What core efficiency principle drove the pedal bin's functional redesign?

Answer

Eliminating unnecessary human motion

The primary motivation behind the creation of the pedal bin was Gilbreth's expertise in eliminating wasted movements. The traditional method of disposing of waste required a user to stop their primary task, use one hand to lift the lid, drop the item, and then secure the lid, which caused unnecessary interruptions. By assigning the opening function to the foot via a pedal, the design successfully reduced this physical friction and minimized the disruption to the homemaker's workflow, directly aligning with the goal of streamlining repetitive tasks.

What core efficiency principle drove the pedal bin's functional redesign?
inventioninventorpedal bin