That's a fantastic question, and the answer is a resounding yes. This isn't science fiction; it's the current reality of modern waste management in many cities. The system you're describing is the backbone of automated side loader (ASL) collection.
The key is a specialized trash cart, often provided by the municipality. These cans are standardized, heavy-duty, and feature a unique, reinforced bar or handle on the front or top. They are designed to be grabbed, lifted, and emptied by the robotic arm mounted on the side of the collection truck. The driver never has to leave the cab. Using a joystick or touchscreen controls, they maneuver the hydraulic arm, which clamps onto the cart's specific lifting mechanism, hoists it over the truck, and dumps the contents. The arm then gently returns the empty can to the curb.
This system offers huge advantages. It's dramatically faster, requiring fewer workers and increasing route efficiency. It improves hygiene and safety by minimizing direct contact with waste. It also reduces litter spillage and worker injuries from heavy lifting. For residents, it means using a single, large, wheeled cart instead of multiple bags.
So, while the can itself might look simple, it's a precisely engineered part of a fully automated collection process, working in seamless partnership with robotic trucks to keep our cities cleaner.