Container with automated lid feature

What is this patent about?

’898 is related to the field of automated storage containers and, more specifically, to thermally insulated containers equipped with motorized access mechanisms. The background context involves the limitations of traditional coolers and trash receptacles, which typically require manual effort to open or maintain in an open state, often proving inconvenient for users whose hands are full or who prioritize hygiene and thermal efficiency.

The underlying idea behind ’898 is the integration of a proximity-triggered motorized hinge within a modular, thermally insulated housing to enable hands-free operation. By combining a sensor-driven controller with a high-torque motor assembly directly into the lid’s collar, the invention transforms a standard storage vessel into an interactive appliance that can automatically manage its own thermal seal based on user presence.

The claims of ’898 focus on a container architecture comprising a body with an internal thermal insulating layer and a removable lid assembly that houses the entire electronic control system. This lid assembly is characterized by a collar that supports a powered hinge, a motor, a controller, and various input/output devices, all powered by an onboard source to create a self-contained automated opening system.

In practice, the system utilizes a sensor—such as an infrared or ultrasonic detector—to identify a nearby user and trigger the motorized hinge to lift the lid. The controller can be programmed with specific logic to hold the lid open for a set duration or to keep it open as long as a person is detected, ensuring the user can retrieve items without touching the container. A spring may be integrated into the hinge to assist the motor, reducing the electrical load required to overcome the lid's weight.

This invention differentiates itself from prior art by merging the functionality of an automated trash can with the specialized requirements of a beverage cooler. While standard motorized bins lack temperature control, this design utilizes a dual-layer insulation strategy—incorporating liners in both the body and the lid collar—to maintain internal temperatures. Furthermore, the inclusion of a faux pull ring and audio output capabilities allows the container to serve as a distinctive, interactive advertising medium.