Waste Container Hatch Actuator with Elastic Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical blocking of waste container locking mechanisms due to forced immobilization can lead to dysfunction and breakage of actuator devices, resulting in direct and indirect costs.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical connection between the actuator and the locking organ that includes an elastically deformable part allows the actuator to move even if the locking organ is forcibly immobilized, preventing damage to the actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is used to secure the waste container hatch, then security and access control are improved, but the risk of mechanical blockage and actuator damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a protection mechanism that detects mechanical blockage conditions before the actuator can be damaged. When the locking mechanism is blocked (e.g., by forced entry), the protection device prevents the actuator from attempting to move the blocked component, thereby cushioning against potential damage beforehand. This is achieved through sensors that detect the blocked state and control logic that disables actuator operation under these conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a protection mechanism as an intermediary between the actuator and the locking mechanism. This intermediary layer includes detection devices that monitor the state of the locking mechanism and control devices that mediate the actuator's operation. When blockage is detected, the intermediary prevents the actuator from engaging with the blocked locking mechanism, thus protecting the actuator while maintaining the security function.
2Strength
If the actuator is designed with high force capability to ensure reliable locking, then locking strength is improved, but vulnerability to damage during forced entry increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor the operational state of the locking mechanism and provide information to the control system. When the locking mechanism is blocked or in an abnormal state, the feedback signal triggers the control device to prevent actuator operation. This feedback loop ensures that the high-force actuator does not operate under conditions that could cause damage, thereby maintaining both locking strength and actuator durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the actuator's operational capability dynamic rather than static. The actuator is designed to deliver high force when needed for reliable locking, but the protection mechanism dynamically adjusts its operation by disabling it when blockage is detected. This dynamic control allows the system to have high locking strength when functional while protecting against damage during forced entry attempts.
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
This solution protects the actuator from damage during mechanical blocking events, ensuring continued functionality and reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical connection between the actuator and the locking organ that includes an elastically deformable part allows the actuator to move even if the locking organ is forcibly immobilized
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A waste container comprising a housing (1) surmounting the container, in which is provided an opening (2) for the introduction of waste, which can be closed by a hatch (3) operable by the user between an open position for waste introduction and a closed position, and equipped with a locking/unlocking system for said hatch (3) comprising an electronically controlled actuator capable of moving a locking member (15) of the hatch (3) between a position in which the hatch (3) is locked in the closed position and a disengaged position allowing the hatch (3) to be opened. This container is characterized in that the actuator moves the locking member (15) by means of a mechanical linkage (10) for transmitting the movement from the actuator to the locking member (15), at least a portion (13) in contact with the actuator of which is elastically deformable to allow the movement of the actuator in the event of forced immobilization of the locking member (15).