Big Belly Trashcan Solution
Problem Statement
The BigBelly trashcans utilize solar panels to compact trash and wi-fi to notify the city when it is full. While it may reduce the number of trash pick-ups needed and therefore decrease long-term spending, the trashcans have a design factor that causes discomfort, both visual and physical, to its users and may impedes it from properly compacting. The relatively flat translucent surface that houses the solar panels allows for misplaced trash and other elements to accumulate on top. This is problematic because it impedes light, its energy source, from reaching the solar panels, effectively diminishing its capability to compact and get rid of trash. Furthermore, when the trashcan is filled, people tend to place trash on the flat surface, leading to an unpleasant view for its users.
Solutions
The first solution involves changing the top flat surface into a smooth pyramidal shape with solar panels facing four different directions to maximize light captured. The highly sloped surface should prevent users from placing trash on top and blocking the solar panels as the trash would slide down and fall on the ground. This also allows for debris or snow to slide off instead of accumulating on the surface.
The second solution involves extending the height of the trash can to a greater height (at least twice the original trashcan’s height). This solution makes it hard for people to place trash on the top surface as it will be out of reach. The previous solution can be implemented here to help combat environmental debris. Lastly, the extra space created can be used as advertisement space and the city government can recuperate some of its costs by renting that space out with high foot traffic and crowd exposure.