Look Ma, no hands!! Hands-free Refuse Chute operation (ver 1.0)

thingiverse

Many modern high-rise dwellings feature integrated trash/rubbish chutes. Using soiled hands to operate the chute handle usually invites cockroaches into your space, raising hygiene concerns. After handling the chute, it's crucial to wash your hands thoroughly. Introducing a solution that eliminates direct hand contact: a paddle allows users to operate the chute door with their foot. To assemble this innovative device, link the printed parts together using electrical wire trunking, which provides minimal prints and takes advantage of the wire trunking's strength and flexibility. Instructions: @@@ BOM: 1/2 inch screws (9) Small screws (2) (see note in Step 9) 1-1/2 inch bolt and nut M3 6mm screws (4) (tighten up to 6mm if using longer ones, see Step 4) 608 bearing Metal drill bit Electrical wire trunking (trapezoid shaped), 1 x length of 1/2 inch (wide) STL Print 1 x each, 2 x "Chute Handle Clippers", 2 x "Paddle Door Brace" Note: "Chute Handle Clippers" may need modification to fit the chute door handle. @@@ ASSEMBLY: Position "Chute Door Pivot Base" on the side and edge of the chute body where it pivots. Be cautious not to touch the door itself! Mark and drill two holes through the aluminium chute body using a smaller drill bit than the screws for a tight fit. Insert the 608 bearing into place. Secure "Chute Door Pivot Cap" with M3 screws, allowing the top unit to rotate freely on the base attached to the chute body. Focus on the chute handle: Attach two "Chute Handle Clippers" to the handle and link them with electrical wire trunking. Add "Chute Door Axes Link" to the assembly. Link "Chute Door Axes Link" to "Chute Door Pivot Cap", allowing a few inches of excess trunking. Attach "Paddle Base Brace" using the long bolt. Position the other "Paddle Base Brace" at the desired angle (with the chute door closed) and secure with bolts. Note: You can either drill pilot holes or glue these braces together. A modified bottom brace may be a future addition, which will eliminate the need for this step. Extend an additional length of trunking to both connectors on "Paddle Left". Attach "Paddle Right" using the final two screws.