Trash Can Lid Assembly With Wall-Clearance Positioner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trash receptacles with lids require significant clearance to open fully, often leading to interference with nearby structures and noise due to lid contact, especially when positioned near walls.
Innovation Solution
A positioner or locating device is integrated into the receptacle to maintain sufficient clearance from adjacent structures, featuring a protruding portion that can be extended or retracted to prevent lid interference and noise, and includes a soft, resilient contacting region to minimize damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the trash receptacle is positioned close to a rear wall to save space, then the space utilization is improved, but the lid cannot open fully and contacts the wall causing noise and wear
Solution Approach 1:
A positioner device is introduced as an intermediary component between the trash receptacle and the rear wall. The positioner extends to provide the necessary clearance for the lid to open fully without contacting the wall, while allowing the receptacle to be positioned close to the wall for space efficiency. The positioner acts as a mediator that resolves the conflict between space utilization and lid operability.
2Strength
If the lid is made of metal for durability, then the strength is improved, but the contact with the wall produces loud and annoying noise
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner device provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining clearance between the metal lid and the wall before contact occurs. By preventing the lid from striking the wall in the first place, the positioner eliminates the noise generation mechanism while preserving the durability benefits of the metal lid material.
3Device complexity
If the hinge or pivot region of the lid repeatedly contacts the rear wall, then the positioning is simplified, but wear is created on the wall and the hinge
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner serves as an intermediary that prevents direct contact between the hinge/pivot region and the wall. It maintains the necessary spacing to allow the lid to open fully while preventing the repetitive contact that would cause wear to both the wall surface and the hinge components, thereby extending their lifespan.
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
Ensures unhindered lid operation and reduces noise and wear by maintaining adequate clearance from nearby objects, enhancing the receptacle's usability and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a soft, resilient contacting region to minimize damage
Data Source
AI summary
Various trash can assembly embodiments are disclosed. In some embodiments, the trash can assembly includes a body and a lid assembly. The lid assembly can include a lid, and a multicomponent trim ring. The lid assembly can be rotatably connected with the body via a hinge unit. In certain embodiments, a flange of the trim ring is guided into and/or received into the hinge unit. A translating pin of the hinge unit can engage into the flange, thereby providing a rotatable connection between the trim ring and the body. In various embodiments, the translating pin is coupled with a handle to facilitate movement of the pin by a user during engagement of the trim ring and the hinge unit. A positioner can help to position the trash can against or adjacent to a wall or other structure. The movement of both the trim ring and the lid can be dampened.