Foldable Single-Sheet Debris Chute for Flexible Bag Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for collecting leaves and debris into flexible bags are hindered by the difficulty in maintaining the bags in an open position, leading to inefficient filling and potential damage to the bags due to the lack of structural support, and are often cumbersome and expensive to manufacture and store.
Innovation Solution
A foldable chute apparatus formed from a single sheet of durable plastic with specific scores, cuts, and folds that creates a stable upper chute portion and lower insert portion, providing structural integrity and ease of use while allowing for compact storage, which can be inserted into flexible containers to maintain them in an upright or prone position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional funnels or multi-component frame apparatus are used to hold bags open, then the bag can be maintained in an open position, but the apparatus becomes complex, heavy, and difficult to store
Solution Approach 1:
The chute is divided into distinct functional segments: an upper chute portion for receiving debris and a lower insert portion for insertion into the bag. These segments are formed from a single sheet through strategic cuts and scores, allowing the chute to be inserted into the bag opening with the upper portion extending outward. This segmentation provides structural support to maintain the bag open while keeping the overall design simple and easy to manufacture.
2Stability of the object's composition
If elaborate multi-component apparatus with hinges and clamps are used, then the bag can be held open stably, but manufacturing costs and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated chute structure formed from one sheet of material. The chute combines the support function (holding the bag open), the insertion function (lower insert portion going into the bag), and the debris receiving function (upper chute portion). This eliminates the need for separate hinges, clamps, and multiple components, significantly simplifying manufacturing while maintaining stability.
3Strength
If the chute is formed from thick durable plastic with structural rigidity, then the container can support compression without damage, but the apparatus becomes heavier and more difficult to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The chute is designed with varying thickness and rigidity in different locations to match functional requirements. The lower insert portion has sufficient rigidity to provide structural support and prevent bag damage during compression, while the upper chute portion can be slightly more flexible for easy maneuvering. This local differentiation of material properties allows the chute to be both strong where needed and easy to handle elsewhere.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for a recycling and environmental debris chute that directs leaf, debris and recycling or other materials into a container for collection, and more particularly a foldable chute formed from a single sheet of material and insertable into a collection bag or flexible container to hold the bag or container open in an upright or laying down sideways position and facilitate directing leaves, debris and other material into the bag or container.