containment

Abstract

To provide a container whose lid can be easily opened. [Solution] The housing 100 comprises a mounting base 10 on which a plate 101 can be placed, a lid 20 attached to the mounting base 10 that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism 42 for opening and closing the lid 20, a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20, and an actuator 40 for driving the opening and closing mechanism 42. Based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30, the actuator 40 is activated to open the lid 20.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a container.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a management device for a food transport container including a mounting table having a dish mounting portion for mounting a dish, a lid body attached to the dish mounting portion so as to be openable and closable, and an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid body is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The opening and closing mechanism includes an operating body provided slidably with respect to the dish mounting portion, a connecting means for transmitting the operation of the operating body to the lid body, and a biasing means for biasing the operating body. In this management device for a food transport container, the lid body closes in conjunction with the rearward slide of the operating body, and the lid body opens in conjunction with the forward slide of the operating body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the prior art, by lifting a dish, an operating body that biases the dish operates, and in conjunction with the operation of this operating body, the lid body opens. In order to open the lid body, it is necessary to lift the dish during transportation, and there may be cases where it cannot be operated properly.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a container capable of easily opening the lid body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A container according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a mounting base on which a plate can be placed, a lid attached to the mounting base that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid, a strain gauge for detecting the force acting on the lid, and an actuator for driving the opening and closing mechanism, wherein the actuator is activated to open the lid based on the detection signal from the strain gauge. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This disclosure provides a container whose lid can be easily opened. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a container according to the first embodiment, showing the lid in a closed state. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a container according to the first embodiment, showing the lid in an open state. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows an example of the processing procedure in the control unit. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a housing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a housing according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a housing according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view illustrating a glove box according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a front view illustrating a trash can according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a front view illustrating a trash can according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view illustrating a toilet according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view illustrating a wet tissue case according to the eighth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for identical components, and redundant explanations may be omitted.

[0010] [Accommodation 100 according to the first embodiment] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the container 100 according to the first embodiment, showing the lid 20 in a closed state. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the container 100 according to the first embodiment, showing the lid 20 in an open state. Note that in each figure, mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions may be shown. The X-axis direction is along the transport direction of the container 100. The Z-axis direction is along the vertical direction. Note that the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions may be other directions.

[0011] The container 100 is used, for example, in a restaurant to store and transport food and beverages 102. The container 100 is placed on a conveyor belt 110 and transported in the X-axis direction. The food and beverages 102 are placed on a plate 101. The container 100 stores the plate 101 on which the food and beverages 102 are placed. The restaurant may be, for example, a conveyor belt sushi restaurant or any other type of restaurant. The food and beverages 102 placed on the plate 101 may be, for example, sushi. The food and beverages 102 are not limited to sushi; they may be snacks, beverages, or other food and beverages. The items placed on the plate 101 may be food and beverages in containers, condiments, or promotional items. The container 100 does not necessarily have to be transported by a conveyor belt 110.

[0012] The housing 100 comprises a mounting base 10, a lid 20, a strain gauge 30, an opening / closing mechanism 42, an actuator 40, and a control board 50.

[0013] [Mounting platform 10] The placement table 10 can place the dish 101. The placement table 10 has a plate 11 and legs 12. The thickness direction of the plate 11 is along the Z-axis direction. The plate 11 forms, for example, a circular shape in plan view. The plate 11 includes an upper surface 11a and a lower surface 11b. The dish 101 is placed on the upper surface 11a. The lower surface 11b is arranged to face the conveyor 110 in the Z-axis direction.

[0014] The legs 12 project downward from the lower surface 11b of the plate 11. The legs 12 may be, for example, cylindrical bodies. The lower end portions of the legs 12 contact, for example, the conveyor 110. A predetermined gap is formed between the plate 11 and the conveyor 110 in the Z-axis direction. Also, the legs 12 may be formed to be continuous over the entire circumference. Notch or openings may be formed in the legs 12. Further, the placement table 10 may have a plurality of legs 12 arranged, for example, on concentric circles.

[0015] [Cover 20] The cover 20 is attached to the placement table 10 and can be opened and closed. The cover 20 may project, for example, so as to bulge upward. The cover 20 covers the dish 101 placed on the placement table 10 from above. The cover 20 may have an opening on the lower side and form a bowl shape that is recessed upward.

[0016] In the state where the cover 20 is closed, the cover 20 is placed so as to contact the upper surface 11a of the placement table 10. A space capable of accommodating the dish 101 and food and drink 102 is formed between the cover 20 and the upper surface 11a of the placement table 10. The cover 20 can cover the dish 101 and food and drink 102 from above.

[0017] The lid 20 may be made of, for example, a transparent material. If the lid 20 is transparent, the user can see the food or beverage 102 inside the lid 20 from the outside. The outside of the lid 20 may be provided with a display section that shows the food or beverage 102 placed inside the lid 20. The display section may be, for example, a plate that holds a piece of paper on which the name of the food or beverage 102 is written. The display section may also display other information about the food or beverage 102. This other information may include, for example, the place of origin, freshness, special offers, etc.

[0018] [Opening / closing mechanism 42] The opening / closing mechanism 42 is a mechanism for opening and closing the lid 20. The opening / closing mechanism 42 may have a hinge 43 connected to the mounting base 10 and the lid 20. The lid 20 opens as shown in Figure 2. When the lid 20 is open, the user can remove the plate 101 and food from the mounting base 10.

[0019] The opening / closing mechanism 42 may have a pivot axis extending in the X-axis direction. The pivot axis may be, for example, a pin. The pivot axis may extend in a direction intersecting the X-axis direction. The opening / closing mechanism 42 may pivotably support the lid 20 around the pivot axis.

[0020] [Actuator 40] The actuator 40 drives the opening / closing mechanism 42. The actuator 40 outputs a driving force to open and close the opening / closing mechanism 42. The actuator 40 may be, for example, an electric motor. The electric motor can drive, for example, a hinge 43. It includes a power transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force from the opening / closing mechanism 42. The actuator 40 is not limited to an electric motor and may be other drive sources such as a cylinder.

[0021] The housing 100 may be equipped with a biasing member for opening and closing the lid 20. The biasing member may be, for example, a coil spring, a leaf spring, or a torsion spring. In the housing 100, the user may open and close the lid 20. For example, the actuator 40 may be used to open the lid 20, and the user may close the lid 20.

[0022] [Strain Gauge 30] The strain gauge 30 detects the force acting on the cover 20. The strain gauge 30 detects the strain generated in the cover 20. The strain gauge 30 is attached, for example, to the outer surface 21 of the cover 20. The strain gauge 30 may be bonded to the outer surface 21 of the cover 20. The strain gauge 30 may be covered with a protective sheet. The strain gauge 30 may be attached using adhesive tape.

[0023] The user may apply stress directly to the strain gauge 30, or apply stress to the cover 20 by touching the cover 20. The strain gauge 30 detects strain and outputs a detection signal. The strain gauge 30 may be attached to the inner surface 22 of the cover 20. The housing 100 may be equipped with multiple strain gauges 30.

[0024] The strain gauge 30 may be positioned in a location that is conspicuous to the user, or it may be positioned in a location that is inconspicuous to the user. The strain gauge 30 may be attached to the cover 20 via other members. The strain gauge 30 may be attached to the cover 20 via other members, such as a sheet.

[0025] The strain gauge 30 may be positioned close to the hinge 43 or far from the hinge 43. The strain gauge 30 may be provided on the curved portion of the lid 20 or on the straight portion. The strain gauge 30 may be provided on the top of the lid 20 or near the periphery of the opening of the lid 20. The strain gauge 30 may be embedded in the lid 20.

[0026] The strain gauge 30 does not have to be provided on the cover 20. The strain gauge 30 may be provided on another member connected to the cover 20.

[0027] [Wiring 31] The housing 100 includes wiring 31 connecting the strain gauge 30 and the control board 50. The wiring 31 is arranged along the outer surface 21 of the lid 20. The wiring 31 may, for example, pass over the top of the lid 20, pass near the hinge 43, and connect to the control board 50. The wiring 31 may be formed from, for example, a transparent electrode. The wiring 31 may include portions formed from a transparent electrode. The wiring 31 may be covered by a protective sheet. The transparent electrode material may be, for example, indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0028] [Control board 50] The control board 50 is electrically connected to the strain gauge 30 and the actuator 40. The control board 50 includes components that contribute to strain detection, for example. Examples of such components include an amplification circuit that amplifies the output of the strain gauge 30, an AD converter that converts the output of the amplification circuit into a digital signal, and semiconductors for signal processing that process the digital signal. The control board 50 may also include semiconductors for wireless communication that transmit the results of signal processing to an external device.

[0029] [Arrangement of control board 50 and battery 60] The housing 100 includes a battery 60 that supplies power to the actuator 40 and the control board 50. The control board 50 and the battery 60 are located on the mounting base 10 on a surface where the tray 101 is not placed. The surface where the tray 101 is not placed may be a surface other than the upper surface 11a of the plate 11. The control board 50 and the battery 60 are attached to the lower surface 11b of the plate 11. The lower surface 11b is an example of a surface where the tray 101 is not placed. The control board 50 and the battery 60 are located inside the cylindrical legs 12. The control board 50 and the battery 60 may be attached to the legs 12. The control board 50 and the battery 60 may be located outside the legs 12. The control board 50 and the battery 60 may be attached to the lid 20. The control board 50 and the battery 60 may be housed in the mounting base 10. The control board 50 and the battery 60 may be attached to the side of the mounting base 10. Furthermore, the control board 50 and the battery 60 may be covered by a cover.

[0030] [Hardware configuration of housing unit 100] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the housing 100 according to the first embodiment. The housing 100 includes a control unit 51 that controls the opening and closing operation of the lid 20. The control unit 51 is mounted on a control board 50. The control unit 51 is an example of an arithmetic unit. The control unit 51 includes a CPU 211, a storage unit 212, and a communication unit 215. The CPU (Center Processing Unit) 211 can control the operation of the actuator 40 that drives the opening and closing mechanism 42 that opens and closes the lid 20.

[0031] The memory unit 212 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 213 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 214. The ROM 213 stores various programs for the CPU 211 to execute control processing, as well as various data necessary for the operation of the housing 100. The RAM 214 temporarily stores data acquired from the strain gauge 30. The RAM 214 also temporarily stores data acquired by the communication unit 215.

[0032] The communication unit 215 may communicate with, for example, a transport management system that manages the transport of food and beverages using the container 100. The communication unit 215 may also communicate with a communication terminal.

[0033] [Functional configuration of containment unit 100] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the housing 100 according to the first embodiment. The control unit 51 can perform various functions by executing a program stored in the memory unit 212. The control unit 51 includes an open / close determination unit 221. The open / close determination unit 221 determines whether or not to open the lid 20 based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30. If the control unit 51 determines that the lid 20 should be opened, it outputs a drive signal to the actuator 40. The actuator 40 operates in accordance with the drive signal to open the lid 20.

[0034] The opening / closing determination unit 221 can determine whether or not to open the lid 20 based on the magnitude of the strain acting on the lid 20. The opening / closing determination unit 221 may also calculate the length of the detection time by the strain gauge 30. The length of the detection time by the strain gauge 30 may be the length of time during which the magnitude of the strain exceeds a predetermined determination threshold (first determination threshold).

[0035] The opening / closing determination unit 221 can determine that the lid 20 is in the open state if the length of the detection time by the strain gauge 30 exceeds a predetermined determination threshold (second determination threshold).

[0036] [Processing procedure in the control unit 51] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the control unit 51. First, the control unit 51 determines whether or not it has detected a detection signal from the strain gauge 30 (step S11). For example, when a user presses the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain in the lid 20 and outputs a detection signal. If the control unit 51 detects a detection signal (step S11; YES), it performs the process in step S12. If the control unit 51 does not detect a detection signal (step S11; NO), it waits for a detection signal to be detected and then performs the process in step S12.

[0037] Next, in step S12, the control unit 51 measures the length of the detection signal output from the strain gauge 30. Then, in step 13, the control unit 51 determines whether the length of the detection signal output from the strain gauge 30 exceeds a threshold. For example, if a user is trying to open the lid 20 and is pressing on the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 continues to output a detection signal. If the control unit 51 determines that the length of the detection signal has exceeded the threshold (step S13; YES), it performs the process in step S14.

[0038] For example, if a user accidentally touches the cover 20, the detection signal output from the strain gauge 30 will be short in duration. If the control unit 51 determines that the length of the detection signal is less than the threshold, it repeats the process in step S11.

[0039] In step 14, the control unit 51 outputs a drive signal to the actuator 40. The actuator 40 operates according to the drive signal and opens the lid 20. The user can then remove the tray 101 from the mounting base 10.

[0040] [Effects and Effects of the Container 100 According to the First Embodiment] The housing 100 according to the first embodiment includes a mounting base 10 on which a plate 101 can be placed, a lid 20 attached to the mounting base 10 that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism 42 for opening and closing the lid 20, a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20, and an actuator 40 for driving the opening and closing mechanism 42. Based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30, the actuator 40 is activated to open the lid 20.

[0041] With this type of container 100, the force acting on the lid 20 can be detected, and the actuator 40 can be activated to open the lid 20. When a user wants to remove the dish 101 covered by the lid 20, they can open the lid 20 by touching it and remove the dish 101. The user can easily open the lid 20 by touching it.

[0042] In the housing 100, the strain gauge 30 is attached to the outer surface 21 of the lid 20. By attaching the strain gauge 30 to the outer surface 21 of the lid 20, which is easily accessible to the user, it is easy to detect the force acting on the lid 20. In addition, the user can easily open the lid 20 by touching the vicinity of the strain gauge 30.

[0043] In the container 100, the lid 20 is made of a transparent material, and a transparent electrode, the wiring 31 connected to the strain gauge 30, is provided on the outer surface 21 of the lid 20. With this configuration of the container 100, because the lid 20 is transparent, the user can check the food and beverage 102 on the plate 101 contained in the container 100 without opening the lid 20. Because the wiring 31 provided on the lid 20 is transparent, the wiring 31 does not obstruct the view when checking the food and beverage 102 contained in the container 100.

[0044] In the housing 100, the opening and closing mechanism 42 has a hinge 43, and the actuator 40 may be an electric motor that drives the hinge 43. With this configuration of the housing 100, the hinge 43 can be driven using the electric motor to open the lid 20.

[0045] The housing 100 includes a control board (control unit 51) 50 that outputs a drive signal to the actuator 40 based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30. When a user touches the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain and outputs a detection signal. The control unit 51 outputs a drive signal to the actuator 40 based on the detection signal output from the strain gauge 30. The actuator 40 operates in response to the drive signal and can open the lid 20.

[0046] The housing 100 includes a battery 60 that supplies power to the actuator 40 and the control board 50. The control board 50 and the battery 60 are located on the underside (the side where the tray 101 is not placed) 11b of the mounting base 10. With this configuration of the housing 100, the underside 11b of the mounting base 10 can be used as a space for arranging the control board 50 and the battery 60. Furthermore, by arranging the control board 50 and the battery 60 on the underside 11b of the mounting base 10, the control board 50 and the battery 60 can be placed in a location that is not visible to the user.

[0047] Furthermore, the housing 100 includes a control unit (calculation unit) 51 that calculates the length of the detection time by the strain gauge 30. The control unit 51 activates the actuator 40 to open the lid 20 when the length of the detection time exceeds a determination threshold. With this configuration, the housing 100 can be configured to open the lid 20 when the time the user is touching the lid 20 exceeds the determination threshold. Therefore, the housing 100 can prevent malfunctions by not opening the lid 20 when the detection time is shorter than the determination threshold.

[0048] [Accommodation 100B according to the second embodiment] Next, the housing 100B according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the housing 100B according to the second embodiment. The difference between the housing 100B according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 6 and the housing 100 according to the first embodiment is that the arrangement of the strain gauges 30 is different. Note that in the description of the second embodiment, explanations similar to those of the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0049] The housing 100B according to the second embodiment includes a strain gauge 30 positioned between the lid 20 and the mounting base 10. The strain gauge 30 is attached to the upper surface 11a of the plate 11 of the mounting base 10. The strain gauge 30 is positioned in contact with the peripheral edge of the opening of the lid 20. When a user presses the lid 20, the force acting on the lid 20 is transmitted to the strain gauge 30. The strain gauge 30 detects the strain of the lid 20 and outputs a detection signal.

[0050] [Effects and Effects of the Intake Body 100B According to the Second Embodiment] The housing 100B according to this second embodiment also provides the same effects and advantages as the housing 100 according to the first embodiment. In the housing 100B, the strain gauge 30 can detect the force acting on the lid 20 and cause the lid 20 to open.

[0051] In the housing 100B, the strain gauge 30 may be placed between the lid 20 and the mounting base 10, and may be attached to the mounting base 10. Alternatively, the strain gauge 30 placed between the lid 20 and the mounting base 10 may be attached to the lid 20. The strain gauge 30 may be placed close to the hinge 43, or it may be placed away from the hinge 43.

[0052] In the housing 100B, the wiring 31 does not have to be arranged along the outer surface 21 of the lid 20. The wiring 31 connected to the strain gauge 30 may be arranged from the top surface 11a to the bottom surface 11b, bypassing the edge of the plate 11 furthest from the hinge 43. The wiring 31 may also be arranged to penetrate the plate 11. If the wiring 31 is not arranged along the lid 20, the length of the wiring 31 can be shortened. Also, if the wiring 31 is not arranged along the lid 20, the wiring 31 will not get in the way when checking the food or drink 102 inside the lid 20.

[0053] [Accommodation 100C according to the third embodiment] Next, the housing 100C according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the housing 100C according to the third embodiment. The difference between the housing 100C according to the third embodiment shown in Figure 7 and the housing 100 according to the first embodiment is that the arrangement of the strain gauges 30 is different. Note that in the description of the third embodiment, explanations similar to those of the above embodiments may be omitted.

[0054] The housing 100C according to the third embodiment includes a strain gauge 30 positioned on the inner surface 22 of the lid 20. The lid 20 may have a notch 24 formed therein. The strain gauge 30 may be attached to the inner surface 22 above the notch 24. For example, a user may insert their finger into the inside of the lid 20 through the notch 24 and touch the strain gauge 30 attached to the inner surface 22 of the lid 20. The strain gauge 30 detects strain and outputs a detection signal.

[0055] [Effects and Effects of the Container 100C According to the Third Embodiment] The housing 100C according to this third embodiment also provides the same effects as the housing 100 according to the first embodiment. In the housing 100C, the strain gauge 30 may be placed on the inner surface 22 of the lid 20. In the housing 100C, the wiring 31 may be arranged along the inner surface 22 of the lid 20. By placing the strain gauge 30 and the wiring 31 on the inner surface 22 of the lid 20, damage to the strain gauge 30 and the wiring 31 can be suppressed.

[0056] [Accommodation 100D according to the fourth embodiment] Next, the housing 100D according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the housing 100D according to the fourth embodiment. The difference between the housing 100D according to the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 8 and the housing 100 according to the first embodiment is that the arrangement of the strain gauges 30 is different. Note that in the description of the fourth embodiment, explanations similar to those of the above embodiments may be omitted.

[0057] The housing 100D according to the fourth embodiment includes a strain gauge 30 attached to a mounting piece 25. The lid 20 has a main body 20a that covers the dish 101 and a mounting piece 25 that protrudes outward from the main body 20a. The main body 20a has an opening on the lower side and is bowl-shaped, concave upward. The thickness direction of the mounting piece 25 is along the Z-axis direction. The mounting piece 25 is positioned, for example, on the side furthest from the hinge 43 in the Y-axis direction. The strain gauge 30 is attached to the upper surface of the mounting piece 25. The mounting piece 25 is provided so as to protrude, for example, toward the presence of a user. When a user touches the mounting piece 25, the strain gauge 30 detects strain and outputs a detection signal.

[0058] [Effects and Effects of the Container 100D According to the Fourth Embodiment] The housing 100D according to this fourth embodiment also provides the same effects and advantages as the housing 100 according to the first embodiment. In the housing 100D, the strain gauge 30 may be placed on a mounting piece 25 that protrudes from the main body 20a of the lid 20. By placing the strain gauge 30 on the mounting piece 25 that protrudes from the main body 20a of the lid 20, the user can easily touch the mounting piece 25 and open the lid 20. The mounting piece 25 may also function as a rib.

[0059] [Container 100 relating to the first modified example] Next, the container 100 according to the first modified example will be described. In the container 100, the food and beverage 102 does not have to be placed on the plate 101. The mounting base 10 may have a mounting section on which the food and beverage 102 is placed. The upper surface 11a of the plate 11 of the mounting base 10 may have a recess on which the food and beverage 102 can be placed. In the container 100, for example, the food and beverage 102, such as fruit, may be placed on the upper surface 11a of the plate 11. Also, the container 100 does not have to be transported. For example, the container 100 may be placed on a table in a buffet-style party venue. Users can touch the lid 20 to open the lid 20 and take out the food and beverage 102 placed on the mounting base 10. Users may also take out the food and beverage 102 placed on the mounting base 10 using chopsticks or tongs and place it on a plate they are holding in their hand.

[0060] [Effects and Effects of the Container 100 in the First Modified Example] The first modified container 100 comprises a platform 10 on which food and beverages can be placed, a lid 20 attached to the platform 10 that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism 42 for opening and closing the lid 20, a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20, and an actuator 40 for driving the opening and closing mechanism 42. Based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30, the actuator 40 is activated to open the lid 20. This first modified container 100 also provides the same effects as the container 100 according to the above embodiment. In the first modified container 100, food and beverages 102 may be placed directly on the platform 10, or food and beverages 102 may be placed on a container such as a plate 101 and indirectly placed on the platform 10. Also, in the first modified container 100, for example, a sheet may be placed on the platform 10 and food and beverages 102 may be placed on this sheet.

[0061] [Container 100 related to the second modified example] Next, a second modified example of the housing 100 will be described. In the housing 100, it is not necessary to use the actuator 40 to open the lid 20. In the housing 100, the locking mechanism may be released based on a detection signal from the strain gauge 30. The housing 100 may be equipped with a locking mechanism that locks the movement of the lid 20. For example, the locking mechanism has a locking claw that locks the movement of the hinge 43. In the housing 100, the lock by the locking mechanism can be released based on a detection signal from the strain gauge 30, allowing the movement of the lid 20 to be free. The housing 100 may be equipped with a biasing member that opens the lid 20, and when the lock by the locking mechanism is released, the lid 20 may be opened by the biasing of the biasing member. In the housing 100, after the lock is released, the user may open the lid 20.

[0062] [Effects and Effects of the Container 100 in the Second Modified Example] The second modified container 100 comprises a mounting base 10 on which a plate 101 can be placed, a lid 20 attached to the mounting base 10 that can be opened and closed, a locking mechanism that locks the operation of the lid 20, and a strain gauge 30 that detects the force acting on the lid 20. Based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30, the lock by the locking mechanism is released. This second modified container 100 also provides the same effects as the container 100 according to the above embodiment. When food or beverages are not to be taken out, the lid 20 is kept closed and locked so that the lid 20 does not open, thereby maintaining the hygienic condition of the food or beverages. When food or beverages are to be taken out, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain of the lid 20 when the user touches the lid 20. In the container 100, the lock by the locking mechanism is released based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30, allowing the lid 20 to be opened. In the storage container 100, the user may open the lid 20 themselves, or the lid 20 may be opened by a biasing member.

[0063] [Container 100 related to the third modified example] Next, a third modified example of the housing 100 will be described. The third modified example of the housing 100 may include a control unit (calculation unit) 51 that calculates the elapsed time after the closing operation of the lid 20. In the housing 100, the control unit 51 may notify that the elapsed time after the closing operation of the lid 20 exceeds a determination threshold when the elapsed time after the closing operation of the lid 20 exceeds a determination threshold.

[0064] For example, in a restaurant, the system may calculate the elapsed time after an employee places food or beverages on the stand 10 and closes the lid 20. If the elapsed time after closing exceeds a threshold, the system may notify the employee's terminal that the elapsed time has exceeded the threshold. This allows the container 100 containing the food or beverages that have exceeded the elapsed time to be retrieved. The container 100 may be equipped with a notification unit, such as a lamp. The lamp attached to the container 100 may light up when the elapsed time exceeds the threshold.

[0065] For example, each container 100 may be assigned an identification number that allows for identification of the container 100. In a transport management system using the containers 100, a display device located in the kitchen may display the elapsed time after the lid 20 of each container 100 has been closed. The display device may also display a warning for the identification number of a container 100 whose elapsed time exceeds a threshold. Restaurant staff can identify the container 100 based on the identification number displayed on the display device and retrieve any containers 100 whose elapsed time has exceeded the threshold from the conveyor belt 110.

[0066] [Challenges of conventional technology] For example, in conventional containers used in conveyor belt sushi restaurants, it was necessary to lift the plates stored inside in order to open the lid. Opening the lid of the container while it was being moved on a transport device was difficult. In particular, it was difficult for unfamiliar users to open the lid. Furthermore, in conventional technology, the plates were biased by an actuator connected to a biasing member, so force was required to lift the plates.

[0067] Furthermore, in conventional technology, multiple container platforms were connected to prevent the platform from lifting when a plate was being lifted. For example, if two containers were connected and one container still contained food or beverages, the empty container would be placed on the conveying device and transported even though the connected container was empty. As a result, conventional technology sometimes failed to effectively utilize the space on the conveying device.

[0068] Furthermore, with conventional technology, it was necessary to touch and lift the plate covered by the lid, requiring a notch on the outer edge of the lid to allow fingers to pass through. In conventional technology, even when the lid was closed, the notch was formed in the lid, allowing the inside and outside of the lid to communicate. As a result, some users were concerned about hygiene.

[0069] [Effects of this disclosure] In the container 100 of this disclosure, the strain gauge 30 detects strain by touching the lid 20, allowing the lid 20 to be opened. Users can easily open the lid 20 and take out the food and beverage 102. Furthermore, since the plate 101 is not biased in the container 100, the plate 101 can be lifted with less force compared to the conventional technology.

[0070] In the container 100 of this disclosure, there is no risk of the mounting platform 10 floating up when the plate 101 is lifted, so it is not necessary to connect multiple containers 100 to prevent floating up. The container 100 allows for effective use of the transport device.

[0071] Furthermore, in the container 100 of this disclosure, there is no need to provide a notch in the lid 20 for inserting fingers. In the container 100, the outer edge of the lid 20 can be made to abut against the upper surface 11a of the mounting base 10 all around. Therefore, concerns regarding hygiene of food and beverages inside the lid 20 can be eliminated.

[0072] [Glove box 200 according to the fifth embodiment] Next, a glove box 200 according to the fifth embodiment will be described. Figure 9 is a perspective view illustrating a glove box 200 according to the fifth embodiment. Note that in the description of the fifth embodiment, descriptions similar to those of the above embodiments and modifications may be omitted.

[0073] The glove box 200 comprises a lid 20 that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid 20, a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20, and an actuator for driving the opening and closing mechanism. The glove box 200 is installed, for example, inside a car. The glove box 200 is an example of a storage unit. The installation location of the glove box 200 is not limited to inside a car.

[0074] The glove box 200 has a storage compartment capable of accommodating an object. The lid 20 is attached to the storage compartment and can open and close its opening. The lid 20 covers the opening of the storage compartment. The lid 20 has a handle 26. The strain gauge 30 is provided on the outer surface 26a of the handle 26. The strain gauge 30 may also be provided on the inner surface of the handle 26.

[0075] For example, when a user presses the handle 26 of the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain in the handle 26 and outputs a detection signal. The actuator operates based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30 and opens the lid 20.

[0076] With this type of glove box 200, the force applied to the handle 26 is detected, and an actuator is activated to open the lid 20. When a user wants to take out an object stored in the compartment of the glove box 200, they can open the lid 20 by touching the handle 26 and take out the object. The user can easily open the lid 20 by touching the handle 26.

[0077] The driver can easily open the cover 20 by reaching out from the driver's seat and touching it. The strain gauge 30 may be positioned, for example, on the cover 20 in a location close to the driver's seat.

[0078] In the glove box 200, the opening and closing mechanism has a hinge, and the actuator may be a motor that drives the hinge.

[0079] The glove box 200 may be equipped with a locking mechanism to lock the operation of the lid 20. The glove box 200 may release the lock from the locking mechanism based on a detection signal from the strain gauge 30.

[0080] The glove box 200 may include a control board that outputs a drive signal to an actuator based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30, and a battery that supplies power to the actuator and the control board. The control board and the battery may be mounted, for example, on the inner surface of the lid 20.

[0081] [6th Section: Trash Can 300] Next, a trash can 300 according to the sixth embodiment will be described. Figure 10 is a front view illustrating a trash can 300 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 11 is a side view illustrating a trash can 300 according to the sixth embodiment. Note that in the description of the sixth embodiment, descriptions similar to those of the above embodiments and modifications may be omitted.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, the trash can 300 includes an openable and closable lid 20 and a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20. As shown in Figure 11, the trash can 300 includes an opening and closing mechanism 42 for opening and closing the lid 20 and an actuator 40 for driving the opening and closing mechanism 42. The trash can is an example of a container.

[0083] The trash can 300 has a box body 301 capable of containing the trash. The box body 301 is an example of a storage section. The box body 301 has sides and a bottom. An opening is formed in the box body 301. The lid 20 is attached to the box body 301 and can open and close the opening. The lid 20 covers the opening of the box body 301. The strain gauge 30 is provided on the outer surface 21 of the lid 20. The strain gauge 30 may also be provided on the inner surface of the lid 20. The strain gauge 30 may be located, for example, at the tip 20b of the lid 20. The tip 20b is the end furthest from the center of rotation when the lid 20 swings. The strain gauge 30 may also be provided on the edge or side of the lid 20.

[0084] For example, when a user presses the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain in the lid 20 and outputs a detection signal. The actuator operates based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30 and opens the lid 20.

[0085] In the trash can 300, the opening and closing mechanism has a hinge 43, and the actuator 40 may be a motor that drives the hinge.

[0086] The trash can 300 may include a control board that outputs a drive signal to an actuator based on a detection signal from a strain gauge 30, and a battery that supplies power to the actuator and the control board. The control board and battery may be located, for example, at the bottom 302 of the box body 301. The control board and battery may be located on the side of the box body 301, on the back of the box body 301, on the inner surface of the box body 301, on the inner surface of the lid 20, or at other locations. The control board and battery are located on all surfaces of the box body (storage section) 301 except the top surface.

[0087] Furthermore, in the trash can 300, the opening and closing mechanism 42 may include a pedal 303. The pedal 303 protrudes forward from the box body 301. A second strain gauge 304 is provided on the pedal 303. The pedal 303 is the part that is stepped on with the foot to operate the lid 20. The user can open the lid 20 by including the pedal 303 with their foot.

[0088] For example, when a user presses pedal 303, the second strain gauge 304 detects the strain in pedal 303 and outputs a detection signal. The actuator operates based on the detection signal from strain gauge 30, causing the cover 20 to open.

[0089] In the trash can 300, users can open the lid 20 with a single touch simply by touching the lid 20 or pedal 303 with their fingertips or toes. Therefore, it is hygienic. While there are also products that open and close the lid without contact using, for example, an infrared sensor, the trash can 300 can reduce malfunctions compared to conventional products equipped with infrared sensors. Conventional technology equipped with infrared sensors may malfunction due to detection of ambient light or temperature, and unintended opening and closing may occur if a hand is accidentally brought close to the infrared sensor. In the trash can 300 according to this embodiment, the force acting on the lid 20 is detected by the strain gauge 30 by touching the lid 20, and the lid 20 can be opened. Therefore, the trash can 300 can suppress malfunctions.

[0090] The location of the second strain gauge 304 is not limited to the pedal 303, but may be, for example, on the side of the box body 301. The shape of the box body 301 is not limited and may be a polygonal cylinder or cylindrical body with three or more sides. The pedal 303 may or may not be displaced when stepped on by a user. The pedal 303 may be, for example, a sheet or of other shape. The pedal 303 may be a footrest or a footplate.

[0091] [Toilet bowl 400 according to the seventh embodiment] Next, a toilet bowl 400 according to the seventh embodiment will be described. Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet bowl 400 according to the seventh embodiment. Note that in the description of the seventh embodiment, descriptions similar to those of the above embodiments and modifications may be omitted.

[0092] The toilet bowl 400 includes a lid 20 that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid 20, a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20, and an actuator for driving the opening and closing mechanism. The toilet bowl is an example of a housing.

[0093] The toilet bowl 400 has a toilet bowl body (container) 401 capable of containing the waste object. The lid 20 is attached to the containment and has an opening that can be opened and closed. The lid 20 covers the opening of the toilet bowl body 401. The strain gauge 30 is provided on the outer surface 21 of the lid 20. The strain gauge 30 may also be provided on the inner surface of the lid 20.

[0094] For example, when a user presses the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain in the lid 20 and outputs a detection signal. The actuator operates based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30 and opens the lid 20.

[0095] With this type of toilet 400, the force acting on the lid 20 can be detected, and an actuator can be activated to open the lid 20. The user can open the lid 20 by touching it. The toilet 400 may also be equipped with a second strain gauge 304.

[0096] [Wet tissue case 500 according to the 8th embodiment] Next, a wet tissue case 500 according to the eighth embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a perspective view illustrating the wet tissue case 500 according to the eighth embodiment. Note that in the description of the eighth embodiment, descriptions similar to those of the above embodiments and modifications may be omitted.

[0097] The wet wipe case 500 comprises a lid 20 that can be opened and closed, an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid 20, a strain gauge 30 for detecting the force acting on the lid 20, and an actuator for driving the opening and closing mechanism. The wet wipe case 500 is an example of a container.

[0098] The wet wipe case 500 has a case body 501 capable of accommodating the wet wipes, which are the target object. Wet wipes are an example of a moist object. The moist object may also be a sheet containing liquid. The moist object is not limited to wet wipes, and may be, for example, a face mask, toilet cleaning wipes, medical wipes, or disinfectant wipes, or other items. The case body 501 is an example of a storage section. The case body 501 has sides and a bottom. An opening is formed in the case body 501.

[0099] The wet wipe case 500 has a cover 502 that closes the opening of the case body 501. The cover 502 is detachably attached to the case body 501. The user can remove the cover 502 when storing wet wipes in the case body 501. The cover 502 has an opening through which the wet wipes pass when used. The lid 20 covers the cover 502, thereby covering the opening formed in the cover 502.

[0100] The lid 20 may be formed to cover the entire surface of the cover 502, or to cover a portion of the cover 502. When the lid 20 is closed, a portion of the cover 502 may not be covered by the lid 20.

[0101] The strain gauge 30 may be provided on the outer surface 503 of the cover 502. The strain gauge 30 may be placed, for example, on the lid 20.

[0102] For example, when a user pushes the lid 20, the strain gauge 30 detects the strain in the lid 20 and outputs a detection signal. When the lid 20 is closed and pushed, the stress acting on the lid 20 is transmitted to the cover 502. The strain gauge 30 attached to the cover 502 can detect the strain in the lid 20 by detecting the strain in the cover 502. The actuator operates based on the detection signal from the strain gauge 30 and opens the lid 20.

[0103] With this type of wet wipe case 500, the force acting on the lid 20 is detected, and an actuator is activated to open the lid 20. When a user wants to take out a wet wipe stored in the case body 501, they can open the lid 20 by touching it and take out the wet wipe. The user can easily open the lid 20 by touching it.

[0104] The wet wipe case 500 may also be equipped with a second strain gauge 304 attached to the case body 501. For example, the second strain gauge 304 may detect the force acting on the case body when a user touches the case body 501. The actuator may open the lid 20 based on the signal output from the second strain gauge 304.

[0105] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications, substitutions, etc., can be applied to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, features described separately can be combined as long as no technical inconsistencies arise.

[0106] For example, in the storage unit 100, a button-shaped switch may be provided on the lid 20 for easy use by the user, and a strain gauge 30 may be placed on the switch.

[0107] In the above embodiment, the housing 100 is configured to include a battery, but the housing 100 does not necessarily have to include a battery. Power may be supplied to the control board 50 in the housing 100, for example, by a wireless power supply system. For example, when the housing 100 is used by placing it on a table without using a conveyor, it can also be used by supplying power from a commercial power source.

[0108] In the above embodiment, examples of containers include a container 100 for accommodating a plate 101, a glove box 200, a toilet bowl 400, a trash can 300, and a wet tissue case 500, but the containers are not limited to these. Any container that includes a lid 20 and detects the force acting on the lid 20 using a strain gauge 30 to open the lid 20 is acceptable. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 100, 100B, 100C, 100D... housing, 10... mounting base, 20... lid, 21... exterior (exterior of lid), 26... handle, 30... strain gauge, 31... wiring, 40... actuator, 42... opening / closing mechanism, 43... hinge, 50... control board, 51... control unit (calculation unit), 60... battery, 101... tray, 200... glove box (housing), 300... trash can (housing), 301... box body (housing section), 303... pedal, 304... second strain gauge, 400... toilet (housing), 401... housing section, 500... wet tissue case (housing), 501... case body (housing section).

Claims

1. A lid that can be opened and closed, An opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid, A strain gauge for detecting the force acting on the cover, The system includes an actuator that drives the opening and closing mechanism, A housing that operates the actuator to open the lid based on the detection signal from the strain gauge.

2. It has an opening and a storage section for accommodating an object, The lid is attached to the housing and the opening is openable and closable, according to claim 1.

3. The housing according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the strain gauge is attached to the lid.

4. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strain gauge is attached to a handle provided on the lid.

5. The opening and closing mechanism has a pedal, The housing according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a second strain gauge is provided on the pedal.

6. The aforementioned object is a wet object, The aforementioned housing section is A main body having an opening and accommodating the object, The opening is formed and the body comprises a lid portion that covers the opening, The lid opens and closes the opening formed in the lid portion of the container according to claim 2.

7. Equipped with a platform on which a container can be placed, The lid is attached to the stand described above, as described in claim 1.

8. The opening and closing mechanism has a hinge, The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the actuator is a motor that drives the hinge.

9. The system includes a calculation unit that calculates the length of the detection time by the strain gauge, The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the calculation unit operates the actuator to open the lid when the length of the detection time exceeds a determination threshold.

10. The system includes a calculation unit that calculates the elapsed time after the closing operation of the lid, The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the calculation unit notifies that the elapsed time after the closing operation exceeds a determination threshold when the elapsed time after the closing operation exceeds a determination threshold.

11. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a control board that outputs a drive signal to the actuator based on the detection signal of the strain gauge.

12. A control board that outputs a drive signal to the actuator based on the detection signal of the strain gauge, The system comprises the actuator and a battery that supplies power to the control board, The housing according to claim 7, wherein the control board and the battery are arranged on a surface other than the upper surface of the stand described above.

13. A control board that outputs a drive signal to the actuator based on the detection signal of the strain gauge, The system comprises the actuator and a battery that supplies power to the control board, The housing according to claim 2, wherein the control board and the battery are arranged on the surface other than the upper surface of the housing.

14. The aforementioned lid is formed from a transparent material, The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the outer surface of the lid is provided with wiring which is a transparent electrode connected to the strain gauge.

15. A mounting base on which a dish-shaped member can be placed, A lid that can be attached to the aforementioned mounting base and opened and closed, A locking mechanism for locking the operation of the lid, The device includes a strain gauge for detecting the force acting on the cover, A housing that releases the lock from the locking mechanism based on the detection signal from the strain gauge.

16. A glove box comprising the storage body described in claim 4, wherein the storage body is provided in a vehicle.

17. A toilet equipped with the containment described in claim 1.

18. A trash can that is a container according to claim 5.

19. The container is provided according to claim 6, A wet wipe case in which the aforementioned moist material is a wet wipe.

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