Refuse Holder Spring Bias Seal for Odor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refuse receptacles with tubular holders suffer from odor escape due to gaps between the upper end of the holder and the hinged lid, leading to unpleasant odors in the surrounding environment.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a biasing mechanism using coil springs to engage the upper end of the tubular refuse holder with the upper ring frame, creating a seal and preventing odor escape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a tubular refuse holder is used without a biasing mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but odor escape occurs due to gaps between the holder and upper frame member
Solution Approach 1:
The refuse holder is designed with dynamic movement capability, allowing it to move vertically between a retracted position and an engaged position. The biasing member (spring) provides continuous force to maintain engagement, creating a dynamic seal that adapts to the holder's movement while preventing odor escape throughout the operation cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member acts as an intermediary element between the refuse holder and the upper frame member. It transmits force to maintain contact and sealing between these two components, enabling the seal function without requiring direct mechanical connection or complex locking mechanisms
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the upper end of the tubular refuse holder is left unsealed, then the ease of operation is improved, but harmful factors (odors) escape into the atmosphere
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member is configured to automatically maintain engagement between the refuse holder and upper frame member without requiring manual intervention. The spring continuously exerts force to keep the seal intact, and the holder automatically retracts when needed, making the sealing function self-regulating and easy to operate
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
Significantly diminishes odor escape into the atmosphere by ensuring a tight seal at the upper end of the tubular refuse holder, maintaining a more pleasant environment.
Implementation Method 1
At least one biasing member provides relative biasing movement between the refuse holder and upper frame member such that there is engagement of the upper open end of the refuse holder against the upper frame member to provide a seal thereat. The at least one biasing member includes at least one spring which biases the refuse holder toward the upper frame member.
Implementation Method 2
The at least one biasing member includes at least one spring which biases the refuse holder toward the upper frame member
Data Source
AI summary
A refuse receptacle includes an outer enclosure having an upper frame member with an opening through which refuse can be deposited into the outer enclosure, and a cover movably mounted on the upper frame member between a position normally closing the opening and a position which permits refuse to be deposited through the opening into the outer enclosure. A tubular refuse holder is mounted on a spring plate in the outer enclosure, the refuse holder including an upper open end for receiving refuse deposited through the opening. A plurality of coil springs are provided between the spring plate and a ledge in the enclosure to bias the refuse holder toward the upper frame member such that there is engagement of the upper open end of the refuse holder against the upper frame member to provide a seal thereat.