Quickfit Wheelie-Bin Compactor

The Quickfit Wheelie-Bin Compactor (QWC) is a low-cost tool for compressing household rubbish in a standard wheelie-bin, and was developed by Design Vision for a UK-based start-up. For this project, our client had a very limited budget and initially required a high-quality, fully functional prototype to help secure ongoing funding/investment.

The QWC provides a means to safely and effectively compress household waste, most specifically recycled and/or garden waste as this is generally more compressible. It is therefore marketed primarily as a recycling tool, allowing greater capacity within the bin, promoting recycling uptake and thereby reducing the amount of recyclable waste that may otherwise end up in landfills.

The product was developed as a labour-saving device, eliminating the need to compress waste by other more difficult/dangerous means. It is compact, lightweight and acts as a substitute lid when in place, preventing unpleasant odours and water/moisture ingress. The lid includes an integrated, lockable latch for added security, and the unit is flat-packable for cost-effective shipping and easy storage. It was also designed for easy assembly, with minimal fasteners and no special tools required.

This project initially involved a research stage whereby Design Vision determined standardised sizes relating to the most commonly used wheelie bins. We then conducted a detailed study, using globally recognised anthropometric data to determine the most appropriate dimensions and operating position for the widest possible range of users. This was a crucial part of the design process, not only to ensure a product that could be easily and comfortably used by most people but also to prevent injury due to overexertion or awkward/unnatural movement.

Next, we entered a preliminary concept phase during which many high-level mechanical concepts were considered. Several small-scale 3D-printed mock-ups were produced at this stage to test and confirm their function and suitability. Through consultation with our client, the most promising concept was then selected for further development.

During the next phase, we developed the design in greater detail, carefully considering mechanics, materials and manufacturing methods. A detailed 3D assembly was generated using SolidWorks, and this was closely examined ahead of prototyping, checking all fits, clearances and mechanical loads to ensure correct function. Individual parts were thoroughly considered at this stage and designed to suit eventual high-volume manufacture.

Finally, a high-quality, fully-functional prototype was produced and submitted to the client. This was manufactured using the latest rapid-prototyping techniques and materials. Detailed instructions for assembly/disassembly and general handling were also provided along with a flat-pack packaging concept.