Power Trash Can Lid Infrared Sensor Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power operated trash cans with motion sensors face issues such as incomplete lid closure due to high trash levels, sensitivity to user clothing and skin color, accidental triggering by ambient light, and limited functionality when trying to open the lid during closure.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a three-bit or four-bit encryption technique for infrared detectors, limiting the viewing angles of optical detectors, and adding a high filter mode during lid closure, along with a hold open module and speed compensation module to enhance detection accuracy and user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sensor is calibrated to be highly sensitive to detect user movement within 30cm, then detection accuracy is improved, but false triggering by ambient light and accidental activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a periodic pulsed infrared signal transmission system where the emitter sends out encrypted infrared pulses at specific intervals. The receiver expects signals at predetermined frequencies and patterns, allowing it to distinguish between genuine user presence (which interrupts the expected pattern) and ambient light interference. This periodic action with encryption significantly reduces false triggering while maintaining high detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an encrypted infrared signal as an intermediary between the controller and the detection system. Instead of directly detecting ambient light changes, the system uses modulated infrared pulses with encryption codes as a mediator. This intermediary layer allows the system to filter out ambient light interference while accurately detecting user presence through the interruption or modification of the encrypted signal pattern.
2Loss of energy
If the lid automatically closes after opening, then energy consumption is reduced and hygiene is improved, but user convenience deteriorates when multiple items need to be discarded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hold-open function that anticipates user needs by keeping the lid open for a predetermined time period after detection of user presence. This preliminary action prevents the need for immediate closing, allowing users to discard multiple items sequentially without repeatedly activating the sensor. The system prepares the lid in an open state in advance, improving convenience while maintaining energy efficiency through controlled timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the lid positioning dynamic by introducing a hold-open mode that can extend the open position beyond the standard automatic closing cycle. The system transitions from a fixed automatic closing timeline to a flexible timing mechanism that adapts to user behavior patterns. This dynamic adjustment allows the lid to remain open as long as needed while still returning to automatic closing after the extended period, balancing energy consumption with user convenience.
3Reliability
If the lid closes completely when trash is piled higher than the lid level, then sealing and hygiene are improved, but the motor may wear down or fail from continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism using position detectors that monitor the lid's position during the closing operation. When the detectors sense that the lid has reached a sufficiently closed position (even if not completely sealed), the controller stops the motor to prevent continuous operation. This feedback loop provides real-time information about lid position, allowing the system to achieve adequate sealing while preventing motor wear from excessive running time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by closing the lid to a sufficient but not necessarily complete position. The position detectors determine when the lid has closed enough to provide adequate sealing and hygiene protection, at which point the motor stops. This partial closing action achieves the necessary functional outcome (sealing and hygiene) without the excessive action of forcing complete closure, thereby protecting the motor from unnecessary wear and potential failure.
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
Significantly reduces false triggering, ensures complete lid closure, improves detection accuracy across various lighting conditions, and allows for extended lid opening and quick reactivation, providing a consistent operation experience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light emitter located at an upper end of the receptacle and configured to transmit an encrypted, pulsed light signal, at least one light receiver located at an upper end of the receptacle configured to receive the encrypted, pulsed light signal
Implementation Method 2
a motor and gear assembly configured to move the lid between the opened and closed positions
Data Source
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AI summary
A trash can (20) with a power operated lid (24) can include a sensor assembly (78) and a lifting mechanism (52). The sensor assembly (78) can include at least one light emitter (92) and at least one light receiver (94), the viewing area of the at least one light receiver (94) being limited in size. The lifting mechanism can include a controller (58), a drive motor (60), and a lifting member (62). The trash can with power operated lid can further include at least one position sensor (68,70) for detecting the position of the lid (24).