Side Loading Trash Compactor Linkage Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trash compactor designs face issues with asymmetric force distribution, potential jamming due to debris, and stress on electrical leads, leading to reduced reliability and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A trash compactor mechanism utilizing multiple sets of linkages connected by simple hinge joints to a single vertical screw actuator, with additional linkages for stability and a movable plate connection, along with a design that includes a wide rim platen and beveled edges to prevent contamination and improve balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a horizontal screw actuator is used with a scissors-type mechanism, then the platen can be actuated, but the screw experiences ever increasing bending moments and the forces are applied in an increasingly asymmetric manner, requiring beefier parts and increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The compacting mechanism is divided into multiple independent linkage sets (first set and second set) that operate in separate planes. Each linkage set has its own feet connected to the platen, allowing forces to be distributed across multiple paths rather than concentrating all asymmetric forces on a single screw actuator, thereby reducing bending moments and the need for overly robust components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-plane scissor mechanism to a multi-plane linkage system. The first linkage set operates in a first plane and the second linkage set operates in a second plane that is angled relative to the first plane. This dimensional separation allows the screw actuator to drive linkages in different orientations, distributing asymmetric forces across multiple spatial dimensions and reducing the bending moment concentration on the screw.
2Ease of operation
If sliding feet are used on a rack-and-pinion mechanism, then the platen can be actuated, but debris may become lodged between the sliding feet and the rack-and-pinion mechanism, jamming the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the rack-and-pinion mechanism entirely and replaces it with a direct screw actuator configuration. The screw actuator engages with the linkage system through threaded connections rather than sliding feet, eliminating the gap between sliding components where debris could become lodged. This extraction of the problematic rack-and-pinion element eliminates the jamming issue while preserving platen actuation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw actuator serves as an intermediary element that transmits rotational motion to the linkage system through threaded engagement. This intermediary connection eliminates the need for sliding feet that directly contact the rack-and-pinion, thereby removing the debris-trapping interface while maintaining the force transmission necessary for platen actuation.
3Ease of operation
If the electric motor moves up and down with the compacting mechanism, then the motor can be positioned conveniently, but undue stress is put on the electrical leads as they flex to follow the motor through the compaction cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the motor from the moving compacting mechanism and positions it as a stationary component mounted on the housing. This separation eliminates the relative motion between the motor and the platen, thereby eliminating the flexing stress on electrical leads that would occur if the motor moved with the compaction cycle. The motor remains fixed while the platen and linkage system move independently.
4Stability of the object's composition
If two vertical screws are used to drive the compacting mechanism, then the platen can be stabilized, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the stabilization function across multiple linkage sets rather than relying on additional vertical screws. The first and second linkage sets, operating in angled planes, work together to provide lateral stability and guide the platen through its vertical motion. This segmentation of the stabilization function eliminates the need for extra vertical screws while maintaining platen stability through the geometric arrangement of the linkages.
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
The solution reduces the likelihood of mechanism contamination, enhances reliability and safety, and decreases operational costs by evenly distributing forces and preventing jamming, allowing for efficient trash compaction with reduced maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
driven by a single vertical screw actuator
Implementation Method 2
multiple sets of linkages that are connected by a simple hinge joint to the platen and to the frame of the apparatus
Implementation Method 3
a horizontal platen is pressed downwards to compress trash into a receptacle at the bottom of the unit
Data Source
AI summary
A side loading trash compactor, comprising a frame defining a cavity, a receptacle for containing trash, a platen movable to compress trash collected in the receptacle, a first set of linkages having a first end attached to the frame by a first simple hinge joint, the first simple hinge joint having an axis of rotation, and a second end attached to the platen by a second simple hinge joint, a second set of linkages having a first end attached to the frame by a third simple hinge joint, and a second end attached to the platen by a fourth simple hinge joint, and a drive mechanism configured to move the plate up and down, wherein the first and second set of linkages operate in intersecting planes.