Not My Problem QAQ

Have you ever wondered what garbage feels like when you try to make a slick 3-point shot into the trash can? Did you think a garbage bin is just another basketball hoop? Think again.

Introducing the "Not My Problem" Garbage Bin — the trash can with an attitude. You think you're done after tossing that crumpled piece of paper? Nope. This bin waits patiently, plotting its revenge... When you think you've gotten away with it, BAM BAM BOOMM launches the trash back at you!!! Why? Because littering is everyone’s problem, this CAN ensure you know it.

This isn’t just a garbage bin; it’s a life lesson wrapped in stainless steel. Clean up your act, or prepare to dodge. The "Not My Problem" Garbage Bin — because sometimes, the trash fights back /ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\

Components:

Arduino UNO x1

Breadboard x1

Micro Limit Switch x1

TT Motor x2

5v Relay x1

Materials:

⅛ plywood full bed (24inch x 32) x3

Compression Springs x2

Gears x4

Woodbine x1

Equipment:

Laser cutter

Soldering Kit

Computer

Wiring

Software:

Tinkercad

Arduino

Rhino 8 (modelling of the mechanism)

The Fritzing diagram above presents a simplified version of our "useless" project. We recommend you create your own Fritzing diagram to test individual components separately to ensure they work correctly before proceeding with the complete physical build.

In the final version, we improved the mechanism for pulling down and contracting the force. We initially attempted to use a solenoid, but it lacked the power to achieve the desired "blast-off" effect. After testing various sensors to detect garbage, we selected a micro limit switch due to its high sensitivity in detecting even slight pressure.

TT Motor with Gear:

The gear is connected to the TT motor and attached to a surface linked to a spring. When the sensor detects an object, it activates the motor, causing it to pull down the surface and create a "blast-off" effect. Through the gear system, the motor contracts the surface back into position.

Micro Limit Switch:

The micro limit switch is a highly sensitive push button that sends a signal when it detects minimal pressure, making it ideal for accurately sensing garbage input.

Prepare the Base and Structure:

1. Use the provided laser-cutting file to cut the parts from plywood.
2. There are three main categories to assemble:

Category 1 – Outer Wall and Base Structure (Dark Blue)

Category 2 – Internal Layer for Gear and Spring System (Grey)

Category 3 – Mechanical Components (White)

Heads up Assembly:

1. Please follow steps and start with the outer frame (dark blue) and secure it in place.
2. Attach the internal layer (grey) to hold the gear and spring system.
3. Install the mechanical components (white) carefully, ensuring proper alignment with the motor and sensor.

1. Glue the outside wall and the base structure (Section Dark Blue in the diagram) of the garbage bin.
2. Please make sure that all pieces fit together securely to create a stable frame.

1. The same should be done to the intermediate layers (Section Grey in the diagram) that hold the gear system and springs in place.
2. This layer allows the spring to be pulled down by the gear and reloads the motion to default again.

1. Place the TT Motor between the inner and outer walls, Which drives the Gear system.
2. Then, have the Arduino with a Micro Switch in the center of the base. This helps detect user interaction and activates the throwing motion.
3. Lastly, connect the springs on the top layer to the bottom of the middle plywood panel. This will provide the necessary force for the upward and downward motion.

Ps: the Micro Switch didn't have enough length to reach into the breadboard so we wired it to another wire to extend it

1. Test the gear system's alignment and make sure the springs and motor are moving smoothly: no jamming allowed
2. Confirm that the Arduino and sensor are detecting interaction correctly and triggering the right response.

And voilà! You’ve just created your very own useful(less) garbage bin with an attitude. Congrats — you’ve officially built a trash can that knows how to throw shade (literally).

Course: ARC385 Physical Computing at John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design

Instructor: Maria Yablonina

Ta: Brian Slocum

Team: Claire Yuen, Phina Tu, Steve Shao, Jingshi Xiao