Tapered Extender for Standard Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard garbage receptacles often become overwhelmed during events or when storing objects, leading to inefficiencies such as stacking garbage, which is aesthetically unappealing, labor-intensive, and may require additional containers that are costly and space-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A tapered extender device that fits within standard receptacles, increasing storage capacity by providing a universal fit and allowing for efficient collection and disposal of waste materials, including temporary storage solutions for objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the capacity of a standard receptacle is increased by stacking garbage next to it, then the storage capacity is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and labor time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extender device is inserted inside the standard receptacle, nesting one container within another to increase storage capacity without occupying additional external space. This eliminates the need to stack garbage next to the receptacle, maintaining aesthetic appearance while reducing labor time for collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The extender utilizes the internal three-dimensional space within the receptacle by extending downward into the receptacle body, effectively adding storage capacity in the vertical dimension without increasing the external footprint or requiring additional containers.
2Quantity of substance
If an additional garbage can is purchased to increase capacity, then the storage capacity is improved, but the space occupied and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing an additional garbage can outside the receptacle, the extender is nested inside the receptacle, utilizing the existing space efficiently. This increases storage capacity without occupying additional external space or requiring purchase of an additional container.
Solution Approach 2:
The extender device serves multiple functions: it increases storage capacity, maintains the original receptacle's compatibility with automated trucks, and eliminates the need for additional containers. The same device can be used with standard receptacles without requiring specialized infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a tapered structure is used in the extender, then the universal fit is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extender incorporates a tapered section that changes the geometric parameters of the device, creating a gradual transition in diameter. This tapering geometry provides a universal fit within various receptacle sizes while the manufacturing process remains relatively simple through extrusion or forming techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of a box is configured to be transformed to include a tapered structure configured such that when the transformed box is inserted into the receptacle, the tapered structure provides a universal fit. An embodiment of an extender is formed by steps including providing a single piece of material having a first edge and a second edge and forming, by cutting the single piece of material, at least one top extension extending from at least one wall and at least one bottom extension extending from the at least one wall such that the at least one top extension is foldable to abut the at least one wall. A method for collecting waste materials includes providing a receptacle and a box, and disrupting the extender. An embodiment of an extender comprises a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall.