This product approaches the issue of wasted recyclables around campus. By being a two-in-one trash/recycling container it (or a similar concept) could replace the garbage cans outside which currently don’t have any recycling available. In addition, the design works around OSU’s campus policy of erring on the side of the waste being trash; if the user doesn’t know for certain what they have then they won’t bother opening the recycling side (thus keeping the recycling side only for recycling). The net result is potentially less recycling by volume (inside, atleast), but should lead to a reduction in wasted recyclables through contamination.
Initial concept drawing – shows early concept design
Some rough calculations were done to approximate the expected angle required to get the lid to open (from the foot pedal, shown above)
Prototype drawing – Approximation of early prototype (the one constructed).
Trash bin (front view)
Trash bin (side view)
Foot Pedal
These photos demonstrate our working prototype with multiple views demonstrating some of the features. These include the foot pedal, the demonstrating sign, and the connecting lid.