Inertial Lock Latch for Refuse Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch systems for refuse containers are either difficult for users to manipulate, require re-engagement after use, or can be opened by animals through persistence or cleverness, and heavy reinforcing components make them unwieldy and prone to damage, while also leaving containers vulnerable during automated collection.
Innovation Solution
A latch system with an inertial lock mechanism that automatically engages and disengages based on the container's movement, using a swing lever and sear element to prevent animal access when the container is tilted or tipped, and automatically unlocking with the lift action of an automated refuse truck.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch system uses traditional locking mechanisms to prevent animal access, then security against animals is improved, but the system becomes difficult for users to manipulate and requires re-engagement after use
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system automatically engages and disengages without user intervention. The inertial mechanism self-activates during automated collection to disengage the latch, and automatically re-engages afterward, eliminating the need for users to manually operate the latch while maintaining security against animals
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic state responsive to acceleration forces. The inertial mechanism detects motion patterns (such as the lift action of automated collection) and automatically adjusts the latch state, providing both security and automated operation
2Reliability
If heavy reinforcing components are added to the latch system to prevent animal access, then security is improved, but the system becomes unwieldy and prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces heavy mechanical reinforcement with an inertial sensing mechanism that uses acceleration detection to control latch operation. This lightweight electronic/mechanical sensing system achieves security without the structural bulk and vulnerability of heavy reinforcing components
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system responds to changes in acceleration parameters during automated collection. By detecting the specific acceleration profile of lift actions, the system automatically disengages the latch at appropriate times, providing security without requiring physically robust construction
3Reliability
If the latch system remains locked during automated collection, then security is maintained, but the container cannot be emptied efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system operates in periodic cycles: locked during normal operation to maintain security, and automatically disengaged during the periodic lift actions of automated collection. The inertial mechanism detects these periodic motions and triggers latch disengagement only during collection events, maintaining security while enabling efficient emptying
Solution Approach 2:
The inertial mechanism provides feedback about the container's motion state to the latch control system. When acceleration sensors detect the characteristic motion pattern of automated collection, the system feedback-triggered latch disengagement, ensuring security is maintained during normal operation while productivity is enhanced during collection
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 latch system effectively prevents animal access to refuse containers while allowing easy emptying during automated collection, maintaining security and convenience, and is designed to be lightweight and durable for efficient use.
Implementation Method 1
When the latch system is subjected to an acceleration event, a weight on a swing lever causes the swing lever to pivot in one direction
Data Source
AI summary
A latch system includes a catch member and a sear element engaged with the catch member when the catch member is in a latch position. A swing lever is in geared engagement with the sear element. When the latch system is subjected to an acceleration event, the swing lever pivots in one direction so that the sear element pivots in the opposite direction to move the sear element out of engagement with the catch member. The latch system may be installed on a container so that the catch member engages with a latch receptacle coupled to a hinged lid of the container. When the container experiences the acceleration event, the sear element disengages from the catch element and the hinged lid falls open thereby causing the catch member to pivot to the release position. The latch system automatically re-engages when the container is returned to its upright position.