Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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This invention relates to a pivoting container for the
receiving and storage of material and for effecting transfer of
the material across a barrier such as a wall or a fence. The
container is suitable for the storage and transmittal of a variety
of materials including mail and garbage.
Refuse containers are known which are adapted to permit
passage of articles through a barrier on a platform which extends
on a horizontal plane such as the "garbage" hutch disclosed in
Canadian patent No. 659,153.
Pivoting receptacles which facilitate the transfer of
articles such as mail across a barrier are known. An example is a
form of receptacle found in a common mail collection box which
restricts access to the interior of the collection box and which
causes articles placed in the receptacle to fall into the
collection box once the receptacle is pivoted to a closed
position. Such receptacles do not contain the articles for
storage.
Such devices provide no visual privacy from one side of the
barrier to the other when the container is extended along the
horizontal plane. Furthermore, such devices act as a conduit for
environmental elements (such as wind or moisture~, persons or
certain pest animals.
Canadian patent No. 141,707 discloses a garbage
receptacle pivotally suspended within an aperture in a fence.
Such a device does not provide security or privacy in that it
permits visual communication or the passage of unwanted
environmental elements ~e.g. wind, or moisture), persons or pest
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animals across the barrier. Another disadvantage with the device
is that the container extends on both sides of the barrier in its
rest position obstructing the space on either side of the barrier
and interrupting the continuity of the barrier.
Canadian patent No. 141,851 discloses a garbage
receptacle which is pivotally mounted in a frame in a fence. The
container has an open top which is angled down from the front to
the back. A cover, hinged to the frame, is provided to close the
receptacle when it is disposed to the inside of the fence. This
device suffers from the disadvantages of not being self-closing
when the receptacle has been pivoted to the outside of the fence.
Furthermore, there is an absence of visual privacy and the
presence of a conduit for certain pests or environmental elements
across the fence at least when the receptacle is pivoted to the
outside position.
The aforementioned disadvantages may be overcome by
providing a container pivotally mounted within an aperture which
is adapted to substantially block the aperture in all pivotal
positions. Such a container will be self-closing as a result of
biasing the mass of the container relative to the pivot axis so as
to urge the container to pivot towards a closed position. Means
are provided to prevent the pivoting of the container past a point
where the container is overbalanced and the self-closing feature
is lost. The means for limiting the pivoting of the container
will prevent the container from being pivoted to a point where the
aperture is not substantially blocked.
Accordingly, this invention provides a container which
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facilitates access to materials stored therein from
either side of a barrier comprising: at least one
container having an opening and being pivotally mounted
within an aperture in said barrier, wherein the fit of
the container relative to the aperture substantially
blocks visual communication through the aperture while
said container pivots from a first position wherein the
container opening is disposed to one side of the barxier
to a ~econd position wherein the container opening is at
least partially disposed to the other side of the
barrier; means to prevent the container pivoting
substantially beyond the first and second positions; and,
wherein the mass of the container is bi~sed relative to
the pivot axis of the container 80 as to urge the
container to pivot towards the first position.
This invention also provides a container which
facilitates access to materials stored therein from
either ~ide of a barrier comprising: at least one
container having an opening and belng pivotally mounted
within an aperture in said barrier; a removable lid
adapted to cover the opening of the container while the
container pivot3 from a first position wherein the
container opening i8 disposed to one ~ide of the barrier
to a second po~ition wherein the container opening i8 at
least partially dispo6ed to the other side of the
barrier; means to prevent the container pivoting
sub~tantially beyond the first and second positions; and,
wherein ths mass of the container i8 biased relative to
the pivot axis o~ the container so~a9s to urge the
container to pivot towards the first position.
The means to prevent pivoting of the container
substantially pa~t the fir t or second positions may
comprise one or more protruding elements on the container
which are adapted to abut stationary surfaces adjacent
the aperture.
The container of this invention is adapted to
fit within the aperture so as to substantially block
visual communication acros~ the aperture. One way in
which visual communication is blocked during pivoting of
the container is to provide a curved urface on the
container forming an arc relative to the pivot axi~ of
the container. In such an embodiment, the surfaces of
the container which travel thxough the aperture while
pivoting remain close to the aperture boundary.
The container may have a variety of shape~
including a generally box-like shape with at least one
end which passes
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through the aperture being curved. The container may also be
generally spherical in shape.
To further block communication across the barrier, the
container opening may have a lid which prevents access across the
barrier through the container while the container is pivoting.
The lid may remain on one side of the barrier and may be hinged to
the barrier or a frame defining the aperture. In such an
embodiment, the lid covers whatever portion of the container
remains on the side of the barrier where the lid is situated while
the container is pivoting or is in the second position. One way
that this may be accomplished i5 to provide a curved lid which
matches a curved surface of the container adjacent the container
opening. Preferably the lid has a restraining or locking device
to prevent i~s unwanted removal.
It is preferable that the container have at least one
rigid side which is substantially flush with the barrier when the
container is in the first or closed position. This feature
minimizes the presence of an obstruction on the one side of the
barrier and maintains the continuity of the barrier on that side. -
In addition to positioning the pivot axis of the
container to promote self-closing, it is preferable that the pivot
axis also be positioned perpendicular to a medial point on a
vertical axis of the container. This feature promotes a partial
counterbalancing effect which does not eliminate the self-closing
feature~ For example, in a container with a top opening, this
embodiment permits the mass o the container (and contents)
located above the pivot axis to partially counterbalance the mass
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of the container (and contents) located below the pivot axis which
facilitates pivoting of the container by an individual.
In a container with a generally box-like shape and a top
opening, it is most preferable to locate the pivot axis at a point
on a vertical axis of the container between the middle of the
container and the container bottom with the mass of the container
biased so as to promote self-closing and partial counterbalancing.
The length of the container between the pivot axis and the top
relative to the length of the container below the pivot axis
provides mechanical advantage which facilitates the pivoting of
the container. This is especially advantageous when the container
is only partially filled resulting in a substantial proportion of
the mass being below the pivot axis.
It is preferred that the container be weather tight when
in the first or closed position. The fit of the container
relative to the aperture substantially blocks visual communication
through the aperture at all times. The fit and the optional lid
substantially reduces any conduit for environmental elements,
pests, etc. By ensuring the closest possible fit of the container
relative to the aperture (e.g. by the provision of sealing
elements between the container and the barrier, between the
container and lid and, if necessary, on the abutting surfaces of
the stopping means), the container may be made weather tight.
The container of this invention may also comprise a
multiplicity of containers partially mounted on a common axis.
For example J several box-shaped containers which together block
the aperture may be provided. Provided the surfaces of the
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individual containers adjacent each other fit closely while a
container pivots, the blocking of visual communication is
maintained.
The container of this invention may be pivotally mounted
within a frame that is adapted to be removable from the barrier
aperture. For example, the frame may be mounted on wheels so that
the container can easily be placed and optionally secured within
an appropriate aperture.
In drawings which illustrate a preferred embodiment of
the invention:
Fiaure l; is a perspective view partly in section of the container
of this invention pivotally mounted to a frame which defines an
aperture with said container in the first or closed position;
Fiaure 2; is a side elevation partly in section of Figure 1
showing the container in both its first or closed and second
positions; and
Fiaure 3; is a front elevation of a frame for pivotally mounting a
container of this invention.
Fiaure 4; is a cross-section of a container in the first position
mounted on the frame of Figure 3.
Figure 1 shows a container of this invention in the
first or closed position. The container comprises a bin (A) which
is pivotally mounted within an aperture within a barrier. The
aperture is surrounded by frame (8) which is attached to the
barrier. Suitable brackets on the frame support pivot axles (9)
which are attached to the bin. The pivot axis (10) is disposed
along a generally horizontal line. While not shown in this
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drawing, the pivot axle may extend through the bin along the pivot
axis.
The bin is generally box shaped having planar sides (2),
(3), (4), and (5). The container has a generally planar bottom
(1) and an open top fitted with a lid (6). Edges (23) of the top
of the container are curved to form an arc relative to the pivot
axis. The lid is curved to fit the top of the container and is
attached by means of hinge (7) to the upper member of frame (8).
It is contemplated that while in the first position
which is shown in Figure 1, the container is disposed to the
inside of the barrier which may be a building wall, a fence, or
some other structure defining an enclosure. While in the first
position, access to the interior of the container is possible once
the lid is lifted.
nhen constructed in a suitable size, this container is
suitable to contain refuse which may be loaded into the container
from the inside of a building or enclosure.
It is possible for the container of this invention to
comprise several bins similarly shaped to bin (A) shown in Figure
1. While not shown in the Figures, the multiplicity of bins may
be mounted on a common pivot axle.
Bin (~) is dimensioned to fit closely within the
aperture defined by frame (8). Sides (2) and ~3) and the curved
edges (23) of the top of the container travel through the aperture
when the container is pivoting. It is intended that these
surfaces and edges fit as closely as practicable to the perimeter
of the aperture. Further, it is desirable that the top of the
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container fit closely within the lid (6). Seals (e.g.
compressible rubber strips) may be provided between the container
and the aperture boundary and between the container and the lid to
enhance the fit of the container, the blocking of visual
communication and the blocking of passage of environmental
elements, etc., through the aperture.
In this embodiment, the bottom of the bin extends below
the lower member of the frame and remains to the inside of the
barrier. While in the first position, the lower part of the bin
back (4) abuts the surface of the lower member of the frame.
Figure 2 shows the bin (A) in its first (X~ and second
(Y) positions. Typically, the container's first position is
situated within a building, etc. on side (C) of barrier (B). The
containerls second position is typically located to the outside of
the barrier on side (D).
While in its first position, the bin back (4) is
substantially flush w th the surface of the frame (8) on side (D).
The bin is prevented from pivoting further in the direction of
side (C) by the abutment of surface (17), on protrusion (25) of
the bin, with surface (18) on an indentation situated in the upper
member of frame (8). This abutting relationship is designated
(13). Further means to prevent the pivoting of the bin towards
side (C) is shown by abutment relationship (12) wherein surface
(15) on an indentation in bin back (4) abuts with surface (16) on
the lower member of frame (8). Appropriate seals may be provided
at abutments (12) and (13) to promote weather tightness.
While bin (A) is in the first position, the lid may be
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lifted in direction (E) to provide access to the interior of the
bin. Depending lip (30) of the lid may be provided with means to
effect a seal against frame (8) when the lid is in the lower
position. The abutment of lip (30) against the frame prevents the
lid from dropping further when the lid is not supported by the
bin. Locking means may be provided (e.g. at points (21) or (22))
to prevent the lifting of the lid or the pivoting of bin (A)
towards the second position (Y). Such locking means may comprise
a removable pin located in matching holes in the side lip (24) of
the lid and the bin at point (21).
The bin may be pivoted to the second position (Y) in
direction (F). This is facilitated by the provision of a recessed
handle in protrusion (25). In this embodiment, the lid is
intended to remain disposed on side (C) and not pivot with the
bin. The lid continues to close the portion of the opening of the
bin which remains on side (C) during pivoting in direction (F).
Means may be provided to prevent the lifting of the lid while the
bin is pivoting to prevent access to side (C) from side (D)
through the interior of the bin. For example, cooperating means
such as a sliding pin or tongue and groove may be provided on the
side (24) of the lid and adjacent edge (23) of the bin which
prevents the lifting of the lid while the bin is pivoted from the
first position.
The indented shape of the bin adjacent the lower member
of the frame and the extension of the bottom of the bin below the
lower member prevents visual communication across the aperture
while the bin is pivoted to the second positionO
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The bin is prevented from pivoting past the second
position where the top of the bin front (5) would pass beyond
frame (8) towards side (D). Surface (19) on a protrusion at the
top of front (5) abuts surface (20) of the inside of rear
depending lip (30) of the lid which, when the lid is lowered,
defines the upper boundary of the aperture. If the lid is raised,
surface (20) is no longer positioned to abut with surface (19) and
it is then possible to pivot the bin outwards beyond the second
position. These features prevent persons from pivoting the bin
beyond the second position and thereby opening a conduit from side
(D) to side (C). However, if desired, the lid (6) may be raised
and the bin pivoted beyond the second position. Providing
suitable brackets (e.g. U-shaped) are provided on frame (8) to
support pivot axles (9), the bin may be removed altogether from
the aperture after pivoting beyond the second position. This
feature facilitates servicing the apparatus and cleaning the bin.
In the container shown in Figure 2, the pivot axis (10)
is located between the bin back (4) and an imaginary vertical line
(11) defining the centre of gravity of the bin. This results in
the mass of the bin (and contents) being biased towards side (C).
Providing the bin does not contain materials so unsqually
distributed so as to overcome the biasing of mass towards side
(C), the bin will be self-closing even when loaded.
In the container shown in Figure 2, the pivot axis is
disposed along a horizontal plane perpendicular to a point on
imaginary vertical axis (11). Said point is situated between the
bin bottom (1) and the middle of the bin. This results in a
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partial counterbalancing effect even when the bin contains
material. The mass of the bin (and contents) situated above pivot
axis will tend to counterbalance the mass of the bin (and
contents) situated below the pivot axis. Providing there is a
normal distribution of mass with respect to the bin contents, the
self-closing feature is not overcome. Furthermore, the length of
the bin between the handle in protrusion (25) and, the pivot axis
is greater than the length of the bin between the pivot axis and
the bin bottom. This difference provides a mechanical advantage
facilitating the pivoting of the bin towards the second position
by an individual even when the bin is partially filled below with
heavy material.
The embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 is preferred as
it provides a simple and easily operated means for storing and
transferring a quantity of materials from one side of a barrier to
another. It is particularly advantageous when it is desired to
permit persons on side (D) of the barrier to have access to the
contents of the container without permitting access or visual
communication through to side (C~. Furthermore, this embodiment
permits the container to automatically return to the first or
closed position without relying on the person who has pivoted the
container to the second position. The container is particularly
adapted for the provision of seals to promote weather tightness
when the container is in the first position and to minimize the
passage of environmental elements while the container is pivoting~
Containers of this invention may be of various
dimensions and includes shapes other than those shown in Figures 1
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and 2. For example, the container may consist of a single
substantially spherical container mounted within a substantially
circular aperture with the pivot axis passing through the
spherical centre of the container. In this case, suitable
weighting of the container may be necessary to have the container
be self-closing.
Providing the container has a lid, the lid may remain on
the container while it pivots. Furthermore, the lid may be
adapted to not open unless the container opening is disposed
completely to one, or the other side of a barrier. For example,
the lid may be hinged to front (5~ of a bin with a curved top
surface and adapted to open outwards so the lid cannot be opened
while the bin passes through the aperture and the bin cannot be
pushed back through the aperture while the lid is open.
The pivoting portion of containers of this invention may
not be provided with sides which completely enclose the container.
For example, front side (5) may be replaced by a open frame or
basket surface, and a statlonary shellr facia or cover may be
provided which surrounds the pivoting portion on side (C). The
lid may be fixed to the shell.
The container of this invention may be pivotally mounted
on a frame which is adapted to be placed or secured adjacent a
barrier aperture so as to permit the container to pivot through
the aperture. The frame may be removable from the aperture
together with the bin or container mounted thereon. To facilitate
removal, wheels or similar support means may be provided on the
frame.
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Figure 3 shows a frame constructed of tubular elements
which may be adapted to carry a container of this invention.
Upper member (26) of the frame may act as a stop to prevent
pivoting of a bin past the second position. The upper member may
also serve as a hinge member for a lid. Middle member (273 may
serve as the pivot axle for the bin. Lower member ~28) may serve
as a stop to prevent pivoting of the bin past the first position.
The frame is to be suitably dimensioned or shaped, or provided
with adjustable means for positioning the frame members, so as to
permit the three members to cooperate with the bin. The frame is
to be secured adjacent a suitable aperture. Support means such as
wheels may be provided, for example, at points (29).
Figure 4 shows a bin (A) and lid (6) in the first
position and mounted on the frame shown in Figure 3. The
horizontal members (26), (27) of the frame are pivot axles for the
lid and the bin respectively. In this embodiment, the bin top
surface need not be curved because the presence of the lid
prevents the creation of a visual conduit through the barrier
while the bin pivots. Protuberance (29) on the bin is adapted to
abut axle (26) to prevent the bin pivoting past the second
position. While pivoting, the bin protuberance will travel along
the under side of the lid. 5uitable means such as a pin located
on the protuberance which cooperates with a groove on the inside
of the lid may be provided to prevent the lid from being opened
while the bin pivots from the first to second positions.
While the invention has been described in detail and
with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be
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apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and
modifications can be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope thereof.
