Remote-Controlled Tug with Tilting Latch for Trash Bin Maneuvering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for moving trash cans to the curb on collection day are often expensive, cumbersome, and require modifications to the bins, making them impractical for widespread use, especially for individuals with health issues.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled, self-propelled tug with reversible motors and a tilting mechanism that uses a lateral arm to latch onto the trash bin's handle, allowing it to tilt and lift the front off the ground for easy maneuverability, enabling it to tow the bin through tight spaces without modifying the conventional bin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a motorized wagon or cart is used to convey trash cans, then the task of moving trash cans becomes easier, but the device occupies considerable space and requires the homeowner to hoist the trash can onto the cart
Solution Approach 1:
The tug device is designed to fit underneath the trash can when not in use, nesting the moving device within the space of the stationary object. This eliminates the need for separate storage space while maintaining full functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the motorized propulsion system from the traditional cart design and applies it to a minimalistic tug device that attaches to the existing trash can handle, rather than requiring a complete cart structure.
2Ease of operation
If a remote control device is used to guide the cart, then the homeowner does not need to physically move the trash can, but the device is relatively expensive and occupies considerable space
Solution Approach 1:
The tug device is designed to work with any standard trash can that has a handle, making it universally applicable without requiring expensive custom modifications. The simple motorized tug can attach to and move any compatible bin.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses inexpensive components such as a small motor, battery, and basic remote control circuitry rather than expensive specialized systems. The simple design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and potential disposable use.
3Extent of automation
If dedicated wheeled containers with automatic lids are used, then trash can movement is automated, but the containers are relatively expensive to manufacture and are not readily adaptable to different methods of collection
Solution Approach 1:
The tug device can accommodate different trash can types and collection methods by simply changing the attachment mechanism to the handle. The same basic tug unit can work with various bin styles and can be adapted for different pickup locations and routes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements such as the tilting mechanism that allows the tug to tip forward and engage the latch with the handle, and the ability to tilt backward during towing to maintain balance. This dynamic adjustment enables versatile operation with different bin configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A trash bin tug carried on a pair of drive wheels driven by reversible motors and carrying a swivel support arm projecting upwardly and rearwardly towards a bin. The support arm carries a latch which cooperates with the support arm and tug to, upon being latched, support the front of the bin elevated from the support surface. The steps of selecting a tug with a support arm and carried on reversible drive wheels to be maneuvered from a remote control into position to engage a handle on a trash bin and latch onto the handle to elevate the front of the trash bin from the support surface.