Garbage Can Retention Clip for Animal-Proof Lid Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hinged lid trash cans are ineffective in preventing animal entry, as existing solutions fail to securely keep the lid closed while allowing human access for disposal.
Innovation Solution
A garbage can retention clip system using a two-piece metal side release buckle with cut-resistant webbing, D-rings, and stainless steel clevis pins to securely attach the lid to the trash can, preventing animal entry while allowing easy human access by maintaining the lid in a closed position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hinged lid trash can is used, then human access for trash disposal is easy, but animal entry is not effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is divided into separate components: a retention clip with buckle mechanism, webbing straps, and attachment points. The clip can be independently attached to the lid while the webbing secures it to the can body, allowing modular installation and maintenance while providing reliable animal prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The side-release buckle mechanism allows dynamic adjustment between locked and unlocked states. The clip can be quickly engaged to prevent animal entry and just as quickly released by humans for trash disposal, providing adaptive security that responds to different operational needs.
2Reliability
If a secure retention mechanism is added to prevent animal entry, then animal prevention reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip serves multiple functions: it attaches to the hinged lid, provides a secure locking mechanism through the buckle, and allows quick release when needed. This multi-functionality consolidates several components into one device, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability for animal prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The side-release buckle mechanism is designed to be easily operated by users without requiring tools or complex procedures. The self-contained nature of the clip allows it to function autonomously once attached, maintaining security without requiring continuous human intervention or monitoring.
3Device complexity
If a simple lid attachment is used, then device complexity is low, but the lid cannot be securely kept closed against animals
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip features a curved or contoured design that conforms to the shape of the trash can lid and body. This curvature allows the clip to wrap around and secure the lid effectively, providing strong mechanical retention against animal forces while maintaining a relatively simple single-piece construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system combines different materials with complementary properties: the clip appears to be made of durable plastic or metal for structural strength, while the webbing straps provide flexible securing capability. This material composite approach enhances overall reliability without requiring a complex multi-component system.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention includes two interconnecting side release buckles configured to releasable connect to each other. A pair of webbing separately secured to one of the opposing ends of one of the side release buckles. Each of the webbing has a distal end with a stitched loop. A pair of D-rings secured within the stitched loops and secured to either the garbage can or lid by an attachment. Fasteners are secured through attachments and secured to the garbage can or lid, such that when the two interconnecting side release buckles are connected the hinged lid is prevented from opening away from the trash can.