Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for opening and closing a top bin lid from below such that, when in the fully opened position, the lid will not extend above the plane of the opening. The apparatus utilizes an elongated lever arm pivotally mounted on the pivot axis of the bin lid. A flexible linkage, such as a chain extends from below, over the lever arm and is connected to a gravity biased latch system which holds the lid in the closed position until the chain is pulled from below. After the latch is released, further drawing of the chain will pivot the lid and arm about their common pivot axis until the arm is obstructed from further movement by the bin. Continued pulling of the chain will draw the lid toward the lever arm against spring pressure until the lid has been pivoted approximately 180.degree. from its closed position. Controlled release of the chain will cause the spring pressure to move the lid over the vertical plane of the pivot axis and thereafter the force of the spring and gravity will return the lid and latch back to the closed position. The lever arm includes a lid engagement tab which returns the lever arm to its upwardly extending position when the lid closes.

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First Claim