Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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REFUSE CONTAINER
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to containers for storing refuse,
and particularly to
containers configured for facilitating easier filling and emptying.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In modern, urban communities, refuse containers are used to store
accumulated
household refuse until such household refuse can be collected by garbage
trucks or the like.
Typically, such refuse containers includes a lid for concealing the household
refuse collected
therein, as well as to prevent wild animals from accessing this household
refuse. With some
containers, the lid is integrally mounted to a storage bin which contains the
collected household
refuse. Such containers, however, are awkward to use. For example, available
latching
mechanisms continue to be prone to opening by wild animals.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In one aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising a
container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity, a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity, and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity; and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle; and wherein the unlocking force includes
a horizontal
component and a vertical component, and wherein the lid-opening force includes
a horizontal
component and a vertical component, and wherein the direction of the
horizontal component of
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the lid-opening force is disposed at an angle of between about 90 degrees and
about 270 degrees
in a clockwise direction about a vertical axis and relative to the direction
of the horizontal
component of the unlocking force.
[0004] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity, a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity; and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle; and wherein the unlocking force includes
a horizontal
component and a vertical component, and wherein the lid-opening force includes
a horizontal
component and a vertical component, and wherein the direction of the
horizontal component of
the lid-opening force is substantially opposite to the direction of the
horizontal component of the
unlocking force.
[0005] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity; a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle;
and wherein, when the
latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
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is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle, and wherein the unlocking force effects
rotation of the latch
in one of a clockwise or counter clockwise direction, and wherein the lid-
opening force effects
rotation of the latch in the other one of a clockwise or a counter clockwise
direction relative to
the same frame of reference as the direction of the unlocking force.
[0006] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity; a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity, and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle, and wherein, in moving from the locked
lid position to the
unlocked lid position, the latch rotates, relative to the container assembly,
about a latch rotation
axis, wherein the latch rotation axis and a longitudinal axis of the detent
are substantially co-
located.
[0007] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity, a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity, and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
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latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle, and wherein, when the latch is disposed
in the locked lid
position, the latch is disposed in a cavity provided in the container
assembly.
[0008] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity; a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity, and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity, and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position; wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle, and the latch is moveable to an unlocked
indication position
wherein the latch is locked to the container assembly such that the latch
extends peripherally of
the container assembly and thereby provides a visual indication that the latch
is in the unlocked
lid position.
[0009] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity, and including: a lip defining an
opening to the cavity,
and a rim extending peripherally about the lip, a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured
for movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access
to the cavity, and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity, and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
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latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle, and wherein the detent extends upwardly
from the rim and is
disposed below the lip.
[0010] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity, and including a lip defining an
opening to the cavity,
and a rim extending peripherally about the lip, a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured
for movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access
to the cavity, and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity, and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle and a detent co-operator, and moveable between a locked lid
position and an
unlocked lid position, a detent extending upwardly from the rim and acting
between the bin and
the lid, and co-operating with the latch so as to effect locking of the lid to
the bin when the latch
is in the locked lid position, and permit movement of the lid, relative to the
bin, from the closed
position to the open position when the latch is in the unlocked lid position,
wherein the latch is
configured to move from the locked lid position to the unlocked lid position
in response to
application of an unlocking force to the handle, and wherein, when the latch
is disposed in the
unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the closed position, the lid
is configured to move
from the closed position to the open position in response to an application of
a lid-opening force
to the handle, and wherein, when the latch is disposed in the locked lid
position, the detent co-
operator is disposed relative to the detent such that the detent interferes
with movement of the
detent co-operator along a vertical axis and thereby resists movement of the
lid from the closed
position to the open position, and a potential fouling space is defined
between the detent co-
operator and the detent, and wherein the container assembly includes a fouling
guard extending
from the lid and disposed between the detent and the peripheral edge of the
container assembly
and configured for reducing ingress of materials into the potential fouling
space.
[0011] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container
comprising: a container
assembly including a bin defining a cavity; a lid rotatably coupled to the
bin, and configured for
movement, relative to the bin, between an open position providing access to
the cavity, and a
closed position inhibiting access to the cavity, and a locking mechanism
including a latch
including a handle, and moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked
lid position, a
detent acting between the bin and the lid, and co-operating with the latch so
as to effect locking
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit
movement of the lid,
relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the
latch is in the unlocked
lid position, wherein the latch is configured to move from the locked lid
position to the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle,
and wherein, when the
latch is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an application
of a lid-opening force to the handle, and wherein the container assembly
includes an impact
guard disposed below the locking mechanism for blocking physical contact with
an external
object when the latch is disposed in the locked lid position.
[0012] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a bin defining a
cavity, and including a lip defining an opening to the cavity, and a rim
extending peripherally
about the lip, and including a skirt seating surface and at least one impact
pad seating surface, a
lid rotatably coupled to the bin, and configured for movement, relative to the
bin, between an
open position providing access to the cavity, and a closed position inhibiting
access to the cavity,
and including a skirt, and at least one impact pad, wherein the skirt extends
peripherally of and
downwardly from the lid and includes a skirt contact surface configured to be
seated upon the
skirt seating surface, and wherein each one of the at least one impact pad
extends downwardly
from the lid and includes a respective contact surface configured to be seated
upon a respective
one of the at least one impact pad seating surface and thereby define at least
one respective
contact surface, wherein each one of the at least one respective contact
surface corresponds to a
respective one of the at least one impact pad; and wherein an operative impact
surface is the sum
of all of the at least one respective contact surface, and wherein the ratio
of the surface area of
the operative impact surface to the surface area of contact surface of the
skirt is at least 0.1.
[0013] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container comprising
a bin defining a
cavity, a lid rotatably coupled to the bin, and configured for movement,
relative to the bin,
between an open position providing access to the cavity, and a closed position
inhibiting access
to the cavity, and a lifting mechanism engagement system including a retention
bar, wherein the
retention bar is coupled to the bin and is disposed externally of the cavity.
[0014] In another aspect, a refuse container comprising a container
assembly including a
bin defining a cavity, a lid rotatably coupled to the bin, and configured for
movement, relative to
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the bin, between an open position providing access to the cavity, and a closed
position inhibiting
access to the cavity, a lid locking mechanism including a latch including a
handle, and moveable
between a locked lid position and an unlocked lid position a detent acting
between the bin and
the lid, and co-operating with the latch so as to effect locking of the lid to
the bin when the latch
is in the locked lid position, and permit movement of the lid, relative to the
bin, from the closed
position to the open position when the latch is in the unlocked lid position,
wherein the latch is
configured to move from the locked lid position to the unlocked lid position
in response to
application of an unlocking force to the handle, and wherein, when the latch
is disposed in the
unlocked lid position and the lid is disposed in the closed position, the lid
is configured to move
from the closed position to the open position in response to an application of
a lid-opening force
to the handle, and a latch locking mechanism configured to move between a
locked latch position
and an unlocked latch position, wherein, in the locked latch position, the
latch locking
mechanism acts between the latch and the lid to prevent the latch assuming an
operative
condition whereby the latch is capable of moving between the locked lid
position and the
unlocked lid position, and wherein, in the unlocked latch position, the latch
is disposed in the
operative condition.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0015] The invention will be better understood when consideration is
given to the
following detailed description thereof Such description makes reference the
annexed drawings
wherein:
[0016] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of a
refuse container;
[0017] Figure 2 is a front elevation view of the refuse container in
Figure 1;
[0018] Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the refuse container in
Figure 1;
[0019] Figure 4 is a side elevation view of one side of the refuse
container in Figure 1;
[0020] Figure 5 is a top plan view of the refuse container in Figure 1;
[0021] Figure 6 is a top perspective view of the lid and the latch of the
container in
Figure 1, illustrating the latch in the locked lid position and in the
unlocked indication position;
[0022] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of a front detail of the
container in Figure 1,
illustrating the latch in the locked lid position;
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[0023] Figure 8 is a top plan view of a front detail of the container in
Figure 1,
illustrating the latch in the locked lid position;
[0024] Figure 9 is a further detail of the top plan view in Figure 8;
[0025] Figure 10 is a sectional side elevation view of the container,
taken along the lines
A-A in Figure 5, illustrating the latch in the locked lid position;
[0026] Figure 11 is front detail of the sectional side elevation view in
Figure 10;
[0027] Figure 12 is a front detail of a sectional side elevation view of
the container, taken
along the lines A-A in Figure 5, illustrating the latch in the unlocked lid
position;
[0028] Figure 13 is a front detail of a sectional side elevation view of
the container, taken
along the lines A-A in Figure 5, illustrating the latch in the unlocked
indication position;
[0029] Figure 14 is a top detail of a sectional side elevation view of
the container, taken
along the lines A-A in Figure 5, illustrating the lid in an open position;
[0030] Figure 15 is a top perspective of the latch of the container in
Figure 1 taken from
the front;
[0031] Figure 16 is a bottom perspective view of the latch of the
container in Figure 1,
taken from the rear;
[0032] Figure 17 is a top plan view of the latch of the container in
Figure 1;
[0033] Figure 18 is a top perspective view of the bin of the container in
Figure 1, taken
from the rear;
[0034] Figure 19 is a bottom perspective view of the bin of the container
in Figure 1,
taken from the front;
[0035] Figure 20 is a top perspective view of a front detail of the bin
of the container in
Figure 1, taken from the front;
[0036] Figure 21 is a top perspective view of a front detail of the bin
of the container in
Figure 1, taken from the rear;
[0037] Figure 22 is a bottom perspective view of a front detail of the
bin of the container
in Figure 1, taken from the front;
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[0038] Figure 23 is a top plan view of a lid of the container in Figure
1;
[0039] Figure 24 is a bottom plan view of a lid of the container in
Figure 1;
[0040] Figure 25 is a top perspective of the lid of the container in
Figure 1, taken from
the rear;
[0041] Figure 26 is a bottom perspective view of the lid of the container
in Figure 1,
taken from the rear;
[0042] Figure 27 is a top plan view of a front detail of the lid of the
container in Figure 1;
[0043] Figure 28 is a bottom plan view of a front detail of the lid of
the container in
Figure 1;
[0044] Figure 29 is top perspective view of a front detail of the lid of
the container in
Figure 1;
[0045] Figure 30 is a schematic illustration of the stages of lifting and
moving of the
refuse container by a lifting mechanism engagement system;
[0046] Figure 31 is a front plan view of the latch of the refuse
container of Figure 1;
[0047] Figure 32 is a top perspective view of one side of a second
embodiment of a
refuse container, taken from the front;
[0048] Figure 33 is a bottom perspective view of the other side of the
refuse container of
Figure 32, taken from the front;
[0049] Figure 34 is a bottom perspective view of the refuse container of
Figure 32, taken
from the front and from a perspective where the leading edges of each one of
the sides of the
container is visible.
[0050] Figure 35 is a front perspective view of a third embodiment of a
refuse container;
[0051] Figure 36 is a front elevation view of the refuse container in
Figure 35;
[0052] Figure 37 is a rear elevation view of the refuse container in
Figure 35;
[0053] Figure 38 is a side elevation view of one side of the refuse
container in Figure 35;
[0054] Figure 39 is a top plan view of the refuse container in Figure 35;
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[0055] Figure 40 is a top perspective view of the lid, and the latch, and
the latch locking
mechanism of the container in Figure 35, illustrating the latch in the locked
position and in the
unlocked indication position;
[0056] Figure 41 is a top perspective view of a front detail of the
container in Figure 35,
illustrating the latch in the locked position;
[0057] Figure 42 is a top plan view of a front detail of the container in
Figure 35,
illustrating the latch in the locked lid position;
[0058] Figure 43 is a further detail of the top plan view in Figure 42;
[0059] Figure 44 is a sectional side elevation view of the container,
taken along the lines
A-A in Figure 39, illustrating the latch in the locked lid position;
[0060] Figure 45 is front detail of the sectional side elevation view in
Figure 44;
[0061] Figure 46 is a front detail of a sectional side elevation view of
the container, taken
along the lines A-A in Figure 39, illustrating the latch in the unlocked lid
position;
[0062] Figure 47 is a front detail of a sectional side elevation view of
the container, taken
along the lines A-A in Figure 39, illustrating the latch in the unlocked
indication position;
[0063] Figure 48 is a top detail of a sectional side elevation view of
the container, taken
along the lines A-A in Figure 39, illustrating the lid in an open position;
[0064] Figure 49 is a top perspective of the latch and the latch locking
mechanism of the
container in Figure 35 taken from the front;
[0065] Figure 50 is a bottom perspective view of the latch and the latch
locking
mechanism of the container in Figure 35, taken from the rear;
[0066] Figure 51 is a top plan view of the latch and the latch locking
mechanism of the
container in Figure 35;
[0067] Figure 52 is a top perspective view of the bin of the container in
Figure 35, taken
from the rear;
[0068] Figure 53 is a bottom perspective view of the bin of the container
in Figure 35,
taken from the front;
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[0069] Figure 54 is a top perspective view of a front detail of the bin
of the container in
Figure 35, taken from the front;
[0070] Figure 55 is a top perspective view of a front detail of the bin
of the container in
Figure 35, taken from the rear;
[0071] Figure 56 is a bottom perspective view of a front detail of the
bin of the container
in Figure 35, taken from the front;
[0072] Figure 57 is a top plan view of a lid of the container in Figure
35;
[0073] Figure 58 is a bottom plan view of a lid of the container in
Figure 35;
[0074] Figure 59 is a top perspective of the lid of the container in
Figure 35, taken from
the rear;
[0075] Figure 60 is a bottom perspective view of the lid of the container
in Figure 35,
taken from the rear;
[0076] Figure 61 is a top plan view of a front detail of the lid of the
container in Figure
35;
[0077] Figure 62 is a bottom plan view of a front detail of the lid of
the container in
Figure 35;
[0078] Figure 63 is top perspective view of a front detail of the lid of
the container in
Figure 35;
[0079] Figure 64 is a schematic illustration of the stages of lifting and
moving of the
refuse container in Figure 35 by a lifting mechanism engagement system;
[0080] Figure 65 is a front plan view of the latch of the refuse
container of Figure 35;
[0081] Figure 66 is a top perspective view of one side of the refuse
container, taken from
the front;
[0082] Figure 67 is a bottom perspective view of the other side of the
refuse container of
Figure 35, taken from the front;
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[0083] Figure 68 is a bottom perspective view of the refuse container of
Figure 35, taken
from the front and from a perspective where the leading edges of each one of
the sides of the
container is visible;
[0084] Figure 69 is a sectional side elevation view of the container,
taken along the lines
A-A in Figure 39, illustrating the latch in the locked lid position and the
latch locking
mechanism in the locked latch position;
[0085] Figure 70 is a sectional side elevation view of the container,
taken along the lines
A-A of Figure 39, illustrating the latch in the locked lid position and the
latch locking
mechanism in the unlocked latch position;
[0086] Figure 71 is a sectional rear perspective view of the container,
taken along the
lines A-A in Figure 39, illustrating the latch in the locked lid position and
the latch locking
mechanism in the locked latch position;
[0087] Figure 72A is another bottom perspective view of the latch and the
latch locking
mechanism of the container in Figure 35;
[0088] Figure 728 is an enlarged view of Detail "A" of Figure 72A;
[0089] Figure 73 is a front perspective view of the latch locking
mechanism;
[0090] Figure 74 is a first rear perspective view of the latch locking
mechanism;
[0091] Figure 75 is a second rear perspective view of the latch locking
mechanism;
[0092] Figure 76 is a top perspective view of the latch locking
mechanism; and
[0093] Figure 77 is a top perspective view of the latch with the latch
locking mechanism
removed for clarity.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0094] There is provided a refuse container 10. A first embodiment is
illustrated in
Figures 1 to 31. A second embodiment is illustrated in Figure 32 to 34. A
third embodiment is
illustrated in Figures 35 to 68. Like elements are identified with like
reference numerals.
Descriptions of spatial disposition one element relative to another are
provided in the context of
a refuse container 10 disposed in a vertically upright and self-supporting
position, and disposed
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on a substantially horizontal reaction surface 60, such as, for example, the
container 10
illustrated in Figure 2.
[0095] The refuse container 10 includes a container assembly 12 and a
locking
mechanism 14. For example, the container is manufactured by high pressure
injection moulding.
[0096] The container assembly 12 includes a bin 16 and a lid 18. The lid
18 is coupled to
the bin 16. For example, the material of the bin 16 and the lid 18 is high
density polyethylene.
[0097] The bin 16 defines a cavity 20. The bin 16 includes a lip 74 which
defines an
opening 36 for effecting communication between the cavity 20 and the
environment external to
the bin 16 when the lid 18 is in an open position (see below). For example,
the cavity 20 is
configured for storing material including household organic waste.
[0098] For example, with respect to the bin 16, the bin 16 includes a
floor 32 and a
continuous upstanding sidewall 34 extending between the floor 32 and the lip
74. For example,
with respect to the continuous sidewall 34, the continuous sidewall 34
includes interior and
exterior surfaces 41, 42. A rim 28 extends peripherally about the perimeter of
the lip 74. For
example, the rim 28 includes a seating surface 30 configured to co-operate
with the lid 18, as
will be explained below. For example, the seating surface 30 extends
peripherally about the
perimeter of the lip 74.
[0099] For example, with respect to the interior surface 41 of the
continuous sidewall, the
interior surface is tapered so as to facilitate nesting of an identical
container within the container
10, and thereby facilitate stacking of multiple identical containers 10.
[00100] For example, with respect to the external surface 42 of the
continuous sidewall
34, a pair of handles 38, 40 are mounted on opposite sides 44, 46 of the
external surface 42 of the
continuous sidewall 34. The handles 38, 40 are configured to be grasped by a
human operator
for effecting lifting of the container 10.
[00101] For example, with further respect to the external surface 42 of
the continuous
sidewall 34, a pair of brackets 48, 50 are mounted to a rear section 52 of the
external surface 42
of the continuous sidewall 34. A handle 54 extends between the brackets 48,
50. The handle 54
is provided for grasping by a human operator for effecting lifting of the
container. Alternatively,
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where the container 10 is provided with wheels 56, 58, the handle 54
facilitates grasping by a
human operator for effecting rolling movement of the container 10 across a
reaction surface 60.
[00102] For example, the lid 18 is rotatably coupled to the bin 16. For
example, such
rotational coupling can be accomplished by pivots incorporated in one of the
lid 18 or the bin 16
and received within respective receptacles in the other one of the lid 18 or
the bin 16, or through
external pivots received within receptacles provided in each one of the lid 18
and the bin 16.
[00103] The lid 18 is configured for movement, relative to the bin 16,
between an open
position (see Figure 14 for the first embodiment, and Figure 48 for the third
embodiment) and a
closed position- (see Figures 10, 12, and 13 for the first embodiment, and
Figures 44, 46, and 47
for the third embodiment). For example, the lid extends between and is
rotatably coupled to each
one of the brackets 48, 50. In this respect, for example, the lid in the first
embodiment includes
pins 76, 78 extending from opposite sides. Each one of the pins 76, 80 is
received within a
respective aperture of a respective one of the brackets 48, 50. In the third
embodiment, the lid 18
is rotably coupled to each one of the brackets 48, 50 with a hinge pin 3000
(which also functions
as handle 54). The hinge pin 3000 is press-fit through receiving apertures
1801a, 1801b provided
on either side of the lid and through receiving apertures 481, 501 provided on
the brackets 48,
50.
[00104] For example, with respect to the lid 18,when the lid 18 is in the
open position,
depositing of household organic waste into the cavity 20 can be effected. As a
further example,
when the lid 18 is open, removal, from the cavity 20, of the contents of the
cavity 20 is enabled.
For example, when the lid 18 is in the closed position, removal or egress,
from the cavity 20, of
the contents of the cavity 20 is inhibited. As a further example, when the lid
18 is in the closed
position, the contents of the cavity 20 are hidden from view. As a further
example, when the lid
18 is in the closed position, egress of odours, from the cavity 20, and from
the materials within
the cavity 20, is inhibited.
[00105] Referring to Figures 24 and 28 for the first embodiment and
Figures 58 and 62 for
the third embodiment, for example, with respect to the lid 18, the lid 18
includes a downwardly
extending rib 19. For example, the rib 19 extends internally about the
perimeter of the lid 18.
[00106] The rib 19 is configured to be disposed opposite to an interior
surface of the lip 74
(see Figures 18 and 20 for the first embodiment, and Figures 52, 54 for the
third embodiment)
14
CA 02636306 2012-04-12
when the lid 18 is in the closed position. As well, the lid 18 includes a
skirt 88. For example, the
skirt extends peripherally about the perimeter of the lid 18. The skirt 88 is
configured to be
seated or supported on the seating surface 30 of the rim 28 when the lid 18 is
in the closed
position. The lid 18 also includes one or more impact pads (two impact pads
90, 92 are shown in
Figures 24 and 28 for the first embodiment, and Figures 58 and 62 for the
third embodiment)
which are also configured to be seated or supported on a respective one of pad
seating surfaces
94, 96 provided on the rim 28 (see Figures 18 and 20 for the first embodiment,
and Figures 52
and 54 for the third embodiment). For example, each one of the seating
surfaces 94, 96 is
provided in a respective one of receiving wells 98, 100 also provided on the
rim 28.
[00107] The locking mechanism includes a latch 22 and a detent 24. The
latch 22 is
coupled (for example, mounted) to one of the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent
24 is coupled (for
example, mounted) to the other one of the bin 16 and the lid 18. For example,
the latch 22 is
coupled (for example, mounted) to the lid 18 (see Figure 6 for the first
embodiment, and Figure
40 for the third embodiment), and the detent is provided on the bin (see
Figures 18, 20, 21, and
22 for the first embodiment, and Figures 52, 54, 55 and 56 for the third
embodiment). For
example, the latch 22 is made from nylon, and the detent 24 is made from the
same material as
the bin (e.g. high density polyethylene). For example, the latch 22 includes a
pair of pins 66, 68
disposed on opposite sides of the latch 22 (see Figures 15, 16, and 17 for the
first embodiment,
and Figures 49, 50, and 61 for the third embodiment). Each one of the pins 66,
68 is received
within a respective one of latch apertures 70, 72 provided in the surface of
the lid 18. In this
respect, the latch 22 is snap-fit into the latch apertures 70, 72 (see Figures
25 and 26 for the first
embodiment, and Figures 59 and 61 for the third embodiment) of the lid 18 and
the detent 24 is
coupled (for example, mounted) to the bin 16.
[00108] For example, with respect to the latch 22, the latch 22 is
rotatably coupled to the
lid 18. For example, such rotational coupling can be accomplished by pivots
incorporated in one
of the lid 18 or the latch 22 and received within respective receptacles in
the other one of the lid
18 or the latch 22, or through external pivots received within receptacles
provided in each one of
the lid 18 and the latch 22.
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00109] For example, with respect to the detent 24, the detent 24 is
mounted to the rim 28
of the bin 16. For example, the detent 24 is mounted to the rim 28 at a front
section 51 of the bin
16. For example, the detent 24 is mounted peripherally of the lip 74 of the
rim 28.
[00110] Referring to Figures 15 to 17 for the first embodiment and Figures
49 to 51 for the
third embodiment, the latch 22 includes a handle 26. The latch 22 is moveable
between a locked
lid position (see Figure 10 for the first embodiment, and Figure 44 for the
third embodiment) and
an unlocked lid position (see Figures 12, 13, and 14 for the first embodiment,
and Figures 46, 47,
and 51 for the third embodiment). When in the locked lid position, the latch
22 is locked to the
bin 16. When in the unlocked lid position, the latch 22 is unlocked relative
to the bin 16. The
detent 24 acts between the bin 16 and the lid 18. Further, the detent 24 co-
operates with the latch
22. In one respect, the detent 24 co-operates with the latch 22 so as to
effect locking of the lid 18
to the bin 16 when the latch 22 is in the locked lid position. In another
respect, the detent 24 co-
operates with the latch 22 so as to permit movement of the lid 18, relative to
the bin 16, from the
closed position to the open position when the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid
position relative to
the bin.
[00111] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position
(see Figure 10 for
the first embodiment, and Figure 44 for the third embodiment) to the unlocked
lid position (see
Figure 12 for the first embodiment, and Figure 46 for the third embodiment) in
response to an
application of an unlocking force 500 to the handle 26. When the latch 22 is
disposed in the
unlocked lid position, and the lid 18 is disposed in the closed position, the
lid 18 is configured to
move from the closed position (see Figure 12 for the first embodiment, and
Figure 46 for the
third embodiment) to the open position (see Figure 14 for the first
embodiment, and Figure 48
for the third embodiment) in response to an application of a lid-opening force
502 to the handle
26.
[00112] For example, with respect to the handle 26, the handle 26 is
configured for
grasping by a human operator and effecting translation of a force applied by
the human operator
into movement of the latch 22.
[00113] For example, the latch 22 includes a detent co-operator 106. When
the latch 22 is
disposed in the locked lid position, the detent co-operator 106 is disposed
relative to the detent
24 such that the detent 24 interferes with movement of the detent co-operator
106 along a
16
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
vertical axis and thereby resists movement of the lid 18 from the closed
position to the open
position. For example, with respect to the detent 24, the rim 28 includes a
slot 202 configured to
receive the detent co-operator 106 when the latch 22 is disposed in the locked
lid position in
order to enable the detent co-operator to be disposed relative to the detent
24 such that the detent
24 interferes with movement of the detent co-operator 106 along a vertical
axis and thereby
resists movement of the lid 18 from the closed position to the open position.
[00114] For example, when the latch 22 is coupled to the lid 18 and the
detent 24 is
disposed on the bin 16, in order to facilitate co-operation between the latch
22 and the detent 24
so as to facilitate locking and unlocking of the lid 18 relative to the bin
16, the lid 18 includes a
detent receiving slot or aperture 142 through which extends the detent 24 of
the bin 16 (see
Figures 23, 24, 27, 28, and 29 for the first embodiment, and Figures 57, 58,
61, 62 and 63 for the
third embodiment).
(A) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH LATCH MECHANISM WHICH REQUIRES
SEPARATE ACTIONS TO EFFECT UNLOCKING AND OPENING OF LID
[00115] Referring in particular to Figures 10, 12, 13, and 14 for the
first embodiment and
Figures 44, 46, 47, and 51 for the third embodiment, in one aspect, there is
provided a refuse
container 10, as described above, wherein the latch 22 requires separate
actions to effect
unlocking and opening of lid 18.
[00116] In this respect, there is provided the refuse container10
including a container
assembly and a locking mechanism.
[00117] The container assembly includes the bin 16 and the lid 18. The bin
16 defines the
cavity 20. The lid is rotatably coupled to the bin 16, and configured for
movement, relative to
the bin 16, between an open position providing access to the cavity 20 and a
closed position
inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
[00118] The locking mechanism includes the latch 22 and the detent 24. The
latch 22
includes the handle 26, and is moveable between a locked lid position and an
unlocked lid
position. The detent 24 acts between the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent 24
co-operates with
the latch 24 so as to effect locking of the lid 18 to the bin 16 when the
latch 22 is in the locked
17
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
lid position, and permit movement of the lid 18, relative to the bin 16, from
the closed position to
the open position when the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid position.
[00119] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to
the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
[00120] In one configuration, the unlocking force includes a horizontal
component and a
vertical component, and the lid-opening force includes a horizontal component
and a vertical
component. The direction of the horizontal component of the lid-opening force
is disposed at an
angle of between about 90 degrees and about 270 degrees in a clockwise
direction about a
vertical axis and relative to the direction of the horizontal component of the
unlocking force.
[00121] In another configuration, the unlocking force includes a
horizontal component and
a vertical component, and the lid-opening force includes a horizontal
component and a vertical
component. The direction of the horizontal component of the lid-opening force
is substantially
opposite to the direction of the horizontal component of the unlocking force.
[00122] In yet another configuration, the unlocking force effects rotation
of the latch 22 in
one of a clockwise or counter clockwise direction, and the lid-opening force
effects rotation of
the latch 22 in the other one of a clockwise or a counter clockwise direction
relative to the same
frame of reference as the direction of the unlocking force.
[00123] For example, in moving from the locked lid position to the
unlocked lid position,
the latch 22 rotates, relative to the container assembly, about a latch
rotation axis 80. The latch
rotation axis 80 and the longitudinal axis 82 of the detent 24 are
substantially co-located (see
Figures 11, 12, and 13 for the first embodiment, and Figures 45, 46, and 47
for the third
embodiment). For example, the latch 22 includes the pair of pins 66, 68
disposed on opposite
sides of the latch 22, wherein the axis joining the pins 66, 68 is
substantially co-located with the
axis 82 of the detent. Each one of the pins 66, 68 is received within a
respective one of latch
apertures 70, 72 provided in the surface of the container assembly 12. In this
respect, the latch
22 is snap-fit into the latch apertures 70, 72.
18
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00124] For example, when the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid
position, the latch 22
is disposed in a cavity 84 provided in the container assembly. For example,
the latch 22 is
coupled to the lid 18, and the cavity 84 is provided in the lid 18, and the
detent is disposed on the
bin 16 (see Figures 23, 25, 27, and 29 for the first embodiment, and Figures
57, 59, 61, and 63
for the third embodiment).
[00125] For example, the cavity 84 includes a recessed surface which
functions as a
seating surface 86, and when the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid
position, the latch 22 is
seated or supported on the seating surface 86. For example, with respect to
the coupling of the
latch 22 to the lid 18, the latch 22 includes the pair of pins 66, 68 disposed
on opposite sides of
the latch 22. Each one of the pins 66, 68 is received within a respective one
of the latch
apertures 70, 72 provided in a surface of the cavity 84. In this respect, the
latch 22 is snap-fit
into the latch apertures 70, 72 of the cavity 84, and thereby effecting
rotatable coupling of the
latch 22 to the lid 18. To assist in retaining coupling of the latch 22 within
the cavity 84, the lid
18 includes latch retainer 129. The latch retainer 129 co-operates with the
latch 22 for limiting
or interfering with displacement of the latch 22 along the axis 134 extending
through the latch
apertures 70, 72.
[00126] In this respect, the latch 22 is slotted such that the latch 22
receives the latch
retainer 129 (see Figures 23 and 27 for the first embodiment, and Figures 57
and 61 for the third
embodiment) and the latch retainer 129 thereby limits or interferes with
displacement of the latch
22 along the axis 134 extending through the latch apertures 70, 72.
[00127] Referring to Figures 16, 27, 29, and 31 for the first embodiment
and Figures 50,
61, 63, and 65 for the third embodiment, for example, the latch retainer 129
includes latch
retainer tabs 130, 132, and the latch 22 includes slots 136, 138, wherein each
of the slots 136,
138 receives a respect one of the latch retainer tabs 130, 132 for limiting or
interfering with
displacement of the latch 22 along the axis 134 extending through the latch
apertures 70, 72.. To
spatially accommodate the latch retainer tabs 130, 132, the detent receiving
aperture 142 is
disposed between the latch retainer tabs 130, 132, and the detent co-operator
106 is also disposed
between the latch retainer tabs 130, 132, thereby permitting assumption of the
locked and the
unlocked lid positions by the latch 22.
19
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00128] Referring to Figures 11, 12, 13, 16, and 17 for the first
embodiment and Figures
45, 46, 47, 50, and 51 for the third embodiment, for example, the latch 22
includes the detent co-
operator 106. When the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid position, the
detent co-operator
106 is disposed relative to the detent 24 such that the detent 24 interferes
with movement of the
detent co-operator 106 along a vertical axis and thereby resists movement of
the lid 18 from the
closed position to the open position.
[00129] For example, when the latch 22 is coupled to the lid 18 and the
detent 24 is
disposed on the bin 16, in order to facilitate co-operation between the latch
22 and the detent 24
so as to facilitate locking and unlocking of the lid 18 relative to the bin
16, the lid 18 includes the
detent receiving slot or aperture 142 through which extends the detent 24 of
the bin 16 (see
Figures 23, 24, 27, 28, and 29 for the first embodiment, and Figures 57, 58,
61, 62, and 63 for the
third embodiment).
[00130] For example, when the latch 22 is disposed in the unlocked lid
position and the lid
18 is disposed in the closed position, the latch 22 is moveable to an unlocked
indication position
(see Figure 13 for the first embodiment, and Figure 47 for the third
embodiment) wherein the
latch 22 is locked to the container assembly 12 such that the latch 22 extends
peripherally of the
container assembly 12 and thereby provides a visual indication that the latch
22 is in the
unlocked lid position.
[00131] For example, the latch 22 extends vertically above the container
assembly 12
when disposed in the unlocked indication position. For example, when disposed
in the unlocked
indication position, the latch 22 extends beyond the perimeter of the
container assembly 12 by at
least two (2) inches.
[00132] For example, when disposed in the unlocked indication position,
the latch 22
extends beyond the perimeter of the container assembly 12 by at least four (4)
inches.
[00133] For example, when disposed in the unlocked indication position,
the latch 22
presents a side surface area of at least four (4) square inches.
[00134] For example, the presented side surface area is eight (8) square
inches.
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00135] For example, the container assembly 12 is configured to define a
latch receiving
slotted surface 102 configured for receiving the latch 22 in an interference
fit relationship when
the latch 22 assumes the unlocked indication position.
[00136] For example, the latch 22 is coupled to the lid 18, and the lid is
configured to
define the latch receiving slotted surface 102.
[00137] Referring to Figure 27 for the first embodiment and Figure 61 for
the third
embodiment, for example, the latch receiving slotted surface 102 includes a
pair of latch
receiving slots 1022, 1024. Each one of the slots 1022, 1024 is defined in
part by a respective
one of leading wedges 1026, 1028. As the latch 22 enters each one of the slots
1022, 1024, the
latch 22 engages each one of the leading wedges 1026, 1028 which urge the
latch 22 into an
interference fit relationship with a respective one of narrow channels 1030,
1032.
[00138] For example, the lid 18 includes a stop 140 to interfere with
movement of the
latch 22 further past the receiving slots 1022, 1024 (see Figures 11, 12, and
13 for the first
embodiment, and Figures 45, 46, and 47 for the third embodiment).
[00139] For example, each one of the latch retainer tabs 130, 132 assists
in defining a
respective one of the slots 1022, 1024.
(B) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH LATCH WHICH ROTATES ABOUT AN AXIS
WHICH IS SUBSTANTIALLY CO-LOCATED WITH DETENT AXIS
[00140] Referring to Figures 11, 12, and 13 for the first embodiment and
Figures 45, 46,
and 47 for the third embodiment, in another aspect, there is provided a refuse
container 10, as
described above, wherein the latch 22 is configured to rotate about an axis 80
which is
substantially co-located with the longitudinal axis 82 of the detent 24.
[00141] In this respect, there is provided the refuse container10
including a container
assembly and a locking mechanism.
[00142] The container assembly includes the bin 16 and the lid 18. The bin
16 defines the
cavity 20. The lid is rotatably coupled to the bin 16, and configured for
movement, relative to
the bin 16, between an open position providing access to the cavity 20 and a
closed position
inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
21
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00143]
The locking mechanism includes the latch 22 and the detent 24. The latch 22
includes the handle 26, and is moveable between a locked lid position and an
unlocked lid
position. The detent 24 acts between the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent 24
co-operates with
the latch 24 so as to effect locking of the lid 18 to the bin 16 when the
latch 22 is in the locked
lid position, and permit movement of the lid 18, relative to the bin 16, from
the closed position to
the open position when the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid position.
[00144]
The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to the
unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
[00145]
In moving from the locked lid position to the unlocked lid position, the latch
22
rotates, relative to the container assembly, about the latch rotation axis 80.
The latch rotation
axis 80 and the longitudinal axis 82 of the detent 24 are substantially co-
located. For example,
the latch 22 includes the pair of pins 66, 68 disposed on opposite sides of
the latch 22, wherein
the axis joining the pins 66, 68 is substantially co-located with the axis 82
of the detent. Each
one of the pins 66, 68 is received within a respective one of latch apertures
70, 72 provided in the
surface of the container assembly 12. In this respect, the latch 22 is snap-
fit into the latch
apertures 70, 72.
(C)
REFUSE CONTAINER WITH LATCH SEATED IN A CAVITY WHEN THE LATCH
IS IN THE LOCKED LID POSITION.
[00146]
Referring to Figures 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 23, 25, 27, and 29 for the first
embodiment and
Figures 35, 39, 40, 41, 42, 57, 59, and 63 for the third embodiment, in
another aspect, there is
provided a refuse container 10, as described above, wherein, when the latch 22
is in the locked
lid position, the latch 22 is seated in a cavity 84 provided within the
container assembly 12.
[00147]
In this respect, there is provided the refuse container10 including a
container
assembly and a locking mechanism.
[00148]
The container assembly includes the bin 16 and the lid 18. The bin 16 defines
the
cavity 20. The lid is rotatably coupled to the bin 16, and configured for
movement, relative to
22
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
the bin 16, between an open position providing access to the cavity 20 and a
closed position
inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
[00149] The locking mechanism includes the latch 22 and the detent 24. The
latch 22
includes the handle 26, and is moveable between a locked lid position and an
unlocked lid
position. The detent 24 acts between the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent 24
co-operates with
the latch 24 so as to effect locking of the lid 18 to the bin 16 when the
latch 22 is in the locked
lid position, and permit movement of the lid 18, relative to the bin 16, from
the closed position to
the open position when the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid position.
[00150] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to
the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
[00151] When the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid position, the
latch 22 is disposed
in the cavity 84 provided in the container assembly 12. For example, when the
latch 22 is
disposed in the locked lid position, at least a portion of the latch 22 is
substantially flush with
respect to adjacent surfaces of the container assembly 12.
[00152] For example, the latch 22 is coupled to the lid 18, and the cavity
84 is provided in
the lid 18, and the detent 24 is disposed on the bin 16. For example, the
cavity 84 includes the
recessed surface which functions as the seating surface 86, and when the latch
22 is disposed in
the locked lid position, the latch 22 is seated or supported on the seating
surface 86. In order to
effect co-operation between the latch 22 and the detent 24 to facilitate
locking and unlocking of
the lid 18 relative to the bin 16, the lid 18 includes the detent receiving
aperture 142 through
which extends the detent 24 of the bin 16. For example, the latch 22 includes
the detent co-
operator 106. When the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid position, the
detent co-operator
106 is disposed relative to the detent 24 such that the detent 24 interferes
with movement of the
detent co-operator 106 along a vertical axis and thereby resists movement of
the lid 18 from the
closed position to the open position.
[00153] Referring to Figures 15, 16, 17, 23, 27, 29 and 31 for the first
embodiment and
Figures 49, 50, 51, 57, 61, 63, and 65 for the third embodiment, to assist in
retaining coupling of
23
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
the latch 22 within the cavity 84, the lid 18 includes the latch retainer 129.
The latch retainer
129 co-operates with the latch 22 for limiting or interfering with
displacement of the latch 22
along the axis 134 extending through the latch apertures 70, 72. In this
respect, the latch 22 is
slotted such that the latch 22 receives the latch retainer 129 and the latch
retainer 129 thereby
limits or interferes with displacement of the latch 22 along the axis 134
extending through the
latch apertures 70, 72. For example, the latch retainer 129 includes the latch
retainer tabs 130,
132, and the latch 22 includes the slots 136, 138, wherein each of the slots
136, 138 receives a
respect one of the latch retainer tabs 130, 132 for limiting or interfering
with displacement of the
latch 22 along the axis 134 extending through the latch apertures 70, 72.. To
spatially
accommodate the latch retainer tabs 130, 132, the detent receiving aperture
142 is disposed
between the latch retainer tabs 130, 132, and the detent co-operator 106 is
also disposed between
the latch retainer tabs 130, 132, thereby permitting assumption of the locked
and the unlocked lid
positions by the latch 22.
(D) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH LATCH WHICH IS MOVEABLE INTO AN
UNLOCKED INDICATION POSITION.
[00154] Referring to Figure 13 in the first embodiment and Figure 47 for
the third
embodiment, in another aspect, there is provided a refuse container 10, as
described above,
wherein the latch 22 is moveable into an unlocked indication position.
In this respect, there is provided the refuse container10 including a
container assembly and a
locking mechanism.
[00155] The container assembly includes the bin 16 and the lid 18. The bin
16 defines the
cavity 20. The lid is rotatably coupled to the bin 16, and configured for
movement, relative to
the bin 16, between an open position providing access to the cavity 20 and a
closed position
inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
[00156] The locking mechanism includes the latch 22 and the detent 24. The
latch 22
includes the handle 26, and is moveable between a locked lid position and an
unlocked lid
position. The detent 24 acts between the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent 24
co-operates with
the latch 24 so as to effect locking of the lid 18 to the bin 16 when the
latch 22 is in the locked
lid position, and permit movement of the lid 18, relative to the bin 16, from
the closed position to
the open position when the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid position.
24
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00157] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to
the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
[00158] When the latch 22 is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the
lid 18 is
disposed in the closed position, the latch 22 is moveable to the unlocked
indication position
wherein the latch 22 is locked to the container assembly 12 such that the
latch 22 extends
peripherally of the container assembly 12 and thereby provides a visual
indication that the latch
22 is in the unlocked lid position. For example, the latch 22 extends
vertically above the
container assembly 12 when disposed in the unlocked indication position. For
example, when
disposed in the unlocked indication position, the latch 22 extends beyond the
perimeter of the
container assembly 12 by at least two (2) inches. For example, when disposed
in the unlocked
indication position, the latch 22 extends beyond the perimeter of the
container assembly 12 by at
least four (4) inches. For example, when disposed in the unlocked indication
position, the latch
22 presents a side surface area of at least four (4) square inches. For
example, the presented side
surface area is eight (8) square inches.
[00159] For example, the container assembly 12 is configured to define the
latch receiving
slotted surface 102 configured for receiving the latch 22 in an interference
fit relationship when
the latch 22 assumes the unlocked indication position.
[00160] Referring to Figure 27 in the first embodiment and Figure 61 for
the third
embodiment, for example, the latch 22 is coupled to the lid 18, and the lid is
configured to define
the latch receiving slotted surface 102. For example, the latch receiving
slotted surface 102
includes the pair of latch receiving slots 1022, 1024. Each one of the slots
1022, 1024 is defined
in part by the respective one of leading wedges 1026, 1028. As the latch 22
enters each one of
the slots 1022, 1024, the latch 22 engages each one of the leading wedges
1026, 1028 which urge
the latch 22 into an interference fit relationship with a respective one of
narrow channels 1030,
1032. The lid includes the stop 140 to interfere with movement of the latch
further past the
receiving slots 1022, 1024. For example, each one of the latch retainer tabs
130, 132 assists in
defining a respective one of the slots 1022, 1024.
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
(E) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH DETENT DISPOSED SO AS TO MITIGATE
INTERFERENCE WITH DISCHARGE OF CONTENTS FROM CAVITY
[00161] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container 10, as
described above,
wherein the detent is disposed so as to mitigate interference with the
discharge of contents from
the cavity 20.
[00162] In this respect, there is provided the refuse container10
including the container
assembly 12 and the locking mechanism 14.
[00163] Referring to Figures 18 and 20 for the first embodiment and
Figures 52 and 54 for
the third embodiment, the container assembly 12 includes the bin 16 and the
lid 18. The bin 16
defines the cavity 20. The bin 16 also includes the lip 74 defining an opening
to the cavity 20,
and a rim 28 extending peripherally about the lip 74. The lid 18 is rotatably
coupled to the bin
16, and configured for movement, relative to the bin 16, between an open
position providing
access to the cavity 20 and a closed position inhibiting access to the cavity
20.
[00164] The locking mechanism 14 includes the latch 22 and the detent 24.
The latch 22
is coupled to the lid 18. The latch 22 includes the handle 26, and is moveable
between a locked
lid position and an unlocked lid position. The detent 24 acts between the bin
16 and the lid 18.
The detent 24 co-operates with the latch 24 so as to effect locking of the lid
18 to the bin 16
when the latch 22 is in the locked lid position, and permit movement of the
lid 18, relative to the
bin 16, from the closed position to the open position when the latch 22 is in
the unlocked lid
position. The detent 24 extends upwardly from the rim 28 and is disposed below
the lip 74. For
example, the detent 24 is disposed below the lip 74.
[00165] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to
the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
(F) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH GUARD FOR REDUCING FOULING OF
LOCKING MECHANISM
26
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00166] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container 10, as
described above,
wherein a fouling guard 104 is provided for reducing fouling of the locking
mechanism 14.
[00167] In this respect, there is provided the refuse container10
including a container
assembly and a locking mechanism.
[00168] The container assembly includes the bin 16 and the lid 18. The bin
16 defines the
cavity 20. The bin 16 also includes the lip 74 defining an opening to the
cavity 20, and a rim 28
extending peripherally about the lip 74. The lid 18 is rotatably coupled to
the bin 16, and
configured for movement, relative to the bin 16, between an open position
providing access to
the cavity 20 and a closed position inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
[00169] The locking mechanism includes the latch 22 and the detent 24. The
latch 22
includes the handle 26 and a detent co-operator 106, and is moveable between a
locked lid
position and an unlocked lid position. The latch 22 is coupled to the lid 18
The detent 24 acts
between the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent 24 co-operates with the latch 24
so as to effect
locking of the lid 18 to the bin 16 when the latch 22 is in the locked lid
position, and permit
movement of the lid 18, relative to the bin 16, from the closed position to
the open position when
the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid position. The detent 24 extends upwardly
from the rim 28.
[00170] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to
the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
[00171] When the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid position, the
detent co-operator
106 is disposed relative to the detent 24 such that the detent 24 interferes
with movement of the
detent co-operator 106 along a vertical axis and thereby resists movement of
the lid 18 from the
closed position to the open position. Referring to Figure 7 in the first
embodiment and Figure 41
for the third embodiment, a potential fouling space 108 is defined between the
detent co-operator
106 and the detent 24. The container assembly 12 includes a fouling guard 104
extending from
the lid 18 and disposed between the detent 24 and the peripheral edge 1202 of
the container
assembly 12 and configured for reducing ingress of materials into the
potential fouling space
108. The fouling guard 104 extends vertically above the detent 24.
27
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
(G) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH IMPACT GUARD FOR BLOCKING PHYSICAL
CONTACT WITH THE LOCKING MECHANISM
[00172] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container 10, as
described above, and
including an impact guard 110 for blocking physical contact with the locking
mechanism 114.
[00173] In this respect, there is provided the refuse containerl 0
including a container
assembly and a locking mechanism.
[00174] The container assembly includes the bin 16 and the lid 18. The bin
16 defines the
cavity 20. The lid is rotatably coupled to the bin 16, and configured for
movement, relative to
the bin 16, between an open position providing access to the cavity 20 and a
closed position
inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
[00175] The locking mechanism includes the latch 22 and the detent 24. The
latch 22
includes the handle 26, and is moveable between a locked lid position and an
unlocked lid
position. The detent 24 acts between the bin 16 and the lid 18. The detent 24
co-operates with
the latch 24 so as to effect locking of the lid 18 to the bin 16 when the
latch 22 is in the locked
lid position, and permit movement of the lid 18, relative to the bin 16, from
the closed position to
the open position when the latch 22 is in the unlocked lid position.
[00176] The latch 22 is configured to move from the locked lid position to
the unlocked
lid position in response to application of an unlocking force to the handle
26. When the latch 22
is disposed in the unlocked lid position and the lid 18 is disposed in the
closed position, the lid
18 is configured to move from the closed position to the open position in
response to an
application of a lid-opening force to the handle 26.
[00177] Referring to Figure 19 for the first embodiment and Figure 53 for
the third
embodiment, the container assembly 12 includes the impact guard 110 disposed
below the
locking mechanism 14 for blocking physical contact between the locking
mechanism 14 an
external object when the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid position.
For example, the detent 24 extends from the rim 28 of the bin 16. Co-
operatively, the latch 22 is
coupled to the lid 18. In this respect, the impact guard 110 is disposed on
the exterior surface 42
of the bin 16.
28
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00178] For example, the impact guard includes a lower surface 29 of the
rim 28, and also
includes a plurality of ribs111 extending between and connecting the external
surface 42 and the
lower surface 29.
(H) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH LID CONFIGURED TO DISTRIBUTE IMPACT
FORCES
[00179] In another aspect, there is provided a refuse container 10 with
the lid 18
configured to distribute impact forces.
[00180] In this respect, there is provided the refuse container 10
including the bin 16 and
the lid 18.
[00181] Referring to Figures 18, 20, and 21 for the first embodiment and
Figures 52, 54,
and 55 for the third embodiment, the bin 16 defines the cavity 20. The bin 16
includes the lip 74
and the rim 28. The lip 74 defines an opening to the cavity 20. The rim 28
extends peripherally
about the lip 74. The rim 28 includes a skirt seating surface 30 and one or
more impact pad
seating surfaces. For example, the impact pad seating surface is a impact pad
receiving well.
[00182] The lid 18 is rotatably coupled to the bin 16. The lid 18 is
configured for
movement, relative to the bin 16, between an open position providing access to
the cavity 20,
and a closed position inhibiting access to the cavity 20. Referring to Figures
24 and 28 for the
first embodiment and Figures 48 and 62 for the third embodiment, the lid 18
includes the skirt 88
and an impact pad assembly 116 including at least one impact pad (two impact
pads 90, 92 are
shown). The skirt 88 extends peripherally of and downwardly from the lid 18
and includes a
skirt contact surface 122 configured to be seated upon the skirt seating
surface 30. Each one of
the impact pads 90, 92 includes a respective one of the contact surfaces 124,
125, and each one
of the contact surfaces 124, 125 is configured to be seated upon a respective
one of two impact
pad seating surfaces 94, 96 (in the illustrated embodiment, a respective one
of impact pad wells
98, 100 is provided for each one of the pads 90, 92). The skirt contact
surface 122 includes a
respective surface area. As well, each one of the contact surfaces 124, 125
includes a respective
surface area to define two surface areas (in this case, two surface areas).
The sum of the two
surface areas defines an operative impact surface area. The ratio of the
operative impact surface
area to the surface area of contact surface 122 of the skirt 88 is at least
0.1. For example, this
ratio is 0.2.
29
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
(J) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH LIFTING MECHANISM ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM
INCLUDING RETENTION BAR
[00183] In another aspect and referring particularly to Figures 19 and 30
for the first
embodiment and Figures 53 and 64 for the third embodiment, there is provided a
refuse container
including a lifting mechanism engagement system 300 for engaging a lifting
mechanism 400.
In this respect, there is provided the refuse container 10 including the bin
16 and the lid 18. The
bin 16 defines the cavity 20. For example, the lid 18 is rotatably coupled to
the bin 16. The lid
18 is configured for movement, relative to the bin 16, between an open
position providing access
to the cavity 20, and a closed position inhibiting access to the cavity 20.
[00184] The refuse container 10 includes a lifting mechanism engagement
system 300.
The lifting mechanism engagement system 300 includes a retention bar 302. The
retention bar
302 is coupled to the sidewall 34 and is disposed externally of the cavity 20.
For example,
brackets 304, 306 are mounted to external surface 42 of the sidewall 34. Each
one of the
brackets 304, 306 includes a respective aperture for receiving a respective
end of the retention
bar 302. For example, the retention bar 302 is snap-fitted within the
apertures. The retention bar
302 is configured to be hooked by the lifting mechanism 400.
[00185] For example, the lifting mechanism engagement system 300 includes
the ribs 111
of the impact guard 110 which is configured to engage and become supported by
the lifting
mechanism 400.
(K) REFUSE CONTAINER WITH BAG HOOK
[00186] In another aspect, and referring specifically to Figures 32, 33
and 34 for the first
embodiment and Figures 66, 67, and 68 for the third embodiment, there is
provided another
embodiment of a refuse container 500, identical to the refuse container 10,
with the exception
that each side of refuse container 500 includes a respective one of two pairs
of spaced-apart liner
retainer or hooks 502a, 504a and 502b, 504b extending downwardly from the rim
28 of the bin
16. Each one of the spaced-apart liner retainers 502, 504 is provided and
configured for
supporting liners which are inserted within the cavity 20 to line the cavity
20 and function as a
container liner for containing the refuse. For example, the liner is a plastic
bag.
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00187] Each one of the liner retainers 502, 504 present an inverted "V"
shaped shaped
retainer surface configured for receiving and retaining a liner.
(L) REFUSE CONTAINER INCLUDING LATCH LOCKING MECHANISM
[00188] In a further aspect, and referring to the embodiment illustrated
in Figures 35 to 77,
the refuse container 10 is further provided with a latch locking mechanism
2000 (see Figures 73
to 76) configured to assume a locked latch position (see Figures 69 and 71)
and an unlocked
latch position (see Figure 70). When disposed in the locked latch position,
the latch locking
mechanism 2000 acts between the latch 22 and the lid 18 to prevent the latch
22 from assuming
an operative condition whereby the latch is capable of moving between the
locked lid position
and the unlocked lid position.. When the latch locking mechanism 2000 is
disposed in the
unlocked latch position, the latch is disposed in the operative condition
whereby the latch is
capable of moving between the locked lid position and the unlocked lid
position.
[00189] The latch locking mechanism 2000 is moveable from the locked latch
position to
the unlocked latch position in response to an application of an unlocking
force, wherein the
unlocking force includes a horizontal component directed towards the front of
the bin 16.
[00190] For example, the unlocking force is applied by a human hand.
[00191] For example, the latch locking mechanism 2000 includes a force
receiving surface
2002 for receiving application of the unlocking force.
[00192] For example, the lid 18 includes a lock retainer surface 2004
configured to limit
or oppose upwardly movement of the latch locking mechanism 2000 relative to
the lid 18 when
the latch locking mechanism 2000 is disposed in the locked latch position. In
this respect, when
the latch locking mechanism 2000 is disposed in the locked latch position,
upwardly movement
of the latch locking mechanism 2000 relative to the lid 18 is limited or
opposed by the lock
retainer surface 2004 of the lid 18 such that the latch 22 is not able to
assume the above-
described operative condition. When the latch locking mechanism 2000 is
disposed in the
unlocked latch position, the latch locking mechanism 2000 is able to move
upwardly relative to
the lid 18 such that the latch 22 is disposed in the operative condition.
[00193] For example, the latch locking mechanism 2000 includes a lock
projection 2006
configured to co-operate with the lock retainer surface 2004 to limit or
oppose upwardly
31
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
movement of the latch locking mechanism 2000 relative to the lid 18 when the
latch locking
mechanism 2000 is disposed in the locked latch position.. When the latch
locking mechanism
2000 is disposed in the locked latch position, the lock projection 2006 is
disposed relative to the
lock retainer surface 2004 such that the lock retainer surface 2004 limits or
opposes upwardly
movement of the lock projection 2006 relative to the lid 18 such that the
latch 22 is not able to
assume the operative condition. When the latch locking mechanism 2000 is
disposed in the
unlocked latch position, the lock projection 2006 is retracted from the lock
retainer surface 2004
such that the lock retainer surface 2004 is not able to limit or oppose
upwardly movement of the
lock projection 2006 relative to the lid 18, and the lock projection 2000 is,
therefore, able to
move upwardly relative to the lid 18 such that the latch 22 is disposed in the
operative condition.
[00194] For example, the lid 18 includes a receiving notch 2008 for
receiving latch
locking mechanism 2000. The lock projection 2006 is configured to co-operate
with the
receiving notch 2008 to limit or oppose upwardly movement of the latch locking
mechanism
2000 relative to the lid 18 when the latch locking mechanism 2000 is disposed
in the locked latch
position. When the latch locking mechanism 2000 is disposed in the locked
latch position, the
lock projection 2006 is disposed within the receiving notch 2008, and upwardly
movement of the
lock projection relative 2006 to the lid 18 is limited or opposed by the
receiving notch 2008 such
that the latch 22 is not able to assume the operative condition. When the
latch locking
mechanism 2000 is disposed in the unlocked latch position, the lock projection
2006 is retracted
from the receiving notch 2008 such that the lock projection 2006 is able to
move upwardly
relative to the lid 18 such that the latch 22 is disposed in the operative
condition.
[00195] For example, the latch locking mechanism 2000 is coupled to and
moveable
relative to the latch 22 for movement relative to the latch 22 between the
locked latch position
and the unlocked latch position. As a further example, the latch locking
mechanism 2000 is
slideably coupled to the latch 22 for movement relative to the latch 22
between the locked latch
position and the unlocked latch position
[00196] For example, the latch locking mechanism 2000 is supported by the
latch 22. For
example, the latch 22 includes a latch support surface 2010 for supporting the
latch locking
mechanism 2000.
32
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00197] Referring to Figures 50, 72A, and 72B, for example, the latch 22
includes a
retainer surface 2012, and the latch locking mechanism 2000 includes retainer
tabs 2014, 2016,
and the retainer surface 2012 co-operates with the retainer tabs 2014, 2106
for retaining the latch
locking mechanism 2000 in a coupled relationship with the latch 22.
[00198] For example, the latch locking mechanism 2000 is supported by the
latch support
surface 2010 and includes the retainer tabs 2014, 2016, and the latch 22
includes a latch locking
mechanism receiving slot 2018. In this respect, the retainer tabs 2014, 2016
extend through the
receiving slot 2018 and the latch 22 co-operates with the retainer tabs 2014,
2016 such that the
retainer surface 2012 opposes upwardly movement of the retainer tabs 2014,
2016 relative to the
latch 22, and thereby opposes upwardly movement of the latch locking mechanism
2000 relative
to the latch 22, and thereby retains the latch locking mechanism 2000 in a
coupled relationship
with the latch 22. For example, the slot 2018 also functions as guide for
facilitating guided
movement of the latch locking mechanism between the locked position and the
unlocked
position.
[00199] For example, the retainer tabs 2014, 2016 are a pair of spaced
apart retainer tabs
2014, 2016 extending through the slot 2018 (see Figure 77), and each one of
the retainer tabs
2014, 2016 including a respective one of tab projections 2019, 2020 extending
orthogonally
relative to the axis 2022 of the slot 2019 and being disposed in opposition to
the retainer surface
2012 provided on a lower surface 2024 of the latch 22, one tab projection 2019
being opposed by
a retainer surface 2012a provided on a lower surface portion 2024a extending
from a side of the
slot 2019 opposite to that of a side from which a lower surface portion 2024b
extends and
provides a retainer surface 2012b for opposing the other tab projection 2020.
[00200] For example, the retainer tabs 2014, 2016 are sufficiently
resilient such that,
during assembly, the retainer tabs 2014, 2016 are pressed through the slot
2018, causing the
retainer tabs 2014, 2016 to approach one another (or, become squeezed
together) so as to enable
the retainer tabs 2014, 2016 to become fitted through the slot 2018. Once
fitted through the slot
2018, the resiliency of the retainer tabs 2014, 2016 forces the retainer tabs
2014, 2016 to move
apart relative to one another such that the tab projections 2019, 2020 become
disposed in
opposition to a respective one of the lower surface portions 2024a, 2024b.
33
CA 02636306 2008-06-27
[00201] For example, a biasing element 2026 is provided for acting between
latch locking
mechanism 2000 and the latch 22 for biasing the latch locking mechanism 2000
towards the
locked latch position. For example, the biasing element 2026 is attached to
the latch locking
mechanism 2000. As a further example, the biasing element 2006 is a thin sheet
of arcuate-
shaped material, such as a sheet of arcuate-shaped nylon material having a
thickness of about
60/1000 of an inch. As a further example, the latch 22 includes a biasing
element retainer
surface 2028 for exerting a reaction force to oppose force being applied to
the biasing element
2026 in a direction which effects movement of the latch locking mechanism 2000
from the
locked latch position. When the latch 22 is disposed in the locked lid
position and is seated
within the cavity 84, and no unlocking force is being applied to the latch
locking mechanism
2000, the biasing element 2026 biases the latch locking mechanism 2000 into
the locked latch
position.
[00202] Although the disclosure describes and illustrates various
embodiments of the
invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these
particular embodiments.
Many variations and modifications will now occur to those skilled in the art
of headwear. For
full definition of the scope of the invention, reference is to be made to the
appended claims.
34
