Automatic solid surface access port and methods of use thereof

Abstract

An automatic solid surface access port with automatic cover, wherein the access port comprises a sensor that recognizes when refuse is approaching the cover, and wherein the sensor activates a direct current motor which in turn moves a drive arm to open the cover to permit refuse to drop through the access port into a trash container therebelow, thereby avoiding the need for a user to make contact with the trash access port. Use of a drive arm in combination with a reducer and counterweight provides for a more efficient and durable apparatus.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application is a continuation-in-part application to non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/317,209, entitled “AUTOMATIC COUNTERTOP ACCESS PORT AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF”, filed on Dec. 23, 2005, and claims priority thereto and the full benefit thereof.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to counter access to waste containers, and more specifically to an automatic solid surface access port, wherein the automatic solid surface access port senses waste approaching a cover plate thereof and automatically activates to dispose of the waste to a container below the counter.

BACKGROUND ART

Home kitchens typically have a trash receptacle located therein. Access to such receptacles is often required to be immediate and must be accomplished without full use of on or both hands. Accordingly, such receptacles are typically in the open for unobstructed access. However, trash containers detract from the aesthetic appearance of the kitchen and it is usually desired that such receptacles be placed out of view, if possible. Unfortunately, placing such a trash receptacle out of view typically obstructs access to the receptacle, resulting in difficulty of placing trash therein.

In addition to home kitchens, fast food restaurants have similar, but more complex, problems with disposal of trash, including food. Fast food restaurants typically serve their customers by placing food and/or beverages on a tray. Napkins, residual food, disposable utensils and food packaging remain on the tray and require disposal. Typically, a patron who has finished eating takes their tray to a trash receptacle and pushes the door of the trash receptacle inward, inserting portions of the tray into the trash receptacle opening. Empty trays are subsequently deposited place on the top of, or near, the trash receptacle for recovery by restaurant staff.

Some fast food restaurants utilize a swinging side access door to a trash receptacle, while others utilize such a door disposed in the top of the receptacle. A trash receptacle, whether in a home kitchen or fast food restaurant, typically comprises a removable container with a trash bag disposed therewithin.

Unfortunately, fast food restaurant patrons must typically utilize their hand to push open the swinging door of the trash receptacle, and, at the same time, the patron must utilize their other hand to hold the tray and insert the tray into the trash receptacle opening, wherein trash, including food, remaining on the tray is deposited into a trash container below the receptacle opening.

Additionally, residual food on the trays often contacts the door of the trash receptacle, resulting in an unsanitary condition, and it is undesirable for a patron to touch such door when disposing of food. Occasionally, a patron may even drop a tray into the trash receptacle, resulting in economic loss to the restaurant.

Further, some patrons may find it difficult to carry out the aforementioned actions to simultaneously open the trash receptacle door and clear trash from their tray. Young children and handicapped or disabled patrons may find it difficult to dispose of trash on their tray into such a conventional trash receptacle. Moreover, for some disabled patrons, it may be impossible to operate a typical trash receptacle. Some trash may easily fall to the ground or remain on the tray.

Various attempts have unsuccessfully been made to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages. One such invention comprises an auxiliary structure enclosure for a receptacle or receptacles for holding recyclable waste that can be attached to a building. While the enclosure conceals a receptacle or receptacles, it is external to a building, thus requiring additional space.

Other attempts to overcome the problems associated with trash disposal comprise a pivotally-mounted plate/lid to permit a horizontal disposition above a top inlet opening of a trash receptacle. To open, downward manual force must be applied to the swinging plate, causing the plate to swing downward to open the inlet opening of the trash receptacle. A container is positioned under the plate/opening for receiving trash. Through counterbalance weighting or springs, the plate swings back to its normal horizontal position once pressure is relieved, thereby closing the receptacle opening. Unfortunately, such a device often permits the door to contact trash thereinside and further accumulates trash on surfaces of the door, wherein the door still requires touching by a patron/user causing sanitary concerns.

Therefore, it is readily apparent that there is a need for an automatic solid surface access port and cover with an automatic cover that maintains a trash container out of sight, while providing easy access to the trash container via the cover that does not require touching and application of force by a patron/user, wherein the cover opens and closes automatically to permit trash to pass therethrough to a container therebelow without contamination of the cover and further uses a drive arm to facilitate opening and closing of the cover.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly described, in a preferred embodiment, the present invention overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and meets the recognized need for such a device by providing for an automatic solid surface access port and cover comprising a proximity sensor that recognizes when waste is approaching an access port cover, wherein the sensor activates a direct current (DC) drive motor which moves a drive arm to open the cover plate to permit waste to drop through the access port into a trash container therebelow. Prior to passing into the trash container, trash may selectively be shredded, compacted and/or ground via a disposal mechanism. The automatic countertop access port could selectively be installed in any horizontal or vertical surface, or in surfaces between horizontal and vertical.

According to its major aspects and broadly stated, the present invention in its preferred form is an automatic solid surface access port and methods of use thereof, wherein a cover opens when trash is sensed to be approaching the cover, thereby allowing the trash to fall through the access port to the container below via opening of the cover by a drive arm in mechanical communication with a DC drive motor. In a preferred embodiment, cover plate is preferably made of, or veneered with, the same material as the solid surfaces thereby providing a less obtrusive and more aesthetically pleasing apparatus for disposing of refuse or other objects. The DC drive motor is preferably powered using a controller and/or micro-controller to regulate the access door speed at any given location. Accordingly, the present invention prevents contamination of surfaces from contact with trash.

More specifically, in a preferred embodiment, an automatic solid surfaces access port and method of use thereof is provided, wherein an automatic solid surface access port comprises a pivotally-operating access cover plate, a drive arm in connection with the pivotally-operating access cover plate, and a motor to urge the drive arm. The drive arm reduces stress on the motor and requires less energy to hold the cover plate in an open or closed position. Thus, a more efficient and durable method of opening a pivotally-operating access cover plate is provided. The motor is preferably a direct current drive motor and more specifically, a gear reduced reversible drive motor.

In another preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises at least one spring to assist movement of the pivotally-operating access cover plate. The at least one spring stores energy during the opening and/or closing of the cover plate, thereby reducing the amount of energy necessary for movement of the cover plate. In a preferred embodiment, the spring, clock spring or additional tension devices have mechanical adjustments in order to set the desired tension. The spring is preferably a clock spring, although one skilled in the art would recognize any type of mechanism which is capable of storing potential energy, particularly different types of springs, would suffice and is contemplated in this disclosure.

In still another preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises a worm gear reducer drive unit in mechanical communication with the motor. The worm gear reducer assists in holding the drive motor shaft in position once the motor is no longer energized. The worm gear reducer minimizes stress on the motor, increasing durability, and minimizes the amount of energy necessary to run the motor, increasing efficiency.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises a mounting bracket to secure the automatic solid surface access port to a solid surface. Thus, the automatic solid surface access port is preferably mounted to any type of solid surface, thereby reducing the number of parts, materials and costs. Alternatively, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises an outer ring, wherein the mounting bracket is disposed on the outer ring.

In a preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises a first beveled edge of the solid surface and a second beveled edge of the pivotally-operating access cover plate, wherein the second beveled edge of the pivotally-operating access cover plate sealedly engages the first beveled edge of the solid surface. Beveled edges provide a tighter seal between the cover plate and the solid surface, thereby forming a near air-tight seal and minimizing odors. In a further preferred embodiment the contact point of the cover plate and the solid surface is dampened by a gasket material, a seal, bumpers, other suitable material as one skilled in the art would understand it and/or any combination thereof. Additionally, the cover plate may be cut to be slightly smaller than the opening in the solid surface to allow space for a gasket material, a seal, bumpers or other type of insulation layer. An insulation layer further serves the purpose of reducing noise and shock of the lid when closing.

In another preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is preferably electrically activated. Providing a lock also increases efficiency by not requiring energy to hold open the cover plate. Providing an electric lock button allows the lock button to be substantially flat and flush with the solid surface, thereby easing any cleaning process and providing a more aesthetically pleasing design.

In still another preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises a roller wheel rotationally disposed on a first end of the drive arm, wherein the roller wheel is movably in communication with the pivotally-operating access cover plate. Thus, the drive arm moves along the cover plate providing constant pressure and ensuring smooth opening and closing of the cover plate. In a further preferred embodiment, a track is provided to secure the roller wheel in contact with the pivotally-operating access cover plate. Although a roller wheel and track system is utilized in a preferred embodiment, one skilled in the art would recognize any type of system could be used which would maintain constant contact between the cover plate and the drive arm, such as, without limitation, a sliding mount recessed within a track.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the automatic solid surface access port further comprises a counter-weight disposed on a second end of the drive arm to offset the weight of the cover plate, thereby reducing the amount of energy required to open and close the cover plate.

In a preferred embodiment, the drive arm is spring actuated, thereby applying a more constant torque and communication between the drive arm and the cover plate while reducing the amount of energy necessary to move the cover plate. In another preferred embodiment, the roller wheel is also spring actuated, further increasing the torque applied to the lid during its fully closed position and ensuring the point of connection between the solid surface and the cover plate is maintained in a near air-tight seal.

In a preferred use, a method of depositing trash into a trash container, the method comprises the steps of sensing objects approaching an access door via a sensor, and disengaging the access door from a solid surface to permit the objects to pass through an aperture in the solid surface via a gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit. Thus, a sanitary method of disposing of trash is provided while decreasing the amount of energy necessary and increasing efficiency of the automatic solid surface access port. In a further preferred use, the gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit is in mechanical communication with a drive arm and movement of the drive arm by the gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit moves the cover plate, thereby providing a more efficient method of operating an automatic surface access port.

In another preferred use, a method of operating an automatic solid surface access port comprises the steps of sensing objects approaching a pivotally-operating access cover plate, moving a drive arm in an opening direction via a gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit, wherein the drive arm is in contact with the pivotally-operating access cover plate, disengaging the access door from a solid surface via movement of the drive arm to permit the objects to pass through an aperture in the solid surface, storing energy generated via the gear-reduced reversible direct current drive unit moving the pivotally-operating access cover plate in a spring, releasing the energy from the spring to assist movement of the drive arm in a closing direction, wherein the drive arm is in contact with the pivotally-operating access cover plate, and engaging the pivotally-operating access cover plate with the solid surface via movement of the drive arm. Thus an efficient and sanitary method of disposing of refuse is provided by reducing the number of parts and the amount of energy necessary to operate an automatic solid surfaces access port.

In an alternate embodiment, the cover plate seals to a ring surface via bevel edges, providing a near air-tight seal, thereby reducing and/or eliminating odors. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that automatic countertop access port could be utilized for other applications wherein a door is desired to be opened for passage of objects or materials other than trash, such as for entry to a storage container for sports equipment, vapor or light transmission, or the like.

In a further alternate embodiment, an automatic countertop access port has a circular or oval ring and a cover plate, wherein the cover plate is activated via a linear solenoid and returned via a spring. A limit switch restricts over-opening of the cover plate and also starts a timer to set a delay period. Following a pre-selected time delay, power to solenoid is removed, and the potential energy stored in the stretched spring pulls the cover plate back to the closed position. Bumpers of metal, plastic or rubber dampen motion of the cover plate at the extremes of travel, wherein the bumpers may selectively be adjustable to facilitate alignment of the cover plate and ring.

In the alternate embodiment, the ring is flush mounted to a counter, wherein beveled edges on the cover plate and ring make contact when the cover plate is closed, to form an airtight or near air-tight seal. Additionally, a rubber-boot-covered locking mechanism can also be included to permit locking the cover plate open, such as might be required when servicing the access port or for use where it is desired to keep the access port open continuously, such as when peeling potatoes. The locking mechanism includes a sprung pin that engages a blindhole in a lever that connects the cover plate to the solenoid.

In the alternate embodiment, a proximity sensor is located on the ring, wherein the proximity sensor detects motion and/or proximity of trash approaching the automatic countertop access port. The sensor activates a linear solenoid, opening the cover plate before the arrival of trash at the automatic countertop access port, thereby permitting trash to fall through the aperture into a trash container therebelow. The solenoid comprises a body with a piston, and the body has a base end opposite the piston end, wherein the solenoid pivots at both the piston end and the base end of the solenoid to maintain the force from the solenoid piston directed from the cover, thereby applying maximum pulling force to the cover.

A level sensor detects when the container is full and provides indication of such status via an indicator. The indicator typically includes one or more lights or an audible sound or sounds of different pitch or duration, and selectively provides indication of different levels of trash within the container, as sensed by the level sensor.

The proximity and level sensors could be any suitable sensing device, such as, for exemplary purposes only, infrared, radio frequency, ultrasonic, light beam, imaging, or like sensors.

Additionally, a shedder, compactor and/or disposal may be provided below the aperture to operate on the trash prior to its passage into the container. Once full, the container may be removed from below the counter via an access door.

Thus, the preferred embodiment of the present invention provides automatic opening of the cover plate to avoid the need for human contact, thereby enhancing sanitary use of trash containers, in a more efficient manner with a more durable apparatus.

Accordingly, a feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to prevent contact with possibly contaminated surfaces.

Another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to allow hands free use of a trash disposal unit.

Still another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to provide a more efficient method of disposing of refuse.

Yet another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to reduce the amount of energy necessary to operate an automatic access port.

Yet still another feature and advantage of the present invention is to provide a more durable automatic access port.

A further feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to reduce stress of parts within an automatic access port.

Accordingly, a feature and advantage of the alternate embodiment of the present invention is its ability to sense the proximity of approaching trash and to dispose of same.

Another feature and advantage of the alternate embodiment of the present invention is its ability to automatically open to receive trash without contamination of the device cover from contact with the trash.

Still another feature and advantage of the alternate embodiment of the present invention is its ability to permit trash to be shredded, ground via a disposal and/or compacted.

Yet another feature and advantage of the alternate embodiment of the present invention is its ability to be mechanically or electrically locked open or closed.

Yet still another feature and advantage of the alternate embodiment of the present invention is its ability to sense the level of trash in a container.

A further feature and advantage of the alternate embodiment of the present invention is its ability to provide a tightly sealed surface.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to one skilled in the art from the following description and claims when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be better understood by reading the Detailed Description of the Preferred and Selected Alternate Embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference numerals denote similar structure and refer to like elements throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an automatic countertop access port according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, shown installed in a countertop;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an automatic countertop access port according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, shown closed;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an automatic countertop access port according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, shown partially opened;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an automatic countertop access port according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, shown fully opened;

FIG. 3A is a detail side view of an automatic countertop access port according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a detail side view of a solenoid locking component of an automatic countertop access port according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an automatic solid surface access port according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown installed in a countertop;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an automatic solid surface access port according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown closed;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an automatic solid surface access port according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown partially opened; and

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an automatic solid surface access port according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown from the bottom.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND SELECTED ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS

In describing the preferred and selected alternate embodiments of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. The invention, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish similar functions.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3A, the present invention in an alternate embodiment is automatic countertop access port 10, comprising circular or oval ring 20, cover plate 30, lever 40, mount 50, linear solenoid 60, housing 70, spring 100 and limit switch 130, wherein linear solenoid 60 comprises body 65 and piston 80. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that ring 20 and cover plate 30 could comprise alternate shapes, including, without limitation, square, rectangular, etc. Additionally, cover plate 30, comprises any type of material, including, but not limited to granite, CORIAN, stone, metal, veneer on a subsurface and/or any combination thereof, although one which matches or is of the same material as counter 200 is preferred.

When closed, cover plate 30 is disposed within oval ring 20, wherein cover plate 30 and oval ring 20 form an air-tight or near air-tight seal. Lever 40 comprises upper spring bearing 120 and upper pivot 90, wherein upper pivot 90 comprises a bearing and lever 40 is pivotally secured via upper pivot 90 to piston 80 of solenoid 60, and wherein lever 40 is fixably secured to cover plate 30. Mount 50 is fixably secured to oval ring 20, wherein mount 50 carries therewithin solenoid 60, and wherein solenoid 60 is disposed within housing 70. Body 65 of solenoid 60 is pivotally secured to mount 40 via lower pivot 110, wherein lower pivot 110 comprises a roller bearing. Lever 40 could alternately be additionally pivotally-constrained within mount 50 via bearing 92.

Housing 70 comprises legs 75, feet 76 and lower pivot 110, wherein feet 76 comprise lower spring pivot 122. Spring 100 is secured to upper spring pivot 120 and lower spring pivot 122, wherein spring 100 provides return force for closure of cover plate 30. Spring pivots 120, 122 comprise a bearing or bushing to reduce frictional forces to spring 100, and to facilitate closing motion of cover plate 30. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that 15 cover plates 30 could comprise a counterweight for closing force, in lieu of spring 100.

Limit switch 130 is disposed on mount 50, wherein limit switch 130 is contacted by cover plate 30 when cover plate 30 is opened. Upon contact by cover plate 30, limit switch 130 begins a time delay period to disconnect power to solenoid 60, and further prevents damage to cover plate 30 and lever 40.

Ring 20 is flush mounted to counter 200 and comprises aperture 140, flange 150 and rim 160. Trash sensor 250, which is preferably flush mounted to level of counter 200, is a proximity sensor and is preferably disposed within counter 200 or alternatively on ring 20, wherein trash sensor preferably 250 detects motion or proximity of trash T approaching and activates linear solenoid 60 to open cover plate 30, thereby pulling cover plate 30 downward to permit trash T to fall through aperture 140 into container 220 therebelow (best shown in FIG. 1). As necessary, trash sensor 250 uses mirrors or other reflective surfaces to project from beneath the surface of counter 200, thereby covering a larger space above automatic solid surface access port 500. Cover plate 30 is drawn downward to open via linear solenoid 60, wherein solenoid 60 pivots to maintain optimum force throughout the opening of cover plate 30.

Bumpers 400, 410 are disposed on ring 20 and dampen motion of cover plate 30 via contact with lever 40 at the extremes of travel thereof. Bumpers 400, 410 comprise sloped surfaces 420, 430, respectively. Bumpers 400, 410 comprise metal or, alternately could comprise rubber. Sloped surface 420 makes contact with lever 40 when cover plate 30 15 is fully closed, wherein sloped surface 420 comprises rubber coating 421. Sloped surface 430 makes contact with lever 40 when cover plate 30 is fully open, wherein sloped surface 430 comprises rubber coating 431.

Referring now more particularly to an alternate embodiment as shown in FIG. 3A, ring 20 comprises bevel 25 and cover plate 30 comprises bevel 35. In the fully closed state shown in FIG. 3, bevel 35 of cover plate 30 is disposed proximate bevel 25 of ring 20, thereby forming a near airtight seal. Bevels 25, 35 comprise rubber coating 26, 36 to provide an efficient seal and dampen sound.

Referring now more particularly to FIG. 3A, in an alternate embodiment of the present invention, automatic countertop access port 10 could comprise locking mechanism 300, wherein locking mechanism 300 comprises threaded body 310, pin 320, spring 330, flange 350 and rubber boot 360. Bumpers 400, 410 comprise ridges 440 and are disposed proximate threaded body 310 of locking mechanism 300.

In an alternate embodiment, pin 320 is slidably disposed within threaded body 310, wherein spring 330 is disposed over pin 320. Spring 330 is retained via flange 350 and ridges 440, wherein spring 330 tends to urge pin 320 to its original position subsequent to removal of depressive force. Rubber boot 360 is disposed over pin 320 and threaded body 310 to prevent moisture incursion to locking mechanism 300. Pin 320 selectively engages blindhole 380 in lever 40, wherein cover plate 30 is rendered immobile while pin 320 is so engaged. Interference between pin 320 and blindhole 380 under tension of spring 100 acting on lever 40 holds pin 320 within blindhole 380 overcoming the urging force of spring 330. Slightly tapping on cover plate 30 releases interference and permits pin 320 to retract and withdraw from blindhole 380, thereby permitting spring 100 to close cover plate 30.

In a further alternate embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 3B, locking mechanism 300 could comprise second solenoid 440 secured via holddown 445 and fasteners 446, wherein solenoid piston 450 replaces pin 320, and wherein solenoid piston 450, upon activation via a switch, engages blindhole 380. In a further alternate embodiment, second solenoid 440 could drive pin 320, wherein solenoid piston 450 is in communication with pin 320. Alternately, second solenoid 440 could be mounted below ring 20 and adapted to engage blindhole 380 via a linkage.

In a preferred embodiment, electrical hold button 505 (best shown in FIG. 4) is depressed, thereby holding cover plate in an open position. Electrical hold button 505 is preferably pressed again to thereby allow cover plate 30 to return to a closed position. Electrical hold button 505 preferably electrically prevents closure of cover plate 30. Alternatively, electrical hold button 505 engages and disengages pin 320. In an additional embodiment, electrical hold button 505 activates second solenoid 440. Electrical hold button 505 is preferably disposed within counter 200 in a substantially flat position level and flush with counter 200, thereby eliminating or reducing any raised areas in counter 200 to ease in cleaning and producing a more aesthetically pleasing design.

To install an alternate embodiment of the present invention, automatic countertop access port 10 is disposed within counter 200, wherein ring 20 rests on and within opening 240 in counter 200. Automatic countertop access port 10 provides aperture 140 for passage of trash T through counter 200 into container 220 therebelow. A shedder, compactor and/or disposal 210 may selectively be provided below aperture 140 to perform desired actions on trash T prior to its passage into container 220. Container 220 may be removed from below counter 200 via access door 230.

In an alternate use, trash T is sent to the vicinity of cover plate 30, wherein sensor 250 detects the presence of trash T and activates solenoid 60, thereby opening cover plate 30 and permitting trash T to pass through aperture 140. After a pre-selected time delay, power to solenoid 60 is removed, and potential energy stored in stretched spring 100 pulls cover plate 30 back to the closed position shown in FIG. 2A. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that cover plate 30 could alternately be opened by remote control.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 4, in a preferred embodiment, level sensor 260 preferably comprises indicator 270, wherein level sensor 260 is preferably directionally disposed toward container 220 and preferably detects when container 220 is full, thereby preferably providing indication of such status via indicator 270. Indicator 270 typically comprises one or more lights 275, wherein lights 275 could selectively provide indication of different levels of trash T within container 220 sensed by level sensor 260. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that other indicators, such as, for exemplary purposes only, audible sounds, could be utilized in lieu of lights 275. Sensors 250, 260 comprise any suitable sensing device, such as, for exemplary purposes only, infrared, radio frequency, ultrasonic, light beam, imaging, or like sensors.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, the present invention in a preferred embodiment is automatic solid surface access port 500, preferably comprising cover plate 30, lever 40, mounting plate 502, motor 510, spring 515, reducer 520, left mount 525a, right mount 525b, left fork 530a, right fork 530b, drive arm 535, wherein drive arm has first end 541 and second end 550, roller wheel 540, counterweight 550 and limit switches 555a and 555b. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that cover plate 30 could comprise alternate shapes, including, without limitation, square, rectangular, etc.

In a preferred embodiment, when automatic solid surface access port 500 is closed, as best shown in FIG. 5A, cover plate 30 is preferably disposed within opening 240 of counter 200, wherein opening 240 and cover plate 30 preferably form an air-tight or near air-tight seal. Left mount 525a and right mount 525b connect to counter 200 by any manner known in the art, including, but not limited to screws, adhesives, clamping devices and/or any combination thereof. Lever 40 is preferably pivotally mounted between left fork 530a and right fork 530b and preferably fixably mounted to cover plate 30. Further, drive arm 535 is also preferably pivotally mounted between left fork 530a and right fork 530b around drive motor shaft 512. Left fork 530a and right fork 530b further preferably comprise bearing assemblies (not shown) to allow drive arm 535, drive motor shaft 512 and spring 515 to be a single unit and reduce friction between movable pieces.

In a preferred embodiment, motor 510 is preferably in mechanical communication with reducer 520. Although one skilled in the art would recognize almost any type of motor could be used, specifically a direct current (DC) gear reduced reversible drive motor is contemplated. Reducer 520 may be any type of reducer to assist in holding drive motor shaft 512 in position when motor 510 is not energized, but is preferably a worm gear reducer drive. Reducer 520 is preferably disposed on mounting plate 502, but may be mounted on other substantially non-movable surfaces such as left fork 530a and 530b. Drive motor shaft 512 is preferably in mechanical communication with reducer 500 and drive arm 535 and as reducer 500 rotates drive motor shaft 512, drive arm 535 is preferably driven in either an upward or downward direction dependant on rotational direction of reducer 500 and drive motor shaft 512. Drive motor shaft 512 preferably is further in mechanical communication with spring 515. Spring 515 is preferably a clock spring although one skilled in the art would recognize any type of device for storing energy could be utilized. Drive motor shaft 512 preferably tensions spring 515 as it rotates, storing energy in spring 515 which may be utilized to counter weight of cover plate 30 and/or allow cover plate 30 to return to a closed position where cover plate 30 is in contact with counter 200.

In a preferred embodiment, drive arm 535 preferably comprises first end 541 and second end 551, wherein roller wheel 540 is preferably disposed on first end 541 of drive arm 535 to preferably allow lateral movement of drive arm 535 in relation to cover plate 30, thus opening or closing cover plate 30 dependent on directional movement of drive arm 535, and counterweight 550 is preferably disposed on second end 551 of drive arm 535, thereby reducing force necessary to move drive arm 535. Although roller wheel 540 is specifically contemplated, one skilled in the art would recognize other types of mechanisms which allow drive arm 535 to move across cover plate 30 while maintaining contact between cover plate 30 and drive arm 35, such as sliding pieces, would function as well. As motor 510 rotates, reducer 520 preferably rotates drive motor shaft 512, thus rotating drive arm 535, preferably moving roller wheel 540 along cover plate 30 and opening or closing cover plate 30 dependent on directional rotation of drive motor shaft 512. In an alternate embodiment, roller wheel 540 sits within track 542 (best shown in FIG. 5B) disposed on underside of cover plate 30, which keeps roller wheel 540 and cover plate 30 in contact when cover plate 30 is opened and closed. Additionally, roller wheel 540 is preferably spring actuated to allow for a more constant torque to be applied to cover plate 30 while cover plate 30 is in the fully closed position. Further, limit switches 555a, 555b, which are preferably disposed on second end 551 of drive arm 535, limit movement of drive arm 535 in each direction. One skilled in the art would recognize limit switches 555a, 555b must not necessarily be disposed on second end 551 of drive arm 535 and may be disposed in other positions which would serve to limit movement of drive arm 535.

Opening 240 within counter 200 is preferably beveled in direction as to mate with beveled cover plate 30. In the fully closed state shown in FIGS. 2A, 3A, and 5A, beveled edge of cover plate 30 is preferably disposed proximate bevel of counter 200, thereby preferably forming a near air-tight seal. In an alternate embodiment, beveled edge of counter 200 and beveled edge of cover plate 30 further comprise rubber coating 26, 36, such as gaskets or bumpers, to provide an efficient seal, reduce shock and dampen sound. Alternatively, cover plate 30 is made slightly smaller than opening 240 in counter 200 to prevent contact between cover plate 30 and inner edge of opening 240 in counter. The small gap caused by the differentiation in size may be filed with gaskets, bumpers or similar material.

In a preferred use, trash T is preferably sent to the vicinity of cover plate 30, wherein sensor 250 preferably detects the presence of trash T and preferably activates solenoid 60, thereby opening cover plate 30 and permitting trash T to pass through opening 240 in counter 200. After a pre-selected time delay, power to motor 510 is preferably removed, and potential energy stored in spring 515 preferably pulls cover plate 30 back to the closed position shown in FIGS. 2A, 3A and 5A. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that cover plate 30 could alternately be opened by remote control. Alternatively, power to motor 510 could be used to close cover plate 30 and energy stored spring 515 could be used to open cover plate 30. In an alternate embodiment motor 510 is utilized for both the opening and closing procedure.

The foregoing description and drawings comprise illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein, but is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. An automatic solid surface access port comprising:

a pivotally-operating access cover plate;

a drive arm in connection with said pivotally-operating access cover plate; and

a motor to urge said drive arm.

2. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, further comprising at least one spring to assist movement of said pivotally-operating access cover plate.

3. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 2, wherein said at least one spring is a clock spring.

4. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, wherein said motor is a direct current drive motor.

5. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, wherein said motor is a gear reduced reversible drive motor.

6. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, further comprising a worm gear reducer drive unit in mechanical communication with said motor.

7. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, further comprising a mounting bracket to secure said automatic solid surface access port to a solid surface.

8. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 7, further comprising a first beveled edge of said solid surface and a second beveled edge of said pivotally-operating access cover plate, wherein said second beveled edge of said pivotally-operating access cover plate sealedly engages said first beveled edge of said solid surface.

9. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 7, further comprising a gasket material disposed between said pivotally-operating access cover plate and said solid surface.

10. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 7, further comprising a seal disposed between said pivotally-operating access cover plate and said solid surface.

11. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 7, further comprising bumpers disposed between said pivotally-operating access cover plate and said solid surface.

12. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, further comprising an electrically activated locking mechanism.

13. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 1, further comprising:

a roller wheel rotationally disposed on a first end of said drive arm, wherein said roller wheel is movably disposed on said pivotally-operating access cover plate.

14. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 13, further comprising:

a track, wherein said track secures said roller wheel in contact with said pivotally-operating access cover plate.

15. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 13, further comprising a counter-weight disposed on a second end of said drive arm.

16. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 13, wherein said drive arm is spring actuated.

17. The automatic solid surface access port of claim 13, wherein said roller wheel is spring actuated.

18. A method of depositing trash into a trash container, said method comprising the steps of:

sensing objects approaching an access door; and

disengaging said access door from a solid surface via a gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit to permit said objects to pass through an aperture in said solid surface.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein said disengaging step further comprises disengaging said access door from said solid surface via movement of a drive arm in mechanical communication with said gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit and said access door.

20. A method of operating an automatic solid surface access port, comprising the steps of:

sensing objects approaching a pivotally-operating access cover plate;

moving a drive arm in an opening direction via a gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit, wherein said drive arm is in contact with said pivotally-operating access cover plate;

disengaging said access door from a solid surface via movement of said drive arm to permit said objects to pass through an aperture in said solid surface;

storing energy generated via said gear reduced reversible direct current drive unit moving said pivotally-operating access cover plate in a spring;

releasing said energy from said spring to assist movement of said drive arm in a closing direction, wherein said drive arm is in contact with said pivotally-operating access cover plate; and

engaging said pivotally-operating access cover plate with said solid surface via movement of said drive arm.