Expandable Receptacle With Pivoting Inner Frame
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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 static storage cavity and opening size.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle design featuring a first and second frame that can pivot or laterally move to increase volume, along with a lid assembly and foot pedal assembly, allowing for expansion of the cavity and opening surface area, enabling easier removal of items without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed volume receptacle is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but the cavity volume and opening surface area cannot be changed when overfilled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed, rigid receptacle structure into a dynamic one where the cavity volume can change. The inner frame is made pivotable relative to the outer frame through hinges, allowing the cavity to expand or contract based on the amount of stored items. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by enabling volume adaptability while maintaining structural integrity through controlled mechanical movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle is segmented into multiple independent components: an outer frame, an inner frame that can pivot independently, and a lid assembly that moves separately. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the outer frame provides structural support, the inner frame adjusts cavity volume, and the lid opens independently. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling volume change without requiring complete structural redesign.
2Productivity
If the receptacle is filled to capacity, then storage efficiency is improved, but item removal becomes difficult and may cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic cavity volume mechanism allows the receptacle to maintain high storage capacity when full, but when items need removal, the user can pivot the inner frame to expand the cavity volume and enlarge the opening. This dynamic adjustment makes item removal easy even when the receptacle was previously filled to capacity, resolving the contradiction between storage efficiency and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the receptacle - specifically the cavity volume and opening surface area - by pivoting the inner frame. When items need to be removed, the cavity volume parameter is increased and the opening area is enlarged, transforming the receptacle from a tight, full state to an expanded, accessible state. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by enabling easy item removal after maximum storage.
3Volume of moving object
If the opening surface area is small, then the receptacle structure is compact, but items get stuck and liner tears occur during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction by adding a dimensional aspect - the inner frame can pivot to change the opening surface area in three-dimensional space. When items need removal, the opening is enlarged by pivoting, providing sufficient clearance to prevent items from getting stuck and avoiding liner tears. This dimensional change allows the receptacle to maintain a compact footprint when closed while providing a large opening when needed.
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 tension gear mated into a corresponding track is disclosed, permitting lateral 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.