Trash can with power operated lid

A trash can can include a sensor for detecting the presence of an object near a lower portion of the trash can. The detection of the object can be used to signal the trash can to open its lid. The trash can can include an electric drive unit for opening and closing the lid.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS

1. Field of the Inventions

The present inventions relate to power operated devices, such as power operated lids or doors for receptacles.

2. Description of the Related Art

Receptacles and other devices having a lid or a door are used in a variety of different settings. For example, in both residential and commercial settings, trash cans and other devices often have lids for protecting or preventing the escape of the contents of the receptacle. In the context of trash cans, some trash cans include lids or doors to prevent odors from escaping and to hide the trash within the receptacle from view. Additionally, the lid of a trash can helps prevent contamination from escaping from the receptacle.

Recently, trash cans with power operated lids have become commercially available. Such trash cans can include a sensor positioned on or near the lid. Such a sensor can be configured to detect movement, such as a user's hand being waived near the sensor, as a signal for opening the lid. When such a sensor is activated, a motor within the trash receptacle opens the lid or door and thus allows a user to place items into the receptacle. Afterwards, the lid can be automatically closed.

However, such motion sensors present some difficulties. For example, typical motion sensors are configured to detect changes in reflected light. Thus, a user's clothing and skin color can cause the device to operate differently. More particularly, such sensors are better able to detect movement of a user's hand having one clothing and skin color combination, but less sensitive to the movement of another user's hand having a different clothing and/or skin color combination.

If such a sensor is calibrated to detect the movement of any user's hand or body part within twelve inches of the sensor, the sensor may also be triggered accidentally. If the sensor is triggered accidentally too often, the batteries powering such a device can be worn out too quickly, energy can be wasted, and/or the motor can be over used. However, if the sensors are calibrated to be less sensitive, it may be difficult for some users, depending on their clothing and/or skin color combination, to activate the sensor conveniently.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONS

An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that the problems associated with motion sensors mounted on a trash receptacle to detect movement of a user's hand can be avoided by mounting such a sensor on a lower portion of the trash receptacle. For example, but without limitation, the sensor can be disposed in a position appropriate for detecting movement of a user's foot. Such a motion sensor can be oriented to detect movement in a limited area near the floor upon which the receptacle sits. Thus, the sensor is less susceptible to false detections caused by movement of other bodies in the room. Further, such a sensor can be mounted in a recess defined by the housing of the receptacle, such that a user can move their foot into or near the recess to trigger the motion sensor. This provides even greater reliability that the sensor will issue a detection signal only when the user intends to open the receptacle.

Another aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that by configuring a sensor arrangement to detect movement of a lower extremity of a user, a more simple, less expensive sensor can be used. For example, in some embodiments, a simple interrupt-type sensor, such as an optical sensor, can be used to detect the presence of a non-transparent body. Such an interrupt or optical sensor can be disposed on a lower portion of a trash receptacle. As such, when a user intends to trigger the trash can to, for example, open its lid, the user can place their foot in a position to trip the optical sensor. As such, the sensor more reliably issues a detection signal only when the user intends to activate the sensor. Additionally, it is not necessary for the user to bend down to activate the sensor.

Thus, in accordance with at least one embodiment disclosed herein, an enclosed receptacle can comprise a receptacle portion defining a reservoir, and a door mounted relative to the receptacle and configured to move between open and closed positions. A sensor can be mounted in the vicinity of a lower portion of the receptacle and configured to output a detection signal and a control mechanism can be configured to move the door between the open and closed positions, the sensor being connected to the control mechanism, the controller being configured to move the door to the open position when the sensor outputs a detection signal.

Another aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed herein includes the realization that occasionally, a user of a trash can having a power operated lid may desire to have the lid held open for an indefinite period of time. Thus, such a trash can with a power operated lid can be provided with a mode selector button configured to allow a user to select at least one mode of operation of the lid in which the lid is held open for an extended or an indefinite period of time.

Thus, in accordance with at least one embodiment, an enclosed receptacle can comprising a receptacle portion defining a reservoir, a door mounted relative to the receptacle and configured to move between open and closed positions, and a first user input device configured to output a signal. A second user input device can be disposed apart from the first user input device and a control mechanism connected to both the first and second user input devices, the control device being configured to move the door toward the open position based on a signal from the first user input device, the control mechanism being further configured to hold the door in the open position based on a signal from the second user input device.

Yet another aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed herein includes the realization that, occasionally, when using a receptacle with a power operated lid or door, a user may interfere with movement of the lid while it is being moved by a powered actuator. As such, the actuator can be damaged by excessive loads applied by an external body. Thus, such a receptacle with a powered lid or door can include features for avoiding damage that can be caused by forces applied to the lid or door. For example, a powered actuator for opening such a lid or door can include a load sensor configured to stop or close the lid of resistance is detected during opening. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, such a receptacle can include a linkage between the actuator and the lid or door which allows the lid or door to be opened to any extent beyond that position corresponding to the position of the powered actuator at any moment.

Thus, in accordance with at least one embodiment disclosed herein, an enclosed receptacle can comprise a receptacle portion defining a reservoir, a door mounted relative to the receptacle and configured to move between open and closed positions, and a user input device configured to output a signal. A control mechanism can be mechanically connected to the user input device and interfaced with the door such that the control mechanism can operate to push the door toward the open position and the door can be manually moved toward the open position without the control mechanism operating.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments of a powered system for opening and closing a lid or door of a receptacle or other device is disclosed in the context of a trash can. The inventions disclosed herein are described in the context of a trash can because they have particular utility in this context. However, the inventions disclosed herein can be used in other contexts as well, including, for example, but without limitation, large commercial trash cans, doors, windows, security gates, and other larger doors or lids, as well as doors or lids for smaller devices such as high precision scales, computer drives, etc.

With reference toFIG. 1, a trash can assembly20can include an outer shell22and an inner liner (not shown) configured to be retained within the outer shell. For example, an upper peripheral edge of the outer shell22can be configured to support an upper peripheral edge of a liner, such that the liner is suspended by its upper peripheral edge within the shell22. However, other designs can also be used.

The outer shell22can assume any configuration. The non-limiting embodiment ofFIG. 1illustrates an outer shell22having a generally four-sided rectangular configuration with a rear wall24and a front wall26. The inner liner can have the same general configuration, or a different configuration from the outer shell22. The outer shell22can be made from plastic, steel, stainless steel, aluminum or any other material.

The upper portion of the outer shell22is defined by an upper peripheral member23. The upper peripheral member23can be made from plastic, steel, stainless steel, aluminum or any other material. Additionally, it is not necessary that the upper peripheral member23be made separate from the shell22. For example, the upper peripheral member23can be made integrally or monolithically with the outer shell22. However, in some embodiments, the outer shell22, including the walls24,26, are made from a stainless steel. In such embodiments, the upper peripheral member23can also be formed from stainless steel, either integrally or monolithically or separate from the shell22. However, in some embodiments, the upper peripheral member23can be made from a plastic material.

A lid28is pivotally connected to an upper portion of the upper peripheral member23. The pivotal connection can be defined by any type of connection allowing for pivotal movement, such as, for example, but without limitation, a hinge.

The trash can20can also include a foot recess30positioned at a lower portion of the trash can20. For example, in some embodiments, the foot recess30can be defined by a portion of the outer shell22adjacent a bottom32of the outer shell22.

Similarly to the upper peripheral member23, the bottom32of the trash can20can be made integrally, monolithically, or separate from the shell22. Thus, the base32can be made from any material including plastic, steel, stainless steel, aluminum or any other material. Additionally, in some embodiments, such as those in which the shell22is stainless steel, the base32can be a plastic material.

The recess30can be formed from a shaped portion of the shell22or can be made integrally with the bottom32. Thus, the recess30can be made from plastic, steel, stainless steel, aluminum or any other material.

The recess30can extend inwardly into the general outer periphery defined by the shell22. Additionally, the recess30can extend upwardly from the bottom32. A foot plate can be optionally provided at a bottom of the recess30, and can extend from the bottom32.

In some embodiments, a sensor36is provided adjacent an upper portion of the recess30in a position where the sensor36can be directed downwardly toward the ground upon which the trash can20rests or the foot plate34.

The sensor36can be any type of sensor. For example, in some embodiments, the sensor36is configured to detect movement or the presence of an object disposed in the recess30. For example, the sensor36can be configured to emit a detection signal when a foot is disposed in the recess30. The sensor can be considered a “user input device” because a user can use the sensor36to issue a command to the trash can20.

The sensor36can be coupled to a lid control system configured to control the opening and closing of the lid28. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid control system includes wiring38provided inside the outer shell22connecting the sensor36to a circuit board40. The circuit board40, in turn, is coupled via wiring45to a motor gear46that drives a rotary lifting bar48.

Batteries44can be coupled to the circuit board40and the motor gear46. The lid control system can further include a pair of link rods50which extend generally vertically adjacent and along the rear wall24.

Each rod50can have a first end coupled to the lifting bar48and an opposite second end that is coupled to the lid28.FIG. 1Aillustrates an optional configuration for connecting the link rods50to the lid28.

As illustrated inFIG. 1A, the link rods50are connected to an inner side of the lid28via bracket assemblies51. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket assemblies51include a mounting portion51A connecting to the inner surface of the lid28. The mounting portions51A can be attached to the lid28with any type of connector, fastener, or through bonding, welding, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portions51A are connected to the lid28with rivets.

The bracket assemblies51also include arm members51B extending from the mounting portions51A toward an interior of the trash can20. The arms51B can also include apertures51C at an end of the arm51B distal from the mounting portion51A.

The upper ends of the link rods50extend through the apertures51C. Although not shown, the ends of the link rods50can also include retainer members configured to retain the ends of the link rods50in a position extending through the apertures51C.

In this configuration, the arms51B maintain the ends of the link rods50at a position spaced from the inner surface of the lid28. As such, the link rods50obtain an improved moment of torque for lifting the lid28from a closed position to an open position. Thus, any arrangement can be used to connect the upper ends of the link rods to the lid28.

With continued reference toFIG. 1, the circuit board40, batteries44, motor gear46, and lifting bar48are illustrated as being positioned adjacent the bottom32and inside the outer shell22. However, these elements can be positioned anywhere inside or outside the outer shell22.

The circuit board40can include a control circuit that is configured to control the operation of the motor gear46and the opening and closing motions of the lid28. The control circuit can be implemented using circuit designs that are well known to those skilled in the art. For example, although indicated as a “circuit,” the control circuit can comprise a processor and memory storing a control program. As such, the control program can be written to cause the processor to perform various functions for controlling the motor gear46in accordance with input from the sensors, such as the sensor36and/or other devices.

In some embodiments, the motor gear46can be driven in two directions so that the motor gear46can turn the lifting bar48in two directions. For example, when the lifting bar48rotates in a first direction, the link rods50are pushed upwardly to push the lid28open. When the lifting bar48rotates in an opposite second direction, the link rods will move downwardly to pull the lid28towards the closed position.

FIGS. 3A-3Cillustrate an exemplary operation of the opening and closing of the lid28of the trash can assembly20. With the lid28in the closed position, the sensor36can be actuated when a user inserts a foot (or other object) into the recess30into the path of the sensor36. The actuation of the sensor36will cause the control circuit in the circuit board40to drive the motor gear46in the required direction to rotate the lifting bar48in the first direction to open the lid28.

If the user immediately removes the foot (or other object) from the recess30(seeFIG. 3A), then the lid28will remain opened for a specific period of time (e.g., two seconds), and then the control circuit in the circuit board40will drive the motor gear46in the opposite direction to rotate the lifting bar48in the second direction to close the lid28. However, if the user's foot (or other object) remains in the recess30(seeFIG. 3B) for more than a predetermined period of time (e.g., two seconds), then the control circuit in the control board48will maintain the lid28in the opened position indefinitely or for a greater predetermined period of time.

In the situation shown inFIG. 3B, the user will eventually remove the foot (or other object). After the foot has been removed in theFIG. 3Bsituation, if the foot (or other object) is then re-inserted into the recess30into the path of the sensor36(seeFIG. 3C), then the control circuit in the circuit board40will drive the motor gear46in the opposite direction to rotate the lifting bar48in the second direction to close the lid28.

FIG. 2illustrates another embodiment of a trash can assembly20a. The assembly20ais similar to the assembly20ofFIG. 1, so the same elements inFIGS. 1 and 2have the same numeral designations except that an “a” is added to the designations inFIG. 2.

The difference between the assemblies20and20ais that the assembly20ahas a different lid control system that is used to open and close the lid28aafter the sensor36ahas been actuated. For example, the motor gear46and rods50in the assembly20are replaced by a motor hinge60and wiring62that couples the circuit board40ato the motor hinge60. The motor hinge60functions to open and close the lid28aby turning the hinged connection of the lid28ain the requisite direction.

The motor hinge60can be embodied in the form of any motor hinge that is well-known in the art. The operations described in connection withFIGS. 3A-3Ccan also be performed by the assembly20a, with the control circuit in the control board40aprogrammed to control the motor hinge60in the same manner as for the motor gear46.

By positioning the sensor36,36ainside a recess30,30a, the sensors36,36aare less likely to be accidentally actuated. To actuate the sensors36,36a, the user can deliberately insert a foot (or other object) or other object into a recesses30,30awhich are located close to the ground. While this will not eliminate accidental actuation of the sensors36,36a, it allows for a highly sensitive sensor to be used while significantly minimizing accidental actuation of the sensors36,36aand the subsequent opening of the lids28,28a.

Notwithstanding the above, it is also possible to omit the recesses30,30a. For example,FIGS. 4 and 5illustrate a trash can assembly20bthat can be identical to the trash can assembly20aexcept that the front wall26bdoes not have a recess. Instead, a canopy30bextends from the periphery of the front wall26bto define a covered region37b.

In some embodiments, a plurality of sensors36bcan be provided in spaced-apart manner on the underside of the canopy30b. In other words, any number (e.g., one or more) of sensors36bcan be provided, depending on the length of the canopy30band the desired use.

Providing a greater number of sensors36bcan allow the user to actuate one of the sensors36bmore easily because the user only needs to place the foot (or other object) in the direct path of any of the sensors36b, while providing a single sensor36brequires that the user place the foot (or other object) in the direct path of the single sensor36b. The plurality of sensors36bcan be coupled via wiring (not shown, but can be the same as38a) to a circuit board (not shown, but can be the same as40a).

Thus, the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5provides a covered region37badjacent the bottom of the outer shell22bwhere the user can actuate one or more sensors36b. The embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5also illustrates the provision of more than one sensor36b, and the same principle can be applied toFIGS. 1 and 2, where a plurality of sensors36,36acan be provided in the respective recess30,30a. As an alternative, the canopy30bcan be provided along a side wall (e.g.,35b) of the outer shell22binstead of along the front wall26b.

FIGS. 6-13illustrate another embodiment of the trash can20, identified generally by the reference numeral20c. Some of the components of the trash can20care the same as the corresponding components of the trash cans20,20a,20bdescribed above. These corresponding components are identified with the same reference numerals, except that a “c” has been added thereto. Additionally, it is to be understood that the features described with regard to the trash can20ccan also be used with the trash cans20,20a, and20b.

With continued reference toFIG. 6, the trash can20ccan include an upper peripheral surface100configured to provide a substantially flat surface against which the inner surface of the lid28ccan rest when the lid28cis in a closed position. The phantom line102extending along the upper surface100illustrates the general position of the lid28cwhen the lid28cis in a closed position.

Further, as shown inFIG. 6, the upper portion23cof the trash can20ccan include a recess104. The recess104can be formed from a portion of the upper surface100that is recessed downwardly from the remainder of the surface100. The majority of the surface100can be configured to generally follow along the surface of the lid28cwhen the lid28cis closed. However, the recess104is sized so as to allow a human to insert at least one or more fingers beneath the forward edge106of the lid28cwhen the lid28cis closed. As such, a user can lift the lid28cmanually, if desired.

The upper portion23ccan also include a ledge108configured to provide support for a liner of the trash can20c. For example, a liner can have a shape that is generally complimentary to the shell22c. Additionally, an upper peripheral edge of such a liner (not shown) can have a radially outward protruding portion provided with sufficient strength that the entire weight of the liner and the maximum weight for which the liner is designed to contain can be supported therefrom.

The upper portion23ccan include a ledge108configured to engage with the radially outward protruding portion of the liner so as to support the liner within the shell22c. Thus, when the liner is inserted into the shell22c, the entire weight of the liner is supported by the ledge108. However, the trash can20ccan also include further supports within the shell22cto support the weight thereof.

The upper portion23ccan also include additional recesses, for example, recesses110,112. The recesses110,112can be configured to allow a human user to insert their fingers within the recess and below the outwardly protruding portion of the liner. This provides additional convenience in that it is easier for a user to lift the liner out of the shell22c, for example, when a user desires to empty the trash out of the liner.

In some embodiments, the trash can20ccan include the user operable button114. The button114can be configured to allow a user of the trash can20cto, for example, change a mode of operation of the trash can20c. As such, the button114can be considered to be a “user input device” because is allows a user to issue a command to the trash can20c. Examples of the modes of operation are described below.

Additionally, the trash can20ccan include an indicator device116configured to provide a user with an indication of a mode in which the trash can20coperates. Examples of such modes are described in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the indicator116is a light, such as, for example, but without limitation, an LED.

FIG. 7illustrates a perspective and partial cut-away view of a lower portion of the trash can20c. In some embodiments, the sensor36ccan be a “trip light” or “interrupt” sensor. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 7, the sensor36ccomprises a light emitting portion120and a light receiving portion122. As such, a beam of light124is emitted from the light emitting portion120and is received by the light receiving portion122.

This sensor36ccan be configured to emit a trigger signal when the light beam124is blocked. For example, if the sensor36cis activated, and the light emitting portion120is activated, but the light receiving portion122does not receive the light emitted from the light emitting portion120, then the sensor36ccan emit a trigger signal. This trigger signal can be used for controlling operation of the lid28c, described in greater detail below.

This type of sensor provides further advantages. For example, because the sensor36cis merely an interrupt-type sensor, it is only triggered when a body is disposed in the path of the light beam124. Thus, the sensor36cis not triggered by movement of a body in the vicinity of the beam124. Rather, the sensor36cis triggered only if the light beam124is interrupted. To provide further prevention of unintentional triggering of the sensor36c, the sensor36c, including the light emitting portion120and the light receiving portion122, can be further recessed into the recess30c.

This type of sensor36cprovides additional advantages. For example, the sensor only requires enough power to generate a low power beam of light124, which may or may not be visible to the human eye, and to power the light receiving portion122. These types of sensors require far less power than infrared or motion-type sensors. Additionally, the sensor36ccan be operated in a pulsating mode. For example, the light emitting portion120can be powered on and off in a cycle such as, for example, but without limitation, for short bursts lasting for any desired period of time (e.g., 0.01 second, 0.1 second, 1 second) at any desired frequency (e.g., once per half second, once per second, once per ten seconds). As such, this type of cycling can greatly reduce the power demand for powering the sensor36c. In operation, such cycling does not produce unacceptable results because as long as the user maintains their foot or other appendage or device in the path of the light beam124long enough for a detection signal to be generated, the lid28ccan be actuated.

The sensor36ccan be connected to the circuit board40of the trash cans20,20a, or it can be connected to the lid control mechanism130illustrated inFIG. 7. The lid control mechanism130can include a power supply132, a controller134, a drive unit136, and a link arrangement138. However, other arrangements and components can also be used.

The power supply132can comprise a battery pack44c, an alternating current (AC) power supply, a direct current (DC) power supply, or any combination of these or other power supplies. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply132includes both a battery storage portion for operating the lid control system130on battery power and a DC power supply port for allowing the trash can20cto be plugged into household or other power supplies, with an appropriate AC to DC converter. However, any power supply132can be used.

The controller134can include the circuit board40or it can include any other type of controller. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller134includes a processor and a memory for storing a control program. Those of ordinary skill in the art can readily develop a control routine for providing the functionality described below.

The drive unit136can be controlled by the controller134to raise and lower the link arrangement138. The link arrangement138can comprise the link members50cor any other arrangement of mechanisms for connecting the drive unit136with the lid28c.

With reference toFIG. 8, the drive unit136can be configured to operate in accordance with the principle of operation of a jack screw. In some embodiments, the lifting function of the jack screw within the drive unit136is used to move a lifting arm140.

As shown inFIG. 7, the lifting arm140can be connected to the link arms50c. In some embodiments, the lifting arm140is not directly attached to the mechanism within the drive unit136. Rather, the lifting arm140can be configured to be freely movable in the up and down direction and merely be pushed upwardly by the internal mechanism of the drive unit136. As such, when the drive unit136is in the closed position, the lid28ccan be freely opened manually by a user.

For example, the user can insert their fingers in the recess104(FIG. 6) and lift the lid28cupwardly, which would cause the lifting arm140to rise with the link arms50c. This provides a further advantage in that, if there is an interruption in power from the power supply132, for example, if the batteries are no longer operable, the lid28ccan be manually opened freely without interference from the drive mechanism136.

In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit136includes an outer housing142mounted to a base member144. With reference toFIG. 9, the drive unit136can include a follower150and a screw152. The screw152can include threads154on its outer surface. The follower150can include internal threads (not shown) configured to mesh with the threads154. Optionally, Teflon® lubricant can be used to lubricate the threads154and the internal threads on the follower150.

In some embodiments, the screw152can include a shaft connector156configured to engage a shaft of an actuator. Such an actuator can be any type of actuator including, for example, but without limitation, an electric motor/gear reduction unit.

In some embodiments, the follower150can include keys158configured to slide within generally vertical grooves (not shown) disposed on an interior surface of the housing142. Thus, as the follower150moves upwardly and downwardly within the housing142, the follower150does not rotate with the screw152. Rather, the keys158follow the grooves within the housing142so as to maintain the angular position of the follower150. As such, the engagement of the threads154with the internal threads of the follower150cause the follower150to move only vertically within the housing142.

The upper end160of the follower150can be configured to push on the lower end162of the lifting arm140. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower end162of the lifting arm140includes a hemispherical protrusion. However, other configurations can also be used.

In some embodiments, the upper end160of the follower150can include a generally hemispherical recess164having a shape that is generally complimentary to the hemispherical projection on the lower end162of the lifting arm140. As such, the upper end160of the follower150maintains good contact with the lower end162of the lifting arm140during operation.

Optionally, the lifting mechanism136can include a spring166. The spring166can be disposed such that an upper end of the spring166remains in contact with a lower end of the follower150. As such, the spring166can be configured to provide a desired amount of upward bias to the lifting mechanism136. Thus, a motor used to turn the screw152can use less power at least, in the initial upward movement, of the follower150and thus the lid28c. Those of ordinary skill in the art can choose the size and strength of the spring166to provide the desired performance.

With continued reference toFIG. 9, the base can include a recess170configured to receive a portion of the spring166. As such, the spring166can remain aligned with the lower portion of the follower150.

The drive unit136optionally can include a bearing172configured to provide a generally frictionless support for the screw152. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing172is configured to mate with the lower end156of the screw152.

In some embodiments, the lower end156of the screw152can include a snap ring groove174configured to receive a snap ring176so as to retain the screw152in a proper position within the housing142.

For example, with reference toFIG. 10, the snap ring176, when received within the snap ring groove174, maintains the lower end156in a desired orientation protruding from a lower end of the base144of the housing142.

As noted above, the lower end156of the screw152can be configured for attachment to a drive shaft of an electric actuator. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower end156of the screw150includes a cylindrical recess180having one flat side, the construction of which is well known in the art.

With reference toFIG. 11, the control unit134, in the illustrated embodiment, includes a drive shaft182configured to be received within the recess180(FIG. 10) of the drive unit136. The control unit134, in some embodiments, can include a position sensor arrangement190configured to detect a predetermined position of the lid28c. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement190, further details of which are described below with reference toFIG. 12, is configured to detect when the lid28cis in a closed position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor arrangement190includes a plunger192extending upwardly from the control unit134. The plunger192is aligned relative to the drive shaft182to extend through an aperture194(FIG. 9) in the base144. The aperture144is positioned so as to be aligned with one of the keys158of the follower150. In some embodiments, one of the keys158can be enlarged so as to ensure contact with the plunger192when the follower150is in a position corresponding to a closed position of the lid28c(i.e., a lowermost position of the follower150).

Thus, during operation, when the key158contacts and depresses the plunger192, the control unit134can determine that the lid28cis closed or at least that the follower150is in a position corresponding to a closed position of the lid28c.

FIG. 12illustrates further detail within the control unit134. In the illustrated embodiment, an electronic control unit (ECU)200is mounted within the control unit134. The ECU200can include connectors allowing the ECU200to be connected to various devices, for example, but without limitation, a power supply, an electric motor, various sensors, and user inputs. In the illustrated embodiment, the ECU200includes a power input port202, a motor control port204, a lid position sensor input port206, a user interface port208, as well as a port210for other sensors. However, other ports and arrangements can also be used.

In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit134also includes a combined electric motor and gear reducer set212. The motor and gear reducer set212can comprise an electric motor214and a gear reduction device216. However, other configurations can also be used. These types of motor and gear reducer units212are widely commercially available. Thus, the power of the motor214and the ratio of the gear reduction device216can be chosen by the designer to provide the desired performance.

The control unit134can also include an encoder wheel218attached to the output shaft182of the unit212. The encoder wheel218can include a plurality of teeth disposed around its periphery so as to provide a reference for rotation of the shaft182.

The control unit134can also include a sensor220configured to detect movement of the encoder wheel218. For example, but without limitation, the sensor220can comprise a pair of devices, including a light emitter and a light receiver, arranged such that the teeth of the encoder wheel218intermittently block the reception of the light from the light emitter to the light receptor as the encoder wheel218turns. This type of sensor and encoder wheel arrangement is well known in the art.

In the control unit134, the encoder wheel218and sensor220arrangement provides a reference for the control unit134to determine the location of the lid28c. For example, the ECU200can receive a signal from the sensor arrangement220to determine the number of rotations of the shaft182. The number of rotations of the shaft182can be correlated directly to vertical movement of the follower150because the pitch of the teeth of the threads154can be known in advance, and thus be used as a basis for correlating rotation of the shaft182to vertical movement of the follower150. As such, the ECU200can be configured to determine the position of the lid28cbased on the signal from the sensor arrangement220.

The control unit134can also include a sensor222configured to detect when the plunger192(FIG. 11) is depressed by one of the keys158. For example, the sensor222can be in the form of a simple limit switch configured to output a detection signal when the plunger192is depressed. As such, the ECU200can receive a signal from the sensor222so that the ECU200can confirm when the lid28cis closed or at least when the position of the follower150corresponds to a closed position of the lid28c.

As noted above with reference to the circuit board40, the ECU200can comprise a hard wired circuit to perform the functionality described below. In some embodiments, the ECU200can comprise a processor and a memory for storing a control routine for performing the functionality described below. Additionally, it is to be noted that the illustrated arrangement of the control unit134is merely exemplary. Any other arrangement can also be used.

FIG. 13illustrates an exemplary arrangement of the power supply132. As shown inFIG. 13, the power supply132can include a door230configured to provide access to an interior battery compartment232. In this arrangement, the door230can be designed to be as small as possible, providing at least enough clearance to allow batteries to be inserted into the interior battery compartment232. This provides a more aesthetic appearance. In some embodiments, the battery compartment232is configured to receive four (4) “D” batteries. However, other numbers and sizes of batteries can also be used.

Additionally, the power supply132can include a power input port234. As such, the power supply132can be provided with electrical power from household power Supply. In some embodiments, the power input port234is a direct current (DC) input port confirmed to receive a direct current from an AC to DC converter device. Such devices are well known in the art.

Additionally, the power supply132can include a main power switch236configured to allow the power supply132to be turned on or off as desired by a user.

FIG. 14schematically illustrates connections between the ECU200and the various devices described above. During operation, the ECU200, as noted above, can be powered by the power supply132.

Additionally, the ECU200can provide power to the sensor36c(FIG. 7) for powering the light emitting portion120of the sensor36cto create a light beam124which is received by the light receiving portion122. Additionally, as noted above, the ECU200can be configured to periodically power the sensor36cso as to reduce the amount of energy used for powering the sensor36c.

Further, as noted above, the sensor36ccan be configured to emit a detection signal to the ECU200when it is determined that the beam of light124has been blocked. For example, the beam of light124can be blocked when a user inserts their foot or other non-transparent body into the recess30c, thereby preventing the beam of light124from striking the light receiving portion122of the sensor36c. In some modes of operation, the ECU200can be configured to drive the motor214when a detection signal from the sensor36cis received. When the motor214is driven, the shaft182(FIGS. 11 and 12) is rotated. The shaft182, being received within the recess180(FIG. 10) of the screw152(FIG. 9) thereby rotates the screw152.

With continued reference toFIG. 9, as the screw152rotates, it is supported by the bearing172and due to the snap ring176, the screw152is maintained in its vertical position within the housing142. However, because the follower1150includes internal threads meshed with the external threads154of the screw152, the follower150is pushed upwardly (as viewed inFIGS. 9 and 7). Additionally, because the keys158are received within grooves (not shown) on the interior of the housing142, the follower150does not rotate in the direction of rotation of the screw152. Rather, the angular position of the follower150is maintained by the keys158and thus, the follower150rises within the housing142.

As the follower150rises within the housing142, it pushes upwardly against the lifting arm140. As shown inFIG. 7, the upper end of the lifting arm140is connected to the connecting links50c, and thus the lifting arm140pushes the links50cupwardly. With reference toFIG. 6, as the link rods50care pushed upwardly, the upper ends of the link rods50cpush against the bracket assemblies51c, and thereby rotate the lid28ctoward an open position.

With reference again toFIGS. 12 and 14, as the shaft182rotates, the teeth of the encoder wheel218pass through the sensor arrangement220. As shown inFIG. 14, the signal from the sensor220is transmitted to the ECU200.

In some embodiments, the ECU200can be configured to determine when the lid28creaches its maximum open position based on the signal from the sensor220. For example, but without limitation, the ECU200can be configured to count the number of pulses it receives from the sensor220, each pulse representing one tooth of the encoder wheel218passing the sensor220, to determine the number of rotations of the shaft182from the beginning of the actuation of the electric motor214. The number of pulses generated by the movement of the lid28cfrom the closed position to the open position can be determined and stored within the ECU200as a reference value. Thus, the ECU200can count the pulses from the beginning of the actuation of the motor214and then stop the motor214when the ECU200receives the stored number of pulses from the sensor220.

The ECU200can be configured to perform in a number of different ways. For example, firstly, the ECU200can be configured to open and close the lid28cin accordance with the description set forth above with reference toFIGS. 3A,3B, and3C. However, the ECU200can be programmed to open the lid28cin other manners.

In some embodiments, the ECU200can be configured to activate the indicator116while the lid28cis in motion. For example, the ECU200can be configured to cause the indicator light116to blink whenever the motor214is turning. However, the ECU200can be configured to actuate the indicator light116in any other time for any other reason.

The ECU200can also be configured to operate in other modes, according to the actuation of the mode switch114. For example, the ECU200can be configured to maintain the lid28cin an open position indefinitely if the mode switch114is depressed. For example, if a user causes the ECU200to raise the lid28c, for example, by inserting their foot into the recess30c(FIG. 7), and then the user actuates the mode switch114(FIG. 6), then the ECU200can enter an open mode in which the ECU200does not operate the motor214to close the lid28c. Rather, the motor is not actuated until the mode switch114is actuated again.

While the ECU200is in this mode, the ECU200can also cause the indicator116to flash, change color, or provide another indication so that the user can be advised that the trash can20cis in a mode in which the lid28cwill remain open indefinitely. Thus, in some embodiments, the indicator light116can comprise a multicolored LED that can change colors, remain on in any one of the various colors indefinitely, blink, or turn off. Such LED lights are widely commercially available.

When closing the lid28c, the ECU200can also rely on the output of the sensor220to determine when the lid28chas reached its closed position. However, the ECU200can optionally be configured to detect an output from the sensor222for determining when the lid28cis closed. Thus, for example, when the ECU200drives the motor214to close the lid28c, the ECU200can continue to provide power to the motor214until a detection signal is received from the sensor222. At that time, the ECU200can stop directing power to the motor214because the signal from the sensor222indicates the lid28cis closed.

This provides a further recalibration of the ECU200each time the lid28cis closed. For example, because the ECU200is not relying solely on the output of the sensor220and the proper rotation of the encoder wheel218, errors associated with the encoder wheel218can be avoided.

The trash can20ccan also include a load sensor224configured to detect the voltage applied to the motor214. The load sensor224can be configured to output a signal that is continuous and proportional to the voltage applied to the motor214. In some embodiments, the load sensor224can be configured to output a signal only when the voltage applied to the motor214exceeds a predetermined value. In either configuration, whether the ECU200is configured to determine whether or not the output of the load sensor224is above a predetermined value, or whether the load sensor224is configured to output a signal only when the voltage applied to the motor214exceeds a predetermined value, the ECU200can be configured to stop operation of the motor214if such a signal or state is detected.

This arrangement provides a further advantage in that the ECU200can determine if the motor214is overloaded. This can happen when, for example, a user has left a heavy object on top of the lid28c. If this happens, and the ECU200energizes the motor214so as to raise the lid28c, the motor214can be overloaded. Thus, by providing a load sensor224, or any other sensor that can provide a similar functionality, the ECU200can terminate operation of the motor214to prevent damaging the motor214.

As noted above, the power switch236can be used to terminate the supply of power to the control unit134and thus the ECU200. This can be useful in households with small children who may attempt to play with the trash can20cand thus waste energy. Thus, an owner of the trash can20cmay decide to occasionally turn off the control unit134by activating the power switch236. With the power switch236disposed on a back side (FIG. 13) of the trash can20c, small children are less likely to discover the location of the power switch.