Step-on Receptacle Tip Prevention Hoop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Step-on receptacles for containing biohazards are prone to tipping due to the moment arm created by the foot pedal, which negates the hands-free advantage and requires users to steady the receptacle with their hands, and the elevation of the center of gravity exacerbates instability.
Innovation Solution
A step-on receptacle design featuring a wire hoop positioned beneath the foot pedal to prevent tipping by engaging with the surface when excessive force is applied, and a support mechanism to stabilize the receptacle during lid operation, allowing for a simplified construction without fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the foot pedal is positioned to allow hands-free operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of the receptacle deteriorates due to the moment arm created by the pedal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by positioning the pedal at the rear of the receptacle, opposite to the direction of the moment arm created by the pedal's forward extension. This rearward positioning creates a counterbalancing effect that prevents the receptacle from tipping forward when the pedal is depressed, thereby maintaining stability while preserving hands-free operation capability
2Ease of operation
If the center of gravity is elevated to provide clearance for pedal movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of the receptacle deteriorates due to increased tipping tendency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by transitioning from vertical elevation of the center of gravity to horizontal positioning at the rear of the receptacle. Instead of raising the pedal assembly vertically to gain clearance, the design extends the pedal horizontally backward, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the receptacle to achieve both operational clearance and gravitational stability
3Ease of operation
If the pedal stroke is extended to reduce the force required to lift the lid, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of the receptacle deteriorates due to increased tipping moment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by positioning the pedal's rotational axis and support structure at the rear of the receptacle, creating a counterbalancing moment that offsets the tipping force generated during pedal depression. This rearward counterweight positioning allows for extended pedal stroke while maintaining receptacle stability throughout the motion range
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 maintains stability during foot pedal operation, preventing tipping and allowing hands-free operation without the need for users to steady the receptacle, thus enhancing usability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the hoop engages against the surface and prevents the receptacle from tipping over
Data Source
AI summary
A novel construction of a stabilized receptacle is provided in which the receptacle is comprised of only seven separate component parts that are assembled together without the use of separate threaded fasteners. In addition, the receptacle is provided with a stabilizing hoop that extends forwardly from the receptacle around the foot pedal of the receptacle and stabilizes the receptacle, preventing movement of the receptacle when the foot pedal is depressed.