to thereby cause rotation of the frame and any waste package held by the resilient springs. An appropriate mechanism is provided to prevent rotation of the cartridge supporting on the I= support flange of the retention mechanism_ Instead of supporting the cartridge directly on the support flange or the retention mechanism In general, it can be removably = secured to the container apart from the retention mechanism. = (0039) One embodiment of a rotation mechanism for rotating the retention mechanism including the gear rim described above, as well as others disclosed herein having a gear rim, includes a motor having a shaft and providing rotational movement to the shaft and a gear arranged on the shaft and in engagement with the gear rim_ As such, 9 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = = .= t , WO 2006/029038 PCTIUS20051031445 rotation of the shaft causes rotation of the gear and gear rim which in turn causes rotation of the frame and any waste package held by the resilient springs connected to the frame. The rotation mechanism may be housed in a compartment defined by a wall inside the container, to prevent the waste packages from damaging the rotation = mechanism. The wall includes a slot.through which the gear rim extends into engagement with the gear mounted on the shaft. In the alternative, the gear may extend = through the slot into engagement with the gear rim. [00401Yet another embodiment provides a compacting mechanism to compact the waste packages. This is particularly advantageous for medical waste such as is generated by doctors in doctor's offices. The compacting mechanism can be actuated by the same motor which causes rotation of the retention mechanism. In an exemplifying embodiment, the compacting mechanism includes a rotatable shaft extending between opposite sides of the waste chamber, preferably supported on both sides, with a front end of the tubing from the cartridge being connected to the shaft prior to use of the waste disposal device. When the motor is actuated, the shaft is rotated and the tubing having waste packages encapsulated therein is rolled around the shaft = thereby compacting any waste package encapsulated by the tubing. The waste packages are encapsulated by the formation of twists above the waste packages in the manner described above. = [0041] In another aspect, another rotation mechanism for rotating a retention mechanism having a gear rim as described above comprises a series of gears mounted on a flange in the container and a pedal mounted exterior of the container and connected to a pulley. A cable passes over this pulley and is fixed at one end to the container and windable about a shaft at its other end so that movement of the pedal in a slot causes the shaft to rotate. A gear is mounted on the shaft and a clutch assembly is interposed between the gear and the gear rim in order to transfer the rotational force of the gear to the gear rim. The clutch assembly is constructed to provide for a unidkectional transmission of rotational force from the gear to the gear rim. To this end, the clutch assembly may comprise a clutch member having a gear portion in meshing CA 02791742 2011-11-25 1 1 WO 20061029038 PCTRIS2005/031445 engagement with the gear mounted on the shaft. The clutch member is mounted about a drive spindle connected to a drive gear which in turn is in meshing engagement with an idler gear. The idler gear is in meshing engagement with a gear rim formed on the retention mechanism. The clutch member is constructed to engage or disengage from the drive spindle so that the rotational force is transferred to the drive only upon movement of the pedal in one direction and not the opposite direction. = [0042] ln an alternative embodiment of the present invention, an alternative rotation mechanism for rotating a retention mechanism without a gear rim includes a pulley attached to the retention mechanism and a pulley attached to the shaft of the motor or ; to the shaft of the compacting mechanism, if present. A cable is threaded through the pulleys and guided by guide pulleys if necessary so that the rotation of the shaft of the motor or the shaft of the compacting mechanism is converted into rotational movement of the retention mechanism via the cable. The retention mechanism in this case includes a frame, resilient springs connected to the frame, the pulley and an annular ring around the frame with the retention mechanism being rotatably supported on the container by, for example, the annular ring resting on a flange of the container. [00.43] In an embodiment wherein the rotation mechanism is manually actuated, the = rotation mechanism comprises a handle situated at least partially outside of the container and movable in a slot in an outer wall of the container and a mechanism for converting movement of the handle into unidirectional rotational movement of the frame of the retention mechanism to thereby rotate the frame, the resilient springs and a waste package engaged by the resilient springs relative to the tubing in the cartridge. Uni- directional rotational movement of the frame is necessary to prevent unwinding of the twists in the tubing_ One manner to accomplish this is to provide an Inner ring connected to the frame and having grooves on an inner face and a first, movable outer ring surrounding the inner ring and connected to the handle. The first outer ring includes a pin engaging with the grooves on the inner ring so that upon sliding movement of the handle, the first outer ring rotates, and via the engagement of the pin with the grooves in = the inner ring, the inner ring and frame rotate. Also, a second, stationary outer ring is CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 connected to the container and has grooves on an inner face. A pin connected to the inner ring engages with the grooves on the second outer ring to prevent return movement of the frame. As such, the frame rotates only when the handle is moved in a "forward" direction and not when the handle is moved in a ''reverse" direction. Repeated forward and reverse movement of the handles will thus result in multiple twists in the tubing. = = = [0044] To allow for easy removal of the series of encapsulated waste packages from the container, a pail, or another comparable removable waste receptacle, may be placed in the container on a base for receiving the encapsulated waste packages and an access door is formed in an outer wall of the container to enable removal and emptying of the pail. The pail may be lined with a trash bag so that when the pail is removed, the bash bag is closed and sealed with the series of encapsulated waste packages therein. [0045] In the alternative, a hamper can be provided having an outer wall constituting a portion of the outer wall of the container and defining the waste receiving chamber. The hamper may be pivotally attached to the container so that by pivoting the hamper outward, the series of encapsulated waste packages is exposed and thus easily removable from the hamper. [0046] In the embodiments described above, the retention mechanism includes resilient springs which engage the waste package and prevent its rotation relative to the retention mechanism. Other mechanisms for preventing rotation of waste packages relative to a retaining structure are also contemplated within the scope of the Invention. [0047] For example, in another embodiment of a waste disposal device, the retention mechanism is constructed in connection with a rotatable pail situated in the container so that the first waste package is held stationary by the pail itself. The rotation mechanism in this embodiment is designed to rotate the pail while the cartridge is stationary_ To this end, the rotation mechanism may comprise a turntable arranged below the pail, a string = for manually causing rotation of the turntable (by pulling the string), with the turntable CA 02791742 2011-11-25 1' WO 2006/029038 Per/US2005/03145 being in engagement with the pail via cooperating formations on the turntable and pail, and a mechanism for returning the turntable to is original position to be ready for a = = = subsequent rotation via pulling of the string. The mechanism by which the turntable returns to its original position may be a torsion spring or the like. [00481 The cartridge used in the waste disposal devices in accordance with the invention can be any conventional cartridge containing flexible tubing and defining a Waste insertion chamber. However, a drawback of known cartridges is that the tubing generally must be tied air knotted both at the beginning and end of use. Therefore, in order to achieve additional objects of the invention, the waste disposal devices.in accordance with the invention are designed to use a cartridge having tubing which can be dosed and sealed at both ends without requiring tying of knots. One construction of = such a cartridge includes a casing defining a cavity containing tubing and including opposed substantially cylindrical inner and outer walls and an annular lower wail extending between the inner and outer walls and an annular cover connected to the casing and enclosing the tubing in the cavity such that a ring-shaped opening is defined ' between an inner edge of the cover and the inner wall for passage of the tubing therethnough. = [0040] The closing and sealing of the front end of the tubing outside of the cavity is obtained by, for example, a metal clip or clasp attached to the front end of the tubing. (0060] The closing and sealing of the rear end of the tubing, i.e., that end connected to the cartridge, is obtained by constructing the cartridge to fold about itself. For example, score lines can be arranged on the cover to enable the cover to be folded about the score lines and score lines or slits arranged in the casing in alignment with the score lines of the cover to enable the casing to bend or break in conjunction with the folding of the cover about the score lines. If the casing is made of cardboard, then only score lines are required, not slits. [0051] One or both of the folded parts of the cover may be provided with a connection 13 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 . . i= I =i =1 WO 2006/02903S PCT/US2005/031445 = mechanism to enable the folded parts of the cover to stay together. The connection mechanism may be adhesive, hook and loop fasteners of ties and clasps formed or = stamped in the cover. .= [0052] The above-described embodiments involve rotation of the retention mechanisni relative to the stationary cartridge. In an embodiment wherein the cartridge is rotated relative to the retention mechanism, a rotation mechanism is provided which automatically rotates the carlric;e upon movement of the lid. The automatic rotation of . I the cartridge could also be performed automatically in conjunction with the movement of the lid or as a consequence of the movement of the lid. Rotation of the cartridge after insertion of a waste package into the waste insertion chamber causes the tubing to twist and encapsulate the waste package. The automatic rotation of the cartridge is achieved preferably only upon dosing of the lid so that when the lid is closed, the cartridge is rotated and the tubing is twisted. In this manner, one does not need to remember to turn a twist rim, as in conventional waste disposal devices of a similar type, in order to cause a waste package to be encapsulated. Opening of the lid will not cause rotation of the cartridge and thus the encapsulated waste package will not be opened. [0053] This type of rotation mechanism can take many forms with the objective being to convert the movement of the lid, which is invariably performed after insertion of a soiled = I waste package, into a rotation of the cartridge to thereby cause twisting of the tubing. In one embodiment, a rack gear is attached to the lid and a gear assembly is arranged in the container with One gear adapted to frictionally engage the teeth of the rack gear upon downward movement of the rid. The gear assembiy includes a circular plate with projections or a drive gear with teeth which mesh with a series of projections formed on the periphery of the cartridge. This drive gear is coupled through a gear assembly to the gear in engagement with the rack gear so that the movement of the rack gear causes rotation of all of the gears in the gear assembly and the drive gear and thus rotation of = = the cartridge. Instead of a rack gear, a toothed plate can be used. 14 = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = = WO 20W029035 PCT/US2005/031445 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0054] The invention, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify like elements, and wherein; [00551 FIG.1 is a partially cut-away side view of a first embodiment of a waste disposal device in accordance with the invention; 100561 FIG. 2 is a partially cut-away view of the upper region of the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 'I with the lid in an open position; 100571 FIG. 3 is a view of the gear assembly interacting with a rack gear in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in a position in which movement of the rack gear is transmitted by the gear assembly to the cartridge; [0058] FIG. 4 is a view of the gear assembly shown in FIG. 3 in a position in which movement of the rack gear is not transmitted by the gear assembly to the cartridge; 1 100591 FIG. 51s a view of another gear assembly interacting with a rack gear for use in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in a position in which movement of the rack gear is transmitted by the gear assembly to the cartridge; [0060] FIG. 6 is a view of the gear assembly shown in FIG. 5 in a position in which movement of the rack gear is not transmitted by the gear assembly to the cartridge; [0061] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the invention wherein waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge; 10062] FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along the line 8-8 of FIG. 7 with the lid in a CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/02903S MT/1E21005/031445 closed position: [0063] FIG. 9 is a perspective view partially cut-away showing the manner in which the retention member is rotated; [0064] FIG. 10 is a side elevation, partly in section, of a cartridge of flexible tubing for .= use in the invention; [0065] FIG. Ills a top view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 10; [0066] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 10; [0067] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a cartridge of flexible tubing for use in the invention [OoBB] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a tie upon removal from the cover of the cartridge shown in FIG. 13A; [00693 FIG. 13C is a perspective view of a clasp upon removal from the cover of the cartridge shown in FIG. 13A; [0070] FIG. 13D is a perspective, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cartridge of flexible tubing for use in the invention; 10071] FIG. 13E is a perspective view of the end of the tubing of the cartridge shown in FIG. 13D after removal from the cartridge; [0072] FIG. 14 is an exploded, partial view of another embodiment of a waste disposal device in accordance with the invention wherein waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge; CA 02791742 2011-11-25 .t= = WO 2006/029038 PCIDUS2005/031445 [0073] FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along the line 15-15 of FIG. 14; . _ [0074] FIG. 16 is a side elevation, partly in section, of another embodiment of the invention wherein waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge; [0075] HG. 17 is a side elevation, party in section, of the embodiment of FIG. 16 shown during use; [0076] FIG. 18 is a top view of the rotation mechanism in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16; [0077] FIG_ 19 is a bottom view of the rotation mechanism in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16; [0078] FIG. 20 Is a side view of another embodiment of a waste disposal device in accordance with the invention wherein waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge; - [0079] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20; 1. [0080] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20; [0081] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the encapsulation device and compacting mechanism of the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20; [0082] FIG. 23B is a perspective view of another embodiment of an encapsulation = device for use in the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20; [0083] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the waste disposal device of FIG. 20 showing waste packages encapsulated and compacted; 17 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 10084] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the retention mechanism and a cartridge of the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20; [0085] FIG. 26 is an exploded view of another retention mechanism cartridge of the ' waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20; = [0086] FIG. 27 shows a section of flexible tubing with perforations to facilitate tearing off; [0087] FIG. 28 is a schematic view of another encapsulation device for the waste 1. disposal device shown in FIGS. 20-22; ! [0088] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention wherein the waste package is rotated while the cartridge is stationary; [0089] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional, partial view taken along the line 30-30 of FIG. 29; 100901 FIG. 31 is a cress-sectional view taken along the line 31-31 of FIG. 30; [0091] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 32-32 of FIG. 31; [0092] FIG. 3315 a cross-sectional view taken along the line 33-33 of FIG. 31; [0093] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 34-34 of FIG. 32; [0094] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view taken along the One 35-35 of FIG. 32; [0095] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the invention wherein ! the waste package is rotated while the cartridge is stationary; [0096] FIG. 37 is a view of the bottom of the pail in the embodiment of FIG. 36; 18 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 I WO 2066/029038 PCDUS2,0051031445 = ; [0097] FIG. 38 is a sectional view taken along the line 38-38 of FIG. 36; [0098] FIG. 39 Is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the turntable and bottom of the pail showing a position in which the ribs on the turntable engage with depressions on the pail; [0099] FIG_ 40 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the turntable and bottom of the pail showing a position in which the ribs on the turntable are separated from the depressions on the pail; = [01001 FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 41-41 of FIG. 39; [0101] FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 42-42 of FIG. 40; , [0102] FIG. 43 is a drawing of an embodiment showing at least two opposingly aligned moveable rollers for rotating a rotatable cartridge, according to the present invention; , [0103] FIG. 43' is a drawing of an embodiment of a waste disposal device showing a mechanism operatively configured to alternatively engage a cutting device or a film = sealing device capable of twistably sealing a film dispensed from a cartridge, according to the present invention; [0104] FIG. 43A is a perspective drawing of an embodiment of a waste disposal device having a sensing mechanism operatively configured to allow for delay in rotation of a cartridge until a lid of the disposal device takes a closed position, according to the present invention; and [0105] FIG. 43B is a drawing of an embodiment of a waste disposal device showing a scoring mechanism for scoring a flexible tubing dispensed from a cartridge, according to the present invention. ! = 19 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 ..1 WO 20061029038 PCTICS2005/031445 DETAILED DESCRIPTION = [0106] Several embodiments of waste disposal devices in accordance with The invention are described below. Generally, the waste disposal devices provide for relative rotation between a cartridge of flexible tubing and a retention unit, mechanism or member which = holds a waste package stationary, Le., either the cartridge is rotated relative to the retention unit or the retention unit is rotated while the cartridge is stationary. In this .= manner, the flexible tubing is caused to twist above the waste package thereby encapsulating the waste package in the tubing. The encapsulated waste package is then urged into a waste receiving chamber of the waste disposal device upon the insertion of another waste package into the device to be encapsulated or in some embodiments, provisions are made to enable the encapsulated waste package to be drawn into the waste receiving chamber without dependency on the subsequent insertion of another waste package. Repeated insertions of waste packages causes the formation of a series of encapsulated waste packages which can be removed from the container when the container is full or the tubing is exhausted. [0107] It is contemplated that the features of different embodiments described herein can be used together with one another in the same waste disposal device to the extent possible. For example, new and unique cartridges of flexible tubing are disclosed below = and it is envisioned that these cartridges can be used in all of disclosed waste disposal devices. = [0108] On the other hand, some of the waste disposal devices described below are shown for use with this new cartridge. Nevertheless, it is contemplated that these waste disposal devices can be used with other cartridges including conventional cartridges, which might entail use of an appropriate adapter, one of which is described below. . = [0109] Throughout the several views, the same reference numerals will be used to designate the same or similar elements. Variations in the elements may be present in = = ' the drawings and if so, it is to demonstrate that the elements can have different forms. CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = .= .= i = WO 20061029038 1CTIUS20051031445 let) Referring first to FIGS. 1-4, a waste disposal device in accordance with one form of the present invention is shown. The waste disposal device 10 comprises a generally cylindrical container 12 defining a waste receiving compartment 12a, a removable cover 14 arranged on the top of the container 12 and an access door 16 pivotally connected to the bottom of the container 12. Cover 14 fits snugly to the upper rim of the container 12 and defines a waste insertion opening 20. A lid 22 is pivotally connected to the cover 14 so as to be movable between an open position in which the waste insertion opening 20 is exposed to enable insertion of a waste package such as soiled diaper into the container 12 and a dosed position in which the lid 22 overlies and closes the waste insertion opening 20. A flange 18 is located inside the container 12 along the inner surface of the container 12, and may be integrally formed with the container 12. Flange = 18 can conform to the cross-sectional shape of the container 12, which may be cylindrical or otherwise. [0111] A removable cartridge 24 rests on the flange 18 and contains a circumferentially pleated length of flexible tubing 34. Tubing 34 may constitute a polybag. Cartridge 24 includes a cylindrical outer wall 26, a lower wall 28, an inner wall 30 and an upper wall 32 which together define a cavity for receiving the circumferentially pleated length of flexible tubing 34. A ring-shaped opening 36 is defined between the inner wall 30 and the upper wall 32 for passage of the tubing 34 Inner wall 30 is provided with an annular flange or lip 38 over which the tubing 34 passes into a waste insertion chamber 40 defined by the inner wall 28. Waste insertion chamber 40 aligns with the waste insertion - opening 20 defined in the cover 14. The cartridge 24 is removed when the tubing 34 is used up by separating the cover 14 from the container 12, and a full cartridge is then placed onto the flange 18 and the cover 14 fit onto the container 12. [0112] A rotation mechanism is provided to enable movement of the lid 22 to be converted into rotation of the cartridge 24. More particularly, the downward movement of the lid 22 causes automatic rotation of the cartridge 24, with the rotation at the cartridge 24 causing twisting of the tubing 34 above the waste package in the waste 21 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = I ! WO 2006/029038 PCMIS2005/031445 = = insertion chamber 40. In this manner, the twist rim present in conventional waste disposal devices of a similar type is not required. = [0113] Specifically, the mechanical rotation mechanism, which causes rotation of the : cartridge 24 upon the downward movement of the lid 22 to its closed position, includes a toothed member such as a rack gear 42 fixed to the lid 22 and a cooperating gear = assembly 44 arranged in connection with the container 12. [0114] Feick gear 42 has an arcuate shape and includes a series of teeth formed on at least a portion of the outer arcuate surface with spaces being present between the teeth. An elongate slot 68 is provided in the cover 14 through which the rack gear 42 = passes for engagement with the gear assembly 44 (see FIG. 2). Instead of a rack gear = 42, a toothed plate or any other member having teeth on an edge could be used. The rack gear 42 could also be provided with teeth on the inner arcuate surface in which , case, the gear assembly 44 would be positioned inward of the rack gear 42 between the rack gear 42 and the rear of the container 12. Other cooperating, force- transmitting constructions could be used to enable the movement of the lid 22 to be transferred to an element of the gear assembly. [0115] Gear assembly 44 is mounted on a plate 46 so that the gear assembly 442nd plate 46 can be formed as a discrete component insertable into a pre-formed site in the container 12. As shown, plate 46 is mounted on an inner waN of the container 12 between mounting brackets 70 which define elongate slots for receiving opposed edges of the !gate 46. In this manner, the plate 46 containing the gear assembly 44 thereon is easily and removably mounted to the container 12. The plate 46 can also be formed integral with the container. [0116] A non-limiting embodiment of gear assembly 44 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 3 and 4. Gear assembly 44 includes a first gear 48 adapted to engage the rack gear 42. Gear 48 is mounted between the plate 46 and a mounting bracket 50 attached to or formed in conjunction with the plate 46. An elongate aperture 52 is arranged in the 22 .= = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 .= = WO 2006/029038 PCT/1.182005/031445 mounting bracket 50 for retaining an end of a shall of the gear 48 in such a manner that ' the gear 48 is slightly movable. The purpose of the movement of the gear 48 is explained below. [0117] Gear assembly 44 further includes a coupled set of two gears 54,56 mounted on the plate 46 with gear 54 being in meshed engagement with gear 48. Gear 56 is spaced from the plate 46 and is positioned at the same level as the mounting bracket 50 which .== is thus shaped With an arcuate form to accommodate gear 56. Gear assembly 44 further = includes another gear 58 also mound on plate 46 in meshed engagement with gear 56. A gear 60 is attached to gear 58 and includes a series of projections 64 extending outward from a peripheral edge. Instead of gems, any type of toothed member can be used. [0118] The engaged pairs of gears 48,54 and 56,58 are constructed in a conventional manner so that rotation of one gear of each pair causes rotation of the other gear in that = pair. Specifically, with reference to FIG. 3, when ihe rack gear 42 is moved In the direction of arrow A, which occurs when the lid 22 is being closed, gear 48 is moved downward until its shaft 48A is against the lower edge of the aperture 52 at which time, the continued movement of the rack gear 42 causes the gear 48 to rotate in the direction of arrow B causing gears 54,56 to rotate in the direction of arrow C, which is opposite to the direction of rotation of gear 48. Rotation of gear 56 in the direction of arrow C causes gears 58, 60 to rotate in the direction of arrow D, which is opposite to the direction of rotation of gears 54,56. [0119] Further, gears 54, 56 and 58 are constructed to increase rotation of gear 60 in relation to the rotation of gear 48. That is, gear 54 has a smaller diameter than gear 48 and gear 56 so that gear 56 rotates faster than gear 48 while gear 58 has a smaller diameter than gear 56 and gear 60 so That gear 60 rotates faster than gear 66. One rotation of gear 46 will thus translate into multiple rotations of gear 50. The ratio of the = diameters of the gears 46, 54, 56, 58, Le., the gear ratio, can be designed to provide whatever appropriate rotation of gear 60 is needed to facilitate operation of the waste 23 = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 .; WO 2006/029038 PCIIIIS2005/031445 !- disposal device in the manner described below. [0120] Referring to FIG. 2, cartridge 24 has a series of projections 66 extending outward from a rim 26a of outer wall 26. Although not shown, projections 86 are uniformly spaced around the entire circumference of the outer wall 26. Projections 64 on the gear - 60 are designed to mash with the projections 66 on the cartridge 24 to enable rotation force to be transferred from the gear assembly 44 to the cartridge 24. As such, rotation of the gear 60 in the direction of arrow D in FIG. 3 will result in rotation of the cartridge 24 in the direction of arrow E in FIG. 2, Rotation of the cartridge 24 causes twisting of = the tubing 34 above a waste package when the waste package is held stationary. .= [0121] The projections 66 can be formed integral with the outer wall 26 in which case, the cartridge 34 would be different than conventional cartridges which do not have any such prOjecflons. In the alternative, since it Is desirable to be able to use conventional cartridges, an annular attachment rim could be provided_ The conventional cartridge would be placed in the annular attachment rim, which would be sized to provide a snug fit and/or include a cooperating attachment mechanism in order to fix the cartridge to the attachment rim so that rotation of the attachment rim causes rotation of the cartridge. The attachment rim would include a series of projections adapted to mesh with the gear 60. In this manner, either the special cartridge including the integral projections 66 or a cartridge designed for use in conventional waste disposal devices of the same or a similar type could be used in this embodiment of the invention. [0122] As shown in FIG. 2, gear 60 Is positioned below the rim 26a of the outer wall 26 = so that the projections 64 on the gear 60 engage the projections 66 on the=carlaidge 24 from below. However, it is also contemplated that the projections 64 can engage the projections 66 from above, either by forming the projections 66 on a rim about a lower portion of the cartridge 24, reducing the height of the cartridge 24 while maintaining the same gear assembly 44 or by constructing the gear assembly 44 such that the gears 58, 60 rotate about an -axis above the projections 66. 24 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 PCTKES2005/031145 [01231 The rotation mechanism as shown is designed to cause rotation of the cartridge 24 only upon dosing movement of the lid 22. The gear train is thus arranged to prevent transmission of a rotational force by the rack gear 42 during movement of the lid 22 to its open position and allow transmission of a rotational force by the rack gear 42 during movement of the lid 22 to its closed position. Any known design and construction of gears to provide for a one-way transmission of rotational force could be applied in the invention. In the illustrated embodiment, a one-way transmission of rotational force is provided by the mounting of the shaft of the gear 48 In the aperture 52. As such, when the lid 22 is moved to its closed position, the shaft 48A of the gear 413 is pressed downward against a lower edge of the aperture 52 by the rack gear 42 so that the rack gear 42 frictionally engages gear 4E3 and causes rotation of gear 48 (see FIG. 3). On the other hand, when the rack gear 42 is moved upward upon movement of the lid 22 to its open position, gear 48 moves upward (in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 4) out of engagement with the gear 54 such that a space G is formed between the gear 48 and the gear 54. The upward movement of gear 48 is facilitated by the placement of the = shaft 48A of the gear in the aperture 52. Although the rack gear 42 will continue to engage and rotate gear 48 during its upward movement, the rotation of gear 48 is not I transmitted to the gear 54 so that the cartridge 24 does not rotate and unwind the twist. The size and orientation of the aperture 52 are designed to allow for movement of the shaft 48A in the desired manner. [0124] It is also conceivable that a rotation mechanism could also be designed to cause rotation of the cartridge either only upon opening of the lid or upon both closing and opening of the lid. [0125] The apparatus is designed to hold an encapsulated waste package stationary while the flexible tubing 34 is twisted. To this end, tongues or springs 72 are attached to the flange 18. The springs 72 hold a waste package 74 within the flexible tubing 34 stationary while the cartridge 24 is rotated to twist the flexible tubing 34 and seal the end of the waste package 74. Alternate arrangements for preventing rotation of the waste package 74 during rotation of the cartridge 34 include springs attached to the CA 02791742 2011-11-25 õ . WO 2006/029038 PCTRIS2005/031445 .= container 12 and projecting radially inward in order to engage the waste package 74, or springs attached to or formed integral with a retention member which in turn is attached to the container. Additional arrangements for preventing rotation of the waste package which may be incorporated into this embodiment are described below. [01261 Moreover, other arrangements for holding a waste package stationary during twisting of the tubing which may be used in conjunction with the invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,869,049,5,590,512, 5,813,200, 6,128,890 and 6,170,240, all of .= which are incorporated by reference herein. These patents also disclose several variations of a cutting device that may be Incorporated Into the waste disposal device in accordance with the invention for the purpose of severing the flexible tubing 34 when the container 12 is full of waste packages 74. I [01271To prepare the waste disposal device 10 for use, the cover 14 is opened and a cartridge 24 is placed onto the flange 18. An end of the flexible tubing 34 is taken from the cartridge 24 to cause a length of the tubing 34 to be pulled through opening 36 and this end is then knotted. This knot of flexible tubing 34 is then placed over the lip 38 into the waste insertion chamber 40 to thereby form a first bag for storing a waste package 74. The cover 14 is then reattached to the container 12 and the device is ready for use. , E. [01281 In use, the lid 22 is opened to expose the waste insertion opening 20 of cover 14 and the aligned waste insertion chamber 40 of the container 12. A waste package 74 = such as a soiled diaper is placed into the bag formed by flexible tubing 34 preferably so that the bag is held against the springs 72. 1 [01291The lid 22 is then closed causing the rack gear 42 to rotate the gears 48, 54, 56, 58 and 60. Rotation of the gear 60, which is in meshed engagement with the projections 66 on the cartridge 24, will automatically cause rotation of the cartridge 24. Rotation of the cartridge 24 will cause the flexible tubing 34 not held stationary by the weight of the waste package 74 in engagement with the springs 72 to be twisted while the waste package 74 is held stationary. Thus, the flexible tubing 32 located above the waste 26 1 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 II WO 2006/029039 PCT/US2005/031445 package 74 twists and encloses and encapsulates the waste package 74. .= [0130] Once a waste package 74 is sealed, the waste package 74 can be pushed = downwardly past the retention springs 72 into the container 12 upon the following insertion of a waste package into the waste insertion chamber 40. Successive waste packages 74 can be sanitarily stored in the container 12 because each waste package 74 is individually sealed. Once the container 12 is filled, a cutting device can be used to sever the end of the most recently disposed waste package 74 from the roll of flexible 1 , tubing 34, and the series of waste packages 74 can be removed from the container 12 through the bottom access door 18. [0131] Modifications to the above embodiment are contemplated, including but not limited to, variations in the rotation mechanism which converts the movement of the lid to rotation of the cartridge. [0132] For example, another gear assembly for converting the downward movement of = the lid 14 and associated rack gear 42 into rotational movement of the cartridge 24, = while preventing rotational movement of the cartridge 24 during upward movement of the lid 14 is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. This gear assembly 44' includes a gear 48' meshing with the rack gear 42 and mounted with its rotation shaft in an aperture 52' formed in a plate 46' attached to or formed integral with the inner wall of the container 12. Gear assembly 44' further includes a second gear 54'0 in meshing engagement with the gear 48' and which is also mounted on the plate 46'. A gear 60' is attached to the gear 54' and is arranged to mesh with the projections 64 on the cartridge 24. = 101331 For this gear assembly 44% a one-way transmission of rotational force is provided by the mounting of the shaft of the gear 48' in aperture 52'. When the rack gear 42 is = moved in the direction of arrow A, which occurs when the lid 22 is being dosed, it frictionally engages gear 48' and pushes gear 48' downward until its shaft 48A' is = against the lower edge of the aperture 52' at which time, the continued movement of the rack gear 42 causes the gear 48' to rotate in the direction of arrow B causing gears 27 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 _ = WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 .= 541,60' to rotate in the direction of arrow C, wbich is opposite to the direction of rotation of gear 48'. Rotation of the gear 60' causes rotation of the cartridge 34 through the meshing engagement of the projections 64 on the cartridge with gear 80'. [0134] On the other hand, when the rack gear 42 is moved upward upon movement of the lid 22 to its open position (in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 6), gear 48' is moved upward against an upper edge of the aperture 52' out of engagement with the gear 54' = (in the direction of arrow B) with a space G being formed between the gear 48' and the gear 54'. The upward movement of gear 48' is facilitated by the placement of the shaft = 48A' of the gear in the aperture 52'. Although the rack gear 42 will continue to engage and rotate gear 48' during the upward movement of the rack gear 42, the rotation of gear 48' is not transmitted to the gear 54' because of the separation between gear 48' and gear 54' so that the cartridge 24 does not rotate and unwind the twist. [0135] Instead of providing projections on the outer wall of the cartridge 24, sponge rollers can be used to transfer the rotational force provided by the gear assembly to the cartridge. [0136] Although several embodiments of a waste disposal device Incorporating cartridge rotation mechanisms in accordance with the invention are shown in FIGS. 1-6, the cartridge rotation mechanisms disclosed above can be incorporated into numerous . waste disposal devices that differ from the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-6. [0137] The embodiments in FIGS. 1-6 involve the rotation of the cartridge relative to the waste package which is held stationary. The following embodiments of waste disposal devices provide rotation of the waste package relative to the cartridge which is stationary. = [0138] A first embodiment of such a waste disposal device is shown in FIGS. 7- 9 and it 1 incorporates a rotation mechanism for rotating the waste package relative to the cartridge. The waste disposal device 80 includes a substantially cylindrical container 82 28 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = = WO 2006/029038 MT/02005/031445 = = having an outer wall 84, and a base 86 arranged at a lower end of the outer wail 84. A removable hamper 88 is provided and has a wall 88a which also constitutes a part of the outer wall 84 of the container 82. The waste packages accumulate in the hamper 88 and the hamper 88 is removed from the container 82 and emptied when full. Since the hamper 88 comes into direct contact with the waste packages and is liable to become dirty, it is advantageous that it is detachable from the container 82 so that it can be easily cleaned, possibly by placing it in a dishwasher. [01391A lid 22 is pivotally connected to the outer wall 84 so as to be movable between an open position in which a waste insertion opening 20 is exposed to enable insertion of a waste package such as soiled diaper into the container 82 and a closed position in which the lid 22 overlies and closes the waste insertion opening 20. = [0140] A flange 90 is located inside the container 82 along the inner surface of the container 82, and may be integrally formed with the container 82. Flange 90 can conform to the cross-sectional shape of the container 82. [01411A retention member 92 is seated on the flange 90 and includes tongues or = springs 72 adapted to grasp a waste package 74 (FIG. 8). Retention member 92 has a = frame including lower planar section 92a from which the springs 72 and vertical walls 92b descend, the vertical walls 92b defining an enclosure in which the springs 72 retain the waste package 74. A stepped section 92c is adjacent the outer edge of the planar section 92a and forms an indentation 92d enabling the retention member 92 to be movably seated on the flange 90. A cylindrical wall section 92e is adjacent the stepped = section 92c and a circular gear rim 92f adjoins the cylindrical wall section 92e. . Projections 929 are formed on the gear rim 92f. = 101421A removable cartridge 94 rests on the stepped section 92c and contains a . circumferentially pleated length of flexible tithing 34. Additional details of the cartridge = 94 are set forth below with reference to FIGS. 10-12. 29 = CA 0 2 7 917 4 2 2 011- 11- 2 5 WO 2406/029038 PCIIIIS2405/031445 [01431A rotation mechanism 96 is provided to rotate the retention member 92. The rotation mechanism 96 includes a rack gear 42 attached to the lid 22 and having a series of teeth on at least a portion of an inner arcuate surface, and a gear assembly 96 = arranged on the container 82. Gear assembly 96 includes a first gear 100 in meshing engagement with the rack gear 96 and a second gear 102 in meshing engagement with the first gear 100. Gear 102 is connected to a drive gear 104 which is in meshing engagement with the projections 92g on the rim 92f of the retention member 92 (FIG. 9). Gear assembly 96 also indudes an appropriate mechanism for enabling one- way transmission of rotational force from the rack gear 42 to the gear 104, for example, the formation of an aperture in which the rotation shaft of the gear 100 is arranged to enable = i movement of the gear 100 into and out of engagement with the gear 102 (see FIGS. 3-6 ' I and the relevant discussion above about the transmission of rotational force in only a single direction by mounting a rotation shaft of a gear in an aperture). [0144] Thus, when the lid 22 is closed, the rack gear 42 is moved in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 9 causing the gear 100 to rotate in the direction of arrow B. Gears 102 and 104 are caused to rotate in the direction of arrow C and the retention member 92 is caused to rotate in the direction of arrow D. As such, the closing movement of the lid 22 is converted into rotational movement of the retention member 92. Other mechanisms for converting the movement of the lid into rotational movement of the retention member 92 are also contemplated within the scope of the invention and include those rotation .= mechanisms described in other embodiments herein. [01453 In order to provide for relative rotation between the retention member 92 and the cartridge 94 and thus the formation of a twist in the tubing 34 above a waste package , being retained by the springs 72 of the retention member 92, a mechanism for preventing rotation of the cartridge 94 is provided. Specifically, two pair of anti-rotation tabs 106 are arranged on the inner wall of the container 82 with the anti- rotation tabs 106 in each pair being spaced apart a distance substantially equal to the size of flanges 108 formed on the cartridge 94 (see FIG. 7). When the cartridge 94 is placed so that the flanges 108 are between the anti-rotation tabs 106, the cartridge 94 is prevented from = CA 02791742 2011 - 11 - 25 , WO 2006/029038 PCT/(JS2005/031445 = rotating along with the retention member 92. [0146] In use, the lid 22 is opened to expose the waste insertion opening 20. A waste package is placed into a bag formed by flexible tubing 34 preferably so that the bag is held against the springs 72. [0147] The lid 22 is then closed Causing the rack gear 42 to rotate the gears 1001 102 and 104. Rotation of the gear 104, which is In meshed engagement with the projections 92g on the rim 921 of the retention member 92, will cause rotation of the retention = = member 92. Rotation of the retention member while the cartridge 94 is held stationary will cause the flexible tubing 3410 be twisted 'above the waste package 74 and thereby encloses and encapsulates the waste package 74. ; [0148] Once a waste package 74 is sealed, the waste package 74 can be pushed downwardly pest the retention springs 72 into the container 82 upon the following Insertion of a waste package into the waste insertion chamber 20. Successive waste packages 74 can be sanitarily stored in the container 82 because each waste package i = = 74 is individually sealed_ [0149] Other constructions of retention members can be used in this embodiment For example, the retention member 92 can be formed with a planar section from which springs 72 and the vertical walls 92b descend, and have a ring gear formed on an outer peripheral edge or on a lower surface. The ring gear would include teeth in meshing engagement with the drive gear 104 so that rotation of the drive gear 104 causes rotation of the ring gear and thus the retention member. The cartridge would rest on the planar section and be held against rotation by the anti-rotation tabs. As such, the stepped section, cylindrical wall section and rim are not present on the retention member. i [0150] The cartridge 94 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is a unique cartridge provided with flanges. Generally, cartridges used In existing diaper palls and waste disposal devices 31 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 200Q020038 PCT/1352005/031445 of a similar type do not include any flanges. Nevertheless, it is contzmplated that such conventional cartridges could be used in this embodiment by providing an adapter to mate with the conventional cartridge and provide the necessary flanges to mate with the anti-rotation tabs 106. For example, the adapter could be a circular ring with opposed flanges whereby the cartridge is inserted into the adapter and fits snugly together. = .= 101513 Details of the cartridge 94 designed for use in the embodiment of FIGS. 7-9, as well as other embodiments described herein, are shown In greater detail in FIGS. 10-12. The cartridge 94 includes a casing 110 defining a cavity in which the tubing 34 is placed and an annular cover 112 connected to the casing 110 and enclosing the tubing 34 in the cavity. Casing 110 includes a cylindrical outer wall 114, an annular lower wall 116, a cylindrical inner wall 118 and a flange 120 extending outward from the upper edge of the outer wall 114. The flange 120 serves to enable attachment of the casing 110 and cover 112 to one another, e.g., by adhesive. A ring-shaped opening 122 is defined between an Inner edge of the cover 112 and inner wall 118 for passage of the tubing 34. Inner wail 118 includes, or may be provided with, an annular flange or lip over which the tubing 34 passes into a waste insertion chamber 40 defined in part by the inner wall 118. 10152] Cover 112 includes two tabs 108 on opposite sides. Tabs 108 are designed to fit between the anti-rotation tabs 106 formed in connection with the container 82 (see HG.. 7). By positioning the tabs 108 on the cartridge 94 between the anti-rotation tabs 106 of the container 82, rotation of the cartridge 94 upon rotation of the retention member 92 is prevented even though the cartridge 94 rests on the retention member 92. Instead of the placement of tabs on both the cartridge 94 and the container 82, other mechanisms for preventing rotation of the cartridge 94 relative to the retention member 92 can be applied in the invention. . = [0153] The cartridge 94 can be designed for multiple uses, i.e., to enable insertion of a new pack of tubing 34 when the tubing 34 in the cartridge 94 is exhausted (instead of folding the cartridge 94 over on itself and pushing the cartridge 94 into the waste- 32 1 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/02903$ PC17052005/031445 , receiving chamber 12a). In this case, the cover 112 is removably attached to the casing 110, using Velcro.TM. for example, and additional packs of tubing 34 provided. The 11 additional packs of tubing 34 can be held together by appropriate means known in the art. When the tubing in the cartridge 94 is exhausted, the and of the tubing 34 is tied together and pushed into the waste-receiving chamber of the container 12. The cover 112 is separated from the casing 110 and a new pack of tubing 34 is inserted into the casing 110. The cover 112 is re-attached to the casing 110 and the cartridge 94 is prepared for use. [0154] Casing 110 is typically made of a plastic material and cover 112 is typically made of a fibrous material such as cardboard. The use of these materials is not intended to limit the invention. [0155] The cartridge 94 may also be designed to eliminate the need to tie the tubing 34, both at the beginning of use of the cartridge 94 and when the 'tubing 34 is used up andfor the hamper 88 is full. The rear end of the tubing 34 is usually fixed to the cartridge 94 to maintain the tubing 34 in connection with the cartridge 94. [0156] With respect to eliminating the need to tie the tubing at the beginning of use of the cartridge 94, the cartridge 94 is constructed with the front end of tubing 34 dosed, for example, by using a metal clip or clasp 124 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 12. The clasp 124 is secured to the front end of the tubing 34 during manufacture of the cartridge 94 so that the cartridge 94 is ready for use immediately upon purchase without requiring removal of a length of tubing and tying of the end of the removed length of tubing (as in conventional diaper pails of the 'Diaper Genie.T14. type described above). [0157] Other mechanisms for closing the front end of the tubing 34 during manufacture of the cartridge 94 can be used in the invention instead of the metal clasp 124. For = example, the end of the tubing 34 could be dosed by heat-sealing (as shown in FIG. 13D), formed with a closed end, or sewn closed. 23 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 !" = WO 2006/029038 PCIATS2805/031.445 = [01581 With respect to eliminating the need to tie the tubing when the length of available tubing is exhausted and/or the pail is full, the cartridge 94 is provided with a closure mechanism which is effective to close and seal the rear end of tubing 34 without requiring tying of the tubing 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure mechanism involves a particular construction of the cartridge 94 with weakened regions, both on the casing 110 and the cover 112, to allow for folding of a part of the cartridge 94 onto itself. .= (01591 More specifically, the cover 112 is provided with score lines 126, which separate approximately equal parts 112a, 112b of the cover 112 and enable the cover 112 to be folded about the score lines 126, and with a mechanism to attach the folded parts 112a,112b of the cover 112 together (FIG. 11). Instead of score lines 126 on the cover 112, other types of constructions creating a weakened portion on the Cover 112 can ' also be provided, for example, providing a reduced thickness along a fold line. The casing 110 is provided with slits 128 extending through the outer wail 114, lower wall 116 and inner wall 118 and with aligning weakened sections 130 in the flange 120 (FIG. 12). Sits 128 and weakened sections 130 are substantially in alignment with the score lines 126 in the cover 112_ M the cover 112 is folded about the score lines 126, the casing 110 is folded about the weakened sections 130, with the silts 128 serving to allow for such folding. Depending on the thickness and composition of the weakened sections 130, the casing 110 may be actually be broken as the cartridge 94 is folded. Further, instead of slits 128, the casing 110 can be made of a material which is easily broken and score lines or slots provided to enable breaking of the casing along the scone lines or slots upon folding of the cartridge 94. [01601111e mechanism on the cover 112 which will attach the parts 112a, 112b of the cover 112 together may be of the Velcro.TM. type whereby part 112a includes a section of hook fasteners 132 and part 112b includes a section of loop fasteners 134 positioned to mate with the hook fastener section 132 when the cover 112 is folded about the score lines 126. The size and shape of the hook and loop fastener sections 132,134 can be varied and adjusted with a view toward obtaining a sufficiently secure bond between the parts 112a, 112b of the cover 112 when the cover 112 is folded about the score lines 34 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 20061029038 PCT/13S2005/031445 128. .= [0161] An alternative mechanism would be to arrange a strip of adhesive on one part .= 112a with a covering pad so that removal of the covering pad would expose the adhesive which would then be folded to engage the opposite part 112b. [0162] Another alternative mechanism is shown in FIGS. 13A-13C and comprises a tie 136 and a clasp 138 stamped or otherwise integrated into the cover 112'. Cover 112' = = also includes an aperture 140 on each part 112a', 112b' which align when the cover = 112' is folded. When the tubing in the cartridge 94' is exhausted, the tie 136 and clasp 138 are removed from the cover 112', the cover 112' is folded about the score lines 126 and the tie 136 is inserted through the aligning apertures 140 and the clasp 138 is then attached to the tie 136 to thereby securely keep the cover 112 in a folded state. [0163] FIGS. 13D and 13E show a mechanism which eliminates the need to attach the parts of the cover 112 to one another In order to seal and close the tubing 34. In this embodiment, a drawstring 137 is inserted into a channel formed at the rear edge of the tubing 34. When the tubing 341s used up, the drawstring 137 is pulled from the cartridge 94 and the exposed loops can be pulled to dose the end of the tubing 34. = 1 , RIM] Once the cartridge 94,94' is folded to close and seal the rear end of the tubing 34, it can be pushed into the hamper 88 through the retention member 92 and the lid 22 may then be raised to enable placement of a new cartridge 94,94' into the container 82 The hamper 88 is emptied when full. The length of tubing 34 in the cartridge 94,94' can be selected so that the hamper 88 is full when the tubing 34 is exhausted. In this case, emptying of the hamper 88 and replacement of the cartridge 94,94' would occur simultaneously. [0165] The cartridges 94,94' described above can be used as a substitute for the = cartridges in any diaper or waste pail using a continuous length of flexible tubing, including those of the Diaper Genie-MI type and those described herein. 35 = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WEI , = = WO 2006/029038 PC17102005/031445 (0166] The immediately foregoing embodiment provided for the rotation of the retention member upon closing of the lid via a movement conversion mechanism. In other embodiments, the retention member can be rotated by depressing a pushbutton or a foot pedal. [01671 For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the rotation mechanism 96 comprises a pushbutton 142, a motor 144 coupled to the pushbutton 142 and actuated by depression of the pushbutton 142 and a drive gear 146 actuated by the motor 144. A part of the pushbutton 142 and the motor 144 are housed in a compartment 148 formed in a rear of the container 82 with the pushbutton 142 extending through an aperture formed in the upper wall of the rear compartment 148. A shaft of the motor 144 extends through an aperture in the rear wall of the waste receiving chamber in the container 82. The location of the pushbutton 142; and motor 144, are not limited to that shown in the illustrated embodiment and may be placed at other locations in the container 82. For example, the pushbutton 142 can be placed along the side of the container 82 or in the lid 22 while the motor 144 can be placed at = the bottom of the container 82 and an appropriate gear transmission mechanism provided to transfer the rotation force from the shaft of the motor 144 to the drive gear 146.. Also, it is contemplated that the pushbutton can be replaced by a foot pedal [016111 A timer 150 is optionally coupled to the pushbutton 142 to enable a delay between the depression of the pushbutton 142 end the actuation of the motor 144. [0169] When actuated, the motor 144 rotates a shaft 152 attached to the drive gear 146 so that the drive gear 146 is rotated. A power mechanism (not shown) is provided to supply power to the motor 144, for example, either a battery housing in an accessible = = compartment in the container 82 or a cord extending from the motor through the rear compartment 148 to the exterior of the container 82 for insertion into a power outlet [01701 The retention member 154 is seated on a flange 156 formed integral with the 36 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 2006/029038 l'CTIUS2005/031445 = container 82. Retention member 154 has a planar section 154a from which springs 72 and vertical walls 154b descend, the vertical walls 154b defining an enclosure in which the springs 72 retain the waste package. A ring gear 158 is formed on a lower surface of the planar section 154a and includes teeth in meshing engagement with the drive gear 146. An alternative retention member can be formed with teeth on an outer peripheral edge, in the form of a ring gear surrounding the planar portion 154a. This ring gear would be supported on the flange 156 which would include an opening to enable the ring gear to engage with the drive gear 146. [0171J An insert 160 is arranged above the retention member 154 to hold the retention member 154 in position and provide a support for the flanges 108 of the cartridge 94. Cartridge 94 also rests on the planar portion 154a of the retention member 154. The = .= insert 160 includes anti-rotation tabs or ears 162 to prevent rotation of the cartridge 94 upon rotation of the retention member 154. The insert 160 may be snap fit to the inner = wall of the container 82. [0172] In use, a waste package is inserted until it is held by the springs 72 of the retention member 154, and then depression of the pushbutton 142 causes the motor 144 to rotate the shaft and drive gear 146 which in turn causes rotation of the ring gear 158 and thus the entire retention member 154. Rotation of the cartridge 94 is prevented by the anti-rotation tabs 162 so that it Is held stationary. Rotation of the retention member 154 holding the waste package relative to the cartridge 04 causes the formation of a twist of the tubing 34 above the waste package and thus encapsulation of the waste package. An advantage of this embodiment is that the waste package can be . encapsulated independent of the movement of the lid 22. , [0173] Another embodiment of a waste disposal device wherein the waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge is shown in FIGS. 16-19. In this embodiment, the retention member is manually rotated. [01741 Initially, instead of a hamper 88, a removable pail is used in this embodiment. 37 = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 20061029038 PCITOS2005A031445 = The removable pail and the necessary structure to enable its use can be incorporated = into any of the other embodiments described herein. Specifically, to enable use of the pail, an access door 164 is formed in the outer wall 84 and pivots about hinges 186 to enable selective access to a pail 168 resting on the base 86 in the interior of the container 82. The size of the pad 168 is such so as to enable its removal from and re- = insertion into the container 82 through the access door 164. A closure mechanism is provided to secure the access door 164 in a closed position. The closure mechanism includes..- U-shaped latch 170 arranged on the access door 164 and a projection 172 arranged on the outer surface of the outer wall 84 whereby the latch 170 is designed to overlie the projection 172 and thereby secure the access door 164 in its closed position. . Other closure mechanisms can be used in the invention. = [0175] An annular flange 174 is located inside the container 82 along the inner surface of the outer wall 84. Flange 174 can conform to the cross-sectional shape of the outer wall 84, which may be cylindrical or otherwise. A removable cartridge 94 is supported by or rests on the flange 174 and contains a circumferentially pleated length of flexible tubing 34. The cartridge 94 is maintained in a stationary position relative to the flange 174, for example, by providing anti-rotation tabs on the container (not shown) to accommodate the flanges 108 of the cartridge 94. [0176] Optionally, a funnel in the form of a flexible, resilient membrane 176 is connected to or constructed together with the flange 174 to support the tubing 34. Membrane 176 also prevents odors from escaping from the container 82. SuCh a membrane can also be incorporated into the other embodiments disclosed herein, either formed in connection with the cartridge on the structure on which the cartridge is seated. = [0177] In this embodiment, the rotation mechanism is integral with the retention mechanism. The rotation and retention mechanism 178 thus grasps waste packages and enables unidirectional rotation of the grasped waste packages relative to the cartridge 94 so as to form a twist in the tubing 34 above a waste package 74 which thereby causes encapsulation of the waste package 74. The cartridge 94 is maintained 38 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 KT/1752005/031445 in a stationary position while the waste package is rotated. [01781 The rotation and retention mechanism 178 comprises a vertically oriented frame 180 including walls defining a waste passage 182, resilient members or tongues 184 = connected to the frame 180 and extending inward into the waste passage 182, an inner ring 186 connected to the frame 180, a first, movable outer ring 188 surrounding the inner ring 186, a second, stationary outer ring 190 connected to the outer wall 84 of the container 82 and a handle 192 connected to the first outer ring 188 (see FIGS. 18 and 19). The shape, number and form of the tongues 184 is not limiting and other resilient retaining members can be used in the invention. Handle 192 passes through a slot 194 in the outer wall 84 and waste passage 182 aligns with the waste insertion opening defined by the cartridge 94. [0179] To provide for movement of the inner ring 186 and thus rotation of the frame 180 upon turning of the handle 192, the outer surface of the inner ring 186 includes grooves ; = and a pin 196 is arranged in connection with the first outer ring 188 (FIG. 18). The grooves on the inner ring 186 am formed so that the pin 196 engages and is maintained in engagement with a single groove during turning of the handle 192 in one direction and slides over grooves during turning of the handle 192 In the opposite direction. 101801 When the handle 192 is turned in the direction of arrow A, the first outer ring 142 and connected pin 196 rotate in the same direction causing rotation of the inner ring 186 and thus the frame 180 connected thereto. On the other hand, when the handle is turned in the direction of arrow B, the first outer ring 188 and connected pin 196 rotate in the same direction but the pin 196 slides over the angled surfaces of the grooves and does not frictionally engage therewith. In this case, the frame 180 is further prevented from rotating along with the first outer ring 188 by a pin 198 arranged in connection with the inner ring 186 and engaging with grooves on the second outer ring 190 (FIG. 19. The grooves on the second outer ring 190 are formed so that pin 198 glides over angled surfaces of the grooves during movement of the frame 180 in the direction of arrow A. The frame 180 is thus not moved during turning of the handle 192 in the direction of 39 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 20064029038 PC111E20051031445 = arrow B. [01811 One or more stops 200 are formed on the inner surface of the outer wall 84 of the container 82 above the rotation and retention mechanism 178 to prevent upward movement of the rotation and retention mechanism. 178. [0182] Other arrangements for providing rotation of the frame 180 upon turning of the , handle 192 in only a single direction can also be used in the invention. [0183] To prepare the waste disposal device for use, the lid 22 is opened and a cartridge 94 is placed onto the flange 174. In use, the lid 22 is opened to expose the waste insertion opening 20. A waste package 74 such as a soiled diaper is placed into the bag formed by flexible tubing 34 preferably so that the bag is held against the = resilient tongues 184. [0184] The handle 192, which is preferably maintained at one end of the slot 194, is grasped and moved in the slot 194 to cause the frame 180 to turn relative to the cartridge 94, which is held stationary, so that a twist forms above the waste package 74 and encapsulates the waste package 74 (see FIG. 17). Handle 192 can be repeatedly moved back and forth in the slot 194 until an adequate twist is formed above the waste package. As noted above, the frame 180 will move during movement of the handle 192 in only one direction and not in a reverse direction (so as not to undo the twist), [0185] Successive waste packages 74 are inserted into the waste insertion opening 20, and so long as that waste package or a preceding waste package is grasped by the resilient members 184, movement of the handle 192yvill cause formation of a twist above that waste package. This procedure continues until the length of available tubing 34 is exhausted or the pail 168 is full. At this time, the lid 22 is opened and the cartridge 94 is closed by folding the cartridge 94 onto itself and connecting the hook and loop fastener sections 132,134. The cartridge 94 may be pushed through the flange 174 and the frame 180 into the pail 168. 1 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2000029038 PCTAIS200S/1131445 = [0186] Among the advantages provided by the waste disposal device are the use of a cartridge which does not require tying of either the front or rear end of the tubing and the presence of a pail, or other comparable removable receptacle, into which the encapsulated waste packages fall so as to provide for easy removal of the series of encapsulated waste packages. [0187] The rotation mechanism described above can also be used as a substitute for the rotation mechanism in diaper and waste pails in which flexible tubing is twisted, including those of the Diaper Genie TM. type. [0188] Another embodiment of a waste disposal device wherein the waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge is shown in FIGS. 20-27 In this embodiment, the waste packages are encapsulated by an encapsulation device 202 and compacted by a compacting mechanism 204. [0189) The encapsulation device 202 grasps waste packages and enables unidirectional rotation of the grasped waste packages relative to the cartridge 94 so as to form a twist in the tubing 34 above a waste package which thereby causes encapsulation of the waste package. The encapsulation device 202 generally comprises a retention unit 206 , which engages and temporarily holds a waste package and a rotation mechanism 208 for rotating the retention unit 208. [01901 Retention unit 206 comprises a vertically oriented frame 210 and an annular gear ring 212. The frame 210 includes walls defining a passage through which the waste - article surrounded by a section of the tubing 34 passes, resilient members or tongues 72 extending inward into the waste passage, and a support flange 214 on which the cartridge 94 rests (FIG. 25). The waste passage generally aligns with the waste Insertion chamber defined by the cartridge 94. The shape, number and form of the tongues 72 is not limiting and other resilient retaining members can be used in the invention, The frame 210, tongues 72 and support flange 214 may be formed from a 41 , CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 20060/903S PCIAJS20051031445 = single piece of molded plastic. = [0191] Annular gear ring 212 may be a separate component from the frame 210 and if ; so, a cooperating attachment mechanism is provided to attach the frame 210 to the gear ring 212. The cooperating attachment mechanism comprises a plurality of = projections 216 formed on the upper surface of the gear ring 212 and notches 210A formed on the outer surface of the frame 210. As such, rotation of the gear ring 212 will cause rotation of the frame 210. In the alternative, the frame 210 and gear ring 212 could be formed as an integral component. = [0192] Optionally, a funnel in the form af a flexible, resilient membrane (not shown) may be connected to or constructed together with the support flange 214 to support the tubing 34. The membrane would also prevent odors from escaping from the container. = [0193] The gear ring 212 includes an annular slot between an upper circular rim 220 and a lower circular gear rim 222 whereby a flange 242 formed on the container is inserted into the slot 218 to retain the gear ring 212 in connection with the container 82 while permitting rotation of the gear ring 212 relative to the container 82. Gear rim 222 includes a series of teeth. As shown in FIG. 26, the upper rim 220 and the gear.rim 222 can be formed as separate components and provided with appropriate attachment mechanisms, for example, projections 220A on the lower surface of the upper rim 220 and notches 222A on the inner surface of the gear rim 222. The gear rim 222 can thus be used with different cartridges by providing different upper rims 220, each adapted to mate with a particular cartridge. The only constant is the gear rim 222 which has to engage the gear 228 in order to provide for rotation of the cartridge (as in FIG. 26) or retention mechanism (as in FIG. 25). That is, by using the two-part gear rim 212, different frames 210 can be used with each frame having a mating upper rim 220 with = the upper rims 220 all being matable to the common gear rim 222. [0194] The rotation mechanism 208 can take a variety of different forms. The objective = of the rotation mechanism 208 is to rotate the gear rim 222 of the gear ring 212 either 42 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/019038 PCT/0S205/031445 = upon direct manual activity (such as by depressing a foot pedal (FIG. 20), a pushbutton (FIGS_ 21 and 22 or the like), upon indirect manual activity (such as by closing the lid 22) or automatically (such as by sensing insertion of a waste package or closure of the lid 22 and thus the need to encapsulate the waste package). 10195] One embodiment of a rotation mechanism which is based on direct manual activity is shown in FIG. 20. The rotation mechanism 208 comprises a motor 224 which rotates a shaft 226 having a gear 228 at an upper end. Gear 228 is in meshed engagement with gear rim 222 so that rotation of the shaft 226 is translated into rotational movement of the retention unit 206. Gear 228 may be formed integral with the shaft 226. The gear rim 222 and gear 228 may be beveled, Le., have their teeth inclined in relation to upper and/or lower planes. Also, it is possible to use other types of meshing gears and ()couplings in order to translate the rotational movement of the shaft 226 into rotational movement of the retention unit 205 via the coupling between the shaft 226 and the gear 228. = 10196] The motor 224, shaft 226 and gear 228 are arranged in the rear compartment 146 of the container 82. A slot 230 is formed at an upper end of a peripheral wall 146a defining the compartment 146 to enable the gear rim 222 to enter into the compartment 146 and engage the gear 228. In the alternative, it Is possible to construct the wall 146a = so that the gear 228 extends through the slot 230 and engagement between the gear = rim 222 and gear 228 occurs outside of the compartment 146. I [0197] A motor actuation mechanism is arranged on the container to actuate the motor 224. One embodiment of a motor actuation mechanism is shown in FIG. 20 and comprises a foot pedal 232 electrically coupled to the motor 224 (the electrical . ; connections between an external power source, the foot pedal 232 and the motor 224 being represented by dotted lines) so that depression of the foot pedal 232 causes actuation of the motor 224 and attendant rotation of the retention unit 208 and the formation of a twist above a waste package being grasped by the retention unit 206 so as to encapsulate the waste package. Instead of an external power source, an internal 43 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 20061029038 PC1YIDS2005/031445 power source, e.g., a battery 224A, can be positioned in the compartment 146 to provide power to actuate the motor 224 (see FIG. 22). In this case, compartment 146 is made accessible by providing an access door 02A. [0198] Another embodiment of a motor actuation mechanism, which is designed to . operate based on opening and/or closing of the lid 22, is shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 and comprises a switch or sensor 234 arranged on the flange 242 and a plunger 236 arranged on the lid 22 so that the plunger 236 contacts the switch 234 when the fid 22 is closed. The switch 234 is electrically coupled to the motor 224 and when pressed downward by the plunger 235, causes actuation of the motor 224. The plunger 236 is biased upward by a spring 238 to return it to its original position after being depressed. It is also possible to construct the switch 234 to automatically actuate the motor 224 = upon contact with the plunger 236 in which case, the plunger 236 would be fixed in the lid 22 and immediately upon closure of the lid 22 when the switch 234 is contacted by the plunger 236, the switch 234 would actuate the motor 224. [0199] An optional timer could be coupled to the switch 234 or motor 224 to delay the actuation of the motor 224 for a sat period of time after depression of the plunger 236 or closure of the lid 22. In this case, the switch or sensor 234 would detect when the lid 22 is closed and send a signal to the timer. The timer then sends a signal to the motor 224 after the set period of time to actuate the motor 224. An appropriate sensor can be provided to detect whether a waste package has been inserted into the waste passage defined by the retention unit 206 so as to prevent unnecessary rotation of the retention unit 206 and waste of the tubing 34. . (0200) In this embodiment, it is advantageous that actuation of the motor 224 and the consequent rotation of the retention unit 206 and encapsulation of a waste package being grasped by the retention unit 206 is automatic upon closure of the rid 22 and does not require any additional manual activity, thereby eliminating the problem of the user forgetting to actuate the motor 224 and causing the release of odors from an unencapsulated waste package. 44 1 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 PCTJUS2005/031 445 [0201] The location of the switch 234 and plunger 236 are not limiting and they may be arranged at other locations. Further, a manually-actuatable switch can be provided , along the outer wall of the container and electrically coupled to the motor so that depression of the switch causes actuation of the motor. As such, actuation of the motor can occur without dependency on the closure of the cover_ This might be useful when the encapsulation of a waste package is not entirely effective and an additional twisting of the tubing is desired. [0202] Another embodiment of a rotation mechanism includes a manually actuated lever which in is coupled to the retention unit 206 and enables rotation of the retention unit 206 upon movement of the lever, in either a unidirectional movement or in both a back and forth movement. It is also possible to provide a crankcoupled to the retention unit = = 206 in such a mariner that when the crank is pushed downward and released, the retention unit rotates. The retention unit 206 may be arranged to rotate upon either the downward movement of the crank, the return upward movement or both. Such a crank is known, for example, in the toy art. = [0203] As described above, the cartridge 94 is a unique cartridge. However, it is envisioned that the waste disposal device shown in MS. 20-22 can be used for other cartridges containing flexible tubing and designed for use in a waste- encapsulation type of disposal device. Such cartridges would be placed on the support flange 214. The support flange 214 and lid 22 would be appropriately spaced from one another to provide sufficient space to accommodate a multitude of different cartridges. [0204] Since the cartridges would be supported on the support flange 214, they could rotate along with the support flange 214. It is preferable though to provide a mechanism for fixing the cartridge in a stationary position relative to the retention unit 206 to provide for a_befter twisting of the tubing 34 upon rotation of the retention unit 206. [02053 To this end, as shown in FIG. 26, the gear ring 212 could serve as an adapter to - CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 PCT/ITS2005/031445 , . secure a conventional cartridge 244 through engagement between the projections 216 = , formed on the upper circular rim 220 of the gear ring 212 and notches 210A formed on the outer surface of the cartridge 244. Some conventional cartridges include notches = which arise during the manufacturing process of the cartridge. The presence of these notches is therefore exploited in the invention to enabling attachment of the conventional cartridge to the gear ring 212. The gear ring 212 is therefore provided with the projections in locations which correspond to the locations of the notches on the conventional cartridges 244. By connecting the cartridge 244 to the gear ring 212, rotation of the gear rim 222 of the gear ring 212 causes rotation of the cattridge 244. [02061 Another form of an adapter to enable use of the rotation mechanism 208 with , conventional cartridges would be to form the adapter as an annular ring with a size to provide a snug fit for the conventional cartridge. = [02071 The compacting mechanism 204 comprises a shaft 246 rotated by the motor 224 and connected to or formed integral with a tube 248 positioned in the waste package- = - receiving portion of the container 82. The optimum location of the tube 248 relative to the base 88 of the.container 82 and retention unit 206 may be determined by experimenting with the particular waste product to be encapsulated but would usually be . about halfway between the base 86 and the retention unit 206. [02051Access door 240 includes a projection 252 which frictionally engages an inner surface of the tube 248 when the door is closed so that the tube 248 is supported at both ends. (02091The tubing 34 is removably connected to the tube 248 so that rotation of the tube 248 causes the tubing 34 to be pulled downward and wound around the tube 248. Connection of the tubing 34 to the tube 248 can be accomplished in a variety of ways, = for example, by forming the tubing 34 with an enlarged heat-sealed end 34A (having a shape smaller than the size of a slot 256 formed in the tube 248) and inserting the end into the interior of the tube 248 when the access door is open or by arranging a clip at 46 = CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 PC1/13520051031445 = - the end of the tubing 34 and inserting the clip into the interior of the tube 248 when the access door is open. The tubing 34 can also be tied to the tube 248. Since the tubing 34 = is entrained in connection with the tube 248, the encapsulated waste packages are = = compacted into a roll as the tube 248 is rotated upon each subsequent insertion of a = waste package into the device (see FIG, 24). The encapsulated waste packages are = prevented from upward movement by the formation of the twist above each encapsulated waste package. Removal of the tubing from engagement with the tube 248 would entail pulling the forward end of the tubing 34 out of the slot 256. The slat 256 would typically extend only over a longitudinal portion of the tube and not the entire tube. (0210) The tube 248 includes, in addition to the slot 256, ridges 258 which may be diametrically opposed or evenly spaced around the circumference of the tube 248. This enables the construction and use of disposable sleeves 262 having ridges 264 defining J inner grooves in which the ridges 258 of the tube 248 are received (see FIG. 23A). A = sleeve 262 is placed on the tube 248 and the tubing 34 is connected to the sleeve 262, for example, during manufacture or thereafter by tying, adhesive or the like. Removal of the roll of waste packages would entail sliding the sleeve 262 off of the tube 248. The = cartridges 94 could thus be sold together with a sleeve 262, a forward end of the tubing 34 being attached to the sleeve 262 while a rearward end of the tubing 34 is attached to the cartridge 94. i 102113 In this embodiment, when the motor 224 is actuated, two different operations are performed. First, the shaft 228 from the motor 224 is rotated in the direction of arrow A to cause the retention unit 206 to rotate in the direction of arrow B (via the engagement of gear 228 with the gear rim 222) while the retention unit 206 is grasping a waste package relative to the cartridge 94 to form a twist above the waste package (see FIG. = 23A). Second, the tube 248 is rotated in the direction of arrow C with the tubing 34 connected thereto to cause the tubing 34, with one or more encapsulated waste packages being situated between the tube 248 and the retention unit 206 and not yet in the roll of waste packages, to be pulled downward and around the tube 248 to compact 47 !. CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = WO 2006/029038 Per/1352005/03114S the waste packages into a roll. Actuation of the motor 224 can be effected in the ways noted above. Separate motors can be provided for the rotation mechanism for the retention unit 206 the rotation mechanism for the tube 248. = i [02121When the container is full, the access door 240 can be opened, the tubing 34 cut . 3 at a point above the uppermost encapsulated waste package, the tubing tied and then the roll of compacted waste packages slid off of the tube 248. [0213] Instead of having a shaft 226 extending directly from the motor 224. it is possible to provide a gear transmission assembly between the motor 224 and the gear rim 222 as shown in FIG. 23B. The gear transmission assembly 241 comprises several gears in meshed engagement with one gear being In meshed engagement with a gear rotated directly by the motor 224, a shaft 243 is connected to another gear 245 and a drive gear 247 in meshed engagement with the drive gear 245 and the gear rim 222. The gear transmission assembly can be designed to increase the rotational force provided by the motor 224. [0214] These embodiments would be particularly advantageous for medical waste requiring special disposal, e.g., infectious or bodily waste from doctor's offices, which is generally not compacted even though it is very suitable for compacting. The cost of disposing of medical waste from doctor's offices is typically based on the number of pick-ups regardless of the amount of material, and if the medical waste could be compacted, it would result in fewer, less frequent pick-ups. , [0215] It is envisioned that an attachment for a pail can also be fabricated from the components above. That is, the lid 22 and encapsulation device 202, i.e., the retention unit 206 and rotation mechanism 208, and the compacting mechanism 204 can be fabricated as a unit for enabling attachment to a particular size or sizes of pails (with an adapter, as needed). Once attached to the pail, upon insertion of a cartridge, a waste disposal device is obtained. In this case, an Internal power source (i.e., the motor) for = the rotation mechanism 208 would be used. . as CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = = WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 10216] To prepare the waste disposal device shown in FIG. 20, the lid 22 is opened and a cartridge 94 is placed onto the support flange 214. For use, the lki 22 is opened to expose the waste insertion opening. A waste package 74 is placed into the bag formed = by flexible tubing 34 preferably so that the bag is held against the resilient springs 72. The lid 22 is closed and the foot pedal 232 is depressed to cause actuation of the motor 224, either immediately or after a set period of time if a timer is present. The shafts 226, 248 rotate causing rotation of the gear 228 which in turn causes rotation of retention unit 208 relative to the cartridge 94, which is held stationary by the positioning of flanges 108 on the cartridge 94 between anti-rotation tabs 106 on the container, so that a twist forms above the waste package 74 and encapsulates the waste package 74. [0217] Successive waste packages 74 are inserted into the waste insertion opening, and so long as that waste package or a preceding waste package is grasped by the resilient springs 72, rotation of the retention unit 204 will cause formation of a twist above that waste package. This procedure continues until the length of available tubing 34 is exhausted or the container 82 is full. [0218] A region proximate and optionally including the end of the tubing 34 may be = colored differently than a remainder of the tubing 34 to provide an indication when the end of the tubing 34 is approaching. 102191 The tubing 34 can be provided with lines of depressions 34a (see FIG, 27) at spaced intervals to enable the tubing 34 to be easily cut by tearing along the lines of I depressions 34a. This would be beneficial for the instances where the waste chamber is full while an amount of tubing 34 remains in the cartridge. The tubing 34 Is torn off at a depression fine and the free end of the tubing may then be tied to form a closed, = forward end or the free end can be inserted into the slot 256 in the tube 248. [02201 In order to prevent release of odors from encapsulated waste packages, the depressions 34a extend only partially through the thickness of the tubing 34. In this 49 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 ! = ! I = I =WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 manner, even if a waste package was placed along a line of depressions, odors from the waste package would not be released through the depressions 34a. [02211 In the event that the tubing is exhausted, the lid 22 is opened and the cartridge 94 is closed by folding the cartridge 94 onto itself and connecting the cover attachment mechanism, e.g., the hook and loop fastener sections 132,134. The cartridge 94 may be pushed through the support flange 214 and the frame 210 into the container 82. = [0222] Although the embodiment in FIGS. 20-22 provide for the formation of a twist by the rotation of the retention unit relative to the cartridge 94 in order to encapsulate the waste packages 74 and the compacting of the series of waste packages 74 thus- formed, it is possible to provide only the compacting mechanism 204 without any rotation of the cartridge 94 or retention unit. = = [0223] For example, the cartridge 94 and gear ring 21:fi assembly shown in FIG. 26 can be used with a compacting mechanism 204 without any retention structure. The. retention of the waste packages is provided by the compacting mechanism 204, i.e., by the construction of the tube 248 to fixedly retain the forward end of the tubing 34. In use, the waste package is pushed into the tubing 34 and then the motor 224 is actuated, in any of the ways discussed herein. The motor 224 causes the shaft 226 to rotate and the gear 228 to rotate so that the gear rim 222 of the gear ring 212 is rotated. The rotation Of the gear ring 212 causes rotation of the cartridge 244 attached thereto. A twist forms above the waste package upon the rotation of the cartridge 244 since the end of the tubing 34 in front of the waste package is held by the tube 248 and cannot rotate. Thus, In this embodiment, for each waste package, there is relative rotation between a portion of the tubing 34 above the waste package and a portion of the tubing 34 below the waste package, with this relative rotation enabling the formation of a twist and thus encapsulation of the waste package. [0224] Another embodiment of an encapsulation device Is shown in FIG. 28 and designated 202'. Encapsulation device 202 comprises a retention unit 206' which = CA 02 7 917 42 2011-11-25 1 = WO 2006/029038 PC11132005/031445 = engages and temporarily holds a waste package and a rotation mechanism 208' for ; .= rotating the retention unit 206'. The retention unit 206' is similar to retention unit 206 except that instead of an annular gear ring, it includes a pulley 266 connected to or formed integral with the frame 210. The rotation mechanism 208' includes a pair of guide pulleys 268 mounted to the container 82 and a pulley 270 attached to the shaft 246 or to the tube 248. A cable belt 272 passes over pulleys 266, 268, 270 and frictionally engages at least pulleys 266 and 270 such that movement is Imparted to the pulley 270 by the rotation of the shaft 246 and/or tube 248 caused by the motor 224 which movement is transferred to the pulley 266 via the cable belt 272 to cause rotation. of pulley 266. Rotation of pulley 266 causes rotation of the retention unit 206 connected thereto. [0225] The retention unit 206' is rotatably mounted to the container, for example, by providing an annular slot which receives a flange formed on the inner wall of the container. [0226] Another embodiment of a waste disposal device wherein the waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge is shown in FIGS. 29-35 In this embodiment, the waste packages 74 are, held by a retention unit 206, similar to the one shown in FIG. 25, which is rotated while the cartridge 94 of tubing 34 is held stationary. Also, anti- rotation tabs 106 are formed on the container 82 to prevent rotation of the cartridge 94 upon rotation of the retention unit 206. = [0227] A rotation mechanism 286 is provided for enabling rotation of the retention member 274 upon depressing a pedal 288 while preventing notation of the retention = member 274 when the pedal 288 returns to its original upper position. The peda1.288 is movable in a slot 290 formed in the wall of the container 82. The rotation mechanism 286 comprises a pulley 292 arranged inside the container 82 and which is rotatably attached to the pedal 288. A cable 294 runs over this pulley 292 and has a first end anchored to an anchor member 296 attached to a flange 298 of the container. The .= = second end of this cable 294 is attached to a rotatable shaft 300 and a portion of the 51 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 ; WO 2006/029038 PCT/US2005/031445 cable 294 is wound around the shaft 300. A gear 302 is mounted on the shaft 300 and - is in meshed engagement with a gear portion 304 of a clutch member 306 mounted about a drive spindle 308 attached to the flange 298. A drive gear 310 is fixedly mounted on this drive spindle 308 and is in meshed engagement with an idler gear 312 which in turn is in meshed engagement with the gear rim 222. [0228] The rotation mechanism 286 further comprises a spring dutch 314 arranged in the clutch member 306 to grab the drive spindle 308 during counterclockwise rotation of the clutch member 306, so that the clutch member 306 rotates along with the drive spindle 308 and the drive Fear 310, and releases the drive spindle 308 during clockwise rotation, so that the clutch member 306 does not engage with the drive spindle 308 and does not rotate the drive spindle nor the drive gear 310. The spring clutch 314 is attached by a pin 318 to the clutch member 306. [0229] To cause rotation of the clutch member 306 In the clockwise direction, i.e., to cause the cable 294 to wind around the shaft 300 and thus the pedal 288 to be moved upward, a return spring 318 is connected at one end to a shaft 320 mounted on the flange 298 and at an opposite end to the clutch member 306. [0230] In operation, when the pedal 288 is moved downward, the cable 204 unwinds from the shaft 300 causing rotation of the gear 302 and the clutch member 306, since the spring clutch 314 grabs the drive spindle 308. Rotation of the clutch member 306 causes rotation of the drive gear 310 which in turn causes rotation of the idler gear 312 and finally rotation of the gear rim 222 sa that the retention unit 206 connected to the gear rim 222 rotates. The rotation of the clutch member 306 is against the bias of the return spring 318. As such, when the pressure exerted on the pedal 288 is removed, the return spring 318 causes rotation of the clutch member 306 in an opposite direction, clockwise in the Illustrated embodiment, so that the gear 302 rotates counterclockwise causing the cable 294 to be wound about the shaft 300 and the pedal 288 to be raised. The drive gear 310 is not rotated during the rotation of the clutch member 306 in view of the disengagement of the spring clutch 314 from the drive spindle 308, with the result 52 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 WO 2006/029038 PCT/U52005/031445 that the retention unit 206 is not rotated. [0231] Another embodiment of a waste disposal device wherein the waste packages are rotated relative to the cartridge is shown in FIGS. 3642. In this embodiment, a pail 320 is rotated while it holds the waste packages. To this end, the pail 320 includes a retention member 322 extending upward from the base of the pail 320 and having sections designed to hold the first waste package between the retention member 322 = and the wails of the pail 320. Although the retention member 320 is shown having an X- 1= shaped, other shapes are contemplated within the scope of the invention. ;. [0232] The container 82 houses a turntable 324 rotatable about a shaft 326 attached to the base of the container and a rotation mechanism 328 for rotating the turntable 324. The turntable 324 is arranged below the pail 320 and includes a spool section 330 on 1 which a string is wound, a cylindrical shaft section 332 extending upward from the spool section 330 and an annular plate 334 surrounding the shaft section 332. The spool section 330 and shaft section 332 surround the shaft 326 attached to the container 82 to enable rotation of the turntable 324 relative to the container 82. = [0233] A biasing mechanism, such as a plurality of springs 336, is arranged between the = plate 334 and the spool section 330 to bias the plate 334 upward. The springs 336 are arranged around annular seats 338 formed on the lower surface of the plate 334 which accommodate projections 340 arranged on the spool section 330. Another spring 342 is arranged around the shaft 326 between the spool section 330 and the plate 334. A lip 344 is arranged at the top of the shaft section 332 to Emit the upward movement of the plate 334_ [0234] One end of a string 346 is connected to the spool section 330 of the turntable = 324 and the spring 346 is wound around the turntable 324 with the opposite end of the string 346 being connected to a pull ring 348 situated outside of the container. Pull ring = 348 rests on a flange 350 formed integral with the container 82. A pulley 352 is also attached to the container 82 to guide the string 346 into the container 82 to the spool 53 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 = = = WO 2006/029038 PCT1US2005/031445 .= section 330 of the turntable 324. As Such, pulling of the pull ring 348 will cause rotation of the turntable 324 in one direction_ The turntable 324 is returned ki its original position by a torsion spring 354 connected to the turntable 324. = [0235] A mechanism is provided to enable unidirectional rotation of the pail 320 upon rotation of the turntable 324, i.e., so that the pail 320 is rotated by the turntable 324 upon rotation of the turntable 324 in one direction and not the opposite direction. To this end, the turntable 324 is provided with a plurality of ramped ribs 356 on an upper surface while the bottom surface of the pail 320 is provided with corresponding ramped depressions 358. The pail 320 can be positioned onto the turntable 324 so that the ramped ribs 358 are present in the ramped depressions 358 (FIG. 39) or if the ramped ribs 356 are not present in the ramped depressions 358, then the ramped ribs 356 will be urged into the ramped depressions 359 by the springs 334,342 when the pull ring = = = 348 is pulled (see FIG. 41) so that the pail 320 Is rotated upon mtation of the turntable 324 in one direction. Release of the pull ring 348 allows rotation of the turntable 324 in the opposite direction and the ramped ribs 356 disengage from the ramped depressions 358 in the pail 320, against the bias of the springs 334,342, (see FIG. 44 so that the pail 320 does not rotate with the turntable 324. Prevention of rotation of the pail 320 is assisted by friction between the bottom of the pail 320 and a retaining wall 360 of the container surrounding the turntable 324_ = (0236] In this embodiment, ribs 362 project from the inner surface of the wall of the container 82 to prevent upward movement of the pail 320 and centering ribs 364 project from the inner suiface of the wall of the container 82 to center the pail 320 in a position = In which the ramped depressions 358 can be engaged by the ramped ribs 356 of the turntable 324. Also, the cartridge 94 is seated on a flange 368 formed integral with the container 82 and held against rotation by anti-rotation tabs-108 or the like as described above [0237] hi use, the lid 22 is opened arid the first waste package is pushed into the pail 320 and positioned between the retention member 322 and the sides of the pail 320 so 54 CA 02791742 2011-11-25 1 WO 2006/029038 PC11082005/031445 = that it is held in that position. The lid is closed and the pull ring 348 is pulled causing the turntable 324 to rotate with the effect that since the ramped &Is 356 are pressed into the ramped depressions 358 on the pail 320, the pail 320 is rotated. Since the cartridge 94 is held stationary by the anti-rotation tabs, a twist is formed in the tubing 34 above 1, the waste package. When the pull ring 348 is released, the turntable 324 rotates in .the opposite direction but since the ramped ribs 356 disengage from the ramped depressions 358, in view of the direction of the incline of the ramped ribs 356 and ramped depressions 358, the pail 320 does not rotate along with the turntable 324. Upon the insertion of a subsequent waste package into the pail 320, the pull ring 348 is again pulled and since the first waste package is held, both waste packages are rotated . upon rotation of the pail 320 causing the formation of a twist above the subsequent waste package. This process continues until the pail 320 is full at which time, the tubing is cut, the pail 320 is removed, emptied and then reinserted into the container 82. The end of the tubing 34 Is tied arid the process continues. [02381 Another embodiment of a waste disposal device is shown in Figure 43. The waste disposal device, comprises a rotatable cartridge 370; and a rotation mechanism 380 having at least two opposingly aligned movable rollers 383 and 385. The rollers are engagingly configured to cause the cartridge to rotate upon activation of the rotation mechanism. The waste disposal device further comprises a cylindrical container 360 having a flange 390 formed along the cylindrical inner wall 405 of the container, The rotatable cartridge 370 comprise:a, a cylindrical shape having an outside wall 400 and is = supported by flange 390. The rotation mechanism extends between the inner wall of the container and the outer wall of the rotatable cartridge, and is operatively configured to support a first roller 383 of the rollers against the outside wall 400 of the rotatable cartridge 370. The second roller 385 of the two rollers is positioned opposing the first roller 383 on the opposite side of the rotatable cartridge. The second roller is operatively configured to press against the outside wall of the rotatable cartridge. Upon actuation, the rotation mechanism rotates first roller 383 thereby rotating the rotatable cartridge = against the second roller 385_ In one aspect of the present invention, the rollers are positioned on the flange supporting the cartridge. In another aspect, the rollers form a CA 0 2 7 917 4 2 2 0 11- 11- 2 5 = I[ = WO 2006/029038 PCT/IT S2005/031445 component of the rotation mechanism. [0239] An embodiment of an integrated cutting systems for a waste storage receptacle ' is shown in Figure 43'. The waste storage receptacle has a body 380', a collar 370', a .= lid 380' and a storage -film cartridge 390' adapted to be positioned in the collar, the = cartridge having a continuous length of storage film 400' therein. The integrated cutting system comprises an activation mechanism 410' operatively configured to alternatively engage a cutting device 430' or a film sealing device 435' capable of twistably sealing the film 400' of the cartridge when the film is dispensed from cartridge 390'. Further, a selection mechanism 420' is arranged to control the activation mechanism to either engage the cutting device 430' while deactivating the film sealing device, or to engage the film sealing device 435' while deactivating the cutting device. The cutting device 430' comprises a blade positioned to sever said film from said cartridge. In one aspect of the present embodiment, a handle 440' is operably connected to lid 380', wherein the operation of the handle engages the selection mechanism 420'. In another aspect a push-button 450' is operably connected to lid 380', wherein the operation of the push- button engages the selection mechanism 420'. The push-button Is activated electrically. In another aspect, a foot-pedal (not shown) is operably connected to the lid, wherein the operation of the foot-pedal engages the selection mechanism. The sealing device comprises heated rollers to fuse the storage filmi wherein the heat sealing rollers are configured to seal the flexible tubing below the cartridge. ]0240] Another embodiment of a waste disposal device is shown in Figure 43A. The waste disposal device comprises a container 359A defining a waste chamber for receiving encapsulated waste 380A. A lid 370A, capable of moving between an open and closed position is coupled to the device on the container. A rotatable cartridge 380A in the container comprises a length of flexible tubing 385A. A rotation mechanism 390A is operatively configured to engage the rotatable cartridge. A sensing mechanism 400A . is operatively configured to allow for delay in the rotation of the cartridge by the rotation mechanism until the lid is in the closed position. The rotatable cartridge is supported by a flange 375A formed along the cylindrical inside wall of the container. The rotation 56 CA 02 7 917 42 2 011-11- 25 WO 2006/029038 PCT/I1520051031445 = mechanism 390A enables the movement of the lid to be converted into rotation of the cartridge:The sensing mechanism 400A comprising a switch is attached to the flange. In one aspect of the present invention, the sensing mechanism is operatively configured to communicate with a plunger 377A formed on lid 370A, wherein the plunger contacts the switch upon closing of the lid, thereby automatically actuating a timer coupled to the = rotation mechanism. The timer delays the rotation of the rotatable cartridge until a set period of time has elapsed after the lid is closed. In another aspect of the present = = invention, the sensing mechanism further comprises a sensor operatively configured to = detect the insertion of encapsulated waste 360A into the waste chamber. The waste disposal device further comprises an anti-twisting mechanism in the form of a bar 365A. The waste disposal device also comprises a window 395A for viewing the amount of accumulated waste package 360A in the waste chamber of container 359k [0241] An embodiment of a cartridge for a waste disposal device 36013 is shown in FIG. 43B. The cartridge 370B houses a length of flexible tubing 3808 foldingly stacked therein and configured to permit dispensing of the flexible tubing to a predetermined length, wherein the flexible tubing is scored 390B periodically at predetermined intervals for ease of tearing during disposal of waste packages 4008. Cartridge 3708 comprises a cylindrical wall 371B, a lower wall 3738, an inner wall 375B and an upper wail 3778, which together define a ring-shaped cavity 379B for receiving flexible tubing 360B. The inner wall 3758 comprises an annular flange 410B over which the flexible tubing passes through an opening into a waste insertion chamber of the waste disposal device. In one aspect of the present invention, the lower surface of the inner wall of the cartridge comprises serrations 4208 formed at periodically predetermined t intervals. The cartridge = is operationally configured to communicate with a movable handle 4308 formed over the waste disposal device. The movable handle is adapted to push the cartridge in a downward direction. In another aspect of the invention, the movable handle is adapted .= to rotate the cartridge. Upon rotatably downward movement of the handle about a circular opening formed opposite the serrations 420B of the inner wall of cartridge 3703, portions of the flexible tubing is scored and severed. In another aspect, the cartridge . comprises a mechanism for scoring the flexible tubing in variable lengths as needed. 57 . . CA 02791742 2013-12-20 [0242] While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and, therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications. 58
