Integrated Residential Bin Washer Assembly for Front-Load Refuse Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing residential refuse bin washing systems are slow, labor-intensive, and expose operators to traffic hazards, with dedicated vehicles or trailers limiting their utilization and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A container assembly for a front load refuse collection vehicle equipped with a residential bin washing system, allowing for semi-automated or automated operation, enabling the vehicle to wash bins while in transit, with features like a lifter arm, spray conduits, and fluid management systems for efficient sanitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a stationary or trailer-mounted bin washing system is used, then the washing function is provided, but the operator must manually handle each bin and the process is relatively slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bin washing system with a front-load refuse collection vehicle, merging two previously separate functions (refuse collection and bin washing) into a single integrated vehicle. This allows the system to perform both refuse collection and bin washing operations without requiring separate vehicles or manual handling of bins by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated bin washing system allows the vehicle to wash bins autonomously without requiring the operator to manually handle each bin. The system uses automated mechanisms to position bins, apply wash fluid, and remove debris, thereby eliminating the need for manual handling while maintaining washing functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated trailer or truck is used for bin washing, then the washing function is provided, but the vehicle utilization is limited and equipment efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies a front-load refuse collection vehicle to perform multiple functions: refuse collection and bin washing. By integrating the washing system into the existing vehicle structure, the vehicle can switch between collection mode and washing mode, thereby increasing vehicle utilization and reducing the need for dedicated washing vehicles or trailers.
3Ease of operation
If an operator manually handles bins for washing, then the washing process can be completed, but the operator is exposed to traffic hazards and the process is labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The automated washing system allows the vehicle to perform washing operations autonomously without requiring the operator to manually handle bins. The system uses automated mechanisms to position bins, apply wash fluid, and remove debris, thereby eliminating operator exposure to traffic hazards while maintaining washing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling of bins by operators with an automated mechanical washing system. The automated system uses hydraulic or electric actuators to position bins and apply wash fluid, substituting the operator's manual labor with automated mechanical systems that are safer and more efficient.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a stationary washing system is used, then bins can be washed, but the system requires dedicated infrastructure and cannot operate mobile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bin washing system with a front-load refuse collection vehicle, combining two previously separate functions (refuse collection and bin washing) into a single integrated vehicle. This allows the system to perform both refuse collection and bin washing operations mobiley, eliminating the need for dedicated stationary infrastructure while managing system complexity through integration.
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
Enhances operational efficiency and safety by allowing faster bin washing without manual handling, increasing vehicle utilization, and providing dual-purpose functionality for refuse collection vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
the spray conduit being in fluid connection with at least one fluid tank and at least one fluid pump
Implementation Method 2
engage the washing system to dispense fluid from the spray nozzle to wash the inside of the residential refuse bin
Implementation Method 3
The operator then uses a hydraulic lifter to raise and tip the refuse container into an inverted position over a spray nozzle
Implementation Method 4
the at least one spray conduit being in fluid connection with at least one fluid tank and at least one fluid pump
Data Source
AI summary
A container assembly having a residential refuse bin washer system for a front load refuse collection vehicle, the container assembly including a base, a receptacle connected to the base and having side walls, a bottom wall and a drain, the drain being in fluid connection with at least one fluid tank, at least one spray conduit having a distal end extending above the bottom wall, the at least one spray conduit being in fluid connection with at least one fluid tank and at least one fluid pump, and a residential refuse bin lifter assembly, wherein the residential refuse bin lifter assembly is movable between a retracted rest position proximate one of the side walls of the receptacle and a raised and inverted position disposed above the receptacle. The disclosure includes the container assembly in combination with a front load refuse collection vehicle having a container assembly lift apparatus.