Trash can with clutch mechanism

US9790025B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• simplehuman, LLC · US

Inventors

• Frank Yang · Rancho Palos Verdes, US
• David Wolbert · Redondo Beach, US
• Joseph Sandor · Santa Ana Heights, US
• Kenneth Yen · Redondo Beach, US
• Orlando Cardenas · Laguna Niguel, US
• Michael James Basha · Brisbane, US
• Christopher Fruhauf · San Anselmo, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 6, 2013
• Grant date: Oct 17, 2017
• Expiry date: Jun 4, 2034

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B65F1/1646
• WIPO field: Environmental technology
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Various embodiments of a trash can assembly (e.g., a receptacle configured to receive refuse, recyclable materials, or otherwise), and related methods, are provided. Some embodiments of the trash can assembly include a body component and a lid configured to move between an open position and a closed position. In some variants, the lid can be moved between the open and closed positions by a power operated driving mechanism, such as a motor and/or other drivetrain components. In certain embodiments, the trash can assembly includes a clutch mechanism to facilitate manual operation of the lid while inhibiting or preventing damage to the motor and/or other drivetrain components.