Expandable Receptacle with Pivoting Frame and Foot Pedal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed volume receptacles become difficult to use when overfilled, as items get stuck and may be damaged or the liner tears during removal, due to the rigid design and static volume and surface area.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle design featuring a first and second frame that can pivot to change volume, with a lid assembly and foot pedal assembly allowing for expansion of the cavity and surface area, enabling easier removal of items by increasing the receptacle's volume and surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed volume receptacle is used, then the structure is simple and rigid, but items become difficult to remove when overfilled and the liner may tear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed, rigid receptacle structure into a dynamic, expandable one. The receptacle includes expandable walls with articulation points that allow the cavity volume to increase when needed. This enables easy removal of items even when overfilled, as the receptacle can expand to provide clearance, while maintaining a compact fixed form when not in use.
2Quantity of substance
If the receptacle volume is increased to accommodate more items, then storage capacity improves, but the surface area of the opening increases making it harder to remove items
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the receptacle volume dynamically adjustable. The expandable walls allow the cavity to increase in size when more storage is needed, but the opening surface area can be controlled through the expansion mechanism. This provides both increased storage capacity and maintained ease of item removal by coordinating volume expansion with opening area management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid fixed shape design is used, then manufacturing is simple, but the receptacle cannot adapt to different storage needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the receptacle walls into multiple segments connected at articulation points. This allows the walls to expand and contract while maintaining structural integrity. The segmented design enables adaptability to different storage needs through controlled expansion, while each individual segment remains relatively simple to manufacture using standard fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the receptacle dynamically adaptable by incorporating expandable walls that can change the cavity volume based on storage needs. The articulation points and expansion mechanism allow the receptacle to transform from a compact fixed form to an expanded flexible form, providing versatility while using manufacturable components.
4Quantity of substance
If the receptacle is overfilled, then storage capacity is maximized, but items may be damaged or the liner tears during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prevents damage to items and liner during removal by enabling dynamic expansion of the receptacle cavity. When items need to be removed, the expandable walls can increase the cavity volume, creating clearance between items and the receptacle opening. This eliminates the risk of items getting stuck or the liner tearing, while still allowing maximum storage capacity when fully filled.
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 design allows for safe and efficient removal of items from an overfilled receptacle by expanding the cavity and surface area, preventing damage and spillage, thus improving usability and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
a spring connecting the first frame to the second frame and that is configured to resist the first frame's pivot about the first axis
Data Source
AI summary
Various receptacle embodiments with expandable cavities are disclosed. In some embodiments, a receptacle comprising a first and second frame with a hinge permitting the first frame to pivot about the axis defined by the hinge to expand the volume of the cavity defined by the first and second frame is disclosed. In another embodiment, a receptacle comprising a first and second frame comprising a member mated into a corresponding track is disclosed, permitting movement between the first and second frames to expand the volume of the cavity defined by the first and second frame is disclosed. Other disclosed embodiments comprise lid and foot pedal assemblies as well as spring assist systems and other features.