DESC:CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This Application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application 202321023809 filed on 30th March 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The embodiments herein generally relate to storage containers and more particularly to a modular storage apparatus with self-openable lids for storing/ management of any one of trash, articles, products, or any other miscellaneous items.

BACKGROUND
[002] Garbage bins or trash bins are a critical part of waste management at household level. The disposal of waste have advanced over the years however, storage of trash especially under-sink storage is still not utilized completely. The under-sink space in existing practice is not used efficiently due to variable sink sizes and different drainpipe layouts. The space utilization is therefore not met adequately. The storage space under the sink is either left vacant and unused or it is used to store unwanted items, vessels which are scarcely used owing to inaccessibility and poor organization. The conventional solutions do not take the different layouts of drainpipes, sinks and counter sizes into consideration, making the under-sink storage inaccessible and unusable. Further, the conventional solutions do not provide user comfort in terms of storage and automation. The garbage disposal system is not aligned with efficient space utilization and the conventional waste bins require manual handling making it inconvenient and cumbersome. Manual handling and inefficient utilization of space makes storage and disposal of waste a long, cumbersome process with unmanaged implementation of storage space under the sink.
[003] In addition to using trash bins for household garbage, the trash bins can hold other types of trash including restaurant garbage, medical waste, chemical waste, and other industrial waste. Trash bins may partially or fully enclose trash depending on the type of trash to be enclosed. Typically, the trash bin includes lids which open to receive trash and close to contain odor, hide trash from view and prevent the trash from contaminating areas beyond the trash bin. Lids are often opened by hand which in turn leads to several problems. In some cases, contact between a user’s hand and the lid may spread contamination. Additionally, sometimes a free hand may not be available to open the lid. Medical workers and food handlers, for example, may not wish to contact trash containers to avoid biological contamination. Similarly, chemical workers may not wish to contact a container such as a trash enclosure which holds chemical contaminants. Contact with any potentially contaminated container is undesirable.
[004] In order to facilitate insertion of trash into a trash bins, automatically operable lids have been developed. Such automatically operable lids may be fitted with a sensor system, motors and electric circuits which automatically opens the lid upon demand. Ideally, such trash bins will eliminate the need for pushing the lid open by hand. However, such trash bins with active lid actuating mechanisms are complex in design, incurs high cost and requires uninterrupted power supply for proper functioning of the garbage bin.
[005] Therefore, there exists a need for a modular storage apparatus, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks.

OBJECTS

[006] The principal object of embodiments herein is to provide a modular storage apparatus for storing/ management of any one of trash, articles, products, or any other miscellaneous items.
[007] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus with self-opening lids without the need for an external power source or active control mechanism such as sensors, motors, electric/electronic circuits for controlling the movement of lids between open and closed positions, thereby enhancing its reliability.
[008] Another object of embodiments herein is to improve user experience of waste management.
[009] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus with a passive lid actuating mechanism.
[0010] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus in which trash or garbage or any other articles can be stored into storage containers without manually touching and opening the lid.
[0011] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus, which enhances user experience and comfort level of the user during management of waste/ trash or any other articles.
[0012] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide modular storage apparatus that can be fixed on a left-hand side as well as a right-hand side in the carcass/cabinet.
[0013] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide modular storage apparatus that can be used with either a hinged door or a fixed fascia in the carcass/cabinet.
[0014] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus that allows easier access for cleaning floor space under the modular storage apparatus.
[0015] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus which can be easily installed to workspace or under sink area or carcass/ cabinet.
[0016] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus, which is reliable and is easy to operate and is inexpensive.
[0017] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular under sink garbage storage apparatus which can be retrofitted to any workspace.
[0018] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus which allows sorting and segregation of various trash or articles or products or any other miscellaneous items to be stored into respective storage container or respective storage compartments.
[0019] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide the modular storage apparatus which provides better visibility, organization, accessibility, flexibility and proper space utilization.
[0020] These and other objects of embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with following description and accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0021] The embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0022] Fig. 1 depicts an exploded view of a modular storage apparatus, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0023] Fig. 2 depicts an exploded view of a storage container assembly of the modular storage apparatus, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0024] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a storage container of the storage container assembly, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0025] Fig. 4 depicts a perspective view of a handle of the storage container assembly, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0026] Fig. 5 depicts a perspective view of a lid of the storage container assembly, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0027] Fig. 6 depicts a top view of the lid, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0028] Fig.7A to fig. 8 illustrates the lid, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0029] Fig. 9 depicts exploded view of a storage container carrier and fascia mounting brackets, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0030] Fig. 10A illustrates mounting of the lid actuating bracket and a telescopic assembly onto a stationary frame, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0031] Fig. 10B depicts an exploded view of the lid actuating bracket, a first mounting bracket and a bracket pivot pin, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0032] Fig. 11 illustrates the storage containers in a stowed position and the lids in a closed position, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0033] Fig. 12 illustrates the storage containers in a deployed position and the lids in an open position, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0034] Fig. 13 depicts superimposed view of the lid actuating bracket moving the lid to the open position upon pulling the storage container carrier away from the cabinet, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and
[0035] Fig. 14 depicts superimposed view of the lid actuating bracket moving the lid to the closed position upon pushing the storage container carrier into the cabinet, according to embodiments as disclosed herein

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0037] The embodiments herein achieve a modular storage apparatus with self-openable lids for storing/ management of any one of trash, articles, products, or any other miscellaneous items. Further, embodiments herein achieve sorting, segregation and storing of various types of trash such as dry waste, wet waste and other types of wastes. Referring now to the drawings Figs 1 through 14, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
[0038] Fig. 1 depicts an exploded view of a modular storage apparatus (100), according to embodiments as disclosed herein In an embodiment, the modular storage apparatus (100) includes a stationary frame (102), a plurality of frame support legs (103), at least one storage container carriers (104), a plurality of telescopic assemblies (105, 106), at least one storage container assembly (108), at least one lid actuating bracket (110), a first mounting bracket (111A), a bracket pivot pin (111B), a fascia (112) and a plurality of fascia mounting brackets (114). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the modular storage apparatus (100) is explained herein with below reference to management (sorting, segregating and storing) of waste or trash (garbage) in under sink area of a kitchen. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to use/practice the modular storage apparatus (100) for management (sorting, segregating and storing) of any other wastes, articles, products, vessels or any other miscellaneous items in domestic applications or commercial applications or healthcare centers, industrial applications or any other applications or places without otherwise deterring the intended function of the modular storage apparatus (100) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
[0039] The minimum number of the storage container carrier (104), the storage container assembly (108) and the lid actuating bracket (110) that are required by the modular storage apparatus (100) is at least one and the number of aforementioned components (104, 108, 110) or any other components of the modular storage apparatus (100) increases depending on the type and the number of any one of trash (garbage), articles, products, vessels or any other miscellaneous items, that are required to be sorted, segregated and stored in the one or more storage container assemblies (108), and also depending upon the configuration and packaging layout of the workspace or cabinet or under sink area or any other area where the modular storage apparatus (100) is installed thereof.
[0040] Fig. 10A illustrates mounting of the lid actuating bracket (110) and a telescopic assembly (105) onto a stationary frame (102), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. The stationary frame (102) is a main structural member of the modular storage apparatus (100) and is adapted to support the storage container carriers (104), the telescopic assemblies (105, 106), the storage container assembly (108) and the lid actuating bracket (110). The stationary frame (102) includes a base frame (102A), a pair of vertical frames (102B), a pair of overhang horizontal frames (102C) and an interconnecting reinforcing frame (102D). The vertical frames (102B) of the stationary frame (102) is adapted to facilitate mounting of respective telescopic assembly (105) thereon. Each vertical frame (102B) transversely extends from corresponding end of the base frame (102B) of the stationary frame (102). The overhang horizontal frame (102C) which is at a front end of the stationary frame (102) is adapted to facilitate mounting of the lid actuating bracket (110) thereon. Each overhang horizontal frame (102C) transversely extends from a top end of respective vertical frame (102B) of the stationary frame (102). One end of the interconnecting reinforcing frame (102D) is connected to the corresponding overhang horizontal frame (102C) and another end of another overhang horizontal frame (102C). The interconnecting reinforcing frame (102D) is adapted to connect the corresponding overhang horizontal frame (102C) with another overhang horizontal frame (102D) thereby reinforcing the overhang horizontal frames (102C).
[0041] The plurality of frame support legs (103) are adapted to support the stationary frame (102) onto the ground surface or cabinet bottom surface or workspace surface. The frame support legs (103) are fastened against the carcass wall or ground surface by using fasteners such as bolts. In one embodiment, the frame support legs (103) are removably connected to the base frame (102A) of the stationary frame (102). For example, the frame support legs (103) are fastened to the base frame (102A) of the stationary frame (102) by using temporary joints such as but not limited to fasteners (bolts). In another, the frame support legs (103) are fixedly connected to the base frame (102A) of the stationary frame (102) by using permanent joints such as welding, rivets and the like.
[0042] Fig. 9 depicts exploded view of a storage container carrier (104) and fascia mounting brackets (114), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. The storage container carrier (104) is adapted to removably receive one or more than one storage container assembly (108) therein to hold the storage container assembly (108) therein. In an embodiment, the storage container carrier (104) includes one or more plurality of container receiving portions (not shown) for receiving and holding plurality of storage container assemblies (108). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the storage container carrier (104) can be considered to be a mesh type carrier. In an embodiment, the storage container carrier (104) includes a base wire mesh (104A), a left side wire mesh (104B), a right side wire mesh (104C), a front end wire mesh (104D), a rear end wire mesh (104E) and a central top end wire mesh (104F). The left side wire mesh (104B) transversely extends from a left side of the base wire mesh (104A). The right side wire mesh (104C) transversely extends from a right side of the base wire mesh (104A). The front end wire mesh (104D) transversely extends from a front-end of the base wire mesh (104A) in between the left side wire mesh (104B) and the right side wire mesh (104C). The rear end wire mesh (104E) transversely extends from a rear end of the base wire mesh (104A) in between the left side wire mesh (104B) and the right side wire mesh (104C). The central top end wire mesh (104F) extends between a center top end of the left side wire mesh (104B) and the right side wire mesh (104C). The central top end wire mesh (104F) of the storage container carrier (104) is adapted to divide the cavity of the storage container carrier (104) into the plurality of container receiving portions (not shown) for receiving and holding more than one storage container assemblies (108). Further, the storage container carrier (104) is adapted to support mounting of the fascia (112) thereon.
[0043] Fig. 12 illustrates the storage containers (108C) in a deployed position and the lids in an open position, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. The plurality of telescopic assemblies (105, 106) are adapted to facilitate movement of the storage container carrier (104) along with the storage container assembly (108) between one of a deployed position or a stowed position upon holding the fascia (112) and pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104) respectively. In the deployed position, the storage container (108C) of the storage container assembly (108) is pulled away from the cabinet or under sink area or workspace area in an outward direction for allowing disposal or loading of trash into the storage container (108C). In the stowed position, the storage container (108C) of the storage container assembly (108) is pushed back into the cabinet/ under sink area for allowing closed storage of trash that is loaded in the storage container (108C). In an embodiment, one or more telescopic assemblies (105, 106) can be provided between only one side of the storage container carrier (104) and the stationary frame (102). In another embodiment, one or more telescopic assemblies (105, 106) can be provided between both sides of the storage container carrier (104), and the stationary frame or a panel (10P) of the cabinet or a wall. In an embodiment, the plurality of telescopic assemblies (105, 106) includes at least one or more first telescopic assembly (105) and at least one or more second telescopic assembly (106). The first telescopic assembly (105) is provided between a first side of the storage container carrier (104) and the stationary frame (102). In an embodiment, the first telescopic assembly (105) includes a first stationary outer channel (105A), a first sliding intermediate channel (105B) and a first sliding inner channel (105C) and a plurality of first stoppers (not shown). Each end of the first stationary outer channel (105A) is removably or fixedly mounted onto the respective vertical frame (102B) of the stationary frame (102). The first sliding intermediate channel (105B) is slidably connected to the first stationary outer channel (105A). For example, the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) is provided with a plurality of guiding protrusions (not shown) adapted to be received by corresponding guiding grooves provided on an inner portion of the first stationary outer channel (105A) to facilitate slidable movement of the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) on the first stationary outer channel (105A) thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) between one of the deployed position or the stowed position upon pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104). The first sliding inner channel (105C) is mounted onto the first side of the storage container carrier (104), and further the first sliding inner channel (105C) is slidably connected to the first sliding intermediate channel (105B). For example, the first sliding inner channel (105C) is provided with a plurality of guiding protrusions (not shown) adapted to be received by corresponding guiding grooves provided on an inner portion of the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) to facilitate slidable movement of the first sliding inner channel (105A) on the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) between one of the deployed position or the stowed position upon pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104).
[0044] The second telescopic assembly (106) is provided between a second side of the storage container carrier (104), and the stationary frame (102) or the panel (10P) of the cabinet (10) or the wall. In an embodiment, the second telescopic assembly (106) includes a second stationary outer channel (106A), a second sliding intermediate channel (106B) and a second sliding inner channel (106C) and a plurality of second stoppers (not shown). Each end of the second stationary outer channel (106A) is removably mounted onto the panel (10P) of the cabinet (10) or the wall (not shown). The second sliding intermediate channel (106B) is slidably connected to the second stationary outer channel (106A). For example, the second sliding intermediate channel (106B) is provided with a plurality of guiding protrusions (not shown) adapted to be received by corresponding guiding grooves provided on an inner portion of the second stationary outer channel (106A) to facilitate slidable movement of the second sliding intermediate channel (106B) on the second stationary outer channel (106A) thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) between one of the deployed position or the stowed position upon pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104). The second sliding inner channel (106C) is mounted onto the second side of the storage container carrier (104), and further the second sliding inner channel (106C) is slidably connected to the second sliding intermediate channel (106B). For example, the second sliding inner channel (106C) is provided with a plurality of guiding protrusions (not shown) adapted to be received by corresponding guiding grooves provided on an inner portion of the second sliding intermediate channel (106B) to facilitate slidable movement of the second sliding inner channel (106A) on the second sliding intermediate channel (106B) thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) between one of the deployed position or the stowed position upon pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104).
[0045] The first telescopic assembly (105) and the second telescopic assembly (106) are configured to move to an extended position in which the first and second sliding intermediate channels (105B, 106B), and the first and second sliding inner channels (105C, 106C) are moved to the extended position thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) to the deployed position upon pulling the storage container carrier (104) in the outward direction away from the cabinet (10).
[0046] Further, the first telescopic assembly (105) and the second telescopic assembly (106) are configured to move from the extended position to a retracted position in which the first and second sliding intermediate channels (105B, 106B), and the first and second sliding inner channels (105C, 106C) are moved from the extended position to the retracted position thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) from the deployed position to the stowed position upon pushing back the storage container carrier (104) into the cabinet (10).
[0047] The first stoppers are provided on the first stationary outer channel (105A), the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) and the first sliding inner channel (105C) such that corresponding first stopper engage with respective first stopper to stop/ restrict a movement of the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) and the first sliding inner channel (105C) beyond a predefined extended position of the first sliding intermediate channel (105B) and the first sliding inner channel (105C). Further, the second stoppers are provided on the second stationary outer channel (106A), the first sliding intermediate channel (106B) and the second sliding inner channel (106C) such that corresponding second stopper engage with respective second stopper to stop/ restrict a movement of the second sliding intermediate channel (106B) and the second sliding inner channel (106C) beyond a predefined extended position of the second sliding intermediate channel (106B) and the second sliding inner channel (106C).
[0048] Fig. 2 depicts an exploded view of a storage container assembly (108) of the modular storage apparatus (100), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the modular storage apparatus (100) includes a single storage container assembly (108) in which dry wastes, wet wastes or any other wastes are stored in respective storage compartments provided in a single storage container (108C) of the storage container assembly (108). For example, the storage container assembly (108) includes a plurality of dividers (not shown) connected to respective divider holders (not shown) provided in the storage container (108C) for dividing the interior cavity of the storage container (108C) into a plurality of storage compartments (not shown) so that various types of wastes (trash) can be sorted, segregated and stored into respective storage compartment of the single storage container (108C). In another embodiment, the modular storage apparatus (100) includes a plurality of storage container assemblies (108) in which dry wastes, wet wastes and any other wastes are stored in a separate storage container (108C) of the respective storage container assembly (108). In an embodiment, the storage container assembly (108) includes a storage container (108C), a container top cover (108H), a lid (108L), a plurality of locking members (108S), at least one cushioning pad (108P), a handle (108J), a plurality of lid pivot pins (108Y) and a plurality of washers (108W). Further, the storage container assembly (108) may include trash bags provided in the storage container (108C) for easy disposal of trash.
[0049] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a storage container (108C) of the storage container assembly (108), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. The storage container (108C) includes a container body (108CB) and a peripheral flange (108CF) and a plurality of mounting lugs (108CL). The container body (108CB) defines a base portion (108CW), a plurality of vertical side walls (108CX) transversely extending from sides of the base portion (108CW), a front wall (108CY) transversely extending from a front end of the base portion (108CW) in between the vertical side walls (108CX), and a rear wall (108CZ) transversely extending from a rear end of the base portion (108CW) in between the vertical sides walls (108CX). The base portion (108CW) and the vertical side walls (108CX) of the container body (108CB) are adapted to be rested against the base wire mesh (104A) and the front end wire mesh (104D) of the storage container carrier (104) thereby preventing rotation/ movement of the storage container (108C). The peripheral flange (108CF) extends from a top end of the container body (108CB). The peripheral flange (108CF) is provided with a plurality of sleeves (108CS), each sleeve (108CS) defines an opening (108CR) adapted to receive a corresponding projection (108JP) of the handle (108J) thereby allowing rotatable mounting of the handle (108J) onto the peripheral flange (108CF) of the storage container (108C). The plurality of mounting lugs (108CL) are provided between the container body (108CB) and inner portion of peripheral flange (108CF). The plurality of mounting lugs (108CL) of the storage container (108) is adapted to facilitate firm mounting of the storage container (108C) onto the storage container carrier (104) thereby restricting movement of the storage container (108C). Some of mounting lugs (108CL) defines a groove (108CG) adapted to receive a corresponding wire of the central top end wire mesh (104F) of the storage container carrier (104).
[0050] The container top cover (108H) is snap fitted onto the storage container (108C). For example, the container top cover (108H) is provided with a plurality of snap locking protrusions (108HL) adapted to be engaged with the peripheral flange (108CF) of the storage container (108C) thereby snap fitting the container top cover (108H) onto the storage container (108C). The container top cover (108H) is provided with a plurality of lid mounting portions (108HM), wherein each lid mounting portion (108HM) defines a pivot pin opening (108HP) adapted to receive corresponding lid pivot pin (108Y) therethrough to facilitate pivotable mounting of the lid (108L) onto the container top cover (108H). Each lid mounting portion (108HM) defines an angled top surface (108HT) adapted to stop the movement of the lid (108L) beyond the predefined angle of the open position of the lid (108L).
[0051] The locking members (108S) are provided on the container top cover (108H) adjacent to respective lid mounting portion (108HM). The locking members (108S) are adapted to lock the lid (108L) in the open position when the lid (108L) is moved to the open position. Each locking member (108S) is a cam type locking member which includes a profiled movable locking projection (108SM, 108SN) having two cam locking surfaces (108SM) and (108SN). When the lid (108L) is moved to the open position, a corresponding locking projection (108LQ) defined on an underside of the lid (108L) operates the profiled locking projection (108SM, 108SN) by traveling along the cam locking surfaces (108SM) and (108SN). The cam locking surface (108SM) and (108SN) engages with locking projection (108LQ) for locking or retaining the lid (108L) in the open position. The cushioning pad (108P) is adapted to be received by a pad receiving groove (108HG) defined on the container top cover (108H). The cushioning pad (108P) is provided on the container top cover (108H) to restrict the noise that is generated on contact of the lid (108L) with the container top cover (108H) when the lid (108L) is moved to the closed position. Both ends of the handle (108J) are pivoted onto the peripheral flange (108CF) of the storage container (108C). The handle (108J) is adapted for lifting/ handling the storage container assembly (108). The lid pivot pins (108Y) are adapted to pivotably connect the lid (108L) onto the lid mounting portion (108HM) of the container top cover (108H). Each washer (108W) is provided between corresponding lid mounting portion (108HM) of the container top cover (108H) and the lid (108). The washers (108W) are adapted to reduce wear and tear of the lid (108L) and the lid mounting portion (108HM) of the container top cover (108H). The lid (108L) is pivotably connected to the lid mounting portions (108HM) of the container top cover (108H) through the plurality of lid pivot pins (108Y). The lid (108L) includes a base portion (108LB) and a raised portion (108LR) provided on one end of the base portion (108LB). The raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L) includes an inclined surface (108LS) which is contacted by the lid actuating bracket (110) for moving the lid (108L) to the open position upon establishment of contact by the vertical arm (110V) of the lid actuating bracket (110) with the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L). The lid (108L) includes a plurality of pivot pin receiving openings (108LY) (as shown in fig. 8) adapted to receive the lid pivot pins (108Y) therethrough and the lid pivot pins (108Y) are locked onto pin locking grooves (108LG) defined on pivot pin locking ribs (108LL).
[0052] The lid actuating bracket (110) is rotatably mounted onto the stationary frame (102) and is disposed above the lid (108L). The lid actuating bracket (110) includes a horizontal base portion (110H) and a vertical arm (110V) extending transversely from the horizontal base portion (110H) in a downward direction. The horizontal base portion (110H) of the lid actuating bracket (110) is disposed above the first mounting bracket (111). In an embodiment, the lid actuating bracket (110) is adapted to move the lid (108L) from a closed position to an open position upon establishment of contact by the raised position (108LR) of the lid (108) with the lid actuating bracket (110) in response to moving the storage container assembly (108) from the stowed position to the deployed position. In the open position of the lid (108, the lid (108L) allows loading the trash into the storage container (108C). Further, the lid actuating bracket (110) is adapted to move the lid (108L) from the open position to the closed position upon establishment of contact by a top surface (108LT) defined on the base portion (108LB) of the lid (108L) with the lid actuating bracket (110) in response to moving the storage container assembly (108) from the deployed position to the stowed position. In the closed position of the lid (108L), the lid (108L) ensures closed storage of trash.
[0053] The lid actuating bracket (110) is positioned in front and spaced away from the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L) when the lid (108L) is in the closed position. The lid actuating bracket (110) is an L-shaped bracket. The lid actuating bracket (110) contacts the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108) to move the lid (108L) to the open position at a predefined angle. The lid (108L) is locked or retained onto the container top cover at the same predefined angle when the lid (108L) is moved to the open position. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the predefined angle at which the lid (108L) is opened is 70 degree. It is also within the scope of the invention to move the lid (108L) to the open position at less than 90 degree. The first mounting bracket (111A) is mounted onto a front overhang horizontal frame (102C) of the stationary frame (102). The lid actuating bracket (110) is pivotably connected onto the first mounting bracket (111A) by inserting the bracket pivot pin (111B) into a pivot pin receiving portions (111AR, 110R) defined on each of the first mounting bracket (111A) and the lid actuating bracket (110). The pivot pin receiving portion (110R) of the lid actuating bracket (110) is defined at the interface between the horizontal base portion (110H) and the vertical arm (110V).
[0054] The fascia (112) is adapted to be removably mounted onto the storage container carrier (104) through the fascia mounting brackets (114). Each fascia mounting bracket (114) includes a fascia mounting outer bracket (114A) and a fascia mounting inner bracket (114B), each of which are adapted to be positioned against the front end wire mesh (104D) of the storage container carrier (104) and fastened against each other by using temporary joints such as but not limited to fasteners (bolts). The fascia mounting brackets (114) are either used for mounting the fascia (112) or the wall or door which acts as handle for pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104). Each of the fascia mounting outer bracket (114A) and a fascia mounting inner bracket (114B) includes two or more oblong holes (114AB, 114BB) adapted to receive fasteners there to facilitate adjustment of fascia (112).
[0055] The working of the modular storage apparatus (100) are as follows. When modular storage assembly (100) is moved out from carcass/ cabinet (10) by holding and pulling the fascia (112) for loading the trash into the storage container (108C), the inclined surface (108LS) of lid (108) gets in contact with the vertical arm (110V) of lid actuating bracket (110). The lid actuating bracket (110) moves rotatably in a forward direction and stops its rotation after the vertical arm (110V) touches the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L). Thus, lid actuating bracket (110) makes kinematic pair with inclined surface (108LS) of lid (108) and as the modular storage assembly (100) moves outward from the cabinet (10), the lid (108L) rotates to the open position because of lever-action about pivot point of the lid (108L) and the container top cover (108H). Further as the modular storage apparatus moves outward from the cabinet (10), the inclined surface (108LS) of the lid (108L) of the adjacent storage container assembly (108) passes from below the lid actuating bracket (110). Similarly, the lid actuating bracket (110) moves the lid (108L) of the adjacent storage container assembly (108) to the open position at the predefined angle due to locking of cam locking surfaces cam locking surfaces (108SM) and (108SN) of the container top cover (108) against locking projection (108LQ) of the lid (108L) for locking or retaining the lid (108L) in the open position at the predefined angle so that the user can load the trash into the storage container (108C).
[0056] When modular storage assembly (100) is moved back into the carcass/ cabinet (10) by holding and pushing the fascia (112) for closed storing of the trash into the storage container (108C), the base portion (108LB) of the lid (108L) contacts the vertical arm (110V) of the lid actuating bracket (110) for moving the lid (108L) to the closed position.
[0057] The technical advantages of the modular storage apparatus (100) are as follows. The modular storage apparatus is used for storing/ management of any one of trash, articles, products, or any other miscellaneous items. The modular storage apparatus has self-opening lids without the need for an external power source or active control mechanism such as sensors, motors, electric/electronic circuits for controlling the movement of lids between open and closed positions, thereby enhancing its reliability. The modular storage apparatus improves user experience of waste management. The modular storage apparatus is provided with a passive lid actuating mechanism. The garbage or any other articles can be stored into storage containers without manually touching and opening the lid. The modular storage apparatus enhances user experience and comfort level of the user during management of waste/ trash or any other articles. The modular storage apparatus that can be fixed on a left-hand side as well as a right-hand side in the carcass/cabinet. The modular storage apparatus can be used with either a hinged door or a fixed fascia in the carcass/cabinet. The modular storage apparatus allows easier access for cleaning floor space under the modular storage apparatus. The modular storage apparatus can be easily installed to workspace or under sink area or carcass/ cabinet. The modular storage apparatus is reliable and is easy to operate and is inexpensive. The modular under sink garbage storage apparatus can be retrofitted to any workspace. The modular storage apparatus allows sorting and segregation of various trash or articles or products or any other miscellaneous items to be stored into respective storage container or respective storage compartments. The modular storage apparatus provides better visibility, organization, accessibility, flexibility and proper space utilization.
[0058] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modifications within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
,CLAIMS:We claim: -
1. A modular storage apparatus (100) comprising:
a stationary frame (102);
at least one storage container carrier (104);
a plurality of telescopic assemblies (105, 106) having,
at least one first telescopic assembly (105) provided between a first side of the storage container carrier (104) and the stationary frame (102); and
at least one second telescopic assembly (106) provided between a second side of the storage container carrier (104), and a panel or a wall or the stationary frame (102);
at least one storage container assembly (108) having at least one storage container (108C) and a lid (108L) pivotably connected to the storage container (108C), wherein the lid (108L) includes a raised portion (108LR) provided on one end of the lid (108L), wherein the storage container assembly (108) is adapted to be received by the storage container carrier (104); and
at least one lid actuating bracket (110) rotatably mounted onto the stationary frame (102) and is disposed above the lid (108L),
wherein
the telescopic assemblies (105, 106) are adapted to facilitate movement of the storage container carrier (104) along with the storage container assembly (108) between one of a deployed position or a stowed position upon moving the storage container carrier (104); and

the lid actuating bracket (110) is adapted to move the lid (108L) from a closed position to an open position upon establishment of contact by the raised position (108LR) of the lid (108) with the lid actuating bracket (110) in response to moving the storage container assembly (108) from the stowed position to the deployed position.

2. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lid actuating bracket (110) is adapted to move the lid (108L) from the open position to the closed position upon establishment of contact by a top surface (108LT) defined on a base portion (108LB) of the lid (108L) with the lid actuating bracket (110) in response to moving the storage container assembly (108) from the deployed position to the stowed position; and
the lid actuating bracket (110) is positioned in front of and spaced away from the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L) when the lid (108L) is in the closed position.

3. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the modular storage apparatus (100) includes,
a first mounting bracket (111A) mounted onto the structural frame (102), wherein
the lid actuating bracket (110) is pivotably connected onto the first mounting bracket (111A) by inserting a bracket pivot pin (111B) into a pivot pin receiving portions (111AR, 111BR) defined on each of the first mounting bracket (111A) and the lid actuating bracket (110);
the lid actuating bracket (110) includes a horizontal base portion (110H) and a vertical arm (110V) extending transversely from the horizontal base portion (110H) in a downward direction;
the horizontal base portion (110H) of the lid actuating bracket (110) is disposed above the first mounting bracket (111);
the pivot pin receiving portion (110R) of the lid actuating bracket (110) is defined at the interface between the horizontal base portion (110H) and the vertical arm (110V).

4. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage container assembly (108) includes:
a container top cover (108H) mounted onto a top end of the storage container (108C) and is adapted to facilitate pivotable mounting of the lid (108L) thereon;
a plurality of locking members (108L) provided on the container top cover (108H) to facilitate locking of the lid (108L) in the open position when the lid (108L) is moved the open position;
at least one cushioning pad (108P) provided on the container top cover (108H) to restrict the noise that is generated on contact of the lid (108L) with the container top cover (108H) when the lid (108L) is moved to the closed position; and
a handle (108J), wherein both ends of the handle (108J) are pivotably connected to the storage container (108C).

5. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the container top cover (108H) is provided with a plurality of snap locking protrusions (108HL) adapted to be engaged with a peripheral flange (108CF) of the storage container (108C) thereby snap fitting the container top cover (108H) onto the storage container (108C);
the container top cover (108H) is provided with a plurality of lid mounting portions (108HM), wherein each lid mounting portion (108HM) defines a pivot pin opening (108HP) adapted to receive a corresponding lid pivot pin (108Y) therethrough to facilitate pivotable mounting of the lid (108L) onto the lid mounting portion (108HM) of the container top cover (108H);
each lid mounting portion (108HM) defines an angled top surface (108HT) adapted to stop the movement of the lid (108L) beyond the predefined angle of the open position of the lid (108L); and
the cushioning pad (108P) is adapted to be received by a pad receiving groove (108HG) defined on the container top cover (108H).

6. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein each of the locking member (108S) is a cam type locking member which includes a profiled movable locking projection (108SM, 108SN) having two cam locking surfaces (108SM, 108SN);
the lid (108L) is provided with a locking projection (108LQ) on an underside of the lid (108L) corresponding to the cam locking surfaces (108SM, 108SN) of the locking member (108S) provided on the container top cover (108H);
the cam locking surfaces (108SM, 108SN) engages with locking projection (108LQ) for locking or retaining the lid (108L) in the open position a predefined angle when the lid (108L) is moved to the open position, wherein the predefined angle at which the lid (108L) is opened is 70 degree or less than 90 degree;
the peripheral flange (108CF) extends from a top end of a container body (108CB) of the storage container (108C); and
the peripheral flange (108CF) of the storage container (108C) is provided with a plurality of sleeves (108CS), wherein each sleeve (108CS) defines an opening (108CR) adapted to receive a corresponding projection (108JP) of the handle (108J) thereby allowing rotatable mounting of the handle (108J) onto the peripheral flange (108CF) of the storage container (108C).

7. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein thew storage container assembly (108) includes a plurality of washers (108W), wherein each washer (108W) is provided between corresponding lid mounting portion (108HM) of the container top cover (108H) and the lid (108);
the washers (108W) are adapted to reduce wear and tear of the lid (108L) and the lid mounting portion (108HM) of the container top cover (108H);
the storage container (108C) includes a plurality of mounting lugs (108CL) provided between the container body (108CB) and inner portion of the peripheral flange (108CF);
the plurality of mounting lugs (108CL) of the storage container (108) are adapted to facilitate mounting of the storage container (108C) onto the storage container carrier (104) thereby restricting movement of the storage container (108C).

8. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108) is provided on one end of the base portion (108LB);
the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L) includes an inclined surface (108LS) which is contacted by the vertical arm (110V) of the lid actuating bracket (110) for moving the lid (108L) to the open position upon establishment of contact by the vertical arm (110V) of the lid actuating bracket (110) with the raised portion (108LR) of the lid (108L);
the lid (108L) includes a plurality of pivot pin receiving openings (108LY) adapted to receive the lid pivot pins (108Y) therethrough and the lid pivot pins (108Y) are locked onto pin locking grooves (108LG) defined on pivot pin locking ribs (108LL) of the lid (108L).

9. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the modular storage apparatus (100) includes,
a fascia (112) adapted to be mounted onto the storage container carrier (104) through at least one fascia mounting bracket (114); and
a plurality of frame support legs (103) coupled to the stationary frame (102) to support the stationary frame (102) onto the ground surface or cabinet bottom surface or workspace surface,
wherein
each fascia mounting bracket (114) includes a fascia mounting outer bracket (114A) and a fascia mounting inner bracket (114B), each of which are adapted to be positioned against a front end wire mesh (104D) of the storage container carrier (104) and fastened against each other by using fasteners;
the fascia mounting brackets (114) are either used for mounting the fascia (112) or the wall or door which acts as handle for pulling or pushing the storage container carrier (104);
each of the fascia mounting outer bracket (114A) and fascia mounting inner bracket (114B) includes two or more oblong holes (114AB, 114BB) adapted to receive fasteners therethrough to facilitate adjustment of fascia (112).

10. The modular storage apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first telescopic assembly (105) includes:
a first stationary outer channel (105A) mounted onto the respective vertical frame (102B) of the stationary frame (102);
a first sliding intermediate channel (105B) slidably connected to the first stationary outer channel (105A); and
a first sliding inner channel (105C) mounted onto the first side of the storage container carrier (104), and is slidably connected to the first sliding intermediate channel (105B),
wherein the second telescopic assembly (106) includes:
a second stationary outer channel (106A) mounted onto the panel (10P) of the cabinet (10) or the wall or the stationary frame structure (102);
a second sliding intermediate channel (106B) slidably connected to the second stationary outer channel (106A);
a second sliding inner channel (106C) mounted onto the second side of the storage container carrier (104), and is slidably connected to the second sliding intermediate channel (106B),
wherein
the first telescopic assembly (105) and the second telescopic assembly (106) are configured to move to an extended position in which the first and second sliding intermediate channels (105B, 106B), and the first and second sliding inner channels (105C, 106C) are moved to the extended position thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) to the deployed position upon pulling the storage container carrier (104) in the outward direction away from the cabinet (10); and
the first telescopic assembly (105) and the second telescopic assembly (106) are configured to move from the extended position to a retracted position in which the first and second sliding intermediate channels (105B, 106B), and the first and second sliding inner channels (105C, 106C) are moved from the extended position to the retracted position thereby facilitating movement of the storage container assembly (108) from the deployed position to the stowed position upon pushing back the storage container carrier (104) into the cabinet (10).

Dated this 30th day of March 2023

Gitanjali Bhatnagar
Deputy General Manager
Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co. Ltd.