Trash Can Clip System with Sliding U-Shaped Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trash receptacle systems fail to securely affix trash bags to the top lip, leading to potential contamination and odor issues due to the bag becoming dislodged during garbage disposal, and existing solutions are unsatisfactory in terms of sizing, aesthetics, and usability.
Innovation Solution
A system of non-detachable, u-shaped clips fixedly attached to the trash can, with an elongated component allowing sliding and pivoting movement, to securely hold the trash bag in place by engaging and disengaging with the top lip, ensuring the bag remains within the clip's opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple fastening device (paper clip, binder clip, chip clip) is used to secure the trash bag, then the bag can be held in place, but the device is not specifically sized for the purpose, not aesthetically pleasing, and may be misplaced when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is segmented into multiple functional parts: a U-shaped body with inwardly directed arms, an elongated component with a void, and pivotable engagement features. This segmentation allows each part to perform a specific function while maintaining overall reliability and aesthetics
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated component acts as an intermediary element that connects the clip to the trash can lip. It provides a pivot axis and allows the clip to transition between engaged and disengaged positions, solving the problem of securement while enabling easy operation
2Reliability
If expandable retention devices (rubber bands) are used to secure the trash bag, then the bag can be held between the device and the trash can surface, but the solution is not specifically sized for the purpose and may be misplaced when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The clip merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: the U-shaped body provides the securing mechanism, the elongated component provides the pivot axis and connection to the trash can, and the void accommodates the bag material. This eliminates the need for separate sizing and storage considerations
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using an expandable device that requires adjustment, the invention uses a pre-configured U-shaped clip with fixed geometry that is inverted onto the trash can lip. The clip engages by being flipped over the lip, providing securement without complex sizing adjustments
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the trash bag is draped over the top lip of the trash can, then the inner surface is protected, but the liner can become dislodged during garbage disposal and fall into the trash can
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is preliminarily positioned on the trash can lip before the bag is inserted. This preliminary positioning creates a pre-formed engagement structure that guides the bag into place and prevents dislodging during subsequent garbage disposal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The clip system combines rigid materials (the clip body and elongated component) with flexible materials (the bag material that engages with the clip). This composite approach provides both structural support for reliable securement and flexibility for easy bag insertion and removal
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of an apparatus of the present invention generally include a trash can clip system which includes a substantially vertically-oriented lip, wherein one or more voids are disposed along the lip, and one or more substantially u-shaped clips, wherein each clip is slidingly movable along the lip, such that each clip can be provided in an engaged position with respect to the lip, or provided in a disengaged position within a lip void, and outwardly rotated in the disengaged position. A method of utilizing an embodiment of trash can clip system of the present invention is also provided.