The Sol Can

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  The Sol Can closed (left) and open (right)

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  Top view

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  Inside of the can

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  Inside of the lid

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  Current trash cans in Mendocino

Inspiration

One day I was walking in town at night, and I saw a raccoon digging in the trash can while dropping the trash onto the ground. The wind was blowing the garbage down the street and towards the ocean.

What it does

The Sol Can is an automatic trash can that opens when the sun comes up and closes when the sun goes down. It will prevent the nocturnal animals from getting food from the trash cans.

How I built it

The real Sol Can will be made out of steel. I built the model using recycled materials such as oatmeal cans.

Challenges I ran into

One of the main challenges I ran into was finding a battery and solar panel that had enough energy to move the steel sliders but not move them too quickly.

Accomplishments that I'm proud of

The accomplishment that I am most proud of is creating a memorable and creative name.

What I learned

I learned that some of the smallest details and changes make the biggest difference.

What's next for The Sol Can

My next plan for the Sol Can is to present my idea in my engineering class next year. Then the next step is to write a letter to the county supervisor pinching The Sol Can.

Built With

• google-docs