Refuse Bin Wedge Cross Bar Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current waste management practices face challenges in segregating household waste effectively, leading to cluttered streets and safety hazards due to the use of multiple bins and containers, which are not compatible with conventional refuse vehicles and violate health and safety regulations regarding manual lifting of unspecified weights.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle with a wedge-shaped cross bar and hinged lids that allows for compartmentalization, preventing waste from getting stuck during emptying, reducing odor release, and enabling independent emptying of compartments, while being compatible with conventional refuse vehicles through an attachment element for lifting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple bins and containers are used for waste segregation, then waste segregation is achieved, but street clutter and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single bin is divided into multiple compartments within the same external structure, allowing waste segregation into different categories (recyclables, organic waste, residual waste) while maintaining a unified container that does not contribute to street clutter
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple waste storage functions are merged into a single bin structure with multiple compartments, combining the benefits of waste segregation with the advantage of having only one container to place at the curb
2Reliability
If multiple separate bins are used for different waste categories, then waste segregation is achieved, but manual lifting of unspecified weights is required
Solution Approach 1:
The bin is segmented into compartments that can be independently accessed and emptied, allowing collectors to target specific compartments based on waste type and weight, reducing the need to manually lift entire bins of unspecified weight
3Ease of operation
If compartmentalized bins are designed with multiple lids, then independent compartment access is achieved, but compatibility with conventional refuse vehicles is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The lid system is segmented into multiple independently operable lids, each providing access to specific compartments, while the overall bin structure maintains the external dimensions and attachment points required for conventional refuse vehicle compatibility
4Productivity
If waste is emptied through a wide opening, then emptying speed is improved, but waste gets stuck on the cross bar
Solution Approach 1:
The cross bar is given a curved or rounded profile rather than a sharp edge, creating a smooth surface that allows waste to slide off easily during emptying, preventing accumulation and blockages while maintaining the structural integrity of the bin
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 receptacle facilitates efficient segregation and collection of waste, reduces clutter and safety hazards, and complies with health and safety regulations by allowing easy movement and lifting of recyclables without manual handling of unspecified weights, while maintaining waste segregation and reducing cross-contamination.
Implementation Method 1
a wedge-shaped cross bar having an apex and a base, the wedge-shaped cross bar spanning the open end thereby defining a first and a second opening
Data Source
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AI summary
There is disclosed a receptable. In particular, there is disclosed a receptacle for household waste, for example a refuse bin such as a wheelie bin. The receptacle includes a body, the body being closed at a first end and open at an opposing second end, a wedge-shaped cross bar having an apex and a base, the wedge-shaped cross bar spanning the open end thereby defining a first and second opening; a first lid hingedly connected to the base of the wedge-shaped cross bar, the first lid being arranged to substantially close the first opening when the first lid is contiguous with a portion of the open end; and a second lid hingedly connected to the open end of the receptacle, the second lid being arranged to substantially close the second opening when the second lid is contiguous with a portion of the base of the wedge-shaped cross bar, and wherein the wedge-shaped cross bar is arranged such that the apex of the wedge-shaped cross bar is located in the body.