Automated Locking Mechanism for Municipal Waste Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Municipal containers used for collecting debris, especially those containing food waste, often attract larger animals like bears, which can access the contents despite standard lids, necessitating additional security measures to prevent wildlife from accessing the waste.
Innovation Solution
A lock assembly for the container lid that includes a hasp and a lock with a catch, where the catch is actuated by an electrical actuator controlled by a controller, and can be remotely operated via radio frequency signals, and features recessed release buttons to prevent animal tampering while allowing easy human access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard lid is used on the container, then the container can prevent access by small animals, but larger animals like bears can still access the contents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical locking with an automated actuator system. The actuator mechanically engages the catch to secure the hasp, eliminating the need for manual intervention and providing more reliable security against determined animals like bears.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assembly is designed to automatically secure itself through the actuator mechanism. The system can autonomously engage the catch and secure the hasp without requiring human intervention, providing continuous protection against animal access.
2Reliability
If a lock assembly is added to secure the lid, then protection against larger animals is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated lock assembly. The hasp, catch, actuator, and control system are merged into one cohesive unit that provides both security and automated operation, reducing the number of separate components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assembly serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical security against animal access, enables automated locking through the actuator, and can be remotely controlled via radio frequency. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive protection and operational convenience.
3Ease of operation
If release buttons are made accessible for easy human operation, then ease of operation is improved, but animals can more easily tamper with the lock assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the release buttons in a spatial configuration that is accessible to humans at standing height but inaccessible to animals on the ground. This dimensional separation allows easy human operation while preventing animal tampering with the lock assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary between the release buttons and the catch mechanism. Humans can press the buttons without directly manipulating the catch, and the actuator translates this simple input into the complex action of securing or releasing the hasp, providing both ease of operation and protection against animal interference.
4Device complexity
If manual locking is used, then device complexity is low, but time is lost for locking and unlocking operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical locking operations with an automated actuator system controlled by radio frequency signals. This substitution eliminates the time required for manual locking and unlocking while keeping the mechanical components relatively simple through the use of a solenoid or motor-driven actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assembly is designed to automatically engage the catch and secure the hasp when the lid is closed, eliminating the need for separate manual locking actions. The system performs the locking action preliminarily and automatically, saving time during container closure and opening operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The lock assembly effectively secures the lid against larger animals while allowing easy operation by humans and remote unlocking for waste collection, ensuring secure storage and efficient waste management.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator configured to actuate the catch to selectively secure the hasp relative to the lock
Implementation Method 2
a radio frequency receiver in communication with the controller
Data Source
AI summary
A cart includes a body portion forming a receptacle. A lid is pivotable relative to the body portion. A lock assembly includes a hasp fixed relative to one of the lid or the body portion. A lock is fixed relative to the other of the lid or the body portion and includes a catch for engaging the hasp and an actuator in electrical communication with a controller. The actuator is configured to actuate the catch to selectively secure the hasp relative to the lock.