Waste Container Lid with Counterweight Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waste container systems face challenges in efficient and hygienic operation, particularly for users with disabilities and in terms of energy consumption and hygiene issues related to manual lid operation.
Innovation Solution
A waste container closing apparatus featuring a lid integral with a drive shaft, a drive unit that moves the lid using a hanging mass to impose a rotational moment, allowing for automated opening and closing with minimal energy consumption and enhanced safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of the lid is required, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates for disabled users and those with hands engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The lid opening system operates autonomously by detecting the presence of a vehicle and automatically opening the lid, eliminating the need for manual operation. The system serves itself by using the vehicle's presence as the trigger mechanism, requiring no user interaction with handles or levers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated detection and actuation system. Sensors detect the vehicle's presence and trigger an actuator to open the lid, substituting the mechanical manual pulling action with an automated electromechanical system.
2Ease of operation
If automated opening mechanism is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated opening system operates periodically only when triggered by vehicle detection, rather than continuously. The lid opens automatically when a vehicle is detected and closes after a predetermined time, minimizing energy consumption by activating the motor only when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a counterweight mechanism to balance the lid's weight, reducing the energy required by the motor to open and close the lid. The counterweight offsets the gravitational force on the lid, allowing the motor to overcome only the difference rather than the full weight.
3Use of energy by moving object
If counterweight mechanism is added to reduce energy consumption, then the use of energy is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A counterweight is attached to the lid assembly to balance its weight. The counterweight is positioned such that it offsets the gravitational force on the lid, creating a balanced system that requires minimal energy to move. This mechanical balance reduces the motor's energy burden significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The counterweight mechanism is integrated with the existing lid and hinge structure, combining multiple functions into a unified assembly. The counterweight, hinge, and lid form a combined system where the counterweight serves both as a balancing element and part of the overall structural assembly.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If automated system is implemented, then the hygiene is improved by avoiding manual contact, but the safety deteriorates if user accidentally interferes with moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The automated lid system operates in controlled periodic cycles: opening when vehicle is detected, remaining open for a predetermined time, then closing automatically. This controlled timing prevents accidental injury by ensuring the lid is only moving during designated periods and remains stationary during safe zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates safety buffers or cushioning elements in the lid's path to prevent injury in case of accidental interference. These cushioning mechanisms are positioned ahead of the moving lid to absorb impact forces and prevent harm to users or objects that may accidentally enter the lid's movement path.
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 enables efficient, automated, and safe opening and closing of waste container lids, reducing energy requirements and minimizing hygiene risks, while accommodating users with disabilities and operating without direct mechanical intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a drive unit (11) carried by the cover structure (7) and operating on the drive shaft (10) to move the lid (9) around the hinge axis (X), between a closed condition in which it closes an insertion inlet (8) that is fixed relative to the cover structure (7), and an open condition in which it opens the insertion inlet (8)... configured to move, relative to the drive shift, a mass hanging relative thereto, so as to impose a rotational moment on the lid about the hinge axis
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a
Figure 2
AI summary
A waste container closing apparatus comprises a cover structure (7) engageable to a waste container (2). A lid (9) integral with a drive shaft (10) is rotatably carried by the cover structure (7) around a horizontal hinge axis (X). A drive unit (11) carried by the cover structure (7) operates on the drive shaft (10) to move the lid (9) around the hinge axis (X), between a closed condition in which it closes an underlying insertion inlet (8) that is fixed relative to the cover structure (7), and an open condition in which it opens the insertion inlet (8). The drive unit (11) is configured to move, relative to the drive shaft (10), a mass (M) hanging relative to the drive shaft itself, so as to impose a rotational moment on the lid (9) about the hinge axis (X).