Cabinet-Integrated Waste Receptacle with Sensor-Driven Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional waste receptacles, both portable and built-in, face challenges in space efficiency and user convenience, particularly in small kitchen areas, as they either occupy space or require manual operation and cannot automatically sense user presence for automatic opening.
Innovation Solution
An electronically enabled waste-receiving system that includes a sensor system and a motor drive mechanism, allowing the waste receptacle to automatically transition from a retracted position within a cabinet to an extended position, accessible by users without manual intervention, using sensors like infrared or microphones to detect user presence and avoid collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a portable trashcan is used, then automatic sensing and opening is possible, but it takes up space inside the room
Solution Approach 1:
The waste receptacle is nested within a cabinet structure, with the receptacle positioned inside a cavity formed by the cabinet walls. The receptacle can be accessed through an opening in the cabinet front, allowing it to function as a portable trashcan while being housed within the fixed cabinet structure, thus not occupying additional room space.
Solution Approach 2:
The cabinet door is made movable to allow access to the waste receptacle. The door can be opened manually or automatically via motorized actuators when sensors detect user presence, enabling the receptacle to transition between a concealed storage state and an accessible disposal state, combining the space-saving benefits of built-in storage with the convenience of portable access.
2Area of stationary object
If a built-in trashcan is used, then space in the room is saved, but it cannot automatically sense user presence and open
Solution Approach 1:
The manual operation of opening the cabinet door is replaced with an automated sensor system. Sensors (such as infrared, ultrasonic, or capacitive sensors) are positioned to detect user presence, and motorized actuators automatically open the cabinet door when a user is detected, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining the space-saving built-in configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The waste receptacle system performs automatic sensing and door opening operations without requiring user intervention. The sensor system continuously monitors for user presence, and when detected, the motorized actuator automatically opens the cabinet door, allowing the system to serve itself by eliminating the need for manual door operation.
3Ease of operation
If the waste receptacle moves from retracted to extended position, then accessibility is improved, but collision with the holder may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized actuator system incorporates feedback mechanisms such as limit switches, encoders, or current sensors that monitor the position and movement of the waste receptacle. When the receptacle reaches its extended position or encounters resistance indicating potential collision with the holder, the feedback signal automatically stops the motor, preventing damage while maintaining full accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pre-positioned stops, guides, or cushioning elements within the cabinet structure that prevent the waste receptacle from moving beyond its intended extended position. These mechanical constraints are positioned beforehand to ensure that even if the motor continues running, the receptacle cannot collide with the holder, providing passive protection against collisions.
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 system provides convenient and space-efficient waste disposal by automatically opening and closing the receptacle based on user presence, enhancing user experience and maintaining a traditional appearance while optimizing cabinet space.
Implementation Method 1
using sensors like infrared or microphones to detect user presence
Implementation Method 2
using sensors like infrared or microphones to detect user presence
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes a description of various embodiments of waste-receiving systems. In some embodiments, a waste-receiving system comprises at least one waste receptacle configured to be positioned inside of a cabinet, an electric drive system configured to transition the waste-receiving system from a retracted or closed position within a closed cabinet to an extended or open position that provides access to the waste receptacle inside of the waste-receiving system, such as by moving the waste receptacle at least partially outside of the cabinet or opening a cabinet door or access region. The system can include a sensor system configured to generate one or more electronic signals from an environment, such as from a user, and a processor in electronic communication with the sensor system and a motor, the processor configured to actuate the motor based at least in part on the one or more electronic signals received from the sensor system. In some embodiments, the waste-receiving system may further comprise a cabinet. In some embodiments, the waste-receiving system may have at least one waste receptacle that is supported by a holder. In some embodiments, the waste-receiving system can have a drive system that is configured to move the at least one receptacle by moving the holder.