Trash can restraining device
View Patent ↗The present device pertains to a trash can restraining device designed to securely anchor a trash can to a fixed location, preventing inadvertent movement or dislodgement. This is achieved through an innovative bottom tethering system integrated within the trash can. The system includes a tunnel in the bottom surface of the trash can, housing a latching mechanism and a magnet. The latching mechanism engages with a D-ring anchored to the ground, ensuring the trash can remains stationary against external forces. The release mechanism allows for easy disengagement, facilitating normal movement and utility of the trash can. This device presents a practical and efficient solution for maintaining the position and integrity of trash cans in various environments.
1 . A trash can restraining device, comprising:
a trash can having a bottom surface, at least one wheel, a lid, and at least one handle;
a tunnel formed in and extending along the bottom surface of the trash can, wherein the tunnel is routed from a center exterior edge of the bottom surface toward an approximate center of the bottom surface such that the tunnel does not penetrate an interior of the trash can;
a magnet disposed at an open entry end of the tunnel, the magnet configured to attract and lift, into an erect orientation within the tunnel, a D-ring anchoring element that is fastened to a ground surface by at least one fastener;
a spring cam latch disposed at a distal end of the tunnel opposite the magnet, the spring cam latch being actuated by spring pressure to automatically capture and secure the D-ring when the D-ring travels through the tunnel and reaches the distal end, wherein the spring cam latch secures the D-ring in a perpendicular orientation relative to the bottom surface of the trash can to prevent inadvertent displacement of the trash can from the ground surface; and,
an actuating shaft operatively connecting the spring cam latch to a release handle located on an exterior surface of the trash can, wherein the release handle is configured to move along a predetermined travel path to disengage the spring cam latch from the D-ring to allow movement of the trash can.